The Gateway to the Rockies Podcast

Local radio legend and longtime Aurora resident Rick Crandall returns with an update on the Colorado Freedom Memorial’s new Education and Visitor Center. Rick shares what’s taking shape, how the Center will bring the stories behind the Memorial’s names to life, and why Aurora’s community has been essential to the project.

Juliet Dawkins, Executive Director of LuBird’s Light Foundation, joins us to share the personal story behind the organization’s mission to make play accessible to everyone. We explore the impact of LuBird’s Light Playground at Stanley Marketplace, why inclusive play matters, and how the Aurora community is celebrating the playground’s fifth anniversary.

Deepali, the Founder and Artistic Director of Roshni Performing Arts Sanctuary joins to talk about her journey, the creation of Roshni, and Route 15 an immersive theatrical experience inspired by the real stories of people along East Colfax. We also preview Roshni's 6th Annual New American Arts Festival and explore how art can build connection, celebrate culture, and strengthen community in Aurora.

Stanley Marketplace is celebrating 10 years as one of Aurora’s most unique destinations! We sit down with Kristen Baker & Meg Hott to talk about the local restaurants, shops, experiences, and events that have made Stanley a beloved community gathering place. Plus, we look ahead to the 10-year celebration and explore how the newly completed Westerly Creek project will create exciting new possibilities for outdoor events and experiences at Stanley.

How does a city grow while staying true to what makes it unique? We welcome back Jonathan Woodward, Vice President of the Aurora Economic Development Council, for an inside look at the projects, partnerships, and investments shaping Aurora's future. From business growth and workforce development to innovation and placemaking, discover how economic development impacts the places we live, work, dine, and explore.

The Colorado Diasporic Film Festival is back, bringing powerful stories and cultures to Aurora. Filmmaker and Askkanwii Filmmaking Hub founder Ousmane Ndoye shares how this year's festival, & the new Diasporic FilmHub Village, will transform the Aurora Cultural Arts District into a celebration of film, music, food, art, and community.

Aurora's newest landmark is more than a memorial; it's a promise to remember. Peter Seung-Woo Lee, Becky Hogan, and Suegie Park discuss the new Korean War Veterans Memorial at General's Park. Hear the inspiring story behind the years-long effort to bring this tribute to life, why the Korean War should never be forgotten, and what visitors will discover when they experience this powerful new addition to Aurora.