Thursday, November 30, 2017
What we know about In-N-Out in Colorado: Number of possible restaurants, when to expect Denver and more
Colorado’s Double-Double dreams are coming true: In-N-Out Burger is officially coming to the state.
The cult-favorite California burger chain, which has been rumored to be coming to Colorado in the past, is under contract to purchase 22 acres in north Colorado Springs, where it will build a distribution center capable of supporting 50 (yes, 50) restaurants within 350 miles of the facility.
The first Colorado store will open in Victory Ridge, a new mixed-use development. A Denver In-N-Out will open at the same time or soon after, said Andrew Klein, principal at Westside Investment Partners, Victory Ridge’s owner.
“This is actually happening. We’re under contract to sell land to In-N-Out Burger,” Klein said. “I’ve had to keep my mouth shut for six weeks now. It was not easy.”
Now the bad news: Klein said we’re still a couple years away from achieving burger bliss. The distribution center and administrative office must be built at Victory Ridge before the restaurants can follow.
In-N-Out spokesman Carl Arena confirmed the news in a statement to The Orange County Register: “In-N-Out Burger is excited to be in the early planning stages of its expansion to the state of Colorado. Colorado Springs is an ideal community for us to locate facilities to serve surrounding markets with fresh ingredients, including meat patties produced locally.”
Denver City councilman Albus Brooks, who hails from southern California and is a self-proclaimed In-N-Out fan, has been lobbying for years to bring the burger chain to Colorado.
“Once a year I sent them an email, some demographic work and why it’s (Colorado) a good fit for them,” Brooks said. “We’re an amazing market for them. I think this is a huge win for Colorado Springs. It’s a big win for the state.”
Brooks said that the stalling issue seemed to be the meat commissaries and where to put them. After all, to keep up the super-fresh quality that In-N-Out is known for, it needs to have production facilities close by to supply the restaurants. He’d suggested Greeley, but Colorado Springs won out.
“That’s gonna be their hub for Colorado,” Colorado Springs’ chief of staff Jeff Greene said of the Victory Ridge development. “When Mayor John Suthers came into office, his emphasis was on building a collaborative environment. You’ve seen a major uptick in investment in Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region. I think having that collaborative environment encourages this type of investment.”
Greene said the city has not had any discussions with In-N-Out about potential economic incentives. “They’re really committed to the Colorado market, and you’ll really see them growing this market over the next few years,” he said.
Earlier this year, Shake Shack announced its expansion into Colorado, with a representative estimating that that burger spot will open in Denver in early 2018. With Shake Shack, Steak ‘n Shake and the homegrown Larkburger and Smashburger, will the local burger market already be saturated by the time In-N-Out gets here? Will we be over hand-cut fries and real ice cream shakes?
Doubtful.
“There’s probably no brand on the food scene in Denver more anticipated than In-N-Out,” said veteran Denver restaurant consultant John Imbergamo. “It really doesn’t matter whether the quality of In-N-Out exceeds some of these other burger guys. It’s the perception. The brand has been so built up in our heads, mostly by its scarcity.”
In-N-Out currently operates more than 320 stores in California, Utah, Texas, Arizona, Oregon and Nevada. Despite its celebrity status in the fast-food burger world, the family-owned chain has been notoriously reluctant to expand, choosing to keep up quality rather than franchising or going public.
Southern Californians know the lore well: Harry and Esther Snyder opened the first drive-thru hamburger stand in California in 1948. When Harry died in 1976, their younger son, Rich, took over as In-N-Out’s president, adding more locations throughout California and expanding into Las Vegas. Their older son, Guy, became vice president.
Then came the tragedies. In 1993, Rich died in a plane crash, and Guy took over until he died of a drug overdose in 1999. Esther ran the company until her death in 2006, and a few years later her only grandchild, Lynsi, took over. Earlier this year, upon her 35th birthday, Lynsi gained full control of the company, making her one of the nation’s youngest billionaires.
In-N-Out spokesman Arena, who is currently traveling around Colorado, said the company is “extremely fortunate to have a number of loyal customers in Colorado and they have been encouraging us to open locations there for some time.”
While there’s no need for those loyal customers to break out the tents and sleeping bags to camp out for the opening yet, the In-N-Out watch is officially on.
[Read More …]
What we know about In-N-Out in Colorado: Number of possible restaurants, when to expect Denver and more
Colorado’s Double-Double dreams are coming true: In-N-Out Burger is officially coming to the state.
The cult-favorite California burger chain, which has been rumored to be coming to Colorado in the past, is under contract to purchase 22 acres in north Colorado Springs, where it will build a distribution center capable of supporting 50 (yes, 50) restaurants within 350 miles of the facility.
The first Colorado store will open in Victory Ridge, a new mixed-use development. A Denver In-N-Out will open at the same time or soon after, said Andrew Klein, principal at Westside Investment Partners, Victory Ridge’s owner.
“This is actually happening. We’re under contract to sell land to In-N-Out Burger,” Klein said. “I’ve had to keep my mouth shut for six weeks now. It was not easy.”
Now the bad news: Klein said we’re still a couple years away from achieving burger bliss. The distribution center and administrative office must be built at Victory Ridge before the restaurants can follow.
In-N-Out spokesman Carl Arena confirmed the news in a statement to The Orange County Register: “In-N-Out Burger is excited to be in the early planning stages of its expansion to the state of Colorado. Colorado Springs is an ideal community for us to locate facilities to serve surrounding markets with fresh ingredients, including meat patties produced locally.”
Denver City councilman Albus Brooks, who hails from southern California and is a self-proclaimed In-N-Out fan, has been lobbying for years to bring the burger chain to Colorado.
“Once a year I sent them an email, some demographic work and why it’s (Colorado) a good fit for them,” Brooks said. “We’re an amazing market for them. I think this is a huge win for Colorado Springs. It’s a big win for the state.”
Brooks said that the stalling issue seemed to be the meat commissaries and where to put them. After all, to keep up the super-fresh quality that In-N-Out is known for, it needs to have production facilities close by to supply the restaurants. He’d suggested Greeley, but Colorado Springs won out.
“That’s gonna be their hub for Colorado,” Colorado Springs’ chief of staff Jeff Greene said of the Victory Ridge development. “When Mayor John Suthers came into office, his emphasis was on building a collaborative environment. You’ve seen a major uptick in investment in Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region. I think having that collaborative environment encourages this type of investment.”
Greene said the city has not had any discussions with In-N-Out about potential economic incentives. “They’re really committed to the Colorado market, and you’ll really see them growing this market over the next few years,” he said.
Earlier this year, Shake Shack announced its expansion into Colorado, with a representative estimating that that burger spot will open in Denver in early 2018. With Shake Shack, Steak ‘n Shake and the homegrown Larkburger and Smashburger, will the local burger market already be saturated by the time In-N-Out gets here? Will we be over hand-cut fries and real ice cream shakes?
Doubtful.
“There’s probably no brand on the food scene in Denver more anticipated than In-N-Out,” said veteran Denver restaurant consultant John Imbergamo. “It really doesn’t matter whether the quality of In-N-Out exceeds some of these other burger guys. It’s the perception. The brand has been so built up in our heads, mostly by its scarcity.”
In-N-Out currently operates more than 320 stores in California, Utah, Texas, Arizona, Oregon and Nevada. Despite its celebrity status in the fast-food burger world, the family-owned chain has been notoriously reluctant to expand, choosing to keep up quality rather than franchising or going public.
Southern Californians know the lore well: Harry and Esther Snyder opened the first drive-thru hamburger stand in California in 1948. When Harry died in 1976, their younger son, Rich, took over as In-N-Out’s president, adding more locations throughout California and expanding into Las Vegas. Their older son, Guy, became vice president.
Then came the tragedies. In 1993, Rich died in a plane crash, and Guy took over until he died of a drug overdose in 1999. Esther ran the company until her death in 2006, and a few years later her only grandchild, Lynsi, took over. Earlier this year, upon her 35th birthday, Lynsi gained full control of the company, making her one of the nation’s youngest billionaires.
In-N-Out spokesman Arena, who is currently traveling around Colorado, said the company is “extremely fortunate to have a number of loyal customers in Colorado and they have been encouraging us to open locations there for some time.”
While there’s no need for those loyal customers to break out the tents and sleeping bags to camp out for the opening yet, the In-N-Out watch is officially on.
[Read More …]
Wazee Supper Club, the “granddaddy of Lodo,” is closing
The Wazee Supper Club — a landmark Denver restaurant that became known as the “granddaddy of Lodo” — will close this winter.
The Wazee will be replaced by Morin, a contemporary French restaurant, which will open in the late spring, according to a press release.
The Wazee — a LoDo mainstay where customers (including former President Barack Obama) scarfed pizza during a 40-year history — opened in lower downtown Denver when the area was a desolate former commercial and industrial hub.
Denver’s Culinary Creative Group — the team behind Señor Bear, Bar Dough, and Highland Tap and Burger restaurants — will partner with Denver developer and preservationist Charlie Woolley on Morin.
The Morin team, Juan Padro, Max Mackissock, and Katie O’Shea, plan to maintain and restore as much of the landmark building as possible.
“This space was something I really admired,” Padro told The Denver Post. “We are not going to touch the outside of the building, we will make some changes inside. We want to honor the space and bring it back to some former glory, make a really nice space that is really of the neighborhood.”
Padro wouldn’t disclose how much the group paid for the property, telling The Post that “there is still some bank stuff that needs to happen.”
When Detroit natives Angelo and Jim Karagas founded the Wazee Supper Club in 1974, the surrounding area was a desolate haven for urban pioneers and artists who occupied lofts in brick buildings that were reminders of Denver’s storied past.
The Wynkoop Brewery, developed by future Denver mayor and Colorado governor John Hickenlooper, and other businesses followed, and by the time Coors Field opened in 1995 the area had morphed into a destination area where clubs, restaurants, bars and other businesses lined the streets.
“For decades, this restaurant and neighborhood have acted as a hub for business people, tourists, politicians, athletes, students, and residents alike,” Padro said in a press release.
Wazee tempted customers with a menu that featured pizza, calzones, appetizers, soups and greens, burgers, all served up in a space where large windows offered street views and flooring was a black-and-white tile checkerboard.
In 2014, during a stop in Denver, former President Obama dined at the Wazee with five Colorado residents who had written to the White House and shared their stories of struggle in an economy still recovering from a nationwide recession.
Following the meal, he strolled Lodo, shaking hands and eventually playing pool with Hickenlooper.
In 2015, Roadhouse Hospitality Group, owned by the Shipp brothers, took over renovating the Wazee while retaining some of its most significant features.
The new restaurant is named after Mackissock’s mother, and will offer a menu of classic dishes as well as riffs on French cuisine with seasonal and French ingredients, the press release said.
[Read More …]
Colorado holidays 2017: Family-friendly events for all ages this season
Finding the right balance between sweet and warm, nostalgic and modern, is a perpetual challenge when it comes to holiday activities.
Options abound for high-end, curated experiences, but they tend to be expensive. On the other end of the glittery spectrum are the sappy, lazy invocations of holidays past geared to exploit your family’s memories.
Fortunately, Coloradans are hearty and adventuresome, honoring traditions while embracing newcomers and their ideas — which is reflected in the quantity and quality of our favorite holiday arts, crafts and entertainment offerings.
Here’s your one-stop shop for planning all the best caroling, ice-carving, gift-buying and merry strolling over the next few weeks.
Christmas Mercado
Hours: 6-9 p.m. Dec. 1 (First Friday opening), then Wednesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Fridays noon-5 p.m. and Saturdays noon-4 p.m., through Dec. 23
Price: Free
Where: Chicano Humanities and Arts Council, 772 Santa Fe Dr.
Website: chacweb.org
The Art District on Santa Fe’s Chicano Humanities and Arts Council will kick off its annual feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe and Christmas Mercado on Dec. 1 (a.k.a. First Friday), a show and sale that includes items created by CHAC member artists and others from Mexico, as well as South and Central America. All proceeds go to charity, and traditional tamales will be served.
Celebrate Kwanzaa
Hours: 2 p.m., Dec. 26-30
Price: Free
Where: Various Denver Public Library locations (see below)
Website: denverlibrary.org
Kwanzaa, which honors Africa’s first-fruits harvest tradition, comes to Denver Public libraries across the metro area with cross-cultural activities — including music and dance — and light refreshments at Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library (on Dec. 26), Ford-Warren Branch Library (Dec. 27), Green Valley Ranch Branch Library (Dec. 28), Pauline Robinson Branch Library (Dec. 29) and Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales Branch Library (Dec. 30) — all at 2 p.m. The free holiday events are joined by others across the DPL system, including Christmas tea, cookie and craft making workshops and more. Visit denverlibrary.org for full details.
Dolls’ Tea Party at the Oxford Hotel
When: Sunday, Dec. 3; seatings at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Where: The Oxford Hotel, 1600 17th St.
Price: $60 for adults (13+); $45 for children (under 12)
Website: theoxfordhotel.com/our-hotel/dolls-tea-party
History looms large (but benevolently) at this upscale, 50-plus-year-old downtown event. Get the kids dolled up for the performance of “The Woodsman and the Fairy,” with ballerinas from the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities, and stay for the hot cocoa, tea sandwiches and other treats — as well as a meet-and-greet and photos with the dancers.
Denver Christkindl Market
Hours: Nov. 18-Dec. 23
Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Extended weekend hours, Dec. 18-23
Price: Free
Where: Skyline Park, on either side of 16th and Arapahoe Streets
Website: denverchristkindlmarket.com
The fixture along Denver’s busiest pedestrian corridor tries to be — and often succeeds at being — all things to all people. Need a last-minute gift? More than a dozen craft vendors have got you covered. Want to listen to live polka music, German traditionals, steel drums or a choir? Live entertainment rotates in and out of the cozy tent. Hungry and thirsty? Chocolates, roasted nuts, pastries and beverages (including mulled spiced wine) will be on hand. You may never want to leave.
Winter on the Mountain
Hours: Dec. 18-Jan. 5, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. (closed Christmas Day)
Price: Winter Funday Pass (includes tram, cave tours and attractions). $42 for adults; $37 for children aged 3-12; Iron Mountain Tramway is $16 for adults and $11 for children, includes visit with Santa and view of lights.
Where: Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, 51000 Two Rivers Plaza Road in Glenwood Springs
Website: glenwoodcaverns.com/winter-mountain-on-the-mountain
Snow sports aren’t the only reason to brave I-70 this season: Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park strings up a hefty 500,000 lights (one of the largest displays on the Western Slope) along with its massive, musical Christmas tree, tram rides, multiple fire pits, live entertainment and the visits from The Man in the Red Suit.
Wassail Days in Frisco
When: Dec. 2-10
Where: 1 Main St., Frisco
Website: townoffrisco.com
Frisco’s Wassail Days is about more than its namesake beverage — a hot, spiced cider than will be served along Main Street by more than a dozen businesses (with a bar-crawl-inspired punch card to boot). There’s also breakfast with Santa, a belly-warming “Soup Cup Classic” at Frisco Adventure Park, lighting and tree displays, and more. But if you taste at least a dozen types of the secret-recipe drink and fill up your “12 Sips of Wassail Card,” you get the commemorative Frisco Wassail Days mug, so that all may know your completionist prowess.
Golden’s Hometown Candlelight Walk
When: 6-9 p.m. Dec. 1
Where: Foothills Art Center, 809 15th St.
Price: Free
Website: cityofgolden.net/event/candlelight-walk-2017
As traditional and straightforward as it gets, this event invites people to gather — candles in hand — and sing carols as they walk leisurely through historic downtown Golden. The route ends in front of the Golden Visitors Center at 10th Street and Washington Avenue for a festive tree lighting, followed by a short fireworks show above the Golden Hotel, and hot cider and a visit with Santa at the Golden Visitors Center. Nearby Clear Creek History Park will also offer roasted chestnuts and a trail of holiday lights.
Castle Rock Season of the Star
When: Saturdays through Dec. 24
Price: Free (not including refreshments, craft vendors)
Where: Festival Park, 199 Perry St. in Castle Rock
Website: crgov.com/2622/season-of-the-star
The series returns this year with WinterFest (beer, live music, 5K and bike races, food, etc.) from 1 to 5 p.m. on Dec.2; a snuggle-worthy “Storytellers and S’mores” event 5-7 p.m. on Dec. 9; the goofy, costume-happy Reindeer Games (think train and sleigh rides, outdoor tests of skill, etc.) at the amphitheater at Philip S. Miller Park; and the Christmas Eve candle-lighting hosted by Calvary Castle Rock, from 5-6 p.m. on Dec. 24.
Olde Town Arvada’s Lagniappe
When: 5:30-8:30 p.m., Dec. 4
Where: 57th Avenue and Olde Wadsworth Blvd.
Price: Most events free; prices vary for some activities
Website: arvada.org
Lagniappe (lawn-yahp) is an excuse for local businesses to stay open late, with a free performance from the Arvada Chorale (around 5:45 p.m.) followed by a tree lighting by the mayor in the city’s square at 6 p.m. Carriage rides around Olde Town (5:30-8:30 p.m.), a chili cook-off that benefits Arvada Fire (6-8 p.m.), visits with Santa at the library (5:30-7:30 p.m.) and the unusual (but very cool) Telescope Night, sponsored by Majestic View Nature Center in the square after dark, will also be available.
Holidays in the Hangar
When: Dec. 10, noon-4 p.m.
Price: $15 for adults; $11.50 for seniors, active military and veterans; $8.50 for kids aged 4-16; free for 3 and under
Where: Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, 7711 E. Academy Blvd.
Website: wingsmuseum.org/holidays
This third annual event takes place amid one of the more impressive collections of vintage planes in the region. Visit with Santa, Mr. Claus and the elves (including photo ops with live “reindeer”), write letters to the North Pole gang, make crafts, play holiday games, visit the hot chocolate bar, check out pedal planes and open cockpits, watch a holiday movie in the on-site theater and more.
Colorado Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”
Hours: Nov. 24-Dec. 24; various times
Price: $30-$155
Where: Ellie Caulkins Opera House, 1385 Curtis St.
Website: coloradoballet.org
There are many “Nutcrackers” in Colorado — and an increasingly strong chance of finding a quality one, given the raised bar for Front Range culture in recent years. But few can step to Colorado Ballet’s version, which stands (and twirls, and bows) as the biggest, best-attended and most glitzy in Colorado. From the costumes to the live music, everything is buffed to a shine, and the festive urban atmosphere that surrounds the Denver Performing Arts Complex offers plenty of pre- and post-show activities.
57th Annual Georgetown Christmas Market
When: Dec. 2-3, 9-10
Price: Free
Where: Historic Georgetown,
Website: historicgeorgetown.org
This outdoor, European-style marketplace boasts free and live entertainment throughout the day, hot roasted chesnuts, horse-drawn wagon rides, an appearance by St. Nicholas (not Santa, mind you, but St. Nicholas), the Santa Lucia Children’s Procession and Christmas-themed museum tours of surrounding historic structures — all designed to highlight how (surprisingly) little the cozy, brick-heavy, Victorian-inspired town has changed over the past century.
Brunch with Father Christmas
When: 9 a.m.-noon Dec. 2
Price: $16 for children aged 3-13, $25 for adults.
Where: Four Mile Historic Park, 715 S. Forest St.
Website: fourmilepark.org/events
Start a day of decorating, cookie-baking or scenic strolling with a brunch at this 12-acre historic site, which features a cozy, seasonally appropriate setting (complete with a fireplace) and all the usual “holiday merrymaking,” according to Four Mile’s website.
Santa Express Train
When: Through Dec. 30 (closed Christmas), up to three daily departures
Price: $30-$74
Where: Royal Gorge Railroad, Santa Fe Depot, Highway 50 & 3rd St. in Cañon City
Website: royalgorgeroute.com
Whether it’s snowy or not, kids will enjoy visiting the “North Pole” along with the roughly 20,000 other people each year who ride the train. Royal Gorge pulls out all the winter-wonderland stops as kids are encouraged to wear pajamas while enjoying Christmas music, assorted treats, hot cocoa and, of course, Santa making his way through the train.
Buena Vista’s Christmas Opening
When: All day, Dec. 2
Price: Free general admission; some activities/refreshments for additional cost
Where: Various locations in downtown Buena Vista
Website: buenavistacolorado.org/bv-christmas-opening
If you’re eager to pack a couple weeks of Christmas cheer into a single day, Buena Vista’s Christmas Opening is your best bet. This sprawling collection of events includes a bar crawl-style “chocolate walk,” the city’s Festival of Trees, a free screening of “The Polar Express,” a chili cook-off, equine parade, free Santa visits and photos, crafts and caroling throughout the town, the Polar Plunge in the Arkansas River (brrrrr), live entertainment, food, drink, the city’s parade of lights and more.
Didn’t see your event? Visit our event calendar to browse additional listings.
Also, click here for a roundup of holiday lighting events around Colorado including Denver Zoo Lights, 9News Parade of Lights, downtown Denver events and more.
[Read More …]
Colorado holidays 2017: Family-friendly events for all ages this season
Finding the right balance between sweet and warm, nostalgic and modern, is a perpetual challenge when it comes to holiday activities.
Options abound for high-end, curated experiences, but they tend to be expensive. On the other end of the glittery spectrum are the sappy, lazy invocations of holidays past geared to exploit your family’s memories.
Fortunately, Coloradans are hearty and adventuresome, honoring traditions while embracing newcomers and their ideas — which is reflected in the quantity and quality of our favorite holiday arts, crafts and entertainment offerings.
Here’s your one-stop shop for planning all the best caroling, ice-carving, gift-buying and merry strolling over the next few weeks.
Christmas Mercado
Hours: 6-9 p.m. Dec. 1 (First Friday opening), then Wednesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Fridays noon-5 p.m. and Saturdays noon-4 p.m., through Dec. 23
Price: Free
Where: Chicano Humanities and Arts Council, 772 Santa Fe Dr.
Website: chacweb.org
The Art District on Santa Fe’s Chicano Humanities and Arts Council will kick off its annual feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe and Christmas Mercado on Dec. 1 (a.k.a. First Friday), a show and sale that includes items created by CHAC member artists and others from Mexico, as well as South and Central America. All proceeds go to charity, and traditional tamales will be served.
Celebrate Kwanzaa
Hours: 2 p.m., Dec. 26-30
Price: Free
Where: Various Denver Public Library locations (see below)
Website: denverlibrary.org
Kwanzaa, which honors Africa’s first-fruits harvest tradition, comes to Denver Public libraries across the metro area with cross-cultural activities — including music and dance — and light refreshments at Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library (on Dec. 26), Ford-Warren Branch Library (Dec. 27), Green Valley Ranch Branch Library (Dec. 28), Pauline Robinson Branch Library (Dec. 29) and Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales Branch Library (Dec. 30) — all at 2 p.m. The free holiday events are joined by others across the DPL system, including Christmas tea, cookie and craft making workshops and more. Visit denverlibrary.org for full details.
Dolls’ Tea Party at the Oxford Hotel
When: Sunday, Dec. 3; seatings at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Where: The Oxford Hotel, 1600 17th St.
Price: $60 for adults (13+); $45 for children (under 12)
Website: theoxfordhotel.com/our-hotel/dolls-tea-party
History looms large (but benevolently) at this upscale, 50-plus-year-old downtown event. Get the kids dolled up for the performance of “The Woodsman and the Fairy,” with ballerinas from the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities, and stay for the hot cocoa, tea sandwiches and other treats — as well as a meet-and-greet and photos with the dancers.
Denver Christkindl Market
Hours: Nov. 18-Dec. 23
Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Extended weekend hours, Dec. 18-23
Price: Free
Where: Skyline Park, on either side of 16th and Arapahoe Streets
Website: denverchristkindlmarket.com
The fixture along Denver’s busiest pedestrian corridor tries to be — and often succeeds at being — all things to all people. Need a last-minute gift? More than a dozen craft vendors have got you covered. Want to listen to live polka music, German traditionals, steel drums or a choir? Live entertainment rotates in and out of the cozy tent. Hungry and thirsty? Chocolates, roasted nuts, pastries and beverages (including mulled spiced wine) will be on hand. You may never want to leave.
Winter on the Mountain
Hours: Dec. 18-Jan. 5, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. (closed Christmas Day)
Price: Winter Funday Pass (includes tram, cave tours and attractions). $42 for adults; $37 for children aged 3-12; Iron Mountain Tramway is $16 for adults and $11 for children, includes visit with Santa and view of lights.
Where: Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, 51000 Two Rivers Plaza Road in Glenwood Springs
Website: glenwoodcaverns.com/winter-mountain-on-the-mountain
Snow sports aren’t the only reason to brave I-70 this season: Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park strings up a hefty 500,000 lights (one of the largest displays on the Western Slope) along with its massive, musical Christmas tree, tram rides, multiple fire pits, live entertainment and the visits from The Man in the Red Suit.
Wassail Days in Frisco
When: Dec. 2-10
Where: 1 Main St., Frisco
Website: townoffrisco.com
Frisco’s Wassail Days is about more than its namesake beverage — a hot, spiced cider than will be served along Main Street by more than a dozen businesses (with a bar-crawl-inspired punch card to boot). There’s also breakfast with Santa, a belly-warming “Soup Cup Classic” at Frisco Adventure Park, lighting and tree displays, and more. But if you taste at least a dozen types of the secret-recipe drink and fill up your “12 Sips of Wassail Card,” you get the commemorative Frisco Wassail Days mug, so that all may know your completionist prowess.
Golden’s Hometown Candlelight Walk
When: 6-9 p.m. Dec. 1
Where: Foothills Art Center, 809 15th St.
Price: Free
Website: cityofgolden.net/event/candlelight-walk-2017
As traditional and straightforward as it gets, this event invites people to gather — candles in hand — and sing carols as they walk leisurely through historic downtown Golden. The route ends in front of the Golden Visitors Center at 10th Street and Washington Avenue for a festive tree lighting, followed by a short fireworks show above the Golden Hotel, and hot cider and a visit with Santa at the Golden Visitors Center. Nearby Clear Creek History Park will also offer roasted chestnuts and a trail of holiday lights.
Castle Rock Season of the Star
When: Saturdays through Dec. 24
Price: Free (not including refreshments, craft vendors)
Where: Festival Park, 199 Perry St. in Castle Rock
Website: crgov.com/2622/season-of-the-star
The series returns this year with WinterFest (beer, live music, 5K and bike races, food, etc.) from 1 to 5 p.m. on Dec.2; a snuggle-worthy “Storytellers and S’mores” event 5-7 p.m. on Dec. 9; the goofy, costume-happy Reindeer Games (think train and sleigh rides, outdoor tests of skill, etc.) at the amphitheater at Philip S. Miller Park; and the Christmas Eve candle-lighting hosted by Calvary Castle Rock, from 5-6 p.m. on Dec. 24.
Olde Town Arvada’s Lagniappe
When: 5:30-8:30 p.m., Dec. 4
Where: 57th Avenue and Olde Wadsworth Blvd.
Price: Most events free; prices vary for some activities
Website: arvada.org
Lagniappe (lawn-yahp) is an excuse for local businesses to stay open late, with a free performance from the Arvada Chorale (around 5:45 p.m.) followed by a tree lighting by the mayor in the city’s square at 6 p.m. Carriage rides around Olde Town (5:30-8:30 p.m.), a chili cook-off that benefits Arvada Fire (6-8 p.m.), visits with Santa at the library (5:30-7:30 p.m.) and the unusual (but very cool) Telescope Night, sponsored by Majestic View Nature Center in the square after dark, will also be available.
Holidays in the Hangar
When: Dec. 10, noon-4 p.m.
Price: $15 for adults; $11.50 for seniors, active military and veterans; $8.50 for kids aged 4-16; free for 3 and under
Where: Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, 7711 E. Academy Blvd.
Website: wingsmuseum.org/holidays
This third annual event takes place amid one of the more impressive collections of vintage planes in the region. Visit with Santa, Mr. Claus and the elves (including photo ops with live “reindeer”), write letters to the North Pole gang, make crafts, play holiday games, visit the hot chocolate bar, check out pedal planes and open cockpits, watch a holiday movie in the on-site theater and more.
Colorado Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”
Hours: Nov. 24-Dec. 24; various times
Price: $30-$155
Where: Ellie Caulkins Opera House, 1385 Curtis St.
Website: coloradoballet.org
There are many “Nutcrackers” in Colorado — and an increasingly strong chance of finding a quality one, given the raised bar for Front Range culture in recent years. But few can step to Colorado Ballet’s version, which stands (and twirls, and bows) as the biggest, best-attended and most glitzy in Colorado. From the costumes to the live music, everything is buffed to a shine, and the festive urban atmosphere that surrounds the Denver Performing Arts Complex offers plenty of pre- and post-show activities.
57th Annual Georgetown Christmas Market
When: Dec. 2-3, 9-10
Price: Free
Where: Historic Georgetown,
Website: historicgeorgetown.org
This outdoor, European-style marketplace boasts free and live entertainment throughout the day, hot roasted chesnuts, horse-drawn wagon rides, an appearance by St. Nicholas (not Santa, mind you, but St. Nicholas), the Santa Lucia Children’s Procession and Christmas-themed museum tours of surrounding historic structures — all designed to highlight how (surprisingly) little the cozy, brick-heavy, Victorian-inspired town has changed over the past century.
Brunch with Father Christmas
When: 9 a.m.-noon Dec. 2
Price: $16 for children aged 3-13, $25 for adults.
Where: Four Mile Historic Park, 715 S. Forest St.
Website: fourmilepark.org/events
Start a day of decorating, cookie-baking or scenic strolling with a brunch at this 12-acre historic site, which features a cozy, seasonally appropriate setting (complete with a fireplace) and all the usual “holiday merrymaking,” according to Four Mile’s website.
Santa Express Train
When: Through Dec. 30 (closed Christmas), up to three daily departures
Price: $30-$74
Where: Royal Gorge Railroad, Santa Fe Depot, Highway 50 & 3rd St. in Cañon City
Website: royalgorgeroute.com
Whether it’s snowy or not, kids will enjoy visiting the “North Pole” along with the roughly 20,000 other people each year who ride the train. Royal Gorge pulls out all the winter-wonderland stops as kids are encouraged to wear pajamas while enjoying Christmas music, assorted treats, hot cocoa and, of course, Santa making his way through the train.
Buena Vista’s Christmas Opening
When: All day, Dec. 2
Price: Free general admission; some activities/refreshments for additional cost
Where: Various locations in downtown Buena Vista
Website: buenavistacolorado.org/bv-christmas-opening
If you’re eager to pack a couple weeks of Christmas cheer into a single day, Buena Vista’s Christmas Opening is your best bet. This sprawling collection of events includes a bar crawl-style “chocolate walk,” the city’s Festival of Trees, a free screening of “The Polar Express,” a chili cook-off, equine parade, free Santa visits and photos, crafts and caroling throughout the town, the Polar Plunge in the Arkansas River (brrrrr), live entertainment, food, drink, the city’s parade of lights and more.
Didn’t see your event? Visit our event calendar to browse additional listings.
Also, click here for a roundup of holiday lighting events around Colorado including Denver Zoo Lights, 9News Parade of Lights, downtown Denver events and more.
[Read More …]
Wazee Supper Club, the “granddaddy of LoDo,” is closing
The Wazee Supper Club — a landmark Denver restaurant that became known as the “granddaddy of LoDo” — will close this winter.
The Wazee will be replaced by Morin, a contemporary French restaurant, which will open in the late spring, according to a press release.
The Wazee — a LoDo mainstay where customers (including former President Barack Obama) scarfed pizza during a 40-year history — opened in lower downtown Denver when the area was a desolate former commercial and industrial hub.
Denver’s Culinary Creative Group — the team behind Señor Bear, Bar Dough, and Highland Tap and Burger restaurants — will partner with Denver developer and preservationist Charlie Woolley on Morin.
The Morin team, Juan Padro, Max Mackissock, and Katie O’Shea, plan to maintain and restore as much of the landmark building as possible.
“”This space was something I really admired,” Padro told The Denver Post. “We are not going to touch the outside of the building, we will make some changes inside. We want to honor the space and bring it back to some former glory, make a really nice space that is really of the neighborhood.”
Padro wouldn’t disclose how much the group paid for the property, telling The Post that “there is still some bank stuff that needs to happen.”
When Detroit natives Angelo and Jim Karagas founded the Wazee Supper Club in 1974, the surrounding area was a desolate haven for urban pioneers and artists who occupied lofts in brick buildings that were reminders of Denver’s storied past.
The Wynkoop Brewery, developed by future Denver mayor and Colorado governor John Hickenlooper, and other businesses followed, and by the time Coors Field opened in 1995 the area had morphed into a destination area where clubs, restaurants, bars and other businesses lined the streets.
“For decades, this restaurant and neighborhood have acted as a hub for business people, tourists, politicians, athletes, students, and residents alike,” Padro said in a press release.
Wazee tempted customers with a menu that featured pizza, calzones, appetizers, soups and greens, burgers, all served up in a space where large windows offered street views and flooring was a black-and-white tile checkerboard.
In 2014, during a stop in Denver, former President Obama dined at the Wazee with five Colorado residents who had written to the White House and shared their stories of struggle in an economy still recovering from a nationwide recession.
Following the meal, he strolled LoDo, shaking hands and eventually playing pool with Hickenlooper.
In 2015, Roadhouse Hospitality Group, owned by the Shipp brothers, took over renovating the Wazee while retaining some of its most significant features.
The new restaurant is named after Mackissock’s mother, and will offer a menu of classic dishes as well as riffs on French cuisine with seasonal and French ingredients, the press release said.
[Read More …]
Wazee Supper Club, the “granddaddy of LoDo,” is closing
The Wazee Supper Club — a landmark Denver restaurant that became known as the “granddaddy of LoDo” — will close this winter.
The Wazee will be replaced by Morin, a contemporary French restaurant, which will open in the late spring, according to a press release.
The Wazee — a LoDo mainstay where customers (including former President Barack Obama) scarfed pizza during a 40-year history — opened in lower downtown Denver when the area was a desolate former commercial and industrial hub.
Denver’s Culinary Creative Group — the team behind Señor Bear, Bar Dough, and Highland Tap and Burger restaurants — will partner with Denver developer and preservationist Charlie Woolley on Morin.
The Morin team, Juan Padro, Max Mackissock, and Katie O’Shea, plan to maintain and restore as much of the landmark building as possible.
“”This space was something I really admired,” Padro told The Denver Post. “We are not going to touch the outside of the building, we will make some changes inside. We want to honor the space and bring it back to some former glory, make a really nice space that is really of the neighborhood.”
Padro wouldn’t disclose how much the group paid for the property, telling The Post that “there is still some bank stuff that needs to happen.”
When Detroit natives Angelo and Jim Karagas founded the Wazee Supper Club in 1974, the surrounding area was a desolate haven for urban pioneers and artists who occupied lofts in brick buildings that were reminders of Denver’s storied past.
The Wynkoop Brewery, developed by future Denver mayor and Colorado governor John Hickenlooper, and other businesses followed, and by the time Coors Field opened in 1995 the area had morphed into a destination area where clubs, restaurants, bars and other businesses lined the streets.
“For decades, this restaurant and neighborhood have acted as a hub for business people, tourists, politicians, athletes, students, and residents alike,” Padro said in a press release.
Wazee tempted customers with a menu that featured pizza, calzones, appetizers, soups and greens, burgers, all served up in a space where large windows offered street views and flooring was a black-and-white tile checkerboard.
In 2014, during a stop in Denver, former President Obama dined at the Wazee with five Colorado residents who had written to the White House and shared their stories of struggle in an economy still recovering from a nationwide recession.
Following the meal, he strolled LoDo, shaking hands and eventually playing pool with Hickenlooper.
In 2015, Roadhouse Hospitality Group, owned by the Shipp brothers, took over renovating the Wazee while retaining some of its most significant features.
The new restaurant is named after Mackissock’s mother, and will offer a menu of classic dishes as well as riffs on French cuisine with seasonal and French ingredients, the press release said.
[Read More …]
Colorado Gives Day: 6 small art nonprofits that deserve your support
Colorado Gives Day can be stressful for people who want to lend a hand to charity as the year comes to a close. And the problem isn’t deciding how much you might donate to the annual fund drive for regional nonprofits — your accountant can help you work that out so you get the biggest deduction possible on your tax return.
The difficulty comes in deciding who should get your money. Should it go to a nonprofit that looks after health care for kids, or another that finds shelter for the homeless? Do you want to boost a museum that sponsors after-school programs, or a hard-working orchestra or theater company that entertains the masses on the slimmest of budgets?
Because I write about culture, I get a close-up look at many of the things that go on in the city’s art, music, stage and design scene. Every year I try to point out nonprofits in that area that people might not automatically think of when it’s time to write that check. I look for groups that are new and unknown, or that are just hitting their stride, or for organizations that have reached higher in the past year to make Denver a more interesting place to live.
Mostly, I look for potential: What groups are on the cusp of doing really important work and might succeed best if they just had a little more help?
Here are a few options for this Dec. 5.
BuCu West
BuCu West might be an unusual choice for folks looking to support art-related causes. It’s a nonprofit development association working on social and economic prosperity along Morrison Road in and around the Westwood neighborhood. But Westwood is Denver’s next target for gentrification and a chance for the city, finally, to get its inevitable urban renewal right. BuCu recognizes and supports “artists” broadly defined — people who make arts and crafts, but also stylists, chefs and other creative types — from a business angle, helping them find space, prosper and stay in the neighborhood. It recognizes that culture and commerce operate together to make a place livable, and that it is just as important to paint murals and plant trees as it is to lure investment in housing and office space. Info: bucuwest.com.
ArtHyve
ArtHyve is a new organization with an ambitious goal: “to celebrate, preserve and document” the creative output of artists across all disciplines in Denver and Colorado. This is a crucial effort right now because the region is flourishing. Painters, poets and musicians are making top-level work, and much of it will be lost unless it is documented and archived. ArtHyve puts on exhibits and public programs, but its real potential lies in the assistance it gives artists in navigating the digital tools they need to preserve their work for the future. ArtHyve takes creativity in Denver seriously; it doesn’t just put us on the map, it also places us into the history books. At least, that’s its potential. Info: arthyve.org.
Art from Ashes
Art from Ashes helps young people in the community who need it the most — kids traumatized by neglect, poverty and abuse. Using artful devices like poetry, drawing and performance, the group goes where its services are needed the most, into detention centers, schools and other places, encouraging self-expression, personal progress and goal-setting. Art form Ashes is lean, relentless and ambitious in its work, and this year it brought the right kind of attention to Denver, winning a National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award from the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities. Info: artfromashes.org.
The Kirkland Museum
The Kirkland is one of Denver’s most fascinating — and overlooked — places, even though its collection of paintings and decorative objects is international-class. That will change in March when it opens its new headquarters in the Golden Triangle, just a few steps away from the Denver Art Museum and the Clyfford Still Museum. This is a major move for a cultural institution that has long flown under the radar and a huge uplift for Denver, which will benefit not just from a new museum, but also from the attention and tourism the new Kirkland will inspire. The Kirkland is giving big-time to the city and deserves a little give-back. Info: kirklandmuseum.org.
Denver Architectural Foundation
Denver is experiencing the biggest economic boom in its history, and the city — block-by-block, neighborhood-by-neighborhood — is being bulldozed and born again. The Denver Architectural Foundation is in a key position to be the conscience of all that construction. Its programs, in public schools and, most notably, the annual Doors Open Denver weekend, remind residents that there are architectural jewels all around us, and that serves as a call to preserve the best buildings we have. If Denver is to grow as a design-forward city (and that has, too often, not been the case) education is key. Developers need to be reminded that what they build impacts us all, now and into the future.Info: denverarchitecture.org.
Newman Center Presents
The Newman Center is anything but an obvious target for your giving, despite the fact that it fills an important hole in the city’s cultural scene by presenting dance troupes, music ensembles and jazz artists from around the globe. If the Newman Center wasn’t in business, Denver would simply miss out on seeing some of the most important artists living today. Because the Newman Center is part of the University of Denver, and works closely with students, people assume it has all the assistance it needs. But Newman Center Presents is an independent operator, and the outside help it gets from patrons keeps it moving forward and expanding its repertoire, as it did this year by adding more quality programming for kids. Info: newmancenterpresents.com.
[Read More …]
Distributors Discuss Benefits of Sexual Wellness Education
Distributors play an important role in the pleasure products sector, helping to get the products from manufacturers to retailers and ultimately, to consumers.
[Read More …]
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
Despite record warmth in Denver and scant mountain powder, World Cup snow good to go in Beaver Creek
BEAVER CREEK — There isn’t much natural snow in the high mountains, which are speckled with white rather than being blanketed the way skiers would prefer to see them. Fortunately for the world’s best downhillers, who are here for the annual “Birds of Prey” World Cup races, natural snow isn’t a necessity.
Racers actually prefer man-made snow, and they are raving about the quality of the course for racing on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. They had their first official downhill training session Wednesday.
“It’s great, it’s perfect,” said the top U.S. downhiller, Californian Travis Ganong. “It’s really good snow, it’s as good as it gets.”
Recreational skiers and riders aren’t so fortunate. Only two trails are open for free skiing here. Vail has only one.
Covering a downhill race course with man-made snow is no mean feat. The course is 1.6 miles long with a vertical drop of almost 2,500 feet. Average speeds exceed 60 mph, reaching 75 mph in the fastest sections.
“This is always very consistent here,” said Utahn Steven Nyman. “With the high altitude, it always gets cold at night. It’s great.”
Since becoming a regular December stop for the World Cup downhillers in 1997, Beaver Creek has been known for consistently producing great racing conditions on one of the world’s most respected downhill tracks.
“The man-made snow in Colorado is always really dense and dry, and it’s always really fun to ski on,” Ganong said. “They don’t need natural snow here to have a good race. Luckily they have the (sub-freezing) temperatures to make enough snow.”
Despite often-challenging weather so early in the season, Beaver Creek has had a remarkable record for being able to stage races. Only in 2001 and 2016 was the resort unable to make sufficient snow for racing. The cancellation last year was tough to take because Beaver Creek is the only U.S. resort that hosts men’s World Cup races. Outside of Beaver Creek and Canada’s Lake Louise, the men race the rest of the season in Europe.
“It was a huge blow to not come here last year and miss the U.S. race,” said Ganong, who won a silver medal when the world championships were held here in 2015. “It’s awesome to be back.”
The men’s downhill schedule began last week at Lake Louise, a resort in Alberta where it rained for three days. Ganong called conditions there “the most garbage, worst snow ever.” Prior to Lake Louise, the Americans had successful training at Copper Mountain.
“It’s nice to feel how the skis react and get some good feelings on the hill again,” Ganong said. “It’s in perfect shape.”
The men will race super-G on Friday, downhill on Saturday, and giant slalom on Sunday.
[Read More …]
Tuesday, November 28, 2017
Manufacturers Empower Sexual Wellness, Pleasure With Toys, Education
More and more, manufacturers of sex toys are marketing themselves not only from an erotic standpoint, but also from the standpoint of health and wellness and sex education.
[Read More …]
Monday, November 27, 2017
UCHealth rolls out campaign to motivate men to take care of themselves
November is men’s health awareness month, and UCHealth is spreading the word. The care system launched a campaign called “MANtenance” to address the importance of physical health and stress management and to talk about topics like masculinity — subjects many believe need greater emphasis in modern life
While more men are paying attention to and talking about health issues like prostate and testicular cancer, MANtenance encourages men to focus on and maintain their everyday health, as well. UCHealth recruited C.J. Anderson of the Denver Broncos, Gabriel Landeskog of the Colorado Avalanche and University of Colorado men’s basketball head coach Tad Boyle to serve as spokesmen for the campaign. Union Station, Coors Field, Sports Authority Field at Mile High, the Pepsi Center and Elitch Gardens are among the local landmarks lit with blue lights to draw awareness to the effort. UCHealth held free events including a flu shot clinic, a yoga session with Anderson and a workout and panel discussion at Denver’s Fitness in the City gym. Chris Harris of the Broncos, UCHealth physician Justin Ross and Tyrone Beverly, founder of Im’Unique, a yoga program, were featured speakers at the event.
About 40 men gathered at Fitness in the City to exercise with Eric Waller, the gym’s co-owner. They rotated among workout stations and completed push-ups, squats and medicine ball exercises. The workout was intense. One man broke a medicine ball when he slammed it on the floor.
“Yeah man, let’s go! We need a new ball over here,” Waller, a veteran personal trainer, yelled over booming rap music.
Waller said regular exercise benefits his daily life by boosting his health and helping him relieve stress. He said it helps him maintain a positive attitude and improves his relationships with loved ones, co-workers and neighbors. He described how he’s seen exercise help people become more comfortable with themselves and help lead them to new, more positive lives.
“You see people grow as a person and kind of break out of their shell. They become more a part of their community. They become more of an extrovert. You see them start to create a bigger network of friends, and that just leads to benefits in all aspects of their life,” Waller said.
Denver resident Matt Ucci participated in the Fitness in the City workout and panel discussion. Ucci exercises five times a week, lifting weights and working out with the November Project — a group of people who exercise together and hold each other accountable to show up to their scheduled workouts.
“(Exercise) is a good mental release for me. It’s a good way to cool down after a work day, forget about some things for a little bit and just focus on yourself,” Ucci said.
Stress management is an important factor to overall well-being and shouldn’t be overlooked, the presenters agreed. Ross discussed how stereotypes can drive men to think they’re strong and neglect the impact that stress has on their lives. Harris said he manages the stress of being an NFL player by playing video games and by talking with family and friends.
“(Managing stress) is hard, but it’s important. I try to be even keel with everything and try to focus on what I can control,” Harris said.
Beverly talked about the importance of being present for family and loved ones. He called on men to support women and discussed the #MeToo movement that has spread across social media to address issues of assault and sexual harassment.
“When we were young men, people told us, ‘Look at this woman like this’… and ‘Do this because that’s manly,‘” Beverly said. “That’s toxic to our society. If we’re not going to make changes, I don’t think (men) can actually classify ourselves as being really strong.”
On the UCHealth website, men can find tips for improving and maintaining their health, includingavoiding tobacco, maintaining proper blood pressure and cholesterol levels and regularly visiting the dentist. To learn more or to pledge to make health a priority, visit uchealth.org/extraordinary/mantenance.
[Read More …]
Q&A: Adrian DeGus Optimizes Adult SEO Partners
To the uninitiated, search engine optimization is an enigmatic science, requiring digital sorcery and algorithmic alchemy to rise above the competition.
[Read More …]
Sunday, November 26, 2017
Saturday, November 25, 2017
Moving the Needle to Lead Growth
How do you grow? In recent years this has been a difficult question for paysites.
[Read More …]
Friday, November 24, 2017
Where and how to cut down your own Christmas tree in Colorado
Is it a balsam fir candle that smells so good? Or is it the five fresh-cut trees in one household? It could be both!
Multiple U.S. Forest Service districts across Colorado are offering permits for guests to cut down their own trees. Permits are $10 per tree, limit five trees per household, and must be purchased prior to chopping or sawing.
A small business north of Boulder is also offering a cut-your-own-tree plan, no permit required.
The trees in the national forest are native and are not as full as trees grown on a plantation or those found in commercial lots, so don’t be picky. Also, be aware that many Douglas fir trees have been damaged by Western spruce budworm, causing the needles on the tree to turn a rusty orange.
One free holiday tree permit is also offered to fourth-graders that have a valid 4th Grade Interagency Pass. The permit is courtesy of Every Kid in a Park initiative. These free holiday tree permits are only available at U.S. Forest Service District offices.
Some roads are cleared, some roads are not, so you may need to borrow your friend’s 4-wheel drive truck or check the weather and plan accordingly.
General dos and don’ts for people new to the lumberjack lifestyle:
DO:
Use a hand saw or ax to cut your tree. The work is part of the fun.
Take or scatter any unused portion of your tree. Use the remaining bits to make a wreath, or add to your holiday table piece.
Attach the permit to the tree you cut down in a visible location.
Only cut trees with a stump diameter of 6 inches or less and within 6 inches of the ground, below any live branches.
Bring straps, strong cord, tarp and work gloves for tree loading.
Cut in an area of excess trees — this is technically a thinning operation. Make sure there is another tree within 10 feet of the one you are cutting.
Bust out your flannel and your trapper hat.
DON’T:
Use a chainsaw. They are prohibited.
Cut any tree marked with blue paint or designated as a wildlife tree.
Let your pet run around. It’s dangerous. They must be leashed.
Ride your snowmobile or ATV and definitely don’t ride your motorcycle, all three are prohibited.
Just cut the top off, that’s rude.
Where to cut your trees:
Canyon Lakes Ranger District Christmas Tree Sale at Red Feather Lakes
Price: Permits are $10 per tree, with a limit of 5 permits per person
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/arp/passes-permits/?cid=stelprdb5162141
Map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5339506.pdf
Dates to cut: Dec. 2-10. Permit sales start Nov. 27
Times to cut: 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., plan to leave the area by 4 p.m.
You must have at least one of the following: 4-wheel drive, chains
Permits available at cutting area: Yes, but only on the weekend.
For weekday cutting permits must be obtained in advance from Forest Service offices in Fort Collins at 2150 Centre Avenue, Building E. (closed Wednesdays), or in Ault at 115 N. Second Ave.
Directions: From Fort Collins take U.S. 287, 21 miles north to Livermore. At Livermore turn left onto County Road 74E (Red Feather Lakes Road). Follow Red Feather Lakes Road 16 miles and turn left onto County Road 68C (Boy Scout Road). Follow Boy Scout Road for seven miles. Signs or Forest Service personnel will direct you into the area.
Guests with permits can enter and cut their tree(s) down at anytime. Rangers and Smokey the Bear will be on location 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dec. 2-3 and Dec. 9-10.
Fraser/Winter Park
Price: Permits are $10 per tree, with a limit of five permits per person
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/arp/passes-permits/?cid=stelprdb5163516&width=full
Map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd564702.pdf
Dates to cut: Through Jan. 6 in designated areas that are accessible only on snowmobiles or skis. Dec. 2-9 in the special Elk Creek Cutting Area, which will have a road plowed allowing vehicle traffic.
Dates that are staffed: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 2 – 9, when rangers will be around to help at the Elk Creek Cutting area.
You must have at least one of the following: 4-wheel drive, chains.
Permits available at cutting area: No
Permits are available seven days a week at Murdoch’s, Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, Grand Lake Chamber of Commerce and Granby Ace Hardware.
Directions: From Fraser, travel west on County Road 72 to the cutting area entrance.
Guests with permits can enter on foot and cut their tree(s) down at anytime through Jan. 6.
A plowed forest service road will be open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 2-9 to make tree hauling easier. Rangers will also be available to help during these dates.
Cutting trees starting at Winter Park ski area south of Berthoud pass is prohibited.
South Platte Ranger District (Buffalo Creek only)
Price: Permits are $10 per tree, with a limit of five permits per person
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/psicc/about-forest/districts/?cid=fseprd519650
Dates to cut: Nov. 24 to Dec. 7
Dates that are staffed: Weekdays and most weekends
Permits available at cutting area: No, only available at Forest Service office, 19316 Goddard Ranch Court, Morrison. Call first — 303-275-5610 — as permits are expected to sell out.
Directions: Forest Service Road 550 to County Road 126. Four-wheel drive is not required. Guests with permits can enter on foot and cut their tree(s) down at anytime.
South Park Ranger District Holiday Tree Program
Price: Permits are $10 per tree, with a limit of five permits per person
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/psicc/news-events/?cid=STELPRDB5337307
Dates to cut: Through Dec. 24
Dates that are staffed: Weekdays and most weekends.
Four-wheel drive is not required.
If you wish to purchase your permit in person the Pike National Forest office at 320 U.S. 285 in Fairplay will be open seven days a week through Dec. 24. Open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 29 and Dec. 6.
Trees must be on the South Park Ranger District, refer to boundary map provided with permit as there is private land within the boundary. It is the permittees’ responsibility to make sure they are on National Forest. Pike maps are available for $10 at the Fairplay office.
Prohibited areas within the South Park Ranger District are:
Lake Recreation Area and Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area
Scenic areas and picnic grounds
Buffalo Peaks or Lost Creek wilderness areas
Campgrounds
Hayman Fire area
Pikes Peak Christmas Tree Cutting
Price: Permits are $10 per tree, with a limit of five permits per person
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/psicc/about-forest/districts/?cid=fsm9_032551
Dates to cut: Nov. 27 through Dec. 15 with a permit
Dates that are staffed: Weekdays and most weekends
You must have at least one of the following: 4-wheel drive or chains
Permit Sales: The Pikes Peak Ranger District will be offering Christmas tree permits from Nov. 27 through Dec. 15 at the District Office from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Trees may be cut any time after purchase of permit through December 15.
Woodland Park: Permits will be available on site at the Woodland Park Middle School (600 E Kelly Rd.), east parking lot on Dec. 2 and 3, and 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dec. 9 and 10.
Directions: Trees may be cut on National Forest lands just east and north of Woodland Park along the Rampart Range Road, No. 300. Follow the signs.
Trees are of various species including: Douglas fir, lodgepole pine, Ponderosa pine, Engelmann spruce, and limber pine.
Your Neighborhood Christmas Tree Farm
Price: Blue spruce and Douglas fir: $10/foot. Scotch pine: $8/foot
Website: http://www.neighborhoodchristmastreefarm.com/
When: Dec. 2 -3 (or until all the trees are gone) 9 a.m. to dusk
Where: 4340 N. 13th St., Boulder.
Contact: 303-449-7532
Your Neighborhood Christmas Tree Farm is a choose-and-cut tree farm, no permit necessary.
Guests are able to choose and tag a tree Dec. 2 and 3 and then return later to cut it down. Saws provided. Christmas wreaths, small live potted trees and pre-cut trees are also available. Wreaths are only available from Nov. 24 to Dec. 15.
[Read More …]
97-year-old sets world record during Highlands Ranch Turkey Day 5K race
A legally blind 97-year-old World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient set a 5K world record Thursday, completing the Highlands Ranch Turkey Day 5K in the 95+ age group in the time of 48:33.
Robert “Bob” McAdam, 97, ran a faster Turkey Day 5K last year — 48:19 — but that race was not certified. The previous 95+ certified world record — 48:55 — was set in 1995 in Stillwater, Okla., by Marion McAnelly.
McAdam, who moved to Wind Crest retirement community in Highlands Ranch two years ago from Fort Worth, Texas, said he was thrilled with Thursday’s record-setting run, but told onlookers that he had been hoping to better his time from last year.
McAdam has always been active — he earned a Ph.D. in physical education and athletics, was a professor and basketball coach at Northern Illinois University and led the health and physical education department at Illinois State University. He started running to stay in shape to play racquetball.
He was a seniors’ national racquetball champion – both national and internationally – and he is enshrined in the Racquetball Hall of Fame, his family said in a news release.
[Read More …]
Trying to Stop Web Fraud Before It Happens
You may have read or heard by now that one of the nation’s three major credit reporting agencies was the target of a malicious and illegal breach of security earlier this year.
[Read More …]
Thursday, November 23, 2017
Beat the Burnout: How Small Business Owners Do Self-Care
When you are in the thick of building a business from the ground up, nurturing yourself will almost immediately take a backseat. Fair enough — “be obsessed or be average,” right? For self-employed small business owners, this risk of total burnout is extremely real on a day-to-day basis.
[Read More …]
Free Thanksgiving turkey coloring page from The Denver Post
Thanksgiving is a time for celebrating family and friends. A time to share food and gratitude. A time to respect diversity, whether it’s political, social or just someone’s recipe for stuffing.
In that spirit, The Denver Post, Dr. Fix It and local artist Axel Geittmann partnered to create this coloring page for families to enjoy together. Use markers, crayons, colored pencils or whatever you have handy, but take some time to celebrate the holiday.
When you’re done, take a picture and then post your masterpiece to Instagram or Twitter with the hashtag #DoctorFixItGivesBack for a chance to win 4 tickets to “A Christmas Carol.” Contest ends Nov. 30, 2017.
Click here to download to print the page.
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Wednesday, November 22, 2017
Earn your turkey: Thanksgiving races along the Front Range
It’s the one day of the year when it is completely acceptable to eat yourself into a food coma and then nap all day — it’s Thanksgiving. But before we can drench our mashed potato mountain in gravy and smother our pumpkin pie with whipped cream, it is Colorado after all. We’re all about earning our feast.
So this year, let the cushion-y stuffing pillows be your motivation to run it out first at one of these races along the Front Range. if that isn’t enough to get you running, most races are for charity or are food drives. If you chicken out (turkey out?) on Thursday, there’s even a leftover trot on Saturday to work it all off.
Thanksgiving Day
Broomfield Turkey Day 5K and 10K
Kids’ run starts at 9 a.m. at Broomfield County Commons, 13200 Sheridan Blvd. $40-$60, broomfieldturkeyday.com
Castle Rock Turkey Rock Trot
The 5K starts at 9:30 a.m. at Douglas County Events Center, 500 Fairgrounds Dr., and will weave through downtown Castle Rock. $20-$40. www.turkeyrocktrot.com
Stapleton Harvesting Hope 5K
This 5K run starts at 10:15 a.m. at Central Park in the Stapleton neighborhood and includes live entertainment. $40 for day-of registration. www.harvestinghope5k.com
Denver Mile High United Way Turkey Trot
Opening ceremonies begin at 10 a.m. at Washington Park, 1700 E. Louisiana Ave., and the first runners take off at 10:15 for the 4-mile course. Now in its 44th year, this race is one of the biggest in Denver. Online registration ends at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 21. After that, runners can register at Runner’s Roost on Colorado Boulevard on Nov. 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., or on race day beginning at 8 a.m. at South High School. Post-race craft beer will be sponsored by Great Divide Brewing Co. www.unitedwaydenver.org/turkey-trot
Erie Pilgrimage Run
The Pilgrimage Run wants you to know that it is not a turkey trot. Proceeds from each year’s race are given to a nominated family or person in the community who is facing a hardship. The 2- and 4-mile races will step off around 9 a.m. at the Erie Library, 400 Powers St. Registration is $35 until Nov. 22, $40 after that. www.thepilgrimagerun.com.
Highlands Ranch Turkey Day 5K
This family-friendly south metro race starts at 9 a.m. at Shea Stadium, 3270 Redstone Park Circle, for runners and walkers of all skill levels. Post-race events include pancakes and a beer garden. Registration $30-$65 for individuals. www.highlandsranchchamber.org
Louisville Turkey Trot 5K
This free 5K will begin at 9 a.m. at the Louisville Public Library, 951 Spruce St. All you have to do is bring a donation of non-perishable food or winter clothing. Online and walk-up registration is available. louisvilleturkeytrot.com
Loveland Turkey Trot 5K
Run or walk this 5K with your friends and family starting at 8:30 a.m. at the McKee Medical Center. Day-of registration is $40. www.mckeefoundationevents.com/turkeytrot
Parker Turkey Day 5K
This one’s for the early birds (see what we did there?). If you find yourself up at 8 a.m., you might as well make your way to the Parker Recreation Center, 17301 E. Lincoln Ave., for a quick 5K trot through the community with hot drinks at the start and finish. Registration through Nov. 21 is $15, $25 on race day. www.ParkerRec.com/TurkeyDay5K
Saturday Nov. 25
Longmont Leftover Turkey Trot
If we’re being honest, we all know Thanksgiving is really all about the leftovers.
Longmont’s race is the Saturday after Thanksgiving at Roger’s Grove Park, 220 Hover Road. You should be able to walk again by the time you attempt to run in this 5K at 10 a.m. Registration is $30 for adults until Nov. 23, $40 the day-of. www.becauseofbecca.org/leftover-turkey-trot.html
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Where to shop local in Adams County for Small Business Saturday
You’ve heard of Black Friday, but what about Small Business Saturday? Just 24 hours after the great consumer holiday comes another day dedicated to shopping — with a focus on supporting your neighbors. Shopping in your community doesn’t just increase your chance of nabbing a distinct gift, it greatly boosts the local economy. For every $100 spent at local businesses, some studies show about $48 recirculates locally, as opposed to less than $14 if purchases are made at chain stores. And Colorado small businesses employ nearly half of all the state’s workers, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. Here are some Small Business Saturday markets and events to give you a taste of what local Adams County shops have to offer.
Small Business Saturday at Mile High Flea Market
Address: 7007 E. 88th Ave., Henderson
Time: 7 a.m.-5 p.m.
Contact: 303-289-4656, info@milehighfleamarket.com
The Scoop: The Mile High Flea Market is a “must stop” for scoping out local goods and services. If you haven’t visited the sprawling 80-acre open-air market, the deals offered through Black Friday and Small Business Saturday weekend are the ideal reason to make your first trip. There are also a dozen carnival-style rides and several eateries to round out your time.
Small Business Saturday at Maki Birch
Address: 121 N. Main St., Brighton
Time: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Contact: 303-828-8442, makibirch@gmail.com
The Scoop: Brighton’s Main Street has dozens of local businesses to visit on Small Business Saturday. Some have been here for decades. One shop offering a special deal for the holiday is Maki Birch, a retailer of furniture, women’s clothing and distinct towels, mugs and canvas prints. The shop will be offering hundreds of clothing items for less than $15 on Nov. 25.
Small Business Saturday Craft Fair at Bennett Community Market
Address: 455 S. 1st St., Bennett
Time: 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Contact: 303-502-6946
The Scoop: Turn your Small Business Saturday into a small town road trip. The Bennett Community Market sells harvest and craft items from I-70 corridor ranchers, farmers and artisans. The market hosts an annual gift and craft market for Small Business Saturday, so you can get ahead on your holiday shopping while enjoying a day away from the city.
Small Business Saturday Kick-Off in Olde Town Square
Address: 57th Avenue and Olde Wadsworth Boulevard, Arvada
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
The Scoop: There are plenty of incentives to kick off your Small Business Saturday shopping spree at Arvada’s Olde Town Square. The first 100 people to arrive at 10 a.m. will score a free breakfast from School House Kitchen and Libations, and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop will serve a free lunch for the first 100 folks who arrive after 11:30 a.m. Also look out for free coffee, chances to win prizes and special deals at local businesses.
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Webmasters Shouldn’t Wait for Disaster to Hit
Hurricanes have pounded Texas, Puerto Rico and the East Coast over the past few months, leaving many people with no power for weeks, or longer.
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Tuesday, November 21, 2017
Netherlands-Based EDC Wholesale Sets Out to Conquer the Globe
Europeans have had a reputation for discovering sexual liberation long before Americans could wrap their heads around bringing a vibrator into the bedroom. With a leg-up on what makes people crave sex toys, E.U. companies have grown new ventures by leaps and bounds in under a decade.
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Monday, November 20, 2017
Hefner’s Legacy Lives On in the Industry
The moment when I read the news that the founder of Playboy had passed away at 91, it shocked me in a way that hurt and was hard to describe.
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Sunday, November 19, 2017
Saturday, November 18, 2017
Privacy Notices Shouldn’t Be Treated as an Afterthought
After years of preaching about the importance of website operators posting their privacy practices on their websites, another state has joined the party.
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Friday, November 17, 2017
Legal Issues Pop Up When Filming Sex in Public
Increasingly, our law firm is asked about the legality of filming nudity or explicit sex scenes in public.
[Read More …]
Cheap cheeseburgers and other deals in Denver, Nov. 17-23
Cheesy deal
Before you stuff yourself on Thursday, stuff yourself with savings at Sonic Drive-In. On Nov. 21, the fast-food chain is celebrating Thanksgiving a few days early by offering cheeseburgers at 50 percent off. With no limit, everyone in the clan can chomp on a cheap cheeseburger. To make it a frugal feast, order a large fries and everyone can share, or visit during its daily happy for half-price drinks and slushes from 2 to 4 p.m., too. sonicdrivein.com
Musical chairs
If you miss or missed the Broadway smash “Rent” back in the late ’90s, now’s your chance to experience it for the first time or yet again — but on the cheap. The Tony Award-winning musical returns to the stage in a 20th anniversary touring production at the Buell Theatre through Nov. 21. Producers continue the beloved tradition of making the show accessible to all by offering discounted tickets at every performance. Seats in the first two rows of the orchestra section will be available for $20 each — regularly up to $115. Two and a half hours before the curtain rises, fans can enter a pre-show lottery at the box office for a chance to win one or two of the $20 seats. The show plays nightly at 7:30 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday and Sunday. Entries are accepted for 30 minutes; then, names are drawn. You must be present and have a photo ID. denvercenter.org
Freeze tag
Do you want a free Jr. Frosty every time you dine at Wendy’s next year? All you have to do is purchase a Frosty Key Tag for just $2. The tags go on sale Nov. 20 in-restaurant and online (with a minimal shipping charge). Then, every time you visit Wendy’s in 2018, flash your key tag and get the sweet treat for free with any purchase. The offer is limited to one per transaction, per visit, per key tag. This deal pays for itself in just a few visits. For maximum savings, buy one for each family member, so all can grab a spoon and dig in. Even sweeter, 90 percent of the proceeds go to help foster kids find their forever family and home. davethomasfoundation.org/frosty
Frugal feast
Not up to kitchen duty? We found a few options for a frugal feast on Thanksgiving. Boston Market offers a Thanksgiving Day meal with roasted turkey, two sides, cornbread and a slice of apple or pumpkin pie for $12.99. Village Inn will be open and serving a traditional Holiday Turkey dinner with all the trimmings for $10.99. Cracker Barrel starts serving its Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner at 11 a.m. for $12.99 ($7.99 for children). The Homestyle Turkey n’ Dressing Meal includes turkey breast, sugar-cured ham, sweet potato casserole, cranberry relish, choice of a side, buttermilk biscuits or corn muffins and a slice of pumpkin pie. Golden Corral (goldencorral.com) goes all out for its Thanksgiving Day buffet with holiday faves such as carved turkey, ham, sweet potatoes, green bean casserole and mashed potatoes. Pricing depends on location. The only downside: No leftovers. Hours vary at each restaurant, so check first before your flock heads over. You’ll find more restaurants dishing up Thanksgiving dinner for under $30 per person at milehighonthecheap.com.
Budget cuts
Have you ever considered paying for haircuts months in advance? It’s a smart move, given the savings you’ll pocket down the road. For a limited time, Great Clips is offering its once-a-year pre-paid Haircut Card for $10.99. Load as many discounted haircuts on the card as you want — one for $10.99, two for $21.98, three for $32.97 and so on. There is no limit. The pre-paid card never expires, is transferable (even in the same visit) and can be redeemed at any participating location in the U.S. True cheapskates might consider paying for a year’s worth of haircuts upfront. It may be a small investment now, but the long-term savings will definitely pay off. The card cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon. Plus, you must tip separately from the card. greatclips.com
More freebies, discounts and deals at—MileHighOnTheCheap.com.
[Read More …]
Cheap cheeseburgers and other deals in Denver, Nov. 17-23
Cheesy deal
Before you stuff yourself on Thursday, stuff yourself with savings at Sonic Drive-In. On Nov. 21, the fast-food chain is celebrating Thanksgiving a few days early by offering cheeseburgers at 50 percent off. With no limit, everyone in the clan can chomp on a cheap cheeseburger. To make it a frugal feast, order a large fries and everyone can share, or visit during its daily happy for half-price drinks and slushes from 2 to 4 p.m., too. sonicdrivein.com
Musical chairs
If you miss or missed the Broadway smash “Rent” back in the late ’90s, now’s your chance to experience it for the first time or yet again — but on the cheap. The Tony Award-winning musical returns to the stage in a 20th anniversary touring production at the Buell Theatre through Nov. 21. Producers continue the beloved tradition of making the show accessible to all by offering discounted tickets at every performance. Seats in the first two rows of the orchestra section will be available for $20 each — regularly up to $115. Two and a half hours before the curtain rises, fans can enter a pre-show lottery at the box office for a chance to win one or two of the $20 seats. The show plays nightly at 7:30 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday and Sunday. Entries are accepted for 30 minutes; then, names are drawn. You must be present and have a photo ID. denvercenter.org
Freeze tag
Do you want a free Jr. Frosty every time you dine at Wendy’s next year? All you have to do is purchase a Frosty Key Tag for just $2. The tags go on sale Nov. 20 in-restaurant and online (with a minimal shipping charge). Then, every time you visit Wendy’s in 2018, flash your key tag and get the sweet treat for free with any purchase. The offer is limited to one per transaction, per visit, per key tag. This deal pays for itself in just a few visits. For maximum savings, buy one for each family member, so all can grab a spoon and dig in. Even sweeter, 90 percent of the proceeds go to help foster kids find their forever family and home. davethomasfoundation.org/frosty
Frugal feast
Not up to kitchen duty? We found a few options for a frugal feast on Thanksgiving. Boston Market offers a Thanksgiving Day meal with roasted turkey, two sides, cornbread and a slice of apple or pumpkin pie for $12.99. Village Inn will be open and serving a traditional Holiday Turkey dinner with all the trimmings for $10.99. Cracker Barrel starts serving its Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner at 11 a.m. for $12.99 ($7.99 for children). The Homestyle Turkey n’ Dressing Meal includes turkey breast, sugar-cured ham, sweet potato casserole, cranberry relish, choice of a side, buttermilk biscuits or corn muffins and a slice of pumpkin pie. Golden Corral (goldencorral.com) goes all out for its Thanksgiving Day buffet with holiday faves such as carved turkey, ham, sweet potatoes, green bean casserole and mashed potatoes. Pricing depends on location. The only downside: No leftovers. Hours vary at each restaurant, so check first before your flock heads over. You’ll find more restaurants dishing up Thanksgiving dinner for under $30 per person at milehighonthecheap.com.
Budget cuts
Have you ever considered paying for haircuts months in advance? It’s a smart move, given the savings you’ll pocket down the road. For a limited time, Great Clips is offering its once-a-year pre-paid Haircut Card for $10.99. Load as many discounted haircuts on the card as you want — one for $10.99, two for $21.98, three for $32.97 and so on. There is no limit. The pre-paid card never expires, is transferable (even in the same visit) and can be redeemed at any participating location in the U.S. True cheapskates might consider paying for a year’s worth of haircuts upfront. It may be a small investment now, but the long-term savings will definitely pay off. The card cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon. Plus, you must tip separately from the card. greatclips.com
More freebies, discounts and deals at—MileHighOnTheCheap.com.
[Read More …]