by Mark Smiley | Apr 19, 2024 | General Featured
Tickets For The Wednesday Evening Concert Series In June And July Are On Sale Now
by Mark Smiley
3eatles: The 3eatles perform the music of The Beatles the way it was intended to be heard — live, raucous, high-energy rock n’ roll. They perform at Four Mile Historic Park on June 12 as part of the Swallow Hill Summer Concert Series.
Swallow Hill Music returns to Four Mile Historic Park this summer with a concert series featuring tribute acts celebrating some of music’s most beloved artists.
Whether it is the classic rock sounds of The Beatles and the Grateful Dead, pop classics from Judy Garland, or the unmistakable hip-hop of the Beastie Boys, this summer’s lineup of tribute artists has a little something for everyone.
Music lovers are encouraged to pack a picnic dinner and spread out on the lawn to take in a night of music and memory-making in a family-friendly environment. Outside food and non-alcoholic drinks and coolers will be allowed, but outside alcohol is not permitted. An onsite bar will be available.
For more than two decades, Swallow Hill has filled the summer evenings with music at Four Mile Historic Park. Get your friends together and join us!
The Wednesday night concerts begin at 6:30 p.m., with Four Mile Historic Park opening at 5:30 p.m. Four Mile Historic Park is located at 715 S Forest Street in Denver. Tickets are $20 general admission ($15 for Swallow Hill Members, $10 for kids 4-12, children 3 and under are free). Visit www.swallowhillmusic.org/four-mile for more information or to purchase tickets.
Get the full lineup and complete details below.
June 5 — Traveling Wilburys Revue – Tribute to Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, and more
June 12 — Starwood – Tribute to John Denver
June 19 — 3eatles – Tribute to The Beatles
June 26 — GET HAPPY! Celebrating 100 Years of Judy Garland
July 3 — Sabotage – Tribute to the Beastie Boys
July 10 — Sugar Britches – Tribute to John Prine
July 17 — Shakedown Street – Tribute to the Grateful Dead
Founded in 1979, Swallow Hill Music is a Denver-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to build community through music performance, education, and outreach. SHM is a music school and performance venue that also produces community events throughout the Denver metro region. It is an SCFD Tier II organization with a $5 million annual budget. SHM is a nationally revered hub for concerts, classes, and community events. It is also a recipient of both the Mayor’s and the Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts, and an inductee of the Colorado Music Hall of Fame and Folk Alliance International’s Business Lifetime Achievement awards. For more information visit www.swallowhillmusic.org
by Mark Smiley | Mar 18, 2024 | General Featured
by Mark Smiley
Horizon: Heybike’s Horizon is a smooth ride with a pretty design. Its fat tires and full suspension make it an electric bike worth considering.
In past editions, we have reviewed two electric bikes from Heybike, a company that produces fat tire folding e-bikes, step-thru design e-bikes and commuter e-bikes. The Heybike Cityrun and Ranger S were reviewed and have sparked interest from many readers.
In, December 2023, this publication reviewed the Heybike Cityrun. You may ask the difference between that bike and the Horizon as they look similar at first glance. For starters, the Cityrun cannot be folded, while Horizon can be folded. If storage space is an issue for you, you might consider the Horizon. Also, compared with battery installation, Cityrun’s battery is installed at the bottom of the frame, while Horizon’s battery is installed at the top of the frame. Finally, the minimum height of Horizon riders is higher than that of Cityrun, and Horizon’s motor is more powerful than Cityrun’s boasting a 750W while Cityrun’s is 500W.
Heybike’s Horizon is a folding fat-tire e-bike with full suspension, a 750W motor, and a limited-edition paint job inspired by a pretty sunset. The Horizon was a smooth ride while offering impressive maneuverability and speeds up to 21 mph for this reviewer. The specs indicate that it can travel up to 28 mph but in tests, it did not achieve
Foldable: The Heybike Horizon is foldable, making it easier to store.
those speeds.
The braking was powerful and climbing up hills was a breeze. The folding frame and handlebars help with storage, but at 79.4 pounds, this is heavier than most electric bikes on the market today. Overall, this ebike is considered a good value, especially with a $500 off promotion at time of press.
Some other bells and whistles, if you will, are a loud horn, auto on lights, turn signals, a tail light, and hydraulic disc brakes. Also, the Heybike app allows you to add each bike if you have more than one in your garage. It helps keep track of how many miles you have traveled, directions, and even some anti-theft features. In general, this bike can travel up to 22-25 miles on a single charge of the battery. And, that battery takes three to four hours to charge, thanks to the included 4A charger.
All in all, this electric bike is recommended for someone a little taller in the family, as the Cityrun and Ranger S may be more manageable for those under 5’10”. The Horizon is a good value and should be considered to add to your fleet if you are in the market for an electric bike.
Another model to keep an eye out for is Heybike’s Hero which has yet to hit the market. It will be Heybike’s first release of a bike with carbon materials. Currently, there is a crowdfunding campaign for this bike but look for it to be on sale sometime in May.
Hero: Heybike’s Hero is made of carbon fiber materials making it 36% lighter than electric bikes the same size. It is set to hit the market in May.
The bike frame of Hero is made of carbon fiber materials, and it is engineered to provide strength, durability, and lightweight construction. This bike frame is 36% lighter than the tranditional frame of the same size. The Hero e-bike will have two kinds of motors: 750W mid-driver and 1000W hub-driver motor.
This e-bike will also be equipped with a full-suspension system and two 26’’*4.0’’ fat tires. It should provide great shock absorption and provide bikers with a smooth and stable ride over uneven surfaces. Furthermore, the Hero will feature five levels of pedal assistance and a Shimano 9-speed gear system.
For more information on Heybike’s latest products and to stay up to date on the news from the company, visit www.heybike.com and follow Heybike on Facebook, @heybikeofficial; on Twitter, heybike_official; on Instagram, and YouTube. To have a test ride of Heybike e-bikes, you can visit its local dealers.
If you have a Heybike electric bike or any other electric bike and need service or even assembly out of the box, consider taking it to Hood Wrench Cycles in Aurora. There are only a handful of bike shops that work on electric bikes and Hood Wrench has fair pricing and quality service. They are located at 700 Billings St., Suite G in Aurora. Call 720-756-5134 or visit hoodwrenchcycles.com for more information.
by Mark Smiley | Mar 4, 2024 | General Featured
By Mark Smiley
Photo by Olivier Brajon
Since 2017, CRYSTAL has performed in front of more than 1.9 million people in over 135 cities worldwide, blending the art of skating with adrenaline-inducing acrobatics and aerial feats. In total, the show spans two and a half hours with an intermission.
“CRYSTAL really pushes the boundaries of possibility within the circus arts. The show highlights Cirque du Soleil’s creativity in a new way and encourages audiences to find the magic of the everyday,” says Robert Tannion, Artistic Director, CRYSTAL. “Every time you watch, there’s something new to see and experience. It’s a magical story that springs to life on the ice and we can’t wait to bring it to Denver for the first time.”
Created by Shana Carroll and Sebastien Soldevila, CRYSTAL takes audiences on a journey of self-discovery. Dive into a world of playful imagination with the show’s protagonist, Crystal, as she learns to see things differently and become whom she was always destined to be: herself.
“The show is about a girl named Crystal who has a breakthrough experience where she sees her life in a different way,” said Crystal Manich, Cirque Crystal’s Artistic Director. “Before she has this experience we see how she struggles to fit in both at home and at school. She is a bit of an outcast. The show is about her journey of self-discovery and finding her voice and becoming a creative force in her own life realizing that she has things to do in order to grow.”
The show features a mixture of acrobats and ice skaters which is rare. In fact, it is the 42nd cirque creation and the company’s very first acrobatic experience on ice. This show features seven traditional circus acts, including trapeze, hand-to-hand, Banquine, aerial straps, hand-to-trapeze, juggling, and hand balancing – all adapted to be performed on ice. CRYSTAL is the first Cirque du Soleil production that uses real snow – the team makes approximately 300 snowballs each week.
“The response has been really great because we have all of the elements of a perfect Cirque du Soleil show but the ice does add an extra element of awe,” said Manich. “You’ll see everything you would expect to see in a Cirque du Soleil show and some surprises because of the uniqueness of the show itself.”
This type is show presents challenges not seen with a typical Cirque du Soleil show. Every arena has different ice and some performers say certain ice may be too soft or too hard in a particular venue.
“What people should expect is to have a great time and to see some of the world’s best performers on the ice in a unique way coming together with these various disciplines,” said Manich. “I think this is a special show.”
CRYSTAL Performance Schedule at Ball Arena:
Wednesday, March 13, 2024 – 7 p.m.
Thursday, March 14, 2024 – 7 p.m.
Friday, March 15, 2024 – 7 p.m.
Saturday, March 16, 2024 – 11:30 a.m., 3:30 p.m., & 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, March 17, 2024 – 12 p.m.
Tickets for Crystal are now available online at www.cirquedusoleil.com/crystal.
Photos : Matt Baker & Olivier Brajon
by Jessica Hughes | Feb 19, 2024 | General Featured
by Jessica Hughes
Green Dot Coalition was awarded a grant of $10,000 through the RiNo Art District Social Impact Grants program.
2024 is shaping up to be a good year for the latest recipients of the RiNo Art District’s Social Impact Grants, which recently awarded an amount of $75,000 — the program’s largest amount to date.
While most people know the RiNo Art District for its extensive collection of mural art and the newest annual art festival, Denver Walls, the district also plays a big role in supporting its local artists, businesses, and community through the RiNo Business Improvement District (BID).
The Social Impact Grant program first became available to local organizations in Five Points, Globeville, Elyria-Swansea, and Cole in 2020 after the murder of George Floyd. “We wanted to do something more impactful and to allocate money to organizations doing the hard work in the community,” says Alye Sharp, Deputy Director for RiNo Art District.
Curecanti Spur, mural by Lindz and Lamb at CSU Spur Campus Denver, CO.
To date, the organization has awarded a total of $225,000. The RiNo BID has additionally committed to increasing funding for the Social Impact Grants program every year.
“There were so many incredible organizations nominated this year addressing everything from social justice and food scarcity, to homelessness and youth arts education,” said Sharp. “We are so appreciative of the review committee’s passion for identifying and advocating for these organizations and appreciate our BID’s commitment to directing RiNo’s collective resources towards this important work in our community.”
Among the recipients of this grant are CIRCLE, EGS + Partners, Green Dot, Mo Betta, The People’s Pickle, and Youth Empowerment Broadcasting Organization (YEBO Media), who will each receive $10,000 to support community members in the five historic neighborhoods. Birdseed Collective will receive $15,000 to support their mission of educating and empowering disadvantaged and under-resourced individuals throughout the Denver area through food delivery, environmental equity work, youth-focused projects and events, art accessibility, work with immigrant communities, and more.
Green Dot Coalition is an equity-focused placemaking organization working to translate community vision into green spaces, practices, and policies.
With the goal of placing equity at the center of grant-making decisions, recipients are nominated by a diverse committee of local community members, this year led by Denver City Council District 9 Councilman Darrell Watson.
“RiNo’s Social Impact Grants allow us to amplify and celebrate the extraordinary work taking place every day in our District to address some of our most pressing social issues,” said Councilman Watson. “These grants are an investment in a city that works for everyone, and I’m excited to see how the selected organizations leverage their funds in service of their neighborhoods and their communities.”
Sharp also emphasized that they wanted this grant program to be an easy process for everyone to apply. “It was important that this money be unrestricted. Being able to directly write a check for the recipients is super important.”
Founded by the local artists Tracy Weil and Jill Hadley-Hooper, the RiNo Art District, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit arts organization, was created to help foster a thriving, welcoming, and creative community of artists, residents, and businesses.
As the area’s growth has surged over the years, so did the art district. “Big shifts happened in 2014 when the community came together and wanted to retain some of that creative control of how the district improved,” says Sharp.
Today, the district overlays five historical neighborhoods: Globeville, Elyria, Swansea, Five Points, and Cole. Over the last decade, RiNo Art District has helped form both a Business Improvement District (BID) and General Improvement District (GID) and a community arts educational nonprofit (Keep RiNo Wild) to support the local community.
“It’s a collaborative community of small businesses including galleries and studios, plus an incredible amount of public art,” says Sharp. “There are quite a few working artists in the district with studio space and galleries. It is a place that art is being made every day.”
“We extend our deep gratitude to the RiNo Art District for their generous support to EGS & Partners,” said Sandra Ruiz Parrilla, CEO of EGS & Partners. “This fund will not only strengthen our mission to improve our neighborhoods and offer vital mental health art therapy programs, but will also allow us to grow and get even closer to the community, effectively engaging residents in Elyria-Swansea and Globeville neighborhoods. Together, we will move forward toward promoting environmental and social justice, promoting health, and building a stronger, healthier community. Thank you for being a valued partner in our shared mission!”
To learn more, visit the RiNo Art District at rinoartistrict.org.
Photos provided by: RiNo Art District
by Mark Smiley | Jan 19, 2024 | General Featured
by Mark Smiley
For those who want to hit the slopes but avoid the drive over the President’s Day holiday weekend, Snowstang will be operating and providing service to some of the state’s premier mountain resorts.
Snowstang travels roundtrip to Arapahoe Basin, Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, Loveland Ski Area, and Steamboat Springs every Saturday, Sunday, and President’s Day (Monday, February 19) through mid-spring. All routes board at Denver Union Station, RTD’s Federal Center Station in Lakewood, and at the Wooly Mammoth Park-n-Ride — upper lot (18560 U.S. 40, Golden, CO 80401).
Roundtrip tickets are $25, except for Steamboat Springs, which is $40. Additional discounts are available for seniors (65+) and people with disabilities. Children ages 2 to 11 ride for $12.50 (with a paying adult). Tickets can be purchased at ridesnowstang.com
“If you like to ski or snowboard but don’t like dealing with the holiday weekend traffic, Snowstang is an ideal option,” said CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew. “And it’s not just this weekend. If people want to enjoy the variety of activities and special events that’ll be taking place at our partner resorts this winter and early spring, Snowstang is a great travel alternative on any weekend.”
Each Snowstang coach provides seating for 51 passengers, is climate controlled, and has luggage bays, Wi-Fi, a restroom, and USB and power outlets.
“This is our fourth season of serving skiers and snowboarders, and it continues to grow in popularity since it provides a stress-free, safe alternative to get to our world-class resorts,” said CDOT’s Division of Transit and Rail Director Paul DesRocher. “Snowstang is also affordable, comfortable, and convenient, dropping passengers off right near the ski lifts.”
by Mark Smiley | Dec 15, 2023 | General Featured
by Mark Smiley
Reliable: The OtterBox Fast Charge is one of the fastest portable power banks on the market. This reliable brand is worth considering if in the market for a portable power bank.
Power bank chargers, also known as portable chargers or external battery packs, are portable devices designed to store electrical energy and then release it to charge various electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and more. These devices have become increasingly popular due to the high energy demands of modern gadgets and the need for a reliable source of power while on the go.
Power banks have become essential accessories for many people who rely on their electronic devices while on the go. When selecting a power bank charger, consider your specific needs and preferences to find the right one for you.
Three to consider purchasing for different reasons are the TravelCard Plus, OtterBox Fast Charge, and the CHAMP Portable Charger from Nimble.
Ultra Compact: The CHAMP Portable Charger from Nimble features up to 80% charge in 30 minutes and can charge two devices simultaneously.
The physical dimensions and weight of the power bank can affect its portability. Smaller and lighter power banks are more convenient for daily carry, while larger ones may offer more capacity but can be less portable. One of the most slim and portable chargers is the TravelCard Plus. This portable charger is complete with built in charging cords and is compatible with iPhones and Android devices. The TravelCard Plus is approximately the size of a credit card and easily fits in your pocket for charging on the go.
It easily fit in my pocket on a dog walk to give the phone an extra boost. It contains a 1,500mAh battery, which does not offer a lot of horsepower but it makes up for it with it’s slim design and light weight at 1.6 ounces. Retailing at $39, the TravelCard Plus is a product that should be in your arsenal of power bank chargers. Visit www.travelcardcharger.com for more information or to purchase.
Slim Design: TravelCard Plus is slim and lightweight at 1.6 ounces. It is complete with built in charging cords and fits in your pocket with ease.
If you want more power and faster charging, the OtterBox Fast Charge is your ticket. It boasts a 20,000mAh battery. It does weigh nearly one pound so it isn’t necessarily the product that you would carry in your pocket. But, Otterbox has a reputation of designing and manufacturing good products and this is no exception. Power banks usually have multiple output ports to charge different devices simultaneously and the OtterBox Fast Charge offers this.
“I bought this so my daughter could charge her iPhone and air pods on road trips and airplanes,” said Ryan on Amazon. “It’s perfect. You get several charges on devices from this after it’s fully charged. The charge indicator is helpful to show how much charge it holds. It’s not so bulky where you can’t put it in a bag and bring it with you anywhere. It’s exactly what I was looking for and from a reliable brand. Highly recommend.” The OtterBox Fast Charge 20,000mAh retails for $54.95 and is another portable power bank to consider owning. Visit www.otterbox.com for more information.
Nimble’s CHAMP Portable Charger is the last power bank that is worth considering. It is perhaps the Goldilocks of portable chargers with a compact design, a weight of 6.4 ounces, and a 10,000 mAh battery for up to three days of power. It works with iPhone, iPad, Android devices, and more. This device is in my glove compartment for times when my phone needs an extra boost.
This device is also TSA approved and compact enough to throw in a backpack and take on the airplane. The CHAMP features up to 80% charge in 30 minutes and can charge two devices simultaneously. Also, Nimble is environmentally conscious as the packaging is made from recycled paper and uses no harmful inks or dyes. It is biodegradable and inside that packaging, you’ll find a bag that you can use to responsibly recycle your old electronic tech for free. The CHAMP retails for $49.95 and can be purchased at www.gonimble.com.
The price of power banks can vary widely based on capacity, features, and brand. While it’s important to stay within your budget, consider investing in a quality power bank from a trusted manufacturer to ensure long-term reliability. These three options are all in the $50 range and you can’t go wrong owning all three.
