Historians know that Daniel F. Carmichael filed the first official plat for what would become known as Brighton, Colorado on Feb. 16, 1881. Most agree that he was responsible for picking that name.

History Detective Robin Kring said the big question is why he picked that name.

“One of the tales you’ll hear is that his wife, Alice Evans Carmichael, named the city Brighton after the town where she grew up, but there are different accounts of this,” Kring said. “One story takes place in her hometown of Brighton Beach, New York, and another is set in Brighton, Massachusetts.”

Historians are not even sure that his wife was responsible for the name. Kring notes that his wife, Alice Evans Carmichael is often confused with his sister, Alice Carmichael Skeel.

“Meanwhile, I was sleuthing—going through all this, double-checking my facts, and doing research. It turns out that sometimes a clerical error occurs in a historical document, resulting from a misplaced comma,” Kring said.

Digging in

It’s the kind of historical question that Kring really enjoys.

Kring moved to Brighton in 2001, where she met Pat Reither, the city historian. Kring said Reither told her she lived on the property of Daniel Carmichael, and that the same property was home to a large house called the Carmichael mansion. 

“That particular mansion was used as the first county courthouse for Adams County, and in the basement was the first county jail, which then burned down,” Kring said. 

Kring said Reither persuaded her to join the Brighton Historic Preservation Commission. 

“I was in the position and served two separate terms. I like everything historical, and it’s what attracted me to the field of history. Of course, I don’t want to see history disappear, especially with buildings — we’ve lost some good ones,” Kring said. 

“Later, I joined the Cultural Arts Commission, which was my connection. I also wrote the background histories for the mural of Historic Brighton, painted by Hans Joseph Geist at Founder Plaza, and the mural “Brighton’s Women of Inspiration,” painted by Frank Garza on the H&R Block building on Main Street. I also volunteered for Adams County, the City of Brighton, and the Fort Lupton Museums

Kring’s 35-year-plus career includes authoring more than 10 books and over 100 magazine articles on various subjects. Her latest book, “A Stroll Through Elwood: Brighton’s Stories Told in Stone,” demonstrates her diverse writing skills. 

Brighton’s roots 

Kring said Carmichael was a railroad worker and turned developer who would buy property and then resell it to developers. He operated out of Denver and purchased the first land here in Brighton in 1879. 

He had quite a life, even before he came to Colorado.

“Carmichael was at Gettysburg during the Civil War; he served twice because he was young,” she said. “He contracted typhoid fever and nearly died. They sent him home to his mother, but when he returned, he fought again at Gettysburg and later at Elmira, where he guarded Confederate prisoners. His last rank was Major, and he was always called Major.”

Kring said Carmichael built an opera house, and it was the largest in the north at the time, until it burned down.

“He also had a business building on the Bridge Street called the Carmichael Building.  They had his name up, but they took (the building) down when they opened South Main Street so people could go straight through to South Main.”

Today, Carmichael Park, located near Brighton’s City Hall, is named after Daniel. 

Naming names

Kring said the most common tale told about naming the city claims that his wife, Alice, named the city Brighton after the town where she grew up, something she has been unable to confirm. 

“I’ve reviewed the old Brighton Blade newspapers and then researched Adams County records,” Kring said. “They had some records from before Brighton had its newspapers. However, Alice’s obituary is missing, a sometimes referenced source, I’m unsure if it ever existed.

If his wife was responsible, it’s unlikely the name came from her birthplace since it’s likely she was born in Lancaster, Pa.

It’s also possible that it was a marketing ploy by Daniel Carmichael. When Carmichael was developing the region, he wanted people to escape the dust and grime of the city in Denver and come to a beautiful prairie and resort in Brighton, Colorado. Historian named Dr. Gene E. Hamaker has suggested that his wife Alice might have told her husband the name based on a trip she took to Brighton Beach, New York, Kring said. 

It’s also possible that his sister, named Brighton, not his wife, and historians mixed the two up.

“To date, there is no single record of who and why Carmichael named Brighton,” Kring said. “On the maps, the name began to change to Brighton two years before the first plat filing by Carmichael in 1881, because the town name had to be recorded in the plat filing. But the post office was called Brighton, the Fulton Ditch.”

If it was named for another city, she doesn’t know which one, but she’s continuing to research.

“The mystery remains unsolved because it could also be a common name,” Kring said. “There are 26 cities in the U.S. named Brighton and 43 places worldwide called Brighton, but I’m going to find out,” Kring said. 

For more information, email Kring at brightonhistorydetective@gmail.com or visit her page at www.facebook.com/BrightonHistoryDetective

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That’s what makes the Evergreen Mountain Art Celebration such a great event, and it’s even bigger and better in its 8th year. The event is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 28 and Sunday, June 29 at the Evergreen North Shopping Complex, 3719 Evergreen Parkway.

The juried fine art and fine craft show highlights 75 professional artists from Colorado and beyond. All of them use a range of mediums, including painting, jewelry, ceramics and more, to create works that honor mountain living and Western, Southwestern and rustic themes.

In addition to the art, visitors can enjoy live music. Colorado Roots Rock Unplugged, a duo that specializes in acoustic versions of classic rock, will be performing on Saturday and Link&Chain, a band of brothers performing reggae, will be on hand on Sunday. There will also be a drawing for a $1,000 Art Festival Shopping Spree at noon on Sunday.  

We interviewed Amber Calanni with Colorado Art Weekend about the event and what visitors should know.

Interview edited for brevity and clarity.

What were you looking for in artists this year?

We want to feature art that fits into the “Mountain Modern” flavor. “Mountain Modern” is a style that blends contemporary aesthetics with rustic, nature-inspired elements, but feels personal and connected to nature and elevated in presentation.

If someone has never attended the Celebration, what should they know?

They should know this festival is more than an art show, it’s a true celebration of Colorado mountain culture and “Mountain Modern” art. It’s free to attend, easy to access and full of authentic charm. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking to explore something new. Evergreen is a relaxed setting where you can enjoy art, meet the artists and connect with a creative community.

Why is it important to celebrate the arts at a time like this?

In a time when so much feels uncertain, the arts remind us of what grounds us; hope, beauty, self-expression and connection. Art gives us a chance to slow down, reflect and engage with something meaningful. This festival also gives families and individuals a reason to get outdoors, support artists and feel part of something positive and inspiring.

What do you hope people come away with?

We want visitors to leave feeling uplifted, like they’ve spent their weekend immersed in something special. Whether it’s a new piece of art, a meaningful conversation with an artist, hearing a great musical performance or simply the peaceful experience of walking the festival grounds, we want guests to take away memories that last well beyond the weekend.

For more information, visit www.EvergreenArtShow.com.

Learn About the Life of a Colorado Hat Maker

The Littleton Museum, 6028 S. Gallup St., is looking at the history of a renowned hat maker in its new exhibit, Kate Ferretti: The Life of a Colorado Hat Maker.

The exhibit opens on Friday, June 27, and focuses on Ferretti, a nationally-recognized hat maker. She entered the workforce at 13 and went on to build a family business that spanned nearly five decades. According to provided information, “this exhibition explores sources from Ferretti’s family, as well as oral histories from the collections of the Littleton Museum and History Colorado, to help tell the full story of this fascinating local maker’s life.”

For more information, visit https://visitlittleton.org/event/kate-ferretti-exhibit/.

Big Belmar Bash Brings Party to Lakewood

The City of Lakewood is celebrating Independence Day a little early, but with no less pomp and circumstance, with its Big Belmar Bash from 5 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, at Downtown Belmar, 7337 W. Alaska Drive.

The evening will feature something for all ages, including live music and children’s activities. There will also be a range of local vendors selling unique items and plenty of food and drink options.

Of course, the highlight of the night is a drone light show, which will begin at around 9:15 p.m. It will feature a fleet “of 250 cutting-edge drones with state-of-the-art LED lights” illuminating the night and “MIX 100 will provide a curated soundtrack for the drone light show,” according to provided information.

More information is available at www.Lakewood.org/BBB.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Elvis Costello & The Imposters at Bellco Theatre  

Elvis Costello is one of the greatest living songwriters we have and has been proving that repeatedly since his classic debut album was released in 1977. In the ensuing decades, he’s released several bulletproof records and worked with some absolutely amazing songwriters. In celebration of his stellar career, he’s bringing his band, The Imposters, andguitarist Charlie Sexton on the Radio Soul!: The Early Songs of Elvis Costello tour.

The tour is coming to Denver’s Bellco Theatre, 1100 Stout St., at 8 p.m. on Sunday, June 29. The music of Costello’s early career is some of his best, so this will be performance not to be missed. Get tickets at www.axs.com.

Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail.com.

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When Reunion-based author Andrea Lende wanted to honor her father, the Rev. Dr. Richard J. Einerson, his words were what came to mind – specifically, ten sermons he wrote recently.

“My dad was a pastor for many years. He’s 89 and turns 90 in July. Recently, he sent me about 10 sermons he wrote during his later years, after retirement,” Lende said.

Lende helped dedicate his recently published book, “Still Speaking: Sermons from a Pastor Who Walked with the People,” featuring those sermons from late in his career, including his experiences in the South during racial unrest. 

Beatitudes Publishing has just published the book, along with two others by Einerson: “Can You Trust the Bible,” which discusses the Bible’s origins and composition, and a book of prayers he wrote, called “Prayers for the People.”

Lende said they were all released in time for his 70th wedding anniversary.

“He was asked to step in as interim pastor for several different churches, and so he found some sermons that we could publish in a book and leave as a legacy to his kids, his grandkids,” Lende said. “We’re thrilled with the cover of this book; it’s a picture that we have in our home, and it’s probably my favorite picture of my Dad.”

Lende said the picture of him on the cover of the book was taken at Sayles Memorial Church in the Providence, Rhode Island suburb of Lincoln, where some of her best years were spent on the East Coast, she said.

“He took a picture of that portrait, and it now hangs in his office. Our cover designer did an amazing job of creating our cover. I was brought to tears when I saw this.”

College to Civil Rights

Lende said her father attended Warner Pacific College and graduated in 1957 with a Bachelor of Science degree. He subsequently pursued his Master of Divinity degree at the Pacific School of Religion, graduating in 1961. He earned a Danforth Foundation Grant and spent a year at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, where he worked with students and studied with a historical theology professor, Dr. Langdon Gilkey, Lende said. 

“In February of 1960, while he was at Vanderbilt University, the South began to hemorrhage with the civil rights movement. The black students of that era created an organization called the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee.”

Lende said that Civil Rights leader John Lewis, later a United States Congressman for Georgia, became the first president of the organization as these young adults came together in the community to quietly advocate for their rights.

Her dad was profoundly affected by this movement and he integrated it into his ministry and years of service. 

“The kids were sitting at the counters where they weren’t supposed to be sitting, and people were putting cigarettes on their backs. It was a horrible time,” Lende said. “It did affect him for the rest of his life, shaping how he saw things, how he pastored, and his philosophy on various matters in one of his sermons.”

He began his Doctor of Ministry training at Andover Newton Theological School in Newton, Massachusetts. After earning his degree in 1972, he moved to North Dakota to take a chaplain position at St. Luke’s Hospital. 

“He served as a chaplain for St. Luke’s, now MeritCare, for eighteen years, ushering many through the corridor of life into death, praying with numerous individuals,” she said.

He retired from his chaplaincy career in 1995 but served as the interim pastor for several churches until his final retirement at the age of 77. His interim pastor career took him to several churches across the country, from Minnesota to Colorado.

“I think he served as interim for three different churches after retirement; he had a hard time retiring. He just kept serving,” she said.

Lende said that quote in the book by Charles Spurgeon says, “One of the greatest rewards that we ever received for serving God is the permission to do still more for him.”

“That’s been my dad,” Lende said. 

Charting his ministry

Lende said my father’s book gives readers insight into the history of his ministry featuring sermons from a pastor who walked with the people.

“It is a blessing to be able to publish this book for him as his daughter, and have it ready for his 70th wedding anniversary, which was last week, Lende said.

“We finished the book in time to have five copies ready for him so he could sign them for the grandkids and my twin sister. Therefore, we had a small book signing in Phoenix, Arizona, last week, just for our family. He is so pleased at his age and to have published his words in print.”

Lende said her father published a book last year called “Can You Trust the Bible, a Biblical Primer for Lay People.” As a preacher who studied theology extensively and learned Hebrew, Greek and other languages used in writing the Bible, he had gained significant knowledge, she said. 

“He wanted to give laypeople, like myself, who haven’t studied the Bible in a theological sense insight into how the Bible was put together and how they found all the books,” Lende said. 

“The title was a little scary: Can you trust the Bible? Ultimately, yes, you can trust the Bible, but we must exercise caution in our approach to it. After all, it took many years — hundreds, even thousands — to compile it all.”

Lende said her dad explains how the books were formed and assembled, including what came first and who came first, which is fascinating.

“He offers valuable insights for those of us who are detectives and wish to learn about the Bible and its origins. It was gratifying to assemble that, and he completed it before he could no longer continue,” Lende said. 

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Many people think of museums as places that have all the answers, but that’s not always the case. And sometimes that makes for a more intriguing story.

Such is the case for the latest exhibition at the History Colorado Center, The Disappearance of Thomas Riha, which takes a local mystery and investigates the many remaining unanswered questions.  

“This is a true crime cold case that’s never been told publicly in a museum setting,” said Katherine Mercier, exhibition developer and historian at History Colorado. “We felt we finally had the space to experiment with the kind of exhibit we’ve never done before.”

The Disappearance of Thomas Riha will be on display at the Center, 1200 Broadway, Denver in Denver, through March 15.

According to the provided information, the exhibit tells the story of University of Colorado Boulder Russian history professor Thomas Riha, who vanished on March 15, 1969, right in the middle of the Cold War.

The exhibition features never-before-displayed declassified documents from the Central Intelligence Agency and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and is deepened by History Colorado’s archives. Museum researchers had a wide range of materials to use, including the journals of a woman who may or may not have played a role in Riha’s disappearance.

“Despite the case never being solved, we have hundreds of pages in our collection that provide unique insights,” Mercier explained. “We don’t claim to have the answer as to what happened, but we want people to be able to go through the evidence and come up with their own theories. There’s even a space at the end of the exhibition where guests can share them.”

While the mystery is the main draw of the exhibit, Mercier said she also hopes visitors get a glimpse of Colorado’s role as a hotbed of activity during the Cold War. With sites like Rocky Flats and the Air Force Academy, the state saw plenty of intrigue.

“People may not understand how big the Cold War was and how it integrated itself into everybody’s life,” she said. “I hope people think about what it would’ve felt like to be living at the time and how they would cope.”

Riha’s disappearance received a great deal of press coverage at the time, but eventually faded away, leaving everyone without answers. So, this exhibit was carefully designed to also include the stories of the people who were affected.

“The exhibit focuses on the people and lives that were wrapped up in the events,” Mercier said. “Thomas had a family that never got answers about what happened to him. This is ultimately a story about humanity.”

For more information, visit www.historycolorado.org/exhibit/disappearance-thomas-riha.

See How Englewood Works at Civic Center

How well do you know the people who keep your city running? Englewood residents have the chance to meet those behind the scenes at the Celebrate Englewood event, held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 17 at the Englewood Civic Center, 1000 Englewood Parkway.

Attendees can meet employees and participate in other activities like Touch a Truck, where people can get up close to a fire truck, police cars, bearcat, police motorcycles and command post, and more. There will be vendors and other activities as well.

More information at https://www.englewoodco.gov/our-city/events/upcoming/celebrate-englewood.

Jefferson Symphony Plays Star Wars Score

May 4 may have been more than a week ago, but the Jefferson Symphony will be celebrating the immortal John Williams Star Wars score with two performances at 1 and 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 18 at the Mines Green Center, 924 16th St. in Golden.

In addition to the timeless music, Conductor Arturo J. Gonzales will be holding a pre-concert talk at 12:15 and 3:15 p.m. on the day of the concert in Metals Hall. According to provided information, he will discuss the history and composition of the Star Wars Soundtrack, what to listen for, and how to break down John Williams’ brilliant compositions.

Costumes are encouraged and those who wear costumes will get a discount on tickets. Information and tickets are available at https://www.jeffsymphony.org/.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Toro y Moi and Panda Bear at the Fillmore Auditorium

There is some music that’s made to get lost in. It’s less about the lyrics and more about the mood, a sonic energy that can transport you if you allow it. In their own ways, both Toro y Moi and Panda Bear, a member of indie rock legends Animal Collective, have been building these musical worlds for years. Their music is very different, but the vibes are strong with both.

The two musicians are a perfect pairing and they’ll be performing at the Fillmore Auditorium, 1510 Clarkson St. Denver, at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 16. They’ll be joined by Kassie Krut for an evening to carry you away.

Information and tickets are available at www.axs.com.

Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail.com.

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The Fort Lupton Library celebrated the Mexican holiday Cinco de Mayo a few days early with plenty of indoor and outdoor games for the kids, including mini golf, face painting, Loteria and hitting the piñata.

But one of the indoor events featured local author Jolene Gutiérrez, who read from one of her books, “Mamiachi & Me,” translated in English, “Mommy and Me.”

“The story is about an all-female mariachi band, which used to be made up of only male performers. Recently, it’s become much more common for women to become mariachis,” Gutiérrez said. “It’s an all-female mariachi group, and Rosa, the young girl in my story, will perform for the first time with her mommy, her Madrinas, and all of the women on stage performing together.”

Gutiérrez said its music embodies joy, girl power, and overcoming stage fright. Her husband conceived the idea during the pandemic. The Thornton resident interviewed an all-female mariachi group before she began writing. 

Like the story, the book was a family project.

“My daughter and I had already written a book about Ofrendas and Día de Muertos after my dad passed away, and it became essential for us. So, we wrote the book together,” Gutiérrez said

“I asked my son, who had planned to join his high school mariachi group but couldn’t because of COVID, if he wanted to write a story about mariachis, and we did that together.”

Gutiérrez said she has been a teacher librarian for 30 years, focusing on neurodivergent learners at Denver Academy. She co-authored children’s books with her Mexican American children to address the lack of representation in literature. 

These books, inspired by her family’s heritage, were published during the pandemic. The conversation also touched on the historical context of language learning in the U.S, Gutiérrez said. 

Gutiérrez, who has been diagnosed as neurodivergent, discussed her experiences and challenges growing up, including sensory processing disorder.  Even though Gutiérrez lived in Thornton for over 30 years, her parents retired in Fort Lupton.  

“They are no longer alive, but I have some ties to this beautiful community. It was challenging for my parents to raise a neurodivergent child,” Gutiérrez said. “My parents probably would have used the word diva for me if that word existed. But I was spoiled. I was a brat. It was challenging for them and me because there were so many foods that I found the texture difficult to eat, so I was very picky.”  

Gutiérrez said the sun is really hard for her, so she doesn’t like going outside in the bright sun. She also didn’t enjoy going to the car races with her parents, which they loved. It was too loud, overwhelming and painful for her. 

“There were so many things they enjoyed that were tough for me, just within our family,” Gutiérrez said. “Both my kids are diagnosed with that as well as with sensory processing. Some people view that as part of the autism spectrum as well, that sensory sensitivity, but so many of us are sensitive to lots of different things.

“So, one of my books, ‘Too Much! An Overwhelming Day,’ is all about my experience of being overwhelmed by everything the world throws at you. It is what inspired me to write the book.”

Gutiérrez’ husband was born in Mexico and her kids’ are Mexican American. When her children were little, she tried to find books that helped them learn more about their heritage and joyful celebrations. 

“My kids are young adults now, but we were home together during the pandemic. I taught from home, and they learned from home. We also decided to write together. Then we were fortunate enough that these books were published,” Gutiérrez said. 

Gutiérrez has a Master’s degree in Library Science. The Colorado Department of Education has recognized her library as a recipient of the Highly Effective Schools Through Libraries award. 

She has been a mentor teacher for graduate students and the president of the Colorado Independent School Librarians. 

She is the author of eight books, including “Too Much! An Overwhelming Day,” which is based on her sensory processing disorder and has been translated into seven languages. 

Gutiérrez’s book can be found on Amazon and bookshop.org, which supports independent local bookstores. You could also visit your local bookstore and ask them to order a copy. Additionally, your local public library could order a copy as well.

For more information about Gutierrez’s books, visit https://www.jolenegutierrez.com or visit: https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/faculty/jolene-gutierrez/

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Roll aside, R2-D2 and WALL-E, because there are new robots in town.

Ten local children recently assembled their own Bristlebots — tiny robots the size of toothbrush heads — at a March 27 event at the Golden Library. They then made their own robot statues out of cans, bolts, gears, magnets, tin foil, pipe cleaners, pom poms, googly eyes and more.

The “Create Your Own Roz” event at the Golden Library was inspired by “The Wild Robot” book series, the first installment of which was recently adapted into an award-winning film.

The young participants were encouraged to build their own versions of the titular robot, Rozzum 7134, also known as Roz. However, Kids & Families Librarian Dawn Lewallen ultimately wanted the participants “to be as creative as they want” in their concepts. 

Josie Garner, 8, and several other participants said they’d read one or more of “The Wild Robot” books, seen the movie, or both. Josie’s dad, Patrick, said the family stops by the library weekly for books and usually participates in other events, like PAWS for Reading.

The “Create Your Own Roz” event was the perfect opportunity for not only Josie and her sister to meet up with their friends, but also for their dads to hang out too, Patrick explained.

Roy Katz said his 5-year-old Orion enjoys “The Wild Robot” books and library events, so the family thought it would be the perfect activity. Orion said he enjoyed building his Bristlebot and crafting his Roz-inspired statue.

Cousins Adalie Gonzalez Prehn and Emmett Smith, both 5, said they enjoy doing the library’s LEGO Build and Play events, and thought this would be a fun building-type activity as well. The magnets were particularly fun to play with, Emmett said.

While other Jefferson County Public Library branches have done other “The Wild Robot”-inspired activities, Lewallen said this activity allowed the participants to create something in both the Bristlebots and their own Roz-inspired robot statues.

The “Build Your Own Roz” activity was part of the monthly Golden BEYOND Days program, which is an hour of activities and crafts for elementary-school-aged patrons. Lewallen said the library has a lot of activities for preschool-aged children and teens & tweens, but the Golden BEYOND Days program was designed for the age group in between.

The next Golden BEYOND Days event will be on April 10 to celebrate National Unicorn Day, with unicorn-themed activities and games.

Then, on May 15, the “Dragons Galore” activity will give young patrons a chance to make their own dragon eggs and dragon-eye magnets, to celebrate the “How to Train Your Dragon” book and movie series.

Over the summer, activities include paper circuitry, superheroes and art.Pre-registration is required for some of these events. For more information, visit jeffcolibrary.org/locations/gn.

Click through additional photos from the March 27 event:

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As local paleontologist Amy Atwater says: “Every fossil tells a story.”

And Atwater is excited to tell people all about them — whether that’s in-person at Dinosaur Ridge or in her new children’s book.

Atwater, a Conifer resident and director of paleontology at Dinosaur Ridge, said she loves telling people all about the unique treasure trove of fossils, footprints and other paleontological resources the Golden-Morrison area has.

She said many locals aren’t aware that some of the most iconic dinosaurs to ever walk the earth were fossilized and found in their own backyards.

To that end, she penned “The Fossil Keeper’s Treasure,” a book that highlights 10 types of fossils that are embossed so readers can touch and interact with them. The fossils depicted span prehistoric eras and parts of the world, including some of Colorado’s prehistoric fauna.

Atwater said the book’s target audience is children ages 5-10, but she believes people of all ages could enjoy the beautiful artwork by Uruguay-based artist Natalia Cardozo.

“The Fossil Keeper’s Treasure” is available for purchase online, at the Dinosaur Ridge Main Visitor Center and at the Mines Museum of Earth Science.

Atwater has been speaking at Denver-area schools recently to promote both the book and Dinosaur Ridge, and said she hopes to visit more schools in the Golden-Morrison area too. She hopes to foster children’s “curiosity and wonder about the natural world,” and promote stewardship for all natural resources.

“Every scientist was once a curious kid,” Atwater said.

Fossils that inspire; people that preserve

As Atwater explained, Colorado — and the Golden-Morrison area specifically — are the beneficiaries of the paleontological lottery.

Not only did dinosaurs roam Colorado but many of them were buried in muddy, sandy and silty ground that were “the perfect conditions” for long-term preservation, Atwater said.

Then, the Rocky Mountains created an uplift that — millions of years later — exposed the layers containing those fossils.

So, the reason people can visit Dinosaur Ridge, Golden’s Triceratops Trail and other spots around Colorado is because they’re here at “the perfect sweet spot” geologically, Atwater said. Too soon and the fossils, footprints, etc. wouldn’t be visible; too late and they probably would’ve eroded away, she explained.

Even though this is in the context of thousands if not millions of years, Atwater and coworker Kristen Kidd emphasized how important Dinosaur Ridge’s preservation efforts are.

The ridge is “jam-packed” with tactile learning opportunities, they said, describing how it is essentially an outdoor laboratory that people of all backgrounds and ages — from small children to doctoral students — can learn from.

Plus, Atwater described how she’s met several scientists who don’t study paleontology but who first discovered their love of science through dinosaurs, fossils and the like.

Kidd, director of marketing and development, said that idea can also be seen in events like Dinosaur Ridge’s science quiz bowl for high school students, where questions range from anatomy to geology.

Thus, the Friends of Dinosaur Ridge want to preserve the fossils, footprints and more to educate and inspire future generations.

Atwater and Kidd summarized the idea as: “The dinosaurs might be extinct, but the science is not.”

They encouraged people to stop by the Dinosaur Ridge site on April 25, which will be an SCFD Free Day with free entry to the exhibit hall.

Along with its annual summer camps, which still have some open spots, Kidd encouraged people to register for the April 5 benefit gala, “Dinos, Diners, and Drive-Ins: Let’s Rock Out for the Ridge!”

For more information, visit dinoridge.org.

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People may have certain perceptions in their mind when they hear the name Angkor Wat or the Khmer Empire that inhabited Cambodia for centuries. Some of those perceptions may be true, but others are the results of limited knowledge and lack of information.

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science’s newest temporary exhibition, “Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia,” aims to provide greater insight into the fabled empire and what daily life looked like for the people.

“The name of the exhibit turns a lot of the ideas we may have about the Khmer Empire on its head,” said Dr. Michele Koons, director of Anthropology and curator of Archaeology at the museum. “While French explorers were the ones who made the western world aware of Angkor, it was never lost. It was still used by the Cambodian people for religious and cultural purposes.”

“Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia” runs at the museum, 2001 Colorado Blvd., through Aug. 24. The exhibition is included as part of a general admission ticket.

The exhibit explores all areas of life in the empire, which lasted from the 9th to 15th centuries. Angkor was the capital city of the Khmer Empire and the world-famous Angkor Wat temple complex is located in the city.

According to provided information, visitors will be able to see more than 100 carvings, sacred sculptures and ancient relics, many of which are being seen outside of Cambodia for the first time. Given the history of artifacts being stolen from the country, it’s important to note the exhibit was created in partnership with the Cambodian government.

The museum also worked with members of the local Cambodian community to enrich the exhibition’s offerings.

While the details of and scope of the items on display are breathtaking, there are also interactive components seamlessly built into it, so guests can try some hands-on learning. These include a Bayon Wall Scanner, which allows guests to explore bas-reliefs, revealing scenes of daily life, work and worship in Angkor, and a Lidar Mapping Display, which shows how this cutting-edge technology was used to deepen our understanding of the Khmer.     

“These allow guests to see how the city was laid out and provides a picture of the empire’s infrastructure,” Koons said. “They had developments that we still use today, including roads and hospitals and religious facilities.”

Those interested in a visual history lesson shouldn’t miss “Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia,” at the Museum’s Infinity Theatre, which gives a more in-depth story of the empire.

It’s was critical for organizers that the exhibit end with a look at modern Cambodia and the many ongoing efforts to reclaim pieces of their history that have been stolen and sold over the years. It shows that these sites are still vital to the Cambodian people and have always been.

“This is a part of the world that not many think of when they think about the major ancient civilizations,” Koons said. “Everyone knows about Egypt, but the Khmer Empire is a reminder that there are many important civilizations worth investigating.”

More information and tickets are available at www.dmns.org. 

Denver Home Show Returns for Another Year of Inspiring Design

The ever-popular Denver Home Show is back from Friday, March 21 through Sunday, the 23rd at National Western Complex, 4655 Humboldt St. in Denver. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

According to provided information, this year’s lineup features more than 250 experts in kitchens and baths, flooring, windows, cabinetry, home décor and more, making it the perfect place to ask questions and get advice for your spring and summer projects. Craig Conover, star of Bravo’s “Southern Charm” will also be on hand as part of the festivities.

The show offers something for everyone, so get details at www.denverhomeshow.com/.

‘The Putnam County Spelling Bee’ Comes to Northglenn

William Finn and Rachel Sheinkin’s perpetual musical favorite, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” is coming to Northglenn’s Parsons Theatre, 1. E. Memorial Parkway, thanks to the Phamaly Theatre Company and Northglenn Arts, through Sunday, April 6.

Phamaly is a disability-affirmative company and so they have a few special performances during its run, including a “Relaxed Performance” (similar to sensory-friendly), Access Performances and a Masked Performance. There will also be special guests spellers like Miss Colorado, Denver 7’s Nicole Brady, CPR’s Ryan Warner and Drag Queen Jessica L’Whor.

More information and tickets are available at https://northglennarts.org/programs/northglenn-arts-presents/.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Yasmin Williams at Swallow Hill

For some people, it’s difficult to get into instrumental music. But, if you find the right musician, instrumental works can be just as gripping as anything with vocals. Yasmin Williams is the right musician. She mixes up a brew of folk, progressive rock and even some jazz, and the end result is absolutely beautiful. Last year she released “Acadia,” and it was one of my favorite albums of the year. I’m certain it will sound beautiful in the spring weather.

In support of the album, Williams will be performing at Swallow Hill Music’s Tuft Theatre, 71 E. Yale Ave. in Denver, at 8 p.m. on Friday, March 21. This will be an evening of masterful music, so get tickets at https://swallowhillmusic.org/event/yasmin-williams/.

Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail.com.

The post Clarke Reader: Explore the Wonders of Angkor at DMNS appeared first on Colorado Community Media.

A rising tide lifts all boats, and that may just be the case with the film scene in Colorado. Not only is the state’s film community constantly becoming more dynamic and diverse, but people outside the state are catching on. With Boulder’s status as one of the finalists for the Sundance Film Festival, there’s no telling what the future will bring.

But we do know the 21st Boulder Film Festival (BIFF) is here to celebrate another great year in film, with plenty of movies and events to delight cinephiles of all kinds.

“We’re excited about so many aspects of BIFF this year. Our line-up of films is excellent,” wrote Robin Beeck, co-founder and executive director of the festival, in an email interview. “The world can feel chaotic these days, but great film can offer inspiration and escape.”

This year’s festival runs from Thursday, March 13 through Sunday, the 16th at locations all over the Boulder area. Passes for multiple screenings and events are available, or patrons can purchase single tickets for individual films.

This year, BIFF features 68 films from 18 countries and will include around 60 filmmakers—20 0f whom are from Colorado. The event also features three world premiers and six U.S. premieres, according to provided information.

“We have a lot of special guests attending screenings this year, including the world-renowned fashion designer Kenneth Cole, who is featured in a moving documentary about his activism over the years,” wrote Kathy Beeck, co-founder and director of BIFF, in an email interview. “We will also host Eileen Collins, the first female spacecraft commander in history, whose documentary Spacewoman will be featured as our closing night film; Mark Mothersbaugh from the influential 1980s band Devo; and Olympic gold medalist Edwin Moses.”

The festival is particularly well-known for its special events, which include CineCHEF, where award-winning Colorado chefs create dishes inspired by their favorite films and compete against their peers, and The Adventure Film Program, which highlights new adventure films. Audiences can check out adventure shorts, features and discussions with filmmakers and world-class adventurers, plus Call2Action conversations with community groups, according to provided information.

There are also numerous filmmaker Q&As and opening and closing night parties.

When it comes to what films to check out, both Kathy and Robin encourage people to explore and try something new. That’s the best way to embrace the myriad of opportunities BIFF presents and come away with a new perspective.

“We hope that attendees are inspired and entertained by the unique and fascinating stories that are told at BIFF this year,” Kathy wrote. “We hope they enjoy great food, fun parties and good music. We hope they meet some of the 60 filmmakers in attendance and that BIFF 2025 is an experience that they won’t soon forget.”

See the full schedule and purchase tickets at https://biff1.com/.

Parker Celebrates Student Artworks

The Parker Arts, Culture & Events (PACE) Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., is hosting a display of some of the best work by students in the district with the Student Art Exhibit: Bright Futures 2025.

Running through Thursday, March 27, the exhibit includes pieces from local high schools: Denver East, Douglas County, Grandview, Legend, Rock Canyon and Chaparral. All the participating students took place in this year’s Portfolio Day, an enrichment day for high school students to have their portfolios reviewed by industry professionals, according to provided information.

More details available at https://parkerarts.org/event/art-exhibit-bright-futures-2025/.

Denver’s ‘Catalysts’ Honored by DTD

The Denver Theatre District (DTD) announced “Catalysts,” a new exhibit by British-American artist Jann Haworth (co-designer of The Beatles’ “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” cover), which will be installed on the side of the Buell Theatre, on Champa Street between 13th Street and 14th Street.

The work features a collage of 34 stenciled portraits of behind-the-scenes individuals, who are integral to the success and vibrancy of Denver arts and culture, as selected by participating arts organizations, according to provided information. The work began in summer 2024 and will be on display on the billboard, which consists of three panels, each 26 feet by 24 feet, until 2027.

For more information, visit www.catalystsproject.com.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Adrian Younge at the Marquis

Adrian Younge is one of the modern musicians keeping jazz alive and thriving. Not only has he worked with some of hip-hop’s best voices and brought a jazz element to their music, but he co-founded the Jazz Is Dead record label with Ali Shaheed Muhammad, of A Tribe Called Quest. The music he produces is always vibrant and dynamic and sounds both classic and contemporary. 

It seems like Younge is always working on some new project, but he’s taking time out to stop by the Marquis Theater, 2009 Larimer St. in Denver, at 7 p.m. on Saturday, March 15. Get tickets for the show at www.livenation.com.

Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail.com.

The post Clarke Reader: BIFF goes big in its 21st Year appeared first on Colorado Community Media.

Genie Petrocco’s new book, “Cheers to 80” had its roots in a PBS series on ancestry. It turns out, the show helped her find some family she didn’t know, as well.

Petrocco said she was inspired by the PBS series “Finding Your Roots ” with Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr.

“I have always been fascinated by it. While watching the show, I would observe people wondering whether they were Greek or Spanish,” Petrocco said.

She loved learning about people’s origins and where they came from so much, it inspired her to take a DNA test herself. The test revealed some new information.

“To my surprise, I took the DNA test and discovered a cousin who was related to me from my childhood in the farming town of Welby, Colorado,” Petrocco said. “I believed I was primarily Italian, but when the results came in, I discovered I was 40% Greek. I explored my ancestry on my dad’s side since I was already familiar with my mother’s ancestry. “

The DNA testing results, her family history, and her upbringing in a farming community inspired Petrocco to start to write a book in 2019. She completed it in 2024 and released it, titled “Cheers to 80”, on Amazon on January 6, 2025. 

The book focuses on Petrocco, a native of Colorado who traces her family’s history back to her fourth-generation great-grandfather, an immigrant from Italy who arrived in 1885. He initially settled in Denver before moving to Welby, where many Italian immigrants were involved in farming.

The book also documents their shared ancestry and newfound friendship, revealing her 40% Greek heritage and reconnecting with a distant cousin, Alice Gazetta Nichol, who became a significant political figure in Colorado.

From Italy to Boston to Denver

Petrocco’s family lineage began with her fourth-generation great-grandfather, Michelangelo Farinacci, who emigrated to America from Italy in the 1880s. 

“He grew up in a small town called Campobasso before moving to Gildone. He arrived at Boston Harbor, learned about the mines in Colorado, and traveled to Colorado,” Petrocco said.

“I often wondered how he arrived in Colorado, perhaps by train. He came to the Denver area with his friend,” Petrocco said. “City Park in Denver was once a farm before it became a park, and my great-grandfather farmed there, and then he heard about a small farming community in Welby.”

Petrocco’s great-grandfather Farinacci met Antonia Pastore in Denver and married in 1895 at Sacred Heart Church in Denver.

“My great-grandfather Farinacci and his wife traveled to Welby in 1902, where they purchased land, and I have the land deed I found in the Adams County Records. He bought it from two Italian men,” Petrocco said. 

Petrocco’s third-generation grandmother was Angelina Acierno, her father was Farinacci; her mother was Virginia Acierno, who married her dad, Anthony Joseph Adducci, in 1940. 

“I never got to know my father; he was very sick, an alcoholic, and abusive,” she said. “After my Mom and Dad’s divorce, we returned to live with my fourth great-grandfather, Farinacci.

“He was getting old, so he leased the Welby land to Tony Perolia, who lived next door and died in 1960. I believe they sold the farm to the Gravel Company for $13,000,”  Petrocco said. 

She graduated from Adams County High School in 1959 and married Dominic Petrocco in 1961. Dominic, a farmer from Brighton-Henderson, was well known to her.

“Our two families knew each other because his family also were farmers and came from the same region as my great-grandpa Farinacci. We had two daughters, Angeli and Lisa. Angeli is an artist in Santa Fe who creates some pretty neat things. Lisa resides in Broomfield,” Petrocco said.

He later sold the farm and moved the family to Fort Collins in 1996.

Father’s side

Petrocco said she had not known her Cousin Alice Gazetta Nichol when she learned about her, although they grew up near each other.

“After my parents divorced, I didn’t have much to do with my Dad’s side of the family,” Petrocco said. “So I didn’t know Alice but knew who she was as a kid. We took our sacraments at Assumption Church in Welby.

“You wouldn’t believe it. About two or three days later, I received a phone call from Alice. I told her about my DNA testing, and she mentioned that she had her test done as well, and it came back with the same results. We were closely related.”

Petrocco said that Alice and her husband attended Westminster High School together. She informed them that her birthday was approaching, and she wanted to invite Genie and her husband, Dominic, to her 80th birthday party. 

“We attended her 80th birthday party; from then on, I always met with her. Her husband was also ill at that time, and my husband wasn’t well either. So, whenever we could connect, either over the phone or in person, we did, and we grew very close,” Petrocco said. 

Petrocco said that her Cousin Alice later became a Colorado State Representative, then served as a Colorado State Senator, and subsequently held the position of Adams County Commissioner for two terms. 

Petrocco said she couldn’t follow suit. She said politics was not her cup of tea, but she became involved with the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District, or SCFD.

“In 1988, when our legislatures passed a tax bill to be voted on, the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) supported arts and culture. I was the representative from Adams County who visited various clubs to explain that one-tenth of one percent tax  would go to the arts in counties such as Denver, Boulder, Adams, Weld, Arapahoe, and Jefferson,” Petrocco said.

Petrocco, Jackie Conner from the CSU Extension Office, and Adams County Commissioner Elaine Valente were founders of the Adams County Historical Society Museum. 

It was Petrocco’s close relationship with her cousin Alice that inspired her to name her book “Cheers to 80.”

“Now, we are both in our 80s, ” Petrocco said. “The book narrates the story of our lives and upbringing in the farming community.”

Petrocco’s book is on sale at the Adams County Historical Society and Museum until March 31, from Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 a.m. 

The book “Cheers to 80,” can be found on Amazon.com. 

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