by Mark Smiley | Jul 9, 2026 | Travel
By Mark Smiley
Mike Menter, Driver of Tiger Shark
Mike Menter was growing up in Virginia, he spotted a line of monster trucks parked outside the Hampton Coliseum. On a whim, he pulled off the highway, bought tickets to all three shows that weekend and discovered a passion that would shape the rest of his life. “I was absolutely hooked,” Menter said.
Today, Menter is living that childhood dream as the driver of Tiger Shark, one of the fan favorites in Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire, returning to Denver’s Ball Arena for three performances on July 11 and 12.
The award-winning family show, named 2025 Pollstar Family Show of the Year, returns with an all-new attraction for 2026: Rhinomite, a rhinoceros-themed monster truck charging onto the tour for the first time. Fans will also witness never-before-seen stunts, including a spectacular no-handed front flip by the freestyle motocross team.
For Menter, however, the biggest thrill isn’t behind the wheel. It’s watching children experience the show for the first time.
“When you see the doors open and the kids walk through the door for the first time and they’re actually holding a Tiger Shark toy or a Rhinomite toy in their hands, you can see the wheels spinning in their heads,” he said. “Their parents are telling them, ‘Look, this is the truck you’ve seen on TV.’ To see their reaction when that real-life monster comes to life in front of them, it’s kind of hard to describe.”
Unlike many professional monster truck drivers who spend years working as mechanics or crew members before earning a chance to compete, Menter took a different route. Determined to control his own future, he purchased a competition chassis, assembled his own truck using specialized monster truck components and began performing at county fairs across the country.
“I wanted to do it on my schedule, on my time,” he said. “I wanted to be in full control.”
Tiger Shark
years ago, Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live came calling, and today Menter spends roughly 34 weekends each year entertaining families across North America.
“This is what I do. This is what I love,” he said. “Going to different cities like Denver and getting to entertain people for two hours and seeing the smiles on the families’ faces and the kids—for me, that’s what it’s all about.”
Every Hot Wheels Monster Truck has its loyal fans, but Menter says Tiger Shark has developed something of a cult following.
“We call it Tiger Shark Nation,” he said with a laugh.
Some children love sharks. Others love tigers. Tiger Shark combines both into one monster truck that has become one of the tour’s most recognizable vehicles.
While spectators see gravity-defying jumps and crushed cars, Menter says most of the work happens long before the engines start.
“It’s a 10,000-pound monster truck,” he said. “You’re flying these things. You’re beating them up.”
Although he only spends about 20 to 25 minutes actually driving during an entire weekend of performances, his team spends countless hours inspecting tires, engines, suspension components and every bolt on the truck.
“The preparation is key,” Menter said.
Even with meticulous maintenance, mechanical failures are simply part of the sport.
“You can do all the preparation, and something can still break,” he said. “It’s just the nature of the beast.”
Competition on the arena floor also gives way to teamwork behind the scenes. Each truck has its own crew, but when another team runs into trouble, everyone pitches in.
“When we put the helmets on, we’re competitive,” Menter said. “But if my truck’s good and another truck is down, everyone’s going over there to help. At the end of the day, the goal for everybody is to see a smile on a kid’s face.”
That family atmosphere extends to Menter’s own family. His 16-year-old son, Mason, travels with him as his crew member, helping prepare Tiger Shark before every show.
“He’s been with me since day one,” Menter said. “I can step away to do an interview, and when I come back he’ll tell me, ‘The tires are on. I did this and this.'”
Mason has already driven a mini monster truck and hopes to eventually follow his father into the sport.
“I can’t wait for him,” Menter said. “It’s going to be something magical.”
This year’s Glow-N-Fire production promises more than just monster trucks. Fans will see seven trucks compete in wheelies, donuts, long jump and freestyle competitions while freestyle motocross riders perform gravity-defying aerial tricks, including the debut of a no-handed front flip.
“Seeing this guy do a front flip is something magical that you have to see in person,” Menter said.
The production also features a fire-breathing, car-crushing robotic dinosaur during intermission, adding another layer of excitement to the family-friendly show.
Fans looking for an even closer experience can purchase tickets to the popular Pre-Show Party, held before every performance. The event allows guests onto the arena floor to see the trucks up close, collect autographs, meet the drivers and snap photos before the competition begins.
“If you have a special question you’ve always wanted to ask, come out to the pre-show,” Menter said. “Bring your toy truck with you and get it autographed.”
New VIP packages for 2026 offer additional behind-the-scenes experiences, including exclusive merchandise, backstage tours and opportunities to meet drivers and freestyle motocross performers.
For Menter, however, the trucks, trophies and packed arenas all take a back seat to one thing. “For me, interacting with the kids and interacting with the fans is something magical,” he said. “It’s kind of hard to describe unless you’re in the moment. That’s what it’s all about.”
If You Go
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire
Where: Ball Arena, 1000 Chopper Circle, Denver
When:
- Saturday, July 11, 11:30 a.m. (Pre-Show Party: 9–10:15 a.m.)
- Saturday, July 11, 6:30 p.m. (Pre-Show Party: 4–5:15 p.m.)
- Sunday, July 12, 1:30 p.m. (Pre-Show Party: 11 a.m.–12:15 p.m.)
The show features Tiger Shark, Mega Wrex, Rhinomite, Bigfoot, Bone Shaker, HW 5-Alarm and Skelesaurus, along with freestyle motocross riders, spectacular stunts and a fire-breathing robotic dinosaur. Special children’s ticket pricing and VIP packages are available. Tickets and additional information are available at HotWheelsMonsterTrucksLive.com.
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 Mark Smiley | Apr 17, 2026 | Travel
by Mark Smiley
University of Denver players celebrate on the ice after securing their 11th NCAA National Championship, capping a resilient postseason run with a dramatic third-period comeback. Photo courtesy of the NCAA.
The University of Denver has once again cemented its place among college hockey’s elite, capturing the NCAA National Championship in a thrilling finish to a remarkable season. For fans across the Denver metro area, including the Cherry Creek valley, the victory is both a point of pride and a celebration of one of Colorado’s most storied athletic programs.
For much of the championship game, the odds appeared stacked against the Pioneers. Still feeling the effects of a double-overtime semifinal win over Michigan, Denver struggled to generate offense early. Wisconsin carried a 1-0 lead into the third period and dominated possession, outshooting Denver 26-6 on goal and 58-22 overall. Goalie Johnny Hicks once again faced relentless pressure, turning away wave after wave of scoring chances.
The turning point came midway through the third period.
Senior forward Rieger Lorenz battled in front of the net and capitalized on a rebound off a shot from Garrett Brown. After his initial attempt was stopped, Lorenz stayed with the play and slipped the puck through to tie the game with 12:29 remaining.
The goal shifted momentum instantly.
Just minutes later, Kyle Chyzowski tipped in a slapshot from Boston Buckberger with 5:52 left, giving Denver a 2-1 lead it would not surrender. The late surge secured the program’s 11th national championship.
“It’s a one-shot game after two periods,” head coach David Carle said after the game. “We finally got one to the net, and Lorenz was able to hang around that area. It gave our guys belief.”
Hicks, who anchored the team throughout the tournament, was named the Frozen Four’s Most Outstanding Player. The freshman recorded 29 saves in the championship game, including several key stops in the final period, and finished the season unbeaten since taking over the starting role in January.
Denver reached the title game with a hard-fought 4-3 win over Michigan, where Hicks made a career-high 49 saves. Senior captain Kent Anderson delivered the game-winner, supported by goals from Clarke Caswell, Cale Ashcroft, and Chyzowski.
“We weathered it well,” Carle said. “They threw a lot at us, but we stayed composed. When we had our chances, we made them count.”
The championship marks Denver’s third under Carle, adding to titles in 2022 and 2024, and further extends the program’s lead as the winningest in NCAA men’s hockey history.
Beyond the ice, the victory resonates across the Denver community. Hockey has deep roots in Colorado, and the Pioneers’ success continues to energize youth programs, local rinks, and fans throughout the region. In neighborhoods like Glendale and Cherry Creek, the championship serves as a reminder of the area’s strong connection to top-tier athletics.
As celebrations continue, the Pioneers’ latest title stands as a testament to resilience, teamwork, and a championship mindset, qualities that have long defined Denver hockey.
by Laura Lieff | Apr 1, 2026 | Travel
Head West For A Desert Adventure
by Laura Lieff
View From The Top: The Fleming family enjoys visiting Arches National Park, which is known for its natural stone arches, towering pinnacles, and massive balanced rocks.
Spring is the time of year when everything and everyone emerges — flowers bloom, spring cleaning starts, and Cherry Creek Valley residents begin looking for places to visit outside of the city. One exciting destination, which is just over the Colorado border in Utah, is Moab. Known for its many outdoor adventure options — including mountain biking, hiking, off-roading, and fossil hunting — Moab is also a gateway to the magnificent Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.
One way to enjoy Moab is on wheels — just ask the hardcore gearheads who love off-roading and are looking forward to the 60th Annual Easter Jeep Safari event which takes place March 28 through April 5. Additionally, Cruise Moab, an annual event that began in 1996, is happening April 15 through 19 this year. Those who prefer riding mountain bikes, dirt bikes, and motorcycles usually journey to Slickrock Bike Trail as it features just over 10 miles of scenic and rugged terrain and is located approximately three miles from town. Founded by Dick Wilson in 1969, Slickrock was originally meant for motorcycles. Over five decades later, nothing has changed as a variety of aficionados flock to the area to spend time on their preferred wheels.
Longtime motorcycle mechanic and enthusiast, Dan “The Wrench” Rolfe, has been enjoying Moab for the last 12 years — both on his mountain bike and on his CT-90 motorcycle. “I like Slickrock because it’s a ‘cycle’ trail with great views and terrain that is easy to maneuver,” Rolfe explains. “Also, the traction it provides allows you to go up and down steep landscapes and traverse laterally in places whe
Red Rock View: Fleet Fleming stays cool in the desert heat while climbing around Arches National Park.
re you would normally slip out.” Rolfe is featured in the 2019 documentary film, 50 Years of Slickrock, which chronicles the history and development of the trail that arguably put Moab on the map.
Family Trip
While many Colorado residents head to Moab for camping and mountain biking, there are other ways to enjoy a weekend in the desert and make a family vacation out of it. Depending on where you live in Denver, and the number of stops made while driving, the journey to Moab is about five and a half hours. If that sounds like a trek, keep in mind that the panoramic views along the way are likely to make the time go by quickly.
“We started going to Moab because it is an ideal overnight stopping point when we travel to and from Arizona,” says Boulder native Nicole Ford. “After doing that a few times, we realized that it’s worth spending the weekend there because of all the kid-friendly restaurants and activities offered. Also, we found a dog-friendly hotel with a great pool which is the place to be after a day of exploring in the sun.” Some of the Ford family’s favorite Moab restaurants include Tai Bella, The Sultan, and Antica Forma and her hotel of choice is the Element.
Moab History
Ancient Artwork: While hiking through Mill Creek Canyon, keep an eye out for pictographs and petroglyphs that show detailed figures, animals, and shapes.
Because there is an abundance of history to explore in Moab — including petroglyphs (pecked/carved art), pictographs (painted art), dinosaur fossils, and dinosaur footprints — a weekend might not be enough to see everything. On the way into town, stop at Sego Canyon to see rock art that reflects three cultural styles: Ute, Fremont, and Barrier Canyon. The petroglyphs and pictographs left behind on the sandstone walls depict humanlike figures, abstract shapes, horses, and shields, among other types of rock art. “Sego Canyon is always our first stop when we travel to Moab because seeing that type of history is always exciting for me, my wife, and our son,” says 30-year Colorado resident Brian Fleming. “Checking out rock art that has been there for such a long time is our favorite way to begin the weekend.”
Another place to see pictographs and petroglyphs is Mill Creek Canyon where the hike along the creek features panels that show detailed figures, animals, and shapes that stand out the most on the black rocks. The trail’s “finale” is a picturesque waterfall that offers a memorable destination point before turning back to the trailhead. For those looking for dinosaur tracks, the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Bone and Track Sites are highlights. Accessible via a short pathway, the Track Site displays footprints from theropods, sauropods, ornithopods, ankylosaurs, birds, and crocodilians. The Bone Trail, located about a mile from the Track Site, has fossilized dinosaur bones embedded in rock along a family-friendly hiking path with educational panels.
Additional family-friendly spots include Moab Giants and the Moab Rock Shop. Since 2015, Moab Giants has offered various exhibits and experiences for people of all ages. The indoor/outdoor dinosaur museum showcases state-of the art, life-size land and sea dinosaurs that roamed the area. Another stop for fossil hunters and rockhounds is the Moab Rock Shop. Founded in 1960 by Lin Ottinger, this family owned and operated store has been a staple for over 50 years. In fact, many of Ottinger’s discoveries were donated to museums and universities and he discovered at least four species of dinosaurs.
Magic In The Desert
The two most well-known attractions near Moab are the national parks — Arches and Canyonlands. For those staying in the heart of town, Arches is a much closer option (five miles away). It’s also a smaller park which is ideal for families with young kids or for people who prefer to spend a shorter amount of time walking around the park. Known for its legendary red rock topography, Arches boasts over 2,000 natural stone arches, hundreds of towering pinnacles, and massive balanced rocks that can be seen while hiking or driving. The Windows Section is a favorite destination within the park as it contains some of the most iconic views.
Conversely, Canyonlands is best-suited for visitors looking for an all-day adventure. Shaped by the Colorado and Green Rivers, Canyonlands is divided into three districts that have dramatic buttes, spires, canyons, and desert landscapes: Island in the Sky (40 minutes from Moab), The Needles (90 minutes away), and The Maze (the most remote and challenging as its ranger station is accessible by 46 miles of dirt road).
If visiting national parks is not part of your agenda, keep in mind that the magic of Moab is the variety of ways to experience the desert. Whether you are camping, staying in a hotel, off-roading, hiking, mountain biking, or fossil hunting, it is a breathtaking destination for all ages and all types of adventure-seekers. Discovering historical petroglyphs and pictographs, finding dinosaur bones, and then cooling off at the pool are definitely memorable ways to spend time. Regardless of
Desert History: Sego Canyon’s rock art dates back thousands of years and features multiple cultural styles.
your chosen itinerary, spring is an ideal season to head west into the desert and see different landscapes and wildlife, enjoy diverse cuisine, explore new terrain, and participate in unique activities.
Pro Tips:
- Check the weather before you leave because you’re going to Moab to be outside.
- Pack a cooler — no matter what your accommodations are — because having water and snacks ready for consumption is essential in the desert.
- Make sure to pack layers and plan for the daytime versus nighttime temperature changes.
- Hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, a bathing suit, and comfortable walking shoes are crucial.
- Arches National Park requires timed entry reservations so plan ahead by booking online.
by Mark Smiley | Feb 13, 2026 | Travel
by Mark Smiley
Tasting Glass: A Mile High Beer Fest tasting glass catches the light as attendees sample unique pours from local and regional breweries, highlighting the relaxed, discovery driven atmosphere of the festival.
Five Iron: Representatives from Five Iron Hard Seltzer share their offerings with festivalgoers during Mile High Beer Fest, highlighting the growing variety of craft and non-alcoholic beverage options in Colorado’s evolving beer scene.
The Mile High Beer Fest is returning to Denver on March 7, 2026, bringing nearly 50 breweries together for a celebration of Colorado craft beer, community, and creativity.
This year’s festival will take place at Denargo Market in the RiNo Arts District, a new development featuring expansive public spaces, green lawns, and one of the neighborhood’s most recognizable landmarks, the giant climbing rhino.
Festival organizer Lacey Spruce said the move to Denargo Market offers both flexibility and a fresh experience for attendees. “We’re really excited to partner with Denargo Market,” Spruce said. “The space is beautiful, and it gives us the ability to create a fun, easy to navigate festival while keeping the spirit of Mile High Beer Fest the same.”
The 2026 festival is expected to draw approximately 1,500 attendees and will feature breweries from across Colorado and beyond. Registration for breweries filled quickly, prompting organizers to cap participation at nearly 50 vendors.
Spruce credits the festival’s continued success to its strong focus on local breweries and community connection.
“This event is about celebrating local beer,” she said. “A lot of the time, the people pouring the beer are the brewers or the owners themselves. That personal connection is really special for attendees.”
While the craft beer industry has faced challenges in recent years, including brewery closures and shifting consumer habits, Spruce believes events like Mile High Beer Fest continue to resonate.
“Trends change, but there will always be people who enjoy beer,” she said. “We’re also seeing a big increase in non-alcoholic options, and we’re embracing that by offering more variety every year.”
New breweries joining the festival in 2026 include Goldspot Brewing and Fiction Beer Company, adding to a lineup that blends well known favorites with new discoveries.
In addition to beer, attendees will have the opportunity to learn about Hopscotch, a new beer garden opening this spring at Denargo Market. Operated in partnership with Drink Denver, Hopscotch will feature 16 taps, local beers, canned options, non-alcoholic drinks, wine, and cocktails.
Tickets to Mile High Beer Fest are all inclusive, with no tokens or drink tickets required. Attendees can sample freely throughout the event, a feature Spruce says helps maintain a smooth flow and relaxed atmosphere.
With fewer beer festivals taking place in Denver, Mile High Beer Fest has become a standout event for both brewers and enthusiasts.
“Our goal is to keep delivering a great experience,” Spruce said. “We want people to have fun, discover something new, and feel connected to the local beer community.”
For tickets and event details, visit milehighbeerfest.com.
