by Mark Smiley | Jun 20, 2024 | General Featured
by Mark Smiley
Kade Ruotolo defends his title against fellow American Mikey Musumeci in ONE 160 at Ball Arena on September 6, 2024.
ONE Championship is the world’s largest martial arts organization, ranking among the world’s top five sports properties for viewership with a cumulative reach of over 400 million fans, according to Nielsen. ONE produces and distributes events across more than 190 countries, featuring martial artists and World Champions from over 80 nations and all styles of martial arts including MMA, Muay Thai, kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and more. ONE can be viewed on many of the largest global free-to-air and digital broadcasters, including Prime Video, Sky Sports, and many others.
Cherry Creek Valley residents can see these athletes compete at Ball Arena on September 6, 2024. ONE 168 will feature many contests in an atmosphere compared to a rock concert.
“We were here [1stBank Center] last May for our first event in the U.S.,” said Rich Franklin, ONE Vice President. “We had such a great event with a sold out crowd and a great reception from the fans, that we decided to return and do two events in the U.S. Denver and Atlanta.”
Franklin became the UFC Middleweight World Champion in 2005 and was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame. He became ONE Vice President in 2014, supporting key strategic initiatives for the company.
Some of the key matchups on September 6 include: Mikey Musumeci vs. Kade Ruotolo, and Liam Harrison vs. Seksan. Added to Fight Card, Joining Stamp vs. Xiong Jing Nan, and Jonathan Haggerty vs. Superlek. “I’m excited for this one [Haggerty vs. Superlek],” said Franklin. “Superlek is called the kicking machine. And Jonathan Haggerty is known for his elbows. He can close distance with an elbow like most people could with a long kicking leg. This is going to be a fun one to watch.”
In addition, two contests have been added to the stacked ONE 168 fight card. First, two of the top pound-for-pound grapplers on the planet will collide when ONE Lightweight Submission Grappling World Champion Kade Ruotolo defends his title against fellow American Mikey Musumeci in a must-see matchup. “We do a really good job matching up our submission grappling matches,” said Franklin. “Typically they are really fast paced. I expect this one to be really exciting.”
As the reigning ONE Flyweight Submission Grappling World Champion, Musumeci is looking to become the first two-division submission grappling titleholder in ONE history.
In addition, striking icon Liam Harrison of the United Kingdom will face Thai fan favorite Seksan Or Kwanmuang in a 140-pound catchweight Muay Thai bout. “Seksan is legendary in Tailand,” said Franklin. “His name in Tai translates to the man who yields to no one.”
ONE 168: Denver will also feature ONE Women’s Atomweight MMA World Champion Stamp Fairtex, who will attempt to become a two-division titleholder when she challenges Xiong Jing Nan of China for the ONE Women’s Strawweight MMA World Title. And in a battle between two of the greatest strikers, reigning two-sport ONE World Champion Jonathan Haggerty of the United Kingdom will put his ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Title on the line against current ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Champion Superlek Kiatmoo9.
Stage Front VIP, the exclusive U.S. VIP experience partner of ONE, will continue to provide fans with access through immersive VIP experiences that include premier seating, premium hospitality offerings, athlete meet-and-greets, event collectibles, and more. You can sign up for more information on Stage Front’s VIP packages at stagefrontvip.com/one-denver.
Amazon Prime members can watch these matches live monthly and all 167 matches are archived for those who want to become more familiar with the sport. To learn more or to purchase tickets, visit www.onefc.com/events/one168.
by Mark Smiley | Jun 20, 2024 | Uncategorized
by Mark Smiley
The Fortunate Prospector: The English Pub opened in April 2024 adding to the footprint of the Grand Lodge.
Gaylord Rockies Resort has a brand-new grand lodge experience just six years after opening its doors. The large fountain and train have been removed in favor of a new experience. The Fortunate Prospector and Embers Lodge Bar were the two major components of a Grand Lodge redesign in April 2024.
The Fortunate Prospector
The resort’s new English pub seats 134 and is situated on the right side of the Grand Lodge. Inspired by the dark coziness of famous taverns across the pond and subtle nods to Colorado mining history, The Fortunate Prospector features detailed woodwork balancing both modern amenities and classic design elements from the Victorian era. Also, the menu features a beer list with local breweries such as the Bull & Bush Brewery.
The menu pulls inspiration from traditional English roots featuring fish & chips, bangers and mash, Shepherd’s pie, and sticky toffee pudding. The seating, whether it be inside the pub, or outside of it with a view of the Grand Lodge, is comfortable.
Embers Lodge Bar
Embers Lodge Bar has a 360-degree wrap-around bar with a spacious seating area accommodating up to 248 guests. Set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, it serves as a place to gather around two grand fireplaces to enjoy light snacks, Colorado-inspired cocktails, and panoramic views.
The menu features oysters and barbacoa sliders with drinks such as Ziggy Stardust, featuring a custom choice of vodka and spice level (mild, medium, hot), topped with a flamed cinnamon pour over. Embers has replaced the bar, Pinyons, and the Après Ski Village space.
“The average hotel renovates every seven to 10 years, but we are adding more spaces for group and leisure customers only five years after opening our doors in 2018,” said Suzy Hart, general manager of Gaylord Rockies Resort. “We are laser focused on continual investment in both meeting spaces and food and beverage experiences that are beyond the extraordinary. It’s an impressive feat for the team and the reason we are trailblazers in bringing people together.”
Enhancements will continue into 2024. Stay tuned for more information in this publication on what to expect later in the year.
by Mark Smiley | Jun 20, 2024 | Glendale City News
Resort’s Summer Festivities Continue Through September 2
by Mark Smiley
Lazy River: Gaylord Rockies features a 720-foot-long lazy river with waterfalls, water jets, and bubblers.
Event Space: The addition of an event lawn with 10,000-square-feet of artificial turf area, four fire pits, and two natural boulder fire features, were part of a $22 million exterior enhancement project. Adjacent to the Grand Lodge lawn is a games lawn featuring artificial turf, family-friendly games such as bocce ball, corn hole, and giant chess, as well as three firepits where guests can roast s’mores.
Gaylord Rockies Resort is in the midst of their fifth annual summer celebration that continues through September 2, 2024. The itinerary of summer entertainment also includes the resort’s exclusive waterpark Arapahoe Springs, with slides and a 720-foot winding lazy river, 10,000-square-foot Grand Lodge Lawn and Games Lawn, a wide variety of culinary cuisine, and experiential classes, and relaxation in a full-service spa.
Dining
Throughout the resort, there are dining options, including steaks and an impressive wine list at Old Hickory Steakhouse, casual American fare in front of a 75-foot flat-panel TV at Mountain Pass Sports Bar, and experiential and new dining options, including: Old Hickory Master Cocktail Classes and Master French Wine Classes, British Beer Tastings, as well as the launch of two new outlets, The Fortunate Prospector and Embers Lodge Bar.
The Old Hickory Master French Wine Class ($50 per person) is a new offering at the resort. During t
Resort: Gaylord Rockies is a resort that features 1,501 rooms, a 720-foot winding lazy river, and a 10,000-square-foot grand lodge lawn and games lawn.
his one-hour adults-only experience, wine experts at the resort will guide guests as they explore a variety of wines paired with cheese. They are available on the following Saturdays: July 13, July 27, August 10, August 24 at 3 p.m.
Another new offering is the British Beer Tasting ($25 per person). Guests will sample three classic British-inspired beer cocktails — Half and Half, Snake Bite, and Shandy — and learn the history of these unique British drinks. These are offered on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; 4-5 p.m.
The Old Hickory Master Cocktail Class ($50 per person) is a one hour tour of expert guidance delving into the world of mixology capped off by crafting two cocktails alongside master bartenders. These are offered on select Saturdays; July 6, July 20, August 3, August 17, August 31 at 3 p.m.
Activities
One of the newest activities at the Gaylord Rockies Resort is the Topgolf Suite. The Topgolf Swing Suite features two simulator bays and a variety of virtual games — including signature Topgolf target games, Zombie Dodgeball, Hockey, Baseball, Football, Carnival games, and more — paired with comfortable lounge seating, HDTVs, and food and beverage service.
“As Colorado’s largest combined resort and convention center, we are experts in providing extraordinary spaces for gatherings. Our partnership with Topgolf allows us to offer another fun and unique experience for quests,” said Suzy Hart, general manager of the 1,501-room resort. “Since Full Swing simulators come with games tailored for both novices and experienced golfers, all participants can enjoy themselves.”
Up to eight people can play, eat, drink, and hang out in each bay. The space will be available to rent for business and social gatherings, including birthday and bachelorette/bachelor parties, team building events, corporate meetings, and more.
Also new this year is a hidden treasure hunt for the kids. Guests can join the Gaylord Hotels Adventure Kids on an interactive quest to fin
Room: The Deluxe Family Suite features a separate area with bunk beds along with a king-sized bed in the other room.
d a lost treasure map using detective skills to uncover hidden gems.
The resort also features some complimentary activities, including a virtual safari at the resort , animal encounters, sunrise yoga, live music in the evenings, and campfire & s’mores.
Thrills
An exclusive amenity for overnight guests, Arapahoe Springs Water Park features both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, water slides, lap pool, outdoor hot tub, and a 720-foot-long lazy river with waterfalls, water jets, and bubblers. Guests can reserve private poolside cabanas.
Relaxation
Guests visiting Relâche Spa can enjoy a full array of summer massage, facial, and nail treatments. July features Desert Revival and Prickly Pear inspired services, with anti-aging and detoxing benefits, while August showcases cooling and hydrating Avocado treatments.
Reservations at Relâche Spa grant access to Arapahoe Springs Water Park, free parking, the resort’s full-service gym, and spa amenities.
To book rooms, packages, spa treatments, and buy event tickets, visit GaylordRockies.com.
by Mark Smiley | Jun 20, 2024 | Uncategorized
by Mark Smiley
Bastille Day, a 3-day festival in Cherry Creek North is set for Friday, July 12 (4 p.m.), through Sunday, July 14, 2024 (9 p.m.). It will be held on Fillmore Plaza (Fillmore St. between 1at & 2nd Ave.) hosted by The French American Chamber of Commerce Rocky Mountain.
This French Festival is a celebration of culture, gastronomy, and art. Experience the best of France with authentic French cuisine, encounters with French artists, and shopping from both local and French artisans.
For an authentic French touch, relax at the lounge bar, Le Café de Paris. The garçons de café will serve you an array of delights, including champagne, French wines, and refreshing soft drinks. Relax and savor the essence of France right in the heart of Cherry Creek.
This event is free to attend. Visit www.rmfacc.org/bastilleday2024 to reserve your ticket.
by Mark Smiley | Jun 20, 2024 | Travel
2024 Summer Events Calendar Packed With Events
by Mark Smiley
Kickoff Event: Caroline Matz enjoyed the kickoff party for the Cherry Creek North In Bloom summer season on the rooftop of the Jacquard Hotel.
Cherry Creek North unveiled a calendar of events for the 2024 Cherry Creek In Bloom summer season. This year, Cherry Creek North In Bloom offers a destination for a summer filled with more than 70 days of music, arts, and culture.
“Cherry Creek North’s summer line-up will bring together local musicians and performers on our tree-lined streets,” said Lisa Voss, VP of Marketing, Cherry Creek North. “Visitors look forward to our summer events as a way to connect with the Colorado art and culture scene with their friends and families. This year we are excited to host Bastille Day, a three-day festival July 12-14th, that embraces and celebrates French culture, along with a long-time favorite, the Cherry Creek Arts Festival.”
Cherry Creek North is bringing back some long-time favorites this year, including the popular Cherry Creek Sidewalk Sale, now in its 53rd year. Additional events scheduled include:
Smash Fine Arts Festival
The summer Smash Fine Arts Festival returns for two weekends this summer, June 8-9, and again on August 10-11, on Cherry Creek North’s Fillmore Plaza. This festival features top national artists as well as live violin, piano, and guitar music.
Cherry Creek Arts Festival
The annual Cherry Creek Arts Festival takes place Friday, July 5 – Sunday, July 7. This free festival features 250 national and international juried artists, 13 performing artists, Creation Station with children’s activities, food, and interactive art experiences throughout the district. The Cherry Creek Arts Festival is one of the country’s largest and most respected arts shows.
Bastille Day
Cocktails: The cocktail menu at the Jacquard Hotel is impressive.
Bastille Day is a free three-day festival the weekend of July 12-14 that celebrates French culture. With 40-50 local vendors offering the “la creme de la creme” of French and French-themed products, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Cherry Creek North Sidewalk Sale
On Thursday, July 18, to Sunday, July 21, Cherry Creek North’s famous boutiques bring their racks to the sidewalks for CCN’s 54th annual Sidewalk Sale. With over 16 blocks of discounted high-end fashion, style has never felt so good.
Top Of The Town
5280 magazine’s annual, all-inclusive bash celebrating the best in and around Denver is back at Cherry Creek North on Thursday, July 18, from 6-9 p.m. This will be an evening filled with tasty menus from Top of the Town. Tickets allow all-inclusive access to the event, including the food vendors, bars, spirit sampling stations, enter-to-win giveaways stations, photo activations, and more.
Photos courtesy of Cherry Creek North
