We hope everyone has a safe and Happy New Year!
Falcon Run Apartments
Located in a quiet Englewood, Colorado neighborhood, Falcon Run offers Spacious 1, 2 & 3 bedrooms with the peace and beauty of suburban living and within minutes of the city or the mountains.
Falcon Run Apartments
Falcon Run is a family community, offering all the luxuries you expect plus conveniences close at hand - schools, a park and shopping.
Falcon Run Apartments
We have a great location being on a bus line and close to light rail for easy access to Downtown Denver.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Gifts for the Commuter
Posted by Larimer Associates on 11:08 AM
Do you know somebody that commutes far distances to work everyday?
Making that commute easier could be the best present they could ever ask
for. Here are some great presents for the person that sits in rush
hour traffic most of their mornings and evenings.
1. Noise Silencing Earbuds: Not only to keep yourself entertained, but to drown out the unavoidable noises around you. These are great because the ear buds work like ear plugs, and they even come with an app to use with your smart phone that further silences noises. Etymotic hf5 earphones, $149.
2. Thermos: Coffee is key to being awake by the time I get to work. I've tried several travel mugs, and this one is hands down the best at keeping beverages piping hot for the winter and icy cold in the summer. Klean Kanteen Insulated, $25.95-29.95.
3. A Durable Bag: Because a canvas bag just isn't going to cut it on the floor of a wet train or bus, or outside in nasty weather. Look for a leather, nylon, or waxed canvas bag with a reinforced bottom, or even one with little feet to keep it elevated off the floor. 2Unfold Laptop Bag / Heritage by hard graft, £400.
4. Reusable Bags: I use these all the time for toting stuff back and forth from work. They stash away so easily in my desk drawer or bag, and actually expand to a fairly large capacity. Envirosax, $39.95/set of 5.
5. iPhone/iPad (or other mobile device): If I had to pick one thing that has made my commute more tolerable, it is the invention of mobile devices. I can talk to my mom, browse the web, check email, listen to a podcast, etc. And last year I was gifted an iPad, which even further improved my commute by providing an abundance of reading material without all the weight. iPhone & iPad, prices vary.
6. Touch Gloves: So that you can still use your mobile device without your hands freezing while you're waiting for the train or walking to work! Agloves, $19.99-29.99.
7. Bike Handle: Genius. This handle makes carrying a bike up and down stairs and onto a train so much easier. Bicycle Frame Handle, $38.
8. Boots: Because trudging through the rain and snow is one of the worst parts of commuting. I have a few different boots to wear depending on the weather, but if you're going to pick just one, Hunters are classic, and you can get boot socks to keep your feet warm in the winter. Hunter Boots, $135-225.
9. Lunchbox: This is the one thing I don't actually have, but should. I usually use one of my reusable bags, but they don't do anything to protect from spills, and they definitely don't keep food warm or cold. Something insulated and lightweight that folds up seems ideal. Lunch Tote by BUILT, $24.99.
For more information see Apartment Therapy.
1. Noise Silencing Earbuds: Not only to keep yourself entertained, but to drown out the unavoidable noises around you. These are great because the ear buds work like ear plugs, and they even come with an app to use with your smart phone that further silences noises. Etymotic hf5 earphones, $149.
2. Thermos: Coffee is key to being awake by the time I get to work. I've tried several travel mugs, and this one is hands down the best at keeping beverages piping hot for the winter and icy cold in the summer. Klean Kanteen Insulated, $25.95-29.95.
3. A Durable Bag: Because a canvas bag just isn't going to cut it on the floor of a wet train or bus, or outside in nasty weather. Look for a leather, nylon, or waxed canvas bag with a reinforced bottom, or even one with little feet to keep it elevated off the floor. 2Unfold Laptop Bag / Heritage by hard graft, £400.
4. Reusable Bags: I use these all the time for toting stuff back and forth from work. They stash away so easily in my desk drawer or bag, and actually expand to a fairly large capacity. Envirosax, $39.95/set of 5.
5. iPhone/iPad (or other mobile device): If I had to pick one thing that has made my commute more tolerable, it is the invention of mobile devices. I can talk to my mom, browse the web, check email, listen to a podcast, etc. And last year I was gifted an iPad, which even further improved my commute by providing an abundance of reading material without all the weight. iPhone & iPad, prices vary.
6. Touch Gloves: So that you can still use your mobile device without your hands freezing while you're waiting for the train or walking to work! Agloves, $19.99-29.99.
7. Bike Handle: Genius. This handle makes carrying a bike up and down stairs and onto a train so much easier. Bicycle Frame Handle, $38.
8. Boots: Because trudging through the rain and snow is one of the worst parts of commuting. I have a few different boots to wear depending on the weather, but if you're going to pick just one, Hunters are classic, and you can get boot socks to keep your feet warm in the winter. Hunter Boots, $135-225.
9. Lunchbox: This is the one thing I don't actually have, but should. I usually use one of my reusable bags, but they don't do anything to protect from spills, and they definitely don't keep food warm or cold. Something insulated and lightweight that folds up seems ideal. Lunch Tote by BUILT, $24.99.
For more information see Apartment Therapy.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Denver Broncos Partner Up With The Boys and Girls Club
Posted by Larimer Associates on 10:11 AM
25 Members of the Denver Broncos went Holiday shopping with children from the Boys and Girls Clubs. The boys and girls from ages 8-14 were awarded this prize after having outstanding participation in after-school programs.
Lone Tree, Colo. – Wide receivers Eric Decker
and Demaryius Thomas were joined by a handful of Broncos teammates who helped 25 children cross various presents off their Christmas lists Tuesday night at a local Target. For the third consecutive year, Decker and Thomas rewarded members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver from ages 8 to 14 for outstanding participation in their after-school programs. The prize for their extracurricular activity was a shopping spree to pick out Christmas presents for themselves and their family members.
While many of the kids immediately bee-lined for the video games and toys, others headed to the clothing aisles to pick out pajamas, shirts, and shoes for their siblings and parents. It was an exciting event for everyone involved, as the aisles filled with smiles and laughter throughout the event. And it wasn’t just the children who were enjoying themselves.
“That’s the best part about it,” Decker said of filling up the shopping carts. “They have a wish list they make up, and to kind of knock off one at a time, whether it’s Barbies or it’s Nerf guns, it’s fun to play with them and just enjoy their company.”
Decker was one of a number of Broncos who lent a hand, as he and Thomas were joined by wide receiver Brandon Stokley
, guard Chris Kuper, linebacker Joe Mays, tight end Julius Thomas and safety Mike Adams. “It’s great,” Decker said. “That’s what is so great about this team, is that everybody is willing to give back and give their time. Everybody knows how important family is. The character of this team, it says a lot about the guys that are on the Denver Broncos.”
One player in particular who seemed positively impacted by his interaction with the kids was Thomas, who has long had a connection to the Boys & Girls Club organization.
“Boys and Girls Club was something I grew up around as a kid,” Thomas said. “I never was in it, but players I know from high school that I played basketball with had moms and grandmothers that worked at Boys & Girls Clubs. All the kids, they loved being around other kids. When you have kids that are in the club, the things that they go through, and they meet people like us, football players or anybody else, just meet new people, I think it’s something bright for them. And it’s bright for me, because I get to meet new kids and I love kids. It’s just fun, it puts a smile on my face all the time.”
The children who participated filled their shopping carts with a wide variety of gifts that included basketballs, footballs, video games, headphones, action figures, Broncos clothing, bedroom slippers, CDs by their favorite musicians and DVDs.
Tuesday night’s shopping spree took place just 24 hours after linebacker Wesley Woodyard
hosted the 16Ways Foundation’s Third Annual Toy Drive. And it wasn’t the only event of the evening featuring Broncos players, as cornerback Champ Bailey was hosting the annual Denver Rescue Mission Holiday Party at the same time. The flurry of community activity shows what the Broncos consider their priorities during the holiday season. “It’s important for all of us, that’s why you see so many guys in the community doing things, because we know that family is important, that giving back is important,” Decker said. “If you can just do something like this that puts a smile on a kid’s face, it can make a change in their life. That’s what it’s all about.”
As the evening approached its conclusion, Thomas said that for the third year in a row, he had a blast interacting with the kids who participated. So much so, he added, that he wants to make similar hands-on experiences with young people an even bigger part of his future.
“I just like doing it because hopefully one day I have my own group home or boys’ home or something like that, because that’s how much I really like being around kids,” Thomas said.
For more information see the Denver Broncos.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Zoo Lights!
Posted by Larimer Associates on 11:57 AM
Are you checking out the Denver Zoo Lights this year? We sure want to. There are tons of new displays. There are also awesome events and activities for the whole family this season. Keep reading to learn more about Denver Zoo's Holiday Lights.
Humans aren't the only species that get to decorate their lawns this holiday season. Take a stroll through Denver Zoo's Zoo Lights Presented By: Your Neighborhood Toyota Stores and you'll "oooh" and "ahhh" over our 38 brilliantly-illuminated acres of lights and more than 150 animated animal sculptures. And don't miss our month long Festival of Lanterns taking place in Toyota Elephant Passage. It's the perfect way to light up your holiday spirit.
Text Dzoo to 56512 Text us on the night you visit to find out that evening's schedule of events,
to find out the location of up-close animal encounters, and for special offers!
For more information see the Denver Zoo.
Humans aren't the only species that get to decorate their lawns this holiday season. Take a stroll through Denver Zoo's Zoo Lights Presented By: Your Neighborhood Toyota Stores and you'll "oooh" and "ahhh" over our 38 brilliantly-illuminated acres of lights and more than 150 animated animal sculptures. And don't miss our month long Festival of Lanterns taking place in Toyota Elephant Passage. It's the perfect way to light up your holiday spirit.
Text Dzoo to 56512 Text us on the night you visit to find out that evening's schedule of events,
to find out the location of up-close animal encounters, and for special offers!
For more information see the Denver Zoo.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Decorating Your Apartment For the Holidays
Posted by Larimer Associates on 10:23 AM
Do you want to decorate your apartment for the holidays?
Everyone wants to be festive, but you do not want to spend a lot of
money if you are leaving for the holidays. Here are some great
inexpensive tips on how to make your apartment a holiday wonderland.
- Personalize and hang stockings for your family. – this can be a fun project and very inexpensive. Purchase plain stockings and paint, glitter, felt, etc. and create your own designs for your stockings.
- Remember in Elementary School when you used to make paper snow flakes in art class. Flashback to those times and make your apartment a winter wonderland with this easy art trick.
- Hang ornaments from the stairs and or ceiling. Just make sure you do not damage the walls or ceiling while doing this.
- Use some ribbon and ties to put around chairs and lamps. This adds some festive spirit to even the smallest furniture.
- Make a giant present out of your door by using some wrapping paper and a bow. It instantly looks festive and adds so much holiday spirit to your apartment.
- Use holiday cards that you receive to decorate the walls in your apartment.
- Play Christmas music on your ipod or on Pandora!
Monday, November 19, 2012
Happy Thanksgiving!
Posted by Larimer Associates on 9:41 AM
We hope everyone has a safe and Happy Thanksgiving! Spend some time
with your friends and family and remember everything in life that you
are thankful for.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
7 Ways to Make Your Homepage Exciting
Posted by Larimer Associates on 11:21 AM
Are you sick of your homepage being the same boring thing all the time? Here are seven ways to spice up your homepage, and it will even let you learn something in the process.
1. A Random Featured Wikipedia Entry
2. A Random Dictionary Word
3. A Random Movie on IMDB
4. Random Deviation from DeviantART
5. The Flickr Explore Page
6. Google Reader Play
7. A Completely Random Website
For more information see Apartment Therapy.
1. A Random Featured Wikipedia Entry
http://toolserver.org/~erwin85/randomarticle.php?lang=en&family=wikipedia&categories=Featured+articlesThis URL was shared over at Reddit and will automatically direct to a random featured Wikipedia entry each time it's called up, weeding out the boring, jargon-y articles that Wiki's own random generatior can call up.
2. A Random Dictionary Word
http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Special:RandomIncrease your vocabulary a little at a time by making this URL your start page. It's like a word-of-the-day calendar for the new millenium; try to use it in an email today.
3. A Random Movie on IMDB
http://www.imdb.com/random/titleMovie buff? Have your homepage display a new popular movie title each time you open your browser. This url from IMDB shows titles based on what's popular now, so the generator swings towards recent films, but it should still help you add a few good films to your must-see list.
4. Random Deviation from DeviantART
www.deviantart.com/random/deviationMaking this url your home page will open up a random piece of art from the giant library of DeviantART, the world's largest online art community with over 239 million pieces of art from over 24 million artists. FYI, this URL can sometimes be not-work-safe thanks to freedom of artistic expression.
5. The Flickr Explore Page
http://www.flickr.com/explore/Flickr's navigational start page is also a great place to start your day, featuring a random image from Flickr's rated "Interesting" pool at the top.
6. Google Reader Play
http://www.google.com/reader/play/This link will open up a preview of an article that's gotten big attention from folks around the world using Google Reader. If you've got time to kill, you can browse through even more stories through the thumbnails at the bottom of the page.
7. A Completely Random Website
http://www.randomwebsite.com/cgi-bin/random.plUsing this URL from randomwebsite.com as your new homepage will transport you to a far-away corner of the internet you've probably never been to before. The makers of the site try to filter out pornography and advertising from their network of links, but you can't be sure websites haven't changed hands and changed course. This one is like internet roulette, and you should only play if you're in an environment that doesn't need to be work-safe or kid-safe.
For more information see Apartment Therapy.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Election Day Fun Facts
Posted by Larimer Associates on 12:09 PM
Yesterday was election day!
Did you get out and vote?
Here are some election day fun facts that you probably did not know as you were voting yesterday.
The finish line is almost here. Americans
have weighed a plethora of questions in choosing their presidential candidate.
But amid the quadrennial explosion of
political ads, bumper stickers and debates, some questions still baffle: Why is
the Republican mascot an elephant? Why are Democrats linked to the color blue?
And what happens if the candidates tie?
Below, a voter's guide to such perpetually
confounding riddles:
Q. Why are
presidential elections always in November, and always on Tuesdays?
It all comes down to weather, harvests and
worship.
Back when voters traveled to the polls by
horse, Tuesday was an ideal day because it allows people to worship on Sunday,
ride to their county seat on Monday and vote on Tuesday - all before market
day, Wednesday.
And the month of November fit nicely between
harvest time and brutal winter weather -- which can be especially bad when
you're trudging along by horse and buggy.
But since many voters now travel by
horsepower instead of live horses, some people -- like the group Why Tuesday?
-- are pushing to move election day to a weekend day to increase the country's
historically dismal voter turnout. According to the group, 15 states do not
allow early voting, and 27% of non-voters said the main reason why they didn't
vote was because they were too busy or couldn't get time off to vote.
Q. Why do
Republicans have an elephant and Democrats have a donkey?
Back in 1874, cartoonist Thomas Nast used an
elephant to depict the Republican vote in his drawing "The Third-Term
Panic." The cartoon was published in Harper's Weekly after the owner of
the New York Herald reportedly criticized the notion of Republican President
Ulysses S. Grant running for a third term. (Grant didn't end up running in the
next election).
In the drawing, an "ass" --
depicting the New York Herald -- scares away other animals in a forest as the
elephant -- or the Republican vote -- looks like it's about to stumble into a
pit.
But that cartoon isn't where where the
Democratic donkey came from. In 1828, Democrat Andrew Jackson's critics called
him a "jackass" because of his populist views and his slogan,
"Let the people rule." Jackson decided to run with it -- even using
images of a donkey in his campaign ads. Later, Nast also used a donkey to
depict the Democratic party.
Q. Why are
Democratic states "blue," and why are Republican states
"red"?
There's nothing magical about this color
scheme. Essentially, the media made it up.
Sure, there are logical reasons to use red
and blue -- both are colors in the American flag, and they look sharp on
infographics because they're pretty much on opposite ends of the color
spectrum.
But the seemingly arbitrary color
assignments have actually flip-flopped over the years. In 1980, states won by
Republican Ronald Reagan were colored blue; Democrat Jimmy Carter's states were
colored red.
Even as late as 1996, major media outlets
were divided on how to color-code the parties. But in 2000, when Americans were
subjected to weeks of news about recounts, pregnant chads and electoral
infographics, everyone seemed to get on the same page and shaded
Republican-leaning states red and Democratic-leaning states blue.
Q. What
happens if candidates tie in electoral votes?
It's possible that Barack Obama and Mitt
Romney snag the exact same number of electoral votes. In that case, the 12th
Amendment says the House of Representatives gets to pick the president. And
since analysts expect Republicans to maintain control of the House, Romney
would likely win the presidency.
In the same scenario, the Senate would get
to choose the vice president. And because Democrats are expected to keep
control of that chamber, senators could select incumbent Vice President Joe
Biden to form a split administration.
Q. Why do
presidents have to wait all the way until January 20 to assume office?
It used to be a lot longer. Until 1937,
presidents didn't get sworn in until March 4 because it took so long to count
and report ballots, and because of the winner's logistical issues in moving to
the capital.
But then better technology kicked in, and
the 20th Amendment moved presidential inaugurations to noon on January 20 --
allowing presidents to start taking care of business sooner.
For
more information see KDBC.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Trick or Treat Alternatives
Posted by Larimer Associates on 11:50 AM
Do you want some alternatives to Trick or Treat this year? Here are some great Halloween events that are happening in the Denver area as an alternative to Trick or Treat.
Trick-or-treating may be tons of fun, but there are so many other wonderful things to do this Halloween season. The best part about Halloween is that it lasts all month long, so the whole family can head out and celebrate the spooky season every single weekend. Check out these five great options for Halloween fun for the whole family. Just be sure to get a few costumes this year since you’ll want to wear a new one to every one of these events.
Halloween Science
Denver Museum of Nature and Science
2001 Colorado Blvd.
Denver, CO 80205
(303) 370-6000
www.dmns.org
Date: October 28, 2012
The amazing people over at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science are ready to bring you another fun, educational way to celebrate the Halloween season with your little ones. Aimed at age four through first-grade level, this Halloween Science event will let your tyke create fog, make potions that will actually change colors and even create magical concoctions that you can eat
. This magical class teaches all about the wizardry of chemical changes.
Trick-or-treating may be tons of fun, but there are so many other wonderful things to do this Halloween season. The best part about Halloween is that it lasts all month long, so the whole family can head out and celebrate the spooky season every single weekend. Check out these five great options for Halloween fun for the whole family. Just be sure to get a few costumes this year since you’ll want to wear a new one to every one of these events.
Bug-A-Boo
Butterfly Pavilion
6252 W. 104th Ave.
Westminster, CO 80020
(303) 469-5441
www.butterflies.org
Dates: October 27 and 28, 2012
This annual event at the Butterfly Pavilion is a great way for kids to enjoy all sorts of creepy-crawly fun, and actually learn a little bit along the way. Your children will learn all about spiders, tarantulas and scorpions with live, hands-on activities. Plus, make sure to wear that costume as there will be a costume parade, face painting, exhibits and trick-or-treating. Plus, you can also explore the amazing Butterfly Pavilion while there.
Butterfly Pavilion
6252 W. 104th Ave.
Westminster, CO 80020
(303) 469-5441
www.butterflies.org
Dates: October 27 and 28, 2012
This annual event at the Butterfly Pavilion is a great way for kids to enjoy all sorts of creepy-crawly fun, and actually learn a little bit along the way. Your children will learn all about spiders, tarantulas and scorpions with live, hands-on activities. Plus, make sure to wear that costume as there will be a costume parade, face painting, exhibits and trick-or-treating. Plus, you can also explore the amazing Butterfly Pavilion while there.
Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch
Mazzotti Farms
21420 Weld County Road 8
Hudson, CO 80642
(303) 536-4089
www.mazzottifarms.com
Mazzotti Farms is a fantastic, locally-owned farm that grows delicious
vegetables and fruits year-round. During the fall, however, the farm
really comes alive with Halloween fun. First, check out the Corn Maze, a
perfect scare-free maze for all ages. Then grab your own pumpkin
straight from the field and create your very own scarecrow. There is
also a giant slide, an authentic 18-foot teepee and a petting zoo. There
is so much to do at Mazzotti Farms for the Halloween season that you’ll
probably want to do it more than once. With the drive being under an
hour from Denver, there’s no excuse not to go back.
Mazzotti Farms
21420 Weld County Road 8
Hudson, CO 80642
(303) 536-4089
www.mazzottifarms.com
Mazzotti Farms is a fantastic, locally-owned farm that grows delicious
vegetables and fruits year-round. During the fall, however, the farm
really comes alive with Halloween fun. First, check out the Corn Maze, a
perfect scare-free maze for all ages. Then grab your own pumpkin
straight from the field and create your very own scarecrow. There is
also a giant slide, an authentic 18-foot teepee and a petting zoo. There
is so much to do at Mazzotti Farms for the Halloween season that you’ll
probably want to do it more than once. With the drive being under an
hour from Denver, there’s no excuse not to go back.Halloween Science
Denver Museum of Nature and Science
2001 Colorado Blvd.
Denver, CO 80205
(303) 370-6000
www.dmns.org
Date: October 28, 2012
The amazing people over at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science are ready to bring you another fun, educational way to celebrate the Halloween season with your little ones. Aimed at age four through first-grade level, this Halloween Science event will let your tyke create fog, make potions that will actually change colors and even create magical concoctions that you can eat
. This magical class teaches all about the wizardry of chemical changes.
Trick or Treat Train
Colorado Railroad Museum
17155 W. 44th Ave.
Golden, CO 80403
(303) 279-4591
www.coloradorailroadmuseum.org
Dates: October 27 and 28, 2012
For those fans of everything railroad and trains, this is the perfect
Halloween treat. Visit Colorado’s fantastic Railroad Museum and enjoy a
fun and safe place to take your kids in costume. The whole family will
be able to take a ride in a vintage passenger car
with all the conductors and engineers in full costume. As the train
stops, your spooky tyke can hop out and trick-or-treat and then get
ready for the next stop. There is also a “not-so-spooky” haunted railcar
and a silly-fun graveyard to visit. When you are all done, be sure to
check out the pumpkin patch and get plenty of great photos from your
visit.
For more information see CBS.
Colorado Railroad Museum
17155 W. 44th Ave.
Golden, CO 80403
(303) 279-4591
www.coloradorailroadmuseum.org
Dates: October 27 and 28, 2012
with all the conductors and engineers in full costume. As the train
stops, your spooky tyke can hop out and trick-or-treat and then get
ready for the next stop. There is also a “not-so-spooky” haunted railcar
and a silly-fun graveyard to visit. When you are all done, be sure to
check out the pumpkin patch and get plenty of great photos from your
visit.For more information see CBS.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Cheap Halloween Costumes!
Posted by Larimer Associates on 11:47 AM
Do your kids want costumes that are over $100 without the accesories. Here is a great story about a mom who took that $80 dollar costume and made the same thing for a lot cheaper.
It’s a down economy and a presidential election year—could there possibly be a MORE appropriate 2012 Halloween costume than a homemade Statue of Liberty designed for 5 bucks? I doubt it. (Hello, Humility? I’m sorry, she’s out to lunch.)
Last year my daughter came across a very nice Statue of Liberty costume in a catalog, but with torch, robe and crown, it came to about $80. While I was pleased about her costume choice considering the less-than-original-princess-and-fairy-costumes of years past, I decided I could do better with my own resources.
From around the house, we gathered the following for Lady Liberty:
Cardboard
Sage green paint leftover from a home-painting project
Black paint
A princess crown (for Liberty’s crown)
An empty ribbon spool (for torch)
Foam sheets used for packing breakable items (torch flame)
Small flashlight (torch “light”)
(Also needed: Ponytail holder, stapler, safety pins, scissors, markers and duct tape)
At the thrift store, we purchased:
Two sage green curtains, $5 (for robes)
Then we went to work. Here’s how it came together:
Instructions
• The Crown: Cut a cardboard piece to cover the entire front of any child’s princess crown; paint green and let dry. Once it’s dry, paint black rectangles across the green piece. Cut long, skinny triangles from cardboard; paint green. Once all paint is dry, attach front piece to crown with duct tape. Attach crown spires with a stapler. Touch up paint once crown is assembled, if necessary.
• The Torch: Paint a large empty spool of ribbon with green paint. Using markers, color foam sheets yellow and orange and cut 3-4 pieces into a tear drop shape for flames. Glue foam flames around the top inside edges of the spool, leaving a hole through the middle. Slide small flashlight into the spool with the light part up. If the flashlight doesn’t fit exactly, add more foam around the edges. When the flashlight is turned on, it makes a great Liberty torch that actually lights—fun for nighttime trick or treating!
• The Robe: I do not sew, but pinning curtains to
form a robe worked fine, and was less work for me. Only thing is, you
have to re-pin if you wear the costume again. Pin one curtain loosely
around child so it drapes around the body. Fold second curtain into a
long rectangle and drape over one shoulder like a sash; secure under the
other arm with a large ponytail holder (easier than pins, and
removable).
For more information see Colorado Parent.
It’s a down economy and a presidential election year—could there possibly be a MORE appropriate 2012 Halloween costume than a homemade Statue of Liberty designed for 5 bucks? I doubt it. (Hello, Humility? I’m sorry, she’s out to lunch.)
Last year my daughter came across a very nice Statue of Liberty costume in a catalog, but with torch, robe and crown, it came to about $80. While I was pleased about her costume choice considering the less-than-original-princess-and-fairy-costumes of years past, I decided I could do better with my own resources.
From around the house, we gathered the following for Lady Liberty:
Cardboard
Sage green paint leftover from a home-painting project
Black paint
A princess crown (for Liberty’s crown)
An empty ribbon spool (for torch)
Foam sheets used for packing breakable items (torch flame)
Small flashlight (torch “light”)
(Also needed: Ponytail holder, stapler, safety pins, scissors, markers and duct tape)
At the thrift store, we purchased:
Two sage green curtains, $5 (for robes)
Then we went to work. Here’s how it came together:
Instructions
• The Crown: Cut a cardboard piece to cover the entire front of any child’s princess crown; paint green and let dry. Once it’s dry, paint black rectangles across the green piece. Cut long, skinny triangles from cardboard; paint green. Once all paint is dry, attach front piece to crown with duct tape. Attach crown spires with a stapler. Touch up paint once crown is assembled, if necessary.
• The Torch: Paint a large empty spool of ribbon with green paint. Using markers, color foam sheets yellow and orange and cut 3-4 pieces into a tear drop shape for flames. Glue foam flames around the top inside edges of the spool, leaving a hole through the middle. Slide small flashlight into the spool with the light part up. If the flashlight doesn’t fit exactly, add more foam around the edges. When the flashlight is turned on, it makes a great Liberty torch that actually lights—fun for nighttime trick or treating!
A cute costume that was fun to make for just $5.
For more information see Colorado Parent.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Fall Pumpkin Recipes
Posted by Larimer Associates on 12:05 PM
Brown Eyed Baker
has ten great pumpkin recipes to get you ready for fall. Pumpkin is
what everyone craves this fall, and here are ten ways to put it into
your dinner plans.
Here they are, in alphabetical order:
1. Pumpkin Bread:
2. Pumpkin Cheesecake:
3. Pumpkin Cinnamon Chip & Pecan Granola Bars:
4. Pumpkin and Cream Cheese Muffins with Pecan Streusel:
5. Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting:
6. Pumpkin Fudge:
7. Pumpkin Pie:
8. Pumpkin Pie Bars:
9. Pumpkin Scones with Spiced Glaze:
10. Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple-Cream Cheese Filling:
Here they are, in alphabetical order:
1. Pumpkin Bread:
2. Pumpkin Cheesecake:
3. Pumpkin Cinnamon Chip & Pecan Granola Bars:
4. Pumpkin and Cream Cheese Muffins with Pecan Streusel:
5. Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting:
6. Pumpkin Fudge:
7. Pumpkin Pie:
8. Pumpkin Pie Bars:
9. Pumpkin Scones with Spiced Glaze:
10. Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple-Cream Cheese Filling:
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
DIY Folding Chair Makeover
Posted by Larimer Associates on 11:01 AM
If you have a lot of company over, it can be hard to accommodate
everyone for seating. Here is a great do it yourself tip to take a
plain folding chair and turn it into a great furniture piece. Keep
reading to find out how to have enough chairs for everyone without
breaking the bank.
MATERIALS // folding chair, screwdriver, drop cloth, spray paint (2 cans per chair), fabric (20″ x 20″ piece per chair), scissors, staple gun and staples
STEPS // 01 REMOVE EXISTING CUSHION Using screwdriver, remove existing cushion from chair frame and set aside.
02 PAINT CHAIR // In well-ventilated area, place chair on drop cloth and wipe down with damp towel. Using slow side-to-side movements, apply two thin coats of spray paint (refer to paint can instructions for drying time between coats). Let chair dry overnight. Tip: If chair is dark color or smooth finish, apply primer before painting with desired color.
03 RECOVER EXISTING CUSHION // Lay out new fabric and place seat cushion face down. Trim fabric along edge of cushion (approximately 3″ from edge). Once cut, attach fabric using staple gun. Begin by stapling at the center of each side and then at the corners. Tip: If using a patterned fabric, be sure to align to your liking prior to stapling.
04 ASSEMBLE CHAIR // Once chair is dry, assemble with new cushion and begin using!
For more information see MakeKind.
MATERIALS // folding chair, screwdriver, drop cloth, spray paint (2 cans per chair), fabric (20″ x 20″ piece per chair), scissors, staple gun and staples
STEPS // 01 REMOVE EXISTING CUSHION Using screwdriver, remove existing cushion from chair frame and set aside.
02 PAINT CHAIR // In well-ventilated area, place chair on drop cloth and wipe down with damp towel. Using slow side-to-side movements, apply two thin coats of spray paint (refer to paint can instructions for drying time between coats). Let chair dry overnight. Tip: If chair is dark color or smooth finish, apply primer before painting with desired color.
03 RECOVER EXISTING CUSHION // Lay out new fabric and place seat cushion face down. Trim fabric along edge of cushion (approximately 3″ from edge). Once cut, attach fabric using staple gun. Begin by stapling at the center of each side and then at the corners. Tip: If using a patterned fabric, be sure to align to your liking prior to stapling.
04 ASSEMBLE CHAIR // Once chair is dry, assemble with new cushion and begin using!
For more information see MakeKind.Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Educational Children's Activities for the Weekend
Posted by Larimer Associates on 10:20 AM
Activities for your kids can be hard to come up with, when they do not want to play outside or color. Here is a list of creative activities that help with your child's education and let them have fun. There is everything from an art project with melted crayons to an indoor frog pond.
Whether you're a traditional homeschooler, or just like to foster the imagination, here is a roundup of brilliant children's projects we've featured in the past on Apartment Therapy. Help stave off boredom this weekend one with these ideas…
1. Chemistry Class: Back to School DIY: Melted Crayons on Canvas - Not only does it look beautiful, but solids turn into liquids before one's eyes when heat is applied.
2. Chem II: Weekend Activity: Make Discovery Eggs - More solids to liquids, if it's warm enough to melt where you are.
3. Aquatic Habitats: Make An Indoor Frog Pond - I keep meaning to do this!
4. Art & Botany: Your Weekend Project: Printmaking - It's particularly fun to gather leaves for this project in the fall, when they're already on the ground and turning such beautiful colors.
5. Home Economics: Easy Scarf Project for You and Your Child - Keep warm! Another that makes sense for fall.
6. Astronomy 101: How to Make a Solar System Art Project Have a little star gazer on your hands? Help them make sense of the skies with this DIY galaxy.
7. Creative Chemistry: Make An Outdoor Science Lab
8. Arithmetic: Teach Math with Fun Height Game. Tangible activities are always a great approach to this difficult subject for many.
9: Intro to Architecture: Fort Building with Straws - Any kind of construction activity is good for kids of all ages. Don't have straw connectors? Make a fort with what's around.
For more information see Apartment Therapy.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Denver Gardens Corn Maze
Posted by Larimer Associates on 11:01 AM
From now until October 28th, weekends can be filled with Fall and Halloween adventures. The Denver Botanic Gardens have started their Fall corn maze on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays after dark. There are activities for all ages, and it is a great way to spend a day with your family.
For more information see Our Colorado News.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Trader Joes Coming to Denver
Posted by Larimer Associates on 7:48 AM
Trader Joe's is coming to Denver in 2013. This specialty grocery store that is famous all over the country will be opening soon at East Eighth Avenue and Colorado Blvd. The store features high end imported and domestic food at low prices.
Specialty grocer Trader Joe's has signed a lease to open a store in Denver, with a target opening date in 2013, the company announced Wednesday.
As expected, the store will be located at the southeast corner of East Eighth Avenue and Colorado Boulevard. The company said a separate wine shop will be adjacent to the grocery store.
For months, Trader Joe's had been expected to build a store on that vacant site, but the company wouldn't confirm its plans. Various news outlets reported that Trader Joe's had signed a letter of intent to develop the site, formerly Annie's Cafe.
It will be the second Trader Joe's in Colorado, the company having already announced a Boulder location in the Twenty Ninth Street mall, also to open in 2013.
Trader Joe's, which has 365 stores in 34 states, bills itself as a neighborhood grocery featuring "high-quality imported and domestic foods and beverages at honest, low prices."
The Monrovia, Calif-based grocer said the Denver store will feature a festive décor that mixes traditional Trader Joe's elements such as cedar-covered walls and Hawaiian motifs, combined with a local flair that includes art celebrating the neighborhood.
In May, the Denver City Council cleared the way for a Trader Joe's by approving a zoning change that would allow for the grocer. The zoning application, however, never mentioned the words "Trader Joe's."
The previous zoning designation was intended to accommodate a hotel on the site, but that project was abandoned during the economic downturn.
The Trader Joe's announcement apparently will have no bearing on the 9th and Colorado redevelopment project. Developer Jeff Fuqua wants to build a Walmart as the anchor of that project at 11th and Albion — a plan that has angered many area neighbors.
Asked by The Denver Post last month if there was any connection between Trader Joe's and his project, Fuqua said: "No. I hope Trader Joe's comes. The more the merrier. I think that legitimizes the intersection as a mixed-use retail site."
For more information see the Denver Post.
Specialty grocer Trader Joe's has signed a lease to open a store in Denver, with a target opening date in 2013, the company announced Wednesday.
As expected, the store will be located at the southeast corner of East Eighth Avenue and Colorado Boulevard. The company said a separate wine shop will be adjacent to the grocery store.
For months, Trader Joe's had been expected to build a store on that vacant site, but the company wouldn't confirm its plans. Various news outlets reported that Trader Joe's had signed a letter of intent to develop the site, formerly Annie's Cafe.
It will be the second Trader Joe's in Colorado, the company having already announced a Boulder location in the Twenty Ninth Street mall, also to open in 2013.
Trader Joe's, which has 365 stores in 34 states, bills itself as a neighborhood grocery featuring "high-quality imported and domestic foods and beverages at honest, low prices."
The Monrovia, Calif-based grocer said the Denver store will feature a festive décor that mixes traditional Trader Joe's elements such as cedar-covered walls and Hawaiian motifs, combined with a local flair that includes art celebrating the neighborhood.
In May, the Denver City Council cleared the way for a Trader Joe's by approving a zoning change that would allow for the grocer. The zoning application, however, never mentioned the words "Trader Joe's."
The previous zoning designation was intended to accommodate a hotel on the site, but that project was abandoned during the economic downturn.
The Trader Joe's announcement apparently will have no bearing on the 9th and Colorado redevelopment project. Developer Jeff Fuqua wants to build a Walmart as the anchor of that project at 11th and Albion — a plan that has angered many area neighbors.
Asked by The Denver Post last month if there was any connection between Trader Joe's and his project, Fuqua said: "No. I hope Trader Joe's comes. The more the merrier. I think that legitimizes the intersection as a mixed-use retail site."
For more information see the Denver Post.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Chicago Style Pizza in Denver
Posted by Larimer Associates on 11:17 AM
Chicago Pizza is coming to Denver through Patxi Pizza. The company is not only bringing pizza, but they are bringing 100 or more jobs to the area. They are also hoping to use local ingredients whenever possible. The pizzeria has various styles of pizza from Chicago, Italian, and everything in between.
Patxi Pizza's partners Francisco "Patxi" Azpiroz and William Freeman are bringing Chicago-style pizza to metro Denver by way of San Francisco.
“With seven successful locations in the Bay Area, we are ready to take the next step and bring our concept to the Denver market,” said Freeman in a statement. “We’re thrilled to bring our fresh, authentic Chicago-style and Italian pizzas to Denver’s thriving food scene. We’re committed to becoming a vital part of the Denver community by creating more than 100 jobs, sourcing ingredients locally when possible, and giving back through our charitable endeavors throughout the year.”
Two locations are slated to open this fall: One at 185 Steele St., Denver, in the Cherry Creek area and at Kent Place, 3455 S. University Blvd., Unit B, in Englewood.
Patxi’s menu offers both Chicago-style and Italian pizza with two styles of dough, four styles of mozzarella and more than 30 meat and veggie toppings, with ingredients sourced locally when possible. The restaurant also serves salads, appetizers, and beverages including beer and wine.
For more information see BizJournal.
Patxi Pizza's partners Francisco "Patxi" Azpiroz and William Freeman are bringing Chicago-style pizza to metro Denver by way of San Francisco.“With seven successful locations in the Bay Area, we are ready to take the next step and bring our concept to the Denver market,” said Freeman in a statement. “We’re thrilled to bring our fresh, authentic Chicago-style and Italian pizzas to Denver’s thriving food scene. We’re committed to becoming a vital part of the Denver community by creating more than 100 jobs, sourcing ingredients locally when possible, and giving back through our charitable endeavors throughout the year.”
Two locations are slated to open this fall: One at 185 Steele St., Denver, in the Cherry Creek area and at Kent Place, 3455 S. University Blvd., Unit B, in Englewood.
Patxi’s menu offers both Chicago-style and Italian pizza with two styles of dough, four styles of mozzarella and more than 30 meat and veggie toppings, with ingredients sourced locally when possible. The restaurant also serves salads, appetizers, and beverages including beer and wine.
For more information see BizJournal.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Chalk It Up to Education Art Festival
Posted by Larimer Associates on 1:33 PM
Do you know about the Chalk it Up to Education Art Festival. This event will take place next Saturday September 8th. Artists of all ages sit side by side on sidewalks creating art pieces out of sidewalk chalk. There are over 100 arts from elementary school kids to professionals. Check it out and the best part is it's free!
3rd Annual Chalk it Up to Education Art FestivalStreets at SouthGlenn
Saturday, September 8, 2012
10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m
Imagine a FREE
festival where artists from all ages are working side by side, creating
masterpieces. These pieces of art are created on the sidewalk using
sidewalk chalk. Norman Rockwell, 3-D inspired works, dragons, hawks, and
creativity gone wild….all chalked on the 4 x 4 or 6 x6 foot squares
lining the sidewalks of The Streets at SouthGlenn
This year, our festival will grow and host over 100 artists from elementary school age to professional.
Artists can sign up as individuals or as a team and cash prizes will be awarded.
Click on the links above for more information about any individual piece of the festival.
Call Sara Crowe at 303-907-4452 with any questions.
V.I.P. Event!
Join
us for the The Chalk It Up To Education Art Festival VIP Reception at
the Streets at SouthGlenn. The event is Saturday, September 8, from
5:00-7:00 PM at the patio adjacent to the South Metro Denver Chamber of
Commerce. The address is 2154 E. Commons Ave., Centennial, CO 80122.
Tickets are only $25.
The VIP event is
being held during the closing hours of the festival and we look forward
to you celebrating the artists and their chalk creations, enjoying
elaborate hors' d oeuvres and an open bar from Ivy at the Glenn,
listening to live entertainment, and bidding on one of a kind art by the
chalk artists that will be participating in the festival. All funds
raised from the Chalk It Up to Education Art Festival will be used to
support students and programs at ACC.
For more information see ARAPAHOE College
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Congratulations to our Colorado Olympic Athletes!
Posted by Larimer Associates on 1:36 PM
Missy Franklin and several other Colorado Olympic Athletes were welcomed home on August 18th at the Centennial Center Park. The Colorado athletes won a total of 9 Olympic medals in these games, five of which came from teenager Missy Franklin. These athletes were celebrated and honored as fans from all over came to welcome them back to Colorado.
Centennial welcomed back the city’s own Missy Franklin and five other 2012 Colorado Olympians to Centennial Center Park on Aug. 18.
Gov. John Hickenlooper, Centennial Mayor Cathy Noon and other local dignitaries were on hand to celebrate the total of nine medals earned by the state’s athletes.
“Some feel that training at this altitude gives our Colorado Olympians a distinct advantage in
London. We like to call it attitude with altitude,” said Hickenlooper.
The Mile High welcome in Centennial’s new park was a hastily planned
affair that paid particular tribute to Franklin, one of the Olympics’
brightest new stars, having won four gold medals and one bronze and
breaking several world records in the process.
Franklin, 17, took it all in stride as she accepted the welcome home with her trademark grace and modesty.
“Just being able to be home again is the best thing in the world,” she told the crowd in Center Park.
“… Going out there and getting the gold, that’s awesome too. But the support we get and we’ve seen from all of you in Colorado, I can tell you we all appreciate it more than anything.”
Fans later surrounded Franklin for an Olympic trial of autographs.
Since returning to Colorado, Franklin has been getting back into the swing of regular life, her mother, D.A., told The Villager.
“When she saw her friends, they all wanted to see her medals, and then they just started talking about boys,” she said.
Franklin began her senior year at Regis Jesuit High School last week.
Other honored athletes included:
• Taylor Ritzel, Rowing [Gold medalist]
• Georgia Gould, Cycling [Bronze medalist]
• Lance Brooks, Track and Field
• David Herman, BMX
• Kara Lynn Joyce, Swimming
A total of 39 Coloradans took part in 13 Olympic events.
For more information please see Villager Publishing.
Centennial welcomed back the city’s own Missy Franklin and five other 2012 Colorado Olympians to Centennial Center Park on Aug. 18.
Gov. John Hickenlooper, Centennial Mayor Cathy Noon and other local dignitaries were on hand to celebrate the total of nine medals earned by the state’s athletes.
“Some feel that training at this altitude gives our Colorado Olympians a distinct advantage in
London. We like to call it attitude with altitude,” said Hickenlooper.
The Mile High welcome in Centennial’s new park was a hastily planned
affair that paid particular tribute to Franklin, one of the Olympics’
brightest new stars, having won four gold medals and one bronze and
breaking several world records in the process.Franklin, 17, took it all in stride as she accepted the welcome home with her trademark grace and modesty.
“Just being able to be home again is the best thing in the world,” she told the crowd in Center Park.
“… Going out there and getting the gold, that’s awesome too. But the support we get and we’ve seen from all of you in Colorado, I can tell you we all appreciate it more than anything.”
Fans later surrounded Franklin for an Olympic trial of autographs.
Since returning to Colorado, Franklin has been getting back into the swing of regular life, her mother, D.A., told The Villager.
“When she saw her friends, they all wanted to see her medals, and then they just started talking about boys,” she said.
Franklin began her senior year at Regis Jesuit High School last week.
Other honored athletes included:
• Taylor Ritzel, Rowing [Gold medalist]
• Georgia Gould, Cycling [Bronze medalist]
• Lance Brooks, Track and Field
• David Herman, BMX
• Kara Lynn Joyce, Swimming
A total of 39 Coloradans took part in 13 Olympic events.
For more information please see Villager Publishing.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
A New Way to See Colorado
Posted by Larimer Associates on 8:31 AM
Many vacationers have had the pleasure of ziplining through the rainforest in the south. However, ziplining is also beautiful in the Colorado Mountains. Breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and beautiful vegetation make Colorado one of the best ziplining spots in the United States.
If Tarzan swung from tree to tree across Colorado right now, he might complain that it's tough to get very far without tripping over a zipline.
In fact, helping folks fly through the air with the greatest of ease appears to be the goal all over the state as ski resorts, lodging properties, outfitters and seemingly anyone with space to spare angles to get in on the zipline action.
"I'd like to get the mayor of London here to try our ziplines," says Colorado Tourism Office spokesman Roland Alonzi about Boris Johnson, who famously got stuck on a zipline attempting to soar over Olympics celebrators in a stunt that went viral on YouTube. "I guarantee, we have the best ziplines in the world, and that never would have happened here."
At
the very least, Colorado's ziplines offer better scenery, often with a
background of sandstone cliffs, old-growth ponderosa pine or miles of
red rock canyon.
Even the definition of zipline — which at its simplest, refers to a pulley suspended on a cable — can be a bit different. Once a reference to the "canopy tour" long offered in the rain forests of Costa Rica, Thailand and Brazil, a zipline in Colorado can run the gamut from a short, slow, seated, theme park-style scenic ride to an elaborate, multi-line series of 40 mph zigzags through thick forest from tower to tower rather than platforms attached to trees.
Modern ziplines are thought to be based on the Tyrolean traverse pulley system used by climbers and cavers: zipliners snug into a climbing harness and are clipped onto the pulley using carabiners, and then gravity takes over. As a safety measure, sag is built in for slowing and stopping.
While summer camps and playgrounds have offered scaled-back versions for decades - called "flying foxes," these ziplines usually use hand grips and seats, as well as less steep inclines — large-scale zipline tours in Colorado can be traced back to 2005, when Monty Holmes opened Captain Zipline's Lost Canyon Zipline Tour (captainzipline.com) near Salida. That same year, Soaring Tree Top Adventures (soaringcolorado.com) started in Durango.
Counting smaller operations at resorts, ski areas and single lines at theme parks with other attractions, nearly two dozen ziplines are currently offered around the state, with a third of them having just opened this year.
"As far as I could tell, I was the third one to open in the U.S.," Holmes says. "And by the end of this year, there's expected to be 300 ziplines in the country. It's getting to be pretty big. But I think Colorado is definitely at the forefront."
Certainly Colorado zipline operations are creative. Several, such as AVA's Zipline Tours (coloradorafting.net), which has locations in Buena Vista and Idaho Springs, package ziplining with river rafting or, as in the case of Full Blast Adventure Center (ziplinedurangoco.com) in Durango, have paintball and a 26-line slacklining course.
Others, like Durango's Soaring Tree Top, are unique. "You can only get to Soaring Tree Top by taking the train," says Alonzi, who notes that ziplines are one of his favorite activities. "It's amazing. There are 300-year-old ponderosas, and you can only see them this way, by getting out there and doing this. Pretty incredible."
Ski areas and private resorts have been adding ziplines, as well, looking at them as a way to offer shoulder-season attractions and other options for guests who don't participate in typical winter sports.
Last season, for instance, Crested Butte Mountain Resort (skicb.com) debuted a guided, year-round canopy-style zipline tour, and in May, Devil's Thumb Ranch (devilsthumbranch.com) near Tabernash, long known for horseback riding and cross-country skiing, added a series of ziplines, including one that runs 1,600 feet and hits speeds up to 40 mph.
"The owner, Bob Fanch, really had a passion to put one in," says Sean Damery, vice president and general manager at the ranch. "He felt that there was a lot of demand for them right now, and it turns out he was absolutely right. We're sold out a week in advance."
Holmes, too, says he sees ziplining only gaining in popularity and has been adding lines and expanding the operation. "This has a very high thrill-to-skill ratio," Holmes says. "Unlike mountain biking and hiking and climbing, you just don't have to be very skilled or in that great a shape to zipline."
Holmes says that's what attracted him to the activity to begin with. "I don't like roller coasters, I'd never go bungee jumping, I don't even like Ferris wheels," he says. "But this gives you three seconds of stomach-tightening, and then after that it's all gliding motion and squealing fun."
On the other hand, he points out, you do have to possess enough strength to hang on.
"The one thing we are starting to see is that sometimes people aren't fit enough to sit up in the harness," he says. "That's a requirement."
The other concern first-timers have: safety.
To have a safe zipline experience, it's important to listen to the safety talk and choose a reputable operation, agree Holmes, Alonzi and Damery. "You're not going to have a problem in a properly constructed zipline," Holmes says.
"I was at the new Royal Gorge zipline recently, and the guy strapping me in said, 'The heavier you are, the faster you'll go,'" Alonzi says. "I started laughing, and I thought, 'Oh, great, thanks a lot, I'm going to be flying.' But really, that's good information to know."
For more information about locations and equipment see the Denver Post.
If Tarzan swung from tree to tree across Colorado right now, he might complain that it's tough to get very far without tripping over a zipline.
In fact, helping folks fly through the air with the greatest of ease appears to be the goal all over the state as ski resorts, lodging properties, outfitters and seemingly anyone with space to spare angles to get in on the zipline action.
"I'd like to get the mayor of London here to try our ziplines," says Colorado Tourism Office spokesman Roland Alonzi about Boris Johnson, who famously got stuck on a zipline attempting to soar over Olympics celebrators in a stunt that went viral on YouTube. "I guarantee, we have the best ziplines in the world, and that never would have happened here."
At
the very least, Colorado's ziplines offer better scenery, often with a
background of sandstone cliffs, old-growth ponderosa pine or miles of
red rock canyon.Even the definition of zipline — which at its simplest, refers to a pulley suspended on a cable — can be a bit different. Once a reference to the "canopy tour" long offered in the rain forests of Costa Rica, Thailand and Brazil, a zipline in Colorado can run the gamut from a short, slow, seated, theme park-style scenic ride to an elaborate, multi-line series of 40 mph zigzags through thick forest from tower to tower rather than platforms attached to trees.
Modern ziplines are thought to be based on the Tyrolean traverse pulley system used by climbers and cavers: zipliners snug into a climbing harness and are clipped onto the pulley using carabiners, and then gravity takes over. As a safety measure, sag is built in for slowing and stopping.
While summer camps and playgrounds have offered scaled-back versions for decades - called "flying foxes," these ziplines usually use hand grips and seats, as well as less steep inclines — large-scale zipline tours in Colorado can be traced back to 2005, when Monty Holmes opened Captain Zipline's Lost Canyon Zipline Tour (captainzipline.com) near Salida. That same year, Soaring Tree Top Adventures (soaringcolorado.com) started in Durango.
Counting smaller operations at resorts, ski areas and single lines at theme parks with other attractions, nearly two dozen ziplines are currently offered around the state, with a third of them having just opened this year.
"As far as I could tell, I was the third one to open in the U.S.," Holmes says. "And by the end of this year, there's expected to be 300 ziplines in the country. It's getting to be pretty big. But I think Colorado is definitely at the forefront."
Certainly Colorado zipline operations are creative. Several, such as AVA's Zipline Tours (coloradorafting.net), which has locations in Buena Vista and Idaho Springs, package ziplining with river rafting or, as in the case of Full Blast Adventure Center (ziplinedurangoco.com) in Durango, have paintball and a 26-line slacklining course.
Others, like Durango's Soaring Tree Top, are unique. "You can only get to Soaring Tree Top by taking the train," says Alonzi, who notes that ziplines are one of his favorite activities. "It's amazing. There are 300-year-old ponderosas, and you can only see them this way, by getting out there and doing this. Pretty incredible."
Ski areas and private resorts have been adding ziplines, as well, looking at them as a way to offer shoulder-season attractions and other options for guests who don't participate in typical winter sports.
Last season, for instance, Crested Butte Mountain Resort (skicb.com) debuted a guided, year-round canopy-style zipline tour, and in May, Devil's Thumb Ranch (devilsthumbranch.com) near Tabernash, long known for horseback riding and cross-country skiing, added a series of ziplines, including one that runs 1,600 feet and hits speeds up to 40 mph.
"The owner, Bob Fanch, really had a passion to put one in," says Sean Damery, vice president and general manager at the ranch. "He felt that there was a lot of demand for them right now, and it turns out he was absolutely right. We're sold out a week in advance."
Holmes, too, says he sees ziplining only gaining in popularity and has been adding lines and expanding the operation. "This has a very high thrill-to-skill ratio," Holmes says. "Unlike mountain biking and hiking and climbing, you just don't have to be very skilled or in that great a shape to zipline."
Holmes says that's what attracted him to the activity to begin with. "I don't like roller coasters, I'd never go bungee jumping, I don't even like Ferris wheels," he says. "But this gives you three seconds of stomach-tightening, and then after that it's all gliding motion and squealing fun."
On the other hand, he points out, you do have to possess enough strength to hang on.
"The one thing we are starting to see is that sometimes people aren't fit enough to sit up in the harness," he says. "That's a requirement."
The other concern first-timers have: safety.
To have a safe zipline experience, it's important to listen to the safety talk and choose a reputable operation, agree Holmes, Alonzi and Damery. "You're not going to have a problem in a properly constructed zipline," Holmes says.
"I was at the new Royal Gorge zipline recently, and the guy strapping me in said, 'The heavier you are, the faster you'll go,'" Alonzi says. "I started laughing, and I thought, 'Oh, great, thanks a lot, I'm going to be flying.' But really, that's good information to know."
For more information about locations and equipment see the Denver Post.
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
One Last Weekend for Family Fun
Posted by Larimer Associates on 2:20 PM
This
weekend is the final time you can attend FunFest and the Summer Concerts with
you and your family. There will be
a performance at the KidStage, a great concert, and FunFest on Saturday. This is a great one last outing with
your family before school starts next week.
This week in Englewood: final summer
concert of the season, plus FunFest!
Looking
for something to do in Englewood this week? Check out the final performances of
the season for KidStage and Sounds of Summer, plus our annual FunFest is coming
up Saturday!
- Tuesday, August 7 •
6:30 pm - KidStage at the CityCenter Englewood
Amphitheater
It's... Magic! featuring Keir Royale. Don't miss it - last KidStage of the season!
- Thursday, August
9 • 6:30 pm - Sounds of Summer Concert - final concert of the season! featuring the
always popular Nacho Men at CityCenter Englewood Amphitheater. Bring your
lawn chairs and picnics!
- Library Storytimes - every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday!
- Thursdays at 10:30 am - Once Upon a Thursday Storytime
- Fridays at 10:30 am - Stories & Me
- Saturdays at 3:30 pm - Family Read Out
For
details on the storytimes and other Library programs, visit the Library's web pages.
- Saturday, August 11 • 10
am to 5 pm - FUNFEST - A Hometown Fair with a Little Flair!
Belleview Park • 5001 S. Inca Street
For more information go to The City of Englewood.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Some Gold For Aurora
Posted by Larimer Associates on 9:50 AM
Aurora has had to deal with tragedies lately that no one should have to go through. However, there is now something to make Aurora come together and cheer. Aurora native Missy Franklin at 17 years old took the gold medal in the Olympics for the 100 Meter Backstroke.
Colorado has seen its share of pain this year with a mass movie
theater shooting and deadly wildfires that destroyed hundreds of homes.
But when Missy Franklin cinched her first gold medal at the London Olympic Games this week, it was finally time to cheer.
After days of mourning the mass shooting, Coloradans are celebrating the triumphs of the 17-year-old swimmer who attends Aurora's Regis Jesuit High School and lives in the nearby Denver suburb of Centennial. Following the July 20 shootings in Aurora, she dedicated her Olympic races to her home state.
"It's such a terrible thing, and I'm so shaken by it," Franklin said last week. "They're in my thoughts this entire process."
Franklin won a gold medal in the 100-meter backstroke Monday after having opened her games with a relay bronze.
"For Missy to take time in the midst of her finest moment to think about her hometown and how she can help in its healing is an incredible statement about her character," Aurora Mayor Steve Hogan said Tuesday.
"It certainly means a lot to Aurora to know that Missy cares, and we are proud of her achievements."
Franklin has become a much-needed cause for celebration in a state that was still reeling from destructive wildfires when the movie theater massacre occurred. This summer's High Park Fire in northern Colorado burned about 260 homes, while the Waldo Canyon Fire near Colorado Springs destroyed more than 340 homes and killed a husband and wife.
Franklin's steady rise has been chronicled by Colorado news media, and on Tuesday The Denver Post emblazoned her gold medal triumph on its front page under the headline, "Missy's American grit."
Friends, coaches and followers embraced that grit -- a symbol of perseverance shared by many after authorities say James Holmes killed 12 people and injured 58 others at a midnight screening of the Batman film "The Dark Knight Rises."
"I know our entire state just has heartache right now, and for her to dedicate her work and success to us, it just helps that much more," said Madeline Cordier, a recent Regis graduate.
"She helps us push forward and she gives us something to look forward to," added Cordier's sister, Grace, who still attends Regis Jesuit. "She's putting a lot of smiles on a lot of Coloradans' faces."
Noah Utesch, a member of the boys' swim team at Regis Jesuit, praised Franklin's dedication of her races in the London spotlight as "something positive for the city of Aurora."
"It's got to do something to cover up that terrible tragedy," Utesch said.
Franklin's high school swim coach, Nick Frasersmith, was effusive in his praise of her determination and ebullient outlook on life.
"What Missy's doing in dedicating her events, really, I think, just kind of brings something we can all focus on that's positive and an enjoyment of some good things that happen in this world," Frasersmith said.
"And there's no better person like Missy Franklin with her wonderful attitude."
For more information on Missy or the Olympics see News Channel 5.
Colorado has seen its share of pain this year with a mass movie
theater shooting and deadly wildfires that destroyed hundreds of homes. But when Missy Franklin cinched her first gold medal at the London Olympic Games this week, it was finally time to cheer.
After days of mourning the mass shooting, Coloradans are celebrating the triumphs of the 17-year-old swimmer who attends Aurora's Regis Jesuit High School and lives in the nearby Denver suburb of Centennial. Following the July 20 shootings in Aurora, she dedicated her Olympic races to her home state.
"It's such a terrible thing, and I'm so shaken by it," Franklin said last week. "They're in my thoughts this entire process."
Franklin won a gold medal in the 100-meter backstroke Monday after having opened her games with a relay bronze.
"For Missy to take time in the midst of her finest moment to think about her hometown and how she can help in its healing is an incredible statement about her character," Aurora Mayor Steve Hogan said Tuesday.
"It certainly means a lot to Aurora to know that Missy cares, and we are proud of her achievements."
Franklin has become a much-needed cause for celebration in a state that was still reeling from destructive wildfires when the movie theater massacre occurred. This summer's High Park Fire in northern Colorado burned about 260 homes, while the Waldo Canyon Fire near Colorado Springs destroyed more than 340 homes and killed a husband and wife.
Franklin's steady rise has been chronicled by Colorado news media, and on Tuesday The Denver Post emblazoned her gold medal triumph on its front page under the headline, "Missy's American grit."
Friends, coaches and followers embraced that grit -- a symbol of perseverance shared by many after authorities say James Holmes killed 12 people and injured 58 others at a midnight screening of the Batman film "The Dark Knight Rises."
"I know our entire state just has heartache right now, and for her to dedicate her work and success to us, it just helps that much more," said Madeline Cordier, a recent Regis graduate.
"She helps us push forward and she gives us something to look forward to," added Cordier's sister, Grace, who still attends Regis Jesuit. "She's putting a lot of smiles on a lot of Coloradans' faces."
Noah Utesch, a member of the boys' swim team at Regis Jesuit, praised Franklin's dedication of her races in the London spotlight as "something positive for the city of Aurora."
"It's got to do something to cover up that terrible tragedy," Utesch said.
Franklin's high school swim coach, Nick Frasersmith, was effusive in his praise of her determination and ebullient outlook on life.
"What Missy's doing in dedicating her events, really, I think, just kind of brings something we can all focus on that's positive and an enjoyment of some good things that happen in this world," Frasersmith said.
"And there's no better person like Missy Franklin with her wonderful attitude."
For more information on Missy or the Olympics see News Channel 5.
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Christian Bale Visits Aurora
Posted by Larimer Associates on 12:46 PM
Just a few days after the tragedy at the Aurora movie theater actor Christian Bale came to visit the victims and the memorial, becoming a real life hero. The actor was not representing Warner Brothers, but representing himself and wanted to say thank you to everyone who had helped the victims of the shooting. He took pictures with the victims and the hospital staff and attended a luncheon to say thank you to the workers at the hospital.
Batman star Christian Bale visited survivors of the Colorado theater
shooting Tuesday, and thanked medical staff and police officers who
responded to the attack that killed 12 people and injured 58 others.
Bale visited with little advance warning and also stopped by a makeshift memorial to victims near the movie theater that was showing "The Dark Knight Rises" when the gunfire erupted.
Carey Rottman, one of those injured in Friday's shooting, posted two photos of himself with Bale on his Facebook page.
Janie Bowman-Hayes, assistant vice president of surgical services at sister hospital Swedish Medical Center, said she and co-workers were attending a luncheon at The Medical Center of Aurora to thank staff who tended to victims. "When we got there, then we found out he was there," she said.
Bale, humble and dressed casually in a black T-shirt and jeans, thanked the staff, shook hands and agreed to have his photo taken with employees, Bowman-Hayes said.
"He just said he wanted to come to thank all of us because he has been thinking about this. He knows the whole world has been thinking about this," she said. "He took it upon himself to come and thank us."
An online campaign had urged Bale to visit survivors of the shooting.
Bale also stopped by a growing memorial near the theater and walked among the 12 crosses erected for each of the slain victims. Many people there didn't realize who he was or chose to leave him alone.
A Warner Bros. spokeswoman told The Denver Post that Bale was representing himself, not the movie studio.
Bale, who stars as Batman in "The Dark Knight Rises," previously issued a written statement saying: "Words cannot express the horror that I feel. I cannot begin to truly understand the pain and grief of the victims and their loved ones, but my heart goes out to them."
President Barack Obama and members of the Denver Broncos also have made hospital visits to some of the survivors.
Bowman-Hayes and her staff cared for patients at both Swedish Medical Center and The Medical Center of Aurora after the shootings, whether it was in the operating room or intensive care unit, or by washing medical instruments.
She said the staff appreciated Bale's visit.
"He did this out of his heart, and you could really tell. It was so sincere," she said. "It was just, 'thank you.'"
For more information go to CBSNEWS.
Batman star Christian Bale visited survivors of the Colorado theater
shooting Tuesday, and thanked medical staff and police officers who
responded to the attack that killed 12 people and injured 58 others.Bale visited with little advance warning and also stopped by a makeshift memorial to victims near the movie theater that was showing "The Dark Knight Rises" when the gunfire erupted.
Carey Rottman, one of those injured in Friday's shooting, posted two photos of himself with Bale on his Facebook page.
Janie Bowman-Hayes, assistant vice president of surgical services at sister hospital Swedish Medical Center, said she and co-workers were attending a luncheon at The Medical Center of Aurora to thank staff who tended to victims. "When we got there, then we found out he was there," she said.
Bale, humble and dressed casually in a black T-shirt and jeans, thanked the staff, shook hands and agreed to have his photo taken with employees, Bowman-Hayes said.
"He just said he wanted to come to thank all of us because he has been thinking about this. He knows the whole world has been thinking about this," she said. "He took it upon himself to come and thank us."
An online campaign had urged Bale to visit survivors of the shooting.
Bale also stopped by a growing memorial near the theater and walked among the 12 crosses erected for each of the slain victims. Many people there didn't realize who he was or chose to leave him alone.
A Warner Bros. spokeswoman told The Denver Post that Bale was representing himself, not the movie studio.
Bale, who stars as Batman in "The Dark Knight Rises," previously issued a written statement saying: "Words cannot express the horror that I feel. I cannot begin to truly understand the pain and grief of the victims and their loved ones, but my heart goes out to them."
President Barack Obama and members of the Denver Broncos also have made hospital visits to some of the survivors.
Bowman-Hayes and her staff cared for patients at both Swedish Medical Center and The Medical Center of Aurora after the shootings, whether it was in the operating room or intensive care unit, or by washing medical instruments.
She said the staff appreciated Bale's visit.
"He did this out of his heart, and you could really tell. It was so sincere," she said. "It was just, 'thank you.'"
For more information go to CBSNEWS.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Renaissance Festival in Colorado
Posted by Larimer Associates on 10:29 AM
Costumes, food, and history comprise the Colorado Renaissance Festival that is going on all summer long. Every weekend make your way to Larkspur to experience kings, queens, and dragons from the 16th century. Kids will love the animals and shows, while parents can explore the history and take in the shops.
Transport yourself back in time to the days of legend and lore. The Colorado Renaissance Festival is coming to town for it’s 36th magical season, and you certainly can’t miss this event. Hundreds of authentic villagers welcome you to the 16th century, as you wander the streets encountering kings, queens, nights, dukes, ladies and wenches. There is entertainment on every corner and so much to see and do. This is one of the most popular summertime activities in Colorado, so be sure to plan ahead.
Entertainment galore
There is so much to see and do this year that you won’t know where to start first. There are three daily jousts featuring chivalrous knights and brave steeds. Magicians, comics and mimes wander the streets, and acrobats and musicians entertain the crowds. Of course, everyone’s favorite comic duo will be returning as well. Puke and Snot are masters of their unique brand of “Mock Shakespearean Vaudeville” and they are sure to have you rolling in the aisles and laughing all the way home. Don’t miss all the amazing rides and games for all ages. From the old-fashioned carousel to games of skill or just throwing tomatoes as insults, be sure to take advantage of all the fun.
Prepare to shop
More than 200 skilled artisans will be at the festival displaying a huge variety of craftsmanship. Wander the shops and peruse the amazing arts. Enjoy fine art, pottery, jewelry, clothing, woodworking, glassblowing, leather work and so much more. This is the best place to find a unique one-of-a-kind gift for that special someone.
For more information on the festival head to the CBS Website.
Transport yourself back in time to the days of legend and lore. The Colorado Renaissance Festival is coming to town for it’s 36th magical season, and you certainly can’t miss this event. Hundreds of authentic villagers welcome you to the 16th century, as you wander the streets encountering kings, queens, nights, dukes, ladies and wenches. There is entertainment on every corner and so much to see and do. This is one of the most popular summertime activities in Colorado, so be sure to plan ahead.
Entertainment galoreThere is so much to see and do this year that you won’t know where to start first. There are three daily jousts featuring chivalrous knights and brave steeds. Magicians, comics and mimes wander the streets, and acrobats and musicians entertain the crowds. Of course, everyone’s favorite comic duo will be returning as well. Puke and Snot are masters of their unique brand of “Mock Shakespearean Vaudeville” and they are sure to have you rolling in the aisles and laughing all the way home. Don’t miss all the amazing rides and games for all ages. From the old-fashioned carousel to games of skill or just throwing tomatoes as insults, be sure to take advantage of all the fun.
Prepare to shopMore than 200 skilled artisans will be at the festival displaying a huge variety of craftsmanship. Wander the shops and peruse the amazing arts. Enjoy fine art, pottery, jewelry, clothing, woodworking, glassblowing, leather work and so much more. This is the best place to find a unique one-of-a-kind gift for that special someone.
For more information on the festival head to the CBS Website.
