As seasons change, so do interns and events

Posted on May 16, 2012

 

As seasons and semesters change, so do the Interns at Downtown Boulder.  Landing this summer internship has given me the opportunity to discover new events around Boulder that will keep me occupied during the summer time such as this week’s ‘Boulder Startup Week.’

My first week here at Downtown Boulder is the launch of the five day celebration of this awesome event.  They quote, “Boulder is awesome, and we want everyone to know about it.” Agreed!  I have lived in Boulder for three years and have yet to attend this event; maybe it’s because I was never 21.  If you plan to attend these events, plan to meet people, be social, and have a few cocktails.

The main focus of this event is to introduce young professionals to organizations and employers throughout Boulder to merely network and get their foot in the door.  Luckily for me, I was the chosen one to intern at Downtown Boulder, which unfortunately, will prevent me from attending most of the events held this week. 

If I do get the chance to attend, there are a few that sound right up my alley…

1)’The Social Marketing for Startups’-Thursday, May 17 at 9:00a.m.:  I’m all about social media/ marketing and I’m a startup myself, hence my ‘intern’ status here at Downtown Boulder.

2)’Yoga in the Park (with treats)’-Thursday, May, 17 at 10:00a.m.: This event sounds appealing but unfortunately, 1. I can’t touch my toes, so ‘yoga’ and I aren’t compatible and 2. I’m going to Costa Rica next week so ‘treats’ and I are enemies.

3)’The Humor Code: The Science of Funny (and not so funny) Marketing’-Thursday, May 17, at 1:00p.m.: I’ve always used humor to get away with things even though it has not always worked out for me.  This event would help me understand when to keep my ideas and mouth shut during times when humor is not the answer.

With either a break from work, or from my social life, I’ll most certainly make an effort to attend one of the many listed events held during ‘Boulder Startup Week’.

~Madalyn

Related Tag: Boulder



Moms are the Best

Posted on May 8, 2012

While you should be loving and appreciating your mother every day, Sunday is the official Mother’s Day and there should be no shortage of breakfast-in-bed, fresh-cut flowers, and washing your own dishes. If you have yet to find that perfect gift or you’re still planning what to do with your fantastic mom, then click through our gift guide and let the ideas appear before your eyes.

For the mom who wants to spend the day doing as much as possible, take her to brunch at the Hotel Boulderado or L’Atelier.  Then spend some time at a few of the downtown art galleries like Boulder Arts & Crafts who is hosting a Maruca Designs Trunk Show, and then how about a bit of culture with Boulder Ballet’s rendition of Cinderella. And you cannot forget the chocolate. Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and Piece, Love & Chocolate understand the need for a well-earned truffle.

Or if your mom wants to do minimal running around with maximized relaxation, then a trip to the spa is in order. Barris Laser & Skin Care and ten20 have just what the momma called for and it comes in the form of a massage, manicure, pedicure, and facial. Top off the royal treatment with an afternoon of local wine tasting from Settembre Cellars at downtown’s only specialty olive oil store, Oliverde. Perfect!

Give your beautiful mother some extra love this Sunday and if you forgot, then you still have time to plan something special and give me a high-five for reminding you.

-Devon

Related Tag: Boulder



Can I Be the Tulip Fairy?

Posted on April 27, 2012

When I first learned about the Tulip Fairy and Elf Parade, I found it very hard to talk about it with a straight face.  I mean, what does a tulip fairy look like and where do you find elves in April? I have been an avid Pearl Street Mall go-er for four years now, but never was I aware of this tremendous event until earlier this year.  But now that I know, I cannot stop talking about it.

The Tulip Fairy and Elf Parade happens this Saturday, April 28 at 3p.m. on the 1300 block of Pearl Street. It is a collaboration of bright colors, positive attitudes and a bunch of kids unleashing their goofy and creative sides.  The parade is meant to signify the start of the tulip season, as the Tulip Fairy and even a few stilt-walkers welcome the tulips as the tiny fairies and elves parade past. However, this year will be a bit of a belated welcoming as the tulips have been in bloom for awhile now, but the parade goes on! After the official blessing from the Tulip Fairy, the Open Space & Mountain Parks will commence the always exciting Waking the Bear ceremony.  I suggest you arrive to the mall early, because this is not only a parade, but there will also be face-painting, coloring, children’s activities, and of course, live music from the energetic duo Jeff Kagan and Paige Doughty.

Unless it’s pouring rain, the Tulip Fairy and Elf Parade will continue as scheduled; and with free parking in the City of Boulder parking garages on Saturdays and Sundays, what excuse do you have not to join in on this tulip jubilation? For more information about the events surrounding the parade or weather updates, click here and stay in the know.

-Devon

Related Tags: Boulder, Festivals, Costume



The Top Tuna

Posted on April 20, 2012

15 is a great number, and although its significance is minimal in most daily activities, it takes on a superior role this Sunday at the ever popular Taste of Pearl. The third annual T.O.P. is just as the acronym suggests, top-notch. This is the crème of the crop, the premium potato, the cat’s pajamas if you will, of local cuisine and wine sampling. It is perfect for the person who does not like to limit their options with a four or five course meal, but instead wants to try a bit of everything and not feel bad about their indecisiveness. In a brief list, this is what you can expect from the event that knows quality:

1.) 15 retail stores and galleries will open their space to allow for 15 local restaurants and 15 Colorado wineries to offer up their finest pairings of creative cuisine and fine wine.

2.) Stroll casually along six blocks of the Pearl Street Mall, sampling, mingling and supporting the local and regional businesses.

3.) Additionally, all attendees will receive a savings card that can be used at 20 businesses on Pearl Street, giving all sorts of fantastic discounts to use through April 29.

If you missed out on tickets this year, then please take this time to mark your calendars for next March when the 2013 tickets will officially go on sale. For those of you who managed to get a ticket or two, I’ll be the one standing in the corner with the iPad, looking confused.

-Devon

Related Tag: Boulder



Wrangle Up the Nickels and Dimes

Posted on April 17, 2012

Eating on the cheap sometimes seems like an impossible task. You want to go out with your friends, but you’re tired of pretending that puny side salad with half a crouton filled you up. How do you combat this cry for a satisfying lunch at a price you can count on one hand? You let me handle it. Well, that’s not entirely true, but I do know of a myriad of cheap options that will prevent you from having to practice your “spot me?” look.

Soup is often underestimated. The Kitchen [Next Door], Two Spoons, Dish Gourmet, and Lindsay’s Boulder Deli offer a hearty soup selection that generally comes with bread. Mountain Sun takes hearty to the next level and has a vegetarian chili (served with chips) that fills up carnivores and herbivores alike.

Not a believer in the power of soup? How about a hot dog from Freddie’s Hot Dog cart or Mustard’s Last Stand? Maybe a slice of pizza from Nick-n-Willy’s or Pizza Colore? Sliders are great too and they’re available at Boulder Café and Rueben’s. Also sushi is quick and light which makes for a perfect lunch meal. Hapa and Japango have a wide variety of rolls for under $5 that make sharing a grand idea if you want a bit of everything.

As a connoisseur of the cheap and delicious, my top picks for the best food for your buck include: Zoe Ma Ma’s $4.95 cold noodle bowl, The Unseen Bean’s $4.98 veggie bagel, Chipotle’s $2.25 tacos, and $5 sandwiches at Atlas Purveyors.  Just because I can find these places when blinded by hunger pangs, there are not the only options. Take a look here for our full list and maybe introduce your date to something better than the $.99 menu.

Bon appetite!

-Devon

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Restaurants



CoffeeCoffeeCoffee

Posted on March 27, 2012

Fact: 5/7 days I need an afternoon caffeine fix

Fact: Downtown has 17 places to get coffee

Fact: Today is an iced coffee kind of day

Now, the tricky part is trying to figure out where to go. If I start on the West End, I’ll run into Spruce Confections and have to get a chocolate croissant to go with my coffee, but if I go to Trident then I’ll be there for at least 45 minutes perusing the book section. I’ve never been to Amante or Ozo, so I would have to thoroughly look over the menu to make sure I’m not missing out on any specials. The Unseen Bean has a phenomenal veggie sandwich, which I’m sure would go perfectly with an iced latte. Then there is Tee & Cakes which is definitely a dangerous option with all their cupcakes and scrumptious treats staring me down; coffee will not be the only thing I walk out of there with. If I go to Atlas Purveyors, then I’ll probably get a tea latte, which is not bad, except I’m on a mission for iced coffee. The Cup is always irresistible when I see people soaking up the sun and hanging out front with their pups. Laughing Goat not only has plenty of space for me to sprawl out with my Spring Break homework, but it also has tons of fun art and an exceptional music selection. And the quaint Boxcar Coffee Roasters is on my way home, so it’s convenient. Too many decisions!  And yet there are so many more to pick through right here.

Happy iced coffee day!

-Devon

Related Tags: Boulder, Coffee



Video Friday!

Posted on March 23, 2012

This sunny Friday, I was sent out with a mission to capture what a beautiful day looks like in downtown. Here is what I found.

Happy Friday everyone!

-Devon

Related Tag: Boulder



The Tulips Are Coming! The Tulips Are Coming!

Posted on March 20, 2012

Ahh the first day of Spring. The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and the shorts are coming out. Spring in downtown means lots of strolling lunch breaks, iced coffees instead of hot lattes, and taking advantage of all the restaurant patios. It also means that the tulips are coming.

Take a walk down the mall today and check out the planter boxes. Buds of purple, green, yellow, and white are emerging with such perfection that it is possible to think they are fake. But that is not true, whatsoever. Let this be your first walk down the mall, and then make it a priority to come back once a week to see the growth process of Colorado’s largest tulip display. Next, mark your calendars for April 28, because the Tulip Fairy and Elf Parade will take over the bricks and mark the official beginning of Spring in downtown. Stay tuned for more information about how to take advantage of the Spring season. For now, take note of blossoming trees and send us your best Instagram photos.

-Devon

Related Tags: Boulder, Festivals, Coffee



Bunches O’ Things to Do This St. Patrick’s Day

Posted on March 15, 2012

Since I began living in Boulder, I have found myself forgetting that “green” was a color before it was an environmental movement. But that will not be the case this Saturday, lest I will have committed the ultimate St. Patrick’s Day crime. So put on your green and join the festivities, because after all, downtown Boulder is the greenest place to be.

The Hotel Boulderado will be hosting a full evening of music, dancing, and food starting at 5 p.m. in the Mezzanine. There is no entry fee, only springy Irish step dancers, acoustic string Irish music, and delicious traditional Irish food. Conor O’Neills will open at 8 a.m. to get an early start on the bag pipers, Irish step dancers, live bands, outdoor festivities, drink and food specials, and lots of merriment. Check out the live Irish music at Mountain Sun, Shine, and Boulder Theater to get in the singing spirit, and make your way to West End Tavern, Foolish Craig’s, or Jill’s for incredible food and drink specials. If you want to be Boulder “green” while wearing green, Riffs Urban Fare is offering a special menu of environmentally sustainable and organic "green" wines. After all the singing and eating, you could even head to Color Me Mine where customers who wear green get a free gift.

With so many things downtown to choose from, your St. Patrick’s Day is sure to unforgettable. And if you’re looking for activities to fill in the gaps when you’re not jamming, eating and Irish jigging, then guide your eyes to these lesser known St. Patrick’s Day activities:

Shamrock searching: Shamrocks are three-leaf clovers, making them a lot easier to find than their lucky four-leaf counterparts.

Irish accenting: This is one of the more tricky accents to hold and make believable.

Gold hunting: I hear that gold nuggets can be summoned with an Irish accent.

-Devon

Related Tag: Boulder



And The Winner Is...

Posted on March 8, 2012

The 2nd annual Boulder’s Best Mixologist competition is upon us! This Sunday at 4:30 p.m., eight mix masters from Aji, Hapa, The Kitchen, Oak at Fourteenth, Pinyon, Riff’s Urban Fare, SALT and West End Tavern will vie for your vote in a fierce (but fun) competition to earn the title of Boulder’s Best Mixologist. Their creative minds have prepared cocktails to be talked about for years to come and they want you to try them.

Let’s break it down:

8 bartenders

1 venue

1 night

1 winner

As downtown’s finest bartenders mix, crush, and pour their way to earning your vote, you will be sampling their original creations, munching on appetizers from Bacaro and Illegal Petes, strolling around the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art, and at the end of it all, you get presents. Since we understand you will be exhausted after making such tough decisions, we are also giving you one free drink from participating restaurants with your dinner purchase, as well as a commemorative shot glass. So on top of holding the power to determine who is crowned Boulder’s Best Mixologist, you will be able enjoy appetizers, art, good company, and gifts. Due to the increased popularity from last year, this event has grown in size, which means that the tickets won’t last long! Heed my advice and get them for a discounted price of $45 today, because there is no guarantee you will be able to get them at the door. Let the mixing begin!

-Devon

Related Destinations: Aji, Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art, Hapa Sushi Grill & Sake Bar, The Kitchen, Oak at Fourteenth, Riffs Urban Fare, Salt the Bistro, West End Tavern

Related Tags: Boulder, Restaurants, Bars



To the East!

Posted on March 6, 2012

(Image: MomentuM on 16th & Pearl St.)

The wait is over! I know you have been dying to hear the second half of my East End explorations and the time has finally come.  When I last blogged, I had made it as far as the scent-ual  experience that is Boxcar Coffee Roasters and Cured. One might not believe that cheese, meat, wine, and coffee could all come together in one delightful aroma, but it certainly does.

As I reluctantly walked away from the tantalizing scents, I decided to give my eyes something to savor too. Last year, Buffalo Exchange moved to its new location on the East End and it could not be a better fit. It has always been a fun store with a retro, yet contemporary, (still funky) sort of vibe, but they have really taken their new space to the next level. There are racks of clothes and shoes in a variety of styles for both ladies and gentlemen, as well as some of the most unique accessories to layer on top. And in case you weren’t sure about the “exchange” in their name, you can bring in your gently used or unwanted clothes and trade them in for either cash or store credit.

Another fun place to shop for unique and fashionable clothing is Lilli. A sister store to Violette just across Pearl Street, Lilli strives for a casual and funky look to compliment the more classy fashions available at Violette. Lilli’s clothes have a feminine look that is just the right amount of girly and casual to work with anyone’s style. Along with clothing for the young adult audience, there is an adorable little girl’s section where there is never a shortage of pink, tutus, or fairy wings. I would highly recommend talking to the friendly staff and let them help you find a great new dress for spring. You deserve it!

There is always some special occasion coming up that merits a gift, but it is never easy to find that perfect present. Allow me to introduce MomentuM. Fair trade is the name of their game and it has never looked better than it does at this inviting and vibrant shop. The worldly music gets you in the spirit to check out the trinkets, clothes, jewelry, toys, kitchen ware, and other hand-crafted items from various corners of the world. Each item also contains a tag cluing you in to where the item was made and the background on the person who made it. You can have a clear conscience when buying any gift here; that is, if you decide you even want to give it away anymore.

If you are like me and somehow manage to work up an appetite while shopping, then go no further than Snooze.  Snooze made its way to the East End last year and I have yet to see a short waiting line on any given weekend. I suppose this is because of their phenomenal pancake menu, or the five unique ways they can serve up hollandaise, or maybe the way it feels like you’re in some sort of space ship eating an out-of-this-world breakfast. Point being, Snooze is always hopping for a reason and you should join the movement.

I feel as though I was exploring the East End for hours, poking around the awesome stores, talking to super friendly people (thanks for answering all my questions!), smelling so many delicious foods and coffees, and yet I didn’t even get to make it into every store or restaurant. I hope I have given you all a reason to go beyond the bricks and see that not every east side should induce a panic attack. For all the restaurants and shopping venues you could ever want, click here and I hope to see you on the east side soon.

And as promised, I hope you’re ready to la bamba on over to Boulder Theater this Friday Mimi Mather, because you just won two free tickets to see Los Lobos! Congratulations Mimi!

-Devon

Related Destinations: Buffalo Exchange, Lilli, Momentum, Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, Violette

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Shopping



East End Explorer

Posted on March 2, 2012

Thanks to the combined efforts of Hollywood and a slew of popular American rappers, the “east side” is often labeled in a negative way.  It’s always on the wrong side of the tracks, it’s where the terrifying gang bangers reside, it’s got the shabby buildings, and ironically, it usually has some of the best food (should you be brave enough to cross the tracks and have a taste). But let me tell you a not-so-secret secret, Hollywood and rappers are not always right, and they are especially not right about the East End of Pearl Street.

Today I had the privilege of being free to roam and thoroughly explore and East End. I have a big love for the East End, because it was the first part of Pearl Street I ever explored when I arrived here at CU. I fell in love with The Cup at first sip and Buffalo Exchange found its way immediately into my wallet.  My agenda today was a bit different than the aimless wandering I have come to know and love. Geared up with the fancy camera and legal pad, the people seemed to part on the sidewalk and let this obviously very important lady through. My credibility was quickly compromised however, when I lost my footing and took a slight tumble off the curb. No big deal folks, I’m an intern.

I figured the best route to take in my explorations would be to start in the far east (the scariest part, right?) and work my way to the bricks. Knowing very little about downtown’s spa scene, I headed to nail and waxing spa, ten20, to get more acquainted. I was blown away with the splendor of the space as there were walls of nail polishes, complimentary diet cokes and m&ms, and even a movie projected on their enormous screen. The staff was very friendly and let me know the skinny on their women’s bike team: it currently has sixty-five members and continues to expand with each meeting. They welcome women of all levels and even have Wednesday training nights where they bring stationary bikes into the spa and cycle to training videos (as well as each other’s encouragements). Makes me want to dust off the ol’ bike!

After my bike inspiration, I went to check out Boxcar Coffee Roasters and Cured to see if I could further develop my dream of being a coffee and/or wine connoisseur. This might be a shared space, but there is nothing crowded about it. I felt very welcome as I was greeted from my left and my right by employees ready to offer any insight or answer any questions.

Boxcar Coffee Roasters is a sleek, yet rustic establishment that does not hide their fervor for brewing the perfect cup of coffee. Along the wall, they sell bags of freshly roasted coffee that have origins in various coffee-connected countries, as well as their personal blends which combine select beans to create the perfect mix. Boxcar is also a café which sells the standard hot drinks and pastries, but each item has a flavor that can only be found in something that was made with passion. With a spin to the right, you will find yourself faced with Cured; a shop unlike any I have ever known. It focuses on “preserving a personal connection to food” by offering hand-picked selections of cheeses, cured meats, and wines. Not only is Cured an aesthetically pleasing place to shop, but they also offer classes every Thursday night to share their knowledge of choosing quality ingredients and how to bring them into your every day. And they are also the recent recipients of the 2011 Downtown Boulder Rising Star Award, so they’ve got our official stamp of approval.

In the spirit of giving the East End of Pearl Street its well deserved attention, I am splitting this blog in two. Check back on Tuesday for the second half of my explorations; and in the mean time, take a look at all the shopping and dining listings that the East End has to offer. There are so many and it will be well worth your time, I promise! And as a special treat for all you loyal blog readers, email me at intern@dbi.org for your chance to win 2 FREE tickets to Los Lobos at Boulder Theater Friday March 9! To keep things fair, I’ll combine all the entries and randomly select one to be announced in my blog next Tuesday.

-Devon

Related Destinations: Boxcar Coffee Roasters, Cured , ten20

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Shopping, Coffee, East End



"You Must Eat A Lot of Salad..."

Posted on March 1, 2012

“How can you survive?” “So, what do you eat then?” and my favorite “If you love animals so much then why do you eat all their food?” As a vegetarian, I hear these things a lot. People are either utterly confused as to how it is possible to eat anything that doesn’t contain meat or they are concerned that I will not be able to order anything at a restaurant if we choose to go out. Rest assured everyone, I have yet to faint from not eating meat and no animals have starved because I made a meatless meal. I do have to admit that being a college student makes for some meager meals, but that’s something collegiate carnivores and vegetarians share.

Of all the cities to be a vegetarian, Boulder is certainly the place to be worry-free from starvation and malnutrition. There is an abundance of restaurants that offer full vegetarian menus and meat-free options, and even a number that allows you to dine freely as a vegan or gluten-free patron. Leaf is Boulder’s only full vegetarian dining establishment, and what a delicious place. There is nothing wrong with it except the fact that vegetarians now have an entire menu of options to choose from. Oh the decisions to be made!  Comparable to Leaf, Bombay Bistro has a separate vegetarian menu in addition to one for their meat eating customers. Zoe Ma Ma also has an incredible cold noodle bowl that is not only a treat for the taste buds, but is a deal for the wallet at only $4.95.

If vegetarian options are not the only thing you are looking for in a menu, Sherpa’s Adventures on Walnut Street understands. They give you the option to add tofu, vegetables, or meats to almost any of their dishes. BJ’s might be more known for their hamburgers and meaty items, but have you noticed their baked potato section? It’s a haven for vegetarians! As is their soup and salad menu, which offers bread bowls to be savored and ripped apart as you dip pieces into your steaming soup. The Mediterranean would not be the same without their lamb kabobs, but they also have quality pizzas and paella that lack meat, but never flavor.

Being gluten-free is also a tricky diet to abide by when it comes to dining out, but at places like Boulder Organic Pizza, Aji, Shine and Boulder Café, you don’t have to ask any questions beyond, “Can I see your gluten-free menu?” Here’s the list of all the restaurants in downtown with gluten-free options.

Sigh…it is nice to know that I will never have to worry about ordering four side dishes just to feel like I ate a complete meal. With so many options for vegetarians, vegans, gluten-freers , and those who wish they were brave enough to give up meat, Downtown Boulder is the place to eat. So, if you are dabbling with the idea of becoming a vegetarian or are skeptical as to how anyone could eat a satisfying meal without meat, then I challenge you try a meatless entrée from any of these restaurants and report back with your level of satisfaction.

Eat on Boulder!

-Devon

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining



Tuesday Finally Gets Justice

Posted on February 21, 2012

Commonly overlooked as just another day of the week that isn’t Friday, Tuesdays are put on the back burner of weekday fun. Mondays will never be fun, because...well, it’s Monday. Wednesdays merit some appreciation because it is the mid-week marker. Thursdays apparently are the new Fridays if you live in a college town. And Fridays are the golden beacon of light, summoning us from the dreaded Monday. But Friday has some competition this week, as Tuesday decides to have a bigger celebration of who-knows-what than all the Fridays combined.

Yes folks, Mardi Gras is here. I remember this being the one and only day of high school French class that Madame would put down the livres and let us party (if we brought all the goodies and spoke French the whole time, of course). It may have been a quiet party, but we looked forward to it more than the Spanish classes ever looked forward to Cinco de Mayo. Because Madame could never let us just have a party without learning something, we were taught a few fun facts that I will never forget:  1. If you find a small plastic baby inside your piece of cake, then you are a winner. 2. You can never have too many feathers on your mask. 3. If someone gives you beads, run away. 4. And Easter and Lent are approaching, so you should do gluttonous things before you have to give them up.

We all know that New Orleans is the place to be on this cake eating, feathery, bead giving, and gluttonous day, but Boulder can hold its own. Several restaurants are putting together incredible menus to make Tuesday your newest favorite day of the week. Allow me to get your mouth watering: Jax Fish House is going all out with fresh cuisine and drinks inspired by the Gulf side city of New Orleans. Fried oysters, crawfish boil, and the famous Louisiana king cake are a few delicious treats to be expected. The West End Tavern and Centro Latin Kitchen are also feeling the festivities by offering many drink and food specials. We’re talking red beans and dirty rice, gumbo, cornbread, crawfish, and blackened shrimp. And on the other side of Pearl Street, Foolish Craig’s is bringing their A-game with not only appropriately themed decor, but corn-fried catfish, Jambalaya, and blackened chicken and grits. Oh wow, I just got real hungry.  And since Mardi Gras isn’t really Mardi Gras without Hurricanes, be sure to make your way to the Walrus Saloon and Boulder Absinthe House for incredible drink specials.

While nothing says get crazy like finding a plastic baby in a piece of cake, Mardi Gras finally brings Tuesday the attention it deserves. So, if you choose to join the fun downtown tonight, I encourage you to run away from the beads, drink many Hurricanes, eat too much gumbo, and see if you can hold a believable Cajun accent the whole night.  Bon Appetite!

-Devon

Related Tags: Boulder, Restaurants, Costume, Bars, Holidays



The Other Kind of Buff

Posted on February 17, 2012

In case you didn’t know, the Boulder International Film Festival is happening. Right now. There are celebrities among us! Although that is not really the part that I am so excited about. You see, there are two breeds of film buffs: The Expressers and the Hiders. The Expressers have extensive film knowledge and could tell you the director and producer just by smelling the DVD case. They are commonly found at film festivals wearing a black beret and schmoozing with the big leagues. You could say they have made a film or two, but that would be an understatement. They would refer to those one or two films as masterpieces. The Hiders may or may not have equally impressive film knowledge, but they definitely have an appreciation for quality cinema. They are often found in their living rooms with a laptop projecting the latest thing from Netflix. Chances are they will not be wearing the black beret, but you never know. Their film credits include brief moments of their friends making regrettable decisions, and hours of labor poured into the editing process to make the film just right. I am the latter. A hider of knowledge, but a lover of the process. BIFF has been a bucket-list item of mine for three years, and now the time has come to cross it off.

The ever-growing BIFF is in its 8th season now, filling four days with more thought-provoking films and star studded mingling then possible at any other point in the Boulder calendar year. What makes this particular film festival so sought after is the increasing magnitude of talents that are showcased each year. New feature films, like “Darling Companion” with Diane Keaton and Kevin Kline, and “Jeff, Who Lives at Home” starring Jason Segal and Ed Helms are set to premier along with national and global documentaries, hilarious and honest short films, forums so you can ask questions to the respective directors and producers, and a number of workshops for you to learn more from the professionals themselves.

Another segment of BIFF is the “A Conversation With…” series. This is where two prominent individuals in the film world share insight into their careers and receive a distinguished award. This year’s esteemed individuals include William H. Macy and Martin Sheen. They are both award-winning actors who have proven themselves worthy of BIFF’s highest recognition.

As if BIFF wasn't already sounding incredible, when you’re looking through the 2012 program, you’ll notice a section called “Call2Action” where you can find the movies that will inspire you and then the places where you can best guide that new found inspiration. These thirteen documentaries (and one feature film) will have you all riled up and ready to start a bake sale. The topics have something for everyone including environmental activism, politics, animals, religion, and unseen global strife.

If you aren’t fired up about going to BIFF yet, then I challenge you to walk around downtown at some point this weekend and feel the energy yourself. This is a unique time when the Expressers and the Hiders have a chance to meet and maybe feel inspired to don the black berets together. Here’s to a new breed of film buffs: The BIFF buffs.

-Devon

Related Tags: Boulder, Film



Oh Is That Today?

Posted on February 14, 2012

Source: www.nationaldoubledutchleague.com/images/Lincoln%20center.jpg

The day of pink and red

Is not one to dread,

Even if you didn’t remember to think ahead.

Downtown Boulder has saved the day

By offering you a unique way

To woo and tattoo and possibly kung fu

Your way into a Valentine’s date.

You could surprise her with a special treat

But it can’t be something she’ll have to reheat.

You could make something fancy or a tad bit schmancy

But it might be best to just do a clever little dance-y.

How about you put on the shirt that she likes so much,

(The one that makes you do a mean double dutch)

Because now is the time to lay on the moves

And do it quickly, before she disapproves.

So stomp the yard

And catch her off guard

Because nothing says “I love you,” like a Downtown Boulder gift card.

(Photo Rights: nationaldoubledutchleague.com)

Related Tags: Boulder, Dating



5 Things to Love About Downtown Boulder

Posted on February 10, 2012

In honor of the impending Valentine’s Day (five days away, gentlemen…), I have composed a list of five things to look forward to about this pink and red holiday.  Whether you are a couple of love birds looking to find a great spot to enjoy one another’s company, or a couple of friends out to bash the opposite sex over a cold brewskie, downtown Boulder could not be a more ideal location. Let’s get this list rolling shall we?

1. Dining and Not Dashing, Because It Tastes THAT Good

Picking the perfect place to eat and make memories of this special day is a tough choice, and the restaurants of downtown have prepared their finest menus and pulled out all the stops to make sure your dining experience is nothing less than the best. Allow me to explain: Jax Fish House is offering a four course meal of chickory salad, sauteed Gulf shrimp, house-made linguini & clams and a mouth-watering sticky chocolate cake for only $55/person with $20 optional wine pairing. Centro Latin Kitchen is offering a five course prix fixie menu for only $40 per person with an optional $35 drink pairing. spicy lobster, braised duck, and red chile pork tenderloin are a few items to look forward to. And the ever fabulous Bitter Bar has a hand-selected $45 four course prix fixe menu with an optional $40 drink pairing to compliment the live jazz and Craigslist Missed Connections readings. Feel free to browse through our complete list of other dining options as well!

2. Let Your Artsy Side Out For A Night

An age-old trick to getting women to think you are sophisticated and cultured is to ask them to accompany you at an art gallery; and downtown has your back. The SmithKlein Gallery has graced the Pearl Street Mall for more than 26 years as a leading art gallery for both fine and contemporary art. Wander around and find paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and art glass. Art + Soul is a unique gallery as it is sophisticated, but not stuffy. You will find a welcoming atmosphere full of color and the spirit of fun which makes for quite the refreshing experience. Another great gallery is the artist cooperative Boulder Arts & Crafts. Separating itself from the rest as a distinguished place to view fine arts and contemporary American crafts from hundreds of artists from Colorado, Boulder Arts & Crafts is an ideal choice to bring your date and show off your art knowledge. Not enough options? Check out our art gallery listings and find the perfect one!

3. Is Someone Making You Nervous?

Even the most experienced Valentine’s Day go-getters sometimes need to start the night with a drink. Good thing there are a number of places ready to help you out. The West End Tavern is hosting their 7th Annual Avery Beer Lover’s Dinner which consists of a five course menu paired with the finest Avery beers, sure to make your Valentine swoon.  For only $100 per person, experience the tastes of West End’s great food and quality beers. Another annual event in downtown is Stout Month at Mountain Sun. “Hey welcome to Mountain Sun, which beer would you like to sample?” is definitely a smooth way to start your date. And if beer isn’t your thing, talk to Bryan Dayton at Oak and he will mix up one of his award winning creations; or take a look at the extensive list of premium liquors at The Attic. There are plenty of options to help calm your cupid love-struck nerves.

4. Snoozing

After a romantic night of drinking, dining and art gallery wandering with your Valentine, you will want a comfy place to crash. The Hotel Boulderado has been Boulder’s premier luxury hotel since 1909 and it continues to live up to its name today. With their romantic package deal, you will find yourself welcomed into your guest room or suite with chilled champagne and chocolates and a voucher for $25 off your meal ticket at Q’s Restaurant. The St. Julien is always an exceptional choice as they offer premium service and accommodations, and their location guarantees waking up to some of the best views of the Flatirons. Did I mention that they also have a spa and a full service restaurant? Another great place to end your night is at the Bradley Boulder Inn. Their all-inclusive room rates include a hot breakfast, access to One Boulder Fitness Health Club, wifi, complimentary beverages and snacks throughout the day, art galleries and their famous wine and cheese hour. The choices do not end here! Look over our lodging page and find the comfiest place to get some zzz’s.

5. The Gift of Love: Dessert

Everyone knows the real way to a girl’s heart is through chocolate. I mean, c’mon. And with stores like Piece, Love, & Chocolate, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Tee and Cakes, and Boulder Baked there is a plethora of choices to pick out the perfect melt in your mouth gift. Woo her with top notch chocolates from Colorado’s best chocolate factory. Say I love you with a heart-shaped made-to-order cookie from Boulder Baked. Cupcakes have been taken to a new level of decadence at Tee and Cakes, perfect for an end of the night sweets kick. And Piece, Love, & Chocolate just took buying flowers for your Valentine to new heights. They were recently featured in Sunset Magazine for their incredible long-stem chocolate roses. Flowers you can eat? I can think of nothing better. Check out our other sweet options downtown too!

Looks like Valentine’s Day is shaping up to be a sweet one. Go get ‘em Boulder! And be sure to flip through the Valentine’s Day Gift Guide to find more deals that will not help narrow down your choices, but will be sure you get all the best options.

-Devon

Related Tags: Boulder, Restaurants, Bars, Dating



Friday Night is Funky Night in the DTB

Posted on February 3, 2012

You might have looked out your window this morning and let out a shriek of excitement as you realized school was cancelled and maybe even work. Maybe you smiled and sunk back into your blankets to indulge in that satisfaction of a snow day. But Boulder, that is no excuse to not make plans for your Friday night. To get that surge of motivation going, I give you a few indoor options which are sure to make you enjoy every step you walked (or biked?) in the snow to get downtown.

I hope you’re ready for some top notch music tonight, because Downtown Boulder is blowing up with all sorts of incredible live music. To get your ears ready for a rip rocking good time, be sure to eat a nutritious dinner (to get your strength to 110%), hydrate (because it makes you beautiful), find and put on your dance pants (none of that sweat-pant stuff), rally up the troops (people who have equal excitement to jam), and don’t forget to warm up (listen to a few good tunes to get your voice and dance moves at that perfect level). Ladies and gentlemen, it is time for a good time.

At the Boulder Theater, we have Dr. Dog. Now this may sound like an odd name for a band, a Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg love child perhaps, but there is nothing odd about their passion for delivering the best music. Dr. Dog is a six man band hailing from Pennsylvania playing music that has been strongly influenced by the 60s, with some psychedelic rock influences. Boulder Theater is proud to host these fine young men as they prepare to release their second album on February 7 under the Anti-Records label. “This record comes from our pushing toward a rawer, more powerful, somewhat jittery competence…music that’s got its roots in live expression rather than that studio-perfected sort of vibe.” So basically, Dr. Dog is not just some band that only sounds good on a CD, but a band that thrives on sounding best live; which is how it should be. This just in: Dr. Dog has been postponed due to the weather! However, you can use your ticket to see The Lemonheads tonight at the Fox instead! Check this out for more information.

If you are skeptical about Dre/Dogg love child band and instead wish to enjoy the smooth sounds of a jazz trio, then pop on over to The Rib House and listen to the Chris Kroger Trio. The Denver native trio is a phenomenal combination of jazz and blues, guaranteed to get your fingers a snappin’ and your foot a tappin’.  Personally, I never used to be into jazz music, but I had an epiphany this summer that changed the inner workings of my music loving soul. I strolled into a club on “free jazz night” and ended up being the last one to leave because I simply could not get enough. The sounds of the Chris Kroger Trio has brought me back to that very summer night where I became friends with jazz music, so I highly encourage you, lovers of jazz or not, to cruise into The Rib House tonight and let the music take you over.

A night of only music sound too singular? How about a night of art and culture instead? OpenArts Studio is hosting their art fundraiser and celebration from 6-10 p.m. at the Rembrandt Yard. For $50 per person, you will have the opportunity to eat, drink, and enjoy art with fellow art appreciators. Bid on work juried by Open Studios artists, vote for the 2012 Open Studios Fall Artist Tour poster image, and mingle with new and old friends. Festive attire is encouraged and all ages are welcome!

So let it snow, let it snow! But bring on the jams and have a delightful night of good music, good company, and good times. Check out our event calendar for more listings of music and happenings in our snow kissed downtown.

-Devon

Related Tags: Boulder, Art, Fridays , Music



What’s new in Downtown Boulder?

Posted on January 25, 2012

Me! With a new semester comes a new intern, and this semester’s selection of Boulder blogging perspectives will be courtesy of me, Devon. I have some big shoes to fill, but I am very excited to be able to share my explorations, food outings, café trips, festival happenings, and busking discoveries with you.

Part of being new is getting into the swing of things and figuring out the way things work. For example, I have to put stamps on envelopes, which may seem mundane, but this is no lick ‘n stick situation. The envelopes are weighed on this grey device and then fed into a slot where the stamp is stamped electronically; but not before it makes a bunch of noise and lets you know how important it is that you give it your full attention.  However, I am not the only one who is still getting acquainted with a new environment. A few new restaurants and shops have opened their doors in downtown, providing excellent opportunities to make multiple dinner date plans:

Shine on 13th and Pearl opened in December with the ever-so-fitting slogan “Light up Your Life…Shine from Within.” The Emich sisters, previous owners of the wine-bar and music venue Trilogy, opened Shine as a “place for us all to nourish ourselves through food, community, dance, education and celebration. It is hub for us all to share our gifts, to explore, and to have fun doing it.” Putting their creativity to good use, the sisters have worked hard to utilize the space and give an intimate, yet versatile feel, perfect for the live music, private parties, or their Wednesday morning yoga class. Cheap menu items paired with their unique elixirs and potions adds up to a satisfying and delicious time. Sounds like a good place to me!

If you recall the heartbreak of the fire that devastated the new Oak at Fourteenth last March, then you would also recall their magnificent reopening this December. Seeing this as an opportunity to redesign what they previously created, co-owners Bryan Dayton and Steven Redzikowski went straight to work rebuilding their restaurant resulting in a simple and rustic, yet contemporary space. The delectable menu you remember from a year ago has only been improved upon, providing seasonal items made with house-made pastas, as well as local produce and meats. If that isn’t enough to make you “accidentally” leave your leftovers in the office frig, GQ Bombay Sapphire named Bryan Dayton the 2011 Best Bartender in the country, meaning the hand-crafted cocktails and select artisan wines and beers are designed to perfectly compliment your entrée. Fresh, local, and award-winning. See you at six?

And if you feel like having a glamorous night-in while wearing your finest sweatpants, then first stop by the brand new Oliverde and browse through their premium selection of extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinaigrettes from around the world. After co-owners Terry and Kathy Kulesa opened the Rocky Mountain Olive Oil store in Fort Collins, they decided to expand south and bring their knowledge (and oil) to Boulder. Italian dishes made with authentic Italian olive oil are sure to impress friends, boyfriends, girlfriends, and neighbors alike.

So while I continue to get myself acquainted with the life of a Downtown Boulder intern, come on down and check out the other new kids on the block.

-Devon

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Restaurants, Bars



Smell the milk in the fridge before you drink it...

Posted on December 16, 2011

So every DBI intern in their last week has to write a blog about what they learned at their internship with Downtown Boulder.  Other than the great job/technical skills I’ve acquired (Citylight, web development, e-mail marketing, social media) I figured there were some more blog-worthy and/or special lessons to share.  I’ve been compiling a list for a week or so now, so don’t be surprised if some quirky office jokes have entered into my realm of learning:

1.      Using Tweet Deck makes you feel like an analyst at NASA #ForThoseOfUsWhoDontHaveAPhd

2.      Eli is half Jewish…sometimes.

3.      A good day for Downtown Boulder Gift Card sales can equal up to $10,000. Holy...Cow…

4.      As a subset of that, a lot of Boulder teachers get Downtown Boulder gift cards as their holiday present from the class (good choice).

5.      “Downtown Boulder, this is Lindsey” seems like an easy thing to say when you answer the phone.  But it’s actually really easy to mess up…I’m sorry.

6.      If it snows enough and the power goes out, you might just get a free latte from your boss. 

7.      Tweeting is harder than you think.  Clever, funny, and within the character limit!??! So stressful.

8.      “Pithy” means verbally concise and forceful expressive a.k.a. A great way to describe our downtown twitter account.  We did win a tweeting award B.T.W.

9.      Smell the milk in the fridge before you drink it.

10.  Lindsay’s Boulder Deli has the most impeccable veggie cream cheese you will ever experience.  (And the cashier has the cutest southern accent).

11.  Culture matters- If you like the people working around you, you’ll enjoy coming to work that much more (even if you don’t get paid!)

12.  Downtown Boulder puts on HUGE events and somehow I had no idea before this internship.  Fall Fest, Light up the Holidays and the Lights of December Parade were so much fun to be a part of and such cool events for the community. CU students…open your eyes!

13.  DBI offers an amazing resource for businesses.  Downtown Boulder is committed to bringing business to downtown and keeping the area clean and vibrant for everyone to enjoy.  I hope the town I end up in has some sort of organization such as DBI serving the community.  Especially if I was a business owner.  Helloooo….Free marketing!

14.  Downtown Business’s are full of amazing small town stories.  I learned that the owner and roaster at The Unseen Bean is actually blind and opened his own shop after being inspired by the smells and sounds of coffee roasting.  Take some time to talk to the person behind the counter after you grab your sandwich next lunch break…the history in this town is inspiring.

15.  There just isn’t a place in the world quite as quaint, beautiful, fun, plentiful, welcoming, animated, friendly, tasty, vibrant, breathtaking, or oh-so-special as Boulder, Colorado. 

My internship with Downtown Boulder was such a great supplement to my college experience.  I had the greatest opportunities to frolic around downtown and learn so much more about the town I was living in; as well as serve as a very knowledgeable resource on all of the fun happenings to my friends.  To my parent’s dismay, I may never want to leave!  Thank you to Eli and the rest of the DBI crew for all of your knowledge and support; I’ve learned so much!  It’s been a great couple months and I will miss you all dearly (probably not as much as you’ll miss me though).  I’m so thankful and blessed to have had such an amazing opportunity.  Sigh…. Signing off for good Boulder, it’s been real.   

-Lindsey

P.S. If you want to ATTEMPT to fill these shoes…Eli is hiring a new Marketing and Communications intern.  Information on how to apply is located here.  I highly recommend it :)

Related Tag: Boulder



'Tis the season for holiday parties...

Posted on December 9, 2011

As a kid, holiday parties were always such a riot.  Everyone was so happy…laughing and getting along. (It must be the magic of Christmas right?) But then you grow up, discover alcohol, and realize the magic of Christmas was really just being served in the “grown up drinks.”  Now that I’ll finally be enjoying the grown-up drinks at this year’s holiday parties, I have to wonder, how “happy” is acceptable at work and school functions?  This lovely diagram created by the nymag.com blog “Grub Street” is a clever resource that I suggest you crumple into your suit pocket and use for reference.   Unfortunately, I happen to fall in the toddler section where even if you work for a cool company, you’re still only allowed one glass of vino chased with some cheap beer (Interns can’t afford Corona yet). 

So whether you enjoy 1 tequila, 2 tequilas, 3 tequilas, or the floor at your staff mixer this year, at least do it in style at a hip Downtown Boulder venue.  Because, trust me, our business owners are just dying to host you and your office buddies, watch you play spin the bottle like a teenager and dance to some Snoop Dog with a lamp shade on your head.  So much so that we even had to make a webpage of the countless holiday party rental options. 

Last night one of my business school classes had a holiday party at Bacaro.  They have a bunch of different sized rooms available.  (My roommates and I are having our graduation party on their rooftop in May!)  Apparently the diagram above doesn’t apply to school functions where you’re taking tequila shots with your professor.   #ilovecollege

Some other boozy spots include Posh (paint and drink, so much fun!) and The Bitter Bar.  Check out all the deets here.

Happy Holidays!  Keep it classy Boulder…

-Lindsey

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Happy Hour, Restaurants, Bars



Baby It's Cold Outside

Posted on December 5, 2011

You’ve got to love when you wake up to your IPhone telling you it’s 7 degrees outside (sarcasm).  When the day is forecasted at a high of um…12, I sometimes wonder how exactly to dress myself to WALK to work and school without looking like a total marshmallow and while avoiding death by frostbite.  Eli once told me that the cold is like an equalizer among humanity…it’s hard to not look like a total goof when all you care about is keeping warm, so in the cold the playing field becomes quite level.  It’s a stretch…but it’s one positive aspect of 7 degrees, right?  The only other thing we could possibly enjoy about today is how the cold makes snuggling up by a fire with a hot Cup O Joe sooo much more satisfying.  I think the Boulder business owners have tapped into this consumer need quite well considering there’s not one, not two, but SEVENTEEN coffee shops just in downtown.  How does one decide where to take their marshmallow self for refuge?  Let’s discuss;

Eli loves the coffee at The Unseen Bean (which now that I think about it, I’ve actually never seen it) but apparently its right on Broadway!  Still, the slightly hidden storefront is not the reasoning behind the name.  Gerry Leary, master roaster at The Unseen Bean has been blind from birth.  But his passion for coffee led him to attend the San Francisco Coffee Training Institute and now have his own café in Boulder.  Pretty cool!

The Cup is my personal favorite.  Mostly due to its spacious interior; there’s always a spot to plop down and study.  Also, all of their coffee is fair-trade, organic and roasted locally, which I’m always a fan of supporting.  In the back room, they have a clever little “cell phone booth” where they encourage customers to take calls so you don’t disturb others trying to enjoy their cozy time.  Practical, and comical.

One day (another cold snowy day) the power went off in the office and we took a stroll down to Ozo coffee.  We tried a maple donut with bacon on top.  Who would have guessed such a strange topping would be so great on a donut? (I guess it is bacon).  Order an espresso drink “for here” and enjoy the cute little maple leaf design they make with the foam.  Love coffee?  Ozo has Brew Bar Tastings on Fridays at 2 p.m. where you can try one coffee brewed in three different brewing processes.

Amante is another café that’s caught my eye, located on Walnut next to The Parlour hair salon.  If you’re looking to wind down after a long day or possibly start layering on your night time liquor coats a little early, Amante has a full bar featuring “Italian wines, coffee-based martinis, Moretti beers, along with traditional standards such as Negronis, Manhattans, and Gimlets.”  Quite trendy if you ask me.

These are only a few of the many options to escape from the cold in Downtown Boulder.  Find a full list here, pick your favorite, and let’s make this freezing day a wee bit more enjoyable.

Stay warm!

-Lindsey

Related Tags: Boulder, Coffee



Your Childs' 15 Minutes

Posted on November 30, 2011

Neighborhood parades are like a child’s “15 minutes”.  I LOVE THEM and I happen to have had some pretty spectacular parade performances in my day.  Back home, the big neighborhood parade was always on 4th of July.  One year the community float was a giant apple pie (why I could not tell you) and all the kids dressed up like apples.  My mom helped me make a giant worm to carry by stuffing socks into panty hose but it really just turned into a way to smack people. The next year our float was a giant tree house.  The theme had some sort of club house/Little Rascals feel.  Boys with super soakers and girls with…no defense mechanism.  That was a fun one… The last parade I can remember being in I volunteered to participate with the local gym; AKA workout-with-personal-trainers-for-the-entire-parade-route-while-holding-back-gasps-in-order-to-attempt-to-smile-and-wave. 

The parade was always such a moment of glory for me.  So many people clapping and all I had to do is walk next to a truck?  Needless to say, I’m sure we’ll all take a moment reminisce on our parade participation days this Saturday at Downtown Boulder’s 24th Annual Lights of December Parade.  53 floats and entries created by local groups and businesses are participating this year and will begin their ever awaited “15 minutes” at 6 p.m. on 15th and Walnut.  (For the full parade route click here!)  The event is free and open to the public and parking in all of the City of Boulder Parking lots is also FREE.  My lovely supervisor, Eli, says the parade always evokes a homey small-town feel, especially with all of the cute kids.  So bundle up and get in the holiday spirit while supporting your community members this Saturday night. 

Happy Holidays!

-Lindsey

P.S. A little insider tip…listen for trivia questions at the reviewing stands for your chance to win a Downtown Boulder gift card (and maybe freshen up on your Downtown Boulder facts and history).  Just saying…

Related Tag: Boulder



Calling All Ski Bums!

Posted on November 7, 2011

You can thank me later (or now at intern@dbi.org…) because I have found the most incredible deal I have ever heard of in the history of promotions.  It’s so good it just can’t be true.  (But it is, I checked!)  And because I love my blog readers so much, I will now share it with you…despite the incredible urge to keep it secret.  Wait for it…wait for it…. okay!

Here is what you get…

  1. BUY ONE GET ONE FREE AT STEAMBOAT: A voucher good for a 2 for 1 Adult, Single day lift ticket to Steamboat valid 11.24.11 through 12.16.11, 1.3.12 through 2.17.12, and 04.07.12 through 04.15.12.
  2. SKI FREE AT CRESTED BUTTE ALL SEASON LONG WITH LODGING STAY: 2 FREE lift tickets with lodging stay at all Crested Butte Mountain Resort lodging properties. Maximum of 2 lift tickets per day, per night of lodging. NO BLACKOUT DATES.
  3. FREE LIFT TICKET TO WINTER PARK: A voucher to Winter Park good for (A) One Free lift ticket OR (B) One 2-for-1 lift ticket.  (Some restrictions on dates.)
  4. AND SKI GEAR: $25 off any purchase of $100 or more at Boulder Ski Deals until 12.18.11.

(More info on deals here)

And all you have to do is go see Warren Miller Entertainment’s 62nd film “Like There’s No Tomorrow” at the Boulder Theater.  Like There’s No Tomorrow is the next legendary Warren Miller Ski film featuring tons of crazy athletes and was filmed in locations such as Colorado (duh), Utah, California (my home land), New Zealand, Chile, Alaska and British Columbia.  There are 12 different show times starting tomorrow:

Tuesday, November 8, 2011 - 7:30pm
Wednesday, November 9, 2011 - 7:30pm
Thursday, November 10, 2011 - 6:00pm and 9:00pm
Friday, November 11, 2011 - 6:30pm and 9:30pm
Saturday, November 12, 2011 - 3:00pm, 6:00pm and 9:00pm
Sunday, November 13, 2011 - 2:00pm, 5:00pm and 8:00pm

So watch skiing…and then go skiing (FOR FREE) with these crazy ticket holder discounts.  If you’re an Epic Local pass holder like I am, your pass doesn’t work for any of these mountains so what a better way to go check out some different terrain.  Once you buy your movie ticket for just $26 (or a 4-pack for $22 each) visit www.wmecoupons.com to redeem your free stuff.  Tickets are available at Boulder Ski Deals on Arapahoe Ave, bouldertheater.com or from the Boulder Theater Box Office (303-786-7030).

I don’t really understand why anyone who lived in Colorado wouldn’t take advantage of this deal.  If you haven’t seen a Warren Miller Film you can download some of them here.  Or you can be cool and come hang out with me at one of the show times.  Thank goodness it’s SKI SEASON!!!       

-Lindsey

Related Tags: Boulder, Film



Hike 5 days without touching ground, Free dive to 100 meters and climb the cliffs of Tazmania:The Adventure Film Festival!

Posted on November 2, 2011

This past spring I spent a semester studying abroad on Semester at Sea.  For those who haven’t heard of this program, Semester at Sea is a study aboard experience sponsored by the University of Virginia (CU used to be the sponsor university!) that sends students on a voyage around the world aboard the MV Explorer cruise ship in order to gain global understanding and knowledge using the WORLD as your classroom.  I was lucky enough to travel to 11 countries in 104 days including Brazil, Ghana, South Africa, India, Vietnam, Cambodia, China and Singapore. 

Spending an average of just six days in each country, I learned what it’s like to truly live life to the fullest.  With so little time to explore the countries, we packed every single day with the most thrilling and exploratory activities possible.  I went cage diving with Great Whites, camped on the Great Wall of China, rode elephants through the temples of Cambodia, taught math to Ghanaian school children and hunted crocodiles in the Amazon.  The experience is truly life changing.  There’s nothing like traveling to remote places and there’s absolutely nothing like making it into a crazy adventure. 

Ever since I’ve returned from my voyage I tend fall into a deep and dark depression every once in a while reminiscing the memories of my crazy semester.  One morning I sat and cried for a good 20 minutes just looking at the new voyages embarkation photos on Facebook (embarrassing).  Anyway, I happened to be in one my depressions when I stumbled upon an event that reminded me of all my travels (which I promptly added to my handy Downtown Boulder event calendar)…the Adventure Film Festival!  To my dismay, I’ve discovered that people actually LIVE this way…like all the time…not just for a couple of months.  And now they’re putting it on display for us all to drool over this weekend!

Kicking off tomorrow, October 3 with a community night at Patagonia, the festival lasts all weekend with films showing all day Friday and Saturday at the Boulder Theater.  The festival is “dedicated to all aspects of adventure, from the fearless eco-warrior, to the alpine adventurer, all around the world and back again to our Boulder backyard, this year’s festival premieres the most exciting and inspirational award-winning independent films that ignite a passion for travel, discovery and change.”  Out of 200 submissions, a selection committee handpicked 40 independent films to show this weekend.  Films follow adventures such as climbing the peaks of Pakistan, kayaking through the Congo, snowboarding the world’s most difficult terrain, and even skateboarding with man’s best friend. 

See all of the film descriptions and a schedule here.  It’s $50 for a full festival pass, $25 for a Friday pass, $30 for a Saturday pass, and $15 for an individual show ticket.  (Check out the full adventure film festival website here!)  After Boulder, the festival moves to Chamonix, France and then to Chile.  Talk about some cool stops!

These talented film makers are the real deal.  Adventure is their life, not just their semester abroad.  I know I’ll being going to check out some movies, to live vicariously through their travels, and avoid depression for at least the weekend.  As the saying goes…if you can’t join them, watch them!  (Alright, I changed it a little) Enjoy this amazing event Boulderites!

-Lindsey

Related Tags: Boulder, Festivals, Film



Bipolar Boulder

Posted on October 26, 2011

Last night I went to bed at the wee hour of 8:30 p.m. since I’ve been fighting a cold all week.  I had enjoyed a few cups of sleepy time tea and was excited to give my body a well needed 12 hours of slumber.  Little did I know the night ahead of me...   Three hours into the night, it proceeded to DUMP snow outside, causing my house’s power to go out and come back on at least 15 times.  Now usually when you’re sleeping this would not be a problem.  But in my room, every time the power came back on, my fan would come on full blast, my phone would make the “I’m plugged in” sound and my printer would turn back on and make the sequence of “prepare to print” noises.  It was like an orchestra, perfectly timed and in sequence every time the power came back on. 

So after a not-so-great night of sleep, I looked outside to see a winter wonderland!  (Wasn’t it like 80 degrees on Monday?)  And of course, by this weekend (once I’ll be feeling better, just my luck) it’s going to be sunny again!  If you haven’t visited Boulder, I hate to break it to you that these sudden weather changes are the norm.  I like to call it Bipolar Boulder.  You really don’t know what side you’re going to get!  Luckily, it looks like we’ll be catching Boulder’s sunny side for Monday’s Downtown Boulder Event, the Munchkin Masquerade. 

Over 80 Downtown businesses will be participating as treat stops for the Munchkin Masquerade.  Trick-or-Treating on Pearl Street for the entire family starts at 2 p.m. and goes until 5 p.m.  You can dress up, bring the kiddos, and learn more about all the shops on Pearl Street by going door to door down the mall in search of candy and other treats.  You can find a map of all the treat stops here.  And, in true Boulder spirit, 13 businesses are labeled on the map as “green treat stops” as they are participating in an initiative called Green Halloween.   “Green Halloween is a non-profit, grassroots community initiative to create healthier and more Earth-friendly holidays, starting with Halloween.”  These stops will have treats or activities that are better for you, the environment or for the community.  Go Green!

Many of the businesses are offering other activities as well:

If you don’t have kids and just want to come by, I think we’re still looking for volunteers to help direct traffic.  E-mail events@dbi.org if you’re interested!  Hopefully the dark side of Boulder doesn’t decide to show up instead of the sun.  Either way, the event will go on.  See you there…rain (snow) or shine!

  

How could you resist these cuties?

-Lindsey

Related Tags: Boulder, Costume, Halloween



Oh no...It's Homecoming

Posted on October 21, 2011

My freshman year homecoming, Sigma Pi fraternity put a mechanical bull in their front yard.  Now, being from California, the mechanical bull was a new thing to me.  And man those are fun!  (I averaged 4-6 rides on the bull any time it was present)  So naturally I was the star bull rider…but on my 5th ride my dismount threw me into a break in the floor padding (aka a large metal bar).  Ended up with a bruise the side of Argentina, and we lost to Texas...Go Longhorns?

Sophomore year, I decided to take a short nap before the game against Missouri, which turned into a long nap and I missed the entire game.  If anyone wants to fill me in on the game details (you can always e-mail me at intern@dbi.org!), I’d love to know.  I do know that we lost. 

My junior year, I had swine flu.  Yes, I was one of the lucky people who had the swine flu.  I completely missed my sorority’s adorable Charlie Brown themed float in the homecoming parade and it was awful. Oh yeah, and CU lost.  Sound familiar?

My point...is that this weekend is cursed.  And I’m terrified.  But, I have faith because there are a lot of changes happening this year.  The parade is moving down to Pearl Street (awesome).  Whoever thought of that is a genius.  Ahem…it starts tonight at 7 p.m. in front of the Courthouse and moves west to the reviewing stand on 10th street.  The Buffoons will be singing and if you haven’t heard them your life is not complete.  And, the Grand Marshall is our National Championship coach, Bill McCartney; Bringing the winning spirit to Boulder!  (They won in 1990, my birth year.  Coincidence?  I think not.) If you haven’t noticed, I’m a fan of downtown.  The Oregon Fans are already out and about, realizing their mistake in choosing a Duck over a Buffalo.  They’re buying CU shirts from Jackalope and converting from the dark side to the good side.  As soon as they taste the fresh food at their Salt reservation, they’ll probably just end up staying here.  You may be good at football Duckians, but Downtown Boulder knows how to have a good time.  And as their trusty intern, that means I am going to (for once) have a good homecoming weekend!

So Boulderites, pray for me.  Come watch the parade, head out to the football game, and be nice to the Duck fans (it’s a waddling bird, after all). Let’s create some good karma for the weekend.  I think it’s going to be an awesome one.

GO BUFFS!

-Lindsey

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Shopping



5 Unique Tours of Downtown Boulder

Posted on October 17, 2011


What better way to experience our vibrant city than all at once!  Whether you’re outdoorsy, a foodie, family-oriented, or just like to drink beer, there’s a tour happening today that knows just how to tickle your fancy.  Grab your Hawaiian print shirt, some binoculars and a camera; here are 5 of the best one-and-done ways to experience the greatest downtown in America in a couple of hours (or less)! 

1. MyHandleBar
Why crawl from bar to bar if you can bike?  If you haven’t seen this contraption wheeling its way around downtown then you’re missing quite a sight.  MyHandleBar is a peddle powered portable bike bar, equipped for 16 passengers and comes with its own designated driver.  Peddle with your buddies to move the portable watering hole from bar to bar.   MyHandleBar offers a “Boulder Brewery Biking” tour stopping at locations such as The Walnut Brewery, The Lazy Dog, Bitter Bar, Conor O’Neills and Pearl Street Pub.  Another tour is the “Boulder Bar Bash” stopping at destinations such as Shooters, Catacombs, The Walrus, The Attic and Tahona Tequilla Bistro.  Talk about innovating the bar crawl!  And hey, all that peddling will cancel out the calories you drink, right?

2. Boulder Walking Tours
If you’re not into drinking or crawling, follow an experienced local guide on a relaxing walk through downtown while you learn about the history, planning and people of Boulder.  Some of the sites include the magical Dushanbe Teahouse and the cafes and shops of Pearl’s West and East Ends.  The talk will also allow you to get an inside scoop on the public art found on the mall. (Why is that elk there anyway?)

3. Local Table Tours
Calling all foodies!  Discover what bon appetit magazine called “America’s Foodiest Town” on a Downtown Dining Tour.  LocalTableTours.com offers cocktail tours, coffee and pastry tours, market-to-table tours, and even tours of the Boulder County Farmers Market.   These are not sampling tours…so get ready to eat!  With over 100 restaurants in Downtown a table tour is a great way to get started on conquering them all.  Their motto is “Eat.Drink.Walk.Repeat.”  Sounds pretty fabulous to me.  I’m especially interested in trying the cocktail tour.  It’s supposed to be something like a private cocktail class…meet the bartenders and learn their unique mixology techniques.  Tour prices range from $25-$70. 

  

4. Banjo Billy Bus Tours
My friends and I have rented out the Banjo Billy Bus to truck us down to Brad Paisley concerts.  Usually, it offers a 90-minute tour of Boulder from the comfort of an old sofa, recliner, or even a saddle.  Find out about more of the eclectic side of Boulder through ghost stories and folk lore.  This “traveling hillbilly shack” lets its passengers vote on the stories they want to hear.  If you’re into country, or a little Jack D, Banjo Billy will show you a good time. 

5. Boulder Area Bicycle Adventures
Need something a little more outdoorsy?  Boulder Area Bicycle Adventures offers a Historic Downtown and Pearl Street Mall Tour on wheels!  Enjoy Pearl as well as other nearby areas such as the Boulder Creek Path and Red Rocks Settler’s Park.  This fast paced biking excursion is perfect for families.  Do you know what trees are the oldest or what styles of architecture are used most?  This tour is great for pointing out some of these less noticeable but still special aspects of Boulder.

Whether you’re a local or looking to visit Boulder for the first time, tours are great way to fit a lot into a busy schedule.  So get out there before the snow comes!  (I don’t think MyHandleBar will operate too well in slush).

Happy Bouldering!

-Lindsey

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Bars



Get Artsy!

Posted on October 7, 2011

Every season is art season in Downtown Boulder.  In the spirit of today being the First Friday of the month, I put on my journalism cap and went exploring to find out what downtown has to offer in terms of artistic relief.  I found some favorite spots and some pretty cool events going on TONIGHT for first Friday.  So if you’re looking for a different way to spend the evening (or an impressive date night, boys… hint…hint) keep reading!

I first stumbled into the Boulder Arts and Crafts Gallery on the 1400 block of Pearl Street and had a lovely chat with long time employee Kristen, who used to be responsible for all of the visual displays in the gallery.  The BoulderArts and Crafts Gallery has been an artist cooperative since 1971 and has everything from stained glass windows to specially made organic cotton mittens.  Tonight, their First Friday Reception will feature a couple of items.  First of all, Carol Walker will be there with her beautiful horse photographs.  Second, there will be a special demonstration from 6-8 p.m. of the use of an old fashion letter press benefiting The Book Arts League.  Letterpress artists will also be in attendance for the demonstration.  Sobring your date, refresh yourself, and meet some talented individuals tonight!

Next, I walked across Pearl Street and found myself at Earthwood Gallery.  This one’s a personal fav, mostly because they have lots of pieces involving dogs, and who doesn’t love dogs?  This particular piece is done by Sarah Rogers and it’s actually a portrait of her own dog! So cute.  Roger is from Wyoming and does lots of work of abstract, bright colored animals.  She is a part of the current ongoing exhibit at Earthwood, entitled “Woman of the West II” featuring female artists from the west (obviously).  Girl power!

I found myself at the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art on 13th between Canyon and Arapahoe next.   I’ve always been a fan of  contemporary art museums, mostly for their wide open spaces, and of course, the pieces that are just a little…odd.  Maybe I haven’t reached the peak age of art wisdom, but sometimes it’s hard not to find yourself pleasantly amused and silently wondering where exactly the artists come up with this stuff.  Yes, there is a piece is just a sign on the floor that says “Big Whoop.”  Point taken?  Still, most of the stuff is very cool and appealing to a younger crowd.  This Mickey Mouse really caught my eye.

Walk back on 13th street toward Spruce and you’ll find one of the newest additions to the Boulder art scene, the Elm & Oak Gallery.  A visit to their website uncovers that they are a design firm offering services like web and print design, brand and logo creation, promotional art, apparel design and custom mural painting.  They definitely have an alternative feel.  Tonight they are hosting an even called Fighting Distraction featuring new works by local artist Leland Crow.  There will be music by Anansi, and Rockstar energy drinks for everyone…they also claim there will be pieces ranging in prices so that there is something for everyone! (Good news college kiddos!)  Sounds more like a party than a swanky gallery show. 

My last stop was to SmithKlein Gallery on the 1100 block of Pearl Street next to Savvy.  I had thepleasure of talking to the owner as well as her son Nathan (great people).  They were especially excited because they just booked an artist they have been pursuing for years; Contemporary western artist, Craig Kosak, who is quite exclusive in the galleries he chooses to display his work.  Since SmithKlien celebrated their 20th year of business in September, itlooks like they finally earned a spot!  They will be receiving mostly pieces featuring bison that will be arriving homecoming weekend.  Nathan said they are great pieces for the alum visiting over homecoming who want a piece to commemorate their time in Boulder and celebrate the CU Buffs.  But, back to today, SmithKlein will be hosting an opening tonight for two of their Fall Featured Artists, Jessica Garrett and Ann Dettmer.  Garrett is only 27 years old and paints well beyond her years.   It’s extremely rare to see an artist of her age paint realistic, western scenes. (Us youngins are into abstracts apparently...)  Dettmer is well known for her big, chopping brush strokes.  I loved these ones of hers. Both are definitely worth checking out. 

Well Boulderites, I hope I helped and/or inspired you to begin an art adventure in downtown.  These are only a few of the great art shops in Boulder.  Check out an entire list of downtown galleries here.  Happy First Friday!

-Lindsey

Related Destinations: Boulder Arts & Crafts Gallery, Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art, Earthwood Gallery, Elm & Oak, SmithKlein Gallery

Related Tags: Boulder, Art, Dating, Fridays



Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes!?

Posted on October 3, 2011

As if Boulder didn’t have enough great breakfast spots, the hippest place to enjoy a pancake in Denver has moved west.  Having spent last summer working in Denver, some locals introduced me to the only place anyone would be willing to wait 45 minutes for some morning deliciousness…Snooze!  And delicious it was!  Needless to say I was pleasantly stoked to hear a new Snooze branch was opening in Downtown Boulder.  Last Thursday, September 29th, Snooze opened a new location on Pearl Street’s east end nestled between Art & Soul Gallery and Momentum.  


Personally I find Snooze’s move to Boulder to be a perfect fit.  Snooze’s business model is as sustainable and innovative as Boulderites themselves.  They buy their eggs exclusively from Niman Ranch (free range, family owned…basically as organic as it gets) and the restaurants follow a list of sustainability principles including recycling, composting, and using chemical free cleaners.  But wait, there’s more!


I’m sure half of you will agree with me when I say that half the fun of eating out is the atmosphere.  The ambiance of Snooze makes the experience a lot of fun.  I want to call it retro 50’s, but it reminds me a lot of the Jetson’s.  Confused?  Well, after further research, I discovered what they were actually going for:  “The Snooze concept, beyond great food, was to create a comfortable and timeless setting.  Energy through design, from flow to the feelings invoked. This vibe is reflected in both the space, and the service. Snooze has the comfort of a neighborhood coffee shop, while evoking a retro-future spin.  It's fun. ”

   


But enough of this jibber jabber, let’s get down to business and discuss what’s really important here…THE FOOD!  Ladies and gentlemen, I have 4 words for you, Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes!  Not even mentioning Snooze’s plethora of breakfast options (including four different types of Eggs Benedict, my personal fav) I would have to say that Snooze’s pancakes are their specialty.  Walking a fine line between meal and dessert the pancakes are definitely worth a try (or two, or three).  Always ask what the pancake of the day is because it’s usually something especially decadent.  They even offer a “Pancake Flight” so if you can’t decide which flavor to try, just try a bunch!  Careful, I see a food coma in your future.    


They serve coffee while you wait…so courteous.  So let’s be courteous back!  Give our newest Boulder restaurant a try.  You won’t regret it :)

-Lindsey

Related Destination: Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Restaurants, Coffee



All good things come to an end...

Posted on August 26, 2011

Sadly, today is my last day as Downtown Boulder’s Communications and Marketing Intern. This summer has just flown by, and I can’t believe that I won’t be writing to you about my adventures downtown, good and bad, all the food I have consumed, envelopes I have stuffed, licked, mailed, and carried to the mailbox on 10th Street.  I finally must return to school for my senior year (yikes!). I will no longer be able to bug Eli with all my questions, usually involving this tricky little program they call Photoshop. This is a sad day indeed. I have enjoyed my time at DBI and appreciate the plethora of knowledge I gained and the patience Eli had for my Photoshop skills, or lack thereof. However, fear not, I won’t be gone for long I will be back for Fashion’s Night Out to help and to make sure the DBI office doesn’t miss me too much.

Top 5 things I learned and loved about Downtown Boulder…

1. Not labeling your layers in Photoshop is a death wish. Well not literally, but it is a massive headache to go back in and change every week. And yes, I know I will be utilizing this tool in the future seeing as I am a Marketing and Public Relations major, but it’s almost 2012, can’t a girl ask for such a technology called AUTO layer labeling, help a chica out Adobe!  But until that glorious day of auto layering, I have given myself a mental reminder to label, label, and label!

2. Downtown Boulder has so much going on everyday; whether it is the guy fitting himself into a box on 13th, Bands on the Bricks, or one of the delicious restaurants (I have become a professional restaurantee). I came to Boulder not knowing much other than Rio has killer margs and Urban Outfitters is a hazard to anyone’s wallet. After my summer here, I now feel a part of the Downtown Boulder family. All the merchants on Pearl Street work together to give you guys the best Downtown ever, whether it be Fashion’s Night Out, OpenArts Fest or Bands on the Bricks. Each week there are awesome events for all ages, Boulder is uniquely marvelous. Don’t forget it!

3.  People travel to Boulder from all over the world. You know those envelopes I stuff with Downtown Boulder’s lovely guidebooks? Well, each week there is at least one being mailed to the UK, The Netherlands, and even as far as Armenia for a steep cost of $3.91 per!

4. Downtown Boulder has phenomenal shopping for everything you need. Whether it be my awesome fringe bathing suit from Saavy, boots from Steve Madden, or the dangerous walk to work past Weekends where I realize I need/can’t live without 90% of the items in the window. I am officially a shopaholic and a casual clothes hoarder.

And last but not least…

5. DBI offers the best internship around. I have realized that all my skills I learned in class actually have a benefit and I can tackle (or tumble into) the real world next June. DBI has allowed me to be very hands on in almost every aspect of what they do. I had my freedom to rant, convey my excitement, and share my adventures with you on this lovely blog. I learned and experienced all the awesome events, happy hours, and happenings in Downtown Boulder. Downtown Boulder has so much going on, each week I found myself excited about a new upcoming event and with my tremendous boyfriend in tow, I got to experience it all (refer to my blogs 1-9). 

So all good things must come to an end (sigh), but DBI is looking for their next fall intern, so be sure to get in touch with Eli for this amazing opportunity. I know I have left some big (and cute) shoes to fill, but if you are wicked smart and want a fun and hands-on internship, this one is for you!

See you around Boulder,

Erika

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Social Media, Happy Hour, Restaurants, Bars, Dating, Shopping



Get snow on your mind!

Posted on August 17, 2011

Now that summer is starting to come to a close, I really want to fast forward through autumn and jump right into ski season. Once I heard of the 6th annual Warren Miller Wednesdays, I could not have been more excited to have ski season on my mind, and watch movies of fresh powder over different mountains across the globe, and start dreaming of those first fluffy flakes.

For those of you who have been living under a rock, Warren Miller is the best skier of all time. He is a revolutionary of the sport and an icon for the promotion of modern skiing for over 50 years. He is legendary; the Mick Jagger of music, Marilyn Monroe of ski films, and the Mickey Mouse of Disney. Yes, he is that awesome.

The West End Tavern is hosting Warren Miller films old and new every Wednesday from August 24th until November 2nd.  They will show Warren Miller films from across the globe, with amazing drink and food specials like the ultimate nacho platter. Does it get any better? (the correct answer is no).  On top of all this amazingness there will be fantastic door prizes from FlyLow, Patron, Moon Mountain Vodka, Christy Sports envision snowboards, FlyLow gear, drinks, and more!

On top of Warren Miller Wednesdays, be sure to catch the Art of Flight playing at the Boulder Theater on Wednesday September 28th.  The Art of Flight is a new breed of action sport film. In the film, Travis Rice and friends redefine what is possible in the mountains with new tricks, new zones, and new wrong turns. It should be EPIC!

Get snow on your mind and get down to West End Tavern next Wednesday to ring in the start of Warren Miller Wednesdays!

See you there!
Erika

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Restaurants, Bars, Sports, Wednesdays, Film



The Kitchen

Posted on August 10, 2011

This small restaurant on the West End, right off the bricks, is absolutely wonderful. After unsuccessfully attempting to go for brunch without a wait time (who eats brunch at noon on a Sunday, come on) and being too hungry to wait, I decided to go back and check it out for dinner.

The Kitchen is very Boulderesque in that they serve all local food in an eco-friendly environment running on local wind power (don’t deny it, you’re impressed). The Kitchen has always popped up on my radar whether through various event listings or passing by on one of my endless stops to Holiday & Co. And after hearing from a friend about their awesome eco-friendly attitude and stellar reviews, I decided to try it and bring my friend along with me.

The ambience in the restaurant was awesome. There is a trend of clean simplicity with the décor, menu, and cocktails. I felt as if I were in a must be seen in, trendy restaurant in downtown Manhattan, but with the comforts of home cooking. We started with the Beet Bruchetta, not at all what I was expecting. I am a texture person so blue cheese with the combination of beets, just wasn’t my cup of tea. However, my friend’s sister LOVED it, so if beets and blue cheese is on your radar you should definitely try it! After my tastebuds and emotions settled (yes, textures freak me out that much) my amazing, delicious, mouth watering lobster entrée came. Being from the East Coast, I know my lobster, and this lobster was absolutely divine. It came with grilled corn and lime flavored fries (YUM!) and I ate every bite, and I’m not sorry about it.

If you’re a pork chop, duck, beet or lobster fan this place is a must! The Kitchen’s eccentric menu has something for everyone. You also have to be sure to check out The Kitchen’s other two sister restaurants The Kitchen [Next Door] and The Kitchen Upstairs. Literally upstairs and right next door so don’t fret about trying to find them! The Kitchen [Next Door] has a casual pub-like atmosphere while still serving farm-to-table food. The Kitchen Upstairs is wine, beer and cocktail lounge, with one of the best beer and wine lists in all Colorado! It’s perfect for a date night, night on the town with friends or for a relaxing cocktail (or two).

So check out The Kitchen, The Kitchen Upstairs, or the The Kitchen [Next Door] and let me know what you think!

Cheers,

 Erika

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Happy Hour, Restaurants, Bars, Shopping, Fridays , Coffee



Fashion's Night Out

Posted on July 29, 2011

Attention all shopaholics, Fashion’s Night Out, the after-hours shopping extravaganza is coming to Downtown Boulder! On Thursday, September 8th, from 6-10 p.m., a selection of the amazing downtown clothing retailers will be joining forces to kick off the first Fashion’s Night Out, Boulder edition. So mark your calendars…and by mark I mean clear your evening plans, and sharpie in FNO (Fashion’s Night Out).

So before I go off into a ramble of how this event is amazing (and not conducive to reigning in my shopping addiction, sorry Mom!), let me give you a little background on FNO. FNO is an unprecedented global initiative created in 2009 in a partnership between American Vogue, the Council of Fashion, Designers of America, NYC & Company, and the City of New York to celebrate fashion, restore consumer confidence, boost the industry’s economy, and put the fun back in shopping. Although when is it not fun? Being from the best coast, and only a short 30 minute train ride to FNO’s capital, NYC. I have firsthand experience with FNO.

My hometown in CT, has celebrated FNO for two years now. In high school, I worked for a retail participant of FNO and it was an amazing event. Picture Sex and the City meets small town, Woodstock for shopaholics, Christmas shopping done in September, yes, it’s that awesome. Our boutique hosted a Parisian theme; there was wine tasting and mini pastries, and a fabulous Jewelry trunk show, along with great new fall fashion necessities (yes, necessities).

All the great aspects of Erika’s hometown FNO edition are coming to Boulder, but bigger and better! There will be a surprise performance on the 1300 block of Pearl Street; organized by Alchemy Dance Studio (it’s going to be EPIC!). Some of our amazing retailers such as Savvy on Pearl, Lilli, and Buffalo Exchange will host in-store activities to even further enhance your after-hours shopping extravaganza. Check the FNO website for updates and happenings. Although FNO is focused on the fashion industry, Downtown Boulder’s great bars and restaurants will still be open! So channel your inner fashionista and shop til you drop…into your comfy seat at your local favorite, such as Lazy Dog, Hapa, or Tahona that is.

So make room in your closest and get excited, September 8th is right around the corner! I hope to see all you Boulderites there for the night’s many festivities!

Until next time,

Erika

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Ignite Boulder, Restaurants, Bars, Shopping



Pasta Jay's

Posted on July 20, 2011

I set out on a restaurant exploration in Downtown Boulder recently. Craving some Italian, my first stop was last Friday night at Pasta Jay’s. I chose this restaurant because it attracted all my senses, the most irresistible being the smell (mm garlic). Pasta Jay’s has an open layout with red and white checkered tablecloths that adds to the family-like atmosphere. The floor to ceiling windows surrounding the restaurant were all open, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful Boulder weather as well as the comfort of the a/c , and a little people watching too. If the smells and the inviting family atmosphere didn’t have me and my boyfriend hooked from the start, one glance at the menu sure did. Let me tell you I couldn’t have been happier to put the carb-free diet on hold. Pasta Jay’s menu embodies authentic homemade Italian food.  I ordered the Veggie Cappelloni, basically manicotti with veggies and my boyfriend got the tortellini with chicken baked in alfredo sauce (hate to admit it but I wish I got his!). It was all delicious from the first to the last bite! With family size portions it’s perfect for sharing. However, the menu has so many choices we couldn’t narrow it down to one. And with sauce choices ranging from Alfredo, to pesto, to red sauce, the possibilities seemed endless. With all entrees they serve garlic bread so make sure to save a lot of room, you don’t want to miss out, trust me. It’s easy to see how Pasta Jay’s has resided and thrived in Boulder for over two decades.

Pasta Jay’s is up on the West End so it is easily located right off the bricks. So easily located and delicious my best friend Monica and my boyfriend and I sought our hungover refuge there late Saturday afternoon (yes, we were there twice in 48 hours). I am speaking for all three of us, but I think it’s safe to say we are all still full from our Pasta Jay’s binge. If you’re not in Boulder, Pasta Jay’s also has two other locations, Moab and Lone Tree.

Rain, shine, or even hungover, Pasta Jays’s is a must if you are craving some great family style Italian food and pizza. They also have a dog friendly outdoor patio, so if date night ends up dateless bring your four legged furry friend! I know my dog Grahm (aka granimal the party animal) would not put up a fight to lounge on the patio.

So check it out, enjoy some over-indulgence and great food and happy hour specials, featuring sangria, wines, and drafts! Be sure to join Pasta Jay’s for their World Famous Monday Night Spaghetti Night. It’s summer, you gotta live a little once and a while, or shall I say; eat a lot once and a while.

Until next time,

Erika

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Happy Hour, Restaurants, Dating



Smooch

Posted on July 13, 2011

 

So,  as I have told you guys I have a huge sweet tooth. This makes eating and maintaining a summer bod clash a little bit. But look no further than fro-yo (frozen yogurt, duh) for the answer, Smooch in Downtown Boulder has four different flavors of delicious fro-yo and so many toppings, from strawberries to Captain Crunch to sprinkles.

Easily located right off the bricks on 14th street,  it is hard to resist. Recently, it has been ridiculously hot and casually humid outside, to the point where I don’t want to leave the comfort of my fans and AC during the day for very long. Smooch will cure any further over-heating guaranteed. And since it is low-calorie and low-fat you can justify a large...or even two! I got a dark chocolate with strawberries and white yogurt chips, on my first visit and  YUM (okay maybe I over justified a large,  but I couldn’t resist!). If you’re feeling a little bit braver then give Mochi a try. These are yogurt balls covered in rice confections. Both the yogurt and Mochi are gluten-free and kosher certified!

So get off the bricks for a few minutes and cool down at Smooch! I pinky promise all the ice cream lovers out there that you will not be disappointed! And if I try the Mochi before you do I promise,  to promptly report back to you guys!

Fear not, you will hear more about my food adventures soon!

Erika

Related Tags: Boulder, Restaurants, Ice Cube



Not so bitter about Bitter Bar

Posted on July 6, 2011

Yesterday, as I was updating the happy hour page, my love for a good happier hour grew (it’s five o’clock somewhere right?).  My overwhelming love for great food and eating out while on a college budget can be pretty hard to balance at times, so I found a compromise, happy hour (okay not that big of a compromise, but I’m sticking to it).  In honor of this compromise I decided to put one of these happy hours to the test.

Happy and The Bitter Bar stood out right away. Bitter Bar is tucked away right off Pearl Street’s West End.  I have to admit I didn’t  know much about the cuisine, but, the name was so enticing I decided to just figure out the food when I got there (very out of character seeing as I can be a picky eater). My first glance went to the amazing cocktail choices,  all at just $4. I decided on the “42 Pink Party”, seeing as my favorite color is pink , I was sold on the name alone. It was a delicious mix of pomegranate and fresh mint (yum). It was  an absolutely divine, fabulous cocktail, perfect for a happy hour!

On to the food:  As I quickly learned, the cuisine is Asian fusion with a little bit of everything. My boyfriend and I split this phenomenal spicy chicken rice bowl special and the sesame flat bread with pesto and fresh mozzarella (I wouldn’t complain if I had that in front of me right now despite it being breakfast hour). Everything just got better from there. This Restaurant/Bar is one of my new top ten favs, hands down. There was plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and everything exceeded all expectations. The whole “Happy” part in the name was really kicking in right about then.

If you’re looking for a great happy hour, with an array of food ranging from small to large plates, and a cocktail list that is near to impossible to narrow down,  this is the place. I promise you whether you’re a well whiskey drinker, or a world renowned wine connoisseur,  Bitter Bar’s Mixologists will not disappoint. In fact he gave me just the amount of liquid courage to attempt a ride on the famous bull at Shooters later that night (flop). So if my love for this restaurant bar isn’t convincing enough, put your taste buds to the test and check it out.

Stay tuned for more of my Happy Hour discoveries as I get to know the rest of Downtown Boulder’s marvelous foodie culture.  Cheers!

Erika

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Happy Hour, Restaurants, Bars, Dating, Singles, Coffee



BIODOME: An Experiment in Diversity

Posted on June 29, 2011

 

I decided to detour from my usual shopping stomping grounds and explore the artistic cultural side of Downtown Boulder. When I first heard of BIODOME I was casually eavesdropping while waiting in line for a sandwich (come on who hasn’t). However, all I got out of the conversation was BIODOME was opening and her boyfriend has been a jerk. So, with a lack of concern for her boyfriend drama, I decided I needed to explore this BIODOME with my non-jerk boyfriend, Forbes. First stop…Google info, second stop…Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art. BMoCA is tucked away just south of the Pearl Street Mall (so tucked away it took me two loops around the block to find it, sadly I admit I was even using my gps). But nonetheless, we made it just in time for the opening of the new exhibit BIDOME: An Experiment in Diversity.

When I think of Boulder I think outdoorsy, active, and a melting pot of individuals, in other words diverse. However, it has come to my attention that some Boulderites are concerned that Boulder is becoming to elitist. This concern ignited BMoCA to launch the BIODOME which showcases how Boulder residents experience diversity.

Let me back up a step, and just say if you haven’t gone to BMoCA, go (my ticket was only $4). I am used to large museums where I end up lost and in an art coma overload. BMoCA is just the right size and filled with exciting, and stimulating art. I’m not going to lie to you guys, I was a little relieved when I saw the quaint, non-monstrous building.

When I walked in the doors I found myself already in the BIODOME exhibit. For those of you who don’t know what a BIODOME is, (I was one of them) long story short, it is a closed ecological system that is completely controlled. Don’t worry guys the name is a metaphor, I’m not sending you to some manmade kind of creepy ecological bubble. However, real life biodome attempts have been nothing to write home about because none of them have been successful, because they all lacked biodiversity (that was a mouthful). But BMoCA’s BIODOME is a little different; they are addressing issues and concerns that Boulder has with diversity through art (admit it your intrigued). Here you can see the works of artists who jumped right into the amazing Boulder lifestyle which they used as inspiration and interpretation for their work. The stark white walls throughout the museum with the contrast of the artists’ pieces really captured the essence of the art and allowed you to channel your focus to each piece.

I don’t want to give away all the juicy details on the BIODOME, because you all need to go! Oh and be sure when you go to not miss the “Boulder Bubble” and give your two cents on Boulder’s  diversity.

Over and out,

Erika

Related Destination: Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art

Related Tags: Boulder, Ignite Boulder, Art



Shopping, Pop Jet Fountain, and Wings Oh My!

Posted on June 15, 2011

Greetings Downtown Boulder!

I just wanted to introduce myself to you guys. My name is Erika and I am the new communications and marketing intern at Downtown Boulder Inc. I am responsible for adding all the glorious events to the calendar that Downtown Boulder has to offer. Whether it is Bands on the Bricks or events for the young Boulder crowd such as Young Artists at Work held at Boulders Museum of Contemporary Art. I also am in charge of the less glamorous task of stuffing, licking, and mailing out the Downtown Boulder guidebooks to people across the globe (even to Sweden!).

I go to school at the University of Denver and have to admit I am quite blown away by all that Downtown Boulder has to offer, and by blown away,  I mean jealous. To make up for the 2 years in Colorado I lost by not exploring Boulder, I have begun to self-indulge in all it has to offer. I will take any opportunity to invigorate my senses and fill my stomach like thanksgiving at a new restaurant. I love to cook but I have to admit I love to eat more, so restaurants were the first area of exploration. Downtown Boulder restaurants challenge the saying that my eyes are bigger than my stomach. In this case my eyes won. This past weekend I had the difficult choice of either trying West End Taverns 50 different famous Buffalo wings for lunch or tapas and pasta or pizza from The Med for dinner. I don’t know how I am going to survive a summer with such tough choices; so in this life or death decision I choose both, live a little, right?


Downtown Boulder already feels like a home away from home. I grew up in a small town on the coast. (um... the East Coast). So I have been enjoying the familiarness of quaint shops and all the children running around Pearl for their family weekend outings. My weekend wanderings throughout the Pearl Street Mall have been nothing short of awesome (even though the Pop Jet fountain caught me by surprise on Saturday, not my finest moment).  I am already anticipating growth in my closet after my 3 months in Boulder. Whether it is the comfortable yet cute clothes from American Apparel or channeling my outdoor apparel fashionista at Divas. I blame my impending financial debt on the convenience of all the local shops and the friendliness of everyone in them, it would be rude not to stop in say hi and shop a little right? DBI’s location is impossible for me to walk to without getting a coffee from Paradise Café and try and execute serious self control (which was broken on day two on the job) to not to go into Powell’s Sweet Shoppe and relive my childhood cravings and buy bags of candy (I have the biggest sweet tooth for a Dentist’s daughter!). What more could a shopaholic and foodaholic ask for than Pearl Street? Incase you started thinking about that question, the answer is nothing, downtown Boulder has it all!

So after long days of adding amazing events, stuffing licking and stamping envelopes, and trying to use my photoshop knowledge with Eli (debatably successful). I decided I deserve a casual happy hour a few times a week. Being a girl who loves tequila, I have come to love Rio’s happy hour drinks and food selections all on my college budget (which I am anticipating will be dwindling soon due to all my new findings). Who wouldn’t want to kick back and relax with a margarita and tacos and pretend to be back on the spring break that our bodies and bank accounts are all still recovering from?

I can’t wait to share all my summer experiences, good and bad, with you guys.  And make those who aren’t in Boulder to enjoy all the events, food, shopping, and street performers on Pearl St jealous, and come visit and explore what the good life is all about.  

It was a pleasure meeting you Downtown Boulder and you will be hearing from me again soon!

-Erika

Related Destinations: American Apparel, The Mediterranean, Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant, West End Tavern, Woody Creek Bakery & Cafe

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Happy Hour, Restaurants, Costume, Bars, Shopping



And So It Goes...

Posted on April 27, 2011

And So It Goes... Today is my last day as the "Marketing and Communications Intern" at Downtown Boulder Inc. It seems like just yesterday that my boss, Eli, was ordering me around, teasing me about my photoshopping skills and making me do intern-y tasks -- like licking envelopes and carrying bags full of Downtown Boulder Guidebooks to the lonely little mailbox outside of The Black Cat on 13th St. Okay, so maybe that was just yesterday but it seems like so long ago! I've finally been forced out into the Real World. The days of free office coffee and slices of apple snacks in the afternoon are o.v.e.r. It's time for me to grow up and start paying for my own coffee and apples. What a sad day this is indeed. I have more than enjoyed my stint with DBI and thoroughly appreciate all of the knowledge that I have acquired in my short time here.

Here's a list of things that this intern has learned over the last three months:

1.) Photo and Shop are two words that I don't want to hear together for at least a month. Sure, it's a vital tool in the Marketing and Communications world, but it also promotes massive headaches, encourages the use of expletives and gives me the desire to break things. If my ill feelings have subsided within the month, I'll pick myself up by my bootstraps, tackle my phobia, and show Photoshop who's boss.

2.) Not all internships offer the stereotypical standard of the coffee retrieving, copy-making intern. I feel cheated that instead of being put in charge of difficult tasks such as: remembering how my boss likes his coffee and which button on the machine magically makes it a two-sided copy-- I had to do things like write a blog, edit important documents, assist with the DBI newsletter, design web pages and create copy for things like our Valentine's Day and Mother's Day Gift Guides. If I had known in the beginning that this wouldn't be the stereotypical internship, I totally would have thought twice about accepting it. :)

3.) Downtown Boulder is more than a retail and dining hub. Downtown Boulder is a community that thrives off of the enduring support of all of the people and businesses in this fair city. Case and point: During the heartbreaking Oak at Fourteenth Hood Fire of 2011, Smooch Frozen Yogurt  was temporarily without power and faced losing an entire walk-in cooler full of perishable goods. Without hesitation, the fine folks at the Boulderado Hotel opened up their "home" and gave Smooch the space to store their stuff. Very cool. Very neighborly. Very Boulder.

4.) People that work in Downtown Boulder are lucky. Aside from the occasional parking snafu (see Blog Post #2), Downtown Boulder is a pretty great place to: work, grab lunch, get coffee, meet for happy hour, shop for things that you don't really need, see live music, try "foodie" foods, practice yoga, wear a puffy jacket, ride a bike in a gorilla suit... the list goes on.

and last but not least...

5.) I learned that I'm not entirely a lost cause. This internship has helped mold my often wavering position on my future, and has pushed me to continue my good track record of not being a total screw-up. So big thanks to the internship, internship providers, and the parking attendants at the 11th and Spruce Parking garage for everything.

And so it goes. That's it, the end. It's been fun Boulder.  Best of luck to you all. And remember-- if you ever start to miss me, need a laugh, or want to offer me a job, I won't be far away. You can follow me at @BoulderGirl210 on twitter. I'll be there for you. And fear not, another lucky person will be filling my internship shoes soon. DBI doesn't just let anyone work for free here, so they're still accepting applications to make sure they get the best intern! If you, or someone else is interested in one of the best, if not the best internship in Downtown Boulder, visit: http://www.boulderdowntown.com/_files/docs/downtown-boulder-internship.pdf.

Be seeing you Boulder,

 

Tyra Sutak-- Marketing and Communications Intern Spring of 2011

Related Tag: Boulder



Bet You Didn't Know...

Posted on April 20, 2011

With Downtown Boulder's beloved Tulip Fairy Parade just around the corner, (this Saturday, April 23), I thought I would enlighten you all with some facts and educate you on the background of one of Downtown's favorite traditions. Now, I've done my fair share of research on the event, and enlisted the help of the DBI employees to get the inside skinny on the tulip situation-- and I've come to the conclusion that this event is no joke. The blooming of the tulips has been a big deal on the Pearl St. Mall dating back to the late 1970's-- which, I'd like to point out, was way before I was born. But during that time, when afros were in, the majority of the population was staying busy getting duped into thinking that disco was "cool" (or "groovy" for those of who you prefer the ancient predecessor to "cool"), 5000 tulip bulbs were making their grand entrance into Boulder courtesy of Boulder's then sister city, Meppel, Holland. Our kind friends from across the globe gifted Boulder with the many kinds of tulips that we admire and appreciate to this day.

Check out our Tulip Fairy & Elf Parade page for the full details keep reading for some fun tulip and parade facts that I'll bet you didn't know:

I'll bet you didn't know:
1.) The Tulip was originally a wild flower growing in Central Asia.
2.) Every fall, the City of Boulder Parks and Rec. Department plants 15,000 tulips bulbs on Pearl St., all imported in from Holland.
3.) Child fairy costumes can cost up to $50 (For that price, you could drink glasses of  Rum Mint Sangria at Salt. I'm sure Salt's bartenders would probably cut you off after your third cocktail, but you get my point).
4.) The section of the sidewalk in front of Boulder Arts and Crafts, that is filled with gravel, an awkward looking snail and other un-life-like animals (typically topped with a troop of kids doubling as monkeys): has a name. It's called the Marble Animal Garden, which sounds very quaint, and is where attendees of the parade are supposed to meet at 3 o'clock on Saturday.
5.) The City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks Department will be presenting their annual performance of "The Waking of the Bear", in which an adult Open Space and Mountain Parks employee will dress up like a bear, let the children "wake" him from hibernation in order to provide a very important demonstration to lots of tiny children wearing wings, on what the correct protocol is upon being approached by a bear. (Personally, I'd think that infants, toddlers and small half-pints shouldn't be hanging around bears anyway... but safety first I guess!). 

Spread your wings and let the Fairy in you fly, Boulder!

 

-Tyra
 

Related Destinations: Boulder Arts & Crafts Gallery, Salt the Bistro

Related Tags: Boulder, Festivals, Costume



Friday, Friday, Friday!

Posted on April 14, 2011

Today is Thursday. And the status of the weather in Boulder has been moved from fake-snow to real snow. A little snow in April isn't terrible. It just gives us all one more chance to use our fireplaces and get a little more bang for our buck out of our $200.00 puffy jackets. Although there's real snow on the ground today, Boulder's bipolar forecast calls for sun and 60 degree weather for tomorrow; which is perfect weather for all of the events going on in Downtown tomorrow night. So enough chit-chat. I'll just get straight to the point. Eat, drink and drop your kids off with strangers in  Downtown for some fun this Friday!

1.) Art After Dark is happening from 7:00-11:00 p.m. tomorrow, at the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art. It's a chance for Boulder's Young Professionals to mix and mingle while enjoying cocktails by 303 vodka and beer by Avery Brewing, local cuisine, live music by a DJ, contemporary art and more. Tickets are only $45.00 each, and a ticket not only gets you into the event, but also gets you a gift bag and a one-year membership to BMoCA. So go ahead, get crazy, and mix a little business with pleasure tomorrow night.

2.) A series of outdoor Crab Boils at Jax Fish House kicks off tomorrow night. For $39.00 per person, enjoy fresh blue, dungeness and snow crab along with shrimp, andouille sausage, corn and potatoes. Jax is also offering drink specials for the night, so grab your friends and some wet naps, and reserve your space on Jax's patio for some tasty, messy grub.

3.) Local Table Tour's brings you the Downtown Dinging Walking Tour tomorrow starting at 3:00 p.m. Enjoy thoughtfully selected food and wine pairings as part of Downtown Boulder's gourmet food scene. Contact Local Table Tour's to reserve your space on the tour.

4.) Join the Boulder Bookstore for "Revival of the Classics!" tomorrow night. Bring your old classic books in for a book swap, participate in trivia and meet Erin Blakmore, a local Boulder author who will be speaking about classic Jane Austin characters and the importance they still hold today. I'm not going to lie. I'll admit that I've read every Jane Austin novel that has been published. I'm not ashamed. So this fun, literary party is right up my alley! Some of you may be a little skeptical about this event, and that's okay. Maybe if I tell you that attendees are encouraged to dress up as their favorite classics character, you might be sold! Who doesn't like wearing costumes in public!?

5.) Center Stage Live at One Boulder Plaza presents their music series, held every Friday at The Ribhouse. Liza Oxnard will be performing tomorrow night from 8:00-10:00 p.m. The music is free, but dinner is not. So you'll still need your wallets if you want to enjoy some killer ribs and a frosty beverage.

6.) Dark Star Orchestra is playing the Boulder Theater tomorrow night. It's been said that Dark Star Orchestra offers much more than the sound of the Grateful Dead, they truly encapsulate the energy and the experience. I was in grade school during the days of The Grateful Dead's epic tours, so for me, seeing a Grateful Dead cover band is the next best thing to missing the Dead play live. Grab your lighters and your dated concert tees, and get the Boulder Theater on Friday. You'll just love it man...

6.) For those of you that have little half-pints running around at home, I know what you're thinking. I'd love to get out on the town tomorrow night, but I can't find a babysitter?! What do I do. Simple. Drop your kids off from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Color Me Mine for a pajama and painting party. The nice people at Color Me Mine will not only watch your kids, but they'll feed them pizza and help them make pottery too. It's really a win-win for everyone. It's $10.00 per half-pint and that price includes the price of pottery. I know, there's no need to thank me. I'm here for you.

 

-Tyra

Related Tag: Boulder



Germaphobe

Posted on April 12, 2011

We've all been there. Elbow deep in kleenex riddled with nasty green and yellow goo; praying that the threatening on-set of another sneeze attack will de-escalate on its own. We've all promised everything from giving up swearing, to our first-born, in exchange for one blissful hour that isn't spent expeling  the tiny amount of chicken noodle soup and cherry 7-up that we've managed to consume. Being sick-- sucks. (I'm not too fond of the person that got me sick either). I spent the entire weekend held hostage by the flu, stuck in my apartment with all of the blinds drawn, the phone on silent, and fort-like set up of all of the "sick" necessities strewn around my pillow filled couch. Thankfully it fake-snowed in Boulder over the weekend-- fake-snow on my free days makes me feel better about missing out on all of the outdoor activities that Boulder has to offer.

Luckily, I'm feeling better and am no longer a walking ball of germs. I've been following the Doctor's orders and doing things like taking Vitamin C, drinking lots of liquids, and avoiding children at all costs. (Children are carriers of all things "sick"). Feeling better means I get to partake in the events going on in Downtown this week, which is great, because this week happens to be a pretty outrageous week in event world in Downtown Boulder. So big that this blog post is going to have to be a two-parter! So keep reading for events going on this week, and stay tuned for my next post, specifically about the awesomeness that will be this Friday, April 15, 2011.

This Wednesday brings the Communikey Festival to Boulder. If you're into bright lights and shiny things, this event is for you. Communikey is a Boulder-based interdisciplinary organization dedicated to social, cultural, and ecological innovation through creative process. The CMKY festival features live music, workshops, discourse, dancing, live cinema, art exhibitions, and installations at a range of venues throughout Boulder. 
Click here for more details on Communikey.

Wednesday also brings one of my favorite events of the week. Every Wednesday, of every week, Centro plays host to "date night" that includes Centro Paella for two along with a bottle of wine. I like this event, because although I am a single, I can eat and drink like a double... so I'm considering cutting back on the carbs this week to leave room in my stomach for all of that yummy paella (and as much of that bottle of wine that I can handle). That's right. Score one more for the UnCouple.

Saturday brings the highly anticipated Boulder County Farmers' Market. Since I still have not been able to attend the center of all things local, organic, delicious, but miss the sample-filled goodness that is the  Farmers' Market, the words "highly anticipated" are absolutely appropriate here.

Saturday also brings "Dansko Day" at the Pedestrian Shops. Who has two thumbs and wants to save up to 30% on all Danskos (and clogs) AND get a free gift with each Dansko purchase? This girl. It might be wise for those of you planning on hitting the Farmers' Market, to make a stop at the Pedestrian Shops and pick up a pair of comfy Danskos to carry you through a day of #BoulderGrocereyShopping.

And last but definitely not least: What better way to end your week then a beer dinner from the creative mind of Chef Theo Adler, at The Pinyon in Downtown's beautiful East End, Sunday night. The Pinyon is pairing up with Boulevard Brewing for a six-course beer with the best of the best from Boulevard and delicious items from The Pinyon kitchen. The dinner is $60 per person which is so reasonable for the menu being offered, that you should probably take the Pinyon up on their offer and make reservations ahead of time.

And that's only the tip of the iceberg! Stay tuned for Part II of the Awesome April Events Blog Post.

-Tyra

Related Tag: Boulder



Welcome to the Neighborhood!

Posted on April 8, 2011

The past few months have brought some amazing new businesses to Downtown Boulder, including an addition to the Frasca franchise, a sinful, and dangerously located Steve Madden store, the sister spin-off of Ozo Coffee and a new restaurant best known for it's fried chicken (The Pinyon).  All of these new additions to and around "the bricks" add delicious depth to Boulder's culinary scene as well as a stylish depth to shoe closets throughout the area. (Author's Note: The average Boulder woman's closet typically consists of: 3/4 specialty outdoor shoes (climbing, hiking, biking, and running shoes-- or in my case, softball cleats) to 1/4 function shoes [from 'functioning' birkenstocks and danskos -- to 'for a function' stilettos, pumps and wedges]. Rest easy-- all of these shoes co-mingle safely in this environment).

While all of the new additions are thriving and earning a lot of accolades and great local and national press-- one recent Downtown Boulder addition has been slyly flying under the radar since opening in the West End three weeks ago.

Piece, Love & Chocolate is one of those quaint shops that you can't help but stop in when strolling along Pearl Streets often forgotten West End neighborhood. It's the kind of shop with the kind of owner that welcomes you at the door-- in a sleek black apron with hints of the morning's creations speckled on the front; and it's the kind of shop that a customer rarely leaves without making a purchase. Piece, Love & Chocolate is the brain-child of self-proclaimed, "Madame Chocolat", Sarah Amorese, a Professional Chocolatier and Pastry Chef. Sarah's vision is backed by a team of friendly, hard-working, inviting women and one temperamental rotating display case. The shop is home to a beautifully adorned displays, full of the any kind of chocolate that you could imagine; shaped into playful animals, yummy truffles and beautifully decorated tortes and cakes. There's definitely a little something for everything in the store, including a selection of hot chocolate and coffee beverages, chocolate spa items created exclusively for PLC, and cute gifts and special occasion cards adorned with sweet recipes.

Now what I'm about to say, may come as a bit of a shock to you. I... don't like chocolate. White-chocolate is pretty tolerable, but any other item that falls in the chocolate family--isn't really my idea of a good time. So why write a blog post about a chocolate shop? because it's not just the products being sold within a shop that intrigues me. It's the inviting atmosphere, the warm and smiley staff, eager for me to sample the the concoctions that they are so proud of, and the idea that girl-power and DIY small business models are still thriving to this day.

The official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony is set for Thursday, April 28, 2011 at 4:00 p.m. Be there... or be really jealous of all of the other people that attend.

Happy sugar coma-ing Boulder. May Piece, Love & Chocolate be with you all.

-Tyra

Related Destinations: Frasca Food & Wine, Ozo Coffee, Piece, Love & Chocolate, Pizzeria Locale, Steve Madden

Related Tag: Boulder



Fairies, Flowers & Food

Posted on April 6, 2011

Open-toe shoes. I wore open-toe shoes last weekend, and it was awesome! Springtime and happy weather have finally found Boulder, and not a moment too soon. Last weekend kicked off the Boulder County Farmers' Market, bringing in the "cream of crop" to Downtown Boulder. Over 100 vendors set up their vibrant colored, delicious smelling booths in Downtown Boulder, selling everything from fresh veggies, to umm... fresh meat, wine and various other products that Boulderite's pack their pantries and fridges with. While the first Saturday of the Farmers' Market is one of the most favorite outdoor events in Boulder, spring also kicks off a slew of popular, outdoor events, hosted by Downtown Boulder Inc.

The Tulip Fairy makes her grand entrance during the Tulip Fairy and Elf Parade, on April 23rd -- leading a parade of fairies and elves around Pearl St. to spread a little fairy love, welcome spring to Boulder, and most importantly, wake up the tulips. After all, tulips are the official flower of Pearl St. On this day, Pearl St. fills up with tiny little fairies and elves with tiny little wings and tiny, little pointy ears. And it's not just the half-pints that are getting in on the dress-up action-- turns out, it's also appropriate for adults to dress up in tights, and don the glittery garb for the afternoon too. (No joke. I don't make the rules people, I just write about the people that are brave enough to create them.) Check out these awesome event pics from last years parade, and be sure to have all of the sequins sewn on your costume by the 23rd.

May 1st is the date to mark on your calendars for the Taste of Pearl event, featuring food provided by some of Boulder's top restaurants. Attendees will spend the afternoon strolling in and out of participating retail shops in Downtown Boulder while sampling tasty creations from restaurants such as: The Black Cat, Frasca Food and Wine, Salt Bistro, Brasserie Ten Ten, The Med, and several other Downtown restaurants that give Boulder the top-notch, foodie status that we hold today. Tickets are on sale now, and a portion of the proceeds from the events will benefit The Emergency Family Assistance Association. (Note: This is not a time to procrastinate people. Tickets for this event are only $52.80, which is a steal for this event. Purchase your tickets now, and don't miss this event).

June 15th kicks off the 14th year of DBI's Bands on Bricks series. If you've strolled down Pearl St. on a Wednesday night, chances are you've seen the white tent, and the stage set up with music notes floating in the summer breeze from the likes of some of the best musicians along the Front Range. What could make a beautiful Saturday afternoon better than crusin' Pearl St., and listening to some tunes by some amazing local artist? What's that? Did someone in the back say a cold, frosty beer? Fair enough. This year, the typically "dry" event is allowing beer, and local craft beer to boot. Now you can enjoy an adult beverage while doing all that other fun stuff that I just mentioned. Sound like a fantastic Saturday afternoon in Downtown Boulder to me. Check BandsontheBricks.com on April 15 to see this year's musical line-up.

I know, I know-- I don't even have to tell you be sure to spend some time in Downtown this spring.. You already know. :)

-Tyra

Related Destinations: Black Cat, Brasserie Ten Ten, Frasca Food & Wine, The Mediterranean, Salt the Bistro

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Restaurants, Shopping



Coffee on the Brain

Posted on March 25, 2011

Last week, my calendar told me that it is officially spring time here in beautiful Boulder, CO. I don't know about you, but I associate spring with the sound of birds chirping, the smell of fresh flowers, and a canvas of blue stretching across the sky over my head. Even though my calendar promised me all of these things, during this time when March begins to fade into April, "spring time", in my world, has mostly been left to my imagination. Instead of chirping birds, and sunshine, Mother Nature has only blessed Boulder with the sounds of eerie whistling brought on by the winds that have been ripping through town along with little bits of snow and frost on my car in the mornings and fake-outs in the form of early morning sunshine, followed by afternoons and nights filled with stormy clouds that seem to pop-up out of their hiding places behind the mountains sometime around mid-morning. Not cool, not cool at all Mother Nature. So as the chilly temps, and the threat of snow and rain showers continue through mid-week, I've assembled a list of my favorite coffee shops that will be more than happy to make you a hot beverage to warm you up while you sit back and wait for the real spring fever to hit Downtown.

1.) The Cup- The perfect place to not only grab a cup of killer, fair-trade coffee, but to also grab some lunch. I've stuffed my face with their turkey and avocado bagel sandwich (hold the tomatoes please) on many occasions. Delicious. Say hi to owners, Wendy and Chris before you leave.

2.) Bookend Espresso- This is where I head to not only fuel up when my energy levels are on empty, but where I go with the best intentions of 'getting stuff done'. Mid-morning is the perfect time to grab a flavored latte, and post up at a table in the back of the cafe. While my intentions are good, my productivity levels usually takes back seat to all of the fantastic people watching that Bookend's placement on the mall has to offer.

3.) The Laughing Goat- Best place to get coffee at night. With live music or poetry readings every night of the week, this is the place for the thirsty night-owl to visit.

4.) Atlas Purveyors- If you're more of a tea person, check in here. Atlas offers a variety of tea, and won't judge you for ordering tea in a coffee joint. (I can't make that same promise...). And if you're a tweeting twitterer, be sure to follow @atlaspurveyors. They keep all of their customers up to date with new menu items and the different specials that they offer throughout the week.

5.) The Unseen Bean- Worth the squeeze. The Unseen Bean may be tiny, but it's worth shuffling around their store for a breakfast egg and cheese bagel. Extremely yummy in my tummy. They also offer BREGGO's, which, paired with a creme brulee latte, is pretty much the key to my happiness on a Monday morning.

6.) Ozo Coffee- Back in the day, when East Boulder used to be my stomping ground for work, I frequented the Ozo Coffee Shop on Arapahoe and 55th(ish)... and by 'frequented', I mean 'visited' Monday-Friday. Since I now call Downtown Boulder my (work) home, you can imagine how happy I am that Ozo followed suit, (stalkers...) and set up shop Downtown as well. Fabulous coffee, plenty of seating and room, and really pretty latte art. (Don't judge me. You know those pretty little flowers and designs in your coffee add a little bit of happiness to your day!).

And last but not least:

7.) Starbucks- This is where you'll typically find an open seat, a fast line, and dirty stares from locals when you leave with you're logoed Starbucks cup in tow. While I am a loyal, loyal customer to each and every barista at each of the coffee shops listed above, I must remain friendly with the place that introduced me to Pumpkin Spice lattes. #sobusted

 

-Tyra

Related Destinations: Atlas Purveyors, The Cup - Espresso Cafe, Laughing Goat Coffeehouse, Ozo Coffee, Starbucks Coffee, The Unseen Bean

Related Tags: Boulder, Coffee



Musically Inclined

Posted on March 22, 2011

When we hear the words "live music" in Boulder, we typically tend to think of only two venues: The Boulder Theater, and The Fox. Let's be honest, these two venues bring in some pretty awesome talent on a regular basis-- (like Ice Cube at the Boulder Theater last month, and Atmosphere at the Fox in May); but these two  aren't the only local hot spots for live music. Several of Downtown Boulder's bars, restaurants and coffee shops are throwing themselves into Boulder's music scene as well. Whether you seek a quiet evening of dignified jazz, dig the jam band scene, or feel like dusting your glowstick off for some DJ beats and mmmcha mmmcha sounds, check out these other musically inclined businesses in Downtown Boulder.

Relaxed, Comfy Music- Just because it's the weekend, and you feel like briefly hittin' the town, but aren't looking to get too crazy-- doesn't make you a loser... it makes you a grown up. And grown ups head to places like the St. Julien, Cuvee, Music at the Mezz at the Hotel Boulderado and Saxy's Cafe, to catch some tunes that are relaxed, in an environment  that doesn't force you to scream when you break the news to your friends that you have to leave because it's past your bedtime.

Jammy-Jam Bands- Being a product of the original Oskar Blues Grill and Brew in Lyons, I got pretty familiar with the local music scene in Boulder County. (The kind of music you'd tune into when you pass through Lyons, and turn your radio station to Redstone Radio). Whether it be bluegrass, blues, rock, "American-Songbook" (whatever genre that is...), or some good old fashion rockabilly, Boulder has a dedicated group of local musicians that frequent the music scene in the Downtown area. To catch the soulful tunes and jammy-jam jams of local artists like Wendy Woo, George Nelson, Pete Kartsounes, Ash Ganely and Interstate Stash Express, head to the Ribhouse, Lazy Dog, the West End Tavern, The Laughing Goat and the Conor O'Neils. Conor's even offers a bluegrass pick... and we all know how the people of Boulder feel about bluegrass.

Mmmcha, Mmmcha Beats- If loud music, hipster beats and flashing lights is more you're thing, check out Tahona and the Absinthe House. Both places have DJ's on the weekend and usually have a packed dance floor. High energy, dim lighting and mmcha mmcha beats. Get some.

Vain Music- If nothing that I've listed above sounds like your thing, then get out there and make some sweet music of your own. The Cup, Johnny's Cigar Bar, and the Pearl St. Pub all offer Open Mic nights throughout the week. And if you feel like giving an impromptu performance for your adoring fans, Sushi Zanmai and Catacombs both offer karaoke nights. Karaoke is basically a seven letter words that means 'humiliation', but that's why only places that serve booze offer it.

So there you have it. Next time the show you were going to see at the Boulder Theater sells out, check out one of the venues listed above for your contingency plan.

Rock on Boulder,

-Tyra

Related Destinations: Boulder Absinthe House, Boulder Theater, The Catacombs, Conor O'Neill's Irish Pub & Restaurant, The Cup - Espresso Cafe, Cuvee, Hotel Boulderado, Johnny's Cigar Bar, Laughing Goat Coffeehouse, The Rib House, St. Julien Hotel and Spa, Sushi Zanmai, Tahona Tequila Bistro, West End Tavern

Related Tags: Boulder, Bars



Fashion Hits the Flatirons

Posted on March 3, 2011

Thursday|March 10| 7:30 P.M.

Bright, flashing lights, red carpets, wafer thin Kate Moss look a-likes running around in high end, expensive clothing that most people wouldn't be caught dead wearing in public... That's the kind of fashion show you might catch in N.Y., L.A. or Paris-- but here in Boulder, we do things a little, a lot differently! On March 10th, at The Boulder Theater, DBI will be bringing the flashing lights and red carpets to Boulder, but we're leaving out the itsy bitsy models, and replacing them with everyday, active people, rockin' style looks from nineteen different retail shops in the Downtown area. This means that ALL of the clothing being modeled in the show is acceptable to wear in public, and any pointing or staring you might get while walking the streets of Boulder, either means that your fly is down, or you have a large string of toilet paper hanging from your shoe. If the excitement of being at a fashion show, and previewing new looks isn't enough for you, I've put together 5 more reasons to entice you to buy your tickets today, and mark next Thursday night as busy on your calendars!

1.) Food. Along with the array of Downtown Boulder retail shops participating in the event, six of Boulder's hottest restaurants will also be providing food for the event. So, purchasing any one of the three ticket options offered not only gets you into the fashion event of the season (in Boulder), but also gets you dinner for the night, made up of selections from Aji, Japango, Jill's, Pizzeria Locale, Dish and Leaf.

2.) Reason number two, is perhaps the most important reason to attend the event. As if a night of gourmet food and mountain glamor isn't enough, All Fashion Under the Flatirons attendees will receive a 20% off savings card to be used at ALL of the retail businesses and restaurants featured in the event. (Offer valid March 11-13). That's 20% savings at twenty-seven different businesses in Downtown Boulder.

3.) Unlike most fashion shows, this one features looks for just about everyone. Whether you're a grown fashionista looking to add some depth to your shoe closest, or a mini fashionista searching for your first pair of Jackie O shades, there is something for you. The guys can chose for the latest tees and vees in TopoRanch line, and for the teenage boys that are just "too cool" for fashion shows-- Volcom is a participating retail shop. All athletes can pick up some new apparel from Full Cycle and Outdoor Divas, and anyone can take advantage of the discounts that Paul Morrison Colours and Vodoo Hair Lounge are offering.

4.) It's an event that's friendly on your wallet. Starting ticket prices for the show are:$35.00 and that price gets you general admission to the show and free reign to the delicious food provided at the event. The $50.00 price gets your reserved seating, food, one drink ticket, and a coveted VIP bag. And for the low price of $75.00, you get the VIP treatment which includes: reserved center seating, delicious food, VIP service (a mini-makeover and hair styling), a drink ticket and a VIP bag.

5.) As if it's not cool enough that the Downtown Boulder community is coming together to create this fashion show, 50% of net proceeds for the event will benefit There With Care, a Boulder organization committed to helping children and families facing critical illnesses.

So there you have it. Five reasons that Fashion Under the Flatirons is not to be missed. For more info on the event, visit boulderdowntown.com, and be sure to check out photos from last year's event. I'll be seeing YOU, Downtown.

~Tyra

Related Destinations: Aji, Boulder Theater, Dish Gourmet, Full Cycle, Japango, Jill's at St. Julien Hotel, Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant, Outdoor Divas, Paul Morrison Colours Ltd., Pizzeria Locale, Volcom, Voodoo Hair Lounge

Related Tag: Boulder



Diskinected

Posted on March 1, 2011

This could be you!!

Sometimes, during the cold and snowy winter months, we get a case of the "winter blues". (I'm pretty sure that is the correct technical term for it). On the days that "dumping snow" is an understatement, I-70 is too jammed to even bother strappin' your board or skis into your Thule and making the trek to the mountains, and those loathsome chinook winds race down the Flatirons, antagonizing our peaceful city-- we are forced to spend time inside. We play video games (like kinect...), or board games. We watch movies, we incessantly check the weather channel for a sign of that tiny, dancing sun they put up on the screen. We become indoor people. We long for the days of 70 degree weather when we can grab our bikes, our running shoes or our hiking boots, and hit the trails. Days that entice us to quit our work day early so we can get first dibs on a seat for happy hour at one of Downtown Boulder's many outdoor patios. I'm a huge outdoor aficionado. I'm pretty sure they don't make a cure for the case of the "winter blues" that I get.

So, with spring just around the corner, I'd like to take this time to amp everyone up and get everyone excited for the great weather, the upcoming outdoor activities and fill you in on some of the best places in Downtown to fuel up, or grab a rewarding alcoholic beverage after a hard day of living the Boulder Dream. Cheers everyone. May the first day of Spring come quickly and last long.

1.) Bicycles. It's Boulder, just about everyone has one. Whether you're an advanced rider or just joining the Thursday night cruiser ride be sure to get your tune ups, get schooled on the art of biking or take advice from Full Cycle in the East End, or University Bikes in the West End. Both places offer really great expertise and training advice. If you don't have a bike, and aren't really sure about buying one, both have a variety of bikes for different uses that they rent out.

2.) Being an outdoor enthusiast is fun, and dressing the part is essential. Right now, I'm fairly obsessed with some of the clothes and accessories that PrAna has in their store. Walking by their shop everyday is a little less like window shopping, and more like window stalking. It's a tough job spending my non-existent paycheck on fun clothing to fuel my outdoor obsessions... but someone has to keep this economy moving. I'm also a huge fan of Outdoor Divas. I just picked up my first pair of climbing shoes from their store. (Great shoes, great price!). Super excited about my shoes, but was even more excited to walk around the mall with my Outdoor Divas logoed bag. (The bag screams, "That's right, I'm a woman, and an athlete and an outdoor lover, yet still incredibly sassy chic...See this bag? Yeah that's right. Who wants some?").

3.) Since it's not quite Spring yet, get your train on at One Boulder Fitness, and get yourself ready for those long bike rides or grueling marathon runs. One Boulder Fitness offers dance classes, yoga classes, cycling classes, ab-lab classes, kick-boxing classes and even ski conditioning classes. However, they do not offer etiquette classes-- that's just something you'll have to learn on the trail.

4.) After a morning filled with some sun-loving, trail cruising and calorie burning -- fuel back up with a killer omelette from Foolish Craig's.  They serve breakfast till 5:00 p.m., and have nine delicious omelets to chose from, along with lots of other nosh-worthy breakfast and lunch items. The Mexicali Blues omelette has powered me through many a Sunday afternoon.

5.) One word. Patio. What better way to soak in the beautiful Colorado sun, than by posting up on a patio Downtown and enjoying an adult beverage.. or two, sometimes three... but hey, it's the weekend. Don't judge me. Boulder Cafe, Bacaro, The Lazy Dog, Centro... Patios. Mmmm. Whether it's a rooftop patio, or a patio that gives you a front row seat to some of the best people-watching ever, it's definitely the place to be on a sunny Colorado afternoon. Sandals and shades permitted, but sandals with socks are not. Here's a full list for your perusal.

So, as the season of powder and snow days comes to an end, and the season of high temps and dancing suns commences... ask yourself this.

Are you ready for Spring, Boulder?

-Tyra

Related Destinations: Bacaro Venetian Taverna, Boulder Cafe, Centro Latin American Kitchen & Refreshment Palace, Foolish Craig's Cafe, Full Cycle, Lazy Dog Sports Bar & Grill, Outdoor Divas, prAna, University Bicycles

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Shopping



Non | Profit

Posted on February 22, 2011

What a wonderful weekend!

I took my own advice and spent the majority of my weekend indulging around Downtown Boulder. Had a few well-deserved margs at Tahona, celebrated a friend's birthday with a turtle sundae (chocolate sauce on the side) at Boulder Cafe and snuck a little writing and good coffee in at The Cup. Pretty awesome. But the highlight of my weekend was crossing an item off of my bucket list by buying a ticket to see a film at The Boulder International Film Festival.

On Saturday night, I sat down in a pew at the First United Methodist Church and watched as the images of the film, "Hand Held" flashed across the screen. The film paints a pretty vivid picture of the devastating pediatric AIDS crisis that hit the children of  Romania in the late 80's/early 90's. The hero of the film is Mike Caroll, a photo-journalist with a bleeding heart  from New England, who is so affected by the horror and devastation he encounters inside of  the poverty stricken and highly infected orphanages in Romania, that he creates Romanian Children's Relief to offer whatever help and connections he can, to the sick children on the other side of his camera lens. Caroll's philosophy follows the idea that one person can't change the world, but a lot of people working toward one common goal, can. So having been inspired by the message of this film, I'd like to inspire you-- people of Boulder, and give you the low-down on some great upcoming events and organizations in Downtown Boulder, that you can support locally and do your part make a difference.

1.) Downtown Boulder Inc., is our non-profit organization that is committed to supporting other local non-profits, while promoting Downtown businesses. Fashion Under the Flatirons, on March 10, is one of DBI's events held each year with 50% of net proceeds from the event benefiting There With Care. The fashion show features clothing, shoes and accessories from many downtown merchants as well as drinks and appetizers from several downtown restaurants. Get your tickets now at the Boulder Theater. (To check out other upcoming Downtown Boulder Events, visit www.boulderdowntown.com).

2.) Dining out Days is a unique fundraiser for Boulder County Aids Project beginning on March 1, at Sushi Tora,  with 15% of  dinner sales for that evening being donated to BCAP. Dining Out Days will continue once a month in through 2011, with participating restaurants including: The West End Tavern,  Black Cat and Tahona, each donating  aportion of their dinner sales for one night. 

3.) On March 11, at 6:00 p.m. at the Boulder Arts and Crafts Co-Op, The Carriage House and Community Table has organized an art show to showcase work by The Carriage House Art Therapy Group, a group of homeless artists that meet once a week at the shelter. The artwork will be for sale, with all proceeds going to The Carriage House and Community Table.

4.) This March is the 13th Annual Oyster Month at Jax Fish House, with tons of great specials and fun events like an oyster eating contest and a five course shell dinner. Oyster Month benefits EFAA, (Emergency Family Assistance Association), a Boulder organization that assists families, people with disabilities and seniors meet their basic needs.

And these are just a few ways to help out. Other Downtown organizations such as Parenting Place, the YWCA, Bikes Belong, BMoCA and eTown also need support--whether it be donating items, money or simply donating your time-- help is always appreciated.

So I leave you with this, people of Boulder: While I still urge you to get down with the get down, and get yourselves to Downtown...consider making March the month that you visit Downtown for a good cause. Check out the different events going on and find out which of your favorite retail shops and restaurants are doing their part to support local non-profit organizations. It'll be good for your conscience and your karma, which will make you forget what it's doing to your waistline and wallet. 

Love, Peace, and Energy Star Fluorescent Light, 

-Tyra 

Related Destinations: Bikes Belong, Black Cat, Boulder Arts & Crafts Gallery, Boulder Cafe, Boulder County AIDS Project, Boulder Theater, Community Foundation Serving Boulder County, The Cup - Espresso Cafe, etown, First United Methodist, Jax Fish House, Parenting Place, Sushi Tora, Tahona Tequila Bistro, West End Tavern, YWCA of Boulder County

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Art, Shopping



Sunny with a Chance of: Rain, Snow, Wind and (Turkey) Meatballs

Posted on February 18, 2011

Happy Friday Boulder!

 

I love Fridays! Friday justifies having to sally through every other day of the week. I'm spending this Friday sipping Chai, writing and people-watching from my window seat at the Bookend Espresso Cafe. (I feel very Carrie Bradshaw-ish!). It's currently 45 degrees and sunny, and Pearl St. is a-hopping with festival goers, DiMe attendees and Boulderites. The weather is perfect for a little window shopping on the mall, a bike ride to Lyons or for stalking James Franco. (Disclaimer: I have not, nor am I currently stalking the actor. It's one of those things that sounds like a good idea, until you're sitting in a jail cell, explaining to a large woman dressed in flannel that it was purely coincidental that you happened to be in the men's bathroom at the Boulder Theater at the same time as Mr. Franco).

But as we all know, Colorado weather is pretty indecisive and though it's beautiful outside this afternoon, my sources tell me that it's just a teaser, and snow showers will be moving in over the weekend. (Note: My main source for weather information is the tingling that I get in my right knee when the weather is changing. It started after I had my ACL repaired, and it's been a pretty reliable source of information. And by pretty reliable, I'd say I have about a 58% success rate at predicting the weather-- not too shabby). Weather reports show that Saturday will be like the poor kid whose parents are getting divorced and can't decide which one to live with. The morning/afternoon weather will be sunny,  with a high of 55 degrees, and night will bring a 30% chance of waterworks. So,  with all of that information, and everything going on Downtown over the next three days, I've put together a few ideas for things to do this weekend:

1.) First of all, there are still seats available for the Wine Dinner at Frasca Food and Wine tonight. Four course dinner menu, paired with Zidarich wines. Super classy, super delicious. Check it out. Say to Hi to Bobby S. for me.

2.) The Indulgers, a Celtic Rock band from Boulder,  will be playing at Connor O'Neils on Friday night @ 10:00 p.m. Hear them out.

3.) BIFF. Saturday night has a pretty awesome film line-up, including, "Hand Held"-- A film that a great friend of mine, and the Community Outreach Coordinator at BCAP will be introducing. Also, "The Labyrinth" and "One-Thousand Pictures" both look like pretty awesome documentaries. Check them out.

4.) Downtown Boulder's Mid-Winter Sidewalk Sale is happening February 19 - 21(also known as Saturday through Monday). This year, DBI has partnered with BIFF and just showing your BIFF pass, or ticket stub will get you some awesome discounts and freebies at over twenty different Downtown Boulder retailers and restaurants. For instance,  Antica Roma is offering a complimentary glass of Prosecco or tiramisu with any entree purchase. The Rio has a free $5.00 marg and a cup of green chile soup for BIFF attendees. Take 40% off all winter accessories and 30% of selected clothing at Blue Skies. Receive 15% off your purchase at Weekends... the list goes on. Definitely check it out.

5.) Cheer yourself up from Sunday's gray skies by catching a movie at the St. Julien. This Sunday's movie is Breakfast at Tiffanys. If Audrey Hepburn doesn't make you smile, then the cocktails you'll be sippin' on while you're watching... will. Smile it out.

If you don't spend at least one day Downtown this weekend-- you'd better have a pretty good reason.

Acceptable reasons: You're hitting the slopes. You don't live in Colorado. You got busted stalking James Franco, and are sitting in a BoCo jail cell-- in which case I can offer you about twenty dollars towards your bail.

So come to Downtown this weekend, Boulder. Drinks are on me. :)

- Tyra

Related Destinations: Antica Roma, Boulder County AIDS Project, Boulder Theater, Conor O'Neill's Irish Pub & Restaurant, Frasca Food & Wine, Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant, St. Julien Hotel and Spa, Weekends

Related Tags: Boulder, Restaurants, Shopping, Fridays



BIFF- B(efore) I F(ind) F(ranco) Week!

Posted on February 16, 2011

It's BIFF week! For those of you who know me well, BIFF week is not a week in which I reflect on all of the klutzy accidents and falls that I've had over time -- it's the week of the Boulder International Film Festival and it's taking over Downtown. Thursday, February 17th kicks off BIFF with the Opening Night Gala complete with a rolled-out red carpet, wine by Francis Ford Coppola, food by the Big Red F group and chocolate by chocolatier, Seth Ellis. Sounds like my kind of party!

Not only will the streets of Downtown Boulder be filled with famous directors, producers, screen writers, film makers and hard core film connoisseurs... but, as some of you may have heard, James Franco is in town. The James Franco. The man who (through his work): defined pot-smokers for a whole new generation, cut off his own arm after a freak accident in the desert, spent some time in San Francisco getting cozy with Sean Penn and tamed a massive grizzly bear in his free time... (as you can see in the above photo). Let the stalking begin ladies. Be sure to keep a camera, a sharpie, and an item of appropriate (or inappropriate) clothing on hand at all times. Tickets for BIFF's, "A Conversation with James Franco" have already sold out, which means the women of Boulder will have to rely on a "chance" encounter with James. Be sure to keep a watch out at The Pinyon, Pizzeria Locale, SALT, and other up-and-coming restaurants in Boulder's foodie scene for Franco sightings. (The man has to eat while he's in town). Post up in front of Patagonia and the Boulder Army Store to catch a glimpse of the actor buying a down, puffy jacket, a pair of Oakleys or hiking boots, in an attempt to disguise himself in the streets of Boulder. And most importantly, check out BIFF's schedule of events, and buy tickets! You never know, you might end up sitting next to the Oscar winner himself.

So I leave you, people of Boulder, on the eve of BIFF, with a little poem I've created-- derived solely from and inspired by this year's film titles.

Happy Biff-ing Boulder.

We'll be in touch soon.

The Woman with 5 Elephants,
Punching the Clown Into Eternity.
Armadillo, Nostalgia for Light.
Mama's and Papa's Crazy Wisdom, Wasteland.
For Once in My Life,
When the Dragon Swallowed the Sun: The Last Lions, Sarah's Key, The First Grader...
Hand Held The Flaw.
The Green Wave, The Labryinth of One-Thousand Pictures-- These Amazing Shows.
A Conversation with James Franco, Illegal-- Regretters.
Midnight Express.
The Last Circus.
Bag it.

 

-Tyra

Related Destinations: Boulder Army Store, Boulder Theater, Patagonia, Inc., Pizzeria Locale, Salt the Bistro

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Festivals



Here's to the Un-Couple!

Posted on February 11, 2011

Yes, people of Boulder, it's that time again. Time to pull the red cardigans and pink dress shirts out of your closets, succumb to the candy industry's bombarding advertising and call up your ex to casually see if they have plans on the 14th... (It's obviously not like you couldn't make plans for that night... but you'd rather pencil them in as a favor. You're a good person like that).

It's Valentine's Day!

A holiday with a half-naked mascot who runs around shooting people and messing  with their love lives. It's a day made for couples -- and proposals, and love and stuff. This week at Downtown Boulder, we put together a Valentine's Day Guide filled with gift ideas, style ideas, and great date ideas... for the couples. So this blog post is dedicated to the un-couple. To the person that scoffs Cupid. The person that refuses to wear red on the 14th, and the person that will probably be attending Connor O'Neil's "Anti-Valentine's Day Bash" on Monday. Here's to you single people of Boulder! Forbes magazine once listed Boulder as the "best city for singles", and it's pretty obvious why. In 2010, Boulder was not only named "brainiest city" but also "healthiest town in the U.S.". Boulder is brimming with smart, attractive people running around in their North Face jackets, and jetting off to Copper and Aspen to ski on the weekends. In the afternoon, they gather at places like the The Cup, where they post up with their laptops and lattes and "work from home". At night, they visit the Mediterranean for happy hour and to share their latest "fresh pow" stories. On the weekends, they meet up at the West End Tavern where they buy each other pints of their favorite local craft beers. So this Valentine's Day, who says that single people can't join in on all of the V-Day fun? Whether you go about your business as usual and hit up downtown for dinner, drinks and dancing this weekend... or decide that the four course dinner menu at the Happy Noodle and Bitter Bar sounds phenomenal... go forth and represent the un-couple! Call up your best friend and make dinner reservations at the Pinyon on Monday night. Drag your single sister with you and visit the "Red Show" at Art and Soul Fine Art and Jewelry. And if you're looking to leave un-couple land, go to the "Single Mingle" Saturday night at the Absinthe House, and who knows... maybe you will meet that special someone. Me? I'll be spending Valentine's Day reverting back to my youth. You can find me gorging myself on white chocolate and sweethearts, making pretty cards out of pink and red construction paper and a glue stick.

So Happy Valentine's Day Boulder!

We'll be in touch soon,

Tyra

Related Destinations: Art & Soul Gallery, Conor O'Neill's Irish Pub & Restaurant, The Cup - Espresso Cafe, West End Tavern

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Singles



"Today Was a Good Day"

Posted on February 8, 2011

Yes Mr. Cube, today was a good day. Today kicked off my second week with Downtown Boulder and I'm so happy that week one is over with. Let me share with you some of the things that I learned during my first week with DBI:

1.) When someone tells you to "save" your work... you save it. Otherwise, you'll finish your first masterpiece blog post, link nearly twenty websites, tags and images -- then somehow manage to completely freeze your computer screen, losing your masterpiece and about two hours out of your day. I mean who does that anyway? (Lesson learned).

2.) If you have any outstanding parking tickets, don't park your car anywhere near downtown Boulder. It's just not a good idea. The City of Boulder Parking Services people will find you. It's like they can smell a fugitive car from a mile away. My fugitive car was parked undercover on the corner of Thirteenth and Pine on Thursday morning, and by Thursday afternoon... well, it wasn't anymore. Pay your parking tickets people!

3.) Marv's Towing only accepts cash. Not checks, not credit cards... just cash. And if you don't have cash, you have to make the ten minute walk over to the Courtyard Marriot where you can use your credit card to get cash from the ATM. Here is where I would like to give a little shout out to the employees at the Courtyard Marriot. Thanks guys, for not judging the soaking wet girl trudging around your hotel in muddy shoes and runny mascara. I really appreciate it.

4.) And lastly, Murphy's Law is real. Anything that can possibly go wrong, probably will. Like after you retype your lost blog, and fix all of the links, and get a ride from the Director of Marketing and Communications (thanks Terri) at your new internship to the towing company to pick up your car that the City of Boulder impounded... it will probably start snowing. Really hard. Like, super big, wet flakes. Then you'll probably have to walk outside in the super big, wet snow flakes along a street without a sidewalk in a pair of super awesome new, cute boots,  across a really busy street to a hotel where you'll have to pull a hundred-dollars out of an ATM machine to take back across the super busy street where cars are splashing water and mud on you,  to give to the super scary lady behind the desk at the towing company. From now on, when one thing goes wrong in my world, I'm giving up, going home and hiding under the covers. Lesson learned.

So here's to a brand new week. Things are lookin' up. Oh, and P.S.- did anyone hear that Ice Cube himself will be playing the Boulder Theater on February 26th? I know right? No joke. Great news, and a good start to the week. I gotta say, today was a good day.

 

Tyra

Related Destination: Boulder Theater

Related Tags: Boulder, Parking, Ice Cube



Learning Curve

Posted on December 15, 2010

Welcome to my final blog post as an intern for Downtown Boulder. 

I've made my fair share of dumb mistakes during my time here, including forgetting my password every other week and retrieving the incorrect envelopes from the post office. There's no doubt that I've had my naive intern moments, but at least Eli got a good laugh out of most of them. 

Of course I plan on using what I have learned about social media and marketing in the future, but it is the little things that you learn in the office that you can take with you no matter where you go.  It's the kind of things that you don't learn in school.  There is no class that teaches you that it costs $3.50 to mail a letter to Luxembourg or how to run a credit card, but now I know. 

I've never had an internship that allowed me, the intern, to make the creative decisions.  I put together the gift guide this year, and I could pick where I went, what I wanted to include, and how I wanted it to look.  And many of my blog posts have been pretty out there, but it's up to me what I want to share with you guys...whether it's about my dating life or finding the best brunch in Boulder.

So as I look back on my time here I can't help but come up with a list of all the little things that I have learned.  So here it is....

Lauren's List of Acquired Knowledge as an Intern at Downtown Boulder

1.  It takes exactly 14 minutes to walk here from my house, 5 minutes if my roommate drops me off.

2. Australia and Sweden are the most expensive places to mail a Downtown Boulder Guide Book.

3.  There are about 156,325 different kinds of envelope/package options at the post office.

4. Roughly 30% of people include their dog when making me write who a Downtown Boulder gift card is from.

5. TweetDeck is by far superior to the normal twitter website.

6. It is nearly impossible to take a picture of a window display without a terrible reflection of myself or the store across the street.

7. "Refine Edges" may be one of the most brilliant options in Photoshop.

8. You can buy the craziest stuff in downtown.  My personal favorites: triangle clocks and porcelain elephants.

9. Emailing the Downtown Boulder Guide saves trees, time and money....but only if you correctly import the contacts

10. I've even learned how to correctly pour a beer at Fall Fest this year.

Eli will be looking for the next intern soon, so stay tuned to the twitter feed.  It really is a great opportunity. You get to work with awesome people and learn a lot while doing it, and there's no running and getting coffee (although there may be a few runs to the post office).  Eli even listens to some decent music, (well most of the time anyway). So this internship comes with the highest recommendation from me, Lauren, the dateless-unathletic-brunch eating-app downloading intern.

Over and out.

-Lauren

Related Tag: Boulder



Real World--Boulder

Posted on December 6, 2010

Seven days.

I have seven days before I am officially thrust from the college life into  the real world. It has been a long time coming, but now that it is here, I'm starting to get a little nervous.  My biggest fear is becoming "that friend." You know who I'm talking about.  Everyone knows that one person who doesn't have a job and spends his or her day lounging around the house and rarely wearing real clothes.  They claim that they are "looking for a job" or "just taking some time off" but after a month, I'm sorry, but that excuse is EXPIRED.

I hate having the conversation about my future with all my various relatives.  When they realize I don't even have a vague idea about what I am doing after graduation I get a judgmental "hmmmm" followed by "well, I'm sure you'll find something."  And I WILL find something.

So I have begun my job search.  I have four different versions of my resume and can whip out a cover letter in no time. My game plan: apply to every PR/advertising/communications/marketing/social media job in the Denver metro area until someone will pay me to show up everyday. So if anyone is hiring, I promise I would be a great employee!

Although a few weeks of doing whatever I want, when I want does sound pretty appealing.  I could finally organize my iTunes, spend my day pursing Urban Outfitters for the perfect cardigan, and catch up on my trashy daytime TV.  I could also spend my day sipping coffee while reading books in the Boulder Book Store.

So before I stress too much about this I'm going to enjoy the perks that come with graduating: The parents are coming into town and that means dinner and drinks are on them, I'm thinking happy hour at Boulder Cafe, (meaning cheese fondue and wine). Maybe my mom will take me grocery shopping when she sees that I primarily live off of oatmeal and yogurt.  And if you need a recent college grad at your business, just email me here. I'll have to time to answer...

 

-Lauren

Related Tag: Boulder



Unathleticism

Posted on December 3, 2010

It's no secret that I love my couch, I probably spend more time with it  than I do either of the roommates. I do however, on occasion, pry myself off the couch and try to do something active.

Since I have started living in Boulder I care more about organic food, and I now own an alpaca sweater and hippie shoes. You would think that Boulder would have rubbed off on me in the athletic department. After all, Boulder was named one of the best running cities in America and best cities for outdoor enthusiasts within the past year.

I have never EVER been described as athletic. In fact when I was in middle school I worked out a deal with Peter, one the most well-known athletes, that he could play for me every time I was up to play whatever team sport our gym teacher was forcing us to take part in that day. That way I would spend the whole period sitting on the bleachers and Peter the athlete would get to play the whole time, it was a win-win situation.

Everyone in elementary school was on a soccer team at one point or another, but not me. I just didn't understand the appeal.  I never had fun and would just end up sweaty and tired by the end of game. So let's just say that sports were never my cup of tea.

I didn't realize exactly how out of shape I was until last spring break when I went biking with my dad. You know you need to do something about the situation when your 50-something father has to stop and wait for you to catch up.

Now I understand that it is important to exercise and all, but I must be honest, I don't enjoy it. I never did understand those people who go crazy if they miss a day at the gym.

I do try though...honestly.  This last summer I invested in some nice running shoes and started jogging every evening along Boulder Creek. I realized if I was going to own a pair of expensive running shoes (Pedestrian Shops, Shoe Fly, Boulder Army Store). I better use them. It probably wasn't necessary that I bought nice running shoes, a pair from target would have saved me a lot of money. I don't draw my inspiratation from wanting to be healthier or trying to lose weight, but from my over priced running shoes.

After a couple weeks I was able to run a full mile without stopping and wheezing (no I don't smoke, I am just extremely out of shape). I know that pales in comparison to the daily eight miles so many other Boulderites do, but hey you have to start somewhere.

So now I run my whole one mile a few times a week. Maybe all I need is some new workout clothes from Outdoor Divas or Patagonia and I'll be running five miles and climbing fourteeners.

Related Destinations: Boulder Army Store, Boulder Dushanbe Tea House, Outdoor Divas, Patagonia, Inc., Pedestrian Shops

Related Tag: Boulder



Green Fiday and Small Business Saturday

Posted on November 18, 2010

Green Friday

This year, bring yourself Downtown where green is the new black! Join Downtown Boulder as we celebrate Green Friday,the day after Thanksgiving (November 26). Skip the insanity of the malls and big box retailers for the delightfully charming atmosphere of Downtown Boulder. You can shop nearly 200 retailers and galleries and enjoy Winter Sidewalk Sale specials from participating businesses. Find one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list! We encourage you to wear green to show your support for downtown businesses who help make our downtown the best in the country!

Bring your kids for a free visit with Santa himself.  Join us for St. Nick on the Bricks from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Visitor Information Center on the 1300 block of Pearl Street.  While you are here, enjoy a twirl around the ice at the Ice Rink at One Boulder Plaza.

Green Friday is an initiative developed by the Downtown Boulder Business Improvement District. We invite you to visit us throughout the holiday season where you will find that the experience transcends expectation.  Downtown Boulder is an eclectic gathering of  fascinating people and places that is uniquely Boulder – and uniquely downtown. Go Green November 26, 2010!

GoGreenFriday.com
...

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Related Tag: Boulder



Prayer flags and incense

Posted on November 12, 2010

I'll admit it.  I'm a TERRIBLE gift giver.  I've known my best friends for years.  I know some of their deepest darkest secrets, I've seen them take part in terrible fashion fads (don't get me started about one of my friends who wore a Paul Frank shirt everyday for years), I feel like I've seen it all with them.  I can tell you what their drink is at Starbucks and what they will most likely order at any given restaurant.

But when it comes to buying my friends gifts, I'm usually stumped.  I don't know how it's possible to know someone so well, but not be able to pick out a gift for them. I frequently cop out of the whole gift giving situation by getting them a gift card. I drop the line, "this way you can get what you want."  But everyone knows that just means you are too lazy to physically pick out an item. The few times I have ventured into a store and actually purchased a gift it has turned out terribly.  I once gave my friend a snow globe.  A SNOW GLOBE, does anyone actually have use for that!?  The answer is no, but I thought it was brilliant at the time. More......

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Related Destinations: Frasca Food & Wine, Jax Fish House, Old Tibet

Related Tags: Boulder, Restaurants



Like a Chamber of Commerce on Steroids...

Posted on November 10, 2010

No, we're not the City. We actually don't permit the mall, or give parking tickets, or even plant the tulips. We're the merchants' association (Downtown Boulder Inc. ) and the property owners association (the Business Improvement District).  What does that mean though? Basically we're a like a Chamber of Commerce on steroids for this 49 blocks we call Downtown Boulder. We make it a nicer Downtown. And cleaner. And safer too. And we do know who has the answer to whatever question you may have. But let's get one thing clear: we're not the City. If one more person, when I tell them where I work, says "Oh, the City." well, insanity may be my only plea.

We love the City though, we work with them every day and without their support, guidance and innovation we'd probably be leagues away from the standard of excellence we have today. We love Parking Services, Go Boulder, and all of the City departments. We also love the Parks department who does plant ALL those flowers, clear the tons of snow in winter, and keep the lights on and the water running on the Pearl Street Mall (which is actually a City Park). We love the County too, for their Art Deco Courthouse masterpiece and their wonderful lawn that provides a welcome refuge for a sunny day's lunch hour. But we're not the City.

And us, what do we do? Downtown Boulder? Well, we hang banners, we empty the trash, we clean the bathrooms, we run the information center, we put on events, we pay for extra police, we market Downtown, we remove graffiti, we put up free wireless, we host Santa and Munchkin Masquerade, we create visitor guides, we educate the public and our merchants, we run the website, we bring bands to  the bricks, we promote Boulder, we offer research and studies, we produce maps and directories, we put up the Christmas lights, we put on the ArtFair, we help your money stay local, we attract the best businesses to locate downtown, we hold contests, we sell gift cards, we make sure the streets and sidewalks are extra clean, we Twitter, we Facebook, we Foursquare, we provide a voice for the merchants, and we keep Downtown the vibrant heart of Boulder. But we're not the City.

So next time you meet me, or Terri, or Anna, or Sean, Dave, Sue, Matt, or any of our Ambassadors, or see the logo, or hear the name,  you'll know who we are. Cause we're there for you,  to make sure that this area remains the number one destination for visitors and locals. And to make sure that Downtown, in all it's beauty, remains a step above the rest as the place to eat, drink, shop, hang out and take in it's wonders on a daily basis. Cause we're Downtown Boulder.

 

- Eli

Related Destinations: Boulder County Courthouse, City of Boulder Parking Services, Downtown Boulder Business Improvement District, Downtown Visitor Information Center

Related Tag: Boulder



Lauren strikes out again.

Posted on October 28, 2010

I will be the first to admit that I am terrible at dating.  I am guilty of most of the first date faux paus.  I laugh at EVERYTHING. I twirl my hair and giggle like a 13-year-old girl that just met Justin Beiber.  I'm also not that great about meeting a guy in the first place, I actually consider just getting to the first date to be a success.  I have friends that can walk up to a stranger and just start a conversation and then BOOM they have a date for Saturday night.  I,  on the other hand, tend to be painfully shy and awkward. 

I have the terrible habit of thinking that a statement of an obvious fact will turn into a conversation.  In fact, this happened just last weekend at the Sundown Saloon.  With the encouragement of my friends and some liquid courage (approximately 3 vodka crans) I finally stroll over the a guy that I have had my eye on for the evening.  I position myself near him at the bar pretending like I am going to order another drink (little does he know that I only have $2.50 left in my wallet, but I would glady accept a drink from him).  I do one last glance over to my friend sitting in a booth across the bar. They are watching me like I'm a main character of a terrible sitcom and give me the thumbs up motion.

I lean over and say, "Wow, it's really crowded in here."

"Uh, oh, yep."

"Pretty hot too."

I get a nod, not even a verbal confirmation. He orders a Jack and Coke and heads back over to one of the pool tables. And Lauren strikes out again.

I return to the booth defeated.  The conversation quickly turns to Internet dating.  75% of my friends have done or are doing online dating, and they are all under the age of 25.  I always thought online dating was for more of an older crowd, not college students surrounded by thousands of other college students.  When I ask my friends that partake in the online dating thing, they argue that this is where our culture is going.  Everything is becoming digital, and it is only natural that dating become digital as well. 

I have to say I am curious, but not curious enough to actually try it.  Instead I live vicariously through my friends.  I watch the relationship progress from a digital "wink," to an exchange of messages on the dating Website, before I know it they are friends on Facebook, and then a having texting conversations that span the enitre day.  When they finally meet for dinner at Pasta Jay's it is obvious that both people have stalked the other on Facebook, but they go through dinner pretending not to know anything about the other person.

So although I don't have a date Saturday night, I'm not willing to fill out a questionnaire that will connect me to my soul mate.  If online dating is working for you, great, it just isn't my thing. 

If I'm still single in five years, then maybe I'll reconsider. Until then I'll continue to awkwardly approach strangers at a bar.

- Lauren

Related Destinations: Pasta Jay's, Sundown Saloon

Related Tags: Boulder, Bars, Dating



Art > Math

Posted on October 15, 2010

I have always considered myself to be a creative person.  Math and science always has, and always will, make me cringe and feel light headed. I even dread the most basic forms of math, but I have learned to hide my terrible math skills.  At restaurants I whip out my phone and pretend to send an urgent text, little do my friends know that I am actually calculating the tip.

Since I want to vomit at the sight of a chemistry textbook, I have learned to developed an appreciation for art and other creative endeavors. I'm not saying I am a brilliant artist or writer myself, but I can recognize and appreciate a great creation.  In fact my paintings would be really stunning for an eight-year-old, I love color and the objects in the painting are at least recognizable, but that's about it.  Of course my mom supports my bursts of artistic energy and willing hangs any creation of mine around her house.  I pretend not to notice that she strategically places them in places that rarely see any human activity.  I'm sure the four house guests she has had in the past few years have thoroughly enjoyed my green and blue toned painting of mountains and grassy field that is hung in the upstairs guest bathroom.

Although I have accepted that I will not be the next Monet, I am extremely fortunate to live in such an artistic place during my college years.  I enjoy my walk down Pearl Street  into the Downtown Boulder office for this very reason.  As I walk by art galleries, muching on my granola bar, i gaze at the boutique shops with homemade soaps, and musicians.

Only in Boulder will you find a man playing the didgeridoo next to a harp player   at noon on a Wednesday.  These little gems are what make Downtown Boulder such a great place to create and see fantastic art from truly talented artists.  My roommate happens to be one of these talented artist (next time you're at Boulder Baked take a look at the photos on the wall).  And yes, I did just shamelessly plug my roommate on this blog, don't judge.

It also happens to be best time of year in Boulder.  Not only can I wear my awesome brown leather boots, the weather is pleasant and the fall colors are covering the mall. Which is why I am encouraging the roommate to get out the SLR and take some photos of downtown for the photo contest.  You can win a Downtown Boulder gift card that is worth anywhere from $25-$150 and can be used for delicious food or shopping. And I bet if my roommate were to win one she would be so happy that she would take me to dinner at Japango, well I'll at least hope she would.

- Lauren

Related Destinations: Boulder Baked , Japango

Related Tags: Boulder, Art



Apps are promoting my laziness

Posted on October 9, 2010

My couch is one of my favorite places. It has one too many pillows and is well worn from being owned by a college student for the past two years.  And of course it is located right in front of my TV. The middle of the couch is clearly the most popular part, its once white fabric now has a bluish hue from spending countless hours lounging on it in my fabulous dark wash jeans.  Once I plop myself down on this soft piece of heaven, it becomes extremely difficult to pry myself off of it.  I do everything on my couch, I eat, sleep, do homework, browse the web, stalk people of Facebook, and of course download a seemingly endless array of apps to my phone. 

I love the horoscope app.  If my fortune is particularly terrible, I can use it as an excuse not to go to class and remain on my couch reading about the key traits of Cancer.  I can look up movie times on Fandango, while reading tweets from Kanye all while finding out which Starbucks is actually closer to my house (thus minimizing my walking distance for my skinny hazelnut latte).  Before I know it I have spent an hour staring at the little 2" x 4" screen on my phone, and I have worked up quite an appetite.

But since I have spent the better part of my morning nestled comfortably on my couch (aka still in sweats and unshowered),  I'm not about to go walk to a restaurant, wait in line, order, pay, wait for my food and then walk home.  Snarf's is mere steps from my house, and they have an app for my ordering convenience.  I can order my sandwich and pay for it, then pop in like a ninja and grab my sandwich without anyone having to look at my crazy kinked hair and high school hoodie for more than 15 seconds. This would be great, except I don't want a sandwich, I scour Yelp for restaurants near me and read some reviews and look for something that sounds delicious.  Then I find what I have been searching for--Mexican food. 

I want Chipotle, I need Chipotle. I'm craving that corn salsa and chicken, I imagine peeling back the foil to expose the delicious 1 pound of burrito goodness. I quickly type Chipotle into the search bar on my phone and SCORE there is an app.  First it determines which location is closest to me then I can build my own burrito.  I am scrolling through options I have never even considered before...1/2 pinto 1/2 black beans, yes please!  I pay for my customized burrito and save my selection for next time. I think about the cilantro infused rice one more time and the slowly stand up and leave the comfort of my couch and walk the few blocks to Chipotle and hurry back home to play with my new Mad Men app.

-Lauren

Related Destinations: Chipotle Mexican Grill, Starbucks Coffee

Related Tags: Boulder, Apps, Social Media, Restaurants



Signing Off...

Posted on August 30, 2010

As I sit here staring at the chocolate cupcake Eli fetched me from the kitchen this morning, and debate whether to eat it or not, I'm sad it's my last day as communications intern here at Downtown Boulder. No more free Monday morning treats for me. :( Hopefully, I'll be heading into the real world with some sort of brand/design/advertising/social media job, but in reality, I'll probably just intern again. Sigh....

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Related Destinations: Atlas Purveyors, Pizza Colóre

Related Tag: Boulder



Digital Dating

Posted on November 30, -0001

Related Tag: Boulder



My Surrogate Family

Posted on November 30, -0001

Related Tag: Boulder




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