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The Best Denver News This Week (December 18th)

The Best Denver News This Week (December 18th)

Here are the latest news stories and upcoming events in Denver.

Matthew Larsen
December 18, 2023

Welcome to The Denver Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

10 significant hotel & office projects nearing completion
Colorado Avalanche game recap
A deep dive into the life of John Denver
And more…

Quote of the Week

“The mind, once stretched by a new idea, never returns to its original dimensions.”

— Oliver Wendell Holmes

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Denver is home to a famous amphitheater known for its unique acoustics and natural setting. What is the name of this iconic venue?

A) The Fillmore Auditorium

B) Pepsi Center

C) Red Rocks Amphitheatre

D) Bellco Theatre

News

💼 Business

Denver is expecting the completion of 10 significant hotel and office projects in 2024, including new additions in Downtown, Cherry Creek, Belleview Station, RiNo, and LoHi.

🏒 Sports

The Colorado Avalanche secured a win against the Calgary Flames. Key plays and teamwork were instrumental in this victory, showcasing the Avalanche's strength and resilience.

University of Denver Athletics: In the realm of college sports, the University of Denver's athletic teams continued to make significant strides, with notable performances in various sports, including ice hockey.

Famous People From Denver

John Denver: 1943-1997

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1943-1964)

Henry John Deutschendorf Jr., known professionally as John Denver, was born on December 31, 1943, in Roswell, New Mexico, and spent his formative years in various U.S. states due to his father's military career. The family eventually settled in Fort Worth, Texas, where Denver's love for music was kindled. Although not from Denver originally, he adopted the city's name as his stage surname, reflecting his love for the Rocky Mountains and Colorado.

Rise to Folk Music Stardom (1965-1973)

In the late 1960s, Denver began his music career with folk music groups, eventually going solo. His breakthrough came with the song "Leaving on a Jet Plane," which he wrote and was made famous by Peter, Paul, and Mary. Denver's blend of folk, rock, and country styles resonated with a wide audience, catapulting him to stardom.

Success and Popular Hits (1974-1982)

Denver became one of the most popular acoustic artists of the 1970s. He recorded and released a string of hits including "Take Me Home, Country Roads," "Rocky Mountain High" (which became Colorado's state song), and "Sunshine on My Shoulders." His music, often reflecting environmental and social issues, made him a beloved figure.

Acting Career and Environmental Activism (1983-1993)

Besides his musical career, Denver also ventured into acting, appearing in films and television specials. A committed environmentalist and humanitarian, he used his fame to advocate for conservation and humanitarian causes, establishing the Windstar Foundation.

Later Years and Legacy (1994-1997)

In the 1990s, although his commercial success waned, Denver continued to tour and advocate for environmental causes. He tragically died in a plane crash in 1997. Denver's music and his work in environmental and humanitarian activism left a lasting impact.

Key Achievements of John Denver:

Celebrated singer-songwriter with a successful international career.
Known for hits like "Rocky Mountain High" and "Take Me Home, Country Roads."
Active environmentalist and humanitarian.
Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
His music remains influential and is celebrated for its connection to nature and human experience.

John Denver's association with the city of Denver and Colorado was more than nominal; it was an embodiment of his music's spirit and his environmental advocacy. His legacy continues to resonate in the realms of music, environmentalism, and humanitarian efforts.