Category: Denver

Easy Plants to Grow in Denver With Kids

5/18/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Early lesson for kids in Growing our own food IMG_9506

Kids can garden, too! It might seem that gardening is too complicated for kids, but that isn't true at all. In fact, kids can be some good horticulturists if given the chance. There are several plants that grow well in Denver and are easy for kids to garden and maintain. Start kids out in gardening with the easiest plants and let them work their way up from there.

Before getting your Denver kids gardening, be sure they have the essential supplies. Suggested gardening supplies include tools, gloves, proper soil and food for the plants, a child-sized wheelbarrow and desired garden decorations. Denver soil is more like clay, so a good organic garden soil is recommended for the best results.

Sunflowers

Sunflowers are one of the easiest flowers for kids to start out with. They come in various sizes, making them versatile to grow, no matter the size of the garden bed. Sunflowers thrive in the Denver climate, as they can be very hearty.

Portulaca

Portulaca, also known as moss rose, is a fun and interesting plant for the kids to grow. The unique shape and texture of this flower delight kids, as do the colors. Portulaca is a good flower to grow in Denver because it blossoms in the sun.

Vinca

Vinca are a favorite of my own kids. These were some of the first flowers they planted and they continue to come up each year. Not only are vinca beautiful, but they grow very fast in Denver. Kids can sometimes be a little impatient, so vinca can help in that area. Our vincas bloom almost the entire year in Denver if we keep them in pots and use good soil.

Herbs

Herbs are very simple to grow in most any climate. They can be grown outdoors or in a window box container. Herbs need good sunlight to grow, which makes them perfect for Denver in the spring and summer. They’ll need to be kept inside during cold weather, however. Another plus is that kids feel special when their parents use the herbs they've grown to make family meals.

Green Onions

Green onions often grow wild in Denver, but if your yard doesn't have any, this is one of the simplest plants for kids to grow. Like the herbs, these can grow outside or in a window box. Give the green onions plenty of water and sunshine for the best results. As with the herbs, kids love it when their plants are used in the family cooking. We like to use them in homemade salsa, chili, and other southwestern dishes.

Free Denver Activities: Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum

7/3/2015

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Image © Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum

Located appropriately, at Sports Authority Field at Mile High, the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum is a must-see for sports fan in the Denver area. Visitors to the stadium can view memorabilia involving past, as well as current Colorado players.

Admission is free and free tours can be arranged for this as well. The Hall of Fame is generally open Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. during the spring and fall, as well as two hours before Broncos games. It’s open from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday during the summer. But these hours are subject to change.

Visit the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum for Free:

Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum
Sports Authority Field at Mile High
(720) 258-3888
1701 Bryant Street Suite 500
Denver, CO 80204
http://www.coloradosports.org

More FREE activities in the Denver Metro Area

Free Denver Activities: Bookbabies

6/24/2015

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Denver Public Library - Image © upton; Flickr.com

On Tuesdays, those with small children ages 0-23 months can enjoy Bookbabies at the Denver Public Library. Bookbabies is a language enrichment program for babies. It is an interactive program for infants to attend along with their parents or caregivers and is filled with language, music, and rhymes for baby to enjoy and learn.

This special program, along with many others, can be enjoyed for free at various Denver Public Library branches. Contact or visit your local branch today for a complete schedule.

Join Bookbabies at the Denver Public Library for Free:

Bookbabies
Denver Public Library
10 W. Fourteenth Avenue
Denver, CO 80204
(720) 865-1111
http://www.denverlibrary.org

More FREE activities in the Denver Metro Area

Free Denver Activities: Stiles African American Heritage Center

6/24/2015

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Image © ...Leo Oliveira...; Flickr.com

The Stiles African American Heritage Center is what its name states and more. Here you will find cultural artifacts, classrooms, workshops, guided tours, cultural exhibits, memorabilia, research and reading materials, and much more. The center is strong in its belief of celebrating and emphasizing the positive contributions African Americans have made.

In 2001, The Stiles African American Center helped to convince Denver Parks & Recreation to name a park in honor of Madame C.J. Walker. Admission is free. Hours of operation vary and sometimes change. It is best to contact the center at the above listed phone number for hours. Some days are by appointment only.

Visit the Stiles African American Heritage Center for Free:

Stiles African American Heritage Center
(303) 294-0597
2607 Glenarm Place
Denver, CO 80205
http://www.stilesheritagecenter.org/

More FREE activities in the Denver Metro Area

Free Denver Activities: U.S. Mint

6/24/2015

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Image © gt8073a; Flickr.com

The U.S. Mint only has two locations, one of which happens to be in Denver. Residents and tourists of Denver can visit the mint and go on a free guided 20 minute tour. This tour covers current as well as historical information on the U.S. Mint.

The mint welcomes solo tourists as well as schools and other groups. All tours are free, however, reservations must be made. For those with disabilities, tours are wheelchair accessible and arrangements can be made in advance for a sign language interpreter.

Visit the U.S. Mint in Denver for free:

U.S. Mint
(303) 405 - 4761
320 W. Colfax Avenue
Denver, CO 80204
http://www.usmint.gov

More FREE activities in the Denver Metro Area

High Altitude Tips for Staying in Denver, CO

11/27/2014

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by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

The Mile High City really is a mile high. That's 5,280 feet for those of you wondering. This is generally no problem for locals, but for those traveling to Denver from out of town may need some time to adjust to the high altitude. Staying in Denver can be pretty fun, but make sure you are prepared before heading out to enjoy your fun.

Stay Calm

Just slow down and breathe.

When at high altitudes, the air is thinner than at sea level. This can make some people nervous. If this is you, try taking deep breaths and then just relax. There's really not much to get worked up over.

Try some yoga.

It may not be the altitude, but rather anxiety causing you to gasp for air. Yoga can help relax your nerves, and it's a good warm-up exercise to prepare your lungs for the new altitude.

Take a moment to reflect.

While the air is thinner, it is generally not going to be harmful unless you have a serious medical condition that advises against high altitudes. Rest assured, there are plenty of people with heart and respiratory diseases living in Denver with little to no extra effects on their health. That said, there are still some tips that should be followed when staying in a city with a higher altitude than your body is used to.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water while staying in Denver.

Because of the high altitude and low humidity in Denver, the air is much drier than in some other places. Be sure to stay hydrated. Your body may even automatically signal you to drink twice as much as before while staying in Denver.

Stay Healthy

Be sure to eat foods rich in potassium.

Potassium can help the body better replenish electrolytes by balancing salt intake. This is your excuse to eat a generous amount of some of your favorite foods, like chocolate and grand-mama's greens. Some foods rich in potassium include avocados, bananas, beets, broccoli, beans, bran, cantaloupe, celery, chocolate, dates, dried fruit, figs, granola, greens, halibut, honeydew melons, oat bran, prunes, papayas, orange juice, potatoes (sweet and regular), raisins, spinach, tomatoes, and tuna.

Reduce your alcohol intake.

At high altitudes, the effects of the alcohol will increase, so keep this in mind when reaching for your favorite adult beverages. While this may sound like a good thing to some people, it can actually be quite dangerous, so be aware of how much you are drinking.

Stay Prepared

Save strenuous activities for the end of the trip.

Out of breath? Perhaps you forgot to ease your body into that 3K trek you took around town. Start off with lighter exercises in the first few days of your trip if possible. Don't expect to run a marathon the moment you step off your plane.

Pack essential personal care supplies.

Ouch! The higher the altitude, the closer you are to the sun. In fact, in Denver, there is 25% less sun protection than in places with lower elevations. Be sure to wear sunscreen, protect your lips, and wear sunglasses.

Watch the weather.

If the weatherman says it's going to be sunny, you don't want to have on thick clothing while taking a hike. This will only wear you out faster. Always remember to check the weather before dressing and remember that Denver's weather is not predictable by just looking out the window. Watching the report is important because it can change from sunny and hot to pouring rain in an instant. Just ask and most Denverites will agree.

If you cook, remember to use high altitude recipes.

One thing people forget about when cooking in Denver is that some recipes may need to be adjusted for the high altitude. Ever tried to scrape a hardened cookie thinner than the spatula off the baking sheet? Unless you're into that sort of thing, I'd suggest using a high altitude recipe while staying in Denver.

Other high altitude tips:

Denver.org High Altitude Tips

*I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network

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Hotels & Motels in Denver, CO

11/10/2014

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by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

The Mile High City (Denver) seems to have something for everyone with its rich and diverse culture. Hotels and motels to suit a variety of lifestyles and budgets abound in Denver. Choose hotels and motels from areas such as the lower downtown (LoDo) district, the historical City Park neighborhood, Capitol Hill and even the business-savvy Denver Tech Center (DTC).

Denver offers a fair taste of family fun, shopping, nightlife, a great view of the mountaintops from many angles and a friendly, inviting atmosphere, all from the comforts of hotels and motels that meet your needs. Depending on what time of year you utilize Denver hotels and motels, you might catch the Denver Arts Festival, the Taste of Colorado, the Shakespeare Festival, the Stock Show or even a holiday parade.

Staying in Capitol Hill hotels and motels will put you right in the center of Denver, where you'll experience a taste of many different cultures and lifestyles. Capitol Hill is home to many interesting shops, eateries and cultural events. Be sure to make reservations for hotels and motels in advance of your visit to ensure your spot, especially near holidays and other special events.

LoDo is downtown Denver's hotspot for a variety of reasons. LoDo features some of the best hotels and motels in Denver that also happen to be a few steps away from fun. Some of the finest dining in Denver can be found near LoDo hotels and motels. Also, a big part of the LoDo experience is shopping. When you've satisfied your taste buds and your inventory, enjoy the well-reputed LoDo nightlife.

City Park hotels and motels offer a stay in a historical part of Denver. Many of the houses and buildings in the City Park area are a big part of Denver's history. The City Park neighborhood also houses the Denver Zoo, the Museum of Nature and Science and even the Museum of Dolls and Miniatures.

DTC hotels and motels will be an attraction for business-minded individuals. While not just for the career-oriented, DTC is known well by this crowd because of all it offers. There also is great shopping and eating in this busy neighborhood.

Stapleton is a fairly new but busy, family-oriented Denver neighborhood that is still growing. Hotels and motels in this area provide access to great shopping and dining.

*I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network

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Englewood, CO Family Matters: How to Apply for Housing Assistance

10/25/2014

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Are you homeless? Just need something more affordable to house your family? Looking to buy a forever home, but need a little assistance? No matter the reason you need housing, there is probably a program in or near Englewood that may be able to help you. If you are in need, don't go another day without applying for housing.

Should You Apply for Housing Assistance in Englewood, CO?

If you are even considering applying for this type of assistance, it's possible that you qualify, at least by income. Aside from determining whether you fit income guidelines, there are many other reasons you may want to apply. Perhaps if you scrape by you can find other housing. But if you apply for housing assistance in Englewood, you may be able to qualify for something better, depending on which program you participate in. Are you embarrassed to apply? Don't let that be your reason not to. If you need the help, by all means, ask. If you have children, consider that they may have a bigger space to live in if you qualify and are accepted.

What Qualifications Are Required For Housing Assistance in Englewood?

Qualifications will vary for each program. But all will have income guidelines to meet. Because of this, be sure you have proof of all your income. If you receive any money benefits (SSI, child support, food stamps, etc), you will need proof of that as well. You also will need proof of age and citizenship for each household member (driver's license, birth certificates, social security cards, etc), as well as proof of your current address (lease, bills, etc). Phone and utility bills also may be needed. If you have children, you may also be asked for their immunization records. These are all the basic things you will need to have with you to prove that you qualify. Depending on your circumstances, you may also be asked for other items.

Different Types of Housing Assistance Available in Englewood. CO

When applying for housing assistance in Englewood, remember that there are several types. If you are interested in more than one, you may need to go through a separate application process for each. If you need rental assistance, there are programs that will help you pay your current rent. There also are programs that offer housing in specific units. Some of these are for families, some for those with disabilities, and some for seniors. There is also Section 8, which is a voucher that pays a portion of your rent in your chosen home, provided the landlord accepts this voucher from the state. If you are looking to buy instead of rent, there are also programs that assist those in lower income brackets with purchasing a home.

Where Can I Apply for These Programs?

Some Englewood and Denver housing assistance programs are run by government organizations. Others are offered through private ones. Because of this, you cannot apply to them all in one place. The most common are listed below. Also, many of these organizations work together and if one cannot help you, they may be able to refer you to another. Don't be afraid to ask. One 'no' answer does not mean you don't qualify for something else.

Englewood Housing Authority
3460 S. Sherman Street, Suite 101
Englewood, CO 80113
(303) 761-6200

Archdiocesan Housing
1544 Pearl St.
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 830-0215

Colorado Housing Assistance Corporation
670 Santa Fe Drive
Denver, CO 80204
(303) 572-9445

For more listings, such as emergency shelter and other government housing options, check the HUD.gov website

* I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network

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Craving Some Ice Cream? Try One of Denver's Best Ice Cream Shops

10/18/2014

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by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Have you ever been to an ice cream shop that made you want to return numerous times in just one day? If not, you're missing out. Denver has some of the best ice cream shops I've frequented. No matter what area of Denver you are in, there is likely a perfect ice cream shop for you in the mile high city. All of the options below have competitive pricing.

Bonnie Brae Ice Cream
(303) 777-0808
799 S. University Blvd.
Denver, CO 80209

This mom and pop ice cream shop has been in business for years. In fact, I remember getting ice cream there as a child. Whenever I am in the area, I have to stop by. With a very friendly atmosphere and an old-fashioned feel, this is the ideal ice cream shop for those looking for a little nostalgia and a lot of flavor. Bonnie Brae has over 50 flavors. Some of those include Blueberry Cheesecake, Black Walnut, Tiramisu, Bubble Gum, Butter Brickle, Red Raspberry Roll, Pumpkin Pecan, and Gingerspice.

Liks
(303) 321-2370
2039 E 13th Avenue
Denver, CO 80206

Located just a few minutes outside of Downtown Denver, in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, Liks is appropriately named. There is no such thing as only one lick here. You will definitely want more. An award winner, and formerly known as Lickety Split, Liks is a favorite among neighborhood residents. Ask any of them about it and most will tell you the neighborhood would not be the same without it. This ice cream is homemade and many flavors include fresh fruit and/or nuts. If Liks does not have the flavor you desire, let them know. They design their flavors around customer requests and they will even call you when they have your custom-requested flavor in stock. Liks is somewhat of a trendy spot. This is where everyone in the neighborhood (and surrounding areas) goes to hang out, young and old.

Baskin Robbins
(303) 368-9000
1155 S. Havana St. Unit 63
Aurora, CO 80012

Yes, Baskin Robbins is the ice cream store that was known for 31 flavors. The ice cream store, now a large chain, has grown immensely since then and now boasts over 1,000 different flavors. Each one is tasty in its own unique way. The location that seems to be the most popular among Denverites is the one in Aurora on S. Havana st. Aurora is one of the major cities located right outside of Denver. Some of the classic flavors available include Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Pralines N' Cream, Mint Chocolate Chip, and Very Berry Strawberry. Baskin Robbins also supports youth and schools by offering free ice cream prizes for reading programs. They also give out what are called Scooperstar Awards. Baskin Robbins is always busy, but they always seem to handle the orders quickly and are very friendly.

Cold Stone Creamery
(303) 762-8224
697 W Hampden Avenue
Englewood, CO 80110

Cold Stone Creamery in Englewood (just outside of Denver) is often considered a gourmet ice cream shop by locals. At Cold Stone Creamery, you'll see your ice cream custom-blended on a frozen granite stone, using ingredients such as premium ice cream, fresh fruit, and nuts. To some, it may sound odd to blend the ice cream on a frozen slab of stone, but it really does seem to make a difference. Some of the many fine flavors you can experience at Cold Stone are Berry Berry Berry Good, All Lovin' No Oven (one of my personal favorites), Cheesecake Fantasy, Mud Pie Mojo, That's How I Roll, and The Pie Who Loved Me. Cold Stone Creamery generally offers a fun and friendly environment with all different types of patrons.

*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network

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Footprints of Infant Stegosaurus Dinosaur Found Near Denver, CO

5/30/2007

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by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Image by U.S. Geological Survey via Flickr.com

MORRISON, CO - According to Science Daily, researchers west of Denver, in the town of Morrison, have discovered two rare footprints from a baby dinosaur hatchling. The footprints were discovered near Morrison by researchers at the Morrison Natural History Museum.

Dr. Robert T. Bakker, leading paleontologist and the paleontology curator of the Morrison Natural History Museum, said that these are the first prints ever found to be made of a Stegosaurus baby. The Stegosaurus was said to have been discovered in Morrison in 1877 and is the state fossil for Colorado.

"The tracks are so crisply preserved that I can imagine the sound of tiny feet splashing up water when the baby dinosaurs came to this ancient river to drink and cool down. I still can't get over just how small these footprints are," Dr. Matthew Mossbrucker, the director of the museum, said. Mossbrucker found the tracks.

A 50-cent piece can completely cover the tracks, which shows just how small these tracks are. This means that the tiny newborn stegosaurus babies were about the size of a human baby. The Morrison Natural History Museum has an annual event called "Dinosaur Days", which will feature the stegosaurus tracks found in Morrison. The tracks will stay on permanent display at the museum.

Mossbrucker told Science Daily: "If these dinosaurs were hatching in our modern world instead of 150 million years ago, they would be within sight of Denver's skyscrapers. These infant dinosaur fossils have raised more questions than they have answered. We'll have to keep digging."

Morrison is historically known for its history with dinosaurs. According to FrontRangeLiving.com, it boasts an unusual museum called Dinosaur Ridge. Dinosaur Ridge is essentially a road that runs right through a mountain of rock that is scribed with fossils of dinosaur footprints, fossils, ferns, and much more. This is a history from the time when dinosaurs roamed what are now known as the foothills of Colorado.

There are also many native plants and flowers growing through the cracks. Dinosaur bones can be seen protruding through the solid rocky surface that Earth was once made of. Children are often seen staring in awe at the footprints of mother and baby dinosaurs imprinted into the rocks. Dinosaurs that roamed this ridge lived during the Jurassic period, so you won't see any T-rex remains, but you will see traces of the Iguanodon, Stegosaurus, Triceratops, and others that roamed the land during the Jurassic Period.

*I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network

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