Colorado Expression Magazine - September/October2023

WOMEN WHO WOW

ANGELIQUE SALAZAR

Along with her list of accomplishments and accolades, add “cover girl” to this accomplished woman’s résumé!

COLORADO WOMEN LEADERS

Tasha Jones, one of our noteworthy women to watch, uses her expertise in diversity, equity and inclusion to nurture long-standing community partnerships.

Photo courtesy of Tasha Jones

Photo Jensen Sutta

WHERE wellness MEETS A LUXURIOUS escape

A variety of categories let you tailor your membership experience to whatever calls your name – golf, sports, culinary, or corporate. Fill your social calendar with events and parties, and your social circle with new and beloved connections. Enjoy luxurious accommodations for you and your guests, world-class activities and amenities, and countless exclusive benefits .

Explore memberships by calling 719.520.4980 today!

FIND JOY. SEEK PEACE. ACHIEVE REST, REJUVENATION, AND REFRESHMENT.

At Garden of the Gods Resort and Club, Colorado’s Premier Wellness Destination, we want you to embark on an enriching journey. To give you the transformation you seek, we have recently had one of our own. We invite you to experience the newly refreshed Garden of the Gods Resort and Club, where we’ve made significant investments to enhance the guest and member experience, culminating in one beautiful, rejuvenating package.

Beloved by the public, resort guests, and club members alike, the newly renovated Grand View restaurant is ready to welcome you with an elevated dining experience.

When you have a little more time, have a staycation at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club in one of our newly renovated rooms, and unlock every area of the property, from Strata’s spa and salon, member and guest-only Rocks Lounge, Kissing Camels Golf Course, and our award-winning Infinity Pool.

Regardless of what your reason is for visiting, we want you to leave feeling enriched and fulfilled in every way. Balanced, renewed, transformed. Refreshed.

in this issue

8

SHOT IN THE DARK

Notable galas, events and fundraisers

ON THE DOCKET Events and happenings around Colorado

CAUSE WORTHY

A spotlight on local organizations sparking change

PUBLIC PERSONA Simone Ross gets personal

WELL INFORMED

Linda Appel Lispius and Linda Yip share their passions

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Angelique Salazar’s business savvy makes her top dog

SIP & SAVOR

Catching up with Sally Stewart of Denver Wine Merchant and Fiona Arnold of Room for Milly and Queens Eleven

ART SCENE

Supporting female artists at The New Local

FASHION Italian inspirations

COLORADO WEEKENDS

Well-appointed renovations at The Western Hotel in Ouray

CLUB PROFILE

Women-focused work spaces

HEALTH & WELLNESS

A retreat and resort like no other at the end of the road

For more curated content, like the story about designer Jan Barboglio’s new jewelry collection, visit coloradoexpression.com

TOP: A light-filled space encourages creativity and collaboration at TARRA.

LEFT: Sansara Retreat and Resort in Panama offers wellness and adventure experiences, yoga, surfing and so much more.

cover WOMEN IN CHARGE

From left: Angelique Salazar, Erin Salazar and Sirine Swed

Story by Jani Duncan Smith

Photo courtesy of Jensen Sutta

Makeup by Michael Moore, Moore for Life Location Mercedes Benz of Denver

VOL. 32, NO. 5, COPYRIGHT BY WIESNERMEDIA, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. PERMISSION TO REPRINT OR QUOTE EXCERPTS GRANTED BY WRITTEN REQUEST ONLY. COLORADO EXPRESSION (ISSN # 1070-5066) IS PUBLISHED BI-MONTHLY (6 ISSUES/YEAR) BY WIESNERMEDIA, LLC. POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO COLORADO EXPRESSION, 1780 S. BELLAIRE ST., STE 505, DENVER, CO 80222. SUBSCRIPTION QUESTIONS: (888) 815-1436. UNSOLICITED MATERIALS WILL BE HANDLED WITH CARE, BUT THE MAGAZINE ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR MATERIALS.

GET EVENT UPDATES BETWEEN ISSUES

FACEBOOK @coloradoexpression

TWITTER @coloexpression INSTAGRAM @coloradoexpression

PINTEREST @coloexpression ISSUU @coloradoexpression

Photo courtesy of Sansara Resort and Retreat

Photo Eric Staudenmaier

A WiesnerMedia Publication

Group Publisher ELIZABETH HAMILTON ehamilton@coloradoexpression.com

Managing Editor HILLARY LOCKE MUJICA hillary@coloradoexpression.com

Operations Director LISA BUSCIETTA lisa@coloradoexpression.com

Design/Production HANNAH ROGERS

Photography JENSEN SUTTA, PAMELA CRESS, CAITLIN ROTH, STEVE PETERSON

Events and Partnership Coordinator/Digital/Social Media JOSIE CISNEROS jcisneros@chlml.com

Production Manager DAWN PAUL dpaul@chlml.com

Contributing Writers

HILLARY LOCKE MUJICA, LISA BUSCIETTA, JOANNE DAVIDSON, DANIELLE YUTHAS, KATIE COAKLEY, JANI DUNCAN SMITH, SUZANNE BROWN, CYNTHIA PASQUALE Sales sales@coloradoexpression.com

ANNA WALL annawall@coloradoexpression.com, (720) 485-9800

Inquiries and Submissions info@coloradoexpression.com

Printed in Denver, Colorado

WiesnerMedia

Chief Executive Officer DAN WIESNER dwiesner@wiesnermedia.com

Chief Financial Officer JON RICH jrich@wiesnermedia.com

Vice President, Information Technology JOHN WIESNER jwiesner@wiesnermedia.com

Founder E. PATRICK WIESNER pat.wiesner@gmail.com

Credit Manager PATTY BARBOSA pbarbosa@wiesnermedia.com

Administrative Assistant PENNEY SMITH psmith@wiesnermedia.com

Customer Service VONG PHANMANY vphanmany@wiesnermedia.com

Marketing/Editorial Intern DECLAN WIESNER declan@wiesnermedia.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS

ADVERTISING AND EDITORIAL OFFICES

1780 SOUTH BELLAIRE ST. SUITE 505, DENVER, CO 80222 303-248-2058

WONDER WOMEN

The powerful ladies leading the way in Colorado are not only impressive and inspiring but also dedicated and devoted to pushing themselves and their communities to be the best versions of themselves. I am beyond impressed with all the women in this issue and cannot wait to share their unique stories with you.

From Angelique Salazar, who is an entrepreneur with multiple businesses in the Denver area (spoiler alert: she’s also featured in our cover story!); to Shannon Fitzgerald, who is working to increase opportunities for women in business; to Tasha Jones, whose expertise in diversity marketing is shining a light on underserved communities; and Elle Bruno, whose passion is funding women-led start-ups and minorities with venture capital, Colorado’s women are indeed Wonder Women!

Fall fashions also play a role in this issue. We teamed up with Neiman Marcus to shoot our Rev the Runway cover models on location at Mercedes Benz of Denver for a glamorous look at runway couture and accessories for this season and beyond. Speaking of couture, a Colorado designer is turning heads with her Italian-made handbag label, Vogelle. Talk about stylish!

Additionally, make sure you read about The New Local in Boulder, which fosters economic empowerment for female artists. It’s been so successful that its owners opened The New Local Annex, where guests can take workshops, classes and see current exhibits.

We also spoke with Sansara Resort and Retreat in Cambutal, Panama. The setting is jaw-droppingly gorgeous, with pristine black sand beaches and lush jungles, and the programs offered are highly curated. I can’t wait to book one of the brain health, surf camp, off-road or meditation retreats! Fall is also the perfect time to book a girls’ trip, and The Western Hotel in Ouray is just the ticket! Oh, and please head over to coloradoexpression. com to read about more noteworthy women and women-owned businesses. For example, Adventures in Good Company is a travel company that takes women on epic journeys all across the globe.

I hope you enjoy reading about all of these incredible women and recognize the women in your life who are making a difference.

Cheers to the ladies!

Elizabeth

ELIZABETH HAMILTON Group Publisher Colorado Expression , Colorado Homes & Lifestyles , Mountain Living

Photo Jensen Sutta

ALL FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Opera Colorado

Opera Colorado celebrated its 40th anniversary on May 13 at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House and Seawell Ballroom. The evening featured a performance by superstar mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato. Proceeds benefit Opera Colorado and its many education and community engagement programs throughout the Rocky Mountain region.

1 Mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato, in a gown by Ushi Sato, and pianist Craig Terry 2 Board chair Elizabeth Caswell Dyer, board member Richard Koseff and lifetime honorary chair Ellie Caulkins 3 Howard Janzen, Susan Stiff, Steve Morrisett and Diane Wengler, a member of the Opera Colorado board 4 Blair and Kristin Richardson, Analicia and Richard Thackray 5 Board member Dr. Larry Chan, Diana Yun Lee and Cynthia Chan 6 Dick and Marcia Robinson, underwriters of the 40th anniversary season 7 Gala chairs Chris and Joy Dinsdale 8 Honorary board members Susan and Jeremy Shamos 9 Norm and Sunny Brownstein 10 Ellen Robinson and Justyn Shwayder

Photos Steve Peterson

SHOP, DINE AND PLAY

BELLEVIEW STATION STYLE

AN ARRAY OF REFINED, FUN, AND LOCAL RESTAURANTS, SHOPS, AND SERVICES.

A must visit for those seeking an array of dining, shopping, and social activities. Explore happy hours, workout studios, date night options, and dog friendly patios. From white table cloths and wine to Adirondack chairs and outdoor music — dine, browse, and treat yourself, Belleview Station style.

DON’T MISS OUR END OF SUMMER AND FALL FESTIVITIES! VISIT OUR CALENDAR PAGE.

ALL FOR A GOOD CAUSE

A Taste of Camp

Roundup River Ranch held its annual A Taste of Camp gala on May 18 at Asterisk in Denver. Proceeds from this event benefit the ranch and allow it to continue to enrich the lives of children with serious illnesses and their families through camp programs.

1 President and CEO Sarah Johnson, Tom and Jennifer Figge 2 Marketing and communications director Jenn Clark, Mackenzie Koffenberger-Young, president emeritus Ruth Johnson 3 Dayna Milne, board chair Matt Teeters, Sarah Teeters 4 Shalyn and Charlie Kettering, Shane Kleinstein 5 Jon and Alexandra Vander Pol, annual giving and events director Victoria MacFarlane 6 Jody Yale, Debbi Alpert, Don Yale 7 Taylre Derby, medical director Todd Vermeer 8 President and CEO Sarah Johnson, Superhero Award recipient Kathy Cole 9 Kendra Perkins, Tait Johnson, philanthropy director Axel Lloyd, director of marketing and communications Jenn Clark

Photos Caitlin Roth

GALA & LIVE AUCTION S E P T E M B

R 9 I N B I L L I N G S, M O N TA NA

ABSENTEE BIDDING AND PHONE BIDDING ARE AVAILABLE

FOR THE FULL LIST OF AVAILABLE ARTWORKS VISIT ARTMUSEUM.ORG/GALA2023.

Absentee bidding and live phone bidding are available. Participants must register by 12 PM MST on Friday, September 8. To inquire further and register, please contact Precious McKenzie at development@artmuseum.org or call 406-256-6804 x225.

Deborah Butterfeld, 2023, 23 (H) x 26 (L) x 9 (D) inches, retail $125,000

John Buck, 2022, retail $5,500

Roxy Paine, 2008, retail $10,000

Ben Pease, 2022, retail $15,000

Ted Waddell, 2023, retail $38,000

ALL FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Denver Day of Rock

Amp the Cause rocked the streets of LoDo with its annual oneday music festival held on June 3. Denver Day of Rock unites the community through music and family-friendly entertainment while also raising funds to help Amp the Cause continue to support non-profits in the community.

1 Julia Simmons (president of Amp the Cause), Denver PD ofcer T. Fuller, Heidi Johnson and Ed Blair, GM of the Oxford Hotel 2 Elaine Hart, Rhett Brighton, Cam Blann, Nick Dzenutis, Sarah Brown

3 Lee Earnhart, Sherri Wheeler, Calvin Anderson, Caroline Van Vloten 4 Emily Brown, Stacey Kohler, Jig Khalasi 5 Phil Cagle and Lianne Heffelman 6 Mark Cordova, Lara Bennett, Lynn Dolven 7 Walt Isenberg 8 David Alexander and John Tate 9 Jim Rose and Christie Isenberg, CEO of Amp the Cause

Photos Pamela Cress

HOMEFEST HOSTS

JAN BARBOGLIO

Please join us for the exclusive launch of Jan Barboglio Jewelry in Colorado. A collection of artistically imagined, elegantly crafted, and individually signed creations available only at Homefest.

MEET JAN WHEN SHE VISITS HOMEFEST

September 7th from 11:00am - 3:00pm

ALL FOR A GOOD CAUSE

DAM Uncorked

1 Board member R. Alan Brooks, Juannean Young 2 Trustee Christopher Leach, Chad Skrbina, Matthew Adrian 3 Maeve Kearney, Kevin Kearney, Sally Scott 4 Tasha Jones, Kenneth Seaman 5 Mackenzie Heddy, Jacqueline Krone, Becca Chasin 6 Jerry Georgeff, Kim Gorgens 7 John Mastro, Krista and Steven Wiskow 8 Sue and Richard Murahata, Renee Bevis 9 Diana Wall, Kristen Wynne 10 Marilyn Coors, Cindy Halaby

Uncorked, the Denver Art Museum’s annual spring fundraiser celebrating art, wine and community, was held on June 9 at the museum. Proceeds from the event will benefit the museum’s in-community arts programs.

Photos Caitlin Roth

ALL FOR A GOOD CAUSE

The Denver Polo Classic

A black-tie dinner was held on July 14 as the opening event to the three-day Denver Polo Classic benefiting Denver Children’s Foundation and its work to help and support underserved youth in our community.

1 Denver Children’s Foundation treasurer James Samuelsen, Kyle Ballew, Ross Blahnik 2 Denver Children’s Foundation president-elect Beau Jenkins, Jackie Gretzinger, Jake Soffes 3 Elio Merino, Taylor Kennedy, Denver Children’s Foundation secretary Lucas Kulma 4 Alyssa Pinsker, Nichole Clark 5 Scott Kennedy, Taylor Kennedy, Debbie Kennedy 6 Holly Wilson, Garrick Macek 7 Adam Gressa, Steve Emma, Mike Trestwuide 8 John Curly, Tyler Snover, Dan Miller, Ryan Whelan 9 Taven and Lauren Sparks 10 Taylor Kennedy, Denver Children’s Foundation secretary Lucas Kulma

Photos Caitlin Roth

FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Cherry Creek Arts Festival

From July 1 to 3, the Cherry Creek Arts Festival showcased more than 250 juried artists from around the world during a weekend jam-packed with food, music, kids’ activities, art and more—all in the heart of Denver’s Cherry Creek neighborhood. The festival is produced by CherryArts, a nonprofit whose mission it is to provide access to art experiences and support arts education in Colorado, all year long.

Photo Frank Montanez

Photo Frank Montanez

Photo Frank Montanez

Photo Frank Montanez

Photo Frank Montanez

Photo Frank Montanez

Photo JennyGriffin

Upcoming Events & Happenings

Written By Danielle Yuthas & Lisa Buscietta

Jan Barboglio

Jewelry Showcase

Homefest

SEPT. 7

Only a handful of curated shops nationwide will be carrying the highly anticipated Jan Barboglio jewelry collection. Colorado’s Homefest just happens to be one of them! Wrapped in the mysticism, history, romance and spirituality of old Mexico, Barboglio’s collection combines sterling silver, aged bronze and onyx in dramatic earrings, hand-forged bracelets and statement necklaces. Come meet Barboglio herself, enjoy refreshments, Southwestern bites and festive music as you adorn yourself in one-of-a-kind jewelry. homefestdecor.com

SEPT. 9

Sunnyside Music Festival

Chaffee Park

Jam out at the Sunnyside Music Festival. Te all-day, family-friendly event is flled with live music, local fare, beer, ice cream and artisanal vendors in an efort to bring the community together. It is a free event that started as a grassroots backyard concert before evolving into the 10,000-attendee community staple it is today. Te Sunnyside Music Festival nonproft organization raises small grants to award to organizations that foster arts for youth in North Denver, especially those encouraging young people to play music. Te day will begin with yoga led by sponsor Better Buzz Yoga at 11 a.m. sunnysidemusicfest.org

SEPT.

11-17

Colorado Mountain Winefest

Various locations

Experience wine week in Colorado by participating in a variety of events that ofer a unique blend of mountain scenery, agriculture and favors. Events include wine educational workshops, murder mystery diners, lawn games, chocolate pairings, e-bike tours, painting, concerts and more, centered on the fruits of Colorado’s terroir. More than 50 wineries, meaderies and cideries that put Colorado on the map of well-regarded wines are participating. Colorado Mountain Winefest is the largest fundraiser for the Colorado Association of Viticulture and Enology (CAVE).

coloradowinefest.com

Photo courtesy of Jan Barboglio

19-24 SEPT.

SEPT.

The Awakened Way

JCC Mizel Arts and Culture Center

Spiritual teacher, author and medium Suzanne Giessemann encourages her students to go from “an emptiness that can’t be flled to a fullness that can’t be contained.” On Sept. 12, she will host a lecture at the JCC Mizel Arts and Culture Center on 21st Century Spirituality, which is an approach that combines consciousness and ancient spiritual wisdom, followed by a workshop on Sept. 13 called “Tools for Living the Awakened Way.” Attendees will learn about how to experience a higher consciousness and engage loved ones who have passed. jccdenver.org

Aspen Filmfest

Aspen

In its 44th year, Aspen’s Filmfest will host top flms from all over the world at the Wheeler Opera House and the Aspen Film Isis Teatre. Purchase an all-access pass to view content that premiered at Cannes, Sundance, Telluride, Toronto and Venice flm festivals.

aspenflmfest.org

22-24 SEPT.

Pueblo Chile and Frijoles Festival Downtown Pueblo

A festival dedicated to Colorado’s signature crop, green chiles, will be held in downtown Pueblo on Union Avenue. A farmers market, chile roasting and many opportunities to sample the local fare will kick of at 3 p.m. Friday and will last all weekend. For those who can handle the heat, there will be a jalapeno-eating competition and many spicy pepper varieties throughout. A Chihuahua dog parade, live music and other family-friendly fun will also be included.

pueblochilefestival.com

13 SEPT.

Bridge House Farm-to-Table Dinner

Boulder JCC

Filled with stories of impact and inspiration from the Ready to Work program, this ninth annual farm-to-table dinner will bring Boulder’s fnest chefs and restaurants together with chef John Trejo and the award-winning team at Community Table Kitchen to serve up inspired dishes, drinks and desserts that are sure to delight every palate, with the goal to raise funds to beneft adults experiencing homelessness. boulderbridgehouse.org

23 SEPT.

Bright Futures Gala

The Brighton

Invest in Kids is celebrating 25 years of serving Colorado kids at its Bright Futures Gala. Te event will feature chefs and restaurateurs from across the city bringing one-of-a-kind food and drinks for a food-station-style meal. Te event program will feature highlights from the last 25 years along with a look to the future of Invest in Kids. Dancing and festivities to follow.

iik.org

Photo courtesy of Suzanne Giesemann

Photo courtesy of Aspen Film

SEPT. 28

Harvest Hoedown

South Main Gunnison

SEPT.

29

Te sixth annual Harvest Hoedown will take place at the Train Cars at South Main Gunnison on Sept. 29. It will be hosted by the Mountain Roots Food Project, which ensures afordable and nutritious food that is regionally based and sustainably produced is accessible in Gunnison Valley. Students in the local 4H program raise the meats for the harvest bufet, which also includes organic vegetables from nearby farms. Te menu also includes local craf beer, hard cider and kombucha. Tis is a family-friendly event complete with kids’ activities, square dancing and live bluegrass music.

mountainrootsfoodproject.org

Aspire Gala

Sturm Grand Pavilion

OCT.

6

Gather ’Round Gala

ReelWorks

Gather ’Round to celebrate the harvest season and support Denver Urban Gardens (DUG) in its mission to provide access, skills and resources for people to grow healthy food in the community and regenerate urban green spaces. Te evening begins at 6 p.m. and will include autumn vegetable ragout from Te Easy Vegan, dancing to a live band, and a silent auction. dug.org

Restless Leg Tour

SEPT. 30 -

OCT. 1

Buell and Bellco theaters

Comedy icons Tina Fey and Amy Poehler bring their Restless Leg Tour to the Buell on Sept. 30 and two shows to Bellco Teatre on Oct. 31. Te pair of comedians is honoring 30 years of friendship by telling iconic stories and jokes in the style of unfettered witty banter. tinaamytour.com

OCT.

7

Join Warren Village at its Aspire Gala to raise funds to help residents transform the lives of their families. Te theme for this year’s gala is Building Community, celebrating the power and importance of community support. Te evening includes a cocktail reception, dinner, testimonials from resident families and live music and dancing.

warrenvillage.org

Mutts and Models

ReelWorks

Mutts and Models celebrates its 21st anniversary this year with Te Real Housedogs of Colorado. Te Canine & Celebrity Fashion Show will feature local philanthropists, celebrities and media personalities as they strut down the runway with their dogs, fundraising for Pepper’s Senior Dog Sanctuary. Peppers provides a lifelong home to elderly dogs rescued from area shelters.

muttsandmodels.dog

Photo courtesy of Denver Urban Gardens

1726 OCT.

HOPE STARTS HERE.

Glow at the Gardens

Denver Botanic Gardens, York Street location

Get into the fall spirit by visiting a patch of artfully carved jack-o-lanterns at Denver’s Botanic Gardens. Tis gourds-galore event boasts thousands of illuminated, pumpkins paired with live entertainment. botanicgardens.org

TINA—The Tina Turner Musical Buell Theatre

A showstopper musical that recounts Turner’s triumphant rise to the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll takes stage at the Buell Teatre. As a 12-time Grammy winner and solo performer who sold the most concert tickets in history, Turner’s story is one of not only talent but also of overcoming adversity and breaking through barriers related to race, gender and age.

denvercenter.org

21 OCT.

DenverRescueMission.org/Give

A Precious Child

Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel

You are invited to join A Precious Child as it celebrates its 15th year of service to children and families in need with the Crystal Ball Gala. Guests will enjoy cocktails, dinner, casino games, dancing and a silent auction. A Precious Child helps children and families facing difcult life challenges such as abuse and neglect, crisis situations and poverty.

apreciouschild.org

Photo courtesy of Denver Botanic Gardens. Photo by Scott Dressel-Martin

Photo Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade

Western Fantasy National Western Event Center

Western Fantasy celebrates its 30th anniversary with the aptly titled event Tirty Years of Giving. Enjoy cocktails, dinner, a live auction and a concert featuring Kevin Costner & Modern West. Te proceeds beneft Volunteers of America Colorado and its many programs that serve Colorado’s most vulnerable population.

westernfantasy.com

Carousel Ball Hyatt Regency Denver

Te 2023 event will mark the 37th annual Carousel Ball. Guests enjoy dinner, silent and live auctions, and entertainment featuring David Foster and Katharine McPhee. All proceeds from the event beneft the Children’s Diabetes Foundation and its work to help the type 1 diabetes community along with the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes. childrensdiabetesfoundation.org

Mile High Holiday Mart

Gates Field House

Don’t miss the 44th annual Mile High Holiday Mart featuring over 100 merchants and one-of-a-kind gifs presented by the Junior League of Denver. Merchants will be selling everything from spices to jewelry, wines, toys and more. Tis event has helped raise over $6.1 million since 1980 in support of projects in the Denver community.

jld.org

Photo Laura Ise

Shining a light on nonpro ts making an impact

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

On Sept. 8, the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus will host its annual Birthday Bash, a fundraiser where guests will celebrate the museum’s 50th year of providing wonder, joy and good vibes for visitors of all ages.

Te 6 p.m. event, chaired by Kali Handford and Julia Lazure, will feature food from several of Denver’s top caterers, as well as beverages, live and silent auctions and music for dancing. Tickets are $175 and can be purchased by visiting the museum’s website.

In this golden anniversary year, Michael Yankovich, the museum’s president and chief executive ofcer, said he and his staf “have been

refecting on our vibrant history while looking toward the future with a focus on extraordinary experiences that champion the wonder and joy of childhood.”

“As a learning organization, we are always working to take things to the next level and not only challenge but also exceed the expectations of what a children’s museum can be and do.”

Te museum had its start in 1973 when a group of parents, educators and other professionals assembled two traveling exhibitions to introduce Coloradans to their dream of creating an interactive cultural and educational institution for children and families. Teir efort was so

Story Joanne Davidson Photos courtesy of the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus

Children’s Museum | Denver Zoo | Latinas First Foundation

well received that one thing became clear: It was time to give these mobile displays a permanent home.

So, in very short order, a building on Bannock Street, just south of downtown, was leased, renovated and transformed into the Children’s Museum of Denver. Within months of its January 1975 opening, attendance had soared to the point where there was no doubt that a larger facility was needed.

In 1984, the museum moved to its current home, the 9-acre Marsico Campus along the west bank of the South Platte River in Denver’s Jeferson Park neighborhood.

Growth didn’t stop there. In 2015, what is now the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus, which served 312,000 children and their families in fscal year 2022, underwent a $16.1 million extensive expansion that doubled its public space and included seven new exhibits.

One of them is Bloom, a nature-inspired space designed for children up to age 3 and their caregivers. It was designed with the latest knowledge, insights and research into how children develop and is flled with whimsical art from local artists.

A second new exhibit, opening later this fall, is Gallery Uno. It is what Yankovich describes as “an exciting, rotating exhibit space intended to spark imaginative play, creativity and joy.” •

50TH BIRTHDAY BASH

Playful attire. Rain or shine. Tickets are $175 and are available at mychildrensmuseum.org.

2121 Children’s Museum Drive, Denver mychildsmuseum.org

Shining a light on nonpro ts making an impact

OPPOSITE: Adventure Forest at the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus. TOP LEFT: Gretchen Kerr (museum COO), Judy Pottle (museum board member and 50th anniversary campaign co-chair), Michael Yankovich (museum president and CEO), Sara Carpenter (50th anniversary campaign co-chair) are excited to celebrate the 50th Birthday Bash. TOP RIGHT: The Art Studio at the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus.

Joanne Davidson is a frequent contributor to Colorado Expression

DENVER ZOO

With 1.8 million visitors in 2022 alone, the Denver Zoo is one of the Mile High City’s most popular attractions—and for good reason.

Located on 84 acres in the City Park neighborhood, the zoo’s population has grown from a single black bear cub gifed to then-Mayor Tomas S. McMurray in 1896 to the 3,000-plus amphibians, birds, fsh, insects, invertebrates, mammals and reptiles that call Denver Zoo home today.

And come fall, the new famingo habitat will open, providing an expanded and improved space for the zoo’s 80 American and Chilean famingos to preen, prance and otherwise delight guests of all ages.

Te habitat features topography inspired by the Andean highlands, providing visitors with unique viewing areas and famingos with yearround access to indoor and outdoor living spaces that include multiple wading pools and nesting islands. Native artists from South America have been commissioned to create art for the habitat.

On Sept. 9, those attending the fourth annual Flock Party will be treated to a preview of the famingo habitat. “Compared to the previous one, this is an extraordinary habitat,” said Jake Kubie’, the zoo’s director of integrated communications. “Te technology we’re bringing in is state-of-the-industry and will create a signifcant experience for the animals and guests.”

Shining a light on nonpro ts making an impact

Story Joanne Davidson Photos courtesy of Denver Zoo

DENVER ZOO

2300 Steele St. denverzoo.org

ADMISSION

Tickets for timed entry must be purchased online in advance. Flock Party tickets: $300 VIP (sold out), $150 general admission available at denverzoo.org.

Te Flock Party has raised $1 million to date and is projected to net an additional $500,000 this year. Approximately 2,000 friends of the zoo are expected to take part in the event that features a famingo walk-through, multiple food and beverage stations and musical entertainment.

Te famingo walk-through, Kubie’ added, is a Flock Party tradition during which the birds are free to roam the zoo grounds during the 5-9 p.m. event. Another tradition is for guests to wear colorful attire that in the past has included famingo headdresses and clothing in various shades of pink.

“We put a lot of energy into the food and drink,” Kubie’ said, “but the emphasis is on the animals and how we care for them.” •

OPPOSITE: An architectural drawing of the new flamingo habitat at the Denver Zoo. LEFT: Flamingos strut their stuff at the Denver Zoo.

Joanne Davidson visits the Denver Zoo at least once a year and gets a real kick out of watching the antics of the California sea lions in the Northern Shores habitat.

Shining a light on nonpro ts making an impact

LATINAS FIRST FOUNDATION

Story Joanne Davidson

When Juanita Chacon and Meshach Rhoades founded the nonproft Latinas First Foundation in 2011, it was with the goal of rewriting the phrase “Girls cannot be what they cannot see.”

Almost 12 years later, Chacon (a broker associate with RE/MAX Alliance Central) and Rhoades (managing partner at Crowell & Moring law frm) take immeasurable pride in knowing that, thanks to the awarding of 200-plus college scholarships, young Latinas from the Denver area have been able to attend college and embark on careers that once were beyond their wildest dreams.

In other words, this success has changed the narrative to “Girls can be what they see.”

Tat is because of scholarship recipients like Erika Bailon, who used her grant to help fund her computer science major at the University of Colorado Boulder. Today, she is a systems sofware engineer at the NASA Jet Propulsion Lab in Pasadena, Calif.

“Te Latinas First Foundation made me believe I could be more than what I was limiting myself to believe I could,” Bailon said at a previous LFF event. “I came to the United States when I was 20 and couldn’t speak a word of English. Now, I work for one of the most important companies in the nation, allowing the world to understand the data we bring from space.”

To supplement the scholarships, the foundation matches recipients with a mentor, works with colleges to put various support systems in place, and hosts networking events where scholars gain information and advice from adults already working in the feld they plan on entering.

“Our mentors pledge to be available whenever a scholar needs them. It’s a big deal to have someone in your corner like that,” Chacon says. College support systems are especially valuable, she says, because “Traditional colleges by and large haven’t recognized how much harder it is for a young Latina, especially one who is a frst-generation college student, to leave her family and go out of town or out of state. She may not be able to aford to go home for the holidays or special occasions, and sometimes that loneliness or feeling of isolation is such that they decide to drop out.”

On Sept. 15, the Latinas First Foundation will host its annual Trailblazer and Unsung Heroine Luncheon at the Hilton City Center, an occasion that also recognizes the 2023 scholarship recipients. A record 61 scholarships ranging in value from $2,500 to a full ride were granted this year.

Te Trailblazer awards are a tribute to Latina women who have been frst in their felds, paving the way for others to follow. Previous Trailblazer recipients include Anita Padilla-Fitzgerald, founder, president and chief executive ofcer of MegaStar Financial Corp.; Linda Alvarado, president/CEO of Alvarado Construction and part owner of the Colorado Rockies; and Susana Cordova, former superintendent of the Denver Public Schools and the current Colorado commissioner of education.

Unsung Heroine awards go to Latina women who’ve made signifcant contributions to their community but have received little or no recognition. Recipients have included Judi Diaz Bonacquisti, who had served as the foundation’s frst executive director before her appointment as senior diversity ofcer for the University of Colorado, and Marcela de la Mar, former executive director of the Mexican Cultural Center and a member of numerous nonproft boards. •

LATINAS FIRST FOUNDATION

1766 W. 46th Ave., #11489, Denver 303-834-7085

latinasfirst.org

since its inception.

a light on nonpro ts making an impact

Joanne Davidson has had the pleasure of writing about the Latinas First Foundation

TOP: Latinas First Foundation co-founders Juanita Chacon, left, and Meshach Rhoades, right, with longtime supporter Denise Snyder, owner of the Mariel boutique in Cherry Creek North.

Photos Joanne Davidson

SIMONE ROSS

As the song goes, “It’s a woman’s prerogative to change her mind.” Had Simone Ross not changed her mind at several critical junctures, she might not be the leader she is today: the president and chief executive ofcer of the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce and one of Colorado’s most passionate advocates for advancing women in the workplace.

A Denver native, Ross grew up in a single-parent household where fnances were tight. She knew from an early age that she wanted to be the frst in her family to receive a college education and land a job that paid well. So, afer graduating from East High School, she enrolled at Colorado State University with the intention of majoring in business. And that’s where she frst changed her mind.

“I talked myself out of being a business major because I was too bad at math and felt I’d never be able to hang in the business world. What a completely false narrative that turned out to be!”

As time would tell, business was indeed her calling. It just had to be the right business.

Ross said she doesn’t regret switching majors from business to technical journalism—“I’m glad I have that skill set even though I’ve never used journalism, except for writing blogs”—but adds that business seemed to be her best option following her graduation from CSU. “My frst job was being a fre and casualty underwriter for State Farm. It was interesting in that it gave me my frst taste of corporate structures, but it was complete and total torture because it didn’t ft my personality type. I wanted to be out and about with people, not sitting behind a desk.”

She returned to CSU, earned a master’s degree in English and spent the next four years teaching high school English and GED classes at Urban Peak. From there, she joined Cigna and discovered she had a passion for helping companies develop health care programs that were good for the company and employees alike.

Ross did so well at Cigna that a health care startup in King of Prussia, Pa., recruited her to be its vice president of business development, a job she held until the economy tanked and the business folded.

“Tat was very hard for me because I’d experienced such success. But it also made me say, ‘Whoa, maybe my defnition of success isn’t tied to title or salary, but what impact I can make on the world.’ I took a step back and asked myself what about work makes me happy and what I want to be remembered for. Te answer was advocating for people who are voiceless, giving back to the community, and being a decision maker who drives change.”

So she packed up and returned to Denver to serve as volunteer coordinator for the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Ten, over the course of the next decade, Ross landed—and sometimes created— high-level business development positions with Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Delta Dental and SCL Health. “Here I was, a young Black woman who had faced so many barriers and challenges, in a space where we could call out those challenges and create a sense of belonging in spaces where we didn’t feel like we belonged. I realized I had every right to achieve and succeed in a C-suite role.”

More changes came in 2018 when her job at SCL Health was eliminated. “It was beyond tough,” she says of the job loss. “It was awful, but I had to ask who I was. Te title of wife wasn’t suiting me, so I walked away from my marriage to become a single mom. It was a heart-wrenching and very tough decision because I lost my home, had no income and little savings. It was very scary, but it was something I had to do for myself and my kids and my community.”

Story Joanne Davidson Photos courtesy of Simone Ross

THE DETAILS

Age: 41

Children: Gavin, 13, and Zoe, 8

Job title: President/CEO, Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce and executive director of the Colorado Women’s Chamber Foundation. She also is an auctioneer, both as an independent contractor and as a member of The Gala Team

Education: Degrees in technical journalism and English and an MBA, all from Colorado State University

Website: cwcc.org

Ross has been president and chief executive officer of the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce since December 2021. RIGHT: Ross with her children, Gavin and Zoe.

She established a creative operations consultancy and in very short order helped develop Te Riveter, a co-working space for marginalized women in the business world. It was successful until the COVID-19 pandemic struck and Te Riveter shut down.

Fortunately for Ross, the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce had been a partner of Te Riveter, and when that organization found itself in need of a fractional chief executive ofcer—someone to perform specifc leadership tasks for a fxed amount of time—she was ofered the job and accepted.

She became the chamber’s president and CEO in December 2021, when Kristen Blessman, who had held the job since 2017, moved on to become president and general manager of PBS12.

Leanna Clark chaired the chamber board when Ross interviewed for the president/CEO position and recalls how “Simone stood out with her experience as an entrepreneur and in the corporate realm with her ability to advocate for women in the workforce. She has gone above and beyond our wildest dreams; has grown membership, revamped and refreshed programming and established the CWCC as the voice for women in business in Colorado.”

We had some questions for Ross.

How do people describe you?

Hopefully as a catalyst—someone who challenges the status quo and adds value, a diferent perspective and insights to whatever is being discussed.

How would you like to be remembered?

As a loving mother who would do anything in the world for her children.

Who do you most admire, and why?

My grandparents. I would not be who I am today had they not invested in me in such meaningful and special ways.

What is a fun fact about yourself that others might find surprising?

I’m a retired rapper! And I sang backup vocals for a variety of artists, although I wasn’t always sure where my recorded vocals were going.

What is the one thing you cannot live without?

Having a spiritual connection. It keeps me grounded, sharp and intuitive.

What was your last major purchase?

I am big on my kids having unique and immersive experiences, so we’re going to Mexico City for a few weeks and immerse ourselves in a culture that is new to us. And it ain’t cheap!

What is the last book you read?

I’m in the middle of three right now: My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies, by Resmaa Menakem; Manifest Now, by Idil Ahmed; and Tools of Titans, by Tim Ferriss.

What do you enjoy most about living in Colorado?

Te way we are able to work together. We have such an amazing community of people that you can’t fnd anywhere else.

When it comes to relaxation, nothing beats … being by the ocean.

What is your favorite Denver restaurant, and is there a dish you always order there?

I am a real foodie—and a really good cook. But for going out, my favorites are Guard & Grace for a good steak and Super Mega Bien. I just sit there and gorge.

Are you involved with any Denver-area nonprofits?

I’m on the board of Girls, Inc., and the Colorado Enterprise Fund. I also belong to Jack & Jill of America and am a proud, 22-year member of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority. •

Joanne Davidson has known Simone Ross for a decade or more, but it wasn’t until she conducted this interview that she discovered that Ross once was a rapper!

OPPOSITE:

LEFT: Linda Yip distributes backpacks filled with school supplies to elementary school students in rural Colorado.

OPPOSITE: Jimmy and Linda Yip always include a typical Night Market in the annual Chinese New Year Gala that raises money for the Nathan Yip Foundation.

LINDA YIP

To understand what makes Linda Yip the friend and role model that she is to many, one needs only review her sign in the Chinese zodiac.

Linda, co-founder of the Nathan Yip Foundation and one of the 10 Women of Distinction that Girl Scouts of Colorado will honor on Sept. 28, was born in the Lunar Year of the Pig. Don’t let the name fool you: Tose born under that sign are said to be gentle beings who grace everyone around them with their generous, honest and happy hearts. Tey make good teachers or civil servants and have a great love for family. Te description fts Linda to a T.

“Linda gives of herself completely,” says attorney Jon Olafson, immediate past president of the Nathan Yip Foundation board. “She is selfess, loving, incredibly intelligent, driven and giving. She transformed what was the darkest moment of her life, the passing of her son, into a lifelong commitment to improving the lives of those around her.”

Linda was 30 years old when a Colorado family she had befriended while visiting Korea few to her home in Taipei, Taiwan, to

persuade her to join them in Denver, where they had opened a successful restaurant.

Her 1979 move from her native Taiwan to the Mile High City was a gamble, but it paid of handsomely. It was here that she met and married Jimmy Yip, with whom she owned, operated and later sold three restaurants and, with business partners, established the frst Keller Williams real estate franchise in Denver, growing it to include the entire Colorado region. Te Yips and their partners also owned a Mister Steak franchise; built the Country Inn & Suites: acquired Te Alamo, a commercial space in downtown Denver; and started Peliton, a business processing outsourcing company that helps small business owners improve their efciency and proftability.

Jimmy and Linda were overjoyed with the 1983 birth of their only child, Nathan, and devastated 19 years later when he lost his life in an automobile accident.

To honor Nathan’s memory and carry on his dedication to doing everything possible to ensure that children living in poverty in

Story Joanne Davidson Photos courtesy of The Nathan Yip Foundation

THE DETAILS

Age: 75

Children: One, our son, Nathan, who died in an automobile accident when he was 19

Job title: Co-founder, Nathan Yip Foundation

Education: Degree in political science from the Cultural College of Taiwan. Also studied hotel management and hospitality at Metropolitan State University of Denver

Website: nathanyipfoundation.org

distant parts of the world received the best possible education, they established the Nathan Yip Foundation. Te early years were spent raising money to build schools, dormitories, cafeterias and orphanages in poverty-stricken areas that Nathan had visited in Mexico, China, Rwanda and Nairobi. In 2016, the foundation opted to focus exclusively on supporting schools in rural areas of Colorado.

“Seeing all the children that we’ve helped is our reward,” Linda said. “It’s the reward, too, for all of our supporters, not just me and Jimmy, because we’re all family, and we know Nathan is smiling down on us.”

We caught up with Linda Yip to learn more about what inspires and drives her.

How do people describe you?

Hmmm, I don’t know. Maybe friendly, fun, lots of energy, hard-working, crazy—but crazy in a good way.

How would you like to be remembered?

As someone who was warm and passionate and did a good job helping kids.

Who do you most admire and why?

My (late) father because he was very honest, had a big heart and liked to help others. “What I say is what I mean” is what I learned from him.

What is a fun fact about yourself that others might find surprising?

Tat I enjoy dancing. A lot. When I was in high school, I’d skip homework to go dancing. Now, moving my body (on the dance foor) is the only opportunity I have for exercise.

What is the one thing you cannot live without?

Friendship.

What was your last major purchase?

I don’t buy things anymore … I’m trying to get rid of stuf I no longer need. Whatever I spend now is for something to help kids.

What is the last book you read?

“Te Beautiful No” by Sheri Salata. But I haven’t fnished it yet; right now, I’m just fipping through the pages.

What do you like most about living in Colorado?

Te people, the diversity and the weather. Sometimes you can have all four seasons in one day. And I found the best husband in Colorado!

When it comes to relaxation, nothing beats …

Playing mahjong. You don’t think of anything except wanting to win.

What is your favorite Denver-area restaurant and is there a dish you always order?

Hong Kong Station in Centennial. I always get the fsh and tofu hot pot.

Are you involved with any other local nonprofit organizations?

Lotus Network, Welcome to Colorado and the International Leadership Foundation.

How has your benevolence been recognized?

Most recently, I was selected as one of the 2023 Women of Distinction by Girl Scouts of Colorado. Gov. Jarad Polis appointed me to the America 250-Colorado 150 Commission which works with History Colorado to develop programs and plan for the 2026 ofcial observance of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and the 150th anniversary of Colorado statehood. •

Joanne Davidson had the pleasure of nominating Linda Yip for a Girl Scout Woman of Distinction award and was overjoyed when the committee selected her.

LINDA APPEL LIPSIUS

When a friend recruited Linda Appel Lipsius for the board at Denver Urban Gardens in the summer of 2020, little did Lipsius know that approximately three months into her board service there would be a staf shakeup and she’d be tapped to step in as interim chief executive ofcer. Four months later, the CEO’s title was hers alone.

Te daughter of Orange Glo International founders Max and Elaine Appel, Lipsius quickly realized that while she’d never set out to lead a nonproft organization, the career shif was a good one because her business background and passion for protecting the environment are key elements in being an efective leader for DUG. Even though, she says with a chuckle, “I am not, in fact, a very good gardener. However, I have been told I garden with a lot of spirit.” Nonproft organizations, Lipsius explains, have the same disciplines, but diferent rhythms, as a business. “At DUG, high standards and the opportunity to create real change exist.”

Like with the Etkin Family Food Forest Initiative, where perennial food-producing trees, bushes and vines are added to existing DUG gardens to “add dimensionality, biodiversity, shade, water retention, carbon capture and legacy food production to what DUG can provide.”

DUG also runs the city’s master composting programs and leads community classes that support Denver’s new pay-as-you-throw trash pick-up program.

Denver Urban Gardens, one of the nation’s largest independent community garden organizations, started in 1978 when a group of North Denver residents transformed a vacant parking lot into a safe space for their Hmong neighbors to grow their own food.

Te concept soon spread to other neighborhoods, and in 1985, DUG was incorporated as a 501(c)3 nonproft. Today, DUG has 17,500 gardeners, who speak 40 languages and grow fruits, vegetables, fowers, bushes and trees in 193 gardens in six metro Denver counties. Te

gardens produce some 650,000 pounds of food annually, 10 percent of which is donated.

Lipsius was introduced to earth-friendly entrepreneurship by her parents. Teir Orange Glo International—the maker of such environmentally sound cleaning products as OxiClean, Kaboom, Powerizer and MagicMax—began in the garage of their Denver-area home. In 2006, they sold the company to Church & Dwight, parent company of brands that include Arm & Hammer, Waterpik and Nair, for $325 million.

“My job in college was going to county fairs with Dad to pitch Orange Glo,” Lipsius says. “I went from pitching products to helping my mother fll bottles in our garage to running our business in Europe.”

Afer living in New York, Washington, D.C., and London, Lipsius returned to Denver to be the co-founder of Teatulia Regenerative Organic Teas, which sources 100 percent organic teas from Bangladesh to use in the hot, iced and canned teas sold throughout the U.S., and the mama’hood, a shop and studio for new and expectant moms and their families. She maintains an ownership and advisory position in Teatulia but recently sold mama’hood.

We recently talked to Lipsius about her work and what drives her. As DUG’s chief executive, what has brought you the most happiness?

Oh, gosh! I simply love my work. Connecting people to the soil and each other and helping them on a journey of discovery of their own potential is what brings me joy. Plus, I was lucky to come into an organization with strong bones, a strong brand and an extraordinary team. I had loads to work with from the moment I stepped on board.

DUG currently has 193 gardens. How many are added per year, and is there a limit?

Tis year we are adding two to three gardens and 14 food forests. We are working on fguring out a way for us to grow faster—to

Story Joanne Davidson

Photos courtesy of Denver Urban Gardens

Linda Appel Lipsius

meet the outsized demand for both—without overtaxing the organization. I’m happy to report we’re making good progress!

How do people describe you?

Boundless energy, enthusiasm and joy.

Who do you most admire?

My parents. Tey taught me humility, curiosity, gratitude and generosity.

One thing you absolutely cannot live without: Apples.

A typical non-working day will find me …

Leisurely enjoying a cup of cofee, reading Te New York Times, running, biking or doing yoga, spending time working on the house, enjoying as much quality time with my kids as they’ll give me, then an evening with family or friends.

What is your favorite Denver restaurant, and what do you always order?

Te Kitchen. I live seven doors down from it and go all the time. I always order the burrata, the carrots and one of their perfect cocktails.

Your favorite getaway?

New York City. I went to college and business school there, and I’ve had a place there ever since. I’m not sure what exactly it is

about the city, but I love being there – walking the streets, running along the river, eating in the restaurants and exploring. Besides DUG, are you involved with any other causes or nonprofits

I’m on the board of Colorado Public Radio. I’m also proud to support Clinica Tepeyac, Firefy Autism, Rodale Institute, Highline Canal Conservancy, Te Highline, Rail-to-Trail Conservancy and Urban Peak. •

THE DETAILS

Age: 52

Children: Two teenagers

Job title: CEO, Denver Urban Gardens

Hometown: Denver

Education: BA in political science, Columbia University; MBA in finance and organizational management, New York University

Website: dug.org

Joanne Davidson starts each growing season with the best intentions. Sometimes she wins, sometimes she loses. But, like Lipsius, she gardens with a lot of spirit.

Angelique Salazar

MEET ANGELIQUE SALAZAR

Growing up in the prominent Salazar family in Littleton’s Columbine Valley neighborhood where she still lives today, Angelique Salazar was raised with strong values from her mother and her father. Her foray into business ownership began in her early twenties when Salazar was searching for suitable day care for her three special needs dogs while she was at work at her family businesses. Her search resulted in the realization that there was an opportunity in the market for quality dog day care. Using her business acumen, she established U Lucky Dog, known as Club ULD at 4125 Elati Street, which provides day care, boarding and spa services for dogs. Already an astute businesswoman, Salazar started slowly by providing only day care services. ULD has now grown into an award-winning 25,000 square foot facility o ering day care, overnight boarding, grooming, and a retail shop.

Salazar is also a principal at Central Street Capital, Inc., the Salazar family o ce that oversees the family businesses. e company’s executive team is composed of Salazar’s family. Rob, her father, is the founder and president. Lola, her mother, is president of Salazar Family Foundation and her brother Isiah is also a principal. As a team, the family oversees investments in real estate development projects, health care related companies and businesses in a broad spectrum of industries. “We’re smart enough to know what we’re good at and what we’re not good at. at’s really important when you’re working with family,” says Salazar. e family works hard, and plays hard—but knows when to leave work at the o ce and gather around the dinner table together, which they do every Sunday.

Her parents, Lola and Rob Salazar, founded Salazar Family Foundation, a nonpro t, 501(c)(3) organization in 1999 whose mission is to support education, low-income housing assistance and other unmet needs in our community. Lola and Rob both grew up in Denver and Salazar Family Foundation is inspired by a love and commitment to the place in which they grew up. e foundation has provided hundreds of grants to a variety of organizations over the last 23 years. It is a major contributor to e Denver Foundation, e Denver Public Schools Foundation, the Latin American Education Foundation, Mi Casa Resource Center and Warren Village.

Salazar attributes her success to the opportunities and knowledge given to her by her parents. She joined the family business while attending college at the University of Colorado and learned everything she could from her father. As an entrepreneur, investor, philanthropist, mother, female and a minority, Salazar is passionate about creating opportunities to help others. “It is truly an honor to go to work every day, and it doesn’t ever feel like work,” Salazar says.

It would be impossible to truly list all that this powerhouse family has done for our community. ey have worked together to create a family legacy, using their wealth for the bene t of others. ere is no doubt that working with her family and learning from her dad has made Salazar the successful businesswoman she is today. No one said it better than Lola Salazar: “Set goals, work hard, dream big, and remember to give back.” •

Story CE Staff Photo Pete Eklund

The entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropist who is carrying out her family’s legacy and leaving her mark on Denver’s economic landscape.

Alexander McQueen Classic Single-Breasted Suiting Blazer, $2,390

Ralph Lauren Leather Gathered Leather Bustier Top, $2690

Alexander McQueen Classic Suiting Pants, $990

Dina Mackney White Mother of Pearl Collar Necklace, $280 Shoes, model’s own

Dolce & Gabbana Tile-Print Silk Charmeuse Midi Dress, $2,495

Dolce & Gabbana Printed Leather Slingback Pumps, $875

Verasce Sleeveless Buttoned Crop Top, $1,225 Verasce x Dua Lipa Formal Button-Front Silk Shirt with Polka Dot Print and Allover Butterflies $1,575

Verasce Twill Buttoned Mini Skirt, $1,225

Wolford Opaque Black Tights, $90 Shoes, model’s own

Quiet Luxury to Avant Garde, FALL FASHION IS HERE

Story Jani Duncan Smith

Photos Jensen Sutta

Wardrobe Styling Tracy Bozarth and Carla Valdez for Neiman Marcus

Makeup by Michael Moore, Moore for Life

Location Mercedes Benz of Denver

Fall trends take inspiration from the classics, with mood-boosting pops of color, wonderful textures and luxurious fabrics with an overall emphasis on the finer points of quality and design. Structured mix-and-match separates in muted shades; subtle and not-so subtle palettes and patterns; dramatic shoulder pads; oversized, extra-long outerwear with a runway twist on Western style; super-tall boots, pointed toes and stiletto heels for an elongated look in this year’s collections draw from the past but have a presence that is all their own.

QUIET LUXURY

If you’re obsessed with a softer, more understated brand of luxury, check out Brunello Cucinelli, a brand synonymous with luxurious head-to-toe neutrals and classic style. It seems every label from Hermès and Balenciaga to Ralph Lauren and Max Mara are rolling out their own take on this pared-down trend with beautifully tailored blazers and coats cut from sumptuous, textured fabrics, styled with a nonchalance that exudes comfort and style.

MAKE A STATEMENT

If it’s color you crave, blue-reds and hot pinks will make the loudest statement, so count on Alexander McQueen, Dolce & Gabbana and Versace to liven up your closet. But let’s not forget about pattern: Schiaparelli, JW Anderson and Leowe are dropping some of the most exciting looks featuring bigger, louder fall florals and avant-garde patterns to lighten the mood.

Neiman Marcus has long been the go-to for all things elegant and fashionable, and this season is no exception.

Models, from left: Angelique Salazar, Erin Salazar, Sirine Swed

UNDERSTATED NEUTRALS

TOP LEFT:

Burnello Cucinelli Wool Check Short Puffer Jacket with Paillette Detail, $5,995

Burnello Cucinelli Monili-Shoulder MockNeck Elbow-Sleeve Rib Sweater, $1,595

Burnello Cucinelli Paillette Plaid Pull-On Skirt, $2,450

BOTTOM LEFT:

Burnello Cucinelli Cashmere Cape Jacket with Monili Tab Detail, $7,995

Burnello Cucinelli Satin Blouse with Monili Trim, $2,495

Brunello Cucinelli Diamante Rib Knit Cashmere-Silk Pull-On Midi Skirt, $4,500

RIGHT:

Max Mara Obliqua Faux Fur Jacket, $1,890

Burnello Cucinelli Metallic Laminated-Print Silk Western Blouse, $2,950

Burnello Cucinelli Metallic Pleated Wide-Leg Gauze Pants, $2,950

GLITZ & GLAMOUR (OPPOSITE PAGE)

LEFT:

Giorgio Armani Mesh Draped Sheath Dress, $3,495

TOP RIGHT:

Erto Dahlia Sheer Blouse with Ruffle Details, $1700

Erto Dahlia Pleated Maxi Skirt, $2200

BOTTOM RIGHT:

Alexander McQueen Knit Midi Dress with Colorblock Ruffle Detail, $3,990

GO-TO GLAMOUR

Gala season is in full swing and the aisles are loaded with embellished, glitzy looks perfect for any party or fundraiser. » Alexander McQueen revisits the Old Hollywood pencil dress, adding a modern touch of color blocking to the ruffle neckline. Meanwhile, Giorgio Armani gives a nod the 1990s with a structured, sexy little black dress that sparkles and shines. Erto floats in with an ethereal sheer gown that delivers comfort and elegance.

Whatever the occasion, these fall trends wear well as a collection or combine easily with bespoke pieces from decades past to elevate any look with ease.

ABOUT THE MODELS

Angelique Salazar is a spirited Denver entrepreneur, dog lover, former restaurateur and Colorado native who is passionate about creating opportunities that blend neighborhood, community and business.

(Read more about Angelique and the Salazar Family Foundation on page 38.)

Erin Salazar is Angelique’s sister-in-law and works for the Salazar Family Foundation in the role of executive assistant to the president. She is actively involved with providing consistent help and information to the three supporting organizations that the foundation is involved with.

Sirine Swed is the founder and owner of Battington Beauty, a brand that combines quality, luxury and individuality to its line of silk lashes, cosmetic tools and accessories as well as its newly launched line of contour and blush sticks. t

DETERMINED DEDICATED &

Female business leaders are vastly outnumbered by their male counterparts, but three area women are passionate about creating more advancement opportunities for women and overcoming gender inequities. Women ofen fnd themselves talked over, passed over, pushed back and discriminated against, says Shannon Fitzgerald

As the chief brand ofcer for SSA Group, a 53-year-old company founded by her father, Kevin McNicholas, Fitzgerald has “intentionally put my eforts and energy and drive and fght and commitment and responsibility into ensuring that SSA is a company of women, for women.”

SSA partners with 90 cultural attractions such as museums and zoos across the United States, operating their food, ticketing, admissions and retail services. Fitzgerald joined the company 15 years ago, planning to only stay one year and build her résumé, but she fell in love with the business.

Her father always put people frst, treating employees like family. She follows the same model, but over the years has narrowed her emphasis.

“Once I had my frst daughter as a working executive mom, and then a second daughter, I was like, ‘Game on. I’m going to ensure your future looks diferent, and you are going to live in a place where American businesswomen are equal,’” she says. »

Story Cynthia Pasquale

The resiliency of Shannon Fitzgerald, Tasha Jones and Elle Bruno is nothing short of inspiring

SHANNON FITZGERALD

TOP: Daughters Ivy, left, and Mabel inspired Shannon Fitzgerald to fight for female equality in the workplace.

Photo courtesy of Shannon Fitzgerald

Fitzgerald has been infuential in pushing for change and revising company policies. SSA employees are now granted paid 12-week parental leave. It launched a female resource group, called EmpowHER, and created an IDEA + Belonging Department.

She’s also asked for a company commitment to put more women in fnancial oversight positions. “When you look at your COO, your CEO, your CFO—the top positions—they came from a track that involved fnancial

oversight,” she says. Promoting women into other career tracks—human resources, sales or marketing—can reduce the number of viable executive leaders or narrows it down to men, she says.

Although SSA is a “company for tomorrow and sees the beneft of being a home for all,” cultural change can sometimes be an uphill battle, she says.

“Even when you have supportive men [in a company], they don’t have the same lived experience as women, and so inherently, they are going to have

Photo courtesy of Tasha Jones

TASHA JONES

blind spots,” Fitzgerald says. “I am ensuring that I am creating the next generation of Colorado female leaders.”

Another woman who is an agent of change, Tasha Jones, works to align people, places and spaces “while trying to thread a diversity narrative” in the work being done.

After 18 years in the real estate industry, Jones launched LV Jones, a diversity marketing consulting company, in 2021. She partners with organizations to inspire their teams to not only contribute to the bottom line but also create a culture of belonging.

“Everything [I do] is rooted in what I grew into,” Jones says. As a first-generation college student, she participated in Upward Bound, a program that supports youths and provides opportunities to succeed in higher education pursuits. The program left a lasting impression on her.

In her early career, if she was overlooked for a promotion or felt she wasn’t taken credibly, she took steps to understand how to navigate corporate dynamics. And she began to engage in the community, volunteering on numerous boards and serving as a mentor, for instance.

“I saw the reception to my value from these boards, and I started to stand taller and shifted that energy to the workplace,” Jones says. “I learned to align myself with anything that is about advancing youth in education and advancing women in business.”

When Elle Bruno sought funding from venture capitalists for a startup a few years ago, she heard comments about there being “too much estrogen” in the room and was asked how a woman could run a business while raising children.

Such attitudes might not be as readily expressed today, but gender inequities continue to exist. That’s why Bruno is outspoken about discrepancies in the venture capital community, especially involving female and under-represented founders.

“Less than 3 percent of all funding goes to female founders, a pretty staggering statistic,” she says.

In her previous position as managing director of TechStars Boulder, Bruno led and invested in groups of early-stage startups through the company’s accelerator program, with the majority being under-represented founders.

She has been an angel investor focusing on female-founded and co-founded startups. She also built syndicates of all-female investors, knowing that increasing the number of women writing the funding checks has a waterfall effect on the venture capital community since women tend to invest in women.

Elle joined the Tech and Disruptive Commerce group at JP Morgan which banks and supports early-stage venture backed start-ups in the region. t

coloradoexpression.com/womenleaders

Cynthia Pasquale is a Denver writer.

OPPOSITE: Tasha Jones preaches the importance of allowing people who do the work to have a platform to speak about their contributions. TOP: “You receive a lot of rejection and feedback, and how you react to that ultimately separates the best from the rest,” says Elle Bruno.

Photo courtesy of Elle Bruno

ELLE BRUNO

A SOMMELIER WITH A SMILE

Sally Stewart is showing the world her love through her wine store, the Denver Wine Merchant. Customers fock to the north Highland neighborhood store to explore an extensive variety of wines, beers and spirits in a non-intimidating atmosphere.

Becoming a wine sommelier is no small feat, but to become one at the age of 27 and an advanced sommelier at 31 is pretty spectacular. Stewart grew up in Houston and studied hotel and restaurant management in college in the hopes of becoming a chef. In her frst job as a chef (at age 22), she started teaching her peers about how wine can accentuate various menus. She moved to San Francisco at age 25 and met her partner, Steven Washuta, via a wine sales job. Tey traveled around the world, working in famous restaurants while creating wine programs. Ultimately, she wanted to end up in her favorite city—Denver—and have a wine shop.

A year before the move to Denver, life threw Stewart a curveball: At the age of 32, she was diagnosed with ALS. In Colorado, she found peers and support through the Women’s Wine Guild of Colorado, a nonproft that helps women in the wine and hospitality industry fourish through mentorship and education, supporting each other and fghting for equal respect and pay. Her peers in the guild have helped Stewart raise awareness of ALS while bringing attention to women in the wine business.

She and Washuta opened the Denver Wine Merchant in 2020, taking over a failing liquor store and turning it into a “a wine paradise,” as Stewart says.

Story Caren Austin

Photos courtesy of Sally Stewart

Stewart wants people to know that ALS does not just afect older male adults, and she is active in “Her ALS Story,” a place where females diagnosed with ALS before age 35 can support each other and be a voice for fnding a cure.

Her favorite three wine regions are Etna, Burgundy and Piedmont, but she is a lover of all wine. Stewart and Washuta distinguish their wine shop from other stores by providing over 25 years of combined experience. Tey are known for their impeccable service, and Stewart will make sure she understands what you are looking for when recommending a wine.

A force in the wine industry—and a woman with many missions yet to come—Sally Stewart is a reminder to not sweat the small stuf, to live every day to the fullest, to pursue your dreams and, by all means, to drink the wine! •

coloradoexpression.com/denverwinemerchant

DENVER WINE MERCHANT

3911 Fox St., Denver 303-433-4020

denverwinemerchant.com

HER ALS STORY

heralsstory.org

THE WOMEN’S WINE

GUILD OF COLORADO

womenswineguild.org

Photo courtesy of Rachel Adams Photography

Caren Austin is a food and lifestyle writer for Colorado magazines. She is a true foodie who seeks out new and exciting places to dine in Colorado. She lives with her husband and two rescue dogs in the mountains of Evergreen.

OPPOSITE TOP: Stewart with some favorite rosé wines. OPPOSITE BOTTOM: Stewart and Washuta at the Denver Wine Merchant. TOP: A selection of wine and beer curated by Stewart, at the Denver Wine Merchant.

CREATIVE SPACES SERVING UP TASTE

Story Caren Austin

As the founder and president of Mainspring, a real estate and business development frm based in Denver, Fiona Arnold is a powerhouse in the Denver area. She’s also a visionary striving to make the Denver community better by creating spaces that enrich a shared urban lifestyle. Two of her gathering spots, Room For Milly and Queens Eleven, are shining examples of the kind of work Arnold is most proud of.

Room For Milly came about because Arnold wanted to create a cocktail bar that women felt comfortable in. She wanted an all-inclusive environment. Te bar is named afer Milly Parker, who explored and traveled the world extensively in the late 1800s. Milly was also known for her love of conversation and a good party, and Room For Milly is a nod to all of the above, complete with quirky and artsy décor that is comfortable and inviting, just as you might imagine Milly was.

Te cocktails are based on chapters of Milly’s life, and they are delicious. Arnold’s favorite cocktail is My Dearest Pike, named afer someone who Milly once dated. As for food, Room for Milly ofers upscale bar bites. Arnold recommends trying the smoked trout dip.

Everyone is welcome for fun, great conversation and, most of all, to explore the life of Milly Parker. (A complete history of Parker’s life is at ourdearmillyparker.com.) Tat’s what Milly would have wanted, and it's exactly what Arnold is providing at Room for Milly.

Queens Eleven is another Arnold project that is the exact opposite of the bright and funky Room for Milly. Tis cofee–and-cocktail bar opens at 7 a.m. every day. Tink of it as a bougie dive bar with amazing cofee, homemade cinnamon rolls and burritos that happens to turn into a cock-

tail bar at night. Arnold wanted this space to look like a dark speakeasy with gorgeous murals and velvet couches. It is small and intimate, and very sophisticated.

Equality, inclusion and sustainability are important to Arnold. Her restaurants have full transparency with an equity report viewable to the public that includes wages and demographics. “State your goals and hold yourself accountable,” she says, and “start the way you want to end up.” Words to live by, for sure. •

coloradoexpression.com/fionaarnold

ROOM FOR MILLY

1615 Platte St., Suite 145, Denver roomformilly.com

720-630-7020

QUEENS ELEVEN

3603 Walnut St., Denver queenseleven.com

720-583-1143

Caren Austin is a food and lifestyle writer for several Colorado magazines. She lives with her husband and two rescue dogs in the mountains of Evergreen.

TOP: A Delta Royale cocktail and truffle salt blend popcorn from Room for Milly. OPPOSITE TOP LEFT: General manager James Hadnot crafting a Last Word at Queens Eleven. OPPOSITE TOP RIGHT: Transitioning from coffee to cocktails, the energy of Queens Eleven flows throughout the day and into night. OPPOSITE BOTTOM LEFT: Featuring de Gournay, hand-painted wallpaper, the Backbar at Room for Milly is a feast for the eyes. OPPOSITE BOTTOM RIGHT: Fiona Arnold.

Photo Connor Stehr Photography

Photo Connor Stehr Photography

Photo Twist & Tailor

Photo Twist & Tailor

Photo courtesy of Mainspring

CHARLOTTE ELICH

If you stroll down Denver’s historic South Pearl Street, lined with restaurants and shops, you will come across one of the street’s quirkiest destinations: 5 green boxes. Stepping into this wonderous shop is like entering a colorful world filled with fanciful treasures, garden décor, handcrafted home goods, whimsical wearables, jewelry and so much more throughout each room, nook and cranny. The store reflects the creativity of its owner, Charlotte Elich, a Pearl Street champion and innovator.

5 green boxes was one of three retailers originally hand-selected to open a store in the historic Union Station in Downtown Denver, where tourists and locals alike can shop a curated selection from both South Pearl Street stores.

Inspired by her artistic parents, Elich hopes her stores ignite imagination and encourage an entrepreneurial spirit in others.

303-331-1400

rebeccaf.kentwood.com

REBECCA FERGUSON

A born go-getter and passionate people person, Rebecca Ferguson stumbled into a career in real estate following her graduation from the University of California Santa Barbara. She scored a job at the Four Seasons Resort in Carlsbad, CA, where she worked directly with the agents executing real estate contracts between the buyers and the resort. “Almost immediately, I discovered a genuine desire to learn as much as I could about real estate and really enjoyed supporting the agents every day,” shares Ferguson. After moving to Missouri in 2015, she decided to pursue her real estate license, launched her career at a notable real estate firm and was o to the races. “I was so busy working with buyers and sellers that I soon realized I needed to duplicate myself so I ended up starting my first real estate team,” states Ferguson. “With that support, I was able to more than double my production as well as train new agents to set

them up for success.”

Although she loved the real estate industry, Ferguson discovered that her passion to develop agents and help them with their business was where she shined most, so she took on the role as Managing Broker. “I would rather see my agents names in the top 20 rankings rather than mine—this gave me a significantly deeper sense of satisfaction and a feeling of success.”

Moving to Colorado and working to become the Managing Broker for the Kentwood Cherry Creek o ice has undoubtedly been a career achievement for Ferguson. “I hope to use my position and any influence I have to encourage inclusivity and equality, both in my career and personal life. I have always been passionate about creating opportunities where there is a place for everyone to succeed, and the real estate industry provides the opportune environment for just that.”

A STROKE OF GENIUS

In 2019, jewelry designer Marie-Juliette Bird invited a group of creative friends to open Te New Local, a short-term, creative collaborative in Boulder. Te idea was simple: Te group of female-identifying creatives would form a collective and share expenses, and each would keep 100 percent of their respective profts. Tey supported one another, leveraging individual social media platforms to create a competitive marketplace model, together.

Following the success of the pop-up, Bird’s vision for Te New Local expanded into a nonproft, with a desire to empower female creatives across Colorado and to build a thriving community of artists through exhibition, workshops, public art and events.

In early 2023, Te New Local settled into a historic Queen Anne Victorian with stained-glass windows and hardwood foors. Te building has since been transformed into a creative hub for the community, and its meticulously curated retail space is flled with an array of works by creators who have been chosen through a juried process. More than 68 local artists currently sell their work at Te New Local, including:

Hadley Girl, featuring delightful bows and clothes for little girls

Colorful paintings by Mattie Made

Ethereal fne jewelry by Blackbird and the Snow

Craf-forward footwear by Underhill Leather

Wearable beaded works by Salihah Moore

Home and body products by Bee + Rose

Nature-inspired Amio Ceramics

Limited-edition paper products from L.A. Papers

A few artists work in rented studio spaces throughout the building, and there is a designated area for workshops taught by local artists that are ofered to the public on a regular basis.

Te New Local recently expanded its space with the addition of Te New Local Annex, located in a former grocery store built in the late 1800s,

Story Jani Duncan Smith

Photos courtesy of The New Local

A successful pop-up transforms a community

just a short walk from the main building. Te annex is used for fne-arts exhibitions and was also an artist-in-residency space for Boulder-based fber artist Darcie Shively, who set up her loom to demonstrate how she created the incredible weavings featured in her New Local show “Reply Hazy, Try Again.”

In addition to purchasing one-of-a-kind fnds, you can make a contribution to the community in honor of your favorite famous female creative, such as Frida Kahlo, Joni Mitchell, Georgia O’Keefe, Maria Tallchief, Martha Grahm, Yayoi Kusama, Maya Angelou or Nina Simone, on the website. Te New Local is open to the public Monday through Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m., with special events throughout the year. •

coloradoexpression.com/thenewlocal

OPPOSITE: Marie-Juliette Bird with beaded works by Color & Quill in the gallery shop. TOP LEFT: Summer campers show off their Cyanotype tote bag creations. TOP RIGHT: Bright and cheery items are featured in the “color room” section of the gallery shop. BOTTOM LEFT: Summer of 2023 artist-in-residence Darcie Shively weaves at The New Local Annex.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Beautiful wood vases made by Hollow and Form.

THE NEW LOCAL 741 Pearl St., Boulder thenew-local.org

THE NEW LOCAL ANNEX 713 Pearl St., Boulder thenew-local.org

Jani Duncan Smith is a professional creative who enjoys deliciousness, entertaining, needlepoint, culture, art, music, flm, literature, travel, family and her standard poodle, Ms. Miriam Maisel.

IT’S IN THE BAG

Story Hillary Locke Mujica

Photos courtesy of Laura Vogel

TOP: Vogelle’s original leather shoulder bag was designed in Denver and hand crafted in Italy in three classic colors. LEFT: The versatility of the shoulder bag takes your look from day to night. RIGHT: Vogel, sporting her own designer handbag in Italy.

While majoring in fnance and marketing at the University of Colorado Boulder, Laura Vogel studied abroad in Italy, where the reality of becoming a designer came to life. Today, she creates chic minimal designs that pay homage to Italy, celebrate femininity and ofer timeless style with her brand Vogelle. We sat down with Vogel to learn more about her unique road to designing handbags, her head for business and how she stays inspired to keep growing.

Tis Q&A was edited for length and clarity.

How did a young woman from Denver get into designing Italian leather handbags, especially only knowing a little bit of Italian?

I started modeling when I was 13 afer being scouted by an agent in Highlands Ranch. Traveling all over the world, I was heavily exposed to the fashion industry and met founders and designers with unique backgrounds who had built incredible brands from scratch. Looking back, it’s clear that working with so many diferent designers and freelancers planted an entrepreneurial seed that I needed to see grow.

I went to the University of Colorado Boulder to study business. I double majored in fnance and marketing, and during my freshman year, I participated in the First Year Global Experience (FGX) program. I enrolled in a course at the Leeds Business School studying the importance, history and value of Italian manufacturing, or Made in Italy. Our class traveled to Milan, Parma, Modena and Bologna to visit well-known Italian companies like Parmagiano Regiano Consortium, Armani, Ferrari, a balsamic vinegar vineyard, a prosciutto di parma farm and Bocconi University in Milan.

Te summer afer my freshman year, I took a position as an au pair in Madrid, Spain, and got to travel throughout Europe each weekend by myself. I began to really take notice of European fashion and the more subtle ways locals dressed.

My junior year of college, I headed back to Italy, this time as an exchange student at Bocconi University for my spring semester in 2019. In the courtyard of my apartment building, a few men had opened up a motorcycle repair shop and bar. One night, I was at the bar and one of the men showed me how they were repairing the motorcycle seats with Italian leather and using the scraps to create gorgeous leather jackets. A few days later, I was in an atelier in the Brea district helping them pick out leather—a “pinchme” experience—and it got my wheels spinning! Te manufacturer gave me a brochure of leather samples and that’s literally all it took for me to dream about leather handbags. I had no experience in manufacturing, didn’t know much about leather, and had absolutely no clue how to make a handbag, but something was pushing me to keep going.

Although I had access to this gorgeous Italian leather, I really needed a manufacturer to help me build the bags that were dancing around in my head, but it was proving hard to fnd someone to help me with each step of the design and production process. I was about to give up when a Milanese handbag manufacturer I had reached out months prior fnally called me back. Without hesitation, I took the Milan metro to the last stop and met his driver, who took me to my now manufacturer’s home in northern Italy. He came to greet me with one Chihuahua in each hand and fabulous fur slippers on his feet, the smell of brand-new Italian leather permeating the air. I immediately knew I was in the right place! I’m not sure what came over me, but on the spot in his home in Italy, I told him I would send him my designs and wire him the money for the frst prototype. By the way, I had never designed something in my life—I couldn’t even draw! I took photos of his leather options, told him I would send designs, and went back to my fat in Milan.

A week later, I few home to Boulder for the summer and started ordering cheap shoulder bags online, taking them apart to see how they were constructed. I mailed a rough sketch of my ideal shoulder bag design along with a cut-up Amazon bag from Boulder to my manufacturer in Milan. Afer a few rounds of prototyping, I placed my frst ofcial order of handbags and few to Milan in January with my dad and a few empty suitcases to pack up my order. We took photos of the bags around Italy and brought them home to Boulder where I ofcially started Vogelle. What have you learned about being true to your designs and forging your own way?

I started my brand with one design in three colors because I wanted to start small and see if this business would even work. I was also bootstrapping Vogelle on my own, and still am today.

I’ve learned the hard way that you really can’t please every customer, especially in these early stages where I am operating with limited inventory and limited funding. I have to follow my gut, stay true to the core of my brand and not listen to outside noise too much.

Where do you find inspiration?

I pull a ton of inspiration from social media and infuencers. I love following diferent content creators and seeing how they style things or what cool new brands they’re wearing. I also gather inspiration from old fashion editorials and movies. I love seeing what women were wearing in Italy in the 1950s and New York in the ’90s. Vogue Runway app is constantly open on my iPad as well.

How has being a Colorado native helped you stand out in the design world?

It’s unusual for a designer to not be from L.A. or New York City, so being a young female designer and business owner from Colorado has helped to diferentiate me with boutiques and publications in Colorado. Tey’re excited to see a young local designer growing a business within the community. I think people are always shocked when they visit my trunk shows or pop-ups to learn that I’m the designer and not just there representing the brand as a salesperson.

You have three keystone handbag designs. Do you see yourself expanding your line?

I defnitely see myself expanding my line, looking into other leather goods and even a men’s collection. I scaled back production in 2022 due to supply chain issues and am ramping up my core collections again now.

What advice do you have for others looking to launch their own brand?

Always look inward and ask yourself if you can rely on your drive and work ethic day in and day out. When you start your own business, no one is going to be there to hold you accountable or tell you to keep grinding every day when it feels like no progress is being made. You have to be your own 24/7 cheerleader. Starting a business is honestly really isolating so try to fnd a good network of other like-minded entrepreneurs who know what you’re going through.

Are there other creative outlets you’re invested in, any new partnerships or ambassadorships you’re working on?

I love brand building and marketing. I work as a freelance marketing manager for a few other Colorado-based female business owners. I also have my own YouTube channel. As for new partnerships, you’ll have to stay tuned! •

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT:

If these walls could talk!

The Old West saloon at The Western Hotel has been the cornerstone of the property since 1891. Each of the 16 suites in the hotel is unique, many of them offering a cozy fire to enjoy after a day of exploring Ouray. The wood-fired kitchen and chef’s counter serve up dishes that pay homage to the agricultural practices of the homesteading pioneers who settled the West and traditions of the Ute tribe along the Western Slope. Meticulously restored by Zeppelin Development, the hotel is where glamour meets modern luxury, with light-filled suites, dark wood and custom leather furnishings.

OURAY’S NEW WESTERN HOTEL & SPA blends history and luxury in one of Colorado’s favorite mountain towns

Story Katie Coakley

Photos Stephan Werk

Renovating this 1891 hotel was not for the faint of heart, but Denver-based Zeppelin Development met the challenge. Now, this grande dame welcomes guests with a blend of historic charm and modern luxury.

First things frst: If you’ve never visited Ouray, make plans, stat. Tis picturesque former mining town is an idyllic destination, nestled between towering peaks (ideal for hiking, climbing and of-roading) with hot springs galore (perfect for après adventure) and a Main Street that’s packed with restaurants, shops and plenty of places for refreshments. When it comes to a place to lay your weary head, look no further than the Western Hotel & Spa—a renovated gem that provides all the favor of the original with thoughtful touches and amenities that’ll make you feel as if you just hit a vein of silver.

Te latest project from Zeppelin Development (the company behind Zeppelin Station, Te Source in Denver and A-Frame Club in Winter Park), the former historic Western Hotel was at a point where it needed someone to usher in its next incarnation.

“In the fall of 2020, we came across the Western. Te owners [Greg and Rosemarie Piper, who owned it for 25 years] were going to retire, and the place needed some TLC to bring it into the next chapter of its life,” explains Adam Larkey, chief operating ofcer of Zeppelin Development.

Te Western had witnessed the pinnacle—and then the nadir—of Ouray’s silver mining days; the hotel building has remained in operation ever since.

“We've had a long history of adaptive reuse projects, and we were really intrigued by the history … . We were just sort of smitten by the project,” Larkey says. “And then the more and more we dove into it, the more of the history just presented itself.”

Afer several years of restoration work, the Western, known as one of the grande dames of Ouray’s historical buildings, reopened this spring. Te hotel features original details including tin ceilings, stained glass and a hand-carved bar, all of which were preserved during the renovation: Tere’s even some of the original wallpaper. However, the upgrades do not diminish the fundamental charm. Forty small, former boardinghouse rooms have been transformed into 16 refned suites, outftted with fully furnished kitchenettes, gas freplaces, custom wood and leather furnishings, bespoke linens and upgraded bathrooms. Even the smallest suites enjoy spectacular views of the San Juan Mountains.

“We ended up just trying to fnd that sweet spot, keeping as much of the history of the building as we could and then trying to marry that with the modern amenities that guests and visitors have come to expect,” Larkey says.

In addition to the renovated rooms, guests can enjoy a handcrafed cocktail at the bustling saloon or a (small, medium or big) bite in the dining hall. Snag a seat at the chef’s counter and enjoy Nic Weber’s wood-fred dishes that showcase local ingredients. Don’t miss the cornbread, made with Ute tribe blue corn and smothered with local honey and butter, or the beef short ribs (just make sure you bring your appetite and/or a friend).

Note: Though not open at the time of publication, a spa on the hotel’s lower level is expected to offer customized facials, massages and other treatments. •

LUXURIOUS LINENS

If you experience superior sleep at the Western, the sheets may have something to do with it. Denver-based Katerina Rothman created Befax Linen in 2017 when looking for a solution for her hot-sleeping husband.

“I learned that linen actually does help you sleep better because of its natural properties,” Rothman says. “We got a set of linen sheets and the experience was amazing.”

A naturally sustainable fabric that has been produced for thousands of years, linen is moisture-wicking, naturally hypoallergenic and thermoregulatory, which means that it’ll keep you warm when it’s cold and will keep you cool when it’s hot. It’s also stronger than cotton, so these sheets will last longer, too. Befax ofers standard-size sheet sets and duvet covers along with other linen goods; custom orders are also accepted.

Befax Linen is available at Modern Nomad, 2936 Larimer St., Denver, or at befaxlinen.com. Prices range from $95 to $285.

THE WESTERN HOTEL & SPA

210 Seventh Ave., Ouray thewesternouray.com

Katie Coakley is a freelance writer based in Eagle County. She’s written for a variety of local and national newspapers and magazines and has recently decided that linen sheets are a necessary luxury.

WOMEN’S WORK

Entrepreneur Kate Bailey creates a work club for business owners to labor, learn and develop community

When Kate Bailey set out to create a woman-centered coworking space in Denver, she took it a step further and made it a work club. In addition to ofering a variety of spaces and membership options, TARRA hosts events.

“Our model is truly community driven,” Bailey says as she gives a tour of TARRA Ofce. “We have all the amenities of a work space but the true value of TARRA is in the network and one-to-one relationships as well as our unique programming model that provides our members with professional tools and resources to thrive.”

“Denver is a woman-friendly place to start a business, but there’s also a high rate of failure and lack of support when you’re starting out,” she says. “Tere’s a gap of resources available, and if you don’t have the money to hire an assistant or consultant, it can be hard to advance.”

TARRA ofers Power Tuesday workshops and Well Care Wednesdays. Topics might include budgeting, marketing, productivity or setting up a business. Some sessions are member-led; other times experts are brought in to lead single or multi-session workshops.

Tere are two components to it: TARRA Ofce and TARRA Work. TARRA Ofce opened a year ago in a 9+CO building on the former University of Colorado Health Sciences Center site. Its 33 private ofces spread over 9,000 square feet start at “micro” one-person spaces for $635 a month and stretch to large ofces that rent for $2,200 a month. In addition, there are meeting and conference rooms, soundproof phone rooms, and open-plan areas with sofas, chairs and tables. Plus, there’s a kitchen with a refrigerator, a roomy island and a cofee bar with beverages from woman-owned Wagon Roasters and Teatulia.

Story Suzanne S. Brown Photos Eric Staudenmaier

A variety of options for involvement are available, starting at $24 a month for a community membership. Access to the facilities can be purchased by the hour, the day or be unlimited.

Down the street is TARRA Work, which is a cross between a private cofee shop and an upscale living room, with a refreshment bar, street-level access, comfy booths, conference rooms and Zoom rooms for small team meetings.

Te company, Bailey explains, is named for Tara, a powerful female Buddhist fgure believed to have the ability to guide followers on their spiritual paths. Bailey refers to her as the “mother of enlightenment.”

Bailey, who previously ran a marketing and advertising agency, said she had looked for an organization that ofered support to women in business but wasn’t fnding it, so she launched TARRA in 2015. She found a critical ally and investor in Peter Falcone, CEO of Continuum Partners, a Denver-based real estate development frm. Even before the pandemic, Continuum saw major changes in the way ofce space was being used, and was open to reimagining the ofce environment.

Architect and interior designer Oonagh Ryan of ORA in Los Angeles designed the TARRA spaces with the idea of combining the comfort of a home with the hospitality and function needed in an ofce space.

Richly textured fabrics like velvet, warm woods, a variety of seating options, stylish lighting and a warm color palette create a welcoming environment.

“A space can only go so far,” says Sarah Kornhauser, who rents one of the ofce spaces at TARRA for the nonproft organization she works for, UpStart Labs. “I was drawn to TARRA for its focus on women entrepreneurs. It can be used as a vehicle for enacting change.” •

TARRA OFFICE

865 Albion St., Suite 250, Denver

TARRA WORK

935 Albion St., Denver 720-248-7785

tarra.co

OPPOSITE BOTTOM: A velvet sofa anchors an area for gathering at TARRA Office. OPPOSITE TOP: TARRA Work has a refreshment bar and multiple spots for meeting. TOP: The kitchen at TARRA Office. BOTTOM: Warm colors and contemporary design create a welcome atmosphere at TARRA Office.

Suzanne S. Brown is a Denver-based writer and editor.

Photo Kristen Eldridge

Photo Kristen Eldridge

AT THE END OF THE ROAD Paradise found in Cambutal, Panama

Janel Phillips and her husband, Mike, always aspired to live and work near the ocean in a place where they could surf, practice yoga and continually grow physically, mentally and emotionally. Sounds like heaven—but for most, this pipe dream never becomes reality. But the Phillips made it happen: Just a few weeks afer they tied the knot, the couple decided to leave Canada, jump into the unknown and risk it all to create a destination retreat resort in Cambutal, Panama.

“I was a special-ed teacher and Mike was a former pro skier, building contractor and photographer, so we had no idea how to create a surf and yoga retreat,” says Janel. “All we knew was we had a shared passion to design something meaningful that would inspire others. Afer spending six weeks in Panama, we literally stumbled upon a little cowboy town of cattle farmers, massive waves and a beautiful stretch of beach, called Cambutal.” »

Story Hillary Locke Mujica

TOP: The pool at Sansara overlooks the ocean and the southern Azuero Peninsula. LEFT: Mike and Janel Phillips have poured their hearts and souls into creating a destination resort like no other. RIGHT: The Buddha Bar Restaurant & Bar serves up locally sourced dishes.

Photo Monique Pantel

The Details

FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF UPCOMING RETREATS, VISIT sansararesort.com

Te couple fell in love with a piece of untouched land that had been owned by another couple who dreamed of creating a yoga retreat. “We were in the right place at just the right time. Te owners decided to go in a diferent direction, and we stepped in to build our dream life,” says Janel. “It was the two of us—I completed all of the design and components, and Mike was the stonemason and general contractor. We hired a crew of local builders who supported us in building Sansara from the ground up, and still work with us in other capacities.”

Fast-forward 11 years, and Sansara Surf and Yoga is a sought-after destination for the conscientious travelers to tap into their untouched potential, explore endless possibilities and foster meaningful connections. Te resort ofers a variety of activities designed to help guests connect with their inner selves and the natural world.

Whether you’re a yogi, surfer, adventure-seeker or wellness-inspired traveler, Sansara’s retreats are led by experienced instructors and are open to all levels. In addition to yoga and surfng, daily oferings include meditation, massage and hiking. Te resort also has a pool, a spa and a variety of dining options, plus a lively bar that serves local favors.

To get a better picture of the caliber of events ofered at Sansara, consider that it recently hosted a Brain Health Retreat with Dr. Annie Fenn, a physician, chef and founder of the Brain Health Kitchen, and Stacy Fisher, a certifed personal trainer and health coach. Te program was designed to help guests improve cognitive function, reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, and boost overall brain health.

Other upcoming retreats include:

Ladyvana Panama with Ally Maz this November is a women-only yoga and breathwork retreat that will ofer a deep dive into self-discovery, relaxation, sisterhood and healing modalities.

New Year’s Eve Retreat with MC Yogi and 10,000 Buddhas this December and January will celebrate the year ahead with inspirational yoga classes and uplifing energy healing under a blanket of stars.

Waves of Bliss Yoga Retreat in February will dive into the transformational practice of yoga and Bhakti yoga and explore the beauty of this remote corner of the world. From surfng to horseback riding, waterfall hikes to tide pools, this is sure to be a transformational experience.

Women’s Yoga + Adventure Retreat with Outshine Adventures in March will ofer the space to connect with the rhythms of nature and the ocean through daily yoga practices and surf lessons, plus of-resort jungle hikes and eco-tours sure to feed your adventurous side.

Te pristine black-sand beaches and lush jungle make Sansara Surf and Yoga the perfect destination to disconnect, relax and recharge your soul, says Janel. “Our kids are growing up here now, and we could not be prouder of what we and our Cambutal community have created,” says Janel. “I pinch myself all the time that we built this beautiful, unique life in this tiny little town at the end of the road … and we get to share it.” •

TOP: World-class surfing entices surfers of all abilities along the black sand beaches of Cambutal. BOTTOM: The vast offerings of yoga classes and retreats offer opportunities to open your heart, body and mind.

◆

Photo Monique Pantel

Photo Mike Phillips

SWISH

They exploded to their feet, Watching their team Win the game and cover the spread, While holding a winning ticket, Defying the odds.

That’s drama, she thought. The only thing that Feels better than this, Is knowing these women Have her back.

Stng

monarchblackhawk.com

FLY PRIVATE COMFORT IN PLUSH RELAXING

Our Founders, with 35+ years of experience, have innovated our way to the top through aviation industry knowledge and integrations of seamless technology platforms. Our goal is to provide world-class private jet charter services to our clients.

Cloud 9 Jets offers domestic and global private jet charter travel services through our extended aircraft operator partnerships. This gives access to any type of corporate jet or turbo-prop anywhere, anytime.

We’ll match the right aircraft to meet your mission specific needs, and give you several flight quotes on different aircraft.