Shaken Not Stirred

Barefoot Mastermind

2006-06-07T19:27:00.000-07:00

Three hundred, eighty-five thousand people have visited Body Worlds Two in Denver, the city broke all North American venue attendance records.

On the second day of the lecture, nearly 200 people crowded the entrance to the theater, an hour before the doors opened to the Imax where Dr. Gunther Von Hagens, creator of Body Worlds Two spoke on Friday,

Hagens is the mastermind behind the preservation of human bodies, his new technique, plastination, allows students of medicine to study the body without having to rely on cadavers and formaldehyde.

There has been controversy over the display of real human bodies at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, but the city was not the first to raise comment about the morality of people and children in the exhibit.

Hagens stood at the base of a theater packed with eager listeners; his customary black cap accompanied him behind the podium where he stood barefoot. His thick dialect flooded the room, demanding good listening skills to catch his witty humor.

In thick accent, Hagens described plastination as a complicated process that requires 1500 labor hours, more than $40,000 and an entire year to complete. Unlike traditional preservation in formaldehyde, which decays over time, plastination provides permanence previously impossible.

The plastinates are sturdy and somewhat pliable, they lack the undesirable smell of preservation chemicals as well, making them a welcome study aid for universities. Hagens plans to make plastinates available for study in the future.

Designed to celebrate life, the exhibit contains only subjects who’s bodies have been donated for the purpose of plastination. It includes child and infant subjects as well, sparking controversy in many parts of the world.

Body Worlds began in Germany where, according to Hagens, only two percent of people opposed the exhibition. In Japan, six percent were against the bodies. He referred to the press as a separate entity whose opposition ran 50/50.

Hagens was comfortable in front of the crowd, he showed shocking pictures on the screen and explained what would stun most people without hesitation. For 28 years Hagens has been working on plastination, he is leading the scientific world in anatomical studies and has every right to be at ease behind the podium.

When asked, Hagens said that he would donate his own body to be preserved with plastination, but for now he is working to preserve an elephant and bring plastinates into universities.

What could inspire a man to choose this profession? During the Q&A Hagens credited the life choice to “150 years of Freud.” Everyone in the room got the glimmer of humor from the barefoot-mastermind before them.

Old bar, new people

2006-05-03T16:09:00.000-07:00

Though the smoky atmosphere, John the bartender will recognize you and know what you drink, he will have it poured by the time you sit down. If he knows you, your favorite drink will be ready by the time you say 'hello.'

If you drive too fast you may miss the old neon sign that flickers "Don's Mixed Drinks;" the bar between Clarkson and Washington on 6th avenue in Denver that celebrates its 60 year anniversary on June 20, 2006.

The first impression is of a smoky, rustic dive bar, the pint-sized shuffle board, the pinball machine and pictures on the wall of patrons past remind everyone just how long Don's has been pouring booze.

Sentimental pictures on the wall show character, the old photography portrays the intimate history of the bar whose longevity relies on those people to return.

The smell of vintage tuck-and-roll vinyl mixes with the booze, as you order another cocktail and spy the old operational telephone booth in the back that hints of the nostalgic essence of the bar over the new music on the juke box.

Johnny rolls his eyes as two patrons make barnyard noises in the background.

"We won't kick you out for making animal noises at the bar," he said with a smile, odd behavior is accepted, even expected at Don's.

Besides the neon sign out front and word of mouth, there is little advertising, yet the bar fills every night with regular and newcomer alike.

Guest bartenders are welcome to invite their friends some Tuesday nights, this keeps the crowd fresh and the service exciting.

A microcosm of the entire night at Don's is the Bus Bomb (shown before and after). This is a concoction similar to a car bomb, but bigger, and made in a pitcher! Half a pitcher of Guinness, three shots of Jamison and three shots of Bailey's Irish Liquor go down the hatch as quickly as possible, making this a one-per-visit kind of drink.

Before Bus Bomb:

After Bus Bomb:

Don's Mixed Drinks will continue to thrive for years to come with the thirsty patrons of the neighborhood coming back for more. It is worth the cab ride out of downtown to make sure you don't miss Don's. It dosn't stick out obnoxiously in the street like some bars, so don't blink, you might drive right past!

Peaceful protestors filled the streets

2006-05-01T22:47:00.000-07:00

They planned for 50,000 people; they got 75,000 enough to fill Red Rocks Amphitheater seven and a half times.

Immigration issues have become the main topic of discussion from the classroom to the workplace to the bar.

While each side of the story has its own valid points, one thing is clear, something needs to be done.

The protest was peaceful; Denver cops reported no serious problems between protestors and their opposition.

It seems as though the view from legal immigrants and politicians alike is that if you come to our country, fall in, be an American. Coming into America and trying to change the national anthem is an insult to citizens and legal immigrants alike.

President Bush even agrees that re-writing our national anthem is like Americans trying to cross into Canada and rewrite their anthem, it's just rude.

If these immigration marches happened anywhere else, illegal immigrants would likely be forced out without remorse, but that is the beauty of this country, it was founded by immigrants. There is room for more as long as they make responsible contributions to the economy and culture.

High tech pedestrian mall

2006-05-01T22:27:00.000-07:00

The 16th Street Mall went Wi-fi Monday, May 1st, making it as easy to surf the web as it is to window-shop.

Until now, Denver wireless internet users had to pay for connection services at Starbucks and Kinkos locations, now anywhere along the stretch of the 16th street mall, you can uplink for free.

Tiny antennas along the mall from the Civic Center station to the Union Station help users connect to the network called the Downtown Wi-fi Zone.

Connectivity is intended for outside use including Skyline park on Arapahoe. Some parked cars on the mall's cross streets also receive the signal.

The Downtown Denver Partnership offers the free service, giving Denver a technological edge that is desirable to tourists and residents alike.

Who makes the show go?

2006-05-01T16:20:00.000-07:00

They sound like referees talking about a football game after the night is over, when the stage comes down the guys that make the show are still analyzing the fine points. The people that make the show go take their job seriously; they are the air-traffic control of a kamikaze concert. Hours after the show is over, they load cases into trucks.

"The hours are brutal, and the work is tedious, but it is the people that make it worth-while," says Pat Dickinson, Union Steward for the Fillmore. He has met more rock stars in the past week than most people ever do.

Right: Dickinson rolls road cases
from the stage to the truck.

Hours before the doors open, the crew and the engineers work hard to make sure the bands play without a hitch. If you have ever been to a show where the sounds or the lights go out there is a person who scrambles to get it back. If this person does not lose his or her job, there is someone breathing down his neck until they solve the problem.

Problems are rare on the scene because preparation is extensive. First on the set is the sound crew, at most shows, they stack and raise the PA. This speaker system is controlled from a mixing board in the middle of the room, and blasts the audience during the show. The sound crew also sets up the on-stage speakers, called monitors that allow each musician to hear the other. This system is controlled from a mixing board on either side of the stage. Each system requires its own engineer and is checked and re-checked before the doors open to the public.

The lighting crew arranges the light truss and raise high powered spotlights above the audience and stage. The lighting engineer programs each light for a separate motion to create rolling effects or set the mood.
between bands, the stage crew replaces one band's equipment with the next band's gear. The sound board must be patched over for each different set. Each band has different set lights as well so the sound guy and the lighting tech all have something to do while the house music plays between sets.

At the end of the night, all of the crew has to clean up after the bands. (Famous bands don't move their own gear.) Often this process, called loading out lasts for hours, but there is still no job they'd rather do.

The applause can last minutes after the show; it would be nice to think that some of that appreciation is for the people who ensure the show.

Left: Jay Sayler and Pat Dickinson move more cases at 1 a.m.

For the shaken

2006-05-01T16:00:00.000-07:00

No matter what city you visit across America, you'll find them high and low, strip clubs are entertain everywhere.

Some are classy and some are not, some are downright wrong, but there are a few worth going to.

Portland Oregon is known to have the most strip clubs anywhere, but Atlanta Georgia could compete closely, some of the most far out stuff is in the Deep South.

Denver has its fair share, a variety of different clubs sprinkle the city. From the Oasis up north, to Shotgun Willie's and the Penthouse club down south, Denver has something for everyone.

La Boheme, in downtown Denver is a walk from the 15th Street Tavern and a cab ride from the Pepsi Center. There is a private VIP lounge in the back and three main tables are the main attraction. It is a typical club with plenty of girls, but La Boheme offers a decent menu as well.

The Penthouse Club, S. Colorado Blvd, is a classy club, their VIP is upstairs and there are more tables with poles. The menu is incredible, gourmet steaks and seafood plates, served at tables with a clear view of the whole floor.

Bachelor party or just a night out with the guys, there are plenty of entertainment options to choose from. The best loop starts with the Penthouse Club, moves to Shotgun Willies right across the street, then up to the Diamond Cabaret in Downtown, across the way from La Boheme who seems to have the latest last call.

Where is the satire?

2006-04-30T16:49:00.000-07:00

Another dive on the E. Colfax route offers shots 'til close and a stern hand at closing time. The barmaids will pour shots until 1:59 a.m., and the owner will force you out one minute later.

That is the law in Colorado, no alcohol after 2 a.m.. Violations of the law bring closure to bars, so they want to make sure that every last drop is down the hatch before anyone turns into a pumpkin.

The satire lounge on Colfax near Pete's Kitchen serves Mexican food until 10 p.m. in a fitting environment. The stucco walls in the dining area remind patrons of typical Central American architecture.

After the other bars have forced out all of their patrons, there is still time to drive to the satire for one last slurp.

Sleep in

2006-04-30T16:29:00.000-07:00

Besides the corporate breakfast places that litter the highways and suburbs, the first meal of the day can be evasive.

So many breakfast places serve only until 2 p.m., others serve a limited menu until 5 p.m..

The Snooze a.m. Eatery is new on the corner of 23rd and Larimer Sts. in Denver. Sam's No. 3 serves breakfast all day, but you have to get in line early for Lucile's on 275 S. Logan, otherwise you just don't eat.

Charlie Brown's serves late breakfast on the weekends, they are located on 10th and Grant. Watercourse Foods on 13th and Sherman Sts. also serves late weekend breakfast.

There are places to go after a late morning in Denver, but they require some seeking out. If waiting for a table isn't your style, try Charlie Brown's. If the crack of dawn is your cup of coffee then head for Lucile's, for some flavor.

The P.S. Lounge

2006-04-30T16:10:00.000-07:00

This low-profile lounge on the east end of Greek town defies the expectation of an east Colfax watering hole.

Patsy Cline and Frank Sinatra are common choices on the juke box, and every girl gets a rose from the owner, Pete who is himself, quite the lady's man.

A life-size picture of Marilyn Monroe and a similar one of Elvis begin a long wall of fame that share pictures of celebrities and patrons alike.

Guest bartenders can keep their tips on Sundays and Wednesdays after working behind the cash-only bar.

House shots go 'round the room and Pete is generous when it comes to buying a round, he never lets his patrons go thirsty.

Enzo's End pizza is next door and the barkeep will call and order a pie while keeping the drinks fresh. The pizza is incredible and doesn't require a cash payment; the guys from Enzo's will charge it to the plastic so there's more cash for the booze.

If you're a local there's no excuse for missing the P.S. Lounge. Regulars and travelers alike share stories of the P.S. far and wide.

Ride the What?

2006-04-28T13:54:00.000-07:00

RTD has attracted a lot of media coverage lately, between the strikes and the rising rates. Still, the trains only run half of the time north of 18th Street in Denver.

It is interesting to note where the light rail serves. There are more people per capita up north in Thornton than there are in Highlands Ranch, but the train does not go past 30th and Downing Streets in Five-Points.

The final station on Downing St. Is irregularly patrolled, but crime rates along the Welton line have been high for years. From homicides to auto theft and assault, Five Points and the Downing St. Station are frequently mentioned on the nightly news.

It is hard to blame the Union workers for not liking the 30th and Downing station, the trains are frequently abused, left messy with tags and litter.

Why then did RTD decide to install nice padded seats in the trains? Places like New York and London have metal or plastic seating for a reason: it's cheaper and easier to maintain, not to mention it is cleaner.

Someday the light rail will reach Thornton, Arvada and even Fort Collins, but by that time, the running cars may not have the luxurious seats they do now.

The Walnut Room

2006-04-27T18:28:00.000-07:00

The Walnut Room on 31st and Walnut Streets in Denver is just far enough from downtown to find parking, and close enough to catch happy hour and pizza after work.

The building is new and houses more than just a bar, the Walnut Room has live music most nights in a well-insulated back room.

The back room was built with up-to-date sound equipment, and enough sound insulation to separate the music room from the main bar. The Music room is dark and classy with a bar of its own and tables and a couch for lounging.

There are practice rooms available for rent in the back, but get on the waiting list, they filled up fast after the place opened. Each room is insulated from the next and has thick insulated doors as well.

Paulie and Howard serve up the drinks in the main bar where the bass from the music room can be felt. Two television sets entertain the bar, and the pizza is incredible; there is an option to build your own pie.

With its diverse environment and a few entertaining regulars the Walnut Room is a great watering hole and a good place to meet people.

City Council meeting

2006-04-24T20:42:00.000-07:00

The Denver City Council gave final approval Monday for an ordinance that promotes an agreement between the City and County of Denver and the State of Colorado concerning the "HAVA Compliant Voting System" program. HAVA is the Help America Vote Act of 2002. The proposed bill allocates $1.4 million for the update, addition, and maintenance of 240 new electronic voting machines.

The controversy over electronic voting is that while it ensures the rights of some, it inhibits the voice of others. Electronic voting has invoked accuracy concerns regarding vote counting, the most notable of which occurred in 2004 when votes in many states were miscounted. The main concerns involving electronic voting revolve around lost votes. To the general public, this means that their voices are not being heard.

"Nothing in our democracy is as important as voting, and having that vote count," said city council member Kathleen MacKenzie who supports the bill.

There are problems with the bill that range from finances to inaccuracy and unsecured counting techniques. The electronic voting machines that the city already has are not yet paid off. Former city council member Jeff Cahoon said that cautioned against the purchase of these machines saying that we would be replacing the paper ballot system with one that is “susceptible to flaw and abuse.”

“There is no computer system that cannot be overcome,” said speaker Timothy Eme, an independent software consultant for the Federal Government. MacKenzie then pointed out that it would be just as easy to interfere with a paper ballot count.

The advantage to the electronic voting system is that it allows the disabled to vote privately. Speaker Faith Gross represents people with disabilities; she says that “they have the right to vote independently and privately.” The electronic voting system allows blind people and those with dexterity disabilities to vote without outside assistance.

“There are four main concerns about the voting system, it must be secure, accurate, recountable, and accessible,” said Bonnie Clark who warned the council about the reliability standards of the machines. The electronic voting machines have a much higher margin of error than paper ballots.

Software creator Jeff Cook showed his skepticism about the system by telling the council that “Germany uses paper ballots.” He said that the money should be spent on enabling the disabled to vote and no more.

The city does not need to buy all 240 electronic voting machines; Denver will not receive or have to pay back the money it does not use. It is possible for Denver to allocate funds only for helping the disabled. Mail ballots are gaining popularity and, as Council President Rosemary E. Rodriguez believes, mail ballots will be preferred in the future.

“The most important thing is that we have accurate, verifiable elections,” said Cook, “in case of a recount, we need paper ballots.”

Springtime in the Rockies

2006-04-23T22:58:00.000-07:00

It is that time of year in Colorado, summer is close but there is still the possibility of a freeze before the warm temperatures take over. It is time to clean out the rain gutters and fire up the lawn mower. The warm days invite gardening, but don't plant prematurely, or you may be re planting again at the end of the month.

Freezing temperatures have visited Colorado as late as late May, killing trees and growing gardens. The unique climate allows for skiing as late as late April, and bike rides year round, it also makes for some difficult gardening.

Perennials are wonderful, they keep coming back as long as the season will allow, but annuals and more delicate plants can be started inside in April to get a head start and have the first blooms on the block. Flowers like Poppies and Cosmos can be started indoors as early as mid-March.

Water restrictions have been lifted this year, replaced by guidelines. Generally, watering should be done in the cool of the morning or evening, not more than three times per week on calm dry days. Watering under the hot sun can make a lot of the water evaporate from the ground.

Besides freezing temperatures late into the season, hail can also damage new vegetation, so when the stones start to fall, you may want to provide cover for those delicate leafy plants in the yard.

The precipitation we see now has to last through the dry months of the summer, so, enjoy it while it lasts!

Colorado goes smoke free

2006-04-17T16:44:00.000-07:00

Fort Collins and Boulder were first to go, now all Coloradans face limitations regarding where they light up. Arguments for and against the ban have been stated and restated as the vote took place, but now, June 1, all bets are off, and all cigarettes are out.

When the city of Fort Collins went smoke free they encountered an immediate threat besides the citizens who whined that they had to go outside; the city found itself cleaning up more trash than usual.

The night of the ban, the city streets were lined with cigarette butts and matches. Eventually the bars began to put out buckets for ashtrays, but the problem went on for weeks. Both patron and business owner complained, and the buckets filled up, but so did the streets and sidewalks.

Littering is not legal, but it is possible that smokers, forced to perpetuate their habit outside may litter due to the lack of proper disposal options, but also as a form of retaliation to the law.

"Overall, I think it is a good thing," Said Pete, owner of the P.S. Lounge on E. Colfax Ave. When asked if the change would affect his business, he said "we'll deal with it, but it is a good change."

The general feeling agrees with Pete, they believe it is a good thing, even one patron said she may quit smoking entirely once the ban takes effect, but what can the city do about the problem of litter in the streets?

June 2, after the first night of the ban, will there be cigarette butts on the ground resembling the after-effects of a hail storm? If ashtrays are provided in plenty will smokers litter anyway?

Breathing healthy air is a bonus, but the environment need not suffer because we kick smokers outside. Obviously not all smokers will litter. Not all bar owners will put ashtrays on the streets either. Should they be required to place a bucket outside the door?

Relaxation Fascination

2006-04-12T17:00:00.000-07:00

Massage therapy is all over, so choosing the right therapist determines what kind of treatment you get, and the results. Many people use massage for relaxation, some use it in sports training, some people use licensed practitioners, some don’t. Looking for a massage therapist on the Internet is a good way to find both.

In order to operate a business, a massage therapist must be certified by the state as a Registered Massage Therapist, or RMT. Often an internet search for therapy will result in finding more adult sites than expected. Using caution and calling the company first is a good way to screen out bad businesses before going in for a massage.

With the gaining popularity of massage therapy, educational institutions appear everywhere. When seeking education in massage therapy, screen the educators just like the practitioners, keeping in mind that not all schools are accredited. Each state requires its own certification.

“Your criteria for school should be where it is located, what are its hours, the costs, how long is the program, what courses are offered and what percentage of graduates pass the State Board test on the first try.” Said Trish Daniel, a massage therapist who treats people with arthritis and Parkinson’s disease. Daniel says it takes time to build clientele in the field, but “the possibilities are endless on where you can work.”

Massage therapy can aid relaxation and soreness, and in some cases relieve chronic pain. Jayne Nelson, a trained energetic healer and yoga instructor said in an email interview that “Most [people] use massage therapy to relieve tension and relax.”
“I don’t believe that massage therapy does anything more than help people relax.” Nelson said strictly of massage. She has studied breathing techniques and physical strengthening treatment, even though she is not a certified massage therapist; Nelson believes that there are other ways to relieve pain.

Nelson and Daniel both agree that homeotherapy is used successfully in aiding massage. Just like anything else, making sure that the person administering the therapy is a certified professional. Nelson says she has had mixed results from naturopathic doctors, the one with remarkable results was the one with a certification.

The term Massage therapy is broad; it covers such practices as Cranial Sacral which counts the rhythm of cranial membranes to assess bodily health, and Cellulite massage that reduces unsightly cellulite. Each kind of therapy requires training and should be performed by a professional.

Sometimes a massage practice will offer different kinds of therapies like aromatherapy or homeopathic medicine. These alternative therapies are gaining popularity in the U.S., some of them sound like witchcraft, but some promise to promote health. People must do what is right for them and their healthcare plan, including research of the person administering the service.

One-day getaway

2006-03-28T14:55:00.000-08:00

These days it is hard to find leisure time, between school, work and the rest of the daily grind, Denverites are left with little time to enjoy the beauty all around them. Often a weekend is wasted at the laundromat and grocery store, and the mild climate is forgotten.

One day to get away means planning on leaving after work and driving three hours to Steamboat Springs Colo. It is just far enough from the city to feel like a vacation, and close enough the make it to work after your day off. Getting familiar with the town the night before, and finding a room close to the slope makes it easy to hit the powder early.

"If you don't make it up 'til noon you get the mashed potato stuff, it's perfect conditions up here!" Said Doug Bell, an avid Steamboat skiier who spoke later in the day about an alternative to fighting traffic on the way back to the city by leaving after some more R&R.

Once the mountain has caused enough bodily damage, the hot springs at Strawberry Park Park offers relief from aches and pains. Three pools of different temperatures lie nestled in the mountainside. The first pool is mall and warm, about 104 degrees (F), the second is slightly cooler, and the third is a cold pool with pockets of warm where natural vents heat the water.

The second 'sport pool' is perfect temperature to soothe the aches of the mountain, and allow for relaxation in the dark water where clothing is optional after dark. In the daytime, the pools glisten in reflection of the mountains.

The drive home is downhill most of the way, and if the trip was timed right, there will be eight hours before the alarm clock goes off again.

Sold out: Human bodies on display

2006-03-27T20:03:00.000-08:00

The Museum of Nature and Science in Denver is currently hosting Body Works 2 that celebrates life using human specimens. There was ethical controversy over the exhibit before it arrived in Denver, but the inaugural weekend brought record crowds to the museum.

Preserved by a process called plastination, invented by Dr. Gunther von Hagens, bodies are suspended in their true form. Plastination is the process of removing the existing fluid in a body and replacing it with a plastic substance. Bodies preserved this way are called plastinates. Formaldehyde is not used in the process, glass barriers are used only over smaller displays. Smaller specimens include single organs, transparent slices, the nervous system, and the reproductive system.

The use of real bodies allows the public to examine disease in the human body. The clean lungs of a non-smoker sit next to those of a heavy smoker, the difference is enough to make a smoker reconsider lighting that next cigarette.

All of the 200 human bodies involved in the exhibit were donated for the purpose of plastination. There are over 20 whole human specimens posed to display unique anatomy that viewers can examine up close.

Up-close examination can be overwhelming for some. The exhibit is intended for children 5th grade and above, as some of the displays can require parental explanation. During a single visit, one child became ill and an elderly woman passed out, but these isolated instances do not speak for the general population.

Examining plastinates close-up should pose no problem for anyone who went through high school biology. More prominent in the exhibit was the awe-inspiring intricacy of the human body, and the feeling of gratitude for the body donors.

Even during the week, the museum sells out of tickets for Body Works 2 quickly, so plan on getting to the museum early or buying tickets online at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science

Local artist defies boundaries

2006-03-22T12:10:00.000-08:00

Denver artist Eric Plouff, a lefty of the blues following has decided that not every painting needs a rectangular frame. "True artwork doesn't need boundaries," he said during a photo shoot for his portfolio, "It is very limiting!"

Plouff uses a variety of mediums for his art. Commonly, paintings will be textured by dirt, coal or any substance suitable for the particular piece in which it is used.

A recent fluctuation in his working life allowed Plouff to rediscover that what he really wants to do in life is paint. While his regular job pays the bills, Plouff hopes that one day his art will effect someone. During the shoot, it became apparent that it already has.

Plouff's son Brandon watched the photo shoot and asked his father not to sell the Jellyfish painting that he grew up with. Plouff and his wife Shelly have inspired Megan, 8, and Brandon, 12, to love art and music. The Plouff children know more blues artists than many adults today.

Jellyfish Painting

The Banff Mountain Film Festival

2006-03-14T17:05:00.000-08:00

Presented at Denver's historic Paramount theater, the Banff Mountain Film Festival is a collection of inspiring film compilations. From India to Boulder, the festival has established an outdoor exploration-savvy indoor experience for those of us less inclined to throw our bodies over cliffs and out of airplanes.

The award-winning film Balancing Point, by Danny Brown is the first film in the lineup. In a mix of incredible film work and digital effects, the college student from boulder has created a mystic account of balancing stones in mountain settings. Brown said that this was his first time competing in a film contest.

An adventure over Mount Fuji in a flying squirrel suit is more adrenaline than most people care for. For Loic Jean-Albert, it is the morning cup of tea. The Frenchman led a team of four "Soul Flyers" over the summit of Mount Blanc, and Mount Fuji in an incredible display of human daring.

All the films shown were founded in inspiration, from kyaking the mountains of California, to rejuvenate the distant towns of India. The Banff film festival holds a positive effect for the film-buff and mountain explorer in all of us.

15th Street Revisited: Neutral Boy

2006-03-13T20:25:00.000-08:00

Neutral Boy
From the left: Ken, Mandy, Mike, Melodie, and Anton

The 15th Street Tavern rocked again as Neutral Boy took the stage with Stoli and the Beers and Tard. Tara, beautiful bartender from the previous article is at it again serving a bar full of eager rockers.

When asked what he had to say, Mike, singer for Neutral Boy replied with his notorious crass attitude: "F*@& me, well at least half of em anyway, the better half!"

From his previous experience with Bill the Welder, and PCDC (Poor Celebrity Death Cult) Mike is a traveling battery of touring stories. Music Video From the 15th St Tavern will be available at (...) including clips from the Penis Puppeteers who performed at the Civic Theater in 2004. It was an epic show that infuriated thousands at the debut, and has promised to return from the otherworld.

Links, Links, Links!

2006-03-08T16:23:00.000-08:00

My Wiki post for the Inn at Auraria

My Wiki post for the Campus Village

Jason Reynolds charged in road rage

2006-03-06T17:59:00.000-08:00

Driver charged today with first-degree murder for the death of two motorists killed by his aggressive driving. Jason Reynolds, 32, who has a history of road rage, caused an accident on E470 that killed Kelvin Norman of Highlands Ranch, and Greg Boss of Lone Tree.

According to The Denver Post, Reynolds’s Jeep cut in front of Norman’s 4Runner and slammed the brakes; Norman took evasive maneuvers, ending him in a lane of oncoming traffic. At speeds nearing 75mph, Norman’s 4Runner smashed into Gross in a head-on collision that ended both of their lives. Reynolds was denied bail.

Channel 9 News reports that Reynolds will be arraigned on March 10th in Arapahoe County. He will serve time for two counts of murder and vehicular homicide in the Douglas County Jail.

This case may set the precedent for new laws against road rage. Even though Reynolds attorneys claim that he did not act in malice. This case should serve as an example to commuters who take out their anger on the traffic. There are ways to keep this deadly rage out of the commute, www.drdriving.org/ has more information.

Denver's darker corners

2006-03-02T15:52:00.000-08:00

There places in Denver where cab fare seeks a ride that never comes. Most of the cab drivers hover around downtown to snag the pedestrian from a corner bar, but when a residential call from as few as 10 blocks outside of downtown requests a pickup, wait times on a busy night can be more than an hour.

Realizing that there are still dangerous pockets, there are some places where one shouldn't expect a pick up from a cab. One such place is the Five Points area, near the final light rail stop on 30th and Downing Streets.

Neighborhoods right outside of Denver receive worse cab service than places like Highlands Ranch and the Denver Tech Center. Until recently neighborhoods like Skyline and N. City Park have been too dangerous for one vulnerable cabbie to make a stop.

Though crime rates in the Five Points area are still not low, surrounding areas soak up some of the reputation as a bad neighborhood.

Who would feel safe picking up a stranger on the streets of Skyline? The neighborhoods are improving, hopefully the cab service will as well.

mp3 practice story

2006-02-20T17:02:00.000-08:00

A cell phone call from neighbors of the Magness family in Platte Canyon reported a huge barn fire possibly involving Broncos' mascot Thunder. Frantic firemen scrambled to put out massive flames in a Platte canyon barn fire. The flaming barn was reportedly owned by the Magness family and home to Broncos' late mascot Thunder, reports say, since the area was so rural communication and resources were limited as the community scrambled to put out the fire. There were no reports of human losses, but apparently the resident of the barn, Thunder, the 12-year-old stallion and one time Denver Broncos' mascot was killed in the flame.

I have included in the title that this is not a report because none of the information is verifiable.

This is a fictitious story used for an
in-classroom writing exercise

Victim tased and beaten

2006-02-15T17:30:00.000-08:00

Police responded to a call early Sunday morning on the 14100 block of SW Allen Ave. regarding a neighbor’s report of disturbance. Upon interview, the victim reported opening the door around 4:30 a.m. when the female suspect jabbed him in the shoulder with a taser while the male suspect beat the victim’s head with a blunt object.

While the male beat the victim, a 73-year-old male, to the ground, the female took his wallet, and change jars from the bedroom before pepper-spraying the victim then fleeing on foot. The female is reported to be five-foot, three inches tall, in her early twenties and Caucasian with a stocky build. The Male suspect is reported to be five-foot, eight inches tall, Hispanic, in his mid twenties with a stocky build. Both suspects wore stocking caps and dark clothing.

The victim was taken to a local hospital where he was treated for head trauma and abrasions.

Fire destroys downtown building

2006-02-15T17:14:00.000-08:00

Fire destroyed a downtown building Monday after a call to 911 reported the flame at 419 W. Doty Street was moving quickly. While everyone made it out safely, four foot flames shot out from the first floor windows when the first fire crew arrived at the three-story home.

No injuries were reported, and crews had the fire under control within minutes after the alarm, but because of the old construction of the building, firefighters chased hotspots around the home for another hour and a half.

Homes on either side of the building were evacuated, but residents were allowed to return by 6:10 a.m. roughly two hours after the call was made to 911 reporting flames.

The next Whiskey Bar

2006-02-13T16:27:00.000-08:00

LEFT: in front of all the scotch Rachael and Jenni serve up an incredible time!

Nestled between Coors Field and the Colorado Musicians Studio at 2201 Larimer Street, the Whiskey Bar waits for patrons of all kinds. With 115 different kinds of scotch, pool tables, panini and delightful bartenders, the Whiskey bar has something for everyone, sports fans, and musicians alike.

Happy hour is between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. and then again from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. in addition to daily specials. Panini sandwiches are served on request until close, they are grilled and served with chips, and are perfect for sopping up excess alcohol before the commute home.

The building itself is the Thorndyke-Burlinton building, the Facade is actually made out of old doors from the Burlinton hotel, where in some places old keyholes are visible within the woodwork. The lights above the bar are old serving dishes from the Brown Palace Hotel, the kick rail below the bar is a retired handrail from the same place.

Gang billboards? Not on my street!

2006-02-13T00:11:00.000-08:00

Everyone has seen it on overpasses, fences and buildings, graffiti and gang tagging are problems that are often overlooked. As tag artists in the Denver area scar property, taxpayers spend over $800,000 annually on graffiti removal. According to Detective Ray Ruybal, the majority of these ‘taggers’ who vandalize property are kids between 12 and 18 years of age. Police are on patrol for these paint-spreading vandals, but there are things that property owners can do to prevent the crime. As Detective Ruybal explains, juveniles who commit vandalism crimes like spray-painting are usually sentenced to mild community service. Even for multiple offenses, consequences for tagging and graffiti are seldom more severe than 20 to 40 hours of community service. After the age of 18, the punishment becomes more severe and can include jail time and fines of up to $1000. Ruybal says despite numerous arrests in the past year, the reason for the light punishment of juveniles is that there is simply nothing else to do with the young offenders. Space in the detention center is reserved for more severe crimes. Often the teenagers do not show up for their community service, and are reprimanded no further. With this incredible lack of consequence for such property crimes, it is often business and homeowners who fend for themselves. However, there are options. The Denver Partnership Against Graffiti removes unwelcome marks at no cost to property owners. The best way to remedy the problem, however, is to prevent it. Foliage such as cacti and rose bushes, are good deterrents, as well as security lights and perimeter fences. Ruybal asks that people report the crime as soon as possible; this way officers know where and when to look for offenders. He also stated that most crimes occur when teenagers are walking to or from school, and after dark between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m.According to the Denver Partnership Against Graffiti, once the graffiti has been reported it can usually be removed within a few days. A signature from the owner of the property is required, and, by calling 720-865-7867, or visiting http://www.denvergov.org/DenverPartnersAgainstGraffiti anyone can make reports about graffiti on public property. There is also a paint bank available for citizens to pick up paint for public property like dumpsters and benches. The paint bank is open Monday through Friday, and is located at 1390 Decatur St. Arrangements for pickup must be made in advance. The city of Denver has an ordinance that prevents retailers from selling spray paint to anyone under 18. Regulations like this do not exist outside the city limits, so it is easy enough for youngsters to get their hands on the paint by journeying to a neighboring city. Spray paint is not the only kind of graffiti. Paint pens, permanent markers, and sharp objects are also used to deface property both public and private. There is a difference between graffiti and tagging. According to Ruybal, tagging is something done by gangs in order to claim their territory, and gain recognition among peers. Tags are easy to read and appear in areas of high visibility. Graffiti is the more artistic version of this vandalism, it takes more time to complete a piece, therefore is usually limited to places that are less visible where the offender is less likely to be caught. Graffiti is also harder to read and is not necessarily meant to claim territory. Detective Ruybal and The Denver Partnership Against Graffiti agree that the best way for citizens to help keep the city clean is to report graffiti and tags immediately. Motion detecting lights are inexpensive and simple to install in places that are not illuminated, like alleys and driveways. Vegetation and fences prevent taggers from getting close to exposed walls that they would otherwise use as their personal billboard.

Denver Dives: 15th Street Tavern

2006-02-03T15:29:00.000-08:00

To the left: Tara serves up the drinks while Phil mixes the lights.

Where do you go in Denver when you want to get down and dirty with the life of the night? Well If you happen to be staying at the new Hyatt Regency hotel on 15th and Welton you may choose to lose the tie and wander across the street to the 15th Street Tavern for some loud, live music, stiff drinks and great scenery-I mean the bartender Tara, who is delightful in every way. If you're into live local music, this is the place to be. People who used to work as stagehands for the Fillmore Auditorium operate the 15th Street Tavern, so they know music. Cover will rarely be more than $3 at the door, but be ready with your identification because you won't get past the front door without it!

Since the opening of the giant Hyatt Regency Across the street, business in the Tavern has been on the rise. Apparently travelers from the hotel are looking for an alternative to the sophisticated atmosphere in the hotel bar. The 15th Street Tavern is the closest alternative for those who will find themselves stumbling back to their rooms after last call witch is made promptly at 1:30a.m.

If you stop by on Sunday night there will be a disk jockey playing vinyl of mostly rock persuasion. It would not be out of the ordinary to hear ACDC, or Led Zeppelin blast into the sidewalk after 10:00p.m. on Sunday.

El Paso Hearing

2006-01-28T18:47:00.000-08:00

A hearing will be held by commissioners February 2nd regarding swimming pool construction in Calahan, and the formation of the Eastern El Paso County Recreation District.