 The Urban Dweller |
 Laura Barg-Walkow Spencer York Pella Denver & Borthern Colorado | 👋 Welcome to Our Newest CHUN Members! We’re thrilled to have fresh faces join our Capitol Hill United Neighborhoods family. Whether you're here for vibrant community events, urban planning, historic preservation, or park initiatives, there's a spot for everyone! We can't wait to meet you at upcoming meetings, volunteer days, and neighborhood gatherings. Together, we’ll continue making Capitol Hill an even more connected, engaged, and welcoming place. Welcome—and thank you for joining us! |
CHUN Business Member of the Month
🏆 Business Member of the Month: Sullivan Scrap Kitchen
We’re excited to spotlight Sullivan Scrap Kitchen, an Uptown gem committed to sustainability and flavor innovation. Founded by Chef Terence Rogers and Holly Adinoff, this plant-forward brunch spot operates under a “root-to-stem, nose-to-tail” philosophy—meaning no ingredient goes to waste. From beet-peel syrups to sourdough-pancake batter and beignet monkey bread, every scrap gets a delicious second life.
Certified by Denver’s Green Business Network, Sullivan Scrap Kitchen champions local sourcing, staff well-being, and environmental responsibility. Open Thursday through Sunday (9:30 AM–3:30 PM), they also host supper clubs, cooking classes, and cater through their brand TBD Foods. We’re proud to have Sullivan Scrap Kitchen in our CHUN business network. Stop by for a sustainable brunch, learn their zero-waste methods, and support local innovation—while enjoying a great meal that does good for our planet and community.
We’re excited to spotlight Sullivan Scrap Kitchen, an Uptown gem committed to sustainability and flavor innovation. Founded by Chef Terence Rogers and Holly Adinoff, this plant-forward brunch spot operates under a “root-to-stem, nose-to-tail” philosophy—meaning no ingredient goes to waste. From beet-peel syrups to sourdough-pancake batter and beignet monkey bread, every scrap gets a delicious second life.
Certified by Denver’s Green Business Network, Sullivan Scrap Kitchen champions local sourcing, staff well-being, and environmental responsibility. Open Thursday through Sunday (9:30 AM–3:30 PM), they also host supper clubs, cooking classes, and cater through their brand TBD Foods. We’re proud to have Sullivan Scrap Kitchen in our CHUN business network. Stop by for a sustainable brunch, learn their zero-waste methods, and support local innovation—while enjoying a great meal that does good for our planet and community.
🏆 Celebrating Our 2025 Good Neighbor Award Nominees!
Every year, Capitol Hill United Neighborhoods (CHUN) proudly honors those who go above and beyond to make our community stronger, kinder, and more connected. The Good Neighbor Award celebrates individuals and organizations that embody the true spirit of neighborliness.
This year, YOU—the community—nominated an incredible group of neighbors who exemplify the values that make Capitol Hill such a special place to live and work:
✨ Respect – They honor others’ space, time, and culture.
💬 Communication – They’re approachable, thoughtful, and open.
🤝 Reliability – They show up, lend a hand, and check in.
📣 Engagement – They participate and give back.
💛 Kindness – They lead with compassion in every interaction.
Please join us in celebrating the 2025 nominees:
Paul Bork
Kathy Maskell
Chris Donato
David Scarbeary
SuperPets
SAME Café
Whitney Ariss
Lane Harlow
Falon Bird
Phil Workman
Anita West-Berry
Their actions—big and small—have left lasting impressions throughout Capitol Hill, reminding us all what it means to be a good neighbor. We’ll honor them publicly on Sunday, July 6th at 6:30PM during our FUN in the SUN with CHUN celebration at Cheesman Park. Come out and show your support! 💐👏
This year, YOU—the community—nominated an incredible group of neighbors who exemplify the values that make Capitol Hill such a special place to live and work:
✨ Respect – They honor others’ space, time, and culture.
💬 Communication – They’re approachable, thoughtful, and open.
🤝 Reliability – They show up, lend a hand, and check in.
📣 Engagement – They participate and give back.
💛 Kindness – They lead with compassion in every interaction.
Please join us in celebrating the 2025 nominees:
Paul Bork
Kathy Maskell
Chris Donato
David Scarbeary
SuperPets
SAME Café
Whitney Ariss
Lane Harlow
Falon Bird
Phil Workman
Anita West-Berry
Their actions—big and small—have left lasting impressions throughout Capitol Hill, reminding us all what it means to be a good neighbor. We’ll honor them publicly on Sunday, July 6th at 6:30PM during our FUN in the SUN with CHUN celebration at Cheesman Park. Come out and show your support! 💐👏
CHUN Community News
🍹 Pride Happy Hour Brings Community & Celebration to Capitol Hill
 | On a warm June evening, CHUN partnered with Champagne Tiger and the Lavender Hill Cultural Arts District for a vibrant and joyful Pride Happy Hour that brought neighbors together to celebrate authenticity, inclusion, and community. Held at the funky and fabulous Champagne Tiger, attendees were greeted with a complimentary drink (on us!), a curated set of conversation starters, fun games, and festive pride-themed giveaways. More than just a party, the event was a joyful space for connection and reflection—on both how far we've come and how much work there is to do in support of LGBTQ+ equity. The collaboration was a hit, with excellent feedback from attendees and new connections made among CHUN members, Lavender Hill partners, and curious newcomers alike. We’re especially grateful to both Champagne Tiger and Lavender Hill for being part of this celebration and look forward to a potential fall brunch collaboration aimed at building deeper relationships in the neighborhood. CHUN’s Happy Hours will take a short summer break in July and August, but we’ll be back in September with a unique twist: a "dry" happy hour at Liks Ice Cream—because community doesn’t always need a cocktail. Join us in the second week of September for sweet treats and meaningful conversation. |
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🏛 Secrets of the Secret Garden: A Tour Through Time
| CHUN’s Secrets of the Secret Garden Tour, in partnership with the Denver Architecture Foundation, was a spectacular success. With 67 attendees, the sold-out tour offered a captivating walk through Capitol Hill’s architectural and cultural history. Guests were welcomed at the Tears-McFarlane House, where they learned about its transformation from historic residence to an inviting, community-serving café. Attendees explored how the once-abandoned annex has been reimagined as a dynamic hub of conversation and culture. Along the way, participants were treated to stories of Cheesman Park’s haunting past, the secert history of the Tears McFarlane House, and the vital role CSI and CHUN has played in shaping the city's civic life and updating the cafe for the community. Our heartfelt thanks to our knowledgeable and engaging tour guides: Bruce Caughey, chair of the CHUN History Matters Committee; Chelsea Wade of Semple Brown Architects; and Robert Ehmann, beloved neighborhood historian and docent. Your storytelling brought our shared history to life. Also, a special thank you to Pat Henry of City Street Investors and Eric Mandil of Mandil Inc. for offering more insight to our guests of the historic CHUN and CSI partnership, as well as secrets only a master designer would know about the Tears-McFarlane House. Thank you also to the Denver Architecture Foundation for their outstanding collaboration. We invite neighbors to return to the Secret Garden in October for a special Happy Hour with the American Planning Association, where we’ll dive deeper into the permitting process and the rich legacy of our CHUN home. |  |
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🏙 Urban Planning Update: From Sidewalks to Parking Solutions
 | CHUN’s Urban Planning Committee met on June 24, bringing together residents, planning enthusiasts, and special guests from the Denver Inter-Neighborhood Cooperation (INC) Zoning and Planning Committee. We were honored to host Jill Locantore, a longtime advocate for sustainable urban mobility, who shared insights from the city’s Parking Management Study—capping off a seven-month advisory process that CHUN played an active role in. Key topics discussed:
Looking ahead, Councilmember Chris Hinds will be our featured guest in August, followed by a September walking tour on unlocking housing choices. Stay engaged! |
🎬 Civic Spirit Soars at Join or Die Film Screening
| CHUN’s recent co-hosted screening of the documentary Join or Die was a roaring success—both in numbers and in spirit. With over 350 tickets distributed, neighbors packed the theater for an evening that highlighted the importance of social capital and civic engagement. The film explores the decline of civic life in the United States and the rise of disconnection in communities—and offers a passionate call to action for all of us to engage, organize, and participate. As CHUN’s name echoed through the audience with cheers and applause, it was clear: our neighborhood understands the power of showing up. The documentary’s message aligns with CHUN’s mission—if we don’t continue to lead with connection, dialogue, and action, we risk losing the community cohesion that makes neighborhoods thrive. Due to popular demand, a smaller fall screening is under consideration at the Tears-McFarlane House, offering another opportunity for reflection and discussion. Stay tuned! |  |
🧸 A Bear-y Successful Drive: Stuffed with Kindness at the Secret Garden
This past month, CHUN’s Stuffed Animal Drive at the Secret Garden proved just how compassionate and generous our Capitol Hill community can be. With a cozy donation basket tucked beneath the television and a steady stream of visitors, the drive quickly exceeded expectations. By the end of the campaign, the basket was overflowing with beloved bears, plush puppies, and other soft friends, all donated by neighbors eager to bring comfort to children and families in need.
The initiative supported HCA HealthONE Presbyterian St. Luke's Childrens Hospital EMT’s that work directly with youth and families facing hardship. These plush toys will soon find new homes, offering moments of joy and security to children in emergency situations who need something to comfort them during their time of discomfort.
The Secret Garden once again lived up to its name—serving not just as a space for sipping coffee or catching up with friends, but as a hub for community giving and mutual support. We extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated and to those who helped spread the word. CHUN will continue to explore other meaningful donation drives throughout the year. Don’t forget our community food drive in December and look out for more collaboration with other organizations to strengthen our community.
Let’s keep the momentum going. Because when we give together, we grow together.
The initiative supported HCA HealthONE Presbyterian St. Luke's Childrens Hospital EMT’s that work directly with youth and families facing hardship. These plush toys will soon find new homes, offering moments of joy and security to children in emergency situations who need something to comfort them during their time of discomfort.
The Secret Garden once again lived up to its name—serving not just as a space for sipping coffee or catching up with friends, but as a hub for community giving and mutual support. We extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated and to those who helped spread the word. CHUN will continue to explore other meaningful donation drives throughout the year. Don’t forget our community food drive in December and look out for more collaboration with other organizations to strengthen our community.
Let’s keep the momentum going. Because when we give together, we grow together.
🔥 Sparking Ideas: Fireside Chat on Parks and Public Spaces
 | While attendance was intimate, CHUN’s latest Fireside Chat proved that quality conversation can ignite meaningful change. Neighbors gathered for an evening of thoughtful dialogue focused on parks, public spaces, and underutilized areas in Capitol Hill. Participants shared ideas for how to better activate green spaces—whether through art installations, seating, community gardens, or seasonal programming. The discussion was prompted by a growing awareness that not all public spaces are being used to their fullest potential. From forgotten corners of Cheesman Park to vacant lots with possibility, the group brainstormed ways to make these areas more accessible, vibrant, and welcoming to all. Light refreshments were provided as attendees lingered and connected long after the formal discussion wrapped up. It was a reminder of CHUN’s role not only as a neighborhood advocate, but as a convenor of community dialogue. The Fireside Chat format will return this fall with a new topic--TRANSPORTATION. Do you have a pressing issue, creative idea, or policy topic you'd like to discuss over cocoa and conversation? Let us know! Email us at [email protected]. We’re excited to continue using these gatherings as a platform for listening, learning, and local action. Because in Capitol Hill, your voice matters—and so do the spaces we share. |
🌳 Beautifying Governors Park: A Neighborhood Cleanup Win
 | On June 7, CHUN members, neighbors, and volunteers came together in partnership with the Denver Park Trust for a hands-on cleanup of Governors Park—and the results were both beautiful and inspiring. Armed with gloves, tools, and a shared love for our city, volunteers worked together to clear debris, trim overgrown greenery, and spruce up this cherished green space. What began as a Saturday morning project quickly turned into a meaningful act of community care. Governors Park is a quiet gem in the heart of Capitol Hill—a space for dog-walkers, joggers, families, and outdoor gatherings. By restoring its natural beauty, we’ve made it even more inviting and functional for the summer months. This initiative is part of CHUN’s broader commitment to environmental stewardship and public space advocacy. In the coming months, we hope to host more volunteer cleanups in other neighborhood parks, giving residents the opportunity to roll up their sleeves and take an active role in shaping their surroundings. A big thank you to the Denver Park Trust for their support and partnership, and to everyone who showed up to help. You’ve proven that a little bit of effort can make a big difference. Stay tuned for upcoming volunteer opportunities—we’ll bring the tools and snacks, you bring the spirit. |
🍽️You’re Invited: Join CHUN at the Mile Long Table!
Capitol Hill United Neighborhoods is thrilled to invite our members to one of Denver’s most inspiring events of the summer — The Mile Long Table! Taking place Saturday, July 26th at 10 a.m. on the Auraria Campus, this massive community gathering brings together 5,280 neighbors (yes, one for every foot in a mile!) to share a meal, connect, and break down barriers.
At CHUN, we believe community is built when we sit down together, share stories, and find common ground — and there’s no better place to do that than at The Table.
🎟️ We’re excited to offer 19 free tickets exclusively for CHUN members!
Want to join us at the table? Email us at [email protected] to claim your spot. First come, first served!
Let’s come together for conversation, connection, and community. We hope to see you there!
At CHUN, we believe community is built when we sit down together, share stories, and find common ground — and there’s no better place to do that than at The Table.
🎟️ We’re excited to offer 19 free tickets exclusively for CHUN members!
Want to join us at the table? Email us at [email protected] to claim your spot. First come, first served!
Let’s come together for conversation, connection, and community. We hope to see you there!
🎉 CHUN Perks: Your Membership Has Its Privileges
Being a CHUN member is about more than just attending meetings or reading our newsletter—it’s about belonging to a network that supports local businesses, the arts, and each other. And now, with our growing list of member perks, there’s even more reason to join or renew today.
Here’s what your CHUN membership gets you this summer:
Support local. Get involved. And enjoy the perks.
Here’s what your CHUN membership gets you this summer:
- 10% off at Supreme Cleaners – Look sharp and support a neighborhood business.
- 10% off all full-priced menu items at Locales Tacos & Tequila Bar – Because nothing says community like tacos and margaritas.
- 10% off at the Secret Garden Café – Savor coffee, pastries, and atmosphere for less.
- $5 off all Denver Philharmonic Orchestra tickets – Support local culture and enjoy world-class music right here in Denver.
To redeem your perks, simply download your CHUN membership card to your iPhone or Android from your email and show it at participating locations. Not yet a member? There’s no better time to join—visit chundenver.org to sign up today.
Support local. Get involved. And enjoy the perks.
🕰️ History Matters Moment: Honoring John W. Hand, Jr.
 | This month, we honor John W. Hand, Jr. (1948–2004)—a true Capitol Hill visionary whose impact continues to shape our neighborhood. A Denver native, Hand was a founding member of Capitol Hill United Neighborhoods (CHUN) and a driving force behind Colfax on the Hill’s revitalization. His passion for community connection gave rise to the Capitol Hill People’s Fair, which brought thousands together annually to celebrate local culture, art, and music. In 1977, Hand purchased a historic building on Colfax Avenue and turned it into an antique shop and café, believing it to be a “Denver treasure.” By 1987, he had transformed it again—this time into Colorado Free University (CFU), Denver’s leading hub for lifelong learning. He saw CFU as a place where people could access practical knowledge and connect with one another—a reflection of his belief that communities hold the power to shape their futures. John Hand was known not only as a visionary, but also as a motivator, innovator, and renegade—labels he wore proudly in his pursuit of neighborhood-driven change. Today his legacy lives on as Colorado Free University continues to thrive under the leadership of his sister, Helen Hand, offering accessible education and community-building opportunities to all. As we walk through Cheesman Park, take a class at CFU, or gather at neighborhood events, we honor John’s memory and the foundational role he played in building the Capitol Hill we know and love today. |
CHUN Upcoming Events and Meetings
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