An edition of the Littleton Independent
WEEK OF JUNE 26, 2025
VOLUME 24 | ISSUE 30
$2
Cities, county, SSPRD offer signature July 4 show Belleview, Cornerstone parks to host free event BY ELISABETH SLAY ESLAY@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Brian Vogt’s celebration of life ceremony took place at Denver Botanic Gardens on June 12.
PHOTO BY ISABEL GUZMAN
Remembering the life of Brian Vogt Centennial founding father, CEO of Denver Botanic Gardens died after cancer battle BY ISABEL GUZMAN IGUZMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Brian Vogt was anything but ordinary. From being elected class president every year at Littleton’s Heritage High School to helping form the City of Centennial in 2001 to becoming Denver Botanic Gardens’ CEO, Vogt lived a life of public service that went beyond expectations. “We wouldn’t be here today without Brian Vogt and the founding fathers of Centennial. Nearly three decades ago, Brian had the passion and fortitude to bring a new city to life,” said Centennial Mayor Stephanie Piko in a news release. “Brian’s legacy in Centennial will always be remembered. The impact on our community will live for centuries to come and is something his loved ones should be very proud of. Brian will be tremendously missed.” Vogt, 66, died from complications of cancer in his esophagus on March 25. Vogt’s legacy kicked off at the age of 4, when his father, Roy Vogt, was elected Arapahoe County sheriff in 1962 and the family settled in Littleton. “Brian loved problem-solving, learn-
ing new things, diverse people, culture, places and ideas, a united front in difficult challenges, a quality team of fun, smart, hardworking people that care,” said one of Vogt’s longtime best friends, former Arapahoe County Commissioner John Brackney. “Day in and out, he did good work. He also loved just a good laugh and camaraderie with friends.” Brackney and Vogt were a partnership powerhouse that worked to achieve many things in Centennial, Littleton and the broader Arapahoe County. The first project the pair worked on was redeveloping and establishing Littleton’s municipal courthouse on Littleton Boulevard, previously known as the Arapahoe County courthouse. When district courts moved to the Arapahoe County Justice Center on Potomac Street in 1987, the Littleton courthouse sat vacant for nearly a decade until talk about what to do with the building started. The county considered repairing it, but eventually decided it was too expensive for a small space. Demolition was also considered. Yet, in 1998, county commissioners and
VOICES: 8 | LIFE: 10 | PUZZLES: 14
the Littleton City Council worked together to reach an agreement in which the county deeded the property to the Littleton Municipal Building Authority. The courthouse was designated as a historic landmark that same year and the restoration was completed and dedicated on May 13, 2000. Early life wins
After high school, Vogt attended the University of Colorado-Boulder and earned a degree in classical antiquities in 1981. While in college, Vogt studied abroad for a year in Lancaster, England, where he met lifelong friends that crossed international borders. During Ronald Reagan’s presidency, Vogt worked closely with the administration, organizing events and learning about national governance and policy. When he returned to Colorado, he began working with the South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce. During his18 years with the chamber, he served four as its vice president for economic development and 14 as president. SEE BRIAN VOGT, P12
Englewood, Littleton, Sheridan and Arapahoe County are partnering again this year to host a free Independence Day celebration. “It is a regional tradition that features food trucks, entertainment and a spectacular fireworks show,” said Toni Arnoldy, events supervisor for Englewood. “The event is made possible through a strong partnership with the cities of Englewood, Littleton, Sheridan and Arapahoe County and South Suburban Parks and Recreation.” The event will take place from 5-10 p.m. on July 4 at Cornerstone Park and adjacent Belleview Park, 5001 S. Inca Drive in Englewood. Fireworks are expected to start at 9:15 p.m. Arnoldy said people can expect a relaxed and festive atmosphere at both Belleview and Cornerstone parks. “Families and friends are welcome to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy food trucks, vendors and community spirit leading up to the fireworks show,” Arnoldy said. “It is a great way to spend a summer evening.” The format of the event will be similar to previous years, as Arnoldy said people have enjoyed it. “We have heard from attendees that they love the setup, so we are keeping things simple and enjoyable,” Arnoldy said. “Our goal is to create another safe, memorable night for the entire community.” For Arnoldy, the best aspect of the celebration is seeing all the different communities coming together. “Whether it is running into familiar faces or welcoming first-time attendees, this event always reminds us what community is all about,” Arnoldy said. “We ask that guests leave pets at home, unless they are service animals, and refrain from bringing alcohol or personal fireworks. Limited parking is available onsite, so we encourage carpooling or walking if possible. Most of all, we hope everyone comes ready to relax and enjoy the holiday together.”
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