5-BULLET FRIDAY – June 27, 2025
We hope you enjoy this edition of 5-Bullet Friday! Enjoy this fabulous weekend.
#1 – QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” – Confucius
#2 – SPRIALING TOWER COULD REDEFINE DENVER’S SKYLINE WITH ICONIC 673 FOOT DESIGN
A 673-foot spiraling observation tower has been proposed for downtown Denver, potentially becoming the city’s fourth-tallest building. Designed with a sculptural lattice and topped with an orb, the tower would rise at 1546 California St., currently a parking lot near the 16th Street Mall. If approved, it would rival landmarks like Seattle’s Space Needle and Dallas’ Reunion Tower. The project, led by developer Ephraim LLC, was detailed in plans submitted to the city this week.
#3 – NUGGETS ADD SCORING DEPTH WITH UNDRAFTED FREE AGENT SIGNINGS
While the Denver Nuggets stayed quiet during both rounds of the NBA Draft, their front office moved quickly to bolster depth through undrafted free agents. First, they signed Missouri guard Tamar Bates to a two-way contract, adding a dynamic college scorer with potential to rise in Denver’s rotation. Shortly after, they picked up Iowa State’s Curtis Jones, a 6’4” guard who averaged 17.4 points per game last season, earning All-Big 12 First Team honors and the conference’s Sixth Man Award. Known for his efficient shooting (43% FG, 37.4% 3PT) and bench production, Jones could fill a key need for the Nuggets’ second unit. His contract details are still pending but may fall under a two-way or Exhibit 10 deal. Both signings reflect Denver’s commitment to uncovering under-the-radar talent to address shooting struggles and add depth heading into the new season.
#4 – HOW TO ELIMINATE FIRE ANTS AND PROTECT YOUR BACK YARD THIS SUMMER
One surefire way to put a damper on your backyard gathering is having a guest get stung by fire ants—painful, unexpected, and completely avoidable with the right steps. Getting rid of fire ants in your backyard this summer requires a combination of targeted treatment and prevention. Start by identifying the mounds—typically dome-shaped and loose—and avoid disturbing them directly, as fire ants can be aggressive. Use a bait product labeled specifically for fire ants, placing it around (not on) the mound so the workers carry it back to the colony. After a few days, apply a mound drench or insecticidal dust to kill off any remaining ants. For a more natural approach, pouring boiling water over the mound can help, though it may require repeated attempts and could damage nearby grass. To prevent re-infestation, keep your yard clean of food scraps, seal trash cans, and consider applying a long-lasting granule insecticide across your lawn. Always follow label directions carefully, and if the infestation is widespread or persistent, consult a licensed pest control professional.
#5- WHERE TO WATCH FIREWORKS IN DENVER: 5 MUST-SEE SHOWS FOR 4TH OF JULY FUN
Denver’s Independence celebrations light up the sky each summer—and here are the top five spots where you can catch unforgettable shows:
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Coors Field (Denver)
Celebrate post-game at a Rockies Fireworks Game, where fans are invited onto the field after the fireworks finale over the outfield scoreboard. Seating sections like the Rockpile and Pavilion offer prime views, and attending a July 4th or 5th game delivers that unique stadium atmosphere. Visit the Rockies’ Fireworks Games page on MLB.com for dates and tickets.
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Elitch Gardens (Downtown Denver)
On July 5, Elitch Gardens combines adrenaline-pumping rides with a spectacular 9 PM fireworks show launched from Elitch Arena. Enjoy family-friendly fun with the backdrop of carousel lights and roller coaster silhouettes. Admission and show details available on the Elitch Gardens Fireworks Events page.
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Civic Center Park (Downtown Denver)
Enjoy Indy Eve festivities on July 3, starting with a bustling night market, circus acts, and live DJ sets. The Colorado Symphony performs before a 300-drone light show, capped with fireworks over the Greek Theater. For schedule and family fun details, check CivicCenterPark.org.
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Dick’s Sporting Goods Park (Commerce City)
Head to the Rapids’ 29th annual 4thFEST on July 4. The event kicks off at 5 PM with a festival full of inflatables, live music, climbing walls, and more; stay for the Rapids game at 7:30 PM, followed by Colorado’s largest public fireworks display It’s free to attend—see all the fun on ColoradoRapids.com.
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Westminster City Park (Westminster)
North metro’s premier fireworks show begins around 9:15 PM on July 4, but the celebration starts at 4 PM with live music, bounce houses, food trucks, and a poolside “Uncle Sam Splash Bash” from 1–3 PM. A 20-minute choreographed display lights up the sky—plus free shuttles from multiple locations. Full schedule and shuttle info at WestminsterCO.gov/SpecialEvents.
From heartfelt community gatherings to electrifying shows above sports stadiums and amusement parks, Metro Denver offers fireworks experiences for every style. Whether you’re looking for a festive family outing, a high-energy stadium vibe, or a magical drone and symphony evening downtown, these five spots promise unforgettable Independence celebrations. Be sure to check the official event websites as July approaches—grab your tickets, arrive early, and savor the best of summer magic in the Mile High City!