AvidLifestyle November 2021 Issue

AvidLifestyle.com

NOVEMBER 2021

Natural History A sustainable paradise, KNAPP RANCH was built with love, gratitude and stewardship of the upper West Lake Creek Valley

NOVEMBER 2021 | $8.95

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EAT, DRINK AND B E MERRY How to entertain elegantly with ease

PROJECT ANGEL HEART marks 30 years of helping people

Farolitos light the way for a holiday getaway to SANTA FE

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CONTENTS

// november 2021

departments

12 16

SETTING THE STAGE Getting into the holiday spirit.

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM. WARDROBE: MONA LUCERO. MODEL: TAMMY KILPONEN, DONNA BALDWIN AGENCY. HAIRSTYLIST: CHARLIE PRICE. LOCATION: KNAPP RANCH.

FEATURED

ON THE AGENDA Family fun, concerts, art exhibits, holiday entertainment and more.

local flavors

24

ELEGANT ENTERTAINING Setting the scene for a season of celebrations.

By Kimberly Lord Stewart

30 32 34

LOCAL BUBBLIES Centennial champagnes that sparkle bright.

By John Lehndorff

GOODY BASKET Local treats that make great gifts.

By John Lehndorff

CULINARY ARTS Tricks for serving up holiday favorites.

By John Lehndorff

dwelling well

36

HOLIDAY HOME A look at American holiday traditions with Aspen Grange.

By Heather Shoning

ready to wear

54

RUSTIC CHIC Stylish mountain looks that inspire.

40

By Hillary Locke Mujica

By Maren Bartels

inf luencers

In the heart of Colorado’s Sawatch Range, Bud and Betsy Knapp were propelled by a vision to preserve the land, water and wildlife in a rustic and timeless setting.

Their labor of love culminated in what is known as Knapp Ranch—a sacred place that celebrates the rugged and the wild, the beauty and the history of those who came before them, and will continue to honor this legacy in perpetuity.

By Kathryn O’Shea-Evans

ON THE COVER: MacPherson cabin at Knapp Ranch.

PHOTO: Chad Chisholm,MODELS: Tammy and Rob Kilponen, Donna Baldwin Agency, HAIRSTYLIST: Charlie Price, MAKEUP ARTIST: Erroll Perkins.

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PROJECT ANGEL HEART How one lasagna has inpsired thirty years of supporting Coloradans.

By Hillary Locke Mujica

wayfarers

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SANTA FE HOLIDAY Lighting the way since the 1800s.

By Heather Shoning

Need chang bu you apartmen won’ !

Independent Living and Assisted Living combined.

Enjoy the lifestyle and amenities of independent living even if you or your loved one would benefit from assisted living services.

November 2021 // vol. 3 // no. 8 PRESIDENT/GROUP PUBLISHER Allen J. Walters PUBLISHER Chris Phillips art & editorial EDITOR Hillary Locke Mujica CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jani Duncan Smith

We’r local!

CONTRIBUTORS E.J. Carr, Chad Chisholm, Ehren Joseph, John Lehndorff, Kathryn O’Shea-Evans, Erroll Perkins, Charlie Price, Heather Shoning, Kimberly Lord Stewart sales, marketing & advertising VP OF SALES & MARKETING Lori Perry

carillonatbelleviewstation.com

DIRECTOR OF SALES Mike Carver DIGITAL STRATEGIST Katie Macleay BUSINESS/OPERATIONS MANAGER Cindy Palmer EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Jon Rizzi ART DIRECTOR, Colorado AvidGolfer Michelle M. Gutierrez ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: chris@avidlifestyle.com EDITORIAL INQUIRIES AND LETTERS: hillary@avidlifestyle.com CUSTOMER SERVICE: 720.493.1729 MAILING ADDRESS: 6143 S. Willow Drive, #406 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 AvidLifestyle (ISSN 2642-0562) is published twelve times a year by Baker-Colorado Publishing, LLC, and printed by Publication Printers Inc. volume three, number eight. 6143 S. Willow Drive, #406, Greenwood Village, CO 80111. Order your personal subscription to AvidLifestyle at avidlifestyle.com or by calling 720.493.1729.

Subscriptions are available at the rate of $12 per year. Copyright © 2021 by Baker-Colorado Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Postmaster: Send address changes to AvidLifestyle, 6143 S. Willow Drive, #406, Greenwood Village, CO 80111. The magazine welcomes editorial submissions but assumes no responsibility for the safekeeping or return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, artwork or other material.

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SETTING THE STAGE

// editor’s letter

THE COLORADO

HOME LIFE STYLE Our connection begins with home.

TALK OF THE TOWN

KNOW SOMEONE who should be featured in AvidLifestyle?

Tell me about them at hillary@avidlifestyle.com.

GETTING INTO THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT THIS TIME LAST YEAR, the world looked a little different. We were planning virtual Thanksgivings or small gatherings with our pandemic pods. It really makes you thankful for just how far we’ve come since then, and what better way to celebrate than to fully take in the sights and sounds of the season.

Your dance card is sure to fill up with all the events, experiences and exhibits this month.

We had a hard time narrowing down our list of November happenings; there’s literally something for everyone!

Of course, the main event this month is Thanksgiving, so we rounded up the go-to gourmands and pro party planners to bring you the best in elegant entertaining, holiday hacks, sparkling sips and gourmet gifts. But beyond the bird, we also look at American holiday traditions with inspiration for adding more yuletide cheer to your home.

Our cover story will certainly evoke feelings of warmth and rugged elegance. The romance of the Rockies captured the hearts of Bud and Betsy Knapp in the early ’90s and since then, Knapp Ranch has become a haven for conservation. Their vision to preserve the sacred land, water and wildlife while honoring the original settlers with picturesque hand-hewn cabins complete with custom interiors and exteriors is more beautiful than you could ever imagine. It’s a cherished place, and we are so honored to share the story of Knapp Ranch with you.

E X P E R IE NC E D , T R U S T E D ADVI SOR.

With the cooler temps and unofficial start to winter, we took the opportunity at Knapp Ranch to feature winter fashions from local designers and shops that are sure to inspire your wintertide wardrobe.

I mentioned how far we’ve come in the last year, but that’s nothing compared to the 30 years of support, compassion and sense of community that Project Angel Heart has bestowed upon Coloradans facing life-threatening illnesses. President and CEO Owen Ryan shares his unique journey and offers ways for all of us to get in on the giving.

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To light our way and our hearts, we journeyed to Santa Fe where the luminarias or farolitos have been burning bright and adding warmth to the holiday spirit since the 1800s. It’s a memorable tradition you can recreate at home, but I have to say, nothing compares to the beauty of the lights on Canyon Road.

My Thanksgiving wish is that we all know just how fortunate we are and share that good cheer with our community. We have so much to be thankful for, so grab a second helping of gratitude and pass it around!

With Gratitude,

Hillary Locke Mujica 12

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PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM

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// can’t-miss events

PAINTING: MARY CASSATT, COURTESY DENVER ART MUSEUM

ON THE AGENDA

NOVEMBER Nov. 7

Through December

Nov. 6 – Dec. 23 OF CHAOS AND ORDER Of Chaos and Order Art Collective (OCAO) was launched in 2019 by Richard Rodriguez, Elizabeth Rouland, Dan Oakleaf, Sascha Ripps, and Kevin Weckbach. In their debut exhibition, the group grapples with Lessons from Chaos.

In a show initially planned to explore the visual idea of “Equalization”—working with repeated patterns and textures to find order—the group expanded the project to mark their journey through the chaos wrought by COVID-19 and a year in lockdown. THE CURTIS CENTER FOR THE ARTS, greenwoodvillage.com

Nov. 6 – Dec. 23

Nov. 6 – Dec. 31 CHERRY CREEK NORTH WINTER WANDERLAND Wander the 16-block Cherry Creek North neighborhood—bedecked with more than a half-million twinkling lights wrapping 600+ trees—in search of eight musical trees elaborately decorated with long hanging strands of lights in motion. New this year, an interactive art installation, “domino effect” by Creos, will feature 120 brightly colored dominos, each with its own sound profile. CHERRY CREEK NORTH, Denver, cherrycreeknorth.com

THE FINEST HOUR A celebration of the music at the end of the Second World War, when European jazz, Western swing, blues and pop energized dance halls and radio waves throughout the country. LONE TREE ARTS CENTER, lonetreeartscenter.org/shows

Nov. 12-14 MILE HIGH HOLIDAY MART Presented by the Junior League of Denver, this premier holiday show has been a fall tradition for more than four decades. All proceeds from this unique and exclusive shopping experience support the League’s Mission of developing the potential of women, as well as its community focus of improving literacy rates and providing access to books for children through the third grade in the Denver metro area. GATES FIELD HOUSE, UNIVERSITY OF DENVER, jld.org

Nov. 14 – March 13, 2022 WHISTLER TO CASSATT: AMERICAN PAINTERS IN FRANCE See more than 100 paintings made between 1855 and 1913 in the first comprehensive examination of France’s stylistic impact on American painting of the period. From academic training in Paris to exploration of the countryside landscape, Whistler to Cassatt reveals both the visual and conceptual influences of France on American painters in the 19th and early 20th century. DENVER ART MUSEUM, denverartmuseum.org

Nov. 18 – Dec. 24 CHERRY CREEK NORTH HOLIDAY MARKET The Cherry Creek North Holiday Market at Fillmore Plaza features 30 local artisan vendors, live music and festive drinks and décor. CHERRY CREEK NORTH, Denver, cherrycreeknorth.com

Nov. 19 – Jan. 1, 2022 THE MILE HIGH TREE Join in the free festivities at this festive holiday attraction, the Mile High Tree. It’s a brilliantly lit, 110-foot-tall immersive art installation that provides a dazzling lightsand-music show. 16TH STREET MALL, Denver, denver.org milehighholidays/tree PHOTO: COURTESY DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS

THE POLAR EXPRESS TRAIN RIDE The story of The Polar Express is theatrically re-created and combined with a magical train ride at the Colorado Railroad Museum. Children get to meet Santa and experience all the sights and sounds of this classic tale as if happening all around them. This year, a whole host of carefully crafted updates have been made to ensure the health and safety of guests, cast and crew, so put on your pajamas and your most fashionable mask and bring the family to enjoy sharing hot cocoa and cookies as the “Hot, Hot, Hot—Chocolate” song and dance unfolds before your eyes.

COLORADO RAILROAD MUSEUM, Golden, coloradorailroadmuseum.org

Nov. 12

PHOTO: COURTESY DAVINA AND THE VAGABONDS VIA FACEBOOK

TATTERED COVER + KIDS POP-UP SHOP Colorado’s largest independent bookstore has its first-ever pop-up shop at Park Meadows. The seasonal destination features gifts for kids and the whole family, with a collection of the hottest and most beloved books for readers of all ages and an expertly curated selection of gifts.

PARK MEADOWS, tatteredcover.com

AFTERNOON TEA AT THE CASTLE You’ll be treated like royalty when you attend Tea at the Cherokee Ranch Castle, featuring scones with clotted cream and jam, finger sandwiches and divine pastries. Plus, a curated tour of the castle will complete your royal experience. CHEROKEE RANCH CASTLE, cherokeeranch.org

Nov. 19 – Jan. 8, 2022 BLOSSOMS OF LIGHT Denver Botanic Gardens is proud to host Blossoms of Light, an annual family-friendly event that has become a tradition for people across Colorado. Come interact with incredible light displays — a large field of sound-reactive, animated LED lights — plus sip warm drinks and nibble on tasty treats as you stroll. Prepurchased timed tickets and masks covering the face and nose are required. DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS, botanicgardens.org

there’s more ➼ 16

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ON THE AGENDA

PHOTO: ADAMS VISCOM, COURTESY DCPA

Nov. 20

// can’t-miss events

LIGHTING OF THE STAR The lighting of the star has been a community event shared by residents dating back to 1936.

The same spirit of volunteerism, generosity and love of tradition exists today as Castle Rock businesses and residents prepare to celebrate Star lighting in Downtown Castle Rock this year. CASTLE ROCK, crgov.com

Nov. 25 MILE HIGH UNITED WAY TURKEY TROT For more than 45 years, the Mile High United Way Turkey Trot has been a Thanksgiving tradition drawing thousands of people to complete a four-mile run/walk to support our community. WASHINGTON PARK, Denver, unitedwaydenver.org/turkey-trot

CHRISTKINDL MARKET This outdoor event brings the most beloved elements of an authentic German holiday experience to The Mile High City. Stroll through a European village decorated for the holiday season as you shop for finely crafted artisan gifts and treats at charming wooden huts. Fuel your shopping with authentic Glühwein (mulled spiced wine), German Biers and hot chocolate, and nosh on Bavarian-style pretzels, fresh smoked salmon, Knödel, Goulasch, Nürnberger Sausages, pastries, caramels and European chocolates. CIVIC CENTER PARK, Denver, christkindlmarketdenver.com

TRAIL OF LIGHTS Stroll through the Colorado countryside along a winding path glistening with lights. Features this year include a three-sided light tunnel, illuminated antique and model tractors, a children’s play area and warm holiday food and drink. Visitors must purchase a ticket online for a specific day and time. CHATFIELD FARMS, Littleton, botanicgardens.org

Nov. 27

Nov. 19 – Dec. 26 A CHRISTMAS CAROL Essential to the holiday season in Denver, A Christmas Carol is a joyous and opulent musical adaptation that traces moneyhoarding curmudgeon Ebenezer Scrooge’s triumphant overnight journey to redemption.

WOLF THEATRE, denvercenter.org

AT LAST – A TRIBUTE TO ETTA JAMES In collaboration with the Etta James Estate, the Colorado Symphony is celebrating Etta James’ iconic album, “At Last!,” with a special concert for the blues and soul legend.

BOETTCHER CONCERT HALL, Denver, coloradosymphony.org PHOTO: COURTESY DAIRY BLOCK

Nov. 19 – Dec. 29

Nov. 26 – Jan. 2, 2022

Nov. 26 – Dec. 19 APRÈS SKI HOLIDAY MARKET Held in the Dairy Block Alley and inspired by a European ski village, the weekend Après Ski Holiday Market will feature a wide variety of vendors offering clothing, home goods and more, representing both local Colorado businesses and top national retailers. Shoppers can also enjoy food and drink specials and a robust lineup of holiday entertainment, including performances by the Jingle Belles and visits from Santa Claus.

DAIRY BLOCK, Denver, dairyblock.com/events

there’s more ➼

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CRITIC

The party was months ago, yet the memory of that night lingers still.

Unfortunately, it lingers in the form of a wine stain one overly enthusiastic guest left on the de Kooning. Not quite the type of abstraction the artist had in mind.

We believe in originals. That’s why Denver Agency stands ready with the expertise and resources required to swiftly restore or replace your prized pieces.

A CERTAIN KIND OF INSURANCE, FOR A CERTAIN KIND OF LIFE.

Katy Hyman Roth katy@denveragency.com 303.892.6900

ON THE AGENDA

PHOTO: COURTESY COLORADO BALLET

// can’t-miss events

Nov. 27 – Dec. 24 COLORADO BALLET PRESENTS ‘THE NUTCRACKER’ The beloved holiday favorite returns in a dazzling production like no one’s ever seen, featuring all-new sets and costumes created especially for Colorado Ballet. A sellout every year, this magical tale of Clara, the Nutcracker and the Mouse King is going to be dreamier than ever. ELLIE CAULKINS OPERA HOUSE, Denver, coloradoballet.org

Nov. 27 – Dec. 31 A STORYBOOK HOLIDAY IN EVERGREEN See classic Christmas Stories depicted in ice! The mountain community of Evergreen is “hiding” ice sculptures around town and Santa is flying in from the North Pole to do some special readings. EVERGREEN, evergreenchamber.org

FAROLITO LIGHTING & PINECONE CEREMONY Welcome the holiday season as the early settlers did. Feel the warmth and watch as pinecones are tossed into the courtyard fire, sending good thoughts and prayers into the night sky. Sing along to Christmas carols from the 1830s and 1840s with music students from the Colorado School of Mines and other strolling musicians. Enjoy Mexican hot chocolate, hot cider and traditional biscochitos. THE FORT RESTAURANT, Morrison, thefort.com

Joy in a Gift.

Nov. 28

cherry creek 2nd & University | arvada 1st & Patterson | www.enstrom.com 20

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DRUMS OF THE WORLD Marimba, bongos, bass drums, woodblocks, log drums, boo-bams, Chinese cymbals, metal trash cans, darabukkas, talking drums, plastic pipe, acoustic guitar, toy trumpet, tablespoons, Burma gongs, water can, crow call, tambourine, gankogui and sleigh bells! These are just some of the percussion instruments that the virtuoso percussionists of your Colorado Symphony will be using in this dynamic concert that is fun for the entire family. BOETTCHER CONCERT HALL, Denver, coloradosymphony.org

PHOTO: LOIS ELLEN FRANK, THE FORT VIA FACEBOOK

Nov. 28

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ON THE AGENDA

// can’t-miss events

Through Nov. 28

A BARBERSHOP EXPERIENCE UNLIKE ANY OTHER.

OF SKY AND GROUND: YOSHITOMO SAITO Yoshitomo Saito’s cast-bronze works capture and celebrate the elegant lines and subtle details of nature. From smaller seed pods to the arch of a branch, his compositions reinterpret organic forms to encourage contemplation. DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS, botanicgardens.org

Dec. 28 A FACE CHRISTMAS Ring in the holidays with a fabulous, fun, festive holiday concert by the amazing all-vocal rock band Face! It’s a wonderful night out for the whole family and it’ll have your elf shoes tapping and your jingle bells ringing with the joy of the season. The band — using only their voices — meld popular tunes, complex harmonies, beat-box rhythms and more into captivating concert performances. LONE TREE ARTS CENTER, lonetreeartscenter.org/shows

Through Dec. 1

book now!

30 3. 2 24 . 9 9 3 3 | 8 0 0 0 E BELLE VIE W AVE

BIRDLY VIRTUAL REALTY EXPERIENCE Visually immersed through a head-mounted VR display, fliers are enveloped in a high-resolution Jurassic-era virtual landscape charged with interactive zones and entertaining surprises.

The result of Birdly’s precise sensory-motor coupling — including headwind simulation, 3D audio and visual impact — is absolute exhilaration! DENVER MUSEUM OF NATURE & SCIENCE, dmns.org PHOTO: THE MUSEUM FOR BLACK GIRLS VIA FACEBOOK

Through Dec. 31 THE MUSEUM FOR BLACK GIRLS “Black Girl Magic” is more than a buzzword or trend. It’s the essence of Black women. The Museum for Black Girls is a space to celebrate this essence, as well as educate about the journey to the present state and liberation.

Finally, and most importantly, the museum serves as a love letter to Black women and their experience. This interactive pop-up gallery features multiple, vibrant exhibits.

POP-UP MUSEUM at 1421 26th Street, Denver, themuseumforblackgirls.com

Through Dec. 31 EARTH ILLUMINATED Explore a series of immersive environments and large-scale interactive art installations that change the way you experience art and nature.

DENVER PAVILIONS, earthilluminated.com 22

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e h t o t Get in

HOLIDAY

spirits!

LOCAL FLAVORS

// in the making

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LOCAL FLAVORS

// in the making

HOLIDAY FEAST SETTING THE TABLE FOR TASTE, STYLE AND WOW!

By Kimberly Lord Stewart GETTING TOGETHER in person this holiday season is more important than ever. It is why you will want to include a little glitz and glamour–but without a lot of fuss, so you have more time to spend with your friends and family. To accomplish that, we’ve gathered up some of Colorado’s finest goods, guaranteed to elicit mmms, oohs and aahs from your guests.

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LOCAL FLAVORS

// in the making PHOTO: COURTESY LAVACA MEAT COMPANY

LA VACA MEAT COMPANY This family-owned meat purveyor, headquartered in historic Littleton, raises its own prime cattle so that you always know you are getting the best quality. During a time when the food supply chain is sketch, La Vaca has its own vertically integrated sourcing. If you envision a prime-grade tenderloin, ribeye steak or prime rib roast for your holiday table, La Vaca has what you want. When you arrive, ask Mallory Warren about La Vaca’s show-stopping gift boxes. The variety varies by season, but if you are expecting guests for the holidays, consider the Cowboy Box with a variety of Porterhouse, ribeye, New York strip steaks and in-house steak seasoning and Steakburger blend, or the Home Cooking Box with a chuck roast, prime steaks, top sirloin and Steakburger blend. Shipping is free for orders of $150 or more and delivery is included within 10 miles. lavacameat.com

PHOTO: COURTESY HOMEFEST DÉCOR

HOMEFEST DÉCOR Elevate your table and home décor at Homefest in Greenwood Village with serving platters from Beatriz Ball that never need polishing.

These metal serve-ware items transition with ease from your refrigerator to the oven and then to the table. Each piece, made entirely by hand, uses the ancient art of sand casting, which gives them one-of-a-kind character, warmth and personality. If you need a focal point for your holiday table, consider a centerpiece tray with layers of eye-catching design elements. “With beautiful trays ranging from shiny metallics to rustic wood as your base, we’ve curated a collection of candles and votives, seasonal botanical elements and holiday accents that easily layer to create a gorgeous glow on your mantle or table-scape for every holiday gathering,” says Laura Stroud, Homefest owner. The store has Colorado’s most abundant collection of Vietri, Italian dinnerware and pottery, plus kid-friendly unbreakable melamine in Italian patterns. The newest pattern, Pietra Serena by Vietri, features elegant hand-pressed serving and dinnerware from Italy to elevate your event. homefestdecor.com 26

november 2021 // AvidLifestyle

Colorado’s Best Steakhouse

Top 100 Wine LIsts

Top 100 Steakhouse

Certificate of Excellence Winner

5085 South Syracuse Street, Denver Tech Center | www.shanahanssteakhouse.com | 303.770.7300

LOCAL FLAVORS

PHOTOS: COURTESY MERCHANTILE BY FARMGIRL FOODS

// in the making

10 TIPS to

ENTERTAIN with EASE As You Wish is an entertainer’s dream.

Allison Welch and her team take care of those tedious details when planning a party of any size. We tapped into Welch’s brain power to get some ideas for the perfect holiday party sans the stress. asyouwishcolorado.com 1. Rent dishes, glassware and linens. You shouldn’t be stuck doing the dishes, washing glassware or ironing … enough said.

2. Hire a private chef to cook in your home, or at the very least go to Tony’s or Marzycks to buy prepared passed appetizers.

3. Hire help to take coats, greet guests with a signature cocktail, replenish the self-serve bar, light the candles and help clean up.

MERCANTILE BY FARMGIRL FOODS This Castle Rock shop is the sort of place you may plan to buy a few things but walk out with an armful of goodies. The Colorado-focused store is one part local grocer, one part local crafts and dishware, and one part everything else you can think of to make your holiday festive and fun. As you step into the store, it’s a feast for the senses. Every nook and cranny of the store is filled with tableware, pottery, linens and so many pretty little things for your table and bar area. Oh and don’t miss the local cheeses and meats for a knockout charcuterie board. Better yet, sign up for one of the monthly charcuterie classes to help you build out a spectacular board of local meats, cheeses, jams and nuts. And if you need gift ideas, the staff will help you create baskets of every shape and price filled with unique local gifts. mercantilebyfarmgirlfoods.com

4. Bring in a bartender to set up the bar or set up a self-serve area with glassware and separate tubs of wine, champagne, beer and non-alcoholic drinks.

5. Prep your home the week before (not the day of) by setting the table and the bar, deciding the music playlist and the ‘run of show’ so to speak.

6. Get a babysitter for the kids and the dog so everyone is entertained.

7. Have a sweet treat ready for guests as they leave as a memento of the evening.

8. Keep it small this year. Many people are uncertain if they are ready to mingle with others outside their family or pandemic pods so opt for a less is more mentality.

9. If you have a preference for “masked or vaxed” spell it out on the invitation. By now everyone is used to these strange times, so make it easy for people to decide whether to attend.

10. Lastly, opt to entertain after the holidays with a January or February “I survived the holidays” party and serve low-alcohol drinks, mocktails and healthier bites.

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GLASSES UP TO RESPONSIBLE DRINKING. TULLAMORE DEW IRISH WHISKEY, 40% ALC./VOL. (80 PROOF) ©2021 IMPORTED BY WILLIAM GRANT & SONS INC., NEW YORK, N.Y.

LOCAL FLAVORS

// behind the bar

Local Toast Skip the Champagne and salute 2022 with COLORADO’S NEW BUBBLIES

with your retailer for bubbly choices that offer a taste of high-altitude effervescence.

By John Lehndorff

COLORADO CELLARS TRINITY CHAMPAGNE Colorado Cellars Winery in Palisade has been making its semi-dry, oaky sparkling wine for so long it legally gets to call itself “champagne,” despite French objections. It tastes like Champagne, too. coloradocellars.com

YES, VIRGINIA, champagne really is bottled in Colorado, not to mention a toast-worthy lineup of sparkling wines.

“Five years ago, there were only two or three wineries making sparkling wines. Now there are at least twenty and there’s a real demand for those wines,” says Kyle Schlachter, Marketing Coordinator for the Colorado Wine Industry Development Board which, represents the state’s wineries.

BUCKEL FAMILY WINE SPARKLING ROSÉ Using Palisade-grown Syrah grapes, the Buckel Family bottles a refreshing, naturally carbonated rosé. buckelfamilywine.com SAUVAGE SPECTRUM SPARKLET ROSÉ Grand Valley-based Sauvage Spectrum winery offers three varieties of Sparklet sparkling wines.

Sparklet Rosé is balanced and approachable, Sparklet Extra Dry is dry and smooth and Sparklet Off Dry offers a fruitier taste. sauvagespectrum.com

Colorado’s wine star has been rising over the past decade, but its sparkling wines have flown under the radar.

“These wineries have just had a few vintages.

I can foresee Colorado soon being known as a sparkling wine producing region,” Schlachter says.

Start your tasting with the following bubblies but remember that these wineries—like most Colorado producers—bottle small quantities of their wines, especially the sparkling ones. Check

PHOTO: COURTESYPURGATORY CELLARS

It is just the beginning of a bubbly boom.

PURGATORY CELLARS INDULGENCE ROSÉ The winery’s lightly bubbly Indulgence Rosé is made with Colorado-grown Black Moscato grapes. Known for making some wines in amphora clay vessels, Purgatory Cellars hosts tasting rooms in Highlands Ranch and Castle Rock. purgatorycellarscolorado.com

More Colorado BUBBLIES Carboy Rosé La La La Sparkling Rosé Wine carboywinery.com Red Fox Cellars Freestone Sparkling Peach redfoxcellars.com

PHOTO: COURTESY BUCKEL FAMILY WINE

PHOTO: COURTESY SAUVAGE SPECTRUM

Kingman Wine Estates Red DemiSec Sparkling Wine kingmanwine.com 30

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Based out of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, Ornery Olive Charcuterie Co. is known for creating the ultimate social dining experience through the expert pairing of artisan cheeses, cured meats & accompaniments. Whether you’re entertaining a group or seeking a romantic night-in, we’d love to provide a beautifully crafted board!

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LOCAL FLAVORS

// gift idea

Greetings Worth Eating COLORADO-CRAFTED FOODS MAKE GREAT GIFTS

By John Lehndorff WHETHER YOU are picking a gratitude gift, a hostess gift or thinking ahead to stuffing stockings and Secret Santa gifts, a tasty treat from Colorado can be the perfect choice for almost everyone on your list.

As a veteran Colorado food critic, I’ve been lucky to sample some singular artisan foods.

In the following guide to holiday food gifts, I only recommend foods that I’ve tasted and highly recommend. In fact, I wish I had more of each of them to give and to get this season.

INGREDIENTS FOR GIFTING Open Road Fully Loaded White Cheddar Popcorn. Popped in Centennial by Open Road Snacks since 1987, this is the most Cheddar-y, best tasting popcorn this popcorn superfan has munched. And the Jalapeño Cheddar and Carmel Crunch are updated classics that aim to please. openroadsnacks.com

Both make for memoriable moments. cusatea.com and ozocoffee.com Perky Jerky. A Greenwood Village company married dried meat snacks with energy drinks, but it only matters because the jerky is all-natural, super flavorful and insanely tender. Plus, it’s low calorie, low fat, low carb and a great protein source. They make great gifts for fitness friends or on-the-go gurus.

I’m a fan of Perky Jerky’s Beef Original Grass Fed and Turkey Jamaican. perkyjerky.com TOASTING TO GOOD FORTUNE Grove Street Alchemy Cranberry Liqueur. Wisconsin cranberries and dried French tarragon meld for a perfect holiday taste with your favorite bubbles. I’m partial to the carefully crafted Meyer lemon liqueur

ORIGIN A2 Brie Cheese. Colorado’s Origin Creamery specializes in naturally lactose reduced A2 milk and stellar soft cheeses crafted by Haystack Mountain Cheese. The Origin Jack cheese is one of the best Monterrey Jack-style cheeses ever, and the rich, buttery, soft-ripened Brie rivals most French brie. originmilk.com Nita Crisp Crackers. Most crackers— even the artisan ones—are made to sit on the shelf for a while. Nita Crisp Crackers are baked in small batches, hand-cut and delivered fresh from Fort Collins. The result is a craveable cracker meant for more than conveying cheese to your mouth.

I like the sesame seed-topped spelt crackers. nitacrisps.com HOSTESS HOME RUNS Instant Tea and Coffee. Two Boulder companies that have elevated instant tea and coffee to a brilliant level, CUSA tea and OZO Instant Coffee. CUSA produces little envelopes of perfect, crystallized English breakfast, oolong, spicy chai, lemon black and mango green tea. OZO Instant Coffee uses the same process to extract a full roasted-coffee flavor from its beans.

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with notes of fennel making it more herbacious for colder months. And the spicy New Mexico Hatch Chiles liqueur is spicy enough to wet your whistle. grovestreetalchemy.com Dram Bitters Gift Set. Home mixologists will up their cocktail and mocktail game with this Colorado-mountain-made sampler of six remarkable bitters. Twoof my favorites include Citrus Medica, Hair of the Dog Hangover Tonic and Wild Mountain Sage. dramapothecary.com Real Dill Caraway Garlic Dills. The extracrunchy deli-style pickles brined in Denver are ideal for holiday brunches and Bloody Marys.

Luckily, Real Dill also bottles a stellar Bloody Mary mix for a real kick for your tastebuds. therealdill.com

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LOCAL FLAVORS

// expert advice

Holiday FOOD HACKS

By John Lehndorff

HOW TO PEEL A POMEGRANATE Fresh pomegranate seeds (actually called “arils”) are a great winter treat but extracting them without staining clothing, rugs and people is a challenge.

To avoid the horror show, follow these steps.

Using a sharp knife, slice a 1/2-inch off of the stem end of the pomegranate. Place that cut side down on a cutting board and cut a shallow circle around the “crown” and remove.

Use a paring knife to make about five vertical cuts along the ridges on the pomegranate skin, top to bottom, through red skin, not the seeds.

Fill a large bowl with cool water and gently peel the fruit underwater so the arils sink and the membranes float. Skim the top and strain the arils and emerge unstained. And voilà—beautiful red seeds sans the mess!

HOW TO POP A CHAMPAGNE CORK The first rule about opening any bottle of sparkling wine is to make sure it’s chilled, somewhere near 45 degrees. Opening a warm bottle of bubbly guarantees flying corks and wasted wine.

Next, always twist the bottle, NOT the cork.

Start by holding the bottle against yourself pointed away from people and peel the foil.

With a kitchen towel in your hand (just in case), untwist the wire cage while keeping pressure on the cork. Holding the cork in one hand, gently twist the bottom of the bottle and pull until you hear that satisfying “pop.”

Cheers!

HOW TO ROAST CHESTNUTS You can hear Nat “King” Cole crooning the words, but actually serving chestnuts roasted over an open fire to holiday guests takes a little planning.

That open fire can be the open flame of a burner, a camp stove or your backyard grill.

If you don’t have a perforated grill pan, make one by punching big holes in a recyclable aluminum pie pan. This allows the flames to directly torch the chestnuts.

To roast fresh chestnuts in an oven, cut an X shape into the round side of each nut. If you don’t do this, they explode! Place chestnuts on a baking sheet in a 425-degree oven. Roast until the skins pull back from the cuts, about 15 to 25 minutes. Leave them in the oven until the insides have really softened. Wrap hot nuts in a towel in a bowl and serve. To eat, snap off the shell and peel off the papery skin. Such a simple yet festive holiday delight.

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DWELLING WELL

// by design

Making Memories Kathryn O’Shea-Evans dishes on HOLIDAY TRADITIONS and how to start your own

By Heather Shoning

PHOTO: COURTESY ASPEN GRANGE

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Gratitude and heartfelt thanks this Holiday Season and always from our family to yours �

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DWELLING WELL

// by design

PHOTOS: COURTESY ASPEN GRANGE

WRITER. TRAVELER. Teacher. TV personality.

Mermaid (that’s for another time). And recently, Kathryn O’Shea-Evans started an online retail business—Aspen Grange—curating American-made Christmas items with the intent of creating “the most Christmassy place on the internet.” We sat down with O’SheaEvans to talk all things holiday traditions.

How do traditions and the “things” of Christmas intertwine?

The prettier your Christmas décor, the more memorable your traditions. Think about it: We rarely recall wistfully the meal we shared at a drive-thru window! But when candles are aglow, Eartha Kitt’s voice is casting its romantic spell, a sugary and buttery scent is wafting out of the oven … that’s when you start to make family memories you’ll never forget.

Add the dusting of snow that so often comes with a Colorado Christmas season … it’s bliss.

What’s your top tip you would give someone wanting to create a curated holiday home?

Why was finding American-made Christmas decorations vital to you?

I once read that everything in your house should be beautiful and useful, which is so true, and an inspiring way to live. If I’m worried about how a piece was made or the working conditions of the person who made it, I’m less likely to enjoy it. Plus, it’s often better for the environment to buy locally than to have items shipped from farflung lands.

own that feel authentically “you.” Maybe it’s whipping up your ancestor’s dreamy cheesecake recipe each Thanksgiving or having everyone in your family put on their pj’s and drive around to ogle Christmas lights while sipping cocoa.

What’s one tradition that defines your Christmases?

PHOTO: INKLINGS PAPERIE, COURTESY ASPEN GRANGE

Our main Christmas tree is solely decorated with ornaments we buy on our travels (plus the requisite fairy lights). The result may be sparse, especially when the evergreen tops out at 13 feet tall, as it has in recent years. But every year when we decorate it, we unwrap memory after memory … the glimmering peach from our stay in Savannah, Georgia, in a 19th century home under live oaks dripping with spanish moss; the glass ball hand-painted with the Yule Lads, the Icelandic answer to Santa, from our Christmas in Reykjavik and the surrounding countryside; the ornament of the steeples of Assisi, Italy, we purchased during our engagement trip to Rome.

Why should families create traditions if they don’t have them?

Time spent with loved ones doesn’t cost anything and is how we create the best memories! If you don’t have any fun family traditions, start your 38

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Draw from your best family memories and you can’t go wrong. Visually, it helps to have a consistent color story, so you will want to wend that through each room when possible— perhaps cobalt ribbons woven through your trees and boughs, then picked up in throw pillows and a smattering of ornaments. When kids are old enough, I recommend allowing them their own small tree in their room, ideally something they decorate themself with baubles they make with you at craft time over the years. Even if the tree becomes adorned with something you might not have picked— like dinosaurs and neon string—letting them decorate how they choose is important. It helps instill a love for the season that has nothing to do with toys and everything to do with giggling together and making something beautiful!

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“When we first saw this valley, we were high atop a neighboring ridge, overlooking a panorama of valleys and mountains, forested slopes and rocky peaks. The wildness and solitude of this seemingly uncharted area intrigued us because when you’re down in a valley you don’t have the perspective of space.

Once we saw what was around us, our curiosity was piqued. We knew many hardy souls had been here before, but for us, this was new territory.”

—Betsy and Bud Knapp 40

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Paradise Found

By Kathryn O’Shea-Evans

PLENTY OF FOLKS fantasize about owning their own private island and living large like Sir Richard Branson—owner of 74-acre Necker Island in the B.V.I.—or Ted Turner, who presided over the 4,680-acre St. Phillips Island and its surrounding marshes off the coast of South Carolina for decades. But palm trees and sandy toes weren’t what Bud Knapp and his late wife, Betsy, were after. Instead, the entrepreneurial couple behind tech and media publishing companies (they famously published Architectural Digest and Bon Appétit magazines) and other ventures sought a Rocky Mountain paradise—where they would have snowcapped peaks in lieu of tiki torches, and bighorn sheep and mule deer in lieu of Queen Angelfish and Crayola-bright songbirds. And it was more than a fantasy for the Knapps: like plenty of other things the highly successful duo sought to accomplish in life, they actually did it.

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Betsy and Bud Knapp’s first home on the property was a “Minnie Winnie”. They spent a year getting to know the community and researching the history of the land. They hired an impressive team for the project—from architects to designers, craftspeople and artisans, to builders and tradesmen—they inspired them all to think outside the box and gave them free rein to explore their ideas and make use of their skills. In return they gave their best possible work.

PHOTOS: COURTESY KNAPP RANCH

“Articulating our conceptual ideas was the easy part; learning how to live in a rural mountain valley was more difficult. Our role was to imbue this place with heart and soul, and to reinforce the concepts of quality, simplicity, and responsible use.

We let the land, its history, and the experts advise us on how best to accomplish this.”

—Betsy and Bud Knapp 42

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“Knapp Ranch is a 300-plus acre ranch at top of Lake Creek in Edwards,” says Cary Hogan, hospitality and event manager for Knapp Ranch (knappranch.com), who has worked there for two years and knew the pair from her former career as a sommelier long before that. “Bud and Betsy Knapp bought the range in the 1990s…they wanted to see what they could learn from the land, rather than what they get out of the land.” Notably, the Knapp’s “didn’t want to build just another big huge mansion amongst the other ones in Vail” on this pristine patch of earth, with its sagebrush-, aspen- and cottonwood-swathed meadows and jagged, snowcapped peaks. “They wanted to honor the land and history,” Hogan says. “The valley was formed by glaciers; the Ute Indians traveled those mountains in a sunrise direction for thousands of years, and ended up in [this] meadow every summer for thousands of years, celebrating the summer solstice and bounty of the earth, staying there for months before traveling on.”

PHOTOS: COURTESY KNAPP RANCH

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PHOTO: COURTESY KNAPP RANCH

“Art offers a confrontation that in the best case brings forth revelations.

These revelations are not riddles or stories to be figured out. They are transformations not unlike religious experiences.”

—Enrique Martinez Celaya, Artist

PHOTOS: COURTESY KNAPP RANCH

The Knapps have curated a collection of sculptures that are displayed on the property as a counterpoint to the natural beauty and organic backdrop created

by Mother Nature.

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM

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For the beautiful person in your life...

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PHOTOS: COURTESY KNAPP RANCH

Making any new structures worthy of a place with such provenance and eye-candy panoramas of the Gore Range is a difficult task. The couple and their architects looked to legendary locations that were doing it right, including the “Parkitecture” of America’s national park lodges, where open beams, flickering fireplaces and nods to indigenous peoples have stood the test of time. They put up their first cabin “using tools and materials they would have used in 1869,” she says— like fieldstone and Swedish Cope and pieceen-piece log walls (albeit with mountain luxe interiors). Included in the collection of cabins they painstakingly built? One inspired by European building traditions and another that echoes the history of anglers in the area.

And if you think this is just a family vacay spot, think again. The ranch is home to flourishing projects galore. Included among them: gardens that grow everything from beet and amaranth micro greens to squash blossoms for the region’s best restaurants, at a whopping 9,000feet elevation; orchards that produce covetable cultivars of apples (including Sweet Sixteen and FrostBite), plus cherry, pear, apricot and plum; and bees that flit around the greater upper West Lake Creek valley and return to the ranch’s Slovenian bee houses to make their toothsome honey. To pick up a particularly buzzing Knapp Ranch product, try a lip balm or body cream from Knapp’s Nectar—each one that features a Save the Bee symbol gives a portion of proceeds to the Save the Bee partnership working to protect the vital and endangered pollinators.

Additionally, you can savor seasonal produce and artisan products at their retail shop, Knapp Harvest in Eagle.

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The compound consists of the main house and four cabins—Marmot Guest Lodge, Silver Sal (large photo above), MacPherson (upper left photo) and Anglers (left).

PHOTOS: CHAD CHISHOLM

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PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM

“Our exploration of design ideas included a complete review of our library of Architectural Digest issues, flagging images we liked, and noting why we liked them. Occasionally, we simply liked the composition. More often, materials, fenestration, indoor-outdoor relationship or the architecture caught our eye.

We learned how to describe what we liked, and why. The fact that we could talk about it together resulted in a building program that we both agreed upon.”

—Betsy Knapp

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While the public cannot currently visit Knapp Ranch, Hogan can confirm: it is exquisite.

“Animals are everywhere—bears, mountain lions, foxes, deer—that kind of thing,” she says. “But also the evidence of glacier activity from these big huge monolithic rocks that are plopped in meadows or next to beautiful streams.” And it’s as busy making the world a better place as it is beautiful. “We restored a stream bed, part of a the federal Forest Stewardship Program; we are working on cancer [fighting] cream; you could dig into almost any different area [here that] might spark your interest,” Hogan says.

As Betsy and Bud Knapp wrote in their recent book, Living Beneath the Colorado Peaks: The Story of Knapp Ranch (The Knapp Press, 2018), “This is a place of incredible adventure and a tiny bit of danger. Lightning strikes on the ridge. Bears nibbling in the bushes. Mountain lions scouting the stream bank. We are more alive here than anywhere else that we have lived. There is a higher power at work here that encourages, even reminds us, to think of our mortality and respect of nature.” To top it all off, come autumn, “the leaves are just fantastic,” Hogan says. Paradise, indeed.

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM

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READY TO WEAR

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM. MODEL: TAMMY KILPONEN, DONNA BALDWIN AGENCY. HAIRSTYLIST: CHARLIE PRICE. MAKEUP ARTIST: ERROLL PERKINS. LOCATION: KNAPP RANCH.

// threads

Rustic Chic

By Maren Bartels

THERE’S ALREADY A CHILL in the air and it won’t be long before the cold weather creeps up on us. And after being cooped up last winter, this year we’re seeing bold looks that celebrate life through color, nature and art. With Knapp Ranch as our breathtaking backdrop, we curated a winter wardrobe as chic as it is rustic; the perfect Colorado combination throughout the winter season.

THE CLASSICS Sustainable, upcycled, vintage fur wrap by Tsagas, atsagasdesigns.com. Malina Lace Blouse with embroidered circle lace trim along the button front, macrame circle insets in sleeves and balloon sleeves with fitted cuffs and Joelle Stretch Corduroy Pant in camel from Gorsuch, gorsuch.com. Belt and boots are model’s own.

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MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE OF CASTLE PINES 872 W Happy Canyon Rd | Castle Pines, CO 80108 | 720.939.7577 mainstreamboutique.com

READY TO WEAR

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM. MODELS: TAMMY AND ROB KILPONEN, DONNA BALDWIN AGENCY. HAIRSTYLIST: CHARLIE PRICE. MAKEUP ARTIST: ERROLL PERKINS. LOCATION: KNAPP RANCH.

// threads

COMFORT, BUT MAKE IT POSH ON HER: Cashmere wool blend cable knit sweater by Tricot Chic with fur detailing and knitted gold lurex. Made in Italy for Due Luca Bruno, lucabruno.com. High-rise Paige Claudine jeans with ankle flare silhouette and black fox luxe coating from Perch, perchvail.com. ON HIM: One-of-a-kind plaid shirt by local designer, Mona Lucero, monalucero.com. DL1961 Russell Straight Leg Jean with ultra-soft fabrication made with botanic and waterefficient fibers for all-day wear, high retention stretch, breathable with moisture wicking properties and an antimicrobial treatment from Gorsuch, gorsuch.com. Sustainable, upcycled, vintage fur blanket from Tsagas, atsagasdesigns.com.

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READY TO WEAR

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM. MODEL: TAMMY KILPONEN, DONNA BALDWIN AGENCY. HAIRSTYLIST: CHARLIE PRICE. MAKEUP ARTIST: ERROLL PERKINS. LOCATION: KNAPP RANCH.

// threads

ONE WITH NATURE Ombre dyed Boule Box Tunic in tourmaline by local designer, Steve Sells, stevesellsstudio.com. Marina Nappa black leather pants. Made in Italy for Gorsuch, gorsuch.com. Boots are model’s own.

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is proud to be 100% vaccinated & thankful to our team for their continued dedication to you and each other.

We welcome vaccinated guests with open arms, grateful hearts & So. Much. Delicious. www.bonannoconcepts.com

READY TO WEAR

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM. MODEL: TAMMY KILPONEN, DONNA BALDWIN AGENCY. HAIRSTYLIST: CHARLIE PRICE. MAKEUP ARTIST: ERROLL PERKINS. LOCATION: KNAPP RANCH.

// threads

GLITZ AND GLAMOUR Deaville Fringe Pullover with dramatic self-crochet fringe detail wrapped around the sleeves, accented with dropped shoulders and a relaxed, slouchy turtleneck makes this piece as cozy as it is chic from Perch, perchvail. com. Concert scalloped maxi skirt in floral pink by Zimmerman and Bess low fox fur and suede boots with wool lining and leather tassels with Swarovski crystals. Made in Italy for Gorsuch, gorsuch.com.

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Sweetwater Preserve

WI D E OPEN S PAC E S READY TO BE EXPLORED

For those looking to escape the routine and venture off the beaten path, Tucson’s wide open spaces are ready to be explored.

Find out more at VisitTucson.org/Open

READY TO WEAR

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM. MODEL: ROB KILPONEN, DONNA BALDWIN AGENCY. HAIRSTYLIST: CHARLIE PRICE. MAKEUP ARTIST: ERROLL PERKINS. LOCATION: KNAPP RANCH.

// threads

RUGGEDLY HANDSOME Carlo ultralight nylon down blazer by Herno for Gorsuch.

Detachable tonal fleece wind guard with hood. Check cotton shirt in red ivory and Brunello Cucinello dyed stretch denim jeans with the sporty flavor of the fivepocket-style trousers from Gorsuch, gorsuch.com.

Boots and hat are model’s own.

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READY TO WEAR

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM. MODEL: TAMMY KILPONEN, DONNA BALDWIN AGENCY. HAIRSTYLIST: CHARLIE PRICE. MAKEUP ARTIST: ERROLL PERKINS. LOCATION: KNAPP RANCH.

// threads

WINTER SOLSTICE Sustainable, upcycled, vintage fur wrap from Tsagas, atsagasdesigns.com. Snakeskin sheath dress by local designer, Brooks LTD., brooksltd.net.

Boots are model’s own.

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INFLUENCERS

PHOTO: FROM THE HIP PHOTO, COURTESY PROECT ANGEL HEART

// game changer

improve their health and well-being and that cost should not be a barrier to proper nutrition.

Project Angel Heart helps alleviate the stress and uncertainty that surrounds severe illness by creating and delivering medically tailored meals–at no cost to any of our clients–with compassion and care.

Thirty years ago, Project Angel Heart provided comfort, hope, and health to people dying from one of the worst pandemics of our lives: HIV/ AIDS. Since then, Project Angel Heart has grown to serve more than 8 million meals to thousands of Coloradans, coping with many different types of critical illnesses including cancer, heart failure, kidney disease and COVID-19. Today, as we confront another pandemic, the founding spirit of neighbors helping neighbors in times of need remains at the heart of our work.

How did you get into the nonprofit public health sector?

PHOTOS: COURTESY PROECT ANGEL HEART

Getting to the Heart of it

My parents made giving back a big part of growing up. My five brothers have all spent years in public service and my parents, in their 80s, still help with a local toy drive every Christmas. My father is the longest serving volunteer first aid responder in my hometown.

He’s been doing it for more than 60 years. So, you could say it’s in my genes. Still, the experience that turned this from an interest into a passion for me was my time as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Malawi in the early 2000s, when HIV was ravaging Southern Africa.

PROJECT ANGEL HEART CELEBRATES THREE DECADES of serving up food, compassion and much more.

By Hillary Locke Mujica THE DENVER-BASED NONPROFIT that provides medically tailored meals to Coloradans facing life-threatening illness is celebrating its 30th year of selfless acts of kindness. Every week since 1991, Project Angel Heart’s professional chefs, volunteers and registered dietitian and nutritionist have prepared delicious meals from scratch, tailored to meet the individual medical and dietary needs of those who are ill, free of charge. The first delivery ever made was a hum-

ble lasagna provided to 12 people in Denver living with HIV/AIDS. Since then, the organization has expanded its services to provide people with all types of life-threatening health conditions including cancer, kidney disease and most recently, COVID-19. And earlier this year, it delivered its 8 millionth meal and expanded its service area to Boulder and Weld County. To celebrate these accomplishments, we sat down with President and CEO Owen Ryan, who shared his passion for giving and supporting our community.

Tell me about the mission of Project Angel Heart and why that mission is as important today as it was 30 years ago.

Our mission at Project Angel Heart is to improve the health and well-being of people with lifethreatening illnesses by preparing and delivering medically tailored meals and promoting the power of food as medicine. We know that severe illness takes a toll on individuals, families, neighborhoods and communities. We believe that all people, regardless of their background or circumstances, should have access to meals that 66

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It seems that what Project Angel Heart does goes way beyond making and delivering food. What makes this organization so successful and so vital to our community?

We’re successful in the community because we are the community. Tens of thousands of Coloradans have volunteered to help their neighbors in need and just last year, more than 6,000 people gave almost 70,000 hours

INFLUENCERS

PHOTOS: COURTESY PROECT ANGEL HEART

// game changer

faced. Our clients’ health conditions mean they are extremely vulnerable to COVID-19. At the beginning of the pandemic, they could not leave their homes or interact with others because of their increased risk of infection and death.

We needed to marshal additional resources to meet growing pandemic-related demand for our services in the community, at a time when tighter budgets made finding donations and other sources of support more difficult.

Fortunately, we were able to maintain and even expand our services during the pandemic. At one point, we were delivering more than 15,000 meals a week across the Denver metro area without missing a delivery. Since March 2020, we’ve served more meals to more people than ever before.

We also knew we had a bigger role to play in our community. Working with the City of Denver and State of Colorado, we hosted a 15-week vaccine equity clinic which helped vaccinate nearly 2,000 neighbors and severely ill clients against COVID-19.

to get meals from our kitchen to our clients’ front doors. We started in a small kitchen at St. Barnabas Church on Capitol Hill and now we serve over 1,000 square miles across metro Denver, Boulder, Weld and El Paso counties.

“We” are all of those volunteers and supporters who make that happen. Our staff of 42 people could never pull that off by ourselves.

The reason those volunteers come back week after week is because they witness the impact on their neighbors. When you deliver meals for Project Angel Heart, you see that they are going to people in need in your own community– people you wouldn’t otherwise know were facing such difficulties.

The saying “you are what you eat” fosters a belief that food is indeed medicine. So how does Project Angel Heart accomplish this for each specific person, and what are the long-term outcomes of this belief?

Today, we know that more people need our meals and we’re doing all we can to increase access and availability to all Coloradans no matter where they live.

How has this job impacted you on a personal level?

The last year has been tough, but any personal difficulties I’ve had don’t come close to what our clients have faced. I’m not saying that to be falsely humble. The last 18 months have underlined for me the huge difference between people with financial and emotional support systems and those without. I’m lucky to have people in my life I can turn to when I need help.

I’m very grateful for that.

What are the goals for Project Angel Heart in 2022?

My vision for Project Angel Heart is to see that every Coloradan who is battling a life-threatening illness has easy access to our nutritious, medically tailored meals. The process of realizing that vision is already underway; we are currently laying the groundwork to expand the organization’s footprint beyond the Denver metro area, to other parts of Colorado. In fact, we just expanded to Boulder and Weld counties last month. Currently Project Angel Heart services 30 percent of the state’s counties. Our long-term goal is to make that 100 percent. In the next year we plan to serve over 600,000 meals on our way to eventually reaching over 1,000,000 meals a year.

With the holiday season upon us, do you offer community events or ways for recipients to celebrate together?

The holidays are the best time to come and volunteer with Project Angel Heart. So many community groups and offices come by and volunteer together. We always need help packaging and delivering meals. Anyone interested can reach out to us.

You can also support our work by participating in “Pie in the Sky”. For every thirty dollar donation, you can receive an apple or pecan pie baked in our Denver kitchen or have the full donation go directly to providing meals. If you’re feeling competitive, we organize pie teams to see who can be the top pie seller. It’s a lot of fun so I’d encourage anyone to join.

What’s the best way for people to personally impact the mission of Project Angel Heart?

The two best ways to help improve the lives of Project Angel Heart clients is to support meals or help deliver them.

If you’d like to support our meals, December 7th is Colorado Gives Day which is a big moment for us each year. Each donation qualifies us to receive matching funds from community donors which allows dollars to go much further.

Anything else you’d like to share?

Our professional chefs and registered dietitian create meals from scratch, designing them to the very specific medical and dietary needs of those we serve. Each of our meals can be tailored 15 different ways to ensure clients are getting food they enjoy that is also good for them.

Serving neighbors in need is a task that requires all of us to get involved. We can’t do it alone– the support and engagement of donors and volunteers is greatly appreciated and necessary!

If you’d like to help dish up, package or deliver meals, we would love to have you join us. I promise it will be a highlight to this season of Thanksgiving!

The results? Improved health and well-being for those in need. Independent research demonstrated that our meals reduce clients’ healthcare costs, keep them out of the hospital, and reduce their stress and anxiety. And, most importantly, it’s easier for them to live independently in their homes.

Project Angel Heart 303.830.0202 projectangelheart.org pieintheskycolorado.org coloradogives.org

How has the pandemic impacted the organization and the people you serve?

The COVID-19 pandemic presented us with one of the biggest challenges we have ever 68

november 2021 // AvidLifestyle

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// traveler’s choice

Holiday in Santa Fe FAROLITOS ADD A TOUCH OF MAGIC to this already-charming southwestern town

By Heather Shoning

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november 2021 // AvidLifestyle

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// traveler’s choice

PHOTOS: COURTESY SANTA FE TOURISM

WAYFARERS

explorer Gaspar Costaño de Sosa, he referred to small bonfires his companions lit as a guide back to camp as luminarias. However, north of La Bajada Hill in New Mexico, folks fervently refer to them as farolitos.

Often used in Hispanic culture, both represent religious significance. Catholic settlers used small bonfires during the final night of Las Posadas—the symbolic representation of when Mary and Joseph were seeking shelter in Bethlehem before Jesus was born—to guide the spirit of the baby Jesus to their homes on Christmas Eve. IF YOU’RE LONGING for a holiday getaway, head south to Santa Fe for a spectacular light display at the Christmas Eve Canyon Road Farolito Walk. This tradition is as quaint as the town itself, and it’s a bucket list must-see.

But what is a farolito? You probably know them as luminarias (or luminaires), but that moniker comes with a heavy weight of history in the small town of Santa Fe. Iconic Canyon Road, home to more than one hundred galleries, boutiques and restaurants in its short half-mile stretch, shines on Christmas Eve with both farolitos and luminarias. So, what’s the difference?

The word “farolito” translates to “little lantern” in Spanish, and it’s the preferred term for these homemade paper bag and tealight candle decorations. Luminarias, on the other hand, are fragrant piñon bonfires, and you’ll find them lighting your way down the festive street as well.

And there’s no better place to see them than in Santa Fe. HISTORY OF FAROLITOS AND LUMINARIAS There’s a 431-year-old debate raging in New Mexico regarding the name. According to a December 3, 1590, journal entry by Spanish

FAROLITOS ON CANYON ROAD The businesses along Canyon Road take farolitos to a new level with the Canyon Road Farolito Walk, one of the town’s most beloved holiday traditions. Stroll among thousands of these lanterns casting their soft glow throughout the gardens, courtyards and sidewalks of this historic area. You’ll also spot them lining walls of the century-old adobe buildings gracing this celebrated scene.

The holiday walk will tantalize all your senses with the earthy smell of the piñon luminarias, holiday songs from street musicians and the sweet taste of traditional New Mexican biscochitos (crisp butter cookies flavored with sugar, cinnamon and anise) as well as hot chocolate and spiced cider.

You’ll want to visit Canyon Road early to take in all the galleries and shopping because many businesses close on Christmas Eve, although some remain open to provide a place to warm up and offer some last-minute shopping. Don’t forget to venture off the main road and visit pocket neighborhoods, as Santa Feans are diligent in their personal displays of these beautiful holiday lights.

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november 2021 // AvidLifestyle

MAKE YOUR OWN LIGHTS Make your own farolitos for a new family holiday tradition.

You can buy paper bags, votive candles (or tealights) and sand at a local craft store. Fill each bag with several inches of sand and press the candle in the center so the flame does not touch the paper. To avoid the risk of fire, you can also use flameless, battery-operated candles.

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