WEDDING BLISS
KEY RESOURCES FOR LOCAL CELEBRATIONS
PUTTING DOWN ROOTS THE PARK PEOPLE
JAZZ Comes Home ONE FESTIVAL, MANY STAGES
is
Society Denver + Front Range is turning the spotlight on the showrunners who make Colorado’s wedding industry hum.
Five Points to Boulder, Denver Jazz Fest honors the region’s deep musical roots.
THERE’S SOMETHING magical about Denver in late winter. That moment when the days stretch longer, the air warms just enough to remind you spring is around the corner, and you can feel the whole city shifting with anticipation. It’s the season of renewal, of fresh starts, of possibility. And in this second issue of MyDenver, we’re watching our neighborhoods come alive.
Spring means different things to different people. For some, it’s warmer days and outdoor gatherings. For others, it signals new chapters: engagements, weddings, the joy of saying yes to the next adventure. And for our community,
spring means trees being planted, neighborhoods growing greener, and the tangible work of building a more resilient Denver.
In this issue, you’ll meet Kim Yuan-Farrell of The Park People, whose 57-year-old nonprofit has been rapidly expanding Denver’s urban forest. Her story is about equity, community, and the powerful role trees play in our neighborhoods. You’ll also discover Denver Jazz Fest, now in its second year, spreading music and culture across the city in April. And you’ll lift the veil on the Wed Society, where spring leads off wedding season—a time when love takes center stage. At their heart, these stories are about the same thing: people deliberately building the Denver they want to see.
As this year continues to unfold, know that you have a standing invitation to contribute to this magazine. If you have a story to share or a neighbor whose tale deserves to be told, please reach out. We’re listening, and we’re building this together.
Here’s to spring, to growth, and to all that’s waiting ahead.
Seth Davis Editor, MyDenver seth.davis@wainscotmedia.com
www.mydenvermag.com @mydenvermag
BELCARO & BONNIE BRAE EDITION
Publisher
Sawyer Matz
sawyer.matz@wainscotmedia.com
Editor
Seth Davis
seth.davis@wainscotmedia.com
Writers Jenna Galletti
Rob Samborn
Shana Johnston
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman
Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
SVP, Group Publisher
Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy
Maria Regan
VP, Director of Digital Media
Nigel Edelshain
Creative Director
Kijoo Kim
Associate Editor Sophia Carlisle
Advertising Services Director
Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director
Catherine Rosario
Production Designer
Chris Ferrante
Print Production Manager
Fern Meshulam
Circulation Manager
Kathy Wenzler
Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden
MyDenver magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Bonnie Brae and Belcaro, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2026 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
We’re more than a hospital. More than a doctor. More than a treatment. We’re a community. Your neighbor. Your champion. We’re Denver Health.
We’re with you for life’s journey. We offer Emergency and Urgent Care, Primary Care and health care in more than 130 medical specialties.
Denver has something for everyone, as evidenced by this eclectic mix of experiences. Whether you’re a theater devotee, soccer history enthusiast, or ramen-loving foodie, you’ll find a favorite springtime activity here.
MARCH 18 to APRIL 5
The Phantom of the Opera Andrew Lloyd Webber’s masterpiece returns with director Cameron Mackintosh’s revitalized production. This is the story that has captivated millions: a disfigured musical genius hidden beneath the Paris Opera House, an enchanting soprano, and a love triangle that unfolds with haunting melodies and breathtaking stagecraft. Expect soaring vocals, dramatic pyrotechnics, and the iconic chandelier moment that defines theater magic. Buell Theatre, 1101 13th St., Denver. Visit www.denvercenter.org for tickets.
MARCH 20 to 22
Denver March Powwow (50th Annual)
This milestone gathering celebrates American Indian heritage with traditional dancing, drumming, vendor markets, and cultural performances. One of the largest powwows in the country, it draws tribes and visitors from across North America to honor traditions and community. The Denver Coliseum becomes a space of cultural pride and artistic expression. Denver Coliseum, 4600 Humboldt St., Denver. Visit www.denvermarchpowwow.com.
MARCH 21 to 22
Spring Vibe Market Denver
Free, family-friendly, dog-friendly indoor maker’s market with more than 130 artisans showcasing vintage fashion, handmade jewelry, local art, and home goods. Held at The Arch in RiNo, the energy is infectious as live DJs, cocktail bars, and food trucks fill the space alongside creative vendors. This is Denver’s maker community on full display during one of the most anticipated spring markets. The Arch, 3001 Walnut St., Denver. Visit www. vibeartisanmarkets.com.
MARCH 27 to 29
Denver Home Show
400 exhibitors fill the LVC at the National Western Center with inspiration for spring projects. Browse landscaping ideas, remodeling innovations, kitchen designs, and interior décor from leading Denver experts. Whether planning a major renovation or dreaming about possibilities, this show delivers both. National Western Center, 4655 Humboldt St., Denver. Visit www. denverhomeshow.com.
MARCH 28
Summit FC Inaugural Home Opener
Kids ages 6 to 12 explore plants through the eyes of global cultures. Each day features international gardens, snack-tivities, and art projects, and campers design a mini garden to take home. A perfect spring break experience combining learning, creativity, and time outdoors. Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St. Register at www. botanicgardens.org.
Denver’s new women’s professional soccer club steps onto the field for its historic inaugural home opener. This marks the beginning of something extraordinary for women’s soccer in Colorado. Empower Field at Mile High, Denver. Visit www.denversummitfc.com.
MARCH 30 to APRIL 3
Denver Botanic Gardens Spring Break Camp: Trowels Around the World
3
Colorado Rockies Opening Day
Baseball season officially begins when the Rockies take on the Philadelphia Phillies at Coors Field. Opening Day is sacred in Denver— purple fills the stands and community pride runs high. It’s the springtime moment only Denverites truly understand. Coors Field, Denver. Tickets available at www.mlb.com/ rockies.
APRIL 6
Raye at The Fillmore Auditorium
Soul-pop sensation Raye brings her Grammywinning talent to Denver’s intimate Fillmore Auditorium. Her captivating vocals and magnetic stage presence have made her one of pop’s most compelling contemporary voices. An opportunity to experience artistry up close. Fillmore Auditorium, 1510 Clarkson St., Denver. Visit www.fillmoredenver.com for tickets.
8
Bonnie Brae Neighborhood Association Spring Meeting
Connect with neighbors, learn about community initiatives and stay
engaged with your neighborhood’s future. All residents welcome. Bonnie Brae Baptist Church, 700 S. Bonnie Brae Blvd., Denver. Visit www. bonniebrae.org for additional neighborhood information.
APRIL 7 to 12
Denver Jazz Fest
Four days celebrating jazz across 15 venues in Denver and Boulder, with 40 shows spanning everything from legendary performers to emerging talents. The second annual Denver Jazz Fest honors the city’s deep jazz heritage while introducing audiences to fresh voices. Visit www.denverjazz.org for schedule and tickets.
APRIL 11 to 12
Rocky Mountain Train Show
The largest train show west of the Mississippi features three acres of model railways, vintage trains, and Lego displays. Over 20 operating layouts showcase everything from classic American Flyer trains to modern locomotives. Kids love the hands-on layouts and Junior Engineer program. National Western Center, 4655 Humboldt St., Denver. Visit www. rockymountaintrainshow.com.
APRIL 14 to 26
Hell’s Kitchen
Alicia Keys’ Tony Award-winning musical brings the energy of New York City’s restaurant scene to Denver. This contemporary production combines Keys’ gorgeous music with compelling storytelling about ambition, love, and second chances. The dynamic cast and infectious energy make this a standout spring theater experience. Buell Theatre, Denver Center for the Performing Arts, 1101 13th St. Visit www.denvercenter.org for tickets.
APRIL 18
Denver Ramen Festival
If you’re a ramen fan, bring your appetite to this unique festival. Enjoy all-you-can-slurp ramen from a lineup of top chefs and restaurants, live music, a DJ set, a JDM Car Show, and cultural performances. Denargo Market, Denver. Visit www.denverramenfestival.com for tickets.
APRIL 18
Wine Spectator’s Grand Tour
Explore more than 200 wines rated 90-plus points by Wine Spectator editors, meet winemakers, and enjoy gourmet food pairings. You’ll even take home a souvenir Riedel wine glass. Sheraton Denver Downtown, 1550 Court Place. Visit www. grandtour.winespectator.com/denver.
APRIL 19
Market in the Park-et
The season opener features 70 to 150 local vendors with vintage fashion, handmade jewelry, local art, vinyl records, and food. The kickoff to the outdoor market season and a celebration of Denver’s talented maker community. City Park Pavilion, Denver. Visit www.marketintheparket.com.
Six years in, Bruce Gallagher is toasting Bonnie Brae Liquor’s role in the community.
BRUCE GALLAGHER saw opportunity where others saw a simple storefront. When he stepped into Bonnie Brae Liquor in 2020, he envisioned more than just a place to buy wine and spirits—he wanted to reshape how the neighborhood thought about the business. Six years later, that vision has reshaped the shop into a community gathering place with 42 employees, a full calendar of events, and partnerships with local schools and nonprofits.
Tell me a little about yourself and how you ended up at Bonnie Brae Liquor.
I’m originally from Boulder. I spent 17 years running restaurants all over the country, and I’ve dealt with food, booze, and people my whole life. The only thing I didn’t know was retail. I was driving home one day, and I saw this storefront, Bonnie Brae Liquor, with big windows and a great community around it. I thought, that’s what I want. Two days later, I signed an NDA, and it turned out to be this exact place. It felt like the universe saying, “You’ve done enough for other people. It’s time for us to do something for you.”
What was it like buying the store right before the pandemic hit?
We bought it Jan. 2, 2020, and on March 13, the world shut down. But we were prepared. When I first took over, we only had 13 drivers and eight cars. That doesn’t work when you’re open 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. So, I hired 15 more people before the pandemic even hit. When COVID happened, we were ready and able to give jobs to people who had lost them because of restaurant closures. That’s one of the best things that came out of that terrible time.
What are your core goals for the shop?
Two things. First, customer service and hospitality. Second, changing the negative stereotype about liquor stores. You don’t have to feel dirty walking into one. It should be clean, organized, welcoming—a place where you can bring your kids and your dogs. That mattered to me from day one.
How does the store show up for Bonnie Brae?
We sponsor several schools with direct sponsorships: Stephen Knight, Lowry, Steele, and Cory Elementary. We support nonprofits like the High Line Canal Conservancy, Girl Scouts, and Boy Scouts, and animal rescues like Humane Colorado and Animal Rescue of the Rockies. We partner with DiningOut Denver for food and beverage events, offering products at near-wholesale pricing. That whole program came from Lauren Armstrong, our social media and marketing manager—she’s done incredible footwork on it.
What do you get out of all this community work?
Pure joy. Making things better for other people. It takes a village, and we’re part of this one.
The Park People is branching out to build a greener, more equitable Denver.
BY SETH DAVIS
IIT’S MID-APRIL at City Park’s greenhouse, and a similar scene repeats every year. A mother inspects rows of saplings, running her fingers along bark, reading care tags. She’s choosing a tree for her children to climb in summers to come. Nearby, an elderly man eyes a shade-bearing oak and thinks, “I won’t be here when this is full grown, but my grandkids will be.” Around them, scores of volunteers in neon vests load trees into cars and hand out care guides. During this event, everyone is focused on a greener future for Denver.
This is what Kim Yuan-Farrell lives for.
Yuan-Farrell is the executive director of The Park People, a Denver nonprofit planting trees and improving parks since 1969. For 17 years, she’s been championing a simple idea with complicated execution: that everyone in Denver—not just people in historically wealthy, well-treed areas— deserves access to shade and clean air.
The numbers are impressive: over 70,000 trees planted organization-wide, closer to 65,000 through Denver Digs Trees alone. But numbers don’t capture the relationship-building that happens on distribution days, or in the trickledown effects from planting trees that spread across the entire city.
According to Yuan-Farrell, the research backing the value of trees is staggering in scope. They shade and cool neighborhoods, filter air pollution, reduce flooding, absorb carbon, and increase property values. Patients in hospital rooms with views of trees recover faster. Workers are more productive near green space. Students learn better after recess breaks outdoors.
“Everybody deserves access to all these benefits that trees provide,” says Yuan-Farrell. It’s not a mission statement read from a plaque. It’s something she’s spent 17 years living.
Yuan-Farrell didn’t grow up dreaming of forestry. As an undergraduate, she studied anthropology and environmental studies. While pursuing her master’s degree from Yale School of the Environment, she completed internships focused on community forestry work, where she saw firsthand how trees could bind neighborhoods together and serve as tools for community revitalization.
“I saw the power of that work,” she recalls simply.
When she relocated to Colorado, she searched for an organization linking community forestry and environmental justice. The Park People, then just two staff members, fit. She
was hired as program manager and spent years building the vision that is now shared among a staff of 15.
What she never imagined was how much of her work would become about listening—to residents, to neighbors, to the people who live with the lowest canopy and highest summer temperatures.
Denver Digs Trees began more than 40 years ago by addressing a straightforward problem: Trees are expensive. Today, a professionally planted tree costs $600 to $900. For families on modest incomes, that’s prohibitive.
So, The Park People created a
program that gave everyone a more accessible pathway to urban forestry. Every January, residents can apply for free or subsidized trees, choosing from eight to 12 species approved by the Denver City Forester. In mid-February, applications close. Then the real work begins.
For every street tree, The Park People staff and trained volunteers visit the site personally. They check spacing, assess sunlight, and examine overhead wires. Because a tree planted under the wrong conditions becomes a problem 20 years down the road.
Mid-to-late April brings distribution, when the tree pickup site becomes a gathering place for enthusiastic new tree caretakers.
“It’s become a really fun community tradition that people look forward to,” says Yuan-Farrell. “Usually a day that’s really positive and uplifting and cheerful.”
Around 100 volunteers help on distribution day. An arborist circulates answering questions. For residents with physical limitations, volunteers deliver and plant trees free. A few hundred more pitch in during outreach months, canvassing neighborhoods door-to-door.
But the work doesn’t stop when the trees are distributed. In well-established neighborhoods where mature canopy already exists, succession planting is constant. Trees age, development
happens, and the next generation of shade needs to be ready.
Three years ago, Yuan-Farrell and her team made a decision that changed everything. Instead of showing up with expertise, they recruited resident leaders from their lowest-canopy neighborhoods, including Globeville, Elyria-Swansea, and Valverde.
Compared to areas like Wash Park or Belcaro, where canopy percentages sit at a healthy 28 percent to 31 percent, these low-canopy neighborhoods are as low as 5 percent.
The Park People wasn’t interested in enlisting outside consultants. They
wanted neighbors. People who lived the inequity every summer and were invested in seeing the number of trees planted grow exponentially.
“When we started this really powerful resident leadership work, we saw those numbers expand like sevenfold,” says Yuan-Farrell.
The relationship shifted. When neighbors led outreach, when residents made decisions about what their streets needed, people showed up differently. They showed up with ownership. Even the Colorado State Forest Service noticed. Last year, they asked The Park People to lead statewide training on urban forestry practice.
Want to Plant a Tree?
Residents in any Denver neighborhood can request free or subsidized trees. Applications for Denver Digs Trees open in January at www.theparkpeople.org, and the deadline is mid-February. You can sign up for an application reminder alert on the website.
Want to Volunteer?
Visit www.theparkpeople.org and fill out the volunteer application. You’ll receive notices about upcoming volunteer opportunities, from outreach and canvassing to distribution day help and tree delivery/planting assistance.
Want to Support the Work?
Individual donations are critical, especially as government funding decreases. Donate at www. theparkpeople.org or call 303722-6262 to learn about giving opportunities. Businesses interested in sponsoring tree planting projects through the Mile High Tree Champions program are welcome to reach out.
Beyond tree distribution, The Park People has pursued larger park improvements that shape Denver’s green infrastructure. The Cranmer Park Sundial and Plaza renovation in Hilltop transformed a historic neighborhood gathering space. Gates Tennis Center in Cherry Creek—an award-winning facility built in 1975 on what used to be an old landfill— represents how the organization thinks beyond individual trees to entire ecosystems of green space. But scaling impact requires more than capital projects. Three years ago, The Park People piloted TreeForce, an eight-week pre-apprenticeship program preparing recently incarcerated people for careers in urban forestry. Even if The Park People scaled up tenfold, it wouldn’t meet all of Denver’s tree-planting needs. The city needs a workforce. It needs people who understand both the science and soul of this work.
Yuan-Farrell sees The Park People
evolving into a “community greening hub.” The organization purchased new headquarters last year and is fundraising for renovations that will provide space for trainings and community gatherings.
When Yuan-Farrell talks about what sustains her after 17 years, she doesn’t reference awards won. Instead, it’s the telltale signs of her organization’s efforts that she sees every day as she drives through Denver neighborhoods: Children climbing young trees that weren’t there before and families enjoying shade on 95-degree days.
“The outputs of your work are so tangible and visible,” says Yuan-Farrell. “When you plant a tree, when you improve a park, when you bring a community together around a shared vision, you see it. You feel it. It’s a really heart-filling experience.”
Seth Davis is the local editor of MyDenver and lives in Denver with his wife and two children.
Wed Society Denver + Front Range is turning the spotlight on the showrunners who make Colorado’s wedding industry hum.
BY SETH DAVIS
kKIM INGINO HAD done everything right. For months before her oldest daughter’s wedding, she vetted vendors carefully, calling references, and asking all the right questions. She felt confident until the morning of the ceremony. Then, the hairdresser simply flaked.
There was no apology or last-minute explanation. There was just a complete lack of response to calls, texts, or emails. In a matter of hours, a day defined by meticulous planning dissolved into what Ingino calls “unnecessary stress” as her daughter was forced to fix her own hair for one of the most important moments of her life.
It was a disaster that shouldn’t have happened. But for Ingino, it crystallized
a gap in the Colorado market: While there are magazines for celebrities and A-listers, there wasn’t a dedicated community for the local wedding professionals who are creating incredible experiences for their couples.
“I wanted to promote professionals that won’t do that—true experts who will provide five-star service and show up for their couples,” says Ingino. “Helping them relax and know they are in good hands allows them to truly enjoy their day and celebrate their love.”
Ingino has always loved weddings. She even enjoyed the chaos of planning for her two daughters. However, she
realized that the photographers, florists, and planners who spend their careers making magic happen are often the creative talent of the event. They are always on their feet, managing everyone else’s emotions, and rarely celebrated themselves.
In the summer of 2024, she discovered Wed Society. Founded in Oklahoma nearly 20 years ago, the company has expanded to 30 markets nationwide by focusing on the top third of the market: trustworthy professionals who take
their craft seriously. By curating this elite tier, Ingino is transforming these often “invisible” creators into celebrated leaders recognized for their technical genius. By that fall, she launched Wed Society Denver + Front Range to give these local small-business owners a platform to be seen.
As this magazine reaches readers in mid-March, the industry is shifting gears. Engagement season, the rush
of holiday proposals, is winding down. Meanwhile, Colorado’s true wedding season is preparing for its May takeoff, heading toward the now-peak months of September and October. This is when couples want the changing leaves and natural decoration of the mountains.
To bridge the gap between digital scrolling and real-world planning, Ingino released the inaugural “Colorado Book of Weddings.”
It is a curated collection of 50 real Colorado weddings, ranging from rugged ranch views to sleek industrial spaces and even castles.
“40% of couples still want to see something in print when they’re planning,” says Ingino. For the vendors, seeing their work in a tangible book provides a level of validation that social media can’t always capture.
On Feb. 6, the wedding industry showrunners finally got to put down their clipboards. Ingino hosted a cover reveal party at The Jacquard in Cherry Creek, a venue chosen specifically for its ability to transform from a corporate space into something “soft and beautiful.”
The atmosphere was dim and cinematic, reminiscent of a 1920s flapper cocktail lounge. Guests were greeted with a personalized welcome as they entered the first of three distinct spaces. The evening’s energy was fueled by a large sponsor list of a tight-knit business community, pulsing with loud music and spotlights as the crowd moved through the venue.
The event utilized the secondfloor space where the walls disappear into the main room, creating a seamless flow for networking. Halfway through the night, a second room opened to reveal an incredible catering spread and a lavish dessert
• Submit a wedding: Couples and professionals can upload galleries using the “Submit a Wedding” button at denver.wedsociety.com.
• The 2027 edition: Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis, but the deadline for the next annual “Book of Weddings” is early December 2026.
bar. It was here that Ingino and Wed Society co-founder Kami Huddleston delivered speeches leading up to a grand reveal of the inaugural cover.
The experience culminated in a third space: a hidden speakeasy serving martinis and hosting a photo booth. Every attendee walked away with their own copy of the
book, a rare opportunity for these professionals to unwind and be the guest of honor.
“They’re always working, and then there’s a lot of work after the event, too,” says Ingino. “This was about letting them have a great party where they are celebrated in print.”
What Ingino is building is less about a publication and more about a standard of respect. She’s creating a network where professionals can build their own preferred lists of trusted peers. This ensures that no family has to experience the noshow disaster her daughter did.
“They’re all small business owners,” Ingino says. “We get to be their biggest fans because we see their work all the time and we get to promote it.”
From Five Points to Boulder, Denver Jazz Fest honors the region’s deep musical roots.
BY SETH DAVIS
TTHE NEEDLE DROPPED with a familiar crackle, releasing songs that were already ancient by the time they reached Hazel Miller’s ears. Jazz. Blues. The kind of music that demanded a physical response—dancing, singing, or a quiet reflection on the history that carried it. As a young girl in her family’s living room, Miller absorbed those sounds the way children absorb a sense of safety: effortlessly, as a fundamental part of the fabric of home.
Now, after 40 years of powerhouse performances across Colorado and the globe, Miller is helping anchor a homecoming. This April, she joins the Denver Jazz Fest, a sprawling 15-venue celebration designed to do more than just play music. It is a movement to reclaim Denver’s jazz roots.
The festival is the result of a question Don Lucoff began asking three years ago: How does a city this loud stay so quiet about jazz?
Lucoff has spent four decades in the industry as a publicist, presenter, radio broadcaster, and festival director. When he moved to Denver to be near family, he brought a Rolodex filled with major labels and artists, expecting to find a bustling festival circuit. Instead, he found a curious void.
Aspen, Vail, and Telluride all had world-class jazz festivals, some of which Lucoff himself helped build, starting with Aspen in 1991. But Denver, one of the fastest-growing cultural hubs in the country, was missing a centerpiece.
“It really surprised me,” Lucoff says. “As somebody who’s worked in jazz all over the states, I kept asking: why is there no jazz festival here?”
The infrastructure wasn’t the problem. Denver had Dazzle, a premier year-round club; a nationally recognized public jazz station; five university jazz programs; and a major
airport for routing international talent. The ingredients were all there; they just needed to be stitched together.
When Lucoff met David Froman, a trumpeter and president of the Gift of Jazz nonprofit, the conversation shifted from identifying a gap to seizing an opportunity.
The Denver Jazz Fest, which debuted in 2025, wasn’t built to be a copycat of the mountain festivals. Lucoff and Froman envisioned a “decentralized” celebration—a weeklong event that blankets Denver and Boulder, meeting people where they already live.
The approach is tactical, Lucoff says. Rather than sequestering jazz in a single downtown plaza, the festival bleeds into the neighborhoods. A soul food restaurant in Park Hill draws neighbors in. Classic Pianos on South Broadway becomes intimate. Cervantes—jamband haven—hosts the high-octane, jazz-leaning Ghost-Note, easing younger crowds into jazz they already half-know.
“By going into different communities, it allows us to reach people that we normally wouldn’t reach,” says Lucoff.
By spreading the music across 15 venues, the festival stops being an exclusive “event” and becomes a city-wide conversation. Denver’s jazz stalwarts, many of whom have spent decades turning down offers from bigger cities to stay in Colorado, finally have the platform they’ve been waiting for.
Miller and pianist Bob Schlesinger have been musical partners for over 30 years, their chemistry forged on countless stages. For this year’s festival, they are debuting “Hazel Miller’s Jazz Roots,” a performance that explores the music as a living lineage.
When Miller and Schlesinger discussed the idea of “jazz roots” for the project’s name, they realized it works on multiple levels. It’s Miller’s roots—the songs she grew up with. But it’s also about blues, the foundation of American music.
The setlist is a curated history, spanning from the late 1930s to the present. One addition, “Blackbird,” carries particular weight. Schlesinger recently revisited the song’s origins— Paul McCartney wrote it during the British Invasion as a tribute to Black women during the Civil Rights movement. When Schlesinger shared that context with Miller, the reaction was instant.
“We need to do that song,” she told him.
That is the essence of “jazz roots.” It isn’t just about playing the hits; it’s about honoring the struggle and the genius from which the music grew. It’s about understanding that every note carries a story.
Don Lucoff at Dazzle, framed by jazz history.
Opposite page: Pianist Omar Sosa lights up the room at Dazzle. Saxophonist Charles McPherson and trumpeter Terell Stafford performing at Dazzle.
Of the festival’s 15 venues, few carry as much cultural weight as the newly opened Cleo Parker Robinson Center for Healing Arts. Located in Five Points—Denver’s historic “Harlem of the West”—the 240-seat venue is a testament to the endurance of Cleo Parker Robinson herself.
At 77, Robinson remains a fierce champion of the arts, having led her nonprofit for over 50 years and spending more than six years raising money to build the new space. For Miller, performing here is a full-circle moment.
“Cleo Parker Robinson is one of the guardians at the gate,” Miller says. “She has kept live entertainment vital in all the years I’ve lived here. Playing in her space is an absolute privilege.”
For Schlesinger, the venue adds a layer of cultural depth that anchors the entire festival. It is also a personal homecoming; he spent three years playing in the pit for Robinson’s annual holiday show. It’s a performance that acknowledges the world’s hunger for this music—a hunger Miller has witnessed firsthand, from Japan to Egypt.
HONORING AMERICA’S LANGUAGE
“Jazz is the language of America,” says Miller. “Everywhere I’ve ever been, they say, ‘Sing some jazz, Hazel.’ That’s who we are to the world.”
That sound has reshaped the globe in ways that are often surreal. Miller remembers a small town in Okinawa, where she encountered a band of Japanese college students singing Motown songs in perfect English—lyrics they had learned entirely phonetically.
But while the music travels effortlessly, the creators often face a harder road. Miller is quick to point out that many of the architects of this sound remain under-recognized
and underpaid, grinding out a living worldwide.
“You have to own your inheritance,” says Miller. “Too many people have paid too many dues playing this music all over the world. Now we gotta come and honor them.”
This is why a jazz festival in Denver isn’t just entertainment. It’s recognition. It’s a way of saying to the musicians who stayed, who built community, and who turned down bigger offers because Denver felt like home: We see you. Your legacy matters.
As the festival enters its second year, the momentum is building. 15 venues, 40 shows, and a growing audience
The Main Event
Denver Jazz Fest runs April 7 to 12, 2026, spanning 15 venues across Denver and Boulder. Visit www.denverjazz.org for the full schedule, tickets, and venue information.
Don’t Miss
Catch Hazel Miller’s “Jazz Roots” performance, featuring Bob Schlesinger on piano.
• When: 4 p.m., April 12
• Where: Cleo Parker Robinson Center for Healing Arts
of listeners who are discovering that jazz isn’t a museum piece; it’s a living, breathing part of their neighborhood.
Whether it’s a newcomer walking into a brewery in Park Hill or a longtime fan sitting in a South Broadway piano showroom, the goal is the same: to open a door.
For Lucoff, this is only the beginning. He is already looking past the clubs and toward the monoliths. His dream? A one-day jazz takeover of Red Rocks.
“It’s lofty today,” he admits, “but maybe not five years from now.”
In a city finally reclaiming its rhythm, that next note feels closer than ever.
Plants add beauty and health benefits to your space. Green thumb optional.
BY JENNA GALLETTI
THERE’S A REASON plant parents never stop at just one. Even if every single leaf in your home is technically green, the variety is endless. Think about it: a monstera’s glossy, hole-punched leaves look nothing like the trailing strands of a pothos, or the spiky drama of a snake plant. Some grow tall and upright like proud little sentinels, others drape elegantly from shelves or cascade out of hanging baskets. Even the shades of green tell a story—soft sage, deep emerald, chartreuse, nearly black. It’s all proof that green is anything but boring.
VS. PLANTS (THE SHOWDOWN)
If your cat friends think plants are a salad bar, don’t give up on greenery just yet. Instead, get creative with placement.
Floating shelves are perfect little stages for trailing plants, and ceiling hooks with decorative macramé hangers let you hang plants safely out of paw’s reach. The result?
Your cats stay safe, your plants stay whole, and your home looks like an urban jungle. Win-win-win.
Not everyone has the time (or patience) to mist exotic orchids twice a day. Luckily, plants come with different care levels, and some are basically foolproof. A few of the most “goof-proof” options:
• Snake plant: practically thrives on neglect
• ZZ plant: glossy, low-maintenance, and nearly indestructible
• Pothos: grows like crazy in almost any light
• Philodendron: forgiving and fastgrowing, perfect for beginners
If you want a little more of a challenge, consider ferns or fiddle leaf figs, but only if you’re ready for the commitment.
Plants may bring the green, but pot brings the personality. A snake plant in terracotta feels earthy and relaxed, while the same plant in a glossy white ceramic looks modern and polished. A bold glazed planter can add a pop of color, while a woven basket creates an easy, laidback vibe. Switching up planters is a simple way to refresh your space and make your greenery feel even more intentional.
Yes, plants look good in every corner of the house, but they’re also good for you. Studies show that being surrounded by greenery
can reduce stress, boost focus, and even improve air quality. They add humidity to dry winter air and create a sense of calm in busy spaces. Simply put, plants make us feel good, and who doesn’t want a little more of that at home?
Adding plants to your home doesn’t mean becoming a full-time gardener. Whether you’re building a shelf full of lush trailing vines, hanging a statement in green from the ceiling, or sticking to a single low-maintenance snake plant, there’s a plant friend for every personality and lifestyle. With a little creativity (and maybe a floating shelf or two), you can turn your space into a vibrant, living sanctuary, no green thumb required.
Bonnie Brae neighbor shares her go-to Sunday routines and culinary delights.
BY SHANA JOHNSTON
MY FAVORITE SUNDAY always begins the same way: with coffee. Always homemade. I make an Italian espresso bean latte with perfectly steamed milk, and on Sundays, I add a little indulgence—a fresh croissant or quiche from Katherine’s French Bakery & Café that feels like a small luxury and a neighborhood ritual all in one.
Before the day fully unfolds, I check in on real estate. Just like checking the weather, I want to know what’s new, what’s pending, and what’s coming soon. Being a realtor isn’t a Mondaythrough-Friday job; it’s a constant pulse, and I genuinely love staying connected to what’s happening in Bonnie Brae and beyond.
After that, I head out for a long walk. This is one of my favorite parts of the day. I wander through Bonnie Brae’s winding streets, taking a different route each time, admiring the mix of architectural styles and the pride people take in their homes. Sometimes I opt for the Belcaro loop near the Phipps Mansion, close to home and always a classic. Walking the neighborhood reminds me why so many people fall in love with this area and why I’m proud to both live and work here.
A great Sunday usually includes connecting with people. It might be a quick “pop by” with a neighbor, meeting up with a colleague, or spending time with clients who often become friends. At home, I love hosting dinner with my daughter, Clara, and her boyfriend.
There’s always laughter, good food, and a recap of the week’s wins.
If we’re not skiing in Winter Park, my husband, Paul, and I often head to Ni Tuyo Mexican Eatery on South University. Sharing queso fundido with chorizo and their signature molcajetes over margaritas feels like a perfect Bonnie Brae evening. Other Sundays, we stay in and try a new recipe in the kitchen.
And no Sunday is complete without dessert. We’ll sometimes cross the street to Bonnie Brae Ice Cream, even in winter, soaking in the sweet smell of freshly made waffle cones. Running into familiar faces in line is always a bonus. It’s moments like these that remind me why Bonnie Brae isn’t just where I live—it’s truly home.
Shana Johnston is a longtime Bonnie Brae resident, local realtor, and board member of the Bonnie Brae Neighborhood Association. When she’s not working, you’ll find her walking the neighborhood or supporting local businesses.
Local author Rob Samborn curates darker reads to carry you through winter’s final stretch.
WINTER’S GRIP is loosening, but March still brings long nights. With many book recommendations focusing on romance and whimsical stories, I thought I’d go a bit darker. This Book Nook is for readers who like their reading on the heavier side: stories of obsession, survival, history’s darker corridors, and the quiet endurance it takes to face them. These are books to carry you from the last cold evenings into the sharper light of spring.
By Caleb Stephens
Is it possible to be a fastread mystery and slow-burn psychological suspense? Find out (or not) in “You’ll Never Know.” Caleb Stephens weaves buried secrets, memory, and twists. I promise you won’t see coming into a tightly drawn story that lingered long after I finished it. It’s intimate, unsettling, and exactly the kind of novel I like to recommend because discovering it is part of the pleasure.
BY ROB SAMBORN
By Anthony Doerr I picked up “Cloud Cuckoo Land” for the rave reviews and wasn’t disappointed. Anthony Doerr braids richly drawn prose, ancient myth, present-day social ills, and a sci-fi mystery into luminous cross-genre literary fiction. It’s ambitious without being cold. It’s tender, hopeful, and powerful. It’s a shining example that the art of storytelling is alive and well.
By Jonathan Maberry
“Rage” hits the ground running, throwing the reader into an action-horror technothriller where a weaponized form of fury ignites a fastspreading outbreak. Jonathan Maberry keeps the pace brutal and the entertainment vicious. Maberry is a master of smart, hard-hitting action, and he’s at the top of his game with “Rage.” (Trigger warning: There’s very graphic violence, and a lot of it.)
By Erik Larson
Erik Larson’s “The Devil in the White City” entwines the grandeur of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair with the chilling crimes of serial killer H.H. Holmes. Meticulously researched and vividly told, it’s part historical marvel, part true-crime thriller. It’s a gripping, eerie journey that stayed with me long after the last page.
Bonnie Brae resident Rob Samborn is the author of seven books, including the best-selling dual-timeline thriller “The Prisoner of Paradise,” the awardwinning historical fiction “The Swordsman of Venice,” and the upcoming spy thriller “Diplomatic Security.” Rob is also a screenwriter, entrepreneur, and avid traveler. You can learn more at www.robsamborn.com.
As the weather gets warmer, check out these restaurants for a great meal.
Neon Cowboy
300 S. Logan St., Unit 101, 80209 720-319-8041
@_neoncowboy__
Opened in late 2025, Neon Cowboy blends high-energy bar culture with a playful, chef-driven menu. Expect bold sandwiches, shareable plates, and a cocktail list that leans creative without being overcomplicated. The space carries a retro edge and an unmistakable personality, making it equally suited for casual dinners and late-night gatherings. Bonus points for the extra comfortable bar stools!
Goudy’s Deli and Market
1207 E. Alameda Ave., 80209
720-710-9473
@goudysdelimarket
Part neighborhood deli, part specialty market, Goudy’s focuses on thoughtfully built
sandwiches, quality meats, and curated pantry staples. The menu is straightforward but ingredient-driven, and the market shelves are stocked with specialty goods that make it easy to bring something home. Polished, simple, and community minded.
Tokyo Premium Bakery
1540 S. Pearl St., 80210 720-531-3784 @tokyopremiumbakery
Tokyo Premium Bakery showcases Japanese-style breads and pastries made with precision and balance. Fluffy milk bread, delicate sweets, and savory sandos fill the display cases daily, alongside coffee and specialty drinks. The clean, minimalist setting lets the craftsmanship take center stage. Perfect for a Sunday morning.
La Chiva Colombian Restaurant 1446 S. Broadway, 80210 720-389-9847
@lachivacolombian
La Chiva highlights traditional Colombian cuisine in a colorful and inviting setting. The menu features hearty classics, empanadas, arepas, and generously portioned plates rooted in family recipes. It’s vibrant, approachable, and centered on sharing bold, comforting flavors.
El Nopalito Mexican Food 77 W. Alameda Ave., 80223 720-643-2384
El Nopalito serves classic Mexican fare in a relaxed, unfussy environment. Enchiladas, burritos, tacos, and house green chile anchor the menu, alongside margaritas and familiar favorites. It’s a dependable neighborhood
spot focused on generous portions and traditional flavors.
One Barrel American Bistro & Wine Bar
3401 S. Broadway, Suite. 110, 80110 720-667-4781
@onebarrelenglewood
One Barrel pairs seasonal American dishes with an extensive wine program. The menu leans contemporary and approachable, offering thoughtfully composed entrées and shareable starters designed to complement its broad selection of bottles and pours. Comfortable and intimate, it’s built for lingering dinners.
Yemen Grill and Café
1135 E. Evans Ave. Unit 103, 80210 720-750-7902
@yemengrilldenver
Yemen Grill focuses on
traditional Yemeni cooking, featuring slow-cooked meats, fragrant rice dishes, warm flatbreads, and spice-layered sauces. The menu emphasizes depth of flavor and generous portions, offering a rich introduction to a cuisine less commonly found in Denver. This place is truly incredible.
Chook Chicken
4340 E. 8th Ave., 80220 and 1300 S Pearl St., 80210
@chookchicken
Chook centers its menu around wood-fired rotisserie chicken served alongside seasonal vegetables, grain salads, and house-made sauces. The format is fast-casual, but the ingredients and preparation are carefully considered. The space also feels a bit more polished. It’s streamlined, fresh, and consistently satisfying.
Satchel’s on 6th 1710 E. 6 Ave., 80218
303-399-2560
@satchelson6th
Satchel’s offers contemporary American cuisine in a longstanding, intimate dining room. The menu typically includes seafood, steaks, pasta, and seasonal vegetables, prepared with a refined but approachable touch. It balances neighborhood familiarity with polished execution and class.
Revival Denver Public House
630 E. 17 Ave., 80203
720-524-7867
@revival.denver
Revival brings Southern-inspired comfort food into a lively and large setting. Fried chicken, brunch favorites, and classic cocktails define the menu, alongside beer and whiskey selections. The atmosphere is energetic yet casual, built for gathering.
Le French 846 N. Albion St., 80220 303-558-0875
@lefrenchdenver
Le French is a family-owned restaurant rooted in French culinary tradition. Crêpes, steak frites, pastries, and wine shape a menu that transitions easily from brunch to dinner. The setting is bright and refined, blending café warmth with bistro influence.
Sienna Wine Bar & Small Plates
3434 E. 12 Ave., 80206
303-355-2202
@siennawinebar
Sienna focuses on wine and globally inspired small plates designed for sharing. Artisan cheeses, charcuterie, and seasonal dishes complement a broad wine list that spans regions and styles. The intimate space encourages slow evenings and conversation.
Mici Italian
727 Colorado Blvd., 80206
303-322-6424
@miciitalian
Mici Italian is a family-owned concept centered on traditional recipes and scratch-made doughs and sauces. The menu features handcrafted pizzas, pastas, and classic Italian comfort dishes served in a casual, simple, and welcoming environment.
Legacy Pie Co.
300 E. Alameda Ave., Suite A, 80209
720-626-2057
@legacypieco
Legacy Pie Co. specializes in scratch-made pies that reflect classic American baking traditions. Fruit pies, cream pies, and seasonal offerings rotate throughout the year, all prepared with straightforward ingredients and careful technique. It’s a warm, nostalgic stop for dessert or a whole pie to take home. The smell alone is worth the trip.
ERIN AHLFINGER captured pure joy at the National Western Stock Show parade, where horses in full regalia met wide-eyed young spectators. The Denver photographer specializes in finding wonder in everyday Colorado moments. See more of her work at @erinahlfinger on Instagram.
Have a great image for Photo Op?
Submit your high-resolution shot to seth.davis@ wainscotmedia.com.
