2013-11-Lydia's Style Magazine by Style Media & Design, Inc.

Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

Style 2013

Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

Style 2013

THE VOICE OF NORTHERN COLORADO FOR

29 YEARS.

s t y le me d ia a n d d es i g n , i n c .

| 970.226.6400 |

w w w. s t y l e m a g a z i n e c o l o r a d o . c o m w w w. m e d i c a l a n d w e l l n e s s . c o m PUBLISHER Lydia Dody | lydia@stylemedia.com MANAGING EDITOR Angeline Grenz angie@stylemedia.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Scott Prosser SENIOR DESIGNER Lisa Gould DIGITAL DIRECTOR / BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Austin Lamb | austin@stylemedia.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVES Jon Ainslie (970) 219-9226 Lydia Dody (970) 227-6400 David Knight (970) 619-9846 Saundra Skrove (970) 217-9932 OFFICE MANAGER/ABOUT TOWN EDITOR Ina Szwec | ina@stylemedia.com ACCOUNTING MANAGER Karla Vigil CIRCULATION MANAGER Trisha Milton COPY EDITOR Corey Radman PHOTOGRAPHER Marcus Edwards Photography CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer, Corey Radman, Kay Rios, Brad Shannon, Elissa Tivona, Michelle Venus AFFILIATIONS Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce Greeley Chamber of Commerce 2013 STYLE MAGAZINES January-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness Magazine and McKee Medical Center & North Colorado Medical Center Medical Directory February-Style March-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness April-Style May-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness June-Style July-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness Magazine and University of Colorado Health Medical Directory August-Style September-Women’s Health & Breast Cancer October-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness November/December-Holiday Style Style Media and Design, Inc. magazines are free monthly publications direct-mailed to homes and businesses in Northern Colorado. Elsewhere, a one year subscription is $25/year and a two year subscription is $45/year. Free magazines are available at more than 275 locations throughout Northern Colorado. For ad rates, subscription information, change of address, or correspondence, contact: Style Media and Design Inc., 211 W. Myrtle St., Suite 200, Fort Collins, Colorado 80521. Phone (970) 2266400, ext. 208. Fax (970) 226-6427. E-Mail: ina@StyleMedia.com ©2013 Style Media and Design Inc. All rights reserved. The entire contents of Style Magazine are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Style Media and Design Inc. is not responsible for unsolicited material. All manuscripts, artwork, and photography must be accompanied by a SASE. The views and opinions of any contributing writers are not necessarily those of Style Media & Design Inc.

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Style 2013

THANK YOU FOR OCTOBER MAGAZINE

One of your subscribers loaned me your fantastic magazine, Northern Colorado Medical and Wellness. I was quite impressed and very much enjoyed the publication and would like to get your “free subscription for Northern Colorado residents” for your publications. Dr. Don Seedle, Estes Park We really did like the wonderful coverage of our new facility in the October edition of Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness! Yvonne Myers Health Systems Director Columbine Health Systems Thank you for giving me the opportunity to contribute to the testosterone therapy article in your Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness Magazine. The response has been a pleasant surprise. Not only have friends commented favorably, but many patients have called the office to tell me they’ve seen and liked the article. I have seen testosterone therapy greatly improve the quality of life for many men and women. This article gave a balanced, well-rounded approach to therapy. I have lived in Fort Collins for 32 years and your magazines have always had articles and photos that are healthful, fun and encouraging for me. Thank you again for presenting a therapy that can have such a huge, positive impact on peoples lives. Cathy Robinson, PA-C Allura Skin, Laser & Wellness Clinic

I just wanted to say thank you for giving me the opportunity to help write the article, “Love Skiing? Then Get Ready the Right Way” (October 2013 Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness). I’m so blessed and so happy about the turn out. If there’s ever anything else I can help with, just know I’d love to at any point in time. Thanks again, Kelly Cole, Personal Trainer Raintree Athletic Club WE LOVE TO HEAR FROM READERS. SEND YOUR COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS TO:

angie@stylemedia.com Phone: 970.226.6400, ext.215 Fax: 970.226.6427 www.stylemagazinecolorado.com

OOPS!

In our September 2013 issue of Lydia’s Style Magazine, in the About Town section under “17th Annual Prairie Dog Classic Golf Tournament,” a photo was mislabeled. Style Magazine and the Greeley Chamber of Commerce regret the error. The photo should have indicated Matt Gallegos, Kari DoeringGallegos, Jeff Jiron and Joe Nugent for Team Guaranty Bank. In our October 2013 issue of Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness, we failed to give proper credit to the renderings on pages 34 and 35 in the article “Columbine Commons Fills Need in Windsor.” These renderings are the work of local architects, Vaught Frye Larson Architects. Style regrets the oversight.

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Style 2013

on the cover

Wondering what to wear on your next evening out? Terha and her fellow models show us the fashions perfect for playing dress up. See more on page 30. Terha’s wearing a trendy Free People side twist form fitting burnt copper skirt, $84, Gatsby black top with peplum and draped, open gold thread back, $68, and KUT leatherette two pocket short jacket, $80. Elise elastic belt, $31, Caroline Hill large flower crystal necklace, $36, Alexa’s single cross bracelet, $8.50, and double cross bracelet, $16, add the final touch. Courtesy of Coast to Coast, Promenade Shops at Centerra. Cover photography by Marcus Edwards Photography.

features

GOLDWORKS: CRAFTING MEMORIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

BUSINESS PROFILE: THE 3C’S OF REAL ESTATE . . . 20

ESTES PARK: BUILDING THE ROAD TO RECOVERY . . . . . . . . . 26

EAT: HEALTHY SIDE DISHES TO MAKE & TAKE . . . . . . . . . . . 53

SINGING IN THE RAIN, A MOUNTAIN WEDDING IN THE FLOOD . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

FAMILY FOCUS: SOLVING THE CHRISTMAS GIMME GIMMES . 75

LADIES’ NIGHT . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 THE SUMMIT PEAKS AS DEVELOPMENT RISES IN MIDTOWN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE . . . . . . . 46

wedding section

TRAVEL: SKI RESORT UPDATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 TRAVEL: GRAND LAKE, A WINTER GEM . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

about town

A PHOTO TOUR OF NONPROFIT EVENTS . . . . . . . . 88

ANATOMY OF THE PERFECT WEDDING . . . . . . .

PLANNING FOR THE PERFECT WEDDING . . . . . . .

Suitcase Party Ice Cream “Sundae”

WEDDING CHIC . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 CAKES AND SWEET TREATS . . 70

FAMILY FOCUS: PLEASE SANTA! . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

departments FROM OUR READERS . . . . . . . 10 PUBLISHER’S LETTER . . . . . . .14

Black Tie Bowling Field to Fork Wine, Women & Shoes Cemetery Stroll Cattle Barons Ball WISH Launch Catsino Royale

STYLE FILES: WHAT STYLE IS RAVING ABOUT THIS MONTH . .16

26 HOLIDAY 2013 :: STYLE

BUSINESS PROFILE: MORE THAN HARDWARE THE DOWNTOWN ACE . . . . . . . 18

Brainiac Bowl Celebrate Life in the Pink

WWW.STYLEMAGAZINECOLORADO.COM Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Holiday Blessings The holiday season has always been my favorite time of year. It’s a time many of us reflect and take time to appreciate our blessings and for me, family tops the list. I often use a family photo in this holiday letter and this year both of my daughters and son-inlaw, Joshua, are in my photos. In fact, Meredith and Joshua are now officially doctors! They will continue working in clinic and in surgery as preceptors at A Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Center until July 2014, then they will move to Philadelphia for their three

year foot and ankle surgical residency. Ali continues to live and work in Denver and recently achieved her goal of finishing her first half marathon! All three are healthy and busy with their lives and I am so proud of them. I can’t believe the girls are now 29 and 25. I get misty when I page through family photos and wish the years hadn’t passed by so quickly. Speaking of time flying, this Holiday issue marks another anniversary of publishing Style Magazine. This is our 29th anniversary and we are looking towards a banner year as we embark on our 30th year in 2014. It is an honor and privilege to work with such a great community. It takes a creative team effort to bring these magazines to you and I am very proud of each member of our talented staff. They are truly committed to bringing you interesting, informative and visually exciting magazines. Watch for our 12 fabulous issues in the coming year! My family photos above were taken at the annual Hope Lives! Celebration of Life Gala held October 26. It’s always extra special when my family can join me at this event. This 13th benefit gala is the annual highlight of Hope Lives as it honors and celebrates Northern Colorado breast cancer survivors and raises funds to continue providing services for women diagnosed with breast cancer. This year more than 600 guests attended. A big thanks to Melissa Venable, executive director, and all the volunteers for their hard work to make this event so successful! The holiday season is the perfect time to dress

fancy and share holiday cheer with friends. We chose the new lounge Social, in Fort Collins, as the backdrop to this season’s trendy eveningwear showcased on our cover and fashion pages. The hospitality at Social was stellar; the evening looks on trend and the models chic and sexy! Stop by Social for one of their specialty cocktails and let them know you saw them in Style. For those planning an upcoming wedding in the year ahead, enjoy reading our Wedding Section, with ideas for current trends for beautiful gowns in “Wedding Chic,” and get acquainted with European baker, Jaio Osborne, and learn about creative options in cakes today in “Cakes and Sweet Treats.” An annual tradition in Style is our Holiday Gift Guide of unique gift ideas. Look over our suggestions on shopping for that ‘hard to buy for’ person on your list! And when entertaining or taking a side dish to a party, read “Healthy Side Dishes to Make & Take” for beautiful and delicious ideas. These are just a few of the seasonal articles filling our holiday pages for you to enjoy! We deeply thank you for your support these past 29 years and look forward to spending 2014 with you. Wishing you and your family a joyous and safe holiday season. With gratitude, lydia@stylemedia.com

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Files holiday events Need some extra cheer added to your holiday? Attend one of these events:

2 0 1 3 Fe s t i val of Tr e e s at Union Colon y C i v ic Cen t er Stroll among beautifully decorated trees, enjoy the silent auction, bring the kids along for kids’ activities and enjoy a variety of live performances. Running from November 29 to December 7. www.greeleygov.com

Lov e l and Com m uni t y Tree Light ing and Com m u nit y Sing- Along Watch the annual tree lighting in downtown Loveland on the corner of Third Street and Washington Avenue on Friday, December 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. The free community event features horse-drawn carriage rides, caroling, music and more. Then on Sunday, December 8, head on over to the Rialto Theater at 2 p.m. for a family-friendly holiday sing along. www.cityofloveland.org

G ar de n of Lights 2 0 1 3 Walk among whimsically decorated and twinkling gardens at The Gardens on Spring Creek’s annual Garden of Lights from December 6 through January 1. During the weekends, you can visit with Santa, sip warm drinks, listen to music and see the Sugar Plum Furries (canine fairies). www.fcgov.com

Participate Charitable giving never goes out of style. Colorado Gives Day has been set for Tuesday, December 10 and is the community’s opportunity to choose a nonprofit of their choice and donate on this special day of giving. Colorado Gives is a program of Community First Foundation and works in partnership with the Community Foundation of Northern Colorado to help participants find worthy nonprofit organizations that match their individual passions within their communities. Colorado Gives Day is the largest single day of philanthropy in the U.S. In 2012 over $15.4 million was donated and the goal is to beat that amount in 2013. For more information, visit NoCoGIVES.org.

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

on the

web now Head on over to Style’s website to read these great articles and more. www.stylemagazinecolorado.com.

Mini-makers at Fort Collins Discovery Museum’s Take Apart Day. Photo courtesy Fort Collins Discovery Museum.

Holidays in the Hospital?

The Maker Movement

By Michelle Venus

By Elissa Tivona

The holidays are a special, magical time. Especially for children. But what happens when a little one (or an adult) is spending Christmas in the hospital? How do our local hospitals make that day as special as it possible? Hear firsthand stories from volunteer Santas and hospital staff as they reflect on Christmases past. And find out how you can help make the holidays brighter for families spending that day in the hospital with their loved ones.

Energized by the Maker Faire in Loveland this fall, groups of people known as “makers” or “hackers” across Northern Colorado have been giving Santa’s elves some serious competition. Their shared community workshops, characteristic of the national Maker Movement, are popping up all over the region. “The makerspace movement [also called hackerspace] is about people using information and technology to unleash their creativity or solve problems,” says Jason Nugent, organizer of FCHX, a startup group to bring a makerspace facility to Fort Collins. And there appears to be no limits to this creativity and the forms it can take. Learn more about the makerspace culture in Northern Colorado, the unique tools and facilities coming online for motivated makers and the peoplepowered dreams behind it all. Santa, you better watch out, makerspaces are coming to town….

As our days get shorter and the frosty weather continues to creep in, boots are nearly an everyday necessity here in Colorado. These boots were spotted near Spring Creek Trail. Vicki Kupec, 58, is the quintessence of classic fall fashion. Black can be simple, but never fails to express sophistication, especially in this case. Underneath her black fur-trimmed luxurious vintage coat (from her grandmother) Vicki’s wearing a Michael Stars top which pairs nicely with her dark denim (James Jeans). As for the fabulous black zippered knee-high boots that initially caught my eye? She found them in a small boutique in Rome, Italy, where she frequently travels as an international flight attendant for United Airlines. Residing in Columbia, Maryland, Vicki makes frequent visits to see her son who lives in Fort Collins. Proudly, I must admit, she just recently became my mother-in-law! Style 2013

My name is Emily Warren. I decided to start NoCo Street Style because I’ve always had an intrinsic passion for fashion. This column will offer a way to recognize superior fashion sense along the Front Range and act as a mode to celebrate it. Women and men of Northern Colorado, put on your best (dressed) behavior. You may be the next feature on NoCo Street Style.

Business Profile

Sarah Downing, Owner of Downtown Ace Hardware, Fort Collins.

MORE THAN HARDWARE

The Downtown Ace By Brad Shannon

Imagine a friendly neighborhood store with more than 50,000 items. One where you could not only choose from a wide variety of decorative and functional housewares for your home, but also track down the perfect gift for a loved one, or a gadget for yourself. Where you could find myriad fix-it items to help you with a repair or upgrade project, as well as an interested staff member who may even come to your home to help you if you ran into problems with the job. 18

Too good to be true? No, it’s the Downtown Ace Hardware on College Avenue. Many know the store from its large display windows filled with colorful products, including a wide variety of unique, whimsical cookie jars. Others rely on the store’s inventory of elusive hardware parts not likely to be found anywhere else in town. More recently, customers can choose from a selection of high-quality patio furniture offered in the store’s downstairs showroom. Downtown Ace Hardware was established in October 1990 by Tom McClelland, after he moved his family to Fort Collins. He had previously run a hardware store for 11 years in Montrose, Colorado. In spring of 2001, the store moved one storefront north to its current location, more than doubling its size to 30,000 square feet of retail space. Sarah Downing, McClelland’s daughter, has run the store since 2011, when her father unexpectedly passed away. Her husband, Ken, ended a long career as a concert promoter in Denver this spring to join his wife at the store full time. Downing describes the philosophy used to run the store as: “Have a lot of products in stock and provide great customer service. Our product selection makes us unique, and we try to have a couple of different choices in whatever we carry.” Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

While it can take quite a while for new members of the staff of 35 to get a handle on the more than 55,000 items the store carries, employees tend to stick around. Jeremy Lawson, the store’s general manager, has been there 16 years. The next most senior employee has worked at the store for a decade. “I started here when I was still going to school at CSU,” Lawson notes. “In 1997, I did floor sales, and built grills, lawnmowers and other items, and when I graduated Tom hired me as general manager. I’ve been doing that for 13 years, and I love it.” Downing notes that Ace gives individual stores a lot of flexibility in what they choose to carry. “Being downtown, with a lot of different gift shops in the area and the type of foot traffic that generates, we can offer more of a selection of gifts than a typical hardware store. As a home town store, the community we serve helps us develop and make decisions on what we carry.” In addition to those who are out exploring Old Town, the store’s customer base is comprised of area residents in need of supplies to repair their older homes in the neighborhood; professional handymen in need of various tools and supplies; and businesses in the downtown area. The job of stocking the entire store, including housewares and kitchen necessities, along with area rugs and patio furniture, and an extensive list of obscure hardware items, is no small task. The store has a team of buyers, and trips to the Denver and Dallas Merchandise Marts, along with the annual Ace Hardware convention, help them stay on top of new products and industry trends. Downing takes pride in being a place where customers – including struggling male holiday shoppers who are more comfortable in a hardware store than a boutique – can find the perfect gift. Likewise, Lawson has a passion for assisting those who are expanding their knowledge and skills when it comes to taking on household projects themselves. “People want to do stuff for themselves, but sometimes a project can be kind of scary. I get a lot of enjoyment out of helping someone figure out how to put in a toilet or fix a sink. When someone has trouble, I’ll go to their house to help. It’s great when they come back and are proud of what they’ve accomplished, and then we get to see them grow even more as they take on bigger, more challenging projects over the years. And from the beginner to the pro, we’re here for them.” Downtown Ace Hardware is located at 215 S. College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80524. Store hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Brad Shannon is a freelance writer based in Loveland.

Style 2013

Business Profile Photo courtesy of Harper Point Photography.

THE 3C’S OF Real Estate

By Michelle Venus

Character, culture, commitment. That’s what real estate agents and business partners John Simmons and Jesse Laner honed in on when forming their company C3 Real Estate Solutions. “Jesse and I really struggled to find the right name,” says John. “We toyed with Timberline, Front Range, Longs Peak, Elevations, a combination of our names — Simmons and Laner, Laner and Simmons, S&L, L&S… It had to be something that could grow with us and also work as a concept that can be franchised.” Turns out Laner already owned the company name C3. “I asked Jesse, ‘What does C3 mean?’ and he said it was the first truck he owned,” Simmons laughs. “We decided to go with C3 and we incorporated our top three C’s into the name and the logo.” And there you have it. Both Simmons and Laner cut their teeth at The Group Inc. and were top-producing Broker/ Associates. “We learned a lot from our previous company. We went through Larry Kendall’s Ninja Selling training, which is about listening to the client and helping them to achieve their goals. It’s less about selling and more about relationships,” says Simmons. “Our previous company’s Philosophy, Mastery, and Rules of the Game will be carried with us forever. We have spent the last two years traveling and interviewing top producing real estate companies across America and we have adopted first class, innovative systems.” He goes on to talk about what people are looking for in a Realtor. “They want a Realtor who is going to work hard for them, whether they are buying or selling a home. Buyers want somebody who is going to help them understand and go through the entire purchase process. Buyers need brokers who understand the market, have solid negotiation skills and know

the contracts from front to back… In addition, the good homes are flying off the shelf the same day they are listed so buyers need an agent who can show homes now, not later. Sellers want someone who is going to aggressively market their property. When we get a listing, we market to every buyer, agent, and real estate company, locally, nationally and internationally.” He continues, “Sellers are hiring agents who are committed to marketing properties properly. Because of the change in the market and Internet, you will see many smaller local boutique offices opening.” Of course, C3 has built their success by hiring the right people. “Our staff is truly the best. They love what they do and are the heart of our company. They treat every customer and property with the utmost respect.” The team has grown from the original two partners to a company of 30 in just six months. They have six full time staff members who possess decades of experience and the company has collectively closed on more than 200 transactions since the beginning of the year. They recently opened a second office in Greeley, with a third planned in Loveland. The company is run with a focus on balancing priorities of faith, family, friends, fun (work),

finances, fitness and giving back to the community. “Jesse and I sit down with each agent and talk to them about their goals and then help them to develop a strategy to reach those goals. Maybe the agent is a single parent who only wants to close 10 transactions per year; maybe they want to close 100 or more. We base our decision on the person’s values, ambitions and character. Quality has a greater emphasis than quantity. If a person is committed to being the best they can be,” states Simmons, “we know they will be a great reflection of C3 and the clients will benefit.” Character, culture, commitment is C3 Real Estate Solutions’ winning combination. For everyone. More information about C3 Real Estate Solutions can be found at www. c3realestatesolutions.com, by visiting their main office at 2720 Council Tree Ave, #178 in Fort Collins, or by calling (970) 225-5151 for the main office or the co-founders directly at: John Simmons (970) 481-1250 or Jesse Laner (970) 672-7212. Michelle Venus is a freelance writer living in Fort Collins. Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Style 2013

Jason, Maggie and her two sons watch as jeweler and owner of Goldworks, Tom Linenberger, heats gold to create Jason’s custom wedding band.

Goldworks:

Crafting Memories

By Angeline Grenz

THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO SAY “I LOVE YOU,” BUT THE EXPRESSION BECOMES ALL THE SWEETER WHEN COUPLED WITH A TANGIBLE MANIFESTATION OF OUR AFFECTIONS. GOLD, SILVER, SPARKLING DIAMONDS – THESE CONFECTIONS CAN MAKE THE HEART MELT AND SURPRISE MANY INTO A SPONTANEOUS “I LOVE YOU” OR “I DO” IN RETURN. Local jeweler Goldworks, located in Downtown Fort Collins, understands this better than most. They recognize not only does jewelry often commemorate the important moments in our life, but jewelry can also tell a story – one that we can pass on to our children and they to their children. Take for example the husband who wanted to give his wife a special anniversary gift. She was a horse lover – they met at the stables where she worked; she had taught him to ride. After 20 wonderful years together, he wanted a gift that expressed her uniqueness. He took his idea to Tom and Sandy Linenberger, owners of Goldworks. He even had an example – his wife loved colors and he brought

to Tom a rather ornate and overwhelming rainbow-colored bit of art. But Tom didn’t hesitate. Instead, he told the man’s story in the form of a stunning brooch designed of sapphires and diamonds in the shape of a stallion. The brooch is a precious symbol of their decades of love. The story is not a singular one; Goldworks’ hallmark is their ability to design and create beautiful pieces of jewelry that are each wonderfully unique. The store only sells jewelry they have created. They do not sell other jewelry lines. But beyond their ability to tell a customer’s story, Goldworks actually invites their patrons to be part of the story in a very unique way – by being present for not only the design, but the creation of these one-of-a-kind items.

Enter Jason and Maggie, who just said their I Dos in October. Jason is an earnest, hardworking veterinarian. Jason is also a planner. He started saving for an engagement ring when he was just 15 years old. He didn’t have a bride in mind at the time, he “just knew it was something I would need one day” and he wanted it to be special when the time came. The $5s and $10s he tucked away in his desk drawer grew to be a few thousand, and by the time he met fellow veterinarian, Maggie, he was ready. But a personality that meticulously plans for such an important expense needs a ring that makes a statement. Jason is also practical; it was important that Maggie’s ring would be one that she could wear while working. Beautiful Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Goldworks custom design process is an evolution from computer-generated design to wax model to the final piece and offers their clients an opportunity to be present throughout the journey.

and durable. And Jason couldn’t find one that matched his vision. Finally, he decided his best course of action was a custom ring. That led him to Goldworks and Tom, Sandy and Mark Videan, their longtime friend and employee. The match was made. Right away Jason felt Goldworks understood his vision. Tom and Mark worked with Jason to get it perfect – a deceptively simple and elegant design. “It represents arms coming together in an embrace, symbolizing the strength of marriage,” explains Jason. Jason and Tom then talked about what he wanted in the diamond that would be the center of Maggie’s ring. With this information, Tom contacted his favorite diamond broker and had the Style 2013

highest-quality diamonds delivered to the store for Jason to look at while Tom explained every detail to Jason about the stones. Once Jason had all of the information and Tom’s advice, he chose the diamond that he felt represented his love for Maggie. Now came the surprising – and fun – part. Jason was able to participate in the creation of the ring. On a February afternoon, he came in to help with the casting process. Ahead of time, a wax model had been made. The wax model was then attached to the bottom of a metal flask, which is like a cup. Liquid investment was poured into the flask over the wax model and then hardened around the model. Investment is a special form of plaster that can withstand

very high temperatures. Once the investment hardened around the wax model, the flask spent several hours in a 1,300-degree oven, which melts the wax model forming an empty cavity. Jason was then able to take part in the rest of the casting process. Gold was heated until liquid and a centrifuge forced the melted gold into the empty cavity of the flask. The very hot flask was then submerged into water, which dissolves the investment and reveals the newly cast piece. Jason found the process fascinating. “I helped create something special – something that no one else would have.” For Maggie, the ring was perfection. “I was shocked. I wouldn’t have been able to pick

Top: The Goldworks team: Mark Videan, and Tom and Sandy Linenberger, owners. Bottom: Maggie’s one-of-a-kind engagement ring was joined by a matching wedding band when she and Jason married on October 12.

something out that was this perfect. And it is beautiful and practical. I have worn it everywhere [at work] and haven’t removed it once.” In September Jason returned to Goldworks with Maggie and her two young sons to make the wedding bands for the their October wedding. The new family was able to participate in the entire process together – even the boys, ages 5 and 7, were able to be part of the event. “Jason was definitely one of our most involved and interesting projects,” says Videan, a 37-year veteran in the industry. He, like Tom, finds the art of crafting custom jewelry more than just providing a service. “We have such a passion for designing, it is more than turning a profit, it is personal,” says Tom, who has been in the trade for 32 years and relocated from Kansas with his wife two years ago to purchase the Old Town location. While Goldworks has always designed their own product and created custom pieces, it wasn’t until last year that they began to invite their customers to be part of the process. “This has really added another element to the whole experience and let people witness what we do,” says Tom. The Goldworks trio even records the experience by photographing the client making the jewelry and then puts together a bound book for them as a keepsake. At Goldworks they use state-of-the-art CAD technology and a laser micro welder to create their custom designs. On average, they spend 30 hours designing and creating a custom design. And while you may think that saying “I love you” in such a spectacular fashion would require a similarly spectacular budget, Goldworks has created custom designs for as little as $1,200-3,000. For the layperson, there is incredible value in being able to be part of this creative process. Watching the artistry involved, and the steps that it takes to create a fine piece of jewelry, is an experience that is not always available from other artisans. And the experience forges friendships between Goldworks and their clients that are ongoing. Tom even recounts the time when a client arranged to propose to his girlfriend at Lucky Joe’s next door. He requested Tom, Sandy and Mark be present for the proposal and the memory is now one shared by all of them. In the act of designing a unique piece of jewelry, melting gold to fill a mold and setting precious stones, Goldsworks creates an experience that becomes part of the memory. And that in turn, creates “customers, and friends, for life,” as Tom proudly says. Goldworks also carries several jewelry lines that they have created and that are available in their storefront. Mystify pendants, the Cosmic Collection, Aspen Reflections and Forever Paws make great gifts, with many starting at very reasonable prices for these limited collection jewelry pieces. Goldworks is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and sometimes by appointment. Visit www.oldtowngoldworks. com for more information. Angeline Grenz is managing editor for Lydia’s Style Magazine.

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Happy Holidays from all of us at RE/MAX Eagle Rock! 6028 Stallion Drive, Loveland, CO 80538 • 970-593-0999 • nocoresidential.com

Ben Appleby 970-689-6532

Russ Baca 970-215-5105

Ryan Bach 970-218-8975

Rick Baker 970-301-3513

Tom Bosse 970-679-8567

Judy Clingan 970-567-7801

Sally D’Archangel 602-578-3068

Marissa Donahoo 970-217-1948

Nancy Geiler 970-800-1905

Beth Glassmeyer 970-215-1807

Sarah Pedersen 308-325-6223

Wendy Roberts 970-576-4685

Karrie Lopezi 970-215-1503

Lisa Michie 970-310-8682

Josine Michels 303-667-3465

Flora Roth 970-290-1008

Gale Schick 970-222-5479

Crystal Schwartz 970-590-5858

Jessica Shockley 303-775-3731

Luke Sinden 970-412-2642

Looking forward to serving you in 2014! Charlie Hartley 303-304-4408

Dyanne Willow 970-566-0255

Stephanie Woodard 970-215-2676

Estes Park:

BUILDING THE ROAD TO RECOVERY By Corey Radman

Julie and Rob Pieper own Mama Rose’s and Poppy’s Pizza on Elkhorn Avenue in Estes Park. When the rains started falling on September 8, it didn’t seem that different from any other fall storm. But by September 12 conditions were quite worrisome. The couple knew things had gotten out of control when Rob’s car started floating in the restaurants’ loading zone. He drove to safety before the deluge could take the car, but for two days the couple watched helplessly as even more rain fell and the street fronting their side-by-side restaurants became a river, lapping against the front doors. A sense of urgency without a place to direct any action plagued city officials and Estes Park business owners like the Piepers as they waited for the water to recede and the streets to become safe enough to traverse. Finally on Sunday, September 15 city building inspectors were able to make the rounds to ensure stability. Shop owners were able to get in and see how bad the damage was. Clothier Mary Smithson, owner of MaryJane’s, says she stepped across the water-soaked carpet and was greeted by a stack of $120 Vera Bradley totes wicking muck from the floor upward to the top of the pile. Even though her quick thinking enabled them to stow much of

their merchandise high, the water sitting in the store damaged flooring, baseboards and drywall. MaryJane’s was forced to close for six weeks to repair the damage. Mama Rose’s and Poppy’s Pizza tell a similar story. The Piepers estimate $250,000 in repairs between their two restaurants, none of it covered by insurance. “We based getting flood insurance every year on the snow pack in September,” Julie says. “No one could have anticipated this.” Over nine inches of rain fell in one week, washing away two of the three major highways leading into the city. A few blocks of the downtown district were hard hit but Brooke Burnham, Visit Estes Park’s PR Director, estimates that 75

percent of the businesses affected by the flood were up and running within two weeks. Since more than 50 percent of economic activity in the city is driven by tourism, getting back open was crucial. It was hard work cleaning up, but the valuable leaf season that brings with it the elk rut and thousands of tourists was just starting. Small business owners knew that without those tourist dollars, it was going to be a long winter. So many worked day and night until everything was dry and clean. By September’s end, business was just coming back. And then Rocky Mountain National Park closed due to the government shutdown, taking with it a Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

OPERATION WINTER GETAWAY Estes Park is a wonderful place to visit even after the leaves are gone. The city’s dazzling 20-year-old Catch the Glow parade is going forward as scheduled for November 29. Stay in a condo (many have hot tubs), so the next day you can snowshoe in the park. Shop for gifts in downtown Estes Park, or call your favorite store and see if they might take a phone order. As Smithson says, “If you can’t get to us, we’ll get our product anywhere you need it.” Pieper reminds her fellow Coloradans that recovery is going to continue long after the new paint is dry. “We need people to come up and see us, not just for the financial success, but because emotionally, that’s what we do. We hope people won’t forget us.” A busy tourist area of Estes Park, during the flooding and a few weeks post-clean up.

Corey Radman is a National Press Women award winner and regular contributor to this magazine.

favorite tourist route, Trail Ridge Road. Many park employees are residents of Estes Park. So, yet another sector of people were thrown out of work indefinitely. Tourist traffic that had just started to come back evaporated. Business owners who shoveled muck and hefted drywall in record time were left staring out the door at empty streets. Julie Pieper says news of the shutdown was a big blow. “For a minute, I thought about emptying my bank account and going to Aruba. But just for a minute.” She sighs and then visibly gathers herself. “This is a big deal. Things here are serious, but you have to laugh, because what other choice do you have?” Asked if it is uncomfortable serving tourists on vacation while so many residents are still reeling from the damage, she says no. “This is who we are in Estes Park. If we’re not allowed to welcome people here to explore the beauty of the park... If we stop welcoming guests, that takes away a lot of our soul. It’s what we do here.” Mama Rose’s employees included a surprising array of remodeling talent. Line cooks and waitresses traded order pads and stirring spoons for grout trowels and paintbrushes, re-opening Mama’s on October 11. They now serve items from both restaurant menus while Poppy’s re-builds. MaryJane’s is set to re-open in November. Smithson estimates the store lost $150,000 in revenue during the six weeks they were closed. She adds that the help they received from other businesses, from volunteers and friends, was humbling and greatly appreciated. Estes Park community members are a tight-knit group that really do support and sustain one another. They stepped in and helped each other clean up, offered housing to those who needed it, and generally got back to business in short order. A wry humor threads its way through every story you hear. Nearly 2,000 residents are still (months later) on no-flush orders because sewer systems in the Fish Creek residential area were severely damaged. Residents sharing communal porta potties have taken to decorating them festively and holding contests for the most attractive. (Prizes offered included “reclaimed flood product” from MaryJane’s.) That “Mountain Strong” attitude is truly something to be proud of. But Estes Park still needs support from the rest of the state. OUTSIDE HELP The news that the state of Colorado stepped in on October 12 to fund the re-opening of the park and Trail Ridge road came as a relief to residents. Says Pieper, “The response to the state stepping in and doing this has been overwhelmingly positive. Everyone feels like it is an investment in us directly and we are very appreciative.” The department of transportation is also firmly committed to reconnecting Estes Park to the rest of the region. Highway 36 into town reopened November 4. CDOT Communications Director, Amy Ford, was emphatic that Highway 34 would be re-opened to the public by December 1. “There will be at least one lane in either direction,” she says. Fully finished highways will come in time. And for those fellow Larimer County citizens who are looking for ways to support their brethren, Burnham offers a suggestion, “Visit.” She says the majority of businesses are ready and waiting to greet you. Style 2013 2012

Singing in the Rain, A MOUNTAIN WEDDING IN THE FLOOD By Corey Radman

When Kelsey Nepote started planning her wedding to Joe Mosimann last September, she envisioned a dream day in the location where she and her husband-to-be had grown up vacationing. Estes Park, Colorado: a place of safety, serenity and awe-inspiring beauty. She dismissed the date, Friday, September 13, as being unlucky. That’s a myth. What could go wrong? She certainly couldn’t have predicted the date would coincide with a flood of Biblical proportion. Kelsey says she and Joe arrived in Estes Park the Tuesday before the wedding feeling a little sad that the forecast called for rain. The ceremony would have to be pulled indoors. “By Thursday morning, that was the least of anyone’s worries,” she says in an interview from their Alexandria, VA, home. “We saw the town was going to have real trouble.” The family and friends who had all flown in were evacuated from the homes along the river that she had suggested they stay in. Several were evacuated out of town. A tree fell on a cousin’s car. But their wedding site, Delle Terre Mountain Chateau, was high above the chaos, providing Kelsey an excellent vantage point to look out and see exactly how unimportant her wedding dreams were compared to the loss of

property and even life. She says, “I let myself be selfish with Joe for a few minutes. Just let out my big cry about all the little things I thought had mattered.” And then, she and her family re-grouped and made the best of it. They found another site for the Thursday evening rehearsal dinner and catered it with Safeway deli. Looking around at all the parents and grandparents, friends and co-workers who had traveled some distance to support her and Joe, Kelsey realized the wedding she was hoping for would still happen. Perhaps without some of the polish and shine that she had pinned and planned for a year, but the people she loved were all still present to celebrate the start of her life with her husband. She cried, seeing all that love concentrated in one room. Kelsey and Joe didn’t know just how diligently their team was working behind the scenes to make their dream day happen. And if they had, they would have asked them not to. THROUGH HELL AND HIGH WATER All day Thursday, Delle Terre Mountain Chateau wedding coordinator, Pam Amelang, was talking to guests on the phone giving them routes to drive from DIA through wet mountain passes and National Guard checkpoints. Some

of those dear relatives had never driven in the Rocky Mountains at all, but that didn’t deter them from wanting to come celebrate the wedding. And there was the problem of food for the reception. Kelsey and Joe had planned a catered dinner and a spectacular cake from providers in Longmont and Denver. Both vendors tried diligently, but they were unable to get past the checkpoints and washed out roads. So, with the three-tiered wedding cake trapped in Longmont, Delle Terre co-owner, Darell Amelang, took to the highways, driving twice the usual distance into Longmont to try and rescue the cake. Three wet hours later, Darell admitted defeat. Due to high water everywhere, he just wasn’t able to reach Kelsey’s baker. So, he retraced his route, stopping at every bakery between Broomfield and Idaho Springs to get at least some kind of cake for the wedding couple to cut and serve to guests. Nevermind that it read “Happy Birthday.” The Denver caterer tells a similar story. With a full dinner menu prepped and ready to go, the roads just weren’t there for her to drive on. So, instead, she phoned a colleague in Estes Park, Waldo Paul with Jubilations Catering, and asked for a favor. He not only agreed to cater the wedding, but committed to matching Kelsey’s menu exactly. This would require another harrowing drive into Denver to get ingredients plus a return trip (allowed because he was a resident). Then he prepped all night, but he says, “We are professionals and we do whatever it takes to do the job right.” It’s a fair question to ask. Why go to such effort when even the bride and groom would have understood the cancellation? Pam Amelang explains. “It’s their wedding day, their one and only, that they have planned for over a year. How can we not try our best to make it just the way they have dreamed it? It may not be perfect and it may not go exactly as planned, but it should not be for lack of effort.” She continues, “The flood had so many tragic stories, but it also brought stories of neighbors helping neighbors, businesses helping businesses and everyone pulling together for their community. After the flood, in Estes Park you saw this everywhere you looked. It was something to be proud of. When they came up with ‘Mountain Strong,’ it was not just a saying, it was demonstrated daily here.” Strong certainly describes the Estes Park community but it also applies to the wedding couple, Joe and Kelsey. After their haphazard but surprisingly happy wedding day, their first dance was to music Joe had downloaded in lieu of their waylaid six-piece band. Otis Redding’s “That’s How Strong My Love Is” chronicles the foundation they have built for each other. Kelsey says getting married in a disaster zone brought perspective to a day that can be filled with trivialities. “When you’re a bride, I think details are important, but what it came down to was the value of the relationships we have sustained. The friends and family we keep around us are more important than what kind of cake we had.” Corey Radman is a National Press Women award winner and regular contributor to this magazine. Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Style 2013

EVENING WEAR IN STYLE

The feminine side of evening dressing from Elana Kattan features a sweetheart neckline, stitched seamed bodice and skirt, and rich watercolor shades of holiday colors, $270. Black jet necklace, $15, and earrings, $12, add an elegant touch. Courtesy of Cloz to Home, Loveland. Nicole is pictured with Ty Fulcher, Co-owner of Social.

Photography by Marcus Edwards on location at Social, Fort Collins. Hair by Lauren Whittenburg and Shauna Troxell at C&S Workshop.

Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

Raffi Jergerian, Bar Manager, prepares the liquid celebration.

Sleek and chic in Arianne’s velvet evening top with flocked sheer sleeves, $69, topping lace patterned stretch leggings from Lysse, $84. Gunmetal bead bracelet, $30, and chain drop hoop earrings, $13.50, add the perfect accent. Courtesy of Lady Gaia, Front Range Village.

Ready for girl’s night out. Long metallic lace overlay tank from French Dressing Jeans, $64, accents Leota’s drop waist flirty glitter chenille skirt, $119. Chain dangle retro earrings, $24, mesh gunmetal bracelet, $19, and bling ring, $24, add the fun. Courtesy of Lady Gaia, Front Range Village

Style 2013

Elegance with a touch of shine! Nicole Miller styles a surplice bodice techno metal stretch satin cocktail dress, $429. Adding a feminine touch with sleek accessories: Theia styles a diamond bar necklace in white gold, $149, and two-row bangle, $48, and Lisa Freede styles the teardrop diamond earrings, $68. Courtesy of MkLaren, Front Range Village.

Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

Sexy sophistication in a metallic off-the-shoulder tunic by Jana, $79, over comfortable Lysse velvet leggings, $79. Boutique Chic metallic clutch, $49, flirty long chain earrings, $24, wide matching cuff, $29, and rhinestone ring, $19, add the bling! Courtesy of Lady Gaia, Front Range Village. Bartender Tyler Campbell prepares prosciutto for charcuterie.

Style 2013

All dressed up for a night on the town. Form fitting black Elizabeth and James “Jade Dress” with jeweled choker neckline sports a sexy racer back, $395. A Chan Luu white jade statement ring adds a playful touch, $150. Courtesy of Tula, Fort Collins.

Ready for anything in this sexy Elizabeth and James silk “Jazlynn Dress,” styled in a soft, muted animal print featuring an open back, drop shoulder and hip accent, $286. Courtesy of Tula, Fort Collins.

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

MEET THE MODELS Photography by Marcus Edwards // Art direction by Lydia Dody // Photographed on location at Social, Fort Collins // Hair by C&S Workshop

Style 2013

Deb Davenport Deb is mother to three grown children, Shawn, River and Rayne. She is manager and stylist at Tula in Downtown Fort Collins. She lives what she loves – playing with clothes! She devotes much of her nonwork time to her “helper” at the boutique, Moo, her 1-yearold Markie. “The clothes were fabulous… but obviously I am a bit biased since I picked them out for the store! The modeling experience was super fun and at the best location ever! My boys at Social were uber gracious. Meeting and modeling with Terha was a blast and Lydia and her crew were so accommodating.”

Cathleen Robinson Cathleen is mother to Ryan and stepmother to Penny, Paige and Olin Osborne. She is a physician assistant at Allura Skin, Laser and Wellness Clinic and has spent 13 years with Arthur Sands, M.D., Family/Internal Medicine. Her hobbies include running, cycling, traveling, skate skiing and volunteering for First Descents, an organization for young adult cancer survivors. “C&S Workshop did a great job on my hair. I had never been to MkLaren, but I will go back! All the dresses fit perfectly. The staff was very helpful as well. I enjoyed meeting Lydia and all the models in a fun and relaxed environment. One of my fellow models even helped with my makeup!”

Nicole Jewell Nicole is married to Jeremiah and they have two children, Morgan, 12, and Kennedy, 8. She is a stay at home mom who enjoys spending time laughing and having fun with her family. “This was one of the most fun experiences I have had. C&S Workshop was wonderful and really knew what they were doing. I loved that each of the clothing stores could fit all age groups. And I enjoyed the new experience. Having never done this before, everyone I met made me feel comfortable and beautiful. Thank you, Style Magazine.”

Terha Tullius Terha’s significant other is Jay Watterson. She is the host of The Secret to Life Coaching TV and a representative for Loveland Athletic Club. Terha’s hobbies include working out and happy hour! She also enjoys interviewing guests on her show – “It is amazing learning about all our local businesses.” “C&S Workshop was great! All the outfits were stunning; Tula and Coast to Coast were my favorites! I felt like a movie star. I am so thankful to have found out about Social, Tula and Coast to Coast. Social will be our new hangout after working out or after a long day of filming on the set!”

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Style 2013 • 305-2400 Centerra

The Summit Peaks As Development Rises in Midtown By Michelle Venus

Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

Fort Collins’ Midtown area is poised for redevelopment and renewal projects. This part of town, also known as SoPro, extends southward on College Avenue from Prospect Road to Fairway Lane. “Midtown has tremendous potential,” says local developer Les Kaplan, who owns several properties in the heavily traveled district. “As one of the primary gateways to Old Town and the University, it’s finally getting the attention it deserves.” Whole Foods was the catalyst that spurred midtown growth nine years ago when it took residence in the vacant and dilapidated Montgomery Ward building after an extensive renovation. Soon after Wilbur’s Total Beverage set up shop right next door, followed by Big 5 Sporting Goods, PetCo, Miramont Lifestyle Fitness, Rebound Sports and Physical Therapy and OfficeMax. Kaplan likens it to Boulder’s North Broadway a decade ago, where development is continuing at a rapid pace with 33 different development projects slated to break ground or open in the coming year. There, outdated buildings are giving way to renovated and brand new high-density residential and commercial structures, including proposed hospital facilities, rapid transit hubs and churches, along with requisite retail, restaurant and office spaces. Kaplan is responsible for the 2010 renovation of the former Kelly-Moore paint building just north of Whole Foods, which now houses Full Cycle. Further north, the old Maytag building is seeing new life as a Subway sandwich shop. T-Mobile is finishing out a unit, and at least one new restaurant, The Laboratory, is expected to open its doors in the next few months. A second restaurant space has not yet been leased. He also owns the Chuck E Cheese property on the corner of Prospect and College, as well as the Carmike Theater building on Mason Street at Horsetooth Road and the Toys R Us further south on College. “I’m putting a nice dress on it and sending it to the prom to see who wants to dance with it,” says the former city planner, who is willing to wait for the right-fit tenant to come along when the time is right. Carmike has a long-term lease, so that property will stay the same for the next seven years until the lease is up. At that time, enough new development will have happened and Kaplan will make decisions about the next steps for the property. The Chuck E Cheese site is higher up on the list, as the lease for that space is up within the next year. What’s going to happen with that space? Kaplan shrugs. “We’ll see,” he says. “It’s perfect for a grocery store.” The newest project to plant midtown roots is The Summit on College, an off-campus, 665bed, privately owned residential complex geared toward students. The $44 million project has two adjoining buildings containing studio and two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments and 8,000 square feet of ground floor retail space. Like their on-campus residence hall counterparts, they are rented by the bed rather than by the unit with monthly rentals starting at $530 to $900 per bed, depending on the floor plan. It was developed and built by Capstone College Style 2013

Communities (C3), a division of Birmingham, Alabama-based Capstone Development. Unlike residence halls, The Summit offers 17 different floor plans to choose from, with most having a full private bathroom for each bedroom. Each unit has laminate wood flooring in shared areas and bedrooms and vinyl flooring in the bathrooms for easy maintenance. Apartments come with a full kitchen featuring a dishwasher, refrigerator with an ice maker, microwave and an electric range. Depending on the floor plan, there is either a table with chairs or an island or peninsula with bar stools. Each unit has its own stackable washer/dryer and hot water heater. Living rooms are furnished with a sofa, upholstered chair, end table and entertainment stand. And it’s all BYOE – Bring Your Own Electronics. Bedrooms come with a bed frame, mattress, desk and chair, and dresser. Each bedroom also has its own closet. WiFi and wired connections, water, sewage and trash are included in the rent. “The Summit is a new take on student housing in Fort Collins,” says property manager Jason Swierczynski. “It’s a much more common product nationally.” What made Fort Collins and Colorado State University so attractive to Capstone? According to Swierczynski, a number of factors went into the decision-making process. “Capstone looked at the University’s commitment to growth and saw a need for additional housing,” he explains. “The proximity of the property to campus, development of the Mason Corridor and the MAX bus line were all important considerations.” The MAX line, slated to open in May 2014, is expected to be heavily used by Summit residents, which is why parking is at a premium on the complex. Currently, there are 251 parking spaces on site, which do not accommodate the needs of residents. This has resulted in students parking in adjoining neighborhoods on the east side of College Avenue, usurping street parking and causing consternation and aggravation for residents there. Capstone officials have leased off site parking at CSU in a designated commuter storage lot as well as at an area church to accommodate overflow parking for an additional 220 parking spaces, requiring residents to walk from these parking lots to The Summit. Jeff Jones, a principal at Capstone wrote in an email, “The ownership and management of the Summit are planning to construct an onsite parking garage that we expect to open in August 2014. We expect with this garage we will have on-site parking for between 60 and 80 percent of our resident capacity (since some of our residents do not have cars we will actually be able to accommodate a higher percentage of our residents who need on-site parking).” Plans for the parking garage are pending approval with the City. The Summit takes resident safety seriously. An on-site team with experience in security and maintenance is on call 24/7 to deal with issues quickly, whether it is a leak or electrical outage or something more serious such as theft. Every resident has a key fob — or electronic key which activates the front door of the building — and standard keys for apartment doors (which also

The Summit on College provides a host of amenities for its residents. The complex has a fitness center, computer lab, game room, media room and mountain-view courtyards with an outdoor pool, fire pit and grill area and two — count ‘em, two — golf courses: one putt-putt and one frisbee. Additional amenities include: •

Roommate Matching Available

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Less Than 1 Mile From Oval & Lory Student Center

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Future Access To Mason Street Corridor Project

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Interior Corridors For Apartment Entry

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Regularly Planned Events, Activities & Services For Residents

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Elevators

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Study Areas

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Lounges

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Game Rooms

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Bike Racks

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Media/Gaming Room

have a deadbolt) and each individual bedroom. If the key fob is lost or stolen, it can be deactivated to ensure building security. Parties will happen. It’s college student housing. Courtesy managers, who are resident students working part-time for Capstone, address complaint issues which are typically noise related. They are directed to address the tenants of the offending apartment first and if nothing results of their request to then call the police. “We’ve had a few situations where Courtesy Managers have had to step in,” says Swierczynski, “and every time, the issue has been resolved equitably.” Fort Collins is a now big dot on state maps. It’s been growing steadily for the past several decades and will continue to do so for several more. With careful and considerate city planning, Midtown will be a leader in thoughtful development, buffing an already shining national reputation. Michelle Venus is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins.

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

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Style 2013

S H O P F R O N T R A N G E V I L L AG E .CO M FAC E B O O K .CO M /F R O N T- R A N G E -V I L L AG E -S H O P P I N G - C E N T E R

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C L A I R E’S | L E A R N I N G E X P R ES S TOYS

FRONT R ANGE VILL AGE IS LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF HAR MONY RD. AND ZIEGLER RD.

SHOP FRONT RANGE VILLAGE

what’s happening at

Style 2013

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Friday, November 22, 6 p.m. Lights Up! Join us for a holiday lighting celebration complete with Santa, fireworks and treats and activities for the whole family! Free! www.shopfrontrangevillage.com

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November 29 through December 23. Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt. Stroll among the many shops and restaurants in search of special elves. Enter to win gift cards for the holidays! www.shopfrontrangevillage.com

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November 29 through January 10. Student Holiday Art Show. Visit Front Range Village during the holidays and view student’s holiday artwork from nearly 20 area schools! www.shopfrontrangevillage.com

SHOP FRONT RANGE VILLAGE

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

SHOP FRONT RANGE VILLAGE

Style 2013

SHOP FRONT RANGE VILLAGE

Help your golf lover improve their game. For $199, give them a package that includes a 90 minute swing evaluation, a 30 minute lesson and a 30 minute video practice session. Available at: GolfTEC Fort Collins, 4637 S. Mason St., A4, Fort Collins. www.golftec.com

Delicious gift baskets and unique gifts to satisfy the culinary cravings of any cook. This basket includes an array of fruit wine vinegars including Quince, Pomegranate, Mango and Raspberry, and rich extra virgin olive oil from the Mediterranean. Sets and baskets range from $10 to $100. Available at: Crescendo, 123 N. College Ave., Fort Collins

The superb 2014 Buick Enclave is definitely a gem and is certain to amaze. New Car Test Drive said it ‘’...features a modern cabin, with stylish illumination, crisp graphics, genuine wood trim and nice leather. The seats are comfortable... also offers strong acceleration and smooth highway cruising...’’ Starting at $37,740. Available at: Markley Motors, 3325 S. College Ave., Fort Collins, www.markleymotors.com

Poo-Pourri is a blend of essential oils that virtually eliminates bathroom odors! Our award-winning before-you-go® sprays come in a variety of scents and sizes. Prices start at $10. Available at: Downtown Ace Hardware, 215 S College Ave, Fort Collins

GingerSnaps, interchangeable jewelry that features button-like charms that can change the look of bracelets, rings and more in a snap! Snaps starting at $6.95, accessories starting at $8.95. Available at Maximum Boutique, 5865 Sky Pond Dr., Suite G-160, Loveland. www.maximumboutique.com

Handcrafted from the finest natural ingredients in copper kettles. Pure toffee perfection! Package sizes range from $5 to $34. Available at: Vern’s Toffee House, 444 S. Link Lane, Fort Collins. www.vernstoffee.com The 2014 Cadillac CTS has a striking design, inside and out. Destined to stand out among the world’s leading vehicles, this extraordinary sedan embodies the notions of luxury and sport. Starting at $46,025. Available at: Dellenbach Motors, 3111 S. College Ave., Fort Collins, www.dellenbach.com

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This limited edition custom pendant features Longs Peak with stylized waves in the foreground. The pendant is named “Estes Park Flood Love” and is available in 14K gold and sterling silver. The 14K gold is $1,100 and sterling silver is $300. Available at: Village Goldsmith, 235 West Elkhorn Ave., Estes Park. www.villagegoldsmith.com Completely customizable seasonal floral arrangements available in silk or fresh flowers. Call today to create your unique floral expression. Pricing varies. Available at: Palmer Flowers, 3710 Mitchell Dr., Fort Collins. www. palmerflowers. com

4x4 junkie in the house? Bullhide 4x4 has great gift ideas for everyone on your list, from stocking stuffers to anything aftermarket for a car, jeep, truck, or SUV. Great gifts for the hard-to-buyfor guy or gal. Package prices vary. Available at: Bullhide 4x4, 5817 S. College Ave., Fort Collins. www.bullhide4x4.com Proposing? Reaffirming? You pick the ring! This Hearts on Fire ring stack has options that range from elegant to inspiring. Prices starting at $800 Available at: Sather’s Leading Jewelers, 300 East Foothills Parkway, Fort Collins. www.sathersjewelers.com

Unwrap an all-new 2014 Toyota Tundra 1794 Edition CrewMax this holiday season! Here rugged meets refined as this new Tundra excels at transporting passengers in the lap of luxury. Starting at $48,500. Available at: Pedersen, 4455 S. College Ave., Fort Collins, www.pedersentoyota.com

Style 2013

Give the gift of beautiful, longer and fuller lashes with Latisse. Available in two different sizes. Pricing varies. Available at: Allura Skin, Laser & Wellness Clinic, 2032 Lowe St., Ste. 103, Fort Collins. www.alluraclinic.com DiamondClean has a slim, ergonomic handle with a ceramic finish, innovative dual charging options and five cleaning modes, including Gum Care, Polish, and White. Prices vary. Availabe at: Front Range Dental, 2720 Council Tree Ave #260, Fort Collins

The 2014 Kia Cadenza ranks 1 out of 9 for Affordable Large Cars. This U.S. News ranking is based on published reviews and test drives of the Kia Cadenza, as well as reliability and safety data. Motor Trends says, “It has a features list that could rival an $80,000 BMW!” Starting at $35,100. Available at: Tynan’s Nissan Fort Collins, 5811 S. College Ave., Fort Collins, www.tynans.com

Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

eat

Roasted

Autumn Vegetables

Holiday season is the perfect time to get together with family and friends and take part in a communal meal together. While someone else may labor over the main dish, sides are an easy way to contribute. And, with the help of these recipes, they can be a healthy option, too.

•

4 peeled carrots, (about ¾ pound), halved lengthwise and crosswise

•

2 sweet potatoes, (about 1 pound total), peeled and cut into 3” by ½” pieces

•

1 butternut squash, (about 2 pounds) peeled, seeded and cut into 3” by ½” pieces

•

8 garlic cloves, unpeeled, but separated

•

3 tablespoons of olive oil

•

Salt and Pepper

•

3 to 4 sprigs fresh thyme; stems removed

•

1 to 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Directions: Heat your oven to 450°. Divide your vegetables between two baking sheets (sheets should have a small rim). Toss each pan of vegetables with olive oil (1½ Tbs. each) and fresh thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Roast until vegetables are tender about 25 to 30 minutes. They should begin to turn brown. Make sure you rotate your pans from top to bottom of the stove half way through baking to ensure even cooking. Remove vegetables and peel garlic. Return garlic to vegetables, toss with chopped parsley and serve. Recipe courtesy of Barbara Shafer, Personal Chef & In Home Catering, Chef of Your Own, www.facebook.com/ AChefOfYourOwnCateringLlc

(Serves 8)

Style 2013

Sweet Potato

Orange Cups

(Makes 8 Cups) For the Topping: • • • • • • •

1 cup pecans, chopped ½ stick unsalted butter ¼ cup brown sugar ¼ cup light corn syrup ½ tsp. kosher salt ¼ cup bourbon 1 tsp. vanilla extract

• • • • • • • • •

8 oranges 4 cups canned sweet potatoes, drained 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced 1 cup fresh orange juice (from the oranges) ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened ¼ cup brown sugar 2 eggs, beaten 1 Tbs. ground cinnamon 1 tsp. kosher salt

Directions: Preheat oven to 375°. Prepare the oranges by first slicing 1/8” off the bottom of each orange to keep them from rolling over. Flip the oranges over and slice off the top 1/3 of the oranges. Scoop out the orange flesh and juice the flesh, reserving the juice for the sweet potato filling. Mash the sweet potatoes and the pineapple, orange juice, ¼ cup butter, brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon and salt together in a bowl. Fill the orange cups with potato mixture, then arrange on a baking sheet. Bake 45 minutes, or until tops begin to brown. Meanwhile, prepare the topping. For topping: Toast pecans in a sauté pan over medium heat for 2 minutes, or until aromatic. Add the ½ stick butter, brown sugar, corn syrup and salt; cook until syrupy. Remove from heat, stir in bourbon and vanilla. Return to heat for 1 minute, then spoon mixture over the baked orange cups. Recipe courtesy of Howard Brigham, Executive Chef, d’Vine Bistro, 160 W. Oak Street, Fort Collins, www.dvinebistrocolorado.com

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Style 2013

Colorado

Roast Squash

w/Local Chilis & Toasted Pumpkin Seeds

(Note: this recipe is gluten and dairy free.)

• • • • • • • •

½ ea. small butternut squash (seeded, skin on) ½ ea. small acorn squash (seeded, skin on) Dash ground cumin 2 Tbs. sunflower oil or pure olive oil 4-6 roasted chili peppers; Big Jims, Pablano, Anaheims, etc. (peeled and seeded) 1/3 C. pumpkin seeds Garnish fresh cilantro leaves Kosher salt and black pepper

Directions: Preheat oven to 385°. Rub squash with 1 tablespoon of oil, sprinkle flesh side with salt, pepper and cumin. Place on baking sheet and into oven for approximately 1 hour or until golden and cooked through. Remove and let cool. Place pumpkin seeds in small baking dish and place in oven for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, remove and let cool. Seeds can be stored covered at room temperature. Julienne the peppers into thin strips, season with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon oil, toss to combine. Squash, chilis, and seeds can be done up to 2 to 3 days ahead of time. Before serving: Preheat oven to 400°. Cut butternut and acorn into 4 to 6 pieces each, place on a baking sheet. Top with roasted chili peppers, place in oven till hot, approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Arrange squash on plates or platter, sprinkle with pumpkin seeds and garnish with cilantro leaves. Serves 4 to 6 people as a side dish. Pairs well with a holiday roast leg of lamb, pork roast or oven roasted chicken. Recipe courtesy of Executive Chef David Daggett, Tastebuds Café & Catering, 1624 S. Lemay Ave., #4, Fort Collins, www.tastebudscateringfortcollins.com

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Style 2013

Festive Chard &

Pomegranate

salad

(Note: this recipe is gluten free, plant based, soy free. Makes 6 to 7 cups) • • • • • • • • • •

1 bunch organic red swiss chard washed, pat dry, sliced into thin ribbons 1/3 cup pomegranate seeds ¾ cup red seedless globe grapes, cut in half ½ cup diced mango ½ cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half 1 small sweet onion, diced 1 small honey crisp apple, chopped ¼ cup chopped raw pecans 4 Tbs. chopped dates (optional) 2 Tbs. dried cranberries or golden raisins

Dressing: • • • • • • •

2 Tbs. apple cider vinegar 2 Tbs. maple syrup 1/3 tsp. sea salt (or to taste) 1/8 tsp. coriander 1/8 tsp. turmeric powder 1/8 tsp. black pepper A pinch of cayenne

Directions: Simply prep all your ingredients and toss them with the dressing in a large bowl. Toss and mix very well since this will help to distribute the flavors and infuse the chard with flavor. You can serve right away or chill in the fridge for up to 12 hours in advance before serving. Any longer and your chard will begin to get a bit soft. Serve chilled. Recipe courtesy of Nancy Stilson-Herzog, Certified Health & Wellness Coach, Personal Trainer for Fitter Fort Collins Health & Wellness. Recipe taken from Your Health Matters Winter Cookbook, www.fitterfortcollins.com Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

As wedding planning kicks into high gear for those upcoming spring and summer weddings, Style Magazine is here to celebrate with you. We have the latest trends in wedding gowns and sweet options for your reception. And three fantastic wedding planners explore the process behind pulling together your perfect wedding. Now is time to celebrate love!

Style 2013

Anatomy of the perfect wedding By Corey Radman All photos courtesy of Harper Point Photography.

Erin and David Clay met when Erin failed a college geology test. “I knew I would need some help to pass the course [at Trinity University in San Antonio], so a mutual friend introduced me to my new tutor.” David turned out to be the perfect helper because Erin got an A on the next test. Though she turned him down for two or three dates, she ultimately gave in to his charms. Persistence really does pay off. Fast-forward a few years, Erin is earning a Master’s in Education and David is working as a geologist. One day he suggests a surprise trip to Vegas. Erin was even more surprised and a bit alarmed when he woke her up early for a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon. “He had suggested it before, and I didn’t want to go because I was a little afraid,” she says. She had reason to be. Between the heat and the motion, Erin was feeling pretty queasy. She threw up as soon as the helicopter touched down. Not to be discouraged, David gave her a few minutes and then got down on one knee with the backdrop of the Grand Canyon behind him and proposed marriage. Erin said yes, and the good man kissed her, despite the earlier incident. They set about planning the wedding of their dreams from their home in San Antonio with

Erin flying up to Colorado every few months to make arrangements. Because Erin grew up in Fort Collins, she knew St. Joseph’s Church was the place to have the ceremony. With help from her Colorado-based mother and father, Laurie and Jim Singer, Erin planned the day of her dreams. Erin credits the spacing of the trips for maintaining her sanity. She says these trips were “intense bursts of activity with long downtimes between.” When the stress of planning a wedding in another state got to be too much, David would give her a big hug and remind her, “This is our day. All that matters is me and you and what we say to each other during the ceremony.” Erin also acknowledges that having an assertive person in the family (like her mom and her sister, Sarah DeVore) really helped make sure everything went smoothly on the Fort Collins end. When two people begin their lives together, they want the celebration of their union to be special, unique... and perfect. Erin and David’s wedding was arguably one of those perfect days. The couple’s mix of adventure, passion and love for family wedded to create a day of special memories that reflected their values and honored the special friends and family who came to witness the union.

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Here are the ingredients that melded together so well: • Gown from Serendipity, a bridal shop in Austin, TX • Church – St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. stjosephfc.org • Party – Cocktail hour at Lincoln Center’s Terrace and reception in the Canyon West Ballroom. fcgov.com/lctix • Cake - Nancy Best Cake Design, Lafayette, CO. nancybestcakedesign.com • Caterer – Food for Thought, Fort Collins. cateringfortcollins.com • Band – Raising Cain. raisingcain.org • Photographer – Harper Point, Fort Collins. harperpoint.com • Makeup and Hair – Janie Rocek. janierocek.com • Florist – lace.and.lilies. laceandliliesflowers.com Style 2013

Planning

Perfect

When those wedding bells start to ring in your head, it might be time to call on a wedding planner for help. Though they can manage your entire wedding, planners can also step in at any point of the event planning to help with the process. The range of options begins with the basic package that helps do-it-yourself brides start down the path to the big day. Or it can mean having the planner act as coordinator for the day of the event. At the other end of the spectrum is the all-inclusive package with the wedding planner assisting with the look of the event (colors and style), finding and reserving the venue, getting invitations ready, arranging the decorations, caterer, cake and music, and even making the honeymoon arrangements.

The possibilities are many. Whether a one hour consultation or an allinclusive package, hiring a wedding planner offers huge benefit, those in the industry say. “We make the process easier, stress free and very efficient,” says Casey Muller, owner and lead coordinator of Pink Diamond Events. Suzanne Doles, executive planner and owner of Let’s PLANet, agrees. “It alleviates an enormous amount of stress right from the beginning. And it can be very cost effective.” “The biggest reason to use a planner is that you get to be a guest at your own wedding. You shouldn’t be the ‘go-to’ person,” adds Libbi Alcorn, owner of Elegant Events. “You want to be able to smell the flowers and look at the twinkling lights and just enjoy the day.” The planner saves the couple time because the initial research on vendors has been done, Muller says. “I go to all the networking events so I know those vendors and, because I work with them, I

know their styles and how they work.” Cost savings can also be realized, Doles says. “You save far more money hiring me than doing it on your own. I know the best of the best in vendors.” That includes venues, photographers, floral designers, DJs, videographer and others, she says. “I don’t have to mess around with getting the best price because my vendors will work with our budget.” Because there is already a relationship between vendors and the wedding planner, prices are often less, Dole says. “I get a discount of 10 to 15 percent off and if people do it on their own, they pay full price. By the time we book all the vendors, my services have actually been paid for.” Alcorn agrees. “You can get a lovely event for $22,000 and you can have a lovely event for half of that or 1/4 of that. The budget won’t dictate if it’s lovely. It may dictate the venue but not the quality. If the wedding planner is worth her salt, she’ll get the vendors to work with you with the Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

for the

Wedding By Kay Rios

added bonus of the discount. Usually they get me for free after the discounts because it all comes out in the wash.” In addition, Alcorn says her clients save gas. “We offer a one-stop shop.” Her warehouse includes décor items that can fit any style. She also has vases, cylinders, glassware, linens and wood columns in different styles. “We also rent tuxedos.” “Wedding planning is often considered a luxury but it’s really an essential in the wedding planning process,” Muller says. That planning process can take several paths, depending on how much has been determined and/or accomplished. “Some brides come to me and haven’t started anything. Then I have others who may have a venue or may have chosen the vendors,” Muller says. “We can start anywhere.” And budget amount is not an issue, she adds. “Wedding planners can help regardless of the amount. We offer packages from as low as $1,000 on up. With any budget, there’s a planning package Style 2013 2012

for you.” Budget does, however, play a role, Alcorn says, and the key is in figuring out how the event will look. “First I get the bride to envision the event she would like to have if budget were no problem. There are all these elements you can then pull out, take those she’s looking for and make it within her budget. If the bouquet has a look you love but the flower is prohibitive, substitute another of the same color. Or the cake: make it a three layer instead of four or, now, the rage is cupcakes. So, first, we need the vision. If there isn’t a set idea, we can help guide her.” Dole says, “I recommend brides go to bridal shows. It’s a good way to get to know vendors. And they have great giveaways in door prizes and balloon drops: honeymoon packages, makeup and all sorts of things.” Dole also provides planning for bridal shows and says that, in Northern Colorado, there are around a hundred each year. “I also tell them to look at magazines and cut out pictures and make a scrapbook,” Dole says. All three use an on-line content sharing service called Pinterest to help build the vision (www.pinterest.com). This allows members to “pin” images, videos and other items to their personal board. Wedding planning is a thriving industry, they say and, while Alcorn saw some lull during the recession, she says the activity has come back up. “The Colorado average for a wedding is $22,000 for an event. In bleakest times, it was more like $15,000 for a wedding but it’s coming back up.” Budget aside, picking the right wedding planner is as important as picking the right colors or the right dress. “Interview them,” Muller says. “Look at their portfolios and websites and get an understanding of their experience. Do they have a business license? Do they have liability insurance? Are they certified by the Association of Bridal Consultants? They have the certification and a code of ethics. Ask about their process. Check out their personality.” That’s very important, she says. “They will be your best friend for the next nine months. I’m not planning a wedding for me. I’m planning for you so it has to be a good partnership.” Having all the pieces in place helps make the event special, Alcorn says. “Each one is very individual. Brides are so varied in what they want.” There’s a reason for that, she explains. “A wedding is really an emotion in action.” THE PLANNERS: Libbi Alcorn, CWP, Owner, Elegant Events, Event Planning & Design (970) 461-8122, (970) 690-6880 www.eleganteventsofcolorado.com Suzanne Doles, Executive Planner of Let’s PLANet (970) 203-5884 www.letsplanet.com Casey Muller, Owner, Lead Coordinator Pink Diamond Events (970) 692-1645 www.apinkdiamondevent.com

Kay Rios is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins.

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Style 2013

Chic wedding

Whether it is an ultra hip high hem gown or a

Allure Bridals Style 8800 is a V-neckline sheath, two-piece gown with charmeuse satin lining and lace applique overlay adorned with embroidery and crystals. Features a low v-back and sweep train. Pictured in Ivory Lace over a Cafe Satin Slip with silver embroidery. Also, available in White/Silver and Ivory/Silver. Available at Blushing Bride, 424 Main Street, Windsor, www.blushingbridecolorado.com.

romantic silhouette of lace and flowers, wedding gowns are all about creating your own trend. Embrace love in style – your style!

Maggie Sottero’s “Gianna” is an elegant sheath featuring Champagne with silver and gold beading and embellishments. The plunging V-neckline in front and back with illusion tulle accents adds to the drama. Available at Dora Grace, 2700 S. College Avenue, Suite 150, Fort Collins. www.doragrace. com.

Allure Bridals Style 9068 is sexy and sophisticated in all-over lace. This slim gown features a v-shaped neckline with delicate cap sleeves and dramatic, plunging lace covered back. Pictured in Ivory. Also, available in White and Ivory/Cafe. Available at Blushing Bride, 424 Main Street, Windsor. www. blushingbridecolorado.com.

Watters Encore Collection’s “Bobbi” gown is short and chic. The gown features ivory over ivory with A-line knee length with pockets and an illusion lace bodice and crew neckline, and low Mikado illusion lace V-back. Available at Dora Grace, 2700 S. College Avenue, Suite 150, Fort Collins. www.doragrace.com.

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Style 2013 2012

CAKES and Sweet Treats “All I really need is love, but a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt!” – Charles Schulz

Nothing adds more charm to a wedding reception than a beautiful cake and other sweet treats presented in delightful ways. If you are planning a wedding, take a hint from our local experts and make this the sweetest part of your event. Wedding Cakes Local pastry chef Jaio Osborne, owner of Cocolé, a new European-style bakery in Fort Collins, knows a thing or two about delightful pastries for creating a one-of-a-kind event. “One of the biggest trends in wedding cakes this season is to present the wedding cake as multiple cakes that are not tiered,” she says. “Also popular is the addition of bite-sized dessert tables.” Osborne notes that wedding cakes this season have “much more texture on the cake finish. The latest example is the delicate look of ruffled and frilled fondant. These cakes are made with many thin layers of fondant that are rolled, carefully ruffled and then applied to the cake. We are also seeing other shapes such as loops, circles, chevrons, stripes, dots, etc…” Vintage, romantic elegance is still popular this season. Ombre cakes are a very current trend, as are naked cakes that “forego the frosting on the exterior and instead display the delicious filling inside the cake. These cakes are natural beauties, exuding a simplified elegance and charm.” Osborne also recommends playing with fresh flowers, fruits and fun toppers to change the feel of a cake completely to fit the wedding style and theme. “For the more traditional choice, classic white or ivory designs are always in style but many are adding a pop of color to match their wedding theme,” she adds. Alternatives to the tiered wedding cake abound. “Wedding cupcakes presented in laser-cut cupcake papers are the perfect choice to complement a wedding cake as part of a dessert table. And a tiered cupcake ‘wedding cake’ is a fun, easy alternative to a more elaborate wedding cake.”

Cake design by Jaio Osborne, Cocolé. Dessert Tables Osborne recommends taking advantage of another great trend: dessert tables. This trend offers multiple bite-sized options such as mousse shooters, cake pops, individual mini cakes, French macarons and tartelettes in place of standard wedding cake. The dessert table presentation can be a beautiful feature of the reception. “We have worked with brides to incorporate into the wedding dessert table chalkboard menus, tiered cake stands, natural linens and palettes of sand and sherbet hues for a truly elegant affair.” Displayed mini desserts are a great choice rather than often-unseen wedding sheet cakes or satellite cakes, says Osborne. “Since neither the mini desserts nor cupcakes are sliced, they can be an economical choice to reduce catered serving costs.” Finally, small desserts can also be presented in custom packages for fun take home wedding favors, says Osborne. To learn more about Cocolé, visit www.lecocole.com.

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Candy Tables Candy tables are a wedding reception trend that not only makes a great presentation but also offers a fun way to personalize party favors. Wedding planner Suzanne Doles, with Let’s PLANet, explains how to create a memorable candy buffet. “Use a color scheme that matches your wedding,” she advises. When it comes to buying candy, “a small portion of four ounces or less is a good estimate per person.” Next, “create depth and height to your display. Opaque containers, glass vases and wicker baskets can be a cute, lighthearted way of displaying candy.” She also suggests using trimmings left over from decorating your event such as linens, ribbons and paper to add to the overall display. Doles cautions, “Use these items sparingly – too much can create clutter and overload the senses.” Finally, individual containers or little bags at the candy station make great take-home party favors. Dress them up with a little label and ribbon and send guests home with a sweet treat.

Style 2013

Visit these local candy stores for

bulk candy

Pioneer Candy www.pioneercandy.com

Kilwins www.kilwins.com/fortcollins

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory www.rmcf.com/CO/FortCollins50454

The Fort Collins Candy Shop www.thefortcollinscandyshop.com

Rocket Fizz www.rocketfizz.com

BUILDING && LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING NORTHERN NORTHERN COLORADO COLORADO BUILDING

Special Advertising Section

INSPIRED CRAFTMANSHIP In a world of rapid change, it may seem like nothing is built to last, but Colorado Fine Woodworks is bringing back the love of detail and the appreciation for truly unique designs. They place a high value on creating custom pieces where materials do matter and craftsmanship still counts – and endures. Colorado Fine Woodworks specializes in interior woodwork and furniture that is crafted with care, intended to last and created to be both beautiful and functional. They enjoy designing innovative solutions and applying time-tested practices to modern-day challenges. Owner and designer Bryant Bajema brings both creative thinking and over a dozen years of experience to the creation of each custom piece. But what he truly does best is to pay attention – not just to projects, but to people. Bryant understands that truly fine custom woodwork is about more than construction, it is about knowing your materials and how they work together. He understands the effects of Colorado’s arid climate on wood materials, the proper finishes for aesthetics and durability, and what fixtures and features make a unique piece not only lovely, but functional as well. Colorado Fine Woodworks is family owned and operated in Fort Collins and Bryant has many years experience in all aspects of interior woodwork. Be inspired by the quality, the craftsmanship and the devotion to detail that is Colorado Fine Woodworks. To learn more about Colorado Fine Woodworks, visit coloradofinewoodworks.com or call (970) 402-1648. Photos by Grace Combs Photography

Inspired Craftsmanship, From Classic to Contemporary

970.402.1648 coloradofinewoodworks.com Style 2013

BUILDING && LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING NORTHERN NORTHERN COLORADO COLORADO BUILDING

Special Advertising Section

DESIGNED TO INSPIRE Landscaping, at times, can be the most enjoyable part of the construction process for people moving into a new home, or renovating an existing one. To ensure the finished product exceeds expectations, the design phase may be the most critical part of the project. Working towards a desirable landscape, the designer must have a strong knowledge of construction methods, art elements and design principles. One of the main purposes for landscaping is beautification and to seamlessly blend architecture into the natural surroundings. Another purpose is personal enjoyment and increasing the functionality of a space. With so many choices in materials and methods, the help of a designer can ensure a thoughtful approach to the project and increase the likelihood that these goals are fulfilled. Alpine Gardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design staff will use their expertise in these areas, along with your own ideas, to create a truly enjoyable and beautiful landscape for many years to come.

970.226.2296 www.alpinelandscaping.com Style 2013

ACTIVE SENIORS • HEALTH • ACTIVITIES • RECREATION • WELLNESS • SERVICES

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

family focus Christmas gift giving is supposed to be about imparting love and generosity to others. As parents, we want Christmas for our children to be focused on sharing those experiences. What actually happens amid the toyfueled chaos and wrapping refuse can have us feeling less like wise men bearing gifts for the Christ child and more like the Grinch who stole Christmas.

S O LV I N G T H E C H R I S T M A S

Gimme Gimmes

BY COREY RADMAN

Style 2013

One of the issues that most often traps parents is the relative ease of creating a humongous pile when kids are small. Toys for toddlers tend to be fairly inexpensive. Fast-forward 10 years; creating that same sense of plentitude can cost big bucks. It’s why Fort Collins marriage and family therapist, Stephanie Seng, cautions parents of young children to prethink the size of the pile while they are young. “We have a tendency to want to repeat the positive rituals we set at Christmas time. But think about how this will manifest over time.” She admits that she certainly didn’t think that far ahead when her own three children were small, but kind of wishes she had. That doesn’t necessarily mean that parents who can afford to give generous gifts shouldn’t, she says. It just means that offering a reasonable sense of perspective is a good idea. “It depends on the family, their situation and how those things are communicated,” she says. “Have the ongoing conversation with kids all year round about the value of the items and how fortunate you are that you can afford them. And then encourage the kids to be appreciative for what they have been given. Do they write thank you notes and express in them how they understand what a generous gift it was?” Gift giving isn’t just about being thankful for what you are given, but also learning to be generous and feeling happy about someone else’s joy. Give kids the opportunity to buy or make gifts for others as well. Of course, not all families are in the fortunate position of deciding between iPads and Xbox systems. And for those parents, Christmas can be a guilt-ridden proposition. It’s not easy to choose between rent and gifts. It doesn’t have to be that way, says Seng. Again, set up the expectation through yearly tradition or have an open discussion with your children early about what your family is choosing to do this year, which may be different from their friends’ families. If things have been tough this year, that may be a disappointment. “That’s okay to acknowledge in an age appropriate way. You don’t need to lay out the family finances. Acknowledge this is a change, but say, ‘We’ll

find ways to make it really special.’” Loveland grandmother and writer, MaryJo Faith Morgan says she rarely spends money on gifts for her “grands,” siblings and friends. “I am big on shared experiences! So I will go somewhere with them (park, public concert, parade, etc. – usually free) and share time with them. The first couple of years it was tough, but pretty soon the kids started calling me asking where we were going!” Approaches like this may seem difficult at first, but consider the number of gifts that are given to children and never played with again. Undivided time together often has far more value. Conversely, many parents deal with the opposite problem. The number one complaint from parents (informally surveyed by this author) was actually too much giving from relatives. Fort Collins mother, Stephanie Rayburn, explains. “I love the holiday and I really enjoy putting together gifts that are special for my children. I put a lot of thought into what to get them, and often I stretch our budget to make it happen. Then on Christmas Day, the awesomeness of whatever we give them is drowned out by the flood of other gifts from relatives. All of those people love my children and want to get them something awesome, too, which is wonderful in its own way. But the day becomes more about quantity than quality. By day’s end, they are roaming around like drunken coyotes looking for any glimpse of wrapping paper, hoping they missed something, not playing with anything.” When setting boundaries about your values, “communication is key,” says Seng. “Remember that most often, extended family are well intentioned. Maybe they couldn’t give those gifts when they were young and poor. Talk through your values. Give suggestions about how they can give and be generous besides toys and candy. Maybe contribute to a college fund. Or find experiences they could still contribute that fits in with their values.” Approach the conversation with an open mind (and ears) instead of a grievance. Often that solves things. But if it doesn’t, she adds, remember that for every grandparent who is too generous there is one who isn’t involved at all. Start early and be realistic about what you are truly hoping to impart. If you do, you may find that you and your kids are feeling more joyful and far less Grinchy about Christmas this year.

As a child, the writer, Corey Radman, presented her own parents with coupon booklets for hugs and cinnamon toast. She wants them to know: the coupons have no expiration date.

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family • kids • play • fun • health • activities

Style 2013

Noah, age 5: We already have toys. Santa should bring Mama a new exercise thing. Daddy should get a new raincoat and new boots. And some other things, too. Because Santa doesn’t only bring important things; he also brings fun toys! Orion, age 6: Me, magnet blocks. For Mom, new glasses. And for Daddy, a hearing aid because he’s a little bit deaf. Elizabeth, age 9: Mom should have socks. Dad should get a million dollars. And I would like a magic set, please. Malachi, age 12: A lifetime supply of lot-

tery tickets!

Linnea, age 4: I would like to have my own radio. And cds to go with it, ones that you can dance to, fast ones and slow ones. So that I could do ballet. Santa should bring mama some seeds.

a t n a S e s a Ple r ren answe ollins child C rt Fo s u o ion: Magnanim the quest d your ng you an ri b ta n a S ld u What sho is year? parents th

Jameson, age 4: Mom should get a drum set. Dad can have games so I can play them! And I should get a light saber so I can chop off your head.

Jude, age 3: A race car, a helicopter, a robot, a remote control race car, and an airplane. A new scarf for daddy and for you.... umm... a new hat.

Opal, age 4: Um, let’s see. I don’t know.

Maybe he should decide.

Evangeline, age 5: A dollhouse, a baby doll, and some new instruments for me. And a new rocking chair for the rest of the family.

Carter, age 5: Mom and dad should get a new toaster, and I should get a giant dinosaur that is fake.

Kai, age 2: Santa bring me book! Bring Mama a Daddy! (Mommy is already married.) Bring Daddy a swingy swing!

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family • kids • play • fun • health • activities Through FIRE, HAIL AND HIGH WATER, we have come through this year together. Thank you for your loyality and trust.

Affordable Roofing & Restoration offers free roof evaluations and estimates on insurance claims. They have over 40 years experience and specialize in the following: WIND AND HAIL DAMAGE WINTER WATER MITIGATION INSURANCE CLAIMS • NEW CONSTRUCTION RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL ROOFING GUTTER REPLACEMENT • WATER & FIRE DAMAGE SMOKE AND ODOR REMEDIATION MOLD MITIGATION 970-207-0000 • WWW.AFFORDABLEROOFINGINC.COM

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travel

SKI UPDATE By Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer

Ski season is here, and with snow accumulating even in early October, the resorts are gearing up for a long and busy season. Front Range citizens have many options when it comes to picking a ski area. Some are loyal to one resort, while others choose to ski a variety of mountains throughout the year.

Winter Park/Mary Jane, inspiring nostalgia WinterParkResort.com Many Coloradans are nostalgic about Winter Park, and while it’s changed over the years, some things have stayed the same, and that’s the way people like it. Often referred to as one of the friendliest ski resorts in Colorado, newbies are welcome on the slopes here and it’s not surprising it is home to an award-winning ski and ride school. Skiing is often a family affair and Winter Park’s school provides a “Family Easy Start” program enabling visitors to learn to ski or snowboard as a family. For one low price, a family of four can take advantage of full or half day lessons that include lift tickets, equipment rentals and a private instructor. New this season, Winter Park is adding “Cirque Sled,” a free snowcat ride providing easier access to Vasquez Cirque’s 1,332 acres of terrain. For the second year, Winter Park is offering a “Snow Guarantee.” If an early-season snow isn’t up to the guest’s standards, they can reschedule their stay for later in the season. The “fourth night free with a three night stay” deal is also available for the entire season with the exception of the holidays and spring break.

Candy Gobrecht, of Boulder, has been skiing at Winter Park since 1979. “I like Winter Park because it’s got a small-town feel. It’s organic, and it’s friendly and unpretentious,” she says. “Winter Park is great for me as an intermediate skier because I can test the trees in the Glades and on side-pistes like Dilly Dally Alley.”

fingertips. One of the most popular deals, especially for those coming from the Front Range, is Powder to Pillow. Guests may purchase four to eight days of lodging now and use them anytime throughout the season (blackout dates apply).

Steamboat, the land of champagne powder Steamboat.com Copper Mountain, an Olympic playground CopperColorado.com On Copper Mountain, you may end up skiing alongside an Olympic athlete this winter because the road to the 2014 Sochi Olympic Games goes through this resort. The U.S. Ski Team, U.S. Snowboarding and U.S. Freeskiing Teams are all preparing at Copper for the world stage. Copper Mountain Resort has committed to an investment of nearly $7 million in capital improvements for the 2013 season. In addition to renovations to the Woodward at Copper Barn, a series of on-mountain projects have taken place, and guests will see many new and improved upgrades this season. An easily walkable resort, Copper Mountain offers guests every amenity right at their

Steamboat is popular with Fort Collins’ skiers because they can access this resort without having to fight I-70 traffic, but it’s the idyllic champagne powder and beautiful tree runs that keep folks loyal to “The Boat.” There are exciting new additions at the resort this season. First, Four Points Lodge is scheduled to open in mid-December. This multi-million dollar, 13,000 square foot facility has priceless views of Storm Peak and downtown Steamboat. The lodge’s restaurant will serve innovative Northern Italian inspired cuisine. Weekend night diners will arrive at the lodge via a luxury, 13-seat snowcat. The limited size of the snowcat requires advanced reservations for this truly unique Steamboat experience. For the first time, Steamboat is opening 1,100 vertical feet of terrain for night skiing. Utilizing new lightening technology, glare will be Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Steamboat Springs. Photo courtesy of Larry Pierce.

minimized for night skiers as well as for adjacent property owners. The night-only season pass is a steal of a deal at $199, or approximately $4.50 per night. Another excellent special is the Boat Launch Package, running November 27 through December 21, and includes 20 percent off lodging and three days of lift tickets for $129. The resort’s most popular offer is Kid’s Ski Free. Anytime a parent or grandparent comes to the resort and purchases five or more days of lift tickets, their child or grandchild skis for free, and no black-out dates apply.

Highlands Bowl for steep and deep. On snowy days we go for the burn on Aspen Mountain with a goal to accumulate as many laps as possible. On sunny powder days, Snowmass is a favorite for attaining major mileage on the 3,132 acres.” In the past six years, Aspen/Snowmass has invested $66.5 million in on-mountain capital improvements, including a brand new children’s center. The ultimate family holiday package is being rolled out this season; children are invited to ski, stay and eat free over Christmas. This package offers huge savings for families during the town’s peak season. Kids also stay and eat free during March and April with a minimum three day adult lift ticket.

decade. It features high-alpine intermediate bowl skiing, a rare find in North America. One of the major draws to Breckenridge is the town’s jovial atmosphere. When you kick off your ski boots, there’s more fun in store. Whether it’s the Race of the Santas, Ullr Festival, the famed International Snow Sculpture Championships, Mardi Gras or Spring Fever, there’s always something happening in Breckenridge. Amy Santoni, of Wesley Chapel, Florida, first rode Breckenridge back in 1990, at the age of 16. She later moved to town where she worked at the base of Peak 9 for a few years. “I love the diverse terrain and the fond memories,” says Santoni, who came back to have a Breckenridge wedding in 2008.

Breckenridge, enjoy a major expansion

Keystone, a focus on the family KeystoneResort.com

Aspen/Snowmass, play on four mountains AspenSnowmass.com Perhaps the most famous ski resort in Colorado, Aspen is legendary for celebrity sightings and progressive thought. Hidden amongst tall trees, the historic downtown offers high-end eateries and shopping, and one-of-a-kind lodging establishments, like The Little Nell and Hotel Jerome. In terms of skiing, Aspen/Snowmass offers up the quadruple peaks of Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk. With four mountains available on one lift ticket, it’s never crowded. “What I love about skiing in Aspen/Snowmass are the four mountains,” says Jillian Livingston, founder of AspenRealLife.com. “During the holidays we locals tend to gravitate toward the Aspen Style 2013

Breckenridge Ski Resort, open since 1961, is unique among Colorado resorts because the charming Victorian town is nestled at the base of the mountain. Take a break from skiing for a bite to eat at one of many delicious downtown restaurants, or walk off the slope and into retail stores along Main Street. An exciting winter season is in store at Breckenridge. The resort has added over 540 acres to their landscape via the Peak 6 area just north of Peak 7. This represents a 23 percent increase in the resort’s skiable acres and is one of the most notable ski area expansions globally in the past

If you’ve got little ones, Keystone Resort is for you and them. Keystone’s Kidtopia is family ski programing at its best. Kidtopia features a myriad of activities, and this year, indoor family entertainment options will be available at the new Kidtopia Headquarters. This season Keystone is introducing the Family Ski Trail. Unlike anything else in the industry, this large ski area will appeal to beginners and families. The signage will be kid-friendly and there will be daily skis with Ripperoo, the resort’s mascot. Terrain features here will promote on-snow

progression in a controlled environment. The resort’s Kid’s Ski Free program, introduced last season, is the most straight-forward “kid’s ski free deal” in Colorado. To be eligible, children, ages 12 or under, need to stay two or more nights at one of Keystone’s numerous accommodation options. No blackout dates apply and the program is honored on weekends and holidays. Another new freebie is Keystone’s familyparking zone. Any guests with more than three passengers can enjoy convenient, free front row parking just steps from the gondola. Also, as the first ski resort in the country to adopt the National Restaurant Association’s Healthy Eating Program, Keystone has introduced 500 calorie meal options at all three of the on-mountain dining outlets.

Arapahoe Basin, a local favorite Arapahoebasin.com Always in the race to be the first ski resort in Northern America to open for the season, and the last to close, Arapahoe Basin, or A-Basin, is tremendously popular with Front Range-based skiers. Known for its laid-back, party kind of atmosphere, to many, A-Basin is the quintessential Colorado ski resort. “A-Basin has soul,” says John Wood, owner of K J Wood Distillers in Berthoud, Colorado. Wood’s sentiments are echoed by other longtime Colorado skiers. “I like A-Basin because it’s affordable, has fewer crowds and it has The Beach,” says Karen Clark of Loveland. “It’s so much fun to spend a day skiing there and then relax with beers and barbecue on the beach.” For locals who loved to ski A-Basin, the Elevation 4Pass is for you. It’s just $129 for ages 15 and up, and $99 for ages six to 14. Available through December 20, 2013, this is four days of skiing or riding for just $32 per day.

Vail, the trendsetter Vail.com Vail is one of the largest ski resorts in the world with more than 5,000 acres of terrain. One of Vail’s missions is to continue to be the leader of the industry, and their commitment to the latest and greatest is unparalleled. During their 50th anniversary last year, Vail unveiled Gondola One, the first and fastest of its kind in North America, it features heated seat cushions, Wi-Fi, and a 7.5 minute ride from the base of Vail Village to Mid-Vail. This ski season Vail is opening two new lifts, including a high-speed, six passenger quad lift that will result in a 33 percent increase in capacity, or 3,600 people per hour, which is the same

capacity as Vail’s new Gondola One. “Boarding at Vail is like an out of body experience,” says Mindy Bryant, owner of Edge Optics in Fort Collins and avid snowboarder. “The pristine snow and picturesque setting feels almost like a movie scene. Whether you’re Goldie Hawn or Joe Schmoe, in Vail you instantaneously feel like a celebrity.” Vail Resorts’ Epic Pass has added resorts this year and now includes two of the most famous regions in the world, Les 3 Vallées, France and Arlberg, Austria. With the Epic Pass guests can ski and snowboard across 26 mountains and four countries, and have unlimited and unrestricted access to Vail, Beaver Creek, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, Eldora in Colorado, Canyons in Park City Utah and Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in Lake Tahoe. The industry’s best-selling season pass is available at $729 for adults and $379 for children ages 5-12.

Breckenridge Ski Resport

Telluride, beauty at its peak TellurideSkiResort.com While every ski resort claims to be unique, Telluride has cornered the market. Tucked into the San Juan Mountain Range, this tiny village is like something out of a storybook. A free gondola ride transports guests through picturesque scenery from downtown to Mountain Village. While expert skiers love Telluride, there is lots of terrain suitable for beginner and intermediate skiers. If you want to improve, Telluride Ski & Snowboard School has camps to help, including a brand new biomechanics course. Offered in mid-January, biomechanics has been taught to instructors for years, but is now available to the public. This three day camp focuses on how to use your body as it was designed for skiing efficiency and fluidity. For more advanced skiers, Telluride is now offering a heli-skiing camp. After two days on the mountain, the third day requires participants to board a helicopter for some world class adventure skiing. “I love skiing Telluride because it feels like you have a mountain of amazing views and unbelievable terrain all to yourself,” says David Fluegge of Kansas City, Kansas. “Groups can travel together because every lift has intermediate runs to get the less experienced skiers down.”

Steamboat

Telluride Ski Resort

This article highlights only a few of the offerings at nine of Colorado’s most popular ski resorts, however, new packages and deals are continually being unveiled. Keep an eye on the resorts’ various websites to snag great deals as they pop up. Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer is a freelance writer and professional blogger at HeidiTown.com, the source for Colorado festival and travel information. Her articles have appeared in IndependentTraveler. com and EnCompass Magazine. Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

travel

Grand Lake

A Winter Gem

Grand Lake is the largest natural body of water in Colorado, and the tiny town that sits along its shore and shares its name is a summertime delight, but this area also offers a vast array of winter activities. We visited Grand Lake last winter during Winter Carnival, an annual town party taking place on the first Saturday of February. The region had received several feet of snow in the week before our arrival and turning onto Grand Avenue we entered a winter wonderland complete with colorful snow sculptures, created for Carnival. Snowmobiles outnumber cars here, and during the winter they are a standard form of transportation around the area. It’s also not uncommon to see a horse and rider trotting around town and we noted two ponies hitched up outside of Sage BBQ and Grill as we drove past. We were booked for two nights at the Western Riviera Lakeside Lodging’s Tree House, an apartment sized vacation property. The Tree House overlooks Grand Lake, making it the ideal spot for viewing the Winter Carnival fireworks Style 2013

display over the frozen lake. Our weekend agenda included many of Grand Lake’s most popular winter sports, but ice fishing is one activity we hadn’t been able to fit into our schedule. Rocky Mountain Outfitters is a one-stop-shop for all your fishing needs in Grand Lake, including guided ice fishing trips, and as I gazed across the icy white landscape dotted with fishermen’s tents I promised to give this a try on my next visit. We were soon on the road again for the short drive to On the Trail Rentals, where our snowmobiles awaited. On the Trail has access to 130 miles of scenic groomed trails in the Arapaho National Forest. I was a bit tense, but had no need to worry, the staff at On the Trail was efficient and helpful and once I got on my bright yellow sled, I was ready to ride. We zoomed through the white landscape, gliding over freshly groomed snow. I may be a terrible skier, but I’m a natural on a snowmobile. I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face. That evening we dined in front of a roaring fire at the historic Daven Haven Lodge. It was the

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY HEIDI KERR-SCHLAEFER

perfect way to end a spectacular Grand Lake day. The next morning we woke early, admired the purple and pink sunrise over the lake, and walked the short distance to breakfast at The Fat Cat, a one-of-kind Grand Lake establishment serving up a homemade breakfast buffet that will blow your mind. The dessert table looks like something off the pages of Bon Appetit. “Are we allowed to eat that for breakfast?” asked my husband, motioning towards the dessert table, a huge grin spreading across his face. Much to my husband’s delight, the answer was yes. Fueled on scotch eggs, Mexican breakfast casserole, pancakes, bacon, bread pudding and coffee, we were off to the Kawuneeche Visitors Center at the entrance Rocky Mountain National Park for a ranger-led snowshoe excursion into the park. I quickly burned off breakfast as we followed Ranger Barb and her husband through deep sparkling snow. I’m not a huge fan of guided tours in general, but this was delightful. As we crunched along Barb enlightened us about snow;

the different types of snow and the different words for snow. She picks a different subject for each guided tour, so you can go on multiple snowshoe hikes or cross country ski outings with her during the winter and never hear the same topic twice. It’s important to be in relatively good shape for these snowshoe expeditions. The hikes are only a few miles, but several people in our group had to go back to their cars just a few yards into our outing. Know your limitations before you go. Ranger led hikes at RMNP are free, but you must make reservations by calling (970) 586-1223. Back in town we enjoyed Winter Carnival festivities including the parade, the famed Grand Lake bed races and hilarious games like human bowling. It was a hoot and one of the best little winter festivals I’ve attended in Colorado. We also browsed Grand Lake’s many cute shops, including the candy store, bookstore and several well-appointed gift stores. While souvenir t-shirts and mugs are available, Grand Lake’s shopping district offers more than just touristy kitsch; art, jewelry and unique home décor abound. Later that afternoon we popped into Pancho & Lefty’s. We discovered it several years ago when looking for a place in Grand Lake to watch the Broncos game, and now we always stop by when we’re in town. We ended the evening with a pizza from the Grand Lake Bowling Lanes,

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Grand Lake’s Winter Carnival

another place we stumbled upon years ago. A family run establishment, their handmade pizzas are scrumptious. The next morning we were off to the Grand Lake Nordic Center. Grand Lake is a friendly place with a “home away from home” kind of feel, and the gals at the Nordic Center were no exception, happily helping my husband find the perfect pair of boots and cross country skis. The Nordic Center offers 35 km of classic and skate skiing trails and we quickly worked up a sweat as we skied through the rolling hills of snow. Beginners will find approachable terrain here and lessons are available. There is also terrain fit for advanced skiers, plus a rental shop, retail shop and tubing hill. Watch for wildlife, especially moose. Whether you are looking for a holiday adventure with the family or a romantic getaway complete with a visit to the Rocky Mountain Repertoire Theater, Grand Lake is a picturesque winter destination. Go to GrandLakeChamber. com to start planning your trip.

Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer is a freelance writer and professional blogger at HeidiTown.com, the source for Colorado festival and travel information. Her articles have appeared in IndependentTraveler. com and EnCompass Magazine. Style 2013

DowntownFortCollins.com Downtown Fort Collins is a vibrant historic area of Fort Collins in the city’s central business district and cultural center, hosting the majority of the city’s festivals, live music, local breweries, theater and art galleries. The Downtown Business Association, an organization dedicated to promoting downtown and helping it thrive, produces over 80 event days a year, has sold over $1 million in Downtown Fort Collins gift cards and advocates for downtown and its member businesses. Downtown has a strong history of quality shopping, live entertainment, brew tours, and great local restaurants. Don’t miss patio dining and the fall festival season in Downtown Fort Collins!

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov 9, 16 & 23 Winter Farmers’ Markets 10:00am-2:00pm - Opera Galleria Nov 23 Santa Arrives by bicycle! Come meet Santa at noon in Old Town Square Nov 23 - Dec 24 Santa Claus Workshop visiting hours Wednesday-Sunday 12-6pm (some hours vary) Nov 28 - Dec 24 Story time with Santa 1:30am (Thursdays & Fridays at Clothes Pony 111 N. College) Nov 29 - Dec 15 “Downtown Santas”: a shopping quest Downtown Stores – various hours Nov 30 - Jan 29 Free Weekend Parking in the garages (November 30 through December 29) Dec 1 - 31 Horse Drawn Carriage Rides December 1 through December 31- Old Town Square

Proud Supporters Of Your Downtown Businesses

DowntownFortCollins.com GIFT CARDS ARE PERFECT FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

Over 160 downtown businesses accept Downtown Gift Cards! Tasty restaurants, unique boutique shopping, live entertainment, art galleries, all in a historic setting! These gift cards are available at the Downtown Visitors Center or online at www.DowntownFortCollins.com or 970-484-6500.

Dec 2 Menorah Lighting Ceremony 5:30pm-7:00pm - Old Town Square Dec 6 Carolfest 6:00pm Caroling begins at the Opera Galleria and ends at Oak Street Plaza Dec 6 First Friday Featuring Gallery Walk 6:00-9:00pm –experience the Fort Collins Arts Dec 6, 7 Fine and Funky Art Show - Opera Galleria Dec 13 Friday Late Night Shopping until 8:00pm – various shops Dec 14 Northern Colorado’s TUBA Christmas 2:00-3:00pm - Oak Street Plaza Dec 14 & 21 Winter Farmers’ Markets 10:00am-3:00pm - Opera Galleria Dec 20 Fort Collins Foodie Walk 6:00-9:00pm – experience the Fort Collins Foodie Scene Dec 31 First Night Fort Collins 2014 “Under the Magical Moon” – 5:00-10:30pm

First Night Fort Collins - a non-alcoholic arts based event with over 100 live performances on New Year’s Eve with a fireworks show to ring in the new year. The perfect entertaining celebration! Online tickets go on sale Dec 1!

MORE INFO AT DowntownFortCollins.com

Proud Media Supporters Of Your Downtown Businesses northern colorado

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N O C O 2 0 / 3 0 S U I T C A S E PA R T Y August 23 :: Fort Collins/Loveland Hanger :: Fort Collins An airport hanger and waiting private jet was the exciting backdrop for this 7th annual signature event for NOCO Active 20/30’s. The jet-setting evening provided nearly 1,300 guests a chance to be whisked away from the event for a 3-night trip on Coronada Island, Calif., this year’s Destination Unknown. Guests enjoyed the red carpet evening, mingling and sampling delicious cuisine and libations, entertainment from headliner Blues Traveler and a exciting multi-item live auction before the final winners were announced. The event generated nearly $500,000 for Northern Colorado child-based charities benefiting NOCO Active 20/30 Children’s Foundation. Photos courtesy of Capturesque Photography.

Trevor Roberts, Sarah Rudy

Emily Marzolf, Lauren Reed, Amy Volk, Rochelle Reynolds, Kate Baker

Linc Turner, Natalie Turner, Lacee Wilke, Michael Simon

Sabrina Missimer, Linda O’Dea

Angie Carmen, John Popper, Eric Carmen The Carmen’s were the grand prize raffle winners.

Anna Everitt, Aaron Everitt, Luke Schilling, Shelby Schilling

I C E C R E A M “ S U N D A E ” W I T H E L E A N O R R O O S E V E LT August 25 :: Historic Avery House :: Fort Collins A delicious afternoon was in store for nearly 100 community members at the Fort Collins Reads annual Ice Cream “Sundae” social fundraiser event, an afternoon with Eleanor Roosevelt. Actress Susan Marie Frontczak, dressed in character, delivered the living history presentation of Eleanor Roosevelt, the famed former First Lady from the 20th century. Proceeds from the event benefit Fort Collins Reads and their “one-city, onebook” program. This program was Front Row: Sara Hoffman, Joannah Merriman, Anna Hahn. Second Row: Actress established in 2002 and is one-of-a- Susan Marie Frontczak, Tova Aragon, Cindy Osborne. Third Row: Phyllis Nakagawa, Sharon Panik, Marty Marsh, Judy Sayre Grim. Last Row: Valerie Mauksch, kind in Colorado. Justin Goodfellow, Sharon Johnson, Susie Wilmer, Deb Hayman Polk

Actress Susan Marie Frontczak portraying Eleanor Roosevelt

Marty Marsh, Valerie Mauksch Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

BLACK TIE BOWLING September 7 :: Chipper’s Lanes North Center :: Fort Collins More than 100 guests enjoyed a night of bowling in scotch doubles format at this 8th annual fun night of strikes, spares and gutter balls. Bowlers enjoyed great food, libations, music, a silent auction and awards for best team score, bestdressed team and the strike challenge. Proceeds benefit Canyon Concert Ballet & Dance Center’s scholarship program, as well as Fort Collins Symphony’s youth outreach music program to help improve lives of children in Northern Colorado. Photos courtesy of Y. Cats Productions.

Jim Frucci, Natalie Goffredi, Bruce Boxleitner, Debbie Hillis

Brett & Robin Pavel

Lisa & Randy Bernhardt, Ilan Levy, Carrie Newman

Sean & Melissa Conlon

Jane Sullivan, Dan Ashbaugh, Joy Souply, Victoria Grissom Style 2013

FIELD TO FORK September 7 :: Grant Farms :: Wellington Legacy Land Trust hosted their 6th annual Field To Fork, a celebration of the harvest and local land conservation. This family event provided the more than 150 in attendance a chicken corral, live and silent auctions, a farm tour by Silver Reef Organic Farms, a kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s picking garden and incredible food by 11 regional restaurants. More than $20,000 was raised to support Legacy Land Trust and conserve local agricultural and environmentally beneficial lands in Larimer, Jackson and Weld counties. Photos courtesy of Zebra Jellyfish Photography.

Pen Sartori, Nanci Erskine

Andy Grant, Chef Kevin Grossi

Jill & Ray Arent

Chef Amy Wyatt, Ian Marsh

Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

Shelby Weiss, Jesse Kerchenfaut

Wayne Jamerson, Brian Coe

Cathy Morgan, Jon Henry

Steve Mason, Jerry & Carolyn White Style 2013

WINE, WOMEN & SHOES September 20 :: Lincoln Center :: Fort Collins Divine wine and fabulous fashion were the cornerstones of this inaugural event as a sold-out crowd of 250 women experienced the ultimate in a Girls’ Night Out. The night of fun included culinary delicacies, fine wines, exclusive shopping with local and national vendors displaying the latest must-have shoes, bags and accessories, silent and live auctions, a choreographed runway fashion show and more. The tantalizing evening helped to raise funds to benefit C.A.S.A. of Larimer County (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children) and their mission to be the voice in court for abused and neglected children and a safe place in the community for conflict-free family interactions. Photos courtesy of Kellie Sponberg, Bill Seaworth, D Dennison

Image Gallery Photography and Two C’s Photography.

Aileen VanMeveren, Mercedes Forero, Susan Koslnocky, Pamela Simmons-Lee, Carey Hess, Teresa Giradi, Karen Preiss

Pennie Nalezny, Cathy Robinson, Cindy Wedding

Barbara Johnson, Laine Connolly

Jeris Pilcher, Jacey Mahaffy

Yvonne Hampton, Anne Marie Feilinger

Jodu Freidrick, Lynette Nickodemus, Ria Erickson, Jamie Crawford, Tammy Bork, Lisa Wigert, Christen Motschall. Jaime Crawford was the Grand Prize Raffle Winner.

Lester Meade, Sherry Bundy, Jana Brandes

Dena Sanders, Nancy Sanders

Lynn Oesterle-Zollner

Lydia Dody, Julie Sather-Browne, Ali Dody-Hettler, Ina Szwec

Renee Weisser, Joanie Hill, Suzy Wells, Gina Schwartz

Marcia Erickson, Lauryn Evans

Jennifer Parker-Lawrence, Pat Parker

Emily Alligood , Macey Kaniatobe, Mindy Bryant Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

CEMETERY STROLL September 21 :: Grandview Cemetery :: Fort Collins A picture perfect day greeted more than 300 community members at the 18th annual Cemetery Stroll, Fort Collins’ oldest and largest living history event. This year Fort Collins’ most colorful historic characters from 1873 came to life as actors did graveside portrayals of a banker, judge, schoolteacher and more at nine vignette sites throughout Grandview Cemetery. Proceeds from the event benefit programs and services at Fort Collins Senior Center. Photos courtesy of Marjorie Morningstar.

Linda Niesent as Alice Watrous Patterson

Wade Kissock as Arthur H. (Billy) Patterson

Jim McCully as Joseph Simpson McClelland

Phil Stamps as Charley Clay

Devin O’Dell as Judge Jay Bouton

Gina Burkhardt as Sarah Catharine Trimble

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C AT T L E B A R O N S B A L L 2 1 : 2 1 Y E A R S - 2 1 S T O F S E P T- 2 1 B L A C K J A C K September 21 :: Spicer Arena :: Eaton The Cattle Baron’s Ball, celebrating its 21st anniversary, provided an evening of western elegance for a record crowd of more than 1,000 guests. Vintage cars greeted guests as they walked the red carpet into the beautifully transformed Spicer Arena. The memorable evening included gourmet dining, bidding on 237 silent auction items, seven dazzling live auction experiences and much more. The highlight at this premier Northern Colorado event was a performance by Travis Tritt, Nashville recording artist and two-time Grammy Award winner. The event netted a record $537,000 for the American Cancer Society (ACS) and their programs of research, education, advocacy and patient services. To date, the Cattle Baron’s Ball has raised more than $4.7 million dollars in the last 21 years for ACS.

Sitting-Penny & Mike Guttersen. Middle-Lea Faulkner, Teri Catucci, Chad Faulkner, Margie Perusek. Standing-Mike Faulkner, Angie Faulkner, Parker Guttersen, Bill Sheel

Roger Knopf, Hossein & Christy Shirazi, Angie Molter, Christian Bienvenu

Steve & Mindy Rickard, Karla & John Bowness

Front-Trent & Kristen Horton, Sheila & Tempe Bowman, Mary & Dallas Horton. Back- Maria & Brent Lahman, Shawn & Jennifer Kemp

Laurie Davis, Bob Davis, Harmon Anderson, Nichole Elliott, Ben Elliott

Nonie Sheel, Teri Catucci

Front- Chad & Katie Keeler, Juliana & Howard Hissrich. Back-Joyce & Steve Moreno, Mitch & Lindsey Markle, Bruce & Josie Hemmings.

Lea & Mike Faulkner Lea Faulkner was the Event Chair for Cattle Barons Ball 21

Bradford & Nannelle Edgren, Jim Alles Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Style 2013

WISH LAUNCH October 2 :: Medical Center of the Rockies (MCR) :: Loveland WISH, Women Investing in Strategies for Health, was launched at a reception held at MCR with 75 women and men in attendance. WISH, is a new giving circle formed by a group of local women, working with Poudre Valley Hospital and Medical Center of the Rockies Foundation, to enhance the health of our community through UCHealth programs and services in Larimer County. As of the launch event, 33 women joined WISH as Founding or Charter Members.

Stacy Unger, Debbie McCubbin, Mary McCambridge, Valerie Beyrouty, Julie Radtke, Marla Trumper, Amy Rosenberg, Jan Sawyer, Yvonne Myers, Janene Dellenbach, Susan Kirkpatrick, Nina Bodenhamer, Lori McWhinney

Katie Bowers

C AT S I N O R O YA L E - T O P C AT & TA I L S G A L A October 12 :: Embassy Suites Hotel, Spa & Conference Center :: Loveland More than 340 guests had a tail waggin good time at the 15th annual Top Cat & Tails Gala. Supporters savored a gourmet dinner, played a rousing game of Whiskers & Tails, and bid on many great silent and live auction items. Highlights included an Adoptable Animal Parade of puppies, kittens, dogs, cats and a rabbit and a touching video. The evening festivities helped to raise more than $129,500 for Larimer Humane Society and their programs to help homeless animals.

Presenting Sponsors-Poudre Pet & Feed Supply Front-Chelsey Shernaman, Karen Horak, Sara Muzquiz with Jasper. Middle-Amanda Emmons, Lizzy Wolfson, Matt Herrick, Lynda Cottrell, Jackie Berezoski. Back- Karen Morris, Gwen Ringleman, Holly Bronson, Yvonne Harrison, Marissa Archer, Kelyn Hilt, Natalie Strong, Kylee Muhlhauser, Alex Jennings, Cameron Meganck.

Heidi & Gregg Scheidt with Dr. No

Teresa Mueller, Paul Mueller, Sean McCarthy, Jennifer Metcalf, John Metcalf, Amy McCarthy

Jayna Wagner, Kate Wagner with Goldeneye

Lance & Shirley Perryman

Seated-Pam Thompson, Carol Webster, Jane Sullivan Standing-Joy Souply, Julie Manyak, Deborah Booker, Tami Spaulding, Linda Fisher, Sharon McCarthy

Michael & Sara Shirley

Rhonda Gray. Saundra Skrove, Lydia Dody

Sara Muzquiz, the Ultimate Marcie Adams with Pet Winner with Jasper Susan Shattuck, Jim & Kathy Dow, Jennifer Orme Miss Moneypenny Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

9TH ANNUAL BRAINIAC BOWL October 19 :: Marriott :: Fort Collins More than 200 scientists and historians eager to display their knowledge and talent competed for the title of “Brainiac Bowl Champions” at this one-of-a-kind event. The highly competitive trivia challenge tested 24 teams on questions in science, technology, history and more. The spirited event helped to raise $13,000 to support the new Fort Collins Museum of Discovery and their mission to create meaningful opportunities for people of all ages to learn, reflect and have fun through handson and collections based experiences in science and culture. Photos courtesy of Dave Dahms.

Michael Allison, Anne Bossert, Annette Pontillo-Monaghan

First Place Winners of the 9th annual Brainac Bowl-Team NVIDIA Sugar Beetnicks Front-Mike Nelson. First Row-Ross Cunniff, Ken Severson, Dave Wisborn, Kas Severson, Jill Cunniff. Second row-Carol Severson, Andy Manshel, Malini Bartels. Back-Jack Jordan, Wendy Jordan

Second Place Winners-Team HP Minions Front-Anne Osborn, Mike Nelson, Carl Malone. Middle-Jeannie Pearson, Tammy Osborn, Niki Roman. Back-Roger Pearson, Keldon Jones, Dan Osborn, Kimberley Malone

Front-Mike Nelson. Back-The Geiselman’s-Terry, Annette, Jacqui & Nikki with Cindy Nelson.

Former Colorado State Senator Bob Bacon, Annette Geiselman Style 2013

Jean Lamm, Brent Carmack

Fourth Place Winners-Brain Farts Front-Dee Wanger, Mike Nelson, Andrew Warnock. Back-Mark Wanger, Jim Brokish, Marsha Brokish, Eileen Grinolds, Hugh Grinolds, Krista Warnock.

C E L E B R AT E L I F E I N T H E P I N K - H O P E L I V E S ! G A L A October 26: :: Embassy Suites Hotel, Spa & Conference Center :: Loveland The 13th annual Celebrate Life in the Pink Hope Lives! Gala was an event to remember thanks to the generous sponsorships and participation from our Northern Colorado communities. This signature event provided more than 600 guests in attendance an exciting and inspirational evening with festivities including a gourmet dinner, aerial performances, presentation of Champion of Hope Awards, silent and live auctions, a live painting creation of Peyton Manning, and concluded with 17 beautiful women, all breast cancer survivors, gracing the stage along with their escorts to celebrate life. The more than $165,000 raised will benefit the Hope Lives! The Lydia Dody Breast Cancer Support Center and their mission to support, strengthen and empower those touched by breast cancer in Northern Colorado by providing free complementary care, guidance and education. Photos courtesy of Fairy Good Photography and Sugar Mill Productions.

Seated-Lauren Perkins, Emily Hite, Lisa Hite. Standing-Terra Bookout, Jessica Guenther, Charlotte Hampson, Yvonne Hampson, Alex Hampson, Jennifer Haggard, Jackson Self, Stefanie Hussain, Suzy Saenz.

Brooke Hupp, Stephanie Snell, Julia Cherry

Rebecca LaChance, Jacqueline Parr, Andrea Howton

Lydia Dody, Mary Rutledge, Anne Tynan

Kate Manning, Lydia Dody, Melissa Venable Kate Manning received the 2013 Community Champion of Hope Award

Mrs. Colorado Mina Muirhead, Bill West

Melissa Venable, Lydia Dody, Mike Maguire Mike Maguire received the 2013 Care Provider Champion of Hope Award

Eric Cordova, Julie Kinning

Raquelle & Travis Willey

Brooke & Pete Weeks

John & Jennifer Sinnett

Suzanne & Larry Pullen

Julie Sather-Browne, Lydia Dody

Stephen Sanders

Dennis & Rosalie Sinnett

Deborah Turner

Janelle & Jason Noel

Adrienne & Jeremy Justus

Ellie Scott, Miho Tio Scott Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

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