Inside Longmont The Magazine 2015 Special Edition

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2015 Special Edition

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2015 Special Edition

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insideLONGMONT

About

THE MAGAZINE

Longmont

insidelongmontthemagazine@gmail.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Brian T. Wolf WRITING & PHOTOGRAPHY Brian T. Wolf Mari Wolf

Longmont is a wonderful place to call home. With a rich history, strong business community, commitment to long-standing traditions, flourishing arts scene, caring organizations, and family-friendly events, there is always something going on to keep us all active, entertained, and connected throughout the year.

MARKETING & ADVERTISING Mari Wolf insidelongmont@gmail.com

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In this Special Edition, we picked 20 of our favorite things that we love about Longmont to highlight what happens

Copyright 2015 by Inside Longmont, LLC. All rights reserved. The entire contents of insideLONGMONT The Magazine are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the express written consent of the publisher.

Inside Longmont, LLC is not responsible for unsolicited materials.

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Contents

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20 Things To Love About Longmont

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Farmers’ Markets

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Cinco de Mayo

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Outdoor Concerts

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Longmont Business Community

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Parades

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ArtWalk

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Boulder County Bombers

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Kinetic Sculpture Race

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Longmont’s Music Scene

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Fourth of July

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Contents 56

Rhythm on the River

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Rod Festival

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Longmont Artists

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Boulder County Fair

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Festival on Main

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Dog Swim

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Yesteryear Farm Show

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Longmont Non Profits

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Day of the Dead

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Christmas Home Tour

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#1 Markets 6

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Vendors from all over Boulder County converge at the Longmont Farmers’ Markets to offer locally grown fruits and vegetables, pies, flowers and plants, baked goods, salsas, jams, and much more! The Farmers’ Markets also host a variety of local musicians, from the Left Hand Market Boys to Defunkt Railroad, who perform live to entertain the crowds.

There is always plenty to see, eat, and hear at the Longmont Farmers’ Markets. Once again in 2015, you will have two opportunities each week to get your local goodies. The Longmont Farmers’ Market Saturday season happens at the Boulder County Fairgrounds and runs from April 4th through November 21st. The Downtown Farmers’ Market happens Wednesdays at 5th and Main and runs from June 3rd through September 30th.

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#2

de Mayo

Every year, thousands of people turn out to Roosevelt Park to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. This free event features music and dance entertainment, vendor and informational booths for businesses and organization from throughout the community, great food, a car show, and even a chihuahua contest.

The organizers aspire to create awareness of the many diverse cultures within Longmont and to help develop a better understanding of the Latino community. They are also committed to making this a family friendly event by keeping it alcohol and tobacco free.

Join the party when the 13th Annual Longmont Celebrates Cinco de Mayo returns to Roosevelt Park on May 2, 2015.

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#3

The people of Longmont love their music, and there is no better way to enjoy Colorado’s beautiful summer weather than meeting up with friends to enjoy an outdoor concert. Lucky for us, there are plenty of opportunities to do just that all summer long.

There is the Downtown Summer Concert Series, concerts at Roosevelt Park, and Monday night concerts at Prospect Place. Be sure to do yourself a favor by experiencing all of them because each concert series has its very own very style, atmosphere, and feel.

All summer long you will be able to hear a mixture of local muscians and touring bands from all over the Front Range, so keep an eye on our online Calendar of Events for upcoming shows.

Word to the wise, invest in a comfy lawn chair!

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Outdoor Concerts

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#4

Business Community

It has often been said that a strong business community is the foundation of a strong community, and we could not agree more. Spend a little time exploring all that Longmont has to offer and you will quickly realize just how fortunate we are to live in a town with a thriving business community. From businesses that have been a part of Longmont for generations to businesses that only recently began calling Longmont home, each one of them works hard to provide quality services and products.

There are restaurants whose food and atmosphere keep us coming back time and again. Enjoy a hearty homestyle breakfast or lunch at a local diner where you will be treated like family, spend an evening out dining on authentic East Coast pizza with a glass of wine, or end your day with a delicious dessert from a traditional European bakery.

We have businesses who are there to work with you during the big moments in life, too. From finding the perfect, stunning engagement ring that is sure to make her smile to locating the most unforgettable wedding venue for the big day, you won’t have to look too far from home. There are also businesses who ensure you look your best during any occasion by helping you find the perfect outfit and accessories to go with your brand new hairstyle and color.

With so many people living very active lifestyles here in Colorado, it is important to have caring practitioners on hand to help you stay healthy and feeling your best. They are here to help you maintain healthy eyes and clear vision day and night, provide a much needed stress-relieving massage, or get you and your animal friends back in balance after a body strain or injury.

Longmont is filled with many great businesses who represent the diversity, quality, and traditions of our community. They are run by owners who are our friends and neighbors and who are proud to call Longmont home. Of course, we can’t showcase them all, but here are ten that we think you need to know about and we encourage you to visit them all!

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Longmont Has It All!

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Apricot Lane Boutique These days, it seems to be getting more and more difficult to find good customer service as part of your shopping experience. Sometimes it can even feel like you are being treated as just another dollar walking through the door. But when you come to Apricot Lane Boutique, you can be sure that you will be treated with personal attention as the unique individual you are. For owners Michelle Stoops and Tricia Otey, it’s not about simply making a sale. They enjoy getting to know their customers and taking the time to learn how they can help every person find exactly what they are looking for.

Longmont’s Apricot Lane Boutique is one of the most enjoyable shopping experiences in town. The boutique features all new, name brand apparel, jewelry, accessories, and gifts, all in the latest styles and trends and at affordable prices. Even with a variety of products, they get new items in all the time, usually something new every week, so you’ll want to make a point of visiting them often.

One of the unique aspects of the clothing and accessories at Apricot Lane Boutique is that there is something there to fit your style no matter what your age. Whether you are 18 years old, 40 years old, or 70 years old, you will be pleasantly surprised by what you will find there. This can lead to a wonderful experience of mothers shopping with daughters and grandmothers shopping with granddaughters. Your tastes may be distinctly different, but everyone will have a fun experience. And you will be sure to walk away happy with something great to wear.

Every piece of apparel and accessory at Apricot Lane Boutique is personally selected by Tricia and Michelle, ensuring that their styles likely won’t be found anywhere else in Longmont. This freedom to choose the products on their shelves means that their outfits are picked to fit our unique Colorado style, making their store different from what you would find in a Fort Myers, Florida or Anchorage, Alaska store. This is another reason why getting to know their clients better is such an important part of their business model and helps them continue to choose appealing looks and styles.

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Clothing Shoes Scarves Purses Earrings Necklaces Hats & Gloves Gift Cards Being part of our community, it is important to Michelle and Tricia to give back to those in need.

When you visit their store, be sure to stop by the Give Back Table and see how you can help others with your purchases. Proceeds from each item on the Give Back Table that is sold go to support various nonprofits here in Longmont, across the country, and around the world. This is actually an important part of the Apricot Lane Boutique brand, from the corporate level down to the individual stores. This is a great way for people to help and make a difference while shopping, and there are even some customers who regularly come in specifically to purchase items off the Give Back Table.

We all know that shopping with friends is much more fun than shopping alone. Apricot Lane Boutique takes this to a whole new level by hosting Girls Night Out parties, giving women a great way to get together with their friends for a fun shopping experience. When you schedule a Girls Night Out party, you will save 20% on purchases and refreshments will even be provided. Even better, you can plan a Girls Night Out event as a fundraiser for your organization or nonprofit.

Just contact Apricot Lane Boutique to set up your event and then invite all your friends!

Next time you are looking for the a new outfit, the perfect accessory, or a unique gift, take a trip out to Apricot Lane Boutique and make it easy on yourself. Whether you need a single accessory or a complete outfit, their friendly staff will point you in the right direction.

APRICOT LANE BOUTIQUE 180 Ken Pratt Blvd #225 Longmont, CO 80501 (303) 651-7700 www.facebook.com/ ApricotLaneLongmont insideLONGMONT.com

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Blue Skies Massage & Wellness While some people still think of massage only as something you get as a way to pamper yourself, the truth is that it is not just a luxury, it is an effective way to care for your body and maintain your health.

There is much more to being healthy than just eating well and exercising. Our bodies also need the therapy and stress relief that massage can provide. Luckily for us in Longmont, Blue Skies Massage & Wellness is here to bring the realms of luxury and health together for a wonderful experience.

Whether you are in need of a relaxing treatment to relieve the tensions of the day or you require a more therapeutic massage, you will find it all at Blue Skies Massage. Their clients range from those suffering from back pain or discomfort to athletes wanting to find relief from sports injuries. In fact, many athletes from sports like hockey and soccer come in to deal with injuries in order to get themselves back in top form. Because every client’s need is different, owner Emily Bauer and the therapists at Blue Skies take the time to find out exactly what you are looking for and how they can help you the most.

From the moment you walk in the door, their goal is to provide a full experience and make everyone feel special. They take the time to get to know you and your body. They offer a safe space where people can feel welcome and enjoy the opportunity to let go of life’s stresses for a change. Once a person is able to relax mentally, he or she can then relax physically. This makes the massage session even more effective.

Many of us do not think about our daily habits and how they can dramatically affect our bodies. At Blue Skies Massage, they will talk to you about your lifestyle and daily habits so that they can better understand what may be causing your pain or discomfort. Do you sit at a desk all day? Do you spend a lot of time driving? Are you always on the phone or texting? Any of these things can be important factors in evaluating your needs. By taking the information you give them, they offer suggestions on how to proceed and which treatments would be most beneficial to help you with your specific issue.

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IT’S ABOUT TIME FOR YOU! The therapists at Blue Skies Massage are highly trained and experienced in a variety of disciplines including deep tissue, Swedish, hot stone, and even prenatal. With a wide variety of options available, you will get the therapy you need in one place. In addition to your treatment, you have the option of including your choice of aromatherapy or other special enhancements to add to the benefits of your session. Don’t worry about watching the clock, either. When you come in for your massage, you can be sure that you will be on the table for the full time that you scheduled. At Blue Skies Massage, they believe that an hour massage is 60 minutes of therapy.

Services Include: Swedish Deep Tissue Hot Stone Body Wraps Body Scrubs Reiki Prenatal If you have been dealing with pain and discomfort or if you are ready for a little relief from the daily stresses in your life, look no further than Blue Skies Massage & Wellness. They will work with you closely to get you back to feeling the best that you can feel!

BLUE SKIES MASSAGE & WELLNESS 2919 17th Ave. Suite 116 Longmont, CO 80503 (720) 475-6298 www.blueskiesmassage.com insideLONGMONT.com

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Body in Harmony There is no denying that our bodies are truly amazing. In both humans and animals alike, there is a layer of connective tissue that runs throughout our bodies called fascia. Unfortunately, this tissue can develop adhesions or restrictions that make it harder for us to move and can even lead to chronic pain.

For Lauren Harmon, owner of Body In Harmony, being able to help her clients move more easily and live a full life is her mission. Through Rolfing Ž Structural Integration, a manual rehabilitative therapy that balances and realigns the body, Lauren uses movement and pressure to reposition to body’s fascia to remove the restrictions and adhesions that have developed over time. In addition to working with the tissue and repositioning it through movement and pressure, Lauren also works with your breath and body awareness so you can become more connected to your body and move with freedom and ease.

Often our bodies create compensations due to an injury or through repetitive actions, but once those compensations are no longer needed the body needs to get back into balance. By working with fascial systems, these tension patterns can be released and the body can once again become realigned. Releasing tissue tension can help with a myriad of issues, including headaches, neck pain, back pain, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, TMJ syndrome, and more. It’s not just about treating symptoms like these, though.

By treating the body as a whole and helping it find its balance again, many people find that the pain goes away all on its own.

When you visit Body In Harmony for the first time, you will receive a complete evaluation where Lauren learns about your history, your current issues, and your goals in order to come up with a plan for the best treatment specifically for you. Clients typically begin with the Ten Series, a set of 10 sessions that are designed to unravel and balance the body. While every treatment is customized to your individual needs, each session works within the patterns of the body by focusing on a specific territory to help bring it back to balance. The territory may be the same from person to person, but no two sessions are exactly alike.

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Common Experiences Include: Relief from Pain Increased Range of Motion Better Posture Improved Athletic Performance Decrease in Stress and Tension In addition to working with people, Lauren also works with horses using Equine Rolfing® Structural Integration in order to help the horse get back to a natural state of balance. As with people, this manual therapy helps to remove tissue patterns and compensations that form from repetition and stress and realigns the body of the horse.

In this balanced state, the horse’s movements are more fluid and graceful. Working with both the rider and the horse, she is able to create a better connection and harmonious relationship between the two.

Lauren’s work with animals is not just limited to horses, either. She works with dogs and other pets who may have been injured, need surgery, or are simply getting older and need to have their bodies brought back into balance. Because all animals have connective tissue, they can benefit from this work and it helps them remain the happy, playful pet you remember.

If you have been dealing with chronic pain, have developed repetitive patterns that make you feel off balance, or if you want to be more aware of your body to prevent future imbalances, give Body In Harmony a call and schedule an appointment. Ask about their Military, Veteran, Police, and Firefighter discounts, too.

BODY IN HARMONY 1254 Sherman Drive Unit One Longmont, CO 80501 (720) 341-5586 www.bodyinharmonysi.com insideLONGMONT.com

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Ciao Bella Hair Studio Hello Beautiful, Hello You! Finding the right hair stylist can be a challenging task. We are all in search of finding the perfect person who makes you feel special and has you looking like a million bucks when you leave the salon. Even more difficult is finding a single salon that is able to provide a variety of cuts, colors, and styles all under one roof. Yet that is exactly what you will find when you walk through the doors of Ciao Bella Hair Studio.

With a staff of 11 stylists catering to all age groups and including men, women, and kids, you can be assured that there is someone for everyone. Because they have so many different types of stylists, it is easy for just about anyone to come in and find a stylist they will click with immediately. One of the best ways to do that is to come in for a styling session, just a wash and a blow dry. This gives you an opportunity to talk to the stylist and get to know them better before getting an actual cut or color.

Whether you are coming in for a cut, color, or style, your visit to Ciao Bella Hair Studio almost always begins with a complete consultation. Consultations are a very important part of making sure that you have a great experience and that you get the look you want. Your stylist will take the time to make sure they understand exactly what you are looking for, often asking questions for clarification and offering suggestions to fine-tune your vision.

The communication doesn’t stop there. Throughout your cut, your stylist will continue to talk you through the process in order to make sure you know what they are doing and why they are doing it so they can confirm it is exactly what you are looking for. This makes it a very collaborative experience between the stylists and the client. With this level of detail and engagement, you can be sure to leave the studio very happy and with the look you wanted!

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Cuts

Color

Waxing

Updos

Makeup

Brazilian Blowouts More than just cuts and styles, Ciao Bella Hair Studio is one of the premiere spots for color here in Longmont. Because they have such a diverse range of talented stylists specializing in various coloring techniques, you can get anything from completely avant garde to completely natural.

Ciao Bella features products by Davines, a conditioning color line that can be used many different ways to fit the entire range of a client’s needs.

Many clients even see huge differences in the health of their hair and the retention of its moisture after using Davines products, which is important living in Colorado’s relatively dry climate.

Ciao Bella Hair Studio also offers Wedding Services for the bride, bridesmaids, and flower girl.

In addition to styling, they can also provide makeup application and even practice makeup consultations. You have the option to come into the studio, where snacks and beverages will be provided, or have the stylists and makeup artists meet the bridal party on location. Either way, Ciao Bella will have you looking beautiful on your big day.

Whether you are a man or a women, whether your style is classic or crazy, Ciao Bella Hair Studio is a place where you can embrace your individuality and bring it with you when you come into the salon. With their diverse team of talented stylists, you are sure to be paired with the perfect stylist to fit your needs. And because they truly work together as a team, knowing each other’s strengths and drawing on each other’s experience when they need it, you will feel like you have an entire salon helping you look your best. Contact them today for your next appointment!

CIAO BELLA HAIR STUDIO 1715 Ironhorse Dr # 152 Longmont, Colorado (303) 532-2010 www.ciaobellahairstudio.com insideLONGMONT.com

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Mac’s Place Mac’s Place has a true neighborhood diner feel where, more than likely, you are going to run into someone you know every time you visit. Regular customers are greeted by name and new customers are treated like old friends. Right from the first bite you know that meal was made with a lot of joy and even after the last bite you will be looking at the menu to see what you want to order next time!

There simply isn’t a better place to go in Longmont for a truly home cooked breakfast or lunch and owners Keith and Teresa Macphail have worked very hard to make it this way. Almost everything on the menu is made from scratch, and you can even watch as they cook their tater tots and potato chips right there in the kitchen! They have an extensive menu with a variety of delicious dishes, and in most cases they are even able to accommodate individual needs by offering both vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Some of the favorites on Mac’s Place’s menu are their Classic Reuben, made with corned beef they season and cook at the diner, and Biscuits & Gravy, with biscuits made from scratch and homemade sausage gravy. Though these classic dishes are very popular, Mac’s Place also likes to create some dishes folks may have never seen before. One unique item on their menu that is available only on the weekends is their Breakfast Calzone, the East Coast answer to the breakfast burrito. While Mac’s Place does have a set breakfast and lunch menu, they are always experimenting with new recipes and trying out new dishes as the daily specials. This is a great reason to come back often to see what may be new on the menu.

In addition to serving breakfast and lunch, the Macphails also offer catering and boxed lunch options.

Mac’s Place provides on-site catering for special events or you can rent out the diner for birthday parties, wedding receptions, graduations, or any other occasion. As part of this service, they will even sit down with you and create a personalized menu specific for your event to make it more personal and memorable. Just take a look at the extensive catering menu on their website to get a taste of the many options available and then contact Mac’s Place for your next event.

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A Family Run Diner in a Family Run Neighborhood Breakfast Menu Includes: Scratch-made biscuits Classic French Toast Sweet Cream Pancakes Pepper & Egg Sandwich Maple-Bacon Cinnamon Roll Lunch Menu Includes: Spinach Salad Meatball Parmigiana Housemade Veggie Burger House-roasted Turkey Sandwich Hand-carved Roast Beef Sandwich Mac’s Place has recently become a popular part of Longmont’s growing music scene. During the summer, the Macphails invite local singer-songwriters to perform outside on the patio while customers enjoy their meals. It is important for them to give local artists a place to play and to show the people of Longmont the kind of talents we are fortunate to have in our community. Over the past year, a number a local favorites have performed at Mac’s Place, including The Prairie Scholars, Denny Driscoll, Chaeus, Nick O’Connor, and Defunkt Railroad. Be sure to look for even more great performances throughout this year.

Mac’s Place is open Tuesday to Sunday from 7am to 2pm and serves breakfast until 11am Tuesday through Saturday and noon on Sunday. If you would like to see their full menu, visit them online at www.macsplaceco.com. You can also find their app available on iTunes which allows you to order your meal to go before you even leave the house. Download it today!

MAC’S PLACE 1640 Pace St, Suite 400 Longmont, Colorado (303) 678-8929 www.MacsPlaceCO.com insideLONGMONT.com

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Proto’s Pizza These days you would be pretty hard pressed to find someone who doesn’t enjoy a great slice of pizza.

And with the wide variety of styles being made around the country, everyone has their favorite kind.

When Pam Proto first moved to Colorado from Boston, she found that she had everything here that she wanted except for the great pizza that reminded her of home. She longed for the thin crust, bubbly and charred pizza that she enjoyed on the east coast and soon realized that if she wanted the kind of pizza she missed, she would have to make it herself. With no background in pizza making or owning a restaurant, Pam had a vision and knew that if she built it the customers would come. And she was right!

Proto’s Pizza first opened in Longmont in 1999 and brought a whole new way to enjoy pizza to Colorado. It actually has the distinction of being the first sit down concept pizzeria in the state. Before they opened, the idea of a full-service pizza restaurant, complete with linen napkins, nice bottles of wine, and a full bar was completely foreign. The design and atmosphere of Proto’s Pizza is simple, yet elegant, and makes for a great dining experience, but it’s the delicious pies that are a wonderful blend of authentic east coast and Neapolitan pizza that have kept people coming back again and again. Today, there are six Proto’s locations in Colorado, but Longmont will always be home to the very first one.

When you first walk into Proto’s Pizza, you can’t help but notice one key feature, their authentic brick oven. This two-ton oven was actually transported straight from Italy over 15 years ago. Unlike other pizza places, the oven at Proto’s Pizza is not hidden somewhere in the kitchen behind a wall. This means that you can actually see where the magic happens. In fact, you can watch your pizza being made from start to finish, as the dough is being rolled, as the toppings are being added, and as it cooks in the oven.

Here everything is made fresh to order using only the highest quality ingredients. After all, that is how you make the best pizza. They start with creating a beautiful dough, then gently add their homemade tomato sauce with crushed tomatoes from Italy, and end with the best cheese they can possibly get and the quality toppings of your choice. Finally, every pie is cooked to perfection in their authentic Italian brick oven. Yes, this is pizza made the way it should be.

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Proto’s Pizza believes in sticking with what they do best and that is making pizza, fresh salads, and desserts. Their cannoli is always fresh and filled to order and goes great with a cup of espresso.

They also have a full bar, so you can stop in to get a martini before dinner or enjoy a glass of wine with your meal.

Pizzas to Try: The Traditional Pontiff Pie Hula Pie The Proto Pie Pizza Margherita Or Create Your Own! You aren’t able to have Proto’s Pizza delivered to your door, but there are still options for enjoying their delicious pizza in the comfort of your own home. All of the items on their menu are available for takeout. Or, if you prefer, they can cook your pizza halfway and you can finish cooking in your own oven. Either way, you will enjoy relaxing at the bar while you wait for your pie to be made.

For a nice sit down pizza dining experience in a warm and inviting restaurant, you cannot do better than Proto’s Pizza! They are open 7 days a week, so when you are ready, a delicious, authentic pizza is only minutes away.

PROTO’S PIZZA 600 South Airport Road Building B Longmont, CO 80503 303-485-5000 www.protospizza.com insideLONGMONT.com

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Terry E. Robinson, M.D. One of the most important, and yet most overlooked, aspects of health is our vision. With the increase in amount of time we tend to spend viewing a computer screen, staring at our smart phones, or watching our favorite television shows there is no doubt that we ask a lot of our eyes. Unfortunately all too often we take our vision for granted until a problem develops. Don’t wait for the worst to happen, start thinking about your eyecare now.

For more than 30 years, Dr. Terry E. Robinson has specialized in the treatment and care of the human eye. He has spent his entire career working to protect and improve the vision and eye health of his patients. A board certified ophthalmologist and eye surgeon, Dr. Robinson is one of the most experienced eye physicians in our area and he understands that “quality of vision translates into quality of life.”

Other eye care providers may treat patients as a number and limit their time with the doctor, but Dr. Robinson’s office prides itself on providing real customer service and ensuring patients get the time and attention that they deserve for the best treatment. Their goal is to make your visit as enjoyable, comfortable, and successful as possible while also addressing any concerns you may have and providing professional, quality services. They will take the time to treat you with care and address all aspects of your vision.

Dr. Robinson personally conducts all consultations, administers the necessary eye exams, and performs all surgeries. Being able to work with the same doctor at your side from consultation to surgery is rare these days. He will also thoroughly explain every procedure, discussing various options and full costs with each patient. Dr. Robinson is truly committed to protecting and improving the vision and eye health of every one of his patients.

Of course, Dr. Robinson cannot meet the needs of his patients all on his own. He has a complete staff of professional and caring individuals who work together to make your visit easy and efficient. Ronda manages the office and personally welcomes everyone who comes through the door. Prior to any exam, 26

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Ronda also interviews each patient to collect current health conditions or changes in vision in order to inform Dr. Robinson of any specific areas of concern. Shirley assists with all of the scheduling and communicating with patients. Connie and Whitney are both experienced in processing medical information and make sure that all paperwork requirements are handled correctly.

Together, this team provides patients with the highest standard of personal care with professional service. They have the experience to offer guidance on understanding today’s complex healthcare system. And they can even file insurance claims on your behalf or provide resources of other options for payment.

Areas of Expertise Include: Cataracts Glaucoma Laser Eye Surgery Macular Degeneration Retinal Detachment Diabetic Retinopathy Posterior Vitreous Separation We all know how important vision is in our everyday lives and Dr. Robinson is committed to using his expertise to help you maintain your highest quality of vision possible. You are always welcome to visit the office and meet the team, or if you are ready for your next eye exam give them a call to make an appointment.

TERRY E. ROBINSON, M.D. 500 Coffman Street, Suite 109 Longmont, Colorado 80501 (303)-776-EYES (3937) www.LongmontEyeCare.com insideLONGMONT.com

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Romana Cake House Romana Cake House is a European-style bakery that uses traditional French recipes and techniques to create delicious cakes and pastries. Owner Raluca Ioan has always loved baking and is obsessed with desserts. The foods she creates represent a lifetime of passion. Family owned and operated, Raluca opened Romana Cake House because she wanted to start something that was unique and couldn’t be found anywhere else in our area. Now they have recently celebrated their third anniversary and continue to be one of Longmont’s favorite destinations for cakes and pastries.

Romana Cake House is the place to go to experience the flavor and taste of European desserts. Everything is made from scratch using the highest quality ingredients, finest imported chocolate, and freshest in-season fruit. The result is a cake that is moist, light, and not overly sweet. In addition to using traditional French recipes, they also make hybrids of traditional American favorites that are more moist and less sugary than how they are made at other bakeries. Either way, you will end up with a melt-in-yourmouth cake that is delicious to eat.

Now, desserts may not exactly be healthy, but there certainly are healthier ways to enjoy them. By using natural ingredients, natural flavoring extracts, no preservatives, and less sugar, Romana Cake House produces amazing desserts that we can feel a little less guilty about indulging. You don’t have to let any dietary restrictions keep you from enjoying delicious desserts, either, because they offer a variety of gluten-free options. So there really is no excuse keeping you from giving yourself a special treat.

In addition to their wonderful desserts, there are plenty of other reasons to stop by Romana Cake House any day of the week. Fresh pastries are baked each morning and delicious foods like quiches, turnovers, croissants, and sandwiches are available throughout the day. They have a full coffee bar and a wide variety of teas and smoothies. You can even get a “Cake In a Cup” for when you are on the go and need a convenient way to enjoy something sweet. But for many of us, it’s still all about the cakes. You can get an entire cake or sample different flavors by the slice. Every day they offer as many as 20 different types of Cake Bars!

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All-Occasion Cakes Tarts Pies Pastries Cookies Desserts A full-service bakery, Romana Cake House is well known for providing wedding cakes as well as cakes and desserts for special events like bridal showers, baby showers, anniversaries, or any other occasion. Their delicious cakes are designed with style and creativity, even using the colors or theme of your special day. Customer satisfaction is very important to them, so nothing they do is standard. Any product can be customized or modified to your fit your individual needs.

Parents looking to do something unique and fun for their child’s birthday should plan a Cupcake Decorating Birthday Party at Romana Cake House. They provide the kids with buttercream frosting, sprinkles, and, of course, cupcakes and even show the kids some pretty neat decorating techniques, including how to make roses and other flowers. Then they turn the kids loose to design their own original creations. Best of all, parents don’t have to worry about cleaning up the mess afterwards!

The unique atmosphere you find at Romana Cake House is created very much in a European style, where people often go to enjoy dessert and coffee at the end of the day. With friendly people and great service, it is also the perfect gathering place to hold a book club, have a business meeting, or simply enjoy the company of your friends. So, the next time you feel like treating yourself to a tasty dessert, need a cake for an event, or just want to unwind after a long day with friends, stop by Romana Cake House. Your taste buds will thank you!

ROMANA CAKE HOUSE 900 S Hover Rd Longmont, CO 80501 (720) 684-6884 www.RomanaCakeHouse.com insideLONGMONT.com

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Shupe Homestead Without a doubt, one of the most important events in any person’s life is their wedding day. It is a moment in time that will stay with you forever and leave an impression, not only on yourself, but those closest to you. Typically, it is the wedding venue that sets the stage for the entire event and here in Longmont, you don’t have to look very far to find an ideal setting for your joyous event.

Only fifteen minutes outside of Longmont you will find The Shupe Homestead. Far enough out of town to get an unobstructed view of the mountains, yet close enough to be extremely convenient, Shupe Homestead offers a calm, quiet atmosphere, meticulous landscaping, and beautiful setting for your wedding or any other important event. A lovely pond and rustic barn add to the charm of this site and make perfect backdrops for any photos. Everyone knows how unpredictable Colorado weather can be, so there is even a wonderful indoor location with a stunning ballroom, magnificent stone fireplace, and climate control. All this works together to create a unique and scenic location for your special day.

The goal of Shupe Homestead is to help you make your wedding the day of your dreams. In addition to providing the perfect location, they also take care of all the logistics, such as providing an event staff and all of the dishes, paper products, linens, napkins, chairs and tables you need for your event. All that is left for you to do is decorate. There are two different arches available for wedding ceremonies, a rustic, western arch and a classic, white arch, both of which you can decorate to match your taste. They even work closely with your caterer and other vendors to make sure everything runs smoothly on your big day.

With so many options, The Shupe Homestead is truly the perfect venue for the perfect wedding. Having both indoor and outdoor spaces available allows for lots of flexibility and plenty of ways to plan your event. You can have your wedding outside with the mountains as a scenic backdrop. Then, while the wedding party is having photos taken guests can enjoy a cocktail hour around the pond. And for the reception, everyone can move inside to take advantage of the ballroom and bar, while still taking in the 30

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YOUR DREAM WEDDING LOCATION mountain views. Not only does this give people the chance to explore the venue in its entirety, it removes the need for your guests to stay seated for several hours straight.

If you have an idea for a unique wedding theme, you are welcome at Shupe Homestead. Over the years, they have seen a number of ways people have brought their own style. There have been brides riding down the aisle on motorcycle. There have been brides riding up on horseback or in a horsedrawn carriage. There have even been dogs in the ceremony as ring bearers. No matter what your vision is, Shupe Homestead is committed to helping you make it come true and leaving you with happy memories!

A true family homestead, owners Darla and Ken Shupe still call the property home and spend countless hours keeping the grounds looking absolutely beautiful. The land was purchased by Ken’s great-grandfather in 1899 and the barn on the property is from the original homestead.

When Ken inherited the land in 1985, it soon became a family project as Ken, Darla, and their three children all worked together to do all of the landscaping themselves. And to this day it still remains a family affair.

The Shupe Homestead is definitely a place that needs to be seen in person to be fully appreciated. If you are looking for the perfect location for your wedding (or fundraiser or corporate event), contact Darla to schedule a time to come out for a tour.

THE SHUPE HOMESTEAD 11931 N. 61st St. Longmont, CO 80503 303-485-7488 www.shupehomestead.com insideLONGMONT.com

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Snyder Jewelers We all know that buying a piece of jewelry is a major purchase, not just because of the value but also because of what it represents. So when you do make your purchase, you want to feel secure in the knowledge that you got the best quality jewelry at the best possible price. Since 1948 Snyder Jewelers has been well-known and respected for a wide variety of qualities, including their heartfelt honesty, industry knowledge, high standards, excellent workmanship, and outstanding customer service. Today, Linda Snyder continues this family tradition, serving the families in our community and welcoming second and third generation customers to the store.

While other jewelry businesses use a commission-based structure, you will find that Snyder Jewelers is more concerned with offering the best possible service than simply closing a sale. Their Fine Jewelry Concierges believe in educating their customers to make sure that you know enough to be able to make an informed decision and to ensure that you get exactly what you want. They will explain the individual characteristics of any item you may be interested in so that you will know how quality and value are determined. They will show you a full range of prices, sizes, colors, and qualities so that you can see and understand the differences for yourself. Best of all, they will take their time and not rush you through the process.

Snyder Jewelers carries a wide selection of designer lines from some of the most well-known and world renowned designers. They are an exclusive carrier of Bellarri in the region and one of only two jewelry stores in all of Colorado to carry her collections. With their extensive collection, you are bound to find the right piece to fit your tastes. However, if you do have trouble finding exactly what you are looking for, don’t worry because they also create custom jewelry. Linda does the design work herself, but the concept itself comes from her working with the client to interpret his or her needs. Along with custom pieces, they offer semi-custom options, too. Anything they have in stock can be altered, changed, or remade to create exactly what you want.

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Diamond Jewelry Wedding Bands Watches Colored Gemstones Gold Platinum Silver In addition to the friendly and knowledgeable sales staff, Snyder Jewelers’ expert staff includes a Master Jeweler, Watch Repairman, Gemologists and a Nationally Certified Appraiser, each with more than 30 years of experience. Their expert craftsman is on hand to provide full service jewelry repair and restoration services right on the premises. In keeping with their high standards, they use a “cool laser” technology for repairs that are more durable, less visible, and with no discoloring. Not only does this technique enable them to weld almost any metal, gold, silver, and platinum, it also gives them the ability to to repair items with the stones in place because there is no direct heat. Their watch repairman is available to perform restoration and repairs for quartz, kinetic, manual wind, and antique pocket watches. With a free estimate and diagnosis, you will know exactly what your watch needs before any work is completed, so there is no risk to find out what it will take to get your favorite watch ticking again. And when you need to know the value of your favorite jewelry, you can bring it down to the gem lab where it will be appraised onsite by their national certified gemologists and Senior Master Appraiser.

Whether you are searching for the perfect engagement ring, stand out wedding bands, eye-catching colored gemstone jewelry, custom pieces, repair and restoration services, or the latest designer collections, the family at Snyders Jewelers will make sure you find exactly what you need.

SNYDER JEWELERS 2201 Ken Pratt Blvd.

Longmont Colorado 80501 303-776-2992 www.snyderjewelers.com insideLONGMONT.com

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Parades

Longmont is one town that loves its parades. There are the traditional parades like the Fourth of July, Boulder County Fair, and Veterans Day. There are also more unique parades like the Halloween Parade that allows anyone from the community to march in their costume and the Night Lights Parade in December where we all brave a cold December night to watch the beautifully-lit displays.

There is something very special about a town that is willing to close Main Street down for a chance to bring the community together. You don’t want to miss the fun, so be sure to be curbside this year for all of Longmont’s parades.

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ArtWalk Now celebrating its 19th year of merging art and music in downtown Longmont, ArtWalk gives the public an opportunity to enjoy a variety of live music acts, entertaining street performers, and works of art all in one fun-filled evening. During ArtWalk, many of the downtown businesses are turned into galleries filled with works from local artists or venues for local musicians to perform. Main Street itself is transformed into carnival-like atmosphere with street performers, demonstrations, and activities for children to create their own art.

If you are a business, artist, or musician and would like to participate in any of this year’s ArtWalks, go to www.artwalklongmont.org for details and applications.

This year, ArtWalk will be held on three separate Saturdays from 4-8pm - May 16th, July 18th, and September 19th.

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Each ArtWalk features Art in Action, where local artists share their process for creating art with passing spectators.

These often include everything from watercolor painting, pottery making, spray painting, jewelry making, live photography and caricatures.

ArtWalk is also a showcase for a wide variety of talented local musicians who perform live on the street or inside downtown businesses. Within the space of a few blocks you will hear rockabilly, jazz, bluegrass, folk, blues, Americana, and more. insideLONGMONT.com

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County Bombers Roller Derby has seen a major resurgence over the past several years and is currently among the fastest growing sports in the country. There are more than 300 leagues across the country, with 11 of them in Colorado alone. Roller derby is fast, physical, and fun, and thanks to the Boulder County Bombers it has been in Longmont for several years.

The Boulder County Bombers are the only all-female flat track derby league in Boulder County. Unlike many other leagues, there is no tryout process and no skating experience is necessary to join. Instead, they offer a 2-phase training program that will take any woman from a beginner to a WFTDA-certified skater in a matter of months. This has allowed them to create a league filled with a diverse range of women who have been drawn to the sport. Business owners, professionals, mothers, and students, there is no telling who you might see out on the track. New members are encouraged to join the league every 8 weeks. Just look for their New Recruit Night events or contact recruits@bouldercountybombers.com.

Don’t miss your chance to see the Boulder County Bombers in action! In addition to competing in tournaments across the country, every summer they host bouts at the Boulder County Fairgrounds against a variety of Colorado teams. This summer, you will have three opportunities for roller derby action in Longmont - May 23rd, June 27th, and September 19th.

To find more information about the Boulder County Bombers, visit www.bouldercountybombers.com.

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#8

Sculpture Race

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The Kinetic Sculpture Race is possibly the craziest race you will see in Longmont. In this very unique event, teams build human-powered vehicles that must be able to complete a race course over both water and land. Teams are given awards based on how fast they complete the course, how well their craft is designed, how fun their overall theme is, and other qualities decided on by a group of judges. Last year, thirteen teams competed in this unique competition using vehicles ranging from a man dressed as Wile E. Coyote pedaling a floating bicycle to a team aboard a giant shark. How many teams will compete this year? What crazy concepts will the participants come up with this year? We can’t wait to see what is in store for 2015!

If you would like to participate in this year’s Kinetic Sculpture Race, or just want to find out more about this crazy, fun event, go to www.kineticists.org for complete rules, guides for building your craft, and other helpful information.

In addition to the race itself, the day will also feature a Solstice Swim with three distances, (500m, 1.2 miles and 2.4 miles), food trucks, live music and more.

It all happens at Union Reservoir on Solstice Eve, June 20, 2015. insideLONGMONT.com

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Before the adults enter the water for their race, the kids of Longmont will be able to get in on their own competition with the Recycled Raft Race. Using primarily cardboard and duct tape, teams of 1-3 build their rafts to race in the swimming area at Union Reservoir. Of course, these materials don’t make the best watercraft, so just completing the race is an achievement in itself. In fact, all participants will receive an award.

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Music Scene Longmont is quickly becoming known as a great place to hear live music. With a variety of venues offering live performances, including breweries, coffee shops, restaurants, open mic nights, and house concerts, you don’t have to look very hard to find a place to experience all of the music our community has to offer. Of course, with all of these great venues you need great artists to perform, and we are very lucky to have many engaging and talented singer-songwriters who currently call Longmont home.

With such a growing music community, it is important to point out how each act brings their own unique sound and perspective to their music. Be it merging Americana with old-timey blues, channeling the yearning of songwriters from the early sixties, combining steamy electric rock with soulful country, exploring the worlds of bluegrass and Irish folk, or even incorporating a novel into a song just for good measure, these artists are creating original music that needs to be heard!

The ranks of worthy and impressive musicians continues to grow around us and it would be impossible to list them all here. But if you are wanting to become acquainted with the Longmont music scene, we highly recommend you start with the following acts!

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Bonnie & The Clydes Led by husband and wife team Bonnie and Taylor Sims, Bonnie & The Clydes have created a unique fusion of country, bluegrass and Americana that takes you back to the days when musicality and storytelling were the point of making music as well as half the fun. When you see one of their live performances, their contagious hooks and hummable melodies will stay with you long after the show is over.

You can find out more about Bonnie & The Clydes by visiting their website www.bonnieandherclydes.com.

Flynn & Co. With Sean Flynn on lead vocals and guitar, Melissa Joy on upright bass, and Brooks Steele on electric guitar, Flynn & Co. have emerged over the past year as one of the best tickets in town. The trio describes their music as “acoustic/ electric folk rooted in soul� and skillfully merges their musical inspirations, which range from country and bluegrass to soul, rock, and jazz. In early 2015, they released their first album, Lost Love, to rave reviews.

Be sure to keep up with all of their upcoming performances by following them at www.flynncoband.com.

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The Prairie Scholars As The Prairie Scholars, husband and wife duo Andy and Jessica Eppler blend poetic Texas folk and bluesy guitar with soulful keyboards and haunting rock melodies to entertain crowds with their special brand of West Texas Soul. Honest, aggressive, and passionate, they work with themes of disenchantment, identity, and universal truth throughout their music. In 2015, they released a double album, The Good Old Days Now to the delight their many fans!

Learn more about The Prairie Scholars and see their upcoming events by going to www.prairiescholars.com.

Sharon Glassman Sharon Glassman is a unique blend of author, musician, journalist, and stage performer and has merged these talents in order to develop and perform the oneof-a-kind experience that is BLAME IT ON HOBOKEN. A live novel-withsongs, this is a funny, brainy love story about the idea of pursuing dreams that perhaps no one else understands. The book’s 13 songs, ranging from jazz and cabaret to country and swing, create a signature soundtrack that fuels the plot and adds an extra dimension of connection for the audience.

Get to know Sharon Glassman and find upcoming events listed on her website www.sharonglassmanlive.com.

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Foxfeather The first time you see a performance by Foxfeather, you are immediately drawn in by the powerful vocals, strong guitar, and soulful melodies of their new-folk sound. Boulder’s Carly Ricks Smith and Laura Stratton, the lovely ladies behind Foxfeather, have been wowing crowds for years and, to the joy of folks across the Front Range, released their debut CD Foul Moon in 2014.

Look for their calendar with upcoming shows and even a few tunes on their website www.foxfeathermusic.com.

Bella Musser One of Longmont’s younger singer/ songwriters is the self-taught Bella Musser. Despite her youthful age, the clever turns of phrase and imagery you hear in her songs will keep you hanging on every word as her lyrics show a thoughtfulness more often found in a more seasoned performer. Whether you see her performing with her guitar or piano, you are guaranteed to leave any Bella Musser performance a bona fide fan.

You can follow Bella Musser online at www.bellamusser.com and look for her upcoming performances around town.

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Nick O’Connor Longmont native Nick O’Connor has already established himself as a great singer/songwriter with powerful lyrics and memorable melodies. Nick brings raw emotion to every performance and when you listen to him perform, standing behind the microphone with his guitar and his harmonica, it is easy to get lost in the stories within his songs.

You’ll find a maturity in the lyrics, a longing and intimacy in the music, and redemption in the message.

Be sure to check out Nick’s website www.nickoconnormusic.com for upcoming shows and CD releases.

Chaeus The music of local singer-songwriter Chaeus evokes a feeling of longing not often seen from a solo artist. From the first time you hear him play, you’ll be captivated by his soothing, almost melancholy melodies and intricate guitar playing as well as his trademark fingerpicking style. Though he is making a name for himself as a guitarist, Chaeus actually started out in percussion and that training is evident in the rhythm and pace of his songs.

You can keep up with Chaeus by following him on Twitter @ Chaeus_Music.

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Denny Driscoll Denny Driscoll, a well-known favorite in Longmont, both as a solo artist and as part of the Left Hand Market Boys, has been writing and performing his original brand of music for years. With it’s sing-along chorus and relatable perspective, “Feeling Colorado”, a song Denny wrote six years ago about living in Colorado, remains a fan favorite.

In 2014, Denny celebrated the release of his very first recording, Find Your Dance, in which he played all of the instruments and sang all the vocals.

Visit www.dennydriscoll.com to find upcoming shows and listen to tracks from “Find Your Dance”.

Kevin Dooley Kevin Dooley has spent over 20 years working in music and taking part in Colorado’s singer-songwriter scene. His unique blend of Americana, blues, folk, and traditional Irish sounds will make you nod in agreement to the stories he is telling. Whether you catch him at venues around town or “busking” at the Pearl Street Mall in Boulder, it is always a good time to see and hear him play.

Look for the release of Kevin Dooley’s upcoming 9th studio album, featuring ten new original songs, and find out where you can see one of his next shows by going to www.reverbnation.com/ kevindooleymusic.

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#10

uly

There’s no better way to celebrate Independence Day than the annual Fourth of July Concert in the Park held each year in Longmont’s Olde Town Thompson Park!

The day starts early as community members begin arriving at 7am to pick their favorite spots and prepare for the Picnic Decorating Contest. The festivities go into full swing about 11:30am with a live performance by the Longmont Youth Symphony followed by a concert by the Longmont Symphony Orchestra at noon. Traditional highlights of the concert include a parade of flags by Longmont-area veterans representing each branch of our military as well as an opportunity for children to take a turn wielding the baton to conduct the orchestra.

This is a Longmont tradition that is certainly worth attending and a fantastic way to celebrate the birth of our country with so many wonderful people in our community.

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#11

River

What began in 1995 as a small event to celebrate the grand opening of Roger’s Grove along the St. Vrain Greenway has blossomed into an annual festival that celebrates the community, the environment, art and music. Now in its 20th year, Rhythm on the River is an outdoor extravaganza for the entire family.

There are fun activities for kids of all ages, from rock climbing and kayaking to painting and crafts.

You can attend the hot air balloon launch, a prairie breakfast, and the St. Vrain Rotary Duck Race. You will have a chance to see live performances by local dance troupes, theater companies, and martial arts schools, and even witness singers take the stage as they compete for the title of Longmont Idol. And then, of course, there is the music. Nearly a dozen acts ranging from country to big band to rock take the stage throughout the event providing something to satisfy just about every taste in music.

Now what good is a festival without food?! Many of our local restaurants are on hand to to make sure you have plenty to eat and drink while you’re being entertained. What more could you ask for?

Rhythm on the River 2015 will be held on July 10th and 11th!

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#12 Rod Festival

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Since 1970, car lovers from across the country have been coming to Longmont for a weekend of fun and nostalgia at the annual Rod Festival, hosted by the ColoRODans of Longmont. In past years, the Rod Festival has been a three-day event filled with live music, Downtown cruising, 60sand 70s-era dragsters, and an all-day car show with as many as 300 classic cars and trucks and thousands of eager spectators. We can’t wait to see what happens at the Rod Festival this year!

This event also supports the community, as each year the ColoRODans raise funds through the Rod Festival that go to a variety of nonprofit organizations in Longmont. Last year, they were able to contribute to Mountain States Children’s Home and Longmont Meals on Wheels.

The ColoRODans of Longmont have been a family-friendly car club since 1968 and they are still going strong today. A nonprofit organization dedicated to “Fun With Cars”, the ColoRODans participate in a variety of events throughout the year and regularly give back to many different organizations within our community.

If you’d like to learn more about the ColoRODans, visit their website at www.colorodans.org.

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#13 Artists Longmont has a rich artistic community that has continued to grow and inspire over

the past several years. We are fortunate to have such a large number of art galleries, museums, studios, and even local businesses within our city that serve as places where artists have an opportunity to showcase their work and the public has an opportunity to be exposed to the art that is being created.

As you explore the works produced by Longmont’s diverse artistic culture, you will find expressive painted canvases, vibrant watercolor scenes, stunning photographic images, beautiful and functional stoneware, majestic bronze sculptures, mesmerizing glass pieces, textured illustrations, and so much more! It is safe to say, that no matter what type of art moves you, you will find it here in Longmont.

It is such a gift to have creativity flowing freely and in abundance here in Longmont.

Just as the number of art venues continues to rise, so too does the number of talented artists. It would be an impossible task to highlight all of the great artists in town, so here are just a few who captured our attention over the past year.

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Bob Glassner For more than 40 years, artist Bob Glassner has made a career of illustrating homes and neighborhoods for architects, engineers, and real estate developers. Throughout this time, he also dabbled with fine art, though he didn’t always have time to seriously pursue it. A self-described realistic watercolorist and classical pen and ink artist, Bob’s art has been wide-ranging, from illustrating homes for Longmont’s HWNA Historic Home Tours to creating album cover art for local musician Nick O’Connor. Now recently retired, Bob delightfully plans on having no plans and is approaching this transition much like he approaches the start of each art project, as a blank canvas. “The future is unwritten and I can do anything I want. It’s exciting, just like looking at that clean white piece of paper.”

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Bobbi Vischi Using heat and gravity, Bobbi Vischi transforms smooth, flat glass into multi-colored, textured glass sculptures.

Through various techniques, she can create functional pieces like bowls, vases, and even lamp shades, or she can create abstract works of art suitable for display.

Bobbi designs layers of colored glass which are first placed in the kiln to be melted into a single flat piece.

Then, using a variety of molds to help shape the piece, she returns the glass to the kiln for a second firing, letting heat and gravity work to create the final look of the sculpture. “The kilns and gravity are my collaborators,” Bobbi has said. “Together we make large sculptural forms that embody silent, flowing narratives.”

You can find more examples of Bobbi’s art online at her website, www.bobbivischi.com.

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Christina Cappelletti Artist Christina Cappelletti is determined to help guide others to find the artist within themselves and understand that something amazing will appear when you just trust the process. She believes that art can not only create a better world for all of us, but also create better life experiences for each of us. This is reflected in both her own art as well as in the classes she offers. Christina uses her watercolor series, The Imagicals, as a fun learning experience and to show how to trust the end result. “This is what I want to do for people. I want to create art experiences.”

Christina’s current collection is on display in KCP Gallery, where she is a resident artist and also hosts a variety of art classes and workshops. You can also find her online at www.cappellettidesigns.com.

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John Minkler While ceramics are often thought of more for their functional use, there is no doubt that the pieces created by John Minkler are also works of art.

From the unique designs and beautiful colors to the painstaking detail and amazing craftsmanship, every piece is handmade from start to finish. John produces a variety of functional stoneware that is both beautiful to look at and meant to be used.

You can put them in the oven or in the microwave and they won’t chip easily. And because each piece is thoughtfully made by hand, any piece can be put on a shelf or hung on a wall as artful decoration.

You can find many examples of John Minkler’s original stoneware at www.minklerpottery.com.

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Hanlie Wessels Hanlie Wessels is a Longmont painter whose most recognizable works are her paintings of African wildlife, like elephants and giraffes. She creates her pieces primarily in watercolor or oil, with beautiful colors and a unique blend of abstract and representational styles. Originally from South Africa, Hanlie enjoys painting the many wild animals that remind her of her home country. Since moving to Longmont nearly 20 years ago, she has also embraced life in Colorado.

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This is often reflected in her paintings of forests and landscapes. “I love painting aspens,” Hanlie has said. “I just think they are gorgeous.” Recenlty, she has also begun to add portraiture to her repertoire. Much like wild animals, the human body has lines, curves, and angles that inspire her to paint. And also like her wildlife portraits, these pieces are more about depicting the essence of the subject than being strictly representational.

You can find more about Hanlie Wessels and her work at www.hanliewessels.com.

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Tim King Spend a little time admiring the sculptures of Tim King and you will soon notice a few themes that consistently run through much of his work: family, children, and dance. As one of his mentors told him early on, “Sculpt what you know or what you are passionate about,” and that is exactly what he has done throughout his career. Tim has also spent a significant amount of time working with children creating commissioned pieces for

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churches and schools as well as teaching sculpting to kids. As an artist, the most important elements in a sculpture for him are the emotion and the feeling of a piece. He is especially drawn to movement, which can come from the wrinkles in the clothing, flowing hair, or the curve of the body in motion.

You can find more examples of Tim’s work at www.kingsculpturestudios.com.

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#14 Boulder

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The Boulder County Fair is Colorado’s oldest county fair and a true Longmont tradition. One of only four nonprofit fairs in Colorado, it focuses on family activities and events, supports local agricultural traditions, and showcases the hard work by 4-H and FFA youth and others in our community.

Special events during the fair include the Mexican Rodeo, Demolition Derby, Pro Bull Riding, Draft Horse Show, Kids Rodeo, Farm to Table Dinner, and CPRA Rodeo. 4-H and Creative Living exhibits feature livestock, arts & crafts, cooking, gardening, and more. There is plenty of entertainment each day with live music, kids activities, and, of course, the carnival. And it all kicks off with a parade down Main Street on Saturday morning.

The 146th Annual Boulder County Fair will be at Longmont’s Boulder County Fairgrounds from July 31st - August 9th. Visit www.bouldercountyfair.org for all the details.

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Main

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With summer winding down, Festival on Main is the perfect way to celebrate our community and experience Longmont’s vibrant downtown district. This annual event features music, activities, street performers, and a variety of booths where you can get to know local businesses and nonprofits. More than 18,000 people attend Festival on Main each year, making this the signature event for Downtown Longmont.

Kids get to experience a variety of activities like bungee trampoline, climbing wall, bounce house, obstacle course, face painting, and much more. Adults get to sample some of Longmont’s famous craft beers in the Beer Garden. And everyone gets to be entertained by the street performers who appear as jugglers, stilt walkers, and live statues as well as the live bands playing on three music stages along Main Street.

Booths are available to downtown businesses and volunteers are always needed to help out during the festival, so if you would like to be involved in this year’s Festival on Main be sure to visit their website www.downtownlongmont.com.

The 15th Annual Festival on Main will be held on August 28 from 6-10pm. insideLONGMONT.com

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Dog Swim At the end of summer, just before the Roosevelt Park Activity Pool closes for the season, they mark the occasion by opening the Activity Pool to the dogs of Longmont. For two days, dog owners from around town are able to bring their furry friends to the pool and let them swim and play for the afternoon. It’s a day filled with tennis balls, wet fur, and lots of smiles. In fact, it’s often hard to tell just who is having more fun, the dogs or the people. Even if you don’t have a dog, just watching all the splashing around is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

What better way to mark the end of summer?

Look for the Roosevelt Park Activity Pool’s Dog Swim when the swimming season ends in August.

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Farm Show

One of the many wonderful things about Longmont is the pride in local history, and the Yesteryear Farm Show held each year at the Dougherty Museum is a fantastic opportunity to experience our rich agricultural history in person. This annual 3-day event features outdoor displays and demonstrations on early rural life, including tractors, steam engines, farm machinery, threshing, blacksmithing, and spinning and weaving. Of course, our favorite part is the Antique Tractor Parade. The highlight of last year’s tractor parade for us was seeing the 1909 Case tractor owned by Jim DeBacker. It was amazing to watch this fully restored and operational tractor running on steam power the way it did more than 100 years ago! We certainly hope to see it again at this year’s show.

Located one mile south of Longmont on Highway 287, the Dougherty Museum is home to an amazing collection of restored antique automobiles, including models powered by steam, electricity, and internal combustion, many dating back 100 years. The museum, which is open seasonally, June-August each year, also holds several Stanley Steamers, phonographs, and antique farm equipment.

Look for the 30th Annual Yesteryear Farm Show coming up in August 2015. This fun family event is free and open to the public.

For more information, visit www.yesteryearfarmshow.org.

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NonProfits There is such a warm sense of community here in Longmont and nowhere is that expressed more than within our ever-growing nonprofit community. No matter what pulls at your heart strings or where you feel most compelled to give back, you will have no trouble finding the perfect organizations to donate your money, time, or experience. And if you find yourself at a point in your life where you need a little help to get through a difficult situation, know that there are a number of wonderful groups who are here to offer you that support.

Here in Longmont, we are lucky to be surrounded by a variety of nonprofit organizations that work directly to affect the lives of every sector of those among us and at every stage of life. From helping young parents plan and prepare for the arrival of their little bundles of joy to providing daycare and preschool options that bring together children with and without special needs in order build a wider acceptance of their differences, the list of nonprofits that help out our youngest residents continues to grow.

We are also lucky to have organizations who have made it their mission to help at-risk adolescents by providing confidence-building interactions with our equine friends, creating a home built on a strong family structure to help them thrive and grow, and even offering the business community an alternative way to invest their marketing dollars in the educational future of these youths.

In the ever-changing twists and turns on the path of life, you never know when you might find yourself in need of a hand up, or just a light at the end of the tunnel, and, have no doubt, there are people in the Longmont community working hard to make sure you know there is a way forward. So, whether you are escaping a harmful and dangerous living situation or looking for resources to help regain a life of self-sufficiency, organizations that can help are just a phone call or visit away!

With such a long list of worthy organizations within our community, it is impossible to feature all of them in the pages of this magazine. The following is merely an introduction to just some of the nonprofit organizations we think you should get to know.

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For over 50 years, TLC Learning Center (formerly Tiny Tim Center) has been providing high-quality preschool, early childhood education, and pediatric therapeutic services to Longmont families. Their mission is to help children with and without special needs increase their school readiness, build confidence, and develop a lifelong love for learning.

TLC Learning Center now also offers the Infant, Wobbler & Toddler programs in order to provide the same high quality early learning techniques to even the youngest members of our community. “We can now take children with or without special needs as young as 6 weeks old,�

Executive Director Matt Eldred said. The Infant, Wobblers & Toddler rooms are set up to accommodate children up to 36 months.

In addition to schooling, TLC also provides a variety of Therapeutic Services, including Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech Language Therapy, and Brain Integration Technique Therapy. And their specialized pediatric therapists provide evaluation and treatment for children from birth to 12 years of age with a variety of needs.

TLC is a quality child care center for all kids, not just those with special needs or disabilities or income needs. If you have been looking for a unique and inclusive preschool or childcare, contact TLC for availability.

Look for more information at www.learningwithtlc.org. insideLONGMONT.com

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Happiness Through Horses is a program designed to provide youths with the resources and access to horses in order to help enrich their lives. When you think about working with horses, most people will immediately think of riding, but there is so much more that goes into the care of horses before you ever saddle up.

Working with horses can be an amazing experience. Horses follow leaders and the leader must lead through confidence and respect, not force or aggression. When a child has the opportunity to work with and control such a large animal, it helps build confidence and trust, which leads to higher self-esteem, better decision-making, and increased respect for oneself as well as respect for others.

Co-Founders Kim Swaney and Shauna White know just how powerful taking care of a horse can be on the psyche.

Working directly with horses in any capacity (be it riding, grooming, mucking stalls, learning how the horses move, and how to communicate with them) has the ability to build self-respect and self-esteem. Having increased access to and interaction with horses can be a huge benefit to help at-risk youths get back on a positive life path.

Ensuring that youths wanting to work with horses in any capacity have the financial resources and support to do so is the driving force behind Happiness Through Horses. Some kids need help paying for camp or lessons, while others just want to go to a barn and groom horses or feed them, anything to make a connection with these magnificent animals.

To learn more, visit www.happinesshorses.org.

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Since 2012, The Family Garden has been a Longmont community resource offering classes and services designed to educate and inspire families throughout pregnancy, birth, and early childhood. It is a place where families can draw support from each other during a time that can be stressful and overwhelming for first-time parents, or even second- and thirdtime parents. It is a source of information on the different philosophies and approaches to childbirth and parenting without judgement or advocacy for any single view.

Founder and Executive Director Debbie Lane, who is a practicing doula and childbirth educator with a long history in Longmont, has learned that being prepared for childbirth can dramatically increase a woman’s chances of having a safe, natural birth. And education can help take away the anxiety of the unknown surrounding birth, especially for first time parents.

In addition to their prenatal programs, The Family Garden also has a wide range of services to support families throughout all of the phases of childbearing and child rearing, plus classes designed to explore parenting techniques, nutrition, family bonding, and stress relief. There are a variety of support groups on specific topics, ranging from breastfeading groups to post-partum group, and even support groups for dads. There are also several fitness and family exercise classes available, too! Attending these classes is made easier because child care is also offered at The Family Garden for children from 4 months old to 4 years old.

To learn even more about The Family Garden or to see the complete calendar of their upcoming classes and activities, you can visit their website, www.family-garden.org or call 303-678-1144.

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Since 1960, Mountain States Children’s Home has been striving to fulfill their mission to extend Christian services to wounded children in an effort to meet their physical needs, heal their emotional hurts, challenge their minds, and teach them moral principles all in order to reach the goals of reuniting them with their families or preparing them for independence.

The facility sits on 155 acres of land that provides plenty of space for the children to live, attend school, raise live-stock, maintain horses, grow gardens, and experience a stable and well-balanced life, in many cases for the very first time. Originally financed through the private efforts of their founders, MSCH continues to be privately funded with no government money.

What truly stands out about MSCH is their use of the family model of care that establishes a structure that includes a father and mother who guide, nurture, and care for the children on a daily basis. The property currently has four houses that are each home to house parents, their own children, and up to 6 placed children from the program.

In 2014, MSCH broke ground on a new construction project, their first new cottage on the property since 1976. This new home will bring their total to five and will allow them to bring more youths in need to their program.

If you would like to learn more about how you can help MSCH, or if you know a youth who may be in need of their help, you can visit them online at www.msch.org or give them a call them at 303-776-6841.

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While most people think of OUR Center as strictly a safe place where individuals and families in the community can be served a hot meal twice a day, they actually offer a much wider range of services to those in need. In keeping with their mission to help people move toward self-sufficiency by unifying community resources, they offer resources like a food pantry, clothing bank, homelessness prevention, case management, and childcare services. OUR Center also works closely with a number of different nonprofit and government partners to ensure that their clients have access to a variety of needed services and assistance.

With the population growth potential here in Longmont, OUR Center’s Board of Directors has realized that as the community grows, so too does the need for their services. The Board looked at how OUR Center could continue to meet demand in an efficient and effective way, not only for the services that they provide their clients but also for what their partners in the community can provide. Based on this review, they launched the “Strengthen Our Community, Invest in OUR Story� Capital Campaign.

This project will provide a brand new home for OUR Center by transforming the former lumber store at 220 Collyer Street into a much-needed larger facility. By consolidating all of their services under one roof, services which are currently being housed in four different buildings, it will make all of their services more available to their clients. It will also be more efficient for staff and volunteers to do their jobs and it will be easier for donors to deliver donations.

If you would like to learn more about this important project or how you can get involved with OUR Center, visit their website at www.ourcenter.org.

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For anyone who is dealing with the affects of domestic abuse, Safe Shelter is here to help. Under the guidance of Executive Director Jackie List and a committed Board of Directors, Safe Shelter has established systems that work to protect, support, and encourage those most affected to get the resources they need.

Safe Shelter offers a 24-Hour Crisis Line that is available to both English and Spanish speaking individuals and is completely confidential. For those in need, they can provide a safe home in a secure, confidential location that houses up to 29 women and children at one time. Length of stay at the shelter is typically 4-6 weeks, however they also have an Extended Stay program for those who are in transition to get back on their feet and need a little more time.

One of the most unique services Safe Shelter provides is their Legal Advocacy Program, which has grown to an advocacy team of 24 attorneys who have a wide range of legal expertise. The attorneys not only inform victims of their legal rights, but also represent them in court on a variety of legal situations, from custody and visitation rights to immigration and citizenship, and of course, protection.

Safe Shelter also has a wonderful outreach program in their public office where advocates offer support, counseling sessions for adults and children, and referral sources to help victims of abuse heal, develop safety plans for the future, and create the best path back to being self-sufficient.

If you or anyone you know is struggling in an abusive relationship, contact Safe Shelter for help. All of the services that they provide are free of charge. For more information, visit their website online at www.safeshelterofstvrain.org.

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Realities For Children Boulder County is a unique organization that has built a network of local businesses who have financially joined forces to make a difference in the lives of abused, neglected, and at-risk youth in Boulder County. Through their investment, the business members underwrite all of the costs for administrative programs and services that are provided by RFCBC. Being able to have those necessities taken care of then ensures that 100% of money raised or donated goes right to the youth agencies designed to help those in need.

Another aspect that makes this all come together so well are the affiliate agencies RFCBC works with. RFCBC has partnered with 10 different youth service agencies and provides much-needed financial help. By working together with these affiliates, RFCBC is able to lend assistance to agencies that are already working on behalf of our youth, instead of having to start from scratch with a new program. They are able to come in when and where help is needed the most.

At their annual Hero Awards Luncheon, RFCBC celebrates local heroes who help to advance youth and the youth honorees and scholarship recipients. In 2014, nearly 200 guests were in attendance to support the achievements of these determined youths from our community and encourage them as they go off to college. The event was a visible representation of the synergistic relationships that make RFCBC so successful.

Even if you do not have a business of your own, there are many ways you can support RFCBC. They are involved with over 25 events every year and are always in need of volunteers. You can also donate through programs like Bikes for Tykes or Pigs for Kids.

If you would like to learn more about Realities for Children Boulder County, visit their website www.rfcbc.org.

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#19 Dead The Longmont Museum and Cultural Center’s Day of the Dead exhibit is considered the largest in Colorado and one of the top 10 celebrations in the country. More than 6,000 people from across the Front Range and beyond attend the exhibit, the family event, and related programs each year.

Originating in Mexico several hundred years ago, this holiday has spread around the world and is being embraced more and more throughout the United States. Celebrated November 1-2, this Latin American holiday brings communities together to honor deceased loved ones and to reconnect with their memories. While the passing of a loved one is always a somber event, Day of the Dead is a time for celebration and joy as departed family and friends rejoin the community for these two days.

The central feature of the Museum’s exhibit every year is the Altar Room, which displays a variety of creative altars built by members of the Longmont community in honor of their deceased loved ones’ memories. Last year, there were thirteen different altars on display in the Altar Room with more than 160 volunteers contributing to the exhibit. If you would like to participate in this year’s exhibit by building your own altar for display, contact the Museum for an application. Anyone can submit and spaces are given on a first come, first serve basis.

The celebration of Day of the Dead culminates with a day-long Family Celebration featuring music and dancing, sugar skull decorating, face painting, and more! And all attendees are encouraged to wear their best calaca, or skeleton, apparel.

This year, the Day of the Dead exhibit will run October 10th through November 8th. For more information, you can visit www.longmontcolorado.gov/museum.

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#20

Home Tour

Now in its 50th year, the Christmas Home Tour is an annual event that welcomes members of the community into select Longmont homes that have been transformed into festive holiday showpieces. Each home is filled with Christmas decorations in a variety of styles and themes, with most of the decorations coming from local businesses and available for purchase by visitors on the tour. For many people in Longmont, this tour has become a longstanding tradition as a fun way to kick off the holiday season and also get in some early Christmas shopping.

Typically held on the first weekend of December, the Christmas Home Tour features 3-4 homes that are open to visitors with the purchase of a single ticket. You can visit each of the homes in any order you choose and you are welcome to stay as long as you like during tour hours. Within each home, there are volunteers present to direct guests, spotlight special ornaments and features of the homes, and provide information about the history of the homes, families, and more. In addition to the homes on the tour, everyone is encouraged to visit UCC Longmont for soup and bread and a special artisan market where even more gifts can be purchased. Funds raised each year go to support a variety of nonprofits in our community.

This year, the Christmas Home Tour is scheduled for December 4-5, with a special VIP Night held on December 3rd.

For more information, visit www.thegiftofhome.org.

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THANK YOU to everyone who sponsor Please support these wonderful loca help us continue to share

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red Inside Longmont’s 2015 Calendar! al businesses and organizations that e the stories of Longmont.

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