Boulder, CO –  [November 17, 2025] – Downtown Boulder invites the community to celebrate the start of the holiday season on Saturday, November 23, 2025, with a full day of family-friendly festivities, including a holiday Cookie Crawl, Switch on the Holidays, and opportunities to participate in the Downtown Dash.

The day begins with the Cookie Crawl from 11 am to 2 pm, visitors are invited to stroll through participating downtown businesses for free sweet treats while supplies last. Starting at 2 pm, Aspire Aerial Dance will perform on the 1300 block of the Pearl Street Mall followed by a festive performance by TubaChristmas at 3:30 pm. The celebration continues at 5 pm with Switch on the Holidays, featuring live performances from Boulder Ballet and Boulder Chorale, as well as special appearances by Santa Claus, Freezie the Snowman, and Freddy the Yeti, who will flip the switch to illuminate downtown Boulder’s dazzling holiday lights. Thousands of LED lights will sparkle along Pearl Street Mall and the Boulder County Courthouse, creating a festive winter wonderland perfect for shopping, dining, and seasonal cheer (Santa will also stick around for photos and visits until 7 pm).

The inaugural Downtown Dash officially begins on November 23 and runs through December 31, 2025. The public is invited to collect stamps by making purchases at over 50 participating businesses and/or attending any one of Downtown Boulder’s signature events including the Cookie Crawl, Switch on the Holidays and the Lights of December Parade. Stamps are collected on the official Dash Card and as stamp cards fill up, participants may enter into weekly giveaways and a grand prize drawing! It’s a simple, joyful way to get rewarded for supporting local businesses this holiday season.

Festivities continue through the remainder of the year with some of  Downtown Boulder’s most iconic traditions:

St. Nick on the Bricks – Friday, November 28 & Saturdays November 29, December 6 & December 13, 2025 | 11 am – 2 pm

A cherished Boulder tradition! Families are invited to visit and take pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus for free at the Downtown Boulder Visitor Information Center. Bring your wish list and a camera to capture the moment—donations of $10 per group are appreciated. Visitors participating in the Downtown Dash can request a Santa stop stamp from Visitor Center Ambassadors.

Tebo Train’s Snowflake Express

Families can hop aboard the 100% electric Tebo Train’s Snowflake Express, on Sundays, November 30, December 7, and December 14, from 11 am to 2 pm. Children ages 10 and under (accompanied by an adult) can enjoy a festive ride along Pearl Street, boarding in front of Wells Fargo at 1242 Pearl Street. A suggested donation of $5 per group helps support this special community experience. Guests participating in the Downtown Dash can stop by the Visitor Information Center after their ride to show their train sticker and earn a stamp toward prize drawings.

Small Business Saturday (Weekend) – November 28 – 30, 2025

Support Boulder’s incredible community of small businesses by shopping local throughout this holiday season. Many retailers will celebrate Small Business Saturday from the Friday after Thanksgiving throughout the holiday weekend and beyond!  This is the perfect time to support small businesses who are crucial to our local economies and communities. The public is encouraged to come and shop at all the places that help make downtown Boulder vibrant, unique, and welcoming.

Lights of December Parade – Saturday, December 13, 2025 | 6 pm

One of the city’s most anticipated events returns as dozens of beautifully decorated floats, walking groups, marching bands, and community organizations parade through downtown. The event concludes with a special Santa appearance, spreading holiday joy to all lining the streets. The parade begins at 15th & Walnut streets, heads west to Broadway, north on Broadway, turns east on Spruce and finishes at 15th & Spruce.

Details about all holiday happenings can be found online at DowntownBoulderHolidays.com.  Light Up the Holidays is produced by Downtown Boulder Community Initiatives,  presented by Corwin Toyota Boulder and Elevations Credit Union and sponsored by City of Boulder, Daily Camera, Lifetime Home Remodeling and Yellow Scene Magazine.

For more information:

General Public: 303-449-3774 | events@downtownboulder.org

Press: Tana Benitez, Marketing & Communications Coordinator | 303-449-3774 ext. 5 | tana@downtownboulder.org

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About Downtown Boulder Community Initiatives (DBCI)

Downtown Boulder Community Initiatives is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 2017. DBCI’s mission is to engage both visitors and locals through arts, culture, innovation, and inclusive, community-driven experiences in downtown Boulder. Learn more at DBCIBoulder.org. DBCI operates under the umbrella of the Downtown Boulder Partnership, alongside the Downtown Boulder Business Improvement District.

The post Downtown Boulder Shines Bright This Holiday Seasonal Events and Programming ‘Switch On’ November 23 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Press releases are provided to Yellow Scene Magazine. In an effort to keep our community informed, we publish some press releases in whole.

DENVER, NOVEMBER 18, 2024 — Thanksgiving and the day before are the top two days in this country for the chance of a cooking fire to happen in someone’s home. Cooking causes an average of 158,400 home fires per year, which is 44% of all home fires in the United States. The American Red Cross of Mile High offers safety steps everyone can follow if they will be preparing their family’s Thanksgiving feast.

“Cooking is the leading cause of home fires, home fire injuries and the second leading cause of home fire deaths,” said Gino Greco, Chief Executive Officer, American Red Cross of Colorado and Wyoming. “Most happen because people leave cooking food unattended. We want everyone to have a safe, enjoyable holiday, so don’t leave the kitchen while you’re cooking.”

COOKING SAFETY TIPS Follow these safety tips and visit redcross.org/fire for more information, including a fire escape plan to practice with your family.

• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling or broiling food. If you must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• Use a timer to remind yourself that the stove or oven is on.
• Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
• Keep kids and pets at least three feet away from cooking areas.
• Keep anything that can catch on fire — potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains — away from your stove top and oven or any other appliance that generates heat.
• Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.
• Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen.
• Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving home to make sure all stoves, ovens and small appliances are turned off.

Smoke alarms save lives. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year. If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your local Red Cross for more information.

HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVES LIVES Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, working with community partners, has saved at least 2,196 lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit redcross.org/homefires.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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The post Red Cross offers steps to help you avoid a cooking fire on Thanksgiving appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Food is one of the best ways to both connect with culture and memory. Certain meals become ingrained in your soul, the smells taking you back to time long ago, the flavors inviting you in. Holiday food especially holds such a meaningful place in our minds. We had four local chefs recreate a holiday meal that was personally meaningful to them, and share stories about family get-togethers, fond memories, and cultural traditions as they shared the table with our writers.

Chef Nelly Genisson: Gluten Free French Buche de Noel | Yule Log

BY: Deborah Cameron

Chef Nelly Genisson relocated to Boulder from Fontainebleau, France in 2020, settling into the area with her husband in the middle of the Covid pandemic. It was a chaotic time, but once she settled, she was more than eager to share her culinary expertise, creating French cooking that is keto-friendly, diabetic friendly, and even can be low carb, low sugar, and gluten free.

This past September, she opened a cooking school, Bonjour Keto, where her extravagant, consciously made food is available to the area’s health-conscious residents. She appreciates how choices in ingredients and food preparation can be part of a lifestyle and can help people lose weight, enhance athletic training, help manage diabetes, or prevent cancer. She believes it’s possible to indulge and enjoy life while making positive choices.

Overly heavy cooking doesn’t have a place at Bonjour Keto. Instead, Genisson has shown that French food can be both indulgent and, when simply prepared, in sync with dietary restrictions and inspire a love for France and French cooking. “Our cooking classes are unique and immersive. They go beyond just learning to cook and talk about French history and gastronomy while offering an immersive, sensory experience.”

Genisson said that one of her favorite items to make during the holidays is inspired by an old French tradition, the Yule Log Cake, or Bûche de Noël. It originated in France during the mid-19th century and is traditionally a jelly roll-style cake decorated to look like the yule logs that have been part of European Christmas celebrations for centuries.

“French people are picky about their pastries, but everyone is always surprised that something so decadent is sugar free. It’s one of my favorite compliments.”

“One of the Christmas traditions for dessert at Christmas is a Yule Log cake,” she said. “It’s something everyone has as the centerpiece of their holiday meal. The one that I make includes different tricks to make it gluten free, healthier.”

Genisson makes her rolled sponge cake, fills it with buttercream, then ices and decorates it to mimic the bark of the Yule log. It’s a chef’s challenge to work towards making the cake look as realistic as possible. She accepts the challenge gladly and healthily, using a fork to create the bark lines on the outside of the roll and adds a final touch — mini homemade dark chocolate bars and chopped toasted hazelnuts.

She said that while the sponge and buttercream can use a variety of flavors, one of the most popular is chocolate cake and a mocha frosting combination. She keeps her version gluten free by using hazelnut flour for the sponge cake and creates the homemade almond-hazelnut praliné buttercream that is sugar-free.

No surprise, Genisson is picky about how her cake looks. “First impression is so important. When you see something, you’re either going to want to eat it or not,” she said, adding that although it looks hard to make, the cake doesn’t have to add stress to the holiday. “If you want to prepare it ahead of time, prevent stress in the kitchen, it’s perfect. Just make it in advance, it will keep. It’s so simple to do but will add to the beauty of your holidays.”

And each holiday, Genisson’s family appreciates her work to make the cake.

Chef John Bauer honors Jewish Cuisine and the connection it serves

BY: Chris Curtis

Traditions. During the holiday season, traditions surge to the forefront of everyone’s mind. Families gather, bonds are strengthened, and food always lies at the heart of these gatherings. With a singular ability to transcend time and place, I offer that every person can name at least one dish that brings back memories of a loved one, a special time, and feelings of nostalgia.

I’m fortunate because my best friend from elementary school invites me to Jewish holidays with his family. I’ve enjoyed dishes associated with Passover, Yom Kippur, and Hanukkah. They’ve managed to work their way into my heart and soul and while I’ll never be able to fully understand the depth these dishes hold, I feel blessed to at least get a glimpse of the significance.

Chef John Bauer of Kenny Lou’s Deli in Lafayette displays his love for ethnic food and traditions with his menu. A Catholic chef who married into a Jewish family, he aims to keep traditions alive all year round. He laments that the traditional deli itself seems to be a dying breed, with many only being found in big cities, but even those are disappearing at an alarming rate.

Nevertheless, Chef John persists. As he takes me on a tour of the back of the house, everything he shows me is made on site. I’m enthralled by the buckets of soup, sausage that’s ground in house, and brisket that sits in a brine for fourteen days.

The inspiration for this soup lies with Eva Szepezi, who learned to cook from her mother-in-law because her parents were not around to teach her after the shoah.

After this overview of the behind the scenes operations, I settle in to taste some traditional Jewish dishes. When I ask Chef John for his stories behind the dishes, he presents me with a cookbook entitled Honey, Cake & Latkes: Recipes from the Old World by the Auschwitz-Birkenau Survivors. “These are where the stories are,” he tells me with a smile.

The cookbook serves as Chef John’s inspiration. He doesn’t use the recipes as written, but I get the sense that the book, coupled with his experiences with his wife and her Jewish family, serves as his muse. A side dish called kasha varnishkes arrives. It’s a pasta dish with kasha-buckwheat groats and mushrooms. The book recipe comes from Tova Friedman, survivor, and it was her late husband’s favorite food.

Next comes the potato latkes. I’m definitely familiar with these and find them to be just as I expected. The unexpected comes in the form of an apple chutney which definitely takes them to the next level for me. Kenny Lou’s makes up to 130 of these at a time and I can conclude they must go fast. The inspiration for these come from a recipe submitted in memory of Elie Wiesel.

I offer up a silent cheer when my favorite dish arrives. Dubbed as a soul-warming, matzo ball soup exists as something that I can never get enough of at my friend’s Passover gatherings. Chef John makes his own schmaltz and prefers “floaters, not sinkers” when it comes to the matzo balls. Each one is hand made from scratch and you can taste the love and care that goes into this traditional soup. The inspiration for this soup lies with Eva Szepezi, survivor, who learned to cook from her mother-in-law because her parents were not around to teach her after the shoah. I smile at a note labeled as “important” in the recipe: no onion, no garlic.

Steeped in tradition, Kenny Lou’s Chef John cooks in a way that doesn’t cut corners and offers no quarter to what might be considered an easier route. You can taste it in his dishes that honor and celebrate traditional Jewish holiday cuisine and I’m honored I got the chance to try a new dish and revisit some old favorites.

Chef Manal Farrar shares her passion and culture through handcrafted Mediterranean food

BY: Tony Firestine

When stepping into Manal Jarrar’s Arabesque in Boulder, you immediately feel the warmth and generosity wash over you. I just so happened to visit the day after the first snow of the season, kicking the slush off my shoes on the mat outside the door on the way in. We had scheduled an appointment to meet at 3 p.m., Arabesque’s closing time. Right away, I understand that it’s truly a one-woman show. Manal does both the cooking and the serving in the small but cozy space. She chooses to serve only lunch and breakfast and close the doors on Sundays (with the occasional private party at the dinner hour) in order to spend quality time for herself and with her family.

There are still lingering Monday lunch diners at a couple of the seven indoor tables that Manal continues to attend to — a table for two at the end of a business lunch, a solo diner gets her baklava to go. The photographer, Kenneth, and I start setting up to ask some questions and catch some images. Manal moves with an elegant swiftness, circling the tables while bringing checks and boxing up food. Her background as a ballet dancer and teacher is evident in the grace and quickness she displays on the dining room floor — hence the name Arabesque.

She takes the time to ask if we want something to drink, and I opt for a chai due to the frigid weather and not being bundled up properly. The warming chai — rich, frothy, and speckled with spices — immediately takes the chill off. Fall is just opening up to the beginning of winter, and leaves still adorn the trees caked in wet snow along Walnut Street, where Arabesque has served up Middle Eastern fare for the past 15 years. While Manal is preparing her holiday dish for us, I ask her about her long tenure and success as a restaurateur and chef at Arabesque. She compares it to being an athlete. “Running a restaurant is like a marathon. It’s not easy,” she says. “I want to have my own rhythm. Run slowly, without stopping. Just keep running and keep moving for a long distance — and 15 years has proved that.” She measures her success by making others happy. “My success is when I am in the basement downstairs, by myself, all alone, cooking for you and preparing. I want to make sure it’s correct,” she says. “And when you eat it and enjoy it, it’s rewarding. That’s it.”

“I love okra. I know it’s not so popular, but I love it. I put a lot of garlic and a little tomato sauce. Very simple.”

She prides herself on a cozy atmosphere; it truly feels like you are stepping into someone’s living space, with an open-air kitchen exuding exotic aromas, where everything is made from scratch. This isn’t fast food by any means. She underlines that fact and talks about how she occasionally must explain that to a guest seeking instant gratification. The genuine hospitality is underlined by the fact that Manal is definitely a hugger. She gives warm embraces to regular and first-time guests alike.

In addition to prepping and serving her normal menu for the day, Manal has put together something special for us: inspired by the holiday season, her own take on Bamia, a Middle Eastern tomato-based okra and beef stew served over rice. She covers the base of a 2-foot-long serving dish with a mix of rice and vermicelli and ladles the steaming medley of vegetables and braised beef over the top, a side of luscious hummus on the side. I mention that I’m only familiar with okra in Southern American fare, but she talks about how she grew up eating the vegetable in Palestine. “I think about one thing that I have an idea about and I build the whole thing around it,” she says. “I love okra. I know it’s not so popular, but I love it. I put a lot of garlic and a little tomato sauce. Very simple.” She garnishes the dish with pomegranate seeds and almonds. The pomegranate lends a delicate pop of bright acidity to an otherwise hearty and robust amalgam of flavors, and the almonds, of course, lend texture and crunch. “Almond, in my culture, is very luxurious,” she explains. “Here, it’s not. Everybody has it in their pocket for trail mix. To bring luxury to the platter, I added to it, to make it a holiday dish.”

Manal insists that we sit and enjoy and imbibe in some wine with her creation. What starts as a brief interview and photoshoot turns into an hour of the three of us getting to know each other over an early dinner made with love, discussing our families, our careers, the state of the world. Manal also explains how she didn’t shut down one day during the pandemic due to the help and generosity of her immediate community. I leave with a hug, full and happy, understanding Arabesque’s longevity and her neighbors’ need for reciprocation of the genuine goodness I experienced on just my first visit.

Chef Yuki Chen: Chinese New Year Celebration Meals

BY: Deborah Cameron

Chef Yuki Chen, owner of Colorado Wok, moved to the U.S. in 2004 from South Canton, China. She remembers the first moment she first departed the plane in Colorado. “In China, they always showed that everywhere in America was a big city. Busy. Then when I came here and saw the area by the airport, I thought it was like a farm. Grass and stuff. I was surprised that it was so open.”

She moved here because she was looking to elevate and improve her life and find more opportunity than she saw in the rural area she came from. She has since found it as both a chef and an entrepreneur, owning Lafayette’s Colorado Wok, successfully shepherding the business even through the stresses of the Covid-19 pandemic, and coming out successfully on the other side.

Even with all that she’s been able to accomplish in America, she still relishes connections to her Chinese heritage. Many of these happen during the holidays, which for her, culturally, doesn’t necessarily mean Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa. It means Chinese New Year, the next one beginning February 10, 2024.

“We never had Thanksgiving or Christmas in China. We always celebrated the Lunar New Year. We don’t follow everything. Everyone is different there. Some people follow Buddha, but our family doesn’t tie itself to anything. At the New Year, just like Christmas, all the family gets together.” Chen talks about the traditions she cherishes most about the holiday. These include gifts of lucky money in red envelopes to the younger and older members of the community, as well as honoring the importance of the color red and the number eight.

“It takes an hour or two,” she said. “We talk. We eat. We drink. We don’t hurry. We enjoy the food. Enjoy each other.”

Chen talked about giving money to her parents, and she talked about fireworks as part of the celebration.

Now that Chen is in the U.S., she recreates the holiday dinner as best as she can. Sometimes Chen said she just makes dinner at home and that Chinese New Year itself can often be like a normal working day for her family because the holiday isn’t as widely celebrated in America.

However, when she can, she’ll create a large dinner at the restaurant, inviting friends, family, and colleagues who would appreciate the celebration. When she’s cooking for the event, she said there was one element of the dinner that was non-negotiable for her and her family when she was in China. “You must have chicken,” she said. “Put a whole one in a pot to steam it, and when it comes out, then you cut it into pieces.”

Chen also mentioned another beloved part of the meal: the pork belly her father used to make in China. “It’s a very traditional part of the meal, but it was so much work. It’s not something we’d have on a normal day. It’s too much work for every day.”

Chen also makes stir-fried vegetables along with seafood like whole fish or squid. She’ll often use tilapia because it’s easy to find in America. Also, feasts can feature crab. Because her hometown is not close to the ocean, she said it is too expensive to get where she’s from in China. “We have a lot more things in America — it’s easier to source,” she explained.

Once the food is prepared and everyone sits down, she said the meal isn’t something that’s over quickly. Guests take their time and enjoy the experience, talking to each other and savoring every dish. As she describes the event, it sounds quite a bit like any of the holiday meals I’ve ever celebrated: messy kitchen, lots of talk, and reconnections.

The post Tradition is the Heart and Soul of Holidays: Recipes Local Chefs appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Retail

Alpaca Connection
1334 Pearl St, Boulder
303-447-2047
thealpacaconnection.com
The Pick: Sharon Hand Embroidery Coat
A luxurious alpaca wool coat with intricate embroidery, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern style.
Who It’s For: Fashion-Forward and Ethically-Conscious Consumers,
Other Services: Alpaca Clothing, Boutique Favorites, Unique Gifts, Accessories, Menswear

Aspen Winds
1051 Fall River Court, Estes Park
970-586-6010
aspenwinds.com
The Pick: Spa Suites at Aspen Winds
A serene and luxurious retreat in the majestic Rocky Mountains, offering the perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty.
Who It’s For: Nature Lover Seeking Relaxation and Luxury
Other Services: One Bedroom Suites, Two Bedroom Suites, The Loft Suite, Guest Suite, Gift Certificates, Specials & Packages

Boulder DBI
1942 Broadway, Suite 30, Boulder
303-449-3774
boulderdowntown.com
The Pick: “Boulder Alley Gallery”
An outdoor gallery transforming alley and back-of-building doors into canvases for local artists.
Who It’s For: Urban Art Explorer – for those immersing in vibrant street art
Other Services: “Student Banner Project,” “Tulip Fairy & Elf Festival,” “Summer Tebo Train Rides,” “Bands on the Bricks,” “Pearl Street Arts Fest,” “Downtown Boulder Fall Fest,” “Munchkin Masquerade,” “Light Up the Holidays”

Boulder Drum Shop
3070 28th Street, Ste. D, Boulder
303-402-0122
boulderdrumshop.com
The Pick: Yamaha Drums
Yamaha Drums from Boulder Drum Shop, known for exceptional quality and durability, perfect for any genre.
Who It’s For: Rhythm Maestro – for drummers seeking precision and versatility in their beats
Other Services: Array of drums and ethnic percussion instruments, lessons, wide range of brands including Sonor, Pacific, Pearl, Ludwig

Bricks and Market
512 4th Ave #103, Longmont 
720-680-0555
bricksretail.com
The Pick:  Sip and Shop!
Toast to holiday cheer while finding the perfect presents – because shopping for joy should be as delightful as giving it. Explore Bricks and BMarket to find various gift options perfect for anyone on your list!
Who It’s For:  Ideal for the holiday enthusiast who believes that every successful shopping spree deserves a celebratory cocktail!
Other Services: Gift wrapping, holiday events, gift baskets

Candlewood Suites
1340 Dry Creek Drive Longmont,
303-4851950
ihg.com/candlewood
The Pick: Extended Stay Suites
Comfortable and luxurious suites with fully equipped kitchenettes, ideal for long stays.
Who It’s For: Long-term Traveler – for those seeking home comforts during extended trips
Other Services: On-site laundry, free internet, fitness center, outdoor grill, pet-friendly accommodations, Lending Locker

Colorado in a Basket
199 Summit Way, Erie
303-664-1401,
coloradobaskets.com
The Pick: Colorado Gift Basket
Introducing the exquisite Nutcracker gift basket. Priced at $120, filled with Colorado chocolates, maple kettle corn, nutcracker whipped honey, custom sugar plum cookie, sugar plum candy cane, chocolate nutcracker, and much more. A delightful choice for anyone on your holiday list, supporting local Colorado vendors.
Who It’s For: Ideal for loved ones, employees, co-workers – perfect for indulging or gifting.
Other Services: Offers worldwide shipping and local delivery.

Crystal Ski
1933 28th Street #101, Boulder
303-449-7669
crystalskishop.com
The Pick: Season-Long Rentals; Skis-Snowboards
Top-of-the-line ski and snowboard rentals for a seamless and exhilarating experience on the slopes.
Who It’s For: Winter Sports Enthusiast – for those passionate about hitting the slopes with style
Other Services: Ski and snowboard tuning, repairs, binding mounts, summer water sports rentals like kayaks, SUPs, and tubes

Energy Arts
1602 9th Ave, Longmont
303-990-8990
energyarts.com 
The Pick: Taoist Breathing for Tai Chi and Meditation
A journey to EMBODY the Dao. Existing for more than 2,000 years, now in 250 languages, the Daodejing (Tao Te Ching) is a timeless classic. 10 years in the making and from a true insider’s perspective, passed to current Lineage Holder Bruce K. Frantzis by Liu Hung Chieh in the original oral tradition: “These are the words…This is what they mean…This is how to do what is proposed.” – Liu Hung Chieh, Daoist Sage
Who It’s For: For those seeking wisdom: the Way and the Power, the philosopher in the family, and everyone you know with a spiritual bent
Other Services: Qigong, Tai Chi, Meditation, Ba Gua, Hsing-i, and Dao Yoga live classes, online programs, books, and ancient discs known as DVDs

Eric Olson Master Jeweler
820 Main St #107, Louisville
303-604-0240
master-jeweler.com
The Pick: Long’s Peak & The Flatirons Pendants
These pendants are not just jewelry; they’re wearable art, capturing the essence of Boulder’s iconic landscapes with meticulous craftsmanship.
Who It’s For: Nature-Enthusiast and Artisan Jewelry Admirer
Other Services: Bridal Jewelry, Colored Stone Jewelry, Modern Designs, Hand Engraving, One-of-a-Kind Creations

Jax Outdoor Gear
900 South Highway 287, Lafayette
720-266-6160
jaxgoods.com
The Pick: Local Artisan Products
A collection of unique items crafted by local artisans, from bespoke outdoor gear to handcrafted farm and ranch supplies.
Who It’s For: Local Explorer – for those appreciating the quality and authenticity of locally-made products
Other Services: Gear rentals, classes for outdoor adventures, top brand products, coffee bars, ice cream, and activities for kids

Larkridge Outdoor Retail Regional Center
16542 Washington Street, Thornton
303-595-9919
shoplarkridge.com
Your destination for shopping, dining, entertainment, and everyday services with more than 45 retailers. Here’s to a safe, healthy and happy holiday season!Larkridge Shopping Center

Leadville Train
326 East 7th St, Leadville
866-386-3936
leadville-train.com
The Pick: Holiday Express
A magical journey aboard the Holiday Express through a winter wonderland, combining natural beauty with holiday cheer.
Who It’s For: Festive Family – a delightful adventure for holiday-themed outings and picturesque landscapes
Other Services: Daily scenic train rides, Top of the Rockies Zip-Line, pet-friendly rides in spring, summer, and fall

Longmont Downtown Development Authority
320 Main St, Longmont
303-651-8484
downtownlongmont.com
The Pick: Downtown Longmont Gift Card
Downtown Longmont Gift Cards are the perfect gift! Send your loved ones on a choose-your-own-adventure of food, drink, shopping, personal services, and more in downtown Longmont!
Who It’s For: Downtown Longmont Gift Cards are the perfect gift for everyone! With more than 70 participating businesses, everyone on your list will find something they love.
Other Services: Downtown Longmont is your one-stop-shop for everything you need this holiday season!

Longmont Symphony
515 Kimbark St Suite 105, Longmont
303-772-5796
longmontsymphony.squarespace.com
The Pick: “Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker” Concert
Embrace the holiday magic with this enchanting concert, transporting you to a world of whimsy and wonder.
Who It’s For: Holiday Magic Seekers, ideal for families and festive season enthusiasts
Other Services: Variety of concerts like “The ‘Gentle’ Nutcracker,” special events like “Maestro Talk: Elliot Moore,” and the “LSO Gala”

Monkton Guitars
1505 W 1st Ave, STE A, Broomfield
303-484-1271
monktonguitars.com
The Pick: Furch Guitars
Furch Guitars offer remarkable sound clarity and exquisite build quality, a testament to musical excellence.
Who It’s For: Passionate Musician – whether strumming at home or on stage
Other Services: Full repair shop, variety of strings, tuners, guitar care accessories, lessons, vintage guitars, amps, and effects

Out Boulder County
3340 Mitchell Ln, Boulder
303-499-5777
outboulder.org
The Pick: Love
A versatile and welcoming space for events, meetings, and community trainings, fostering inclusivity and community.
Who It’s For: Community Members, Organizers and Event Planners with a Passion for Inclusivity
Other Services: Volunteer Opportunities, Donation Events, Youth Programs, Support Groups, Addiction Recovery Services, and more

Paradise Found Records & Music
1646 Pearl Street, Boulder
303-444-1760
paradisefoundrecordsmusic.com
The Pick: Extensive Collection of CDs and Vinyls
A haven for music enthusiasts, offering a wide selection of both new and used records spanning various genres and eras.
Who It’s For: Music Collectors and Vinyl Enthusiasts
Other Services: In-home record pickup, turntable and stereo equipment repairs, special music orders

Restaurants

Alice and Rose Boulder
1301 Pennsylvania Ave, Boulder
720-495-4251
aliceandrose.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Busaba
133 S. McCaslin Blvd., Louisville
303-665-0330
busabaco.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Community Supper Club
206 S Public Rd, Lafayette
720-890-3793
eatatcommunity.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Cosmos Pizza
3117 28th St, Boulder
659 30th St, Boulder
303-442-3278
520 W South Boulder Rd, Lafayette
720-598-512
cosmospizza.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Dugout
149 S Briggs St # 105a, Erie
720-242-8239
dugoutgrillandbarerie.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Hapa Sushi
1117 Pearl Street, Boulder
303-835-9748
hapasushi.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Jaipur Indian Restaurant
1800 Broadway Street, #160, Boulder
303-442-0999
jaipurindianrestaurant.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Kalita Grill
2426 Arapahoe Avenue, Boulder
303-443-0596
kalitagrill.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Paul’s Coffee & Tea
956 W Cherry St #101, Louisville
720-259-1723
paulscoffeeandtea.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Pho Café
1085 S Public Rd, Lafayette
303-665-0666
phocafelafayette.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Ras Kassa’s
802 South Public Road, Lafayette
303-447-2919
raskassas.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Raza Fresa
7960 Niwot Rd suite 11-d, Niwot
303-652-3995
razafresa.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Rumbo 52
3768 State Hwy 52, Frederick
720-307-4700
rumbo52.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Si Señor
3120 Village Vista Dr, Erie
720-890-9765
sisenorrealmexicanfood.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

The Sink
1165 13th St, Boulder
303-444-7465
thesink.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Small Cakes
16810 Sheridan Pkwy #118, Broomfield
720-948-1956
smallcakescupcakery.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Stacey’s Kitchen
235 Cheesman St, Erie
303-379-9652
stacyskitchen.page
Home-style deli and bakery services

Tangerine Restaurants
379 Main St, Longmont
720-815-2888
300 S Public Rd, Lafayette
303.443.2333
2777 Iris Ave, Boulder
303.443.2333
tangerineeats.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Taj Mahal III
1075 E. S. Boulder Rd., #145, Louisville
303-926-0999
tajmahal3.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Village Coffee
1605 Folsom St, Boulder
303-442-9689
villagecoffeeshopboulder.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Health & Beauty

Blooming Massage
421 21st Ave Ste 2, Longmont
303-827-5101
bloomingmassage.com
The Pick:  60/90 minute Himalayan Salt Stone Massage
Enjoy the holistic healing qualities of Himalayan Salt Stone Massage, melting away stress and tension for a deeper therapeutic experience.
Who It’s For: Anyone needing rest and relaxation.
Other Services: Variety of massage specialties, enhancements, Gift Certificates available.

Valar Aesthetics
671 Mitchell Way Suite 210, Erie
720-260-4634
valarmd.com
The Pick: AviClear
A permanent acne solution after 3 monthly treatments, ideal for those seeking a change in their skin.
Who It’s For: Everyone suffering from facial acne.
Other Services: Injectables, body contouring, laser resurfacing, threads, laser hair removal, tattoo removal, kybella, Gift cards available.

Amy Francis Fitness
Service Mode: Online Classes
210-332-7253
amyfrancisfitness.com
The Pick: Nutritional Coaching & Personal Training
Offer of fitness and health through nutritional coaching and personal training sessions, building long-term habits for body fat loss and muscle gain.
Who It’s For: Fitness enthusiasts, beginners, athletes, anyone of any age looking to reach their goals.
Other Services: Group fitness classes, in-person and virtual, extensive on-demand workout library available 24/7.

The post Retailers Pick Guide 2023 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

This month — 5 fun figures about the Fourth of July: (Source: Wallethub.com)

$7.7 Billion: Amount Americans plan to spend on food

150 Million: Number of hot dogs eaten

$1.4+ Billion: Amount Americans plan to spend on beer and wine

$2.4+ Billion: Estimated amount spent on fireworks

$6.9 Million: Value of American flags imported annually.

The post French’s 5 | May 2023 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Editor’s Note: Press Releases are provided to Yellow Scene. In an effort to keep our community informed, we publish some press releases in whole.

BOULDER THEATER
Sunday, December 11, 2022
Doors: 7:00 pm | Show: 8:00 pm
Tickets on sale now HERE
$35.00 General Admission | $39.50 – $75.00 Reserved Tickets plus applicable service fees
$200 Family 4-Pack Available
All Ages

On November 4th, Grammy Award-winning rock band Switchfoot released their debut holiday LP, this is our Christmas album.

During the past few Christmas seasons, lead singer Jon Foreman found himself looking for a Christmas album that reflected the way he felt, and he realized there wasn’t anything out there. So, he started writing his own – making room for all the emotions felt over the holiday season – the good, the bad and the ugly; tradition, heartache, beauty, joy, and pain.

Foreman shares, “For some of us, Christmas reminds us of loved ones we’ve lost, or complicated relationships with friends or family. For others of us, we question the capitalist materialism that saturates the holidays. For others, it’s a sacred time of giving, celebrating the divine gift of sacrificial love. I wanted a vinyl album that would accompany a Christmas gathering: the fires lit, the cider is warm, the friends and family are over. And the songs accompany the laughter and conversation. And then when everyone’s left, and I’m doing the dishes, I wanted an album with layers of lyrical depth and introspective leverage that would give me something to reflect upon after the party ends.”

The album finds Switchfoot infusing their signature West Coast sound to a number of holiday classics and five, new original Christmas songs. Cheery, nostalgic and brimming with sunshine, the 11 track collection was inspired by everyone from the Beach Boys to Black Flag, and promises to be the perfect soundtrack for the holiday season with a new California twist.

Listen to ‘this is our Christmas album’ here: https://stem.ffm.to/christmasalbum

Alongside the album, the band shares a new visualizer for the focus track “Christmas Time Is Here,” which features a toddler waking up on Christmas day and playing with a toy horse and his family on a loop.

Watch the visualizer for “Christmas Time Is Here”:

“Christmas Time Is Here” follows lead single “California Christmas” which features vivid imagery of the holidays in California – including jacuzzis, swimsuits, 85 degree weather, palm trees, and more as Foreman’s honeyed yet raspy vocals ring with authenticity as he sings about Christmas at home.

Watch the band perform “California Christmas” here: 

Photo credit: Erick Frost

Switchfoot’s live show is a force to be reckoned with, and the band’s first Christmas tour is no exception. Since the band’s creation they’ve performed to sold out audiences in over 40 countries and have racked up over five million tickets sold. These shows are going to be special; The group, which has been described as the “definition of cool” by Vulture, will perform one Christmas themed set, and another set filled with the band’s classic hits like “Dare You To Move,” “Meant to Live” and more.

The band is partnering with Food For the Hungry, a non profit organization committed to ending poverty by providing development programs, disaster relief and advocacy, on the “this is our Christmas tour.” This Christmas, Switchfoot fans can join the fight to end poverty by donating their digital spare change through an app on their phones, by rounding up debit and credit card purchases to the next dollar, during the shows.

Purchase tickets here: https://switchfoot.com/pages/tour

THIS IS OUR CHRISTMAS ALBUM TRACKLISTING:
1. California Christmas
2. Looking For Christmas
3. Christmas Time Is Here
4. Scrappy Little Christmas Tree
5. Silent Night / It Came Upon A Midnight Clear
6. I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day
7. Midlife Christmas
8. Interlude (Everybody Knows A Turkey)
9. The Christmas Song
10. New Year’s Day
11. O Little Town Of Bethlehem

ABOUT SWITCHFOOT
San Diego’s alt rock quintet Switchfoot has been continually breaking musical barriers in their 20+ year career. They have sold almost 10 million copies worldwide of their twelve studio albums (including their 2003 double-platinum breakthrough ‘The Beautiful Letdown’ and 2009’s Grammy Award-winning ‘Hello Hurricane’), racked up a string of Alternative radio hit singles and have had songs in numerous TV shows and movies. Switchfoot has raised millions of dollars to aid kids in their community through their BRO-AM Foundation. Their emotionally intelligent and uplifting brand of alternative rock has earned Switchfoot a devoted and loyal global fan base. Switchfoot is: Jon Foreman (vocals, guitar), Tim Foreman (bass), Jerome Fontamillas (keys, guitar), and Chad Butler (drums).

SWITCHFOOT ON THE WEB
Official Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok | YouTube

For more information on Switchfoot, please contact Josh Page (jpage@shorefire.com), Rebecca Shapiro (rshapiro@shorefire.com) or Mikaela Duhs (mduhs@shorefire.com)

How to Get Tickets
Tickets available at Boulder Theater Box Office, by phone at (303)-786-7030 or online at bouldertheater.com. Sign up for Z2 Entertainment emails to stay informed of all upcoming show announcements, presales and on sales!

The Lounge at the Boulder Theater now proudly serving McDevitt Taco Supply. Located directly next door to the Boulder Theater, The Lounge opens one hour prior to doors on event nights.

The post Switchfoot: This Is Our Christmas Tour – 12.11.22 – Boulder Theater appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Editor’s Note: Press Releases are provided to Yellow Scene. In an effort to keep our community informed, we publish some press releases in whole.

The Colorado Chautauqua is pleased to announce WinterFest 2022, a magical holiday festival of lights, horse drawn carriage rides, a tour of historic cottages, children’s concert with Jeff and Paige, cookies and crafts for the little ones, a digital scavenger hunt, s’mores, Santa’s Cottage, and more.

Visitors can also get a jump on their holiday shopping at the WinterFest Market, where they can buy gifts from local artists and vendors, as well as curated gifts and Chautauqua-branded items from the General Store. Guests will enjoy a sneak peek into Chautauqua’s rich history during this years’ holiday cottage tour, which includes a variety of cottage types, including the sustainably restored Mary H. Galey Cottage – all decked out for the holidays.

This years’ festivities will feature the popular Art in the Park installation of bear cubs brought to life by some of Colorado finest artists. The cubs, many supported by local businesses sponsors, will be auctioned in the spring, with proceeds benefiting the Chautauqua non profit, the artists, and participating nonprofits.

“Now in its fourth year, WinterFest has become a holiday tradition for the Boulder community and beyond,” notes Shelly Benford, Chief Executive Officer of the Colorado Chautauqua. “Our goal is to create an affordable, magical holiday experience that people, and families will remember forever.”

Visitors can warm up with coffee or cocoa in the quaint, year-round, Chautauqua General Store and take in views of the foothills from the new Chautauqua Cafe, reconstructed from historic photographs and now available for both public and private events.

Those who want to spend the night in one of Chautauqua’s private and pet-friendly cottages, can take advantage of a 10% lodging discount, Chautauqua’s holiday gift to you, when you enter code: WFEST at Chautauqua.com. This offer is good on stays from December 1, 2022, through January 30, 2023.

WinterFest 2021 sponsors include: SCFD, Colorado Christmas Lights, KBCO, Daily Camera, Boulder Arts Commission, MidFirst Bank, Hazel’s, FactorEarth and Loquiz.

• What: WinterFest 2022
• Where: The Colorado Chautauqua – 900 Baseline Road, Boulder, CO 80302
• When: Friday December 9, 2022 – Sunday December 11, 2022 (Friday – 4:30PM-7:00PM, Saturday/Sunday – 12:00PM – 5:00PM)

Full schedule at Chautauqua.com or call the Chautauqua Box Office at 303.952.1644.
For more information, contact Liza Purvis – liza.purvis@chautaqua.com, 303.952.1638

The post Chautauqua WinterFest – DECEMBER 9-11, 2022: Holiday festivities in Boulder’s most magical setting appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Editor’s Note: Press Releases are provided to Yellow Scene. In an effort to keep our community informed, we publish some press releases in whole.

In less than 48 hours, we’re opening our doors for our annual holiday shopping extravaganza!

Join us for this fun, unique event! Stop by and check out goodies, crafts, and gifts from over 30+ local vendors. Take photos with Santa and our horses in costume, enjoy a hay ride and our hot chocolate bar, and spend time crafting your own ornaments.

Tickets just $20, $65 for a 4-pack.

All proceeds benefit our rescue efforts.

>>> GET YOUR TICKETS <<<

The post Zuma’s Rescue Ranch Christmas Market 2022 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Tyler Goddard

Holiday libations just got easier

I’ve been on a health kick the last few months, one that I expect to continue through the holidays. It’s been tough, but the silver lining is that I discovered mocktails, and they’re going to be one of the things I’ll keep enjoying through the new year.

My recent passion isn’t always easy for the bartenders I meet, but they’ve answered the challenge with innovative, beautiful concoctions. Now, Colorado mixologist-turned-businessman Tyler Goddard is piloting a new line of custom cocktail mixes in Boulder County that could help bartenders the next time a customer like me is in front of them. They’ll also make alcohol-fueled drinks easier and quicker to make, something especially needed when things get busy and people want something festive in their glass at the holidays.

Goddard knows that bartenders and restaurants can have trouble getting that flavor profile just right in a cocktail, especially during busy seasons when bar lines grow. Too much alcohol makes for a hot flavor profile, and too much sugar can be unpleasant. He created LeVita Beverages’ expertly blended mixers to help. The Colorado company’s pre-mixed cocktail recipes can fill the cocktail shakers of restaurant bars as well as home parties with balanced proportions of fresh ingredients.

Miguel Vazquez, chef/owner of Aperitivo Bar in Niwot, has been carrying the mixes for the past two months. “We have a bunch of classic cocktails and specialty cocktails, but LeVita gave our menu a sexy touch. The colors and flavors are very unique and include flavors from around the world,” he said.

We tried alcohol-free versions of LeVita’s Asian Fusion with ube and lychee, and it was sweeter but still light. There was nothing syrupy about it at all. The gimlet was also light but had a little spice to it, enough to make the drink warm but not overpowering. The spicier margarita was fresh and delicious with a bit more heat that tasted appropriate and fun.

Lychee cocktail

Goddard explained the philosophy behind his offering. “Everything I have is something that bars would need a trained staff in order to make well. But I’m doing it so that it can be delivered to a bar or to a home party and have a fast, easy cocktail.” He further shared, “It only takes a bartender ten seconds to replicate, and if the cocktail is alcohol-free, that’s even quicker to pull together. Then they can garnish it and send it out.”

A graduate of Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Boulder, Goddard learned his craft from spending time behind a bar. His blends take advantage of both his culinary knowledge and his ability to help drinkers find what they like. He’s also experienced enough to realize one of the benefits of his mixes is that they reduce cocktail ingredient waste, something restaurants with tight budgets care deeply about.

Goddard has found pre-mixes also help restaurants that are experiencing limited staffing and high turnover behind the bar, a situation that’s grown more common in recent years. They’re easy for new staff to learn even if they’re solo at the bar facing a line of happy hour customers.

While there is a core lineup of mixes, what Goddard has developed can have customizable packaging that guests can receive as a favor at holiday corporate events or home-based parties. Outside of the holidays, people have taken advantage of this option for weddings and created something that guests are glad to take home.

So for this holiday season and beyond, , the drink in your glass could possibly come from a Colorado-made, pre-mixed bottle. That in and of itself is something to toast to.

The post Mocktails and Cocktails Find a New Convenient Factor | In the Cups appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

FACE Vocal Band at the Boulder Theater

For more than 15 years, FACE has been a beloved a capella sensation that has grown from hometown heroes into international sensations, thanks to complex, insanely tight vocal harmonies and show-stopping beat-boxing skills. They put on an incredible show — whether it’s in the intimate setting of the Soiled Dove in Denver or on the Red Rocks stage in Morrison. This year, they bring their silky sounds to the Boulder Theater for their Holiday Concert, which will be filled with good humor and beautiful versions of all your favorite holiday classics. At the Boulder Theater, Dec. 7, doors open at 6:30, $25+, bouldertheater.com.

Courtesy of pARTiculars

Anne Gifford at pARTiculars Art Gallery

If you’ve ever seen a poster for the annual Bolder Boulder race, you’ve probably seen Anne Gifford’s art. The award-winning watercolor artist has designed the poster eight times. Gifford’s work has also been selected to represent the 150th Anniversary of Boulder County and the 40th Anniversary of Boulder County Open Space – and you can check out her exhibition throughout the rest of November at pARTiculars Art Gallery in Lafayette. Some of the pieces exhibited include her Tribute to Marshall which honors the families and victims of the Marshall Fire. pARTiculars is located at 401 S. Public Road, Lafayette, 80026. 720.890.7888 or particularsart.com.

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas at Candlelight Dinner Playhouse

Get in the holiday spirit with one of the most beloved musicals of all time – Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. The perennial wintertime favorite tells the story of veterans Phil Davis and Bob Wallace who entertain audiences post-WWII. The dazzling score includes many popular hits, including Blue Skies, I Love a Piano and of course, White Christmas. An uplifting and energetic musical favorite, it’s a perfect date night to celebrate the season. At Candlelight Dinner Playhouse through January 8, 2023. Tickets range from $35 to $72.50 and include dinner. 4747 Marketplace Drive, Johnstown. 970.744.3747 or ColoradoCandlelight.com.

The Roots at Mission Ballroom

When you see the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon’s house band doing the amazing things they do, it might be easy to forget that The Roots have been doing this for 35 years since they first formed in Philadelphia. Nonetheless, 16 albums, 12 Grammy nominations and four Grammy awards later, The Roots still reign atop the legion of incredible hip-hop bands performing today, thanks to their peerless musicianship and exceptional compositions. Catch them on their All The Way Live Tour at Mission Ballroom Dec. 27. Doors open at 7 p.m., tickets start at $59.50, missionballroom.com for more information.

1940s Radio Christmas Carol at Longmont Theatre Company

Longmont Theatre Company returns with A 1940s Radio Christmas Carol, running Nov. 25 through Dec. 4. This light-hearted version of the Dickens classic brings the story of Scrooge and his famous ghostly visitors to the radio, as the Feddington Players present their own live broadcast of the story. Including many favorite Christmastime standards and four original songs, this version of Carol seamlessly combines comedy and drama for a nostalgic trip down radio-memory lane. At Longmont Theatre, 513 Main Street, Longmont 80501. 303.772.5200. Tickets range from $30 to $35 at Longmonttheatre.org.

Rio Verde. Image courtesy of Cherish Marquez

Social Signs at Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art

Always on the forefront of compelling, modern art, the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art presents a fascinating new exhibition by Cherish Marquez titled Social Signs. This large collective mural is composed of symbols that explore identity and symbology while also showing how the use of augmented reality can help us generate deeper understandings of each other. The symbols used are all created by individuals and the collective mural is a mosaic of icons that represent the community. Visitors can use their phones to learn the meanings behind the symbols, bringing them further into the work they’re viewing. Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art, 1750 13th Street. 303.443.2122 or bmoca.org. Admission to the museum is only $2 and free on Saturdays.

The post Scene Stealers | November 2022 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

This month: Five facts you may not know about Chanukah:

The post French’s 5 | November 2022 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

(All photos by Zoe Jennings unless stated otherwise.)

’Tis the season for frantically buying your loved ones Amazon gifts. But what if your hard-earned money went back into the community and not toward a wealthy CEO’s second yacht? We’ve curated a shopping guide for the perfect holiday gifts from our favorite local brands. Our guide features gift ideas found on the shelves of locally owned shops in Boulder County or on the websites of local businesses. We hope you enjoy what the many makers of Colorado have to offer, but the real joy will be in purchasing a gift that you know will positively impact the community around you. From sustainability to LGBTQIA+ rights to bringing joy, each business in our guide has their own noble reasons for putting their craft out into the community. Each store owner had a wonderful story to share and was proud to point out their locally sourced merchandise.

Angie of Angie Star Jewelry poses in her Pearl Street store next to her jewelry.

Cozmo the bird hangs out in Angie Star Jewelry.

Angie Star Jewelry was just one of many stops I made to local stores, with Cozmo the bird, Penny the dog, and Angie the human greeting me as I walked in. Angie Star Jewelry, nestled within the many shops on Pearl Street in Boulder, sells silver handmade jewelry made with ethically sourced materials. Both sturdy and beautiful, the jewelry is displayed alongside delightful decorations like sand dollars, sea shells, and wonderful brass display vessels. Angie has a welcoming energy and told me that she’s lucky that she and her mom, a retired nurse, are so close. Together they run the Pearl Street store and an additional store in Fort Collins. Angie is glad that her mom can work with her and slow down from her busy days as a nurse.

Housegoods

Mugs from Longs Peak Ceramics, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Made by hand in Longmont, these unique mugs and bowls from Longs Peak Ceramics are microwave and dishwasher safe. Longs Peak Ceramics is honest about the fact that their pieces are not flawless but are all one of a kind and not mass produced.

Grizzly Bear Mercantile cozy blanket. Photo courtesy of Lynn Starkman.

Grizzly Bear Mercantile adult and baby blankets can take tough love and are made with soft, minky fabric and attention to detail. Blankets come in various sizes, with premade options.

A bird feeder from Beyond Nature Co. Photo courtesy of Kayla Eggemeyer.

Personal Care Products

Rooted with Ali 3-in-1 spray, dry shampoo, magnesium butter, magnesium spray, sugar scrubs, lotion bars, and lip balms sold at Local Goods Colorado in Lafayette.

Rooted with Ali is a women-owned business in Loveland creating conscious skincare products. Products are made with natural, organic, and wildcrafted ingredients and packaged sustainably. These products are safe for those with skin conditions, with therapeutic-grade essential oils and scents derived from wildcrafted herbs.

Bars of soap from Muddy Mint Soap Co., sold at Maker General in Longmont.

Soaps from Muddy Mint are handmade in Longmont using palm oil-free, all-natural ingredients.

Colorado Aromatics soap, lip balm, and face & body mist, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop.

Derived from ingredients grown on a Longmont farm, Colorado Aromatics skincare products are made to serve the skincare needs of people living in the Colorado climate. With antioxidant-rich herbs, these products help heal the damaging effects from the sun.

Bee-Och Organics body oil, body butter, sugar scrub, sun sticks, and deodorant, sold at Local Goods Colorado.

Headquartered in Fort Lupton, Bee-Och Organics is a woman-owned business specializing in small batch-crafted, cruelty-free, gluten-free, vegan products. There are zero-waste and refillable options for products at their main store.

Yarrow Field and Farm bars of soap, sold at Local Goods Colorado.

Yarrow Field and Farm encourages a soft lifestyle with small batch, natural, botanical skincare products, crafts, and vintage finds.

Magic Fairy Candles bath bombs. Photo taken at Canova Home in Boulder.

With their main store in Longmont, Magic Fairy Candles has a fun, witchy vibe. Selling all-natural soy candles and body products, they sell small batch goods crafted with the intention of unifying love for the journey of every human experience.

Candles

Candelaria candles at Vintrey Honest Goods in Lafayette.

These handmade candles are crafted in the Santa Fe District of Denver. Candelaria’s owner has worked in the candle industry for 15 years and shares that knowledge through educational experiences offered at their store.

Fleetwood Candle Co. candles at Local Goods Colorado in Lafayette.

Fleetwood Candle Co. of Denver is a relatively new business started by a former special education teacher who used art as an outlet when teaching went remote during the pandemic. The candles are bright, fun, and inspired by nature.

Spruced Hen candles, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Spruced Hen Candle Co. draws inspiration from the owner’s Longmont farm. The hand-poured candles and melts are 100 percent soy wax, additive-free, phthalate-free fragrances, and have cotton wicks.

Light Provisions candles, sold at Vintrey Honest Goods in Lafayette.

Inspired by a deep appreciation of cocktails and earthy scents, Light Provisions specializes in artisanal candles to set a peaceful tone in your house. Headquartered in Colorado Springs, the candles are hand poured into reusable vessels.

Clothing

Moore shirts, sweat shirts, and bags, sold at Vintrey Honest Goods in Lafayette.

Inspired by the Colorado landscape, Moore is a family-owned business selling high-quality clothing with hand-drawn designs.

Topo Designs beanies, sold at Vintrey Honest Goods in Lafayette.

Topo Designs began in a Fort Collins basement and has grown into a well-known company creating well-made gear for outdoor adventures.

Food and Drinks

Backyard Bev Co cocktail syrups, sold at Vintrey Honest Goods.

Backyard Bev Co offers a natural, handcrafted option for your cocktails. With Colorado-sourced, full-spectrum CBD, this mixer may actually help you feel refreshed the next day.

Conscious Coffees whole coffee beans, sold at Vintrey Honest Goods.

Based in Boulder, Conscious Coffees lives up to its name by paying above fair trade prices to support farmer cooperatives.

Fatworks premium cooking oil, ghee clarified butter, and chicken fat organic cooking oil, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Out of Longmont, Fatworks is tackling the narrative that fat is bad for you. Made from pasture-raised, non-GMO animals without antibiotics or hormones, Fatworks’ cooking fats are designed to help create a healthy, balanced diet.

Yummy Lotus blackberry serrano lime jam, strawberry grapefruit jam, kiwi poblano jam, strawberry ghost pepper jam, mango habanero jam, and blueberry reaper jam, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Headquartered in Denver, Yummy Lotus offers locally crafted vegan and gluten-free jams made with fresh ingredients in small batches.

Green Belly Foods yellow, red, and green hot sauces, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Inspired by his mom’s traditional Guatemalan hot sauces, Green Belly Foods’ Juan Ignacio Stewart went from selling hot sauces from a tent at the local market to a larger-scale operation.

Whole bean coffees from Traction Coffee Roasters, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

The founders of Traction Coffee Roasters thought up the idea for their coffee roasting company after a mountain bike ride. Their main goal is to make real, authentic coffee.

Venus Spice Co. za’atar premium spice blend, hawaij warming spice blend, shawarma seasoning and rub, sold by Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Noga, the name of the planet Venus in Hebrew, and partner, Kyle, created Venus Spice Co., a Boulder-based spice company specializing in the Middle Eastern flavors of Noga’s family’s recipes and traditions.

Bee Grateful Farm salted honey caramels and lavender honey caramels, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Bee Grateful Farm caramels are handcrafted at a natural vegetable farm in Steamboat Springs.

Stores selling local goods

Vintrey Honest Goods in Lafayette.

Vintrey Honest Goods is inspired by travel and socially conscious consumerism. Through strategic partnership, they aim to abolish human trafficking and uplift oppressed people. The store sells consciously curated household, fashion, and jewelry options. They sell several Colorado brands.

Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont.

Owned by best friends, Wolf & Wren Press combines the traditional art of letterpressing to meet your modern design and printing needs. A portion of their profits goes toward supporting organizations that are creating positive change for the environment.

Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Shop over 100 Colorado brands at Bricks Local Gift Shop for gifts, souvenirs, food, home goods, and more.

Local Goods Colorado in Lafayette.

Local Goods Colorado sells all local merchandise and aims to build relationships with all makers while also promoting community with customers.

Canova Home in Boulder.

Working with local artists and international fair trade groups to bring unique pieces, Canova Home brings unique home, art, jewelry, and more to Pearl Street.

Lula Faye Fiber in Boulder.

Fighting against the fast-moving cycle of fast fashion, Lula Faye Fiber offers handmade textiles that makers can use and then will be returned back to the earth. The store sells locally produced textiles.

Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Created in 1993, Two Hands Paperie is a family-owned business selling journals, paper, notebooks, books, cards, art supplies, decorations, and more. The store makes products in house and sells local brands.

Maker General in Longmont.

Maker General is intended to be a “general store” for creatives and makers who work with textiles and fibers. They sell gifts and supplies and offer a variety of maker workshops and classes meant to encourage the creative spirit in the community.

Art

Daniele Gold of Mountainside Acrylics holding one of her psychedelic watercolor paintings. Photo courtesy of Daniele Gold.

Daniele Gold of Denver-based Mountainside Acrylics is an acrylic and graphic artist specializing in feminine, psychedelic, and traveling-inspired art. Selling prints, paintings, and custom designs, each piece combines abstract concepts with the beauty of nature.

Uptripping art, sold at Local Goods Colorado in Lafayette.

Located in Winter Park, Uptripping reflects the global and adventurous lifestyle of its creators.

Chalkboard painting by Grey Grimm, sold at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Specializing in oil, charcoal, watercolor chalkboard design, digital illustration, and murals, Grey Grimm sells art and is available for commissions.

Stickers and prints from Geranium Studio Shop, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop.

Created by two friends hoping to bring joy to others, Geranium Studio Shop sells watercolor art inspired by Colorado landscapes.

Engraved decorative sign by Vicki Riedel, who has three businesses: Green Hen Designs, Rock N Creations, and Riedel Enterprises. Photo courtesy of Vicki Riedel.

Green Hen Designs, Rock-N-Creations, and Riedel Enterprises, operating out of Erie, provide engraving needs for both commercial and personal purposes.

Nisha Fine Art painting. Photo courtesy of Nisha Ghela.

Landscape paintings, both small and large, along with little printed notecards from Nisha Fine Art turn Colorado’s natural beauty into art, perfect for gift giving.

Bird house made by Peter Buwalda of Buwalda Fine Art Studio. Photo courtesy of Kimberly Buwalda.

Art Supplies

Art supplies sold at the Art Parts Creative Reuse Center in Boulder.

The Art Parts Creative Reuse Center in Boulder was founded to help reduce waste. Art Parts has helped keep over 188,000 pounds of creative materials out of landfills. With any art supplies you might need, you can make a local gift at a cheap price without adding more waste to the world.

Paper Cuts Press pencils, sold at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Upcycling and repurposing is the motto at Papercuts Press, which makes fun gifts out of repurposed material.

Coy Ink Studio water coloring and postcards kits, sold at Maker General in Longmont.

Longmont artist Amanda Maldonado of Coy Ink Studio is not only passionate about community and accessibility to art but sells handcrafted pen, ink, and watercolor art.

Wools from High Country Wool, sold at Lula Faye Fiber in Boulder.

Dedicated to connecting people to the land, High Country Wool dyes and handles the wool in a way that makes the wool light, airy, and full of life.

Nanci Hill Feeney Roll-up Caddy, sold at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Nanci Hill Feeney’s roll-up caddies hold pencils, pens, and brushes in fun roll-up containers. For online orders, email nancihillfeeney@gmail.com. Nanci doesn’t have a dedicated website, but can receive order requests through email.

Handmade paper sold and made at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Two Hands Paperie makes paper from recycled t-shirts for your stationery needs.

Cards and Stickers

Sweet & Snarky Greetings cards, sold at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Want a sweet card, a snarky card, or maybe both? Longmont-based, eco-friendly greeting card company has you covered. Sweet & Snarky Greetings creates the fun content and art on their cards.

New parents and gender confirmation cards from Ladyfingers Letterpress, sold at Maker General on Longmont.

Lady Fingers Letterpress is a queer, trans-owned and operated business selling stationery, cards, and gifts out of Colorado Springs. Award winning, Lady Fingers uses their platform to support and create cards promoting women’s, LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and immigrant rights.

Customizable cards at Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont.

Wolf & Wren Press designs holiday cards in house at their Longmont shop.

Stickers made and sold by Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont.

Shop the many fun and colorful stickers made by Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont. The stickers are designed in the shop.

Holiday cards made and sold by Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont.

Holiday cards sold and made at Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont.

Decorations

arubymoon wood block print prayer flags, sold at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Inspired by Tibetan prayer flags, arubymoon makes gratitude and grief flags, cards, and prints with the intention to inspire people to connect, create, and honor life.

Decorative banners, made and sold at Two Hands Paperie.

Made from upcycled saris, tassel banners sold and made at Two Hands Paperie can be strung up, worn, and adored.

Plants

Plants sold at Green Pony Houseplants & Vintage in Louisville.

Furniture

Custom-made table and chairs built in Dancing Grains Woodworks in Boulder.

Dancing Grains Woodworks handcrafts custom-made products out of high-quality wood. The store features already made products and slabs of wood that can be chosen for custom pieces.

Vanier Contour chair. Photo courtesy of Blake Vanier.

A locally run startup, Vanier Contour chairs are handbuilt. The floating slat provides a perfectly contouring sitting experience no matter what position.

Jewelry

Fleetwood Candle Co. earrings, sold at Local Goods Colorado in Lafayette.

Born out of the dark times of Covid, Fleetwood Candle Co. makes fun and colorful earrings too.

Turquoise and silver jewelry sold at Angie Star Jewelry in Boulder.

Jewelry at Angie Star Jewelry includes both silver jewelry and beaded jewelry and malas.

Earrings from Ammonite Swirls, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop.

The husband and wife duo of Ammonite Swirls sell their handmade jewelry to pay for rent, car payments, and food for their cats. They run their ecologically friendly business in addition to their jobs working as a musician and conservationist.

Rubarb Jewelry earrings, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Friends Ruth and Barb became friends and quickly started making jewelry together. Rubarb Jewelry handmakes simple but elegant jewelry.

Pets

Winnie Lou the Canine Co. Berry Boost Bones and Carrot Doggie Treat, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Winnie Lou started as a food truck and now brings dog products made from Colorado farms to fur families all over the state. Only real, whole foods are used in their products.

Suzie’s CBD Treats Original, Apple, and Pumpkin Bites, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Does your dog deserve to chill out? Suzie’s CBD Treats offers many yummy products for your animals containing CBD grown on their Fort Collins farm.

Local Shops Online

Holiday Markets & Fundraisers

Memberships to Makerspaces

The artists and makers in your life may appreciate memberships to local makerspaces as gifts.

Tools and warehouse space are available to members of The Gizmo Dojo makerspace in Northglenn.

The Gizmo Dojo: A makerspace located in Northglenn. Memberships start at hobbyist level at $50 a month for those looking to do personal projects enthusiast level at $100 for those who will be more involved at the dojo, and small business level for $250 for those wanting to sell products out of the dojo. All levels include 24/7 access to the building.

TinkerMill warehouse for makers is open 24/7 to members.

TinkerMill: Located in Longmont, members get full access to the workshop space, discounted classes, 24/7 access, voting rights, and reservations. Memberships available for $30 dollars a month for people with limited income, $60 for individuals, $90 for a bundle good for five people, and $120 for a corporate bundle of five employees.

Small businesses donate 250 percent more than large business counterparts to community causes. Over $9.3 billion would be returned to our economy if every U.S. family spent just $10 a month at a local business. Maybe this year our holiday season can mean more than convenience. Purchases from local businesses can pay for the lives of those around you and go toward causes that make our community better.

The post Community over CEOs: Local Retail Guide 2022 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Boulder County is known for its year-round access to outdoor sports. With more than 70 Olympians living in Boulder alone, Boulder County has become something of a haven for athletes. However, our state’s true obstacles emerge when the winter months blow in. Due to Boulder County’s proximity to the ever-looming mountains and the variety of intense challenges that can be found within them, winter athletes from all over the country seek Colorado out to train in the cold and snow to test their limits.

As we prepare to enter into our winter months, we took a look at the Olympic-level training opportunities that BOCO has become renowned for. Additionally, we highlighted a few local events occurring over the next few months for athletes and their families to enjoy.

Are You Ready to Train? Spotlight on Alpine Training Center 

Photo: Mike Thurk

As we enter into the winter season, local athletes must look to indoor training centers where they can prepare themselves to face the elements while not being directly affected by them. One such place is the Alpine Training Center (ATC), a favorite amongst locals. Entering into its fourteenth year, the ATC is owned by Connie Sciolino. She and her trainers are skilled coaches dedicated to pushing their athletes to be the very best versions of themselves. Sciolino told us that her business is based on three distinct principles: Promote full body strength, Increase work capacity, Build stamina. She went on to tell us that her “mission is to improve performance in outdoor sports. The number one thing when it comes to performance is being able to do your sport day after day, week after week, month after month, and the only way you can do that is if you are healthy.”

Mountain Spotlight: Eldora

Eldora is the closest mountain in proximity to Boulder for athletes to train. Located 21 miles west of Boulder, it’s only a 40-minute drive from downtown. Since Eldora offers public transportation, wasting time finding a place to park won’t be a concern.

In the past few years, Eldora has added early morning uphill training. Sciolino noted that many of her serious athletes can make it out to Eldora for a morning ski and back before work.

Eldora is the perfect spot for skiers, snowboarders, cross-country skiers, and snowshoers to train or enjoy leisurely activity. The Eldora Mountain Resort offers several activities and amenities for adults and children alike.

Some events to keep in mind: 

Nov. 18 is Eldora’s opening day for the 2022–23 season. Alpine skiing and riding will be the primary sports at the beginning of the season.

Dust off the Rust: This is Eldora’s women’s ski and ride event. This event is not just for the serious female athlete. From coffee and tea in the morning to a few hours on the slopes, and finally, to a hard kombucha-tasting event in the evening, any female, regardless of skill, will find something to enjoy on the mountain.

Photo: Mike Thurk

Sciolino holds a master’s degree in exercise science from Montana University and a certification in strength and conditioning from the National Strength and Conditioning Association. She uses this hard-won expertise to focus primarily on preparing athletes for their sport.

Sciolino’s love for the outdoors and athletics was ingrained in her at a young age. She grew up skiing and playing sports year-round and now spends her free time practicing a combination of resort and backcountry skiing. “Every year going into the ski season, I was always working to prepare for that season,” she told me. This experience has taught Sciolino the value of training to prevent injury. “The biggest thing about skiing is sport injury risk,” she said. “Athletes need to focus on building strength to prepare themselves for the ski season to prevent injury.” She also emphasized the importance of cardio training when it comes to skiing.

Sciolino’s biggest training tip for athletes is that they train with the mindset and goal of becoming as durable and injury free as possible. If you want to improve your performance in an outdoor sport, “a big part of that is being able to do your sport continuously, and the only way to do that is to be healthy and keep injury risk at bay.”

“At the Alpine Training Center, we focus on outdoor sports,” she informed me. Her primary focuses for winter sports are alpine skiing, downhill skiing, uphill skiing, and ice climbing. However, Sciolino does not limit herself and her trainers to a handful of sports or even local athletes. Athletes train with their coaches at the training center and then venture out on their own to practice their sports outdoors. While training her athletes for skiing, her major focus is cardio, so they can move fast through the mountains.

Photo: Mike Thurk

Eldora is the best location for ski enthusiasts to practice their skills due to its close proximity. However, Sciolino also recommended Winter Park and Loveland for athletes who are willing to make the drive. These ski areas provide flexible hours.

All sports are living entities. As they continue to develop, they shift and alter with the world’s changing culture. Sciolino, her trainers, and others like them are always searching for the best ways to be prepared for and adapt to any changes that come their way.

Beginner to Olympic Skiing in Steamboat Springs: Steamboat Ski Resort

Colorado has numerous ski resorts to choose from, but Steamboat Ski Resort, located in Steamboat Springs, is particularly renowned for its Olympic competitors. The 3.5-hour drive might sound long, but for any self-respecting winter athlete, it’s worth the trip.

Mt. Werner, Steamboat Ski Resort

Athletes travel from “all over the U.S. and the world to train here,” Hanna Albertson, the communications coordinator of Steamboat, informed me. With 100 Olympians and counting coming from Steamboat Springs, world-class athletes are part of Steamboat’s identity.

“This town has produced more Olympic athletes than any other town in North America,” Albertson said. Among them, 13 went to the Olympics in Beijing.

Steamboat Springs was founded on the Western heritage of ranching. This history and culture are prominent features throughout the resort and town. Locals and guests alike will be immersed in the Western roots of the area in both the feel and architecture of the surrounding buildings and decor.

Things to Do in Steamboat Springs

Even though Steamboat is a ski resort, visitors are not limited to skiing activities when they visit. “It is a place for everybody,” Albertson explained. Just around the town, there are multiple family-friendly hot springs to visit, including the remote Strawberry Park Hot Springs located 20 minutes up the mountain.

Due to the town’s western roots, horseback riding is a common activity in the winter. Steamboat Springs also has multiple iconic dining and shopping opportunities downtown.

One fun family activity is the Haymaker Sleigh Ride Dinner. Guests will enjoy the views of the Nordic center as they ride around in a horse-drawn carriage.

For those coming to stay at the ski resort, the Steamboat Grand Hotel is located directly across the street from Steamboat. There are options for the whole family, and the best part is you can get out of bed, walk across the street, and start skiing.

Steamboat Ski Resort

Steamboat Event Spotlight: Opening Day

The Steamboat 2022–23 ski season officially begins on Nov. 23. The resort will be hosting an all-day event starting at 7:30 am to celebrate and kick off the ski season. This opening event will also include the debut of new features within Steamboat from their Steamboat Full Steam Ahead Project such as the new Skeeter’s Ice Rink, the Mountain Stage, and the new Wild Blue Gondola. The Mountain Stage will host many concerts throughout the season.

Other events to watch out for: For serious athletes, Steamboat has several Olympian and famous runs to train on. Nelson on Nelson is an annual event where athletes can ski Nelson Carmichael’s classic mobile run with him. Participants will have the opportunity to receive skiing tips from the Olympic Athlete. There will also be opportunities for athletes to interact with alpine ski racer and director of Steamboat Ski Resort, Billy Kidd, throughout the season.

In addition to its Olympic aspirants, Steamboat is also known for its family-friendly terrain. Steamboat Ski Resort has a new, unique beginner skiing area with an all-terrain-based learning system. The goal for every athlete is to feel prepared to experience various types of terrain. “The added features allow for first-time skiers to get a feel of what a normal run would feel like,” Albertson explained.

Steamboat Ski Resort

Steamboat Ski Resort also offers skiing lessons for tots. Happy Camp ski lessons and childcare is available for ages 18 months to five years. For teens and adults, you can choose between group or private lessons. Lessons range from 1–8, so even the most advanced skier can work on building and tweaking foundational skills. All of Steamboat’s instructors are ski pros who are trained in progressive learning techniques to help you evaluate and develop your skiing to the next level.

Spotlight on Steamboat Spring Winter Sports Club

The Steamboat Spring Winter Sports Club is a separate entity from Steamboat Ski Resort. However, they frequently use the resort as a training ground for serious athletes. The All Out run is a private track for the Winter Sports Club to train their athletes in alpine skiing. The club is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping athletes accomplish their goals.

The Winter Sports Club is based out of a smaller, historic ski area called Howelsen Hill. It is known for its Nordic jumping and skiing terrain. If you are a serious athlete—especially someone who aspires to Olympic training—Howelsen Hill and the Winter Sports Club will be able to provide you with the best training for your needs.

Steamboat Ski Resort

Albertson painted a picture for me of what a day spent at Steamboat Resort might look like, waking up on a powder day, skiing under the endless bluebird sky, and ending the day eating at one of Steamboat’s mountain dining overlooks. The sheer beauty of the place contributes to the overall sense of happiness and comfort that permeates the Resort.

“In other towns, it’s easy for people to get the winter blues,” Albertson said. “In Steamboat, it’s the opposite. We have this winter cheer. You can feel it with the guests. As a local, I can feel it with my friends. There is this overall genuine excitement for being in Steamboat and a shared passion for being in the outdoors.”

It’s Time to Climb! Spotlight on The Spot Boulder

While skiers and their ilk thrive in the winter, the cold weather is a sign for climbers to train indoors. Luckily, Boulder and its surrounding areas have more than one climbing gym to enjoy, but when it comes to events and competitions, The Spot Boulder is a favorite for both professional and recreational climbers. With locations in Boulder, Denver, Golden, and Louisville, The Spot has many different events and competitions for climbers to train for. Some recent and upcoming events are Psychedelia, which happened in October and the Yeti Open Nationals at the Denver location which will be on Nov. 10.

Photo: Patrick Bodnar

“Climbers are in training rather than performance phases during winter time,” Janell Thurnauer, head coach at The Spot, informed me. Much like Sciolino, Thurnauer’s focus is to get her athletes strong enough to embrace their outdoor climbing season injury free.

Thurnauer is a Boulder native who grew up doing gymnastics at CATS Gymnastics. Her introduction to coaching was early in her life as a teacher at CATS. In her youth, she remembers watching elite athletes climbing on the CATS climbing wall, but she herself didn’t start climbing until after becoming a mother of three. Climbing soon became her passion, leading her to her present position where she primarily trains youth climbers.

Event Spotlight: Winter Wonderland on Dec. 10

Winter Wonderland, The Spot’s annual winter bouldering competition, part of its bouldering series, is a celebration for climbers and their families. Winter Wonderland will take place at The Spot Denver location. There will be sessions for kids during the day and adults at night including indoor ice climbing, gift wrapping, and mitten climbing competitions. For those looking to test their winter climbing skills, this event is the place to be.

Photo: Brice Powers

The Spot has a few different training teams. Athletes who need to focus on the developmental side of climbing join one of the competition-focused teams while the fast-progressing and more advanced athletes are involved in the elite teams.

“Taking our kids outdoors is a huge part of our program,” Thurnauer told me. “Competition climbing is only for a short part of your life, but outdoor climbing opens the doors for climbing to be a part of your whole life, and it can involve your family.” The Spot makes it a priority to take its athletes outdoors every week. There are multiple outdoor days weekly, and they take team trips out of state a few times a year. In the wintertime, outdoor days are more local. “During wintertime, it’s always best to be on the rock a little less,” Thurnauer told me as it’s important that athletes do not become too cold. Some local locations that Thurnauer recommended for climbers include Eldorado Canyon, Boulder Canyon, and the Flatirons.

In addition to getting their athletes outside, The Spot encourages them to practice their climbing skills at different gyms around town. “It builds your climbing IQ to get on new and different sets,” Thurnauer explained. Athletes need to experience different styles, terrains, and settings, especially when training for indoor events at other gyms. Other climbing gyms that her athletes frequent for additional training include: ABC Kids Climbing, Boulder Rock Club, and Movement Gym.

“I absolutely love the conditioning of winter training,” said Thurnauer, “but what I think is really cool is when we can do mock competitions for athletes. It gives them a good sense of where they are at and where we need to focus.” The Spot is very supportive of its athletes and their desire for events. In addition to their multiple climbing events every year, all of the trainers are excited to help their students prepare for outside events. “Events are like big parties for climbers,” she explained.

Time to Enjoy the Season

As Hanna Albertson from Steamboat mentioned, now is the time for “winter cheer.” The colder weather moving in is a sign for us to embrace all that Mother Nature has to offer. From ski resorts to indoor gym competitions, the winter season is a time for athletes to test and strengthen their skills. BOCO’s athletes, regardless of sport preference, will find the optimal training and competing grounds right in their backyard.

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Delicious dishes that accommodate dietary restrictions so everyone can enjoy a seat at the table

At Yellow Scene, our holiday food tradition is taking a deep dive with a handful of our favorite area chefs and talking to them about what they love to cook at home for celebratory meals. These aren’t always the things you’ll see on their menus. It’s what you get when they hang up the towel in their restaurant kitchen and dial up the knobs on their stove at home. It’s what they cook when they entertain friends, families, and in one case, others from the area’s hospitality industry.

This year, they’re generously sharing their home recipes with us and using their culinary expertise to show how these dishes can be altered for those with dietary restrictions. With just a few changes and some knowledge, everybody can be included at the table. These chefs will show you what to do.

Lucile’s Chef Michael Micek. Photo: Judi Morell

Unexpected Holiday Side Dishes
Chef Michael Micek, Lucile’s Creole Cafe

This past year, Erie’s Old Town was lucky enough to score a brand new Lucile’s Creole Cafe, the beloved area chain known for Cajun breakfast and lunch with red beans and collard greens, benedicts you can linger over, chicory coffee, and beignets. Since Day One, lines have been out the door.

We connected with Chef Michael Micek, who has brought Lucile’s favorites to the new location. He began cooking for the themed set of eateries in 2005 when he opened the outpost at South Logan St. and Alameda Ave. in Denver. He studied under Chef Mickey Samuels who worked with the chain from the late 1980s for more than 30 years and upheld its quality standard. Micek is one of two staff members who had worked with Samuels and learned about making Cajun cuisine, becoming executive chef after he left.

Micek told us that he typically cooks two holiday meals at his home each year. The first one is at Thanksgiving and features a deconstructed turkey. It includes a turkey leg confit, cured with salt and seasonings overnight and then submerged in duck fat for 12 hours. On Thanksgiving Day, he crisps the legs in the oven and serves them on a platter. Next, he filets the turkey breasts, rolls them back in the skin and cooks them in a sous vide bag before browning them. He then crisps them in the oven before serving.

“Guests I have at my house have told me that they’ve never had a turkey any better than what I cook,” he said.

On Christmas Eve, Micek, who is Polish, makes kapusniak, a sauerkraut and sausage soup. The preparation starts just after Thanksgiving, when he makes the sauerkraut and allows it the weeks needed to ferment. Then it is added to a savory beefy tomato broth and becomes the centerpiece. “It has an incredible flavor. Absolutely stunning,” he said.

When asked to describe his gatherings, he said they’re fairly traditional, with about 25 friends and family at Thanksgiving and 15 on Christmas Eve. He hosts a casual, self-service affair where his kitchen island is filled with delectable dishes and people eat when they’re hungry.

If there was one item from Lucile’s he would add to his holiday cooking, Micek said it would probably be collard greens. He said they’re very popular in the South, and they’re often on the table at Thanksgiving. “It’s one of my favorite things. We included smoked, cured ham hocks, and we also use Marmite. Marmite can add the same, smoky flavor to it without having to add the meat if someone is interested in a vegetarian version.”

When we asked him about cooking for people with dietary restrictions, he quickly talked about his vegetarian friend for whom he makes veggie broth, veggie stuffing, and a gravy with the vegetable stock.

RECIPE: Vegetable Stock (suitable for gravy, soups, and stuffing)

As we see with most made from scratch stocks, Micek wasn’t specific about ingredient amounts. He did share that the components of his stock include dried shiitake mushrooms and a variety of carrots, onions, fresh mushrooms, and possibly tomatoes. He said it makes a huge difference if you roast these items first.

Once your water is at a rolling boil, add the mushrooms and vegetables along with bay leaf. Boil it for hours until the stock reduces significantly and the flavors are concentrated. To finish it, he adds a dash of Worcestershire, parsley, and peppercorns to taste. He also noted that since Worcestershire contains anchovies, that would not be suitable for vegan guests, so soy sauce or Mirin could be used instead. Once it has been cooked down, strain the hard items out and use the stock as needed.

West Side Tavern’s Chef Andy Kaufman and Owner Wes Isbutt. Photo: Judi Morell

Holiday Meals for Other Chefs, Servers in Longmont
Chef Andy Kaufman, West Side Tavern

For our holiday prep research, we talked to West Side Tavern’s Chef Andy Kaufman and Owner Wes Isbutt. Both men spoke about what it’s like to be Jewish during the holidays. “Liquor stores, gas stations, and grocers close on Christmas. It feels different when you aren’t celebrating,” said Isbutt. “But at least the Asian restaurants are open. Last year Sumo, the restaurant at Harvest Junction in Longmont, was open, and they sold a ton of sake.”

Kaufman, who has worked in fine dining after going to culinary school in the Boston area, spent time at kitchens in Boston and Washington state where he fondly recalled time spent at Pike Place Market. He moved to Colorado where he spent time at L’Atelier in Denver and at The Fork in Lyons.

Some of what Kaufman appreciates about cooking in Longmont at West Side Tavern is that it’s smaller. “You have the run of the mill in terms of what you can make and do, as opposed to a larger place where people are telling you what to do. And it’s a friendly place. I’ve made more friends in Longmont than I made in any other place my entire life.”

He told us that, uniquely, a lot of friends in the restaurant industry choose West Side for the holidays, something that Kaufman celebrates, saying, “We’ll bend over backwards for them.”

Kaufman said that he normally doesn’t cook during the holidays, but the menu he described is based on the Christmas Eve dinner he makes for the other restaurant staff. During that time, he typically brings a traditional meal to the restaurant. “We cook off a big prime rib, the Roast Beast, if you will. It’s delicious, and it can serve 15 to 20 people.” He seasons his beef traditionally, slow roasted for about four hours in the oven, and serves it with a horseradish crème fraîche.

Kaufman’s sides are the part of the meal where he ensures his food will work well for people with dietary restrictions. Sides include green beans with onion and garlic and a little vinegar or puréed yams with maple syrup and cinnamon and baby carrots, roasted in the oven with honey and agave. He roasts his vegetables first, laying them out on a sheet pan where they get just the right amount of char.

Overall, these sides and the main dish are just what their guests are looking for during the holidays . It leaves their stomachs full and their spirits satisfied with the friendships and good food they experience at West Side Tavern.

RECIPE: Mock Horseradish Crème Fraîche for Roast Meats

While traditional crème fraîche calls for cream left out overnight, Kaufman knows that this isn’t the safest practice. Instead, he’s developed a recipe for a mock version of the beloved condiment that’s a must-have for roasted beef rib and prime rib.

He shared that it’s a ratio of 2/3 sour cream to 1/3 heavy cream. Start with a dash of horseradish and lemon, add salt and pepper, season to taste.

Casian Seafood’s Chef-owner Dovi Xiong. Photo: Judi Morell

Hmong Holiday Eating
Chef-owner Dovi Xiong, Casian Seafood

We’re fortunate to speak with Chef/Owner and James Beard Award Semifinalist Dovi Xiong of Casian Seafood in Lafayette about the foods inspired by his heritage.

As a second-generation Hmong-American, Xiong, who goes by the name Dovi, said he’s grown more Americanized over the years and that this is reflected in how he celebrates the holidays. But when his family arrived in this country, things were different. His parents didn’t always celebrate the traditions, but that eventually changed. “With their jobs in corporate America, they were offered a free turkey, and they didn’t turn it down. Now it’s part of the holiday, though they’ve added egg rolls, the same ones I make in the restaurant,” Dovi said with a laugh. He added that meals may also have two other soups, khao piak with a chicken base and kapoon, which can be made with either chicken, pork, or fish.

Dovi described the feel of his holiday gatherings: “It’s a very tight-knit inner circle that we really do keep. In our custom, we call everyone aunts and uncles, but at the holidays, we focus on our actual aunts and uncles, cousins, and grandparents. That’s who we share time and our meal with.”

He said his gatherings have been bigger than what his parents hosted. “Sometimes there are neighbors and co-workers. It’s a huge contrast between what we do now and the way my parents have held their celebrations.”

When we asked him for a holiday memory that stands out, he answered quickly: “Hmong New Year. It’s right around Thanksgiving time ahead of the traditional Chinese New Year. It’s celebrated then because it is more convenient. Households have to host small gatherings to welcome the new year and usher in prosperity. Ceremonies and specific blessings by the head of the household are a key part of the festivities.”

This year, Dovi plans to go to his father’s home. “I still consider him a key part of my family, even though we live in separate houses. It’s the one main holiday tradition that I’ll always remember, and my kids will always know that too.”

Recipe: Traditional Larb

Dovi told us that the standout recipe he prepares at the holidays is larb — a raw beef salad with lots of green — green onions, cilantro, basil, and minced lemongrass. He declined to share exact proportions  but did explain how the thinly sliced raw meat was combined with the greens in proportions that he enjoys and that he knows work for his guests. (Here’s a version we found online to give you some perspective.) Dovi makes a cooked, less spicy version each year for the kids and teenagers.

Snarf’s Owner Jimmy Seidel

Leftovers: Sandwiches that Don’t Hold Back
Owner Jimmy Seidel, Snarf’s Sandwiches

As we work on this article every year, we’ve tried to be sure we don’t leave out some restaurant goers’s favorite part of a holiday meal: leftovers. For this edition, we turned to Jimmy Seidel of Snarf’s Sandwiches, the beloved sandwich shop that started in Boulder and now has more than 30 locations throughout Colorado, Missouri, and Texas.

Before talking to us about his sandwich, Seidel shared how he celebrates. “You better be ready,” he said before describing a lengthy affair that’s two days of work. He personally handles kitchen duty during the holidays and cooking for his family means there’s going to be both a turkey and a prime rib. There’s also all the fixings and fruit pie to finish things off. “It’s a two-day affair but ultimately it means I’m surrounding myself with my friends and really enjoying myself.”

However, one two-day affair isn’t enough for him — each year he typically does two Thanksgivings. The following weekend he invites 40 to 50 friends over for what he lovingly calls a “second giving” with two turkeys and a prime rib. “I need to rest up for that,” he admitted.

With all of this cooking, Jimmy’s got a lot of experience creating leftover sandwiches. “Thanksgiving dinner is one of my favorite things of the year. I look forward to it all year. I make a big mess of food. But my favorite thing the next day is to make this.”

He gave us some of his tips: “I have a favorite sandwich, and it’s got turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, peas, and gravy that I put on my bread. I can put cranberries on it too. The gravy substitutes for an aioli.” He uses their Snarf’s white bread when he makes the sandwich, and he’s also not afraid to mix it up, dipping it in gravy like a French dip for a less messy experience or substituting the prime rib for turkey.

When it comes to making the sandwich for people with dietary restrictions, one of the biggest things he does is use different bread, as the gluten in traditional bread has been known to cause a lot of issues for some individuals. One of the beautiful things about sandwiches is how easily it can be customized. It’s possible to have a vegetarian version of a leftovers sandwich, particularly if a group cooked a turkey alternative the night before.

Seidel also considered alcohol pairings for Thanksgiving leftover sandwiches. He pairs either the formal turkey dinner or a turkey or vegetarian sandwich with a beer or white wine. As a wine drinker opting for turkey, he said he suggests a white burgundy or a Chardonnay from the Willamette Valley. “The acid of the wine cuts through the richness of the gravy and pairs really well,” he explains.

RECIPE: Seidel’s Savory Gravy

Seidel knows that gravy is perfect with a warm sandwich, and everyone who cooks a roast likely has their own technique to make the gravy their own. When Seidel is in front of the stove, he removes much of the liquid and leaves turkey fat and butter in the pan. He then adds flour directly into that and swears that this is how he never has to deal with lumps. Once incorporated, he adds the liquid back in and may add additional chicken stock if it’s needed.

The post Chef-inspired Ideas to Make Holiday Meals More Inclusive appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

For many, the holidays are a joyous season. Family and friends coming together and reconnecting. Snow falling lightly in the backyard as fireplaces make warm homes warmer. Full cups and dinner tables, cold hearts grown three sizes. We look forward to the laughter and cheer, the chance to show those we love just how much we love them. But for many others, it is the hardest part of the year. The lights on the tree are not shining bright for so many. As the cold descends upon us, bringing with it the season of giving, remember that there are those fighting against the cold and that they need help. Please consider donating to these wonderful, powerful, necessary organizations.

Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains

These are dire times, there’s no denying it. With the overturning of Roe v. Wade, a war on women and those able to give birth has been declared. Thankfully, Colorado is a state dedicated to upholding the rights that were stricken away on a federal level. Nevertheless, organizations such as Planned Parenthood need all the help they can get. Since 1916, Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains has been dedicated to providing Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming, and Southern Nevada with access to high-quality reproductive and sexual health care; medically accurate, age-appropriate sex education; and working to provide safe, legal access to abortion. Their action fund website lists and provides comprehensive information about the most important issues that Planned Parenthood is fighting to address. The first and foremost is abortion access. Additionally, they provide access to information regarding the bans, state attacks against abortion rights, Roe v. Wade, and why every American citizen regardless of gender needs to be informed and concerned about the issue. Birth control information is also available, as is information on health care equity which ensures that all people in this country, including immigrants, have access to sexual and reproductive health care. They also fight for sexual assault survivors to be protected by legislature. In this time of extreme turmoil, Planned Parenthood is both incredibly scrutinized, demonized, and threatened. Their cause is one of the most important in this country, and they could use your support.

Native American Rights Fund

Native Americans are one of the most disenfranchised groups in the country. The U.S. government has reneged on treaty after treaty promising reservations help with basic necessities such as obtaining food and employment. They have been beaten down time and time again by those who came to this land and stole it from them. The tragedy that the American government has rained down on them for centuries is nothing short of horrific. In 1970, attorney John Echohawk started the Native American Rights Fund, which provides legal representation for Native American tribes, groups, and individuals. Indian law is extremely complicated and constantly changing, so groups like NARF can help Native peoples navigate the increasingly difficult legal landscape. In its 50 years of service, NARF has become one the most visible and important Native American legal groups in the country and has become one of the most trusted consultants when it comes to creating policy surrounding Native rights. It is incredibly important that Native peoples have groups such as NARF fighting for them. When you sit down to Thanksgiving dinner and remember the old stories you were taught in grade school of the happy pilgrims and helpful Indians, think of the truth and that you can do something to help.

Out Boulder County

Out Boulder is BOCO’s largest LGBTQ+ advocacy organization. They are about celebrating the vibrancy of the queer community and the beauty of equality while also understanding and fighting against the very real issues that the community faces. Their work transcends sociological labels such as gender identity, race, and sexual orientation. Instead, they work to make our community more inclusive and more beautiful as a result. They provide LGBTQ+ training programs that seek to inform and spread awareness about the queer community, its values, its struggles, its importance in our world. They also provide access to mental health services; COVID vaccines; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) education; youth services; and volunteer opportunities. The organization is about uniting us all through our differences, celebrating them, reminding us all that no matter who you love, who you identify as, what color your skin is, we are all worthy of respect and a place in this world. Their reach is wide and ever growing, and you can help with that.

Growing Gardens

When one thinks of the holidays, one thinks of a bounty, a wealth of gorgeous food steaming in the cold air. Turkey in the center of the table and vibrant vegetables and sides surrounding it, knives and forks held expectantly, eagerly, the dog licking its lips under the table. As important as food is in our culture, many do not stop to think about where their food comes from. Growing Gardens seeks to change this. They manage over 400 sustainable urban farming plots across seven locations in BOCO. Each location grows sustainable food that can then be distributed to the community. They also have community gardens and sustainable agriculture classes focused on cooking, bees and goats, and gardening. Interestingly, they offer something known as “horticultural therapy,” which helps seniors and people with disabilities improve their cognitive and motor abilities. Food is on the mind come holiday season, and organizations such as Growing Gardens are working to reconnect us with our local food systems and fight food insecurity.

Boulder Jewish Community Center

The Boulder Jewish Community Center is dedicated to the celebration of culture, community, and inclusion. Their website lists their values as community, joy, care, respect, growth, and generosity. Through all their programs and activities, they uphold these values by providing safe places to learn and grow and feel at home. They have an early education school for kids and camps and afterschool programs for teens. For adults, they hold art classes, health and wellness education programs, celebrations of Jewish women, the Boulder Jewish Film Festival, even pickleball clinics. In addition, one of their core tenets is their dedication to sustainable living. Their Milk and Honey Farm has year-round programs that teach sustainable farming practices to all age groups and is run largely on solar energy. In the wake of Kanye West’s antisemitic tweets that have emboldened antisemites across the country, organizations such as the Boulder JCC are more important than ever. Antisemitism is a disease that must be fought with love and joy and unabashed celebration. The JCC is a light in our community, one that can be brightened this holiday season with your support, regardless of your religious beliefs.

Feet Forward

Perhaps the youngest and smallest organization on our list, Feet Forward isn’t any less deserving of your attention. Founder Jennifer Livovich fought her way out of homelessness and used her experiences to form Feet Forward, an organization that provides the unhoused with hot meals, haircuts, and opportunities to change their situations. It recognizes basic human needs like access to food, hygiene services, and generally being treated as humans. An unhoused person should not be any less worthy of respect and compassion. Feet Forward recognizes how important basic dignity is. Being on the street for an extended period of time can make a person hopeless. Feet Forward seeks to provide that hope, to allow unhoused individuals to recognize within themselves the ability to change their situation, to climb out of the darkness. The cold seasons are incredibly dangerous for the unhoused, with many freezing to death out there searching for warmth. As you sit around your tables with your families gathered in your warm homes, take a look out the window and know that you can do something to help.

Conscious Alliance

Conscious Alliance recognizes the power and impact of art. With the tagline Art That Feeds, they work with a large network of artists, musicians, food makers, and music fans to feed those facing food insecurity. They run food drives at major concerts such as Phish, STS9, Umphrey’s McGee, Goose, and many more. Each show, they partner with an artist who creates a poster that fans can get if they bring 20 cans of non-perishable food items or make a monetary donation. The donations are then distributed to Pine Ridge Native American Reservation, local schools, families in need, and more. By using this platform of music and art, Conscious Alliance is able to shine a light on an issue that many are fortunate enough to never have to think about. After the devastation of the Marshall Fires they worked to feed affected families and households that had lost everything. Around Thanksgiving, they distribute turkeys to Pine Ridge, a place known as a “food desert,” as well as to families in Boulder County and the surrounding areas that can’t afford a Thanksgiving meal. Each dollar donated can feed two kids, so any donation goes an incredibly long way.

Colorado Moms Demand Action

The cause is simple: Mothers are tired of their children being slaughtered. Gun violence is a uniquely American epidemic. According to the Gun Violence Archive, there have been 531 mass shootings in America this year alone. One would think that the country’s population would seek out every single possibility to stop the senseless, preventable deaths of hundreds of our citizens, of our children. Moms Demand Action believes in this fight. Started in the wake of the Sandy Hook Massacre as a Facebook group by Shannon Watts, a mother of five, Moms Demand Action has developed into a full-fledged movement composed of mothers, fathers, students, families, concerned citizens, anyone who cares enough to work to prevent gun violence in America. With a chapter in every state and Washington D.C., they have grown to be one of the most visible and important groups in the fight against gun violence. This is a wound that has never been allowed to heal, constantly ripped open by news of yet another incident occurring almost daily. It’s especially fresh for the people of Boulder County after a shooter killed 10 people at the Table Mesa King Soopers in Boulder a little over a year ago. It is difficult to not become desensitized to it, its mindlessness, its frequency. It should not take what happened in Uvalde to reignite the conversation. Action has to happen now. These are the people keeping the conversation, the fight, alive.

Imagine!

Imagine! seeks to provide people with cognitive, physical, and developmental disabilities with opportunities to become involved with their communities. They divide their services between two distinct categories: Community Centered Board Services and Direct Support Services. CCB services are designed to be an access point for local towns and areas to receive entry into local, state, and federally funded programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. DSS are designed to integrate people with developmental, physical, and cognitive disabilities into their communities. These include employment services, educational and therapeutic services, recreation activities, living opportunities, and behavioral health services. Their work is dedicated to equity, inclusion, love, and compassion — values of the holiday season.

Community Food Share

Community Food Share is a Feeding America food bank serving Boulder and Broomfield Counties. They see themselves as just another friendly neighbor, the kind of neighbor that doesn’t really exist anymore, one that lives next door and bakes you a cake when you move in and watches your cat when you ask them to. While they deliver food to seniors, families, and anyone else who might need it, they also act as a sort of hub, a nucleus of organizations all dedicated to fighting hunger in their respective communities. Approximately 80% of the food they distribute is donated and 65% is distributed to larger agencies that then use it to help communities, while 25% is delivered directly. The holiday season is best spent with warm food and full bellies surrounded by love. Community Food Share works everyday to make that a reality right next door.

The post 2022 Giving Guide: Organizations that need more than thoughts and prayers appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Editor’s Note: Press Releases are provided to Yellow Scene. In an effort to keep our community informed, we publish some press releases in whole.

HANGTIME: NOVEMBER 11-27, 2022
EXHIBIT RECEPTION
NOVEMBER 11, 6PM-9PM

PARTICIPATING ARTISTS:
Jill Rumley, Roger Carver, Vonalda Utterback, Mark Ivins, Jana Hanavan, Monica Carroll, Fred Diehl, Kylee Covilli, Eliza Swain, Matt Maenpaa, Coy Ink, Emily Moore, Elaine Waterman

WINTER RESIDENCY
Nancy Eastman

STUDIO 64
Parge Psithuris

Longmont, CO — NOVEMBER 8, 2022

CELEBRATE LONGMONT AND SHOP LOCAL AT THE FIREHOUSE THIS SEASON!

MAIN GALLERY

The Firehouse Art Center has opened up their Main Gallery to their Artist Members for Hang Time at the Firehouse. All members, whether painters, potters, photographers, or sculptors, were invited to share, hang and display their work. Created as a community building, collaborative exhibit, members were invited to line up to hang up on Sunday, November 6th, with the early birds getting to pick their spots first. At the close of the exhibits, the artists will return and deinstall their work, including time to patch the walls and help paint.

“This exhibit allows us to highlight our local creatives as a great way to shop local and support living artists.” says Elaine Waterman, Executive Director of the Firehouse. “With our Holiday Market on November 26th and 27th, and Hang Time on the walls, the whole gallery will be filled with unique, creative and beautiful options for gift giving!”.

Hang Time opens on November 11th at 6pm during Downtown Longmont’s 2nd Friday festivities.

SOUTH GALLERY

We are excited to introduce our Winter Artist In Residence, Nancy Eastman.

The Firehouse Art Center’s Winter Residency supports a working artist in the South Gallery for three months before a culminating solo exhibition in the Main Gallery, and the opportunity to guest curate the accompanying South Gallery show. The program will run from November 13- Feb 1 (exhibit in February).

The Artist Occupied program at the Firehouse Art Center is intended as a professional development opportunity for emerging and experienced visual artists, exposing visitors to working artist environments and processes.

Previous resident artists include Heather Kegel, Sean Faling, Jessica Forrestal, Chris Blume, Kaitlyn Tucek, Roberta Restaino, and Chelsea Gilmore.

“Colorado is an intimate story of the mountains and plains.  As a second-generation native Coloradan, re-siding here for more than half a century, I have witnessed Colorado’s evolving suburban landscape, and changing agricultural, ranching and rural identities. I am sensitive to the variations of my surroundings, in-terpreting the forces that affect a particular place.” shares Eastman.

Through her use of found and natural objects, Eastman’s work confronts the loss of cultural and indigenous knowledge as well as our lack of connection to the land. She integrates metal, wood, papermaking, printmaking, photography, and book art.  Eastman will be offering two community workshops where community members will assist her in the meditative practice of yarn wrapping, as well as creating a paper collage landscape quilt.

WINTER ARTIST IN RESIDENCE
NANCY EASTMAN
EXHIBIT RECEPTION
NOVEMBER 11, 6PM-9PM

Yarn wrapped found objects by Nancy Eastman

Through her use of found and natural objects, Eastman’s work confronts the loss of cultural and indigenous knowledge as well as our lack of connection to the land. She integrates metal, wood, papermaking, printmaking, photography, and book art. Eastman will be offering two community workshops where community members will assist her in the meditative practice of yarn wrapping, as well as creating a paper collage landscape quilt.

Paper collage landscape quilt by Nancy Eastman

Contact Information: Elaine Waterman, Executive Director, at info@firehouseart.org

About Firehouse Art Center: Founded in 1986, the mission of the Firehouse Art Center is to inspire cultural awareness and human connection by providing life enhancing experiences through art exhibitions, art education and cultural events. You can learn more by visiting www.firehouseart.org or call (303) 651-2787.

The post November Exhibits at the Firehouse Art Center appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

This month: Five Surprising Facts about the Fourth of July

Source: Parade.com

Americans eat enough hot dogs on the Fourth to stretch end-to-end across the country five times over.

Photo: Jay Wennington via Unsplash

After eating spoiled fruit at a July 4, 1850 celebration, President Zachary Taylor died.

One World Trade Center in New York is 1,776 feet tall to commemorate the year the U.S. declared its independence.

Photo: Lucas Franco via Unsplash

Three presidents have died on July 4: Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and James Monroe.

As of 2016, July 4 is the number one holiday for beer sales in the U.S.

Photo: Yiran Ding via Unsplash

The post French’s 5 | June 2022 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

This month: Five things you didn’t know about Easter

Source: goodhousekeeping.com

Easter is named after the Germanic Page Goddess of the Dawn, Eostre.

Lamb was the traditional Easter food for centuries thanks to the holiday’s proximity to Passover and Kosher laws.

Americans eat about 1.5 million Peeps during Easter.

~90 Million chocolate Easter bunnies are sold every year.

President Rutherford B. Hayes started the White House Easter egg roll tradition in 1878.

The post French’s 5 | March 2022 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

The Song of the Lorax at Dairy Center for the Arts

Visit the Dairy Center for the Arts for a fascinating, immersive experience combining live music with spoken word, incredible photos and sound installation. The Song of the Lorax is a new multimedia show that includes live music performed by the Ivalas String Quartet with a forest sound installation, spoken word, and photography by conservation photographer T.J Watt. The exhibit is designed to inspire viewers to understand the worsening effects of climate change, but also to offer hope for the future. Nov. 26 and 27 at the Carsen Theater, Dairy Center for the Arts, 2590 Walnut Street, Boulder. Tickets range from $10–$30 at thedairy.org. All proceeds benefit the Ancient Forest Alliance.

The Goonies 80’s band at The Louisville Underground

Sometimes, you just wanna enjoy your favorite hits from the 80’s played by a live band, and no one in Colorado delivers better than The Goonies. The Boulder-based quartet is a peerless high-energy party band that skims the catalogue of all of your favorites, ranging from A-ha to Bonnie Tyler to The Cure, David Bowie, Depeche Mode, Joan Jett, the Human League, MJ, Prince, Pat Benetar, Journey, Madonna, and dozens more. And they’re a perfect match for getting together with friends during the holiday season at The Louisville Underground, 640 Main Street in Louisville on Dec. 10 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $18 at thelouisvilleunderground.com.

Camp Christmas by the Denver Center of Performing Arts

Camp Christmas at Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park

One of the biggest and most popular new Denver traditions is back for another dazzling year of lights and spectacle. Visit the immersive winter wonderland that is the Denver Center’s Camp Christmas. It’s a 6-acre landscape filled with decorations, music, memorabilia, and more. You can bring the family to visit the Jolly Old Elf himself on select days, enjoy seasonal cocktails and hot cocoa throughout the tour and, of course, grab the perfect ‘gram-ready photo at tons of different holiday photo installations. Tickets range from $8–$25 at DenverCenter.org. The installation runs through Jan. 2, 2022 at Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park, 801 S. Yarrow Street, Lakewood.

Al Franken at Boulder Theater

You might remember Al Franken as the former Democratic Senator from Minnesota who served from 2009 to 2018, when he stepped down amid allegations of sexual misconduct. But long before his stint on Capitol Hill, he was a popular comedian and one of the original staff writers on Saturday Night Live where his trademark character Stuart Smalley seeped into national consciousness. He’s back on tour now, with his comedic sights set firmly on his stint in the Senate and his experience with one of the more contentious “me too” movement moments. At the Boulder Theater, Dec. 4, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $50, bouldertheater.com for more information.

White Christmas at BDT Stage

Relive the magic and holiday wonder of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas as BDT Stage spruces up for the season. This perennial favorite captures the original splendor of the Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye film — live and on stage. Enjoy the story of singers Bob Wallace and Phil Davis as they join with sisters Betty and Judy Haynes to perform an annual Christmas show. Holiday tickets always go fast, and with a delicious dinner included, this ticket is sure to sell out well in advance. Nov. 13–Jan. 8, 2022 at BDT Stage, 5501 Arapahoe Avenue, Boulder. 303.449.6000 or bdtstage.com. Tickets range from $70–$80.

Sound of Music at Candlelight Dinner Playhouse

Another local dinner theater is bringing out the classics — this time with Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Sound of Music. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse presents this popular musical featuring all the classics — from “My Favorite Things” to “Do Re Mi” and “16 Going on 17.” Both dinner and show-only options are available, plus select Wednesday shows are dessert-only options, so there are a variety of prices and meals for every taste and budget. Tickets range from $29–$66, Nov. 26–Jan. 30, 2022. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Marketplace Drive, Johnstown. 970.744.3747 or coloradocandlelight.com. 

The post Scene Stealers | November 2021 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Chocolate is a decadent gift at any time of year, but during the holidays you want the confection to look as good as it tastes. After all, it’s got to keep up with a seasonal focus on appearance and be every bit as good as packages wrapped and ribboned to sparkly perfection, outdoor lighting displays that are the pride of a neighborhood, and the outfit carefully chosen for a holiday party.

Three local chocolatiers have this covered. Though each has a different take on their approach to chocolate and none could be mistaken for any other. All are visually stunning and perfect for hostess and teacher gifts,adding sparkle to a dessert tray, or a treat after a long day of holiday shopping and errands.

Robin’s Chocolates

Robin Autorino found her love of chocolate as she studied patisserie in France and worked at Flagstaff House, Brown Palace Hotel, and the Dushanbe Tea House. Chocolate-making was not her first choice of a career. In fact, for many years she believed she was allergic to it. Eventually, she learned she could tolerate most varieties of higher-grade, cleaner versions. That discovery fueled one of the basic premises of how she works today  – using the best ingredients possible including French Valrohna chocolate.

Today, she operates Robin’s Chocolates out of a kitchen and retail space on Airport Road in Longmont. Her classical training works with her choice of ingredients to ensure a strong, rich flavor profile such as holiday selection of figgy pudding or hot buttered rum. “If you bite into the Raspberry heart, you know it’s raspberry. That’s always been my emphasis for all of my flavors. You know what they are,” she said.

Autorino also takes her time to be sure that the look of each chocolate is exactly how she envisions it. Often, this requires what she describes as painstaking airbrushing. It’s not easy, but she feels it’s worth it to achieve the right presentation to go along with her flavors.

Stam Chocolate. Photo: Deborah Cameron

Stam Chocolate

At this time of year, stepping into Stam Chocolate’s retail space on Lafayette’s S. Public Road is like entering a holiday special. An array of chocolates in a case span two-thirds of the length of the retailer’s showroom and towers of multi-sized foil-wrapped Santas, advent calendars, and chocolate reindeer complete the look and make for one of a kind holiday gifts.

These chocolates can be purchased in Colorado, but they come from Belgium, where they’re shipped to the location. The same family has been making milk and dark chocolate confections for more than two centuries in a traditional Belgian style.

As Matthew Brundridge, owner of Stam’s Colorado location said, “Today, the great, great, great, great, great grandson of Jacobus Stam makes our chocolate. Through depressions, recessions, world wars, and global pandemics, we have an uninterrupted line of confectioners doing what they can to make the world a sweeter place.”

Piece, Love and Chocolate. Photo: Deborah Cameron

Piece, Love and Chocolate

This Pearl Street destination offers a chocolate-themed refuge from the rigors of holiday shopping and events. It also offers a wide range of things chocolate – from a gift-worthy cake that’s sold whole or by the slice, to a range of drinks.

“Everything we make must speak chocolate first,” said owner Greg Amorese. “We produce somewhere around 50 different types of truffles and take extreme care with them. For example, with our Mayan spice truffle, we roast our own blend of three types of chilis, or for our port and fig truffle we make a ‘pate fruit’ that’s layered into the truffle.”

But the flavors of its chocolates are matched by their distinct representations of Boulder — there are chocolates that show off the Avery Brewing A and the CU Buffalo, for instance. That’s what earned it a spot on its list.

The post Chocolate Holiday Gifts 101: Three Chefs Make Chocolates that Look as Good as Everything Else Does this Season | Foodie appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

All images by Christopher Cleary for Yellow Scene

Holiday pop-up season has arrived. Whether you want to begin or end your night believing in miracles, there are two Miracle pop-ups in Boulder County this year. Last year we were awed and amazed and had our cold Grinch heart strings warmed with the warmth of the environment and libations at Miracle on Main Street in Louisville. This year BOCO adds Avanti Food & Beverage, with their Miracle on Pearl Street holiday pop-up, a part of the same Miracle family headquartered in New York.

I’m talking pop up perfection. We officially have countywide Miracles ready for your holiday enjoyment.

Making the Miracle extra special is knowing that the Louisville location, situated on the rear patio of Bittersweet Cafe, and Avanti’s Miracle on Pearl, will both be charging a $5 entry fee, of which 100% will go to local charities. This is an idea spearheaded by our friends at the Louisville location and quickly spreading. We had a chance to chat with Patrick Walsh, co-owner of Bittersweet Cafe and host of the pop-up who told us they had raised $30,000 for Louisville Rising and Community Food Share. In addition, 10% of glassware purchased is also donated via the Miracle Head office to the James Beard Foundation.

Yellow Scene popped into the media preview of Miracle on Main Street on November 18th, with a plan to visit Miracle on Pearl on the 23rd. Coincidentally, the 23rd is the same day that Louisville’s Miracle On Main Street opens to the public. Miracle on Pearl Street will open on November 24th. Mark your calendars.

Now, while I can’t speak to the decorations or environment of the Pearl Street pop-up just yet, if it’s anything like Louisville, you’re in for a treat. See these photos from the Louisville location taken by Christopher Cleary for YS.

It felt like holly jolly Saint Nick with the reds and greens and Christmas trees, while the other side is more Frosty’s Winter Wonderland. The twinkling of lights, the Christmas trees and lit up reindeer, the transparent greenhouses for individual groups while looking out to see the revelry happening around you… and there’s a massive outdoor group area for parties of 30 or more (tell your boss because it’s holiday office party season, too) were all inviting, demanding selfie sessions. We took lots of selfies.

The entirety of the miracle really warms you up – and I say that as an atheist who really doesn’t go in for Christmas stuff – both from the liquor-forward-yet-flavor-balanced offering of custom cocktails and the sudden sense of holiday harmony that overtakes you. I’m personally looking forward to more nights of sharing in the miracle. Oh, and a note, my group was there for a media night and we had too much fun. Literally. Next thing I knew we had shut the place down and were the last group. The staff were amazing throughout. They kept us happy and filled and laughed with us the whole night. We’d go back just to hang with them. Make sure you add both Miracles to your holiday plans. #BelieveInMiracles

Base Bar:

Visit Miracle on Main Street at Bittersweet Cafe, 836 ½ Main Street, Louisville.
Hours are Tuesday – Saturday, 4pm – 11pm and Sunday – Family Day, Noon – 8pm. miraclecocktails.com.

Visit Miracle on Pearl Street at Avanti Food & Beverage, 1401 Pearl Street, Boulder.
Hours are Sunday – Wednesday, 5pm – 11pm and Thursday – Saturday, 4pm – 12am. boulder.avantifandb.com/events/miracle-on-pearl-street.

The post Holiday Pop-Up Season is Here: Believing in Miracle(s) | In The Cups appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Nostalgia is “in” at this time of the year, especially in the kitchen where holiday cooking is deeply connected to years of family traditions.

The dishes served at holiday gatherings express this best. Classics like a saucy and crunchy green bean casserole, herbed cornbread stuffing, or even a 1960’s-era jello salad (we once hosted a Thanksgiving guest who insisted we serve a wobbly molded construction he called “Purple Surprise”) have been a part of some tables for generations.

But just because things have a history doesn’t mean they can’t change. In fact, maybe they should change. Carefully.

If you’ve reached the point when the food you’ve served each year has become more boring than beloved, we dare you to try something new. We’ll even help you get there.

We talked to four of our favorite Boulder County chefs to see what they make for the holidays. Boulder’s Manal Jarrar of Arabesque; Longmont’s Sean Gafner of Swaylo’s Tiki Bar, The Roost, Jefe’s Tacos and Tequila, and Smokin’ Bowls; Erie’s Kevin Kidd of 24 Carrot Bistro; and Longmont’s Daniel Flores of Lunada Eatery and Cantina gave us samples and recipes of secret, off-menu dishes so we can share with you.

These chefs got creative but they didn’t turn away from the past entirely. Instead, what they make embraces their culinary training, personal taste, family traditions, and a knowledge of how people like to eat at this time of year.

Put your old recipes away and try something fresh. Your guests will thank you for it and you may even inaugurate a new holiday tradition.

Daniel Flores

Lunada Eatery and Cantina | Longmont

Dan’s choice for a holiday meal is a one-pot meal that takes time to construct, hours to slowly simmer so the flavors meld, and is available to offer company that stops by for the holidays.   

“You don’t make this every day, but when people come it’s ready to go. It’s hot, spicy, filling, and something I make for family, for guests, for anyone that stops by,” he said. “It can also feed a lot of people, and be part of a bigger spread, right on the table next to tamales.”

Flores said that when he makes the recipe, it brings him back to his childhood. He has memories of his mom making it, feeding everyone with it. And he relishes how much they all enjoyed the dish on a cold day.

Red Pozole

INGREDIENTS:

• 5 lbs of pork shoulder, bone-in
• 10 quarts of boiling water
• 10 oz guajillo
• 5 oz puya
• 2.5 oz  pasilla
• 2.5 oz chile de árbol
• 1 garlic bulbs
• 1.5 onions
• 4 bay leaves
• 1/2 cup chicken bullion
• 1/8 cup salt
• 1/4 cup oregano
• 1 1/2 tbsp ground cumin
• 1/2 bunch cilantro
• 1 large can of hominy

GARNISH:

• Radish
• Shredded cabbage
• Avocado
• Cilantro
• Diced onions
• Oregano
• Red pepper flakes

DIRECTIONS:

Brown pork. Fill a large 24-quart stockpot with 20 quarts of water. Set on heat to bring to a boil then simmer pork in it for two hours, skimming impurities through the process.

Remove and discard the stems, seeds, and large veins from the chili pods. Heat a cast iron pan on medium high and heat the chili pods for a couple minutes, until they begin to soften. Do not let them burn. Cover chiles with boiling water and let sit for 15 minutes.

In a blender add chiles, garlic bulb, onion, cilantro, and all the spices. Then add fresh water to the blender. Strain red sauce, add red sauce to boiling water and cook for one more hour. Rinse the hominy, add to the pozole, and simmer for a half hour more. Serve with multiple garnish offerings.

Sean Gafner

Swaylo’s Tiki Bar | Longmont

Three existing Longmont restaurants and a fourth on the way in February will be keeping Sean Gafner busy during the holidays. But on a bright Friday morning, he made time to share one of his favorite recipes: Hawaiian Fried Rice.

The version we tried reflected Sean’s first attempt at making the dish—ever. He used ham, Fresno chilis, ginger, and his own stir-fry sauce. While he may tweak it for use in his restaurant (possibly swapping Spam for ham or adjusting the spices) overall it worked well with a heat at the end that balanced the sweet.   

While the dish is an obvious choice for his new restaurant, Swaylo’s Tiki Bar in the old Outback Steakhouse space, Gaffner said it’s surprisingly good for the holidays. He’s even making it for his own Thanksgiving table this year. “No one expects but it works because it’s versatile. Sure, everyone’s had it with Asian food, and I’ve even had it a lot for breakfast, but it compliments a holiday meal, too.”

Swaylo’s Dark Sauce

Yield: one quarter gallon

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/4 cup minced ginger
• 1/4 cup minced garlic
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup Sambal Oelek chili paste
• 1/2 cup sesame oil (pure, not blended)
• 1 1/2 cup Tamari (gf soy sauce)
• 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cups rice wine vinegar
• 1/2 cups water

DIRECTIONS:

Puree the first six ingredients in a large container (Sean suggests a 12-quart container) with an immersion blender until smooth. Add the rest of the ingredients and puree until thoroughly combined. Store under refrigeration for up to a week.

Surprise! A dish that tastes great at a Hibachi restaurant, during late nights, or even for breakfast, also works well at Thanksgiving dinner.

Hawaiian Fried Rice

Yield: 4 side dish portions

INGREDIENTS:

• ¼ cup high heat cooking oil
• 1 cup diced ham
• ¼ cup julienned red bell pepper
• ¼ cup julienned carrot
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 4 cups of cooked, long grain white rice
• 1 cup of medium diced, fresh pineapple
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chiffonade cut
• ¼ cup Swaylo’s Dark Sauce
• ¼ cup biased-cut scallions

DIRECTIONS:

Maintain the cooking temperature on high for the duration of the cooking process. Once the wok or frying pan is smoking hot, swirl cooking oil in the pan to heat. Then add ham and fry until golden brown. Follow by adding the bell pepper, carrot, and garlic, frying those for 30 seconds.

Slightly stir the egg into these ingredients. Before the egg cooks fully, add the rice and smash it vigorously into the egg, allowing everything to brown. Then add the pineapple, basil, and dark sauce. Smash and flip the rice until all is mixed thoroughly. Let rice sit 10 seconds in the pan before plating. Garnish with scallions.

Manal Jarrar

Arabesque | Boulder

Manal welcomed us into Arabesque, her bright and cheerful restaurant on Walnut Street in Boulder. She quickly urged us to try her holiday favorite, a potato casserole with summer smoked beef sausage. She said she loves to make this because it’s decadent, rich, and filling, with a base made of cream and real butter. “It’s not hard to make,” she said, “but don’t make it ahead of time. It’s best made and enjoyed on the same day.”

Jarrar showed us, rather than told us, why her heart might be close to this dish. It’s perfect for gathering people to eat, talk and enjoy a moment together.

Between forkfuls, we discussed food, with a pinch of politics, and stories of family. She told me that she used to dance in the ballet and that cooking at an elevated level was a strong family tradition. She shared her daughter’s wedding day pictures from her phone, and I showed her photos of my kids and family pets. We talked about parenting tips and how quickly teenage girls grow older. Then we ate some more and she sent me home with a hug and leftovers.

I left with the warm feeling of being well fed and having made a friend; the perfect effect of a holiday gathering.

Manal Jarrar’s cuisine is guided by a principle of balancing each dish with contrasting elements.

Potato Casserole with Summer Smoked Beef Sausage

Yield: 20 portions

INGREDIENTS:

• 9-10 medium potatoes
• 1½ lb smoked beef sausage
• 3 cups whipping cream
• 1 1/2 sticks of butter
• 1 cup of parmesan cheese
• 1 whole garlic head
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parsley (for garnish)

DIRECTIONS:

Peel and cut potatoes in any desired shape. Cut sausage into diagonal slices and fry to achieve a darker color. Mix the potatoes and sausage in a rectangle-shaped baking pan and combine with the rest of the ingredients.

Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 90 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Kevin Kidd

24 Carrot Bistro | Erie

Kevin’s recipes paid homage to leftovers, arguably one of the best parts of any holiday meal.  Large scale cooking often means that there’s plenty of food guests can’t finish during the main meal. Although turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sandwiches dipped in warm gravy are a great use for extra food, cooks can get more creative.

Kevin paid homage to his east coast roots (his father is a fisherman from Fall River, Massachusetts) and his deep love of chowder. He shared with us a turkey chowder that includes bacon, wild rice, and cashews. He also provided a recipe for leftover cranberries and, to go along with that, gave a tip for holiday food garnish: rolling slightly wet, whole cranberries in sugar is a simple, stunning, and tasty accent to a range of desserts, including his tart.

Kidd challenged himself to get creative with holiday leftovers. These recipes prove you can do more with them than a beloved but ordinary next-day sandwich.

Cranberry Tart

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 lb cranberries
• 1 ¼ c sugar
• ½ c water
• Or 2.5 cups leftover cranberries
• pinch salt
• 3 egg yolk
• 2t cornstarch
• 4 tbsp butter, softened
• 1 c flour
• ½ c cornstarch
• 1/3 c sugar
• ½ t salt
• 6 tbsp very soft or melted butter
• ¾ almond extract

DIRECTIONS:

If not using leftover cranberries, bring cranberries, sugar, water, and salt to a boil and then simmer for about 10 minutes. While cranberries are cooking, whisk egg yolks and cornstarch together until smooth.

In food processor, blend hot cranberries or warmed leftover cranberries (warm on the stove while constantly stirring, take care not to scorch them) and egg mixture until smooth. Let the mixture cool in the food processor while you make the crust. About 1 hour.

For the crust, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Whisk flour, cornstarch, sugar, and salt together. Add in the butter and extract. Stir until a dough forms. In a nine-inch tart pan with a removable bottom, crumble two thirds of the dough and press into even thickness. Crumble the other third around the edge and press around evenly. Place the tart pan on a baking sheet and bake until the crust is golden brown, about 20 minutes. Rotate once during cooking.

Add the softened butter to the cranberry puree and blend until smooth. Strain mixture through a fine mesh strainer set over a bowl, pressing all the liquid out of the mixture. Pour mixture into tart crust (it’s ok if crust is still warm), let sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours. To serve, remove from metal tart pan, cut into six or eight slices and garnish with whip cream.

Roasted Turkey Chowder

Yield: 6-8 servings

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 lbs roasted turkey, diced
• 1 lb pancetta, diced
• 4 stalks celery, small dice
• 2 carrots, small dice
• 2 onions, small dice
• ½ cup wild rice, cooked
• 4 oz toasted cashews, chopped
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 lb unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
• 1 qt milk
• 1 qt chicken stock
• Dash Worcestershire sauce
• Dash hot sauce
• Salt & pepper
• Parsley leaves

DIRECTIONS:

In a large pot, render pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Strain out the fat and set pancetta aside. Then, melt butter in the same pot, add celery, onion, and carrot and cook until translucent.

Add chopped sage, thyme, and cook for 2 minutes. Add flour and cook mixture until it thickens, scraping the bottom of the pan.Add chicken stock and milk, stir to combine, and bring up to a simmer.

Simmer for 5-10 minutes to cook out the flour. Add in pancetta and wild rice. Season with salt & pepper to taste. Add a dash of Worcestershire and hot sauce if desired. Stir in cubed turkey and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped cashews and parsley leaves.

The post Holiday Table Shakeup: Boulder County Chefs’ Secret Recipes are Different and Delicious appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

The dog days of summer have a few holidays mixed in you might not be aware of.

1) July 2: World UFO Day

2) July 11: National Free Slurpee Day (get it, 7/11?)

3) July 14: National Nude Day

4) July 21: National Hot Dog Day

5) July 31: National Mutt Day

The post French’s 5 | June 2021 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Ghouls and goblins, candy and parties, today Halloween is celebrated all over the world. America alone spends billions of dollars annually on the ghoulish holiday, but why do we celebrate Halloween? We here at Yellow Scene have all the answers behind your favorite Halloween traditions.G

Credit to HistoryChannel.com

The post A Look Inside Halloween appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

The Psychedelic Furs

On October 29, the Gothic Theatre will host a night of nostalgic alt-rock revelry. The Psychedelic Furs and the Lemonheads are on tour together, and that Denver show is a must see. We grabbed original Fur Tim Butler to find out what we can expect…O

The Psychedelic Furs play with the Lemonheads at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 29 at the Gothic Theatre; 3263 S. Broadway, Englewood; 303-789-9206; $35

Yellow Scene: It’s been a while since you were here – what have you been up to?

Tim Butler: We’ve toured pretty regularly. I’ve been working, trying to sort out a new record. We have the song ideas, we’re just waiting for Richard [Butler, singer] to get up to speed on the lyrics.

YS: It’s been a while since the last record…

TB: Oh yeah, it’s been since 1992. Of course, we took a break. Rich and I formed Love Spit Love. Then I left that and formed my own band, which didn’t do anything. We got back together in 2000. It’s not so long. But it’s still 14 years since we got back together, so I’m starting to get a bit agitated too.

YS: In those three years, has the line-up changed at all?

TB: No, it’s pretty solid. I think this is the best line-up we’ve ever had.

YS: Do you enjoy playing Colorado?

TB: Oh yeah, and especially the Gothic Theatre. It’s one of my favorite places in America. I love the old cinema with the bottom level taken out and the second level seats. The atmosphere at those sort of places and the Gothic in particular is a favorite of the whole band.

YS: What are your plans for the set?

TB: The hits and the almost-hits, of course. You get lynched if you don’t do those. The last few outings, we’ve been doing stuff that we haven’t played for a while from the first album and the second album.

The post Editor’s Picks – Bands and Burlesque appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Treat – Scary Eyes

Feast your eyes on this tasty snack!

Ingredients:

• 12 eggs
• 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 pinch celery salt

• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 2 drops green food coloring
• 1 can sliced black olives

Preparation:

1. Boil the eggs, then remove from the heat and let stand for about 15 minutes. Rinse under cold water and let the eggs cool completely. Peel the eggs, and slice them in half lengthwise.

2. Remove the yolks from the eggs and place them in a bowl. Mix with the relish, mayonnaise, celery salt, mustard, and food coloring. Spoon this filling into the egg whites and place them on a serving tray. Round the top of the filling, creating the eyeball effect.

3. Place an olive slice on each yolk to create the pupil of the eye. Dab a tiny bit of mayonnaise or sliced tomato in the center of the olive to complete the effect.

Treat – Witches Fingers

Finger-lickin’ Good for your Halloween Feast!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup softened butter
• 1 cup confectioners sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 2/3 cups flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ¾ cup whole almonds
• 1 tube red decorating gel

Preparation:

1. Combine the butter, sugar, egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Beat together with an electric mixer; gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt, continually beating; refrigerate 20 to 30 min.

2. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).

3. Remove dough from refrigerator in small amounts. Scoop 1 heaping teaspoon at a time onto a piece of waxed paper. Use the waxed paper to roll the dough into a thin finger-shaped cookie.

4. Press one almond into an end of each cookie for fingernails. Squeeze cookie near the tip and again near the center of each to give the impression of knuckles. You can also cut into the dough at the same points to help give a more finger-like appearance.

5. Arrange the shaped cookies on the baking sheets. Bake until the cookies are slightly golden in color, 20 to 25 min.

6. Remove the almond from the end of each cookie; squeeze a small amount of red decorating gel into the cavity; replace the almond to cause the gel to ooze out around the tip of the cookie.

The post Halloween – Recipes: Scary Eyes and Witches Fingers appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

It’s the Holy Grail of Halloween treats: a full sized candy bar, preferably chocolate, preferably Hershey’s. This year Halloween’s on a Friday night and come clear skies or a foot of snow, kids will be out there searching for the best areas for top notch treats. So let’s be sure to find them.I

“Louisville.” That’s what parent’s keep saying when asked which town has the best treats this time of year. “A lot of homes are decorated in Louisville, “says Jenny Hart, mother of three. “We have a party down (here) because Vista Lane and West Mulberry are so great for candy and decorations.”

Old Town Lafayette has its own rustic charms, and with the nice grid layout of the neighborhoods it makes door-to-door treat hunting easy. Be sure to get off the highway and visit the smaller shops, sometimes we forget they serve up more than peach cobbler over there.

With a name like Erie, you know this town’s got Halloween buckled down. But if you can only pick one neighborhood, drop by Erie Village. With its neo-Victorian architecture, neighbors make the most of the season with haunted houses popping up from year to year. A walk through the Village on any autumn afternoon is sure to stir up the holiday spirit.

Keep your eyes peeled these weeks leading up to Halloween. One or two families can turn a blah neighborhood into an “aaaaaaaah!” neighborhood overnight. If you’re too busy dashing around, you may miss a nearby celebration zone. It’s become a theme lately, sticking close to home, especially after so many communities had to pull together last year in the 100 Year Flood’s wake. It’s become on trend for friends to put on family potlucks and neighborhoods to close down a whole block for local partie. The Village at Five Parks, a suburban area South of Superior in Arvada, is a prime example of how to keep celebrations close to home. With Miekeljohn Elementary in the middle of several subdivisions, almost everyone has a child or grandchild coming by.

But kids, especially older ones, still want to venture out in search of bigger hauls. Of course, Rock Creek in Superior is always a good place to hit up if you don’t mind the upward and downward climb. Clayton Circle got an extra knowing look and waggling of eyebrows from preteens this season. Gossip is not the best reliable source however. So if you want to find the best neighborhoods this year, or any year, you need to do your research.

The post Halloween – Best Trick or Treat Neighborhoods appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

‘Tis the season for—what else—company holiday parties.

Time to spend a few unpaid hours with your co-workers. Time to drink martinis and cocktails on your boss’s tab and fill up your Facebook page with incriminating photos of your cubicle neighbors. And most of all, it’s time to build moral. Time for the boss to give an exceptionally captivating speech that will motive staff members for one more year and time for the staff to share their well thought out business models that typically involve an increase in their personal salary.

The best holiday parties involve events that shouldn’t be talked about at the water cooler, but usually end up being shared with everyone from the postal worker that delivers the mail on Monday, to your boss’s sister who heard from her sister-in-law about the office party shenanigans.

So whether you are the boss, or you got stuck planning the holiday party this year– check out the venues below. You’ll be sure to be a hit. Your co-workers will probably feel the need to buy you drinks all night and will only say good things about you at the water cooler come Monday.

Lucky Pie Pizza | 637 Front St. | Louisville
Contact: Tony Firestone | 3.666.5743 | tony@luckypiepizza.com
Event Space: Seating for up to 30 people in a semi-private lounge space
Venue Rental Fee: No rental fee, however, there is a food and beverage minimum
If your office is on the smaller side, then you should definitely check out this venue. Lucky Pie is popular restaurant located in Old Town Louisville with a stellar menu filled with hand-crafted brick oven pizzas along with plenty of other delicious offerings. Lucky Pie also boasts one of the best craft beer line-ups locally, and is the perfect place to take your crew for a good time.

Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art | 1750 13th St. | Boulder
Contact: Laura Post | 3.443.2122 ext. 14 | laura@bmoca.org
Event Space: A private upstairs holds up to 150 and the entire venue holds 300 people
Venue Rental Fee: $800-$2,500 (depending on event details)
This venue is perfect for a larger office full of creative folks that dig the Pearl St. scene. This open space is ideal to set up round guest tables for a seated dinner or high top cab tables to enjoy an cocktails and hors d’oeurves at. Three Leaf Concepts, (the creators of popular Boulder restaurants such as: The Dunshanbe Teahouse, Aji and Leaf),  has exclusive catering rights on the edgy art gallery, so you know the food will be delicious.

The West End Tavern | 926 Pearl St. | Boulder
Contact: Kristin Schuette | events@thewestendtavern.com
Event Space: Private upstairs with a seating for 50 people
Venue Rental Fee: No rental fee, however, there is a food and beverage minimum
If your co-workers are always talking about the last home brew they made, and which microbrewery they visited over the weekend, then this venue is for you. With over 22 of the most popular/best craft brews that are available locally, the West End’s private bar upstairs will be packed with your co-workers all night. Get a taste of Boulder and the best of Boulder’s brewery scene in the private upstairs section of one of the Big Red F’s most popular restaurants.

Nissis | 2675 North Park Dr. | Lafayette
Contact: Marc Gitlin | 3.665.2757 | marc@nissis.com
Event Space: Can accommodate any size group with private space for 200 people
Venue Rental Fee: As small as cover for live music, as large as a fee for the entire venue rental
Employees want to have fun at their company holiday party, and what’s more fun than getting dressed up, catching some live music and dining on some a delicious a delicious menu full of every entrée item you’d want at your holiday party. And—Nissi’s has already done all of the hard work for you. Check out their selection of pre-made event packages here with pricing, details and all of the info that you need to make your holiday party the talk of the office park.

Left Hand Brewing | 1265 Boston Ave. | Longmont
Contact: 3.772.0258  ext. 110
Event Space: see pictures here
If you work in the Longmont area, chances are that your co-workers head over the Left Hand Brewing Tap Room after a long day at work. So what better place to get everybody together, share a beer, eat some grub and celebrate making it through another year together. Brewery tours available by request.

The post The Bolder Life: ‘Tis the Season appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Holiday shopping can be daunting—but you know what they say: No pain, no gain. YS has compiled our favorite Colorado-made items into one big gift-wrapped package, perfect for everyone in your life.

For the Outdoorsy Subaru Set
For the Rustic Style
Mom’s not the only one to Get Practical
Gifts that Celebrate the Artist
Finding the Eclectic Elements
Gifts that Give Back
Gifts that Keep Giving

The post The Ultimate Locavore’s Gift and Giving Guide appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Light Bright

There are a lot of parades of lights this time of year, but few offer the chance for everyone and their mother to participate. Louisville’s parade does just that, and the only rules are that your “float” entry must have lights and not include a Santa (he’s apparently very brand-aware, and doesn’t like people messing with his carefully cultivated image). So, here’s your chance to wrap your ’89 Pontiac Sunbird in LEDs and convince yourself it’s a “classic.” The festivities get going at 6 pm Dec. 3 at the Louisville Chamber of Commerce, 901 Main St., Louisville, 303.666.5747

Swing, Swing

Last year’s 1940s WWII Christmas Ball was one of the biggest parties of the year in Boulder County. Apparently, Americans’ nostalgia for the Greatest Generation and the ’40s knows no bounds (and we’ll go ahead and steer clear of discussion of the invention of the nuclear bomb, America’s racial polarization and the rise of the Red Scare). The outfits were keen and the music was swingin’, and that’s what this shindig’s all about. At the Elks Lodge, Dec. 10, 3975 28th St., Boulder, 303.946.9227

From the Streets

If Shepard Fairey’s fame says anything (he’s the artist behind the iconic Obama “Hope” posters), it’s that the graffiti subculture is a legitimate art movement (no, we’re not talking about crappy gang tags) that warrants discussion. The Longmont Museum and Cultural Center
is hosting an exhibit called Street Cred: Graffiti Art from Concrete to Canvas that explores the amazing art of southern California’s finest street artists. Check it out; you’ll be amazed at what you see. 400 Quail Rd., Longmont, 303.651.8374

Meet Black Joe

If the late James Brown had a more nicotine-encrusted voice and his band had a scathing Fender Telecaster cranking front and center at full volume (with photos of big booty women taped on it), you’d have a decent approximation of Austin-based Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears. The funky rhythms, Lycra-tight horns and raspy vocals of Lewis add up to an overwhelming groove and melt-your-face energy that will put your feet into overdrive. Nov. 22, Fox Theater, Boulder, all ages, $15.

French’s Five

Tired of giving out mugs and candles for the holidays? It’s time to spice things up. Here, this year’s mostly awesome gift list:

1) To infinity and beyond It’s a hard drive! No, it’s a time machine! No, it’s a hard drive… $250 bit.ly/timemachinedrive

2) Carbon freeze Han Solo is frozen in carbonite ice! $9.99 bit.ly/hansoloicecubetray

3) Just like me I’m a bobblehead. Covet me. $139 bit.ly/bobbleheadme

4) Ready for take off An RC helicopter with a video camera you control with your iPhone. $289.99 bitly.com/iphonechopper

5) Tea time The best driver ever made. $89.99 bit.ly/golfclubdrinks

The post Editor’s Picks: Nov. ’11 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Owner Merry Ann Webb’s mother, Juanita Edwards, makes all the cakes served up at The Rib House. At 81, she’s still going strong. Her cakes are rich, moist and a favorite of those who enjoy savory sweet cake after a meal of ribs and brisket. They are so coveted Webb couldn’t divulge the recipes for the cakes served in-house. Never fear, Edwards offered a family favorite: Her holiday chocolate pumpkin cake will put smiles on the faces of your holiday party guests with subtle spices of the season and a to-die-for dose of gooey chocolate goodness. (It sure put smiles on our faces when she snuck us a slice!)

Cake Ingredients

• 1-1/2 C flour

• 2/3 C cocoa

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 C buttermilk

• 1 C pumpkin puree

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 3/4 C butter, softened

• 1 C dark brown sugar

• 1 C granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1 egg yolk

Instructions

1. Line the bottoms of two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper and lightly butter them.

2. Sift the flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt together. Stir the buttermilk, pumpkin and vanilla extract together in a small bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and yolk, one at a time. Reduce mixer speed to low and alternately beat in the flour and buttermilk mixtures in thirds.

3. Pour the batter into the prepared pans. Bake until a tester, inserted in the center, comes out clean, about 35 minutes. Cool layers completely before icing.

Icing Ingredients

• 6 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1-1/2 C confectioners’ sugar

• 2-1/4 tsp cocoa

• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

• 3/4 tsp vanilla

• 1-1/2 C heavy cream

• 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar

• 1/4 tsp orange food coloring

Instructions

1. Beat softened cream cheese using a mixer on medium-high speed until fluffy. Add the 1-1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, cocoa, cinnamon, and vanilla and beat on low speed until well combined. In a separate bowl, beat heavy cream with the 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar and orange food coloring on medium-high to soft peaks.

2. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined. Spread 1 cup frosting between the two layers and use the remaining frosting to ice the top and sides of the cake. Chill 30 minutes and proceed to glaze.

Glaze Ingredients

4 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped

1 T unsalted butter, cold

3 T corn syrup

1/2 C heavy cream

Instructions

1. Place bittersweet chocolate, butter and corn syrup in a heatproof bowl. Bring cream to a boil, pour over chocolate. Let sit for 3 minutes. Gently stir, with a whisk, until smooth. Let sit for 3–5 minutes until thickened slightly. Pour glaze onto the center of the frosted cake. Smooth out to the edges to allow the glaze to drip over the sides.

The post Mom’s Chocolate Pumpkin Cake appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

It’s officially the holiday season. As some of you are reading this, you’re probably already entertaining out of town in-laws and possibly some ex out-laws all while reading and testing recipes in hopes of not being the one that screws up the family’s traditional Thanksgiving meal.

Thanksgiving is hard work—for everyone. Whether you’re the one responsible for making enough edible food for the entire family, or you’re the smallest of the half-pints at the kids table with the biggest tummy ache from eating too much, Turkey Day definitely is not a piece of cake… or pie.

So why not eat out this year? Dining out on Thanksgiving is no longer reserved for cooking-impaired single parents or out-of-towners unable to make the trip home for the holidays. Dining out on Thanksgiving has become a trendy new tradition and several of Boulder County’s best dining establishments will be opening their doors this year and serving their take on a delicious, traditional Thanksgiving feast.

Check out this list of local restaurants serving turkey to the masses this week—and as I always say… make reservations! Trust me—your family will eventually forgive you if you burn a turkey, make inedible mashed potatoes and forget to buy booze for the meal, but they will not forgive you if they get stuck eating bags of chips and soda from the only convenience store still open on Thanksgiving day.

Peaceful Valley Ranch
475 Peaceful Valley Road | Lyons | 1-800-95-LODGE
Take the family to the mountains this year and dine on a traditional Thanksgiving dinner buffet at the scenic Peaceful Valley Ranch. Rent snowshoes, cross-country skis, or take a hike around the property grounds before or after your meal to help burn off that second piece of pumpkin pie while spending some quality time in the outdoors with the family.
Served buffet style from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
$24.95 Ages 13-54
$18.95 Ages 55 and older
$12.95 Ages 4-12 and Ages 3 and Under Eat Free

The St. Julien Hotel
900 Walnut St. | Boulder | 720-406-7399
Whether your family is the breakfast, brunch of dinner type on Thanksgiving, the St. Julien will have a meal ready for you. Early birds can catch breakfast from 6:30-9:30 a.m. The brunch type will dine from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., and the dinner folk can get together from 5:30 – 10 p.m. Enjoy live piano music by Ralph Sharon throughout the day, and be sure to bring your family and friends to listen to one of my personal favorite local musicians, George Nelson, at 6:30 p.m.  
Breakfast and Brunch served buffet style and choose your own three-course meal for dinner.
Breakfast and Brunch: $44.95/adult | $19.95/kids
Dinner: $49.95/adult | $19.95/kids

Colterra
210 Franklin St. | Niwot | 303-652-0777
Colterra’s dining room has all the same intimate charm as your own dining room and is the perfect place to take your out of town friends and family to sample some of Colorado’s locally grown food. Invite your guests to choose their own three-course menus from Colterra’s Thanksgiving inspired special menu and enjoy wine from Colterra’s extensive wine list.
Three-course menu: $45.00/adult
                                          $22.50/children 12 & under  
 

Black Cat: Farm-to-Table Bistro
1964 13^th St | Boulder | 303-444-5500
Join Black Cat for Thanksgiving this year with a thoughtful and tasty way to not only celebrate the holiday, but to help support your community as well. The owners of the Black Cat are opening their doors for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner where guests are invited to pay what they can for their meal or leave a little extra to help someone less fortunate. All proceeds from this special meal will be donated to Community Food Share.

The post The Bolder Life: Thanksgiving on the Town appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Don’t let the recent heat wave in Colorado fool you—summer is officially on its last leg, and what better way to bid it farewell than a three-day weekend full of fun, sun, and time away from the office. For most, Labor Day Weekend offers the chance to take that last camping trip to the mountains or hit the beach with the kids one last time, but for many, Labor Day 2011 will be spent in their own backyards—grilling free-range, organic hamburgers served with produce grown in their own gardens.  If you’re planning on sticking close to home this weekend, here’s a list of fun, local ways to celebrate the end of summer without leaving the county.

Louisville’s 76^th Annual Labor Day Parade (September 2-5th)

What’s more American than throwing an annual parade to say goodbye to summer and celebrate one of the most popular holidays in the United States ? The City of Louisville is throwing their 76^th annual Labor Day Parade on Saturday morning which kicks off at 10 a.m. on the corner of Main and Lafayette streets. Other weekend activities include: a pancake breakfast, car show, horseshoe tournament, pie contest and dog show. Click here for more details and a complete list of events.

Rudi’s Organic—Boulder Marathon, Half Marathon, Marathon Relay & 10 K (September 5^th)

So you’re the responsible, athletic type—and do things like run marathons in your spare time. If this sounds like you, then you need to hurry and register for one of the races being held on Monday at the Boulder Reservoir. Full marathon, half marathon, 10 k… pick your poison and enjoy 85 degree weather as you spend your Labor Day giving your running shoes a mini tour of Boulder County.  Click here for race details and registration info.

Fishing

No need to wait for hours in backed-up traffic to find the great outdoors—just visit one of the many lakes and rivers in Boulder County to get your wilderness fix in. Check out the Front Range Anglers website for updates and tips on recommendations on flies and places to fish. Boulder Creek, Clear Creek and McCall Lake… grab your rod and reel, take the family, and make a day of it.

Labor Day Celebration at Nissi’s (September 4^th)

Do you usually skip Sunday night music in an effort to successfully tackle your Monday morning obligations? Well it’s a good thing that you have Monday off, because Nissi’s in Lafayette has invited AOA- Arrive on Arrival out for a big Labor Day Celebration! Tickets are only $5.00 which means you’ll have more to spend on Nissi’s extensive and delicious food menu. Visit Nissi’s website for my info on the band. 

Boulder Creek Hometown Fair (September 3-5th)

Close out a fantastic summer events season in Boulder with the 13^th Annual Hometown Fair, located in Central Park and the Boulder Public Library Lawn. This fair will feature over 100 arts and crafts exhibits along with a food court, beer garden, live music, chili inferno cook-off and The Great Zucchini Race in which kids get to decorate giant zucchinis, add wheels to them, and race them down the Great Zucchini Ramp. (Sadly, I’m too old to compete in this event, so zucchini racing will have to be a spectator sport for me this Labor Day…). This event runs all weekend and has a little something for everyone.

 And if you have your heart set on leaving town…

Check the CDOT website for a breakdown of current travel conditions along with tips for making it a safe holiday weekend on the road. Traffic between the hours of noon-8 p.m. typically tends to be the worst on Friday and Monday, so plan accordingly, drive safely, and have a great Labor Day Weekend!!

The post The Bolder Life: Local Ways to Spend Your 3 Laborless Days appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Just Dance

In the ’90s, the rave scene was the story-du-jour for media looking for the latest “corrupted youth” angle. Horror stories of roofies and general miscreant-ivity centered around a dance culture that was, in truth, far less dangerous. Now, events are sponsored by energy drinks and held in legally zoned venues. The 11th Annual Caffeine Music and Arts Festival is an example, featuring music from more than 40 of the worlds hottest DJs spinning the best drum and bass, house, electronic and dubstep. March 26, 1st Bank Center, 11450 Broomfield Lane, Broomfield, caffeinefestival.com

A Picture of Health

Wellness therapy isn’t a cottage industry anymore. Nowhere is that more evident than in Colorado. The 15th Annual Taste of Therapy Wellness Fair is a great chance for the unindoctrinated to expose themselves to new modes of thinking when it comes to general health and wellness. Practitioners of every mode will be in attendance hosting sessions. Chair massages, nutritional consultations and physical therapy are some of what awaits. April 9, 9am–3pm, St. Vrain Memorial Building, 700 Longs Peak Ave., Longmont, 303.651.8394

AI

Pirates. Ninjas. Pirate ninjas. These are universally agreed upon to be the only things as cool as or cooler than robots (if you’ve got a robotic pirate ninja, you are the coolest person in the universe). Robots are awesome, and the Theater Company of Lafayette dedicated March to exploring the topic. They’ll perform seven shows that celebrate the 90th anniversary of the coining of the term “robot.” Catch both performances to see all seven shows: March 25–26, 7:30pm, Mary Miller Theater, 300 E. Simpson St., Lafayette, tclstage.org

Go East

There’s more to Asia than weird cartoons, awesome foods and microtonal music (and yes, we’re talking about the continent, not the ’80s prog rock group). The 10th Annual Asia Day festival explores all sorts of nooks and crannies of the Asian cultures with sessions on martial arts, socio-economic growth, dance, theater, calligraphy, cuisine, film and even agriculture. March 12, CU-Boulder Center for Asian Studies, 366 UCB, Boulder, colorado.edu/cas/asiaday.html

French’s Five

In honor of March’s St. Patrick’s Day, a holiday Americans happily turned into an excuse for binge drinking and parades, here are five moments that shaped Irish history.

1) Beginner’s Luck: 432: St. Patrick arrives on his mission to convert the Gaels.

2) Stroke of Luck: 795: The Vikings land in Ireland.

3) Pure Luck: 1475: The invention of shepherd’s pie.

4) Better Luck: 1769: The first barrels of Guinness were shipped to England.

5) Rotten Luck: 1845-49: The Great Famine results in the Irish mass emigration to the U.S.

The post Editor’s Picks: March 2011 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

If it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a neighborhood to nurture an adult.

As the heart of the Holiday neighborhood in north Boulder, the Wild Sage common house kitchen and dining area feeds any number of its 34 families and their neighbors about three times a week and brings residents together to celebrate events, support one another and manage their neighborhood.

Linda Tate moved to Wild Sage, one of Boulder’s four cohousing communities, in 2006, and married Jim Rebman in the Wild Sage common house in 2007.

“The common house is a sacred space for me because we got married here,” said Linda Tate, a writer for corporate and non-profit communications and marketing. “Then we had the dinner and reception in the common house, spilling out onto the green. It’s hard to put into words what’s it’s like to every day walk past the spot where you got married.”

She said the Wild Sage community came together as “team hitch” to hold the wedding and theirs was the first announcement on the Holiday sign since the theater closed.

“It was a real community event,” she said.

Around 2000, Holiday began its transformation from the former home of a drive-in theater to a site of roughly 330 Habitat for Humanity, Boulder Housing Partners, Affordable Housing Alliance and market-rate homes. Now, the bulk of the units have been sold, and the neighborhood is raising its family around common houses with well-used community kitchens, dining rooms, craft areas, living rooms, spare bedrooms, a hot tub and even yoga rooms.

Architect Bryan Bowen, owner of Bryan Bowen Architects, designed and built the Wild Sage common house for Jim Logan Architects. The idea of an intentional, shared community engaged people from the beginning, building momentum for the overall Holiday project, which is finished with the exception of two lots that will be Habitat homes, Bowen said.

“We’re eating here at the common house between two and three times a week right now and one of those meals is typically cooked in the common house,” he said. “There’s a high level of casual usage. People are using the wood shop or hot tub or the exercise yoga room, or they’re coming in to do guitar night in the family room downstairs or watch a movie on the big screen, all kinds of little things.”

Two guest rooms in the basement offset the need to have guest rooms in the houses.

“So when your mom comes to visit, she can stay there, which gives you a comfortable amount of elbow room,” Bowen said.

This is especially true for those community members who live in the neighborhood’s economically sized, densely placed housing units, including Bowen. Boulder Housing Partners received a density bonus for building an average of 20 dwelling units per acre, after the roads are taken from the calculation. Forty percent of the homes are considered affordable through sweat equity, reduced rate, subsidies by the City of Boulder, or Habitat home programs.

Clustering the homes densely promotes a level of sharing that prevents landfill dumping, Bowen said. Two lawn mowers might take care of Wild Sage’s 34 homes, for example.

“Sharing resources is hard to quantify, but a very big piece of sustainability,” he said.

This makes the neighborhood more sustainable over time, he said, as does proximity to public transportation and its accessibility to bikes.

“(BHP) took each block and they gave it to a local developer who they felt was a good, trustable partner,” Bowen said. “Everything was based on this new sort of new urbanist street scape and having a lot of mixed use, and they wanted to have a lot of local, community things happening here.”

Willa Johnson, a project manager with Boulder Housing Partners for the Holiday neighborhood from 2001 to 2005, said the plans were for a mixed use neighborhood, with attention to details such as the neighborhood park, revamping the old Holiday sign, and designing Holiday Drive around the old theater speaker system.

“(Holiday) was a 27-acre site that was kind of in an anvil shape,” Johnson said. “We purchased the land and took it through a master planning process and made commitments around how much affordable housing we were going to provide and designed guidelines on what kind of community we wanted to create.”

Following the initial planning stage, BHP hired developers to prepare lots, and individual contractors to develop their own portions of Holiday.

“When you walk through the neighborhood, there’s sort of a lot of variety because it’s a lot of different architects, different developers,” Johnson said. “Frankly, a busy level of variety.”

Then BHP bought 50 units for affordable rental housing, which are scattered throughout the neighborhood, she said.

“The neighborhood really serves the full spectrum,” Johnson said.

She said Holiday includes 10 units that serve people who were formerly homeless, which are deeply service enriched with caseworkers and rent control. The lowest income population is served through the rental program.

“Then (it’s) all the way up to the single-family houses that are half a million or more,” Johnson said.

In that rainbow of housing options, roughly 100 units are affordable-home ownership, followed by market-rate condos and then market-rate, single-family homes, she said.

The Affordable Housing Alliance uses sweat equity to bring affordable homes to the area. Within Wild Sage, there are four Habitat homes in a multi-family building that were built in concurrence with the surrounding homes with the assistance of the general contractor, Bowen said.

Tate praised the community for being an intentional form of communal living, for initiating and managing any changes to its community’s lifestyle. As active community members, Tate and Rebman, one of the first home owners in Wild Sage and a member of the HOA board, organize, do computer work and write for community events, members and organizations.

“I think of it as a condo association meets a commune,” she said. “You have an HOA, but it’s an intentional community, so everybody is working together. There is no property management company. There is no ‘them’ doing the work of running the community. We run the community.”

She said cohousing is a perfect fit for she and her husband, who work from home. Cohousing is intimate and familial, an environment she thrives in, she said. Her husband, a blind software tester, lived and worked out of his home in Wild Sage before Tate came to live with him.

“You get married in this place,” Tate said. “We’ve had home births. (Bowen’s) second child was a home birth. We haven’t had any residents pass away yet, but that’s inevitable. There have been people with great illnesses, and it’s intimate. We’re in each other’s homes. We take care of each other. It wouldn’t be for everybody to have an extended family of 34 households.”

The cohousing planners and early buyers were the first in, with a vision of the community and a commitment to living in the area, Johnson said. They continue to actively participate in the community, volunteering on boards, committees and associations to maintain the site.

“We created a homeowner’s association that governs the entire neighborhood and they do Eco Passes for the neighborhood, they do movies in the park, they maintain elements of the sight that are held in common,” Johnson said. “The cohousing folks have been really gracious to lead those initiatives and volunteer on the board to be particularly engaged and set a great example.”

The Holiday community took roughly 10 to 15 years to complete, from idea to construction. The Holiday cohousing communities were planned around the common houses and the idea of the third place, Bowen said.

“It was going to be where people gathered,” he said. “Everyone has a home and their work, and the third place has to be something that satisfies you in other ways aside from those first two places. It could be a church or a neighborhood bar or your yoga studio, but now a lot of people have the common house as their third place.”

Tate described the common house as exactly that.

“Ninety-nine percent of my social life is this community,” she said. “I never get tired of my neighbors.”

The post Common Ground appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Could we as a country be in deeper doo-doo? That was what immediately popped into my mind as I watched in disbelief and disgust the collection of video from news broadcasts compiled about the Black Friday shopper stampede.

Hundreds of corpulent capitalists bursting through the doors of department stores all over the country in order to save money by spending money on crap they really don’t need and that in all likelihood will break in the days and weeks after Christmas and be relegated to the recycling bin or, worse, the trash.

The economy is in tatters? Unemployment is still around 10 percent? You wouldn’t know it by looking at that bit of video. And I know that those breaking down the store doors aren’t in the majority, but they represent an ethos on which the big corporations have bet heavily: Don’t get in the way of our buying cheap crap and we’ll keep our mouths shut about how we get treated by a government that those same corporations have bought and paid for to act in their self-interest.

The horse race reporting about the holiday economy lets us know we, as consumers, must do our part and spend (or charge on credit cards) as needed to keep the purveyors of said crap afloat; or at least fuel the stock dividends that will keep investors and CEOs flush with obscene amounts of cash. In so doing, we are performing our patriotic duty as human fuel for one of the world’s largest economic engines.

Despite this being the holidays, I think there’s a little room, as a country, for being selfish. Specifically, I am advocating voting in one’s own self-interest. And by that I mean not swallowing the twisted message that we can’t afford the $33 billion needed to keep the unemployment checks coming to those out of work.

Whether we realize it or not, those unemployment checks will make the difference between this holiday season being one for retailers to celebrate or one to lament. The load of lies being spewed—that we can’t afford extending those benefits (but we can afford to put an average of $100,000 in the pocket of everyone in the country who makes over a $1 million a year); that they just make people lazy and not want to look for a real job in the first place—is disgusting. When compared to the billions in corporate welfare—read: the money we don’t collect from oil companies, manufacturers and the like in taxes and other fees—and the ever shrinking tax rate on the richest 2 percent of this country, we can more than afford to offer a helping hand to those who are still feeling the effects of an economic tsunami. A tsunami, mind you, that was created in by the millionaires and billionaires who gambled and lost at the mortgage roulette table. (Ironic, isn’t it, that we now can’t afford to save those now out-of-work taxpayers whose taxes paid to bail out those fat cats two years ago.)

Oh and just in case you’re wanting to swallow that garbage about how taxing the rich will kill jobs because they’re the entrepreneurs, know this: Only 3 percent of small business owners are in that top 2 percent tax bracket. And there are ways to deal with that. Also, rich people don’t go stampeding into Wal-mart the day after Thanksgiving. And they certainly haven’t been putting off buying a washer and dryer, or getting shoes for the kids or tires for the car; the Porsche came with new Pirelli’s after all. They instead use their tax break to buy more Wal-mart stock.

So do yourself a favor, whether you’re employed or not. Call Sens. Udall and Bennet and your Congresspeople—Polis, Perlmutter, Markey or DeGette—and let them know that extending unemployment benefits—not lowering taxes for the richest 2 percent—is the right thing to do this holiday season. There’s nothing wrong with looking out for yourself.

The post Who Would Jesus Help? appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

In every bookstore in America, dozens of different diet books will replace Christmas merchandise as December becomes January and thoughts of sugar plums become thoughts of elastic waistbands. Resolutions to climb Fourteeners or run the Bolder Boulder will be made. Gym memberships will go on sale and fitness stores will run deep discounts on treadmills, elliptical trainers and hand weights. Hundreds of thousands of us will make a commitment to counting our calories, cutting out fat or giving up carbs after a holiday season of overindulgence and regret.

But to what end? Statistics show that a dismally small number of people who adopt a diet will manage to keep off any weight they lose in the long term. Yet the statistics rarely seem to deter the masses wishing for a smaller waistline.

Then again, there are always those people who seem to manage their weight effortlessly. From the outside looking in, it appears as though they can eat whatever they want, whenever they want and never gain a pound. She’s got higher metabolism than me, we think (a little jealously) as we commit to our latest diet. Or even he’s got more willpower.

“There’s that misperception that they have this great metabolism or willpower,” says Dr. Michelle May, author of Eat What You Love, Love What You Eat. “But when you look at their behaviors, they are intuitively connected to their hunger and fullness clues. They might eat something purely for pleasure, but they don’t feel guilt, and if they feel more full than they like, they might skip their next snack or their next meal.”

In truth, the one thing they probably have that other people don’t is the ability to listen to their body. Even for the health- and spirit-conscious residents of our North Metro area, the temptation is to listen to gurus—diet books and life coaches and maybe even spirit guides—rather than our own bodies. This skill, alternately called intuitive or mindful eating, can be the holy grail for chronic dieters, but it can be much harder than it sounds.

These coveted skills are often apparent in very young children, who haven’t yet learned to fear fat or sugar, who haven’t been conditioned to clean their plate. But can those same skills be re-taught to adults hungry for a way out of the dieting cycle they’ve been stuck in for years?

In 1995, Evelyn Tribole and Elyse Resch, dieticians and nutrition therapists, came out with a book entitled Intuitive Eating, and their approach to non-dieting as a way to heal broken relationships with food sparked something of a revolution. Whether it’s called intuitive eating, mindful eating or another of-the-moment catch phrase, the concept is the same: eating according to the cues from your body and not based on any external forces.

For example, we all know that feeling when a craving strikes: We have to have chips—and right now. Someone on a diet might consult the rules in her book or in her head and find out that chips have too much fat or too many carbs, and then try to convince herself that a handful of carrots will curb her “crunchy” craving. Someone not dieting but not listening to his body either might open the bag of chips while sitting down to watch TV, and look up an hour later to find the entire package gone.

A person practicing mindful eating, on the other hand, might ask herself what was actually behind the craving and discover that she’s actually feeling sad or lonely. She might choose to eat the chips or she might not, but at that point, she is making an informed decision and not reacting without thinking.
Aside from being a recovered yo-yo dieter herself, May is a practicing physician and creator of a series of workshops that, along with her book, aim to help people reach this state of understanding with their own bodies.

“People come to this when they’ve just had it,” she explains. “They know diets don’t work because they’ve tried everything. The reason the diet industry has been so pervasive is that they do appear to work; the diet works in the short term. But then people can’t stick with it, so they think they’re the problem. They don’t recognize that dieting itself drives more obsession and distracts them. Diets don’t address the underlying reason that you’re eating food you don’t need.”

Lisa Turner, a food therapist based in Boulder who focuses on mindful eating in her practice, agrees: “People come in and they want to talk about the food, and there’s so much more that’s involved with it. It becomes a whole body and whole lifestyle practice.”

A practice that begins with asking a simple question: Am I hungry? In Western societies, we have become so used to eating for other reasons—boredom, sadness, happiness and celebration, because a diet says so, or even visual cues and advertising—that this simple question and its honest answers become an extremely powerful tool for reconnecting with our body’s ability to regulate itself.

“We’ve spent almost our entire lives, especially women, on some kind of a diet. It’s the way that our culture operates,” Turner says. “So the biggest challenge is letting go of those rules and trusting your body. If you’re paying attention to your body, it gives very sophisticated feedback.”

May takes it a step further, urging the people she works with to answer the question “not with judgment, but just awareness.” So that, even if you’re not hungry, but you still want the cookie, you go ahead and eat the cookie—hopefully with a deeper understanding of why you wanted the cookie in the first place.
At this point, many people begin to look skeptically on the entire process.

“If I eat whatever I want,” the argument goes, “I’ll gain even more weight. I’ll never stop.”

But May, Turner and Westminster psychologist Lesley Goth all say that this usually isn’t the case.

Goth, who specializes in treating eating disorders, says that someone truly doing the work that goes along with intuitive eating will have a deeper understanding of why they want that cookie.

“(We ask) what purpose is food serving for you and why has this unhealthy relationship with food developed? Eating disorders are usually about a lot of unresolved hurt and anger that patients haven’t dealt with. And once people can learn how to deal with these in healthier ways, food doesn’t become as much of an issue.”

Allowing oneself to eat, even when we’re not hungry, and realizing that no foods are off limits seems completely counterintuitive—“I call it uncommon sense,” May says with a laugh—and runs against everything the diet industry and media often tell us.

“For someone who’s never done that, it’s scary as hell,” Turner admits. “If you’ve counted calories since you were 12 years old, there’s no way you can just stop cold turkey.”

But the entire idea of intuitive or mindful eating revolves around the fact that it is a process. According to these experts and despite what the diet industry might like us to believe, there are no quick fixes on this journey. As popular diet programs have become fond of saying, it’s a lifestyle: a series of everyday moments in which a person must pause and consider the true scope of feelings every time he wants to reach for a morsel of food.

For those who feel that sort of missive a little abstract, “I think reading books is a great place to start,” Goth says. “If you feel like you need more support or more help then maybe start working with a nutritionist and letting them know that that’s the goal: intuitive eating. Most women in particular have some struggle with food at some level. They don’t have to have a diagnosed eating disorder.”

For those people, they just need a little extra support.

“Let every day just become a choice,” Turner suggests. “If you believe a diet is going to work for you, then by all means try it. And if it doesn’t, maybe you can give your body a break and see if there’s something different you can do that might change what you’re trying to change.”

Intuitive eating isn’t about rules, or calorie counts, or meal plans. There’s no way to say what an average day as an intuitive eater might look like, because it’s entirely personal, an entirely unique approach to an individual’s own needs. And while it’s not a magic bullet, Goth, Turner and May all believe it is the one way to get off the diet rollercoaster for good.

“It becomes a process where it’s not the expert saying what you should or shouldn’t eat,” May says, “but teaching people how to become the expert on themselves, learn how to monitor their own thinking and increase their own awareness about why they do what they do in the first place. It’s realizing that you truly have the ability to make wise decisions.”

The post Ditching the Diet appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

When I was a child, every Christmas was marked by at least one full day of cookie-baking madness. Family friends would come to the house where my mother was busy mixing and rolling and cutting dozens upon dozens of sugar cookies and molasses cookies while we children were sat around the kitchen table, armed with colored sugar, egg-yolk paint, frosting and sprinkles, ready to decorate.

Some years the treats were earmarked for bake sales and Christmas parties; other years, they hung like the finest ornaments on loops of ribbon and yarn from the branches of our Christmas tree. There was also the requisite making of “Texas trash”—a chocolate-coated mess of pretzels, nuts and crunchy cereals—Chex mix and “puppy chow”—chocolate and peanut butter-coated cereal bites dusted in powdered sugar. The urge to DIY a few gifts at Christmas was instilled in me at an early age.

I can clearly remember the first time I tried to make Grandma’s molasses cookies on my own: in my dorm kitchen, with a cheap handheld mixer that nearly burned out because it couldn’t handle the six cups of flour and sticky molasses called for in the recipe. And then there was the year I decided to make and mail mini peppermint cheesecakes to all my gift recipients. Perhaps not the brightest idea I’ve ever had.
Still, they were necessary steps in my evolution as a foodie and, thusly, as a homemade food gift giver. Now I start well ahead; I plan treats and packaging that will survive the postal service. And I’ve branched out quite a bit from plain cookies (though Grandma’s molasses gingies will always make an appearance).

Food gifts need not be labor intensive or expensive. One of my favorite gifts to give is a jar of spiced nuts. If you can make Chex mix, you can make spiced nuts. Customized blends of spices, dry rubs or mulling spices for wine or cider make excellent, easy gifts. This year, I picked and dried bunches of herbs from my garden, which will be divvied up into muslin bags and put into gift baskets for friends and family—a great way to use up a bounty I would otherwise never get through on my own.

Cookies are only slightly more difficult, and most people feel comfortable with them. They needn’t be fancy to be appreciated by the recipient. In fact, I try to forgo any anxiety over my lack of Martha Stewart perfection and remember that these homemade gifts need not look like they came from an expensive store. That’s sort of the point.

Candies can range from easy (fudge, or anything dipped in chocolate) to more challenging (anything harder than fudge), but the point of a DIY food gift is not to try to impress the recipient with how hard you worked pulling that taffy or salting that caramel, but merely to say, “I was thinking of you.”

For me, it’s a way to recreate—and maybe package with a pretty bow—some of that love and camaraderie I felt every Christmas, sitting in our kitchen, decorating cookies with my family.

The post DIY Merriment appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Thanksgiving is the best of all the holidays. Feasting all day on a table full of fresh, home-cooked food amongst family and friends is a true oasis amid the marketing tsunami of Christmas that gets its green light when the Halloween candy goes on sale. It’s a day we can all enjoy being consumers.

This true foodie holiday is marinated with tradition. Whether you’re rolling out grandmother’s oyster casserole or Lovely Lisa’s perfect turkey, the day never fails to bestow a soft kiss on the forehead from the comfort food doctor.

But if you really want to go back to our country’s blue-collar Pilgrim roots—most of the settlers were poor, uneducated farmers—pull out the beer. Not only does it go great with all manner of rich and coma-inducing foods, but it’s rooted in our nation’s early history.

There’s written evidence, in fact, that the passengers and crew of the Mayflower cut their New World Cruise short and called it quits in Plymouth because they had run out of beer. And when you run out of beer, what’s the first thing you do when you make land? That’s right; build a brewery. And that’s just what our forefathers and mothers did; got to keep those priorities straight.

So as you head out to strip bare local stores of stuffing mix, canned cranberries and shrink-wrapped turkeys, walk on past the white and red wines at your local liquor store and apply that booze budget to some righteous beer.

It’s so much easier and flavorful to pace the day with a variety of beers that will compliment all the foods—from football munchies on the couch to leaf-pile-diving in the front yard to the serious consumption of The Bird and all its trimmings—that going grape is just gauche.

To Start: Think session and go light. No need to fry your palate early with something heavy and bitter. Pace yourself; there are at least two games on before dinner should start. Cans are good. They go with raking leaves and other extra-kitchen activities.
Suggestions:
• Mama’s Little Yella Pils, Oskar Blues
• Belgian White, Blue Moon
• Rail Yard, Wynkoop
• Pale Ale, Upslope

Diggin in on the Nibbles: When mom breaks out her sausage stuffed mushrooms to get things started or, even better, when someone starts cutting the cheese—we’re talking the good stuff you find at Cheese Importers in Longmont, like Drunken Goat or a righteous cheddar with some hard salami—it’s time to turn up the volume and the flavor. These brews are packing a punch and flavor that will hold its own against a mouth full of aged Stilton.
Suggestions:
• Fade to Black, Left Hand
• Gubna, Oskar Blues
• Claymore, Great Divide
• 2° Below, New Belgium

The Main Course: Let’s face it, turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing and rolls are not the spiciest foods around and the L-tryptophan in the meat may as well come from a tranq dart. So if you’re going down for the count, go large.
• Smokejumper, Left Hand
• The Kaiser, Avery
• Northstar, Twisted Pine
• Obovoid, Boulder Beer

The Sweet Stuff: Pumpkin and pecan are among my favorite pies. Rich, creamy pumpkin custard can’t be beat and to do either one well requires several eggs; always a good sign. Make your after dinner drinks just as delicious. Try some digestifs like a wild-yeast fermented lambic or dry mead or cider—going a little lighter isn’t a bad idea, considering where your blood sugar has been.
• 2005 Black Raspberry Reserve, Redstone Meadery
• Big Shot, Twisted Pine
• Christmas Ale, Breckenridge
• Mephistopheles’ Stout, Avery

The post Don’t Fear the Beer at Thanksgiving appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Peace on Earth and good presents to all.

For Her
For Him
For Kids
For Home
For Fun

{FOR HER}

Flora Fauna Series, Flying Anvil Designs (flyinganvildesigns.com)
Feminine and delicate, Flying Anvil’s Flora Fauna Series is made of 100 percent recycled sterling, hand hammered and forged in Julie Jerman-Melka’s studio in Fort Collins. The necklaces hang like lazy branches studded with polished stones and white topaz, and her earrings perch like tiny aspen leaves. The pieces are a beautiful mix of earthy and urban, and we think that they are perfect accessories for the modern Colorado woman. $160–$440.
Buy at: The Berry Patch, Niwot

Stone Ranch Fleece, GoLite (golite.com)
Let’s not forget to be practical this time of year: a gift that keeps your loved one all warm and snuggly during the winter months is the gift that keeps on giving. GoLite is always good for this kind of present, and this year, we suggest you check out the high-performance Stone Ranch Fleece, which is great for a nice day of snowshoeing as well as an afternoon of shopping. It’s made of 100 percent recycled materials and it’s also available for men (so don’t be all jealous). $105
Buy at: Boulder Running Company, Boulder

Lariat, Cowboy’s Sweetheart Studio (cowboys-sweetheart.com)
In the good ol’ days (ie. the days before fashion was invented), the lariat was used to wrangle woolly cattle or rope a stray filly. Today, it’s a super adorable accessory created by Boulder’s Cowboy’s Sweetheart Studio. With a small, reinforced loop at one end—it’s called a hondo—a chain or leather rope passes to form a loop, creating a lovely, sexy necklace. A balance of Western style and Boulder casual, Cowboy Sweetheart’s hand-made lariat-style necklaces are made with sterling silver, leather, freshwater pearls and/or semiprecious stones. $85–$115
Buy at: Ohm Salon + Gallery, Lyons and Christine Marguerite Designs, Boulder

Botanical Rejuvenating Oil, Tilvee Eco Ethical Skincare (tilvee.com)
Who says holiday gifts can’t be functional? This spot treatment heals scars, burns, wrinkles (don’t mention that in the card) and sun damage. It’s 92 percent organic with 18 nutritive plant oils and extracts. Plus, this Golden-based company supports sustainable, organic and fair-trade agriculture. $29
Buy at: Vitamin Cottage, Lafayette and Longmont

Fiona, Wallaroo Hats (wallaroohats.com)
There are hat people, and non-hat people. For the former, check out the hats created by Boulder’s Wallaroo—especially this feisty little vixen of a chapeau that they call Fiona. Made from angora (80 percent) and nylon, the brim creates a fedora-style that can be dressed up or down. Each new Wallaroo hat delivers UPF 50-plus sun shield. $40
Buy at: Adorn, Longmont and Timbalier, Lafayette

Orange Coconut Polish, La Ishá (la-isha.com)
There’s only one way to wash away the stress, dehydration and fatigue that come with the holidays: scrub very, very hard. This sugar-based polish exfoliates and softens dry skin. It’s a perfectly relaxing way to make your skin hydrated and glowing, and no sandpaper needed. $5
Buy at: Changing Seasons Acupuncture Clinic, Boulder

Swimsuit Bags, Q Teaze (etsy.com/shop/churesky)
Chicks usually don’t care what they look like at the gym (the normal ones anyway). Still, nothing beats an accessory that helps gym-going gals to get from here to there in style. Enter the swimsuit bag by Crested Butte entrepreneur Carolyn Huresky. With a laminated lining, this little bag lets you transport your sopping wet suit without getting everything else damp. $29
Buy at: Online only

Margarita Clutch and Belt, Annie O. (annieoboutique.com)
Annie O. is all about social responsibility: working with female artisan cooperatives around the world to empower craftspeople and supporting fair trade practices. And we respect the local company for that attention to sustainability and responsibility. But the reason we totally adore them (and their Peruvian weavers): Their products are super fierce. Funky and a bit retro, these purses, belts, scarves and more are inspired by Peru’s traditional embroidery techniques, colors and aesthetic. The Margarita is a solid, good-size purse made of sheep’s wool embroidered with flowers and a gorgeous horn handle. Clutch, $130. Belt, $89. Buy at: Common Threads, Two Sole Sisters and Blue Skies, all in Boulder

{FOR HIM}
Custom Skis, Folsom Custom Skis (folsomcustomskis.com)
Whether he’s a pro or just an enthusiastic amateur hitting the slopes every weekend he can, Folsom will build a ski to fit him specifically and make sure the look reflects his (or her) personal style. Folsom makes only around 200 pairs each year, ensuring that their craftspeople dedicate serious time and concentration to each ski they build. Their skis are designed to last, come with a full two-year warranty and are made right here in Colorado using environmentally sustainable methods and materials. Custom skis, custom prices.
Buy at: Go online, fill out a profile and you will be contacted.

Pull-On Down Bootie, Sierra Designs (sierradesigns.com)
Cold toes are no laughing matter, and a solid pair of slippers is pretty much a prerequisite for living in Colorado. But hand a man a pair of fluffy bunny slippers and he might never forgive you. Enter the down booties from Sierra Designs. These folks make sleeping bags good for up to -30 degrees, so they understand how to keep things warm. And their heavy-duty non-skid sole means that your guy can get outside to warm up the car or get the mail without incident on icy days. $50
Buy at: Backcountry Escapes, Longmont and American Wilderness Gear, Niwot

Access Waist Pack, Ultimate Direction (ultimatedirection.com)
OK, we’ll admit it: it’s a fanny pack. But it’s a super cool fanny pack that’s sure to impress the trail-loving guy in your life. It holds a 20oz BPA-free water bottle, has 25 cubic inches of storage space inside its zippered pouch, and has a portal for your ear bud wires to come out. Add to that the fact that it’s made of lightweight mesh and an ultra-wicking antimicrobial fabric and you’ve got maybe the coolest fanny pack ever. Just call it a waist pack and you’ll be fine. $28
Buy at: REI locations

Cargo Cache Bike Trunk, Otivia (otivia.com)
Why didn’t we think of this? Just like the cargo carrier on top of your car, this is a hard-sided trunk for your bike. The solid, heavy-duty plastic protects your gear from wind, sun and rain damage while keeping everything out of view of prying eyes. It’s big enough to hold a laptop or a bike helmet, and its innovative locking design makes it impossible to remove from your bike without the key. Perfect for road warriors and daily commuters alike. $89
Buy at: McGuckin Hardware, Boulder

Double Diamond Whiskey, Downslope Distilling (downslopedistilling.com)
There’s little more manly than sipping a nice whiskey, straight up or on the rocks, and we’ve got the perfect bottle. Double Diamond by Downslope Distilling in Centennial is made in the Irish tradition with malted barley and rye. It’s aged in medium toast casks before being blended into an astonishingly smooth whiskey with notes of vanilla, honey, spice and wood—the perfect warm-up for a cold night. $35
Buy at: Daveco Liquors, Thornton or Superior Liquors, Superior

Write Anywhere Pen, Inka (writeanywhere.com)
For the man on the go, this is the Swiss Army Knife of pens, the one to keep with you at all times. This stainless steel or titanium pen is engineered to write in all kinds of conditions—under water, at any altitude, in extreme temperatures and at any angle. It stores snugly in its own case with a convenient O-ring for attaching to your keychain, backpack or briefcase. The whole thing was designed by an optical engineer in Boulder to be the only pen you’ll ever need. $17.99 (stainless steel) to $49.99 (titanium).
Buy at: McGuckin Hardware, Boulder

{FOR KIDS}
Dino Adventure Toys, Sprig (sprigtoys.com)
Sprig Toys has gone from a little Fort Collins company to a global phenom. The company, which makes toys from recycled wood and reclaimed plastic, focuses on eco-friendly products that boost imagination. As a part of the Adventure Series, this dino-themed set includes an adventure truck, two dinosaurs, an adventure guide and a backpack accessory. Totally prehistoric. $24.99
Buy at: Playfair Toys, Boulder and Crawdaddy’s Toys, Lafayette

Fridge Fractiles, Fractiles (fractiles.com)
Fractiles are kind of like a puzzle. Then again, they are kinda not. They are kinda like a toy but then again, they are also like an educational tool. Whatever they are, they’re pretty cool. These magnetic tiles can be turned into various patterns and designs, encouraging creativity. They are perfect for keeping kids entertained and their minds revving on all cylinders. $11.95
Buy at: Crawdaddy’s Toys, Lafayette

Dancin’ in the Kitchen, My Munch Bug (mymunchbug.com)
Melanie Potock has spent more than a decade helping munchkins deal with eating problems; with her company, My Munch Bug, she offers tips and products to help the little ones eat right. The CD, with music from local children’s singer songwriter Joan Huntsberry Langford, puts the music where their mouths are: Dancin’ in the Kitchen encourages kids to be adventurous eaters and parents to get their kids out of the mac-n-cheese rut. Includes songs like “The Operetta: I Love Peas!” and “Gimme Something to Chew.” $13.95
Buy at: Online only

IlluStory, Creations by You (creationsbyyou.com)
So, your kid wants to be a writer…IlluStroy allows budding Jonathan Franzens to write their own story and add illustrations. This cool creative kit includes a “story web” to help young writers plan the elements of their novella and carry out the entire story. When they are finished, you stick it in the mail, and the book is mailed back, professionally typeset and hardbound. Plus, it includes an “About the Author” page. Online options also available. $21.95
Buy at: Grandrabbits Toy Shoppe, Boulder

Finger Puppets, Thumbuddy to Love (thumbuddytolove.com)
This is something a little different: a friend to both you and your thumb-sucking kid. The Thumbuddy includes a thumb puppet and a book—which tells a story to encourage kids to stop sucking their thumbs. With characters like Ballerina Sue and Fireman Fred teaching your children to keep their thumb out of their mouths, it’s a positive teaching tool and it’s just darn cute. $19.95
Buy at: Ginger and Pickles Toy Store and Grandrabbits Toy Shoppe, Boulder

Girls Clothing, LamanBlu (lamanblu.com)
For little girly girls, the frills and fabulousness coming out of Golden-based LamanBlu are as pretty as you can find. With a hint of hippie-cool, their pieces range from bustle jackets to ruffled pants to a faux fur cape all in pastels, cream shades and muted blues. Designer Holli Gibson uses eco-friendly fabrics to create easy-to-wear pieces for the princesses in your world. Prices vary.
Buy at: The Giggling Green Bean, Denver, or make an appointment with their atelier in Golden

{FOR HOME}
Reusable Bag Case with Bags, iTySE (ityse.com)
The perfect gift for the greenie in your life. It’s durable, portable and sooooo Boulder chic (a perfect accessory for a Prius and a pair of Tom’s Shoes). These carrying cases allow you to haul around a ton of reusable bags—without actually dealing with a ton of reusable bags. Feminine floral or sleek black designs make them nice for both men and women. $35
Buy at: Blue Skies Boulder

Rice Bowl with Chopsticks, Deb Babcock (etsy.com/shop/dbabcock)
Simplicity is the No. 1 rule of gift-giving—because you can never go wrong with a present that is uncomplicated and elegant. That’s why we fell in love with these hand-made rice bowls that have a resting divot to hold a pair of chopsticks. They are so practical yet so simply charming, bathed in a glossy robin’s egg blue. $75 for two.
Buy at: Online only

Hanging Air Plant Pods, Mudpuppy (michaelmcdowell.com)
Michael McDowell is a master of contemporary design. His vases and sculptures are minimalist with a touch of quirkiness (visit his Etsy page to see the baby-head vase). We love his plant pods because you can use them outside or in, and they look great alone or in a group. Made with stoneware clay and covered in a silky matte glaze, these are great gifts for friends, family and connoisseurs of the modern aesthetic. $32.
Buy at: YesPleaseMore in the Denver Pavilions and Fancy Tiger’s Holiday Craft Fair on Dec. 3 and 4

Cast Glass Camera, Hershman Glass (hershmanglass.com)
Josh Hershman does amazing things with glass. The young man, a Boulder native, has exhibited all over the world, and if he’s good enough for world-class art exhibitions, he’s good enough for a spot in your den. The glass cameras are modeled after classic cameras like Kodak, Westar, Keystone and Sekonic. These are stately, opulent gifts for photo-lovers, camera-lovers or those who appreciate a beautiful piece of art. Starting at $1,200
Buy at: Pismo Contemporary Glass in Cherry Creek

Leaf Mobile, Moon-Lily Silk Mobiles (moonlilymobiles.com)
Moon Lily makes beautiful installations that now daintily decorate government and corporate buildings all over Colorado. Bring the serenity and beauty of these lovely leaf mobiles into the home of your favorite gift-getter. Made with silk and fine gauge stainless wire by hand, the mobiles range in color and style, including Aspen, Japanese Maple and Ginkgo. Start at $180
Buy at: Boulder Arts & Crafts, Boulder and Timbalier, Lafayette.

{FOR FUN}
Leashes and Collars, Walk-e-Woo (walkewoo.com)
Started by a stay-at-home mom who couldn’t find cute, affordable collars for her dogs, Walk-e-Woo collars and leashes come in dozens of bright colors and patterns to match any pooch’s style, from preppy plaid to rockin’ tattoo-style art. They feature high-quality hardware and stitching and will make your best friend the best looking dog on the block. $22 for a collar.
Buy at: Struttin’ Pup, Lafayette

Winter Shoes, Crocs (crocs.com)
OK, the days of using Crocs solely for the purpose of gardening or boating are over. Today’s Crocs keep their unique, comfortable style while looking, actually, cool. This year, we love the Berryessa, a solid, super warm boot perfect for the morning and evening commute…and even in the office and the weekend at home and out on the town. Basically, you can live in ’em. For the fellas, we like the Croccasin (as well as the boot Crocassin), a super chill, super comfy loafer or boot. They are the perfect pair of house shoes that give you the freedom to walk outside and shovel the driveway and then run to Lefthand for a couple rounds of Sawtooth. Berryessa, $90; Crocassin, $75
Buy at: The Crocs Store, Boulder; Sports Authority, Superior and Longmont; and Nordstrom, Broomfield

Bookcliff Ensemble 2008, Bookcliff Vineyard (bookcliffvineyards.com)
A great gift for your boss, co-worker, friend or fellow wino: a great bottle of wine. With 100 percent Colorado-grown grapes, Bookcliff Vineyards is one of the reasons the state’s wine reputation is soaring. Duck into their tasting room in north Boulder to find your favorite, or just go with the Ensemble: a luscious, fruity blend of Merlot (82 percent), Cab Franc, (15 percent), Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Buy at: Boulder Wine Merchant and Liquor Mart, Boulder and Liquor Land, Longmont

Moaning Chips, Ziva Chocolates (trufflicioustruffles.com)
When you sample these homemade russet potato chips drizzled with gooey caramel and smooth dark chocolate, then dipped in more creamy thick chocolate, you might want to be alone. That’s because they’re known to cause people to moan with pleasure—hence the name. Perfect for the sweet and salty snacker, these are only one of the amazing creations Julie Whitcomb has created with her line of Ziva Chocolates. $40 per pound. Buy at: Online only

Beads, BeadforLife (beadforlife.org)
A perfect gift for your socially conscious, fashion-forward BFF: BeadforLife, based in Boulder, is a collaboration between women in Uganda and the women of the world in an effort to fight poverty. Ugandan craftswomen make unique jewelry out of recycled paper, and they are sold across the globe, working to spread awareness about poverty. Each piece is unique, with choices of different colors and styles, and comes with a story of women working their way out of poverty. From $5–$30.
Buy at: BeadforLife, Boulder

Beer Sampler
For the brew lover on your list, why not create your own local beer sampler. Total Beverage will let you mix-and-match six packs to create your very own menu of local tastes. You might go for all specialty brews available during the winter, or GABF winners—or maybe go with all ales or stouts. The options are as endless as your imagination. Price varies with selections.
Buy at: Total Beverage, Westminster and Hover Crossing Wine and Spirits, Longmont

The post Locavore’s Guide to Holiday Shopping appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

So, we haven’t seen you around here before… You new in town? Well, let us show you around. The North Metro area is just about as diverse as it gets, with brand-new super-modern developments to quaint and charming hundred-year-old towns. We’ve got fun shops, killer restaurants and tons of things to see and do, not to mention miles of trails and that little thing called the great outdoors. In the following pages, we profile some of our favorite new (and re-newed) neighborhoods, letting you know where they are, what they’re about, and what makes them cool. Whether you’re looking for a place to live or just a new scene, these neighborhoods have something for everybody.

Using This Guide: Whether you’re new to the area or have watched it change and grow over the last 20 years, this guide may introduce you to some unique places you’ve never explored. Even if you’re not looking to move, check out the great restaurants, shops and sites we’ve highlighted in some of the North Metro’s most unique neighborhoods.

PROSPECT:
Prospect is the first development of its kind in the Front Range, combining a strict and unique planning vision with the percepts of new urbanism. It was built on the idea that suburban sprawl isn’t good for anyone, locating homes and businesses within walking distance along narrow, tree-lined streets with wide sidewalks. New Town was also built with sustainability in mind. Many of the housing units offer solar and wind energy and radiant heat flooring to keep energy costs low. In addition, landscaping regulations within the community require indigenous vegetation with low water requirements, and the streets have been laid out to preserve views of the mountains to the west. Plus, it’s just darn cool: there’s a modern yet casual vibe found in boutique shops like Tenacity Wine Shop, Nest and House and consistently pleasing restaurants, including Two Dog Diner, The Rib House and Sushi Jianken. It’s family friendly suburbia meets hipster urbanity.

Location
About two miles south of downtown Longmont on Main St./Hwy. 287.

Size
77 acres with 585 units on 340 lots when complete.

Prices
Range from $99k for qualified low-income buyers to $899k for a new penthouse.

Who Lives Here
Prospect has a diverse population, with a fair share of artists.

Why It’s Cool
New urbanism means driving less and walking more. Parks, shops and restaurants, a pool and offices are within a 5-minute walk of each of Prospect’s homes.

Two Dog Diner
A classic family diner with a gourmet twist. Amazing breakfasts, killer burgers and decadent desserts all with a retro-modern flair. twodogdiner.com

The Rib House
Sunset Magazine called this some of the best barbecue in the West. Kansas City-style ribs, brisket, chicken, sausage, turkey and that amazing cheesy corn. theribhouse.com

Solar Yoga
When it’s time to work up a sweat, head to Solar Yoga. Hot yoga, regular yoga, meditation, massage and a boutique for all your yoga needs. solar-yoga.com

Interesting Fact: Prospect is built on what was once a family-owned 80-acre tree farm on the south side of Longmont.

DOWNTOWN LOUISVILLE:
Louisville is obviously not a planned development like the rest featured here, but Money magazine declared it the best small town in the country…so how can you go wrong? The charming downtown main street is easily accessible on foot by dozens of homes that line the picturesque streets of the Old Town area, but more modern homes are only minutes away. As the Downtown Business Association puts it, it’s “just like it was 126 years ago, but with better restaurants.”

Location
Southwest of Boulder, between Lafayette and Superior

Housing Types
All types

Prices
Median home price, $358k

Size
8.52 square miles (entire town)

Who Lives Here
College educated young couples and families who long for a small-town lifestyle with all the city conveniences.

Why It’s Cool
A thriving Old Town makes Louisville the historical predecessor of what New Urbanism tries to recreate in planned communities. And, some of the area’s best shops and restaurants call Downtown Louisville home.

Empire Lounge and Restaurant
Comfort food meets fine dining in a relaxed, but hip casual atmosphere. theempirerestaurant.com

Waterloo Icehouse
Award-winning burgers, great bar and live music make this a local paradise. waterloolouisville.com

The Fuzzy Antler
Country classics, European antiques and gifts for every occasion including Pandora beads. thefuzzyantler.com

Interesting Fact: Louisville began as a coal-mining town for the Welch Mine, opened in 1877, and was named for the land owner who incorporated the town, Louis Nawatny.

HOLIDAY:
The Holiday neighborhood is model of a sustainable, affordable residential and commercial development. Houses and yards are smaller than average, but open space makes up the difference. Energy efficiency, water efficiency and passive solar heating and daylighting were worked into every home and business surrounding a large park, a community garden and orchard, and a central, unifying walkway. One part of the community strives to be a zero emissions neighborhood. In fact, some of the development of the project was documented in the film Designing a Great Community: Behind the Scenes at Holiday produced by the Sustainable Futures Society. With a commitment to affordability, people from all walks of life head north to live in the Holiday neighborhood. It’s “very Boulder,” as they say: a little funky, a lot progressive and filled with great treasures.

Location
Far north Broadway in Boulder.

Size
330 homes on 27 acres.

Prices
$422k median home price, with options for qualifying low-income buyers.

Who Lives Here
Boulder greenies, as well as more than 400 low and middle-income people, thanks to the project’s 40 percent permanent affordability rule.

Why It’s Cool
Integrated sustainability make these homes a hot ticket, not to mention that the neighborhood offers some of the most affordable housing in Boulder.

Restaurant 4580
Casual urban sophistication meets a family atmosphere. Large and small plates with many gluten-free options. restaurant4580.com

Boulder Cycle Sport
2006’s Best New Bike Shop in America by Bicycle Retailer and Industry News bouldercyclesport.com

Amante Coffee
Italian espresso in a cool, comfy setting, they also serve pastries, sandwiches, gelato, Italian sodas and Italian beer and wine. amantecoffee.com

Interesting Fact: The neighborhood is named after the twin-screen Holiday Drive-In movie theater, which operated on the site from 1969 to 1988. Easy Rider Lane is named for the first movie that played at the theater, and the original marquee has been preserved.

BRADBURN:
Westminster’s Bradburn Village was built on the principles of Traditional Neighborhood Design, with a main street for shops and restaurants, a church as the architectural anchor of the village center and four distinct residential neighborhoods to encourage residents to engage with their neighbors and their neighborhood. It’s very all-American—attracting growing families and retirees alike to its hip yet wholesome spirit. Housing ranges from luxury apartments and row homes in Bradburn Row to lofts above retail in the village to million-dollar custom homes. The development is built on 125 acres of land and encompasses nine parks, two recreation centers with tennis courts and swimming pools, Rocky Mountain Presbyterian Church, a Goddard preschool and an adjoining K-12 charter school.

Location
Westminster, on 120th Avenue between Federal and Sheridan boulevards.

Size
125 acres, four distinct housing neighborhoods.

Prices
From $800 a month for apartments to more than $1.5 million for custom homes.

Who Lives Here
Young families and professionals.

Why It’s Cool
Bradburn offers access to open space and trails, creating a near-rural feel on one side of the development contrasted with the near-urban feel in the heart of the Village.

The Exchange Tavern
An Irish tavern offering morning coffee and tea, breakfast, lunch, dinner and live entertainment. theexchangetavern.com

Bikram Yoga
Hot yoga in the Bikram style at your neighborhood studio, which also sells yoga gear and accessories. bikramcolorado.com

Appearances Salon
Voted one of the top 200 salons in the country in both 2008 and 2009. Cuts and styles for men, women and children. appearancessalonco.com

Interesting Fact: The Big Dry Creek Open Space adjacent to Bradburn offers a network of 63 miles of trails connecting more than 800 acres of Westminster open space and 200 acres of parkland along the creek. Much of the city is accessible from this trail.

ARISTA:
Despite some ups and downs, Arista is all about potential. With pristine views of the Rockies, Arista hopes to become the epicenter of the northwest metro entertainment scene. The momentum is growing as we write, and the development’s future is looking pretty bright. The 1st Bank Center (formerly the Broomfield Events Center) is now bringing concerts, sporting events and more to the area and helping to draw exciting retail, dining and living opportunities to Arista’s main street and urban center. Another huge draw is the soon-to-be-finished RTD park and ride, which will make commuting to Boulder and Denver by mass transit a breeze. At least one restaurant is waiting for the park and ride completion until their doors open.

Location
Halfway between downtown Denver and Boulder on Highway 36.

Housing Types
Live/work lofts, condominium and apartments.

Size
1,500 residential units.

Prices
Ranges $1,000 per month to rent up to $600k to buy.

Who Lives Here
Upwardly mobile young professional commuters.

Why It’s Cool
Residents don’t have to pay for parking when they want to see the latest concert or hockey game at the 1st Bank Center. Plus, there’s a very cool character to the development—modern and urban while not actually being metropolitan.

Aloft Hotel
Chic, loft-style guest rooms inspired by the W Hotel with a vibrant lounge. aristabroomfield.com/aloft-Hotel.aspx

Salon Cosabella
Glamorous and sophisticated salon that creates “me time” for its clients. saloncosabella.com

Estelle Bicycles
Concept bike shop bridging the gap between boutique shopping and cycling. estellebicycles.com

Interesting Fact: Arista is one of the only residential town center developments in the nation to be anchored by an entertainment venue.

The post Hood Guide (for Newbies) appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Before you flip to the Gift Guide in a few pages to start drooling over all the cool gadgets, hip clothes and other luxurious items that will make the best presents this year, think about the giving part of the holidays.

And not the type of giving that will enamor your loved ones. Stop for a moment to consider the countless others in need in the North Metro area and beyond. There are myriad organizations geared toward helping the homeless, relieving hungry, giving shelter to the battered, saving the environment and rehabilitating wild life. Regardless if you are a regular in the charity circuit or not, read up on a few programs you many not be familiar with in our annual Giving Guide.

So when you’re circling that pearl necklace that will wind up in your honey’s stocking or the flat screen TV for his wall, think first about which of the 45 North Metro non profits we feature you should give to this holiday season. Someone you don’t know will greatly appreciate it.

Conscious Harmony

Green Giving

Giving Guide

The post It’s Good to Give appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

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