5-BULLET FRIDAY – July 11, 2025

The latest issue of 5-Bullet Friday is here!

#1 – QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“Luck is preparation meeting opportunity.” – Oprah Winfrey

#2 – PADEL MAKES ITS DENVER DEBUT: A FAST-GROWING GLOBAL SPORT ARRIVES IN THE MILE HIGH CITY

Denver’s first dedicated padel court has officially opened at Cloud 9 Park in the Hale neighborhood, part of the 9+CO development. Padel—a fast-growing sport with over 30 million players worldwide—is a blend of tennis, pickleball, and squash, played in doubles on a smaller enclosed court where players can use both the court and surrounding walls to keep the ball in play. The game originated in Mexico in the late 1960s and quickly gained popularity in Spain and across Europe before expanding globally. Now operated by the Aspen Padel Club, Denver’s new court offers locals a chance to try the sport firsthand, with online reservations starting at $80 an hour.

#3 – RE COLORADO’S JUNE DENVER METRO HOUSING MARKET TRENDS REPORT HAS BEEN RELEASED

According to REcolorado, the Denver Metro housing market remained stable in June with encouraging signs of buyer activity. Closed listings rose 5% year-over-year, and pending sales increased by 6%, while the median closed price edged up by 2%, reflecting continued—if modest—appreciation. Sellers responded by listing more homes, pushing new listings up 3% from last June. However, homes are spending six more days on the market compared to last year, and the original list-to-close price ratio dipped slightly to 98.1%, indicating buyers have gained some negotiating power. Active inventory surged 34%, offering more choice and flexibility for buyers. Month-over-month, typical seasonal cooling occurred with a slight drop in closed and pending sales, while new listings declined 16%. Despite this, prices remained strong, rising 2% from the previous month, suggesting that well-positioned homes continue to attract solid interest.

#4 – COLORADO BILLIONAIRES LEAD THE WORLD’S MOST POWERFUL SPORTS EMPIRES

A new CNBC report names Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, led by Stan Kroenke, as the world’s most valuable sports empire, with a staggering valuation of $21.2 billion. The group owns the Denver Nuggets, Colorado Avalanche, Los Angeles Rams, and Arsenal FC. Colorado is also home to other major sports powerhouses, including AEG Worldwide, owned by Philip Anschutz, which ranked sixth at $12 billion and owns the LA Kings, LA Galaxy, and major entertainment venues. Additionally, Liberty Media, based in Colorado, holds a controlling interest in Formula 1 and MotoGP, further cementing the state’s status as a hub for global sports ownership.

#5- 5 THINGS TO DO ALONG COLORADO’S FRONT RANGE THIS WEEKEND

Looking for fun plans this weekend in and around Denver? Whether you’re craving high-flying excitement, live performances, or family-friendly festivals, the Front Range is packed with memorable events. Here are five unique things to check out:

Insectival: 30th Anniversary Bug Bash at the Butterfly Pavilion (July 12–13)
Celebrate 30 years of the Butterfly Pavilion with this weekend-long bug-themed festival in Westminster! Enjoy live music, animal encounters, hands-on activities, food trucks, and family fun for all ages.
Click here for more information.
Cirque du Soleil’s “Echo” Under the Big Top at Ball Arena
Experience Cirque du Soleil’s first new Big Top show since the pandemic, “Echo”—a magical blend of storytelling, visual artistry, and acrobatics exploring the bond between humans and animals. Shows run through August 17, but it opens this weekend!
Click here for more information.
Erie Balloon Festival (July 12–14)
Start your morning with a colorful sky full of hot air balloons or catch the glowing magic on Saturday night. With great viewing spots at Erie High School and Soaring Heights, this small-town festival is a peaceful, beautiful experience.
Click here for more information.
U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum Festival in Colorado Springs (July 11–14)
Celebrate American Olympic heroes with free museum admission Saturday and Sunday, special exhibits, and live programming throughout the weekend. Don’t miss the opening of the brand-new “Beyond the Podium” exhibit.
Click here for more information.
Rocky Mountain Regional Rodeo at National Western Complex (July 13–14)
Head to the 42nd annual CGRA Rodeo for bull riding, barrel racing, drag performances, and more—all while supporting local Colorado charities. This inclusive rodeo blends Western heritage with a vibrant celebration of community.
Click here for more information.

Whether you’re fascinated by bugs, inspired by athletes, or just in the mood for some local color, this weekend has something for everyone. Make your plans, grab your friends or family, and enjoy all that Colorado has to offer!

Have a terrific weekend!