Issue 118

Two weeks ago, just over 100 Stapleton residents gathered to meet with the Stapleton MCA and local law enforcement to discuss what can be done about the amount of crime in Stapleton. “Things are getting out of hand,” said resident Kristi Mullenix. “Bikes getting stolen, homes getting broken into, bullets whizzing by, police cars all over the place. I mean, it’s like Detroit. Or what I imagine Detroit would be like, as I would never go there.” Residents from all over Stapleton stood up to discuss what they feel should be done about the almost uncountable number of dangerous incidences in Stapleton (unless you try to count them and use your one hand). “It’s time we get our own private security,” said resident Vince Hodges. “I thought this was the case years ago, and now I am absolutely convinced of it.” Several residents applauded this idea to which MCA President Liza Kampstra responded. “Hiring a private security force is extremely expensive,” said Kamkpstra. “Aside from that, there is no proof it is effective.” Resident Kathleen Taylor suggested the MCA shut down the pools and other MCA services in lieu of hiring a private security firm. “If we can’t be safe, which we aren’t, what’s the point in having all these other services?” said Taylor. “Let’s put everything into safety, and shut these other things down until we can sleep at night.” Some residents liked the idea of Stapleton becoming a gated community, while others thought closing the through streets would cut down on crime. In the end, District 5 Commander Greg Westerberg tried to reassure Stapleton residents they are very safe. “Stapleton consists of about only three percent of all Denver crime,” says Westerberg. “It’s hardly a high-crime district. Stapleton, in fact, is quite safe.” Residents agreed to disagree. “You may have all of your numbers and your experience,” complained Kate Jones. “But a lot of us here can tell you, it doesn’t feel safe. Maybe you need to change how you define a high crime district.” Seth Hall agrees. “What would consist of a high crime district?” asks Hall. “What needs to happen here to change that? If we get redefined, would we get more help?” Westerberg says residents can continue to help their own cause by doing the simple things. “Residents need to continue to lock their doors, garages, and report crime and suspicious activity,” said Westerberg. “And remember, you live in a city, and crime is unavoidable to cities.” Stapleton residents plan to continue the fight to completely eliminate crime.]]>

Forest City recently released their latest plan to develop affordable housing in Stapleton. The revolutionary plan provides shipping containers which will be modified to be new age apartments. “This is starting to be done all over the world,” said Forest City President Phil Dargossi. “We can make these affordable and sustainable. Plus they are unique, which ultimately is something we love in Stapleton.” [Read more…] about Forest City Releases Cutting Edge Affordable Housing Plan

Stapleton mom Carrie Crum has done a tremendous job raising her two kids. She has been actively involved in every aspect of their lives and has worked hard to put them in the best positon to succeed. “I have tried to make sure I did my best so they could have a lot of opportunity in their lives,” says Crum. “Whether it’s cooking healthy meals, working with them on their homework, or taking them everywhere in Colorado, it has just been important to me to be the best parent I can be.” Crum has done about all you could expect out of a parent. But, recently things have started to change. [Read more…] about Stapleton Mom Admits Best Parenting is Behind Her

It’s the time of year when parents seek the best place to get their kids a quick meeting with Santa Claus. Oftentimes for Stapleton residents, this happens to be the Northfield Bass Pro Shops. “It’s so close by, and they have all sorts of things to offer,” said Stapleton mom Amanda Jones. “They have a carousel, crafts, a train, toy cars, and of course, your kids get to meet Santa and get a picture with him. It’s actually really great.” Megan Richardson of Stapleton also enjoys taking her kids over to Bass Pro Shops to have a meet and greet with Saint Nick. “We go every year,” said Richardson. “The kids love running around and looking at all the overpriced, Bass Pro Shops emblazoned toys. It’s a great and convenient way to get the kids to see Santa before Christmas as well.” [Read more…] about Northfield Bass Pro Shops Showcases Diverse Group of White Customers

Every Stapleton neighborhood has its list of grievances. Eastbridge may have more than most, but other neighborhoods also have their share of concerns. Eastbridge appears to finally be getting its act together, but recently residents of the Stapleton neighborhood have found something else Forest City needs to address. “What in the hell are they doing building a hill right in front of my house,” asked North Eastbridge resident Kristi Klunder. “I think it’s supposed to be a trail or something, which is fine, but, why the hill? It almost completely blocks sight of the jail.” [Read more…] about Annoying Hill Blocks North Eastbridge Residents’ View of Jail

Nicole Schall sold a Banana Republic sweater on the popular Stapleton Facebook site, Stapleton Swap back in March. Per common protocol, she left the item in a bag outside of her house tagged with the name of the item. “I usually just put my items in a little grocery bag with a sticky note saying the item and the cost,” said Schall. “Then, people come put an envelope with the money under my mat, and grab the item. It’s a pretty solid system.” [Read more…] about Swap Item Finally Picked Up After Nine Months

Typically when snow falls in Denver, it gets back up to 50 degrees within two days, clearing all of the snow from our paths. Unlike the Midwest or the Northeast, the snow doesn’t come and stay for three months. In those areas, homeowners are forced to go out and shovel the snow from their driveways and sidewalks, as they know snow and ice won’t be moving on its own until late March or early April. So, it’s rare that Denver residents are immediately concerned about shoveling snow from their sidewalks, knowing it will melt away, oftentimes within 12 hours. [Read more…] about Resident Waits Patiently for Snow to Melt from Sidewalk