The Colorado Springs tribute to Gerry drew people from Denver, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Arizona, Florida, Pagosa and Colorado Springs and points between & beyond. Gerry's family from Oklahoma City were there. Musicians from Pagosa and Colorado Springs jammed for hours. Gerry's drums and skis were there along with some of his famous photo documents of the many people who ever attended one of his gallery events or skiing excursions. College of Letters Arts and Sciences Dean Tom Christensen emceed the evening. Twenty speakers took advantage of the open mic telling stories about Gerry's dynamism. It was proposed that the gallery be renamed in his honor.
The event went quite well. Many wonderful and timely things were said. People who hadn't seen one another since Gerry retired in 2006 were reconnected. Witnessing the crowd and feeling the magnitude of Gerry's reach in the community was profound and illuminating. I think the process of accepting Gerry's passing was helped by this gathering and a renewed sense of community will carry forward - a sense of community that only Gerry Riggs can take credit for.
Photos by Jeff Foster/UCCS
Chancellor Pam Shockley Zalabak spoke to a crowd of over 300 people
VAPA Department Chair, Suzanne MacAulay
Local Artist Dave Voth
One of many musicians there that night
Thank you for posting pictures of the event! I was hoping someone would for those of us who couldn't attend because we live out-of-town. Like Malinda Chadsey, Gerry's long-time friend, whom I recently reconnected with because of this tragedy. And Suzanne Linquist, whom I haven't been in touch with for several years. I hope everyone will continue to share even more photos and stories. Gerry brought us together when he was alive - and now apparently he continues doing that. Such is the power of a good soul who likely gave more than he got.
ReplyDeletePeace,
Dani Greer