Happy 142nd birthday, Colorado. If someone told me you were only 128, I would believe it. What is one of Colorado's best qualities? It's people. Take a look at decades of Colorado awesomeness via photos of its residents.

These videos and galleries are encore presentation from previous posts. Some feature Colorado residents hard at work. Others pay tribute to the state's heroes. How about those firefighters out there right now risking life and limb? Take a look back at first responders from years gone by.

How about the local farmers and growers? You'll see a video of Robert Grant photos set to an original song by Jeff Pine and Gary Smith. Sit back and enjoy 142 years of Colorado awesomeness.

I published a post a few years ago called "Hard Working Western Colorado." It included the video you see at the top of this post. Someone commented back on social media stating "Colorado is no longer great." They said, "It used to be, but people no longer work like they used to." I don't know about that. I swear I saw crews working hard last night at 9:00 as they pained the yellow lines on the road out on the Redlands. I'm pretty sure I just attended the grand opening of a new family-owned-and-operated restaurant. It seems to me our fire crews are doing an excellent job battling the current threats in Colorado.

Of course, there are many magnificent things about Colorado. Why not celebrate the state's birthday by getting out and enjoying one of the many Colorado parks? In honor of Colorado's birthday,  you can enjoy a free day at one of 41 parks on August 6.

Happy birthday, Colorado. I was born here 48 years ago. I left for one year to tour with a Glam-Country band (don't ask). After one year away, I couldn't wait to get back. Thanks for the great views, incredible mountains, and awesome people.

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