The City and County of Denver chose Mr. Malandra to serve as Poet Laureate of Denver International Airport (DIA).  Darrell Anderson, noted Denver artist, recommended Lou after seeing him perform original poetry in concert.

Two pieces were commissioned by the City.  Native and Nomads, a dedication to the more than 22,000 construction workers is the cornerstone bronze piece planned for an outdoor park filled with sculptures of construction workers overlooking the airport.  The second, Stewards of the People, was specially embossed and signed for the thousands of City government employee's who managed the construction of DIA.