Just this past year, terrorist attacks stunned America to the large-scale reality of war and violence on its home soil. This year The Conflict Center is reaffirming its commitment to peace and honoring one of its own for her lifelong work in reducing levels of physical, verbal and emotional violence.
On Thursday, October 3, The Conflict Center, will honor retiring Executive Director Elizabeth Loescher as the recipient of its 6th Annual Ambassador of Peace Award.

Loescher, a 25-year Denver resident, started The Conflict Center in 1987 in the basement of her home, and since that time has overseen the organization's growth and the community's broad acceptance of the Center's work. She also has worked internationally with a group called Women Waging Peace and she has written and traveled extensively to share her message of non-violent conflict resolution. She was recently honored by the Zonta Club of Denver as the recipient of their 2002 Pacesetter Award, and by the Women's Foundation with the 2002 Unique Women of Colorado Award.

Highlighting the evening's event will be a keynote address by Swanee Hunt, a former Denver resident and now director of the Women and Public Policy Program at Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government, where she also teaches. In 1999, she founded the program Women Waging Peace, an international organization with the goal of increasing the role of women as peace negotiators across the globe. Hunt previously served as U. S. Ambassador to Austria during the Clinton administration, and founded the Women's Foundation of Colorado.

The event theme for 2002 is "A Peace-full World" and will be held at the Denver Doubletree Hotel on Thursday, October 3. [the date was misprinted in the last issue].

Letter From the Director

Summer has flown by at The Conflict Center! We have all been working hard to prepare for the fall line-up of conflicct and anger management programming. This includes a collaboration project to pilot restorative justice in 3 middle schools, as well as undertaking a new initiative with the Denver Housing Authority to offer programming in the North Lincoln Homes. This program officially started with a Peace Day on September 11 to celebrate working with the community, as well as to introduce the concept that there is another way... to manage conflict in our lives and in our communities.

On that note, we have just completed a new video project titled "There is Another Way..." made possible through a grant from The Just Media Fund and produced by Non-Profit Films. After reviewing several "rough cuts" and final editing, the video project is complete. The video (and DVD) illustrate our work to teach conflict, anger management and parenting with Youth-at-Risk, Schools, and Organizations throughout the community. The first showing of the video "There is Another Way" will be at the Ambassador of Peace Award Event the evening of October 3.

We are also preparing for our 4th Annual Youth Peace Leadership Conference on October 22. This a great way to celebrate our youth and their work in peacemaking. The event will feature a variety of leadership topics related to peacemaking in our communities. The conference is offered to students in grades 3-12, school administrators, counselors and educators to share ideas and develop skills in school-based conflict resolution.

As you can see, the peacemaking days are just packed! If you are willing to join us in these efforts, please call 303-433-4983. Together we can create a more peaceful world! --Michelle : )

Sunnyside Music Festival A Big Success: Grass-roots Style

The Sunnyside Music Festival, Hosted by the Hoffers and a few of their Sunnyside neighbors was a huge success! There were several live band performances, free food and tons of fun throughput the day (Sept. 7). This was hosted in their own backyards (literally)! It was a real treat to meet so many of our neighbors and get the chance to talk about the work of The Conflict Center. A much appreciated $1000 in donations from this event was donated to The Conflict Center. We were thrilled to participate in such a fun day and honored to receive the financial gift. We hope to see you on the grass next year.

Keynote Presentation by Swanee Hunt

This year's keynote presentation at the 6th Annual Ambassador of Peace Award Event addresses how peacemaking tools at the local level also work at the global level with Swanee Hunt, Ph.D., former Ambassador to Austria. In her keynote address, Dr. Hunt will discuss what Liz Loescher does in her everyday work and bridge individual action to international security.

When asked how she first became acquainted with Liz Loescher's work, Dr. Hunt stated that their introduction was church oriented. "I met Liz at the Capital Heights and 10:30 Catholic Church Community. This church community was built on a model of bridging differences. I was co-directing a half-way house for young adults struggling with mental illness and at the time, I asked Liz for help. She was clear thinking and could cut right to the heart of a problem. Later, when I became a diplomat, Liz's lessons stayed with me. Her understanding of how conflict isn't the problem, but that violence is, really affected my work with the Bosnian conflict. She taught me how to get into others' skin; how to understand their drive and their needs, and then ldentify ways to address some of those needs.

"The more we can learn about the way other people think, the more stable our world will be. It's almost as if since September 11, a whole group of people sprang into existence. There are Chinese, African, and South Americans who each have a different way of living. In America, we have a very insular way of living that doesn't care or respond to needs.

The needs we ignore don't go away. These children don't disapear. They go down a path because part of society affects them and it affects you. It is the same in the world. These people are tranformed by those needs, and become dangerous."

When asked what she'd like to see change in America, Dr. Hunt stated, "I'd like to see American curiosity lead to learning, and out of that learning, empathy."

Dr. Hunt's relationship with Liz Loescher goes back 20 years when Liz had a conflict and anger management operation run out of her basement. "It's great to be coming back to Denver for this event!"

Thinking Outside Your Box
By Virginia Vobejda

How did we get this way? And why? Have you ever wondered why we are all so different from each other? Why one person looks and acts so differently from another? We are all different because of:
- age
- family beliefs
- early experiences
- schools we've attended
- work experience
- neighborhoods in which we've grown-up
- where we've lived
-genes we were born with
- ethnic beliefs and customs
- The sum of all these things and life experience (in general) makes us all think and act differently.
The beauty in differences is that we can all learn from them. Without thinking outside the box, there would be no inventions or new ideas. In looking at history, we've come a long way but we also have a long way to go.
As we expect our families, co-workers and others to respect our believes and practices, we are bound
to respect their values, even peculiarities as long as they are not dangerous or harmful.
How fortunate we are to live in a place and time that we are free to express ourselves and follow our stars, with thoughtful consideration of others' differences of course.

School Prevention Works!

The Conflict Center currently offers several services focused on reducing the levels of emotional, verbal and physical violence in our schools. These include:

* Alternatives to Suspension
* Choice Kids
* Classroom Management
* Faculty and Staff Training
* Misogyny Series for Girls
* Paraprofessional Training
* Playground Conflict Managers
* Reading for Peace
* Restorative Justice
* Whole School Program

We are also enhancing our "Misogyny Series for Girls" and developing promising strategies for correcting the misperceptions of social norms to further reduce levels of violence in our schools.

The program which consistently shows the most results in reducing violence in our schools is the Whole School Program. This is because the Whole School Program incorporates a combination of the strategies listed above to change the entire culture of a school. The major indicator of success with this program is the significant reduction in office referrals and fights. If you know of a school in need of this type of program please refer them to these services or call us at 303-433-4983 with your recommendations. You can also refer them to our website.

Madame Solutions
(on Workplace Conflict)

Dear Madame Solutions,
I'm writing to ask for advice. I have a supervisor who is always standing in my personal space and he never has anything nice to say to me. Just once, I'd like to hear something good about my work. This is making me bitter at work and I'm starting to hate my job. I'm afraid to say anything to him because he's my boss. What should I do?
Signed, Intimidated at Work

Dear Capable and Courageous,
Yes, that's right! Drop that "intimidated" label and take control of you. Happily your sticky situation offers a smorgasbord of solutions. Here are a few tidbits.

First, believe that supervisors actually want their people to do well, be productive and even be comfortable. Use "gentle confrontation" to let your boss know that having people too close physically is uncomfortable for you. He's no mind reader so be honest and clear, no blame needed. Invite him to "help you" hear better and be less anxious by keeping some distance.

And about that negative feedback... get out your own horn, shine it up and TOOT IT! Go to him with an enthusiastic "Look at this. I'm so pleased with it. I wanted you to see it." Tell him that you thrive on hearing about work well done. You could propose a catch phrase that you both would use to remind each other to acknowledge what is going well. When those negative comments start piling up, either of you can shift the conversation and the focus by saying, "And the good part is...?" Don't forget to expect and wait for a response.

Offering information and being enthusiastic about your work stands little chance of upsetting your boss. Work to build a partnership to get the job done! You have a great opportunity to make change. Go for it! Yes you can!

To submit a conflict question for Mme. Solutions, email information@conflictcenter.org

Parent to Parent

A letter from Shanna Torkelson, Westminister CO, Parent of Jeremiah, age 2 1/2

As a parent of a 2 1/2 year old I feel the skills and resources I learned at TCC have been invaluable. The self-awareness I gained through the curriculum has been extremely beneficial. I grew up in a yelling household and I knew that as a parent I did not want to spend all my time yelling, yet by the time I became a parent I had learned very few parenting skills to replace my automatic tendency to yell. TCC made me aware of how important my behavior as a parent is and how it can positively or negatively affect my family. As I parent my son I constantly find myself asking ..." Am I solving the current problem and building our relationship with my choices of discipline and redirection.

I have also found that TCC taught me how to be firm and kind with my son while still offering him choices. My natural tendency as a parent is to tell my son what to do and expect him to just do it because I am mom and his authority. I am much happier knowing that I don't have to use "power over" my son to gain his cooperation. This has also helped us in dealing with power struggles because as a parent I no longer feel I have to "win" but I approach situations with more of an attitude of "how can this work for both of us".

Does all of this mean I'm a perfect parent.......heavens no! I find parenting to be one of the most rewarding but challenging jobs I've ever done. Some days I know I've blown it and I utilize other skills TCC taught me, the art of apologizing, making up, and trying again. I have found parenting to be a process and as I face new challenges I'm open to trying new creative solutions and not just repeating how my parents parented me.

For more information on our Parenting Classes, click here.

Spotlight on Youth

Meet Jesse. Pictured to the right with Isreal Nunez (Associate), Jesse Trujillo is well known at The Conflict Center for his big smile, high energy and approachability. Jesse is 15 and has taken a couple of classes at TCC. He also helps out with classes and even washes windows! Jesse is also interviewed in our new promotional video. When asked what he likes most about The Conflict Center, Jesse stated he loves spending time with his mentor Isreal. Jesse is always willing to lend a helping hand to other youth and to anyone who comes along.

Faces of Peace-Day

Register NOW for the 4th Annual Youth Peace Leadership Conference!

Click for Conference Brochure or printable registration form.
We are pleased to host this opportunity for youth throughout the state of Colorado to come together for an exciting day of learning about peace and leadership. There will be workshops held in both the morning and afternoon that address conflict and anger management, being a peace leader, restorative justice, peer mediation and advanced training for experienced peer mediators. It is a wonderful day, filled with learning and new experiences for all involved.
The event will be held on October 22, 2002 8:30 AM -2:30 PM for students and teachers/educators 3rd-12th grade at Regis University in Denver.

Conference tracks include:
(1) An introduction to peer mediation, (2) Advanced training for experienced peer mediators and coordinators, (3) Conflict and anger management skills, (4) Being a peace leader and (5) Restorative Justice.

This exciting all-day event will cost only $30. Get energized and involved with like-minded youth seeking ways to make the world a more peaceful place.
Contact Robin Salmon at TCC (303)433-4983 for more information.

Star Volunteers: Interns Donate BIG Time!

Kate Lucas is from St. Peter, Minnesota. She is a recent graduate of St. Benedict College with a B.A. in English and a minor in Peace Studies. Starting in August Kate became an active member of the Colorado Vincentions. She is experiencing community and simple living, as well as working full-time at the Conflict Center. Kate is excited about working with our youth and restorative justice programs. Her hobbies include outdoor activities, reading and playing the piano.

Chris Hamilton is from Nashville, Tennessee. Graduated from Belmont University with a BS degree in Psychology. Chris is a full-time Vista Volunteer. He states, "I appreciate the overall integrity of the staff." Interests and hobbies are: music, sports and computer technology.

Alexandra Petrick came to us all the way from Bosnia. She worked full-time at The Conflict Center (TCC) for the summer and has been a member of "Women Waging Peace," an international peacemaking organization. She plans to use the skills she learned at TCC with her work back home in Bosnia.

Jeff Rice comes from Spokane, Washington. Graduated from Gongzaga University. B.S. Computer Engineering, Honors, also has a minor in Computer Science." I like the efficiency and people oriented culture of TCC. I believe in the skills taught here; they are effective in changing people and society for the better". Jeff is a Jesuit Corps Volunteer whose hobbies/interests include Reading,Violin,Computers,Hiking and Biking.

Brandi Rieger is a full time AmeriCorps Vista volunteer. She was born and raised In the Pacific Northwest and attended Western Washington University. She has a B. A. Degree in Psychology and Art and a Master of Arts Degree in Organizational Management. Brandi enjoys learning new skills in the areas of mediation, interpersonal Relations, and conflict management as well as school-based programs. Hobbies include recreational camping, music, reading, hiking, art and peacemaking.

Robin Salmon graduated from the University of Colorado in May,2001, with a B.A. in communication. She is originally from Davis, California. Robin is an AmeriCorps Vista volunteer at The Conflict Center until November of 2002. Hobbies include: spending time with her family and friends, skiing (water and snow), hiking, biking, swimming and sailing. Robin plans to continue her education by pursuing a Masters degree in Conflict Resolution.

Kivanc Ozer was Born in Ankara, Turkey. She graduated from Bilkent University in 1998 with a B.A. in political science. She attended the University of Denver focusing on International Relations and Human Rights. She is currently working on a Ph.D. at Nova Southeastern University specializing in Conflict Resolution. "What I like best about The Conflict Center is that it increases awareness resolving conflicts non-violently." Kivanc's hobbies include: reading, traveling, skiing, swimming, shopping and cooking.

Michele McCandless is a Denver University Graduate School of Social Work Intern. She is learning about conflict and anger management (part-time) with a strong interest in work with families. Michele is a Denver resident.

Volunteer Opportunities

• Soup and Salad Potluck Program "Diversity and Me: Am I Aware?" Monday, November 11, 5:30PM-6:15 to 8:15 PM at The Conflict Center. Sidni Lamb, Detrick Sadaa and Michelle Binkowski will challenge our approaches to every day situations. Invite a friend. RSVP to Heather or Elsie at 303-433-4983 so we know how much soup to cook up! Sponsored by the Volunteer Committee.


• Complete your Volunteer Training program by attending our Volunteer Trainings: No charge for TCC Volunteers! Our Special thanks to Cary Leher, an incredibly energetic, enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteer, for coordinating and teaching our volunteer training programs. Conflict Management - Monday, September 30, 6:30-8:30 PM Anger Management - Monday, October 14, 6:30 - 8:30 PM.


• This year's final Volunteer Introduction is Thursday, November 7, 3-5 PM. Call 303-433-4983 to reserve your seat. If you are unable to attend and want to get started as a Conflict Center volunteer before the year ends, please contact Mary Zinn-Stewart at 303-433-4983, x27 or by email.


• Annual Youth Peace Leadership Conference is Tuesday, October 22! Over 600 students attended last year, so we know that we'll need more than 40 volunteers. No training is needed. Call Robin Salmon at 303-433-4983 to get involved.


• Reading for Peace Save your Thursday afternoons, noon to 3 PM, to participate in Reading for Peace at area elementary schools. Make a difference reading to small groups of children and teaching basic skills through discussion of the stories. You do not need to commit to every week. A training is offered prior to participation. Call Vickie Samland at 303-433-4983 to join.


• Playground Conflict Managers program volunteers with daytime availability are needed.Please join us in teaching conflict management in schools. A volunteer is needed to assist with the production of the Playground Conflict Managers' publication, Peace Connection. Call Israel Nunez at 303-433-4983 for information.

New Membership Levels Announced

The Conflict Center and it's Friends Committee is excited to announce new membership levels for individuals, families, youth and organizations as listed below.

Basic Membership, $35
- one-year subscription to Solutions
- unlimited access to library

Enhanced Membership, $55
- one-year subscription to Solutions
- unlimited access to library
- 20% discount on classes
- 10% discount on special events
Family Membership, $75
Each household will receive:
- one-year subscription to Solutions
Each family member is entitled to:
- unlimited access to library
- 20% discount on classes
- 10% discount on special events

Youth (zero to 18) Membership, $10
- one-year subscription to Solutions
- unlimited access to library
- 20% discount on classes
- 10% discount on special events
Senior (65+) Membership, $35
- one-year subscription to Solutions
- unlimited access to library
- 20% discount on classes
- 10% discount on special events

Corporate Membership Levels and Benefits:
Up to 10 employees, $250
Eleven to 50 employees, $500
More than 50 emp., $750
All corporate levels receive the following benefits for their organization and employees:
- one-year subscription to Solutions
- unlimited access to library
- 20% discount on classes
- 20% discount on mediation and consultation services
- 10% discount on special events

If you want to become a member or modify your basic membership, email us at information@conflictcenter.org or call us at 303-433-4983.

Save the Date!

Saturday, June 6, 2003 is the next Garden Tour Event. Planners are meeting now if you want to get inovolved. Email us at information@conflictcenter.org or call Chris at 303-433-4983 to join the planning committee. We'd like to extend a special thanks to our Garden Tour event supporters...

2002 Event Partner:
The Sunnyside Garden Club including members:
Lucy Cook, Keith Howard, Margie Krause, Naida Lunsbury, Anne Macomber, Jana Miller and Janice Stice

2002 Event Sponsors:
Fuller Towne & Country
Rosa Linda's Mexican Caf
KG Brewster Remodeling
Zinn-Cohen Consortium
MetroFrame Works
ValuFinder.com

2002 Event Supporters
Isabel Alvarado-Bailey
Vickie & Duane Braunagel
Chess Communications
Ellen Stark Graphic Design
Susan & Greg Drumm
Heidi's Deli
Joyce Haas & Jeannie Laws
Pam & Joe Ignat
The Leher Family
Elizabeth Loescher
Ron & Mary Ludwig
Jay & Robin McCarthy
Francy & Larry Milner
Bill Murphy & Gail Drury Murphy

Special thanks to Mario Waller and the 2002 Pre-Event Volunteers...
Isabel Alvarado-Bailey
Sue Haskell
Marilyn Bromberg
Brandi Rieger
Chanell Singleton
TyRica Jones
These are the businesses and people who truly support a peaceful community. We hope you support them as well!

Event Calendar

Wednesday, October 2
Mahatma Gandhi's Birthday

Thursday, October 3
6th Annual Ambassador of Peace Award Event, Doubletree Hotel, Denver

Saturday, October 13, 9:30 a.m.
One Sky One World, Sloan's Lake, 25th & Vrain Street, Kite Fly for Peace, Genevieve Vaughn Memorial

Tuesday, October 22
Youth Peace Leadership Conference, Regis University, Denver

Saturday, October 26
Make a Difference Day

November 9
Berlin Wall Opening Day

Anyday
Perform a random act of kindness

Special Thanks

to Karen Brich and Will Burt for their help with the PowerPoint presentation for our Volunteer Introduction meetings. Thanks for your hours of assistance. We love having your support and expertise.

The Solutions Newsletter is edited by Virginia Vobejda with writing contributed by The Conflict Center staff and volunteers. If you have suggestions or feedback, feel free to email us information@conflictcenter.org. The printing is done by Scotts Printing.

Extend A Palm:

We are looking for donated (new or used) palm pilots to assist us with our new integrated electronic calendar system. Call Ron at 303-433-4983 if you can help us meet this need.

50% Off Books in Stock!

Featuring James Garbarino's "Parents Under Siege: Why You Are the Solution, Not the Problem-$12 plus $3 shipping/handling(retails for $24-- Signed copies will go out on a first come-first served basis) and, Mark Gerzon's "A House Divided: Six Belief Sytems Struggling for America's Soul"-$12 plus $3 shipping/handling (retails for $24.95). Orders for multiple copies will be sold at $11 each copy plus $2 for shipping/handling.

View our current class schedule