Jurassic Joy and Prehistoric Education: 

If you ever find yourself wandering a community festival or convention hall in Colorado Springs and spot a prehistoric ranger cradle a remarkably lifelike baby dinosaur, you’ve likely crossed paths with one of the region’s most dedicated community builders.

Meet Jose Santana—better known throughout the Rocky Mountain region as Ranger Jose.

Through his passion project and organization, Front Range Dinosaurs, Jose has transformed a deep lifelong love for paleontology and the Jurassic franchise into a mobile, educational experience. As the founder, lead handler, and master puppeteer behind Front Range Dinos, Jose donates his time to worthy community causes, charity events, and local schools, bringing the wonders of the Mesozoic Era directly to young dinosaur enthusiasts.

For our Good COZ segment, COZ Magazine caught up with Ranger Jose to talk about the educational power of puppetry, bringing prehistory to life, and the grassroots community support that keeps his mission rolling.

Bringing realistic, high-end prehistoric puppets and animatronics to life isn't easy—or inexpensive. High-grade puppets, custom ranger gear, and maintenance require continuous investment. To keep his charitable work and free community outreach going strong, Jose relies on a combination of community contributions, grassroots donations, and private event bookings.

When he isn't volunteering his time at non-profit charity events, Front Range Dinos can be booked for private birthday parties, school assemblies, and corporate gatherings. Every private booking directly fuels the organization's ability to travel, acquire new species, and offer free educational appearances to under-resourced youth programs.

"It's been both easy and difficult," Jose candidly admits regarding the journey. "I say it's difficult mainly because of the cost of gear and puppets. But it's easy once you learn the flow of puppetry and realistic movements to bring the puppet to life."

To further expand his reach, Jose is currently completing a dedicated Front Range Dinos project camper van. This custom mobile base will allow him to haul multiple dinosaur puppets, educational props, and upcoming animatronics directly to major cities across Colorado.

"Besides large commercial shows like Jurassic Quest, there aren't a lot of local dinosaur experiences that come to town," Jose says. "I pride myself in providing that magic and entertainment myself."

"If a younger kid sees my baby dinosaur puppets and smiles, genuinely asking their parents if it was real, then I am happy."

For fans looking to step into creature performance or educational outreach, Ranger Jose emphasizes that passion must be paired with real study:

• Know Your Paleontology: "If you want to puppeteer dinosaurs, make sure you learn your species—at least the species you specialize in! Kids will ask detailed questions, and you want to give them real facts."

• Study the Craft: "Watch a lot of experienced puppeteers and ventriloquists to get the subtle head movements, breathing patterns, and physical flow down. That's what makes the puppet feel alive."

• Lead with Kindness: "Take time for everyone. Whether it's a curious child, a laughing adult, or an older couple whispering in wonder as you walk past—stop, engage, and talk to them."

Want to bring Ranger Jose and his baby dinosaurs to your next school event, birthday party, or community fundraiser? Or want to contribute to keeping their educational outreach free for local youth?

• Official Website: www.frontrangedinos.com

• Community Groups: Member of Mile High Multiverse and Elite Empire

An expedition is only as strong as its crew. Ranger Jose wants to highlight three fantastic creators and supporters who keep his spirit high:

• THATMAN (Instagram)

• Akaspiderbro (Instagram)

• 7thsparrowcosplay (Instagram)