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LIFESTYLE LETTER
Local Love! Happy February, Denver North Family! The month of love is here and our Local Love edition seems like the perfect place to tell you about one of my great loves...Colorado! I am a Colorado native and feel so lucky to have lived here my whole life, to have grown up in the shadows of our gorgeous Rockies, and to be raising my two kiddos here as well. There are so many things to love about our state: a Bronco orange sunset, the golden glint in our capital dome, the breathtaking view from the top of a 14ner, the way the aspen leaves quake in the breeze. This 38th state is so full of energy, you can feel it whether you are walking down Larimer Square, managing a mind field of moguls, or running around Sloan's Lake. I think we all know that one thing though that makes Colorado truly great: YOU! Yup, it's the wonderful people of Colorado that make this state the best! Coloradans (both natives and those we've adopted) are what truly make the Mile High City magical. That's what we love most at Denver North! We are here to tell your stories, be a part of your lives and your businesses, share your passions, and celebrate this incredible place we call home!
February 2024 PUBLISHER
Matthew Coffel | matt.coffel@citylifestyle.com M AN AG I N G E D I TO R
Crystal Wright | crystal.wright@citylifestyle.com STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R
Chris Roberts | chris@promediacolorado.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R
Bill Moore | bill.moore@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Luke Grace, Mary Daniel, A. Michel Velazquez, Tim Strong, Matt Coffel
Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
C R Y S TA L W R I G H T, M A N A G I N G E D I T O R @DENVERNORTHCITYLIFESTYLE
DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Denver North City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Denver North area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Denver North City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 4 | LOV E LO CA L
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Featured
12 20 26
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Boxing Up Some Local Love
Local, unique gifts delivered straight to doorsteps.
On the Cover
Departments
Big GiganticDominic Lalli and Jeremy Salken
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Lifestyle Letter
8
City Scene
9
Business Monthly
10
Education Corner FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES
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Inspired By HEALTH + WELLNESS
14
Our Town ENTERTAINMENT
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Locally Sourced LOCAL SERVICES
20
Travel Journal FOOD + BEVERAGE
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Local’s Choice LIFE + CULTURE
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Must See STYLE + BEAUTY
26
Now Open LOCAL SERVICES
28
Trend Setter FOOD + BEVERAGE
Self Love Staycation
Indulge in self love with a local staycation at Gaylord Rockies.
A True Maven
The Maven Hotel: the perfect romantic, local getaway
Photography: Big Gigantic
30
Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E
32
Events
34
Local Limelight ARTS + CULTURE
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FEBRUARY 2024
city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
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2
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LAYNA GAFFIELD
1: Our editor, Crystal, and waitress extraordinaire Bentley, at Kachina Cantina in the Dairy Block. 2: Ringing in the New Year with fireworks downtown! 3: Cheering on the Nuggets at Ball Arena.
ART & SCIENCE
Advanced eye care is complex and requires knowledge, skill, and experience. COLORADO EYE CONSULTANTS is committed to delivering compassionate and quality care in a safe and nurturing environment. Using the latest technology and innovative practices, our doctors dedicate themselves to excellent outcomes, every time. For more than forty years, the Colorado Eye Consultants team has been caring for patients and changing lives. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at (303) 730-0404.
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C I T Y SC E N E
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FEBRUARY 2024
business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S
Staycation at The Gaylord Rockies Resort For my fellow Coloradans, book the Colorado Staycation package where you can save up to 30% off, including parking at Gaylord Rockies using booking code: LPR.
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The Maven Hotel Snow days are best spent with classic comforts. Kick it old school at The Maven with over 600 retro video games to play on your large TV screen in-room, with one of our mini game consoles. You’ll stay warm with delicious hot cocoas from Kachina Cantina, accompanied with chocolate chip cookies and two signature take-home mugs! Ohhh, let it snow and play on at The Maven! Use promo code: SNOWEDIN
Wine Mixology Class at Blanchard Family Winery Any season is the perfect time for an engaging and invigorating mixology workshop! Gather your friends and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere with our Interactive Wine Mixology Workshop! Our friends at Salta Events have a knack for crafting exciting experiences, and they've concocted some delicious wine-based cocktails guaranteed to energize your spirits! Learn to shake, stir, and sip like a seasoned mixologist, while readying yourself to raise your cocktail-making game!
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FEBR UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/D E N V E R N O RT H
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NAVIGATING THE
Tax Maze
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EDU CAT ION COR N E R | F IN AN CE + LE GAL SE RVICE S
ATAX Tax Preparation Services are Here to Help ARTICLE BY MARY DANIEL
Navigating the complex world of taxes can be daunting, but with the right tax preparation services, individuals and businesses can streamline the process and maximize returns. Luckily, Denverites have ATAX Tax Preparation Services to help them! Even with personal tax software, it can be a nightmare trying to file your own taxes. Today’s tax laws are so complicated that filling out a relatively simple return can be confusing, and it can feel like deductions and credits are a moving target. There’s no substitute for working with an experienced tax professional like Enrique. He can walk you through each form, each law, each deduction and write off to make sure that you are getting the most refund possible. Do you own a business in Denver? ATAC is here for your tax needs too! Don’t wait until April to gather your tax and financial documents; work with ATAC now to ensure that you are maximizing your deductions, organizing your expenses correctly, and keeping up with estimated tax payments. Whether you need ongoing assistance to ensure you’re paying appropriate estimated taxes each quarter, you need help negotiating a tax payment with the IRS, or you just want a professional’s eye to see if you’re missing any potential credits or deductions, ATAC got the experience you need. Rest easy with your taxes this year: contact ATAX Preparation Services at (720) 381-1306 or (720) 598-8299
FEBR UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/D E N V E R N O RT H
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BOXING Up Some LOCAL LOVE
LOC AL, UNIQUE G IF TS DELIVERED STR A IG HT TO DOORSTEPS.
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I NSP IR E D BY | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS
ARTICLE BY LUKE GRACE
How many of us have a pile of Amazon boxes, just waiting to be recycled, stacked up in our garage? It was a pile of boxes just like this that inspired Josh Davis to create his incredible company, Bodega 38. Josh, a long time proponent of local businesses, saw a mountain of Amazon boxes taking over his garage and had a sudden feeling of defeat. He decided, at that moment, that he wanted to change the way he shopped. He wanted to support this community and shop locally. Unfortunately, Josh discovered that shopping locally was actually much more difficult than it needed to be. He wanted to change his habits, change the way he shopped and knew that if he could make shopping local more convenient, he could change others’ habits as well. And, Bodega 38 was born! Bodega 38 is an innovative marketplace known for their thoughtfully curated gift boxes and subscription boxes. “Bodega 38 offers a solution for those in pursuit of unique and locally sourced gifts.” They truly define what it means to be a business that loves all things local. Bodega 38 is Denver based and is deeply committed to supporting small businesses across the Denver area. They allow us to experience and support small businesses from across Denver and Colorado, and have it all delivered straight to our doorstep. They have boxes for culinary enthusiasts, artistic aficionados, as well as holiday boxes (think chocolates for Valentine’s Day)! Many businesses including hotels (the Rally Hotel in McGregor Square is their latest hotel client), real estate agents, and Airbnb hosts have chosen Bodega 38 for their clients throughout the year. Show your local small businesses some love and check out Bodega 38 at bodega38.com
Bodega 38 founder Josh Davis and his family.
“SUPPORTING SMALL INDEPENDENT RETAILERS NOT ONLY KEEPS MONEY WITHIN THE COMMUNITY but also offers a more sustainable model. IF EVERY HOUSEHOLD IN THE UNITED STATES SPENT JUST $10 MORE PER MONTH WITH LOCAL BUSINESSES, an estimated $9.3 billion WOULD FLOW INTO OUR LOCAL COMMUNITIES.” -Josh Davis, Bodega 38 founder FEBR UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/D E N V E R N O RT H
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Big Gigantic
ARTICLE BY MATT COFFEL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BIG GIGANTIC
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O UR TOWN | ENTERTAI NME N T
“
We’ve been inspired by lots of different artists from Sk rillex to Prett y Lights, but really just the whole Electronic and Bass Music scene has been so inspiring in general over the years. In the heart of the pulsating EDM scene, amidst the neon lights and electrifying beats, Big Gigantic emerged as a dynamic force. Comprising Dominic Lalli, the producer and saxophonist, and Jeremy Salken on drums, the duo has left an indelible mark on the electronic music landscape. Denver North Magazine sat down with Dominic Lalli to delve into the origins, inspirations, and the magic of their journey as Big Gigantic. "We met playing gigs around Boulder and eventually became roommates," Dominic shared, a warm smile playing on his lips. "I decided to start a new project and wanted to get Jeremy involved, and that's how the whole thing came about." The name 'Big Gigantic' itself, as it turns out, wasn't born out of intense brainstorming sessions or meticulous planning. "Literally just something I came up with walking down the street one day!" Dominic chuckled, revealing the spontaneity that often defines the creative process. Their musical journey was shaped by a diverse array of influences. "We've been inspired by lots of different artists from Skrillex to Pretty Lights, but really just the whole Electronic and Bass Music scene has been so inspiring in general over the years," Dominic reflected. "It's amazing to see what it's developed into." The idea of hosting their own festival materialized into 'Rowdytown,' an annual extravaganza held every September at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre. "It's been so rewarding getting to perform there every year and come together with our fans," Dominic expressed. "It's always such a beautiful weekend." The transition from traditional instruments to the electronic realm was a natural evolution for Big Gigantic. "I think it just evolved naturally that way from its inception," Dominic explained. "When you write music on the computer, it naturally turns into that because the possibilities are just endless in that style of music. It's so fun!"
Reflecting on their journey, Dominic highlighted one of the most intense moments as artists. "I think one of our most intense moments has to be Austin City Limits festival many years ago. It was essentially raining sideways on stage for our set. Huge crowd, tons of energy, and we just kept playing through this insane storm. It was one we'll never forget." Balancing the demands of music creation and the touring lifestyle can be challenging. Dominic admitted, "It can definitely be challenging to get it all in. We take years where I just write for most of the year, and we only play a handful of shows, and then there are other years where we do two fairly big tours a year and festivals in the summer." When asked about their dream collaboration, Dominic's eyes lit up. "At this point, I would love to collaborate with Skrillex or Fred Again or maybe even someone like Busta Rhymes." Amidst the whirlwind of their musical career, the duo finds solace and inspiration in the enchanting Red Rocks Amphitheatre. "The venue itself is just so special; there's something very, very magical about that place." As for the future, Dominic expressed gratitude for the life they've built in Boulder. "I think both Jeremy and myself moved to Boulder initially because of the music scene. At the time when we moved there, I was in a band called 'The Motet' that is based out of Boulder, and Jeremy moved to Boulder because so much music was happening in Boulder at that time." And what about 'Rowdytown'? "As long as they'll let us, we will be there, hahahaha!" Dominic exclaimed with infectious enthusiasm. As the interview wound down, Dominic offered a glimpse into his life beyond the stage. "I, personally, just hang out with my family in my free time, and that really is about it! Music and family are my life, and I love that!" The dichotomy of the pulsating beats and the serene family moments encapsulates the essence of Big Gigantic, a duo whose journey continues to resonate with fans around the globe. CONTINUED >
FEBR UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/D E N V E R N O RT H
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“ I , p e r s o n a l l y, j u s t h a n g o u t w it h my fa m i l y i n my f re e t i m e , a n d t h a t re a l l y i s a b o u t it ! M u s i c a n d fa m i l y a re my l i fe , a n d I l ove t h a t ! ”
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O UR TOWN | ENTERTAI NME N T
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The Man Behind the Camera Meet our Staff Photographer, Chris Roberts ARTICLE BY CRYSTAL WRIGHT
C H R I S
R O B E R T S
Staff Photographer for Denver North Citylifestyle
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LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | LO CAL SE RVICE S
On July 4th, 2019, Chris Roberts made his first trip to Colorado. After growing up in rural Wisconsin, the Rockies were quite a shock. Chris decided to tackle his first 14ner wearing Nike Air Maxes and his feet didn’t forgive him for months afterwards. Sore feet and all, Chris was hooked on Colorado. On October 14th of that same year, he packed up his car with anything that could fit and never looked back! Chris picked up his first camera in high school, a little FujiFilm point and shoot, and was obsessed from that moment on. He began documenting his day to day life: his band, his friends, skateboarding, adventuring and even ended up having a photo published. This was all the motivation Chris needed! His desire to pursue photography led him to both digital and classic film photography classes in college as well as becoming the lead photographer for his campus radio station. Here Chris honed his skills and began to develop his individual style and technique. Chris draws on his photography mentors like Joey L., Ansel Adams, and his professor, Andre Ferrella, from the University of Wisconsin. Chris’s photography is set apart by his desire to truly capture a moment. He is committed to working with his clients, making them comfortable and putting them at ease so that their true story, true personality can shine through. He believes that this time spent with his clients is as magical and important as the end result. “The photographs that have always impacted me the most tell a story, set a mood, or give off some sort of aura.” Chris and his team have a passion for helping capture memories or creating content that works in the modern world from TikTok to YouTube videos and everything in between. They simply love to create and bring visions to life. Contact Chris at chris@promediacolorado.com
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Self Love Staycation GAYLORD ROCKIES RESORT
I had the opportunity to preview Gaylord Rockies’ Valentine’s Day offerings and even though I’m not in a relationship, we’ll classify this as my “self-love staycation.” Sometimes it’s difficult for those of us in the single community to receive recognition amidst a day painted red with Cupid’s arrows and heart-shaped candy, but love is in the air at Gaylord Rockies and I left the resort with a new relationship status: madly in love with Old Hickory Steakhouse.
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T R AV E L J OU R N A L | FO OD + BE VE RAGE
OLD HICKORY STEAKHOUSE
I do wish we had more culinary options while staying, but a little birdie told me the property is preparing to launch four new restaurant concepts in the next few months, and from what I heard, I’ll be back to try them out. I did have a chance to stop in at the newly re-concepted Old Hickory Steakhouse. As one of the first to try out the new menu and restaurant interior, I ordered a sirloin steak, roasted Brussel sprouts and Cabernet and am still thinking of the meal a week or so later. As my palate and I have matured, and (in this economy) I’ve realized it’s worth the splurge for quality food.
RELÂCHE SPA
Next on the agenda was a stop in at Relâche Spa for their renowned Fire & Ice treatment. This treatment is tailored for couples and begins with a gentle peel to heat up the skin and concludes with a hyaluronic marine mask to cool down. I also indulged in the aromatic steam room, rocky mountain rain shower, and
ended with a nap in the alpenglow fireside relaxation lounge (after sipping on my complimentary drink). Outside guests are welcome to book a spa treatment without staying at the resort. Each treatment includes access to the pool and the gym. After Relâche Spa, I was so relaxed that I had no choice but to return to my suite and drift off into the best sleep of my life.
AQUATIC PARADISE
In the morning, I stopped by Rockies’ Marketplace to pick up a Starbucks latte and decided to circle back to the gym and get a morning workout in. I ended with returning to my first love: the adults- only outdoor hot tub and against the backdrop of majestic mountain views I wondered why I haven’t spent every Valentine’s Day like this. There’s something about traveling by yourself on Valentine’s Day that makes the holiday a bit more bearable, and I may have found the perfect Colorado staycation spot. I’m ready to return next year and maybe in 2025, I’ll bring a plus one.
F O R M Y F E L LO W C O LO R A DA N S , B O O K T H E C O LO R A D O S TAYC AT I O N PAC K AG E W H E R E YO U C A N S AV E U P TO 3 0 % O F F, I N C LU D I N G PA R K I N G AT G AY LO R D R O C K I E S U S I N G B O O K I N G C O D E : L P R . FEBR UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/D E N V E R N O RT H
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DE N V E R’ S MO S T Eligible Bachelor
Ok ladies, meet Denver's most eligible bachelor, Nick Jones! Nick, 41, was born and raised in New Jersey but came to Colorado to study at CU (really he came to ski) and never looked back. Nick has worked in the financial industry for over 17 years and is currently in asset management. While Nick loves the work, the best part of his job for him is definitely the people he gets to work with and the team that surrounds him. Outside of work, Nick enjoys golfing and is an avid Denver Nuggets fan. He has had season tickets for 19 years! The mountains that called Nick to Colorado so many years ago, still call to him today. In the winter Nick loves to ski and during the summer he loves to camp and hike. Nick obviously enjoys the outdoors, but you might be surprised to learn that he spent 7 years traveling all over the country competing in extreme obstacle, tough mudder type races. He even competed in two 24 hour World's Toughest Mudders. So, what is Nick's ideal date? According to Nick, "It's about the person, the connection, not so much the place." He's had great dates just over coffee and awesome conversation. He's also had a 3rd date end up in Vegas! It's not so much the where, it's the who that makes a memorable date! It's clear that Nick is looking for a partner who is up for
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LOCA L’S CH OICE | L I FE + CU LT U RE
adventures and ready to experience life with him. When looking for that ideal partner, Nick finds knowing who you are, being comfortable in your own skin, and not needing a relationship to define you the sexiest qualities. If you think you and Nick might be a match, send your information to Denver North City Lifestyle at crystal.wright@ citylifestyle.com. If Nick agrees, Denver North will pay for your first date! (You must follow Denver North on Instagram @ denvernorthcitylifestyle)
Nick and his dog, Lou
ARTICLE BY CRYSTAL WRIGHT
S o, w h at i s N ick ’s id e a l date? According to Nick , “ It ’s a b out t h e p e r s o n , t h e connection, not so much t h e p l a c e .”
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Denver's Most Eligible Bachelorette
ARTICLE BY CRYSTAL WRIGHT Surely not to be outdone by our bachelor, meet Denver’s most eligible bachelorette, Justine Weigand! Justine, 29, is a Colorado native, born and raised, and has no intention of leaving. She loves living near the mountains, close to downtown, surrounded by parks and able to be outside at a moments notice. Justine is a runner, loves playing soccer and pickleball, and just being outside with friends and family. She loves a good brewery and going out to new, fun restaurants. Justine loves adventure and would even love to one day try bungee jumping (she’s already been skydiving twice)! Thrilling adventures, in new places, are her bucket list items! Justine has a heart of gold that is unmatched by almost anyone you’ll ever meet! She is a first grade teacher who is incredibly dedicated to her students and her craft. She loves each kiddo that enters her classroom and loves watching them grow and learn, not only as students, but as people too. Her students help her to stay focused on what is truly most important in life. Justine pours herself into others: her students, her family, and her friends. She is very intentional, kind, and empathetic to those lucky enough to be around her. Justine’s perfect date is trying out a new brewery together, doing a fun activity together like axe throwing or an escape room, or taste testing a new, local restaurant. Her ideal partner? Justine is looking for someone who has an empathetic heart like hers, someone who can be a best friend, someone who is open and honest. If you think you’re Justine’s type, send your information to Denver North City Lifestyle at crystal.wright@citylifestyle.com. If Justine agrees Denver North will pay for your first date. (You must follow Denver North on Instagram @denvernorthcitylifestyle)
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M UST SE E | STYL E + BEAU T Y
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A TRUE MAVEN THE MAVEN HOTEL
The Maven Hotel
Maven bunk room
ARTICLE BY MARY DANIEL
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NOW OP E N | LO CAL S ERVICE S
The stylish rooms at The Maven
The view from the Maven patio
Maven double room
The Maven lobby
L
ocated in the heart of LoDo, The Maven delivers an industrial hotel experience with an energetic lobby highlighting an eclectic mix of local art and handmade products delivered by a passionate staff. Opened Spring 2017, The Maven features 172 modern guest rooms exhibiting a rich color palette and loft-style décor. The Maven has earned many honors in the past six years, including being named to the Travel + Leisure T+L 500 List for 2023 as one of the best hotels in the world. Designed by Denver-based JNS, The Maven guest rooms boast a rich color palette and loft-style décor, with high ceilings and floorto-ceiling windows to let in the Colorado sunshine and allow guests to enjoy the stunning views of Coors Field and the LoDo neighborhood. Each guest bedroom offers luxurious linens and a generous bathroom with double sinks, many featuring a deep soaking tub. The Maven offers 11 expansive Suites along with unique Bunk Rooms, a fun
option for families and group gatherings like bachelorette parties. Located just one block from Coors Field, baseball lovers will rejoice in a stay at The Maven’s Diamond Suite - a 770 square foot suite is tastefully themed with memorabilia from baseball’s finest Mavens, including a mounted steer head made out of baseball gloves and a framed collection of exclusive baseball trading cards. The Maven anchors Dairy Block, the LoDo micro-district that celebrates the maker with an eclectic mix of more than 25 shops, bars and restaurants and Denver’s first pedestrian Alley. The Maven is an ideal launching point for your next downtown adventure – located just one block from Denver Union Station and McGregor Square and close to the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, the RiNo Art District, Coors Field, Ball Arena, the Denver Aquarium, the Denver Art Museum and more. For shoppers, the Dairy Block micro-district offers an impressive mix of retail outlets, including locally owned Huckleberry Coffee Roasters, Blue Ruby and Sarah O. Jewelry along with international brands like Warby Parker and Grace Loves Lace. Inside
the FREE MARKET retail collective, independent retail outlets like Rosemont Barber Shop + Provisions, SISTAIN, Alchemy Works and Parker Clay sit next to national outposts from Beautycounter and Aesop. Curated by Denver’s NINE dot ARTS, The Maven features more than 400 original art pieces created by emerging and established Colorado artists, including Andrew Ramiro Tirado, Christine Buchsbaum and Diego Rodriguez-Warner. The Maven hosts a robust schedule of community events in its lobby, including live local music, free dog caricatures, family-friendly story time and fun photo opportunities during the holidays. Designed to be a celebration of artful and unexpected experiences, Dairy Block also hosts a robust engagement schedule of ongoing community events - including local makers markets, First Friday Art Walks and pop-up art galleries, family-friendly festivals and live music." Tiffany Owen, Area General Manager of The Maven Hotel Check out themavenhotel.com for more information and to book your room tonight! FEBR UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/D E N V E R N O RT H
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ARTICLE BY LUKE GRACE
Dairy Block Delights THE BEST FOOD AND DRINKS ON THE BLOCK.
K ac h i n a C a n t i n a Local favorite Kachina Cantina delights with a vast menu of vibrant, authentically-crafted Southwestern fare with a twist, fresh margaritas (the jalapeno is the best), and more. Enjoy fresh, flavorful cuisine hits right in the heart of Denver! You have to try the Carne Asada Fry Bread Tacos, the Beef Birria, and the Queso Fundido. You will fall in love with the food and the atmosphere in this delightful restaurant. Plus, the wait staff could not be any friendlier or more engaging!
Po ka L o la S o cia l C l ub “Part art-deco elegance and part Midwestern soda-shop, enjoy cocktail classics and house creations alongside down-to-earth bar fare that melds our upscale atmosphere with the comfort you crave.” Poka Lola is the perfect place to end your night, with the friendliest bar staff and incredible drinks that will tempt your pallet and appeal to your eyes.
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T R E N D SE T T E R | FO O D + BE VE RAGE
Blanchard Family Wines The love of wine and family can be felt from the moment you step inside Blanchard Family Wines. Their wines, from both California and Colorado, are extremely low-production and limited in availability. Each wine is special and meant to be shared with friends and family.
Denve r M ilk Ma rke t The Denver Milk Market is the 16 venue cornerstone of the Dairy Block. From pizza, to coffee, to ice cream, drinks, pasta, and greens there are so many flavors to explore! Start your day at Morning Jones with coffee and a sweet treat. Brunch at Ruth’s Butchery is perfection. Lou’s Hot and Naked Chicken is beyond delicious with just the right spice. End your night with drinks at Moo Bar. There is something for everyone at The Denver Milk Market.
D ev i at i on D i s t i l l i n g Downtown Denver’s only gin distillery is open in the heart of Dairy Block’s private alley. This cocktail lounge has been transformed from an 1800s firehouse into a lively patio, intimate lounge, and event space. Try one of their five distinct gins, tempt your pallet with coffee-house inspired barista whiskey, and indulge in the Zinfin bourbon.
FEBR UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/D E N V E R N O RT H
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L OB S T E R R I S O T T O One of our Favorite Romantic Recipes This lobster risotto is deliciously rich and creamy. It’s made with cooked lobster, Arborio rice, caramelized onions, white wine, and Parmesan cheese for a seafood dish that is sure to impress!
ingredients: • • • • • • • • •
¼ cup olive oil 2 onions, chopped 6 cups chicken broth 1 shallot, chopped 1 clove garlic, chopped 1 ½ cups Arborio rice ½ cup white wine 1 tablespoon honey 3 tablespoons butter
• • • • • •
1 cup light cream 1 tablespoon paprika 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper ¼ cup sherry 2 cups cooked lobster meat ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese • 1 pinch salt and ground black pepper to taste
directions: Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions; cook and stir until caramelized and very tender, about 20 minutes. Bring chicken broth to a boil in a pot; reduce heat to low and keep at a simmer. Heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil in a large, flat-bottom pan over medium-high heat. Cook and stir shallot and garlic in the hot oil until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add Arborio rice to shallot mixture; cook and stir until rice begins to brown, about 3 minutes. Add wine and cook for 1 minute. Stir 1 cup chicken broth into rice mixture; cook, stirring constantly, until broth is absorbed. Repeat adding broth, 1 cup at a time, until all the broth is used, stirring constantly until broth is absorbed each time, about 30 minutes. Stir honey into onions; cook and stir, 5 minutes more. Stir butter into rice mixture until melted. Add cream and stir until rice mixture thickens, about 3 minutes. Add paprika and cayenne pepper; stir well. Add sherry and mix well. Stir lobster meat into rice mixture and cook until heated through, about 3 minutes. Mix Parmesan cheese into rice mixture until melted. Add onion mixture and mix well; season with salt and pepper.
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C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE
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FEBRUARY 2024
events A SELECTION OF U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S
FEBR UARY 2ND
A Night of Comedy with Tim Allen Bellco Theatre | 7:00 PM Tim Allen is not just a good actor, but a great stand up comic! Be ready to laugh hysterically! Be warned, Buzz Lightyear will not be showing up at this show; you must be 18+ for a reason! FEBR UARY 7TH-11TH
Steamboat Winter Carnival Downtown Steamboat Springs | 12:00 PM
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In its 111th year, Steamboat’s Winter Carnival is a widely popular event complete with ski races, ski jumping, ice sculptures, fireworks, a shovel race, and street events. FEBR UARY 13TH
Enrique Iglesias, Pitbull, Ricky Martin: The Trilogy Tour Ball Arena | 7:00 PM Enrique Iglesias, Pitbull, Ricky Martin: The Trilogy Tour live at the Ball Arena! Live Nation said the stars will "deliver an electrifying mix of their biggest career-spanning hits with influences of reggaeton, salsa pop, dance, and electronic music, backed by world-class production and state-of-the-art visuals." FEBR UARY 18TH
6th annual Dairy Block Petite Parade The Maven Hotel in the Windsor Room | 12:00 AM Enjoy a Mile High Mardi Gras celebration at Dairy Block! Attendees are invited to “laissez les bons temps rouler” by building a creative float starting with
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EVE N TS
a shoebox base. Fantastic Dairy Block prizes will be awarded for Most Original Float, Best Team Theme, Best Family Float, Funniest Float and more. Individuals, families and businesses can all enter the Petite Parade for FREE. Advanced parade registration is required, please visit https://dairyblock. com/petite-parade/ to sign up. F E BRUA RY 2 1 ST
Con Men and Klansmen: Denver 100 Years Ago History Colorado Center | 1:00 PM Journalist Alan Prendergast will discuss the archival reporting that went into his book GANGBUSTER, a narrative nonfiction account of Denver District Attorney Philip Van Cise's battles with organized crime and the KKK in the 1920s, an epic conflict that still resonates today. A book signing will follow the talk. F E BRUA RY 2 4 T H
Denver Family Fest Colorado Convention Center | 12:00 PM Check out the 6th Annual Denver Family Fest! So many vendors, prizes, stage shows, and of course the diaper relay to crown Denver's fastest baby and toddler! Visit www.theexpopros. com/denver-familyfest to purchase adult tickets, kids are free.
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The Basel Week Experience ART WITH A. MICHEL VELAZQUEZ
ARTICLE BY A. MICHEL VELAZQUEZ
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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | ARTS + CU LT U RE
When I close my eyes and think about my artistic career, I must do it intensely. I clench my teeth and it takes me back to selling outside on the streets, standing outdoors rain or shine for hours waiting for the art fanatic that would inspire me to continue the path I was on. I also appreciated the occasional art critic. What’s the saying? There are no flowers without rain. Got to love the cliche of Dreams come true but... From a very young age, I was a dreamer and like many, I always imagined myself on the cusp of success. However, many things and imponderables cross the path of an artist, economically and emotionally, the lack of opportunities and the lack of knowledge that we as an artist are up against. The life of an artist is like that, sometimes you are at the top and sometimes you are at the bottom. Mentality is the key, persisting, making mistakes, and getting back up and believing in that next project. Creating that harsh reality of succeeding. We are all truly starving to make it to that next pedestal in our own world. I feel like this is what sets us all apart from each other. Last December was a true turning point in my career as an artist. I was able to partake in a world-renowned Artistic Event, a world of sharks devouring each other, glamor at its finest and facing the feelings and dreams of hundreds of international artists. I learned that not all success translates into sales, experience and recognition are also remuneration. I learned that art never stops being. It was amazing to appreciate the artistic and character diversity, but all with a similar goal. Without a doubt a great experience I will try to motivate all those who will read this article with some personal experiences and some collaborations from other artists who, through struggle, have managed to stand out in our society. Don’t forget to visit me at The Source Hotel Market Hall and on social media @ velart_denver_co Michel V.
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