by Valley Gadfly | May 19, 2026 | Valley Gadfly
Valley Gadfly
June is the month of leaves and roses. Thirty days when pleasant sights salute the eyes, and sweet scents the noses. Cheers to the scent of change with lazy days and sunshine rays.
Known as the start of summer, it is characterized by the summer solstice and the peak of the wedding season. It is celebrated as Dairy Month, and the month of the Strawberry Moon.
As the days grow longer and we look forward to what’s ahead, here are our choices for shopping, dining, and entertainment, for a month filled with sunshine, fun, and laughter:
Don’t miss the extraordinary opportunity to see and hear world-renowned Chinese American cellist Yo-Yo Ma performing with the Colorado Symphony under the stars at Red Rocks Amphitheatre June 3, 7:30 p.m. Information: 720-865-2494.
Manhattan ska band The Slackers play reggae, garage rock, and jazz at the Bluebird Theater June 7, 8 p.m. Information: 303-377-1666.
Catch the Canadian indie rock band from Toronto, the Metric, playing at the Fillmore Auditorium June 11, 6:30 p. m. Information: 303-837-0360.
Try newly opened Waldo’s Chicken & Beer located in the former Panera space in Glendale’s CitySet. It’s the third Colorado site for the Nashville chain. Eatery serves both Southern fried and rotisserie chicken. Information: 720-263-4007.
Thinking of summer camp for your school-aged kids? With more than 60 years of nurturing children, consider Iliff Preschool. Youngsters will love the school’s dynamic and playful setting. Information: 303-757-3551.
Texas piano man, saxophonist, and singer Nik Par plays the Marquis Theater, June 13, 7 p. m. Information: 303-487-0111.
American rapper and record producer Earl Sweatshirt entertains at the Mission Ballroom June 16, 7 p.m. Information: 720-577-6884.
Edwin McCain, singer, guitarist known for soulful ballads, plays at the Paramount Theatre, June 30, 7:30 p.m. Information: 303-623-0106.
Attend the Rendezvous Gala at Four Mile Park to fund the preservation of Four Mile House at Four Mile Park, June 13, 6:30 p.m. Dinner and auction will help fund the preservation of Denver’s oldest standing structure. Event will be a rip-roaring evening of revelry and Old West charm. Information: 720-865-0810.
June is when a simple scent can transform our mood, revive a memory, or sooth our emotions. The month boasts longer days, outdoor activities, and historic milestones like D-Day.
The Mile High City features warm, sunny days — with highs hitting 80s°F — most days, making it ideal for exploring city parks, hiking, and outdoor dining. Expect late day rain, hail.
Catch the first soapbox races in 24 years at Mile High Stadium starting at noon on June 13. Playing hide and seek with clouds, June is like a glass of lemonade, sweet and refreshing.
— Glen Richardson
The Valley Gadfly can be reached at newspaper@glendalecherrycreek.com.
by Valley Gadfly | Apr 23, 2026 | Travel
Opening This Month, Site Will Be Cherry Creek’s First Live Music Space
By Glen Rochardson
Groovy Group: Funk-rock band Opie Gone Bad will entertain at the newly opened Soiled Dove on May 14.
Soiled Dove, the venue long-time residents remember as the Soiled Dove Underground beneath the Tavern in Lowry, is reopening. The new location is above ground at Choppers Sports Grill on South Madison Street in Cherry Creek North. While there are live music venues such as Dazzle downtown, Soiled Dove is the first in Cherry Creek.
The space has been redesigned to offer the production value of a large-scale venue coupled with the vibe of an intimate and up-close setting. Above all, the venue will offer an unparalleled close-by experience for nearby Glendale-Chery Creek music fans.
The room is different, and it will sound different. An acoustic designer has soundproofed the building. Moreover, a city sound engineer was brought in early to make sure residents won’t have any reason to complain.
Soiled Dove Site: Choppers Sports Grill on South Madison Street in Cherry Creek North is reopening as the Soiled Dove.
Railbinders Gig
The Railbenders with special guest Chris Stake will christen the new Soiled Dove stage at Chopper’s Sports Grill on May 9. Group is an American country band formed in Denver in 2000 by Jim Dalton and Tyson Murray. Westword Music Showcase named The Railbenders Denver’s Top Country-Roots act in 2002 and 2003. Stake is a roots-rock, country-soul singer.
Funk-rock band Opie Gone Bad will follow on May 14. The band is known for shows at Herman’s Hideaway and other area venues. Band features Jake Schroeder doing vocals, with Randy Chavez on guitars, Tarell Martin on drums, and Windall Armour on bass.
Upcoming performances are likely to include local acts such as Hazel Miller, The Samples, and Stone Beat Invasion. A chance to hear throwback bands, and cover bands is expected to add a “fun factor” in a neighborhood that has never had live entertainment.
Start As Rick’ Cafe
Choppers got its start as Rick’s Cafe back in the late ’70s, when it was one of the city’s first fern bars. The space showed off its solar-powered dishwasher to then-President Jimmy Carter. It then turned into Chopper’s Sports Grill, named after beloved Nuggets trainer Bob “Chopper” Travaglini. THG took over management early in 2015, then bought the property outright in May 2015 for just over $4 million.
To make sure “the sports piece” is still in the space, there will be no opening acts so that people can still drink and dine before the music start. Guests can then clear out before the music starts. When there are bi
Opening Performance: The Railbenders will christen the new Soiled Dove stage at Chopper’s Sports Grill on May 9. Photo: Mark Tepsic
g games, the schedule will be juggled.
“I want to make it clear that this is a sports bar first, and then live music,” says owner Frank Schultz. He predicts there might be four to six ticketed shows a month. “So, when the Nuggets have playoff games we won’t have shows, it’s as simple as that. And we’ll only be booking shows when we’ve got the right show to book.”
by Valley Gadfly | Apr 17, 2026 | General Featured
Electric Scooters Were Ridden Nearly 6.8 Million Miles Throughout Denver In 2025
by Glen Richardson
Coming To Town: The Department of Transportation & Infrastructure’s (DOTI) has selected Veo to take over the city’s scooter contract.
Following the Department of Transportation & Infrastructure’s (DOTI) selection of Veo to take over the city’s scooter operations at the end of 2025, Denver City Council — after postponing the vote twice — is expected to finally make a selection this month (May).
Lime and Bird — the two companies currently holding the city’s contract — expires on May 16. Though Veo operates in more than 50 cities, the Denver fleet would be its largest to date. Its biggest market is currently in Washington, D.C., where it has approximately 4,000 vehicles, compared to the 9,000 in Denver.
The city’s shared micro mobility program has grown into one of the largest in the nation since e-scooters arrived on Denver’s streets in 2018.
Ramifications
Reckless Riders: There’s little or no policing of careless and dangerous scooter rider behavior and improper scooter parking.
While the current companies have had success in expanding ridership and running a leading equity program, they’ve failed to address unintended side effects. Despite requests from both the city and residents, their scooters continue to block sidewalks, facilitate illegal riding, and lead to increasingly frequent injuries and deaths.
Lime lets low-income residents ride scooters for free if they receive city, state, or federal subsidies like SNAP and Medicaid. For them the free transportation has been pivotal, allowing them to get to work, school, and appointments without cost. They also bypass public transportation limitations, car traffic, and the maintenance requirements and fear of theft that come with owning personal scooters and bikes.
Lime argues that the smaller micro mobility company is incapable of taking over.
Hands Full Task
“Transitioning this program in May, the highest ridership season of the year, while Veo is engaging with a program here in Denver that is at least twice large as any program they’ve ever run before, they’re going to have their hands full no matter what,” suggests Zach Williams, Lime’s regional head of government relations.
“We just want to make sure that there is sufficient time between the transition to allow for as many people as humanly possible to get moved over.”`
Rentable electric scooters were ridden nearly 6.8 million miles throughout Denver in 2025. That’s the equivalent of scooting around the entire circumference of the Earth more than 270 times.
Lime’s Largest
Denver’s access program is Lime’s largest, according to the company, with around 30,000 people signed up.
Lime is seeking a contract extension of 12- to 18-months to serve as a transitional period, the company says.
“It has helped me get to the births of two of my granddaughters. It has helped me keep a job that I was working after the hours that public transportation, like RTD, is running,” Arenthian Bohannan, a Lime Access rider, testified during a March 18 committee hearing.
Outreach Upsurge
Despite Lime’s concerns that access riders will fall through the cracks, DOTI says the company has refused to assist in transitioning Lime users to Veo’s new access program until the contract is finalized.
“We have specifically asked that the current operators communicate information about the access program transition to their access program users. …Unfortunately, they have chosen not to,” Alaina McWhorter, DOTI’s legislative liaison, said at the April 1 committee meeting.
“DOTI, Veo, and the city can ramp up and expand our outreach and enrollment activities very quickly when this contract gets signed. We have the contingencies and mechanisms in place. …We are not going to rely on our current vendor to do it out of the goodness of their heart.”
Transition
Last Load? Lime, one of the two companies currently holding the city’s contract, argues that the smaller micro mobility company is incapable of taking over.
Veo defends its ability to handle the transition. The current access program averages 7,000 to 8,000 active monthly users, according to the city; over 1,200 users have already pre-enrolled for Veo’s access program.
Residents can use their participation in the current Lime Access program as proof of eligibility to enroll, and Veo will allow a grace period for users to ride for free throughout May without providing proof of eligibility.
“They’re grasping at straws,” Alexander Keating, Veo’s vice president of policy and partnerships, says of Lime and Bird. “Both of those vendors have a track record of, if they feel they can intimidate a city with a lawsuit or a challenge, they will. …Having lost the procurement, they have a lot on the line. They’re going to do what they need to do to try to protect themselves. I’m not super surprised, but I think it’s unfortunate.”
Free Rides
Veo’s proposed access program offers more flexibility for riders, but fewer overall minutes. Currently, Lime Access provides three free rides per day, each lasting up to 30 minutes. That means users can’t make two round-trips.
Veo has agreed to continue providing free rides with its own access pips without paying, even if each trip is only a few minutes long. Veo will offer 60 minutes of free rides per day, with no limit on the number of rides taken; after the 60 minutes, riders will be charged $0.15 per minute, with no unlocking fee.
Lime Access used to provide unlimited free rides in Denver, but the company scaled back the program to just three rides per day in April 2025.
Council Concerns
The debate over the scooter providers has centered on the access program and panicked riders who fear losing an essential means of transportation. That fear has infiltrated Denver City Council, as well.
“I’ve been wrestling really hard with the equity program,” Councilmember Sarah Parady said during the April 1 meeting. “I’m just really, really worried that people are not going to find their way back into the program for a whole variety of reasons. I think Veo has done what can be done on their end; it’s just because of not having an overlap.”
City officials have long raised red flags about Lime and Bird’s operations here.
Denver prohibits riding scooters on sidewalks, riding with multiple passengers and parking scooters in ways that block sidewalks or streets, but all of those behaviors can be observed daily in the city. Despite this, Denver police issued only nine citations for improper scooter use between 2018 and 2024, compared with the over 18.3 million e-scooter trips taken in that timeframe. That has led officials to look to the companies to enforce proper behavior among their riders.
Policing Riders
Veo Benefit: Each vehicle has a QR code that reads “How’s my parking?” which passersby can use to report improperly parked vehicles.
“There’s little or no policing of careless and dangerous scooter rider behavior and improper scooter parking,” alleged David Kurth of the Upper Downtown Neighborhood Association during the March 18 committee meeting. Kurth expressed frustration over “the lip service that the current providers — especially Lime — have given to the safety of pedestrians in the downtown area.”
Reckless behavior by riders has dire consequences. Fifteen people have died while riding scooters in Denver since 2018, with over half of those deaths occurring just last year. Denver Health registered 1,868 patient encounters attributed to scooter injuries in 2025. That’s more than five patient encounters each day of the year. And Denver police received 199 reports of scooter-vehicle crashes in 2025.
Veo scooters are fitted with technology to detect unlawful behavior, such as riding on sidewalks or riding with multiple people on board, and the vehicle emits a voice warning if a rider does something wrong. Each vehicle has a QR code that reads “How’s my parking?”, which passersby can use to report improperly parked vehicles. Veo also offers a variety of vehicles with seats and larger wheels than those on standard standing scooters, improving stability for riders.
by Valley Gadfly | Apr 17, 2026 | Main Articles
They Are The Quiet Designers Of Our Bravest Moments, Our Steady Hand. This Month Is For Them.
by Glen Richardson
Activity Whirlwind: Mom’s juggle never-ending laundry, family schedules, and the chaos of kids. A test of patience, they are the strength of family.
This is the month to celebrate your first best friend and the person you turn to when you need advice. In 1914, Congress and a Presidential Proclamation established the second Sunday in May — May 10 this year — as Mother’s Day.
A day to honor mothers has existed for as long as, well, there have been mothers. They are like glue. Even when you can’t see them, they’re still holding the family together.
Here’s the Chronicle’s guide for showing your mother, grandmothers, sisters, aunts, and friends how special they are:
Brunch
Brunch on Mother’s Day is a classic, and it’s made even better in Cherry Creek North featuring some of Denver’s top brunch spots. For moms who like to keep it classic, the district also has many restaurants serving dinner. For moms who like to switch it up, there’s beers and burger eateries too.
Here are a few of the many restaurants to consider:
Blue Island Oyster Bar & Seafood: Offering an array of brunch and coastal inspired dishes.
Le Bilboquet: A little corner of Paris at Third Ave. and St. Paul St. featuring French fare in an elegant setting.
Local Jones: Brunch and dinner favorites in the Halcyon Hotel including crab cakes benedict.
Sam’s No. 3: Take your mom and the family to the Glendale, or downtown diner with a huge menu, big portions, and great service.
Toro Latin Kitchen: Hotel Cleo eatery has brunch, a made-to-order crepe station, plus a Bloody Mary bar.
Urban Egg: Restaurant on East 1st Ave. has weekend brunch, including a Lump Crab Cake Benedict.
Garden Experience: Treat mom to a slow-paced day at the 24-acre Denver Botanic Gardens this month to celebrate Mother’s Day.
If you’re thinking of treating mom downtown on Mother’s Day, there are lots of restaurant choices. Mother’s Day Brunch at Dazzle is a great choice because it includes live music. This Mother’s Day features jazz vocalist Baily Hinkley Grogan. FIRE Restaurant in the ART Hotel near the Denver Art Museum is another popular choice.
Shopping
Go-To Diner: Sam’s No. 3 in Glendale and downtown are well-liked options for family celebrations such as Mother’s Day.
Cherry Creek North is Denver’s premier destination for a Mother’s Day shopping experience. There are more than 200 shops. Moreover, it has the city’s highest concentration of locally owned boutiques. It gives mom a day that practically plans itself.
Wash Park
The Wash Park Home Tour & Mother’s Day Market Street Fair takes place in the picturesque park May 9, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Attendees can explore stunning homes showcasing innovative designs and exquisite decor. The market features local artisans, gourmet food vendors, and various craft stalls.
It’s the major annual fundraiser for Steele Elementary. Information: steelewashparkho metour@gmail.com.
Botanic Gardens
For the mom who finds peace in the petals, skip the crowded restaurants and opt for an afternoon of botanical discovery.
Treat her to a slow-paced wander through 24 acres of world-class flora at the Denver Botanic Gardens. Start by getting lost in the humid greenery of the tropical conservatory before finding a quiet, sun-drenched spot on the lawn to lay down a blanket.
Whether you pack a gourmet spread or grab a light bite from the Hive Garden Bistro, the gardens provide a peaceful backdrop for mom to enjoy. Information: Denver Botanic Gardens Mother’s Day.
Oakwell Spa
Home Tour: The Wash Park Home Tour May 9, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., is an opportunity to see innovative designs and exquisite décor.
For a Mother’s Day that is truly fueled by rest and relaxation, book a session at Denver’s Oakwell Beer Spa.
A truly unique experience, it was rated by Time magazine as one of the “World’s Greatest Places.” The downtown location is at 3004 N. Downing St. Information: 720-810-1484.
RiNo Street Fair
For the ultimate “early Mother’s Day” treat, wander down to the RiNo Street Fair to find your mom that one-of-a-kind treasure. Event is May 9 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The RiNo Art District has been named by USA Today as the Sixth Best Arts District in the United States, rising three spots from ninth place in 2025.
Located in the creative heart of Denver, meander down Larimer Street to shop from local artisans. It’s the perfect place to let her pick out her own gift or for you to find a unique, handmade surprise. With live music echoing off the neighborhood’s iconic murals and a vibrant community energy, it’s a great way to celebrate the spirit of Denver before the Sunday Mother’s Day rush begins.
Flowers & Candy
Shopping Spree: With more than 200 shops and the city’s highest concentration of locally owned boutiques, Cherry Creek North is a popular Mother’s Day destination.
Started in 1917 as a “Say it with flowers,” marketing campaign, the tradition of gifting blooms on Mother’s Day continues today. Flowers symbolize love and gratitude, and make a perfect gift for mom.
Newberry Brothers Florist in the Leetsdale Shopping Center — with a design staff and using only blooms straight from growers — is one of the most popular. Bouquets, and The Perfect Petal are other local favorites.
Enstrom Candies on the west side of University Blvd. between 2nd and 3rd Ave. in Cherry Creek — known for its almond toffee and chocolates — is among the most popular. The Cioccolatier in the Cherry Creek Shopping Center is another favorite.
More To Do
From films to fashion, there are a variety of unforgettable shows and events this month that mom would enjoy. Here’s a can’t-miss guide to more ways to treat mom this month.
The SeriesFest — an award-winning festival dedicated to showcasing the best and boldest in episodic storytelling is at the Sie FilmCenter and other venues, May 6-10.
Paper Fashion Show, May 7 in the Stockyards Event Center. Event features 56 original designs created entirely of paper by local designers, a runway show, with awards honoring creative craftmanship.
Denver Potters Spring Show & Sale, May 7-10, at the Sixth Avenue United Church. Top local artists sell ceramics, glass, wood, fiber and personal care products.
by Valley Gadfly | Apr 17, 2026 | Glendale City News
by Glen Richardson
Ryan Tuchscherer
Kim Umbarger
Dario Katardzic
Voters in Glendale have selected four candidates to serve on the City Council following a the April 7, 2026, municipal election that saw tight margins among the top finishers.
Ryan Tuchscherer led the field with 109 votes, followed closely by Kim Umbarger with 104 votes, and Mark Smiley with 102. Dario Katardzic secured the final winning seat with 97 votes.
Elizabeth Bonney, who received 28 votes, was not elected.
The results reflect a competitive race, with just 12 votes separating the top four candidates and underscoring the importance of every ballot in Glendale’s engaged electorate.
The newly elected council members will help guide city policy on key local issues, including development, public safety, and community services. Their terms come at a time when Glendale continues to navigate growth pressures and evolving priorities within the Denver metro area.
Voter turnout remained modest, consistent with past municipal elections in smaller cities, but the close margins highlighted strong community interest in local leadership.
With the election decided, attention now turns to how the incoming council will collaborate on shaping Glendale’s future and addressing the needs of residents and businesses alike.
