Happy Labor Day Weekend!
UpDoNA’s Spring44 Event was a great success! Thanks to everyone who attended, all who volunteered to make it happen, and of course, Spring44 Distilling. Not only did we sign up new members, but we also made new friends. Be on the lookout for an announcement of our next event.
UpDoNA is excited to announce a proposed new business in Upper Downtown located at 820 15th Street, the former home of Shag and Leela. Look for Garis Smith’s article announcing the Good Neighbor Agreement that was negotiated with, and signed by, the new business owners.
Several UpDoNA members attended Denver Strong’s Understanding De-escalation class on Tuesday, 8/23. Participants learned about the drivers of escalation and the three steps to de-escalation – assess, connect, and direct. We plan to offer another class in October.
Save the Date: Tuesday, 9/13/22, at 5:00 p.m. The Safety & Quality of Life Committee has arranged for Chief Paul Pazen, Denver Police Department, to speak to UpDoNA members about the State of the Streets. Look for Rob Squire’s email for the Zoom link and join Chief Pazen for his very informative presentation.
Now for some serious news. Denver Police Department Commander Kimberly Bowser informed members of the Safety and Quality of Life Committee that there has been a significant increase in violence and guns in illegal encampments, no matter the size. She stressed that residents should be aware of their surroundings and use caution when passing an encampment. Illegal encampments should be reported on pocket.gov. Call 911 if you see violence or a gun. Surprisingly, the increase in guns falling into the wrong hands can be attributed, in part, to careless gun owners. Recently, an AR15 rifle that was left on the back floorboard of a car was an easy target for the thief who stole it.
Unfortunately, one of our members was aggressively pursued by an agitated homeless man demanding money. Luckily, our member was able to get assistance from a car as it passed by. Immediately dial 911 if you are aggressively approached by anyone. Reporting not only informs the police of the incident, but in this case, it could have led to appropriate assistance being given to the homeless man.
Now for some fun. The Downtown Denver Partnership’s Popup Denver is in full swing. Currently, five entrepreneurs have opened businesses in previously vacant storefronts in Upper Downtown. The businesses range from an art gallery and a museum to a tea shop. Grab a friend, find the businesses, and support these entrepreneurs.
Have a safe and enjoyable Labor Day Weekend. Don’t forget to kick off your holiday weekend by attending the Taste of Colorado, September 3rd-5th, at Civic Center Park.
