Honoring Our Namesake
Every year our small town celebrates Valentine's Day in a big way. We hang hand painted hearts with love, we hold love themed festivals, races, and create Valentine's Day themed goods, we even spread love throughout the country and the world with our re-mailing program, and we honor our namesake as the "Sweetheart City" proudly. Although this is one of my favorite traditions and parts of having grown up here, what I have learned most in the last year, is that love isn't just something we celebrate during the month of February, it's who we are.
We may come from humble roots, but our town and its people have the biggest hearts. This community rallies, supports, honors, and works hard to lift one another up and live up to our town’s name in every sense of the word. We take pride in what it means to be the Sweetheart City year-round, and we choose to steer our lives with kindness, grace, and a whole heck of a lot of heart.
As you read through the features in this month's issue, I hope that you feel proud to come from a place where people still believe in community and helping others, where goodness is still rooted into our foundation, and I pray you choose to lead the rest of your year from your heart.
DESIREE GUSTAFSON,
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Desiree Gustafson | desiree.gustafson@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Adriana Karagozian, Desiree Gustafson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dana Martin Creative, E.T.C Photography, Edgar Morales Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
We rate among our Nation’s best for delivering reliable electricity with exceptional service, at the lowest residential rate in Colorado. Our commitment to you is to do everything possible to continually meet and exceed your expectations in these three important categories. Learn how your cooperative is committed to adding value to your everyday life at www.pvrea.coop
1: Katy and Shawn Delehoy of Ouzel Creative with their booth at the Loveland Chamber Holiday After Hours Event 2: Friends celebrating Tickled Pink Beer at Grimm Brothers Brewery 3: Matt Estrin, owner of 477 Distilling at the Loveland Holiday Chamber After Hours event 4: The Estrin Family at the grand opening of 477 Distilling's newest taproom in downtown Loveland! 6: Bears donated by LFRA were delivered to kids at the hospital on Christmas day, bringing them a little extra joy and comfort. 7: The Lash + Company team with their booth at the Loveland Chamber Holiday After Hours Event
and
his annual holiday party hosted at 477 Distilling 9: Blas Estrada with Lance & Alana McGough at his annual holiday party hosted at 477 Distilling 10: Miss Loveland Valentine 2025, Ella Pettit, a senior at Loveland High School, was born and raised in Loveland 11: Loveland's 2025 Valentine card designed by Tiffany Villavicencio and the 2025 cache artwork designed by Corry McDowell with the verse written by Jeanne Perrine 12: Club Loveland members brought their Christmas spirit for the Christmas Eve workouts! 13: Bianca, Noe, Mary Alice, and Johnna of Wild Oats Sewing Company at Quilt-a-Fair
8: Blas Estrada
Mark Mitchell at
business monthly
Dixie Daly Launches Her "Tickled Pink Beer" Partnered with Grimm Bros Brewery
Dreams really do come true—and sometimes they’re just waiting for us to “show up.” Thirteen years ago, Dixie Daly dreamed of creating Tickled Pink Beer … and although that dream was on hold for a while, it has finally happened with the incredible support of her family, friends, and of course, Jessie from Grimm Brothers Brewery, who helped bring Tickled Pink Beer to life. We are thrilled to introduce you to our vibrant, refreshing pink ale that’s as fun as it is delicious! Cheers to bold dreams, brilliant ideas, and all things pink!
Top of The Lake Coffee Releases the 2025 Sweetheart Coffee Flavor
The Loveland Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Top of the Lake Coffee to produce the 2025 official Loveland Valentine coffee. Top of The Lake Coffee is proud to announce the 2025 sweetheart coffee flavor: cinnamon roll, the perfect blend of vanilla and cinnamon!
Wild Oats Sewing Company Celebrates Their 2-year Anniversary!!
Wild Oats Sewing Company is celebrating their 2-year anniversary this February 1st!! Wild Oats has become a home away from home for many in this area, far surpassing their mission of building a sewing community right in the heart of Loveland!! We are so lucky to have them as a part of the Loveland + South Family and we cannot wait to see all the amazing things they accomplish next!
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FROM HEARTFELT BEGINNINGS TO THE SWEETHEART CITY
HOW A SMALL-TOWN SPIRIT AND A SIMPLE IDEA TURNED LOVELAND INTO THE HEART OF AMERICA’S LOVE STORY
ARTICLE
BY DESIREE GUSTAFSON
Our small town of Loveland, known as the Sweetheart City, didn’t earn that title through a marketing campaign or a grand promotional effort. Instead, it’s a title born of heartfelt actions, small-town kindness, and a unique tradition that has captured the spirit of love for generations. From the simple act of postmarking Valentine’s Day cards to becoming a national symbol of affection, the journey of how Loveland became the Sweetheart City is one of community, creativity, and above all, love.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOVELAND + SOUTH LIFESTYLE TEAM
For the people of Loveland, the Sweetheart City isn’t just a name—it’s a reflection of what makes their town and their connections to one another so special.
The story of how our small town earned its big heart all began in the 1940s with a simple spark of inspiration, during a time when the world was at war and people were searching for ways to stay connected to their loved ones. Dave Clark, a local businessman, saw an opportunity to offer a gesture that would bring people together in a unique and meaningful way. He proposed that Loveland become the place
where people could send their Valentine’s Day cards and letters to be postmarked with a special heart-shaped stamp.
At the time, Loveland was a small, agricultural town with a population of just a few thousand. But Clark’s idea sparked something much larger than anyone expected. As word spread, thousands of cards arrived from across the country, eager to bear the Loveland heart-shaped postmark. The idea began to catch on, and soon, Loveland became known as the place to send your Valentine’s Day messages, not just for locals, but for people all over the United States and the world.
“HERE, LOVE ISN’T JUST SOMETHING TO CELEBRATE ON FEBRUARY 14TH—IT’S A VALUE THAT PERMEATES THE ENTIRE YEAR.”
The town didn’t just process the cards; it embraced the idea with an open heart. Volunteers and residents came together to help sort and handstamp the thousands of letters, turning what could have been a simple task into a labor of love. The tradition quickly grew, and it wasn’t long before the town was receiving mail from every corner of the country, each letter seeking to be touched by the magic of Loveland’s heartshaped postmark.
This Valentine’s Day postmark quickly became more than just a service—it became a symbol of the love that flowed through the community. For the people of Loveland, the task of processing those
cards was a reminder of the town’s unique spirit. It wasn’t just about sending a card—it was about connecting with others, sharing messages of love, and being part of something bigger than yourself.
In our community, that sense of connection is at the core of what makes life special. Neighbors help neighbors, businesses support one another, and the town shares in the pride of creating something meaningful. Every year, as Valentine’s Day approaches, the whole town rallies together to ensure that love—literally—goes out into the world.
For many people, receiving a Valentine’s card with the Loveland postmark isn’t just about the stamp—it’s about the town itself.
It’s about the thousands of hands that touched that letter, the smiles exchanged in the sorting process, and the shared pride of being part of a tradition that celebrates love in all its forms. In Loveland, love isn’t just something you send—it’s something you give, and something you receive, from the community itself.
While the Valentine’s Day postmark helped put Loveland on the map as the Sweetheart City, our town’s identity as a place of love would not be complete without its thriving artistic community. Loveland has long been home to a vibrant group of local artists, many of whom have made love, affection, and connection central themes of their work. Our public spaces and galleries are filled with sculptures, paintings, and other art that reflect the love and beauty that our communities hold dear.
One of the more recent noteworthy examples of this is the city “Heart Program” where individuals and business owners get to choose a local artist to paint and create their heart to align with their story or business history. When the heart is ready to be displayed for the public, they then do a “HeART” unveiling ceremony to promote and share with the community. This program celebrates not just the town’s artistic heritage but also its role as a place where love is honored and expressed in creative ways.
While the Valentine’s Day postmark and the vibrant arts scene are certainly part of Loveland’s identity, what truly makes our Sweetheart City special is its people. Here, love isn’t just something to celebrate on February 14th—it’s a value that permeates
the entire year. The people here know each other, look out for one another, and show up when it matters most. Whether it’s a neighbor offering a helping hand, a local business supporting a community event, or a volunteer lending their time to a cause, the spirit of love and kindness is always present. In Loveland, the idea of community isn’t just a buzzword—it’s our way of life.
Today, Loveland continues to embrace its Sweetheart City legacy, with each new generation of residents adding their own unique touch to the town’s identity. As the town grows and changes, the spirit of love remains as strong as ever. It’s in the way neighbors care for each other, in the
art that fills the streets, and in the community events that bring people together year-round.
For those of us who call Loveland home, the Sweetheart City isn’t just a title—it’s a testament to the power of love to build community, connect people, and create something truly special. And if the people of Loveland continue to nurture that love, the Sweetheart City will remain a place where hearts are always open, and where love is always in the air.
In Loveland, love isn’t just something you send—it’s something you live. And that’s what makes this small town with a big heart so extraordinary.
FROM ONE GENERATION TO THE NEXT, STAN’S AUTO STANDS TALL IN THE SWEETHEART CITY
ARTICLE BY ADRIANA KARAGOZIAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY E.T.C. PHOTOGRAPHY
For over four decades, Stan’s Auto has been a cornerstone of the Loveland community, a business that has grown and thrived under the guidance of two generations. Founded in 1984 by Stan, the shop is now helmed by his son Sheldon, who continues to uphold the legacy of quality service and community engagement. Their story is one of resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to Loveland.
A HUMBLE BEGINNING
Stan’s journey into the automotive world began long before he moved to Loveland. Sheldon shared his early history: “Stan grew up in Fort Morgan, where his grandfather and father had a repair shop. He was fixing cars by the time he was 12 years old.” In 1969, Stan moved to Loveland to take a job as a service manager at a Ford dealership. A few years later, he took on a teaching role at Larimer County Votech (now Front Range Community College), sharing his expertise in automotive vocational education.
Stan’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to start his own repair shop in 1983 with a partner. By November 1984, Stan had bought out his partner and officially launched Stan’s Auto Service.
FROM FATHER TO SON
Sheldon’s involvement in the family business was inevitable. “I grew up helping his dad in the garage,” Sheldon recounted. After college, where he studied business management and played baseball, Sheldon joined Stan’s Auto full-time in 1987. Over the years, he worked in every area of the business—from repairing vehicles to running a service station and even towing.
In 2004, Sheldon officially took over Stan’s Auto. Today, it remains a family affair. “Pamela handles all the bookkeeping, and our son Hayden is the main tow driver and does some diesel work. It’s always been a family business, and we’re proud to keep it that way,” Sheldon shared.
A UNIQUE APPROACH
What sets Stan’s Auto apart is its versatility and commitment to quality. “We’ve always been able to work on all makes and models, including motorhomes and medium-duty trucks,” Sheldon noted. Over the years, they’ve expanded their services to include more tires, oil changes, and alignments, while maintaining their expertise in complex repairs.
Sheldon emphasized the challenges faced by modern automotive technicians. “A technician nowadays has to be a software engineer, electrical engineer, mechanical engineer, and understand hydraulics. It’s a difficult, underpaid skill in an industry with a large shortage of qualified technicians,” he explained.
In addition to the technical challenges, Stan’s Auto has adapted to changes in customer needs. The company’s towing services, for example, have shifted focus over the years. “We’ve moved away from impound towing, which was a time and money pit, to towing
for regular customers and hauling salvage cars for a salvage yard,” Sheldon said. This pivot reflects the company’s ability to evolve while staying true to its core values.
A COMMUNITY STAPLE
For Loveland residents, Stan’s Auto is more than just a repair shop—it’s a trusted part of the community. For many years, Stan’s has been the go-to place when people have problems with towing or repairs, building strong connections in the industry.
One of the most visible symbols of their community spirit is the large heart sculpture in front of their building. “It’s considered one of the best hearts in the city, and it represents our love for Loveland,” Sheldon said. Over the years, Stan’s Auto has supported numerous local initiatives, including donations of time and service to the fire department, police, and the Ranack Cares Foundation. “We’ve always believed in giving back to the community that has supported us for so long.”
DRIVING THE INDUSTRY FORWARD
As a business owner, Sheldon is passionate about improving the automotive industry. He serves on the advisory board for the automotive department at Front Range Community College and is a member of ARBO (Automotive Repair Business Owners). Through these roles, he works to elevate industry standards and perception. “Our mission is to be our guests’ favorite shop by delivering excellent repair and towing services to the best of our ability,” he added.
Sheldon’s involvement in industry organizations also helps him stay ahead of trends and innovations. “The automotive field is constantly changing, and staying connected with other repair business owners gives us the opportunity to share knowledge and improve together.” This collaborative approach ensures that Stan’s Auto remains at the forefront of the industry.
HONORING A LEGACY
Stan’s Auto doesn’t just focus on the present; it carries forward the values and vision of its founder. Stan echoed the sentiment that integrity and hard work are non-negotiable. It’s these principles that have kept Stan’s Auto going for 41 years.
The business also takes pride in mentoring the next generation of automotive professionals. Through partnerships with educational institutions like Front Range Community College, Stan’s Auto plays a role in shaping the future of the industry.
BUILDING LASTING CONNECTIONS
Stan’s Auto’s impact extends beyond the services they provide. The relationships they’ve built with their customers and community partners are a testament to their dedication. They have had customers for decades, most likely some who have been around since Stan’s day. These multi-generational relationships are a source of pride for the team.
A LEGACY OF LOVE AND SERVICE
Stan’s Auto has always been about more than just fixing cars. It’s about building relationships and creating a positive impact in the community. “Our passion is to be looked up to in the community as the favorite go-to place.” Their 41-year legacy speaks volumes to their dedication, resilience, and love for Loveland.
As they look to the future, the team at Stan’s Auto is committed to continuing their tradition of excellence. No matter what, Stan’s is always looking for ways to better the industry. Whether it’s investing in new technology, expanding services, or fostering the next generation of automotive technicians, Stan’s Auto is ready to meet the challenges ahead.
From humble beginnings in Fort Morgan to becoming a staple in Loveland, Stan’s Auto’s story is one of perseverance, family values, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As they continue to serve their community, one thing is clear: the heart of Stan’s Auto will always beat for Loveland.
“As they continue to serve their community, one thing is clear: the heart of Stan’s Auto will always beat for Loveland.”
BOLD,
ARTICLE BY 477 DISTILLING
PHOTOGRAPHY BY EDGAR MORALES PHOTOGRAPHY
& DECADENT FLAVORFUL,
Elevate Your Cocktails With 477 Distilling
The Chocolate Covered Strawberry cocktail features 3 of 477 Distilling spirits: Bourbon, Coffee Spirit and Almondretto. The Coffee Spirit and Almondretto are the real heroes of this cocktail. Using a medium and very smooth blend of coffee from our friends at the Blue Mug Coffee Roasters to make our liqueur, Coffee Spirit can easily be used in cocktails to produce a chocolate flavor. Almondretto is the most versatile of 477 spirits and can be used in almost any cocktail to make it unique. In this cocktail, the marzipan flavor really brings the cocktail together. Add a little 477 Bourbon to increase the ABV and add a hint of oak flavor, this is a perfect Valentine's Day cocktail!
CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRY:
DIRECTIONS:
Strain into a martini glass with chocolate drizzle and top with whipped cream and a strawberry.
CONTINUED >
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 muddled strawberries
• 1.5 oz of 477 Bourbon
• 1 oz of 477 Coffee Spirit
• .5 oz of 477 Almondretto
• .5 oz simple syrup
• .5 oz heavy cream
Chocolate Covered Strawberry
INGREDIENTS:
• 2.5 oz 477 Bourbon
• 1 oz 477 Almondretto
• 1 oz house made honey vanilla syrup
• 3 dashes angostura bitters
• Flamed orange peel and luxardo cherry garnish
THE LIVING LEGEND:
The Living Legend Old Fashioned is the signature cocktail from 477. Featuring 477 Bourbon and 477 Almondretto, the cocktail is a bit sweeter riff on a classic Old Fashioned Cocktail. With the house made honey vanilla syrup, this has become the top selling cocktail from 477 since opening in 2018. Enjoy everything you love about an Old Fashioned but with hints of almond and honey.
The Living Legend
SHOW love LOCAL
Gifts That Make An Impact from Local Artisans
ITEM NUMBER 1:
Celebrate love with a wine that truly captures the essence of romance. Sweet Heart Winery's Cabernet Sauvignon from Alexander Valley, CA!
ITEM NUMBER 2:
10-year-old Kinzie Sargent is selling candles for a cause. A portion of her candles sold at the Loveland Visitor’s Center go to the House of Neighborly Services.
ITEM NUMBER 3:
Shop local artisans at Resilient Soul Yoga, Hometown Shops, The Localist, Willow & Finch, The Collab, Vintage Willows, Pillar and more!
ITEM NUMBER 4:
Colorado Candy Company makes the Cinnamon Sweethearts candy exclusively for the sweetheart city.
ITEM NUMBER 5:
Wild Posies custom arrangements with seasonal flowers & greenery.
2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JANUARY 13TH
Slammin’ Famine Event
Slammin’ Famine is the Northern Colorado Mobile-Pack event that helps Feed My Starving Children (FMSC), a nonprofit hunger relief organization, in accomplishing their mission. This event provides the opportunity for churches, schools, businesses, families, and individuals to volunteer and pack thousands of nutritionally complete meals that will help save the lives of malnourished children around the world. preregistration opens January 13th, available shift times left: Feb 15: 9-11am, 12pm-2pm
JANUARY 31ST - FEBRUARY 16TH
Loveland Lights at Chapungu Sculpture Park
5995 Sky Pond Dr, Loveland, CO 80538 | 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM Nightly
Walk through our free, beautiful Valentine-themed light displays set to some of your favorite love songs alongside illuminated African stone sculptures. Loveland Lights LIVE returns on Saturday, February 8 with special programming including dueling pianos, beer, wine, and MORE!
FEBRUARY 8TH
Berthoud Chocolate Walk
Start at 403 5th Street Berthoud, CO 80513 | 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Enjoy a fun, sweet, and unique stroll through Berthoud’s historic downtown! Each ticket holder will have the opportunity to visit more than a dozen participating businesses and organizations to receive a small chocolate treat! One edible or non-edible treat per stop per ticket (i.e. hot cocoa, chocolate bar, mini chocolate martini, chocolate chapstick, and more!) Purchase your $25 ticket in advance (tickets are limited)
FEBRUARY 14TH
Loveland’s Annual Valentine’s Day Group Wedding & Vow Renewal Ceremony
Sweet Heart Winery & Events Center, 5500 West U.S. 34, Loveland, CO | 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
A romantic ceremony with music you vote on, a customized ceremony, keepsake photos, a LOCK couples can use to "Lock their love" on the famous LOVE sculpture or HEART sculpture in Loveland, gift bags, signature wedding cupcakes, promotional opportunities just for our wedding guests, and a chance to win a huge gift basket! An original way to celebrate your love ON Valentine's Day!
FEBRUARY 14TH
Cruising in the Past Lane with Loveland Cruise Night and Crooked Beech Brewing
3121 N. Garfield Ave Loveland, CO | 4:00 PM
Come on out to enjoy some really cool vehicles and relax with some very great beer! A variety of vehicles will be showcased every 2nd and 3rd Friday of the month in the Crooked Beech Brewing parking lot. Food trucks will rotate for every meeting. Head on over starting at 4pm!
FEBRUARY 14TH & 15TH
Loveland’s Sweetheart Festival
Downtown Loveland
Bring the family or your sweetheart for FREE fun in the Sweetheart City, including a day full of LIVE ice sculpting, fire and art demonstrations, musical and dance performances on our community stage and our romantic headliners Spinphony at the Historic Rialto Theater. The Sweetheart Festival is an extension of Loveland’s 77+ year history as the nation’s Sweetheart City.
FEBRUARY 14TH & 15TH
Rooftop Valentine Experience at the Sweetheart Festival
Desk Chair Workspace, 201 East 4th Street, Loveland, CO | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Our rooftop will be transformed into a romantic oasis, complete with cozy heaters to keep you warm as you enjoy the festivities. Indulge in our exclusive 3-course wine and truffle pairing and savor the thoughtfully selected beverages: a sparkling Champagne, a rich Cabernet, and a smooth Carmenere, all paired with Audacious Truffles to enhance your culinary experience.
FEBRUARY 14TH & 15TH
Taste of Sweetheart : Valentine's Edition
5500 W US-34, Loveland, CO 80537 | February 14th: 6:30 - 8:00 PM February 15th: 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Join us for an evening of unlimited wine pours, perfectly paired bites, live music, and holiday magic in our beautifully decorated barrel room. Make sure to grab your tickets early, this event will sell out!
FEBRUARY 15TH
Loveland Sweetheart Classic
Downtown Loveland | 9:30 AM
With a race start and awards in Downtown Loveland, we will begin promptly at 9:30 a.m. Racers will need to arrive early to ensure smooth parking and an on-time start. Join us for a day full of fun, love, and fitness as we work to raise money for local high school and middle school cross country teams.
FEBRUARY 15TH
Tethered Hot Air Balloon Ride Valentine's Weekend
The Ranch Events Complex 5280 Arena Circle, Loveland, CO 80538 | 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Ride in the FAMOUS “Love Balloon” Valentine’s Weekend in the Sweetheart City! Cost: $25 per person – Cash, Venmo, CC 8 minute ride Restrictions: Waiver required. Minimum age 6. Adults must be in relatively good health (no broken bones, no mobility issues, & no pregnant women). Disclaimer: No restrooms available onsite. All rides are weather dependent. Contact: John Bell (970) 300 - 3332 flights@lovehotairballoonrides.com
FEBRUARY 15TH - 16TH
Loveland Reptile Expo
The Ranch Events Complex 5280 Arena Cir, Loveland, CO | Saturday, 10:00 AM & Sunday, 3:30 PM
Ladies and gentlemen, brace yourselves for an exhilarating adventure into the world of scales, tails, and extraordinary creatures at the Show Me Reptile Show! Calling all herpetology enthusiasts, critter lovers, and reptile aficionados, this event is your passport to a reptilian wonderland where you can not only admire these remarkable animals but also take home a scaly friend of your very own!
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