by Mark Smiley | May 19, 2026 | General Featured
by Mark Smiley
Cherry Creek continues to solidify its position as one of Denver’s strongest economic engines, according to a newly released State of Cherry Creek report highlighting continued growth in development, retail, tourism, office space, and small business activity throughout the district.
Released May 15 by the Cherry Creek Alliance, the report paints a picture of a thriving mixed-use neighborhood that continues to outperform many national and regional trends despite broader economic uncertainty in commercial real estate and retail sectors.
The report found that Cherry Creek welcomed more than 16.8 million visitors annually and currently supports 1,694 businesses and more than 16,800 workers, reinforcing its reputation as one of Denver’s premier destinations for shopping, dining, business, and tourism.
One of the most notable findings involved office space performance. While office vacancies remain a challenge nationwide, Cherry Creek’s office market continued to outperform many competing urban districts. Cherry Creek North’s office vacancy rate dropped to just 1.3% in 2025, while the broader Cherry Creek office market posted a 10.5% vacancy rate — figures significantly stronger than many major U.S. markets.
Retail performance also remained exceptionally strong. The report cited a retail vacancy rate of just 1.9% along with average lease rates of $36.05 per square foot triple net, demonstrating continued demand from retailers seeking a presence in the high-traffic district.
Development activity throughout Cherry Creek also continues at a rapid pace. According to the report, eight projects are currently under construction while another eight developments have been announced. Major projects include the highly anticipated Cherry Creek West development, the Waldorf Astoria Residences, and Cherry Lane, all of which are expected to further reshape the neighborhood in the coming years.
The district also generated more than $119.3 million in tax revenue for the City and County of Denver in 2025, including $62.1 million in retail sales tax revenue, $44.7 million in property taxes, $7 million in lodger’s tax revenue, and $4.9 million from parking revenue.
Small businesses remain a major component of Cherry Creek’s economic identity. The report found that the district supports more than 462 ground-level retail and service businesses, with 87% classified as small businesses and 60% qualifying as micro businesses with fewer than 10 employees. More than half of the area’s small businesses are locally owned.
Employment and wages also continued to rise in 2025, with Cherry Creek posting 1.7% employment growth and 3% wage growth. Professional and office sectors contributed significantly to the gains, while the average annual wage in the district reached $102,266.
Tourism and hospitality indicators also remained strong. Hotels within the Cherry Creek North Business Improvement District posted a 72.78% occupancy rate with an average daily room rate of $295.51 and revenue per available room reaching $216.61, outperforming citywide and statewide averages.
“Cherry Creek continues to prove that it is a vibrant, walkable mixed-use district and a powerful driver of economic growth and community vitality,” said Nick LeMasters, president of the Cherry Creek North Business Improvement District, in the report. “The momentum we’re seeing today reflects years of thoughtful collaboration between businesses, developers, residents, and community leaders.”
The Cherry Creek Alliance said the findings underscore the district’s continued role as a major contributor to Metro Denver’s economic growth and long-term development strategy.
Photos courtesy of Cherry Creek North
by Mark Smiley | May 19, 2026 | Editorials
by Mark Smiley
The Denver Center Theatre Company (DCTC) has unveiled an expansive lineup for its 2026/27 season, featuring a mix of classic works, world premieres, and audience favorites that promise to deliver a dynamic year of live theatre.
Artistic Director Chris Coleman described the upcoming season as “a vibrant celebration of theatrical imagination,” highlighting a slate that blends reimagined classics with bold new storytelling.
The season opens September 11, 2026, and includes eight mainstage productions staged across the Denver Performing Arts Complex.
A Season Of Variety And Innovation
The lineup kicks off with Destiny of Desire, a lively telenovela-inspired play with music, running September 11 through October 4 at the Wolf Theatre. The comedic story follows two girls switched at birth, weaving melodrama, humor, and live music into a high-energy theatrical experience.
Shortly after, Shakespeare’s The Tempest takes the stage from October 2 to November 1. Directed by Coleman, the production explores themes of revenge, forgiveness, and identity through one of the Bard’s most magical works.
The new year brings fresh voices to the forefront with two world premieres. Bogfriends (January 15-February 21, 2027) delves into connections across time and memory, while How to Conquer America: A Mostly True History of Yogurt (February 5-28, 2027) offers a humorous yet heartfelt look at culture and identity through the lens of a 1970s marketing campaign.
Music, Memory, And Mystery
Spring programming includes the Tony Award-winning musical Once (April 2-May 2), known for its emotionally resonant folk-rock score and intimate storytelling.
Also featured is And So We Walked (April 16-May 23), a powerful solo performance by Cherokee artist DeLanna Studi chronicling a personal journey along the Trail of Tears.
Closing out the mainstage season is Dial M for Murder (April 30-May 30), a suspenseful adaptation of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thriller, promising intrigue and unexpected twists.
Holiday Tradition And New Works
In addition to the subscription series, DCTC will present its annual holiday favorite, A Christmas Carol, running November 25 through December 27. The production remains a staple of Denver’s seasonal celebrations.
The 21st annual Colorado New Play Summit, scheduled for February 20-21, 2027, will once again offer audiences a behind-the-scenes look at new theatrical works in development.
Tickets And Subscriptions
Season subscriptions are now available through the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, offering benefits such as discounted pricing, priority seating, and flexible exchanges. Single tickets will be released at a later date.
With its blend of beloved classics, innovative premieres, and culturally resonant stories, the Denver Center Theatre Company’s 2026/27 season is poised to be one of its most compelling yet, inviting audiences across the region, including Glendale Cherry Creek residents, to experience the transformative power of live theatre.
by Mark Smiley | May 19, 2026 | Glendale City News
by Mark Smiley
Denver families will have a chance to step into the worlds of Frozen, Encanto, Moana, and other Disney favorites later this year as Disney On Ice brings its newest production, Find Your Hero, to Ball Arena for a three-day run in November.
The traveling ice show will perform six shows from Nov. 13–15, offering a mix of classic Disney storytelling, figure skating, music, and large-scale stage production designed for family audiences.
The production features appearances from Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy, who guide audiences through scenes inspired by some of Disney’s most recognizable films. This year’s show includes characters from newer hits such as Encanto and Moana, alongside longtime favorites including Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Tangled, Frozen, and Lilo & Stitch.
Organizers say the show focuses on themes of courage, family, perseverance, and self-discovery. Audiences will follow Mirabel’s efforts to save her family’s magical home in Encanto, Moana’s ocean voyage with Maui, and Anna and Elsa’s journey to protect Arendelle in Frozen.
Disney On Ice productions have remained a longtime family attraction in Denver, regularly drawing large crowds to Ball Arena during holiday and winter entertainment seasons. The performances combine professional skating with theatrical lighting, digital effects, oversized set pieces, and elaborate costumes.
Showtimes are scheduled for 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13; 11 a.m., 3 p.m., and 7 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14; and 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 15.
Tickets go on sale to the general public May 19 through Ticketmaster, with presale opportunities already available for Disney On Ice subscribers and preferred customers.
In addition to standard admission, attendees can purchase a VIP Magical Pass package that includes premium seating, early venue access, a character meet-and-greet before the performance, and commemorative merchandise.
Ball Arena is located at 1000 Chopper Circle in downtown Denver.
For additional information and ticket availability, families can visit DisneyOnIce.com/find-your-hero/denver-co-ball-arena.
Feld Entertainment photos
by Mark Smiley | May 19, 2026 | Travel
by Mark Smiley
Classic chrome, roaring engines, and community spirit will take center stage when Shotgun Willie’s hosts its upcoming Summer Car Show on Sunday, June 21, 2026, bringing car enthusiasts from across the Denver metro area to one of Glendale’s most recognizable landmarks.
The event is expected to feature dozens of classic cars, custom trucks, hot rods, muscle cars, and motorcycles, offering visitors an afternoon of automotive craftsmanship, live entertainment, and local community fun.
Organizers say the annual gathering continues to grow in popularity each year, attracting both longtime collectors and families looking for a unique summer event.
“This show is about celebrating car culture and bringing people together,” organizers said in a statement. “Whether you’re a serious collector or someone who simply enjoys seeing beautiful vehicles, there will be something for everyone.”
Attendees can expect to see everything from vintage Chevrolets and Ford Mustangs to modern performance cars and custom builds. Vehicle owners will compete for awards in several categories, including Best Classic, Best Custom, Best Paint, and People’s Choice.
In addition to the vehicles on display, the event will feature music, food vendors, local businesses, and opportunities for community engagement throughout the day.
The car show also provides a boost for Glendale businesses as visitors from around the region gather in the city for the event. Restaurants, shops, and nearby hotels often see increased traffic during large community gatherings like the annual show.
City officials have praised events such as the Shotgun Willie’s Car Show for helping strengthen Glendale’s identity as a destination for entertainment and local culture.
The event is scheduled to begin Sunday morning and continue into the afternoon. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early, as organizers expect large crowds and limited parking near the venue.
Admission information and registration details for vehicle entries are expected to be available through Shotgun Willie’s event channels and participating sponsors in the coming weeks.
For many participants, however, the event is about more than trophies and horse-
power.
“Car shows are about stories and friendships,” said one returning participant preparing for the June event. “Every vehicle has a history, and every owner has a passion behind it.”
With summer underway and excitement building, Glendale residents and visitors alike are preparing for another high-energy celebration of cars, community, and Colorado culture at Shotgun Willie’s on June 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. To learn more, visit www.givebutter.com/car-show-npuinr.
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.
