Issuu

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November 2023 PUBLISHER S

Jahna Eichel | jahna.eichel@citylifestyle.com Jason Eichel | jason.eichel@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Macey VanDenMeerendonk | macey.v@citylifestyle.com

A Season of Gratitude in Fort Collins

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

November is that magical time of the year when we can all take a collective breath, slow down, and reflect on the abundant blessings in our lives. In Fort Collins, where good-hearted people, vibrant organizations, and the breathtaking beauty of our surroundings converge, it’s almost impossible not to be overwhelmed by gratitude. As autumn paints the landscape with warm hues, we find ourselves drawn together by the simple pleasures of food, the warmth of family gatherings, and the thrill of sporting events. These are undoubtedly the perks of the season, but it’s the spirit of Thanksgiving and the act of giving back that truly illuminate our lives and make our communities shine. In this season of profound thanksgiving, the pages of Fort Collins City Lifestyle come alive with stories that celebrate the remarkable people, businesses, and organizations tirelessly working to make Fort Collins an even better place to call home. It is a privilege for us to be the storytellers, to showcase the indomitable spirit of these individuals and groups who create lasting impacts. Our deepest appreciation goes out to our dedicated partners, our avid readers, and our exceptional Lifestyle team. Together, we craft the narrative of Fort Collins—a tale of resilience, creativity, and boundless compassion. We are humbled by the unwavering support of the Fort Collins community, which elevates this magazine to what it is today. As the air turns crisp and the holiday season beckons, we extend our warmest wishes to you all. May your Thanksgiving be filled with joy and connection, and may this holiday season bring you happiness, health, and moments of profound reflection.

Morgan Henderson | morgan@thecreativeagencyco.com ACCOUNT MANAGER S

Matthew Hart | matthew@thecreativeagencyco.com Paula Megenhardt | paula@thecreativeagencyco.com STAFF PHOTOGR APHER

Tony Deyo | tony@thecreativeagencyco.com PHOTO EDITOR

Henry Magarotto | henry@thecreativeagencyco.com SOCIAL MEDIA COOR DINATOR

The Creative Agency | hello@thecreativeagencyco.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER

Allie Bellows CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER

Shel Francis Creative

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

With gratitude and warmest regards, JAHNA & JASON EICHEL, PUBLISHERS @FORTCOLLINSCIT YLIFEST YLE

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/FORTCOLLINS |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Fort Collins City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Fort Collins area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle 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 Fort Collins City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable,

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue The Thankful Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

Lifestyle Letter

Business Monthly

Inspired By PR O FES S I O NA L S E RV IC E S

Local Limelight A RTS + C U LTU R E

Travel Journal T R AV EL

Self Care LI FE + C U LT U R E

Giving Back LO CA L S ERV I C ES

Decor Trends HO ME + DES I GN

Hometown Hero LO CA L S ERV IC E S

Education Corner LI FE + C ULTU R E

Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E

The Winding Road to the Connecting Point

Continuous transformation and building relationships have been the keys to success

16 Celebrating a Decade of Music at Higher Ground

Higher Ground has been a community staple for both local and touring musicians

22 Stop Dreaming and Start Traveling How a local travel agency makes every vacation the trip of a lifetime

36 Radiant Smiles in Fort Collins and Beyond How this Fort Collins power couple uses their expertise to change the world

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Jon Alderman 6

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The Northern Colorado Range Ring™

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Terra Tomah Mountain Mummy Mountain Horsetooth Mountain

The Poudre School District Creative Endeavors Art Show

Palisade Mountain

McHenry's Peak

Mount Meeker

Estes Park Longs Peak

Exclusively at:

Since 1944

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

The Poudre School District Creative Endeavors Art Show is back at Foothills mall! K-12 students pull out their best work to display from November 14 – January 11th on the walls and within window displays at Foothills in Fort Collins. This long-standing event kicks off with reception, and will also feature a special display for a few amazing science fair projects!

Realities For Children NightLights On December 1, Realities For Children is hosting their NightLights celebration to brighten the lives of abused, neglected, abandoned, or at risk children in our community. The 50-foot NightLights tree serves as a “beacon of hope” and the blue lights symbolize the international color for child abuse. For 26 years, Realities For Children has been hosting this event and donating 100% of donations to emergency services for at-risk children in our community.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/FortCollins

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FO RTC O L L I N S

1201 Dorchester Ct. Fort Collins, CO 80525

PROPERTY INFORMATION

Total Sq. Ft.

3,067

Finished Sq. Ft.

3,067 5

Bedrooms Bathrooms

(1 - Full, 2 - 3/4, 1 - Half)

2-car, attached

Garage

1980

Year Built Taxes (2022)

$3068.72 N/A

HOA

LISTING PRICE:

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This beautifully remodeled home in Golden Meadows boasts a perfect layout and highquality finishes, featuring formal living and dining rooms with new flooring and ample natural light, a fully remodeled eat-in kitchen flowing into the family room with a woodburning fireplace, and four upstairs bedrooms including a luxurious primary suite. The basement offers a guest room, ¾ bath, spacious laundry room, and a bonus room with new flooring, ideal for various uses.

JILLIAN ANTINORA Member of the Luxury Home Marketing Institute, FCBR

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The Winding Road to the Connecting Point Any business owner will tell you that a business needs to be able to pivot, adjust, and evolve to remain successful and keep up with the times. While this rings true for every industry, none as much as the information technology industry. The winding road that has led to Northern Colorado’s premier IT company, Connecting Point, is living proof of this assertion. Connecting Point, a family-owned and operated IT company, has worn a few different

hats in its time in Northern Colorado. But one thing that hasn’t changed is the overall mission of building relationships and enabling businesses to use technology to provide the best service to their customers. Co-owner and president of the company, Scott Warner, elaborates on the many twists and turns the business has taken to get to where Connecting Point is now with the company continuously evolving and shifting to best serve its customers.

CONTINUOUS TRANSFORMATION AND BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS HAVE BEEN THE KEYS TO SUCCESS

ARTICLE BY ALLIE BELLOWS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHEL FRANCIS CREATIVE CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FO RTC O L L I N S

“We’ll continue to build and engage in partnerships where we manage, support, secure, advise, and enable our clients through their business and technology initiatives.”

I NSP IR E D BY | PR OFESSI ONAL S E RVI CE S

In 1982, Ted Warner’s store originally sold computers and software programs. A few years into the business, Ted bought into the Connecting Point franchise which opened the doors to high demand and opportunity. Ted was a key player in the franchise's growth in Colorado, Wyoming, Nebraska, and South Dakota. It wasn’t long before Ted recognized the opportunity and a need to stay relevant in the ever-changing market. In the mid-1990s, Ted saw a way to better serve his customers. With large corporations completely dominating retail sales, he pivoted his business into the computer service industry. After more than 15 years of selling products, he used his expertise to help businesses through the ever-changing world of technology. Since offering computer services, Ted realized he was making more meaningful and deeper relationships with his business clients. This became the organic key to success for Connecting Point. Truly a visionary, Ted saw that if he delivered his services, products, and projects as a bundle, he could maximize the value to his clients. Doing just that, Connecting Point was a fully outsourced IT department for his clients. Scott joined the family business in 2007 after graduating from Purdue University. His focus was on tech-related sales and marketing, which came into play perfectly with the latest positioning of Connecting Point. Connecting Point continued to evolve with Scott’s brother, Andy, eventually joining the business. An experienced CPA, Andy became an integral part of the family trio in 2015. Ted confidently handed over the reins to his sons by 2020, the beginning of the pandemic. As every business had to pivot in some way, Scott described that time as “a catalyst to building trust with our team members and clients.” On top of the ownership change, their team helped their clients and new customers adjust to remote work.

“Each time the technology landscape has changed or shifted, it has created increasing demand for our engagement and involvement, not less,” said Scott. The original idea of the company continues on, with Connecting Point leveraging evolving technology to help their clients. Cybersecurity and system vulnerability, growing concerns before 2020, became another area of expertise for Connecting Point. The team is diligent at staying ahead of hackers and keeping up-to-date on the best protection for their clients against cyber attacks. Since there is always something new that comes out daily, the Connecting Point team is well equipped for this rapidly changing industry. Connecting Point uses its expertise in technology to give back to the community. “[Giving back] was something that was instilled in us as individuals by our father, and he did a great job instilling this principle into the fabric of the company before either of us came to work for the business,” says Scott. “We are very purposeful about engaging with certain non-profit organizations to help them better leverage technology to grow, so they can expand their ability to serve those in need.” Ted is enjoying his retired life, knowing the company he has worked so hard to build, is in the most capable hands. Andy and Scott have watched and been involved with Connecting Point as it grew and evolved and are excited for the future of the company. The company’s focus is on its clients, as always, with Scott saying, “We want to help our clients achieve their business goals and initiatives.” Scott says of the future, “We’ll continue to build and engage in partnerships where we manage, support, secure, advise, and enable our clients through their business and technology initiatives.” Connecting Point will continue to do as they’ve done throughout the years and will evolve to do what it does best, keep great relationships with clients and let technology lead the way.

“[Giving back] was

something that was instilled in us as individuals by our

father, and he did a great job instilling this principle into the fabric of the company

before either of us came to work for the business.” - Scott Warner

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CELEBRATING A DECADE OF MUSIC AT HIGHER GROUND HIGHER GROUND HAS BEEN A COMMUNITY STAPLE FOR BOTH LOCAL AND TOURING MUSICIANS

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | A RTS + CULTURE

High on the list of notable events this November is the significant milestone achieved by Higher Ground Rehearsal Studios. This month marks the grand celebration of a full decade of musical excellence, as this cherished space has been a cornerstone of Northern Colorado’s vibrant music scene. As the pioneering rehearsal studio in Northern Colorado, Higher Ground has always held a clear mission, as articulated by its owner, Jason Eichel. He passionately remarks, “Our goal was to provide a meticulously maintained, secure haven for local musicians to congregate and cultivate a central hub within the music community.” Jason’s inspiration for this endeavor stemmed from his extensive experience, spanning over two decades, as a member of

a band on the East Coast before making Colorado his new home. Upon his arrival, he discovered a notable absence of rehearsal spaces, a sharp contrast to the thriving scene in New York City. Fueled by this void, Jason and his dedicated wife, Jahna, embarked on a mission to create a space that would not only fill this void but also elevate the musical landscape of their newfound community. Starting from scratch, they poured their hearts into designing the studio. Jason didn’t miss a beat when it came to getting things just right. Picture them obsessing over the room layouts, carefully choosing the gear, and fine-tuning the sound in each space. Each of the three studios’ designs weaved in his favorite parts from all of the studios he visited in the past, reflecting his own experiences. Turning his passion into a cozy musical haven for all of us to enjoy. “We took a lot of the good things from all these different studios and pieced together all the good things, and that’s how we got to such a place that sounds good and feels good and it’s comfortable,” Jason states of Higher Ground Rehearsal Studios, the result of their efforts. Higher Ground consists of three studios equipped with top-of-the-line gear, so every musician from every genre can perfect their sound. Each studio has a unique combination of gear, “There’s something for everybody, not just the same two amps and drum kit in every room,” explains Jason. Each studio is rented by the hour and provides the users with a high-quality professional experience so they can hone in on their craft. CONTINUED >

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In the past ten years, Higher Ground has seen a diverse mix of musicians walk through their doors and create incredible music in professionally backlined studios. Jason explains the ease of coming to Higher Ground saying, “We make it quick and easy for people to come in, plug in, and start playing. You’re in your own private environment. You can tune the rest of the world out when you’re in the room.” Open Jams have become events that bring the whole musical community together. On these nights, Higher Ground opens its doors for free, turns everything on, and magic just seems to happen. “The cool thing when we do Open Jams is the mix-up of genres. A heavy metal guy meets a blues guy or a country guy and they just start figuring out something on the spot because everyone’s in the rooms meeting randomly,” Jason says of the spontaneity of those lively nights. Nothing stays exactly the same for ten years. While the spirit and goal of Higher Ground haven’t changed, the services offered have expanded. Recording has become a big part of the business, and not just music. Podcasts, audiobooks, radio commercials, and even movie lines have been recorded in the studios.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | A RTS + CULTURE

Musicians of all kinds are still renting out the studios, and now in some unexpected ways. Music teachers have been renting out studio space and time, so their students get the full experience of playing on stage, on the best equipment, and without irritating any neighbors. Bands not only rehearse within the walls but auditions have been held, providing a space for musicians to meet each other for the first time and see if they’re the next Page and Plant. With all the services Higher Ground now offers, it has become, “more than just a place to play,” remarks Jason. Still a safe place, a place that fosters music and the creative process that brings the music to life, Higher Ground has stretched what a studio is capable of. Not even Jason knows what the future will hold, as he never could have imagined Higher Ground turning into all it has become. In the near future, there are more Open Jams on the studio schedule, including a special jam on November 4th, for the ten-year celebration of Higher Ground. There for the love of music, musicians will gather to celebrate the space, rock out, and undoubtedly create beautiful music together.

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Stop Dreaming and Start Traveling

How a local travel agency makes every vacation the trip of a lifetime

ARTICLE BY ALLIE BELLOWS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE CREATIVE AGENCY

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

One of life’s hardest lessons is realizing just how precious time is. While there is nothing anyone can do about the way time flies, Robin Norell, founder of Millbrook World Travel, is doing something about how our precious time is spent. Fueled by the memories spent with her family and the values instilled in her by her late father, Norell puts the most important aspect a Travel Professional can put into other families’ travel plans—care. Norell attributes more than just the name of her company to her father, Joe, who started a kitchen and cabinetry business, Millbrook Custom Kitchens, in the late 1950s. Joe’s love for his family and travel sparked passion in his daughter. While teaching his daughter about what it takes to run a business, he also taught her about the importance of family time, spending quality time with loved ones, and the joy of traveling. Norell gives her father credit for giving her the “travel bug” which has shaped her personal and professional life. Norell worked as a travel professional since 2013, and in June 2019, decided to take the lessons learned from Joe about business and open her own travel agency, Millbrook World Travel. “When I create family vacation plans for my clients, it is with the memories of my own family in mind,” says Norell. Norell has made countless memories, visiting 40 countries, and 33 states, and going on 44 cruises to date. Many people think of travel agencies as a thing of the past, but travel professionals are a necessity for travelers today and for good reason. There is an ever-increasing demand for travel services. Travel professionals have extensive experience,

knowledge, and industry connections. Travel professionals, like Norell, make travel expertise their life’s work. They use their knowledge and connections to help other families get the most out of their vacations, and the best part—there is no cost to their clients to use their services. Travel professionals like Norell are paid by their suppliers, not their clients. Many times, they have access to special pricing and insider offers. Using Millbrook World Travel is like having a friend in the industry. “More and more people have learned doing it yourself isn’t always the best way to do it,” says Norell about booking vacations. “I love helping people—that is what truly makes me happy. And if I can help others have even a fraction of the wonderful memories and experiences I have from traveling with family and friends, I will know I’ve made a difference,” Norell explains about her love of what she does. As Norell strives to make a difference in her client’s lives, she also makes a difference in the numerous ways she gives back to the community. Norell and her agency support Family Housing Network, whose mission is to end family homelessness in Larimer County. Norell also works with the program through her church where she is on the coordination team, which hosts families for four weeks a year. In her neighborhood and her church, Norell has created travel clubs, where she uses her expertise to help others plan their dream vacations and getaways. Traveling with members of her clubs has helped her professionally because, “the travel industry is always changing, and you have to keep traveling and learning to stay on top of the changes,” Norell explains. CONTINUED >

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“I love helping people—that is what truly makes me happy. And if I can help others have even a fraction of the wonderful memories and experiences I have from traveling with family and friends, I will know I’ve made a difference.”

The travel industry has no doubt changed in the last few years. As the travel industry came to a complete standstill in 2020, Millbrook World Travel did the same. Norell weathered the storm, knowing travel would eventually come back. She was back traveling as soon as the world reopened, so she could share what it was like to travel within the new normal. “I think we all have a better understanding of the fact that tomorrow is not guaranteed, for us all to stop dreaming and start traveling,” Norell says of the effect the pandemic had on her business. With a deep love of travel and helping others, Norell and Millbrook World Travel assist families all over Northern Colorado to make priceless memories as they experience the world together. The care her agency takes in making each family vacation a trip of a lifetime is what sets them apart. Joe would no doubt be proud of how his daughter has taken his lessons and memories and used them to bring joy and unforgettable experiences to so many families.

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Daily Gratitude Journal Prompts ARTICLE BY DELIA JO RAMSEY The art of gratitude can be healing well beyond the month of November, but this is a great time of year to get in the true mindset of gratefulness. To aid in your endeavors, check out these 30 daily gratitude journal prompts and stick to them until it feels natural.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.

14. 15. 16. 17.

18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25.

26. 27. 28. 29. 30.

Five things that make you happy instantly: Did you get any pleasant surprises today? Did you do any acts of kindness today? What's something big or small you can do for those less fortunate than yourself? Five personality traits you're grateful for: Favorite song and how does it make you feel? One small step you can take toward overcoming a challenge you currently face: List something good that caught your attention today. What nice thing did another person do for you this week? What's something you did for another person this week? Three things you own that make your life easier: How can you turn something that makes you angry into something more pleasant? Think of five people who irritate you or you have trouble getting along with. Name three positive qualities about them. What are you most thankful for in your life? Name three of your significant accomplishments. Most stunning place you’ve ever visited: Think about the personalities and unique qualities of someone you admire. Which qualities of them do you want to see in yourself, too? What's your favorite holiday and why? What friends are you most grateful for having in your life? What basic daily necessities are you thankful for today? What are you grateful for in your career? Focus on your five senses and write down how you can make them more active. Three elements of nature you're most grateful for: Three things you love about your town: List three struggles you experienced and overcame in your life. What did you do to overcome them, and who helped you through them? What meals do you enjoy most? Something you saw this week that melted your heart: A time when someone went out of their way to support you: A happy memory from childhood: Make a list of five places you'd like to visit and consider visiting at least one very soon.

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The Good in Northern Colorado

Our Lifestyle partners' charity picks for this thanksgiving season

November is the time of year for giving back and appreciating the good in our lives and in our community. Northern Colorado is home to hundreds of organizations that work to make our communities stronger and better for everyone. Whether it’s food insecurity, housing struggles, organizations working to improve the care and quality of life for those struggling with health problems and treatments, or holiday gifts for families experiencing financial insecurities, our community is working to improve the lives of our neighbors. To show appreciation for the good work being done, we’ve asked our Lifestyle partners for the charities they support and are passionate about to highlight the wonderful contributions these organizations do for community members. Our partners were eager to highlight the organizations that they work with and support to bring awareness to the greatness that is Northern Colorado’s generosity and heart. If you’re looking to use this season of thanksgiving to become more involved in your community, these organizations are a great way to get involved! To learn more, visit the websites provided below each description.

Hope Lives!

The Lydia Dody Breast Cancer Support Center Hope Lives! The Lydia Dody Breast Cancer Support Center works to give quality of life to breast cancer patients through integrative support services and products that help manage the physical, emotional, social, and financial side effects of breast cancer treatment. Founder and board member, Lydia Dody, had undergone treatment for breast cancer and was so moved by the complementary care she received that helped improve her recovery and quality of life that she started her own non-profit to do the same for others in the community. From the start, Hope Lives! has offered local patients undergoing treatment for breast cancer complementary care products and services.

www.hopelives.org

G IV IN G BAC K | LOCA L SERVI CE S

ARTICLE BY MACEY VANDENMEERENDONK

Loveland Housing Authority

Be The Gift

Family Housing Network

Loveland Housing Authority works to provide low and moderate-income residents of Loveland opportunities through housing. With multiple programs, resources, and services for applicants, Loveland Housing Authority strives to provide access to housing for Loveland community members who need options. Their vision is to expand housing resources to assure all Loveland residents have access to safe and quality housing. By creating and maintaining an environment that encourages each individual’s ability to manage their life with dignity, Loveland Housing Authority can create these opportunities for Loveland residents.

Be the Gift is a local nonprofit in Colorado that works to assist single mothers in the community by providing home repairs. Be the Gift’s team of project managers works with the local community to reach out and provide home repair assistance to single moms as a gift. The nonprofit’s focus is to provide parents with a safer, healthier, and more functioning home where they can raise their children.

Family Housing Network serves families experiencing homelessness in Larimer County. With a range of programs and services, all complex and unique needs are addressed for all families. The programs offered are resource navigation, day shelter, case management, rapid rehousing, overnight shelter, and bridge housing, all ranging from light touch services to long-term support. Family Housing Network’s mission is to support families experiencing homelessness to achieve sustainable self-sufficiency in a timely and dignified manner.

www.bethegift.com

www.familyhousingnetwork.org

www.lovelandhousing.org NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FO RTC O L L I N S

Falling For Neutrals SEASONAL DECOR TIPS FOR KEEPING IT SIMPLE I love decorating for the holiday season, but it gets tough if trying to keep a home decor airy, light and neutral. My home is full of neutrals, such as linen, khaki, white and gray, so decorating for the holidays can be tricky with the bright and bold themes on display at the stores. Here are tips regarding how to achieve a festive look without going overboard.

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

D E C OR T R E N D S | HOM E + DE S I GN

LESS IS MORE First, whenever decorating for the holiday season, I clear what's possible to make room for what's coming. I eliminate decor pieces that are displayed year-round to avoid adding clutter to rooms. Giving decor pieces or floral arrangements their own space to shine can pull the room together and make it feel very designed.

or evergreen branches with pine cones to fill vases. Add a battery-operated strand of lights and you’re looking just like a designer home magazine spread.

GO COZY Swapping out usual throw pillows and throw blankets for plushy, cuddly materials and seasonal prints are another simple way to add holiday spirit without being so literal. Opting for neutral plaids, cable knits, or sherpa materials add that feeling of fall and winter.

CATER TO ALL THE SENSES Don’t forget about the smell! Stocking up on candles that smell like the season is the last missing piece for a holiday vibe. The total sensory feeling of the holidays is what really brings a home to life, whether it's pumpkin spice burning for Thanksgiving or a fresh pine and cedar for Christmas.

STICK TO THE PALETTE As best as possible, I try to stick to each of the color palettes in my room. When it’s time to bring out pumpkins or holiday Santas, I stick to white and neutral or add in color pops of gold and silver to keep everything flowing. If I start to add too many primary colors, it ends up looking like a mash-up gone astray.

CELEBRATE MEMORIES The holidays are often bursting with family traditions and memories, and decor can reflect that, too. I have many items handed down over the years that I like admiring, but if they aren’t quite right for my room, there are options to bring the spirit of them to life. Framed holiday family photos in a black and white filter are an excellent way to tie in your history of celebrating in a subtle way.

LOOK TO NATURE Some of my favorite items to use for holiday decor come from a simple nature walk. Using actual items you find, or just getting inspiration from the outdoors is a great way to bring sights of the season indoors. For fall, elements such as branches, leaves and neutral gourds match with everything. For winter, I love using sticks with berries

If items aren’t working together, don’t be afraid to get crafty. Painting pumpkins with spray paint or tying some neutral ribbons around existing vases are an easy and affordable way to make them fit a specific aesthetic. NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FO RTC O L L I N S

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Radiant Smiles in Fort Collins and Beyond How this Fort Collins power couple uses their expertise to change the world

ARTICLE BY ALLIE BELLOWS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JON ALDERMAN

With the goal of dental health for all, the couple who owns and runs Radiant Dental Health make a difference in Fort Collins, the F.E. Warren Air Force Base, and beyond with their love of people and dentistry. Dr. “Boone” Caldon and his partner, Alexandra Rincones take their love of their craft far beyond the walls of their clinic, Radiant Dental Health. Radiant Dental Health, started by Dr. Rincones in 2017, has become a comfortable place to go for all things dentistry. The unique combination of the expertise of both Dr. Boone and Dr. Rincones makes Radiant Dental Health a one-stop shop for oral health and hygiene. Dr. Rincones, a former dentist in Venezuela is now a certified hygienist at her clinic. She specializes in dental health prevention, whitening, periodontal maintenance, and aesthetics.

H OM E TOWN H E R O | LOCAL S E RVI CE S

Her partner, Dr. Boone, performs complex dentistry in the clinic, with expertise in IV sedation, wisdom tooth extraction, dental surgeries, implants, endodontics (such as root canals), restorative, bridges, and dentures. Together, Dr. Boone and Dr. Rincones cover nearly every aspect of dentistry and make Radiant Dental Health the only place to go for every dental need. “Our goal is to be able to provide the most services under one roof for our patients,” Dr. Boone says. Dr. Rincones uses her vast knowledge of not only dentistry but three languages to make everyone who walks through her doors feel comfortable and welcome. Fluency in Spanish, English, and Portuguese gives Dr. Rincones the opportunity to connect on a deeper level with the Hispanic community and ensure they are getting proper dental care.

CONTINUED >

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FO RTC O L L I N S

H OM E TOWN H E R O | LOCAL S E RVI CE S

“Our goal is to be able to provide the most services under one roof for our patients.”

A Venezuelan native, Dr. Rincones has been in the United States for almost 19 years. She founded Radiant Dental Health in 2017, with the goal of providing excellent dental health care for as many people in Northern Colorado as possible. Dr. Rincones is able to provide health care to even more people with her partner, who has a unique job in dentistry. Dr. Boone, a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force, also works on F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, Wyoming, as the Deputy Commander of 153d MDG and Chief of Dental Services. Being in the military between Reserves and Active Duty for over 25 years and using a military scholarship to attend Boston University for dentistry, Dr. Boone, now is the dentist on base, taking care of the oral health of the military and making sure their dental health is up to par, in case they need to be deployed at a moments notice. Dr. Rincones also does her part for the military. She is there for the military in more ways than just dentistry. She is a key spouse, a person who helps to support those deployed and their families. As a key spouse, Dr. Rincones is the communication liaison between families and the unit leadership. This volunteer position is held close to her heart as she lets families know they are not alone and they have her help and support through anything they might face with deployment. Dr. Boone has been providing humanitarian aid in the form of dentistry since his years of active duty in the Air Force. The military has sent him all over the world to provide high-quality dentistry for people in need.

Not always in the walls of a clinic, Dr. Boone explains of his expeditionary dentistry, “They’d fly us to a mountain in Costa Rica. We’d set up a military tent and we’d do dentistry in a shack or a tent in the middle of nowhere.” He was deployed to different areas of the world, such as Honduras, Panama, Costa Rica, and Guatemala. Annually, Dr. Rincones and Dr. Boone use their expertise to help people even further from their home base. For the past eight years, Dr. Boone has paired up with Boston University dental residents, going to the same village in Guatemala to aid and assist those without access to high-quality healthcare and dentistry. Dr. Rincones has joined the mission on one of those trips and plans to go again in the coming year. Helping people in other parts of the world, “allows us to not only connect with the local community, but specifically the Hispanic community,” Dr. Boone says. The overall goal of both Dr. Rincones and Dr. Boone is to provide as many people as possible with high-quality oral healthcare. This dynamic duo brings their expertise and not only makes a difference to Fort Collins with Radiant Dental Health, but to the military on F.E. Warren Air Force Base, in Cheyenne and far beyond, with their humanitarian missions. Leaving only healthy, sparkling smiles in their wake, these two are changing lives and providing excellent dental healthcare for people all over the world.

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FO RTC O L L I N S

Feed Your Soul Food is exciting to cook, and satisfying to eat but is it enjoyable to read? Novels where food is prominently featured can be a veritable feast for the eyes. Food imagery, also called gustatory imagery, adds depth to a novel, providing a springboard for all kinds of descriptive and symbolic language. Different dishes can transport a reader to new regions of the world, reveal a character’s culture, or symbolically deepen the meaning of a text. So, dive into this list of autumn reads and don’t forget to save room for seconds.

Fall in love with food-centric fiction ARTICLE BY HANNAH BARRICKS

EDU CAT ION COR N E R | LI F E + CULTURE

Stanley Park

The School of Essential Ingredients

by Timothy Taylor

by Erica Bauermeister

True crime fans and foodies alike will enjoy this beautifully written novel. The novel follows a Vancouver based chef, Jeremy Papier and his failing bistro. As Papier tries to hold his dreams together, his homeless father drags him into a real-life, 1940s “cold case” investigation. The novel mindfully uses the investigation as well as Papier’s commitment to locally grown foods to pay tribute to Vancouver’s landscape and history.

Love is in the air at this Monday night cooking school. The novel follows a cast of hapless students as they are instructed in both the kitchen and in life by the school’s owner, Lillian. Lillian is the group’s fairy godmother as she hands out morsels of advice and challenges the students with advanced recipes. A cozy read, be prepared to fall in love with the decadence of the school’s dishes as well as the sweet message that lingers long after you put down the book.

A Moveable Feast

The Sol Majestic

by Ernest Hemingway

by Ferrett Steinmetz

Published after his untimely death, A Moveable Feast is Hemingway’s memoir. A love letter to 1920s Paris and the literary movement, Hemingway charters the reader through his early years there, one cafe at a time. Along the way, familiar characters like Gertrude Stein and F. Scott Fitzgerald float in and out. This no-frills prose will stick to your ribs and leave you satisfied.

If you love science fiction, this big-hearted, culinary space opera is sure to hit the spot. The story follows impoverished Kenna, an aspiring guru who hungrily wanders the cosmos until he wins dinner at the galaxy’s most renowned restaurant, The Sol Majestic. A novel that is both fun and thought provoking, Steinmetz uses striking food imagery to explore what truly excites the spirit. NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FO RTC O L L I N S

It’s Pumpkin Bread Season

The Perfect Recipe For Some Autumn Comfort

Ingredients: • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder • 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1 teaspoon nutmeg • 1/2 teaspoon ginger • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin • 1 1/2 cups sugar • 2 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1/2 cup vegetable oil or canola oil • 1/2 cup melted butter • 2 eggs Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. 2. In a mixing bowl, add the flour, baking soda and baking powder, spices, and salt. Set aside. 3. Combine the oil, butter, and vanilla in a liquid measuring cup. 4. In a mixing bowl (with a paddle attachment), beat the pumpkin, sugar, and eggs until combined. 5. Turn the mixer to low and slowly add the liquid ingredients. Let this process take about 1 to 2 minutes so the mixture becomes light and fluffy. 6. Using a spatula, fold the dry ingredients into the wet and slowly fold until the ingredients are blended. 7. Prepare a 10 x 5 loaf pan by buttering it really well and then adding a strip of parchment paper to the bottom and up the sides for easy removal. 8. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 1 hour. The bread will be fully risen in the center, like a loaf. Make sure it’s fully cooked and brown on the top otherwise it will fall in the middle once removed from the oven.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

ARTICLE BY DON SEAMAN