Best Of Denver® 2004 Winners
People & Places
Armed with a guitar, a sign and a smile wider than the Platte River, Smoky's been in the game long enough to claim a coveted corner as his own. Camped out at the busy intersection of Speer Boulevard and West Colfax Avenue, he treats drivers to daily shows, singing, ripping jokes and telling it like it is. No rat-race-humpin' day job is going to cut it for this bluesman of the boulevard, so he needs some money -- bad. But unlike many of his panhandling peers, whose art is often limited to carefully crafted cardboard signs, Smoky's giving something to the people in exchange for a little coin. Isn't that what the free market's all about? C'mon, brother, you can spare a dime.
Metro boosters keep fretting that the rest of the world doesn't really understand Denver. Outsiders see those nice pictures of Aspen, and they assume this city's in the mountains, too. Or they watch all the coverage of Colorado's assorted sex-assault scandals -- the Air Force Academy, Kobe Bryant, CU recruiting -- and they assume that topography isn't the only thing elevated here. (Colorado: What happens here stays in the national news for years to come.) Isn't it about time to mix those two not entirely incorrect assumptions together with our one tried-and-true, if unofficial, slogan -- "The Mile High City" -- for a brand that's fun, friendly and just a bit frisky?
Metro boosters keep fretting that the rest of the world doesn't really understand Denver. Outsiders see those nice pictures of Aspen, and they assume this city's in the mountains, too. Or they watch all the coverage of Colorado's assorted sex-assault scandals -- the Air Force Academy, Kobe Bryant, CU recruiting -- and they assume that topography isn't the only thing elevated here. (Colorado: What happens here stays in the national news for years to come.) Isn't it about time to mix those two not entirely incorrect assumptions together with our one tried-and-true, if unofficial, slogan -- "The Mile High City" -- for a brand that's fun, friendly and just a bit frisky?
Best Song About a New Slogan for Denver
"Branding, You're a Fine Word", TC and the Destroyers
Tom Clark, head of the Chamber of Commerce's new eco-devo unit, the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, isn't all about numbers. He can rock and roll, too, as evidenced by his song "Branding," performed by his band, TC and the Destroyers (celebrity edition), at Denver 360, the city's summit on marketing in February:
There's a Mayor, by the name of Hick,
Said, "Denver, you need a brand-new shtick.
"Find some words, take your pick
And send the world the news."
Find the words, like "Mile High Smile"
"Queen City," or "Denver by a Mile."
There's "Altitude With Some Attitude"
Which one will we choose?
The flaks say, "Branding, you're a fine word"
We'll find the new words, you'll see
How about "DenverŠa great place to be"?
In Vegas, it's wine, women and song
Chippendales, strippers dressed in thongs
In Denver, we still know it's wrong
to "Come to the Cabaret"
Let's make it edgy, make it cool
We've got the nation's best "Party School"
We're where Brother Doug Bruce Rules!
There's no taxes to pay!
We got great fires, we give great drought
Eco-tourism's what it's all about
Let's all stand up and shout
"Our water's owned by L.A.!"
The flaks say, "Branding, you're a fine word"
We'll find the new words, you'll see.
How about "DenverŠbetter than therapy"?
We got traffic, ain't got no trains
We're even "Colorful" if it ever rains
We still attract all the nation's brains
We just hope they'll stay!
At night, when Denver's LoDo is packed
Mayor Hick revs up all the acts
With his changer, he brings us back
To the LoDo we all love.
Got no incentives, except life with quality
Mountain views are part of your salary
We're here today to change the economy
And be a Mile High above the rest.
The flaks say, "Branding, you're a fine word"
We'll find the new words, you'll see
How about "DenverŠa great place to be"?
Best Song About a New Slogan for Denver
"Branding, You're a Fine Word", TC and the Destroyers
Tom Clark, head of the Chamber of Commerce's new eco-devo unit, the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, isn't all about numbers. He can rock and roll, too, as evidenced by his song "Branding," performed by his band, TC and the Destroyers (celebrity edition), at Denver 360, the city's summit on marketing in February:
There's a Mayor, by the name of Hick,
Said, "Denver, you need a brand-new shtick.
"Find some words, take your pick
And send the world the news."
Find the words, like "Mile High Smile"
"Queen City," or "Denver by a Mile."
There's "Altitude With Some Attitude"
Which one will we choose?
The flaks say, "Branding, you're a fine word"
We'll find the new words, you'll see
How about "DenverŠa great place to be"?
In Vegas, it's wine, women and song
Chippendales, strippers dressed in thongs
In Denver, we still know it's wrong
to "Come to the Cabaret"
Let's make it edgy, make it cool
We've got the nation's best "Party School"
We're where Brother Doug Bruce Rules!
There's no taxes to pay!
We got great fires, we give great drought
Eco-tourism's what it's all about
Let's all stand up and shout
"Our water's owned by L.A.!"
The flaks say, "Branding, you're a fine word"
We'll find the new words, you'll see.
How about "DenverŠbetter than therapy"?
We got traffic, ain't got no trains
We're even "Colorful" if it ever rains
We still attract all the nation's brains
We just hope they'll stay!
At night, when Denver's LoDo is packed
Mayor Hick revs up all the acts
With his changer, he brings us back
To the LoDo we all love.
Got no incentives, except life with quality
Mountain views are part of your salary
We're here today to change the economy
And be a Mile High above the rest.
The flaks say, "Branding, you're a fine word"
We'll find the new words, you'll see
How about "DenverŠa great place to be"?
Best Slogan for a Colorado City That Isn't Denver
"Alferd Packer: Eat Your Heart Out", Lake City
When you're a tiny town in the least-populated county in Colorado, you have to make the most of what you have. And for Lake City, that's not just spectacular scenery. It's Lake City's most notorious short-term resident, Alfred Packer, the "Colorado Cannibal" charged with eating five of his traveling companions while stranded on Slumgullion Pass in 1874. The truth of that tale -- like the correct spelling of Packer's first name -- is still a matter of some dispute. But slap Packer's glum mug on a T-shirt over the slogan "Eat Your Heart Out!," as Lake City has just done, and throw an Alferd Packer Days festival complete with skull-throwing and "mystery meat" barbecue -- and you've got a marketing campaign that tourists will eat right up. The rest is history.
Best Slogan for a Colorado City That Isn't Denver
"Alferd Packer: Eat Your Heart Out", Lake City
When you're a tiny town in the least-populated county in Colorado, you have to make the most of what you have. And for Lake City, that's not just spectacular scenery. It's Lake City's most notorious short-term resident, Alfred Packer, the "Colorado Cannibal" charged with eating five of his traveling companions while stranded on Slumgullion Pass in 1874. The truth of that tale -- like the correct spelling of Packer's first name -- is still a matter of some dispute. But slap Packer's glum mug on a T-shirt over the slogan "Eat Your Heart Out!," as Lake City has just done, and throw an Alferd Packer Days festival complete with skull-throwing and "mystery meat" barbecue -- and you've got a marketing campaign that tourists will eat right up. The rest is history.
Best Question Called In to the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce
"What interstate highway goes from Colorado to Hawaii?"
Best Question Called In to the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce
"What interstate highway goes from Colorado to Hawaii?"
Second-Best Question Called In to the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce
"Hi, I'm calling from Houston, and we're coming to visit. Can you tell me if it is appropriate to wear capris there?"
Second-Best Question Called In to the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce
"Hi, I'm calling from Houston, and we're coming to visit. Can you tell me if it is appropriate to wear capris there?"
Third-Best Question Called In to the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce
"I was told there was a restaurant in Denver called Casa Bonita. Are they still open, and do they really have naked divers?"
Third-Best Question Called In to the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce
"I was told there was a restaurant in Denver called Casa Bonita. Are they still open, and do they really have naked divers?"
Fourth-Best Question Called In to the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce
"How many pets are you allowed to keep in Colorado? Could you also tell me how many dogs and cats are already there?"
Fourth-Best Question Called In to the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce
"How many pets are you allowed to keep in Colorado? Could you also tell me how many dogs and cats are already there?"
It shouldn't have come as such a surprise. Not if you'd looked at the changing demographics of Denver. Not if you'd read Richard Florida's The Rise of the Creative Class. Not, really, if you'd ever even seen geeky beer baron John Hickenlooper work a room, even if that room was the bar at the Wynkoop Brewing Co. right around closing time, when Hickenlooper would start waving his arms as he described some idea that would be really great for this city. An idea like saving the Mile High Stadium name -- a campaign he lost, sort of, but which paved the way for his mayoral bid. No, it shouldn't have come as a surprise, but when Hickenlooper jumped into an already crowded field of mayoral candidates and proceeded to speed past all of them, it shocked the hell out of pundits and power brokers alike. More surprising still: the impressive job Hickenlooper's done thus far.
It shouldn't have come as such a surprise. Not if you'd looked at the changing demographics of Denver. Not if you'd read Richard Florida's The Rise of the Creative Class. Not, really, if you'd ever even seen geeky beer baron John Hickenlooper work a room, even if that room was the bar at the Wynkoop Brewing Co. right around closing time, when Hickenlooper would start waving his arms as he described some idea that would be really great for this city. An idea like saving the Mile High Stadium name -- a campaign he lost, sort of, but which paved the way for his mayoral bid. No, it shouldn't have come as a surprise, but when Hickenlooper jumped into an already crowded field of mayoral candidates and proceeded to speed past all of them, it shocked the hell out of pundits and power brokers alike. More surprising still: the impressive job Hickenlooper's done thus far.
You'd think that besting seven other candidates in the mayoral race would be enough for John Hickenlooper. But you'd be wrong. Denver's new mayor is always up for a challenge. During his campaign, he promised that he'd visit a Denver school every week, and while in an elementary-school gymnasium on one of those visits, he spotted a set of climbing ropes hanging from the ceiling. On the spot, he challenged mayoral aide/driver/much younger guy Tony Young -- and then proceeded to win a race to the top, while amazed students cheered below.
You'd think that besting seven other candidates in the mayoral race would be enough for John Hickenlooper. But you'd be wrong. Denver's new mayor is always up for a challenge. During his campaign, he promised that he'd visit a Denver school every week, and while in an elementary-school gymnasium on one of those visits, he spotted a set of climbing ropes hanging from the ceiling. On the spot, he challenged mayoral aide/driver/much younger guy Tony Young -- and then proceeded to win a race to the top, while amazed students cheered below.
Second-Best Political Challenge
Rocky Mountain Progressive Network
In February, as legislators began professing their support for Marilyn Musgrave's Federal Marriage Amendment, the Rocky Mountain Progressive Network asked all elected officials who support a ban against gay marriage to sign a "fidelity pledge."
Second-Best Political Challenge
Rocky Mountain Progressive Network
In February, as legislators began professing their support for Marilyn Musgrave's Federal Marriage Amendment, the Rocky Mountain Progressive Network asked all elected officials who support a ban against gay marriage to sign a "fidelity pledge."
During another visit to another school -- Cole Middle School -- earlier this year, Mayor Hickenlooper promised that if the students raised their CSAP scores up from the basement where they've been languishing, the city would make sure that when those kids were ready to go to college, there would be money available. But first they had to be ready for this spring's tests. So the Denver Public Schools Foundation and DPS organized a massive volunteer tutoring program, and dozens of Denverites volunteered several mornings this winter to help prepare sixth- and seventh-graders -- who themselves turned out in record numbers. And on Saturday mornings!
During another visit to another school -- Cole Middle School -- earlier this year, Mayor Hickenlooper promised that if the students raised their CSAP scores up from the basement where they've been languishing, the city would make sure that when those kids were ready to go to college, there would be money available. But first they had to be ready for this spring's tests. So the Denver Public Schools Foundation and DPS organized a massive volunteer tutoring program, and dozens of Denverites volunteered several mornings this winter to help prepare sixth- and seventh-graders -- who themselves turned out in record numbers. And on Saturday mornings!
Best Political Appointment -- State
Russell George, Colorado Department of Natural Resources
How does a state agency save money? If it's the Colorado Department of Natural Resources, you hire an outside consulting firm, order your employees to do the firm's work in finding ways to cut costs, and then give the firm a share of both the money saved and new money raised -- from fees imposed on Coloradans using this state's natural resources. That was the plan, anyway, under former director Greg Walcher, who left the department early this year with an eye to running for Congress (and no doubt running from critics). In his place, Governor Owens came up with another kind of political animal altogether: former legislator Russell George, whose background as head of the Division of Wildlife, work as an attorney in Rifle, and record as speaker of the House in the General Assembly makes him an ideal choice to forge coalitions to clean up the environment. And that's just the environment inside the Department of Natural Resources. If he can fix that, just imagine what he can do for the great outdoors.
Best Political Appointment -- State
Russell George, Colorado Department of Natural Resources
How does a state agency save money? If it's the Colorado Department of Natural Resources, you hire an outside consulting firm, order your employees to do the firm's work in finding ways to cut costs, and then give the firm a share of both the money saved and new money raised -- from fees imposed on Coloradans using this state's natural resources. That was the plan, anyway, under former director Greg Walcher, who left the department early this year with an eye to running for Congress (and no doubt running from critics). In his place, Governor Owens came up with another kind of political animal altogether: former legislator Russell George, whose background as head of the Division of Wildlife, work as an attorney in Rifle, and record as speaker of the House in the General Assembly makes him an ideal choice to forge coalitions to clean up the environment. And that's just the environment inside the Department of Natural Resources. If he can fix that, just imagine what he can do for the great outdoors.
Best Unexpected Political Appointment -- State
Mike Feeley , Colorado Commission on Higher Education
First things first: Mike Feeley is a Democrat -- and how. The lawyer/lawmaker came within 121 votes of grabbing the seventh congressional seat from Bob Beauprez in 2002. But that didn't stop Governor Bill Owens from naming Feeley this year to an open slot on the Colorado Commission of Higher Education, where the former Senate minority leader will be able to give his fellow commissioners a real-life lesson in how to push policy through the legislature.
Best Unexpected Political Appointment -- State
Mike Feeley , Colorado Commission on Higher Education
First things first: Mike Feeley is a Democrat -- and how. The lawyer/lawmaker came within 121 votes of grabbing the seventh congressional seat from Bob Beauprez in 2002. But that didn't stop Governor Bill Owens from naming Feeley this year to an open slot on the Colorado Commission of Higher Education, where the former Senate minority leader will be able to give his fellow commissioners a real-life lesson in how to push policy through the legislature.
Best Political Appointment -- City
Roxane White, Denver Department of Human Services
With appointment after appointment, Mayor John Hickenlooper has brought a stellar lineup of talent to the city -- and a stellar lineup on the cheap, since he'd vowed to cut the mayor's budget by 25 percent. But even in this embarrassment of riches, Roxane White, the city's new manager of human services, stands out. With the current budget crunch, all jobs are tough -- but hers could be the toughest, since social services have taken a huge hit on both a federal and statewide level, even as the number of those in need rises daily. But White's up to the task. As director of Urban Peak, a nonprofit serving homeless youth, for eight years, she proved herself both a tireless fighter for the underclass and a creative administrator who figured out how to do more with less. Or, in some cases, nothing at all. With White in charge, human services suddenly became a lot more human.
Best Political Appointment -- City
Roxane White, Denver Department of Human Services
With appointment after appointment, Mayor John Hickenlooper has brought a stellar lineup of talent to the city -- and a stellar lineup on the cheap, since he'd vowed to cut the mayor's budget by 25 percent. But even in this embarrassment of riches, Roxane White, the city's new manager of human services, stands out. With the current budget crunch, all jobs are tough -- but hers could be the toughest, since social services have taken a huge hit on both a federal and statewide level, even as the number of those in need rises daily. But White's up to the task. As director of Urban Peak, a nonprofit serving homeless youth, for eight years, she proved herself both a tireless fighter for the underclass and a creative administrator who figured out how to do more with less. Or, in some cases, nothing at all. With White in charge, human services suddenly became a lot more human.
When Monday Night Football came to town a few years ago, that national broadcast featured shots of Denver's mounted police on the 16th Street Mall. City Councilman Charlie Brown remembered that -- and he's not about to let you forget it. So when budget cuts threatened to put the Denver Police Department's mounted patrol out to pasture, Brown came riding to the rescue. Armed with a great poster of the patrol by artist William Matthews, whose studio/gallery borders the mall, Brown lobbied loud and hard for the four-footed crime-fighters, and two of the five positions were saved.
When Monday Night Football came to town a few years ago, that national broadcast featured shots of Denver's mounted police on the 16th Street Mall. City Councilman Charlie Brown remembered that -- and he's not about to let you forget it. So when budget cuts threatened to put the Denver Police Department's mounted patrol out to pasture, Brown came riding to the rescue. Armed with a great poster of the patrol by artist William Matthews, whose studio/gallery borders the mall, Brown lobbied loud and hard for the four-footed crime-fighters, and two of the five positions were saved.
Best New Voice at the State Capitol
Representative Andrew Romanoff
Colorado Democrats have been looking for energetic new leaders, and they've found a promising one in Romanoff. As leader of the perpetual minority party in the Statehouse, Romanoff's managed to stir things up under the Capitol dome. He's made far-reaching proposals to solve the state's budget crisis and gotten Democrats into the limelight -- not an easy thing to do when Republicans control both the legislature and the governor's office. Romanoff, who represents east Denver, also writes an intelligent, amusing e-mail letter every week for constituents and supporters that's becoming a must-read (subscribe at [email protected]). With Colorado in a fiscal mess, we'll need people like Romanoff to show the way out -- and maybe even lead us into the future.
Best New Voice at the State Capitol
Representative Andrew Romanoff
Colorado Democrats have been looking for energetic new leaders, and they've found a promising one in Romanoff. As leader of the perpetual minority party in the Statehouse, Romanoff's managed to stir things up under the Capitol dome. He's made far-reaching proposals to solve the state's budget crisis and gotten Democrats into the limelight -- not an easy thing to do when Republicans control both the legislature and the governor's office. Romanoff, who represents east Denver, also writes an intelligent, amusing e-mail letter every week for constituents and supporters that's becoming a must-read (subscribe at [email protected]). With Colorado in a fiscal mess, we'll need people like Romanoff to show the way out -- and maybe even lead us into the future.
Beat 'em, bust 'em, that's our custom! Some schools are steeped in athletic traditions that include such gaudy honors as national championships and future pro zillionaires. But that's nothing. CU already had a rich history of unsportsmanlike misbehavior, and with the current tales of alcohol-fueled recruiting rape parties, alleged sexual assaults by team members, reported Buff brass coverups and a cast of characters ranging from CU prez Betsy Hoffman to coach Gary Barnett to Boulder DA Mary Keenan to scribe Rick Reilly, the University of Colorado has reached its number-one ranking in sleaze! And such sleaze that Representative John Conyers (a Democrat, no less!) asked the House Judiciary Committee chair to schedule hearings into misconduct by CU's football program, noting that "reports have detailed, at a minimum, a widespread culture of disrespect toward women within the Colorado athletic department, producing an atmosphere where sexual assaults are condoned and covered up by university officials."
But here's the big news. The lawmaker recognizes that this stuff goes on "at other universities as well." Which means the rest of the nation is taking its cue from CU. At last. Forget CU being the number-one party school. The Buffs land us at the top of the scandal heap, too.
Beat 'em, bust 'em, that's our custom! Some schools are steeped in athletic traditions that include such gaudy honors as national championships and future pro zillionaires. But that's nothing. CU already had a rich history of unsportsmanlike misbehavior, and with the current tales of alcohol-fueled recruiting rape parties, alleged sexual assaults by team members, reported Buff brass coverups and a cast of characters ranging from CU prez Betsy Hoffman to coach Gary Barnett to Boulder DA Mary Keenan to scribe Rick Reilly, the University of Colorado has reached its number-one ranking in sleaze! And such sleaze that Representative John Conyers (a Democrat, no less!) asked the House Judiciary Committee chair to schedule hearings into misconduct by CU's football program, noting that "reports have detailed, at a minimum, a widespread culture of disrespect toward women within the Colorado athletic department, producing an atmosphere where sexual assaults are condoned and covered up by university officials."
But here's the big news. The lawmaker recognizes that this stuff goes on "at other universities as well." Which means the rest of the nation is taking its cue from CU. At last. Forget CU being the number-one party school. The Buffs land us at the top of the scandal heap, too.
When retired University of Colorado history professor Joyce Lebra learned that she'd be receiving the University Medal, a service award given by CU, she sent a letter to the Board of Regents. It was not a thank-you note. "The massive concrete stadium structure looming over the campus stands as a symbol of the gross distortion of priorities at the university and moreover is incongruent with the architecture of the campus," Lebra wrote. "The football program has proven, moreover, to foster a culture of sexism and misogyny where harassment and rape of women has occurred repeatedly."
She turned down the award.
When retired University of Colorado history professor Joyce Lebra learned that she'd be receiving the University Medal, a service award given by CU, she sent a letter to the Board of Regents. It was not a thank-you note. "The massive concrete stadium structure looming over the campus stands as a symbol of the gross distortion of priorities at the university and moreover is incongruent with the architecture of the campus," Lebra wrote. "The football program has proven, moreover, to foster a culture of sexism and misogyny where harassment and rape of women has occurred repeatedly."
She turned down the award.
In the beginning, the Colorado campaign for the U.S. Senate was looking about as exciting as an election in pre-invasion Iraq. No one thought incumbent Republican Ben Nighthorse Campbell could be defeated, least of all prominent Democrats, who treated their party's nomination like a case of SARS, to be avoided at all cost. But after Dem wild card Rutt Bridges, whose lack of name recognition was balanced by a surplus of disposable cash, finally volunteered for slaughter, all hell broke loose. First, Campbell aide Ginnie Kontnik resigned in the face of kickback accusations from former Campbell staffer Brian Thompson. Then, with a congressional investigation looming, Campbell used a case of acid reflux as rationale for retiring. His decision spawned the political equivalent of Survivor -- except in this case, the contestants were voting themselves out. Representative Mark Udall declared his candidacy one day, then undeclared the next. Bridges removed his hat from the ring, too, after Attorney General Ken Salazar, who'd previously expressed no interest in the race, changed his mind. That move, of course, was inspired by somewhat-freshly separated Governor Bill Owens just saying no, followed by a laundry list of conservative politicos -- including Bob Beauprez, Mike Coffman, Tom Tancredo and Jane Norton -- doing the same, leaving ex-Congressman Bob Schaffer as the last Republican standing.
The way it looks now, Salazar will snag the seat for the Democratic Party. Which is only fair, since Nighthorse Campbell was the one who took it away from the Dems a decade ago, when he changed political horses mid-term.
In the beginning, the Colorado campaign for the U.S. Senate was looking about as exciting as an election in pre-invasion Iraq. No one thought incumbent Republican Ben Nighthorse Campbell could be defeated, least of all prominent Democrats, who treated their party's nomination like a case of SARS, to be avoided at all cost. But after Dem wild card Rutt Bridges, whose lack of name recognition was balanced by a surplus of disposable cash, finally volunteered for slaughter, all hell broke loose. First, Campbell aide Ginnie Kontnik resigned in the face of kickback accusations from former Campbell staffer Brian Thompson. Then, with a congressional investigation looming, Campbell used a case of acid reflux as rationale for retiring. His decision spawned the political equivalent of Survivor -- except in this case, the contestants were voting themselves out. Representative Mark Udall declared his candidacy one day, then undeclared the next. Bridges removed his hat from the ring, too, after Attorney General Ken Salazar, who'd previously expressed no interest in the race, changed his mind. That move, of course, was inspired by somewhat-freshly separated Governor Bill Owens just saying no, followed by a laundry list of conservative politicos -- including Bob Beauprez, Mike Coffman, Tom Tancredo and Jane Norton -- doing the same, leaving ex-Congressman Bob Schaffer as the last Republican standing.
The way it looks now, Salazar will snag the seat for the Democratic Party. Which is only fair, since Nighthorse Campbell was the one who took it away from the Dems a decade ago, when he changed political horses mid-term.
Before the Arapahoe County Clerk's office was revealed to be the state's top passion pit, then-clerk Tracy Baker used office equipment to tell Leesa Sale, the woman he'd made his chief deputy assistant, of his admiration for her work. "Wet huh," he messaged her on January 24, 2002. "Get in here and we'll play a little dare game. I MUST HAVE YOU. I AM VERY UNSETTLED. PPLLEEAASSEE." Two years and the release of over a hundred of those messages later, Baker was recalled by the voters of Arapahoe County.
Before the Arapahoe County Clerk's office was revealed to be the state's top passion pit, then-clerk Tracy Baker used office equipment to tell Leesa Sale, the woman he'd made his chief deputy assistant, of his admiration for her work. "Wet huh," he messaged her on January 24, 2002. "Get in here and we'll play a little dare game. I MUST HAVE YOU. I AM VERY UNSETTLED. PPLLEEAASSEE." Two years and the release of over a hundred of those messages later, Baker was recalled by the voters of Arapahoe County.
"Get your ass in here."
Days after Tracy Baker was recalled, Chief Deputy Assistant Leesa Sale was put on administrative leave from the clerk's office.
"Get your ass in here."
Days after Tracy Baker was recalled, Chief Deputy Assistant Leesa Sale was put on administrative leave from the clerk's office.
The My Twinn phone lines were still connected in late March -- even to the Doll Hospital extensions! -- but no human voices were answering. Which wasn't surprising, because on January 29, involuntary Chapter 7 bankruptcy proceedings had been filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court against the Lifelike Company of Englewood, maker of the My Twinn dolls. Say what you will -- and everyone says plenty -- about the transgressions of the telecommunication giants, the pain they inflicted was squat compared with the trauma caused by a firm that kept wee tots waiting in vain for their cherubic doll-clones. Last year, more than 700 complaints were filed with the Colorado Attorney General by My Twinn stiffees who'd ponied up between $80 and $150 for their own special dolls and accessories. An apologetic open letter on the My Twinn website (last updated January 17) offered a variety of reasons why the firm had to shut down its nine-year-old, money-losing operation. But all was not yet lost: The website promised that all dolls in the Doll Hospital would be discharged. Of course, their plastic wounds would mend faster than the broken human hearts that litter the nation's Twinn-less landscape.
The My Twinn phone lines were still connected in late March -- even to the Doll Hospital extensions! -- but no human voices were answering. Which wasn't surprising, because on January 29, involuntary Chapter 7 bankruptcy proceedings had been filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court against the Lifelike Company of Englewood, maker of the My Twinn dolls. Say what you will -- and everyone says plenty -- about the transgressions of the telecommunication giants, the pain they inflicted was squat compared with the trauma caused by a firm that kept wee tots waiting in vain for their cherubic doll-clones. Last year, more than 700 complaints were filed with the Colorado Attorney General by My Twinn stiffees who'd ponied up between $80 and $150 for their own special dolls and accessories. An apologetic open letter on the My Twinn website (last updated January 17) offered a variety of reasons why the firm had to shut down its nine-year-old, money-losing operation. But all was not yet lost: The website promised that all dolls in the Doll Hospital would be discharged. Of course, their plastic wounds would mend faster than the broken human hearts that litter the nation's Twinn-less landscape.
Until last fall, G. Brown was the city's most prominent music critic -- a staple in the Denver Post since the days when Boz Scaggs was a hitmaker, not a trivia question, and Yusuf Islam was still known as Cat Stevens. Not even an early-'90s suspension from the Post for essentially lifting the lead for a Keith Richards review from an item in Rolling Stone could knock him off his perch. Then, last October, Brown wrote a preview of a Simon & Garfunkel appearance so littered with appropriations from other sources that a Post investigation didn't even find them all. Brown characterized these borrowings as boo-boos, not chronic plagiarism, but resigned anyway in favor of a DJ gig at KCUV. The station's website, www.kcuvradio.com, includes a section called "What Can G. Brown Do For You?" that's loaded with past Brown articles, none of which are attributed to the Post or any other publication. 'Cause they can't make him resign again.
Until last fall, G. Brown was the city's most prominent music critic -- a staple in the Denver Post since the days when Boz Scaggs was a hitmaker, not a trivia question, and Yusuf Islam was still known as Cat Stevens. Not even an early-'90s suspension from the Post for essentially lifting the lead for a Keith Richards review from an item in Rolling Stone could knock him off his perch. Then, last October, Brown wrote a preview of a Simon & Garfunkel appearance so littered with appropriations from other sources that a Post investigation didn't even find them all. Brown characterized these borrowings as boo-boos, not chronic plagiarism, but resigned anyway in favor of a DJ gig at KCUV. The station's website, www.kcuvradio.com, includes a section called "What Can G. Brown Do For You?" that's loaded with past Brown articles, none of which are attributed to the Post or any other publication. 'Cause they can't make him resign again.
When Los Angeles Lakers basketball star Kobe Bryant checked into the Lodge & Spa at Cordillera near Edwards last June, he had no idea that his visit would create a cottage industry. A Cordillera employee claimed that Bryant sexually assaulted her during his stay, and the legal maneuvering that followed the filing of charges has attracted so many reporters, photographers and crew members to the area that the temporary media tents erected near the Eagle County courthouse might as well be made permanent. Bryant's visits have become the equivalent of rugby scrums, with members of the press doing their best to confirm every negative stereotype about them -- but they're certainly keeping Eagle restaurateurs and hoteliers happy. Although the alleged crime is bad, it's been very, very good for business.
When Los Angeles Lakers basketball star Kobe Bryant checked into the Lodge & Spa at Cordillera near Edwards last June, he had no idea that his visit would create a cottage industry. A Cordillera employee claimed that Bryant sexually assaulted her during his stay, and the legal maneuvering that followed the filing of charges has attracted so many reporters, photographers and crew members to the area that the temporary media tents erected near the Eagle County courthouse might as well be made permanent. Bryant's visits have become the equivalent of rugby scrums, with members of the press doing their best to confirm every negative stereotype about them -- but they're certainly keeping Eagle restaurateurs and hoteliers happy. Although the alleged crime is bad, it's been very, very good for business.
Best Description of Denver by a National Writer -- Current
Hope Hamashige, New York Post
In a February travel story titled "On Mile High Alert," Hope Hamashige regaled New Yorkers with this description of what they might see in the Mile High City: "The cowboys, miners and hunters who founded Denver, and who have witnessed the long, slow decline of the city's honky-tonk bars and taxidermy shops, have ceded ground to nature-loving hippies, oil barons, Harley-riding Hells Angels -- and more."
Best Description of Denver by a National Writer -- Current
Hope Hamashige, New York Post
In a February travel story titled "On Mile High Alert," Hope Hamashige regaled New Yorkers with this description of what they might see in the Mile High City: "The cowboys, miners and hunters who founded Denver, and who have witnessed the long, slow decline of the city's honky-tonk bars and taxidermy shops, have ceded ground to nature-loving hippies, oil barons, Harley-riding Hells Angels -- and more."
Second-Best Description of Denver by a National Writer -- Current
Linda Hayes, Hemispheres Magazine
The March issue of United Airlines' in-flight magazine, Hemispheres, serves up "Three Perfect Days in Denver," starting with this: "Long out-glammed by glittery ski towns to the west and saddled with outdated reputations (frontier outpost, mining camp, cow town), Denver has pulled itself up by the bootstraps. Thanks to a proliferation of top-notch cultural and sporting venues, revitalization of the historic lower downtown district called LoDo, and the efforts of a contemporary new mayor, the Mile High City is showing considerable depth -- and breadth." So far, so good -- but then writer Linda Hayes sends readers out of town for one of those perfect days. Admittedly, Winter Park is still a Denver mountain park, and the Winter Park Ski Train is one of this city's greatest amenities (as well as a multiple Best of Denver award winner). Still, couldn't Hayes have kept it a little closer to home?
Second-Best Description of Denver by a National Writer -- Current
Linda Hayes, Hemispheres Magazine
The March issue of United Airlines' in-flight magazine, Hemispheres, serves up "Three Perfect Days in Denver," starting with this: "Long out-glammed by glittery ski towns to the west and saddled with outdated reputations (frontier outpost, mining camp, cow town), Denver has pulled itself up by the bootstraps. Thanks to a proliferation of top-notch cultural and sporting venues, revitalization of the historic lower downtown district called LoDo, and the efforts of a contemporary new mayor, the Mile High City is showing considerable depth -- and breadth." So far, so good -- but then writer Linda Hayes sends readers out of town for one of those perfect days. Admittedly, Winter Park is still a Denver mountain park, and the Winter Park Ski Train is one of this city's greatest amenities (as well as a multiple Best of Denver award winner). Still, couldn't Hayes have kept it a little closer to home?
Best Description of Denver by a National Writer -- Historic
John Gunther, Inside U.S.A.
John Gunther traveled across the country after World War II, compiling reports that resulted in the classic Inside U.S.A. His dispatch from Denver included this: "I don't know any other American city quite so fascinatingly strange. Not merely because yellow cabs are painted green or because the fourteenth step on the state capitol bears the proud plaque ŒONE MILE ABOVE SEA LEVEL' or even because it has luxuriant shade trees (every single one of which had to be imported) . . . The remarkable thing about Denver is its ineffable closedness; when it moves, or opens up, it is like a Chippendale molting its veneer. This is not to say that Denver is reactionary. No -- because reaction suggests motion, whereas Denver is immobile. We will in the course of this book come on other cities, like Tulsa, that really are reactionary; but Denver is Olympian, impassive, and inert. It is probably the most self-sufficient, self-contained and complacent city in the world."
Best Description of Denver by a National Writer -- Historic
John Gunther, Inside U.S.A.
John Gunther traveled across the country after World War II, compiling reports that resulted in the classic Inside U.S.A. His dispatch from Denver included this: "I don't know any other American city quite so fascinatingly strange. Not merely because yellow cabs are painted green or because the fourteenth step on the state capitol bears the proud plaque ŒONE MILE ABOVE SEA LEVEL' or even because it has luxuriant shade trees (every single one of which had to be imported) . . . The remarkable thing about Denver is its ineffable closedness; when it moves, or opens up, it is like a Chippendale molting its veneer. This is not to say that Denver is reactionary. No -- because reaction suggests motion, whereas Denver is immobile. We will in the course of this book come on other cities, like Tulsa, that really are reactionary; but Denver is Olympian, impassive, and inert. It is probably the most self-sufficient, self-contained and complacent city in the world."
Best Way to Learn Something on Your Lunch Hour
Denver Press Club
Denver's venerable press club is one of the oldest in the country -- but its "Lunch on Deadline" series is right up to the minute. The Denver Press Club regularly hosts noon confabs that feature visiting authors and other newsmakers as the main course -- everyone from syndicated columnist Ellen Goodman to Frontier Airlines CEO Jeff Potter (a sellout). The luncheons are open to the public, and the club's beautifully renovated space provides a far more intimate setting than the auditoriums and ballrooms in which you usually find such high-caliber speakers. (In fact, there's so much food for thought in these lunchtime presentations that many are later shown on Denver's Channel 8.) And you won't be eating any rubber chicken at the club, either: Under Daniel Young, the kitchen's really cooking. The bar's open, too, but you'd be wise to avoid it if you need to return to the office.
Best Way to Learn Something on Your Lunch Hour
Denver Press Club
Denver's venerable press club is one of the oldest in the country -- but its "Lunch on Deadline" series is right up to the minute. The Denver Press Club regularly hosts noon confabs that feature visiting authors and other newsmakers as the main course -- everyone from syndicated columnist Ellen Goodman to Frontier Airlines CEO Jeff Potter (a sellout). The luncheons are open to the public, and the club's beautifully renovated space provides a far more intimate setting than the auditoriums and ballrooms in which you usually find such high-caliber speakers. (In fact, there's so much food for thought in these lunchtime presentations that many are later shown on Denver's Channel 8.) And you won't be eating any rubber chicken at the club, either: Under Daniel Young, the kitchen's really cooking. The bar's open, too, but you'd be wise to avoid it if you need to return to the office.
Armed with a guitar, a sign and a smile wider than the Platte River, Smoky's been in the game long enough to claim a coveted corner as his own. Camped out at the busy intersection of Speer Boulevard and West Colfax Avenue, he treats drivers to daily shows, singing, ripping jokes and telling it like it is. No rat-race-humpin' day job is going to cut it for this bluesman of the boulevard, so he needs some money -- bad. But unlike many of his panhandling peers, whose art is often limited to carefully crafted cardboard signs, Smoky's giving something to the people in exchange for a little coin. Isn't that what the free market's all about? C'mon, brother, you can spare a dime.
Ms. Mac doesn't need a crystal ball or a smoking urn full of incense to look into your future. All she needs is a table, tarot cards and your open mind. A small, spry medium of the deck, Ms. Mac doesn't waste time with vague predictions, observations or ego strokes. If the cards say you're shacking up with the wrong girl or guy, she's going to tell you to get out quick. If you're wasting your time in a going-nowhere job, heading for trouble or missing an opportunity to make some money, expect an earful. Ms. Mac reads every Saturday afternoon at Herbs & Arts on East Colfax Avenue; Tuesdays, she's up the street at the funky new-age coffee shop Oh My Goddess. See her only if you're ready to face the truth: Oracles don't get much saucier than this.
Ms. Mac doesn't need a crystal ball or a smoking urn full of incense to look into your future. All she needs is a table, tarot cards and your open mind. A small, spry medium of the deck, Ms. Mac doesn't waste time with vague predictions, observations or ego strokes. If the cards say you're shacking up with the wrong girl or guy, she's going to tell you to get out quick. If you're wasting your time in a going-nowhere job, heading for trouble or missing an opportunity to make some money, expect an earful. Ms. Mac reads every Saturday afternoon at Herbs & Arts on East Colfax Avenue; Tuesdays, she's up the street at the funky new-age coffee shop Oh My Goddess. See her only if you're ready to face the truth: Oracles don't get much saucier than this.
Best Development on Colfax
Original Downtown Aurora Arts District
While Denver's just beginning to define its new vision for Colfax Avenue, twenty years ago Aurora officials looked at a crumbling stretch of the street and decided to create the twelve-square-block Original Downtown Aurora Arts District. That stretch, which is already home to the Aurora Fox Arts Center, will soon see the opening of the $10 million Martin Luther King Library and Municipal Services Center. Next up is the Florence Square mixed-use project, which includes not just housing, commercial and retail space, but artist live/work studios and an Artists Walk area. If Aurora builds it, will they come?
Best Development on Colfax
Original Downtown Aurora Arts District
While Denver's just beginning to define its new vision for Colfax Avenue, twenty years ago Aurora officials looked at a crumbling stretch of the street and decided to create the twelve-square-block Original Downtown Aurora Arts District. That stretch, which is already home to the Aurora Fox Arts Center, will soon see the opening of the $10 million Martin Luther King Library and Municipal Services Center. Next up is the Florence Square mixed-use project, which includes not just housing, commercial and retail space, but artist live/work studios and an Artists Walk area. If Aurora builds it, will they come?
When University of Denver chancellor Daniel Ritchie embarked on a plan to re-create the campus a decade ago, he enlisted the help of distinguished Denver architect Cabell Childress. The DU of today, dotted with many impressive new buildings done by a host of mostly local architects, owes its distinctive character to the overriding vision of Childress, who imagined it all before any of the structures were even
started. Although Mark Rodgers has now taken over as DU's campus architect, Childress is still architect emeritus -- and the campus stands as testament to his good work.
When University of Denver chancellor Daniel Ritchie embarked on a plan to re-create the campus a decade ago, he enlisted the help of distinguished Denver architect Cabell Childress. The DU of today, dotted with many impressive new buildings done by a host of mostly local architects, owes its distinctive character to the overriding vision of Childress, who imagined it all before any of the structures were even
started. Although Mark Rodgers has now taken over as DU's campus architect, Childress is still architect emeritus -- and the campus stands as testament to his good work.
Although it raised the hackles on the necks of neighbors in Cherry Creek North who
tried to stop it, Clayton Lane is now nearing completion. Built on the former parking lot of the Sears store, the project is a handsome set of neo-modernist buildings that includes offices, condos, retail and a luxury hotel. David Tryba, one of the city's best architects, designed the complex, which is being developed by the Nichols Partnership. The interplay of the various buildings on the tight site is very nice, as is the expert orchestration of the beautiful materials. With Clayton Lane, Denver has a brand-new landmark. And in the highly commercial Cherry Creek, no less!
Although it raised the hackles on the necks of neighbors in Cherry Creek North who
tried to stop it, Clayton Lane is now nearing completion. Built on the former parking lot of the Sears store, the project is a handsome set of neo-modernist buildings that includes offices, condos, retail and a luxury hotel. David Tryba, one of the city's best architects, designed the complex, which is being developed by the Nichols Partnership. The interplay of the various buildings on the tight site is very nice, as is the expert orchestration of the beautiful materials. With Clayton Lane, Denver has a brand-new landmark. And in the highly commercial Cherry Creek, no less!
Best Deletion From the Denver Skyline
The "Old" Colorado Convention Center
The new Colorado Convention Center will thoroughly cover the hideous old Colorado Convention Center -- a huge, scale-less, circa 1990 shoebox that was arguably the ugliest building ever to have been erected in downtown Denver. Fentress Bradburn Architects designed that done-on-the-cheap structure, and the same crew was tapped to create its replacement. The over-the-top new center, slated for completion this December, has been a dark cloud over downtown for years, but in getting rid of an architectural monstrosity like the existing center, the project does have a silver lining.
Best Deletion From the Denver Skyline
The "Old" Colorado Convention Center
The new Colorado Convention Center will thoroughly cover the hideous old Colorado Convention Center -- a huge, scale-less, circa 1990 shoebox that was arguably the ugliest building ever to have been erected in downtown Denver. Fentress Bradburn Architects designed that done-on-the-cheap structure, and the same crew was tapped to create its replacement. The over-the-top new center, slated for completion this December, has been a dark cloud over downtown for years, but in getting rid of an architectural monstrosity like the existing center, the project does have a silver lining.
They've been cropping up everywhere -- complexes that mix retail, offices and residences in a single project meant to serve as little downtowns. One's gone up in Englewood, and there's one at Lowry, one's under construction in Lakewood, and one's in the planning stages in Boulder. But architecturally, the pick of the litter of these mostly mundane prefab villages is the East 29th Avenue Town Center at Stapleton. This complex of substantial-looking neo-modernist buildings by Peter Dominick's Urban Design Group is laid out in a very formal, symmetrical arrangement in which every building is mirrored by an identical one. Taken all together, this center has plenty of curb appeal.
They've been cropping up everywhere -- complexes that mix retail, offices and residences in a single project meant to serve as little downtowns. One's gone up in Englewood, and there's one at Lowry, one's under construction in Lakewood, and one's in the planning stages in Boulder. But architecturally, the pick of the litter of these mostly mundane prefab villages is the East 29th Avenue Town Center at Stapleton. This complex of substantial-looking neo-modernist buildings by Peter Dominick's Urban Design Group is laid out in a very formal, symmetrical arrangement in which every building is mirrored by an identical one. Taken all together, this center has plenty of curb appeal.
Best Proof That We're Living in a Small Town
Tower Road message board
This past summer, the stretch of Tower Road between Hampden and Iliff avenues had become a notorious speedway. To encourage drivers to slow down, Sergeant Dan Courtenay, a twenty-year veteran of the Aurora Police Department, started posting cautionary warnings on an electronic message board that had previously been used to announce construction delays. Among the best:
Please drive safely
Life is too short
to spend in court.
And this instant classic:
Stop road rage.
Play Jimmy Buffett
songs in your car.
Best Proof That We're Living in a Small Town
Tower Road message board
This past summer, the stretch of Tower Road between Hampden and Iliff avenues had become a notorious speedway. To encourage drivers to slow down, Sergeant Dan Courtenay, a twenty-year veteran of the Aurora Police Department, started posting cautionary warnings on an electronic message board that had previously been used to announce construction delays. Among the best:
Please drive safely
Life is too short
to spend in court.
And this instant classic:
Stop road rage.
Play Jimmy Buffett
songs in your car.
In appreciation of the new era of metropolitan cooperation that dawned with the election of two new metro mayors, Denver mayor John Hickenlooper temporarily changed the name of the road separating northeast Denver from northwest Aurora from Tower to Tauer Road, to honor previous Aurora mayor Ed Tauer and current Aurora mayor Ed Tauer Jr.
In appreciation of the new era of metropolitan cooperation that dawned with the election of two new metro mayors, Denver mayor John Hickenlooper temporarily changed the name of the road separating northeast Denver from northwest Aurora from Tower to Tauer Road, to honor previous Aurora mayor Ed Tauer and current Aurora mayor Ed Tauer Jr.
Robert Bach, national director of market analysis for Grubb & Ellis, appeared at an annual industrial- and office-property owners' meeting in Denver to deliver the bad news about this city's commercial-vacancy rate, which isn't expected to reach 10 percent until 2008. And that's going down. To soften the blow, he offered this song:
At the start of '03, landlords knew
it would be rough.
Tenants large and small,
there just weren't enough.
Yet the construction pipeline kept
delivering new space,
While leasing and absorption
could not keep pace . . .
Office landlords suffered and moaned,
but there was a silver lining.
Low interest rates and roller-coaster stocks
kept buyers pining
For Class A buildings with solid
rent rolls
And little rollover risk, that would be
investor's gold.
But what of '04, what does our crystal ball
tell us?
The market will improve, but not enough
to make tenants jealous
Of landlords (who) won't have much
bargaining power
Until 2005, when the market will be
less dour
So tenants make your best deals soon,
Lock in long-term low rates and whistle
a happy tune.
In 2004, landlords, you will begin to
climb out of your hole,
And you'll all feel better in 2005
When the Broncos win the Super Bowl.
Robert Bach, national director of market analysis for Grubb & Ellis, appeared at an annual industrial- and office-property owners' meeting in Denver to deliver the bad news about this city's commercial-vacancy rate, which isn't expected to reach 10 percent until 2008. And that's going down. To soften the blow, he offered this song:
At the start of '03, landlords knew
it would be rough.
Tenants large and small,
there just weren't enough.
Yet the construction pipeline kept
delivering new space,
While leasing and absorption
could not keep pace . . .
Office landlords suffered and moaned,
but there was a silver lining.
Low interest rates and roller-coaster stocks
kept buyers pining
For Class A buildings with solid
rent rolls
And little rollover risk, that would be
investor's gold.
But what of '04, what does our crystal ball
tell us?
The market will improve, but not enough
to make tenants jealous
Of landlords (who) won't have much
bargaining power
Until 2005, when the market will be
less dour
So tenants make your best deals soon,
Lock in long-term low rates and whistle
a happy tune.
In 2004, landlords, you will begin to
climb out of your hole,
And you'll all feel better in 2005
When the Broncos win the Super Bowl.
At the corner where Westminster meets Federal Heights is a scene to ponder. Thanks to a notable plunge in elevation behind it, the bus bench on the northwest corner of the intersection has a panoramic view of the foothills, the Flatirons and the mountains beyond. And all that suburban sprawl in the foreground should make you feel all the more virtuous for taking the bus.
At the corner where Westminster meets Federal Heights is a scene to ponder. Thanks to a notable plunge in elevation behind it, the bus bench on the northwest corner of the intersection has a panoramic view of the foothills, the Flatirons and the mountains beyond. And all that suburban sprawl in the foreground should make you feel all the more virtuous for taking the bus.
Best Place to Eavesdrop on Blind Dates
Tattered Cover Book Store
Everyone dreads blind dates -- unless, of course, they're watching someone else's dreadful blind date. And there's no better place to do that than the Tattered Cover in Cherry Creek. The bookstore appears to be the blind-date location of choice in Denver, which makes sense: The coffee-shop area is big enough to allow for an undetected escape in the event one party spots the other first and doesn't like what he/she sees, yet it's also cozy enough for intimate conversation in case the combination clicks. (The Fourth Story is also right upstairs, in case the daters want to move on to drinks and dinner.) There's just one catch: The people sitting nearby can hear every awkward word the couple utters.
Best Place to Eavesdrop on Blind Dates
Tattered Cover Book Store
Everyone dreads blind dates -- unless, of course, they're watching someone else's dreadful blind date. And there's no better place to do that than the Tattered Cover in Cherry Creek. The bookstore appears to be the blind-date location of choice in Denver, which makes sense: The coffee-shop area is big enough to allow for an undetected escape in the event one party spots the other first and doesn't like what he/she sees, yet it's also cozy enough for intimate conversation in case the combination clicks. (The Fourth Story is also right upstairs, in case the daters want to move on to drinks and dinner.) There's just one catch: The people sitting nearby can hear every awkward word the couple utters.
As co-founder and chief executive officer of J.D. Edwards, Ed McVaney made millions. As former chief executive of J.D. Edwards, he made tens of millions more when the software company was sold to PeopleSoft Inc. last summer. But the sixty-something entrepreneur wasn't about to sit back and take things easy. Instead, he volunteered to go to Iraq last fall to help rebuild that country's economy. If only he does half as well for Iraq as he did for J.D. Edwards.
As co-founder and chief executive officer of J.D. Edwards, Ed McVaney made millions. As former chief executive of J.D. Edwards, he made tens of millions more when the software company was sold to PeopleSoft Inc. last summer. But the sixty-something entrepreneur wasn't about to sit back and take things easy. Instead, he volunteered to go to Iraq last fall to help rebuild that country's economy. If only he does half as well for Iraq as he did for J.D. Edwards.
Best Website for Former J.D. Edwards Employees
When a company like J.D. Edwards is sold to a giant like PeopleSoft, you lose more than jobs (and in this case, the layoffs started soon after the sale). You also lose the sense of corporate culture and camaraderie built up over 26 years. To help keep that alive -- and to help former colleagues stay in touch -- Nick Gomersall, a ten-year-veteran of J.D. Edwards who now works for a British software maker, set up a members-only website, www.ExJDEdwards.com, "dedicated to all ex JD Edwards employees who have contributed in making this a great company." Even Ed McVaney contributed to the cause, sending in documents of the early years.
Best Website for Former J.D. Edwards Employees
When a company like J.D. Edwards is sold to a giant like PeopleSoft, you lose more than jobs (and in this case, the layoffs started soon after the sale). You also lose the sense of corporate culture and camaraderie built up over 26 years. To help keep that alive -- and to help former colleagues stay in touch -- Nick Gomersall, a ten-year-veteran of J.D. Edwards who now works for a British software maker, set up a members-only website, www.ExJDEdwards.com, "dedicated to all ex JD Edwards employees who have contributed in making this a great company." Even Ed McVaney contributed to the cause, sending in documents of the early years.
When local agit-zine The Hooligan called it quits after a decade of caustic satire and poor spelling, contributor Shoun Flynn decided to focus on the web version of his infamous "Needles for Teeth" column. Half blog, half meth-stoked rant, "Needles" pokes merciless fun at cops, the Disney Channel, Denver poets and, of course, its own author, all the while extolling the virtues of John Coltrane and Mr. & Mrs. T Bloody Mary mix. It's kinda like if Hunter S. Thompson doused himself in absinthe and plugged his dick into a mainframe.
When local agit-zine The Hooligan called it quits after a decade of caustic satire and poor spelling, contributor Shoun Flynn decided to focus on the web version of his infamous "Needles for Teeth" column. Half blog, half meth-stoked rant, "Needles" pokes merciless fun at cops, the Disney Channel, Denver poets and, of course, its own author, all the while extolling the virtues of John Coltrane and Mr. & Mrs. T Bloody Mary mix. It's kinda like if Hunter S. Thompson doused himself in absinthe and plugged his dick into a mainframe.
As scabrous as it is scoop-minded, Michael Zinna's website focuses on the alleged public and private follies of the powers that be in Jefferson County, including the county commissioners and the county attorney. Unlike many oddball crusader sites, this one's fun to read -- so fun that Zinna's recently been investigated by the feds, who were concerned about the online mushroom cloud that recently showed up over Jeffco's Taj Mahal. Many of Zinna's tips are anonymous, but he's also relentless in his open-records requests, and his broadsides are delivered with plenty of bile, hyperbole and old-fashioned outrage. "We're funny, we're crass, and at times we're even insulting," the site proclaims. (The "we" is Zinna and his German shepherd, Fonzi.) "Above all else, we tell it like it is." And in Jefferson County, that can be pretty refreshing.
As scabrous as it is scoop-minded, Michael Zinna's website focuses on the alleged public and private follies of the powers that be in Jefferson County, including the county commissioners and the county attorney. Unlike many oddball crusader sites, this one's fun to read -- so fun that Zinna's recently been investigated by the feds, who were concerned about the online mushroom cloud that recently showed up over Jeffco's Taj Mahal. Many of Zinna's tips are anonymous, but he's also relentless in his open-records requests, and his broadsides are delivered with plenty of bile, hyperbole and old-fashioned outrage. "We're funny, we're crass, and at times we're even insulting," the site proclaims. (The "we" is Zinna and his German shepherd, Fonzi.) "Above all else, we tell it like it is." And in Jefferson County, that can be pretty refreshing.
When veteran weather forecaster Ed Greene (not to be confused with Tom Green, or Larry Green) was younger, his dark helmet of tresses seemed utterly inorganic, as if it had been fired in a kiln just before airtime. His mane hasn't decreased in size over the years; it remains thick and robust, with a pronounced puffiness that suggests serial relationships with assorted blow dryers. But now that Greene's got some snow on his roof, he looks ever so much more distinguished and trustworthy. Going gray has saved the day.
When veteran weather forecaster Ed Greene (not to be confused with Tom Green, or Larry Green) was younger, his dark helmet of tresses seemed utterly inorganic, as if it had been fired in a kiln just before airtime. His mane hasn't decreased in size over the years; it remains thick and robust, with a pronounced puffiness that suggests serial relationships with assorted blow dryers. But now that Greene's got some snow on his roof, he looks ever so much more distinguished and trustworthy. Going gray has saved the day.
Best Hair on a TV Personality -- Female
Angie Austin, Channel 2
The theory that blondes enjoy life more than those with hue-impaired mops holds true when it comes to Angie Austin, who handles both weather duties and entertainment news at her station. She seems perpetually on the verge of bursting into raucous guffaws -- and her zingy coiffure, complete with a That Girl-esque flip that curves at her shoulders just like the corners of her smile, perfectly reflects her exuberance. It's a 'do that says, "The news may be filled with death and destruction, but that doesn't mean we can't have fun!"
Best Hair on a TV Personality -- Female
Angie Austin, Channel 2
The theory that blondes enjoy life more than those with hue-impaired mops holds true when it comes to Angie Austin, who handles both weather duties and entertainment news at her station. She seems perpetually on the verge of bursting into raucous guffaws -- and her zingy coiffure, complete with a That Girl-esque flip that curves at her shoulders just like the corners of her smile, perfectly reflects her exuberance. It's a 'do that says, "The news may be filled with death and destruction, but that doesn't mean we can't have fun!"
Best hair? Make that best everything. For a decade, Phil Keating was the arousing, carousing, good-time party boy of the Denver news community, and he filled this position with the poise of an Armani model. Now that he's moved from Channel 31, a Fox affiliate, to a Dallas-based gig as a Fox News network correspondent, the local tube is notably less swank. But like the trail of pricey cologne Keating would often leave in his wake, his influence lingers.
Best hair? Make that best everything. For a decade, Phil Keating was the arousing, carousing, good-time party boy of the Denver news community, and he filled this position with the poise of an Armani model. Now that he's moved from Channel 31, a Fox affiliate, to a Dallas-based gig as a Fox News network correspondent, the local tube is notably less swank. But like the trail of pricey cologne Keating would often leave in his wake, his influence lingers.
Best Item on the Resumé of a TV Personality
Kirk Montgomery , Channel 9
In entertainment reporter Kirk Montgomery's online biography, accessible at www.9news.com, he trumpets the "dubious distinction" of having served as Pauly Shore's body double in the widely disparaged 1989 movie Phantom of the Mall: Eric's Revenge. Any flick that features Morgan Fairchild as a mayor can't be all bad, but Phantom comes close -- so give Montgomery credit for boldly declaring his association with this cinematic calamity. Because contributing to shlock rocks!
Best Item on the Resumé of a TV Personality
Kirk Montgomery , Channel 9
In entertainment reporter Kirk Montgomery's online biography, accessible at www.9news.com, he trumpets the "dubious distinction" of having served as Pauly Shore's body double in the widely disparaged 1989 movie Phantom of the Mall: Eric's Revenge. Any flick that features Morgan Fairchild as a mayor can't be all bad, but Phantom comes close -- so give Montgomery credit for boldly declaring his association with this cinematic calamity. Because contributing to shlock rocks!
Specs the size of Greg Moody's went out of vogue after Elton John started paying more attention to his rugs than his peepers and Harry Caray hollered about the Cubs for the last time. Kudos to Moody for being impervious to changing trends -- because in his case, the eyes have it.
Specs the size of Greg Moody's went out of vogue after Elton John started paying more attention to his rugs than his peepers and Harry Caray hollered about the Cubs for the last time. Kudos to Moody for being impervious to changing trends -- because in his case, the eyes have it.
This weekend anchor's handle sounds like a lost lyric from "The Name Game." Shirley, Shirley, bo Birley! Banana fana fo Firley! Fee fi mo Mirley! Bazi Kanani!
This weekend anchor's handle sounds like a lost lyric from "The Name Game." Shirley, Shirley, bo Birley! Banana fana fo Firley! Fee fi mo Mirley! Bazi Kanani!
Libby Weaver, her station's co-anchor, is blessed with a frame on which everything looks good, with the possible exception of Ron Zappolo. "We're a Gap family," said Weaver, a working mother with a young and growing clan, when interviewed last year by the Denver Post. But the Gap never looked so good.
Libby Weaver, her station's co-anchor, is blessed with a frame on which everything looks good, with the possible exception of Ron Zappolo. "We're a Gap family," said Weaver, a working mother with a young and growing clan, when interviewed last year by the Denver Post. But the Gap never looked so good.
When Channel 4 decided to modernize its decor last year, the station boldly rejected the more-is-more mentality that makes so many newscasts today look like incomprehensibly busy computer screens. In the place of such TV cliches, designers introduced clean, crisp visuals and a backdrop that evokes not the Denver skyline, but the Colorado sky. Obviously, Channel 4's got the blues -- yet its rising ratings show that viewers are hardly unhappy with the results.
When Channel 4 decided to modernize its decor last year, the station boldly rejected the more-is-more mentality that makes so many newscasts today look like incomprehensibly busy computer screens. In the place of such TV cliches, designers introduced clean, crisp visuals and a backdrop that evokes not the Denver skyline, but the Colorado sky. Obviously, Channel 4's got the blues -- yet its rising ratings show that viewers are hardly unhappy with the results.
As a radio correspondent and then a reporter for Channel 7, Julie Hayden covered some of the town's biggest stories, from the JonBenét Ramsey murder to the Columbine killings, and she did so with professionalism and aplomb. But after years of pumping sources for information, she finally turned in her press card for pumps and pearls -- and a job as a Mary Kay saleswoman. Keep your powder dry, Julie.
As a radio correspondent and then a reporter for Channel 7, Julie Hayden covered some of the town's biggest stories, from the JonBenét Ramsey murder to the Columbine killings, and she did so with professionalism and aplomb. But after years of pumping sources for information, she finally turned in her press card for pumps and pearls -- and a job as a Mary Kay saleswoman. Keep your powder dry, Julie.
On many days, news is secondary to shenanigans on Channel 9's ultra-popular morning news block. On an early March broadcast, for example, a gaggle of NFL mascots turned Kathy Sabine's weather forecast and Drew Soicher's sports segment into a complete shambles. Such absurdity would be highly questionable at other times of the day, but as the sun rises, having a quintet as likable as Sabine, Soicher, Gary Shapiro, Kyle Dyer and Gregg Moss on hand helps viewers get up and get going, too.
On many days, news is secondary to shenanigans on Channel 9's ultra-popular morning news block. On an early March broadcast, for example, a gaggle of NFL mascots turned Kathy Sabine's weather forecast and Drew Soicher's sports segment into a complete shambles. Such absurdity would be highly questionable at other times of the day, but as the sun rises, having a quintet as likable as Sabine, Soicher, Gary Shapiro, Kyle Dyer and Gregg Moss on hand helps viewers get up and get going, too.
Since the arrival of new general manager Walt DeHaven, Channel 4 has exhibited more vitality and ambition than at any time in recent memory, and the quality of its 10 p.m. offering has climbed as a result. Anchor Jim Benemann, hijacked from Channel 9, has proven to be a key addition, and the chemistry he exhibits with partner Molly Hughes is tangible without seeming either self-conscious or over the top. As a bonus, the program's large and impressive team can be counted upon to provide the most comprehensive wrap-up of the day's news.
Since the arrival of new general manager Walt DeHaven, Channel 4 has exhibited more vitality and ambition than at any time in recent memory, and the quality of its 10 p.m. offering has climbed as a result. Anchor Jim Benemann, hijacked from Channel 9, has proven to be a key addition, and the chemistry he exhibits with partner Molly Hughes is tangible without seeming either self-conscious or over the top. As a bonus, the program's large and impressive team can be counted upon to provide the most comprehensive wrap-up of the day's news.
All too often, investigative reports on local TV stations are frivolous attention-getters more focused on attracting viewers during ratings periods than doing anything of substance. Maass's work is an exception to this rule. He regularly comes up with stories that are as solid as they are intriguing -- we'd love to know his police sources -- and he presents them in a just-the-facts manner that won't make those with an aversion to tabloid TV feel like showering once the report's over.
All too often, investigative reports on local TV stations are frivolous attention-getters more focused on attracting viewers during ratings periods than doing anything of substance. Maass's work is an exception to this rule. He regularly comes up with stories that are as solid as they are intriguing -- we'd love to know his police sources -- and he presents them in a just-the-facts manner that won't make those with an aversion to tabloid TV feel like showering once the report's over.
Best TV Sports Program
Rocky Mountain Sports Report, Fox Sports Rocky Mountain
For those Denverites who don't want to wait through news and wade through weather to get to sports, Rocky Mountain Sports Report, on Fox Sports Rocky Mountain, provides immediate gratification, not to mention a much more in-depth presentation than is available on any of the other local newscasts. Anchor Tim Ring is a fine host with a welcome, low-key approach, and Marc Soicher (Drew's brother) blends in much more smoothly here than he did at his previous station, Channel 4. There's no telling how the show will hold up when Fox Sports loses the rights to Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche broadcasts, as it will in the next year because the teams' owner, Stan Kroenke, is starting his own network. But for now, this Report provides the best sports in town.
Best TV Sports Program
Rocky Mountain Sports Report, Fox Sports Rocky Mountain
For those Denverites who don't want to wait through news and wade through weather to get to sports, Rocky Mountain Sports Report, on Fox Sports Rocky Mountain, provides immediate gratification, not to mention a much more in-depth presentation than is available on any of the other local newscasts. Anchor Tim Ring is a fine host with a welcome, low-key approach, and Marc Soicher (Drew's brother) blends in much more smoothly here than he did at his previous station, Channel 4. There's no telling how the show will hold up when Fox Sports loses the rights to Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche broadcasts, as it will in the next year because the teams' owner, Stan Kroenke, is starting his own network. But for now, this Report provides the best sports in town.
Many Denver television personalities are severely lacking in the "personality" part of the equation. Not so Vic Lombardi, who makes every sporting event he covers seem more interesting because he infuses his descriptions with energy and enthusiasm. Steve Atkinson, a competent but fairly bland fellow, gets top billing on Channel 4's highest-profile programming, but Lombardi's likability and high-voltage delivery make him the station's real standout.
Many Denver television personalities are severely lacking in the "personality" part of the equation. Not so Vic Lombardi, who makes every sporting event he covers seem more interesting because he infuses his descriptions with energy and enthusiasm. Steve Atkinson, a competent but fairly bland fellow, gets top billing on Channel 4's highest-profile programming, but Lombardi's likability and high-voltage delivery make him the station's real standout.
Bertha Lynn has been on Denver television long enough to have made a cameo in both the 1980 version of Stephen King's The Shining -- the one starring Jack Nicholson -- and a 1997 TV remake headlined by Steven Weber (apparently the poor man's Jack Nicholson). Still, longevity and experience are only a couple of her noteworthy attributes. She's also got a warm and compassionate on-air approach that's appropriate when talking about subjects both heavy and light. Lynn's an underappreciated Denver original who's definitely ready for her close-up.
Bertha Lynn has been on Denver television long enough to have made a cameo in both the 1980 version of Stephen King's The Shining -- the one starring Jack Nicholson -- and a 1997 TV remake headlined by Steven Weber (apparently the poor man's Jack Nicholson). Still, longevity and experience are only a couple of her noteworthy attributes. She's also got a warm and compassionate on-air approach that's appropriate when talking about subjects both heavy and light. Lynn's an underappreciated Denver original who's definitely ready for her close-up.
At most local stations, elaborate climate-reading gizmos get in the way of the simple, straightforward dissemination of information; watching such weather updates is like trying to figure out if it's going to rain tomorrow by buying a ticket to Laserium. Dave Fraser, on the other hand, is Denver's most direct prognosticator, concentrating on the key aspect of his job -- predicting the freakin' weather -- instead of allowing himself to be overly distracted by fancy screens and flashing colors. If you prefer forecasters who cut to the storm, Fraser's your guy.
At most local stations, elaborate climate-reading gizmos get in the way of the simple, straightforward dissemination of information; watching such weather updates is like trying to figure out if it's going to rain tomorrow by buying a ticket to Laserium. Dave Fraser, on the other hand, is Denver's most direct prognosticator, concentrating on the key aspect of his job -- predicting the freakin' weather -- instead of allowing himself to be overly distracted by fancy screens and flashing colors. If you prefer forecasters who cut to the storm, Fraser's your guy.
Talk is a rare commodity on talk radio these days; it's usually overshadowed by yelling, screaming, one-upmanship and random examples of verbal abuse. But talk still rules on Colorado Matters, which is heard twice daily on KCFR and other stations on the news-talk half of Colorado Public Radio's two-channel network. Dan Drayer, the program's overseer, lets newsmakers, legislators, entertainers and just plain folks speak their piece at a leisurely pace. The show can get a bit sleepy at times, but its drawbacks are balanced by intelligence and a disdain for sound and fury that signify nothing.
Talk is a rare commodity on talk radio these days; it's usually overshadowed by yelling, screaming, one-upmanship and random examples of verbal abuse. But talk still rules on Colorado Matters, which is heard twice daily on KCFR and other stations on the news-talk half of Colorado Public Radio's two-channel network. Dan Drayer, the program's overseer, lets newsmakers, legislators, entertainers and just plain folks speak their piece at a leisurely pace. The show can get a bit sleepy at times, but its drawbacks are balanced by intelligence and a disdain for sound and fury that signify nothing.
A veteran sports columnist at the Denver Post, Jim Armstrong alternates with fellow Post-er Mark Kiszla on The Press Box, a morning-drive show helmed by recent import Tim Neverett. Armstrong doesn't have a typical radio voice, but he's turned out to be an excellent communicator, presenting thoughtful, well-reasoned arguments with a minimum of pomposity or ego and a maximum of humor. A year ago, Armstrong briefly considered ditching sports for news, then reconsidered. His work on 560's morning shift demonstrates that he made the right choice.
A veteran sports columnist at the Denver Post, Jim Armstrong alternates with fellow Post-er Mark Kiszla on The Press Box, a morning-drive show helmed by recent import Tim Neverett. Armstrong doesn't have a typical radio voice, but he's turned out to be an excellent communicator, presenting thoughtful, well-reasoned arguments with a minimum of pomposity or ego and a maximum of humor. A year ago, Armstrong briefly considered ditching sports for news, then reconsidered. His work on 560's morning shift demonstrates that he made the right choice.
Greg Dobbs, who left KNRC earlier this year after an ultra-gross health scare, was a political progressive by Denver talk-radio standards, yet he wasn't a knee-jerk pinko. He was able to eloquently express his opinions even as he equitably refereed debates between people who disagreed with him and individuals supporting his point of view. In other words, he epitomized KNRC's promise to present both sides of issues -- a pledge that's looking awfully one-sided since Dobbs's departure.
Greg Dobbs, who left KNRC earlier this year after an ultra-gross health scare, was a political progressive by Denver talk-radio standards, yet he wasn't a knee-jerk pinko. He was able to eloquently express his opinions even as he equitably refereed debates between people who disagreed with him and individuals supporting his point of view. In other words, he epitomized KNRC's promise to present both sides of issues -- a pledge that's looking awfully one-sided since Dobbs's departure.
He looks like a combination of Santa Claus and Ed Asner, his real identity is kept a mystery, and his on-air shtick is lifted straight from the Wolfman Jack School of deejaying. We don't care: Da Boogieman's funny. He reigns over the airwaves from 7 p.m. to midnight, weeknights on KOOL -- singing along with songs from the oldies canon and cutting up like a kid at the controls. But it isn't just his "Barbara Ann" jokes that get us giggling. It's his voice -- a scratchy, nasal patois of undetermined origin. Is he supposed to sound like a Motor City madman? A rock-and-roll loving Southern boy? A billy goat? Who can say? All we know is that his show is one of the most unabashedly fun features on the dial.
He looks like a combination of Santa Claus and Ed Asner, his real identity is kept a mystery, and his on-air shtick is lifted straight from the Wolfman Jack School of deejaying. We don't care: Da Boogieman's funny. He reigns over the airwaves from 7 p.m. to midnight, weeknights on KOOL -- singing along with songs from the oldies canon and cutting up like a kid at the controls. But it isn't just his "Barbara Ann" jokes that get us giggling. It's his voice -- a scratchy, nasal patois of undetermined origin. Is he supposed to sound like a Motor City madman? A rock-and-roll loving Southern boy? A billy goat? Who can say? All we know is that his show is one of the most unabashedly fun features on the dial.
KCUV, which was launched late last year by the same folks who brought us KNRC, is doing a much better job of living up to its potential than is its sister station. The outlet features a wide range of music that fits under the Americana umbrella -- country, alternative country, blues and plenty of other genres that are too seldom heard on area airwaves. KCUV's nickname, Colorado's Underground Voice, is appropriate, because its minuscule advertising budget has forced staffers to don sandwich boards to spread their musical gospel. There's no telling if this word-of-mouth campaign will succeed, but it's got a chance -- because KCUV is worth talking about.
KCUV, which was launched late last year by the same folks who brought us KNRC, is doing a much better job of living up to its potential than is its sister station. The outlet features a wide range of music that fits under the Americana umbrella -- country, alternative country, blues and plenty of other genres that are too seldom heard on area airwaves. KCUV's nickname, Colorado's Underground Voice, is appropriate, because its minuscule advertising budget has forced staffers to don sandwich boards to spread their musical gospel. There's no telling if this word-of-mouth campaign will succeed, but it's got a chance -- because KCUV is worth talking about.
Many aspects of Radio 1190, a station affiliated with the University of Colorado, are deserving of praise: its commitment to promoting interesting concerts in Denver and Boulder; the presence of specialty shows such as a.side//b.side, which celebrates the art of the mix tape; and an unpolished but compelling style that's much more stimulating than the stuff pumped out by its corporate competitors. The main draw, though, is the music. Staffers are students of sound who seek out the best of contemporary indie rock, hip-hop and more, and they're not shy about sharing. At Radio 1190, learning is fun-damental.
Many aspects of Radio 1190, a station affiliated with the University of Colorado, are deserving of praise: its commitment to promoting interesting concerts in Denver and Boulder; the presence of specialty shows such as a.side//b.side, which celebrates the art of the mix tape; and an unpolished but compelling style that's much more stimulating than the stuff pumped out by its corporate competitors. The main draw, though, is the music. Staffers are students of sound who seek out the best of contemporary indie rock, hip-hop and more, and they're not shy about sharing. At Radio 1190, learning is fun-damental.
In the Mountain's commercials and promo spots, the station is portrayed as nothing less than a transcendent, primitive, spiritual force -- not some tawdry way to deliver customers to advertisers. And while that may be a stretch, as the only commercial rock station to take a sincere interest in music over demographics, the Mountain has done something that non-believers thought impossible: It's kicked ass. Much of the station's success, and its good ratings, can be tagged to afternoon DJ Pete MacKay, who mans the drive-time shift and spins amazingly diverse, music-loving sets that vary wildly from day to day and hour to hour. Like most Mountain DJs, MacKay knows his stuff, from the Fab Four to the Four Tops, Marvin Gaye to Bob Marley, Elvis Presley to Elvis Costello. Witty and urbane, MacKay has an on-air persona that's casual, and his selections are accessible. More adventurous listeners will appreciate his trips to the archives, when he pulls deep album cuts and obscure singles. Tune in and turn on; you won't want to drop out.
In the Mountain's commercials and promo spots, the station is portrayed as nothing less than a transcendent, primitive, spiritual force -- not some tawdry way to deliver customers to advertisers. And while that may be a stretch, as the only commercial rock station to take a sincere interest in music over demographics, the Mountain has done something that non-believers thought impossible: It's kicked ass. Much of the station's success, and its good ratings, can be tagged to afternoon DJ Pete MacKay, who mans the drive-time shift and spins amazingly diverse, music-loving sets that vary wildly from day to day and hour to hour. Like most Mountain DJs, MacKay knows his stuff, from the Fab Four to the Four Tops, Marvin Gaye to Bob Marley, Elvis Presley to Elvis Costello. Witty and urbane, MacKay has an on-air persona that's casual, and his selections are accessible. More adventurous listeners will appreciate his trips to the archives, when he pulls deep album cuts and obscure singles. Tune in and turn on; you won't want to drop out.
Best Fount of Rock-and-Roll Knowledge
Raechel Donahue, KQMT/99.5 The Mountain
Someone on the planet may know more about rock and roll than Raechel Donahue, but it's doubtful. Because her husband, the late Tom Donahue, gave birth to the FM-radio revolution in the '60s in San Francisco, she's been on the front lines of the movement since before the beginning. And her presence on the staff of L.A.'s KROQ in the '80s, when it was establishing the blueprint for modern rock broadcasting, gives her firsthand knowledge of another important period in pop-music history. She shares this collected wisdom weeknights on the Mountain, transcending nostalgia to make the songs she plays seem as vibrant as they did on the day they were made.
Best Fount of Rock-and-Roll Knowledge
Raechel Donahue, KQMT/99.5 The Mountain
Someone on the planet may know more about rock and roll than Raechel Donahue, but it's doubtful. Because her husband, the late Tom Donahue, gave birth to the FM-radio revolution in the '60s in San Francisco, she's been on the front lines of the movement since before the beginning. And her presence on the staff of L.A.'s KROQ in the '80s, when it was establishing the blueprint for modern rock broadcasting, gives her firsthand knowledge of another important period in pop-music history. She shares this collected wisdom weeknights on the Mountain, transcending nostalgia to make the songs she plays seem as vibrant as they did on the day they were made.
Best Daily Newspaper Investigative Reporter
David Migoya, Denver Post
Subjects of stories with something to hide had better hope they don't receive a phone call from David Migoya, because he's the journalistic equivalent of a stalker, pursuing every stray fact until he makes it his own. His reports about the meatpacking industry have been some of the most comprehensive -- and disturbing -- to have appeared about any subject in years, and they seemed particularly prescient when the mad-cow scare broke a few months later. He's equally strong when it comes to long-term projects and breaking news. Migoya's byline spells trouble -- but in a good way.
Best Daily Newspaper Investigative Reporter
David Migoya, Denver Post
Subjects of stories with something to hide had better hope they don't receive a phone call from David Migoya, because he's the journalistic equivalent of a stalker, pursuing every stray fact until he makes it his own. His reports about the meatpacking industry have been some of the most comprehensive -- and disturbing -- to have appeared about any subject in years, and they seemed particularly prescient when the mad-cow scare broke a few months later. He's equally strong when it comes to long-term projects and breaking news. Migoya's byline spells trouble -- but in a good way.
The transfer of Dick Kreck, Bill Husted's longtime cohort, to a relatively low-profile gig covering local TV and radio, means the Post's two-headed gossip monster is down one cranium, and that's a shame. Fortunately, Husted should be able to keep Denver in dish all by himself. He's a professional eavesdropper from the old school: snippy, bitchy and in love with celebrity and sensation. Nobody in town does superficiality like big Bill -- and in this day and age, such silliness is more important than ever.
The transfer of Dick Kreck, Bill Husted's longtime cohort, to a relatively low-profile gig covering local TV and radio, means the Post's two-headed gossip monster is down one cranium, and that's a shame. Fortunately, Husted should be able to keep Denver in dish all by himself. He's a professional eavesdropper from the old school: snippy, bitchy and in love with celebrity and sensation. Nobody in town does superficiality like big Bill -- and in this day and age, such silliness is more important than ever.
Best Daily Newspaper News Columnist
Mike Littwin, Rocky Mountain News
Conservatives may despise Mike Littwin, but they continue to read him -- a tribute not to his politics, but to his writing. Littwin's able to combine thoughtfulness with humor under the most unlikely of circumstances, and he's a fine observer. That's why he's become the Rocky's go-to guy, jetting off to parts unknown whenever the need arises. He sees the world in a fresh way and is able to translate his vision into print.
Best Daily Newspaper News Columnist
Mike Littwin, Rocky Mountain News
Conservatives may despise Mike Littwin, but they continue to read him -- a tribute not to his politics, but to his writing. Littwin's able to combine thoughtfulness with humor under the most unlikely of circumstances, and he's a fine observer. That's why he's become the Rocky's go-to guy, jetting off to parts unknown whenever the need arises. He sees the world in a fresh way and is able to translate his vision into print.
The joint operating agreement's most amusing development? A great Sunday comics section. See ya in the funny pages.
The joint operating agreement's most amusing development? A great Sunday comics section. See ya in the funny pages.
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