Cole Neighborhood Association Holiday Party

...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.

Crime data at Denvergov.org

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 about Cole.

What WE can do NOW

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 Denver's and society in general's various ills. But I think that ones energies can be much more productive by getting involved in your neighborhood TODAY with something very simple rather than waiting for Washington (or even the Denver State Capitol) to figure that complex issue out.

So, for what it's worth, here are my Action items for anyone living in a gentrifying, redeveloping urban neighborhood like Cole:

1. Get to know your neighbors! No matter how good the police in your area are, they can't watch your block 24/7. Only your neighbors collectively can do that. While I haven't been able to get enough of our block unified to create a neighborhood watch, I know at least 9 of our block households by name. How many of you can say that? Likely not many, because honestly, I wasn't good about doing it myself for over a year here. Do it sooner rather than later. Your neighbors and you might not see eye to eye on some things, but at the bare minimum you should be able to be on good terms with them and look out for each others' properties.


2. Get to know your police officers. Whether it's your neighborhood police officers (We have great ones in Cole, email me for their contact information) that can handle ongoing, chronic issues, the District 2 direct non-emergency number (720.913.1000) or just the Denver non-emergency dispatch line (720.913.2000) we've got a tremendous asset in terms of a police force that is active, approachable, and willing to assist residents with the issues that are important to them (us).


3. Befriend your neighborhood kids. It's a shame, but 99% of the crap that happens in our neighborhood I think is perpetrated by kids; in particular graffiti, vandalism, and just the stuff that kids do (as I did) like throwing rocks through windows and stuff. If they're not doing it, they probably know who is. Not only are you selfishly building relationships that could potentially again protect your "stuff", many of these kids unfortunately clearly don't have a supportive, loving home environment. Just saying hi to them by name, being friendly, and pumping up their football when they need it is making a positive contribution to their lives and to your block.


4. Clean up your block! If you wait for your neighbors to clean up their portion of the street, your block will always be dirty. I know it sucks picking up others' trash, but it's part of living in the city I've come to understand. And I don't care what the civil libertarians say, I've seen first-hand that if you pick up trash on your block, it sets a positive example for your neighbors and others in the area--Others will be less likely to throw trash, and less likely to commit more serious crimes simply because it's clear someone cares about and is watching over your block. I've seen it make a difference first-hand. Will it entirely fix the problem? Of course not. But it all helps.


5. Same thing with Graffiti. Contact Cole-Whittier Against Crime for dumpster paint or worst case scenario report the graffiti to the City of Denver and get that crap covered up as soon as you see it. Again, if you leave that crap up, the losers that put it there will learn which block they can do the deed without getting caught, or on which blocks they can tag where it stays up the longest.


6. Get involved with your neighborhood in a more global sense. (Here's where I've fallen short as of late due to a hectic home/work schedule and an unexplained apathy relative to "meetings") Participate in your local neighborhood association, crime prevention group, or neighborhood watch meetings. Cole and Whittier each have active neighborhood associations (http://whittierneighborhood.org/, Cole doesn't have a website yet that I know of) and of course there is Cole-Whittier Against Crime. There's no doubt we have to get more involved to ensure the success of our neighborhood than the average suburbanite--But I think that's a good thing.
7. Keep your eyes open and don't be afraid to call the city. See someone selling crack up the street? Call the police. Abandoned house becoming a nuisance, or just overgrown with weeds? Call neighborhood inspection services. Or, as C-WAC writes today, notice that your corner store is catering to the bad guys by selling crack pipes? Talk to them about it, or call your neighborhood police officer to get their take and/or assistance.

But more than anything, do what you can, even if it's just one of the above points. The recent positive changes in this area aren't happening by accident--They're due to a growing number of engaged residents, and allies at the police and city, that are working hard to forge the future in Cole. If we're not part of the solution, we're part of the problem.

Cole-Whittier Against Crime Meeting Wednesday, November 7th, 6PM, Mitchell Elementary

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, please join them tomorrow, Wednesday, November 7th 2007 at 6PM at Mitchell Elementary in Cole.

New life for the Cole Neighborhood Association?

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 determined that I could get more done spending that hour on the phone with the city inspectors and/or police department to handle some action items in the neighborhood, than attending the meetings. A shame, but true. No doubt I should have stuck it out and been a more vocal and active member.

Now just to backtrack--A lot of credit for the association has to go to Loralie Cole, who used to run the association. Even as a busy mother and teacher, she poured countless hours into the organization. I know first-hand that it is a thankless job leading an all-volunteer organization, and she deserves a tremendous amount of credit for keeping the association alive.

I just think that with any organization, new blood is lifeblood, and am thrilled to see that there are new, equally engaged people participating. Hopefully Loralie will still be involved in some way to finally realize the fruits of her long, largely unrecognized labors. Thanks again, Loralie.

It will be interesting in what direction the association heads now. In the past, it seemed very conflicted about "the mission statement" and goals of the organization. Pro or anti redevelopment? How much effort should be spent trying to get largely apathetic neighborhood residents to participate? Can decisions that affect the entire neighborhood be made when the only active Association members are largely white middle-class residents?

Regardless, this email is very encouraging, and I hope it speaks for a new direction for our neighborhood. Sounds like it's time for me to plug in again. So here's the info:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I wanted to inform you that the Cole Neighborhood Association will be holding a mid-month planning meeting on Nov. 8 from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. at 3280 Downing, US Bank Community Room. The main purpose of the meeting is to set a Strategic Plan for the CNA. EVERYONE is invitied and encouraged to attend!! This is an ideal opportunity and an exciting time to get involved; share your voice and help shape the future of the CNA. If you haven't come to a meeting in awhile, we'd love to see you on the 8th!

We decided to schedule this meeting because during our regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Thursday, Nov. 29th from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. we will be having the CNA Holiday Party . More about the party at the end of this e-mail.

Details regarding the Strategic Plan:
(The first hour of the meeting will be dedicated to the Strategic Plan)

At our last meeting on Oct. 25, The Economic Development subcommittee presented a Strategic Planning questionaire consisting of the following questions:

1. Why do we exist?

2. What is our vision for Cole Neighborhood?

3. What is our mission statement?
We decided that the goal for the planning meeting would be to answer these questions, after we all answer them for ourselves at home prior to the meeting. Now, all of you can do the same. In addition to these questions, we would like to address the Needs, Goals and Strategies for the Cole neighborhood.
What needs do we see in our community that we would like to address?
What are our goals in light of those needs?
What strategies do we need to develop to accomplish our goals?
For these questions, we'd like to begin brainstorming by writing down any and all ideas that come to mind. Then, at the Holiday Party, we'll ask everyone to help prioritize the list so that we can set a plan of action.
Please start brainstorming today and bring your thoughts and ideas to the meeting on the 8th. A Microsoft Word document with the questions is attached.
Details about the CNA Holiday Party, Nov. 29th, 6:00 - 8:00 pm.
(after a quick break, we'll use the last 20 min of the mtg to plan the party)

Again, we'd like as much participation as possible so that we can make our Holiday party a success. Items to be planned:
Food and Drink
Content for a flyer
Flyer Distribution
Activities for the evening, etc.

We hope to see everyone, and your neighbor, at both of these events. Start spreading the word today!

Best,

Sarah Shultz
Communications Subcommittee
Cole Neighborhood Association

Tagged

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 freakin' back alley.

Does this mean there is new gang activity in our neighborhood? Who knows, it's been pretty tame lately, I know that. I don't think this activity was due to a few "wannabes" like one of our neighbors (who hasn't removed the similar graffiti from her house, despite the fact it showed up around three months ago) thinks.

But it's not like we're unique in our gang problem. I traveled this summer to Montreal and Vancouver and saw a lot of gang graffiti there. There was even a gang-related shooting in downtown Vancouver the night I was in town. Canadian gangs? I guess they exist too, eh.

Winterized

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 they're going to be diving into any renovations any time soon, however. Guess we'll have to wait until spring to see what happens next.

Oh, the suburbs

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 at Vacant School Landing"

4. "The Manor at Squirrel-Infested Heights"

5. Or, perhaps "The Enclave at Stray Cat Crossing"

The possibilities are endless...

The tipping point?

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 "gutting"). Kiva Restaurant on 30th and Downing, while they're certainly not out of the woods yet, is hanging in there and seems to be getting at least marginally busier each time we visit.

Residents that were here before us seem to be taking a bit more pride in their homes, and the trash problem on our block is a fraction of what it was two years ago.

Two white guys drove by today in a BMW M3 Coupe and waived at me as I was chilling on the front porch--Not sure what to gather from that as I didn't know them...

Things seem to be changing FAST lately in Cole. Whether you think the change is positive or not, have we reached a tipping point?

Quiet night!

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 safe for other blocks in the area.

Heck, it was way louder and sketchier than this over in Highlands (where we couldn't afford to buy a house)!

An interesting discovery

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 graffiti inside my kitchen cabinets still seems strange!

Another new resident in Cole

What a great day yesterday.

There has been an amazing little kitten hanging around our block the last couple weeks. She's tiny--Likely 3 or 4 pounds, black and white, and the kind of coloration that we non-creative humans often name things like "socks" or "boots". She is also incredibly sweet and friendly, approaching pretty much any person that comes by.

Well, as my wife will tell you, I'm one off those weird "animal people" that would take in almost any animal rather than turn it away knowing it will likely get euthanized. However, "there's no room at the inn" at this point as we've already got our hands full with two dogs and two cats, so we knew we couldn't keep her, no matter how fast we were becoming attached to her.

But some things have a way of working themselves out I guess. No sooner had I started asking neighbors if they knew anyone that wanted a cat, my friend from across the street said he'd take the kitten. As soon as I handed the kitten to him, I knew it was a good thing. He's a bit of a lonely older guy, not in the best of health anymore, but incredibly friendly and kind hearted. And his mother, bedridden, lives with him, and likely could use a little company like only a good cat can provide. I can't help but think that Marion, as I named her (he's going to call her Midnight), will make as much difference in their lives as they will in hers.

Homes for sale in Cole Neighborhood, Denver

OK, just to be up front, this is a completely selfish post, blatantly trying to sell real estate in Cole. No, I don't own any of these properties, nor do I stand to gain anything from their sale except hopefully adding another responsible neighbor to the area. But that's enough for me.

I just can't get over how many properties are for sale over here! Yet again, I found a home for sale in our Cole neighborhood this week. It's over on Marion Street, and appears to be very similar to our home--A late 1800's Victorian that has been largely refurbished. Asking price is in the ballpark of fair assuming it is as nice as they make it out to be in the listing, though I am at least a little skeptical because of the used-car-salesman-esque descriptions of the home in the listing ("This is truly the best...").

It does appear to be somewhat updated, and have some original moldings and nice wood floors. While the house could use a fresh coat of paint and landscaping, it certainly has good Victorian charm. (Far more charm than this more mundane listing a couple blocks away.) At least three other homes have been renovated on this same block over the past two years, so it is certainly changing more rapidly than some over here.

One could certainly find a cheaper home over here, but if you're like we were when we were looking and don't want a fixer upper, this might be a good one to look at.

I think it definitely has more to offer than this longtime resident on the MLS. I'm no expert, but after six months or so you might re-take your property photo so that it isn't so obvious that the home has been on the market at least since last winter. Oh, and there's another home on this block that's currently in foreclosure--It looks like a real fixer-upper, but I don't think anyone will be biting on it anytime soon, as it looks like the bank is asking $170,000 for it--When it seems more like a $125k property to me based on how much work will be necessary to get it fixed up.

I also found a couple rental properties on Marion, but I can't believe the asking price after looking at them, at least from the inside. Like $282k for this Vic-converted-into-apartments. There is also yet another residence, a duplex, for sale on this same block, though I can't find a listing for it.

Still shocking to me how expensive homes are over here given how far the neighborhood still has to come. It's not hard to realize why so many find it hard to buy a home. (Heck, we know first-hand, as we barely were able to purchase our own.)

With the yet-inflated prices over here, what must be wrong with this little home to be only 46k?

Anyway, thanks for reading, and come look at some homes in Cole, Whittier, Curtis Park or Five Points. We'd love to have you over here!

Momentum in Cole

I met a nice new neighbor we now have around the corner of the house. A nice woman about our age, renting out a newly-fixed up home on Bruce Randolph. She's super friendly and another important addition to the neighborhood. She's been in the house under a week and it's already clear she takes pride in her place.

There's a duplex up for sale on our block, and I'm wondering if there is a pending sale on it as there have been work crews patching up the fence and performing other small touch-up repairs this week.

The residents of the duplex next to it, that moved in over the summer, continue to improve their place, now painting it.

And there is a cute folk-Victorian on our block that is now up for sale. The asking price seems a bit high, but it has a ton of potential as it has exceptional character.

Add that to the house next door that is tied up in foreclosure, and potentially soon to be sold to a flipper or new family, and we seem to be experiencing some very positive momentum. Things are certainly changing around here, for the better.

Enough is enough

Great and encouraging news. The two problem houses on our block, that I write about often, have each improved dramatically recently.

The first, a house on the corner of Bruce Randolph and Marion, has been a consistent nuisance since we moved into the neighborhood. Mostly because the owners have left the home vacant, and haven't aggressively policed their property from the frequent drug users and dealers that have used that house, and the street corner adjacent to it, as their home base.

How this house cleaned up is simple--The police finally adopted a zero-tolerance policy for individuals illegally hanging out on the property, as well as frequently contacting individuals loitering in front of it. In these two actions, they not only arrested numerous dealers and users, but have set a precedent in the area that it is no longer "safe" to hang out and buy or sell drugs there. What used to be a magnet for criminal activity now is safe for the rightful residents of the neighborhood to pass by unharassed and unsolicited, as well as wait safely for the RTD buses.

The second house to show improvement is the one that I've described that houses a motley collection of brothers, sisters and cousins all living free in the home of their aging and failing mothers. I'm sure I'll get flamed for saying this, but the reasons why the residents have cleaned their act up I think is a perfect illustration of some of the principles evangelized by George Kelling and one of his key disciples, William Bratton (formerly chief of the New York City Police Department, now chief of the LAPD) in the Broken Windows theory. Namely, that if troublemakers realize that their disorderly and criminal behavior is no longer acceptable in a neighborhood, they'll either clean up their act or just move on.

Why do I say this? First, because the presence by the police has been so great on the block, the drug-dealing son has almost comletely moved his "operation" somewhere else--The end result being a dramatic reduction to the formerly ubiquitous stream of buyers coming by their house at all hours of the night. It was still happening over there, but very infrequently, instead of all the time.

But since day one, and even with the recent increased pressure by the police, the one straight son that we know of at the house, a guy that is in general a really intelligent, neighborly fellow, has looked the other way as his other family members buy, sell, and use illegal drugs and bring the criminal element into his yard and house.

But a couple weeks ago, as I was out watering the grass, I waived and greeted him as normal, and he came over to me to chat. The nature of the conversation was very interesting. Basically, that he had reached his breaking point and had told some of his family members "enough is enough". He sounded as tired as we were of the almost daily occurrence of drunken shouting matches, strangers coming by at all hours, family members bringing drug addicts over, and his family being arrested.

What had caused him to reach this crossroads? A family friend had come by one day and told him "Man, your mother's house is a nuisance." That apparently hit home for him, that their house--His mother's house--was viewed that way. And the fact that the city could take the house away from his mother, if it continued to be such a problem. The neighborhood had changed, and what used to be acceptable behavior on the block, was no more.

"I can't tell you what to do, because that's your business..." he said he told them, "but you're not going to do it here anymore, not in my mama's house."

Which is all we've ever wanted. Just law-abiding neighbors, that's all. Black, white, Hispanic, whatever. Just take care of your home and don't perpetuate the neighborhood's history of drugs, crime and violence.

He's always been a diamond in the rough of that household. He's super friendly, intelligent, and has welcomed us since day one. And I'm glad to have him as a neighbor, and friend. And 100% happy now that he's drawn his own line in the sand.

Another sign of the future of Cole

A few months ago returning from a bike ride on Walnut Street, I noticed a couple of "yuppies" (or "new neighbors", "loft people", or even white folk as some neighborhood residents call us) looking at the old abandoned warehouse at 33rd and Walnut. It occurred to me at the time, that it could be another set of lofts coming to the area.

Fast forward to tonight, again returning from a bike ride tonight riding up Walnut Street, I noticed scaffoldings up in front of the building--The renovation has begun!

I don't know for certain what's going in there, but it's probably lofts. Some will condemn this renovation as simple gentrification, but I don't see anyone living there now. I'll take any residents there, over an abandoned, run-down, graffiti-ridden warehouse. And I'd be lying if I said I wasn't happy it will likely NOT be some sort of half-way house or mental health facility. We've done our share over here.

So I'm thrilled that the progress over in Ballpark is continuing to spread this way--Now only four blocks from us! I think it bodes well for the future of Cole.

Rain and Moral Ambiguity in Cole

Finally the heat has subsided here in Cole!

After the seemingly endless heat of late and the customary summer brown-out, we've had significant rainstorms 3 of the last 4 days. My admittedly irresponsible bluegrass front and back lawns greened up so instantly and completely that I awoke this morning to find three yuppies using our front yard as a practice green. When I pointed out their mistake, and that City Park Golf Course was a few blocks to the east, they were on their way, leaving me to my bucket-sized cup of coffee. No, this really didn't happen, but you get my point I hope. My only concern is that our bad-ass, west nile infected mosquitoes are likely enjoying this moisture as much as I am.

Sitting on our front porch this evening, enjoying a decidedly Michigan-esque summer evening, I learned that one of the two nice old sisters that own one of the homes on our block just passed away. I learned about it from my neighbor, the son and nephew of the two owners. I certainly feel sorry for her death, and for his family's loss.

Even though that house is the one problem house on our block. The one that is the magnet for any of the "old neighbors" that are seeking some crack. Basically, the two sisters own the house; only one of them has lived there for the last several years, while the other (the one that just passed on) lived in another state. It's all of their sons, daughters, nieces and nephews that have turned their otherwise beautiful old house into a true nuisance.

For me, one of the hardest things about living in this neighborhood is finding the right balance between empathy (because while this family is clearly troubled and perpetuating criminal activity in Cole, Whittier, and Five Points, they're real people just like me) and my intense desire to rid this area of the declining yet still present drug problem.

Sometimes it's hard to tell who are the good guys and who are the bad guys--I can only imagine how hard it is for the police department to constantly be walking that fine line between the effective police tactics to fight the true criminals, while still respecting the rights of the residents.

Then, when you have a likable neighbor like we do that deals drugs one day, then wakes up his neighbor the next to help her avoid getting ticketed on street sweeping day, it becomes quite the conundrum. "He doesn't deal drugs THAT much, right? Just every couple days or so. Maybe I'm being too hard on him, I mean, he's quiet, and very friendly, right? Wait, what are you thinking, he's a drug dealer!" Or the other guy, his cousin, that as far as I can tell doesn't do or deal any drugs, but certainly looks the other way when the rest of his family does. He's a really great guy, too, super friendly, very affable, and has always welcomed us to the neighborhood, from day one. But it still bothers me that he (and so many other residents) look the other way when someone they know is peddling drugs and perpetuating the problem.

The fact is that with this lady's death, God rest her soul, this problem house moves one step closer to possibly being sold to a more responsible family, and while I'm sorry about the circumstances, I'm not disappointed about that fact.

Imminent Chaos on Lawrence Street

I had heard that the city was planning on turning perennial area one-ways like Lawrence and Curtis into two-way streets to enhance the "neighborhood" ambiance as well as cut down on the ubiquitous speeding on these streets. Well, as of Friday, as I was returning from a bike ride, I headed down the newly two-way Lawrence Street.


My thoughts? I applaud the city for turning it into a two-way street. Since we moved to Denver back in 2001, it Lawrence always struck me as a street with symbolic importance. As the primary street for someone to utilize to get from downtown denver to our picturesque and urbane Cole Neighborhood, I have found myself each and every time spent driving its length contemplating what message it sends commuters.


First, even the most liberal Denver resident should agree that while necessary, the Denver Rescue Mission that greets drivers as they immediately exit downtown presents a siren-like indicator that they're "not in Kansas anymore". As a Curtis Park resident stated in one neighborhood association meeting as yet another organization was announcing yet another transitional living housing complex that was coming to the Curtis Park/Five Points/Whittier/Cole area, "We're glad to do our part, but when do neighborhoods like Capital Hill and Highlands start receiving their fair shair?" I continue to feel that Cole Neighborhood is and oft-overlooked gem in Denver urban living. But why look any farther for the reason why it is oft-overlooked than the first thing that greets people when they inevitably radiate from Denver's downtown to the NoDo neighborhoods like Cole?

Second, symbolically, Lawrence has always struck me as some sort of high-speed escape route for Rockies fans and LoDo revellers seeking least encumbered route out of downtown to I-70. What better than to provide these people with a one-way, two-lane street with no significant traffic lights or furniture, and heading through a forgotten wasteland of mixed industrial-residential Denver like Cole? Lawrence has historically been as much expressway as street.

So what does the new two-way configuration mean to Lawrence, and to Cole and its surrounding neighborhoods? Well, in a big-picture sense, it is a very positive change. The street does now have a very "neighborhood" feel to it, a lot like our old home's major street Zuni's path as it heads north from downtown and 32nd Avenue. It will certainly not be as appealing to "The Fast And The Furious" type juvenile hot-rodders as the previous iteration of Lawrence. (At least after they T-bone a car crossing one of the numerous cross-streets that now have the right of way, which is my next and final point).

So my only question is this--What dim-witted urban planner decided on the current configuration off the "new" Lawrence Street? In particular, who thought it was a good idea to take what used to be an urban speedway with no interruptions to its traffic to making it a street impeded by at least 4 cross-streets now with the right-of-way?

I may not be explaining this well--Basically now, there are several side streets that cross Lawrence that USED to have stop signs as they crossed this major street, but now have none (while Lawrence is now sporting a stop at each of these intersections). And not ALL of these streets now have the right of way, it's almost like they through darts at a dartboard to decide which ones were going to be changed.

Already, I've witnessed total chaos when two cars come to meet one another at one of these intersections. First, the person on Lawrence often barely stops in time for the stop sign. Second, the person on the side street, not having to stop by law, is still stopping (it's as if they're wondering if they are dreaming, or if they actually have the right of way). So, you end up with two confused motorists staring at each other in what is basically a four-way stop. Which I think it should be in the first place!

Mark my words--A bigger problem than the inefficiencies of people adjusting to this new configuration will be several gnarly accidents, as someone on Lawrence, drunk or just stupid, flies through one of those stops and tags someone on one of those side streets.

It's not if, it's just when, unfortunately.

Happy 4th Of July From Cole Neighborhood, Denver

Greetings from Cole Neighborhood, Denver Colorado on a simply splendid Colorado summer evening.

I'm writing again from our front porch, this time bombarded with the staccato sound and flashes of amateur pyrotechnics. Both my dogs, each of which are unabashed fans of the grass in our yard, have deemed the evening too noisy (or perhaps too perilous) and have since retired to the leather sofa and living room rug. While I am certainly enjoying the fresh air time will tell whether I should have listened to my dogs' judgement and retreated to the safety of our modest victorian.

While uneventful, the holiday was a pleasant one for me I guess. I enjoyed a 45 mile bike ride from my front door to the top of Lookout Mountain in Golden and back; had a tasty lunch with my beautiful, exceptional and largely undeserved wife at Kiva Restaurant, vegged out in front of my newly-installed digital cable (only installed for Le Tour de France), attended a barbecue at a friend in nearby Park Hill, and then enjoyed a sunset walk around the Cole and Whittier neighborhoods with my two dogs. My wife having to work tonight prevented it from being a perfect night.


Big news: It wasn't freakishly hot here today. HOORAY! It's too early to be this hot in Denver, that's for sure--But not only was I able to enjoy a cool, sunny, beautiful morning on the bike up in Golden, upon my return to metro D-town, I was shocked at how mild it was. Not pleasant at 4pm, mind you, unless you found some shade, but better than what we had become accustomed to lately.

And better yet, the afternoon storm clouds that consistently build over the west side of town in the summer, yet that have as of late been yielding no moisture, busted loose (relatively speaking) with some moisture soon after sunset tonight. Which means it's simply idyllic tonight.

Except for all the freakin' fireworks.

Carla Madison at the Curtis Park Memorial Criteriums

I spent last Sunday at the first (hopefully annual) Curtis Park Memorial Criteriums (bike races) at Curtis Park. What a great event! Great turnout from the Colorado racing community, a fantastic course, and it seemed many of the local residents enjoyed their first exposure to competitive cycling.

It was great to see newly-elected District 8 councilwoman Carla Madison at the races, voicing her support of making it an annual event, and even starting some of the events. Here's hoping her immediate presence in the district is a sign of things to come, and that the Curtis Park Memorial Criteriums will be back next year, and year after year in the future.

Farewell, Neighbors

The Hispanic family next door has officially moved out.

We learned a few months ago that they were going to be moving, as their ARM (adjustable rate mortgage) had just gone up and put their payment out of reach. While the grandparents that own the house don't speak English, and our Spanish is abysmal, we were able to talk to one of their sons. It's unclear whether they were the victim of predatory lending, or just borrowed money against their mortgage too many times. Either way, they decided to simply stay in the house until they were told to move out by the bank. I guess they finally got that letter. Technically, does this qualify as displacement?

I have to say that I have mixed feelings. They are wonderful people, and have been extremely nice to us since we moved into the neighborhood. We're certainly going to miss their grandkids too, who are some of the most well-mannered, friendly kids I've ever met. They're always leaning over our side fence petting our dogs, or out playing ball in the front yard. There certainly are a lot of parents out there, who have much more money, that could learn some things from this family. And no doubt, if they're replaced by a white couple, some of the "flavor" of the neighborhood will certainly be lost. I know some folks feel the same about when we moved in, but oh well.

However, I won't miss the constant pile of empty soda cans and other trash that litters their front, side, and back yards, or their swamp cooler propped up on two old car tires and a couple of two-by-four scraps on their front porch. Or the broken, clogged gutters that drip water for four days after a rain and likely breed mosquitoes. Or the unbelievable clatter of the grandmother brooming up the empty soda cans in the alley between our houses (right outside our bedroom window!) at 6 in the morning. But overall, I'm sad to see them go. No neighbors are perfect (I'm sure our neighbors would say the same about us), and overall these folks are great people.

And I'm anxious. There are two ways things can go from here. One, since their house is a bit neglected, someone could purchase it and leave it as-is and simply rent it out. This is what worries me, as we could easily end up with the same or worse litter and maintenance issues, but with noisy or even unlawful neighbors there to boot.

The second option, much more desirable to us, would be that someone purchases the house and fixes it up to sell to a new, responsible homeowner. The fact that three homes on our block have been "flipped" in the two years we've lived here leaves me at least hopeful that this will be the case.

As someone reminded me recently, "you can't pick your neighbors." It will simply be a roll of the dice and another chapter in the Cole Neighborhood Memoirs.

Signs Of Change in Cole Neighborhood

I'm typing away from my front porch on a beautiful summer night in Cole. There is a sliver of a moon in the sky punctuated by but one visible star. Most nights, we don't see any stars due to the city's ambient glow--So this is an ironic glimpse of nature in our urban environment. The air is perfectly clear and quiet; I haven't noticed one episode of police sirens, nor have heard the police helicopter anywhere near the downtown area tonight. The most unpleasant thing tonight is the pungent smell of the alanthus trees that have gone into bloom this week. Not a bad night at all, and quite a contrast to many nights we experienced a few months ago. Critics can say what they want, but Broken Windows policing has produced a noticeable change on our block.

I owe my readers two apologies: One, for being so lax in updating the site. And two, for only having political fare on the menu in recent times.

It's hard not falling into that trap, as so many of the issues we face in Cole today are tough ones. Crime, gangs, health issues, poverty, racial profiling and discrimination, illegal immigration, redevelopment, gentrification and displacement--These are all topics on the minds of Cole residents, and as such are part of the "experience" of living here. But I hate to neglect the simple, basic day-to-day occurrences and observations that I started this blog to share.

What's been happening lately in Cole? Lots of good things, actually. We had a neighborhood cleanup several weeks ago that resulted in something like 60 city blocks being picked up and graffiti being painted over. More importantly, I think, it attracted something like 50 volunteers from the Cole and Whittier neighborhoods, which was very encouraging.

The folks at the DPD and Cole-Whittier Against Crime are putting the finishing touches on their community safety and crime survey, which is part of their community policing initiative. As mentioned above, we've certainly seen the benefits of the increased police presence in cleaning up the criminal activity up the street at Bruce Randolph and elsewhere. I'm also excited to see the continued progress of their project as hopefully more and more residents become involved in doing their part to ensure the neighborhood continues its progress towards better safety and quality of life. I know I'll be doing my part.

Carla Madison won the district 8 runoff election versus favored candidate Sharon Bailey. I'm still shocked that a white candidate won--While color didn't play a part in whom I voted for, I think the fact that the first white councilperson was elected in our traditionally black and hispanic district in something like 50 years signifies that we're at some sort of cultural tipping point. Supposedly our district is 30% white, 30% black, and 30% hispanic, so I guess at this point the white people are as much of a majority as anyone else. I think that Ms. Madison clearly ran the most professional campaign and has "her eye on the ball" relative to the key issues for our district. But hey, I'm just one voter, and I voted for Carla Madison because she supported what was important to me: Crime and safety, and wise redevelopment. Time will tell whether we (the voters) made the right choice, but I think we did.

I spent all day yesterday at the Curtis Park Memorial Criteriums (bike races). Some of you might remember my original post about this event, that was originally scheduled to happen on Memorial Day. All things considered, I think the event was a phenomenal success. It seems like the organizers got a good turnout from the racing community; the racers all sounded like they loved the flat, fast, wide, smooth course, and I was happy to see that the event went off safely given the density of the residences surrounding the park--And that for most residents, this was their first exposure to competitive cycling--I had nightmares of someone sauntering out in front of a 35+ MPH pro field, but fortunately this turned out to be just a dream.

Oh, and in contrast to our outgoing councilwoman Elbra Wedgeworth, not only did Carla Madison reply to organizers' contacts about the event, she even came out in support of the event and started a couple of the races. Hopefully a sign of things to come. Thanks, Carla.

What else is happening around these parts? Good stuff. Kiva Restaurant is still in business, and at least their Sunday brunch (including $10 bottomless margaritas, bloody marys, or mimosas) is gaining some traction. Another "problem house" on Lafayette just sold, and obviously we are keeping our fingers crossed for another responsible neighbor to move in.

So things are good in Cole. Still not ideal, but they're definitely maintaining the positive trajectory we'd hoped for when we rolled the dice and purchased here. Going on two years in the neighborhood, how do I feel about our decision?

Great. Would I do it again if I had the chance? Certainly. Would I recommend it to my friends? Yes, with an asterisk*--This isn't the suburbs, so don't expect it to be. Good and bad, this isn't the suburbs. Thank God, this isn't the suburbs.

Do we want this kind of attitude leading our district?

Many of you might have read about the allegedly threatening voicemail that John Bailey (husband and campaign manager of District 8 City Council candidate Sharon Bailey) left a resident of Curtis Park after being contacted about the Bailey campaign's alleged illegal placement of campaign signs.

Well, now that the District 8 city council race will be decided by a pending run-off election between Sharon Bailey and Carla Madison, I was even more interested in learning whether the voice mail in fact existed.

And it does in fact exist. I was fortunate enough to finally obtain a copy of this voice mail last week, and I have to say, while it isn't as dramatic as I had expected based on what I had read, to me it still shows extremely poor judgement and a level of intimidation that reinforces my apprehension about what style of leadership Mr. and Mrs. Bailey might espouse if elected (You're getting 'em both if Ms. Bailey is elected folks, just like Billary).

I encourage anyone planning on voting for Ms. Bailey to send me an email so that I can provide you the opportunity to hear the voicemail and be your own judge whether or not it warrants consideration when deciding who to vote for.

Thanks for reading--And whomever you're supporting in the upcoming run-off election, get your vote counted!

Cole-Whittier Neighborhood Clean Up coming May 12th

Ever notice that right after you clean up your house, you're suddenly in a more positive state of mind? That the world feels like a better, friendlier place?

Or how about every six months when you take your old car down to the car wash. I'm not just talking about giving your car a bath--I'm talking about an inside-and-out cleaning that takes several walks over to the coin changer and that eventually sets you back about $5 to $8. You know the one--Where you repeatedly plug the coin-operated vacuum to evacuate all the dirt, dust, dog hair, old french fries, etc. from the inside of your car, and that finishes with a nice once-over using protectant to put the shine back on the dash? Isn't it amazing how simply cleaning your car up suddenly makes it feel brand new again? How when you pull away your car even feels like it drives better simply because it's clean?

I think the same thing could be said for neighborhoods (and there is research out there to support this assertion). In particular, I often wonder what a truly clean Cole Neighborhood would do for residents' sense of pride and ownership about where they live.

A cleaner Cole would not only make residents feel better about their neighborhood, but also better "market" the area to prospective residents and businesses that come through each and every day. Whether they're just passing through by chance, or here evaluating a potential home purchase or piece of business real estate, there really isn't any argument against the fact that our constant litter problem casts a shadow over the many positive things that are happening over here.

I try to do my part to pick up trash on my block, as well as other blocks for that matter when convenient; but my wife and I have often thought that a neighborhood-wide cleaning effort would be a good thing.

Kudos to the folks at MOP for putting together just such an event--The Cole-Whittier Neighborhood Clean Up, to be held May 12th from 9:30 to 12:00, starting at Cole Middle School.

I hope they have a good turnout for it, and that they can make a tangible "dent" (albeit a temporary one) in the ubiquitous litter in our neighborhood.

And for residents that can't make it, or are unaware of the clean up altogether, I hope that in fact there at least some minimal "momentum" generated by this effort. Meaning that some residents will notice that someone cleaned up their block, and perhaps make a little more effort to keep it that way.

Looks like residents interested in more information on the clean up can contact Brett Warner at brett.cwac@gmail.com or 720.299.2738.

Enforcement just a part of Broken Windows Policing

One of the criticisms of Broken Windows Policing (which has come to Cole as part of Cole-Whittier Against Crime) often mentioned by civil libertarians is that it simply serves to further overburden the current "oppressive" criminal justice system with its increased enforcement of "lesser" and quality-of-life crimes--While ignoring the larger, structural problems in our society that in fact cause crime.

However, these critics seem to either be unaware of, or perhaps deliberately choose to ignore, that Broken Windows theorists share the opinion that the current American model of policing, (introduced in the 1930's as the "reform" model and now referred to as the "traditional" model), has failed society miserably.

In fact, Broken Windows proponents suggest that we should replace this flawed traditional model with a newer, progressive, "community policing model". One where police don't just fight crime and arrest bad guys, but instead elevate their role in the community to problem solver and even as ombudsmen to other public and private agencies.

While ambitious, supplementing or replacing our current criminal justice system with this newer, community-based system would in fact serve to address the structural causes of crime that seem to be so important to civil libertarians.

While anyone taking the time to read Kelling's book (I'm on pace to finish it this week) will learn about this community policing model, I have sought a concise, clear, online reference I could link to from this site to provide visitors the opportunity to learn about it to.

Just today I found that resource: Policing.com, a site created by Bonnie Bucqueroux, an expert in community policing with over 20 years experience. So, I highly recommend everyone take ten minutes to read her article on What Community Policing Teaches Us. And of course, if it piques your interest, pick up a copy of Kelling's Book.

Indeed, C-WAC already includes a community safety survey intended to convey residents' concerns, information about high-crime areas and key issues, and perceptions about the police department to officials to help guide, and on an ongoing basis, evaluate, the program. Additionally, foot- and bike-patrol is being incorporated to get officers out of their cars and into the community where they can better get to know (and be known) by the residents they protect. All these are components of Broken Windows and community policing.

All these are also small parts of an overall approach in true community policing that includes community courts that funnel offenders back into the communities that their injure, as well as city governments, prosecutors, as well as city and private agencies that are unified in their support and commitment to community policing.

Over time, will the Denver Police Department, through Cole-Whittier Against Crime, truly commit to community policing, or just focus on the easy part, the enforcement? I of course don't have that answer, but the fact that they (at least initially) seem to be beginning to embrace a community-based policing model in incorporating community guidance, feedback, and accountability into the program, I think is encouraging at the least. And, it's not likey true, sweeping community police reform will happen without first seeing smaller steps and successes along the way.

Realistically, such a profound change won't happen overnight, or without the continued participation of community leaders as well as police. It's our job as much as it is the police's to ensure accountability and that Cole-Whittier Against Crime is a success.

But to me, the potential upside of incorporating a community policing model in Denver, even if on a small scale, to me is so exciting, we need to give Cole-Whittier Against Crime a real chance, rather than assume the worst and doom it to fail.

Thanks for reading.

A Cyclist For City Council District 8

So I must admit I'm shocked to have heard from two of the city council candidates after my post yesterday about Coleneighborhood.net's picks for the upcoming Denver City election.

First off, I'd like to thank Ms. Madison and Mr. Rasheed for reading and commenting on the site.

Second, I'd like to thank Ms. Madison and Mr. Rasheed for their clarification that in addition to Mr. Watson, each of them have bicycles in their history as well--Ms. Madison as an active cyclist, and Mr. Rasheed as a member of Mayor Hickenlooper's Biking Advisory Council from 2004-2006.

Why does that matter to me? Well, while currently I'm myopic about crime and safety in Cole, as well as bringing some key businesses in to drive the continued redevelopment of the area, at heart I believe the bicycle can solve many of today's problems.

I know, to many it may sound a bit crazy, but I do.

Childhood obesity? Get kids on their bikes. Adult obesity? How about cycling as a low-impact, fun and healthy adult activity? Concerned about traffic? Get more people on bikes for commuting. Dependence on foreign oil? Pollution? Ditto. Even the issue of gangs and keeping youth out of trouble has some relevance to cycling--Supposedly Fred Rodriguez, one of the top American competitive cyclists, credits the bicycle for keeping him from heading down the path of destruction that many of his friends did, growing up in urban Los Angeles.

Denver is a relatively bicycle-friendly city thanks to efforts by Bicycle Colorado, Bike Denver, and other advocacy organizations, but the bicycle needs to be taken into consideration in any urban planning to be done in North Denver, too. Glad to hear at least bicycling is on the radar of several of the candidates.

Finally, there is an exciting event coming to the Curtis Park neighborhood this summer--The Curtis Park Criteriums. Part of a multi-day amateur and professional competitive cycling and handcycling event, the race will bring 3-500 competitors and spectators to the Curtis Park area. The promoter, Beth-Wrenn Estes of the American Cycling Association, a former North Denver resident, conceived the event as a way to spotlight the area's unique and historic nature, as well as make a positive contribution to neighborhood youths (free bike helmets will be provided to many kids that take part in the kids races).

So how does this relate to city council and the above-referenced candidates? Well, thus far the organizers have received zero support or assistance from the city (Specifically, Councilwoman Elbra Wedgeworth, who apparently told them "I'm too busy to even look at this right now") cutting through the red tape or exorbitant expenses they're fighting to make this great event a reality.

Since several of the candidates have some involvement with cycling and bicycle advocacy in their background, whomever the voters select, I am hopeful that the promoters of this, and other valuable area events, will receive more cooperation from city council.

As always, thanks for reading, and good luck to all the candidates in District 8 on the coming election day.

Get Your Denver Election Ballots in!

I know... I know... it's 7 days before voting day, why wait so long to call for citizens to get their votes in?

I guess it was the realization that despite being incredibly involved now in our neighborhood associations, issues, and politics, I'm sitting here today, just finally getting my own ballot in. With that in mind, I'm betting there are many more people that care about Cole (and District 8, and the City of Denver in general) that likely still have their ballots sitting on the kitchen table.

I do wish more of our neighbors in Cole took a more active role in shaping what the neighborhood will become--We all have strong opinions about what is great or not-so-great about Cole, and what changes we'd like to see in the future--But unfortunately, too many times we don't get involved to actually effect that change. And what better way to start than by voting in Denver's upcoming city election? Unfortunately, I'm not optimistic the election even shows up on the radar of most residents.

Now don't get me wrong--I understand the discouraging reality of voting in America--Namely the reality that a greater majority of the population turned out to vote in Iraq's 2005 elections (70%!) than ever do for an election in America--But I'm talking about the people that seem like they have it "together", for lack of a better term, but don't vote. I must admit, up until the 2004 presidential election, I was one of those people--At which point my father used to say "You're not allowed to have an opinion on politics, unless you register and vote." Smart guy, my dad.

Like a few of our neighbors--They're younger, educated, affluent people, with good jobs, new homes in Cole, and never a shortage of opinions on how our neighborhood could be improved. One couple is never short on complaints--Whether it be the crime problem, the trash problem, the condition of their neighbor's home, etc.--Yet despite numerous efforts to get them involved in the neighborhood, it has been somewhat like keeping a candle lit in a gusty windstorm. In all reality, it's likely just that they're busy, as we all are--But I'm impatient about change in Cole--and understand that doesn't happen without a group of involved and committed individuals, which the neighborhood is still seeking.

For example, we've had neighborhood meetings as large as 45 people, but inevitably, the next one shrinks back down to the same 4 or 5 involved residents. How do we expect things to change in Cole without being willing to become fundamentally involved in the process?

Well, sorry for the tangent. I hope most residents in fact will turn in their ballots, and just as importantly have done their due diligence on the candidates and their positions on key issues. But for residents still on the fence, I'm not averse to pointing out some reasons why I've picked the candidates I have.

So, without further ado, for those residents that couldn't make the last Cole Neighborhood Association meeting (where several of the District 8 City Council candidates spoke) because Survivor was on; or for those residents that legitimately have just been too busy to familiarize themselves with the District 8 candidates and issues, for what it's worth, here are Coleneighborhood.net's election picks for District 8 for the upcoming Denver city election:

• Mayor: John Hickenlooper

Why? Because despite my concerns that he's largely ignored issues specific to Denver's urban neighborhoods in his first tenure, there really isn't any other real candidate running. Thanks for stepping up for what you believe in, Mr. Lopez, but I don't think you stand a chance, nor have the necessary or relevant experience to be mayor of a large city like Denver. But again, I certainly applaud you for stepping up, and I wish you the best of luck in your future pursuits--Hopefully that will include starting with some other elected position and building a track record or base of experience--and who knows, then you could be my pick next time around.

Additionally, I have to give Hick some credit as the guy most associated with the revitalization of LoDo, and the architect behind bringing Broken Windows theory (Yes, I support Broken Windows) to Denver. So John, I'm voting for you buddy--Here's hoping you focus more on neighborhood-level issues in your second term.

• Auditor and Clerk and Recorder: Dennis Gallagher and Stephanie O'Malley.

Why? Because the Denver Post endorses them, and for reasons that make sense to me. (Sorry I don't have more of an opinion on this). In particular, it sounds like Ms. O'Malley is likely to make some substantive changes to Denver's woefully inadequate voting processes, which I think everyone that waited in the unbelievable lines at last election would deem an honorable use of an elected official's time. Sorry, these two seats just aren't all that important to this voter (though they likely should be). If Mr. Gallagher can add and subtract, and Ms. O'Malley in reality does seek reform of Denver's voting processes, that's all I need to know.

• Councilmembers At Large: Doug Linkhart and Carol E. Campbell.

Why? Doug Linkhart has voiced his dissatisfaction in both Mr. Hickenlooper's and outgoing Council member Elbra Wedgeworth's track record in tackling the many issues North Denver metro neighborhoods face. He also talks a good talk when it comes to crime. Additionally, he seems sincerely interested in "filling in" and redeveloping the blighted "horseshoe" that still rings the redeveloped downtown to the north (and to which Cole belongs). Finally, he shares my belief that the North Denver neighborhoods like Cole, Whittier, and Curtis Park at this point have enough homeless, drug and alcohol-related shelters--It's time for Highlands, and some of the other urban Denver 'hoods to do their part and host some of these important facilities.

Carol Campbell similarly seems ready to tackle head-on the crime and disorder issues that plague urban Denver. I applaud her for consistently not skirting the issues, or candy-coating her opinions, though I'm sure they open her up for some heated criticisms. For example, she's not been afraid to speak out about the dim-witted Denver tradition of spending police dollars every year to facilitate Cinco de Mayo cruising. Is she being racist in speaking out against Cinco de Mayo cruising, because she's white and the participants are Hispanic? No, she's not, because it's not about race. I don't care if they were Starbucks-drinking yuppies blasting Yanni in their 3-series BMW's, cruising is a bona fide problem, that adversely affects residents and businesses along the Federal corridor. I lived over there, and know first-hand how hard it is to even get out of your block to go to the Safeway for a gallon of milk on that day every year--Not to mention the residual beer and liquor bottles residents are left to clean up for weeks afterwards. And this is a problem that affects all residents over there--black, white, hispanic, rich and poor.

So, because Carol Campbell appears to be a straight-shooter that has lived "on the front lines" of urban Denver, and doesn't think the current disorder and crime situation should be tolerated, she'll get my vote.

Council Member District 8: Carla Madison.

What played into my decision? Well, for me, first and foremost I want a candidate that is available and responsive--In other words, the anti-Elbra.

Next, for this voter, crime and public safety top my list of issues, followed closely by the need to attract more and better businesses to Cole. Thus, my evaluations of the candidates were shaped by these key issues. You might have other hotbuttons, and as such, do your own reading on these candidates (you'll find links to many of their websites in this post and on the right side of the page) and make the pick that is right for you.

I really wanted to vote for a candidate of color for District 8, given the diversity of our district, but I haven't been able to get all that excited about any one candidate, except perhaps Ms. Madison. As such, on this one, I'm going to start with the other candidates before explaining where in my mind they fell short, before I share why I feel Carla is the best choice:

Lynn Smith has a lot of good things to say, particularly regarding redevelopment and zoning, but as a write-in candidate, I don't know that she has a real chance of winning, so I think voting for her would most likely just be taking away a vote that could potentially keep Sharon Bailey out of office (more on that later).

I initially was leaning towards voting for Darrell Watson, because even as a person of color, he has done enough homework to embrace Broken Windows. I am impressed with his work on the Biased Policing Task Force, where he opened dialog between residents and police to solve distrust and profiling concerns, rather than just throwing stones--as in my opinion the CPC is currently doing in response to the Cole-Whittier Against Crime initiative. His resume is similarly strengthened because of his leadership of the Whittier neighborhood association, which from the outside appears to be a very organized, effective organization. I also appreciate his interest in smart redevelopment through support of local businesses. The fact that he is a cyclist doesn't hurt, either. Finally, again given the diversity of our district, I think that it would be wonderful to have an African-American, openly gay city council member.

However, every time I've heard him speak, he makes some big promises that he's going to have a lot of trouble keeping (like saying if elected, he'll get the decision to use streetcars instead of light rail to connect the Downtown transit system to the new 40th/40th station overturned--Not try, he'll "get it done"). Also, his speeches are so rehearsed that to me he seems insincere, which leaves me uncomfortable about what he'd be like if elected. I don't vote for scripted, rehearsed politicians, I vote for real people that I can relate to, and I can't say for me that is Darrell Watson.

But the final straw was when I started receiving unsolicited campaign emails from Mr. Watson. I'm guessing he obtained my address from a neighborhood association list (which makes me wonder who provided it to him as well), but I know I never asked for emails from him. I was able to unsubscribe, but my personal email to Mr. Watson stating my unhappiness with his action went unanswered. Not encouraging from a potential elected official, so I crossed him off the list.

Greg Rasheed was a close third pick for me initially, but after further thought I had to move him up to a very close second. While he has said he clearly has concerns about Broken Windows, he seems to understand there is a real crime problem in the area. He makes a good case for investing in programs for youth in our community, to better recognize the many very bright and talented kids that otherwise seem to go unnoticed due to economics, race, and what school district they belong to. Though I don't have children, I have to admit at times it's tough in this neighborhood seeing how little praise, how little encouragement, and how little positive reinforcement and guidance children in Cole seem to get. I agree whole-heartedly that any long-term solution to the gang and youth crime problem needs to include positive, youth-targeted programs and activities.

I also get the feeling that despite Mr. Rasheed's steadfast belief in strengthening our communities through investment in and nurturing of our youth, he seems to understand, like I do, that youth programs and community programs alone won't fix the crime problem in District 8.

Interestingly, I was unable to learn much about his positions on some key topics as each time he spoke at the public forums, he ran out of time before he really got "warmed up" and to the meat and potatoes of his points. His website, too, was a little light on real information to me. But, to his credit, he seems to be infinitely available (which is refreshing, and hopefully would translate into similar approachability should he be elected), as evidenced by his prompt reply to this, and other blogs that have mentioned him in the days leading up to the elections. So you need to dig a little deeper to see where he stands on some things, but that information is out there.

A very big thumbs up for Mr. Rasheed's availability and responsiveness to nerdy bloggers like me--In doing my research, I don't think I found one blog dealing with this election where Mr. Rasheed hadn't taken the time to write a personal response (or several). And he certainly has been quick to respond to posts on Coleneighborhood.net. While he didn't end up being my pick, I am becoming more and more confident that Mr. Rasheed would be a fantastic selection by the voters.

Sharon Bailey looks good on paper, I guess, but once she opens her mouth I want to leave the room or change the channel. She goes on and on and on about how she's the most qualified candidate, how she did this, how she did that, etc. etc., blah blah blah. She's very proud of herself, in my opinion, too much so, and as such reminds me of Elbra Wedgeworth, who, no secret here, I despise for her lack of action and accountability in District 8. I'm concerned that Ms. Bailey similarly has some sort of personal agenda that she'll start to serve during her term if elected, at the expense of the district (a la Elbra).

Which brings us to Carla. Why do I like Carla? First, she isn't a great public speaker. I know what you're thinking: Why support someone because they didn't take the time or initiative to attend a Toastmasters class a couple times before running for public office? Well for me, while I wish for her own sake she was a bit more polished behind the microphone, I feel rock solid that what you see is what you get with Carla Madison--And that makes all the difference too me. I don't expect a city council member to be slick, or necessarily have all the answers--I'm more looking to someone with similar values and a sincere willingness to work with their constituency to make tangible change a reality in the district. (Incidentally, as my wife pointed out to me, and as I verified via Youtube, it seems Ms. Madison is beginning to find her voice behind the microphone, as her later speeches seem much better articulated--while still sounding very genuine--than her earlier ones).

She has also been the most visible candidate in Cole over the last few months--Attending neighborhood meetings (not just the one where all the candidates were present to give their sales pitch), Manual High School planning meetings, Cole-Whittier Against Crime Meetings, and other community events.

She supports Broken Windows; believes in "smart" redevelopment of historic neighborhoods like Cole, while maintaining the historical and architectural character; and she has a strong track-record of leadership at the neighborhood level as president and involved member of her City Park neighborhood association. So for me, she scores highly relative to my beliefs on safety and redevelopment, as well as education, and as such, she'll get my vote.

These are just my picks--I encourage everyone to spend a couple hours with Google and do their own homework and vote accordingly. Whomever you pick, VOTE! And the bottom line is realistically that any of the above candidates will be an improvement over Elbra Wedgeworth, who in my opinion checked out years ago.

I'm excited to see who the residents of District 8 pick--And even more excited to see what we can achieve in this district with a councilperson that is sincerely committed to positive change.

Thanks for reading.

Cole-Whittier Against Crime community meeting: April 23rd, 6PM, Mitchell Elementary

Sorry for the delay in putting out any substantive posts lately. Needless to say a lot has been happening though with the police collaboration initiative (now called Cole-Whittier Against Crime), the corresponding public safety survey, and the upcoming neighborhood cleanup in Cole (Saturday, May 12th).

Anyway, wanted to get something out online about the upcoming Cole-Whittier Against Crime meeting. This Monday, April 23rd, 6PM, Mitchell Elementary.

And get your mail-in ballots in ASAP for the upcoming city elections!

Denver City Council District 8 Candidate Forum

From the recent Cole Neighborhood Association Meeting. Check the candidates out and you be the judge:

http://denverdirect.blogspot.com/2007/03/candidates-for-denver-city-council.html

Thanks go out to Denver Direct for putting these all together on one easy-to-find website/blog.

Cole/Whittier Community-Police Collaboration Meeting: April 9th

Please join us Monday, April 9th, at 6PM at Mitchell Elementary (1350 E. 33rd Avenue) for the latest in a series of collaborative community meetings to help shape what the new Community Safety Plan will look like in Cole-Whittier. We've made huge strides over the last few meetings, but need the cooperation and input from as many residents as possible. Some potential topics for discussion:

• Help finalize the Community Safety Survey and plan for survey distribution
• Review current neighborhood safety data
• Work with other residents and DPD to envision the implementation of the new community safety plan

We need more residents to be involved in the planning process to ensure this program's success--And whatever your vision is for Cole-Whittier--Whether it's large-scale redevelopment, increased commerce and services, improved healthcare services or education--It all starts with community safety and crime prevention.

For more information, contact Karla Loaiza at 720.276.1492.

We hope to see you there.

Another take on Gentrification, Courtesy of "In Shaw"

My wife made me aware of a great blog by a woman in the Washington D.C. area that talks a lot about redeveloping urban neighborhoods, and gentrification in general. For anyone with an opinion on gentrification, especially those out there that see it as an evil to be avoided, and those that see gentrification as a crusade by rich white people to displace residents of color, I highly recommend checking it out. Below is an excerpt from one of her posts, or you can visit the blog here.

And big thanks to my wife for turning me onto this great blog. Oh, and for Mari, the author of this great blog, for so well articulating the many issues and points of view regarding gentrification.

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Monday, July 14, 2003

Confessions of a gentrifier I don't fit the normal profile of a gentifier..... First, I'm not rich. On a yearly basis, if not more often my profession's listserv goes on a tizzy about how we're never paid much. according to some government tables I make about 1/2 of the region's adverage income. Second, I'm black. Of course some may want to take away my black person card because of the crew I hang with and I know I'm never going to win a Blacker than Thou contest. It says black on the birth certificate, so that's what I'm sticking with. Third, well there is no 3rd. But I like things to have a begining, a middle and an end. I do fit some of the gentifying stereotypes in otherways: I'm new, moving in in 2000 I have a graduate degree I'm young (sort of) I've improved my yard and house I attend community meetings and support changes I have no kids I am a homeowner I moved to Shaw because a) it is on the Green Line which will take me to Archives II, where I thought I would wind up working. b) not far from the Yellow line, which would take me to Braddock Road, where I did wind up working, c) near grocery store, laundry and everything else a car-less person needs, and lastly and most importantly d) I could afford it. I'm a single woman, there is only so much house I can afford. I don't like huge condo buildings, actually I hate condo buildings. Also I needed to be near the metro, as mentioned previously, I don't have a car. Not a condo, near the metro, equals expensive. But my Realtor found something in my small measly price range. All you new people just want to come in and change things! That's what I hear everyso often from several of the old timers. Old timers have been in the neighborhood since the Indians were fishing in the Potomac. They'll lash out against people who have lived in the neighborhood 15 years, which apparently makes you a newbie still. The old timers are typically old retired women, who insult you in that being nice but insulting way. I didn't move in with a plan. I was aware of changes and potential and I am supportive of it. Change is going to happen. People who have been here 15 years and want change do see an opening and are acting on it using some of the engery (and naivite) of the new people. So yes, I guess in some ways I do want to change things. ** Cut down on liquor stores Good Lord, how many of these stores do you need. Right where I am there are about 3 stores in a 2 block radius where I can grab a 40, or some Mad Dog 20/20. I'm not against beer and wine. I drink wine but you won't find me in the neighborhood liquor store, unless they start carrying a variety of foreign and domestic red wines, none of that Boones Farm crap but real wine. **Do something about abandoned buildings Do old timers like abandoned buildings? It brings joy to my heart so see a house that previously was boarded up getting fixed up to be sold. Now people with the money to fix up houses also are up on the current economic realities and know that they can make some money and they do. They'll fix up a house and sell it for an outragous price. Usually out of the price range of most lower and middle income folks. Heck even Manna fixed then sold houses that were out of my price range. So fixing up the abandoned buildings come at a price. ** Cut down on crime Can't we all agree on this? Apparently not. Some newbie neighbors attended a meeting where she was attacked for wanted greater police presence on her street. The attendees told her if she wanted police presence she should have moved to Georgetown! **Spend money in the community I would like to spend more of my hard earned dollars in the immediate area of where I live but I have 2 questions: 1. Are you selling what I want to be buying? 2. Will I be treated with respect? One old timer chastised the group for not supporting Black businesses and the businesses that have been here since forever. Well I would support those businesses if they sold something I wanted to buy. See the comment about the liquor stores. They aren't selling what I want, and I am not going to buy what I don't want. I want fresh fruit. I want variety. Secondly, I don't want to be treated like a criminal before I even walk into the store. I know the neighborhood was not and in some spots is not safe enough to remove the plexiglass between the cashier and the customer. But I find the whole experience insulting in some ways, so given a choice, I choose not to but myself through that. I choose to go to Giant on P Street. They have what I want, they don't insult me (the cashier may ingore me, but not insult me), and I get to spend my dollars in Shaw. I also support Chain Reaction. The service is good, the prices okay, and most importantly they're close. I don't eat at any of the take out joints, this goes back to the not selling what I want. I would like a nice sit down place, and I have yet to try the Italian restaurant on New York Ave, but that is still far. The best I can do is the Wendy's on Florida, which also is far, but they have the Wendy's Jr. Cheeseburger. If a store or restaurant that was nice and clean and respectful opened up I may visit it and maybe even patronize it. They're are some things that I and my fellow newbies do that are threatening to the old timers and anti-gentrifiers, and I'll try owning up to them. ***You're trying to move people out of their homes. Yes and no. Are these the loud drug dealers down the street? They why hell yes, I want them gone. The old timers may remember when Soinso was a cute little kid, but now he's 20 and is hanging with a dope selling crew. They may feel sorry for them. Newbies show up and they just see the dope selling crew, not the cute kids they were. Sadly, some of these dealers work out of their grandmothers/momma's/girlfriend's house and when a community of law abiding citizens set they're mind to it it becomes "get rid of them all and let G-d, sort them out." Even in situations where it isn't drugs but quality of life issues like noise and trash people look at it as a problem to be fixed and the easiest solution is to get rid of the problem instead of changing the behavior. Section 8. That tends to be synomous with problem house. They're are some good Section 8 people, but if a house has 12 people running in and out of it at all hours; people putting all their business out there on the street; children running around like they don't have any home training; being loud; being bad; being ugly, people just call it a Section 8 house. So yes, those people are targeted. However there are people who are pushed out because of higher taxes and rents. They are not targeted, they are just victims of the changing economic times. Of course, according to Lance Freeman,at Columbia University, and Frank Braconi, at the Citizens Housing and Planning Council people aren't pushed out (see New York Times 3/26/2002 The Big City; The Gentry, Misjudged As Neighbors by JOHN TIERNEY ). They were bound to leave anyway regardless of what was going on in that particular neighborhood.

Good riddance, Elbra

I caught a little of the March 20th District 8 City Council Candidate Forum tonight on TV, and I have to say that each one of the candidates at least appears to have good intentions about actually making a difference in the district.

But each one of them should be sending outgoing councilwoman Elbra Wedgeworth a thank-you card for setting the bar so low on what is expected of them. While I understand why the current candidates are being diplomatic to Ms. Wedgeworth in warm, fuzzy statements like they'll "be proud to continue the tradition of excellence" she set, if one of them called her out for the stinking pile of (expletive) she has turned out to be as an ambassador for District 8, they'd instantly get my vote.

Can someone tell me something that Ms. Wedgeworth has actually contributed to this district in the last five years? Anyone? Heck, even her website suggests she checked out several years ago. (I can't find anything of note that she is bragging about that has happened since 2003.)

And don't tell me about the Democratic National Convention. While it's certainly arguable that the convention coming to Denver will benefit the city as a whole, I think it's unforgivable how Ms. Wedgeworth has taken her eye off her entire reason for being elected--SPECIFICALLY helping District 8--to chase around the Hillary Clinton crowd.

Now I know someone is going to say "Downtown is part of District 8, and thus she's helping District 8 by bringing in the Democratic National Convention." Okay, let's do a little comparison. Spend the morning walking around the 16th Street Mall, then the afternoon walking around Cole, Whittier, and the rest of District 8. Who needs the help here?

What about the education issues on the forefront of residents' minds? Crime? Violence? Graffiti? Poverty and health services? I wonder if Ms. Wedgeworth needs to read her own website to remind her exactly which district she represented. "Oh, right, District 8, I was way off!"

I can speak for it first-hand: I'm currently working with the promoters of an upcoming bicycling event in Curtis Park. Our organization contacted Ms. Wedgeworth to gain her office's support and assistance in making sure the event will be a successful, and sustainable one. We explained that the event is intended to spotlight Curtis Park and other redeveloping North Denver neighborhoods and businesses; provide a healthy, constructive event for underserved local residents; and even offers free bicycle helmets to children whose parents can't afford them. Ms Wedgeworth's response? That she didn't have time to even think about helping.

Again, can someone tell me some tangibile contribution Ms. Wedgeworth has made since Friends went off the air? She checked out so long ago, it's laughable.

She can't even maintain a basic facade of being engaged by keeping her website current.

I can't wait to see what we can actually achieve in this district when one of the new candidates (Carla Madison, Darrell Watson, Greg Rasheed, Lynne Smith, and Sharon Bailey) gets elected.

You can learn more about them here.

While I have picked my candidate, I've realized that any one of them, if they at least show up for work, will be a significant step forward for District 8 over the neglect we've endured under Ms. Wedgeworth.

Good luck with your convention, Elbra.

Join us at the March Cole Neighborhood Association Meeting!

Residents, come join our growing group at the next Cole Neighborhood Association Meeting, March 29th, 2007 at 3280 Downing Street, from 5:30-8:00 PM.

This is a special meeting, where we'll get the chance to meet our district's candidates for city council. A tentative schedule is below. Hope to see you there--And bring some of your neighbors!

5:30-6:00 p.m. – Meet-and-greet

6:00-7:00 p.m. – Each candidate will have 10 minutes (10x6=60 min)
* 4 minutes to make a speech, 6 minutes for Q&A
* All residents' questions must be written on index cards and submitted to the moderator by

5:59 p.m. Questions will be edited by the moderator for clarity/brevity.

7:00-7:15 p.m. – Each candidate will have two minutes for a conclusion.

7:15-8:00 p.m. – Community-wide dialogue with neighborhood police officers on issues around the implementation of the Broken Windows program.

Denver Digs Street Trees Sale 2007

One of the most shocking differences between Cole Neighborhood and our old neighborhood of The Highlands is the lack of mature trees. Whereas in the highlands one finds cool, shady, lush (at least for the desert) tree-lined streets, here in Cole most of our blocks are home to two or three trees at best. And those that exist are either relatively young, or elderly trees suffering from years upon years of neglect. Worse yet, it seems that two out of every three trees down here is the dreaded alanthus, Denver's ubiquitous weed tree.

Head toward City Park to the east, and you again find tree-lined, shady streets. But not much in Cole.

While I've heard people talk about some sort of "tree blight" in this part of the city, I've been thus unable to find any reference to it, despite dedicated efforts by my good friend Google. But it seems clear to me something over here killed the trees.

What are the consequences for current Cole residents? Well, beyond the obvious aesthetics, there is less shade to filter the brutal Colorado sun, meaning our streets, sidewalks, gardens and yards soak in (and then radiate back) more heat during the summer. Having no shade on our streets drives residents inside in the summertime, reducing the communal quality of life most urban residents prize. Our lawns and gardens require more precious water, and many hell strips simply dry up and blow away. From a wastewater standpoint, trees are a tremendous asset--A study in 1998 suggested that Denver's urban tree canopy at the time provided equivalent value to a 21 million dollar wastewater facility. And finally, we're missing out on trees' inherent ability to filter a tremendous amount of bad stuff from our air--like sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide. These last two points are especially important given our neighborhood's proximity to two major highways and metro Denver's expanse of streets and parking lots.

So, we don't have enough trees to start with, the ones we have are either near the end of their life cycle, grossly neglected, or inferior weed trees, and no one is making a point of planting new ones. Anyone else see where things are headed? And I won't even play the global warming card that is so in fashion right now.

It's clear that we need to make a point of getting as many residents of the neighborhood to plant (and care for!) a tree. Compared to other campaigns residents champion, what could be easier than planting a new tree? Well, in all fairness, many residents can't afford to go plunk $100 or more down on a new tree, or don't know the first thing about how to select, plant, or care for a tree in Denver's harsh desert climate.

Last year we learned of a fantastic program put on by The Park People, a Denver non-profit committed to maintaining and enhancing Denver's natural beauty, that makes it easy for anyone--anyone--to help enhance our neighborhood by planting a tree.

Each year the Park People have a tree sale on Arbor Day where they sell carefully-selected Denver-friendly trees at fantastic prices , currently from $45 to $65. And these aren't tiny saplings that will start to provide shade in 25 years--Most of these trees are 4-7 feet tall, so they can make an immediate difference to our landscape.

They also come complete with planting and care instructions, to help ensure the best potential for these trees becoming established, healthy residents of Cole.

Even better, Cole neighborhood was selected this year as one of several to qualify for free street trees--Meaning residents that applied were able to take one of several varieties of trees home free of charge, as long as they planted them streetside.

While the deadline has passed to apply for free street trees for 2007, the Park People's annual tree sale is coming up on April 21st (Earth Day) from 9:00-11:30 at six metro Denver locations. Do your part and take the cash you spend each and every month on cable TV or entertainment and make a very tangible contribution to the neighborhood by purchasing and planting a tree. And just as importantly, make sure your neighbors know about the program, too.

The Park People can be reached at 303.722.6262 or info@theparkpeople.org. And of course check out their website: http://theparkpeople.org.

Thanks for reading.

Local Business Spotlight: Urban Roadhouse and Bluenote Catering

I got criticized by a fellow blogger the other day for making a post about a neighborhood barbecue restaurant, stating that my writings were too "diluted" as a result. Guess I shouldn't waste valuable space supporting a local businesses, when that same space could be spent whining, complaining, and just perpetuating the cynicism and negativity that afflicts our neighborhoods in general.

Oh well, as a relative conservative, I will always see the future of our neighborhood in free enterprise and individuals that lead by doing, rather than sitting around and complaining. And in that spirit, I have to point out that in nearby Curtis Park, we have yet another great neighborhood partner: Urban Roadhouse.

Located on the corner of 27th and Arapahoe, Urban Roadhouse offers North Denver residents fantastic Platte River Roasters brewed coffee (also available by the pound) as well as a diverse selection of breakfast burritoes, sandwiches and salads.

They also offer a full range of catering services from box lunches to full-on on-site catering.

I ate there the other day and enjoyed a generously sized B.L.A.T. (Bacon, lettuce, Avocado and Tomato) and a Pelegrino limonata--A perfect lunch.

Like so many businesses in the area, they're likely 3-4 years from looking like geniuses for opening up where they did--So as always, join me in supporting them. Buy local!

Urban Roadhouse and Bluenote Catering are at 2700 Arapahoe in North Denver. You can call ahead for take out too: 303.291.3347

(Photo courtesy of MileHighBuzz.com)