Regardless of the state of the world, our country, or our government, Yellow Scene Magazine is celebrating our Silver Anniversary: 25 years of uncompromised journalism.

I’m excited about this accomplishment because, seven years ago, I wasn’t sure if we’d make it. Things have gotten really rocky for local journalism.

To keep doing what we are doing, we are absolutely dependent on the community (get YS delivered if you don’t already), learning our way around some grants, and business is better than it was (though there’s still a ways to go). While it’s not heavenly, it’s stabilizing — just like my mental health. I meditate a lot now, which has helped me approach life with a healthier mind (very important). Upping the meditation might be necessary this year.

This year’s Best of the West is our Silver Issue, and I’m thrilled about all the celebrations. Many are winning for the tenth year or more, a handful have won all 25 years, and for some, this is their first year winning. Producing Best of the West is no easy feat. Our ballot is write-in only, ensuring it’s a true reflection of what the community thinks. But that also makes tallying votes much more labor-intensive. Then, we hire a slew of freelancers to research and write personalized messages (boring is not acceptable at YS!). Designing those 20 pages takes another 10 hours, and let’s not forget the high cost of printing. But I believe it’s worth every bit of effort. I hope you do, too.

If you’re worried about 2025, not a lot of folks are screaming, “things are great.” Most of us made it through 2024. But to survive 2025, being idle won’t work. Get active. Get out there. Keep connecting. That’s how we survive hardship.

Keep an eye on our pages and socials — we’re committed to sharing ways to get involved.

I’m about community more than ever right now. I love my local community — the business owners, neighbors, friends, and people impacted by volunteering. I firmly believe we need each other now more than ever. My recent article, Ethics Are Alive and Well in America’s Small Business Community: 25 Businesses That Are 25 Years or Older, explores why local business matters so much. For one, if some companies weren’t so big, we wouldn’t be facing the challenges we are now.

I’ve always stood by the idea that unity makes right. Once again, our nation has to face who she will be. This isn’t the first time we’ve had to address the harm caused by those in power. Many apologies have been given throughout this country’s history. But in those moments, there were always people who demanded ethics, asked for humanity, and chose to work toward curing injustice.

None of us know what lies ahead for our treasury or country. I know I don’t want to be stuck predicting. I have grave concerns and worries, but I’m letting go of fear (and hope) dominating my life. I will not be reduced to a puddle on my couch — not today, at least. Instead, I’m focusing on health first, community second, and survival through strength and resilience, which I wish for all of you as well.

Like journalism like this? Consider becoming a sustaining supporter (and get our printed copy monthly at home.)

Democracy needs journalism more than ever. We’ve been telling the truth for 24 years. Your support helps us keep telling it for at least the next four years.

Democracy needs journalism more than ever. We’ve been telling the truth for 24 years. Your support helps us keep telling it for at least the next four years.

The post Publishers Note | February 2025 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Producing Best of the West is no easy feat — it takes an incredible amount of human hours. Our standards are high: every winner’s blurb must be personalized and, most importantly, interesting to read. Cookie-cutter and boring don’t fly at Yellow Scene Magazine.

As a hyper-local, independent publication, we often operate on fumes. Journalism isn’t where the big dollars are, which is why sustaining support from the community is critical. In today’s climate, producing unbought and unbossed journalism matters more than ever. After 25 years, we refuse to sell out to the highest bidder. That said, being independent also means we’re “scrappy” (a polite way to say we’re working by the seat of our pants).

Despite the challenges, Best of the West is one of the most joyous issues to produce. It’s labor-intensive, but we get to call people with genuinely good news — how great is that?

These wins are truly honorable. YS’s ballot is write-in only — no pay-to-play, no multiple-choice. Just Best (Category) Blank. Readers decide who’s the best, not us.

Our first seven years of archives aren’t online yet (they’re still sitting on discs in the office), and even those need formatting TLC. Some categories are newer, and Boulder joined Best of the West in 2008. But we have hard copies and a living history of Boulder County.

Here are some of the most notable winners, each with over 10 years of wins. Want to create real change? Stop giving your money to billionaires and support these amazing local businesses instead!

Special Nods

Piripi (13 wins in 5 years)

615 Briggs St Suite C, Erie

www.piripirestaurant.com

10+ years

24 Carrot

578 Briggs St, Erie

www.24carrotbistro.com

Anderson Farms

6728 County Rd 3 1/4, Erie

andersonfarms.com

Avery Brewing

4910 Nautilus Ct N, Boulder

www.averybrewing.com

Berkelhammer Tree

28th St, Boulder, CO

berkelhammer.com

Bitter Bar

835 Walnut St, Boulder, CO

www.thebitterbar.com

Blackbelly/Hosea Rosenburg

Boulder, Denver

www.blackbelly.com

Button Rock Bakery

400 W South Boulder Rd, Lafayette

www.buttonrockbakery.com

Cosmo’s Pizza

Boulder, Lafayette, Denver, Fort collins,

cosmospizza.com

Crystal Ski Shop

1933 28th St #101, Boulder

www.crystalskishop.com

Dairy Arts Center

2590 Walnut St, Boulder

www.thedairy.org

Dragontree Spa

2405 Broadway, Boulder

www.thedrangontree.com

Eats & Sweets

401 S Public Rd, Lafayette

www.eatsandsweets.net

Elevations Credit Union

Multiple Locations

www.elevationscu.com

Firehouse Art Center

667 4th Ave, Longmont,

www.firehouseart.org

Flatirons Golf Course

5710 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder

www.bouldercolorado.gov/locations/flatirons-golf-course

Foolish Craig’s Cafe

1611 Pearl St, Boulder

www.foolishcraigs.com

Full Cycle 

2355 30th St, Boulder

www.fullcyclesbikes.com

Georgia Boys

Longmont, Frederick, Greeley

www.georgiaboys.com

Greenbriar Inn

8735 N Foothills Hwy, Boulder,

www.greenbriarinn.com

Hoshi Motors

2907 55th St Unit 1, Boulder

www.hoshimotors.net

Lulu’s BBQ

701 Main St, Louisville

www.lulusbbq.net

Marco’s Hot Dogs & Taco’s

1647 Kimbark St, Longmont

www.marcoshotdogsandtacos.com

Morning Glory

1377 Forest Park Cir #101, Lafayette

www.morningglorylafayette.com

Mountain Sun/Southern Sun/Longs Peak

627 S Broadway #E, Boulder

www.mountainsunpub.com

Moving Mountains Massage

1800 30th St #220N, Boulder

movingmountainsmassage.com

Moxie Bread

641 Main St, Louisville

moxiebreadco.com

North & East Boulder Rec Centers

E: 5660 Sioux Dr, Boulder N: 3170 Broadway, Boulder

bouldercolorado.gov/locations/north-boulder-recreation-center

Organic Sandwich Co.

1500 Pearl St #F, Boulder

www.organicsandwichco.com

Ozo Coffee

Longmont, Boulder, Arapahoe

www.ozocoffee.com

Pellman’s Automotive

2560 49th St., Boulder

www.pellmansauto.com

Piece, Love & Chocolate

805 Pearl St., Boulder

www.pieceloveandchocolate.com

Salon Picasso

489 US-287 #120, Lafayette

www.salonpicassohairstudio.com

SALT

1047 Pearl St., Boulder

www.saltboulder.com

Tangerine

Longmont, Lafayette, Boulder

www.tangerineeats.com

Taj Mahal 3

1075 E South Boulder Rd. #145, Louisville

www.tajmahal3.com

Tilt! Pinball

640 Main St. #B, Louisville

www.tiltcolorado.com

Village Coffee Shop

1605 Folsom St., Boulder

www.villagecoffeeshopboulder.com

15+ years

Atlas Valley Purveyors

2770 Arapahoe Rd #100, Lafayette

avpurveyors.com

Boulder Wine Merchant

2690 Broadway, Boulder

boulderwine.com

Bookcliff Vineyards

1501 Lee Hill Dr. #17, Boulder

www.bookcliffvineyards.com

Big Daddy Bagels

Longmont, Boulder, Lafayette

www.bigdaddybagels.com

The Boulder Cork

3295 30th St., Boulder

www.bouldercork.com

Busaba Thai Restaurant

East Boulder, Central Boulder

www.busabaco.com

Jax Outdoor Gear + Farm & Ranch

Lafayette, Broomfield

www.jaxgoods.com

Nissis

1455 Coal Creek Dr. #T, Lafayette

www.nissis.com

Pumphouse Brewery

540 Main St., Longmont

www.pumphousebrewery.com

Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant

1101 Walnut St., Boulder

www.riograndemexican.com

Stan’s Automotive

1950 W South Boulder Rd., Lafayette

www.stansautomotive.com

St Julien Hotel & Spa, Jill’s Restaurant & Bistro

900 Walnut St., Boulder

www.stjulien.com

Sushi Zanmai

1221 Spruce St., Boulder

www.izakayaamu.com

Waterloo Louisville

817 Main St., Louisville

www.waterloolouisville.com

West End Tavern

926 Pearl St., Boulder

www.thewestendtavern.com

20+ years

Boulder Creek Festival

1236 Canyon Blvd, Boulder, CO 80302

www.bouldercreekfest.com

Carelli’s Italian Restaurant

645 30th St, Boulder, CO 80303

www.carellis.com

Chez Thuy Fine Vietnamese Cuisine

2655 28th St, Boulder, CO 80301

www.chezthuy.com

Chiropractic Center of Erie & Longmont

698 Briggs St, Erie, CO 80516

www.eriechiro.com

Eldora Ski Resort

2861 Eldora Ski Rd, Nederland, CO 80466

www.eldora.com

Fox Theatre

1135 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302

www.z2ent.com/fox-theatre-venue

Hapa Sushi

Boulder, Denver

hapasushi.com

Lafayette Peach Festival

Public Road, Lafayette, CO 80026

www.lafayettecolorado.com/peach-festival

Louisville Cyclery

889 E South Boulder Rd, Louisville, CO 80027

www.louisvillecyclery.com

Sakura Japanese Restaurant

600 S Airport Rd, Longmont, CO 80503

www.sakuralongmont.com

Sugarbeet

101 Pratt St, Longmont, CO 80501

www.sugarbeetrestaurant.com

All 25 years

Bob Burger Rec Center

111 W Baseline Rd, Lafayette, CO 80026

www.lafayetteco.gov/2574/Bob-L-Burger-Recreation-Center

Boulder Theatre

2032 14th St, Boulder, CO 80302

www.z2ent.com/boulder-theater-venue

Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant 

2480 Canyon Blvd m1, Boulder, CO 80302

www.efrainsofboulder.com

Indian Peaks Golf Course

2300 Indian Peaks Trail, Lafayette, CO 80026

www.indianpeaksgolf.com

Jax Seafood

Multiple locations

www.jaxfishhouse.com

Luciles Creole Cafe

Multiple locations

www.luciles.com

Moe’s Broadway Bagels

Multiple locations

www.moesbagel.com

Santiagos 

Multiple locations

www.eatatsantiagos.com

The Sink

1165 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302

www.thesink.com

Snarf’s Sandwiches

Multiple locations

www.eatsnarfs.com

Shop Local—it’s more than a slogan. It’s a Revolution.

The post The Ones We Love Most appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

The very first one, called The Goldmine, Aug. 2000.

Gulp, there is no way I’m old enough to have run a local news magazine for 25 years. It truly feels like yesterday that I was bartending at night to support the little yellow flyer that would become Yellow Scene Magazine.

Over the past 25 years, we’ve survived 9/11, the Great Recession, three wars, one flood, one fire, COVID-19, countless protests, and the arrival of digital media. Next up? Surviving DJT’s second term.

As much as I genuinely love my work, I’d be lying if I didn’t admit to the frustrations that come with producing authentic journalism—especially in a time when AI seems to be taking over.

I’m incredibly proud that YS has never published a single sponsored-content (pay-for-play) article and that we’ve earned over 190 awards for excellence in journalism and design. In fact I have very strong feelings on it.

Your Native Advertising Sucks and Why Content is Still King

But this gig is hard. So hard that universities now nearly require journalism students to pursue a second field of study alongside their journalism degrees.

Media outlets producing authentic journalism are facing significant challenges nationwide. Since 2004, the United States has lost approximately 2,100 newspapers, including 70 dailies and more than 2,000 weeklies or nondailies. The number of journalists working at local newspaper organizations has fallen by roughly 60% since 2005, declining to 31,400.

Death of the Daily News

The fact YS is still publishing while not selling sponsored content is a bit of a miracle in and of itself. However, instead of wallowing in the many difficult changes journalism is facing, YS is taking steps to keep local journalism sustainable through grants, crowdsourcing, events, and, of course, providing agency-quality advertising to our clients.

Youth caught reading in the wild, Lucky’s Market, Boulder

Surprisingly, this younger generation cares deeply about authenticity. They grew up with phones in their hands and crave more than just a digital life. Research shows their social media consumption focuses on platforms like YouTube, Reddit, and TikTok. But are they really online more than their older peers? Studies show older adults spend 5–6 hours on screens daily, while youth spend 6–7 hours.

While reading books has dropped by five percentage points among younger people, book sales revenue is actually higher today than in 2008. Nearly 87% of books sold are still in print—people want to escape the screen. Numerous studies show we retain 7x more information from print than digital. And honestly, people just get more excited seeing themselves in a printed magazine than on a website.

So here we are in 2025 with no plans to sell out the journalism, no plans to go only digital (we’re still printing 32,000 copies monthly, thank you!), and no plans to go away, no matter how hard it is today.

Over 25 years, YS has become a beloved community resource. One of the best compliments we hear is when folks say they only read YS and The Colorado Sun. That commitment to high standards shines through. We could print on a paper bag, and if the content is good, people would read it. (On the flip side, no matter how fancy the paper, a publisher can’t turn an advertorial into a compelling read.)

Today, YS produces far more online stories in addition to our monthly print publication. We’ve earned a reputation for taking on the tough stories others avoid. We’re also exploring what a podcast could look like and working toward more multimedia storytelling. But no matter the format, we’ll stay true to the standards that have guided us for 25 years.

Media literacy is a new term we all need to understand—readers and advertisers alike.

If you’re a business looking to advertise, before dismissing print as “dead” or relying solely on social media, consider how many places are competing for your audience’s attention. Then ask yourself why people seek out the new YS every month. There’s no magic formula for advertising—just consistency across all three stages of the purchase funnel: internal, direct, and mass media. A marketing budget of less than 3%? That’s Spray and Pray Marketing.

The most successful businesses—those owning both mindshare and market share—always include strategies across all stages of the funnel. My biggest advice? Study why you’re buying what you’re buying. Not all print is the same, and not all digital is the same. Advertising isn’t magic; it’s communication. The question is: What are you saying, and to whom? (That’s why we offer Yellow House Agency design and copywriting services—for free.)

For our readers, advertising is no longer the sole way we survive. It used to be, but the world has changed. To continue the serious work we do, we need your support too. We’ve launched our Sustaining Supporter Program, and for just $8/month, we’ll happily mail you YS every month.

We have an exciting lineup planned for our 25th year. We’re kicking off the year with a feature on 25 Businesses That Are 25 Years or Older. For Best of the West, we are doing special highlights of the organizations that have consistently won over the two-and-a-half decades YS has been around. We will be doing fun features like, ‘Where Are They Now?” where we interview people from the past. We are working on a Trivia Night and have a very special plan for the covers.

I’ll close with our original slogan, which remains just as true today: Yellow Scene Magazine: It’s the Good Stuff. And let me add—We ain’t going nowhere.

Just a few of the memories over the last 25 years

Like journalism like this? Consider becoming a sustaining supporter (and get our printed copy monthly at home.)
Democracy needs journalism more than ever. We’ve been telling the truth for 24 years. Your support helps us keep telling it for at least the next four years.

Democracy needs journalism more than ever. We’ve been telling the truth for 24 years. Your support helps us keep telling it for at least the next four years.

The post Publishers Note | January 2025 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

The Carnivale Masquerade Gala is returning, and this year we’re bringing the disco vibes with DJ Drake!

Join us on October 10, 2024, from 5-9 pm at the new Bricks on Main in Longmont for an evening of dancing and celebration. Tickets are just $25 and the VIP room tickets are just $55. Tickets available through this link HERE

How much can change in a short amount of time? From the recent elections to the evolving landscape of local journalism, it’s clear that our community relies on platforms like Yellow Scene Magazine now more than ever. As one of two locally owned media outlets in Boulder County amidst corporate acquisitions and franchise takeovers, YS remains dedicated to authentic, community-driven journalism. We’re proud of our continued recognition and nominations, underscoring our commitment to delivering stories that matter to you. But we think if we have to do the whole fundraising thing, it is time to party!

Looking ahead, 2025 marks our 25th anniversary, a milestone we’re eagerly preparing to celebrate. The landscape of media funding has shifted dramatically, with digital advancements and rising production costs reshaping how we operate. Yet, amid these changes, media corporatization looms large. Today, 90% of what we see or hear is controlled by six major corporations. If a hedge fund owns our local newspaper, how much money is it investing in the costs of doing true journalism? Just google “journalism layoffs.” Will they refuse to print a story because of special interests? At YS, we remain committed to upholding rigorous journalistic standards, delivering unbiased reporting on critical issues, and fostering community dialogue.

I have never had to explain that YS does authentic journalism as much over my career as I have in the last decade. Consumers now have to consider whether what they are reading is AI, corporate backed, or sponsored content. As long as there is corruption, there will always be truth-tellers. The challenge is having powerful , trusted platforms to tell those truths. Despite the digital age’s dominance, and providing a robust website of news, YS remains dedicated to print publication, recognizing its unique ability to combat digital fatigue and provide a tangible connection with our readers. Print offers a sensory experience unmatched by screens, fostering deeper engagement and trust among our audience. This commitment to authenticity has enabled YS to maintain a loyal readership and deliver compelling content that resonates across generations. As we continue to navigate an increasingly complex media landscape, your partnership and support are more crucial than ever.

Join us at the Carnivale Masquerade Gala for an evening of music, dancing, and community spirit on October 10. Let’s celebrate 25 years of YS and look forward to the stories yet to unfold.

Tickets: https://fundrazr.com/YellowSceneGala?ref=cr_bDbOR0

Warm regards,

Shavonne Blades, Publisher

The post Letter from the Publisher appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Restaurants

24 Carrot, Erie CO

Overall EC

24 Carrot Bistro: Replicating last year’s contest nearly to a T, 24 Carrot eeks out the top spot for consecutive years. Erie’s burgeoning dining scene is attracting more and more attention, with 24 Carrot offering a new take on something that is a deep Colorado tradition if you think about it: Farm-to-Table dining.

RUNNER UP – Piripi

The Cork, Boulder CO

Overall & Best Steak Boulder

Boulder Cork: Cork’s legacy is already cemented in Boulder’s history as a beloved, but morphable institution. Since 1969 Boulder Cork has provided fine dining via a focus on locally sourced ingredients and prestigious chefs. One more first-place Best of the West is yet another feather in their cap.

RUNNER UP –  OAK at Fourteenth

Sugarbeet, Longmont CO

Contemporary EC

Sugarbeet: We told you last year in Sugarbeet’s first-place review, make reservations ahead of time! Even their website suggests so, right at the top. This is East County’s top spot for cutting-edge cuisine, there is a reason tables are so in demand.

RUNNER UP – Community

Oak on 14th, Boulder CO

Contemporary Boulder

OAK at Fourteenth: Focusing on the “multitude of cultures that have lived in Colorado, OAK at Fourteenth’s ever-changing menu reflects the season and inspirations that make dining here an experience not just a night out. An exceptional spirits list is another reason readers love coming here.

RUNNER UP – Spruce Farm & Fish

Stacy’s Kitchen, Erie CO

Newcomer EC

Stacy’s Kitchen: East County welcomed Stacy’s Kitchen by awarding them their first-ever Best of the West award this year. Whether it is sweets or sandwiches, Stacy’s has you covered. Affordable and tasty, we see why they’ve earned a spot on the list already.

RUNNER UP – Rumbo 52

Newcomer Boulder

Gemini: Spanish-influenced Gemini again takes home the Newcomer award. This just reinforces the fact that if you haven’t been, you need to go. With tapas of patatas bravas, cheeses, and olives paired with a glass of red, close your eyes and you’ll be in Barcelona.

RUNNER UP – Postino Wine Cafe

Ruby Ru’s, Boulder CO

Cheap Eats EC

Ruby Ru’s: Deciding to open a food truck is a huge step in any chef’s culinary journey. Finding enough success to take that food truck and turn it into a brick-and-mortar location is astounding. Enter Ruby Ru’s in Lafayette. Now serving affordable food from a fixed location.

RUNNER UP – Eats & Sweets

Cheap Eats & Hot Dog Boulder

Mustard’s Last Stand: Mustard’s Last Stand has been winning Best of the West awards in various categories for over a decade now. Iconic, classic, institution, whatever word you want to use to describe these Chicago-style dogs works. Gluten-free and veggie options ensure everyone can have a taste.

RUNNER UP – Illegal Pete’s

Andy Clark RIP, Moxie Bread, Louisville CO

Bread EC & Boulder

Moxie: If you want the best bread there’s only one place to get it. Boulder and East County readers both voted for Moxie in an absolute landslide. The love that Andy, rest in peace, baked into this place is still being felt in every warm loaf.

RUNNER UP (EC) – Babette’s

RUNNER UP (B) – Great Harvest

Button Rock, Lafayette CO

Bakery EC

Button Rock Bakery & Kenny Lou’s Deli: The Swiss-army knife of restaurants, Button Rock & Kenny Lou’s Deli can do it all. In this case, they’re taking home the gold for best bakery but don’t think for a second they’re just limited to baked goods! Deli, sushi, gluten-free options, if you can’t decide, just get it all.

RUNNER UP – Cherry’s Cheesecakes & Delights

Lucky’s Bakehouse, Boulder CO

Bakery Boulder

Lucky’s Bakehouse: Gluten-free, paleo, blue-corn cookies, and croissants that take two days to make, Lucky’s puts time and care into every product to ensure each customer — who pastry chef Jennifer often knows by name — can find something satisfying for their tastes. 

RUNNER UP – Shamane’s Bakery

Moe’s Broadway Bagels, Multiple Locations

Bagel EC & Boulder

Moe’s Broadway Bagels: We’re not sure if anyone will ever dethrone Moe’s from their top bagel spot. Every year it’s not even close, Moe’s wins in a blowout. We can wax poetic about the dough, flavor, and care, but just try one yourself (as if you haven’t already).

RUNNER UP – Big Daddy Bagels

Georgia Boys, Longmont and Frederick CO

BBQ EC

Georgia Boys: BBQ is personal. Each person has their taste, their perfect bite, their ideal tenderness. For what it’s worth, Georgie Boys nails it all. Check out the Smokehouse, the Shack, and the Greeley location — celebrating 10 years — or take it to-go, either way, they have you covered with great service and even re-heating instructions for ideal taste.

RUNNER UP – Lulu’s BBQ

KT’s BBQ, Boulder CO

BBQ Boulder

KT’s: Ask a real BBQ enthusiast about their favorite style and you’ll likely launch them into a diatribe about regional differences, traditional rules, and absolute no-no’s of this varied and proud American tradition. If you’re seeking Memphis style, that slow-cooked dry-rubbed pork, you’re looking for KT’s.

RUNNER UP – C’s BBQ Catering

Tangerine, Boulder, Lafayette and Longmont CO

Breakfast EC & Boulder

Tangerine (landslide): Why let eggs, pancakes, toast, and bacon be limited to morning time? Tangerine lets you satisfy your breakfast craving any time of day in either of their three locations. With quality olive oil, attention to gluten sensitivity, and a Buddhist-influenced name, Tangerine is not your average diner.

RUNNER UP – Lucile’s: Boulder, Erie & Longmont

Breakfast Burrito EC & Boulder

Santiago’s, Mulitple Locations

Santiago’s (landslide): The art of the breakfast burrito. Perfectly wrapped yet stuffed full, balancing hot, cold, spicy, and savory in a delicate concert. Readers have spoken yet again, the only place to find the perfect breakfast burrito across Boulder and East County is Santiago’s.

RUNNER UP (EC) – Taco Wagon

RUNNER UP (B) – Santo

24 Carrot, Erie CO

Brunch EC

24 Carrot: Grabbing yet another first place, 24 Carrot offers quality food for any time of day. With enough Best of the West awards to fill a novel, 24 Carrot is again shown love by readers across the area.

RUNNER UP – Morning Glory

Greenbriar Inn, Boulder CO

Brunch Boulder

Greenbriar: Oysters for brunch? Yes, please. Greenbriar’s brunch is a must-have Boulder delicacy, with fresh farm-to-table herbs and produce, and elevated American cuisine. There’s a reason why it’s topped the charts for years.

RUNNER UP – Jill’s Restaurant & Bistro

The Waterloo, Louisville CO

Burger EC

Waterloo: Named after Waterloo Records, the restaurant has a motto of “God Bless Johnny Cash,” and all of the flair and tunes to draw in 90’s music lovers. 

RUNNER UP – Rusty Melon

The Sink, Boulder CO

Burger Boulder

The Sink: Boulder’s oldest restaurant has drawn visitors like the Obamas, Guy Fieri, and Anthony Bourdain to its doors. A historical business in the region, it’s been open for more than 100 years and it features a funky, fun, and artistic aesthetic. 

RUNNER UP – Mountain Sun / Southern Sun 

Colorado Wok, Lafayette CO

Chinese EC

Colorado Wok: Colorado Wok is a stand-out restaurant for two reasons: flavor and portion size. Established in 2005, the cuisine is consistent, delicious, and fresh. The restaurant vibe is relaxed, casual, and friendly. 

RUNNER UP – Fan’s Chinese

Mason’s Dumpling House, Boulder CO and CA

Chinese Boulder

Mason’s Dumpling Shop: The first Mason’s Dumpling Shop was opened in 2001 in California when Alan Lam and Grace Li brought traditional Shenyang dumplings to the table. Today, the Boulder location embeds the same traditions into the food while featuring homemade dumplings with locally sourced produce and meat. 

RUNNER UP – Zoe MaMa

Meco’s Coffee Collective, Longmont and Lafayette CO

Coffee House EC

Meco Coffee Collective: The Meco Coffee Collective opened its doors to artists, entrepreneurs, and coffee enthusiasts in 2021 to build community. A quaint, intimate setting, the collective showcases local art while brewing one of the best cups of coffee in town. 

RUNNER UP – FOX•DOG Coffee

Coffee House Boulder

(tie) – Boxcar Coffee Roasters: Boxcar Coffee Roasters provide an experience as much as a caffeine fix. With ample interior seating and shared space with Cured sandwiches, visitors are quick to love the laid-back environment while sipping unique concoctions like a Shot in the Dark. 

(tie) – Ozo Coffee Company: A quiet but popular study space, Ozo Coffee offers one of the best single-origin espresso roasts in the area, as well as an excessive variety of non-dairy milk options. With both indoor and outdoor seating, this space is usually bustling because of its moderate prices and mellow vibe. 

Morning Glory, Lafayette CO

Gluten-Free EC

Morning Glory Cafe: Rabbit, boar, and antelope, Oh my! Morning Glory emphasizes fresh, organic, and sustainable ingredients that accommodate those with dietary restrictions, all while providing a unique upmarket menu. 

RUNNER UP – Button Rock Bakery & Kenny Lou’s Deli

Zeal – Food for Enthusiasts, Boulder CO

Gluten-Free Boulder

Zeal: Going gluten-free often means that you have to forfeit tasty food items like rolls, burgers, and bread, but not at Zeal! This restaurant offers a majority gluten-free menu with items like gyros, and mac ‘n cheese topping the list of favorites. 

RUNNER UP –  Vitality Bowls

Dessert EC

Button Rock Bakery & Kenny Lou’s Deli: This is the place to be if you’re looking for variety. From pork rolls to burrito bowls and sushi, Kenny Lou’s carves a name for itself for its in-house concoctions while Button Rock provides the most decadent, allergy-friendly cakes in town.

RUNNER UP – Cherry’s Cheesecakes & Delights

Boulder Baked, Boulder CO

Dessert Boulder

Boulder Baked: You know you’re in the right place when a wall of the bakery is dedicated to the awards that the business has received over the years. A cozy bakery in downtown Boulder, Boulder Baked makes your pastries to order, offering a variety of gluten-free options, and a coffee-shop-like aesthetic.

RUNNER UP – Lucky’s Bakehouse

Snarf Sandwiches, Multiple Locations

Colorado-Based Chain

Snarfs: Eating at Snarfs is something like a Colorado right-of-passage, with its grungy vibe and cartoon-like interior. A local chain that’s best known for its Italian Sandwich, Jimmy Seidel opened its first location in Boulder in 1996 after deciding to make the best sandwich in the world. Now, people from everywhere come to the neon-colored environment for an epic experience. 

RUNNER UP – Cosmos

Santiagos, Multiple Locations, CO

Green Chile EC

Santiagos : Santiagos is your best bet when you’re looking for no-frills Mexican food. The one ingredient that makes this place stand apart from others is its legendary green chile. It’s so good that they bottle it and sell it at local grocery stores. 

RUNNER UP – Rumbo 52

Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant, Boulder CO

Green Chile Boulder

Efrains Boulder: Efrains used to be known as the greatest hole in the wall ever, and in their spiffy new digs, they are packed all the time — just like always. It’s carved a name for itself in Boulder for its spicy green chili, which comes with chunks of pork and can be practically eaten as a bowl of soup.

RUNNER UP – Santo

Taj Mahal 3, Louisville CO

Indian EC

Taj Mahal 3: Elevated Indian food doesn’t get much more memorable than it does at Taj Mahal 3. Located in Louisville, this restaurant has been bringing rich flavors to the table for more than 20 years. The interior decor sets the vibe with traditional-style drapery and comfortable, round booths while providing a variety of northern Indian dishes. 

RUNNER UP – Flavor of India

The Taj, Boulder CO

Indian Boulder

The Taj: Chai lovers rejoice! The Taj offers the best cup in town as well as one of the most generous and fresh buffets in Boulder. Dine in comfort while feasting your eyes on a beautiful view of the Flat Irons. 

RUNNER UP – Tiffin’s India Cafe 

Parma Trattoria, Louisville CO

Italian EC

Parma Trattoria: There are few places that offer the same level of coziness as Parma Trattoria. While the restaurant is deceiving from the outside, the interior features a fireplace, trendy decor,  intimate lighting, and under which you can eat your fill of pizza and pasta. 

RUNNER UP – Gondolier

Carrelli’s of Boulder

Italian Boulder

Carellis: Garnished with an open fireplace, mosaic tiles, and warm lighting, some consider it to be an “essential fixture” in town. Plus, it has a gluten-free menu, essential for anyone with an allergy looking to indulge in classic Italian. With all its elegance, it’s hard to believe it started as a sandwich shop so many years ago. 

RUNNER UP – Pasta Jay’s

TeoCalli, Lafayette and Arvada CO

Mexican  & Taco EC

TeoCalli: Typically a very busy restaurant, TeoCalli blends traditional cuisine with contemporary flair. Readers voted them both Best Mexican and Best Taco, so you know what to order! The atmosphere is lighthearted but slightly elevated. It’s full of food classics like tacos and delicacies like bone marrow. 

RUNNER UP – Rumbo 52

Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant, Boulder CO

Mexican Boulder

Efrains Boulder: Efrains was established in 1998, bringing classic Chihuahuan cuisine to Boulder. The restaurant is colorful and bright, like the food, and the people. It’s even taken home the title of Boulder County People’s Choice award for Best Mexican Food 12 times. They have won YS’s BOW year after year since we added Boulder in 2009.

RUNNER UP – Santo

Pump House Brewery, Longmont CO

Patio EC

Pumphouse: Pumphouse was a pioneer, one of the first to open on Main Street with an eye on the future. That vision has proven to be a good one, since 1996 the Pumphouse is usually packed. Daily deals on things like Bloody Marys, hard teas, and margaritas keep locals coming back throughout the week. The atmosphere is also another appeal, with decor harkening back to mythical firehouse days (it was never a fire station) the building itself is well over 100 years old.

RUNNER UP – Birdhouse

West End Tavern, Boulder CO

Patio Boulder

West End Tavern: Incredible BBQ platters, numerous local awards, acceptance of everyone, and incredible views of the nearby peaks all draw readers to West End Tavern. Known for their wings, in fact, over 100 people have completed their “Winginator Challenge,” the sides are nothing to scoff at either

RUNNER UP – Rosetta Hall

Piripi, Erie CO

Lunch EC

Piripi: Piripi brings European, specifically Spanish, influences to Colorado. Sometimes overshadowed by other nearby cuisines — French and Italian — Spanish food and international influences have made their mark on Erie, and our readers, yet again. The children’s playroom is a unique idea for parents who want a night (or lunch) out, and still enjoy the elegance Piripi offers. 

RUNNER UP – Jeannot’s Patisserie & Bistro

SALT, Boulder CO

Lunch Boulder

SALT the Bistro: Farm to table lunch? Planning a baby shower? Beignets, bolognese, and brunch? There’s one answer to all these questions, and it’s SALT the Bistro. From private events to sustainable lunches and gluten-free choices, SALT does everything well, which is so incredibly rare.

RUNNER UP – Raglin Market

Snarf’s Sandwiches, Multiple Locations

Sandwich EC & Boulder

Snarfs: Snarf’s reigns Sandwich Supreme, once again taking this category in a landslide. People love sandwiches, and there were so many good contenders in this race, it’s just people really love Snarf’s toasted sandwiches, which are called Snarfies. 

RUNNER UP (EC) – Stacy’s Kitchen

RUNNER UP (B) – Organic Sandwich Co

Reelfish Fish & Chips, Lafayette CO

Seafood EC

Reelfish Fish & Chips: You might love Reelfish now, but wait until you see the changes owner Dimas Asevedo and Chef Justin Richardson have in store for you. Chef Justin says he just loves to prepare foods that satisfy the community. Watch for his ever-growing menu additions!

RUNNER UP – Piripi

Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar

Seafood Boulder

JAX Seafood: There was this time our publisher went on a date at Jax Seafood and she ate three dozen oysters. Poor fella. If it swims in the ocean Jax will give you the satisfaction you crave, even if its all oysters. 

RUNNER UP – Spruce Farm & Fish

Urban Field Pizza, Longmont and Boulder CO

Pizza EC

Urban Field: A newcomer to the community, winning YS Best of the West is not their first award. These folks have taken the town by storm already racking up local and national awards, including placing 7th in the 2023 International Pizza Competition in Las Vegas. But it’s not just their pizza that will take satisfy you. Their chef-driven menu takes a unique interpretation of their favorite dishes. And while your there be sure to check out their pantry.

RUNNER UP – Westbound & Down

The Sink, Boulder CO

Pizza Boulder

The Sink: You do not make it to 100 years as a restaurant and bar without becoming an absolutely beloved institution. From celebrity visits to raucous college nights and incredible pizza, The Sink represents the best of “Old Boulder.” They are a perennial winner and again take home first place in a landslide.

RUNNER UP – Cosmos

740 Front St, Boulder CO

Steak EC

740 Front St: 740 Front is one of Colorado’s two oldest bars, the oldest ongoing tavern license in the state, and to the community, a priceless treasure steeped in memory and local lore. 740 Front is the last remaining saloon of the original thirteen that lined the 3-block strip of Front Street.” That bit of history is from the website. But the steaks and seafood reign supreme here as well, which might be why they have a 4.3 score by visitors. 

RUNNER UP – Law’s Chophouse

Boulder Cork, Boulder CO

Steak Boulder

The Cork: Quite simply, The Cork is the quintessential perfect restaurant. Their steaks and prime rib are their signature dishes, and naturally, they are perfect, too.

RUNNER UP – 316 Steakhouse

Sakura Japanese Restaurant, Longmont CO

Sushi/Japanese EC

Sakura: Kho and Mindy opened Sakura the year before YS started. Our publisher first discovered Sakura while out on yet another date. She has been a loyal customer since. Truly authentic Japanese cuisine and in her words, the best sushi you can find. Check out Kho’s special creations, they will delight. She likes them so much she just tells Kho to make her whatever he wants.

RUNNER UP – Kenny Lou’s at Button Rock

Hapa Sushi, Multiple Locations

Sushi/Japanese Boulder

Hapa: Fun, funky and everyone’s favorite. Hapa takes a unique twist with their Hawaiian style sushi and Japanese cuisine but the ambiance and service will blow you away as much as the specialties. 

RUNNER UP – Japango

Busaba Thai Restaurant, Louisville, Boulder and Erie CO (Longmont coming soon)

Thai EC

Busaba: Everyone loves Busaba. If you have ever been to Thailand, you will see why. Truly authentic Thai recipes made Thai style, not American. The Louisville location has a line every weekend, and their success has led to opening Boulder and Erie locations, with Longmont coming this year. 

RUNNER UP – Thai Kitchen

Aloy Thai, Boulder CO

Thai Boulder

Aloy Thai: Mom and daughters as chefs, real spice and flavor, there’s even a write-up on the Food Network website! Loy Thai is where it’s at for the real deal, bringing Bangkok to Boulder

RUNNER UP – Busaba

Pho Cafe, Lafayette CO

Vietnamese EC

Pho Cafe: Large portions, vegan options, and great online reviews all point towards why readers love Pho Cafe. Come warm your soul with a bowl of Pho and taste the crisp crunch of their eggrolls.

RUNNER UP – Jennie’s Kitchen

Chez Thuy, Boulder CO

Vietnamese Boulder

Chez Thuy: Thuy has been running Chez Thuy since 1993. In their custom style, they thank the community for the good fortune they have been given to serve. John Lehndorff has called it “most successful, least-known restaurateur in the city’s dining history.” What we know is the Vietnamese cuisine is 100% authentically Thuy. 

RUNNER UP – Boulder Pho

Marco’s Hot Dog’s & Tacos, Longmont CO

Hot Dog EC

Marcos: Hotdogs might be the ultimate American street food. There are endless combinations and simple classics that always hit the spot. The sizzling hot grill is always a good sign. Want the ultimate Mexican street food? You can get delicious hotdogs and incredible tacos all in one spot. Readers love the taste and choices.

RUNNER UP – The Dugout Grill & Bar

Mustard’s Last Stand, Boulder and Denver CO

Hot Dog Boulder

Mustards Last Stand: Mustard’s Last Stand has been an icon in Denver and Boulder since 1978. If you want a true Chicago-style Hot Dog the only place you will find one as good as Mustard’s is in Chicago.

RUNNER UP – Freddie’s Hot Dog Stand

Teocalli, Lafayette and Arvada CO

Taco EC

TeoCalli: They call them street tacos, but everything TeoCalli does is modern, innovative, and fresh. Find both traditional and some really unique spins on the taco here.

RUNNER UP – Dugout

McDevitt’s Taco Supply, Boulder and Denver CO

Taco Boulder

McDevitts Taco Supply: Can tacos be soul food? At McDevitt Taco Supply they can. Readers love the authenticity, the love, and the passion tasted in every ingredient. With multiple locations, catering, and food trucks, there are numerous ways to snag a bite.

RUNNER UP – T/ACO

Morning Glory, Lafayette CO

Healthy Meal – EC

Morning Glory: It is with special honor that we write this year’s Best of the West for Morning Glory, learning that founder and chef Julie Lieb left us in 2023, daughter Lili is continuing on the legacy of melt in your mouth dishes. 

RUNNER UP(s) – Roots Restaurant & Dickens Opera House

Healthy Meal – Boulder

Thrive, Boulder CO

Thrive: Whether you are a carnivore or a plant eater, Thrive proves that you can have amazing taste, be all organic, and forego the meat for a meal. Their smoothie concoctions and soups are their signature. 

RUNNER UP – Wonderpress

Chef Hugo, Piripi, Erie CO

Chef EC

Hugo Meyer of Piripi: Chef Hugo came to Erie via Argentina with stops all over Europe and even the Caribbean, no one knew what was coming to town when Piripi opened in Erie. Now three years later, they have become well-established as a Boulder County 4-star restaurant with a 4-star chef at the helm, and very much worth the drive to Erie. 

RUNNER UP – Kevin Kidd of 24 Carrot

Chef Bradford Heap, Salt the Bistro, Boulder CO

Chef Boulder

Bradford Heap of SALT: There is not one thing Bradford does that he doesn’t do with full passion. While classically trained at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, there is nothing archetypical about Bradoford’s cuisine. Throughout his time in Boulder Bradford’s passion for what we put in our bodies and how it tastes is embodied in all that he serves. 

RUNNER UP – Eric Skokan of Bramble & Hare/Black Cat

Chocolaterie Stam, Lafayette CO

Chocolatier EC

Chocolaterie Stam: Although Valentine’s just passed, there’s no reason not to stock up on chocolate still! Stam’s offers fast delivery, multiple adorable boxes to choose from, and B2B options as well. 

RUNNER UP – Robin’s Chocolates

Chocolatier Boulder

Piece Love & Chocolate: Ever wanted to make your own chocolate? Come to a class at Piece Love & Chocolate and dive into the world of crafting your own sweets! Offering cakes, truffles, and delivery options as well, it’s hard to go wrong exploring, eating, and creating here.

RUNNER UP – Moshka

DRINKS

Erie Social Club, Erie CO

Overall Bar EC

Erie Social Club: Erie Social Club’s owners are a couple of Hawaiian-shirt-wearing, Disney-loving cozies who welcome all to their cocktail roost of warmth with everything from “barkcuteries” for the “fluffies” to “bookclub for the bibliophiles”. Peppered with fun, relevant events, you’ll find a multitude of excuses to roll in for a delicious bev. Our publisher certainly does. 

RUNNER UP – William Oliver’s

The Corner Bar, Boulder CO

Overall Bar Boulder

Corner Bar: Around since the 70’s and located in the historic Boulderado Hotel, Corner Bar provides the mob boss ambiance only a pre-2000’s establishment of worn, polished wood can. With live jazz every Friday night and a killer happy hour, this classy joint serves nostalgia with every tasty dish and pour. 

RUNNER UP – Rosetta Hall

Liquid Mechanics, Lafayette CO

Brewery EC

Liquid Mechanics: Liquid Mechanics is frequented for its personable staff and standout beer selection – brew reviews abound with “delicious” and “unique.” With different food trucks every day, a cheerful patio, pub games, and a quiet place to set up your laptop in the barrel room, this brewery is a go-to for a chill hang.

RUNNER UP – Odd 13

Mountain Sun, Southern Sun, Boulder CO

Brewery Boulder

Mountain Sun: A local classic, Mountain Sun is a freshly authentic Colorado spot for a quality bite and brew (without plastering the Colorado flag all over the walls). With an accommodating atmosphere and menu, you can bring your loudest, pickiest family members and leave feeling full, sunny, and a little crunchy.

RUNNER UP – Avery Brewing Co

Lucile’s, Multiple Locations

Bloody Mary EC

Lucile’s: Lucile’s generous Bloody Mary rendition refreshes and satiates with cajun spice and lush garnishes. Okra and a juicy, little shrimp accompany the classic olive-celery combo to check the essential Bloody Mary boxes of nuanced goodness. Added bonus: seriously delectable breakfast food to knock it down.

RUNNER UP – The Dugout Grill & Bar

Buff Restaurant, Boulder CO

Bloody Mary Boulder

The Buff: The Buff’s Tatanka (pronounced Ta-Tank-Ya) Bloody Mary should be called the Bang-for-Your-Buck Bloody Mary. This delicious doozy is served in a giant mason jar, garnished with veggies and BACON, and when ordered with an entree, the price drops from $9 to…drum roll please…$0.99. See you there for brunch, obviously.

RUNNER UP – West End Tavern

Erie Social Club, Erie CO

Happy Hour EC

Erie Social Club: Pop into this local watering hole for a happy hour of $7 cocktails — the classics ala Old Fashioned and Palomas, done right — and $5 snacks and beers. Come for the deals, stay for the friendly atmosphere. It’s the perfect stop on your way home from one of those lucky, got-off-early days!

RUNNER UP – 95a Bistro & Co

The Corner Bar, Boulderado, Boulder CO

Happy Hour Boulder

Corner Bar: With a diverse selection of appetizers and cocktails, Corner Bar’s happy hour menu offers vittles off the aperitif beaten path for easy prices. Stop in on a snowy day for a cup of veggie chili and a glass of Pinot Noir in the sanctuary of one of Boulder’s oldest-standing buildings.

RUNNER UP – Jill’s Restaurant & Bistro

West Side Tavern, Longmont CO

Margarita EC

West Side Tavern: It’s no surprise that this posh spin on a classic is the brainchild of powerhouse couple Debra Heiser and Westley Isbutt, owners of West Side Tavern and creatives harkening from Vegas. Swapping lime juice for lemon and garnished with burnt sage soaked in Green Chartreuse, this margarita brings the glitz to full deliciousness.

RUNNER UP – North Side Tavern

Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant, Boulder CO

Margarita Boulder

Efrain’s: Efrain’s, a bright, charming establishment, with a pretty patio for sunny days, boasts THIRTEEN different varieties of margaritas and a lifetime of awards. They offer spicy or skinny, silver or gold, smoky or tropical – basically a marg for every palette. Anchor your buzz with a scrumptious entree and satisfaction is complete.

RUNNER UP – Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant

Spirit Hound, Lyons CO

Distillery EC

Spirit Hound: Lyon’s canine-themed distillery Spirit Hound, offers cocktails in three categories: Purebred, Off-Leash, and Dog Bowl. Visit the motorcycle repair shop turned distillery and tasting room to sample liquors distilled in their pristine all-copper pot still. Locally sourced ingredients, tours, and cocktail classes consummate Spirit Hound as a must-visit.

RUNNER UP – Abbot & Wallace

DV8, Boulder CO

Distillery Boulder

DV8 (Deviant Spirits): DV8, a self-proclaimed island of misfits, is a celebratory, queer-owned oasis of lust for life. With drag nights, DJ competitions, and stirring cocktails like A Hot Night in Bangkok (with chili-infused vodka and red curry!), DV8 provides a space for our freaky selves to let down and commune with boast-worthy booze.

RUNNER UP – Vapor

Bartender/Mixologist EC

Erie Social Club: Erie Social Club’s mixologists have a reputation for being friendly and well-versed in their trade. Patrons call out individual bartenders in their reviews – a quick scroll mentions Steven, Talon, and Jose. If you’re looking for a thoughtful drink recommendation and a welcoming atmosphere, this 3-time 2024 Bests winner is it.

RUNNER UP(s) – 24 Carrot & Piripi

Bartender/Mixologist Boulder 

Corner Bar: Racking up a third win in 2024’s Bests, Corner Bar is being celebrated for its service this time around. With local reviews that span from “made my night” to “prompt and friendly”, the kind and attentive bartenders give us yet another reason to stop in at this local classic.

RUNNER UP – The Bitter Bar

Liquor Store EC

Superior Liquor: It’s a really big store, that’s for sure.

RUNNER UP – Country Line Wine & Spirits

Hazel’s Beverage World, Boulder CO

Liquor Store Boulder

Hazel’s: For a ninth year in a row, Hazel’s wins by a landslide. With an epic selection, you can score rare, high-end items at competitive prices, plus your usual faves. Their amiable staff is accommodating to everything from large orders for parties to personalized recommendations. Hazel’s is a one-stop shop for libations.

RUNNER UP – North Boulder Liquor

Atlas Valley Purveyors, Lafayette CO

Wine Shop EC

Atlas Valley Purveyors: Atlas Valley Purveyors is more than a wine shop. Hard-to-find bottles and specialty gifts make it ideal for buying for the hosts in your life. Next time you’re planning a party, hit up the in-house grocery and butcher sections for an exceptional charcuterie. It’ll be a guaranteed hit!

RUNNER UP – Kuper Wine Bar

Boulder Wine Merchant, Boulder CO

Wine Shop Boulder

Boulder Wine Merchant: Run by master sommelier Brett Zimmerman, Boulder Wine Merchant boasts a cult following of locals. Its meticulous reputation, due to its tasteful selection and Brett’s personal relationships with wine-makers in the field, holds true. Check the website for free tasting events and featured picks that cover a generous price range.

RUNNER UP – Hazel’s

BookCliff Vineyards, Boulder and Palisade CO

Winery

BookCliff Winery: BookCliff Winery, a family enterprise, began with a former peach orchard in Palisade in 1995, and converted into a sustainable vineyard with fourteen grape varieties. The Boulder tasting room offers candle-lit dinners, classes, and a beautiful venue for parties. Visit for a relaxing wine-shopping experience or a chat with their experienced staff.

RUNNER UP – Silver Vines Winery

Entertainment

The Collective, Lafayette CO

Art Gallery EC

The Collective: Sometimes being in an art museum or gallery can be a stuffy experience. The Collective, however, fosters community and encourages everyone from students to senior memory care patient groups to visit. Referred to by one reviewer as the “gem of the community,” it’s easy to see how the gallery inspires guests with its diverse exhibits. 

RUNNER UP – Firehouse Art Gallery

Dairy Arts Center, Boulder CO

Art Gallery Boulder

Dairy Arts Center: The Dairy Arts Center has been a community staple since 1992. Guests can enjoy several free galleries that display photography, paintings, and other visual mediums by local, national, and international artists alike. Frequent visitors note that along with the exhibits, the Center’s beautiful, inviting space keeps them coming back. 

RUNNER UP – BMOCA

Nissi’s, Lafayette CO

Stage & Live Music Venue EC

Nissi’s: Come for the music, stay for the food. Seriously, one of the aspects of Nissi’s that keeps people coming back is its dishes like the Southern fried chicken strips, hummus plate, Rocky Mountain trout piccata, and more. Plus the venue’s extensive beer, wine, and cocktail list make it the perfect date night spot. 

RUNNER UP – Steinbaugh Pavillion

Stage Boulder

Glen Huntington Bandshell “Boulder Bandshell”: Not many venues can boast that they’ve brought the community music for nearly 100 years–unless it’s Boulder’s Bandshell. First built in 1938 by the Lion’s Club, concertgoers continue to flock back to this outdoor stage. Many visitors note its beautiful lights, open-sky concerts under the stars, and a rotating group of musical acts make it the perfect hangout spot. 

RUNNER UP – Daily Art’s Center

Boulder Theater, Boulder CO

Live Music Venue Boulder

Boulder Theater: The Boulder Theater is hard to miss with its large, bright art-deco sign beckoning passersby to come in. The venue has been showcasing comedians, jazz, rock, disco, movie festivals, and more for nearly 100 years. Take a step back in time, and see why concertgoers enjoy this small intimate venue with big performance energy. 

RUNNER UP –  Fox Theater

Quarters Var & Arcade, Longmont CO

Arcade EC

Quarters Bar + Arcade: Husband-and-wife duo Luke and Emily Kunselman always wanted to start an arcade bar in their hometown of Longmont. And in 2019 they opened Quarters and it has become a community staple. Customers appreciate the small but thoughtful curation of arcade games as well as the pour-your-own tap system.

RUNNER UP – Tilt!

Press Play, Boulder CO

Arcade Boulder

Press Play: Throughout the day, families can enjoy a number of kid-friendly games at Boulder’s Press Play, like Giant Jenga and Donkey Kong. However, in the evening, the venue transforms into an adult hangout. Frequent customers (and those who wished they lived closer so they could be) note that along with the games, there’s a dance floor and a full bar. 

RUNNER UP – Gateway Fun Park

Pumpkin Patch

Cottonwood Farm: Whether you have kids or not, going to a pumpkin patch and picking that all-important fall decoration is a must. Cottonwood goers note how this small, uncrowded farm offers its charm. Not to mention, parents appreciate that its entrance fees are quite reasonable. 

RUNNER UP – Rocky Mountain Pumpkin Ranch

FACE Vocal Band, Colorado

Local Celebrity EC

FACE Vocal Band: FACE formed well over a decade ago. And while some members have come and gone the group remained. Today, you can find them touring around the world and performing 100 shows a year. But of course, this Boulder group makes time to perform for the fans at home, captivating audiences with their sophisticated yet fun beats.

RUNNER UP – Chef Hugo

Celebrity Boulder

Deion Sanders “Coach Prime”: Already a legend in the sports world, Coach Prime shocked many by choosing to come to CU Boulder. His multiple Superbowl rings and reputation as a playmaker and showboater earned him admiration and derision alike in his playing days (depending if he was on your team or not!) but everyone loves him now.

RUNNER UP – Ralphie 

Longmont Museum, Longmont CO

Museum EC

Longmont Museum: The museum started as a humble display in a carriage house back in 1940. But it has since grown to encompass an 11,000-square-foot facility with plans to expand. While it offers several art displays, the history section is not to be missed. In it, you’ll find 17,000 artifacts, 10,000 historical photos, and a greater understanding of the Centennial State.

RUNNER UP – Lafayette History Museum

Museum of Boulder, Boulder CO

Museum Boulder

Museum of Boulder: Museumgoers note that this is the perfect spot for locals and travelers alike to get to know Boulder better. In 1944, the Boulder Historical Society committed to preserving the area’s artifacts and stories. It grew from occupying the second floor of a schoolhouse into a downtown facility with an annual $1 million budget. 

RUNNER UP – University of Colorado, Boulder Museum of Natural History

Longmont Theatre, Longmont CO

Theater  EC

Longmont Theater Co.: Theater can be hit or miss. But attendees continuously note the Longmont Theater Co. consistently puts on fantastic plays with high-quality production value that keeps them coming back. Not to mention, many note the ticket prices are quite reasonable. 

RUNNER UP –  Arts Hub

Theater Boulder

Dairy Arts Center: If you’re a fan of ballet, plays, contemporary dance, and other performing arts, then Dairy Arts Center is a must-visit. Along with thought-provoking performances, guests also note that the theater has excellent acoustics, comfortable seats (which is not always a guarantee), and delicious snacks.

RUNNER UP –  Local Theater Company

Lafayette Music Fest, Multiple Locations throughout Lafayette CO

Festival EC

Lafayette Music Fest: There’s no shortage of musical artists in the Centennial State. And in 2022, the nonprofit Rock for the People decided to gather them all in one place at the Lafayette Music Fest. Two years later, concertgoers can enjoy multiple stages across different venues. Not to mention tickets have clocked in at past events for under $40. 

RUNNER UP –  Erie Pride & Juneteenth by Being Better Neighbors

Boulder Creek Festival, Boulder CO, www.bouldercreekfest.com

Festival Boulder

Boulder Creek Festival: It seems prices everywhere continue to creep (or skyrocket) up and up. But Boulder Creek Festival offers 30-plus local bands across three stages completely free of charge. Not to mention, it’s also jam-packed with kid-friendly concerts and games. But of course, if you want to escape from the family for a bit, purchase tickets to the beer festival.

RUNNER UP –  Bluebird Music Festival

Health & Beauty

Blue Skies Massage & Wellness, Longmont CO

Day Spa EC

Blue Skies Massage & Wellness: Blue Skies has built up a regular clientele, which is due in large part to their staff taking the time to help customers find the best treatment option. Additionally, many spagoers note that they feel taken care of from the moment they arrive until they leave. 

RUNNER UP –  Body Bar

St. Julien Hotel & Spa, Boulder CO

Day Spa Boulder

St. Julien Hotel & Spa: Sometimes, a 30-minute massage just isn’t enough. Thankfully, St. Julien is the perfect weekend getaway. A community staple for nearly two decades, guests praise the highly attentive and friendly staff as well as the amenities offered like the sauna, steam room, and more. Of course, if you can’t make a weekend out of it, you can pop in for a quick massage or facial. 

RUNNER UP –  Dragontree

Blue Skies Massage & Wellness, Longmont CO

Facial EC

Blue Skies Massage & Wellness: Guests note that staff takes the time to get to know your skin type to recommend the best treatment. Additionally, Blue Skies also offers full facials specifically geared towards men and teenagers, meaning anyone can enjoy some well-deserved rest and relaxation. 

RUNNER UP –  Smooth Intentions 

Dragontree Holistic Day Spa, Boulder CO

Facial Boulder

Facial B (tie) – St. Julien Hotel & Spa

Dragontree: Guests note that the serene and tranquil vibe makes relaxing easy while taking advantage of their facials, which range from classic to ayurvedic options. Those who have gone to treat themselves at Dragontree also note that the staff is willing to help without pressuring you into treatments, which is very much appreciated.

St. Julien Hotel & Spa: St. Julien’s location and quiet campus allow one to truly step outside the hustle and bustle for a bit. Additionally, their facial options run the gamut in terms of treatment type, price, and time, so there’s something for everyone. 

RUNNER UP –  Alchemy Face Bar

Maven Hair Studio, Lafayette CO

Salon EC

Maven Hair Studio: One of the first upscale salons to open in East County Maven’s owner Laura, has been creating hair creations for 25 years. This particular review captured our attention; I LOVE this place! Laura is an amazing colorist and hair stylist…She set my hair free!

RUNNER UP –  95th St. Salon

Voodoo Hair Lounge: Voodoo is an artistic, community-oriented salon that’s known for its precision and talented stylists. In addition to providing unforgettable styles, this business diverts 93% of its waste through composting and recycling. Voodoo aren’t just good stewards of the environment, they are community partners.

RUNNER UP –  Twig Salon

Woodward Barbers, Erie CO

Barber EC

Woodward Barbers: An old-time classic in a new-time kind of town. Woodward Barbers is a classic barbershop that operates with finesse and attention to detail. Clients love this location because of its laid-back, comfortable atmosphere and endless supply of snacks.

RUNNER UP – Thunderbird Barbers

Hennepin Barber, Boulder CO

Barber Boulder

Hennepin Barbers: Head to South Boulder to snag an appointment with one of Hennepin’s top-notch barbers. An artistic shop with luxurious vibes and great background music, clients can expect a leisurely experience due to the appointment-based structure. However, shop owner Ben still runs his barber shop with a small-town feel.

RUNNER UP –  The Boulder Barbers

Siam Sensation, Longmont and Boulder CO

Massage EC

Siam Sensation: Not the first win for Siam Sensation, this multi-time winner provides a great massage that takes walk-in appointments and delivers the finest Thai massage in the county. But they offer both traditional Thai massages and mixed massages that prioritize opening the body to provide long-term relief. If you want to feel better this is a great place to book an appointment

RUNNER UP –  Blooming Massage

Moving Mountains Massage, Boulder CO

Massage Boulder

Moving Mountains Massage: Moving Mountains specializes in injury healing and stress relief through the medium of massage. But it’s Jesse’s skilled hands that make the difference. The fifth time that it’s topped the Best of the West charts, while it’s another feather in the cap for their business, it’s a win for your sore body. 

RUNNER UP –  Siam Sensation

95th St Salon, Lafayette CO

Manicure/Pedicure EC

95th Street Salon: When 95th St Salon opened it was not much more than a place to get a haircut. But the last twenty years have changed in our County and 95th has changed with it. Today it’s a full-service Aveda salon and spa that also does great nails.

RUNNER UP –  She Nails, Erie

J Lounge, Boulder CO

Manicure/Pedicure Boulder

J Lounge: Walking into J Lounge feels like you’ve entered into a contemporary, slightly elevated spa. The personable staff members make it many clients’ go-to location for manicures and pedicures in Boulder. 

RUNNER UP –  Contempo Nails

Valar-Aesthetics, Erie CO

Medi Spa (Medical Treatments) EC

Valar Aesthetics: A knowledgeable industry-leading staff goes a long way in the medical treatment industry, and that’s a quality that Valar Aesthetics provides. This team is beloved by the community for its sensitivity and personal charm. Unlike some businesses, Valar isn’t trying to sell a product. Instead, it focuses on client care and the relationships created.

Rinnova Skin & Body, Boulder CO

Medi Spa (Medical Treatments) EC

Rinnova Skin & Body: What’s better than temporary skin treatments? Treatments that are designed to provide lasting results for clients. Rinnova emphasizes renewal, safety, and natural healing that meets the client where they are. This quality team of specialists is sensitive to your needs while emphasizing quality educational support. 

Chiropractic Center of Erie & Longmont, CO

Chiropractor EC

Chiropractic Center of Erie & Longmont: Years ago we wrote that Dr Dave has the best hands in town. With over 25 years of tending to his patients’ needs, Dr Dave has consistently won because he is a master at helping you resolve pain. They take a full-body approach that includes soft tissue and muscle work with each adjustment. They also offer cupping and dry-needling. 

RUNNER UP –  Wurth Chiro

Chiro Now!, Boulder CO

Chiropractor Boulder

Chiro Now: Located in a strip mall in Boulder, Chiro Now doesn’t exactly toot its own horn. However, locals are quick to become loyal to this team of practitioners due to their accumulative level of expertise and patient care. These chiropractors take extra steps to get to know the patient and their ailments prior to making adjustments. 

RUNNER UP –  Swan Lake Chiropractic 

Jasper Animal Hospital, Lafayette CO

Veterinarian EC

Jasper Animal Hospital

It’s usually pretty easy to determine who owns a pet and who doesn’t. So, walking into Jasper Animal Hospital is quite an experience. The hospital’s team provides full-service care while making both you and your pet feel like family. 

RUNNER UP –  Erie Animal Hospital

Arapahoe Animal Hospital, Boulder CO

Veterinarian Boulder

Arapahoe Animal Hospital: Founded in Boulder in 1954, Arapahoe Animal Hospital has been a staple business within the city for more than 75 years. In addition to treating common pets like dogs and cats, this hospital supports the treatment of exotic animals, and every creature is treated with sensitivity. This is also the place to go to acquire a hard-to-get diagnosis for your pets. 

RUNNER UP –  Rise Vet

Boulder Community Health, Multiple locations

Medical Center EC

Boulder Community Hospital Erie/Lafayette: Boulder Community Hospital is best known for its expertise in the treatment of strokes, heart conditions, and neural conditions. While many hospital visits come with long wait times, BCH is quick, and efficient, making it easier to receive the care you need. 

RUNNER UP –   Strive Direct Health

Boulder Medical Center, Boulder CO

Medical Center Boulder

Boulder Medical Center: Boulder Medical Center makes patient care simple by accepting most insurance networks and simplifying the onboarding process. The center’s staff are friendly, and kind. And the facility, itself, is a multi-practice location which makes it easy to address all of your needs at once. 

RUNNER UP – Kaiser Permanente Baseline Medical Offices

Hospital EC

Good Samaritan Hospital: Lafayette’s Good Samaritan Hospital provides comprehensive care, but its pediatric center goes above and beyond the call of duty to support mothers and children. The facility contains a “Nook” or an area where new moms can go to get comfortable and bond with their baby. 

RUNNER UP – Longmont United Hospital

Hospital Boulder

Boulder Community Hospital: With more than 400 physicians practicing within the Boulder Community Hospital network, it’s no wonder why so many patients find the care they need. And the Boulder location is known for its outpatient care, which makes clients feel comfortable and supported on their medical journey.  BCH has been caring for people in Boulder since 1922, and for East County since the early 2000’s, but their practical approach to medical care has made them one of the best. 

Dentist EC

Dr. Greg Keene, Keene Smiles, Lafayette CO

Keene Smiles: This office has a loyal client base for a reason. First, it’s one of the last locally owned and operated dental offices. Dr. Keene approaches dentistry with sensitivity and kindness. In addition to providing world-class care, he also offers a membership option to those who don’t have health insurance, demonstrating his support of the Lafayette community. 

RUNNER UP – Brian Cope of Cope Family Dental

Dr. Colleen Kimball Bullard, Folsom Family Dental, Boulder CO

Dentist Boulder

Folsom Family Dentistry: While many dentistry businesses prioritize symptom management, Folsom Family Dentistry emphasizes preventative care for the whole family. What also throws this office into the spotlight is the laid-back, relaxed atmosphere. 

RUNNER UP – Gunbarrel Family Dentistry

Doctor EC

Dr. Brown – Strive Direct Health: Dr. Brown commands respect as soon as he walks into the room – and it’s not just because of his 6”7 stature. His knowledge, personality, and dedication to the person he treats make him a giant fixture in the Erie community. Booking appointments and getting in to see Dr. Brown makes it easy to prioritize your own health. 

RUNNER UP – Dr Bauer – Valar Family Medicine

Doctor Boulder

Dr. Carl Moritz – Crossroads Medical Center: Dr. Carl Moritz founded Crossroads Medical Center more than 25 years ago, and quickly established himself as an independent, personal physician in the region. Today, his business is one of the few that remains small enough to provide wholesome, ground-up care. 

RUNNER UP – Dr. Christa Ambrose – Clinica

Shopping

Brown’s Shoe Store, Longmont CO

Shoe Store EC

Browns: Brown’s Shoes in Longmont is what is called a Legacy business. After all, they have been serving locals since 1949. They have stayed in step with time and you will always find the latest in footwear in stock.

RUNNER UP – Jax Ranch and Home

Two Sole Sisters, Boulder CO

Shoe Store Boulder

Two Sole Sisters: Need some sass and beauty in your life? Try the beautiful, sassy styles at Two Sole Sisters. Embrace every season’s beauty from comfy sandals to waterproof boots–your feet won’t just do the walking; they will do the talking, too.

RUNNER UP – Pedestrian

Carbon Valley Eyecare, Frederick CO

Eyewear EC

Carbon Valley Eye Care: When Carbon Valley Eye Care opened the largest optometrist practice in the North Metro area, we kind of thought they were nuts for building out East. But their incredible selection and earned reputation for specialty eye care have made them a BOW winner year after year since opening.

RUNNER UP – Eyecare Center for Northern Colorado

Envision, Boulder CO

Eyewear Boulder

Envision: Since 1966 Envision Eyewear has been helping Boulderites see up the mountain and down the road. Their reviews tell you why they have been a local favorite all these years.  

RUNNER UP – Tom’s Sportique Eyewear

Eric Olson, Louisville CO

Jewelry EC

Eric Olson: One of two Master Jewelers in Colorado, Eric Olson is a true craftsman. He is so old school, he didn’t even have a computer to check you until a couple of years ago. That is because he is focused on the art of how to adorn us.

RUNNER UP –  Thalken

Hurdles Jewelry, Boulder CO

Jewelry Boulder

Hurdles Jewelry: The oldest store on Pearl Street and known to be a downtown treasure, Hurdles Jewelry is a first-generation, family-owned business that opened in 1947. They win year after year because year after year, they are true to their community with the highest quality and personalized service. 

RUNNER UP – Walters & Hogsett 

Ivy Rose, Longmont CO

Fashion Boutique for Women EC

Ivy Rose: For a long time East County folks had to drive to Boulder or Denver to go shopping. Not anymore. Main St. Longmont has become a destination for local shopping, and Ivy Rose is one of the reasons why. Always stylish clothes to adorn our bodies with but what makes the experience shopping here unique is their stylist on staff who can help you find the perfect outfit, all while keeping the prices within reach. 

RUNNER UP – Charmed 33

Apocolypse, Boulder CO

Fashion Boutique for Women Boulder

Apocalypse: Nostalgic for that vintage style? Mom jeans, oversized shirts that’ll make you smile? Apocalypse can deck you out like the Goodfellas, the 60’s hippie, or just really funky. Everything is unique here. 

RUNNER UP – Jacque Michelle

Acme Fine Goods, Louisville CO

Men’s Clothing EC

Acme Fine Goods: For the longest time, East County had very few options for men’s clothing aside from department stores at the mall. Mall no more! Acme Fine Goods has everything men want to wear. 

RUNNER UP – Jax Home & Ranch

Canoe Club, Boulder CO

Men’s Clothing Boulder

Canoe Club: With regal high-end streetwear, get pulled into a world of immaculate clothing options like nothing you’ve seen before. With polished floors and old jazzy tunes playing overhead, you will leave Canoe Club feeling like you’re in your own movie scene.

RUNNER UP – Heady Bauer

Found Underground Consignments, Louisville CO

Consignment Clothing EC

Found Underground: Funky, fun, and filled with Love, Found Underground has an eclectic mix of what to wear, all while actively supporting the LGBTQ community. 

RUNNER UP – Fabulous Finds

Rag’s Consignment, Boulder CO

Consignment Clothing Boulder

Rags Consignments: Rags is the Queen. In our 24 years, they have consistently won Best of the West just about every year. While it’s consignment shopping at Rags is like shopping new in a hip, chic environment.

RUNNER UP – Apocalypse

Downtown Longmont, CO

Shopping District EC

Downtown Longmont: Longmont is cool these days. Longmont is what Boulder was 30 years ago, a vast array of locally owned shops run by community members. And man has it changed from a sleepy farm town to a desirable downtown. All they need now is dancing at night!

RUNNER UP – Downtown Lafayette

Pearl St, Boulder CO

Shopping District Boulder

Pearl St.: A street whispering tales of old eras, known for its long history of surviving years of attempts at modernization, Pearl Street has seen it all! Immerse yourself in its timeless beauty, you’ll find yourself always coming back.

RUNNER UP – 29th St. Mall

Bookstore EC

The Read Queen: Who says print is dead? The Read Queen is proving people want books. Good books, unique books, printed reading material of all types. In addition to the cafe and bookstore they also now have a gathering space to sit and enjoy all that wonderful print (which is good for the brain too).

RUNNER UP – Barbedwire Books

Boulder Bookstore, Boulder CO

Bookstore Boulder

Boulder Bookstore: In 1977 Pearl St became a walking mall, the same year Boulder Bookstore opened. Other Pearl St Mall businesses have come and come, but Boulder Bookstore has remained a bastion of democracy and a vast resource of knowledge since where you will find over 20,000 sq ft with over 10,000 titles. 

RUNNER UP – Barnes & Noble

Florist EC

Lafayette Florist: Back in 1949 East County didn’t have a whole lot except old mining towns that were starting to shut down the mines. Lafayette Florist opened that same year as a garden haven for East County residents. A lot has changed in East County since, and Lafayette Florist has changed with it. Today you will find them at Arapahoe Rd and Hwy 287 still arranging the freshest floral bouquets you can find. 

RUNNER UP – Longmont Florist

Florist Boulder

Fiori: Fiori, meaning flower in Italian, Fiori is also fluent in the language of flowers. You will be reminded of the essence of the Italian riverside, as you celebrate joy and life-changing moments through the remnants of nature’s beauty. 

RUNNER UP – Sturtz & Copeland

Longmont Museum gift shop, Longmont CO

Kid’s Store EC

Longmont Museum: In 2023 YS covered the People’s History of BOCO & the North Metro. March 2023 was Longmont’s feature. But if you want to learn even more about this area head to Longmont Museum. However, Longmont Museum is so much more than history, you will find interactive exhibits, events, and performances all year. Longmont Museum is a central hub for Longmont culture. 

RUNNER UP – Adorn

Grandrabbit’s Toy Shoppe, Multiple Locations, CO

Kid’s Store Boulder

Grandrabbit’s Toy Shoppe: Since 1977 Grandrabbbits has been a magical and whimsy wonderland, Dive into a fantasy world of Cheshire cats and white rabbits, educational toys, and more. You will want to play as much as your kid will. 

RUNNER UP – Childish Things

Vintrey Honest Goods, Lafayette CO

Gift Shop EC

Vintrey Honest Goods: Vintrey is a family-owned, ethical shopping destination that provides gift options for everyone on your list. Toting their own brand of handmade items from India (jewelry, leather goods, and textiles), as well as sustainable brands and small-batch goods, their products are defined by an elegant simplicity. Feel-good shopping, for sure.

RUNNER UP – Timbalier

Cedar & Hyde, Boulder CO

Gift Shop Boulder

Cedar & Hyde Mercantile: The minimalist beauty of Cedar & Hyde manifests in chic clothing, elegant jewelry, and artful home goods. The owners were inspired by their own parents’ retail operation as children, and assured that “all are welcome to enter and linger.” And their loyal customers do, finding the mercantile to be a shopping sanctuary.

RUNNER UP – Bliss

Natural Goods EC

Natural Grocer / Vitamin Cottage: With a sweet, helpful staff (who will even hold your baby for you while you load up your groceries), Natural Grocers has a warm, community feel and high standards for their products. The knowledgeable employees keep the store clean and well-stocked, creating a peaceful place to shop for high-quality items.

RUNNER UP – Sprouts

Natural Goods Boulder

Sprouts: Sprouts’ friendly staff will go beyond to help you find what you need. From their beautiful produce to their affordable prices on natural brands, you can check off an entire week’s shopping list in one stop. And pop by the sandwich counter for a righteous lunch deal while you’re there! 

RUNNER UP – Nude Foods

Grocer EC

Natural Grocer / Vitamin Cottage: With a second win in Best’s 2024 lineup, Natural Grocers’ organic produce is top-notch, alongside a unique array of snacks and shelved products. They’re also the best prices on vitamins around! So stop in on your way home and let a thoughtful employee help you find what you’re looking for. 

RUNNER UP – Sprouts

Grocer Boulder

Whole Foods: Not all Whole Foods are created equal. But frequent fliers at the Boulder location note that the staff is incredibly helpful, even when it comes to hunting down the most esoteric of ingredients. Additionally, along with the huge selection of grocery staples, shoppers love browsing this location’s extensive specialty section. 

RUNNER UP – Lucky’s Market

Pet Supply EC

The Happy Beast : If you’ve ever been served an ad for the newest, healthiest dog food and immediately felt like an awful person for what you’re serving your canine, you’re not alone. But the truth is finding the best option for your dog is difficult—not to mention costly. Thankfully there’s Happy Beast. Shoppers note that the store’s friendly and knowledgeable staff help guide them to the health food that’s best for their dog and wallet. 

RUNNER UP – Dee-O-Gee

Pet Supply Boulder

PC’s Pantry: Along with offering a wide array of pet supplies at reasonable prices, PC’s also has an extensive pet bakery with dozens of special cookie options, ranging from Dawgoritos to Pup-kin cookies. Because treat culture isn’t just for the girlies. It’s easy to see why one shopper called PC’s the best pet supply store in the world. 

RUNNER UP – Only Natural Pet

Furn Consignment, Broomfield CO

Consignment and Re-Used Furniture EC

Furn Consignment: Skip IKEA cookie-cutter furniture and decorate your home with pieces that reflect your taste. Furn shoppers note that the furniture is beautiful, well-made, and (perhaps most importantly) reasonably priced. The owners are committed to uplifting local artists. And whatever doesn’t sell is donated to charities like the local African Community Center. 

RUNNER UP – Fabulous Find

The Amazing Garage Sale, Boulder CO

Consignment and Reused Furniture Boulder

The Amazing Garage Sale: This isn’t your neighbor’s garage sale. Customers keep coming back to this Boulder staple to browse its wide array of photographs, eclectic jewelry, furniture, sculptures, and more. There’s always something new to find and the prices are quite reasonable. 

RUNNER UP – Glenwood Wildlife Thrift Store

Quilter’s Corner, Erie CO

Quilting EC

Quilter’s Corner: One customer notes she walked into Quilter’s Corner looking for buttons and left with the supplies to start a whole new hobby. Indeed, shoppers note that Quilter’s friendly staff, classes, and open sewing spaces keep them inspired and coming back. 

RUNNER UP – The Presser Foot

Elfriede’s Fine Fabrics & Quilting, Boulder CO

Quilting Boulder

Elfriede’s Fine Fabrics & Quilting: One shopper called Elfriede’s a 40-carat diamond. Indeed, this quilting hotspot has been a community staple for 50 years. Customers note that its huge selection of fabrics, wool, garments, and other clothes is unmatched. 

RUNNER UP – Art Parts

Little Horse Vintage, Louisville CO

Record Store EC

Little Horse Vintage: Books and music in one place? Hell yeah. Customers say walking into Little Horse is like walking into a time machine. A community staple since 2001, this spot offers an eclectic collection of vintage books, records, and other trinkets. Not sure about the record? You can try it before you buy it by listening to it in the shop’s decked-out music closet. 

RUNNER UP – Absolute Vinyl

Paradise Found Records & Music, Boulder CO

Record Store Boulder

Paradise Found Records & Music: Paradise has existed in a few different forms and under a few different owners for years. But the shop’s current owner, Will Paradise, had been a longtime customer before buying it in 2016. Customers love the eclectic mix of old, new, and used records for reasonable prices. 

RUNNER UP – Beat Bookshop

Monkton Guitars, Broomfield CO

Musical Instruments EC

Monkton Guitars: Most shops start as a brick-and-mortar and then transition into an online shop. But Monkton began as an online store in 1989 and eventually opened its physical location in 2019. Shoppers love the Monkton’s fair prices and knowledgeable staff who are ready to answer questions without being overbearing. But what locals love is just coming in and jamming with the owner. 

RUNNER UP – Guitar Hut

HB Woodsong’s, Boulder CO

Musical Instruments Boulder

HB Woodsongs: HB Woodsongs is not just a big part of the music community, they are a Boulder icon. Along with an exceptionally helpful staff, the shop’s classes and open jam sessions help students of all levels hone their skills and connect with fellow musicians since 1971. 

RUNNER UP – Boulder Drum Shop

Cannabis EC

Complete Releaf: Customers note how Herbal Wellness has a thoughtfully selected but wide array of products to choose from. Staff are friendly and eager to answer questions. Plus, they have a large selection of artisan glassware. 

RUNNER UP – Terrapin Care Station

Cannabis Boulder

Native Roots: Go just about anywhere in Colorado, throw a rock, and you’ll probably hit a Native Roots dispensary. Seriously, they are everywhere (but please don’t actually do that). One can guess that’s due in part to the chain’s friendly and knowledgeable staff who meet you where you’re at with your cannabis knowledge without being condescending. 

RUNNER UP – Elements Boulder

Tattoo Shop EC

Main Street Tattoo: Sometimes, dealing with artists and staff at a tattoo shop can be a rushed and stressful experience. Definitely, not what you want when you’re about to permanently draw on your body. However, customers appreciate Main Street’s conscientious staff who will sit down with you, talk out your ideas, and come up with a design you’re happy with. 

RUNNER UP – Inksmith

Tattoo Shop Boulder

Bolder Ink: Walk into the oldest tattoo shop in Boulder and you’ll instantly feel the laid-back, friendly vibe. In other words, the perfect atmosphere for a tattoo. Customers have written they make special trips from outside of the state to Boulder Ink for a new tattoo.

RUNNER UP – Rising Tide Tattoo

HOME & HOOD SERVICES

Downtown Lafayette, CO

Old Town EC

Downtown Lafayette: Lafayette may be a small suburb, but it’s making a name for itself with the pioneering affordable housing initiatives most of us need in this economy.  Downtown Lafayette not only appeals to residents enjoying a quieter life but also for college students and millennials looking for a good restaurant for studying or brunch. 

RUNNER UP – Downtown Erie

Old Town Boulder

Mapleton Hill Historic District: Often considered one of Boulder’s poshest neighborhoods, it’s a treat for those who love to see elaborate and historic homes. The neighborhood is home to The Squires-Tourtellot house, constructed in 1865, which is believed to be the oldest house in Boulder. 

RUNNER UP – Pearl St

Callahan House, Old Town Longmont CO

Neighborhood EC

Downtown Longmont: Downtown Longmont has the downtown charm but with enough restaurant and shop options that fill every need. Aside from business establishments, downtown Longmont also hosts plenty of music and social events on the downtown streets. 

RUNNER UP – Indian Peaks

NOBO, Boulder CO

Neighborhood Boulder

NOBO Art District: Reigning champ from last year’s BOW, NoBo art district continues to be a fan favorite with the art enrichment opportunities it offers to the art lovers and artists in Boulder. Hosting art events like art exhibits, NoBo is a community-focused, grassroots organization.

RUNNER UP – Mapleton Hill

Furniture EC

Living Spaces Denver: Grab a soft pretzel from the Living Spaces Cafe and shop for quality furniture pieces at the Thornton store location. Want to shop from home? Customize your furniture pieces online. 

RUNNER UP – Woodley’s

Furniture Boulder

Boulder Furniture and Mattress: Started in 1999 by a CU business grad, feel cozy not only about your high-quality furniture purchase but that you’re supporting a local family business. Owner Cary Schram advertises that love and his relationship with customers as the most important approach to business. 

RUNNER UP – Arhaus 

Lottie Lane, Erie CO

Home Furnishing EC

Lottie Lane Erie: Taking the title again, Lottie Lane in Erie offers customers unique home decor pieces that you won’t find in many other homes while supporting a local realtor turned business owner. 

RUNNER UP – Due South

Proud House Studio, Boulder CO

Home Furnishing Boulder

Proud House Studio: Owner Megan doesn’t stop at the design drawing board. With an understanding in the construction process, she will oversee the plan to completion. A solo world traveler, Megan seeks creative inspiration from traveling the globe. 

RUNNER UP – Boulder Furniture Arts

Budget Home Supply, Longmont CO

Home Improvement EC

Budget Home Supply: Budget Home Supply has supported local non-profits like Habitat for Humanity and The Our Center since the beginning. They’ve even worked with hundreds of Boy and Eagle Scouts assisting them with supplies to complete their projects. Locally owned since 1984.

RUNNER UP – Ace Hardware

McGuckin Hardware, Boulder CO

Home Improvement Boulder

McGuckin Hardware: What’s more Colorado than allowing dogs at your establishment? At fan favorite McGuckin Hardware Boulder loves dogs so they let dogs in on the experience. With wholesome community touches like Nancy the harpist who plays during the holidays, it’s not surprising they often win this category.

RUNNER UP – Table Mesa Hardware

Outdoor Craftsman, Erie CO

Landscaper EC

Outdoor Craftsmen: Outdoor Craftsmen delivers clean modern twists on your English garden design with a sensitivity to the ecologically tricky nature of landscaping in Colorado. With modern eastern design inspiration, Outdoor Craftsmen can help create a real-life Rockies zen garden.

RUNNER UP – Wild Heritage Garden & Design

One Earth Landscape, Boulder CO

Landscaper Boulder

One Earth Landscapes: One Earth Landscape isn’t just any old landscape service. Founder and owner Jim Zarka not only boasts over three decades of experience, but he also holds a degree in landscape architecture, plus a strong resume of wide-ranging experience from academia, the Glasshouse of Boulder,  to Parks and Rec departments, which is why Boulder readers trust One Earth above all others.

RUNNER UP – Matrix Gardens

The Fowler Group, Boulder County CO

Realtor EC

Brie Fowler at the Fowler Group: Clients describe Brie Fowler the way one describes a trusted friend. She eases anxiety in the home-buying process, always has time for her clients, and is patient and accommodating to their particularities. A breadth of knowledge, handed down through Colorado generations, only adds a job done well to her just-plain-nice-to-be-around-ness. 

RUNNER UP – Paul Dart

Realtor Boulder

Arn Rasker-Sotheby’s: Arn is a Renaissance man, fluent in three languages, with a background in design and engineering. Often involved in unique properties, his varied and valuable credentials shine through in his work. Described as trustworthy, knowledgeable, and a great listener, his clients are in capable (and interesting!) hands.

RUNNER UP – Dena Schlutz- Estate Professionals

Plumber EC

Colorado Green Plumbing: Pulling this category by a landslide, Colorado Green Plumbing has a reputation for being fair, honest, and showing up promptly for same-day calls. When you add reasonable pricing and good work to that list (plus some free maintenance advice), well then you’ve just defined “perfect plumber.”

RUNNER UP – Around The Clog

Plumber Boulder

Mesa Plumbing: The folks at Mesa Plumbing are patient, and timely, and communicate clearly while providing quality service. They even tend to check in later to make sure everything’s still going well. It’s like your supportive dad came over to take care of it for you, but you insisted on paying him. 

RUNNER UP – Colorado Green Plumbing

Contractor EC

Silver Contracting, Boulder County CO

Silver Contracting: Drawing repeat customers due to quick work producing gorgeous results, Silver Contracting puts up interesting, freshly-designed builds. Customers describe the process as smooth, even “fun” – the rarest of contractor descriptors. Whether it’s a meticulous reno on a historical home or an out-of-the-box new build, they got you.

RUNNER UP – BC Home Services

Cottonwood Home Builders, Boulder County CO

Contractor Boulder

Cottonwood Custom Home Builders: Cottonwood’s creative, custom homes are stunners. Their impressive work spans from modern builds to green remodels. Customers praise their timeliness, attention to detail, and a tendency to land on budget – or under! Advocating for their clients and adapting to new technologies, these guys nail the journey and the destination. 

RUNNER UP – Melton

Reinholt Tree Care, Boulder County CO

Reinholt: Reinholt handles it. Prompt, affordable, and tidy, they’re honest and won’t recommend unneeded work. The pruning they provide is thoughtfully done – even artful! And they’re not just aesthetically accommodating; they’ll leave wood chips behind if you want to skip the haul to the garden center for mulch this spring.

RUNNER UP – St Vrain Arbor Care

Berkelhammer Tree Experts, Boulder County CO

Tree Service Boulder

Berkelhammer: This team of conscientious trimmers has a decades-long reputation for thoroughness – considering environmental impact (the bees!), safety, cleanliness, and friendliness. Their loyal customers come back for Berkelhammer’s accommodating attitude and expertise in pruning – for tree health and beauty. With good prices and an honest team, you’re all set.

RUNNER UP – Blue River Forestry

Stan’s Automotive, Lafayette CO

Auto Repair EC

Stan’s Automotive: Stan’s is the elusive auto shop that is steadfastly honest and communicates clearly. They even have short videos on their site to help you understand service choices, like replacing an air filter or brake fluid. Amenable to customers’ schedules and budgets, this family operation has had a faithful following since 1973. 

RUNNER UP – Grease Diva Garage

Pellman’s Automotive, Boulder CO

Auto Repair Boulder

Pellman’s Automotive: Pellman’s is all about customer care. Clients’ stories report exceptional service: they don’t always charge for small, surprise issues, they follow up, and they even leave space in their schedule for emergencies. From the pup in the front office to the affordable prices on your way out, they’re your honest, hometown automotive.

RUNNER UP – Hoshi Motors

Attorney EC

 Gstalder Louisville Law Firm: With three decades of experience in non-profit, dispute, and business law (to name a few), John Gstalder and the Louisville Law Group braid their knowledge and efficiency with a compassion that brings real understanding to the table. Clients appreciate their willingness to help in a crisis and their affordable rates.

RUNNER UP – Bagley Law Firm

Attorney Boulder

Frascona Joiner Goodman & Greenstein PC: Responsive and prepared to work under a time crunch, FG&G PC prioritizes their client’s needs in a real way. Keeping humanity at the forefront, they’re good listeners who are willing to dive into complex cases, making sure that nothing slips through the cracks. With efficiency and care, they ease clients’ anxiety.

RUNNER UP – The Moorhead Law Group

Glass

Slade Glass: Slade Glass is prepared to work with tricky fixes that others won’t. Their quick turn-around and clear communication work to create a stress-free project or repair. Prepared to fit emergencies into a busy schedule, they can tackle your glass needs from storefront windows to shower doors. Just give em a call!

RUNNER UP – Hillcrest Glass

Elevations Credit Union, Multiple Locations

Bank/Credit Union

Elevations: Elevations is known for going out of their way to help clients in a pinch. Diane Sawyer, in particular, who helps guide clients through loan decisions, is heralded as one of the best bankers in the area. Personable and professional, she’s there to walk you through otherwise tough and complicated decisions.

RUNNER UP – Premier Members CU

Fisher Honda-Acura, Boulder CO

Car Dealership 

Fisher Honda-Acura: Quoted as offering “the most pleasant car-buying experience”, Fisher Honda Acura has a speedy response time and can work patiently with any budget or schedule. They understand that a reliable car is often a pressing need, and they’re here to make that process seamless for their customers.

RUNNER UP – Boulder Toyota

Sister Carmen, Lafayette CO

Nonprofit EC

Sister Carmen: Sister Carmen Community Center’s roots harken to the 70’s in the humanitarian work of a nun with a heart for the community. A non-religious nonprofit, they provide access to health resources, housing connections, support groups, and advocacy for those struggling economically. Where there is a need, there is Sister Carmen.

RUNNER UP – Longmont Humane Society

EFAA (Emergency Family Assistance Association), Boulder CO

Nonprofit Boulder

EFAA: The Emergency Family Assistance Association steps in when situations are dire, keeping struggling families in the community from drowning in hardship. Among other invaluable resources, they offer a food bank, financial assistance, housing, and after-school kids’ programs, making a felt difference daily.

RUNNER UP – Growing Up Boulder

Congressman Joe Neguse, Boulder County CO

Politician

Joe Neguse: Congressman Joe Neguse made history in 2018 when he became the first Black member of Congress in Colorado. He was ranked among the top ten most effective lawmakers in Congress and has been recognized for his bipartisanship. The son of Eritrean immigrants, Joe works to expand opportunities for ALL Americans.

RUNNER UP – Mayor Justin Brooks

Barry Snyder, Fruitsticker Artist, Erie CO

Artist EC

Barry Wildman: Barry “Wildman” Snyder is known locally and internationally for his food sticker mosaic art. Upcycling the most forgettable trash into compelling, highly-elevated works of art, he creates unforgettable pieces that allow us to dream of a more vivid, sustainable world.

Angie Nordstrum, Boulder CO

Artist Boulder

Angie Nordstrom: Angie Nordstrum is a vibrant, inspiring muralist with a heart for the homeless. Through her generous spirit (not to mention, her killer smile) and art that feels quintessentially Coloradan, she brings a bright light to the streets of Boulder and beyond.

Kids & Education

Place to Play with the Kids EC

Lafayette Splash Pad: There’s nothing better than a free spot that can also entertain your kids for hours. The outdoor splash pad located in the festival plaza runs from Memorial to Labor Day weekends. 

RUNNER UP – Wow! Museum

Place to Play with the Kids Boulder

Valmont Skate Park, Boulder CO

Valmont Skate Park: Resembling the surface of the moon, a kidney, or a mitochondria cell, Valmont Skatepark is a free, 11,000-square-foot concrete skatepark with features to polish up your skate skills. 

RUNNER UP – ABC Kids Climbing

Dawson School, Lafayette CO

Private School EC

Dawson School: Lafayette’s Dawson School boasts a 100 percent college acceptance rate and more than six million dollars in merit scholarships among its alumni. With well-rounded offerings, multiple sports teams have qualified for CHSAA State Playoffs among music and academic accolades. 

RUNNER UP – Aspen Ridge Prepatory School

Private School Boulder

Boulder Valley Waldorf School, Niwot CO

Boulder Valley Waldorf School: What’s more Boulder than a Waldorf school? The 38-acre Niwot campus supports the growth of students, parents, and teachers while fostering a reverence for nature and environmental stewardship through the dreamy natural setting of the school. 

RUNNER UP – Friends School Boulder

Centaurus High School, Lafayette CO

Public School EC

Centaurus: Centaurus High School is a small town school offering big school programs like a unique pre-engineering program and I.B. and A.P. courses. The school is ranked #55 among Colorado high schools.

RUNNER UP – Erie High School

Boulder High School, Boulder CO

Public School Boulder

Boulder High School: Historically Boulder High School has been known as the funky, free-spirited school with a reputation for political activism. Located in a fun downtown location for students looking to be plugged into the city, Boulder High School was the first high school in Colorado. 

RUNNER UP – Horizons K-8

Square State Skate, Boulder County CO

Summer Camp EC

Square State Skate: Want to start early on getting your child on track to becoming a skateboarding star? Square State Skate School provides skateboard education and guidance for children of all ages while emphasizing the kids, not the tricks. Fun fact, founder Brian Ball, worked at YS in the early days!

RUNNER UP – School of Rock

Renaissance Adventures, Boulder CO and beyond

Summer Camp Boulder

Renaissance Adventures: There are worse characters for your child role-play than the chivalrous knight. Renaissance Adventures offers live-action role-playing programs throughout the year teaching lessons beyond just sword fighting and becoming heroes of a mythic quest. 

RUNNER UP – Avid 4 Adventure

School of Rock mural, Broomfield CO

Music School EC

School of Rock Broomfield: From James Brown, White Stripes and Green Day students of School of Rock Broomfield are covering the heavy hitters. Plugging in young and adult musicians into live music settings, the School of Rock teaches individual lessons and offers group band practices. 

RUNNER UP – Center for Musical Arts

Harmony House Music, Boulder CO

Music School Boulder

Harmony Music House: Get a private music lesson or get plugged into the bluegrass, teen rock, or jazz scenes by joining an ensemble. Harmony also can set up, repair, or restore your beloved instrument.

RUNNER UP – HB Woodsongs Teaching Studios 

Sports

Louisville Cyclery, Louisville CO

Bike shop EC

Louisville Cyclery: For another year running, readers have voted for the Louisville Cyclery The shop is also one of the oldest in the county, serving the community since 1980, and is staffed by bike-loving professionals who assemble the bikes custom on-site.

RUNNER UP – CycleErie

Full Cycle, Boulder CO

Bike shop Boulder

Full Cycle: Full Cycle, voted by readers as the best bike shop in Boulder, holds to its mission to serve road cyclists and triathletes in the area. Full Cycle is a great place to purchase a new bike or get a current bike worked on while enjoying a coffee at their on-site shop.

RUNNER UP – Community Cycles

Ski shop EC

Angels Sports: Located in Longmont, Angels Sports supplies gear, rentals, and tuning for every ski or rider, whether headed up to a resort or exploring the backcountry.

RUNNER UP – Snow Hut

Crystal’s Ski Shop, Boulder CO

Ski shop Boulder

Crystal Ski Shop: Serving skiers and riders since 1976, Crystal has been dazzling clients with their expert service. They are beloved in this community not just because of Justin and the staff’s expertise and knowledge, but the truly local vibe that comes with this Boulder institution. 

RUNNER UP – Boulder Sports Recycler

Jax Outdoor Gear, Lafayette CO/Multiple Locations

Outdoor Retailer EC

Jax Outdoor: Jax has a large range of outdoor gear for everyone from the experienced backcountry athlete to the nature novice. Jax is also dedicated to the earth, donating proceeds to several environmental organizations and prioritizing sustainable distributors.

RUNNER UP – Angles Sports

Neptune Mountaineering, Boulder CO

Outdoor Retailer Boulder

Neptune Mountaineering: With gear, guidebooks, a coffee shop, and professional service for any level of mountain athlete, Neptune is a pillar of the outdoor scene and has served the community since 1976. Patrons love the knowledgeable staff and on-site museum.

RUNNER UP – REI

Indian Peaks Golf Course, City of Lafayette, CO

Golf Course EC

Indian Peaks Golf Course: With eighteen holes with mountain vistas, Indian Peaks, located in Lafayette, it’s easy to see why readers voted it as the golf course in the county. With a course designed by a hall of fame player, an academy for all levels, and a bar and grill, there is something for everyone.

RUNNER UP – Colorado National Golf Course

Golf Course Boulder

Flatirons Golf Course: A par-70 course with views of the flatiron formations, Flatirons offers easy-to-book online tee times, classes, and ADA-approved features. Run by the city of Boulder, it is an inclusive and welcoming space.

RUNNER UP – Lake Valley

Gym EC

Louisville Rec Center: With options ranging from free weights, circuit training, workout rooms, and machines, Louisville Rec Center is the best gym in the county. Whether you want to lift alone, join a class, or hire a personal trainer, there is an option for all.

RUNNER UP – Fitness 1440

Gym Boulder

North Boulder Rec Center: Spacious with south-facing windows, the North Boulder Rec Center…. With a cardio and weight room and several drop-in or scheduled classes, there are options for all ability levels.

RUNNER UP – Movement

Rec Center EC

Bob Burger Rec Center: Fun for all ages, the Bob Burger Rec Center Has youth afterschool and recreation programs, a spacious gym, and a great pool. Classes are offered throughout the day for adults and children who want to get in shape or try a new activity.

RUNNER UP – Erie Community Center

Rec Center Boulder

North Boulder Rec Center: Not only was North Boulder voted the best gym, but the best all-around rec center in Boulder. With a full gymnastics and aquatics center, pickleball and basketball courts, plus a pool and standard gym, kids and adults alike will find something fun to do.

RUNNER UP – East Boulder Rec Center

Eldora Mountain, Nederland CO

Ski Resort – Day Trip

Eldora: Just over thirty minutes from Boulder, Eldora is our reader’s favorite day-trip ski area. The resort hosts both a downhill mountain and a Nordic center. The whole family will have fun with everything from a magic carpet for the littlest beginners to several double black diamonds for the expert clientele.

RUNNER UP – Loveland

Ski Resort – Overnight

Steamboat: Located in the historic town of Steamboat Springs, Steamboat Resort boasts some of the highest snowfalls in Colorado, serviced by 23 chairlifts and 181 runs ranging from extreme to beginner. Steamboat also offers a variety of apres for a post-ski celebration.

RUNNER UP – Winter Park

Chroma Jiu Jitsu, Lafayette CO

Martial Arts EC

Chroma Jiu Jitsu: New to Lafayette, Chroma Jiu Jitsu has already won Best of the West! The academy offers programs for both adults and children, which an inclusive and accepting atmosphere, making it clear that all are welcome.

RUNNER UP – Bennett’s Karate

Martial Arts Boulder

Easton: Easton was voted the best Martial Arts Center in Boulder, specializing in Jiu Jitsu and Mui Thai. With programs for adults and children led by professional coaches, any skill level can grow in the sport. With a dedication to health, Easton focuses on hygiene and sanitation, ensuring their space is pristine and a safe environment.

RUNNER UP – Boulder Karate

Soul Tree Yoga, Lafayette CO

Yoga EC

Soul Tree Yoga: A part of the community since 2009, Soul Tree Yoga, located in Lafayette, with 40+ classes offered a week, both in person and online, in English and Spanish, and for all ability levels, is an inclusive and welcoming place.

RUNNER UP – Louisville Community Yoga

Yoga Pearl, Boulder CO

Yoga Boulder

Yoga Pearl: With classes ranging from gentle restorative to faster flow; the studio focuses on building inner and outer strength for their clientele. Their several workshops, on top of classes, there are plenty of opportunities to grow a yoga practice in the studio.

RUNNER UP – Little Yoga Studio

Pilates for Life, Longmont CO

Pilates EC

Pilates for Life: Focused on the success of each individual, each client will start their journey at Pilates 4 Life with three private sessions before having the option to move to the group setting. Claudia Miller, the owner, places comfort and confidence as the main priorities in her business.

RUNNER UP – Rocky Mountains Pilates

The Pilates Center, Boulder CO

Pilates Boulder

The Pilates Center: Opened by The Talyor Sisters in 1990, the Pilates Center was voted the best Pilates Studio in Boulder. With both in-person and online classes, the studio focuses on providing classes to all ability levels. As a franchised chain, the Pilates Center offers some of the best services in the county, and a membership can be used in other cities or states.

RUNNER UP – Boulder Pilates

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The post Best of the West 2024: Readers Choice appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Lafayette City Council member Tonya Briggs remembered

Being asked to write a eulogy for someone you care about, someone who was only 44, a mother of three beautiful red-headed girls, happily married for almost two decades, and a leading Lafayette City Council member, is difficult. It is even harder because she was not just loved by her family and her closest friends — she was loved by EVERYONE. 

When I offered my number to have people call me, I had no idea how many would, but the calls came in every day, all day, for the next week. 

Tonya Jo Briggs passed away due to heart failure on September 16th, 2023. Tonya contracted Strep A, which is on the rise in the United States. In most cases, it can be treated with antibiotics, but it moves quickly and can be irreversible in a very short period of time. When she entered the hospital she had an upper respiratory infection and pneumonia, which in turn caused her immense heart to stop beating within 29 hours of  checking in.

It is hard to wrap the mind and heart around how someone so strong, vibrant, and determined could be taken from this world by a microscopic virus in a matter of days. 

I first met Tonya through our activism as citizens; we were petitioning for stricter fracking regulations, especially near homes and schools. But I truly got to know Tonya when she helped me throw a picnic —not just any picnic. It was the Erie Extreme BBQ.

I attempted to have a picnic in 2018 to bring the divided political “sides” together, but I was not having much luck. No one really wanted to do it. Tonya saw my struggle, believed in me, and told me, “We are having this picnic.” From there, I am not exactly sure what happened. I do know that once Tonya got involved, we had the picnic. All in all, about 50 neighbors came out for the day and enjoyed the BBQ.

Of the over dozen people I spoke to or received letters from, the recurring theme was that Tonya always stood for what was right — for the greater good. She had this innate ability to bring people together to work to achieve it. She was about bettering the world around her. I have come to realize how much of a force she was, someone who got things done — and not just picnics. 

This sudden loss has been painfully hard to accept, not just for me but for everyone I spoke to.

“Tonya was not a career politician; she cared about Lafayette and the people of Lafayette, and that was it,” Mayor J.D. Mangat recalled fondly. 

Mangat spoke highly of Tonya’s work for the Lafayette community as a City Council member. His sentiments were not the empty words we sometimes hear from work colleagues about losing a peer in the community.

Like all whose lives she touched, Mayor Mangat struggled to process her empty seat.

“She was someone who told it like it is and wasn’t up there playing games. Her intent was to be a true representative of the people of Lafayette.”

When asked about the puppy mill ban Tonya hoped to pass, he shared her willingness to compromise to accomplish the goal while working to keep legitimate businesses open. “She adjusted her stance on it, not completely pulling out of how she wanted it implemented. However, she was open-minded and reasonable enough to talk to other people, even if they didn’t align with exactly what she wanted. So basically, I’m saying that she was very understanding of where other people were coming from.” 

He encouraged me to watch the city council meeting on September 19th, 2023, stating, “The whole meeting was pretty much dedicated to Tonya.” 

I also spoke with Councilor Tim Barnes, who, in his most eloquent way, conveyed just how good Tonya was at working to find solutions that everyone could come to an agreement on.

“That’s why it was always fun to work with Tonya because she was one of the few people I know who understood how to really relate to natural systems. That goes from farms and animals to social services, human understanding, and being a local business owner. She understood how the process worked. She could walk between all of these systems, where most people don’t really try to work. There’s a reason I think that we could do so much. 

She was smart, and by smart, I mean wise. She brought incredible resources. What she didn’t know, she learned. We understood how to have more complexities that go beyond a single issue. She understood how to incorporate ideas that weren’t their own. She could belong to various groups of people and work with other people’s pain points. Her biggest asset was being able to listen to people that she didn’t agree with and explain to them how what they saw overlapped with other systems and helped them see the bigger picture. She was able to hold multiple platforms at the same time.”

Which is an understatement. Tonya was a force, an idealist, a lover of earth and its inhabitants, and she never backed down from what was right.

Tonya, along with Tiffany Foote of Mother Gaia Animal Rescue,  saved a lot of animals together over the last 12 years. Still, the story that stood out most is them catching a loose goat with a broken leg running around Lafayette. 

“I always feel like she was just a badass. Like, all I can think about when describing her. 

In Lafayette, she was making sure she could have her pigs. The city told her she could only have one pig. And she was like, nope, I’m running for city council, I was like, wow, that’s definitely somebody I could look up to. The rest of us just sit around and complain, but she went out and got something done about it. Like how many farm animals did she have? 

She was one of those people that I could call and be like, I need help with the Marshall Fire animal rescues, and she was there. I crashed called her on Easter. We had a cat that needed a C-section, and we needed hands to catch kittens to resuscitate them. She just dropped everything and went to the hospital. She was literally milking Mama cat so the kittens could have milk.

Then there was the Lafayette goat. I got a call about this loose goat being spotted over by the fire department. I called her for help, and the next thing I knew, she and a whole bunch of people showed up. We chased the goat through fields, and it fell into a ditch with its broken leg. After we caught it, she carried it all the way back across the field to the cars.”

You can read Tiffany’s written statement here.

Former Lafayette City councilwoman Merrily Mazza wanted to ensure I knew just how much Tonya did.

“I met Tonya six or more years ago when she connected with our community rights organization, East Boulder County United. I encouraged her to run for city council, and she probably hated me when she had to read 100-page agenda packets. The world needs many more Tonyas, more men and women who don’t just love and protect their families but take action to love and protect other people’s families, children, animals, and the planet. 

I admired her tremendously for the effort she was willing to put in because I didn’t have little kids. I didn’t have a job I had to go to.”

Hope for the earth, the environment, and the future of all our children and grandchildren lies solely with local activists. It lies with people like Tonya, who will not just take to the streets, but will take to the dais in their own communities. What a heartbreaking, tragic loss for her family. What a tragic loss for the small community she worked to protect from political and environmental harm.”

Cliff Willmeng, a former Lafayette resident and a force behind ECBU, and I finally connected after multiple attempts. It was that important.

“We initially met Tonya because my kids were playing in the park adjacent to our house. And [the Briggs] were having a birthday party there. We had no idea who they were, but my kids were intrigued by it. So she and her family just invited us to the party. I didn’t initially get to know Tonya through political activism or environmentalism. While I eventually worked very closely with her on those things, it was at this event that I met her and her family, these extremely warm and inviting people. 

She had a very strong level of concern and deep conviction. I believe that for her, East Boulder County United represented more passionate people with a lot of resolution, grit, and determination.”

Jenna Tullberg, who ran on the same ECBU slate as Tonya, sent us this statement:

“This past year and a half has absolutely thrown me a shitstorm that would have crushed a younger me! I’ve survived bc [sic] I remind myself it’s not what’s thrown at you but how you handle it! I’ve also learned that feelings are not mutually exclusive. I can be angry about a dear friend passing, grateful they didn’t go in pain or fear, and happy that I was lucky enough to have known them.

Unfortunately, right now, it’s not making their passing hurt any less…

When you are blessed with someone in your life whose sheer presence and light make you strive to be a better person, their loss hits you like a dump truck!

Someone once told me a soulmate is someone who comes into your life and changes the person you become. Tonya Briggs was more than just a soulmate to me. She was a soulmate to anyone who was blessed to meet her. This is a significant heartbreaking loss for our community and will be felt for decades.”

Longtime Lafayette resident and “city watchdog” Karen Korback requested a town parade at the September 19th City Council meeting — one that Tonya had always hoped to create.

“What does one say at a time like this? Finding the right words seems impossible. We have lost someone very special way too soon. I watched Tonya grow into a fine city councilor because her heart and her humanity came through in everything she did. 

I remember when she cried during a workshop discussion about helping the community deal with COVID-19. I remember when she broke down as she backed off her work to stop pet stores selling puppies after she listened to the breeders who came to speak. She told them through sobs that she heard them. It takes a special kind of person to make that adjustment in the moment. She took everything to heart; in fact, the phrase wearing your heart on your sleeve could have been written about her. 

She cared deeply about this community and did her very best to represent us all. Out of all the councilors I have seen over the years, Tonya was the one who most closely shared my views about so many issues, especially when it came to animals. I didn’t need to contact her to make my case on anything. She was already making the same case on her own.

In fact, the last time we spoke was after your September 5th meeting when I talked about bringing back the parade. She called me and said she and Doug were just talking about a parade for Lafayette. They had marched in the Louisville parade, and she wanted our community to enjoy the same experience. She wanted details of how it used to be done. She said she had planned to bring it up in a future budget discussion. We talked about it being planned by some of our art committees with members of the public involved and making it a cultural celebration, too. It would be a great way to honor her memory and her fun-loving side if we could indeed fulfill her wish for a parade and make sure it had lots of animals, including pigs, of course, and perhaps led by some of our local young dancers, especially her daughters.

My heart goes out to her family and friends and I thank them for sharing her with the rest of us over the last few years while juggling family responsibilities, running a successful business, and fostering a never-ending procession of animals. 

I am sure I am echoing the thoughts of many others when I say my heart is broken. She will be missed. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to get to know what a caring and thoughtful person she was.”

I spoke to cousins Laurie, Melinda, and Uncle Rick, who all recalled fond memories of growing up.

“She was always happy. She’d laugh a lot, kind of a weird laugh, but she always laughed,” Rick recalled.

Pam (PJ) Mattorano spoke through tears at the service and sent us this sentiment. 

“Volunteering at the American Legion Post 111 in Louisville is where I met Tracy Tonya’s mom.

I was introduced to Tonya and her family. Finley (Fin Fin), her youngest daughter, we became fast best friends!

Tonya’s two older daughters (Haddie and Bailey) became a part of our posts circle. Then along came the rest of her family, Sarah, her best friend, and from there, our friendships blossomed.

Tonya was a firecracker, that’s for sure!

One of the most confident and organized people I’ve ever met!

She was a great mother and friend.

When Tonya learned that I was estranged from my daughter, it sincerely and truly broke her heart. She could see my pain as she reassured me that I’m a good person and, from what she could tell, a good mom and grandma.

Without skipping a beat, [she] stated, ‘My girls love you, and you can be a part of our family… We all love PJ!’ Tonya went all out to help make my 60th birthday special.

All of her family was there, as well as Sarah and her husband, to celebrate me. There is a void in this world now…it is felt by so many that someone very special is gone from our sight….but she lives on in our hearts forever.”

Sarah Iwanski, one of her closest friends, was able to provide a written statement. But it wasn’t easy, the grief has been intense.

“I have so many wonderful, funny memories. It’s impossible to narrow it down to just one. 

Tonya was dynamic and gave it all to everything she did, including hanging out with friends. She loved creatures, humans, and the environment. She showed this in how she chose to spend her limited spare time. 

She was actively involved with several rescues, environmental groups, and the city council. If someone called her and said that they had a problem with anything, she would gladly go meet them for coffee. She was endlessly giving. 

If you were lucky enough to be her friend, you were very lucky. 

On one of my birthdays, we went to Blackhawk. She didn’t realize her driver’s license had expired the month before, so they wouldn’t allow her to go to the restaurant on the casino floor. She went to the room while we all had dinner so my dinner wouldn’t be ruined. We snuck her onto the casino floor later, lol. 

When I saw two pigs listed online for free, in what looked like not-so-great conditions, she was actually on vacation. I messaged her, and I sent her the pics. I said I can’t leave these pigs there, but I can’t have two pigs. She said, ‘No, you have to go get them.’ Then she said, ‘if you go get them and you keep them at your house for a few days when I get home from vacation, I will take them,’ and that’s how she got her two pigs. I actually have my pig Twinkie because of her. 

She tried to be sure that she wasn’t using plastic, unethically sourced paper products, or cleaning products that hurt the environment. I honestly had no idea reusable gift wrap was a thing. It is. We’ve never been to a concert where we didn’t meet a new friend. We’ve never had a girl’s night or a girl’s trip that wasn’t filled with laughs. Although, there was the one time she kept us up until three in the morning bitching about Polis, which we now laugh about. The world will be a dimmer place without her in it. I will greatly miss my friend.”

Tonya’s mother, Tracy Liekhus, invited me to a family service on Saturday, September 30th, 2023, at the American Legions Hall, where the entire family is members. The day was beautiful, and well over 200 people were in attendance, including Congressman Joe Neguse’s office staff. Part of the service was to present Doug Briggs with the flag flying over the Capitol and a certificate from the State House of Representatives. 

Congressmen Joe Neguse’s office sent this statement in;

“I join countless members of our community in honoring the memory of Lafayette Councilmember Tonya Briggs. My wife Andrea and I are sending our deepest condolences to her family and friends. She will long be remembered for her spirit of service and her tireless commitment to our community,” said Rep. Neguse.

Despite the overwhelming grief Tracy was experiencing, it was quite apparent how much she loved her daughter. 

“It’s taken me 11 days to write an obituary. And so I just had to force myself. The phone has been ringing nonstop day and night.” 

She continued, “First and foremost, Tonya was a family person. She loved those girls. She was so proud of them for everything they did. Anything the girls were into, whether it was volleyball or soccer, she was right there cheering them on. Helping out, driving here and there, helping parents with their kids, getting them scooted around, bringing treats. Whatever she did, she was all there. It wasn’t a halfway thing with Tonya; it was all or nothing.”

Lastly, I spoke to Doug Briggs, Tonya’s husband. I admired him for his frank talk but also for the warm memories he shared. We even found a few minutes to laugh, like over how they met. 

Tonya lived in the same apartment complex, and he would notice her coming and going. Finally, one day, they were both in the alley taking out the trash, and he decided to go for it and ask her out. He had these neighbors who liked to party and always had their doors open. They invited him and Tonya in for a drink, where she saw these kittens on the third-floor porch in a box being neglected.

“She actually married me after she realized I was dumb enough to do as I was told. I lived on the bottom floor, and they invited us in for drinks, and suddenly she spotted that there were two little kittens on the balcony, with cigarette butts in moldy food and no freaking water out on that balcony. Then, when we left the party, she told me, ‘You need to go get them.’ Of course, I say, I’ll get them tomorrow. 

So the next day, I throw a backpack on, and when I see them [the neighbors] walk down the alley, I walk outside. I can see through the slats that the kittens are still on that balcony from the night before. So, I freaking shimmy up the building onto the third-floor balcony, put the freaking cats in the backpack, and climb back down. She says one of the kittens is more traumatized. She tells me we have to keep her.

So I did as I was told and shimmied up the side of an apartment building to rescue these kittens, and she knew right there that’s when she would marry me.”

He continued, “And the pigs! She was smart about it. She never asked me if we could have pigs. She knew I would say no, so she just brought them home. Then there is the Tide detergent. I would beg, do we have to wash my work clothes in that hippy shit? Can we please have some Tide? The other day, I realized we were out of laundry soap, and you know what I bought? The hippy shit.

She ran the business, too. I feel some guilt I didn’t learn more of that stuff, but I am grateful that,  you know, it isn’t always easy in relationships over 20 years, I am grateful we were good when she passed. We were in a good place, so I am grateful I am not living with words I regretted. 

And my kids, I have to take care of my kids more than anything else. They are speaking up, too, telling me their feelings and stuff. She taught them well. 

I have 21 Moms over the next 21 days helping me. Somebody’s here at eight o’clock to read books and stories to my kids.  I just can’t believe how much people are helping. It really touches me.”

People loved Tonya for all she gave, for genuinely caring about the world around her, and for stopping to listen and care for others. If we all practice what she did, we could help her make the world a better place too. 

There is a Celebration of Tonya’s Life at local community member Rachel Swift Cook’s house on Monday, October 16th, 2023, from 5:30-8:00 p.m.

Potluck style, drinks, bonfire. They are asking people to bring their favorite picture of Tonya with a 3×5 note card telling the story of the picture or something they want to share in an envelope so we can keep them together. They will then make a memory book for the family.

All are invited to pay respects to Tonya Briggs, Mother, Wife, Daughter, Cousin, Niece, Sister, Neighbor, Badass Extraordinaire. Please RSVP to rachel_lee_29@yahoo.com for the address, but please provide your name and contact info.

City of Lafayette Official Statement

credit: City of Lafayette, Colorado

City of Lafayette Councilmember Tonya Briggs passes away

It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of Lafayette Councilor Tonya Briggs, who passed away suddenly on Saturday, September 16, 2023, in Lafayette, Colorado. Tonya was a beloved member of our community, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her. She was 44. 

Born on March 2, 1979, Tonya has been a fixture in Lafayette for over 14 years and in Boulder County for most of her life. She leaves behind her husband, Doug, and their three daughters, Bailey, Haddie, and Finley, all of whom will miss her dearly.

“Tonya left a lasting impression on our community through her selflessness, determination, and devotion to improving the lives of others. Her contributions will be remembered for years to come,” said Mayor Mangat. 

Tonya was first elected in 2019 to serve two years and was re-elected to a four-year term in 2021. An active member of the Lafayette City Council, she served as Council liaison on the Human Rights Commission, Lafayette Open Space Advisory Committee, Historic Preservation Board, and Waste Reduction Advisory Committee during her tenure. She also served on the Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport Community Noise Roundtable, Louisville / Lafayette Meeting, and as an alternate on the Colorado Municipal League Policy Committee. Her dedication to public service and her community was unwavering.

In addition to her work on City Council, Tonya was also a successful businesswoman. Alongside her husband, she ran a small family plumbing business, Around The Clog, for over 12 years. Before that, she worked in accounting and held a technical certificate in horticultural and greenhouse management. 

Tonya’s passion for animals and the environment was evident in all aspects of her life. She worked closely with a large animal sanctuary and Mother Gaia Rescue, fostering numerous animals at her home. In lieu of flowers and to honor her love for animals, the family asks that donations be made to the organizations listed below in her memory. 

Good Life Rescue: https://goodliferefuge-bloom.kindful.com
Mother Gaia Rescue: https://www.mgarcolorado.org/donate

Tonya Briggs was a kind, compassionate, and dedicated member of our community. She will be sorely missed, but her legacy will continue to inspire us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time. 

The post The Woman Who Chased Goats appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

I’m Tired.
with a Capitol T, hard-wired.

It’s not just the hours,
that the work requires.

Our babies are killing each other
and themselves for what? Power?

They say change happens slowly
when human nature is revolting,

Against the stories they have been told
just work harder and maybe you will get some Gold.

So we flash our worth in cars, clothes, and our 45’s
thinking that makes us “really” alive

It makes a bang so loud
making men feel so proud,

of their hate
they think makes them great.

We don’t seem to see other humans,
even dead bodies numb our feelings.

Even those who preach love,
turn on each other and kill the dove.

I’m Tired.
With a Capitol T, hard-wired.

Tomorrow is another day
to hope we learn to love and play

The post I’m Tired | Red Tornado appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

EC = East County | B = Boulder

Restaurants

Overall

EC – 24 Carrot: The title for Best Overall Restaurant has been a battle for the last few years between two great Erie Restaurants: 24 Carrot and Piripi. This year 24 Carrot takes the crown and Piripi comes in runner-up. Twenty years ago, who knew Erie would be the hub of exceptional dining? Runner-up: Piripi

B – Frasca: Inspired by the beauty of the Julian Alps and the warm community traditions of northern Italy, Frasca just brings it. This place has won so many James Beard awards it’s almost ridiculous. Frasca is a powerhouse in Boulder making a well-deserved national name for itself with outstanding food, quality wine, and impeccable service. Runner-up: Oak on 14th

Contemporary

EC – Sugarbeet: Get your reservations in order because everyone loves Longmont’s Sugarbeet. This is a top quality experience with a varied and mouth-watering menu. Start with the beet-cured salmon appetizer, move to a main course of gochujang-glazed pork ribs, and end the night with a slice of key lime pie. Don’t forget a Beetropolis cocktail to go with a most inspiring dinner.

B – SALT the Bistro: We have watched Bradford Heap start out in this county and grow to being one of the top chefs in the state. SALT proves why he continues to take the title of Readers’ Choice Best of year after year.

Cheap Eats

EC – Cosmo’s: The pizza king of Lafayette, Colorado, Cosmo’s is a mainstay for folks looking to enjoy a late night in with a pizza or calzone. We appreciate these affordable pies and the late hours are perfect for parties and study sessions that run long. Locals also swear by their signature spicy ranch dipping sauce, a midwestern classic. Runner-up: Biscuits at Mike’s

B – Illegal Pete’s; Runner-up: Cosmo’s

Bread

EC & B – Moxie: The bread is made with love. That’s why it is so good. From the legacy of its founder to the spirit of the team carrying that forward, Moxie has always been about the love of community and the foods we put in our bodies. Runner-up EC: Babettes | Runner-up B: Great Harvest

Newcomer

EC – Jeannot’s Patisserie & Bistro: Wait. Stop everything. Lafayette has a French restaurant that sources its ingredients locally and handcrafts just about everything they serve? We challenge you to even finish reading this blurb before madly storming out the door to go try this little piece of France in Colorado. Reviews are off the chain. Oh, and yes there is a patio. Runner-up: Farow

B – Gemini: Here’s a bit of Barcelona on Pearl Street. Seasonally guided menus, sustainably sourced ingredients, Spanish-inspired ambience. It sounds amazing and readers agree, awarding Gemini with the best Boulder newcomer choice. This Boulder newbie gets shockingly good reviews like this one from Yelp: “transcendent dining experience unrivaled by anything outside of the Iberian peninsula.” Wow! Runner up: Rooted Craft Kitchen

Bagel

EC – Big Daddy Bagels: With Moe’s expansion into East County they give everyone a run for their money, but with 20 years under their belts serving us EC’ers, Big Daddy takes the throne again this year. Runner-up: Moe’s Broadway Bagels

B – Moe’s Broadway Bagels: Every year, every best-of in town, since the beginning of time! Everyone loves a Moe’s Broadway bagel. It must be the authenticity. This is a family-run place started by a true New Yorker who came to Boulder looking for the mountains. Runner-up: Big Daddy Bagels

BBQ

EC – Georgia Boys: If you want a great bagel, find a New Yorker. But if you want the best barbecue in town, find a Georgia boy. They don’t have employees, they have an extended family and they love to offer great slow-cooked food with Southern hospitality. So get yerself over to Georgia Boys for a Tennessee sticky pig and some cauliflower wings. Runner-up: Lulu’s

B – KT’S: It’s Memphis style y’all. No, we’re not talking about Elvis and his weird peanut butter sandwiches. We’re talkin’ Memphis style barbecue at KT’s, a family run barbecue joint going on 30 years running. KT’s is slow-cooked and authentically local just like their hickory-smoked pork ribs. Runner-up: West End Tavern

Breakfast Burrito

EC – Santiago’s: You can get it smothered or you can get it “deluxed.” The meat is chef’s choice and you can’t go wrong with a breakfast burrito from Santiago’s. It’s authentic, made fresh, and if you like it spicy, Santiago’s can make it kick, and they have been for 23 years winning every single year we have published. Runner-up: Taco Wagon

B – Blackbelly: We are not sure what the “o.g.” really stands for, but Blackbelly’s o.g. breakfast burrito is surely the original gangster of breakfast burritos. Everyone loves a good breakfast burrito, but the best breakfast burrito in Boulder is a must before your next ride up Boulder Canyon. Runner-up: Santos

Bakery

EC – Button Rock Bakery: Our favorite Saturday morning is a trip to Lafayette for our essential goods at Jax and then headed right next door for the truly essential goods. Button Rock Bakery delivers the divine we need in our lives to sustain this world. Runner-up: Jeannot’s Patisserie & Bistro

B – Lucky’s Bakehouse: Community-inspired, freshmade, daily small batches. That’s the name of the game at Lucky’s Bakehouse. From gluten-free to sugar-filled and everything in-between, Lucky’s does not disappoint. Runner-up: Shamanes

Coffee House

EC – East Simpson: This is more than a coffee shop. It’s a neighborhood party! From live music, a collective atmosphere, and a funky old house, East Simpson has created a community gathering place that also happens to serve great coffee. Runner-up: MECO

B – OZO: The name is cool and the coffee is top notch. From seed to cup, Ozo brings it with the coffee game. It’s not just the quality, it’s also sustainably and ethically sourced. And for you backpackers out there, they now offer instant coffee packets for the pack! Runner-up: Laughing Goat

Brunch

EC – Tangerine; Runner-up: 24 Carrot

B – Greenbriar: Sunday brunch at the Greenbriar Inn might just be the best thing you can do on one of those perfectly clear summer mornings in Boulder. Bring a blanket and order it picnic style to enjoy by their pond or on the cabin lawn. Plus they have beignets! Runner-up: Tangerine

Breakfast & Brunch

EC & B – Tangerine: Lafayette, Longmont or Boulder, Tangerine is the quintessential perfect breakfast stop, never disappointing, always delighting. It’s why year after year, they continue to win the title of Best Breakfast and this year, Best Brunch. Breakfast EC Runner-up: Morning Glory | Breakfast B Runner-up: Lucile’s

Burger

EC – Waterloo: You know those “God Bless Johnny Cash” bumper stickers you see around here? Yeah, those come from the Waterloo, and that’s the vibe you’ll get at this awesome Old Town Louisville joint. So walk the line to Waterloo friends. And, yes, the burgers are the best in East County. Runner-up: 24 Carrot

B – The Sink: This year The Sink is celebrating their 100th year On the Hill. What would we do without them here to satisfy us with their amazing pizzas, funky atmosphere and of course, the best damn burger around. Be sure to follow them on the socials for all their 100 year festivities. Runner-up: Mountain Sun/Southern Sun

Dessert

EC – Button Rock Bakery: Pies and Cakes, oh my! For the decade that Button Rock Bakery has been serving us scrumptious treats, there has never been something that didn’t meet the divine standard. Button Rock Bakery is quite possibly the most perfect place on earth—or at least in Boulder County. Runner-up: Eats & Sweets

B – Piece Love & Chocolate: Situated on Pearl Street, Piece Love & Chocolate blends classy chocolatiering with just a dash of Wonka-esque whimsy. Locals can’t get enough of their fancier fare like French macarons served alongside wild concoctions like beer-flavored truffles and potato chip chocolate bars. Runner-up: Boulder Baked

Gluten-Free

EC – Button Rock; Runner-up: Cavegirl Coffee

B – Flower Child: They don’t have avocado toast, they have a Crushed Avocado Toast. They don’t have a noodle bowl, they have a Glow Bowl. It is gluten-free but most definitely not flavor-free. With locally-sourced ingredients and made-from-scratch creations, Flower Child is the best in Boulder for vegan, vegetarian, and paleo options. Runner-up: Fresh Thymes (farewell thee)

Colorado-Based Chain & Sandwich

EC & B – Snarf’s: When we met Jimmy 25+ years ago, we thought he was crazy opening up his sandwich shop in one of the funkiest locations in Boulder. But we quickly were one of the people standing in line for his toasted heaven. Today, Jimmy reigns supreme as a home-grown favorite. He’s still doing good things for his community, too. Sandwich EC Runner-up: Eats & Sweets | Sandwich B Runner-up: Organic Sandwich Co.

Patio

EC – Pumphouse: Built in the style of a vintage fire station, the Pumphouse sports a lively ambiance and a menu as diverse as it is delicious. But the actual claim to fame is the beer. Pumphouse sports a litany of microbrews made in-house. Opened in May 1966, the Pumphouse was a pioneer in Longmont introducing the first brewpub. While its food is only surpassed by its home-brewed beers, they also offer Longmont the largest outdoor dining patio, where locals gather to take in all the sights and sounds of the city. Runner-up: Rocky Mountain Tap & Garden

B – TIE – Greenbriar: If you’re looking for a bit of elegance in your next outing, there are few who have done it better since 1967. Surrounded by fields of beautifully curated greenery, enjoy a sophisticated night out of our famous Sunday brunch on Boulder’s best patio. This repeat winner is taking home the top nod for Best Patio again this year. There is a reason this Boulder legacy has been serving us for 55 years and still remains the choice of locals. However, this year Boulder’s best patio is tied with…

B – TIE – Chautauqua: The Chautauqua has been a Colorado tradition since 1898, and for good reason. The delicious food, historical tours, and down-home ambiance calls to the days of the wild frontier. But where it really shines is the patio view from the Dining Hall. From here a delicious, rustic meal can nourish your body while the view of Colorado’s forests and mountain range nourishes your soul. Runner-up: West End Tavern

Lunch/Seafood/Chef

EC – Piripi (Chef – Hugo Meyer): We met Hugo and Victoria at an Erie Chamber meeting years ago before they opened Piripi. They had just moved to town and told us of their plans to open a fine dining restaurant with a world-class chef at the helm. Our publisher, having lived in Erie for over 30 years, remembers the dirt roads, and had no idea what was in store. Today, Piripi is not just one of her favorite restaurants, but it is one that should be everyone’s favorites in Boulder County. Chef Hugo’s perfection he calls our meal is worth the drive no matter where you live. Lunch Runner-up: Eat at Community | Seafood Runner-up: Casian | Chef Runner-up: Kevin Kidd – 24 Carrot

Lunch

B – Brasserie Ten Ten: After over two years of closed doors, Brasserie Ten Ten demonstrates that good food is worth the wait. COVID completely changed the restaurant industry, forcing owners Joe and Peg Romano to shutter their three iconic spots, Ten Ten included. Re-open now for only a few months, try the Prixe Fixe menu for a taste of French luxury. Runner-up: Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse

Sushi/Japanese

EC – Sakura: Reviews consistently praise Sakura as the top spot for quality fish, traditional sauces, and attention to detail, but still crafting the not-so-traditional rolls so many of us crave. Around since 1998, call ahead for the daily special since the freshest fish will rotate regularly here. Runner-up: Button Rock

B – Japango: Master chef Yukiji Iwasa has been preparing the sushi for this Pearl Street classic for over 20 years – that hasn’t changed – but what is new is Japango is now donating portions of proceeds from Thursday nights to go towards Rise Against Suicide, an organization helping youth mental health. More than just sushi, Japango is an institution. Runner-up: Hapa

Seafood

EC – Piripi; Runner-up: Casian Seafood

B – Jax Fish House: Colorado may seem like one of the furthest places from the sea (both horizontally AND vertically) but that hasn’t stopped it from being home to one of the best seafood restaurants in the country. Diners can enjoy fresh oysters, grilled octopus, and a bevy of other deep-sea delectables paired with inventive cocktails like the Almond Joy Martini. Jax has enjoyed its top spot every year since the Best of the West first began, and it’s not hard to see why. Runner-up: Spruce Farm & Fish

Pizza

EC – Rosalee’s: Rosalee’s Pizza prides itself on its welcoming “neighborhood” atmosphere and west-coast approach to pizza making. And we can’t get enough. Rosalee’s owes its number-one spot to its ingredients and welcoming attitude. Everything is lovingly crafted, unpretentious, and made so that the technique and ingredients truly shine. It’s everything a pizza should be. Runner-up: Cosmo’s

B – TIE – The Sink and Cosmo’s; Runner-up: Pizzeria Locale

Steak

EC – 740 Front: As one of Colorado’s oldest taverns, 740 Front has all the turn-of-the-century class you could possibly ask for with just a dash of speakeasy grit (courtesy of a bullet hole in their bart able courtesy of a bootlegera shootout.) And to go with its wide selection of wines, beers, and craft cocktails is what might just be the best damn steak in the state. We still dream about those dry-aged cuts. Runner-up: Sugarbeet

B – Cork: “Local fresh ingredients shouldn’t be special; it should be assumed.” These are the founding tenets of Chef Jim Smailer of Boulder Cork. And his ethos is found in every item on this classy bistro’s menu, namely, its signature cut steaks. While the bistro is a bit on the pricy side, Boulder Cork made its place on the list thanks to its prime rib, with homemade jus and horseradish cream sauce. Runner-up: 316 Steakhouse

Chinese

EC – Ting’s Place: Thirty-two years ago our Publisher moved back to Colorado after being away for several years. As soon as she discovered Ting’s it became a house favorite. It still is 30 years later. Runner-up: Colorado Wok

B – Zoe MaMa: The settings, the seats, and the flavors are just what you would expect from a street food stand in China, complete with recipes from generations back. Zoe MaMa, like all great street food, is constantly packed so arrive early and see why they again won best Chinese food in Boulder. Runner-up: China Gourmet

Thai

EC – Busaba: Named after the Thai word meaning “flower,” Busaba is a rare and beautiful find in Louisville’s culinary scene. In keeping with its namesake, Busaba is a perennial classic that has served up a delicious and exotic menu in a slick, modern venue for over ten years. We personally recommend the spring rolls with a bit of spicy peanut sauce. Runner-up: Anchan Thai

B – Aloy Thai: Aloy Thai conveys the feeling of being invited to a family dinner by a close friend. The warm and friendly service and a homey atmosphere of this family-run business leave most Boulder residents with a feeling of cozy nostalgia for a place never visited. Aloy Thai’s menu is more than just an exotic meal. It’s a reminder that no matter what culture you’re from, a warm meal shared with friendly faces can make anyone feel at home. Runner-up: Busaba

Vietnamese

EC – Pho Cafe: EC’s reigning champion of Vietnamese soups has returned! Like its titular dish, the Pho Cafe is warm and welcoming with tons of local flavor mixed in. The beef Pho, a deliciously savory and flavorful soup filled with rice noodles and thin slices of delicious beef, is a perfect pick-me-up all year ‘round. Runner-up: Viet Kitchen

B – Chez Thuy: Chez Thuy has been a Boulder institution for nearly thirty years. And the head chef, Miss Thuy herself, has been blending French and Chinese cooking techniques to amplify the classic flavors of Vietnamese home cooking. Runner-up: Boulder Pho

Hot Dog

EC – Marco’s Hot Dogs: Year after year, Marco’s wins this category. Four words: bacon-wrapped, hot-dogs. The are simply the best. Runner-up: Dugout

B – Mustard’s Last Stand: With over 40 years of experience, Mustard’s Last Stand has earned its place as a Colorado classic. No one else comes close to competing with their fully-loaded Chicago-style hot dogs and hefty Polish sausages. With a litany of toppings, fries, and plenty of beer, Mustard’s Last Stand truly is the best at the wurst. Runner-up: Freddie’s Hot Dog Stand

Taco

EC – TeoCalli Cocina: At TeoCalli, the word of the day is authenticity. Everything on the menu can trace its lineage back to traditional Oaxacan cuisine, but with a creative twist that elevates these classic dishes to a level that can only be described as artistry wrapped in a corn tortilla. Runner-up: Jefe’s

B – T/aco: Fine dining is great and all, but sometimes you and your friends just want to relax, knock back a few drinks, and enjoy a nice, hearty meal. If you’re looking for a relaxed taqueria, T/aco is the place for you. The casual eatery has dozens of delicious, fresh-made tacos with fillings ranging from duck to Mexican-style pork belly. T/aco is even pet-friendly, providing a separate menu for your dog! Runner-up: McDevitt’s Taco Supply

Healthy Meal

EC – Morning Glory: For something light and healthy that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for wholesomeness, Morning Glory is the best place to be. But the food isn’t the only thing nourishing about this little diner. The positive, welcoming and progressive attitude of its staff is the perfect way to start your day. Bear in mind that healthy doesn’t mean vegetarian, carnivores will find plenty of deliciously meaty meals to sink their teeth into. Runner-up: Cavegirl Coffee

B – Fresh Thymes: It is great sadness that we are writing this Reader’s Favorite pick for Best Healthy Meal in Boulder, as Fresh Thymes closed their doors in December. It was not because business wasn’t thriving, it was. It came down to doing business in Boulder according to the owner. After securing the empty coffeeshop next door for expansion, two years later, Fresh Thymes had still not been able to move in to the new location due to permits being delayed by the City itself. We will miss Fresh Thymes as we were a regular as well. Runner-up: Flower Child

Chef

B – Daniel Asher of River and Woods: Established by world-class chef Daniel Asher and inspired by Colorado’s natural beauty, River and Woods brings the tastes of the great outdoors to the table. Every meal uses local ingredients and techniques inspired by camping trips and barbecues. Enjoy local cheeses and foraged berries, tuck into slow-cooked pulled pork, and cap your night off by roasting homemade marshmallows for s’mores. Runner-up: Chris Cunningham – The Sink

Chocolaterie

EC – Chocolaterie Stam: Chocolaterie Stam has been one of the country’s premium chocolatiers for over one hundred years. And it shows. While its chocolates are a touch pricey, the velvety richness of its candies makes it all worthwhile. If you really want to go all out and treat someone special (or yourself) you can’t go wrong with a Stam “Jewel Box” of chocolates. Runner-up: Robin’s Chocolates

B – Piece Love & Chocolate: Situated on Pearl Street, Piece Love & Chocolate blends classy chocolatiering with just a dash of Wonka-esque whimsy. Locals can’t get enough of their fancier fare like french macarons served alongside wild concoctions like beer-flavored truffles and potato chip chocolate bars. Runner-up: Lift Truffles

Green Chili/Mexican/Margarita

EC & B – Efrain’s: With multiple awards, Efrain’s is that familiar institution that brings familiarity and connection to the community. For over 30 years they have been serving up great Mexican in the same location. If you haven’t discovered why they have been winning all these years, maybe it’s time you should. Efrain’s Boulder is the brother of Efrain’s Lafayette. They recently moved into a new location after 20+ years in a hidden corner of Boulder, but they took their Grandma’s recipes with them. It’s why they are a Boulder favorite all these years. When you head in be sure to order one of their famous margaritas, there are more than 6 to choose from. Green Chili EC Runner-up: Santiago’s | Green Chili B Runner-up: Verde | Mexican B Runner-up: Centro Latin Kitchen | Margarita B Runner-up: Dana Faulk Query

Indian

EC – Taj Mahal: There is Indian food, there is good Indian food, and then there is great Indian food. Louisville’s Taj Mahal is in the great category. The atmosphere is delightful, the flavors are delectable, and the menu is bountiful. The Taj Mahal is second to naan. Runner-up: Flavor of India

B – Sherpas: The menu offers a bit of India, Nepal, and Tibet, but a lot of authentic Himalayan influence. This wonderful place is run by real Sherpas. Chef Jangbu Sherpa has summited Everest ten times! The atmosphere is perfection–a cozy neighborhood haunt on the edge of the Rockies with a leafy patio for your Sherpa Chai and Dhal-Baht. Runner-up: The Taj

Italian

EC – Parma Trattoria: What’s that you say? A mozzarella bar? Yes, a mozzarella bar! With cheeses imported directly from Italy. These are the things that have given Parma Trattoria a very strong showing over its ten years in Louisville. This place has become a community favorite and a known top Denver Metro Italian restaurant. Runner-up: Zucca

B – Pasta Jay’s: You know when a place looks like a set on the Sopranos, it’s damn good Italian food. In fact, it’s food fit for a king! That’s what owner Pasta Jay Elowsky says and Boulder agrees. For 30 years strong family-owned Pasta Jays has been a beloved Boulder institution. Runner-up: Carelli’s

Mexican

EC – TeoCalli Cocina: At TeoCalli Cocina, corn is life. And this is authentic Mexican cooking in the heart of Lafayette. Here you will find delectable dishes like the De Birria short rib tacos and the Adobo Tuna. Polish it off with a Dulce de Calabaza dessert and a Volcan tequila. Runner-up: Old Santa Fe Grill

Celebrity Picks

Christian Hee, Marketing Director at Z2 Entertainment: Christian’s favorite spots revolve around meetings. Depending on the time of day, you’ll find her either at Ozo, or Trident. Her morning go-to is Ozo, known for their down-to-earth staff and fantastic beans. If you catch her in the evening, you’ll see her at Trident Cafe, a combo bookstore and coffee shop where you’re just as likely to find writers plucking away at their keyboards. “I love getting a nice, hot pot of herbal tea and then browsing for books,” Hee shared with us.

Daniel Rodriguez, Singer-Songwriter: Where does Daniel Rodriguez, singer-songwriter and former founding member of Elephant Revival, go on a night out in Boulder? “If I’m looking for a jukebox and some pool tables, the Sundown Saloon is a great place to ‘dive’ into.” Once it’s time to grab a bite, Avanti is his preferred stop. “It’s like they parked seven food trucks inside one establishment,” he said, making us hungry.

Rosen, of Mr. Mota: Southern Sun Pub & Brewery means it’s time for wings. “They have amazing food, great beer, and they have a lot of live music!” Rosen enthusiastically shared. And for entertainment, look no further than Art of Zeb, “some of the coolest art I’ve ever seen.”

John Tayer, Boulder Chamber of Commerce: You can catch John out for a run on the Big Bluestem Open Space Trail or maybe enjoying a round at the Harlow Platts Disc Golf Course. It’s not all sport and exercise though; he also enjoys a beer at the many local brewpubs Boulder has.

Bhavna Chhabra, Site Manager for Google: “The new anemone trail is good for kids,” Chhabra said. For a meal afterwards, it’s gotta be chicken and beer at the Post Brewery. As for music and dancing? Velvet elk and then Avanti.

Giovanni Ruscitti, Managing & Founding Partner of Berg, Hill, Greenleaf and Ruscitti Law Firm: Giovanni loves a Saturday spent at the Boulder Farmer’s Market. French toast at the Village Coffee Shop, lunch at Chiri’s Momo Delight, and dinner at Il Pastaio would be his ideal meal lineup. He’s also a live music fan. “Listening to great music at venues like Macky Auditorium, Boulder Theater and BOCO Cider. I’m hitting on all time high this month taking in a half dozen shows,” he said.

Drinks

Bar

EC – Erie Social Club: Who knew Erie was cool? We remember the days of the horse in the bar in the dirt road town. Not anymore! Erie is host to several amazing restaurants and now a club we can call our own. ESC is THE place to be whether it’s for yoga in the morning, bingo, or a Saturday night of dancing. The facility is fantastic and you can also rent it for your own party. Runner-up: Rocky Mountain Tap & Garden

B – Corner Bar: Enjoy drinks and live music on the bar’s patio or sample the truffle fries that thankfully remain on The Corner Bar’s new expanded menu. This stately yet comfortable spot is just a block off the Pearl Street Mall. First timers, be sure to check out the hotel lobby. Runner-up: Sundown Saloon

Brewery

EC – Liquid Mechanics: A small, award-winning neighborhood craft brewery founded by three former bio/pharma tech pros, Liquid Mechanics aims to connect to the community through beer. The tasting room offers classics such as Lucid AF IPA along with specialty small batch beers. Grab some grub for your suds from the nightly food trucks or Martino’s Pizza. Runner-up: Left Hand

B – Avery: Watch Avery’s award-winning beer being brewed on its production floor before sampling five-ounce tasters or pints from a wide variety of tap offerings. The beertenders are passionate about sharing their extensive knowledge of the Avery product line. Enjoy on the dog-friendly patio or grab a six-pack or growler-to-go. Runner-up: Mountain Sun

Bloody Mary

EC – Lucile’s: Lucile’s Famous Bloody Marys rep the same “corner of Creole culture” as the breakfasts that have been served in this converted pale yellow house since 1997. Enjoy with their impressive garnish onsite or take home one of their new Bloody Mary kits! Bloody Marys are a great way to start the day at Lucile’s, or bring one of their new Bloody Mary kits to your Super Bowl party! Runner-up: Eat at Community

B – Foolish Craig’s: You can choose from the basil lemon or ghost chili-infused vodkas if you care for a twist on Craig’s Signature Bloody Mary. The quirky and relaxed atmosphere located directly on The Pearl Street Mall makes for an ideal place to people watch. Runner-up: The Buff

Happy Hour

EC – The Post Chicken and Beer: This happy hour is small in duration (it’s literally just one hour long) but big on deals. The brined and buttermilked all-natural humanely-raised chicken is dipped in gluten-free flour before fried to golden perfection. It’s the perfect accompaniment for any of their award-winning craft brews. Probably why they won Best Happy Hour this year, too. Runner-up: William Oliver’s

B – Corner Bar: Carving out a happy hour spot at Boulder’s overall BOW bar can be a challenge as it fills up quickly after it starts at 3. Maybe it’s the $3 cup of corn chowder or $4 draft beer that’s offered until six, either way they snag their second Best of the West award of the year. It’s also convenient for pre-concert meetups before heading to Chautauqua. Runner-up: Jungle

Margarita

EC – Jefe’s: Sean Gafner is the chef and owner of this incredibly popular Mexican fusion spot that purchases many ingredients from local ranchers and farmers nearby. Enjoy a margarita flight, pitcher, or just the classic cocktail made the right way – with real ingredients. No marg mix here. Runner-up: West Side Tavern

Distillery

EC – Spirit Hound: These single-barrel whiskies are made from Colorado-grown ingredients such as grains from the San Luis Valley and aged a minimum of two years in charred American oak barrels being bottled. Head distiller Craig Engelhorn and his partners built much of the distillation equipment themselves to achieve the right flavor and purity. Runner-up: Abbot & Wallace

B – Vapor: Free tours at this micro-distillery end with a sampling of Vapor’s hand-made, award-winning small batch spirits. Try the Ginskey, gin aged in oak barrels to infuse color and flavor found in whisky or buy a bottle of the Love Your Neighbor Limited Edition Whiskey distilled and support Marshall Fire rebuilding efforts. Runner-up: DV8 (Deviant Spirits)

Bartender/Mixologist

EC – Jennifer Shillington – 24 Carrot Bistro: A repeat winner from last year, Shilington honed her mixology skills at top New York City eateries before moving to Colorado to raise her family. Now she’s back behind the bar at 24 Carrot Bistro, serving up creative cocktails such as Live and Let Chai (made with bourbon and chai liqueur) or the weekly bartender’s choice. Runner-up: Brittany Bartlett – now Rocky Mountain Tap & Garden, formerly Eat! Food & Drink

B – Laureal Boston – Bitter Bar: Boston says she enjoys meeting friends old and new at the unpretentious Bitter Bar, where she aims to help customers unwind by creating cocktails with “complex flavors that delight the spirit and open the mind.” Runner-up: Matthew Jansen – Mateo

Liquor Store

EC – County Line Wine & Spirits: With regular inventory updates, there’s always something new to try at County Line. And there’s typically plenty of opportunities to do so as County Line hosts several tasting events every week. Though smaller in size than some of its competition, the store still has a great selection and continues to offer curbside service. Runner-up: Atlas Valley Purveyors

B – Hazel’s: Known for its helpful staff, bright atmosphere and wide open aisles and of course its incredible selection of wine, beer, spirits, cigars, and specialty foods, Hazel’s is often at the top of best liquor store lists. Runner-up: North Boulder Liquor

Wine Shop

EC – Atlas Valley: Come for the wine but beware you might also leave with cheese, gifts, or any of the other selection of local goods that might catch your fancy. The wine staff is happy to help you pick out the perfect local, domestic or import for the occasion. Runner-up: Wyatt’s Wet Goods

B – Hazel’s: From the 1940s pinup feel of their website, to the wide selection of over 15,000 products, to the prices that beat nearly everyone else, Hazel’s keeps winning awards. Consistently voted Boulder’s Best Liquor Store, they also have a diverse selection of wines, propelling them to a Best of the West victory as well. Runner-up: Boulder Wine Merchant

Winery

EC – Bookcliff Winery: This family-owned Colorado vineyard and winery offers tours and tastings at its Boulder tasting room. Bookcliff uses 100% Colorado-grown grapes from its vineyard in Palisade, which are cultivated using sustainable practices that eliminate the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers. Runner-up: Vinnie Fera

Sports

Bike Shop

EC – Louisville Cyclery: Louisville Cyclery has been an integral part of the community for over four decades. The oldest bike shop in the Boulder area, they saw the impacts of the Marshall Fire firsthand and decided to do something about it – fixing up donated bikes for those affected. If you’ve ever needed your bike repaired or a new bike, chances are you came here, showing why they’ve again won Best Bike Shop.

B – University Bikes: University Bikes again claims the top of the mountain, both on the trail and in the awards categories. They’ve won every single year we have had Best of the West, and as far as we know every other Boulder Best of in town, and they are back in the top spot once again.

Ski Shop

EC & B – Crystal Ski Shop: Crystal Ski Shop is another one of those area institutions having geared people up since 1976. Here’s the kicker: they are still locally owned. Justin Burger took the reins when the original owner retired after having worked there all through high school. So when we say locally owned, we mean it! But what makes them a favorite is the service. You know you are shopping locally because of it.

Sporting Goods

EC – Jax Outdoor Gear: Jax’s nine locations across Colorado officially became an employee-owned business as of one year ago. Tracing their roots back to the 1950s Jax not only offers sporting equipment but a full-on experience with food and places to test your gear, continuing the tradition of holding the top spot for Best of the West.

B – Neptune Mountaineering: Neptune Mountaineering holds a nostalgic place in many climbers’ hearts. Around for over 50 years, it has served as a gathering point and museum for mountaineers looking to explore more of their sport. It changed hands not too long ago, but the community spirit persists. You can also catch a lecture on climbing safety while checking out the museum collection in between buying new gear.

Golf Course

EC – Indian Peaks

B – Lake Valley

Gym

B – YMCA: Who hasn’t heard of the YMCA? An absolute institution, the local YMCA is known for providing the community with access to fitness and recreational activities for decades. Members of the public initially come for these services, but stay for the attentive staff, multiple membership types and a wide range of amenities, including child care. The thoughtful approach to YMCA continues to make it a top choice for those in our communities exploring fitness.

Rec Center

EC – Bob Burger: Bob Burger Recreation Center contains all the equipment and room of other centers but has an obtainable price point. The center maintains outdoor jacuzzis for an outdoor soak, and is minutes away from Lafayette’s finest museums, parks, and restaurants. It is a great stop for an outing with your entire family or simply to workout.

B – North Boulder Rec: North Boulder Rec Center remains easily accessible from public transportation offering all the amenities of other recreation centers. The University Memorial Center on CU Boulder’s campus is a ten minute ride to the Center’s front doors on the SKIP going Northbound. Students can easily utilize their bus pass obtained through the University for a hassle-free trip to the gym.

Ski Resort (Day Trip)

Eldora: Have a half an hour? If so, you can be in Eldora for a day of skiing. The resort contains terrain for skiers of all levels and typically hosts short wait times for tickets and lifts. The short drive makes the resort accessible from anywhere within the Denver Metropolitan area looking to become more active for many winters to come.

Ski Resort (Overnight)

Steamboat Springs: Ski Town USA, Steamboat Springs, is located nearly four hours from the city making it the perfect overnight adventure for the family. The proximity of the resort gives you access to a mountain town with shops, restaurants, and other activities. People also boast about the resort’s terrain and powder. You don’t know how to ski? No worries, the world class instructors will have you confidently making your way down the mountain sharing their love with the sport along the way.

Martial Arts

EC – Bennetts Karate: The Bennett family has taken pride in providing martial arts training to families in Lafayette since 1996. Owner and operator Richard Bennett and his family have traveled extensively to Okinawa and Japan to learn from the masters so they can teach you the art of Uechi Ryu and Kubudo authentically. This local dojo invites anyone interested to come experience culture and tradition in a rich, local environment.

B – Tran’s Martial Arts: Allison and Greg Zolun, owners of Tran’s Martial Arts, take fitness to the next level with programs primarily offered in Krav Maga, Muay Thai, and kickboxing. The dojo welcomes people of all ages, backgrounds, and they are welcomed with respect. This is a place of community where the only objective is reaching your goals and testing your limits.

Yoga Studio

EC – Soul Tree: When forced to close due to fire damage, Soul Tree continued to serve the community by hosting sessions in the park and offering online classes. Today, Soul Tree continues to advocate for those impacted by the fires by spreading their message of love to a rebuilding community. The studio maintains a healing space for those interested in taking your passion for yoga beyond physical ability and into mental rejuvenation.

B – Little Yoga Studio: Run by femmes, Little Yoga Studio has affordable options in-person and online, so you can fit yoga into your schedule anytime. Owner Kelly Elle Kenworthy is committed to the empowerment of people through yoga, and has hired instructors with just as much passion for your growth. The studio is devoted to making its walls safe for any person willing to take an explorative journey into the practice of yoga.

Pilates Studio

EC – Rocky Mountain Pilates: Do you find fitness spaces unapproachable? Rocky Mountain Pilates provides a calm, welcoming environment to increase your confidence in the studio. The instructors foster a judgment-free zone where they accommodate movements and intensity to match your desired outcome based on your own abilities. You can focus on learning techniques of pilates and yoga at your own comfort level.

B – The Pilates Center: The Pilate Center’s founders, Amy Taylor Alpers and Rachel Taylor Siegel, have been retaining the integrity of Joseph Pilates’ revolutionary vision for health and exercise in Boulder county since the 1990s. To fulfill the Taylor Sisters’ mission to heal the world, TPC offers courses to become a certified instructor with a direct lineage to Joseph Pilates himself.

Entertainment

Local Celebrity

EC – Bicycle Man of Erie: Is it the iconic beard? The Facebook videos? Or the fact that he offers free flat tire changes and has transparent pricing up on the website? Pick the reason, they all add up to a Local Celebrity award for the Bicycle Man of Erie!

B – Zoe Rogers: Zoe Rogers’ recognition in Boulder reminds fans the importance of giving a voice to women in an industry that is predominately male. Rogers observed the lack of female comedians and determined to make a change. As a founder of Boulder Comedy, Rogers has created a space outside the busy city and an opportunity for aspiring female comedians. The community benefits, as the shows provide a wide range of comedians no matter their gender.

Fair or Festival

EC – Lafayette Music Festival: For all the years we have lived here, we never thought we would say, “Did you make it to Lafayette’s music festival?” YS was proud to sponsor the inaugural Lafayette Music Festival. Five stages and a wide range of bands to listen to. We look forward to supporting it again this year, it was definitely that good. Runner-up: Lafayette Peach Festival

B – Boulder Creek Festival: For over three decades now the Boulder Creek Fest has defined the beginning of summer. Revitalized in 1998 by dedicated citizen Chris Bailey, it has been a fixture ever since. The festival adds a fourth day this year, growing in size and popularity, again taking the top spot in the Best of the West entertainment category. Parking is always crowded; try taking the bus into the festival this year to support the hundreds of artists who will visually and musically keep you entertained. Runner-up: Boulder Comedy Festival

Live Music Venue

EC – Nissi’s: Did you catch the October 2022 cover of YS? That was the new Nissi’s we featured. After years of serving East County with live music, the pandemic shut Nissi’s down in their original location. Imagine our surprise to see them open in their new location, bigger, badder and better than ever before. Nissi’s brings a first-class venue to our backyard and is showcasing great local music. Lafayette has become the place to be. Runner-up: The Muse

B – Boulder Theater: Inside its walls resides countless nights of incredible music from some of the most prestigious names. Bands from The Pixies to Gregg Allman have played here. Since 1906, Boulder Theater has been a treasure to our community, and we are grateful the ownership thinks so, too. Thanks for giving us another year of the music that makes our lives better. Runner-up: R Gallery Wine & Bar

Gallery

EC – pARTiculars: This co-op of local artists still offering free art classes for those affected by the Marshall Fire, pARTiculars is Lafayette’s top art market for not only buying a new piece but also learning how to craft them yourself. Building a community the right way, check out their featured artists of the month on their social media, or in person by stopping by the galleries yourself. Runner-up: Firehouse Art Gallery

B – BMOCA: BMOCA is celebrating 50 years of providing a space for significant art and artists from regional to international. Installations are always something to behold and a membership pass is a great way to continue to support this local icon, along with the votes for being the Best Museum. Runner-up: R Gallery Wine & Bar

Theater Company

EC – Coal Creek Theater Co.: Watching murder mysteries at home on Netflix is fine but Coal Creek Theater has an entire year’s worth of suspenseful plays to see during their upcoming 2023 “Killer Season”. Themed years, playwright competitions, and showcases help explain why they are the top theater this year, and have been an East County artistic fixture since 1990. Runner-up: Back Story Theater

B – Local Theater Company: Despite the name drawing generic Google search results, Local Theater is anything but. Keeping the American writing tradition alive, they are the only Colorado venue to exclusively show world premieres – every play is brand new. Offering a writing workshop to budding young artists, specializing in new American plays, and now in their 12th season, come audition for or watch an original show. They have two productions per year so plan accordingly. Runner-up: Butterfly Effect Theater Co (BETC)

Stage

EC – Nissi’s

B – eTown: Recognized as a “cultural contributor” when inducted into the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, eTown is founded on the simple yet oft-forgotten ideals of universal connectivity through music. The twist is that every show is accompanied by an in-depth conversation about things that matter – like politics or the environment. The solar powered hall broadcasts nationally and has hosted over 1,000 artists on their programs over the decades they have been around.

Arcade

EC – Quarters: It’s Saturday night, you’re holding a glass of your favorite brew in one hand and a skee ball on the other. After its grand opening, Quarters is a new destination that adds to the night life in East County, Colorado. The growth of arcade bars brings excitement to members online to revisit an activity left in childhood. Runner-up: Tilt!

B – Press Play: Part college bar, part arcade, this is the place to come if you want to drink and play video games without any kids running around underfoot. Closed on Mondays but with events every other night of the week, come let off some steam by smashing your friend in packman then taking a shot.

Museum

EC – Longmont Museum: Over the last 30 years Boulder County has seen tremendous changes to it’s population and towns. (Which is one of the reasons we are featuring them for our cover this year.) One of our first sources to cover the History of BOCO was the expertise at Longmont Museum. From live music, to indigenous exhibits, summer camps and discovery days, we are lucky to have the tremendous community hub. We’re glad our readers think so too. Runner-up: Lafayette History Museum

B – Museum of Boulder: This year YS is featuring the People’s History of BOCO, by featuring a different town each month. The Museum of Boulder is naturally a first stop for our writer to learn about the history of Boulder. While the MOB includes a gallery to house world-class traveling exhibits, an interactive Google Garage maker space and a separate children’s museum for our youngest visitors. Currently, they are featuring Black History of Boulder, but coming up is their famous Brewing the New West, because beer is as much a part of Boulder as its history. Runner-up: University of Colorado Natural History Museum

Pumpkin Patch

Anderson Farms: Pumpkin patches, fire pits, and… haunted houses. Not a plot in a Halloween movie but an experience discussed by locals who visit Anderson Farms. Of course, a trip to a farm isn’t complete without a corn maze, but don’t forget a map if getting lost isn’t part of your plans. Runner-up: Miller Farm

Health & Beauty

Day Spa

EC – Sunflower: When you’re wilted and worn, this spa gets you back to blooming. Try their incredible HydraFacials. They are the only spa that includes treatment for the sun damage-prone V-Neck area. Staff regularly is retrained to optimize each step of their one-of-a-kind service, resulting in skin that glows after treatment.

B – St. Julien: Offering world-class treatments in the heart of Boulder, this spa is known for delivering royal treatment. With impeccable customer service from booking to departure, this is everything a luxury spa should be. Indulge in all the amenities, including a sauna, steam room, and lounge with seasonal fruit-infused water, tea, and light snacks. Be sure to try the granola!

Facial

EC – Smooth Intentions: With a client base built on referrals from happy patrons, Smooth Intentions pairs 21 years of experience with locally sourced natural products to create a haven of relaxation and self-care. The trademark 75-minute custom facials focus on keeping skin clear and healthy to help all clients leave with a confident glow.

B – Leah Nickie Aesthetics: This is a facial that gives your skin what it needs! Leah only uses cruelty and paraben-free products that feature nurturing botanical and marine elements. Products are only selected after discussing skin concerns and a skin analysis under a magnifying lamp.

Salon

EC – Bevy Salon: Haircuts are a science at Bevy Salon. As an example, they are trained on not one but two cutting and styling techniques for curls—most places only choose one—and take the time to figure out which technique will best complement their client’s curl. This dedication to staying up to date on the latest and best techniques ensures that all clients get the look they crave, whether you have curly or straight hair.

B – Salon Fifty4Thirty: This woman-owned salon is named for Boulder’s elevation and is praised for their friendly inviting hometown atmosphere. Their stylists focus on fostering self-care for all their clients while making their hair look incredibly fabulous. Lean into your hustle and feel great about yourself at this amazing salon!

Barber

EC – Woodward Barbers: First-time clients visit Woodward Barbers for a great cut at a good price. They return for the retro vibe with just the right modern twists, stylists who are experts at their craft, and a just plain cool atmosphere. With over 490 google reviews at 5/5 stars, you can’t go wrong.

B – Hennepin Barbers: When you need a shave or style with a killer view you can’t go wrong with scheduling here. Clients rave about the amazing views of the Flatirons from each chair, the adorable shop dog Ru, and love leaving with a new style that’s (almost) as impressive as the view they enjoyed while getting it.

Massage

EC – Apex Massage and Recovery Lab: Apex focuses on massage for people whose muscles need more than light pressure and relaxing music. They want to get your body back to its top performance state, no matter if you’re hurting from a marathon or a weekend of gardening. With a rugged and stylish interior, this massage is anything but generic.

B – Siam Sensations: This is the only authentic Thai-owned massage spa in Colorado. Most of the therapists were even trained in Thailand, which is why they’ve won before! Thai massage is different. Therapists dynamically move their clients’ bodies to relieve pain. They also offer reflexology treatments that find and fix circulation problems in the body. This is holistic healing at its best.

Manicure/Pedicure

EC – Allure Nail Bar: Allure is your go-to for last-minute nail needs. They are a walk-in-friendly salon that will get your nails back to fabulous in no time. They offer manicures and pedicures – including gel polish options – and nail extensions including acrylics, silk wraps, and liquid gel nails.

B – J Lounge: J Lounge is the queen of healthy nail care! Their salon only uses two nail polish brands free of toxic ingredients like formaldehyde. Their pedicures are done without jetted tubs—the leading culprit of salon nail infections even with sanitization—and instead use beautiful porcelain basins with detoxing soaks featuring essential oils.

Medi Spa

EC – TIE – Sunflower Spa: While Sunflower Spa won two categories this year, this is not their first year winning. In fact, they have won over a dozen times. It might be because of the luxurious treatments in a beautiful spa setting, it might be because they have superb aestheticians and doctor on staff, but it might just be because they are in fact the best way to get away when you need one.

EC – TIE – Valar Aesthetics: With his quirky sense of humor, Dr. Bauer always makes his clients feel comfortable. When he looks at you he doesn’t see a face that needs “improving” he sees your natural beauty that you want to shine just a little longer. As a business he proudly supports our LGBTQ community, while being smartly conservative with our faces.

B – Boulder Plastic Surgery: Boulder Plastic Surgery is an ally to the trans and nonbinary communities. Our looks impact how the world treats us and how we see ourselves. Dr. Rouch offers gender-affirming procedures and ensures that all of his clients’ health needs (physical, mental, and emotional) are accounted for during their journey to reach their desired outcomes.

Chiropractor

EC – Chiropractic Center of Erie & Longmont: Our publisher has been seeing Dr. Dave since his days in Boulder (long before YS). He continually wins our Readers Choice because in her words, “the best hands in town.” But the Chiropractic Center of Erie and Longmont is about much more than adjustment, each treatment is coupled with deep tissue and nerve work, giving a full medical treatment to the situation.

B – Chiro Now: Chiro Now is the place to go when you can no longer stand that nasty crick in your neck. In 2015 Dr. Katcher returned to his home state after finishing his training at Palmer College–the first and largest training ground for chiropracty–2013. He’s worked with Olympic athletes, and is an expert at treating clients of all ages.

Veterinarian

EC – Jasper Animal Hospital: If you read our Chocolate, Donuts and Dogs article in June 2022, you will know BOCO is losing many of their small town vets to corporate buyouts. Jasper is one of the last of the locally owned and has been our favorite because of their caring touch for 20 years.

B – Arapahoe Animal Hospital: Members of the community for over 68 years, Arapahoe Animal Hospital cares for animals of all kinds every day of the week with day and evening hours. For over five decades, they have proven their veterinary excellence by being accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association. Only 15% of vets are members!

Medical Center

EC – BCH Erie/Lafayette: For over 100 years BCH has been the place for healthcare in Boulder County. The Erie/Lafayette Medical center opened in 2019 to provide access to their world class care in East County. They care for people of all ages and offer everything needed to stay healthy, including an Urgent Care if you need stitches!

Medical Center & Hospital

B – BCH Boulder: BCH continues their winning streak for excellent patient care. People of all ages, genders, and sexual orientations praise BCH for caring for them as individuals and not numbers. They are able to adapt to our needs because they are a nonprofit owned by the community. Their many locations makes care efficient, effective, and easy to access. This is Boulder’s hospital. After CU Medical School moved its hospital to Denver, BCH opened as a community nonprofit hospital in 1922 and has cared for the community every day since. Recognized nationally for excellence in everything from stroke care to maternity care, you are in good hands at BCH.

Hospital

EC – Good Samaritan: I’ve had many family members treated at Good Sam, and it’s a beautiful hospital. Every staff member is focused on providing the highest quality of care for all of their patients and their families. The nursing staff is Magnet Certified for excellence (less than 10% of hospitals have this distinction!).

Dentist

EC – Greg Keene – Keene Smiles: Like Vets, Dentists are also getting bought up by big corporations. Thank goodness we still have Dr Keene. His down-toearth personality, exceptional staff and local vibe make his office one of the best, but his expertise is what makes it even better.

B – Rachel Barone – Gunbarrel Dental Center: Dr. Barone knows most people have anxiety about the dentist. She works hard with her team to foster an environment of compassion for her patients. Many find that they no longer fear visiting the dentist after becoming her patient!

Doctor

EC – Dr. Brad Brown and Dr. Sara Schuster – Strive: Dr. Brown and Dr. Schuster were fed up with insurance companies dictating how much time they had with patients. The solution? Strive – where patients pay a monthly fee instead of dealing with insurance, and all their healthcare needs are focused around them. It’s usually much cheaper, and your doctor is always only a text away!

B – Dr. Voss – Boulder Ortho: Doctors either have good bedside personalities or they don’t. Dr Voss has the BEST bedside but as a surgeon he is pretty well-known too, often called in for flight-to-life situations.

Tattoo

EC – Auspicious Ink: Atmosphere is key for creating art. Since 2008 Auspicious Ink has been honored to create high quality fully custom-curated body art for the community. Their studio is always spotless and filled to the brim with positive vibes. Their goal is to connect, collaborate and care for each human who enters their shop.

B – TIE – Rising Tide: Founded in 2005 as a one-man shop, Rising Tide has evolved into a multi-function space where both tattoo art and fine art (think canvases) can be enjoyed. They host both permanent and traveling artists in their studio. You’re sure to find something that suits your skin–or walls!

B – TIE – Boulder Ink: This is the oldest tattoo parlor in Boulder and a past winner! Today they host 5 artists with over 75 years of combined experience and are specialists in the American Classic style and large-scale traditional Japanese bodysuits. They always welcome visitors to hang out and check out portfolios even if there isn’t an imminent plan to get ink.

Shopping

Show Store

EC – Browns Shoe Fit: Service-oriented, charming store in historic Longmont has served the region since 1946. Huge selection of shoes, generations of local shoppers have gone to Browns for everything from running/walking shoes to flip flops. Runner-up: My Savings Grace

B – Pedestrian: A perennial winner. There are two locations of this family-owned business in Boulder, including on the Pearl Street Mall. Richard Polk founded this store back in the 70s and actually started it by selling Birkenstocks out of his van. This family-owned and run charming shop has an enormous selection of name brand footwear including Birkenstock and Chaco. The company supports nonprofits and local events: truly walking the talk. Runner-up: Shoe Fly

Eyewear

EC – Carbon Valley Eye Care: When Dr. Berger told us he was merging his practice with a partner and they were building the largest Center in the North Metro offering eyecare specialties like no other, we thought he might be crazy. But it turns out he knew exactly what he was doing as did Dr. Koditek. Carbon Valley Eye has a great selection of frames, but it is their expertise and specialities that make them stand out. We can see why readers keep voting them the best.

B – Envision: Patients love this practice for its wide range of services and large selection of glasses. Doctor-owned with friendly, attentive service. Post-op care for procedures like cataract surgery and more common care for contact fittings and eyeglass options. Online reviews are fantastic as well, confirming why they were voted Best of the West.

Jewelry

EC – Anspach’s Jewelry; Runner-up: Eric Olson

B – Angie Star: For a city with a rather famous reputation for expensive items, jewelry can actually come at many price points. Angie Star specializes in hand-crafted jewelry, much of it unique and custom-made… If you have gold or diamond jewelry that is collecting dust, the jewelers can apply the price of your old piece as a credit toward something new. Runner-up: Art & Soul

Fashion Boutique for Women

EC – Ivy Rose: It’s so exciting to be able to write about all the cool that has come to East County. Along with restaurants and stages we now have fashion. Ivy Rose has been affordably pairing us with the outfits that look best with their personalized shopping experience for 5 years now. It’s why they keep winning Best Fashion. Runner-up: Due South

B – Kama: While often overused as a term for fashion, Kama the store truly embodies what karma the word conjures up. Picture flowy dresses and tops, denim with embroidered flowers and beaded necklaces. Runner-up: Barbara & CO

Men’s Clothing

EC – Acme Fine Goods: Harkening back to Louisville’s rugged founding days, Acme is also named after a long running coal mine in the area. Whether you yourself are a grizzled outdoorsman or simply someone looking for an aesthetic that conveys images of pioneer Colorado, this is the spot.

B – Weekends: Staff is friendly and helpful when needed, but a bit stand-offish, perfect for men who don’t want to be followed around while they browse for clothes. Don’t want to browse? Shoppers can schedule a private appointment with a stylist.

Consignment Clothing

EC – Found Underground: Brightly lit, cozy shop with ample choices, particularly a large selection of jeans and bags. Consignments are selected by required appointments only and are only on the floor for a select amount of time.

B – Rags: If there is a teen or young adult (or young at heart) in your life, you’ve probably already heard about Rags. Top brands move fast. A destination for shoppers looking for a sustainable way to reuse and recycle. Rags includes top names like Chanel and Fendi. After six weeks, the entire floor is cleared of items guaranteeing a steady rotation of bags.

Shopping District/Center

EC – Downtown Lafayette: The shift from a rather sleepy downtown to a truly charming district with a small-town feel over the past decade has been nothing short of remarkable. Shoppers and diners will definitely run into acquaintances here, but it’s not a “see or be seen” type of district. Very down-to-Earth.

B – Pearl Street Mall in Boulder: It’s hard to believe closing the mall to car traffic was ever controversial. Worth it. Fresh, seasonal flowers cheer up the often-crowded mall most months of the year. Pro tip: Grab a meal or a cup of coffee before heading into Peppercorn, where one can browse cookbooks, hot sauces, linens, and gifts for hours.

Bookstore

EC – Read Queen: Owners Barbra Huntting and Deirdre Appelhans run and operate this woman-owned business, which sells new and used books. Come for the books (a surprisingly large selection given the unassuming modest looking storefront) and stay for the tea.

B – Boulder Bookstore: Follow them on Insta, where you will find events, the staff in ugly holiday sweaters, and the massive gathering of children in front of the store at the annual Munchkin parade. Along with author signings and a wide selection of books, it’s clear why Boulder Bookstore takes the top spot.

Florist

EC – Lafayette Florist: Oh, the service. The old school way of running a plant and flower shop: Shoppers will leave with everything they were seeking, and a million things they didn’t know they needed or wanted. Local delivery is available but the store is a riot of color. Large and spacious, filled with flowers and plants and pots and everything one needs.

B – Sturtz & Copeland: So pretty that flower fans will want to get married every week just to see what their florists can create. Houseplants tend to be long-lasting (depending on how green one’s thumbs are) and very fresh.

Kid’s Store

EC – Pitter Patter in Lafayette: The very definition of “shopping small.” Goods for babies through tweens, mostly clothes. If one has a child, or wants to give a gift to a child they love, Pitter Patter offers unique and interesting choices.

B – Childish Things: Start saying to consignment items for children, most of whom grow out of their gorgeous goodies faster than parents can say “I need to start saving for college.” Also offers new items. Tons of toys featuring Melissa and Doug and used Cabbage Patch dolls that may have mom or dad headed there for themselves. From Yelp: “I absolutely LOVE this place. It is quite impressive how vast the selection is. And how well intact everything is. I always find absolute gems. And I love to consign here.”

Gift Shop

EC – Purple Poppy: Even if the store looks small on the outside of its strip mall location, anything a gift-giver wants will be here. Kitchen towels, jewelry, soaps, and pots of jam. Amusing socks, local honey and a large selection of tea.

B – Sweet Ruckus in Boulder: Reviews from shoppers are very high, but its own social is a little lackluster — but who cares? Much more fun to browse in person anyway. Home goods and body care items are just a short set of offerings from this tidy shop in Boulder. Great, creative cards and paper goods. Very affordable.

Natural Goods

Vitamin Cottage: Oh, what to say? This is not your grandma’s hippie grocer — though they have all those goods as well. Rebranded as Natural Grocers years ago, most people still refer to it as Vitamin Cottage. Bulk foods, organic produce, meat (yes, they went there), vitamins and supplements and anything else you can think of. Buy some wheat berries. Pick up a sandwich. Get some pet food and paper towels.

Musical Instruments

EC – Monkton Guitars: Many fond memories of jamming on guitars, trying out new styles, and discovering a hidden gem of an instrument have been formed here at Monkton Guitars. Dave Williams’ love of vintage instruments led him to create a brick-and-mortar Monkton Guitars in Broomfield after decades of successful online-only sales. Its location has helped preserve some of the classic charm of a neighborhood guitar shop, something every budding young rock star needs.

B – Woodsongs: The music industry has transformed radically over the last 50 years but Woodsongs Instruments, Boulder’s longest running music store, has endured. From the soft-rocking 70s to today, (yes the 70s were 50 years ago!) the sound of choice may have shifted but the place to try out, buy, and care for your instrument is steadfast and beloved in the community, consistently voted as our Best of the West winner, Woodsongs.

Pet Supply

EC – Struttin Pup: Healthy food is the key to feeling well, even in animals. When your pup (or other pet) isn’t quite struttin’ their stuff, it may be time to take them to get a free wellness consultation at Struttin Pup. The hands-on and caring staff will guide you and your beloved pet back to their normal self, which is a huge reason why Boulder County loves them. Plus they only carry natural antibiotic free food.

B – PC’S Pantry: Who says a pantry full of nutritious food and fun treats is only for humans? Not PC’s Pantry, winner of multiple past Best of the West awards, with Mary Lee’s establishment again making an appearance this year. They’ve been around longer than Best of the West has, showing that compassion and quality make a huge impact for pet lovers.

Cannabis

EC – Igadi: Rewards programs aren’t the most exciting thing in the world, unless we’re talking discounts on bud. Igadi’s attempt to demystify the cannabis growing and producing process has helped show both the science and art that goes into crafting quality cannabis products even if the selection is limited to what they produce in-house.

B – Terrapin Care Station: If you’re planning to let your inspiration flow before seeing the Dead & Co. on their final tour, you need to stock up here. Founded in Boulder in 2009, reviews consistently mention quality concentrates as well as friendly budtenders with a great vibe. Terrapin does more than provide a high, they support the The Color of Cannabis and Entrepreneurship for All organization working on racial justice in the industry.

Quilting

A Quilter’s Corner: Even after 23 years of Best of the West awards we still find room for new categories. Introducing our inaugural quilting winner: A Quilter’s Corner. Many of us picked up hobbies over the past few years and A Quilter’s Corner is a well-established place for a variety of materials, classes, and even sewing machines to get you going.

Record Store

EC – Absolute Vinyl: Doug Gaddy is a veritable encyclopedia of music knowledge. With over 12,000 vintage records and facts to go along with each, Absolute Vinyl is Longmont’s ultimate resource for music enthusiasts. For those of us that believe the 50s – 80s were the height of music, this is your home.

B – Paradise Found Records: Another first for this year’s categories: Record Store. Obviously reports of vinyl’s death have been greatly exaggerated – BOCO has 5 record stores now. Paradise Found is Bart’s, rebranded, with owner Will Paradise moving the location back to Pearl Street – where Bart’s was originally first located. Owner Will personally visits the homes of people selling their records to find selections for his very popular downtown shop, which is always abuzz.

Neighborhood & Home Services

Neighborhood

EC – Old Town Louisville: Escape the metro bustle and connect with your small town roots in Old Town Louisville. A lot of character is packed into those five blocks including onehundred- year-old historical buildings, over one hundred businesses, pubs and a museum.

B – Old Town Boulder: There’s nothing like challenging capitalism through a neighborhood dedicated to its local artists. The grassroots cultivated, non-profit NoBo Art District hosts first Friday self-guided art tours, artist exhibits in local businesses, a community art event calendar and a local studio listing webpage.

Consignment Furniture

EC – Fabulous Finds Upscale Consignment Longmont: Find a new couch that will sit well with you at Fabulous Finds Upscale Consignment. For the few fashion-forward Coloradoans not rocking the lumberjack REI look, Fabulous Finds also sells upscale, consigned clothing brands including Gucci and Louis Vuitton.

B – Amazing Garage Sale Boulder: Trying to be the envy of your hipster friends? Find a stylish mid-century modern furniture piece at the Amazing Garage Sale, which is open daily. Peruse their furniture selection from home on their website.

Furniture

EC – Danish Furniture Longmont: Looking to get your ex’s furniture out of your house? Danish Furniture consigns furniture from the community. Along with their selection of consigned furniture, they also sell a collection of new Stressless Brand furniture and offer design services.

B – Arhaus Boulder: With incredibly wholesome values, Arhaus furniture is made from discarded materials like old mango trees that don’t produce fruit and recycled copper. Profits benefit community organizations like Habitat for Humanity and American Forests.

Home Furnishing

EC – Lottie Lane Erie: Born out of a local realtor’s COVID passion project, Lottie Lane features modern, heirloom pieces to decorate your home that encourage enjoying time at home with people you love.

B – Boulder Furniture Arts: Run by a small group of classically trained craftspeople, Boulder Furniture Arts takes the custom approach to making furniture from drafting to assembly. It’s proud to be one of Boulder’s oldest businesses.

Home Improvement

EC – Jax Lafayette Farm & Ranch: Jax is a yearly fan favorite with its large selection of gear designed for any Colorado adventure. The staff is friendly and helpful and can get you set up with tools for jobs as large as ranching or as little as gardening.

B – McGuckin Hardware: Feel empowered to start that home project you’ve been putting off with a trip to fan favorite McGuckin Hardware. Their excellent customer care inspires and helps customers accomplish their home project dreams along with providing miscellaneous services like lamp repair and blade sharpening.

Landscaper

EC – Outdoor Craftsmen: Outdoor Craftsmen brings eastern zen and western structure to your backyard inspired by a clean, modern take on formal English gardens. Whether it’s a seasonal cleanup or a backyard renovation, Outdoor Craftsmen cultivates your outdoor space dreams.

B – Ecoscape: If you dig sustainability, Ecoscape cares for the land through eco-friendly landscaping practices. Certified by Partners for a Clean Environment, Ecoscape offers both landscape services and broader stewardship projects like native revegetation and ecological forest management.

Realtor

EC – Brie Fowler at the Fowler Group: Having a sunflower as a symbol is perfect for the Fowler Group because working with Brie’s sunny personality makes buying a home so much brighter. They even hand out sunflower starter packs for your garden. The Fowler Group has been working with the community since 1960. Long before all the new houses were built. As a third-generation Realtor in the family and a multi-year winner of Best of the West, Brie Fowler and the Fowler Group know BOCO houses better than anyone else. 

B – TIE – Goodacre Group of milehimodern: Goodacre Group of milehimodern is the area’s oldest locally owned and operated real estate company and prides itself on being the local expert on the complex Boulder housing market.

B – TIE – Paul Dart: We can’t think of a kinder person to have won this year. Paul Dart’s soft-spoken nature makes working with him feel comfortable. But don’t let that kindly approach fool you. He is a pro at selling houses. Maybe that is why he proves a good realtor is a good friend.

Plumber

EC – Colorado Green Plumbing Longmont: Colorado Green Plumbing Longmont leaves out the sales pitch and provides knowledgeable technicians to help with plumbing needs. Colorado Green Plumbing offers a free plumbing inspection and low interest financing options.

B – Jim Needham Services: With over 30 years of experience in the Denver area, Jim Needham solves your plumbing needs quickly and without any additional service call fees and prompt, same-day service.

Contractor

EC – Cornerstone Homes: With press nods from New York Times to Boulder County Home & Garden, Cornerstone Homes are third-generation builders who have been building their craft for 20 years. Healthy relationships with clients are the foundation of their work to create living spaces that reflect individual needs.

B – Melton Design Build: A rare feat in the design build world is keeping on schedule and budget with no surprises. Melton Design Build offers clear and consistent communication and a clear timeline while building high quality homes.

Tree Service

EC – Reinholt: With the mission of protecting people and trees alike, Reinholt is a small family business offering tree care in Boulder County with an emphasis on safety and high quality work.

B – Berkelhammer: Fred Berkelhammer has been in Boulder County trees for over 30 years. As a top-rated arborist no one knows Colorado trees like Berkelhammer. But what makes this local organization even better is their desire to make the world a better, greener place.

Education

Place to Play with the Kids

EC – Wow! Museum: This multi-award-winning museum can add another Best of the West to its illustrious list. The museum uses a system of exploration, experimentation, and repetition to create curious learners looking to further explore their world. The Forest of Lights exhibit encourages children, of all abilities, to play in an environment designed by local occupational therapists for sensory exploration. At a low price, Wow! Museum is a great way to help your child become an engaged member of the Lafayette community.

B – Chautauqua: Want to spend more time outside? Nature and history collide at Chautauqua. It is a one of a kind place bridging the gap between the outdoors and education. The park is a place to be active in nature and learn about native plants in the onsite gardens or the history of its historical buildings.

Music School

EC – School of Rock: Sure you can play the hell out of your instrument at home, but what about getting on stage in front of a roaring crowd? School of Rock will teach you how to be a true performer. The Front Range possesses a vivid music scene where students at School of Rock get a taste of what it’s like to be a professional musician. Shift from genre to genre to find your passion, and you may find yourself rocking Colorado’s music scene.

B – The Lesson Studio: Owner and creator, Gary Gutierrez, creates a safe environment where music truly is for everyone. From vocal training to learning the viola, The Lesson Studio has more than a few options to get your student exploring music. The studio was created with one goal in mind: sharing your love for music. The approach of personalizing lessons with applicable practice techniques is designed to ensure the success of all students, so they can share music as a self-assured, creative person.

Summer Camp

EC – School of Rock: For a second year, School of Rock summer camps have won Yellow Scene’s “Best of the West.” It is no wonder School of Rock has been a consistent top pick for Colorado families. The school offers year round camps for musicians of all ages and abilities. Traditional camps solely focus on playing, but School of Rock incorporates confidence building to create self-assured artists on and off stage. Multiple locations mean you won’t have to drive all over town. Your time is a valued character at a reasonable price.

B – Renaissance Adventures: For the third year, parents chose Renaissance Adventures as the Best of the West summer camp for children of all ages. The camps develop skills of empathy and reasoning all while maintaining a creative, safe environment for your child to explore the benefits of experiential learning. The Adventure Quest program is built on this method. It uses exciting plots to engage its participants to navigate through difficult challenges and decisions with support.

Public School

EC – Pioneer Bilingual Lafayette: La Escuela Bilingue Pioneer es un BVSD leader in providing bilingual education for students. El mundo está cambiando. Pioneer Bilingual has a scientifically backed approach to help your student become proficient in another language. Read the reviews. Students love the atmosphere; parents love the approach, it’s why they keep winning.

B – Fairview: It’s not just our readers who voted Fairview the top highschool in BOCO, numerous national publications rank them as one of the best high schools not only in Colorado, but nationally. Known for its academic excellence and college preparedness they take 2023’s top position.

Private School

EC – Dawson School: Dawson School has served our community since 1970 with a mission focused on developing creative students with extensive problem-solving skills. Students and parents alike love the small class sizes. On average, each classroom only has 15 students, and is best exemplified in the Senior Honor Ceremony where the faculty recognizes each graduating student. Faculty and educators take this time to share stories or recognize students’ accomplishments at Dawson. The connections students make with their educators are long lasting and highly valued. It is a small school with a big emphasis on community.

B – Jarrow Montessori: Jarrow Montessori has been in the community for over 50 years providing a certified American Montessori education. The Montessori approach understands that each student’s development comes at their own pace and offers tools to formulate their own concepts Jarrow consistently shows parents their dedication to giving students a well-rounded education that goes beyond the white board.

Professional Services & People

Auto Repair

EC – Stan’s: Since 1984 Stan’s has been providing import and domestic auto and even RV repair in Loveland. Customers love the service they get from Stan and the crew, who continuously go above and beyond for their people. While Stan’s has won Best of the West, just about every year since YS began, their long commitment to community coupled with their trustworthy services has made them a local’s favorite year after year. Be sure to drive by the shop for their famous inspirational message on their sign.

B – Hoshi: Hoshi rarely advertises. Why would they when so many people share the word on this local Boulder repair shop that’s been around for 32 years? Winning Best of the West awards certainly helps, too. Honesty pays off. It’s pretty rare to find an auto shop with positive reviews but they pull it off.

Attorney

EC – Catherine Brown: Catherine has been helping folks with immigration for over 20 years. She has helped countless people make Colorado their home, sometimes even pro bono for those in need. According to reviews, Catherine’s clients feel respected, valued, and supported, like their case matters and she truly wants them to be her Colorado neighbor.

B – Barre M. Sakol, P.C.: Let’s be real, few people want to consult an attorney. Usually that means something is going very wrong. Barre uses his 30 years of experience to help demystify the process and guide you through the legal world so fraught with complications. The legal process can be difficult but your lawyer shouldn’t be.

Bank

Elevations Credit Union: As a nonprofit credit union, Elevations is able to represent the values of the people they serve far more than a typical corporate bank can (or will). This shows in their incredible community contributions ranging from setting up scholarships to community events and education, like “Get Off Your Donkey”, a presentation about wellness for people with desk jobs, a benefit bicycle donation drive, and informational finance workshops in Spanish. They have also been serving Boulder County residents so long they even have customers who still have a 3-digit account!

Auto Sales

B – Fowler Auto: Fowler Auto has grown from state to state across the South and Midwest, keeping a reputation for going above and beyond for its customers throughout its decades-long history. Even if you prefer to avoid dealership service, our readers love the service department at Fowler.

Non-Profit

EC – Sister Carmen: Sister Carmen has been there for everyone in need since 1978 and has distributed over a million pounds of food and household items, and over a million dollars in housing assistance with transparency, respect, and an open heart for all who come to them. The thrift shop is a great way to support this beloved community treasure and get yourself something fun.

B – Community Foundation: Boulder’s Community Foundation is not just for people, but all aspects of living. They hold dear concerns for the environment, as we have seen how the environment impacts people. Over the last year, they have been working steadily with other organizations to help those impacted by the Marshall Fire. They work to build stronger communities, through health, education, and leadership programs, in addition to charitable funding.

Politician

Joe Neguse: Congressman Joe Neguse takes the BOW vote from Polis this year! His dedication to veterans, equity, conservation, climate, education, and civil rights are deeply appreciated by the community. At only 31 years old, Joe Neguse was one of the youngest cabinet members ever to serve. Not only this, but his accomplishments and achievements are a long list of impressive feats, especially for a person of his age, beginning with graduating summa cum laude from the University of Colorado- Boulder.

Artist

EC – Wira Babiak: The art of Wira Babiak’s landscapes have a special essence. She does gorgeous paintings of the Colorado prairies that capture the raw spirit of East County. She is a multimedia artist with major talent across the board and has even brought the stunning fragile beauty of Ukrainian eggs to our area communities. As a Ukrainian immigrant, she is now using her art to benefit humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.

B – Adderly Art: Adderly Grant-Lord’s vibrant pinks, blues, and yellows lift the spirit and echo of love. Her soul shines through her work, encouraging you to see, find, and feel true beauty. Her pieces in the Black Futures in Art: We’re Not Just History collection is a spectacular depiction of hope and vitality. As a Carribean-born artist with a background in fashion and art, she knows how to make colors pop and create divine aesthetics.

The post Best of the West 2023: Readers Choice appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Contributors: Shavonne Blades, Laurenz Busch, Deborah Cameron, Robert Davis, Brian Heuberger, Kristi Hill, Ashley Kay Mauer, Mollie McCoy, & Thomas Rutherford

When we say Readers’ Choice, we mean readers choose. No prompts. No drop-down menus to vote from. Just a wide open ballot for you to have told us what you love. Yellow Scene Magazine is the only local publication that keeps the Readers’ Choice ballot up to the readers with the area’s only write-in answers. After weeks of voting, we have the results, presented in 9 main categories and 111 sub-categories.

Click on each category to skip to that section, and go back or press “Back to top” to return here.

Restaurant • Drink • Entertainment • Health & Beauty • Shopping • Home • Services & Misc. • Sports • Education

RESTAURANT WINNERS

Overall Restaurant

Contemporary American

Newcomer

Cheap Eats

Colorado-Based Chain

Bread

Bakery

Bagels

Barbeque

Breakfast

Breakfast Burrito

Brunch

Burger

Chinese

Coffee House

Dessert

Gluten-Free

Green Chile

Healthy Meal

Hot Dog

Indian

Italian

Lunch

Mexican

Patio

Pizza

Sandwich

Seafood

Steak

Sushi/Japanese

Taco

Thai

Vietnamese

Chef

DRINK WINNERS

Overall Bar

Brewery

Distillery

Bloody Mary

Happy Hour

Margarita

Bartender/Mixologist

Liquor Store

Wine Shop

ENTERTAINMENT WINNERS

Fair or Festival

Live Music Venue

Gallery

Museum

Theater Company

Arcade

Pumpkin Patch

Local Celebrity

HEALTH & BEAUTY WINNERS

Day Spa

Facial

Massage

Manicure/Pedicure

Med Spa (Medical Treatments)

Salon

Barber

Chiropractor

Veterinarian

Medical Center

Hospital

Dentist

Doctor

Tattoo

SHOPPING WINNERS

Shoe Store

Eyewear

Jewelry

Fashion Boutique For Women

Men’s Clothing

Consignment Clothing

Shopping District/Center

Bookstore

Florist

Kids Store

Gift Shop

Natural Goods

Musical Instruments

Pet Supply

Cannabis

HOME WINNERS

Old Town

Neighborhood

Consignment/Reuse Furniture Store

Furniture

Home Furnishings

Home Improvement

SERVICES & MISC. WINNERS

Auto Repair

Place to Buy a Car

Lawyer

Bank or Credit Union

Nonprofit

Landscaper

Realtor

Plumbing

Contractor

Tree Service

SPORTS WINNERS

Bike Shop

Ski Shop

Sporting Goods Store

Golf Course

Gym

Recreation Center

Ski Resort

Martial Arts Center

Yoga Studio

Pilates Studio

EDUCATION WINNERS

Place to Play With Kids

Private School

Public School

Summer Camp

Music School

The post Best of the West 2022: Readers Choice appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Graphic by De La Vaca; original photo by Paul Wedlake

This year we have been highlighting Actionists, a term coined by Candice Bailey (Feb. 2021 YS) – an ex-felon who had to sue to be able to run as a candidate in Aurora’s City Council race this year. Candice describes Actionists as more than activists: they are the people doing the work to change the broken aspects of America’s systems.

When I chose Boulder County District Attorney Michael Dougherty to be an Actionist, it was met with a lot of resistance – for good reason. District Attorneys wield extraordinary power. DA’s have been one of the major contributors to America’s broken justice system.

Historically DA’s are more focused on winning the case, than the actual details of the case. I have spoken to several defense attorney’s that expressed that Deputy DA’s often do not even look at the case until the day of trial. Data shows that a black man will be given a much harsher sentence than a white man for the exact same crime (United States Sentencing Commission, 2010-2016). America’s incarceration rate is the largest in the world, with over 2.12 million people behind bars. Over half are there for non-violent crimes, and nearly a half a million people are sitting in jails because they can’t pay the bail. People are moved through our judicial system like cattle, especially if they lack the funding for their own attorney.

So why would I choose a District Attorney as an Actionist? Systemic change is glacially slow and sometimes we have to take our wins where we get them.

Michael Dougherty spent more than two hours with me for this interview, knowing I am a harsh critic of the judicial system and District Attorneys. Rather than discuss the King Soopers case which is ongoing, we focused on the work that impacts systemic changes.

He tells me, “There is still a lot of work to do” (and he is right about that).

Michael is, however, one of the first DA’s I have met over the last two decades that has helped lead the charge on even having a conversation regarding justice reform.

Photo: Paul Wedlake

He continues, “As a DA, I should be part of helping lead the way to justice reform. We have a commitment to public safety, but we can also lower the rate of offenses. I think about how many lives we damage in terms of incarcerated individuals, but also future victims, taxpayers as long as we allow the cycle to continue.”

While deeply concerned with justice for the victims of violent crimes, he acknowledges there are too many incarcerated people that should be receiving mental health and addiction services instead. He is a harsh critic of for-profit justice systems and states the private industry needs to be driven out of the current legal ecosystem. He is committed to restorative justice and to sentences that do not return people to the system (currently, Colorado has one of the highest recidivism rates in the country). He is currently the co-chair of the Sentencing Reform Task Force for the state and supports current legislation that helps to reform the system. He has served as the head of the Criminal Justice Section for the Attorney General and led the Colorado DNA Justice Review Project.

When asked about what changes have been made at the Boulder County District Attorney’s office since his appointment, I am given a solid list of programs that he introduced or expanded:

• Restorative Justice & Diversion Program
• Conviction Integrity Unit to review claims of wrongful convictions
• Mental Health Diversion Program – the only one in the State of Colorado
• Fresh Start Warrant Forgiveness Program – the first one in our state
• Immigrant Protection Program  – expansion of this program.
• Vera Institute of Justice data analysis to identify & root out racial inequities
• Bias & Hate Crimes Initiative to combat the rise in hate crimes
• Driver License Diversion Program to reduce the criminal justice footprint in the lives of those with low-level driving offenses
• Domestic Violence Acute Response Team

Photo: Paul Wedlake

His office has diverted the restorative justice caseload by 300%, implemented drug courts, and increased the partnership between his office and mental health diversion programs, as well as supporting acute response teams instead of police.

With all these new programs being introduced, I tell him stories of people I know that are still dealing with deputy DA’s that are doing more bargaining than justice, abusive behaviors by officers, and woefully inept support services. Mental Health Partners does not have the capacity to handle all cases, MWSE of Lafayette is a one-size-fits-all for-profit class, and the probation departments are still, by and large, for-profit.

When I address these cultural issues within and outside the DA’s office, Michael reiterates:

“There is a lot of work to be done, still.” He continues, “We’ve kept our mental health diversion program going despite the state cutting the funding. We diverted from funds elsewhere in the office and from other programs that we have in the office to keep the mental health diversion program going, because we’re absolutely committed to it. But the fact is that the state cut it. We need a more permanent source of mental health funding.”

He continued, “I’d like to see Boulder County follow the lead of some other counties, where they’ve actually passed a ballot initiative. I feel really strongly about it, not just for the criminal justice system, but for the health and safety of our community as a whole. If you talk to sheriffs from around the state, every single one of them will tell you that the last place someone should be when they’re struggling with a mental health crisis is jail. We need as a state to recognize that this is a significant gap that we have, so that’s why we we’re the only office in the state to continue our program. But without the funding for these alternative programs you can’t defund, you can’t be moved down in decreased populations.”

While all that has been accomplished, he is right, there is much work to be done still. But for these reasons, I chose a DA for our Actionist Series. I only hope that the work does, in fact, continue. When it comes time to get that mental health ballot initiative passed, I will be signed up to work alongside him.

The post Michael Dougherty: A Fighter For Justice Knows The Strength of Compassion | The ACTIONISTS Series appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Local elections are critically important, in fact, it is said we have more power over our local political landscape than national.

Unfortunately, many of our local races are being influenced by outside money, with a concerted effort to take over school boards and city councils by larger, national influences.

However, on the flip side, there is a LOT of new blood running. It appears the 2021 races could be quite interesting. Out with the Vanguard and in with the new? There is a new generation inspired to make their community better and are ready to step up. But not all are running for the right reasons. Pay attention to your school boards, and who is running for the city council. It does matter. These are local elections and should be policy-forward.

While we offer our endorsements, we leave conclusions up to our readers by providing the answers in our interviews. However, there were several races where we truly had a difficult time choosing.

Longmont has four really great candidates running for two seats. We loved Shiquita Yarbrough, Aren Rodriguez, Tallis Salamatian, and Sean McCoy. We hope all four can serve on council together sometime in the future, but for this year there are only two seats. We had a very difficult time narrowing Longmont down to just two, and know that all four of these would do a great job for the community. We ultimately weighed in but strongly think Longmont should work to get all four of these elected in the future.

Boulder was also difficult to choose among, but it always is. This year Boulder has 10 candidates for 5 seats with only one incumbent on the ballot. Many have similar-sounding messages.

However, we do know we are not endorsing Ballot Issue 302 (Boulder),  Steve Rosenblum (Boulder City Council), Natalie Abshier (SVVSD School Board) or Kara Awaitha Frost (Boulder Valley School District).

Read on and study your candidates wisely. Know who you are voting for and why. The day of races being uncontested are over. Your local election is where voters have the most power.

YS staff interviewed just about every candidate running, we asked the hard questions, and are reporting those results here. Unfortunately, in a digital world, not everything goes as planned. In a few cases our transcription was lost to a new phone that had technical difficulties. In those cases, we provided links to their website, and our understanding of each candidate. As transcripts are able to be salvaged we will upload them here.

Boulder | City Council

Matt Benjamin (Endorsed)

Background: I have lived in Boulder for over 20 years and live in South Boulder with my wife, and two kids. I formally taught astronomy and managed Fiske Planetarium at CU Boulder. I am now a photographer and science educator.

Infrastructure and Transportation: We are simply not meeting the call on climate action to remove cars and to reduce our dependence on vehicles. We have a very cycling-friendly town, and we’re not building the protected safe bike infrastructure that’s necessary.

Housing: We have completely neglected middle income housing over the last ten, perhaps even twenty years or more. Most of our housing is zoned single-family and that means that we simply don’t have zoned into our codes the ability to build many duplexes, triplexes or quadplexes.

Economic Growth: I think we can really help [restaurants] with financial assistance… keep West Pearl closed, we allow and we make permanent the opportunities for restaurants to have parklets and to be able to expand out onto sidewalks or into the right of way of parking areas.

DEI: If we did fair pay for council, I know that we could attract an even greater diversity of people. Their choice to run for council doesn’t have to be an economic decision.

Final Remarks: I’m going to try and get us away from criminalizing being unhoused and build a more empathetic and compassionate approach that’s more housing first and service based approach to actually get them the resources they need.

Michael Christy (Endorsed)

Background: Family lawyer by trade, Air Force Veteran, deployed to Kuwait and Afghanistan shortly after 9/11, certified mediator and collaborative law lawyer. Serving on the Cannabis Licensing and Advisory Board for City Council

Infrastructure and Transportation: I would eventually like to see Boulder and our neighboring cities create their own regional electric bus transit system. Within the city, I’d like to see improvements on the biking infrastructure. There is a need for having safer biking paths [and] more north to south biking corridors.

Housing: I don’t think by just increasing supply you’re going to reduce cost. Let’s look at rezoning some of the older dilapidated strip malls around town, for mixed commercial housing use and provide a wide range of housing options for people at all stages of their life.

Economic Growth: People cannot afford to live here, so instead of commuting into Boulder they are trying to obtain work where they live. [Continue to] provide affordable housing for workers, continue to support local businesses. I also think public safety is an issue for our businesses.

DEI: There are obstacles in place that don’t make it easy for people to get involved and proportionately those tend to be people of underrepresented communities. There needs to be more outreach into underrepresented communities. There’s a lot more we can do than just creating a racial equity plan.

Final Remarks: I don’t pretend to have all of the answers but I do believe that given my background and my experiences that I can add value to the conversations around the issues that we’re facing.

Jacques Decalo

Background: Born and raised in Boulder, Jacques went to Western Washington University, Fairhaven College, and has ‘a vision of Boulder becoming one of the most sustainable cities in the world.’

Infrastructure and Transportation: We have to build with sustainable materials, we have to implement greywater recycling to reduce the cost of utilities. We have to implement solar and battery pack storage to reduce the demand for fossil fuels and reduce the dependence on excel.

Housing: High density housing allows more people to access housing while minimizing space impact. We have to look into duplexes, triplexes, quadplexes. We have to work with neighborhoods and residents in order to establish areas where the whole neighborhood can be comfortable with the change.

Economic Growth: City reserve funds are needed for catastrophes such as this pandemic. We have to be able to help out businesses and stimulate [them] …and make sure their workers are taken care of.

DEI: We have to look at ways to be more inclusive. One of my ideas is to put QR codes around the city and have the option [for] citizens to scan the QR code [and] submit something that they feel the city could improve upon.

Final Remarks: My main platform is that I guarantee no one will fight harder for climate activism than me. We have to take advantage of [100% renewable and sustainable technology] before these huge gas and oil and power and electric companies come in and try and monopolize green energy.

Lauren Folkerts (Endorsed)

Background: A sustainable design architect by profession, Lauren has been a resident of Boulder for ten years and currently serves as the Chair of Boulder’s Design Advisory Board.

Infrastructure and Transportation: Having 60% of our workforce live outside of city limits is causing a large amount of traffic and congestion. We need to press for a free bus system within city limits. Scooters and e-bikes provide great options. Incentivize pushing those alternative mobility options.

Housing: Our co-op ordinance is written so tightly that we have seen almost no new co-ops since its implementation. Most of the co-ops have just been the legalization of existing projects. [I’d like to] look at relaxing some regulations around duplexes and triplexes around transportation hubs.

Economic Growth: City council needs to be pushing at the state and federal level to make sure that we’re getting our fair share of benefits for our community. Housing is [still] a big portion of this, lacking workforce housing means that it is harder for our businesses to hire.

DEI: We miss out on some really qualified people in our community being able to run for [elected] positions. I would push for a liveable wage for city council members. It’s important for us to value people’s work and the work they do for our community.

Final Remarks: None.

Steve Rosenblum

Background: Steve Rosenblum is an economist and a mathematician with a twenty-year career investing in communities, analyzing government budgets, and creating housing for the elderly, disabled, and the unhoused.

Infrastructure and Transportation: Invest in transitional housing, much better mental health support, [and] mental health and social services professionals. I also want to focus on improving our roads and making them safer for alternative types of transports – bikes, ebikes, pedestrians – and making them work better with a new electric mass transit system.

Housing: CU student population grew by 40% [since 2000] and hasn’t built adequate housing; the city has been forced to accommodate. Focus on… and all of our 70’s and 80’s strip malls and shopping centers – redevelop those into communities with [a] mix of housing options.

Economic Growth: City needs to be more vocal about the distribution of rental assistance. I’m going to do all I can to help maintain our local businesses. Putting [them] at the front of the line for permitting processes, looking at property tax abatements for commercial landlords, and listening to the community.

DEI: We need to… increase representation both in our city government and how we make investments as a city. We need to recognize we have a regressive tax system, funded through sales tax which has an…impact on people who are most struggling to live here.

Final Remarks: We’ve fallen prey to the worst parts of our national political discourse. I’m going to work to try and solve that by bringing people together and having discussions about the way to move forward on the big issues like housing, homelessness, and climate.

Nicole Speer (Endorsed)

Background: I’m a scientist, parent, businesswoman, and champion for inclusion. I am running for Boulder City Council to help our community rise to the challenges of housing, equity, and climate change.

Infrastructure and Transportation: I would really love to see our city start focusing on designing in a way that doesn’t center cars quite as much. Designing our neighborhoods [so] that it’s easier for people to bike and walk around and to take public transportation rather than having to rely on a car for transport.

Housing: Rethink the way that we do zoning. A majority of our residentially zoned land is single-family. That does not mean that I want to build giant apartment buildings. That means giving people more options like [turning] their single family home lot into a duplex or triplex.
Homelessness: We are currently moving our services to the outskirts of the city, where they are harder for people to get to and access. That really needs to change.

Economic Growth: This comes down to an issue of housing and wages that enable people to live here in Boulder.

DEI: The biggest thing I can do is listen to the voices of people of color. I’m a privileged white person. I’m not the person that should be generating the ideas; rather, I’m a person that should be helping to implement the ideas of the people who are being affected by racial injustice.

Final Remarks: I’m really trying to elevate climate resilience, and not just from the perspective of protecting us from extreme weather, but from a perspective of ‘how are we building up our communities in a way that is strengthening the social connections that we have to each other?’

David Takahash

Background: David Takahashi not only asks the world to leave no trace, but he walks the talk. David is involved in regenerative organizations at the individual, neighborhood, city, regional, state, national, and global levels.

Infrastructure and Transportation: Our jobs/housing imbalance encourages commuting, resulting in 60,000 single-occupancy vehicles streaming into and out of Boulder each working day. By providing a diverse housing palette, Boulder could turn some of these into inhabitants free to use alternate modes of transportation.

Housing: My solution is to encourage housing in under-utilized low-contest areas such as church parking lots, declining strip malls, declining shopping centers, and other places that are relics of our automobile-centric building codes.

Economic Growth: The first thing is providing affordable workforce housing. Second, we must consider weatherizing and making our 44,000 dwellings energy efficient. Third, I would ensure that building these new housing options is done in a walkable mixed-use style, encouraging smaller, locally owned, community-enhancing businesses that create meaningful and community-building jobs.

DEI: The roots of racial discrimination go so far back as attempts to alleviate its expression in our 14th Amendment are so unsuccessful that I grieve to discuss this. Education that furthers embracing cultural differences rather than cultural intolerance will be better than the alternative of ignorance.

Final Remarks: We are in a code-red climate emergency. It is a time to act and not vacillate. I have been working with the council, city staff, and boards for over six years and have established relationships the other candidates will have to begin building.

Mark Wallach (Incumbent)

Background: Mark Wallach is currently a member of the Boulder City Council and is running for a second term. He has previously worked as an attorney and a real estate developer. Mark has been with his lovely wife, Joan, for 35 years.

Infrastructure and Transportation: [Our] needs are various and pressing, everything from road and bridge maintenance. We have highly inefficient buildings and rec centers that need to be deeply retrofitted to be more energy efficient.

Housing: The core answer is we have to build more affordable housing. Boulder Housing Partners has been doing a great job. There has to be some degree of realism here… Boulder is a desirable place to live. You can’t build yourself out of the problem.

Economic Growth: We’re always trying to increase economic vitality. Just as we did with the outdoor dining, which we’re going to extend to 2022. My only comment is that the economy is stimulated and is recovering. It’s been a very strong end of year for Boulder in terms of sales tax collections.

DEI: The city has adopted an equity lens. It’s a relatively new program, so I don’t know what the results are going to look like [or] whether we have to take further steps, but our city government has been very much on top of these issues.

Final Remarks: I don’t want us to lack experience on the council. It takes several months to know which end is up and having too many rookies on the council I’m not sure that’s going to be good for process or substance.

Dan Williams (Endorsed)

Background: Dan Williams wants to make Boulder a place for all of us. He’s focused on the climate emergency, social justice, housing, and open space.

Infrastructure and Transportation: I’m for exploring ways to make the bus in Boulder free; make it something people incorporate into their daily routines and [free] actually speeds up the buses. The city should be subsidizing or even giving away e-bikes to front line workers who are living in town.

Housing: The missing middle housing crisis is the result of failed policies; we just haven’t built enough housing. There was a time when people could do things, like subdivide lots and build more housing in currently single family neighborhoods. We can make it a lot easier to build multi-family housing.

Economic Growth: Some of the emergency measures just need to continue, [such as] keeping Pearl Street closed from 9th to 11th. The amount of outdoor seating we have has been great. Those are things we can make permanent even though we may have a modest reduction in parking spaces.

DEI: The exclusion of BIPOC communities in Boulder – historically – was intentional and we can intentionally deconstruct that… with more inclusionary housing policies. One of the things I hear from communities of color is that we’re policing in an unfair way. That’s completely unacceptable.

Final Remarks: I’ve loved living in Boulder for the last fifteen years. I can’t imagine living anywhere else and I’m committed to working to make Boulder a brighter place that’s more welcoming and inviting for all of us in the future.

Tara Winer

Background: Tara has developed an expertise in forming partnerships, listening to people, understanding problems, and developing solutions in both her extensive public service here in Boulder and as a small business owner for over 25 years.

Infrastructure and Transportation: I strongly approve of [Issue 2I] because to me infrastructure is vital, that’s one of the primary jobs of the city, to have good infrastructure. I would like to see lighting in the bike tunnels and more protection on the bike lanes.

Housing: The problem with permanently affordable housing is the developers have to pay for [it] with cash in lieu or them adding a few units of affordable housing to their market rate housing so that’s slow going… but at least it’s something and we’re definitely adding.

Economic Growth: We have a big mess on our hands in this country. [Business owners] can’t seem to hire employees, and then we have people that can’t find jobs. Why is there a disconnect between those [groups]?

DEI: I feel [it] was great, that the city [held trainings on DEI], and [that] they continually work on their racial equity plan and continue to really push it in every way that I’ve seen. They always put racial equity and inclusivity and diversity first.

Final Remarks: One reason I am running is because post-COVID all cities have really had some challenges – budget-wise, safety, environmentally – and I feel it’s very important, going into the next few years, to have people that are balanced and think for the whole of the city.

Broomfield | Mayor

Kimberly Groom

Background: Kimberly has proudly served as Broomfield Ward 4 Council Member, has over 25 years progressive corporate experience, earned two master’s degrees, and served on the Board of Directors of Senior Resources of Broomfield.

Infrastructure and Transportation: It’s our east-west corridors that are most important to build out and support the growing transportation needs. What we need to do – to get the funding – [is] work with the state because this northern region is not getting their fair share of transportation dollars.

Housing: My hopes for attainable housing is [that] a dual family income can still live here… and that’s what I think affordable housing needs to equate to.

Economic Growth: [Small businesses] cannot get people to work. They can’t open their business at full capacity because of employee employment issues. I do see Broomfield being able to play a role in that through our current workforce center. There’s a lot of resources available.

DEI: We’re a very accepting community. However, there are chances you can have a blind side and I think by having a staff dedicated to diversity, it will help us ensure that we don’t have blinders on. I support making sure that everyone in our community feels included.

Final Remarks: We need to make business decisions and ensure that our 34 square miles [are] built out appropriately to sustain our financial future. We need to make sure that we have economic diversity in each of our communities.

Guyleen Castriotta (Incumbent) (Endorsed)

Background: Guyleen was the first openly lesbian candidate elected to the Broomfield City Council and was unanimously appointed to Mayor Pro Tem in 2019.

Infrastructure and Transportation: Our transportation has been woefully underfunded in Colorado. We’re hopeful to be able to get some of that funding to improve Highway 7. [It] is our biggest pinch point right now. We are a transit desert and it’s not equitable for people who can’t drive.

Housing: [When Broomfield was first planned] there was never a focus on workforce housing. We need to be flexible, work with developers, allow more variances, allow more smaller footprints, and allow the density and height that it’s going to take to fill these gaps.

Economic Growth: I support helping people who are still looking for work. I believe the way out of this is to lift people up from poverty and increase wages. They haven’t increased with the cost of living. We’ve got to do a better job investing in people.

DEI: In 2018, we passed the charter amendment with 75% of the vote to replace the male-only pronouns with gender neutral pronouns and titles. We are working toward [an] equitable environment for our staff and our residents. It is definitely one of my priorities.

Final Remarks: I want to encourage people to get vaccinated to protect each other. It’s not about the ‘me’. It’s about the ‘we’. That’s what we’re all about. We want to lift each other up. We want to take care of each other.

Broomfield | City Council (Ward 1)

James Marsh-Holschen (Endorsed)

Background: After receiving my law degree from Georgetown in 2013 I moved to Broomfield, worked for the public defender’s office, and now I work with a company doing financial compliance and anti-money laundering work. I also serve on the Health and Human Services Board and the Community Justice Partnership.

Infrastructure and Transportation: Redesigning streets with traffic calming devices can prevent dangerously fast driving. Developing a circular road network can alleviate traffic. Establish mixed-use developments on unused parking lots. Transition away from cars by providing biking and pedestrian lanes, offering multimodal transportation capabilities, and developing a bus system that reaches all main points of the city. 

Housing: Help individuals afford homes by raising wages to keep pace with costs of housing. Provide property tax deductions for landlords who rent at affordable prices, offer tax credits for low-income homeowners, and modify our ordinances to increase stock of affordable houses and ADUs.
Homelessness: I support voucher programs that give homeless people access to hotel rooms, and assistance programs to provide them with the services they need.

Economic Growth: With people working remotely and many office buildings vacant, we can redevelop those spaces into commercial properties. Only attract companies to Broomfield that pay high wages, and we should provide them with incentives to move into empty existing spaces rather than creating new buildings.

Pandemic: The narrative that people are sitting at home because they are lazy is not supported by the data. The workforce decreased as the economy changed; companies need to pay higher wages to attract workers. Support small businesses by using COVID funds to help them recover and adjust to the economy.

DEI: Working in the government or living in a community requires us to work together despite disagreements. But there is no compromise on issues of diversity, equality, and human rights. We’re fortunate that Broomfield has been good about increasing its minority population and embracing its diverse residents.

Final Remarks: Property crime has been rising in Broomfield. It’s most likely due to the increased struggles caused by the pandemic. We can work with law enforcement and neighborhood watches to help reduce the rates of property crimes and to make everyone in the community feel safe.

Chriss Hammerschmidt

Background: I’ve lived in Broomfield for 24 years, and throughout my scientific career I’ve worked for NASA and ITS.  But I disagree with some decisions of the city council, so I’ve been attending meetings, conducting research, tracking resolutions, and now I’m running for office.

Infrastructure and Transportation: We have to upgrade our main thoroughfares; traffic is increasing as the city reaches build-out. We should redesign Midway Blvd, complete the construction loop around Highway 7, and fund infrastructure projects for the roads connecting to northern Broomfield.

Housing: Have homebuilders develop affordable options, including small home communities and ADUS. Reduce zoning restrictions and building regulations to optimize the efficient use of our land and decrease the overall costs of our homes.
Homelessness: Help by providing facilities and nonprofits that can take them off the street, improve their lives, and help them at a community level.

Economic Growth: We should encourage small and large businesses to operate here, mix stores better within our residential areas, and revitalize our existing commercial areas, such as the Flatirons Crossing Mall and the Broomfield Town Center.

Pandemic: The unemployment benefits have to stop because it’s discouraging people from getting back to work.  However, rather than ending it all at once, we should phase it out gradually so the recipients can still afford to make purchases during the transition.

DEI: I’m happy that Broomfield has a diverse community with residents from very different backgrounds. I’ve never seen any group be disrespected or excluded here, so we should avoid introducing a solution to a problem that doesn’t exist.

Final Remarks: Public safety is a big issue.  Restrictions on police departments have reduced the police presence on the streets, and this has increased property crimes throughout the communities. But we can also reduce crime by alleviating the angry rhetoric, fearful attitudes, and divisive tendencies in our society.

Broomfield | City Council (Ward 2)

Brent Hultman

Background: I’m a nonprofit volunteer, leadership coach, army veteran, published author, and I’m solution-focused based on what makes sense and how we can achieve the best outcome.

Infrastructure and Transportation: We have problems with our aging water and sewage infrastructure. Constant leaks are wasting exorbitant amounts of water, so modernizing our water and sewer systems need to be a top priority. Regarding roads, we need to repair and improve the conditions of the surface streets running through and around the city.

Housing: The construction defect rule and risk of litigation prevents condo development. I would encourage our mayor to pressure state legislators to address that issue. I would collaborate with developers to create a wider variety of housing styles, and modify height restrictions / density limitations to increase our housing inventory.
Homelessness: I support the hotel voucher system in place.

Economic Growth: We need the tax revenue from the business side rather than the residential side. I would communicate with our small and big businesses, provide the resources they need to flourish, and I’d also provide an inviting atmosphere to make it easy and advantageous for new companies to operate here as well.

Pandemic: We should give access to trade schools and technical training opportunities, so workers can meet the needs of companies, and we should provide match-maker programs that connect skilled workers with hiring employers.

DEI: It’s important that we can be honest and candid about everything. But we all have to unite together rather than polarize further apart, so I love MLK’s vision of us all coming together despite our various differences and then moving forward together as a unified community.

Final Remarks: The basis for my campaign is safety, affordability and quality of life. Quality is the big bucket that everything else goes into, so we must identify how to maximize the conditions of our lives and the quality of our community.

Austin Ward (Endorsed)

Background: I was born and raised in Wyoming. I’ve lived in Denver metro for the past 10 years; Broomfield for the last three. I’ve been an RTD bus operator since 2016. I volunteer for the Colorado Rail Passenger Association. That lets me advocate for expanded rail service and increased public transit.

Infrastructure and Transportation: Effectively bring people in by completing the B-Line and FasTracks, and by increasing public transit. Implement a local bus service or municipal shuttle system. Improve our multi-modal infrastructure by creating wider lanes that can be used to walk or bike to our shopping centers or office buildings.

Housing: I support mixed use developments and high-density neighborhoods that would add housing without stretching infrastructure. I want to eliminate single-family zoning for new builds, pass an ADU ordinance, and eliminate parking minimums, so we can use the empty space to construct new housing.
Homelessness: Increasing funding for mental health services, providing stable housing opportunities to improve their lives and alleviate the issue.

Economic Growth: Attract big businesses by increasing transportation infrastructure, making sure we have housing to support employees, and having beautiful stretches of open spaces. Mom and pop shops are the heart of the city; we must provide better support for them by offering assistance programs that help them get started.

Pandemic: The pandemic gave people the ability to reassess their lives. Increasing the wages of workers could belie the scope of the labor shortage. Unemployment benefits should not have relaxed; vulnerable people are struggling and immunocompromised people are unable to work.

DEI: We should all support each other because we’re all interconnected and the success of our neighbors benefits the rest of the community. Though we have to make more progress, especially with equal housing, DEI has been helpful in improving the treatment of immigrants, people of color, and LGBTQ communities.   

Final Remarks: Sustainability and environmental problems are plaguing our society and destroying our world. I would increase the use of solar panels, electric vehicles, and composting programs. We’ve run out of time, and so incremental solutions would be ineffective; instead we need dramatic transformations.

Broomfield | City Council (Ward 3)

Deven Shaff, (Incumbent) (Endorsed) 

No transcript available due to recording error.

Learn more: www.deven4broomfield.com

In a news release, Shaff stated he wants to continue the progress the City Council has made the past three years and through the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am proud of my record of supporting the Broomfield community, enhancing the creative economy, improving our local and regional transportation systems and ensuring the public health and safety of our residents,” Shaff stated in the release.

The release cites Shaff’s role in helping implement the mural at Highway 128 and U.S. 287 designed to shine light on mental health and diversity, as well as his work to build support and foster communication surrounding the 2021 transportation funding bill.

“As a father of two students at Kohl Elementary School and a substitute teacher, I interact with Broomfield residents on a daily basis,” Shaff stated in the release. “In these conversations, I listen and take note of how to show up and respond. I offer transparency and inclusion of ideas on all matters important to them. As we move to a new normal in our community, I look forward to spending more time with constituents and continuing the work of the people.”

Brian Peotter

Did not return multiple requests for an interview.

Broomfield | City Council (Ward 4)

Mindy Quiachon, Uncontested

Background: I am a small business owner of two successful UPS Stores, a mother, volunteer, and resident of Broomfield for 20 years. I believe in our residents and local business owners, and will passionately serve our community, listen to and take action on resident concerns, and put Broomfield first.

Infrastructure and Transportation: It is imperative that we spend on non-recurring expenses such as our sewer and water. In addition, Broomfield is growing faster than it can meet demand with expanding roads and addressing public transportation issues.  I will advocate for timely, efficient solutions.  

Housing: Member of the Broomfield Housing Advisory Committee.We need to explore and prioritize all options to see what works – tiny homes, duplexes, or higher density, mixed use developments. There is a shortage of affordable housing for seniors, veterans, and the disabled.  Our economy and smart growth go hand in hand. 

Economic Growth: I understand the need to support, recover, and invigorate our local business economy to provide good paying jobs and opportunities for all Broomfield residents. I will be a champion for new and existing businesses, and will support economic growth to stimulate innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship.

DEI: I care about diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. I wish for every resident to succeed and live with dignity. I will advocate to bring people together. Broomfield is an incredibly compassionate and giving community. I care about making sure Broomfield is diverse in providing the best services, amenities, and opportunities.  

Final Remarks: My priorities are providing a safe community, economic vitality, and smart growth. I have 3 kids and retired parents here. I am committed to being a voice for, and engaged with, residents. I am a leader invested in the future. I believe in Broomfield and will get it done for Ward 4.

Bruce Leslie

Background: I have been Cheryl’s husband for 52 years. We have three children and eight grandchildren, two attending CU and one a senior in BVSD. My career as a community college president has given me skills in strategic planning, accountability, fiscal management, academic quality and student success. My skills are in collaboration, goal achievement in politically complex environments, accountability and strategic planning. I am currently Treasurer of the Rocky Mountain Performance Excellence Board.

Infrastructure and Transportation: Ward 4 residents are concerned about Route 7 and the need to widen and improve the road in light of the on-going growth in the region. Residents want to preserve if not expand open spaces and ensure that our water assets are secured and air quality, especially related to drilling. Collaborating with developers will be an important focus of my work. Increasing arts and cultural assets, such as the relocation and expansion of the Butterfly Pavilion and stem school.

Housing: More affordable housing must be built to provide homes for our teachers, firefighters, police and other critical members of our community. My vision is that our grandchildren and great grandchildren will be able to afford to work, live, and raise their families here. Thus, starter homes, alternative energy and related sustainability measures must be pursued. Our issues, whether affordable housing or homlesness, are best addressed regionally.

Economic Growth: Affordable housing, cultural amenities and a well trained workforce are assets that attract corporate and small businesses. By maintaining our open spaces, building adequate housing stock, increasing cultural amenities, improving transportation, providing secure water and energy as well as strengthening education, Broomfield can attract the companies that align with our values and goals.

DEI: A strong society is one that values everyone, educates and trains everyone and provides access to jobs, business ownership and includes their voices. I’ve received diversity awards at each college I’ve served, for both me and my institution. I’ve expanded access and success for all cohorts of students, equalized student success and assertively employed faculty, staff and administrators who looked like our students.

Final Remark: I am experienced in leading large, politically complex organizations. I have gained substantial leadership skills over my career and have the fortitude, experience and capabilities to serve Broomfield. I have proven my capabilities, empathy, creativity and innovation. I am retired so I have the time and desire to continue my career of service to our city. I have no interest in higher office. I am unaffiliated in this non-partisan race, wishing to serve my Ward 4 neighbors with the best representation possible.

Broomfield | City Council (Ward 5)

Grayson Hofferber

Background: Grayson is a small business owner that moved to Broomfield in 2015, ran for City Council in 2017, and was the Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and of the Board of Equalization.

Infrastructure and Transportation: The biggest challenge will be two-fold. First, making sure our transportation access is multimodal. We’re [also] going to have to continue to be ahead of the curve in terms of thinking about what future transportation looks like, especially when it comes to autonomous vehicles.

Housing: [One of the biggest issues is] making sure that the city and county has the vision and the planning necessary to zone specifically for smaller footprint housing… and allowing for our builders to bring forward these projects in a way that’s timely and cost effective.

Economic Growth: The biggest thing that we can do is provide market competition for wages. Bringing good commercial projects… that are going to provide high paying jobs will set the market tone for businesses to continue to pay above a fair market wage.

DEI: Our role as policy makers here, locally, is to make sure that we provide equal opportunity for all of our residents. [We need] to make sure that we are setting a level playing field in the policies that we create.

CRT: Critical Race Theory at its core is not appropriate for our school-age children. I do think it is the role of families and parents to raise their children in such a way that their children grow to embrace differences.

Final Remarks: My goal is to have a more moderated voice on City Council, making sure that differences of opinion are met and understood with the idea that we need to have compromise.

Todd Cohen

Background: Todd was appointed to Council in 2021 after serving on the Open Space and Trails Advisory Committee. He is an AVP at Regis University and previously was at Great Outdoors Colorado.

Infrastructure and Transportation: We’re looking at improving our bus systems as well as providing better bike and other transit [infrastructure]. Specific to electric cars, one thing we can do is require a certain number of electric car charging stations in developments.

Housing: We’re having a particular shortage in homes that the average income person can afford. It’s going to take a public-private partnership to make a significant dent and that might mean acquiring land for affordable housing or acquiring existing developments to prevent them from being redeveloped into more expensive units.

Economic Growth: We’re going to be focused particularly on the Flatiron Crossing Mall because it’s been a significant source of our revenue in sales tax. We need to provide jobs in Broomfield. We’re going to have to recruit as best we can to bring more businesses into the community that have living wages.

DEI: Inclusivity is very important. I want every member of the community to feel welcome and safe. We need to make sure that there is ample representation on all our advisory committees and everything else.

Final Remarks: [It’s] very important that Broomfield continue to have progressive leadership on the council so that we are productively addressing our growing pains as well as climate change. [The] city is still growing and we need to make sure it develops in a way that’s safe and healthy for everybody.

Lafayette | City Council

Brandon Stites (Endorsed)

Background: I got interested in local government in high school while earning my Eagle Scout Badge and fulfilling citizenship missions. After college I began working as a software engineer, established Lafayette as my home, and began attending city council meetings because I’m passionate about the community and want to participate with the process.

Infrastructure and Transportation: Traffic congestion is a problem with the corridors of Arapahoe, South Boulder Rd, and Baseline. I support Lafayette’s comprehensive plan, but we also need to create auxiliary side-road options to reduce traffic on major roads, and connect RTD and bus routes to our networks to increase mass transit options.

Housing: Reduce the number of residents who are cost-burdened. Develop Willoughby Corner to provide 400 affordable houses, encouraging ADUs, and rezone single-family areas to allow attractive duplexes to accommodate households.
Manage homelessness with free access to mental and physical healthcare, with support programs to help them escape the homelessness cycle.

Economic Growth: To stimulate growth, I would employ experts to increase business growth while maintaining the intimate atmosphere of the community. To fund the government, I would support a ballot to increase property taxes on wealthy homeowners whose house values have skyrocketed and who can help fund the programs we need.

Pandemic: I strongly support unemployment benefits and rental assistance for people who couldn’t attend work due to the pandemic. The hiring difficulties reflect a larger problem in which employers have been underpaying working citizens for too long, so we need to raise the wages of workers to match the expensive [cost of living] of the area.

DEI: I support the DEI movement entirely, and I also believe that schools should teach history honestly so we can alleviate racism effectively.

Final Remarks: Although fracking can create jobs for workers and revenue for the city, we must protect the community by restricting any drilling near schools, homes, parks, and water sources.

Enihs Medrano (Endorsed)

Background:  I grew up in Lafayette, went through its schools, and now I’m in my third year at CU Boulder studying sociology. I was on the Youth Advisory Committee in HS. At CU I joined many programs that entailed social justice work, that equipped me with knowledge of social issues, and strengthened my skills with local governance.

Infrastructure and Transportation: Make transportation more accessible; reduce rates for bus passes, offer rideshare or carshare capabilities, and programs to encourage people to use public transit. This would also reduce pollution. I support continued efforts to create safe streets for people to walk or bike while traveling around town and fulfilling various activities.

Housing: Lafayette isn’t accessible for some families. I live in one of the mobile home parks. Partner with the BOCO Housing Authority to help people go from renting affordable units to owning. I support the city acquiring land to build affordable housing and complete diverse development projects.
Homelessness: I strongly support the needs of the homeless. Add more job opportunities, offer more housing options, and provide services to prevent people from losing their homes.

Economic Growth: The growth of small businesses is crucial for economic development. Support those businesses by distributing grants that enable them to thrive, increase employment opportunities, improve domestic comfort of families, and create more tax revenue for the town.

Pandemic: I support the financial assistance provided for vulnerable residents. We definitely need workers to keep the town running and sustain economic growth. Addressing workplace conditions would be beneficial, as making sure the workplaces are safe, that they’re following COVID protocols, and that residents have access to health care can help alleviate their fears and make them comfortable returning to work.

DEI: The DEI movement is great. Its concepts might be hard and uncomfortable for some, but it is important to provide the right training for people. We must continue the movement and improve the training to effectively serve the community and accommodate all residents.

Final Remarks: Being only 20 years old and almost finishing college influences my perspective. I grew up in this town, the community shaped who I am, and my hope is that people will see that I am excited to reinvest in my community and to represent groups that aren’t being represented.

Nicole Samson

Background: I’m currently on the Adams County Planning Commission, the Northwest Parkway Authority Board of Directors, and I filled a vacancy on the Lafayette council in 2019. My 17 years working in local government has equipped me with broad experience regarding economic development, recreational management, grant administration, housing programs, ordinance codes, and policy issues.

Infrastructure and Transportation: Water infrastructure is important. We need to fix cracked pipes and replace old pipes. I would consider establishing a new broadband network for the entire community (deal with frequent outages). With transportation, we can improve the safety of highway 7 and the flow of highway 287. It’s important to also increase public transportation, fulfill commuter rail projects, and ensure bus routes connect to those rails.

Housing: Provide downpayment assistance for first-time homebuyers, offer tax credits for low-income residents, and modify municipal codes to increase ADUs and mobile home options. Use grant funds to give developers subsidies when they build both luxury units and affordable houses with their projects.
Homelessness: work with nonprofits to determine what resources we can provide and what strategies we can implement.

Economic Growth: Small businesses are the backbone of our community. We have brilliant people who are ripe with innovative ideas, so we should offer support and work with the chamber to help small businesses grow and new startups flourish.

Pandemic: The problems facing this new economy are perplexing. We should have the chamber facilitate discussion groups that would let experts offer advice, businesses express their needs, and the city determine what resources can help keep companies alive and workers employed.

DEI: Lafayette prioritizes being an eclectic and diverse community. I love having people with different backgrounds, experiences, thoughts, and ideas enhance my perspectives of the world and enrich the diversity of Lafayette.

Final Remarks: I love this city, the community, and its residents. My personal mission is to leave this world a better place, and that’s why I want to be a city council member here in Lafayette.

Brian Wong (Incumbent) (Endorsed)

Background: I’ve lived in Lafayette for over 14 years. I work as a human resource director. I got into local government by serving on the Planning Commission for seven years, four as Chair. I learned about land use, planning, development, and then jumped into city politics and spent the last two years on city council.

Infrastructure and Transportation: We made progress with RTD, the Lafayette shuttle for all residents, and the call and ride program. We still need to increase public transit to help residents travel around Lafayette and connect to Boulder. We need to improve our high speed internet, especially with adults working from home and kids learning remotely.

Housing: Work with developers; incentivize them to build affordable housing. Increase the density. Our mobile home parks need support with zoning/policy changes to enable parks or the city to purchase mobile homes that go up for sale. Tiny home communities are efficient ways to use open land and provide affordable units.
Homelessness: solve at a regional level by collaborating with other partners to determine how we can address the issue and apply our resources.

Economic Growth: We lured Medtronics to build a new campus, which means that in a year the largest employer in Boulder County will be in our city. We need to decide what to build on the land that King Soopers vacated. We need to support our small businesses, identify what they need to grow, and make sure that they are effectively integrated into our community.

Pandemic: I’m proud that the city offered two grants to assist small businesses. Further amplify our support for these companies by hosting job fairs as community events or offering perks for hired workers. But building recreational facilities or community amenities can also attract tourists to visit our city and support our businesses.

DEI: As an HR professional, this issue is at the forefront of what I’m doing. I’m glad our community has been addressing injustices in society. After the George Floyd incident, our police chief facilitated multiple forums to encourage citizens to gather together, share thoughts, and engage in open and honest dialogues.

Final Remarks: I am privileged and honored to be given my first term. With COVID and the cyberattack there is much more that I want to do. I would be grateful for the opportunity to serve another term for Lafayette, and I would be eager to continue building an amazing culture for our residents.

Tonya Briggs (Incumbent) (Endorsed)

Background: I own a plumbing company, I’ve lived here for 13 years, and I’ve been on council the last two years. I volunteered for East Boulder County United, which enabled me to advocate for the banning of oil & gas activity, and I’m an animal lover so I volunteer for animal rescue organizations.

Infrastructure and Transportation: RTD is failing us despite our efforts. Work with Boulder County to increase taxes to fund a public electrified transportation project to protect the environment, and is reliable and free for all residents. Our new multimodal transportation and environmental sustainability plans would create more lanes for bikers and pedestrians.

Housing: Protect our affordable housing, especially the mobile home parks. Implement policies to require developers building single-family homes to also provide a reasonable percentage of permanently affordable homes.
Homelessness: We need more funding to provide rental assistance to prevent people from losing their homes, and mental health services for people already entrenched in that situation.

Economic Growth: Our King Soopers is about to move to Erie, so placing a performing arts theater in that massive empty space would provide an exciting new feature for the city, an artistic venue for our residents, and tax revenue for the government as people come to see the shows and then spend money at our restaurants. Medtronics will create over 2,500 jobs, and then I’d also like to partner with other companies that match our values, protect the environment, and benefit the community.

Pandemic: Benefits were crucial for helping people and preventing homelessness, and we should continue the assistance because many people are immunocompromised. We’re putting together grants for the small businesses that need them most, and we should also help to connect skilled workers with ideal companies.

DEI: DEI is a necessary movement that connects to everything. We should embrace all residents, make all groups feel welcome, and ensure the lens of equity and the views of diversity are considered in all decisions that we make as a community.

Final Remarks: I love Lafayette, and I’m very excited to get to some of our initial priorities. Although the pandemic put some issues on pause, I look forward to returning to the issues of environmental stewardship and affordable housing while also helping our community recover.

Longmont | Mayor

Gregory Harris

No transcript available due to recording error.

Learn more: www.greg4mayor.com

From his website: We all know Longmont will grow. Businesses want to come to Longmont. To meet this need, we must support the construction of Middle-Class apartments and houses for those employed in Longmont.

Without addressing our infrastructure, our current growth is unsustainable. It will increase our vehicle emissions, especially during commuting hours with bumper-to-bumper traffic. Longmont has many roads that go North and South, but East and West we only have Highways 66 and 119. In 1957, the fences on Highway 66 were moved back to expand into a four-lane highway — but it never happened. Then we were taxed for a train from the south, but it was never built and we didn’t get our money back.
I oppose all excessive policies, codes, regulations and any fees attached to new construction since they would add to the costs for consumers.
I oppose any increases in water rates, connection fees or tap fees.
If it’s necessary to fund some city program, the money should come from the general funds.
Longmont has an inclusionary housing ordinance. I oppose any expansion of the ordinance.
I oppose all efforts to limit residential growth. We must support all efforts to substantially increase the number of homes built in Longmont.
I support increasing the budget for public safety and oppose any effort to defund the police.
The City and State should not decide which businesses should close and which stay open. I think the recent action by the Boulder County government requiring masks everywhere was excessive government overreach. As Mayor, I will do what needs to be done to keep all businesses open.

Joan Peck, City Council Member

No transcript available due to recording error.

Learn more: www.joanpeckforlongmontmayor.com

From the website: As a proven advocate for Longmont’s vibrant community and a strong supporter of programs popular with our city’s residents, Councilwoman Peck intends to continue her work and complete projects around the major issues that originally won her a seat on City Council. These issues include:

• Securing the RTD/FasTracks build-out by holding RTD accountable for tax dollars already contributed
• Achieving pragmatic, safe solutions for services to the unhoused
• Meeting affordable housing challenges
• Addressing climate change
• Supporting early childhood education
• Taking decisive steps to defend Longmont’s rights to clean air and water

Tim Waters (Endorsed)

No transcript available due to recording error.

Learn more: www.timwaters4mayor.com

From his website:

Reduction of Longmont’s Carbon Footprint

Every municipality in the world must commit to reduction of their carbon footprint. We owe this to future generations. If not now, when? If not us, then who?

Longmont | City Council (At-Large)

There are four strong candidates running for two seats. We have endorsed all four because they would all bring to the city the energy needed, however, we narrowed it down to our two top choices with an * by their name. 

Tallis Salamatian (Endorsed)

Background: I started my first business when I was 19. Later I served as CEO of an aerospace company. I’m now devoted to supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs, as I taught at CU Boulder, published a book on business, hosted a TV show on public media, and volunteered with Energize Colorado to host business community events.

Infrastructure and Transportation: I’d like to expand the routes of public transit to reach Denver, Boulder, the airport, and the trailheads of our open spaces. We should also create multi-use paths for bikes, implement green technology for buses, and improve digital infrastructure for neighborhoods.

Housing: Attainable housing is beneficial for resident living conditions and workforce productivity. Increase stock of attainable homes by using smart development with new technology, and by converting office buildings into condos.
Homelessness: I work with the Our Center in Longmont, and I support programs that equip the homeless with the skills and training required to find available jobs and earn living wages.

Economic Growth: Extend the runway at our airport to bring in more flights and support more travelers. Promoting small business growth is also crucial. I would establish a unique startup environment in Longmont by using the strategic resources, manufacturing capabilities, and funding mechanisms that are already available.

Pandemic: Broaden the scope of which businesses qualify to receive assistance. Many startup companies that have raised hefty investments, but that have not yet generated revenue were excluded. Small companies need support to fulfill their potential, create their products, and advance our society.

DEI: As an immigrant of color, I strongly support diversity and oppose racism. But we need to also let every citizen express their opinions and foster a free exchange of ideas so we can engage in intellectual conversations about the topics.

Final Remarks: The anti-growth movement in Longmont is regressive and unsustainable. We can debate how or where to grow. But we must always strive to stimulate vibrant growth so we can improve our community, thrive in the future, and accommodate the younger generation of families and workers.

Jeremy Dejuan Johnson

Background: I’m originally from Alabama, but I’ve been a Longmont resident for ten years. I’m a veteran of the US Army. I worked in oil & gas for 16 years, and I own an insurance business. I also coach high school basketball, and I’m passionate about supporting the youth in our community.

Infrastructure and Transportation: Longmont is growing at a rapid rate that outpaced our current roadway system. The funding to expand Highway 66 should help. We need to add lanes and improve the stoplights at Highway 119 to reduce congestion during rush hours. We should allocate more funds to restore downtown Longmont and add more multi-use buildings to the area.

Housing: The affordable housing initiative lowered the amount of attainable homes available. Many workers have an income level that doesn’t qualify for subsidized homes. We need a happy medium between attainable and affordable, so workers can live here and we can benefit from their tax dollars.
Homelessness: Use taxpayer dollars to increase funding for organizations that provide support.

Economic Growth:  Longmont was founded on small businesses. Family and community businesses are crucial. We’ve lost track of that, and so we need to let small businesses know that they’re needed in the community and that they’re pivotal for our survival.

Pandemic: People pay a certain debt to society, so if they qualify for unemployment they deserve assistance. For Longmont we need to help small businesses hire more people, ensure workers feel safe going back to work, and provide them with the tools they need to succeed.

DEI: I’m a true-born Christian, and God said that we were all created equal. Regardless of someone’s religious beliefs, ethnic background, sexual orientation, or financial status, in God’s eyes we’re all equal and our society needs to go back to those roots of treating people how we want to be treated. 

Final Remarks: I don’t owe anything to any group, and instead I owe everything to the citizens of Longmont. I will always listen to their issues, create plans to solve their problems, and make sure our children know that we have them set up for success with our schools and recreation centers.

Aren Rodriguez (Incumbent) (Endorsed*)

Background: Born and raised in Longmont, I was a performing opera musician until 2012. Then I began running a real estate appraisal business. I served as the leader of the outreach and inclusion team for the BOCO Dems. I was then appointed as Zoning and Planning Commissioner. I’ve been on the council for the past four years.

Infrastructure and Transportation: Infrastructure is important, and water is a big issue right now. Modernize the water infrastructure system, and provide rebates for people installing low-flow toilets and taps. Upgrade our electric grid to handle increased power required for renewable energy. I’m dissatisfied with the poor service from RTD and support a supplemental municipal bus service.

Housing: Aim for 12 percent (+) affordable housing stock. Establish policy with an inclusionary zoning ordinance to get more funding. Then convert existing properties into affordable residential, get more land to build new dwellings, and update our designs to build a diverse range of aesthetically pleasing units.
Homelessness: Struggling, since we don’t have a camping ban. Address homelessness from a regional perspective to create universal strategies. Partner with non-profits to provide resources and shelters.

Economic Growth: Longmont is in a strong position. We don’t have commercial linkage fees, our commercial lease rates are more affordable, and so we have interest from many companies to relocate here. We should only provide economic incentives to companies that pay high wages. We should have new companies move into vacated spaces.

Pandemic: I was a proponent of unemployment benefits. Some employers aren’t willing to pay the necessity of the living wage, and seeing those wages finally go up has been a net positive from the pandemic.

DEI: As a former leader of the outreach and inclusion team, promoting DEI concepts has been a big priority. Our council deployed cultural brokers to identify the specific needs of groups and to help Longmont become an equitable community in all aspects of governing, including hiring, planning, development, energy, and water.

Final Remarks: In such divisive political times, it benefits the community to think about what community means. We’re all neighbors, we eat at the same restaurants, shop at the same stores, we’re all going through our issues and facing challenges, and so a little respect and kindness would go a long way towards bringing people together.

Diane Crist

Background:  I’m a business growth professional, I’ve worked with small businesses for over 25 years. I typically help them develop business strategies, manage money, fulfill aspirations, and actualize dreams. Now I’d like to apply those strategic and financial skills to help the city implement new projects and achieve goals.

Infrastructure and Transportation: Longmont needs to get on board with hyperloop. The high-speed, magnetic, passenger pod system would go 700 mph (fastest rail system in the world). The hyperloop would solve many problems; allowing residents to travel quickly to other cities, enable people to also reach Longmont, and minimize traffic congestion on the roads and greenhouse gases.

Housing: Rapid population growth and limited house building has increased market prices. Building more units and keeping taxes low can help reduce costs on landlords, rates for renters, and prices for homebuyers.
Homelessness: It’s best to identify why they became homeless and then solve those problems. Some fell beneath the poverty line, so we should equip them with jobs, while others were harmed by drugs or mental issues and so we should provide them with treatment.

Economic Growth: All the parts relate to community growth like a symphony. We should be attracting big companies to the city, and cultivating exciting small businesses so they can grow. But we should locate the businesses in pockets where people live because letting everyone walk to the shops and restaurants enhances the camaraderie of the neighborhoods, the profits of the companies, and the revenue for the city.

Pandemic: The pandemic was hard on small businesses because receiving assistance was difficult; many local companies worried they would go bankrupt. Small businesses badly need the support and that keeps all of their money in the town; we should provide those similar financial incentives, land deals, and tax breaks to small businesses.

DEI: I support DEI. I love that my neighborhood is an immigrant community with diverse races, ethnicities, backgrounds, and ages. This inclusive atmosphere is a trend throughout Longmont. I hope the DEI movement can create that same sense of diversity, compassion, and camaraderie throughout our entire society.

Final Remarks: We’re a military family. My husband was military, and so were both of my sons. This is my way of serving my community. I’m very passionate about Longmont and I love its residents, but we’re under distress so I want to help address our issues and improve our city.

Shaquita Yarbrough (Endorsed*)

No transcript available due to recording error.

Learn more: www.shiquita4loco.com

From the website:

I have spent most of the last decade deeply investing my time in the Longmont and Boulder County community. From serving on nonprofit Boards like KGNU Community Radio to the League of Women Voters, to supporting racial equity work with my role at the YWCA of Boulder County, my commitment to this community is evident.