Michael’s artwork at the Garman Studio is now nationally renowned for its characterization of this western “grit” and determination. Not only have his sculptures helped make Colorado Springs a tourist destination for viewing his artwork, but his philanthropic support has richly benefitted many local nonprofits, especially those aiding children, foster children and their families. (Submitted by Cassie Jones)
Ray completed his undergraduate and medical trainig at the Unversity of Wisconsin. He served two years in the Army and twenty-two years in the Air Force. Following his retirement in 1974, he worked in private practice with James Carris, M.D., Neil Olsen M.D., and Joel Ernster M.D. He was involved in volunteer work at the Community Health Center (Peak Vista) as a founding member, the Marion House, Pikes Peak Hospice, and overseas work in Cameroon and Central African Republic. Ray was a member of the El Paso County Medical Society where he served as President, Vice President and Treasurer, a member of the local chapter of the American Cancer Society and five years on the County Board of Health. (Submitted by Richard Gorell)
Dewey Reinhard, founder of the Colorado Springs Balloon Classic, has provided free entertainment for thousands of Colorado Springs residents with the “Classic”. In addition, the local economy has benefitted due to the large number of visiting ballonists, and tourists coming to The Springs just to experience the “Classic”. Thousands of dollars have been raised by local charities being operating fund raisers at the “Classic”. Dewey started the event with his own money, and managed the event for 19 years. He was awarded The Diploma Mongolfier (balloonings’ highest international award) in part for his creation of one of the highest quality ballooning events in the country. Dewey has served his city on several boards and commities. (Submitted by Jeanie Reinhard)
Clarence, a Tuskeegee airman, is one the most notable african american sculpters whose work is on display at the Air Force Academy. Peggy Shivers, founder of the Shivers Foundation, is an accomplished singers and brings african american singers to Colorado Springs annually for the Shivers concert series. In addition, she started a local chapter of the national association of negro musicians. (Submitted by Daryl Miller)
Murray Ross established THEATREWORKS in 197 (4 or 5). With humble beginnings in the science building on the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, the company has offered free shakespeare in the summer beginning with local citizens and finally taking the snhow on the road to small communities throughout the state. THEATREWORKS has become “Professional theatre for the Pikes Peak Region” and along the way received many local and state awards for excellence in the arts and community building including (I believe) the Governor’s Award. (Submitted by Eve Tilley)
Dr. Charles Asbacher is the director emrictas of the Colorado Springs Symphony. Under his leadership the Symphony gained national recognition. He was also the guiding light for the construction of Pikes Peak Center. (Submitted by David Supperstein)
I am sorry that I missed all of the meetings prior to this event. I am sad that the military is not highly visible, if at all. So I hope it is not too late to add “them.” Nevertheless, you all did a great job and this is a great project. THANKS (Submitted by Ada Torres)
After Amendment 2 passed, which enabled legal discrimination toward members of the gay and lesbian community, he stood up against the voters and took the unconstitional amendment all the way to the supreme court. His testimony before the justices was crucial to the amendement being over turned. (Submitted by Daryl Miller)
I think that the young people who helped install the exhibit are great volunteers that should be commended. (Submitted by R Gorell)
We want to hear what Colorado Springs visionary you think deserves recognition. To send in your thoughts, click on “Submissions” in the right column. They will be periodically posted to this page.
