An edition of the Littleton Independent
WEEK OF MAY 25, 2023
VOLUME 22 | ISSUE 27
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Casey Kawaguchi is Arapahoe Libraries’ 2023 featured artist BY TAYLER SHAW TSHAW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
When Casey Kawaguchi puts down the spray paint can, takes a step back from his mural and sees strangers passing by and commenting on his work, he feels a satisfying sense of purpose. “Like I’m doing what I’m meant to be doing,” he said. “Makes all of it worth it. That, and just getting to see it brought to life — what was just a vision.” Kawaguchi’s artistic visions have come to life in a variety of murals decorating the metro Denver area. His talents led to him becoming the Arapahoe Libraries’ featured artist for 2023, which community members celebrated during a May reception at Smoky Hill Library in Centennial. “The Arapahoe Libraries’ featured artists programs showcase the work of a local artist who uses their art to shed light on diverse communities, discuss their culture, history, or social justice, and spark important community conversations,” said Nicole Dumville, the volunteer services and art galleries coordinator for Arapahoe Libraries. “Our featured artist, Casey Kawaguchi, exemplifies all of these things,” Dumville said. “We’re so excited to say that we have his solo exhibition, ‘Unmei,’ here at Smoky Hill Library for the next month, which is also Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.” SEE ARTIST, P8
Meet the new Centennial homeless outreach liaison A big job for a crisis BY TAYLER SHAW TSHAW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Casey Kawaguchi smiles next to his solo exhibition, “Unmei,” at the Smoky Hill PHOTO BY TAYLER SHAW Library in Centennial during the May reception.
VOICES: 12 | LIFE: 14 | CALENDAR: 17 | SPORTS: 22
As communities across Colorado grapple with how to best serve people experiencing homelessness, the City of Centennial has a new resource — a homeless outreach liaison. Vanessa Gates was hired to the brand new position, which falls under Arapahoe County’s direction. Gates, who started working in the role on March 13, introduced Gates herself to the Centennial City Council on May 16, sharing updates on what she has worked on so far and the vision for her role. “Our target population are going to be individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness and atrisk of becoming (homeless),” Gates said. According to the presentation, Gates will collaborate with individuals and/or families facing homelessness and refer them to the appropriate resources or programs. She will also provide navigation assistance to reduce barriers affecting the individual or families’ access to resources. SEE HOMELESS, P10
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Local high school students talk memories and plans for the future