Belong to the best
Black Diamond – Individuals
Individual brokers achieving a minimum of $12 million or more in sales volume.
Christy L. Andrisen
Kelly Paul Birner
Steve Blank
Whitney Cain
Tricia Campbell
Anna Centron
Linda Clure
Tammy Cooper
Todd L. Crosbie
Jonathan Danton
Ann Durham
Leigh Flanagan
Todd Groth
Ryan Haarer
Taylor Heslop
Crystal Hodge
Josh Jackson
Marie Jacobs
Felicia Jenkins
Sarabeth Jones
Justin Joseph
Milena Joy
Douglas D. Kerbs
Janet Kritzer
Nancy Levine
Amie MacKenzie
Saana Miklo
Casey Miller
Olivia Casa Monday
Ryan J. Mulstay
Ammy Nguyen
Christine Nicholson
Stacy Owen Resop
Jennie Parson
Steve Redmond
Nicole Reyes
Greg Roeder
Anna Savier
Michelle Seward
Barb Silverman
Michael Turner
Maria Vitale
Audrey Will
Black Diamond - Teams
Teams of brokers achieving a minimum of $16 million or more in sales volume.
Emily Henderson &
Jennifer Davenport
Ford Fountain Team
Heather Graham &
Sean Endsley
Jane Brennan & Beckett Brennan
Jason Filler &
Koa Schumann
Jeff Erickson Group
Kelly Baca &
Gail Wheeler
Oakes Team
Robin Lake Team
Rule Properties
Team Denver Homes
Todd & Tracy Cole
Tom & Denise Barnwell
Double Black Diamond – Individuals
Individual brokers achieving a minimum of $24 million or more in sales volume.
Chris Angelovic
Jewel Brown
Mckinze Casey
Stacie Chadwick
Anne Dresser Kocur
Lisa Fallon
Georgia Gallagher
Delroy Gill
Katie Hoster
DJ Johnson
Connie Kraska
Patti Maurer Williams
Blake O’Shaughnessy
Kate Perry
Liz Richards
Kylie Russell
Gwenivere Snyder
Lark Stewart
Shannon Tiger
Deviree Vallejo
Lauren Vollono
Double Black Diamond - Teams
Teams of brokers achieving a minimum of $36 million or more in sales volume.
The Behr Team
Trish Bragg & Maggie Armstrong
Dream Life Denver
Stucy Group
The Wolfe-Bouc Group
the coolest brokers in town
milehimodern (mhm) represents a new era in Colorado's luxury market and the artistic representation of homes. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the mhm brokers recognized by 5280 for uplifting our vision through expert guidance and a lens of artistry.
discover your broker mhmhomes.com
double black diamond teams of two // corrie lee + karen nichols 303 817 9266 // 303 888 5633 nicholsandleeteam@milehimodern.com
alison + john zuckert 720 331 3001 // 303 550 2202 alison.john@milehimodern.com
black diamond teams of two //
double black diamond individual brokers //
kim thompson 303 641 2049 kthompson@milehimodern.com
jennifer egbert 303 619 3373 jegbert@milehimodern.com
lauren jensen + nicole nicolay 303 868 6445 // 303 808 1600 lauren@laurenjensengroup.com
courtney ranson 303 881 9102 cranson@milehimodern.com
rachel gallegos 720 308 2615 rachel@milehimodern.com
phil booth 303 817 8307 phil@milehimodern.com
michele ciardullo 720 933 2573
michele.lynn@milehimodern.com
black diamond individual brokers //
kyle baseggio 970 520 1793 kyle@milehimodern.com
spencer clapperton 720 919 1002 spencer@milehimodern.com
terri gray 720 323 8460
terri@milehimodern.com
clove berger 303 748 3381 clove@milehimodern.com
lindsey harshman 970 366 1691 lindsey.c@milehimodern.com
clark thomas, JD + MBA 720 771 7559 clark@milehimodern.com
olga de lange 720 201 9319 olga@milehimodern.com
barb passalacqua 303 931 6673
barb@milehimodern.com
kelsea imanuel 720 560 4642 homes@kwafrenchie.com
caitlin clough
303 638 6552 caitlin@milehimodern.com
ryan retaleato 954 618 8116
ryan.retaleato@milehimodern.com
stephanie goldammer
303 995 5301
steph@goldammerliving.com
kate dean 303 588 3032 kate.dean@milehimodern.com
heather harrington 719 210 5557 heather@milehimodern.com
amy berglund 720 560 6674
amyberglund@milehimodern.com
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CONGRATULATIONS TO KENTWOOD'S
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REAL ESTATE BROKERS
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Dawn Raymond ◊◊
Gina Lorenzen & Kara Couzens ◊◊
Edie Marks ◊
Annzo Phelps ◊
Kim Norton
Ann Kerr ◊◊
Troy Strom ◊
Bob Serotta
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Stock Jonekos
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Neir Team ◊◊
Stacy Neir, Alex Neir, & Laura Fuller
Solveig Tschudi Lawrence
Jeff Vanderhule
MID-SIZE TEAMS
The GHS Group ◊
Rob Goldhammer, Chris Howey, Scott Stang
Kruse Nussbaum Team ◊ Steven Kruse, Jim Nussbaum, Karl Lo
Team Dwell Colorado ◊ Martha Potter-Goldstein, Brian Rosen, Amy Hulsey
My Denver Team ◊ Kevin Garrett, Dena Pastorini, Dee Chirafisi, Matt McNeill
Vesta Homes ◊
Libby Levinson-Katz & Elizabeth Sacerdoti
The Harris Team ◊◊ Brian & Jamie Harris
Ron Smookler, Allison
Smooker, Zach Gilbert, Greg Yoshida
JS Collective ◊◊
Jacci Geiger & Sana Wood
Autumn Mestas & Sarah Tyler
The Kelly Team ◊ Bob Kelly & Sean Kelly
Al Larson, Michael Larson, & Todd Landgrave ◊
Buckley Team ◊◊ Jim Buckley, Helena Buckley, Dan Buckley
The Hotz Group Elizabeth Hotz, Larry Hotz, Meredith Hotz
Ewing Team Danielle & Justin Ewing, Andrea Jones
Tom Gross Team ◊ Tom Gross & Brittany Armstrong
Brennick & Burns ◊ Staci Burns & Brandon Brennick
Glery Ross Group ◊
Jonathan Lopez & Roy Lopez
Peak Home Partners Shandel Henry & Jonathan Pierotti
Denver Mountain Living ◊ Ann Lenane & Angela Beldy
The King Team ◊◊ Paula King & Matt King
Elite Home Collective ◊ Lisa Gould & Amy Stevens
Chuck Gargotto & Jason Weisgerber
Greg Margheim & Kelly Sophinos ◊
Tom & Dee Cryer
Dutzer & Co Rosanne & Thomas Dutzer
The Modglin Collection ◊ Brigette & Jay Modglin
Sheila Schlifkin & Mitch Rothman ◊
The Legacy Group Robert & Mary Beth Marinaro
View Finder
In east Boulder, a perfectly situated jewel-box home captures Colorado’s natural splendor—and offers lessons about connecting your interiors to the outdoors, too.
BY MICHELLE SHORTALL
7 Ways The Pandemic Changed Colorado (Maybe Forever)
We look backward—and forward—five years after COVID-19 altered the course of our lives here at elevation.
BY LINDSEY B. KING
84
Deserted
With fewer attorneys willing to practice in small towns, rural Colorado is quickly becoming a landscape devoid of legal resources and, often, justice.
BY ROBERT SANCHEZ
90
Denver’s Top Real Estate Producers
Whether you’re selling an abode you’ve outgrown, searching for your dream home, or looking for an investment property, we suggest seeking the guidance of one of the 1,196 most successful real estate agents in the Denver metro area.
Craig Fidler, a private attorney with an office in Burlington, near the Kansas border
FROM THE EDITOR
18 At the half-decade mark, a reflection on what the pandemic took away—as well as what it gave us.
COMPASS
21 GEAR
LowDown Helmets brings retroinspired style to the slopes.
22 KIDS
Daytrips that promise to do more than fill your (no-school) days.
24 FASHION
Tips from Larimer Square clothing boutique Coco & Grace for a wardrobe glow-up.
26 CULTURE
No Man’s Land Film Festival celebrates its 10th anniversary— and its ever-evolving pursuit of equality in adventure sports.
28 TRAVEL
Five ways to celebrate and honor Leadville’s Irish heritage this St. Patrick’s Day.
42 EAT & DRINK
31 WHAT’S HOT
Choose from 60-plus flavors of instant noodles to build your own bowl at Aurora’s Hangang Ramen.
32 REVIEW
In Arvada, Stone Cellar Bistro eschews culinary trendiness in favor of unfussy, perfectly cooked farm-to-table fare. Plus: local chefs who’ve starred on cooking competition shows.
96 DINING GUIDE
COLUMN
36 OUTDOORS
Amid Colorado’s recreation boom, public lands are turning to new technologies to find out where people really spend their time outdoors.
BY ELIZABETH MILLER
ACT LIKE A LOCAL
108 THE OVERSIMPLIFIED GUIDE TO: SPRINGTIME MOUNTAIN SAFETY
Five tips for keeping the stoke alive in fickle weather and hairy snow conditions. ON THE COVER
Photograph by Jess Blackwell
Clockwise from top left: Matt Nager; Courtesy of Jeff Fierberg; Getty Images; Paul Miller
THE LEADING RESPIRATORY HOSPITAL IN THE NATION— READY FOR THE NEXT 125 YEARS.
For 125 years, National Jewish Health has brought together doctors, researchers and caregivers to solve the most challenging problems in respiratory, cardiac, immune and related conditions.
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Jessica LaRusso
ART DIRECTOR
David McKenna
DIGITAL DIRECTOR
Maren Horjus
EDITORIAL
DEPUTY EDITOR
Spencer Campbell
SENIOR STAFF WRITER
Robert Sanchez
SENIOR EDITOR
Michelle Shortall
SENIOR ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Jessica Giles
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Barbara O’Neil
COPY EDITOR
Lois M. Baron
RESEARCHERS
Laurenz Busch, Sophie Hayssen, Amanda Price, Julia Ruble, Taj Smith
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Laura Beausire, Lisa Blake, Jay Bouchard, Julie Dugdale, Amanda M. Faison, Courtney Holden, Patricia Kaowthumrong, Lindsey B. King, Sarah Kuta, Elisabeth Kwak-Hefferan, Jenny McCoy, Craig Meyer, Allyson Reedy, Sara Rosenthal, Daliah Singer
PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN
PHO TO EDITORS DEPUT Y ART DIRECTOR
Sarah Banks, Charli Ornett
Sean Parsons
CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS
Jess Blackwell, Ben Konkol, Jessie Lin, Simone Massoni, Paul Miller, Matt Nager, Matt Slaby, David Williams
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Silver Linings
It’s too easy to list the things COVID19, which began overwhelming the United States five years ago this month, took from us: celebrations, schooling, wages, travel, lives. For many, the prevaccine days were a devastatingly isolating time. Plenty of families, businesses, and institutions have yet to fully recover; some never will.
Yet, as freelance writer and former 5280 editor Lindsey B. King details in “7 Ways The Pandemic Changed Colorado (Maybe Forever),” which begins on page 74, the pandemic also showed our ability to evolve in positive directions during a time of unprecedented turmoil. Some workers have kept the flexibility they gained in how and where they do their jobs. Expanded outdoor dining areas that help restaurants cover their rents became permanent. Medical professionals embraced telehealth technologies that make care easier to access in rural communities.
^ My Little Free Library, built during the stay-at-home phase of the pandemic
As I reflect on my own pandemic experience—influenced by the privileges of having a job I could do remotely, a comfortable home, and a supportive, fun partner—my sense of loss is tinged with gratitude. My husband and I used our cleared social calendar to tackle house projects that continue to bring me joy. We constructed raised garden beds that provide our family with plump tomatoes, cheap basil, and endless zucchini every summer. We installed glass shelves across
MATT SLABY
a sunny window and started a houseplant collection that’s still (mostly) thriving. We built a Little Free Library that connected us with neighbors who became friends.
Most significantly, though, we joined the swell of Coloradans who grew their families in 2021, when the state became one of only a handful to record more births than in 2019. Having our son that January meant spending our first moments with him in masks. Introductions to family and friends were tainted by fear and anxiety. But my husband was still working from home during my maternity leave, and I’ll forever be thankful for his help over lunch breaks and for the
In addition to being a freelance photographer, Matt Slaby is a lawyer—but not the Perry Mason type. “I don’t wear suits, and you couldn’t moor me to a cubicle with an anchor chain,” he says. Instead, he merged his passions for advocacy and photojournalism to launch Luceo, a Denver-based marketing agency that highlights critical social issues through visual media. That’s why Slaby is familiar with the problems in “Deserted” (page 84), a look at the lack of legal resources in rural Colorado. “These stories deserve the public attention the magazine is giving them,” Slaby says. One of his most memorable moments from the project? Photographing District Attorney Anne Kelly in the flats near Alamosa. “It’s probably the strangest set of circumstances under which I’ve met someone for a magazine shoot,” he says. “It felt like one of the desert meeting scenes from Breaking Bad.”
time he spent bonding with our baby instead of commuting.
I hope that as you look back, with a half-decade of distance, you’re able to balance the negative impacts of living through a pandemic with course alterations that were for the better. At the very least, this issue is full of reminders about just how far we’ve come.
CORRECTION
jessica@5280.com
In January’s “Seeking Sanctuary,” we incorrectly reported that former President Joe Biden initiated accounting methods that might count an illegal border crosser multiple times. The practice began during President Donald Trump’s first term. We regret the error.
JESSICA L a RUSSO Editor-in-Chief
From top: Jessica LaRusso, Getty Images (photo frame); Courtesy of Polina Saran
Photographer
coverage silhouette is familiar to ski racers, while its vintage stripes, nostalgic colors, and disco-inspired logo are sure to gain the approval of style mavens. LowDown’s current models meet American and European safety standards, and Courtney and Steve hope to add the patented Mips technology to their collection next year for extra protection against brain injuries during a collision. For the remainder of this season, pair a LowDown lid with an old-school onesie for closing-day festivities and slopeside après. —JEREMY JONES
Spring Breakout
Daytrips that promise to do more than fill your (no-school) days.
Denver Public Schools will shutter its classrooms from March 24 to 28 for spring break, meaning moms and dads across the Mile High City will soon be scrambling for ways to fill five long days. Typically, there are two imperfect options: 1. Hit your favorite kidfriendly attractions in the metro area for the umpteenth time. 2. Shell out airfare for a trip to a fun-filled locale. Fortunately, the following plans combine the best parts of both choices—three epic experiences just far enough away from Denver to feel like a vacation, if only for a day. —SPENCER CAMPBELL
› For Tinkering Tots
FORT COLLINS MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY
A staple of Old Town Fort Collins since 2012, this 47,000-square-foot shrine to STEM features a roster of interactive exhibits that will keep your little ones’ brains from hibernating during break. Wannabe Partridges jam on a range of instruments, from guitars to turntables; Young MacDonalds hack into plastic sugar beets with a pretend knife; and burgeoning Helen Hunts enter the Tornado Chamber to feel the fury of 75 mph winds. Even if you’ve visited the Museum of Discovery before, temporary exhibits make the experience new again: Through April 27, Skin: Living Armor, Evolving Identity offers an opportunity to run your fingers along snake skins and
otter fur while also addressing the human history of racial bias.
Extra Credit: With its 38 pinball machines and 18 arcade games, Pinball Jones in Old Town Square gives your kids a lesson on how their parents used to game.
› For Little Explorers
WILD BEAR NATURE CENTER
Set in a retail center in downtown Nederland, this free facility (with its maker’s space, animal-education exhibits, and flock of salamanders, turtles, and bugs) is actually a secret portal to the outdoors. That’s especially true during spring break, when the nonprofit organizes daylong camps ($85, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) for children five to 12. After
drop-off, the staff buses the class to a local alfresco adventure spot for themed exploring and learning. On March 27, for example, students will head to Boulder County Parks & Open Space’s Caribou Ranch to learn the finer points of packing for a hike; trek along one of two trails (both are shorter than two miles); and return to the center for crafts, games, and BYO lunch before afternoon pickup.
Extra Credit: In the same shopping center as Wild Bear, Nederland’s Carousel of Happiness twirls 57 handcarved animals to the tune of a 1913 Wurlitzer organ.
› For Future Historians
EL PUEBLO HISTORY MUSEUM
Travel back to a time before statehood at this History Colorado community museum in Pueblo, erected adjacent to the nearly two-centuries-old El Pueblo Trading Post. The complex boasts a replica of the original adobe structure, which served as a commercial center for travelers and Native Americans arriving via the Santa Fe Trail, as well as a permanent exhibit on the geography of southern Colorado and a temporary one about the Croatian and Slovenian immigrants who powered Pueblo’s steel mills. But it also offers a slice of living history in the form of an active archaeological dig that has uncovered tools, pottery, and beads.
Extra Credit: You could opt for the Pueblo Zoo or the Buell Children’s Museum, but why not keep the history theme going at the Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum, where planes from major wars fill two large hangars?
From top: Outdoor exploration at Wild Bear Nature Center; a folkloric dancer at El Pueblo History Museum
From top: Courtesy of Wild Bear Nature Center; Courtesy of History Colorado
Lost & Found
Five years ago, COVID-19 began wreaking havoc on our world—and our wardrobes. As life shifted inward, we swapped smart office attire and going-out getups for pieces that provided convenience and comfort. Of course, in Colorado, no one shys away from wearing Lululemon to dinner. But if you’re ready to retire the leggings and the circa-2019 threads collecting dust in your dresser aren’t sparking joy, Grace Buttorff, owner of 12-year-old clothing boutique Coco & Grace (formerly Hailee Grace) in Larimer Square has some ideas for your spring glow-up. —MICHELLE SHORTALL
JEAN THERAPY “There’s a lot of fun new denim options right now, especially if you haven’t left behind the skinny jean yet,” Buttorff says. While cropped and kick-flare silhouettes have been popular in recent years, she’s been nudging her customers to try a full-length, wide-leg pair of jeans with a cuffed hem. “I think it’s really flattering on every body type,” she says.
SOMETHING TO SLIP INTO Among the garments that fly off the racks at Coco & Grace are satin slip skirts. “You can style them in so many ways—with a cropped cardigan, a half-tucked plain white tee, chunky boots, or strappy sandals,” Buttorff says.
SHOP THE LOOK
In A Dream cardigan, $102; Carmine bodysuit, $46; Miles cuffed jean, $85; Best Fashion boots, $75; cross-body bag, $61; all available at Coco & Grace
OPPOSITES ATTRACT Though
Buttorff warns that embellishments— such as cutouts, loud animal prints, or bows—can be fleeting trends, there’s one in-demand adornment that she considers a new classic. High-contrast hems (such as a black top with white detailing around the cuffs or neckline) add a touch of personality without being over-the-top.
ADDED DEPTH Buttorff’s favorite yearround item that you can pair with most anything? A long-sleeve, sheer lace top, which makes a statement on its own or can be worn under a graphic tee, shift dress, or structured vest.
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BRANDED PROJECT OR HAVE ANY RIGHTS TO USE THE TRADEMARKS. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY COLORADO LAW TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. NO FEDERAL OR STATE AGENCY HAS JUDGED THE MERITS OR VALUE, IF ANY, OF THIS PROPERTY. THIS IS NOT AN OFFER TO SELL, OR SOLICITATION OF OFFERS TO BUY, THE CONDOMINIUM UNITS IN STATES WHERE SUCH OFFER OR SOLICITATION CANNOT BE MADE. THESE DRAWINGS ARE CONCEPTUAL ONLY AND ARE FOR THE CONVENIENCE OF REFERENCE. THEY SHOULD NOT BE RELIED UPON AS REPRESENTATIONS, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, OF THE FINAL DETAIL OF THE RESIDENCES. UNITS SHOWN ARE EXAMPLES OF UNIT TYPES AND MAY NOT DEPICT ACTUAL UNITS. STATED SQUARE FOOTAGES ARE RANGES FOR A PARTICULAR UNIT TYPE AND ARE MEASURED TO THE EXTERIOR BOUNDARIES OF THE EXTERIOR WALLS AND THE CENTERLINE OF INTERIOR DEMISING WALLS AND IN FACT ARE LARGER THAN THE AREA THAT WOULD BE DETERMINED BY USING THE DESCRIPTION AND DEFINITION OF THE “UNIT” SET FORTH IN THE DECLARATION OF COVENANTS, CONDITIONS AND RESTRICTIONS (WHICH GENERALLY ONLY INCLUDES THE INTERIOR AIRSPACE BETWEEN THE PERIMETER WALLS AND EXCLUDES INTERIOR STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS). THE AREA OF THE UNIT AS DEFINED IN THE DECLARATION IS LESS THAN THE SQUARE FOOTAGE REFLECTED HERE. ALL DEPICTIONS OF APPLIANCES, PLUMBING FIXTURES, EQUIPMENT, COUNTERS, SOFFITS, FLOOR COVERINGS AND OTHER MATTERS OF DETAIL ARE CONCEP- TUAL ONLY AND ARE NOT NECESSARILY INCLUDED IN EACH UNIT. THE FURNISHINGS AND DÉCOR ILLUSTRATED OR DEPICTED ARE NOT INCLUDED WITH THE PURCHASE OF THE UNIT. CONSULT YOUR PURCHASE AGREEMENT AND ANY ADDENDA THERETO FOR THE ITEMS INCLUDED WITH THE UNIT. DIMENSIONS AND SQUARE FOOTAGE ARE APPROXIMATE, WILL VARY WITH SPECIFIC UNIT TYPE AND MAY VARY WITH ACTUAL CONSTRUCTION. ADDITIONALLY, MEASUREMENTS OF ROOMS SET FORTH ON ANY FLOOR PLAN ARE NOMINAL AND GENERALLY TAKEN AT THE GREATEST POINTS OF EACH GIVEN ROOM (AS IF THE ROOM WERE A PERFECT RECTANGLE), WITHOUT REGARD FOR ANY CUTOUTS. UNIT ORIENTATION AND WINDOWS (INCLUDING NUMBER, SIZE, ORIENTATION AND AWNINGS), BALCONY/LANAIS (INCLUDING CONFIGURATION, SIZE AND RAILING/BALUSTRADE), STRUCTURE
New Direction
This month, No Man’s Land Film Festival celebrates its 10th anniversary—and its everevolving pursuit of equality in adventure sports.
In 2008, Aisha Weinhold, a teenager at the time, decided to attend an adventure-film event in her hometown of Carbondale. A competitive ski-mountaineer, she was inspired by the stories of fellow athletes on the big screen—but not in the way she expected. Almost every movie, it seemed, featured a man’s accomplishments. If covered at all, women were treated as secondary characters or scenery.
Seven years later, after earning her degree in environmental science and adventure education from Prescott College in Arizona, Weinhold launched No Man’s Land Film Festival. Held at the Carbondale Community School, the event sought to showcase adventure documentaries that highlighted women’s stories, and Weinhold certainly achieved that goal. The sold-out inaugural fest screened films about female climbers, skiers, and surfers. “What we weren’t seeing were women in action, and we aimed to help change [that] narrative,” says Kathy Karlo, who has been involved in the festival since 2017 and became its executive director two years later.
But there was one big issue with the fest’s early years: The vast majority of films centered on cis white women. So, after moving its flagship event from Carbondale to Denver in 2019, No Man’s Land expanded its capacity—from 125 seats at Carbondale’s Crystal Theatre to 400 at Denver’s Holiday Theater—and its definition of diversity. Closed captioning became standard for all films, and ASL interpreters began working at live events. Organizers also created new ways to support filmmakers in underserved communities, such as $2,500 grants for genderqueer and Black female filmmakers. And lineups began to include more individuals from diverse racial, sexual, and gender backgrounds.
“We’ve championed women and genderqueer athletes, filmmakers, storytellers, and creatives by investing in them [and giving them] the respect and support they deserve,” Karlo says. Denver filmmaker Biz Young says becoming a finalist in the festival’s pitch contest in 2021 helped her make connections that boosted her career. “My interest in film and in the outdoor industry was solidified by No Man’s Land,” says Young, who now works as the North Face’s global media director.
No Man’s Land’s shift will be on full display during its 10th anniversary event, which will screen roughly 30 films at the Holiday Theater on International Women’s Day weekend. World premieres include Let
IF YOU GO
Clockwise from top left: The 2025 lineup includes films that highlight Yelda del Carmen, Morna Baillie, Ellen Bradley, Sierra Schlag, and Caroline Whatley.
My People Go Skiing by Indigenous, Colorado-based film director, skier, and scientist Ellen Bradley; Full Spectrum, a biography of the autistic, queer runner Caroline Whatley by queer filmmaker Erin McGrady; and Outlier , a documentary of three Latina snow athletes by Montrose-based director and producer Dani ReyesAcosta. The two-day occasion also includes four hourlong panels exploring topics ranging from Indigenous perspectives to men’s roles in feminism. As varied as No Man’s Land’s selection might be, however, its underlying intent remains the same. “The most exciting part of this event,” Young says, “is seeing back-to-back films of women in the industry crushing it.”
—REBECCA BRATBURD
Dates: March 7–8 Tickets: Available at nomanslandfilmfestival.org; $65 for a one-day ticket, $120 for both days Don’t Miss: The fest’s kickoff performance by Denver alt-pop artist N3PTUNE at 6:15 p.m. on March 7 Go Virtual: Can’t make it in person? Stream all the films and panels for $150 or watch individual titles for $25. On The Road: In addition to its flagship event in Denver, No Man’s Land will take its screenings to dozens of stops across the United States, including Salt Lake City and San Diego, throughout 2025.
Luck O’
Leadville
Irish exhibition ($3; Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) at the Healy House Museum & Dexter Cabin documents and honors locals’ fight for better wages and increased safety measures, which sparked Colorado’s labor movement.
Leadville Railroad’s St. Patrick’s Day Ride
326 E. SEVENTH ST.
Clockwise from left: Mt. Massive towers over Leadville; pot pie and pints at Katie O’Rourke’s pub; a statue called Liam at the Irish Miners’ Memorial
The Irish bona fides of the highest incorporated city in the United States are undeniable: During the 1880s silver mining boom, over 3,000 people born on the Emerald Isle called Leadville home—more than the town’s entire population today (which hovers around 2,600). Here, five ways to celebrate and honor Cloud City’s Irish heritage this St. Patrick’s Day.
—CYNTHIA BARNES
Irish Miners’ Memorial AT EVERGREEN CEMETERY, MCWETHY DRIVE AND JAMES STREET
Holding a pickaxe and harp and facing Ireland, a three-year-old statue nicknamed “Liam” honors the 1,300 or so Irish immigrants buried in the paupers’ section of Evergreen Cemetery. Illuminated panels inscribed with the names of the dead surround the bronze figure, memorializing the harsh lives of those who toiled in the high-altitude mines.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
9TH STREET AND HARRISON AVENUE
Don your best green and gold attire and join this lively procession of Irish flags, floats, and bagpipe bands. All (including dogs) are invited to participate in the sixblock march, which starts at 4 p.m. on March 17, down Leadville’s main drag. The festivities culminate at the 1879 Silver
Dollar Saloon, where the Leadville Lions Club serves corned beef and cabbage ($10 to $15 a plate) to raise money for its causes. Can’t make it in March? For the past 70 years, the town has hosted an identical second parade on the third Saturday of September, when milder temperatures tend to draw bigger crowds. (Christmas in July, meet St. Paddy’s in September.)
The Unearthed Exhibit 912 HARRISON AVE.
Leadville’s immigrant miners faced social scorn, low pay, and perilous working conditions while extracting the fortunes of millionaires such as Horace Tabor and Meyer Guggenheim. History Colorado’s ongoing Unearthed: Voices of Leadville’s Shanty
Completed in 1884, the Leadville Railroad is the last remaining section of a narrow-gauge route that once ran 151 miles from Denver to Cloud City. Today it ferries passengers on a two-hour scenic journey through the San Isabel National Forest with views of Mt. Elbert and Mt. Massive. The St. Patrick’s Day–themed excursion ($83 per ticket; children three and under ride free) leaves the station at 1 p.m. and features gaily decorated cars, Guinness beer, and emerald-clad employees. Look for golden coins that can be redeemed for free drinks and small souvenirs hidden throughout the train.
Leprechaun Lane at Ski Cooper
232 COUNTY ROAD 29
In an effort to put the “green” in green run, the resort decorates this slope with shamrocks, a pot of gold, and four-foottall leprechauns all winter long. On St. Paddy’s Day, a real-life bearded elf frolics on the terrain—but don’t chase him. The treasure (stickers and wristbands that read “I Skied Leprechaun Lane”) is in a mailbox at the top of the run. Afterward, refuel with a pint and a feast of fish and chips and Irish pot pie at on-mountain Katie O’Rourke’s, the highest-elevation Irish pub in North America.
Clockwise from left: Getty Images; Courtesy of Emily Maddox; Courtesy of Kathleen Fitzsimmons
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Eat & Drink
Top Ramen
In Seoul, instant ramen is more than a meal; it’s an experience. In fact, the South Korean city’s Han River is lined with convenience stores where locals build their own steaming bowls of broth and wheat noodles to take to “ramen picnics” at parks along the water. The tradition inspired South Korea native Jenny Suk and her family to open six-month-old Hangang Ramen in Aurora, a fast-casual restaurant that offers more than 60 types of instant noodles. “We wanted to bring a slice of that culture here,” says Danny Pyo, Suk’s son and one of the eatery’s managers. Inside, shelves hold colorful packages of noodles (starting at $6) in flavors as varied as smoky black bean, fiery seafood, rich beef bone broth, and cheesy carbonara. Patrons simmer their bowls at induction-stove-equipped cooking stations, customizing with free and upcharge add-ins such as kimchi, tofu, sliced sausages, and green onions. Round out your meal with other Korean staples—pouches of fruit-infused iced teas, house-made onigiri, gimbap (rice, veggies, meats, and other fillings rolled in seaweed)—then dig in at a white plastic table to the soundtrack of upbeat K-pop.
PHOTOGRAPH BY DAVID WILLIAMS
Old-School Appeal
In Arvada, Stone Cellar Bistro eschews culinary trendiness in favor of unfussy, perfectly cooked farm-to-table fare. —ALLYSON REEDY
Stone Cellar Bistro reminds me of Denver’s top restaurants from 10 or 15 years ago. Let me be clear: That’s not a dig. I appreciate that instead of relying on high-concept tasting menus or funky fusions, Stone Cellar’s food is simply delicious and consistent. Really, almost everything about the Olde Town Arvada restaurant, from the service to the menu, feels like a throwback—in the best possible way.
It could be because chef-owners Jordan Alley and Brandon Kerr met while working at LoHi’s belovedly
classic, now shuttered Z Cuisine in 2012. Or it could simply be that the chefs prioritize seasonal ingredients and solid techniques over trends and niche gastronomy. The two have been busy since their time at Z, working in lauded kitchens across the country (both), opening Stone Cellar’s predecessor food truck (Alley), and appearing on season 23 of Hell’s Kitchen this winter (Kerr, who came in fifth). They opened Stone Cellar Bistro in 2022 for their neighbors in Arvada, where they both live, but they quickly attracted
diners from farther out who heard rumblings about elevated fare in the ’burbs.
The dinner menu is hyperseasonal, so the Arctic char you loved yesterday may still be there in two weeks, but in summer, things shift frequently, even daily. Except the fried chicken. That’s always on the menu, and on my first visit—when I noticed that most tables had ordered the hothoney-topped dish—I understood why. The bird downright hisses when you crack into its crisp crust, which is uniquely seasoned with ground bay leaf and clove. Double dredged to create a shell that locks in moisture, the fried breast, thigh, and leg were the best and juiciest I’ve had in
^ From left: New York strip steak with potato purée and mushrooms; chef-owners Brandon Kerr and Jordan Alley
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years. (Don’t be nervous about the heat; there was only a drizzle of hot honey, and it can be left off for fried chicken purists.)
Stone Cellar also scores points with me for using a slightly funkier cheese than the standard American or cheddar on its burger. The sticky slab of nutty raclette adds depth without overpowering the bacon dijonnaise and thick patty, whose steak scraps are ground with Grand County Fitch Ranch chuck. The double-fried, skin-on french fries, hit with salt and apple cider vinegar powder, provide the salty-sweettangy combo you crave in a fry.
It’s the swankier entrées, though— the high-dollar proteins that better be cooked just right—that most remind me of Denver restaurants in the pre-TikTok era. My favorite from cold-weather dining is the confit duck leg, served with a jammy egg that bleeds into satiny polenta, pickled corn preserved from summer, and delicata squash. This is a complete plate, well thought out and executed. Eating all the components together is like experiencing a velvety, slightly sweet, crackly skinned duck leg concert grooving on your taste buds. And yes: The duck, and everything else here, is cooked just right.
The steak offers its own harmonious flavor ensemble, this one full of tart green tomatoes, creamy gold potatoes, deeply savory Madeira wine, mushrooms, and veal stock. The chefs clearly know how to balance flavors and textures, blurring the tomatoes’ sting with umami aplenty and contrasting snappy Brussels sprouts with
those puréed potatoes. You want to eat more and more—and you can, because there are two pieces of meltingly tender New York strip.
While I have no notes on the food, I do have some on the drinks and service. I could barely sip down a $14 mocktail that was a mix of fig balsamic shrub and clove simple syrup. It tasted like watered-down soda, lacking any sort of sweetness or much flavor. (An Earl Grey tea and hibiscus syrup drink with gin was much better.) And on one evening, it took 45 minutes for our entrées to arrive. Our server acknowledged the delay but didn’t offer a drink or any other compensation. When you’re waiting on $49 items (prices here are definitely not throwbacks), either the swiftness or the reparation needs to be better.
The setting is reminiscent of Denver’s pre–community table and Edison bulb days, which would be refreshing if the decor weren’t so generic, the only hint of style coming from an underlit bar with wood slats crafted by chef Kerr, who also made the restaurant’s tables. The upscale restaurant threaded with a sports bar aesthetic works for his crowd and location, but urbanites might find it too quaint.
If you’re one of those city dwellers who’s all about the vibes and innovative tasting menus, Stone Cellar isn’t going to be worth your drive. But if you’re craving excellent takes on classic dishes, prepare to celebrate like it’s 2010.
SCREEN TIME
Stone Cellar Bistro’s Brandon Kerr may be one of Colorado’s only chefs to have braved Gordon Ramsay on Hell’s Kitchen, but he’s not the first to appear on a cooking competition show. Here’s where some of our smallscreen alumni are now. —AR
BRUTØ
^ From top: Fried chicken with the Thyme After Thyme cocktail; peanut butter mousse
Byron Gomez isn’t camerashy; the Costa Rican chef appeared on season 18 of Bravo’s Top Chef and fall 2024’s Last Bite Hotel on the Food Network. Although he didn’t win either show, he did score the title of executive chef at LoDo’s Brutø last year.
SANTO, BLACKBELLY BOULDER, & BLACKBELLY MARKET DENVER Colorado has been well-represented on Top Chef Carrie Baird (Fox & The Hen), Manny Barella (Camp Pickle), Eliza Gavin (221 South Oak), and Brother Luck (Four by Brother Luck) all competed—but only Hosea Rosenberg hasn’t been asked to pack his knives and go. Find the top toque’s food at Santo in Boulder and both locations of Blackbelly, his deli and market.
BÁNH & BUTTER
STONE CELLAR BISTRO
7605 Grandview Ave., Arvada stonecellarbistro.com
The Draw: Fantastic food in Olde Town Arvada
The Drawback: Some drinks are lackluster, and food can take a while
Noise Level: Medium
Don’t Miss: Fried chicken, confit duck leg
Thoa Nguyen might have fallen just short of the crown on Food Network’s 2023 Holiday Baking Championship, but her strawberry split croissants, fruit tarts, and crêpe cakes are the eternal champions of our hearts. Try them at her cheery Colfax bakery, Bánh & Butter.
Courtesy of Jeff Fierberg
(Byron Gomez); Courtesy of Vuong Ly (Thoa Nguyen)
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The Outdoors are for Everyone
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Javier Pineda Outdoor Educator Mountain Dreamers
Data Trails
Samuel Massman has the same feeling a lot of his neighbors have: It’s getting crowded out there. A longtime Summit County resident, Massman serves as the forest recreation program manager for White River National Forest, which encompasses Maroon Bells, Hanging Lake, and 11 ski areas. Considering that wealth of natural riches, it’s no surprise White River is the country’s busiest national forest. In 2022, it saw about 18.4 million visits, up from 12.3 million in 2013.
Massman often hears locals around Frisco swapping reports about where to find peace and quiet. They’re right to rely on such anecdotal evidence, because federal data is short
Amid Colorado’s recreation boom, public lands are turning to new technologies to find out where people really spend their time outdoors. BY ELIZABETH MILLER
on details. Both the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) extrapolate physical visitor counts—taken either by hand or with infrared trail monitors—to help determine the number of people who visit their public lands each year. Permits sold, campsite reservations, and ski area ticket sales help complete the big picture. State and national parks, meanwhile, estimate visitation largely by counting the number of vehicles that roll through their entrance gates. The approaches are so wildly different that figures between agencies can’t really be compared, but both methods share the same problem: Neither count can accurately say where visitors go once they’re inside.
Outdoor recreation has exploded in recent years, jumping from an industry worth $8 billion to one valued at $17 billion in Colorado over the past decade. Without statistics about exactly which trails and campsites are seeing the most traffic, though, land managers don’t have all the information they need to best serve the millions of hikers, campers, bikers, skiers, and off-highway vehicle (OHV) riders who visit each year. “We have a sense of where people are going and what they’re doing, just from being here,” Massman says, “but what we don’t have is data.”
Fortunately for outdoors enthusiasts, big data is also enjoying a boom. People record and share where they go in the woods, often with GPS information embedded in everything from photos to workouts. Plus, mobile phones are constantly logging locations, even in the backcountry. The questions now are if and how these technology-based solutions can fill in some of the outdoor industry’s blanks. But getting everyone on the same page—or app, as it were—won’t be easy.
TRAILS PACKED body-to-body, parked vehicles blocking snowplow turnarounds, proliferating piles of human and pet poop: These are just a few of the things that convinced the Colorado Mountain Club (CMC) it was time to start quantifying just how bad things were getting in the backcountry. In 2019, the Golden-based education, stewardship, and conservation nonprofit launched the Recreation Impact Monitoring System (RIMS), an app that equips everyday hikers to do the kind of daily monitoring that land managers often can’t.
Vetted users tally vehicles at parking lots, noting which states the plates are from and whether they’re towing snowmobile or OHV
trailers. They can also report problems like washed-out creek crossings, trees that have fallen over trails, or trash cans mauled by bears. The collected data feeds into a web portal that land managers can pay to access.
This past summer, two CMC surveyors spent 12 weeks backpacking through thick spruce and fir forests and elk-spotted alpine meadows in southwestern Colorado’s La Garita Wilderness. They checked wilderness campsites—particularly noting whether they were expanding, shrinking, or remaining stable. They also determined the most likely locations for future campsites and even reported illegal activity. “Getting volunteers out there to collect this data should be imperative, because we know the Forest Service can’t do it,” says Brian Bergeler, stewardship manager for the nonprofit. “And we know if we push that data to them, they can use it for constructive purposes”—for example, shuttering rogue campsites or deciding whether to launch a permit system.
RIMS faces a few hurdles, recruiting volunteers among them. Also, some land managers already have their own programs: The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forest only used RIMS to inventory campsites
in La Garita because the CMC secured a grant from the National Wilderness Stewardship Alliance to fund the project. Otherwise, says Joseph Carlson, wilderness manager for the Gunnison Ranger District, he uses a similar app called Survey123, made by a California software developer.
The dueling apps highlight a key obstacle to finding real answers: Plenty of technologies exist, but none are perfect or comprehensive. Megan Lawson, who studies outdoor recreation for Headwaters Economics, a national nonprofit based in Bozeman, Montana, paired trail monitors—infrared beams that count passing bodies—and workouts tracked using the fitness app Strava to identify the most popular loops in a spaghetti’d trail system in Montana. But Strava represents just one to five percent of total trail users, according to Lawson’s research, which also looked at social media and photo-sharing apps, like Instagram, X, and Flickr, in addition to Google search trends. Social media mostly catches tourists’ posts, leaving out locals’ routine visits. Flickr users tend to be female and younger. “They all have different strengths and weaknesses,” Lawson says. “There is no single source that captures it all.”
What looks to be the most accurate option for getting head counts on the trails is also the most invasive. Any number of apps with pop-ups asking for consent to share location information—including weather, fitness, news, and even game apps like Pokémon GO— track and sell users’ whereabouts. Rocky Mountain National Park used cell phone information to create a timed-entry system for its busiest hours and months. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is investigating using anonymized phone data to provide information about how busy trails are. And White River, through a partnership with Colorado State University, is looking at whether location records can answer some of the questions it has. The future could see a statewide version of a mobile phone data dashboard, like the one created by NoCo Places, a collaborative of nine county, state, and federal land management agencies in the northern Front Range that used a snapshot of phone locations to chart the busiest trailheads.
As promising as cell phone location information may seem, it’s not without concerns. For example, the technology doesn’t show how many people hike a trail in a year, says Steve Coffin, executive director of NoCo Places;
“If the private sector is already collecting all this information, it’s just a matter of pulling it together.”
instead, it provides a point-in-time record that can be used to identify patterns. And major cell service providers haven’t exactly been transparent about who benefits from location tracking. In April 2024, the Federal Communications Commission fined AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon nearly $200 million for illegally sharing access to customers’ location data. Other parties, like lawmakers arguing for stiffer regulations, contend it’s unclear to consumers that consenting to local news and weather updates means consenting to the sale of their whereabouts—down to a few yards.
“Your phone is always tracking you,” says John Hannon, project manager for NoCo Places—even if your device doesn’t have enough of a signal to send a text. “Trail
runners are always in places where there’s no service, but you can get a great map of where they’ve been.”
IN 2022, White River brought in Forest Service statisticians to tease out some of its busiest locations. What they discovered was troubling: Not counting ski resorts, about 60 percent of visitors squeeze onto 20 percent of sites within the 2.3-million-acre forest—and those spots aren’t necessarily the best-prepared places to host the hordes. “We have some trailheads that have 60,000-, 70,000-plus visits a year, and we don’t have a designed parking lot,” Massman says. “It’s just a wide spot in the road.” Many of the most popular sites don’t even have bathrooms.
Those visitors will have to go without for the foreseeable future. “As visitation has increased across the forest incredibly over time, we have not had the ability to build facilities to keep up,” Massman says. That’s in part because the share of the USFS’ and the BLM’s budgets dedicated to recreation has not grown at the same pace as their crowds. At White River, the budget has actually gone down.
Federal agencies and the politicians who fund them are still recalibrating. In the past, oil
and gas and timber companies paid royalties and fees to take natural resources from USFS and BLM land. The revenue not only offset expenses on public lands, but it also funneled profits to state and federal governments. As recreation has become public lands’ main economic driver, however, lawmakers have been reluctant to invest in that economic engine. “We think a big part of that is because they don’t have good numbers to justify increasing their funding,” says Headwaters’ Lawson.
The data that does exist favors specific recreationists, such as hunters and anglers, who pay for licenses and, thus, directly fund conservation. As a result, wildlife biologists manage public lands to benefit those groups—sometimes at the expense of, say, backcountry skiers, who usually slide onto the slopes unnoticed. Often, the same goes for hikers. Lawson has spoken with land managers trying to account for these visitors by counting rolls of toilet paper or dog bags used. “We’re hearing these
stories and going, ‘There has to be a better way,’ ” she says.
Thanks to apps like RIMS, there is—but no single technology has yet united all public lands. “I would love to see one single source of truth for public lands GIS, mapping, and visitor use data,” says Pitt Grewe, AllTrails’ head of public lands partnerships. “It would be a key unlock for both private and public partnerships that support recreation on our public lands.”
Claimed by the jungle. Revealed by science.
Due to new legislation, someone will have to figure it out: In December, Congress passed the EXPLORE Act, a bundle of outdoor-focused legislation that directs all federal land managers to create a single visitation-data-reporting system for more accurate annual counts. The act also mandates that federal land management agencies create a pilot project in the next two years for publishing real-time or predictive data on which places are busiest. It’s up to each branch to decide which course of action they’ll take. The mandates may compel agencies to look to tech companies and app developers for a new universal solution, says Mike Leonard, vice president of government affairs for the American Sportfishing Association, which lobbied for the legislation. “If the private sector is already collecting all this information, it’s just a matter of pulling it together,” Leonard says. “Now they have the authority and the motivation to make sure it happens.”
It could be a while before the numbers from a new reporting system begin informing budgets at cash-strapped federal agencies. In the meantime, the data may alleviate pressure simply by alerting visitors about traffic jams on public lands. During a recent visit to Utah’s Arches National Park, Jessica Wahl Turner, president of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, an industry advocacy group, squeezed onto the trail to the Delicate Arch overlook with what she says felt like a thousand other people. She wishes she’d known about other paths in the park, or that nearby Canyonlands National Park also boasts an abundance of arches and half as many people, or that the view from an adjacent state park is every bit as good.
“We always talk about ‘loving things to death’ and ‘overcrowded,’ and those words are not informed, right? They’re just a feeling, or a sense,” she says. “Not the entire park of Arches is overcrowded. There are places that have probably not seen a person in years and don’t have a single footprint. I think we’ve just got to be more sophisticated.” In other words, like Massman in White River, Wahl Turner needs numbers, not just notions. m
Elizabeth Miller, a writer based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, has reported on public lands for 15 years. Send feedback to letters@5280.com.
– 1
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LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
TOP REAL ESTATE
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Individual Agent | Double Black Diamond
Anne Dresser Kocur: Passion, Expertise, and Exceptional Service
With over 26 years of experience, Anne Dresser Kocur is a top real estate advisor at LIV Sotheby’s, known for her passion, dedication, and skillful negotiation. Consistently ranked No. 1, Anne attributes her success to loving what she does—“When you have a passion for what you love to do, it’s not work.”
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AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
#1 Individual Producer for Denver Metro Association of Realtors
#1 Individual Broker at LIV Sotheby’s International Realty
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Wendy Glazer
KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Individual Agent | Black Diamond
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Luxury Homes, New Construction, First-Time Buyers, Relocation, Investments
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JANET KRITZER
Justin Joseph
One of Denver’s Top 10 Brokers for the past eight years by the Denver Board of Realtors. As one of the leading real estate brokers in Denver, Janet Kritzer is dedicated to meeting your needs with the utmost level of sophistication and professionalism. She specializes in the luxury home market within all the neighborhoods of Cherry Hills Village. With skillful negotiation, refined sales strategies, and expansive knowledge of the area, it’s clear to see why Janet consistently ranks in the top individual sales for LIV Sotheby’s.
Call Janet to discuss how her experience will work for you and your real estate needs.
TOP 10 BROKER SINCE 2007 – DENVER METRO ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS
As a proud Denver native, Justin leverages his extensive local network and background in real estate law to create extraordinary outcomes for his clients who have have bought and sold luxury homes all along the front range, from Cherry Hills Village to Hilltop. Justin approaches every transaction with a win-win philosophy but, as a licensed attorney, uses his skillset as an aggressive negotiator to achieve exceptional results for buyers and sellers. Justin believes that every home has a story to tell and uses his unique skill set as an Emmy award-winning former television journalist to bring listings to life. As a result of his passion for real estate, Justin has been honored year after year by the Denver Metro Association of Realtors with its coveted Excellence Award.
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EMAIL: Janet@JanetKritzer.com
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ADDRESS: 8000 E. Belleview Ave., Suite 200 Greenwood Village, CO 80111
303.587.5757 | jjoseph@livsothebysrealty.com
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KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Individual Agent |
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AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
Five Star Real Estate Professional designation from 2012-2024; 5280 Top Producing Broker 2015-2024; Ranked among the Top 10 brokers at Kentwood DTC 2018-2024 & Top 5 in 2021-2023. Consistently recognized as a top volume producing Broker in Denver by the Denver Board of Realtors Roundtable; Consistently ranks among top 1% in sales volume for individual brokers by the Denver Board of Realtors. Luxury Home Tour Member.
Ashleigh Fredrickson THE
AGENCY
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Individual Agent | Black Diamond
As a top-tier broker, Ashleigh Fredrickson’s mission is to deliver personalized service to her discerning clientele while guiding them smoothly through their real estate journey. At the heart of her success is her dedication to each client’s unique needs by providing strategic direction and a proven process in an ever-evolving real estate landscape. Recognized among her clients and fellow agents for her integrity, strong work ethic, and uncompromising advocacy, Ashleigh loves creating meaningful relationships and has built her business through repeat clients and referrals.
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As a proud broker with The Agency, which was recently awarded the top Luxury Brokerage, she thrives in a culture that is committed to redefining the industry and the client experience.
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
5280 magazine Top Producer, DMAR Excellence Award Winner, Recognized for being in the top 1.5% of America’s Best Real Estate Professionals in the Country by Real Trends + Tom Ferry, Member of Denver Metro Association of Realtors, Member of National Association of Realtors
303.589.5421 | ashleigh.fredrickson@theagencyre.com ASHLEIGHFREDRICKSON.COM
Caitlin Clough
MILEHIMODERN
empathy. communication. grace.
Before joining milehimodern, Caitlin held a decade long career in sales, advertising, and interior design. Caitlin’s competent background is matched by her poise, empathetic nature, and exemplary communication skills. Her clients appreciate the artistic lens she brings when selling homes and her critical eye when exploring properties. Caitlin helps sellers, buyers, and investors of all types to navigate the complex Denver market. She is also on the board of the Sloan’s Lake Park Foundation.
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
Individual Agent | Black Diamond TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025 2015 W. 32nd Avenue, Denver, CO 80211 | 303.638.6552 caitlin@milehimodern com | SLOANSLAKEAGENT.COM
Christopher Nairn
HOMESMART
Knowledge
As a dedicated Colorado real estate agent since 2008, I am more than qualified to guide you through the home buying or selling process. Seeing significant downturns and upswings in the market has helped shape my experience; giving my clients the peace of mind they need while negotiating any transaction. With an impeccable eye for space, a background in construction/remodels, and a keen sense of value, Chris advises buyers and sellers, expertly guiding them through the process.
Integrity
Buying or selling a home is one of the most important things a person can do during the course of their lifetime. Because of this, it’s crucial that you have the most knowledgeable agent possible. I take this responsibility very seriously and always put my clients first.
Local Expertise
I’ve witnessed the ever-changing market in Colorado, and my clients consider me an expert. Staying up to date on market trends, construction, and insurance while keeping a close eye on the next “it” neighborhood is a must for any expert real estate agent. As a local professional, I have a ton of working knowledge about the areas I service. This includes fantastic restaurants, art galleries, school systems, and more.
Let’s make your next transaction as stress-free as possible... because buying or selling a home should be fun!
• Denver and the surrounding counties
• Background in construction and design
• Insurance coverage
• Relocations
• First-time home buyers
• Investors SPECIALIZATIONS
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
• Top 1% of Firm
• Diamond Club Winner, 2021-2024
8300 E. Maplewood Avenue Suite 100 Greenwood Village, CO 80111
303.229.4585 | chris@mymovematters.com MYMOVEMATTERS .COM
Ann Kerr
KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Individual Agent | Double Black Diamond
In a market replete with realtors, Ann Kerr stands out from the pack. With over $500 million in sales, she is proof of the power of relationships. Ann’s 25-year tenure in the industry reflects the type of staying power that can only be achieved through honesty, integrity and unrelenting authenticity. She answers phone calls and emails directly. It’s extremely important to her that she take responsibility for every detail of every transaction. Ann specializes in helping buyers and sellers with all types of residential properties—from acreage estates in the Villages, bungalows in Washington Park to high rise condos downtown and townhouses in Cherry Creek. Ann’s goal is to give each buyer or seller a sense of complete satisfaction with their dealings and to enjoy the ride along the way.
SPECIALIZATIONS
Living and specializing in Cherry Hills for over 30 years. Expert in Observatory Park, Cherry Creek, Washington Park, Cherry Hills Village, Greenwood Village and more. Luxury, Downsizing, Investment Properties, Relocation, First-Time Home Buyers.
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
Perennially one of the top producers in Kentwood and Denver. Denver Metro Association of Realtors Professional Standards Committee Member, Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate, Cherry Hills Village Planning & Zoning Commission, Swim Across America, University of Oklahoma Alumni Association, The John Lynch Foundation, Swim Across America Denver Executive Committee, University of Denver Lacrosse
4949 South Niagara Street, Suite 400 Denver, CO 80237 | 303.818.8668 annkerr.com | AKERR@KENTWOOD.COM
Anna Centron
LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Individual Agent | Black Diamond
As a top-producing Global Real Estate Advisor with LIV Sotheby’s, Anna Centron is renowned for her unparalleled service, market expertise, and client-first approach. Since 2016, she has been redefining the luxury real estate experience, guiding her discerning clientele through seamless transactions with integrity, strategy, and a proven process. With majority of her business coming from referrals and repeat clients, Anna’s reputation speaks for itself— built on trust, tenacity, and an uncompromising dedication to excellence.
A Denver native, Anna’s deep-rooted knowledge of the local market, coupled with her passion for real estate, home design, and architecture, makes her an invaluable resource for buyers and sellers alike. Her extensive network and industry insight allow her to provide expert guidance on building wealth through real estate. Whether navigating Denver’s dynamic metro market or advising on mountain retreats, Anna ensures her clients receive an incomparable experience. For those seeking a trusted partner in luxury real estate, Anna Centron is the advisor who delivers results with passion and precision.
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
5280 Magazine Top Producer • Rated #2 Top Real Estate Agent in Colorado on Social Media by PropertySpark • DMAR Excellence Award Winner over 8 years in a row • Recognized for being in the top 1.5% of America’s Best Real Estate Professionals in the Country by Real Trends + Tom Ferry • Member of Denver Metro Association of Realtors • Member of National Association of Realtors
100 Saint Paul Street, Suite 200
303.906.5793 | anna.centron@theagencyre.com THECENTRONGROUP.COM
Coldwell Banker Global Luxury
COLDWELL BANKER REAL ESTATE
Stoddard, Dana, Murphy Team
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Teams of 3-5 Agents | Double Black Diamond
Janie Stoddard: 303.408.0738, janie.stoddard@gmail.com
Marilyn Dana: 303.378.1089, marilyn@marilyndana.com
Elizabeth Murphy: 303.842.5063, elizabeth@elizabethmurphyre.com
Farrell/Busch Team (Jeff Busch not pictured)
Teams of Two Agents | Black Diamond
Coldwell Banker Global Luxury (formerly Devonshire) has earned the reputation of being the premier luxury real estate company in the metro area for over 40 years.
• Global Reach and Local Expertise
• Cottages to Castles
• Accredited Luxury Home Specialists
• Concierge Service
• Relocation Specialists SPECIALIZATIONS
PJ Farrell: 303.884.5368, pj.farrell@cbrealty.com Barton, Gade, Martinez Team
REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Teams of 3-5 Agents | Black Diamond
Kelli Barton: 720.530.7466, kelli.barton@cbrealty.com
Katie Gade: 303.503.9109, katie.gade@cbrealty.com
Heidi Martinez: 303.717.1870, heidi@hpmcoloradorealestate.com
Individual Agents
REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025 Individual Agents | Black Diamond
Barb Riley: 303.548.0753, barbrealty@gmail.com
Chriss Bond: 720.771.7369, chriss.bond@cbrealty.com
Eric & Karla Tack: 303.295.2000, etack@ejtack.com
Katie K. Portenga: 303.242.5062, katie@portengaproperties.com
Mark Callaghan: 303.710.1000, mark@marksellsdenver.com
Coldwell Banker Global Luxury - Denver 201 Columbine Street, Suite 200 Denver, CO 80206 303.758.7611 COLDWELLBANKERLUXURY.COM
Mark Baker
CITY2SUMMIT REALTY
Individual Agent | Black Diamond
Mark is a top-performing real estate expert with over 20 years of experience, encompassing rental property ownership, flipping homes, and constructing houses and multimillion-dollar projects. His deep understanding of the building industry, combined with advanced training in negotiation, legal and regulatory matters, technology, professional standards, marketing, and the sales process, provides his clients with an unparalleled advantage.
Mark emphasizes the importance of having a meticulous and systematic approach to every transaction, whether it’s driven by the need for more space, downsizing, marriage, divorce, retirement, or investing in properties. His proven process, coupled with his genuine dedication to his clients’ success, extensive network, market expertise, and exceptional negotiation skills, consistently leads to winning outcomes for those he represents.
“My goal is to ensure that my clients enjoy a smooth and stress-free experience, make well-informed decisions, maximize their profits, and build lasting equity and wealth for their future.”
• 100% Client Satisfaction
• Ranked Top 1% of CO Realtors
• Yearly Recipient of the Five Star Award
Denver, Colorado 80207
720.257.1541 | mark@city2summitrealty.com CITY2SUMMITREALTY.COM
Jacci Geiger & Sana Wood
KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Team of Two Agents | Double Black Diamond
The No. 1 Duo at Kentwood Real Estate Cherry Creek
Jacci and Sana are now proudly operating as JS Collective. A fresh new look, but the same trusted experience. As one of Denver’s Top 1% Realtors, and with over 50 years of combined experience, Jacci and Sana lead Kentwood Real Estate as a dynamic team. JS Collective is renowned for their exceptional expertise and commitment to their clients’ success. Their extensive knowledge of residential real estate, along with backgrounds in development and design, enables them to o er a comprehensive personalized service that perfectly aligns with their clients’ needs. With market expertise, innovative strategies, and personalized service, Jacci and Sana are committed to helping clients achieve their real estate goals with ease and confidence.
Jacci: 303.840.7777 | jacci@kentwood.com
Sana: 303.881.3514 | sana@sanawood.com
JACCIANDSANA.KENTWOOD.COM
The AK Riley Group
COLDWELL BANKER REALTY
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Team of Two Agents | Double Black Diamond
The AK Riley Group/AK and Susie are consistently ranked as one of the top-producing teams in the Colorado real estate market. We offer our clients extensive market knowledge, an unwavering commitment to client service, high-end marketing and staging, and the strategic pricing and negotiation expertise that ensures a seamless transaction from start to finish. We consider it an honor to partner with you in your real estate journey. Our goal is always the same: the successful purchase or sale of your dream home!
SPECIALIZATIONS
Global Luxury Certified, GRI, Relocation Specialist, Certified Negotiation Expert
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
• International President’s Premier Circle – Coldwell Banker
• DMAR Award of Excellence
• Five Star Professional Award Winner
AK Riley: 720.289.2929 | ak@theakrileygroup.com
Susie Warta: 303.523.4297 | susie@theakrileygroup.com
THEAKRILEYGROUP.COM
Iannone Group
COMPASS REAL ESTATE
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Team of Two Agents | Double Black Diamond
Stephanie Iannone and Mindy Nassar of the Iannone Group at Compass bring over 30 years of experience in the real estate, relocation, and residential development industries. Their dedication to their clients, leadership in the community, strategic negotiation skills, and marketing and design savvy have made them one of the most successful teams in Colorado. Nationally ranked, they have successfully closed over $750,000,000 in real estate transactions, won numerous awards, and appeared on HGTV. They enjoy everlasting bonds with their clients who become friends for life and specialize in the Boulder and Denver metro areas as well as Winter Park and Grand County.
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
Real Trends Verified 2024 Rankings:
• #2 Sales Transactions, Boulder-Based Agent
• • #3 Sales Volume, Boulder-Based Agent
• • Top 50 Colorado Residential Brokers
• • Top 700 Residential Brokers in the U.S.
stephanie@iannonegroup.com | mindy@iannonegroup.com 303.641.7484 | COMPASS.COM
Casey Miller
As the First Incoming Sotheby’s Agent Hired in the Denver metro, Casey has helped define the collaborative culture of his firm since day one of its inception.
“My philosophy is to always add more in value than the fee I am paid. The leverage of my network is built upon five generations of native Coloradans, and the support of my firm and my two assistants is substantial. When a client hires me, I’m confident that I can truly be their strongest advocate and in a manner that translates to more $ in their pockets.”
With 20 years of experience, Casey’s clients find value in his strong work ethic coupled with an intimate knowledge of the hottest in-town Denver neighborhoods as well as the southern suburbs of Cherry Hills Village and Greenwood Village (which his grandparents helped pioneer). Casey studied architecture and finance (CU Boulder), then worked at Janus Capital prior to finding his passion in real estate.
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
• 500 career clients!
• Historic Denver Legacy Advisor
• REALTRENDS America’s Best
• Top ½ of 1% of all agents in the U.S.
| cmiller@livsothebysrealty.com CASEYMILLERPROPERTIES.COM
Elizabeth Sacerdoti + Libby Levinson-Katz
KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE Team of Two Agents | Black Diamond TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Vesta Homes is committed to providing the highest level of real estate services to all of our clients. With over 35 years of combined experience, Libby and Elizabeth o er their clients exceptional communication, unparalleled customer service, and superior negotiation in Denver’s dynamic real estate market.
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
• #3 highest-grossing duo at Kentwood Real Estate 2024
• Annual recipient of Kentwood Real Estate’s esteemed Pinnacle Club
• Annually recognized by Denver Metro Association of Realtors as a top producing duo
• Annually recognized by RealTrends Magazine for sales volume
Elizabeth: 303.501.3337 | elizabeth@kentwood.com Libby: 720.935.0412 | libby@kentwood.com VESTAHOMESDENVER.COM
Always coming from the perspective of lifelong real estate advisors, we are here to guide you in this changing market regardless of your short or long term path. We’re a team of agents committed to caring for our clientswith solid analysis, gracious yet persistent negotiating, and innovative and common-sense problem solving. We’re empowered by the financial andtech tools of Compass, but it’s the decades of deep relationships with clientsand our community that has helped us earn the Denver Metro Association of Realtors’ Diamond Level honor as one of the top producing teams in the metro area.
Kim Kouba: New Perspective Team Lead
COMPASS REAL ESTATE
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Team of 3-5 | Black Diamond
New Perspective Team
COMPASS REAL ESTATE
Kim and her team always come from the perspective of lifelong real estate advisors, and they’re here to guide you in this changing market, regardless of your short- or long-term path. They’re a team of agents committed to caring for clients with solid analysis, gracious yet persistent negotiating, and innovative and common-sense problem solving. They are empowered by the financial and tech tools of Compass, but it’s the decades of deep relationships with clients and their community that helped them produce almost $100 milliion in sales in 2021 and earn the Denver Metro Association of Realtors’ Diamond Level honor as one of the top producing teams in the metro area.
JODY DONLEY, KIM KOUBA, MELINDA HOWLETT, ASHLEY HOWLETT, TIFFANY BURKE, MEGAN DAVIS, LAURA HUDGINS, MARCY EASTMAN, DANELLE MORGAN, AND DIANNA MAY
KIM KOUBA (TEAM LEAD), JODY DONLEY (FOUNDER), LAURA HUDGINS, AMANDA MURPHY, CONSUELO SIDAS, JORDYNE BAILEY, AND TRACIE POLOSKY (TEAM OPS DIRECTOR)
KIM KOUBA
303-204-8215 | KIMKOUBA@NPRECO.COM JODY DONLEY 720-290-8917 | JODY@NPRECO.COM
KIM KOUBA: 303.204.8215 KIM.KOUBA@COMPASS.COM
Chriss Bond
COLDWELL BANKER GLOBAL LUXURY
With 17 years experience in the Denver real estate market, Chriss brings a wealth of knowledge to her clients and is a trusted resource for all listing and buyer needs. Experience counts in this ever-changing market. Chriss provides exceptional service for all her clients and will make sure, whether you are buying or selling, you get to the closing table. Chriss is an excellent communicator with serious attention to detail, and this, combined with the Coldwell Banker global luxury brand, will make buying or selling your home with Chriss a success. Chriss loves what she does, and it shows. Her work ethic, determination, professionalism, and negotiation skills are just some of the reasons she is a top producer at Coldwell Banker. She is available day or night to answer all questions and ensure a smooth transaction. She believes that honesty and integrity go a long way, which is why her clients refer her time and time again. Chriss began her career in real estate as an nvestor; she has built her business year over year and is in the top 3% of all agents worldwide at Coldwell Banker.
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
Coldwell Banker International Society of Excellence 2024, Ranked #2 in the state of Colorado for Coldwell Banker 2023, Coldwell Banker International Presidents Premier and Presidents Elite Awards 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 Coldwell Banker Presidents Circle, Diamond and Sterling Awards 2015-2019, Yearly recipient of the Denver Metro Board of Realtors Excellence Awards
Bev Marsh
WEST + MAIN HOMES
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Individual Agent | Black Diamond
Hello, I’m Bev, and I am a Realtor in Denver, Colorado, at the awesome, locally owned brokerage of West + Main Homes. I work all over the Denver metro area, including the foothills. I am a Colorado transplant from California, and I enjoy helping people find their place to call home. If you own a home and are thinking of making a move, I’d love to tell you about my brokerage’s amazing marketing and how I use social media to leverage
listing exposure. If buying a home is on your to-do list, send me a DM, and let’s set up a time to grab a coffee and chat more about taking the stress out of the home buying process. I am looking forward to being your go-to resource for everything real-estate-related.
2590 W. Main Street Littleton, CO 80120
720.841.8041 bev@westandmainhomes.com WESTANDMAINHOMES.COM
Brian Sundberg Group
COMPASS REAL ESTATE Team of 3-5 | Black Diamond
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Meet The Sundberg Group at Compass: a top-performing real estate team serving Boulder and the Northwest Denver market. Led by Brian Sundberg, the team has collectively over 70 years of experience and has successfully helped well over 1,000 clients achieve their goals. This team
Celeste Ballerino
RE/MAX OF CHERRY CREEK
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Individual Agent | Black Diamond
Celeste Ballerino and the members of her team at RE/MAX of Cherry Creek serve as the most trusted, client-focused real estate advisers for discerning buyers and sellers throughout the Denver metro area. Celeste’s unparalleled client communication has made her an industry leader since 2002. Together with unflinching professionalism, intuitive market knowledge, and strong negotiation skills, her business acumen has been
the fuel behind providing her clients with financial success and lasting peace of mind in their real estate dealings.
Top 1% of Realtors in the State of Colorado for sales production 20042023; MAME Award winner 2023; RE/MAX International Lifetime Achievement Award, Titanium and Platinum Designations AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
303.916.6200 celeste@celesteballerino.com CELESTEBALLERINO.COM
Lori Gajarsky
LOKATION LUXURY
Individual Agent | Black Diamond TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Lori is an experienced, client-focused real estate professional, dedicated to creating seamless transactions for buyers and sellers at any price point. A certified life coach, she actively listens to her clients, asking insightful questions to understand their needs and provide an exceptional experience. Deeply rooted in the Colorado community, Lori nurtures lasting client relationships, building a thriving business driven by referrals.
is passionate about turning real estate dreams into reality. With an approachable style and a cando spirit, they’re ready to assist you whether you’re buying your dream home, selling, or looking to build out your investment portfolio. Let’s Get You Home.
303.931.5483
SUNDBERGGROUP.COM
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
Member of South Metro Denver Realtor Association, National Association of Realtors, Colorado Association of Realtors and Luxury Institute. Certified Professional Life Coach. Senior Real Estate Specialist 2018, Sterling Top Producer 2019, Most Valued REALTOR, 2021 Top Producer, 2023 Top Producer.
7200 S Alton Way, B120 Centennial, CO 80112 303.994.9858 LUXURYWITHLORI.COM
Rachel Gallegos
Individual
Jeff Eheart
RE/MAX LEADERS
Individual Agent | Double Black Diamond TOP
ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
With 19 years of distinguished experience in luxury home sales and infill new development, Rachel Gallegos is a seasoned authority in Denver’s competitive real estate market. Specializing in both high-end properties and city close neighborhoods, Rachel’s unparalleled market knowledge and sophisticated marketing strategies set her apart. Known for her intentional approach, she consistently delivers exceptional results for her clients, navigating the complexities of Denver’s ever-evolving market with ease.
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS MILEHIMODERN
Named top 100 realtors in Denver; #1 real estate team Colorado according to the Wall Street Journal; Wall Street Journal top 1.5% of brokers nationwide; consistently topproducing DMAR excellence awardwinner; accredited and certified negotiation expert; EcoBroker certified; GREEN* accredited; LEED Associate accreditation; new development expert
720.308.2615 rachel@gallegos.com RACHELGALLEGOS.COM
Guy Team Homes
With 25 years of experience, Jeff Eheart brings extensive expertise in investment properties and luxury homes. Dedicated to helping clients find the perfect home, he works with everyone—from first-time buyers to those seeking their forever home. Jeff’s passion for real estate and commitment to his clients make him a trusted partner in your homebuying or selling journey.
SPECIALIZATIONS
Luxury Homes Investment Properties
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
Top 1% Producer in Colorado
Re/Max Hall of Fame
12600 E. Arapahoe Road Centennial, CO 80112
303.435.5435 EHEARTHOMES.COM
Colin Whitenack
Colin Whitenack
We are proud of our accomplishments and awards but recognize that we would not be here without customer satisfaction being our prime objective. Our goal is for our clients to be 100% confident in their real estate decisions. We are grateful that our business comes from past clients or their referrals. We would not have the accomplishments we have without the support of our past clients. We believe that our past clients are our biggest supporters because we not only help them achieve their real estate goals but also have a lot of fun along the way.
• Top 20 RE/MAX team in the U.S.
• Five Star Professional, 14 years running
• 27 Years Combined Experience
• Certified Negotiation Experts
• 100+ Google 5-Star reviews
• 100% Repeat Clients and Referrals
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS RE/MAX OF CHERRY CREEK Debra: 720.289.7299 Chris: 720.438.8407
You probably approach real estate from a combination of lifestyle and investment goals. After all, that’s what most of us do! However, your specific goals and how you approach them are likely unique. I curate your sale, purchase, or investment journey around your individual goals and lifestyle desires. I bring 12 years of experience in real estate sales and several investments and projects of my own so that I can deliver a
knowledgeable, creative, and rewarding experience to you. Call or email me using the information below, and let’s connect about your real estate goals!
Lisa Fallon
LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Individual Agent | Double Black Diamond
Lisa Fallon is not only deeply passionate about real estate but equally dedicated to fostering meaningful connections with people. With over four decades of invaluable business and customer service experience, she recognizes that effective communication and relationship-building are the cornerstones of success in her field. Lisa goes above and beyond for her clients, personally overseeing every aspect of the real estate journey, from
Wendy Lee
listing homes and preparing properties for showings to skillfully negotiating contracts. Buying or selling a home is an emotional process, and Lisa stands as a steadfast ally throughout every step of the journey.
8000 E. Belleview Avenue, Suite 200 Greenwood Village, CO 80111
720.840.6711
lfallon@livsothebysrealty.com
LISAFALLONPROPERTIES.COM
KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Individual Agent | Double Black Diamond
Wendy specializes in buying and selling real estate in Denver and the surrounding areas. From small cottages to grand estates, she is a true partner with her clients to achieve the absolute best results on any transaction, big or small. Wendy o ers an exceptional level of market knowledge, expertise, service, and integrity. As 35-year resident of Cherry Hills Village and Denver, she is an amazing source for school, community,
neighborhood, country club, and recreational information.
SPECIALIZATIONS
Luxury Real Estate, FirstTime Buyers, Relocation, New Development, Downsizing, Right-sizing, and Investment Properties. Experienced in Cherry Hills Village, Castle Pines Village, Greenwood Village, Centennial, Denver, Washington Park, Observatory Park, Cherry Creek, DCC, Hill Top, and Beyond.
303.525.9711
wendylee@kentwood.com
WENDYLEEHOMES.COM
Soley Maria
KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Individual Agent | Black Diamond
Soley Maria of Kentwood Real Estate has been in the luxury real estate market since 2013, helping hundreds of clients make their Colorado real estate dreams come true. From the foothills of Boulder to the slopes in Breckenridge and beyond, Soley is the ideal choice whether you’re looking to buy or sell. With unparalleled integrity, loyalty to her clients, and mastery of her craft, Soley brings an elevated level of professionalism
to each transaction, and her warm personality makes those transactions absolutely e ortless.
970-401-0304 soley@kentwood.com
SOLEYMARIA.COM
Tricia Campbell
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Individual Agent | Black Diamond
Tricia is a highly experienced real estate agent with an impressive 23-year career in the industry. With a strong belief in positivity, perseverance, and honesty, Tricia brings a refreshing approach to her work. She understands that each client has unique needs and desires when it comes to their lifestyle, and her primary goal is to ensure their satisfaction. Her extensive knowledge of the market and her unwavering commitment to client satisfaction makes her the ideal partner for all your real estate needs.
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Luxury Real Estate Board Of Regents Member
Certified Relocation Specialist 2012-2025
Denver Metro Realtors -Excellence Awards 2016-2025
FIVE STAR Agent Professional
5280 Top Real Estate Producer 2020-2025
720.371.8049
tcampbell@livsothebysrealty.com
TRICIACAMPBELL PROPERTIES.COM
Kate Kazell
+ MAIN HOMES
TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCER 2025
Agent | Black Diamond
Buying or selling a home is a huge milestone. While it can be a very exciting time, it can also be intimidating and stressful, especially in Denver’s everchanging market. Preparation is key, and Kate’s approach is to educate and be hands-on throughout the entire process. She has a wide variety of experience as both a listing and buyers agent…from negotiating deals under list price to winning competitive situations for her buyers and focusing on marketing to get listings under contract quickly for top dollar for her WEST
sellers. She provides extensive experience, up-to-date market knowledge, a comprehensive understanding of contracts, and great negotiation skills, but her goal is to serve as a guide to her clients and empower them to make the best decisions for themselves and their families.
3442 W. 32nd Ave., Denver, CO 80211 @katekazell | 720.613.8478 katekazell@westandmainhomes.com KATEKAZELLREALESTATE.COM
Jane Brennan and Beckett Brennan of The Brennan Group
With 500 million in sales and a combined 34 years of experience, this dynamic mother/daughter team assists clients all over the city with exceptional service, impeccable market knowledge, and optimal results.
SPECIALIZATIONS
Luxury, First-Time Home Buyer, Corporate Relocation, Move-Up and Empty-Nester Properties, and Investment Properties
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
34+ Year Denver Metro Association of Realtors Excellence Award Recipients, Graduate Real Estate Certification, Certified Residential Specialist, Negotiation Expert Designation, 5280 magazine Five Star Award Repeat Winner
8000 E. Belleview Avenue, Suite 200 Greenwood Village, CO 80111
Jane : 303.807.0135
Becket t: 303.810.8601 brennangroup@livsothebysrealty.com
Julie Winger
In her 24th successful year in real estate sales and consulting, Julie is a fourthgeneration Colorado native with deep roots first planted in the state by her great-grandfather Winter Fyfe, who came over from Scotland and ran the general store at the Tomboy Mine in Telluride. Julie’s grandfather was in the early mortgage business in Denver, and her mom was one of Denver’s first iconic female real estate agents. So a deep love and knowledge of Denver real estate is in Julie’s blood. She is passionate about sharing her broad knowledge of Denver’s neighborhoods, history, and dynamic real estate market with her clients, buyers, and sellers, first time and experienced.
Julie is known for her unrivaled negotiating skills, experienced competence in managing transactions, honesty, and work ethic. She prides herself on her personal hands-on approach and strict attention to detail. “My goal is to exceed expectations while providing an extremely high level of customer service, as together we achieve my valued client’s real estate goals and objectives.”
SPECIALIZATIONS
Sellers and Buyers. All Denver Neighborhoods, Suburbs, and Front Range Communities. Historic Home Specialist, Luxury Home Specialist, Single Family Homes, Condos, Land.
AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS
Kentwood Cherry Creek Top 10 Individual Sales 2018-2024. Top 250 Denver Realtor 2020. Top 1% Denver Realtor 2021. Top 1.5% Realtor Nationally 2022. DMAR Excellence Awards 2003-2024. Five Star Award 14-Year Winner.
303.946.2784 | juliewinger@kentwood.com
Anne: 303.884.0084
Jake: 303.257.7902 anne@porchlightgroup.com jake@porchlightgroup.com
Kevin: 303.931.2283
Kim: 720.515.5546 kevin@thebyrnegroup.com kim@thebyrnegroup.com
allison.nuanes@porchlightgroup.com
SCENE CALENDAR
MAR 13-16
Boulder International Film Festival
The 21st Annual Boulder International Film Festival will bring films and filmmakers to Boulder and Longmont for a four-day celebration of the art of cinema. BIFF showcases the best films by new and emerging filmmakers, as well as talkbacks, panels, free youth programs, music, and parties! Passes and gift/ticket packs on sale NOW!
Information and tickets at biff1.com.
MAY 2
MAR 29
The 5280 Brunch Event
Asterisk | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Experience a brunch like no other! Delectable menus from editorpicked restaurants, tasty beverages, a build-your-own bloody mary station, stunning lounges, and a dynamic DJ set are just some of the wonders you can expect to revel in.
Information and tickets at 5280scene.com/5280-brunch-event.
Mile High United Way’s 26th Annual Women United Luncheon
Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center | 10:30 a.m.
For over 25 years, Mile High United Way has brought our community together to celebrate the power of women and girls at our Women United Luncheon. This year’s guest speaker is Christine Baranski, one of entertainment’s most honored actresses.
Information and tickets at unitedwaydenver.org/luncheon.
JUN 25-29
2025 U.S. Senior Open
The Broadmoor
The 2025 U.S. Senior Open returns to The Broadmoor, a legendary venue known for its stunning scenery and rich golf history. Fans will witness top senior golfers compete at the highest level, delivering exciting moments at this iconic championship setting.
Information and tickets at ussenioropen.com.
SAVOR THE SEASONS
To make her outdoor living spaces feel inviting year-round, homeowner Bina Moser planted flower bulbs that emerge in the spring, perennials that bloom in the summer, bald cypress and honey locust trees that change color in the fall, and evergreens she decorates with festive lights in the winter.
VIEW
FINDER
IN EAST BOULDER, A PERFECTLY SITUATED JEWEL-BOX HOME CAPTURES COLORADO’S NATURAL SPLENDOR—AND OFFERS LESSONS ABOUT CONNECTING YOUR INTERIORS TO THE OUTDOORS, TOO. BY MICHELLE SHORTALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESS BLACKWELL
AS
a Colorado native and longtime Boulder resident, Bina Moser has always dreamed of owning a home that lives up to the beauty of her natural surroundings. “Appreciating the Colorado mountains has always been a big part of life for me, my husband, and our kids,” Moser says. “Finding somewhere we could enjoy the views and wildlife was so important to us.”
So, when the family stumbled upon a nearly two-acre property that backs up to farmland in east Boulder with a horizon line dotted by the Flatirons, Longs Peak, and the Indian Peaks, they knew they had found their place. Moser turned to Andy Johnson, founding principal at local architecture firm DAJ Design and her boss at the time, to help her create her family’s forever home. Initially, they intended to renovate the dated, midcentury ranch house that sat on the
BE WARY OF WIND
The Boulder foothills' sudden gusts of high winds can send lightweight outdoor furniture tumbling into neighbors’ yards. For stylish tables, chairs, and planters that will stand their ground, Moser recommends Minnesota-based Loll Designs.
PICK BLOOMS WISELY
“I’m certainly not a master gardener, but every summer I spend tons of time adding to my existing gardens,” Moser says. Her favorite low-maintenance florals for Colorado? Profusion zinnias for their “huge blobs of bright flowers” and State Fair Mix zinnias, which easily grow up to four feet tall and have a long shelf life after being cut and arranged in water-filled vases.
PROTECT PRIVACY
“We wanted to create a degree of porosity from the inside looking out—and have it feel fully enclosed from the outside looking in,” architect Andy Johnson says of the home’s courtyard. A mix of gapped steel panels—which will continue to patina over time—and slatted wood fencing creates a sense of privacy while “allowing someone on the inside of the courtyard to have glimpses of what’s beyond.”
The new home was carefully positioned around an existing bald cypress tree, which provides passive cooling during warmer months.
GO AU NATUREL
Counting the sliding glass doors, this home has a whopping 105 (mostly massive) windows. To achieve the cozy Scandi vibe that she loves within a modern glass-box home, Moser leaned on natural materials. White oak floors from southwest Colorado’s Muscanell Millworks add warmth underfoot, and steel stair railings and display shelving (fabricated by Osborne Sculpture in Boulder) act as organic visual accents.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT WHITE
To keep the focus on the outdoor views and provide a blank canvas for her collection of colorful art, Moser doused the interior walls in Benjamin Moore’s Super White. “White paints are tricky, as the color can change dramatically depending on the number of windows, the direction the windows face, and [the colors of] other interior elements, including flooring, furniture, and cabinetry,” she says, noting that Super White’s crisp, neutral tone “didn’t go too warm/yellow or cool/blue in my space.”
lot into a light and airy contemporary home for their family of four (plus two dogs). But the design team soon realized that the existing structure “was more charming in where it was rather than what it was,” Johnson says. “Once we started unraveling that mummy and seeing how little there was left of it, we knew we needed to pivot.”
They decided to raze the house and start fresh, using the original structure’s footprint as a guide. “The new layout is governed by the house that was here, which is a little nostalgic in a really cool way,” says Moser, who now runs her own interior design firm, Moser Art & Design. “I love that there was a family who lived here from the 1960s, who originally built the house and loved the lot and the landscape.”
Throughout the new 5,776-square-foot home, massive windows give the family a front-row seat to changing seasons, spectacular sunsets, and lush landscapes teeming with flora and fauna. “In every room, you can see close-ups of trees and birds, along with grazing cows and mountain vistas in the distance,” Moser says. “It allows us to see all the layers and textures of nature.” She carefully selected materials and furnishings that hold special meaning for her but let the views speak for themselves: Light oak floors and clean white walls nod to her
A half wall in the open-concept great room delineates the kitchen from the living and dining areas and provides extra hanging space for art.
PLAY WITH FIRE & ICE
With its large expanses of glass and clean, white walls, this home could easily feel frigid when snow falls and the outdoor landscape freezes. For wintertime coziness, Moser included three fireplaces on the main level: A horizontal gas fireplace anchors the living room, a Scandinavian woodburning stove by Morsø adds shape to the dining room, and a gas stove by Jotul warms up Moser’s office/art studio.
SEE (AROUND) THE LIGHT
To amp up the home’s drama factor without detracting from the outdoor vistas, Moser selected lighting in sculptural shapes and strategically placed them throughout her home. “The light over my dining table is asymmetrical but flat, so it doesn’t hinder the mountain views through the west windows,” she says. Above the kitchen island, an articulating fixture can be manipulated into various shapes to accommodate different sight lines.
THE GOAL OF THIS PROPERTY WAS TO MAKE THE OUTDOORS A PART OF OUR DAILY LIVES.
The homeowners (and Sailor the goldendoodle) love watching cattle graze on the farmland just beyond their primary bedroom’s floor-to-ceiling windows.
THROW SHADE
The home’s east/west orientation and floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the interiors in natural light—but without proper protection, furniture and floors can be bleached by Colorado’s abundant sunshine, which can also lead to scorching temperatures indoors. Motorized solar shades throughout the house can be programmed to automatically close during the brightest parts of the day.
PILE ON PLANTS
To further blur the lines between inside and out—and take full advantage of her home's endless supply of sunlight—Moser included several houseplants in woven baskets and clay pots throughout. "I love the life and warmth they give to a space," she says.
Scandinavian heritage, while sculptural lighting, midcentury modern furniture, and colorful artwork reflect her creative upbringing. (Moser’s parents are both accomplished fine artists, and her extensive list of hobbies includes collage and painting.) “Those were our two main focuses indoors,” she says. “How do we bring the outdoors in, while also showcasing art?”
Sliding glass doors and floor-to-ceiling window walls allow the interiors to spill onto front, side, and back patios connected by concrete pathways that encircle the home. Roof overhangs protect the front courtyard—and Moser’s flower gardens—from the elements, while steel and wood walls create an insulated, private feel. “It’s meant to be an oasis,” Johnson says, “an outdoor space that you can be comfortable in even when it’s windy, rainy, or really hot.” The north side of the home features an outdoor kitchen complete with a wood-fired pizza oven and built-in prep space, and a pair of dining areas allow the family to enjoy alfresco meals with unobstructed vistas.
The completed residence possesses a porous, glass-box aesthetic that provides a direct visual and physical connection to “the reason we’ve lived in the area forever,” Moser says. “The goal of this property was to make the outdoors part of our daily lives.” m
WAYS THE PANDEMIC CHANGED COLORADO
( MAYBE FOREVER)
We look backward—and forward—five years after COVID-19 altered the course of our lives here at elevation.
BY LINDSEY B. KING ILLUSTRATIONS BY JESSIE LIN
MARCH 9, 2020 ›
Outside, the sun was shining on a 50-degree, bluebird day in Denver. But inside Star Bar, a divey booze hall in the Ballpark neighborhood, the low lighting befitted the prevailing mood. It was roughly 4 p.m., and my longtime colleague and I were numbing our disappointment at the cancellation of a work trip to New York City because of what everyone was calling “a novel coronavirus.” After a second (third?) beer, I remember turning to look at my friend, sighing, and then saying, “Do you think we’ll look back on today and say, Those were the good ol’ days? ”
Less than a week before, health officials confirmed Colorado’s first case of what would quickly become known as COVID-19. Two days later, the World Health Organization declared the viral outbreak emanating from the Chinese city of Wuhan a pandemic. Over the ensuing three years, more than 1.7 million Coloradans would be sickened, and more than 15,600 would die. And every day since, we have existed in a different era—an era that despite the recent and liberal use of the phrase “post-pandemic” seems to be lingering, not unlike the symptoms of the bug itself sometimes do.
In much the same way the virus affected distinct groups of people in sometimes mysterious and often upsetting ways, the social and economic consequences of humanity’s response to the pandemic have plagued countries and cities in strikingly disparate manners. Although the United States ranks among the top 10 countries for economic recovery, according to international think tank the Horizon Group, many of America’s once-vital urban centers—from New York City to Chicago to San Francisco to, yes, Denver—are languishing.
JANUARY 20
It’s not difficult to see why. Star Bar has endured, but hundreds of other food-anddrink spots within Denver city limits were not so lucky. Foot traffic in the Central Business District has not yet fully recovered. Former office workers have remained devoted to their kitchen tables. Crime shot up in 2021 and 2022, declined in 2023, and rose again in the second half of 2024. Homelessness has more than doubled since 2019. Colorado as a whole has suffered, too. Vaccination rates tumbled. Concerning levels of alcohol consumption have persisted beyond the early days of quarantine. Traffic fatalities increased. Loneliness caused by social isolation has not entirely abated.
And yet, the pandemic’s lasting impacts aren’t universally awful. Bright spots, big and small, are there. “Perception is the real challenge for recovery,” says Kourtny Garrett, president and CEO of the Downtown Denver Partnership. “Not that Denver doesn’t have problems—it does—but the reality of our recovery is much more positive than statistics and lists suggest. Getting people to see that is the challenge.” On the following pages, we take a statistical and humanistic look at some of the local impacts, both the bad and the good, of the COVID-19 pandemic. In doing so, what’s clear is that, five years on, we’re only beginning to accurately measure and truly understand its ramifications.
The first reported case of COVID-19 is confirmed in the United States a little more than one month after the virus emerged in Wuhan, China.
WE WORKED FROM HOME
Maybe it shouldn’t be so surprising that many Coloradans have decided not to return.
It’s no secret that, taken as a whole, Centennial Staters tend to subscribe to the workto-live, don’t-live-to-work ethos. Belief in that maxim has long resulted in a robust gig economy, one in which “alternative work arrangements,” the official moniker used by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, often meant professionals across a variety of industries flexed their hours and worked from home—a scenario that made hiking a fourteener or skiing on a Wednesday possible. In fact, before the pandemic, Colorado had the highest remote work population in the country at roughly nine percent. So, it stands to reason that the state would remain a stronghold for the I-workfrom-my-couch set even after much of the rest of the country headed back to its cubes.
Like the nation at large, Colorado’s work-from-home revolution has stayed particularly strong in urban areas. But WFH populations are notably high across the state. Roughly 28 percent of Boulder’s workforce and slightly more than 22 percent of Denver’s declined to return to the office in 2023, while the national average hovered around 13 percent. Although that may be a win for those who like to run a half-marathon before lunch on Tuesday, the fact that by November 2024 only about 60 percent of downtown Denver’s weekday employees had returned is cause for concern. “We lost 100,000 people from downtown in essentially one day in 2020,” says Kourtny Garrett, president and CEO of the Downtown Denver Partnership. “It’s never going to be nine-to-five every day like it was, but we need to re-instill office culture to reactivate the city center.”
Doing so has been challenging so far. “The current state of the office market in Denver is not good,” says Charley Will, a senior vice president at CBRE, the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm. “That’s a culmination of several factors, including the pandemic, rising interest rates, and the climbing cost of labor in Denver.” Will says employers locally have been reluctant to throw off the delicate balance they’ve struck with employees about WFH policies (though that could change as notable companies such as Amazon and the federal government push for a return to the office). “It’s really about labor,” Will says. “It’s about recruiting and retaining the workforces they want. They could tell everyone it’s mandatory to come back immediately, but they feel that might incite mutiny.”
MARCH 5
The first official case of COVID-19 is confirmed in Colorado.
27 %
Percentage of downtown Denver offices that were unoccupied in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to the Downtown Denver Partnership. In the first quarter of 2020, only 11 percent were vacant.
$570 MILLION
Amount that will be infused into downtown’s revitalization through 2038, thanks to the recent expansion of Denver’s Downtown Development Authority, a tax-increment financing tool. “The inventory of office space should decrease due to repurposing of some buildings, so the supply and demand will change,” CBRE’s Charley Will says. “I think we’ve seen the bottom, and my forecast for downtown is that Union Station and LoDo will do really well. In fact, those areas already are doing well. It’s when you move east up 16th and 17th that the office vacancy rates go up.”
MARCH 10
Americans—including Coloradans—stockpile toilet paper and disinfectant products, leading to empty shelves at grocery stores.
MARCH 11
The World Health Organization (WHO) declares COVID-19 a global pandemic.
10TH
Colorado’s state rank for economic impact from outdoor recreation. There’s no question that the pandemic—and socialdistancing measures that encouraged outdoorsy Centennial Staters to get out even more often—boosted those numbers.
“Colorado’s outdoor industry has continued its robust growth since the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis started to measure this metric in 2012,” says Conor Hall, director of Colorado’s Outdoor Recreation Industry Office. “The pandemic did have a significant impact on the industry—first cratering it in early 2020 [during stay-at-home orders] and then driving unprecedented levels of growth over the ensuing years.”
$ 17.2 BILLION
Economic impact of Colorado’s outdoor industry in 2023, a 24 percent increase from 2022. The economic value of outdoor activities—from skiing to boating to cycling to RVing—now accounts for 3.2 percent of the state’s economy.
MARCH 15
WE STOPPED GOING DOWNTOWN
But those in the know say things are looking up.
The lifeblood of any vibrant city is the right mix of daily visitors to the urban core. Humans on foot—whether they’re tourists or office workers or downtown residents—keep restaurants full, street-level retail humming, and public transit busy. They also provide a lively atmosphere and deter crime and open-air drug use. Denver’s foot traffic hasn’t fully recovered—it’s at about 89 percent of 2019 levels—for a variety of reasons, but the biggest factor may be that office workers simply haven’t returned. As of November, only about 60 percent of folks who worked downtown in 2019 had settled back into their cubicles on weekdays. Traffic does, however, appear to be up for nights and weekends, a positive sign that could mean Denverites are at least heading back downtown for restaurants, bars, hotels, shops, and sporting events, if not for the nine-to-five grind. As the half-decade mark hits, we spoke with several people about downtown Denver’s recovery.
“The hotel business is back. That’s not universally true in all of downtown, but it’s mostly back. The convention center expansion is helping convention business return, and we are already about 30 percent ahead of 2024 bookings for 2025. Hotels are in better shape than restaurants—we’re still not doing lunch service at a few places—but that’s improving. I’m bullish on downtown Denver.”
—WALTER ISENBERG, CEO AND CO-FOUNDER, SAGE HOSPITALITY
“The 16th Street Mall renovation being done in parts is already changing the vibe downtown. It should be done this fall, and that’ll be huge. Crime is numerically down. Union Station’s redesign is a big deal. There’s just more positive events happening. LoDo is the heart and soul of Denver. There’s optimism now.”
—ED BLAIR, AREA GENERAL MANAGER, THE CRAWFORD AND OXFORD HOTELS
“The Downtown Development Authority is creating optimism and new tools for revitalization. Also, the block parties we’ve been having as the 16th Street Mall reopens have been a wonderful experience and a great way to change perceptions about downtown. The Downtown Area Plan from 2007 is getting a massive revision—which should be complete in fall 2025—that will help create a new trajectory for downtown with an emphasis on being a complete neighborhood with commercial and residential spaces.”
—KOURTNY GARRETT, PRESIDENT AND CEO, DOWNTOWN DENVER PART NERSHIP
The federal government officially recommends “social distancing”—a phrase then-President Donald Trump tweeted out just one day before—recommending against any gatherings of more than 50 and asking people to stay six feet from others. Zoom happy hours become a thing.
“I spent my teen years riding the 16th Street Mall shuttle and have always believed the mall has an opportunity to be a positive representation of our city. When I was opening Little Finch in late 2022, I wanted to be on the mall. In 2025, I’m opening Olive & Finch at Union Station and at the Denver Performing Arts Complex because I’m all in on downtown. Anything that’s rewarding and worth it has challenges—and we have had challenges with the mall construction at Little Finch—but if we want to see Denver be a great city, we have to do the work. As a business owner, I want to put my money where my mouth is.”
—MARY NG UYEN, FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT, OLIVE & FINCH COLLECTIVE
MARCH 16
Moderna begins human trials of a COVID-19 vaccine.
3
WE LEARNED THE MEANING OF “PIVOT” FROM LOCAL RESTAURANTS
And some of those changes have stuck around.
SOCIAL DISTANCING
Staying Power: Denver ultimately made its temporary outdoor expansions program permanent, allowing restaurants to apply for permits to maintain alfresco spaces.
MENUS
When Colorado restaurants were allowed to reopen on May 27, 2020, they had to limit indoor dining capacity to 50 percent, space tables at least six feet apart, keep their buffets closed, leave windows open, limit parties to eight or fewer, and provide contactless payment whenever possible, among other requirements. Many restaurateurs said the capacity restrictions made reopening nearly impossible.
The Pivot: After some cities loosened regulations, restaurant owners expanded their outdoor seating areas into parking lots, onto sidewalks, and even into adjacent streets. In summer 2020, restaurants made more than one-third of their revenues from expanded patio seating. In winter 2020-’21, restaurants added heaters and even erected single-party structures like igloos and greenhouses to maintain capacity.
Initial guidance from the state required restaurants to employ single-use menus to avoid spreading the virus from customer to customer. Printing that many paper menus was expensive, not to mention wasteful.
The Pivot: Enter QR codes. Although the two-dimensional matrices had been around since the early ’90s and gained some popularity with the rise of the smartphone in the early 2010s, the pandemic gave them new life. Restaurants could upload their menus and diners could use their personal devices to access them, creating a contactless situation.
Staying Power: Although there has been some customer backlash to the proliferation of QR codes, restaurants and bars continue to use them not only because of the cost savings, but also because of convenience. “It’s easy to update your menu every day,” says Sonia
Riggs, president and CEO of the Colorado Restaurant Association.
TAKEOUT/DELIVERY
In an effort to keep their businesses running and maintain at least some staff, eateries figured out ways to box up their bites. But revenues were meager, and margins were even slimmer than normal, especially if a restaurant had to use a pricey delivery app—like Grubhub or Uber Eats—to drop food on diners’ doorsteps.
The Pivot: Because Governor Jared Polis temporarily suspended regulations that forbade the sale of to-go alcohol by executive order on March 20, 2020, many restaurants leaned into alcohol sales, which have better margins than food sales. The Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant, for example, created special to-go menus for their famed margaritas, and Ace Eat Serve made boozy 750-milliliter bottled cocktails that served about eight people.
Staying Power: On May 10, 2024, Polis signed Senate Bill 24-020, which permitted to-go and delivery alcohol sales permanently in Colorado.
MARCH 18
Although some school districts have already switched to remote learning, Colorado Governor Jared Polis announces a four-week closure of school buildings statewide beginning on March 23.
MARCH 23
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock issues a stay-at-home order; the order initially does not include liquor stores or recreational dispensaries among so-called essential businesses, but the city reverses that decision after lines 100-people deep materialize at those businesses.
WE PICKED UP SOME NEW HABITS
Some were good, some were bad, and some were pretty ugly.
DRINKING
TOO MUCH.
The specter of a deadly virus hitching a ride into our homes on a box of Cheerios was stressful. And because the state made it legal to order booze to-go along with our takeout. And because alcohol is already less expensive and easier to get here than in many other states.
A 62 percent increase in DUI-related deaths in the state from 2019 to 2022 and a 32 percent increase in alcohol-associated liver disease deaths from 2019 to 2021, placing Colorado in the top six states nationally for alcohol-related liver disease mortality.
MARCH 25
Polis issues a statewide stay-at-home order.
HIKING FOURTEENERS LIKE CRAZY.
DRIVING LIKE CHARACTERS OUT OF MAD MAX.
OMG, we had to get out of the house—in a safe, socially distanced way, of course—and the mountains were calling us, especially once stay-athome orders expired.
Let’s face it, we went kinda feral there for a while, and that untamed attitude translated to road rage, aggressive driving, Formula 1–style speeding, and getting behind the wheel while under the influence.
Uh…we didn’t have anything else fun to do. And also because ubiquitous opportunities for white-collar remote work allowed the preponderance of college-educated Coloradans to stay at home, a situation that allowed more flexible work hours to accommodate little ones.
Roughly 415,000 hiker use days on the state’s highest peaks in 2020, a surge of 44 percent over 2019—a down year, due to heavy snowpack—and noticeably higher than the 353,000 in 2018. Hiker use days have returned to prepandemic levels, even falling to 260,000 in 2023, but those stats are likely affected by closures of some popular fourteener trails and will probably rebound.
Ninety-three statewide pedestrian fatalities in 2020 and 91 in 2021. Plus, 2021 saw the highest number of crash-related fatalities—687—since 2002. Early estimates from the Colorado Department of Transportation suggest that fatalities were down markedly in 2024.
Colorado being only one of a handful of states that had more births in 2021 than in 2019. While that’s well and good, the mini baby boom did not make up for the state’s declining birth rate, which has been falling since 2005.
APRIL 3
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises Americans to wear masks in public spaces, even though there is still uncertainty about how the virus spreads; shortages of personal protective equipment quickly follow.
MAKING BABIES.
WE LEANED HARD INTO TELEHEALTH
In the 2010s, the term telemedicine simply wasn’t part of the typical American’s lexicon. If you needed care, you visited a health care professional in person. That reality made the founding of UCHealth’s Virtual Health Center in 2016 seem ahead of its time. And it probably was—but not by much. “By 2017, we had four staffers per 24-hour period and three initial service lines,” says the center’s chief nursing officer, Amy Hassell. “Thanks, in part, to the pandemic, we now have 70 staffers every 12 hours and 16 lines of service in a 4,000-square-foot command center.”
Now, professionals at the state’s largest health care system are taking things even further. 92.1%
But the Virtual Health Center isn’t just diagnosing things like COVID-19, which the center started doing through its urgent care service in early 2020 and ramped up massively during the pandemic. (The service went from doing 30 urgent care visits a day in January 2020 to 300 in February 2020 as COVID-19 fears flared. Today, it handles roughly 150.) The center has also been taking advantage of the pandemic-inspired confidence Coloradans—and local health care professionals—now say they have in virtual care to deploy new digital tools to help keep patients healthy at home and in the hospital. Here, two other ways UCHealth has embraced the virtual revolution.
REMOTE DIABETIC CARE
Although the Virtual Health Center began standing up a service to monitor patients with diabetes in 2019, there was some skepticism about the idea of treating those patients from afar. That changed during the pandemic when UCHealth—and others—supplied patients with at-home wearables that monitored oxygen level, heart rate, and respiratory rate for those struggling to kick COVID-19. Wearables not only decreased the amount of time patients had to stay in the hospital, but they also lowered readmission rates. “People quickly realized we had the tools and the competencies to care for people remotely,” Hassell says. Today, clinicians can observe the continuous-glucose-monitoring devices patients with diabetes wear and adjust insulin dosing in real time.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE MONITORING
At the Virtual Health Center, teams of doctors and nurses scan computer screens that show them how patients who’ve been admitted to UCHealth hospitals are faring. These human eyes in the sky ensure that if an ICU patient’s vital signs change for the worse, an in-real-life clinician is notified and can hoof it to that bedside. But starting in May 2019, the center began adding another layer of safety: artificial intelligence. “We made huge progress with this tool during the pandemic, when it helped us see respiratory changes sooner so that we could intubate patients before they got too sick,” Hassell says. “Now our AI tool monitors 2,200 beds and continuously looks for issues like sepsis, which is often hard to detect until it’s blatant—and then it can be too late.”
APRIL 30
The Trump administration launches Operation Warp Speed to produce an effective COVID-19 vaccine.
MAY 8
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorizes the first COVID-19 test.
Percentage of Colorado’s K–12 students who received all six required immunizations—or had a valid exemption—for the 2023-’24 school year. That’s down from a recent statewide high of 95 percent during the 2019-’20 school year. (Denver County 1’s compliance rate was only 86.6 percent; Colorado Springs 11 had one of the state’s lowest rates, at 67 percent.) Experts at nonprofit Immunize Colorado say the state’s slumping rates can be attributed to several factors, many related to the pandemic. “We see access issues— folks with barriers—but the pandemic highlighted vaccines,” says executive director Susan Lontine. “The misinformation and disinformation around vaccines created hesitancy that has lowered rates.”
2.6
MILLION
Annual global deaths caused by measles before a vaccine became widespread. “To prevent the spread of certain diseases, like measles, 95 percent is the threshold for herd immunity,” Lontine says. “It’s our goal to get Colorado back to that level of compliance.”
MAY 28
The death toll from COVID-19 infections surpasses 100,000 in the United States, including 1,114 Coloradans.
~65
MILLIO N
Passengers projected to have used RTD services in 2024. During the depths of the pandemic in 2021, only 49 million people braved the regional public transit system that serves eight counties.
62%
Projected percentage of prepandemic boardings RTD got back to in 2024. Officials with Greater Denver Transit, a public transit advocacy group, have said that the reductions combined with the unreliability that has plagued the system in recent years could lead to further degradation of ridership numbers. “As of the end of 2023, RTD is very far behind its peer agencies in other metro areas,” says James Flattum, co-founder of Greater Denver Transit. “Austin is back to 78 percent of prepandemic ridership, Dallas is at 72, and Houston is at 76.” For its part, RTD says boardings have steadily increased year-over-year since 2021, and in January, the transit system increased frequencies on 15 bus routes and two light rail lines.
JULY 6
WE GOT REALLY STRESSED OUT ABOUT REAL ESTATE
Five years later, we’re still dealing with the emotional fallout.
I remember the way my real estate agent presented the house on South Lafayette Street. It’s a great little place on a pocket park, she said, but there are already at least 20 offers, more than half of them cash. Do you still want to see it?
I did, because that’s what the Denver real estate market in the pandemic summer of 2020 required one to do. You had to act a little crazy to be able to negotiate the insanity. I didn’t have $700,000 in cash—not even close. But I had to keep up with the market if I wanted to escape the 730-square-foot apartment that was making me feel so darn lonely. I couldn’t let 40 existing offers or the prevalence of as-is purchases or the historically low inventory or the fact that I had to double-mask and wear latex gloves to go inside a home discourage me. But I probably should have. “It was a bad time to be a buyer,” says Britt Armstrong, a broker associate with the Tom Gross Team at Kentwood Real Estate and my real estate agent back then. “The pace was frenetic.”
It was also unhealthy. “There was a tsunami of emotional buying,” Armstrong says. “Bolstered by easy money and the freedom of remote work, people who’d had golden handcuffs removed them and were given golden wings. With three percent interest rates, people could move anywhere—and lots of them moved to Colorado.” With an influx of monied buyers from places like New York, the market in Denver proper—as well as in the suburbs and in many mountain towns— descended into utter mayhem.
Now it all feels like a fever dream, and the current market is more like a nightmare—for buyers, sellers, and those who made snap decisions five years ago. “There’s PTSD from Denver’s pandemic market,” Armstrong says. “I keep trying to tell people it’s not the same as four years ago, but we’re still dealing with the emotions from that time.” Today’s market—at least as of mid-January—would be more of a buyer’s market, with lots of slow-moving inventory, save for high interest rates that mean many will have to settle for smaller, less appealing houses with more expensive mortgages. Sellers aren’t happy either. “The days of 10 cash offers on the first day are gone,” Armstrong says. “Many houses are sitting for 60 or 90 days.”
And, Armstrong says, she’s seeing regret among those who left their hometowns and family during the pandemic for a Colorado adventure. “A house is just four walls and a roof,” she says. “Relationships and lifestyle make a difference. Many didn’t find their dream here and are now going back home.”
I didn’t find a home that summer. Instead, I waited until November 2020, when I happened across a townhouse in Rosedale. I’d wanted a single-family dwelling, but sharing a wall was a small price to pay for, well, paying asking price. I’m still here four years later—and will be until interest rates fall far enough to gift me a pair of golden wings. —LBK
The global medical community issues an open letter calling on the WHO to acknowledge the virus is airborne. Days later, the CDC asks people (again) to wear masks.
AUGUST 26
The FDA issues an emergency use authorization for the BinaxNOW COVID-19 test kit, which can detect the virus in 15 minutes.
WE KEPT KIDS OUT OF SCHOOLS
Many haven’t fully gone back. Cori Canty, Denver Public Schools’ improvement planning manager and attendance systems manager, explains the scourge of chronic absenteeism.
5280: What does it mean to be chronically absent?
Cori Canty: Students who miss 10 percent or more of the time they’re enrolled in school are considered chronically absent.
And this has become a problem for DPS?
It’s a problem across the country, but yes. Out of 87,225 students in DPS in 2023, 35,835 were chronically absent. That’s about 41 percent.
Did parents just decide that school wasn’t all that important during the pandemic?
I don’t think so. I haven’t heard people say that. We did do some research—essentially a root-cause analysis—and there wasn’t just one reason. But we identified a few that were most common.
And?
Transportation issues are a problem. Some students have competing family situations where, for instance, a parent needs an older sibling to stay home with
SEPTEMBER 16
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announces it will make COVID-19 vaccines free as vaccine makers like Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson enter late-stage clinical trials.
a sick younger one when they can’t go to daycare. But those things happened before the pandemic. The top reasons post-pandemic are, first, that parents are confused by the messaging surrounding sick days. They don’t know when to keep them home and when to send them to school now because the message during the pandemic was, Keep them home if they’re sick at all. Today it’s OK to send them in with a little cough or a runny nose, but we hadn’t communicated that very well.
What else?
Parents are underestimating how many days their kids have missed. They also seem to have gotten the idea that missing 25 to 30 days of school a year is OK. In 2022-’23, a big impact was families deciding to take the trips they couldn’t take during the pandemic and simply not considering the school calendar. That might be petering out, but we’ll see. Lastly, mental health days have become a thing post-COVID. We understand a kid needs a day now and
OCTOBER 5
The CDC updates guidelines that acknowledge the virus is likely to be spread through the air.
then, but it’s been out of control. Kids need to be in school not only for academic success, but also for their social and emotional development.
How is DPS combating the problem?
We launched a new approach in July 2024. One of the components is all about clear communication—overcommunication—and reminders. We’re sending emails to parents that say, “Your child has missed ____ days. We want them at school!” We’re sending reminders about schedules and how to use the parent portal. We’re trying to engage families. We’re not threatening. It’s all positive. We’re even sending digital recognition to families for attendance proficiency. And we’re not using the T-word, truancy. It’s the absolute last resort.
Is the approach working?
Four months into this school year, the data was looking good, but we are still working on data integrity so we can better analyze reasons for absenteeism and help families get kids back to school.
DECEMBER
22
The CDC releases its recommendations for vaccine rollouts; health care workers and older adults begin receiving the vaccine almost immediately. m
With fewer attorneys willing to practice in small towns, rural Colorado is quickly becoming a landscape
devoid of legal resources and, often, justice.
BY ROBERT SANCHEZ
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT SLABY
District Attorney Anne Kelly represents the rural San Luis Valley.
LANI WELCH FIRST FELT UNSAFE IN HER ADOPTED HOMETOWN OF MOSCA, AN AGRICULTURAL HAMLET OUTSIDE GREAT SAND DUNES NATIONAL PARK, WHEN HER FORMER FIANCÉ ALLEGEDLY
BEAT HER AND THREATENED HER LIFE. THE SECOND TIME CAME SHORTLY AFTERWARD, WHEN HER RURAL COMMUNITY’S NEWLY ELECTED DISTRICT ATTORNEY FINALLY PROSECUTED THE CASE.
The summer 2020 attack had been well-documented. Alamosa County authorities photographed the severe bruises across Welch’s arms, legs, and chest, and she recounted the assault in an eightpage, single-spaced statement to investigators from the 12th Judicial District, which covers southern Colorado’s vast San Luis Valley. With a warrant issued for her ex-fiancé, she described the paralyzing daily impacts post-traumatic stress had on her life. Most nights, she lay awake in her house north of Alamosa, certain her attacker would return.
Authorities apprehended the man seven months later in Archuleta County, two hours away, and charged him with felony stalking and misdemeanor assault and telephone obstruction in two separate cases. By then, incumbent District Attorney Robert Willett had lost his primary to fellow Democrat Alonzo Payne. Payne later ran unopposed in the general election that fall on a slate of progressive reforms that included eliminating cash bail and ending what he called the “criminalization of poverty” across the judicial district. Though 44-year-old Payne was a rookie prosecutor, Welch knew the new district attorney was a valley native and thought he understood the need to care for his neighbors. She thought he wanted to help.
But in March 2021, as Welch drove to Alamosa for a hearing on her case, Payne called. The DA was dismissing the most serious charges against Welch’s ex-fiancé. “It was totally out of the blue,” Welch, now 51, told me this past winter as she recounted the ordeal, which ended with her alleged assailant being convicted on the telephone obstruction charge that carried a maximum 18-month jail sentence. Welch began shaking uncontrollably and had to pull off the road. (Payne was unavailable for comment.)
A few weeks later, Welch learned Payne may have violated Colorado’s Victim Rights Act, which mandates that criminal justice agencies consult victims about their cases. Welch filed a formal complaint against the DA that spring after receiving help from the nonprofit Rocky Mountain Victim Law Center. Clues about the prosecutor’s faltering office quickly became evident. In one instance, Payne erroneously told a judge that a victim was unwilling to testify and moved to dismiss charges. Another time, Payne didn’t notify two victims before dismissing a two-year-old case the day it was scheduled for trial.
Welch also claims Payne told her that her former fiancé had no prior convictions. In fact, he had seven previous domestic violence convictions. (He’s currently facing a felony strangulation charge in El Paso County in another domestic violence-related case.) “I was supposed to be protected,” Welch says.
“But I was treated like an inconvenience.”
Feeling betrayed, she initiated a recall campaign against Payne. The district attorney ultimately resigned in July 2022, but the professional damage had been done: The now-former DA was disbarred three months later.
Although Payne’s brief tenure proved disastrous, the odds were steeply against him from the start. His budget accommodated six prosecutors to cover an area roughly the size of New Jersey, but finding lawyers willing to work in his remote region proved a Sisyphean task. On Payne’s first day, his office had three lawyers for a caseload that included 10 open homicide investigations, three attempted homicides, and multiple sex assaults. Investigations continued to pile up.
The realities of an inexperienced prosecutor running a rural, understaffed office quickly became clear: State investigators discovered more than 300 unfiled cases languishing on Payne’s desk, plus a slew of angry victims, judges, and law enforcement agencies. “I really think that he took it over with good intentions, but he was so in over his head,” says Anne Kelly, whom Governor Jared Polis eventually appointed to replace Payne. “But what he did about it was dismiss major cases and plead homicides down to nothing.” In this far-off place, it seemed justice never stood a chance.
they ’ re ridiculed and criticized called bloodsuckers, leeches, or worse. Some of the best jokes come at their expense.
Why don’t sharks attack lawyers?
Professional courtesy.
A fire at the Conejos County Courthouse forced legal proceedings to relocate to the Antonito fire station, where a makeshift courtroom was built.
But when you need representation—for a divorce, for a business deal, for a dispute with your landlord—a dearth of trained professionals isn’t so funny. At least nine of Colorado’s 64 counties have fewer than 10 private attorneys living within their borders, according to Colorado’s Office of Attorney Regulation Counsel, which keeps data on law licenses. Four Eastern Plains counties don’t have a single lawyer. Overall, a third of Colorado’s counties record fewer than one attorney for every 1,000 residents, a threshold the American Bar Association (ABA) considers a “desert,” where access to legal representation is at its most challenging. That adds up to nearly 300,000 Coloradans living in legal deserts—a number equivalent to the populations of Fort Collins, Boulder, and Golden combined.
It’s easy to understand why most lawyers choose to hang their shingles in big cities: Small towns offer fewer restaurants, sporting events, bars, and other amenities to lure prospective residents.
Then there’s the money. First-year deputy district attorneys and public defenders earn $80,000 a year in Kit Carson County, for example, but they might make six figures at a firm in metro Denver.
“This is a market-driven thing, and the market’s unfortunately not there in these rural places,” says Marci Fulton, the assistant dean for employer relations and outreach at the University of Colorado Law School. “At the end of the day, it comes down to basic economics.”
In 2020, an ABA webinar called legal deserts “a threat to justice,” because they disproportionately harm the poorest Americans. Prospective clients can search for months for representation—if they find it at all—and often pay oppressive costs for a metroarea lawyer to travel hours for a court hearing. “You get a Denver lawyer at $400 an hour, and you’re looking at $1,600 just so the guy can drive to the court parking lot, turn around, and go home,” says Craig Fidler, a private attorney from Parker who also has an office in Burlington, a dozen miles from the Kansas border. The 69-year-old handles Eastern Plains cases for the Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel, a state agency that supports low-income defendants. “I’m just gonna keep doing this until I
drop dead,” Fidler says. “They need representation out here. They need lawyers.”
The lack of available lawyers has been particularly difficult on prosecutors. Former Fremont County District Attorney Linda Stanley was disbarred in September 2024 after her understaffed office mishandled at least 20 cases and missed deadlines for handing over evidence to the court. In northeastern Colorado’s 13th Judicial District, the district attorney cycled through 19 lawyers across five positions in just four years, says Tom Raynes, a former rural DA who heads the Denver-based Colorado District Attorneys’ Council. The Seventh Judicial District, which covers six counties in western Colorado, including rural Hinsdale and San Miguel, has lost one out of every three prosecutors annually over the past four years—including a 56 percent turnover rate in 2024. The unrelenting churn pushed District Attorney Seth Ryan to resign this past fall. Running an office in a legal desert took “a significant toll on my physical and mental health,” Ryan wrote in a letter to constituents. “It is no longer sustainable for me to cover the daily requirements of court schedules across our nearly 10,000-square-mile district while effectively managing, developing,
Parker attorney Craig Fidler has an office in Burlington and represents clients on the Eastern Plains for the Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel.
and supervising staff…. [C]ircumstances beyond my control cannot be overcome.”
Failing resources don’t affect just prosecutors, though. Tenants have trouble finding attorneys to challenge evictions; towns and counties struggle to hire lawyers to represent their communities; elderly residents can’t get someone to hash out the details of their children’s future estates.
In Springfield, a town of 1,300 residents 30 miles from Oklahoma, only two private attorneys live within an hour’s drive. Yuma County, near the Kansas border, has around seven private attorneys for nearly 10,000 residents. Neighboring Kit Carson, Phillips, and Washington counties have 10 private attorneys, combined. “We are at a crisis level,” says Raymond Laws, 34, one of about 20 lawyers in Fort Morgan, roughly an hour from the Nebraska border. Twenty years earlier, there were 31 attorneys registered in his town. “You don’t want to see a lawyer until you really, really need a lawyer,” Laws says. “Then that person becomes the most important thing in the world to you.”
after taking over the 12 th Judicial District following Payne’s resignation, in 2022, Anne Kelly quickly learned how
“I’M JUST GONNA KEEP DOING THIS UNTIL I DROP DEAD. THEY NEED REPRESENTATION OUT HERE. THEY NEED LAWYERS.”
little of her new job involved courtroom work and how much consisted of posting positions to online job boards. “I got one lawyer that way,” the district attorney says. “I needed eight.”
Kelly grew up in upstate New York, went to law school at New York City’s Fordham University, and worked for metro-area district attorneys in some of Colorado’s largest judicial districts. When she was offered the Alamosa post in September 2022, Kelly had been the senior deputy in Boulder County’s DA office for nearly four years and was known for championing women’s rights in domestic violence cases. The Colorado District Attorneys’ Council sent an email asking for help with issues in the San Luis Valley, and Kelly volunteered to spend two weeks assisting staff and managing the 12th’s DA office. “I packed my dog; I’m like, ‘I’ll go on hikes,’ ” says Kelly, now 48. A month later, she was named the district attorney.
Kelly called in favors from prosecutor friends and begged them to look through cases—to help figure out which ones needed a plea offer, which ones should be dismissed, and which ones might require a trial. She advertised positions that took more than two years to fill. She discovered that a subscription to the job-search site Indeed allowed her to view résumés and reach out directly to prospective employees. Over two years, Kelly has sent more than 2,500 emails. She writes to prospects about the San Luis Valley’s beauty, the chance to work cases most first- and second-year prosecutors would never sniff in bigger cities. Though Kelly now has seven attorneys—more than twice that of her disbarred predecessor—the staff is still stretched. Some lawyers have dockets with hundreds of cases. When she started, Kelly would encourage prosecutors to offer plea deals so they could focus on bigger cases. “You sometimes wonder if you’re giving these victims the absolute best, but we’re working with what’s available to us right now,” Kelly says. “This job is the hardest thing I’ve ever done.”
One Tuesday in December, Kelly drove 25 minutes from her office in Alamosa to Antonito, a town six miles north of the New Mexico border. The Conejos County Courthouse caught fire during the summer, and damage had made the building unusable while it was being repaired. Consequently, most court proceedings were moved to Antonito’s fire station. Losing the smoke-damaged courthouse produced some oddities in the 12th Judicial District, like when Kelly gave her opening arguments during a wrongful death trial inside the 97-year-old Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. When she looked up, she saw a sign advertising bingo night.
By the time Kelly arrived at the fire station that day, the gravel parking lot was beginning to fill. One of her deputy prosecutors was on vacation, which meant the already skeleton staff was scrambling to cover cases across the valley. This morning, Kelly was mostly handling low-end traffic offenses to help out. A court employee watched through a window and made sure no one parked in front of the fire station’s three massive bay doors, behind which were pumper trucks, engines, and at least one ambulance. A sheriff’s deputy searched visitors who walked into the linoleum-floored room that had been converted into a makeshift courtroom. Defendants took seats in metal folding chairs. They fidgeted as they waited for the county judge to call their names.
Kelly sat up front, on the left, at one of two plastic folding tables reserved for attorneys. A large American flag was tacked to the white wall, near framed photos of tanker trucks and other emergency vehicles. A Fireworks World Outlet calendar (“More Bang 4 Your Buck!”) from 2022 was pinned to a bulletin board. Kelly familiarized herself with the cases on her laptop while the judge—who, like many lawyers in places like this, held down multiple legal jobs, including serving as the Alamosa County attorney—went down his docket. One by one, he called names. Defendants raised their hands and walked to a podium between the folding tables. One was a young man charged with driving under the influence and failing to report an accident.
“I see you still need to hire an attorney,” the judge said.
“I’m still working on it,” the young man replied.
The toxicology report hadn’t yet been issued, so a new court date was set for early 2025. Before he dismissed the defendant, the judge repeated that the man should find an attorney. The charges carried a possible 365-day sentence, the judge warned. The defendant stiffened, nodded, and shuffled away.
Outside the fire station a few minutes later, the man put on a trucker-style hat. “Three hundred and sixty-five days?” he said. “I wasn’t ready for that.” He lived in Monte Vista, a town geographically closer to Taos, New Mexico, than Pueblo; the fire station was a 90-minute round-trip drive. He said he didn’t qualify for a public defender. An attorney
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Anna Savier
LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Karen S. Schaefer RE/MAX PROPERTIES
Jamie Schingeck RE/MAX PROFESSIONALS
Art Schwadron RE/MAX OF BOULDER
Maria Scroggs SLIFER SMITH & FRAMPTON
Kelsey Seaman 8Z REAL ESTATE
Michelle Seward
LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Sonia Shakeshaft
RE/MAX PROFESSIONALS
How do you create this list? In June 2024, 5280 posted its Top Real Estate Producers survey. The link to the submission instructions (available at submit.5280.com/ top-producers) was sent out to dozens of real estate brokerages in the seven metro-area counties; it was also shared via social media. Any brokerage with agents who sell homes in the Denver metro area could submit nominations. The survey asked brokerage administrators to provide the names of both individual agents and teams of agents who, based on their sales volumes for 2023, qualified for our list. Nominees in hand, our research department reached out to each agent or team to confirm the sales numbers and to verify basic information.
What qualifies someone to be a Top Real Estate Producer? We have four categories: individual agents, teams of two agents, teams of three to five agents, and teams of six to 15 agents. Within each category, we have two tiers: black diamond and double black diamond, which signify different levels of (impressive!) sales volumes. To be on the list, an agent or team of agents must have sold real estate within the Denver metro area and attained a certain amount of sales in 2023. Agents must also have an active license with the state’s Department of Regulatory Agencies; that license must be in good standing, without any disciplinary actions within the past five years.
Barb Silverman
LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Dotson Skaggs KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE
Brean Small EXP REALTY
Rich Smith RE/MAX ALLIANCE WESTMINSTER
Your questions about the
Top Real Estate Producers list,
answered.
I’m looking at the list and there seem to be teams in, say, the six to 15 category that only have five agents. What’s that about?
As in any business setting, people come and go. Because we want this list to be a useful reference for you, we have only included current members of teams. So, while there may have been seven people responsible for the team’s 2023 sales volume—which would put that group in the six-plus category—only five may still be working with that squad today.
I’ve heard that being on the list requires an agent or a brokerage to advertise with 5280—is this true?
Nope. Inclusion in the Top Real Estate Producers list is not dependent upon the decision to advertise with the magazine. Sometimes agents and brokerages decide to advertise; however, if, when, and/or how much anyone advertises is not taken into consideration when compiling the list.
I’m an agent, but my brokerage didn’t receive the survey this year. How do we participate in the future?
The next Top Real Estate Producers list will likely run in March 2026. The survey should be live and available to metro-area brokerage managers who visit submit.5280.com/ top-producers in the summer of 2025. If you have questions about participation, please call 303-832-5280 at any time.
Collette Speidel
RE/MAX NEXUS
Roberta Steckler
RE/MAX PROFESSIONALS
Chelsea Steen
YOUR CASTLE REAL ESTATE
Amy Stevens
KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE
Troy Strom KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE
Jenni Lee Stults
RE/MAX ALLIANCE
Jill Svenson
COLDWELL BANKER REALTY –SOUTH METRO
Julie Swanty RE/MAX ALLIANCE
TR Swanwick THE AGENCY - BOULDER
Tina Swonger RE/MAX PROPERTIES
Eric Tack
COLDWELL BANKER GLOBAL LUXURY DENVER
Jaryd Takushi ALOHA REAL ESTATE
Yanshuang Tan HOMESMART
Vignesh Tanneru HOMESMART
Arnold Tedjokusumo USAJ REALTY
Amy Terry THE AGENCY - DENVER
Clark Thomas MILEHIMODERN
Jim Thomas RE/MAX ALLIANCE BOULDER
Reid Thompson RE/MAX ALLIANCE
Aaron Tobler RE/MAX ALPINE VIEW
Katelynn Tran
EQUITY COLORADO REAL ESTATE
Jathan Trevena
COLDWELL BANKER REALTY –FORT COLLINS
Jon Troshynski MILEHIMODERN
Michelle Trudgeon WK REAL ESTATE
Julie Trunzo
YOUR CASTLE REAL ESTATE
Michael Turner
LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Aimee Twarogowski
KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE
Brandy Unruh
PORCHLIGHT REAL ESTATE GROUP
Jack Urbano
MILEHIMODERN
Maria Vitale
LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Brady Walters
RE/MAX ALLIANCE
James Wanzeck
RE/MAX PROFESSIONALS
Tyler Wanzeck
RE/MAX PROFESSIONALS
Susie Wargin
RE/MAX ALLIANCE
Amanda Watkins MODUS REAL ESTATE
Bella Weber
COLDWELL BANKER REALTY – BOULDER
Stacy Weinstein MILEHIMODERN
Tamara Whalen HOMESMART
Jackie White YOUR CASTLE REAL ESTATE
Colin Whitenack YOUR CASTLE REAL ESTATE
Denise Whittington CORCORAN PERRY & CO.
Nikki Wiederaenders PORCHLIGHT REAL ESTATE GROUP
Audrey Will LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Courtney Wilson RE/MAX PROFESSIONALS
Vicki Wimberly
COLDWELL BANKER REALTY –EVERGREEN
Melissa “Strawberry” Windholz CORCORAN PERRY & CO.
Julie Winger KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE
Stephanie Woodard RE/MAX ALLIANCE
Dene Yarwood WK REAL ESTATE
Dawn Zalfa
COLDWELL BANKER REALTY – CONIFER
Vicki Zeeb
COLDWELL BANKER REALTY –SOUTH METRO
Marietta Zygaj 8Z REAL ESTATE
INDIVIDUAL AGENTS
DOUBLE BLACK DIAMOND
Lori Abbey COMPASS
Andrew Abrams GUIDE REAL ESTATE
Chris Angelovic LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Nancy Austin COMPASS
Susan Baca RE/MAX OF BOULDER
Carla Bartell CORCORAN PERRY & CO.
Gabi Bergstrom RE/MAX PINNACLE
Peter Blank MILEHIMODERN
Chriss Bond
COLDWELL BANKER GLOBAL LUXURY DENVER
Phil Booth
SLIFER SMITH & FRAMPTON
Karen Brinckerhoff KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE
Jewel Brown
LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Mckinze Casey LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Joy Castillo COMPASS
Stacie Chadwick LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Luke Corbitt SLIFER SMITH & FRAMPTON
Sarah Craner RE/MAX PROFESSIONALS
Stuart Crowell COMPASS
Susie Dews COMPASS
David DiPetro COMPASS
Anne Dresser Kocur
LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Joy Dysart HOMESMART
Jennifer Egbert MILEHIMODERN
Jeff Eheart RE/MAX LEADERS
Marybeth Emerson THE AGENCY - BOULDER
Lisa Fallon
LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Deborah Fowler SLIFER SMITH & FRAMPTON
Brigitte Furst 8Z REAL ESTATE
Georgia Gallagher
LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Rachel Gallegos MILEHIMODERN
Maria Gallucci COMPASS
Lauren Gates THE AGENCY - DENVER
Delroy Gill
LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Stephanie Graham YOUR CASTLE REAL ESTATE
Brianna Griffin MADISON & COMPANY PROPERTIES
Kristin Harris MILEHIMODERN
Jay Hebb THE AGENCY - BOULDER
Jeff Hendley COMPASS
Katie Hoster
LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Dining Gu ide
SYMBOL KEY
Indicates a restaurant featured in 5280 for the first time (though not necessarily a restaurant that has just opened).
Indicates inclusion in 5280’s 2024 list of Denver’s best restaurants. These selections are at the discretion of 5280 editors and are subject to change.
ACE EAT SERVE
$$$
Uptown / Asian This Uptown restaurant and pingpong hall features Asian-inspired cuisine and 10 ping-pong tables. Try the Sichuan shrimp wontons. Reservations accepted. 501 E. 17th Ave., 303-800-7705. Dinner, Brunch
AFRICAN GRILL & BAR
BECKON
$$$$
RiNo / Contemporary Chef Duncan Holmes brings an elevated, intimate dining experience with thoughtful wine pairings to Larimer Street. Reservations accepted. 2843 Larimer St., 303749-0020. Dinner
BLACKBELLY
$$$
Boulder / American Chef Hosea Rosenberg’s menu focuses on charcuterie, small plates, and daily butcher specials. Try the koji-cured heritage pork chop. Also check out the adjacent butcher shop and market, which serves breakfast and lunch. Reservations accepted. 1606 Conestoga St., Boulder, 303-247-1000. Dinner
CARNE
$$
Lakewood / African Explore a bevy of dishes— peanut soups, samosas, jollof rice—from across Africa at this warm and inviting restaurant. Reservations accepted. 955 S. Kipling Parkway, Lakewood, 303-985-4497. Lunch, Dinner
ALMA FONDA FINA
$$$$
LoHi / Mexican This contemporary Mexican spot wows with creative plates featuring homemade masa and flavorful salsas. Don’t miss the camote asado (roasted sweet potato). Reservations accepted. 2556 15th St., 303-455-9463. Dinner
ANNETTE
$$$$
RiNo / Steak House From chef Dana Rodriguez, this “steak home” grills exquisite cuts of beef at a range of price points. Also explore its internationally inspired menu of shared plates and composed entrées. Reservations accepted. 2601 Larimer St., 303-953-1558. Dinner
DAUGHTER THAI KITCHEN & BAR
$$$
LoHi / Thai This date-night-ready Thai restaurant from Ounjit Hardacre serves beautifully plated dishes and inventive cocktails with an elegant ambience to match. Reservations accepted. 1700 Platte St., Suite 140, 720-667-4652. Lunch, Dinner
DÂN DÃ
$$$
Aurora / American James Beard Award–winning chef Caroline Glover’s Annette delivers a lineup of seasonal salads, pastas, wood-fired proteins, and other comforting bites in a modern, inviting space. Reservations accepted. 2501 Dallas St., Suite 108, Aurora, 720-710-9975. Dinner
AVANTI FOOD & BEVERAGE
LoHi / International Current tenants of this food collective include Gorlami Pizza, Bowls by Ko, Quiero Arepas, Knockabout Burgers, and Pho King Rapidos. 3200 Pecos St., 720-269-4778. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
BAEKGA
$$
Aurora / Vietnamese Family recipes delight at An and Thao Nguyen’s Vietnamese eatery. Don’t miss the spring roll towers and bubbling clay pots. Reservations accepted. 9945 E. Colfax Ave., Aurora, 720-476-7183. Lunch, Dinner
DOUGH COUNTER
$$
$$
University Hills / Pizza This fast-casual pizzeria specializes in Sicilian- and New York–style pies. For the former, we especially like the Triple Threat, which is striped with marinara, pesto, and vodka sauces. Reservations not accepted. 2466 S. Colorado Blvd., 303-997-8977. Lunch, Dinner
EDGEWATER PUBLIC MARKET
$$$
Lowry Field / Korean Chef-owner Sean Baek serves flavorful Korean eats at this quaint Lowry Town Center spot. Don’t miss out on the lunch specials: hearty portions of protein and rice that come with plenty of banchan (side dishes). Reservations not accepted. 100 Quebec St., Suite 115, 720-639-3872. Lunch, Dinner
BÁNH & BUTTER BAKERY CAFE
$ Aurora / French Thoa Nguyen crafts French pastries inspired by her Vietnamese heritage at this East Colfax cafe. Go for the dazzling crêpe cakes, each made with 25 to 30 layers. Reservations not accepted. 9935 E. Colfax Ave., Aurora, 720-5139313. Breakfast, Lunch
ELWAY’S
$$$$
Downtown / Steak House This sleek restaurant named after the Broncos great serves classic steak house fare in upscale environs. Reservations accepted. 1881 Curtis St., 303-312-3107. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch
FRANK & ROZE
Hale / Cafe This stylish cafe serves sustainably sourced coffee from South America, Africa, Asia, and beyond. Try the breakfast sandwiches. Reservations not accepted. 4097 E. Ninth Ave., 720328-2960. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
FRASCA FOOD AND WINE
$
$$$$
Boulder / Italian The elegant fare at Frasca, an ode to the cuisine of Friuli–Venezia Giulia in Italy from master sommelier Bobby Stuckey and chef Lachlan Mackinnon-Patterson, always wows. Splurge on executive chef Ian Palazzola’s nine-course Friulano menu. Reservations accepted. 1738 Pearl St., Boulder, 303-4426966. Dinner
G-QUE BBQ
$$
Westminster / Barbecue This fast-casual joint serves award-winning hickory-smoked pork, brisket, ribs, and more. Multiple locations. Reservations not accepted. 5160 W. 120th Ave., Suite K, Westminster, 303-379-9205. Lunch, Dinner
HANGANG RAMEN
$
Aurora / Korean Make your own ramen bowl at this fast-casual spot with more than 60 flavors of instant noodles. Reservations not accepted. 2281 S. Peoria St., Aurora, 303-955-0921. Lunch, Dinner
HEY KIDDO
$$$$
Berkeley / Contemporary From the team behind the Wolf’s Tailor and Brutø, this eclectic, globally inspired restaurant presents fine dining fare in relaxed environs. Reservations accepted. 4337 Tennyson St., Suite 300, 720-778-2977. Dinner
HOP ALLEY
$$
Edgewater / International Satisfy your cravings for everything from wild game sandwiches to Ethiopian fare at this collective of nearly two dozen food stalls and boutiques. 5505 W. 20th Ave., Edgewater, 720-749-2239. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
EL FIVE
$$$
LoHi / Mediterranean Justin Cucci’s fifth concept boasts panoramic views, creative tapas, and Spanish-style gin and tonics. Reservations accepted. 2930 Umatilla St., 303-524-9193. Dinner
EL TACO DE MEXICO
Lincoln Park / Mexican This Denver favorite serves Mexican food with an emphasis on authenticity. Reservations not accepted. 714 Santa Fe Drive, 303-623-3926. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
$
$$$$ RiNo / Chinese From Tommy Lee of Uncle, this neighborhood hangout’s daily menu is composed of dishes rooted in Chinese tradition with a distinctive flair. Don’t miss the exclusive chef’s counter experience. Reservations accepted. 3500 Larimer St., 720-379-8340. Dinner
IZAKAYA DEN
$$$ Platt Park / Japanese Ultra-fresh sushi, sashimi, and creative small plates are on the menu at this local favorite. Reservations accepted. 1487-A S. Pearl St., 303-777-0691. Lunch, Dinner
JAX FISH HOUSE & OYSTER BAR
$$$
LoDo / Seafood Enjoy sustainable seafood in an upbeat atmosphere. Specialties include the raw oyster bar and seasonally composed plates. Multiple locations. Reservations accepted. 1539 17th St., 303-292-5767. Dinner
KIKÉ’S RED TACOS $
LoHi / Mexican This brick-and-mortar location of the popular Mexican food truck is known for its queso tacos, which come stuffed with cheese and your choice of meat. Doctor up your order with the rainbow of sauces at the salsa bar. Reservations not accepted. 1200 W. 38th Ave., 720-3970591. Lunch, Dinner
KUMOYA JAPANESE KITCHEN
MAJOR TOM
$$$$
RiNo / American This lounge from the team behind Beckon offers a Champagne-centric drink menu and a lineup of shareable bites. Enjoy largerformat plates at a table inside, or throw back some oysters on the beautiful patio. Reservations accepted. 2845 Larimer St., 303-848-9777. Dinner
MAKFAM
$$$
Highland / Asian Seasoned chef Corey Baker serves rare-in-Denver nigiri and dry-aged fishg. Don’t miss the sandoitchi: a milk bread sandwich with chicken thigh katsu and Japanese curry egg salad. Reservations accepted. 2400 W. 32nd Ave., 303-862-6664. Dinner
LA FORÊT
$$
Baker / Chinese The Chinese food at this streetfood-inspired, fast-casual eatery in the Baker neighborhood eschews tradition for a whole lot more fun. Try the jian bing (scallion pancake) sandwiches. Reservations not accepted. 39 W. First Ave. Lunch, Dinner
MARIGOLD
$$$$
Speer / French This cocktail-centric French restaurant is decorated with floor-to-ceiling aspen trunks. Head in during pastis hour to sample the anise-flavored apéritif with small plates, or dine on dishes like stag au poivre. Reservations not accepted. 38 S. Broadway, 303-351-7938. Dinner
LUCINA EATERY & BAR
$$$
South Park Hill / Latin American Bold flavors from Latin America, the Caribbean, and coastal Spain tantalize at this lively restaurant. Try the mofongo (plantain mash) or the two-person paella with rotating toppings, only served on Fridays and Saturdays. Reservations accepted. 2245 Kearney St., Suite 101, 720814-1053. Dinner
$$$$
Lyons / European This small, light-filled restaurant serves seasonally driven, French- and Italian-influenced fare. The pink-peppercorn-laced farinata (chickpea pancake) is a delicious mainstay of the frequently changing menu, and the amaro-focused cocktail program is also delightful. Reservations accepted. 405 Main St., Suite B, Lyons, 303-823-2333. Dinner
MOLOTOV KITSCHEN & COCKTAILS
$$$$
City Park / Eastern European The ever-changing menu at this kitschy restaurant in City Park from chef Bo Porytko (formerly of Misfit Snack Bar) celebrates the cuisine of Ukraine. Try creative takes on borscht and Eastern European dumplings. Reservations accepted. 3333 E. Colfax Ave., 303-316-3333. Dinner
MY BROTHER’S BAR
LoHi / Pub Enjoy beers and a JCB burger with jalapeño cream cheese in one of Denver’s oldest bars. Reservations not accepted. 2376 15th St., 303-455-9991. Lunch, Dinner
NOISETTE RESTAURANT & BAKERY
$
$$$$
LoHi / French Chefs Tim and Lillian Lu serve elegant renditions of bourgeoisie-style specialties (French home-cooked comforts) in a romantic, light-drenched space. Tear into the perfectly crisp baguette. Reservations accepted. 3254 Navajo St., Suite 100, 720-769-8103. Dinner, Brunch
OCEAN PRIME
$$$$ LoDo / Seafood A marriage between land and sea, this supper club offers steak house dining and fresh fish in one. Reservations accepted. 1465 Larimer St., 303-825-3663. Dinner
ODIE B’S
$ Sunnyside / American Sandwiches reach their prime at this fast-casual restaurant. Try twists on classics like the fried chicken sandwich with deviled egg spread and the mixed bag of fries, which combines four different shapes of fried spuds. Reservations not accepted. 2651 W. 38th Ave., 303-993-8078. Breakfast, Lunch, Brunch
OSAKA RAMEN
$$ RiNo / Japanese Jeff Osaka’s modern ramen shop features original noodle soups, bento boxes, and creative small plates. Reservations not accepted. 2611 Walnut St., 303-955-7938. Lunch, Dinner
OTOTO
$$$
Platt Park / Japanese From the team behind Sushi Den, this eatery focuses on more casual Japanese eats. Try the yellowtail collar grilled over white oak charcoal. Reservations accepted. 1501 S. Pearl St., 303-942-1416. Dinner, Brunch
POINT EASY
$$$$
Whittier / Contemporary This inviting farm-totable eatery produces feasts made with thoughtfully sourced ingredients. Pair the calamari- and tomato-studded bucatini nero with a specialty cocktail. Reservations accepted. 2000 E. 28th Ave., 303-233-5656. Dinner
POTAGER
$$$
Capitol Hill / Contemporary Since 1997, this rustic Capitol Hill restaurant has specialized in fresh, seasonally driven food. The menu changes once a month. Reservations accepted. 1109 N. Ogden St., 303-246-7073. Dinner
RESTAURANT OLIVIA
$$$$
Washington Park / Italian This cozy yet modern neighborhood spot specializes in fresh pastas of all varieties. The ravioli and other stuffed pastas are must-orders, and a specialty Negroni doesn’t hurt, either. Reservations accepted. 290 S. Downing St., 303-999-0395. Dinner
RIOJA
$$$$
LoDo / Mediterranean Chef Jennifer Jasinski creates Mediterranean-influenced cuisine. Also try her lunchtime takeout pop-up, Flavor Dojo, which offers healthy bowls. Reservations accepted. 1431 Larimer St., 303-820-2282. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch
SAFTA
$$$$
RiNo / Mediterranean At Safta, chef Alon Shaya and his team serve modern Israeli fare. Craveworthy specialties include hummus, labneh, and other dips accompanied by wood-oven pita. Also check out the weekend brunch buffet. Reservations accepted. 3330 Brighton Blvd., Suite 201, 720-408-2444. Brunch, Dinner
SAP SUA
$$$
Congress Park / Vietnamese This smart eatery from husband-and-wife duo Ni and Anna Nguyen in Congress Park finds its culinary footing in Vietnamese flavors. Herbaceous offerings like culantro-capped tomato toast and lemongrass-scented pork shoulder are favorites of those who frequent the vibrantly decorated restaurant. Reservations accepted. 2550 E. Colfax Ave., 303-736-2303. Dinner
SPUNTINO
$$$$
Highland / Italian Enjoy the eclectic and locally sourced menu at this Italian-inspired, husbandand-wife-owned spot. Go for any of the dishes with Southern Indian influences—a product of chef Cindhura Reddy’s heritage—like malai kofta gnocchi. Try the house-made gelatos for dessert. Reservations accepted. 2639 W. 32nd Ave., 303-433-0949. Dinner
STONE CELLAR BISTRO
$$$ Arvada / Contemporary Visit this farm-to-table spot for beautifully presented dishes made with local produce by chefs Jordan Alley and Brandon Kerr. Don’t miss the foie gras parfait or the hot honey fried chicken. Reservations accepted. 7605 Grandview Ave., Arvada, 720630-7908. Dinner
SUNDAY VINYL
$$$
LoDo / European This Union Station restaurant offers warm hospitality, exquisite cuisine, and an extensive wine list—all to the soundtrack of a vinyl-only playlist. Order the high-meetslow caviar-topped hash brown patty and something from the indulgent selection of sweet treats. Reservations accepted. 1803 16th Street Mall, 720-738-1803. Dinner
TAVERNETTA
$$$$ LoDo / Italian The team behind Boulder’s acclaimed Frasca Food and Wine offers the same attention to hospitality at this more casual Denver restaurant. The charming space is home to dishes from across Italy and a deep wine list. Reservations accepted. 1889 16th St., 720-605-1889. Lunch, Dinner
TEALEE’S TEAHOUSE AND BOOKSTORE $$ Five Points / International Head to this charming teahouse-bookstore-market for loose-leaf and specialty teas and all-day fare like soups, salads, sandwiches, and freshly baked pastries. Reservations accepted. 611 22nd St., 303-593-2013. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
TOCABE, AN AMERICAN INDIAN EATERY
Berkeley / American Feast on Indigenous fare such as fry bread tacos made with ingredients sourced from Native producers at this fast-casual spot. Reservations not accepted. 3536 W. 44th Ave., 720-524-8282. Lunch, Dinner
TRAVELING MERCIES
$
WHITTIER CAFE
Whittier / Cafe This espresso bar serves coffee, beer, and wine sourced from various African nations and a small menu of pastries, breakfast burritos, panini, and more. Reservations not accepted. 1710 E. 25th Ave., 720-550-7440. Breakfast, Lunch
$
YAHYA’S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL & PASTRIES
$$
City Park West / Mediterranean This familyrun restaurant serves silky hummus, grilled kebabs, and from-scratch sweets. Reservations accepted. 2207 E. Colfax Ave., 720-532-8746. Lunch, Dinner
$$$
Aurora / Seafood Annette’s Caroline Glover expands her offerings in Aurora’s Stanley Marketplace with this petite yet airy oyster and cocktail bar. Order the anchovy and baguette with French churned butter. Reservations accepted. 2501 Dallas St., Suite 311, Aurora. Dinner
URBAN VILLAGE GRILL
$$$
Lone Tree / Indian This eatery serves classic and contemporary dishes from across India. Reservations accepted. 8505 Park Meadows Center Drive, Suite 2184A, Lone Tree, 720-536-8565. Lunch, Dinner
VINH XUONG BAKERY
THE WOLF’S TAILOR
YUAN WONTON
$$$$
Sunnyside / Contemporary This Michelin-starred restaurant from chef-restaurateur Kelly Whitaker transforms local ingredients into a globally minded, prix fixe tasting menu. Don’t get too full before pastry chef Emily Thompson’s dessert course. Reservations accepted. 4058 Tejon St., 720456-6705. Dinner
WYNKOOP BREWING COMPANY
$$
Athmar Park / Vietnamese This family-owned bakery serves up delicious banh mi sandwiches and other tasty Vietnamese treats. Reservations not accepted. 2370 Alameda Ave., 303-922-0999. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
WATERCOURSE FOODS
$$
LoDo / Pub Enjoy fresh beer and pub favorites such as the bison burger at one of Denver’s original brewpubs. Reservations accepted. 1634 18th St., 303-297-2700. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch
XI QUITA
$$
Uptown / American This vegetarian icon has been serving wholesome food since 1998. The zesty soups, salads, and wraps are healthy and delicious. Reservations accepted. 837 E. 17th Ave., 303-8327313. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch
$$
North Park Hill / Asian House-made dumplings earn top billing at this ambitious eatery from chef Penelope Wong. Head in on Fridays for a dim-sum-themed lunch that showcases the best of Wong’s hand-folded delicacies. Reservations accepted. 2878 Fairfax St., 303-3205642. Lunch
ZEPPELIN STATION
RiNo / International This industrial-chic food hall in RiNo is home to seven globally inspired food and drink vendors, including Procession Coffee, Purisma, and Gyros King. 3501 Wazee St. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch
$$
$$$
Uptown / Mexican Chef Erasmo Casiano serves soulful fare inspired by the cuisines of Mexico City. Don’t miss the masa dishes. Reservations accepted. 500 E. 19th Ave., 720-287-2701. Dinner
YACHT CLUB
$
Cole / American Enjoy classic and creative cocktails alongside an array of snacks at this loungelike bar. Reservations not accepted. 3701 N. Williams St., 720-443-1135. Dinner
ZOE MA MA
$ LoDo / Chinese This cozy counter-service spot offers Chinese home-style cooking. Also try the Boulder location. Reservations not accepted. 1625 Wynkoop St., 303-545-6262. Lunch, Dinner
These listings are in no way related to advertising in 5280. If you find that a restaurant differs significantly from the information in its listing or your favorite restaurant is missing from the Dining Guide, please let us know. Write us at 5280 Elevated, Inc., 1675 Larimer St., Suite 675, Denver, CO 80202 or dining@5280.com.
in Alamosa had offered to take the case but didn’t have good reviews. One lawyer, 180 miles away in Colorado Springs, wanted $10,000. “I don’t have anywhere near that,” the man told me. He planned to search for an affordable attorney when he returned home that night. He wasn’t hopeful. “This is really rough,” he said.
The morning docket continued inside the firehouse. A defendant without an attorney who needed a continuation on his case. Another DUI. A careless driving charge. Another defendant without an attorney.
“I’m still trying to find one,” the woman told the judge.
solving colorado ’ s legal desert problem has been a vexing proposition for years, and it’s only getting more difficult. CU’s law school awards scholarships to students who intern in rural communities, but few have taken it up on the offer. The Colorado Office of the State Public Defender gives recruits who spend at least two years in a rural locale the opportunity to transfer to a prime metro-area post in the future. Private attorneys nearing retirement age have advertised turnkey law firms—flush with client lists—for free. There are no takers.
In recent years, many rural prosecutors have defected to county and district judgeships, lured by higher salaries. State lawmakers responded in 2024 by boosting assistant district attorneys’ pay in these rural jurisdictions, but the increase doesn’t take effect until 2026—and there’s little evidence that it will solve the attorney deficit. In northeast Colorado’s 13th Judicial District, where the cost of living is nearly half that of the Denver metro area, District Attorney Travis Sides raised pay as much as 18 percent for new prosecutors. “They still can’t get ’em,” says Raynes of the Colorado District Attorneys’ Council. “It’s always going to be hard to get a student from CU or the University of Denver [to move out]. Like, ‘Hey, you want to go to Burlington?’ That’s not their dream community, so they’re not going to give it a chance.”
The opportunity to work murder cases while his friends were spending their days handling misdemeanors lured Raymond Torrez to the public defender’s office in La Junta, an hour southeast of Pueblo. Nearly three decades later, he now leads the 14-person team,
which covers more than 10,500 square miles, an area about the size of Massachusetts. “The main thing I cared about was practicing law, so an opportunity to do complicated, important work was the way for me to jump-start my career,” says the 53-year-old, who has an undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame and went to law school at CU. His wife is also an attorney in town. He knows he needs to put in overtime to keep his young lawyers happy: Torrez goes out for drinks with them after work; he’s hosted pool parties at his house; he’s offered to go house-hunting with them. “You want to help them make a connection here,” he says. But there’s only so much Torrez can do. One of his up-and-comers is a former college cheerleader who wants to stay active in the sport. “Not a lot of opportunities to coach cheer out here, though,” Torrez says.
“You have a chance to be this striving person out here, but you also have to acknowledge that the sorts of things available in rural areas are just different,” Erin Harris, a private attorney, told me one morning after juvenile court in Baca County. Harris grew up in La Junta, went to the University of Michigan’s Law School, became a lawyer in Chicago, and returned home after marrying a childhood friend. Now divorced and remarried, the 51-year-old formerly served as a deputy district attorney and Colorado Legal Services’ managing attorney. In addition to running her own private practice, she is currently La Junta’s city attorney.
Her area isn’t just a legal desert, she says, but also a service desert that lacks mental health facilities and domestic violence shelters. Her father was a physician in the region decades earlier and faced the same issues Harris faces now. “How do our communities recruit more professionals?” she asks. “How do you get an experienced attorney and convince that person’s family to come to a place like this? This is the conversation small towns across the country are having all the time. For people who choose this life, you have to figure out ways to make it work.” I witnessed that sort of resourcefulness in Wray this past November. Fidler, the Alternate Defense Counsel–contracted attorney with an office in Burlington, was representing a client in a traffic case. The court had scheduled the woman’s guilty plea for January, but Fidler feared the timing would expose her to immigration-related issues under the new Trump administration because she wasn’t a citizen. Fidler doesn’t have a background in immigration law, and the closest expert was nearly three hours away in Denver. Fidler politely asked the Yuma County judge to
move the plea hearing up to December, before Trump took office.
The judge, Wray’s former mayor and the owner of an agricultural fertilizer and pesticide business, was equally confounded. After a few moments of back-and-forth with Fidler, the judge finally came to his decision: He’d move the plea date to December. Fidler turned to his client. “You’re OK,” he said.
Though he wasn’t sure the woman would be safe following Trump’s inauguration, Fidler still thought he’d done something good—if only for a while. “You do your best with what you have,” he told me later.
after court at the fire station in Conejos County, Kelly raced for the parking lot. The district attorney had a trial scheduled at the Rio Grande County courthouse in Del Norte, a 50-mile drive from Antonito, and she already was running late. Kelly hauled her Jeep up the state highway and across rural, two-lane roads that bisected barren fields. She made a right turn at a mechanic’s shop, where a massive “Democrats Suck” flag flapped in the breeze. Fifteen minutes later, she pulled into town.
“This is the most fulfilling thing I’ve done in my life,” Kelly said as she hustled up the courthouse steps. “Ever, ever, ever.” Residents in the 12th Judicial District formally elected her in November 2022, shortly after the governor appointed her to the job. Two years later, she ran unopposed, which made her feel like she had been accepted in the valley. Strangers in those days asked if she might find a husband here, if she was looking to buy some property—something she eventually did—anything that might make it harder for her to leave. “Someone said I need cattle,” Kelly told me as she opened the courtroom’s door. “What the heck do I know about raising cattle?”
The Rio Grande County courtroom is a long, broad keyhole with rows of wooden benches. Kelly was there to prosecute a teenager who’d allegedly threatened another teen. Kelly smiled when she saw the alleged victim seated with his parents, near a Del Norte police sergeant who’d helped the DA build her case. Kelly said some quick hellos and leaned into the group. “This is what we’re gonna try to do today,” she began.
Earlier that morning, as Kelly was driving to the fire station in Conejos County, she spoke to the victim’s father on her cell phone. The father had found additional evidence he thought the DA should know about. Kelly agreed the information was important to the case. Still, she was a little disappointed with herself. If this alleged
crime had happened in Boulder, where she previously worked, one of the office’s many investigators would likely have uncovered the evidence months earlier. She would have had time to ask questions and create strategies with her staff. Instead, here in Rio Grande County, she was going to have to beg the judge for a last-second delay.
“We just need more time,” Kelly told the family as they sat in the courtroom. She pointed at the teenage victim, who wore a pressed dress shirt. “He looks like a good young man,” she said.
The hearing was brutal. Not only did District Judge Michael Gonzales admonish Kelly for requesting a delay, but he also noted the case had been ongoing for four months. These were children, he said, and they needed to move on with their lives. A public defender representing the defendant addressed the judge. “I’m concerned the district attorney’s office is not taking this case seriously,” the woman said. She asked for sanctions against Kelly, a penalty that could range from exclusion of evidence to dismissal of the case. The DA pursed her lips but didn’t look up from her laptop. Finally, when it was her turn to speak, Kelly
shot from her chair. “I don’t like the word ‘sanction’ floating around,” she snapped. The judge called a brief recess. The defense’s team moved outside the courtroom. Kelly walked toward the victim’s parents. “Just so I’m clear,” she said, “we did nothing wrong.” Gonzales acquiesced after the break. A sanction might be discussed in the future, but the judge’s tone had changed. With the trial postponed, Kelly thanked the judge and spoke to the teen’s family. Outside the courtroom a few minutes later, she hugged a sheriff’s department employee who’d recently been diagnosed with cancer. She talked to the Del Norte police sergeant. A sheriff’s lieutenant interrupted and asked how to get a courtordered blood draw from a jail inmate who’d thrown urine at one of the deputies. “Communicable diseases and all that, ya know?” the lieutenant said.
Kelly eventually made it outside and into the afternoon sunlight. She was still steaming over the public defender’s demand for a sanction, which she saw as a cheap shot designed to embarrass her office. “That was garbage,” she said. But Kelly also knew the public defender had a legitimate complaint. If she had a bigger staff, someone would have
caught the other potential evidence against the teenage defendant. Kelly would have been prepared for trial this afternoon—maybe earlier. In the rural 12th Judicial District, though, it seemed concessions always had to be made. “I’ve got 24 hours in my day,” she said. “This has been a lesson in patience, that’s for sure.” She took a breath and closed her eyes. Kelly opened the Jeep’s door and dropped her bag on the passenger’s seat. It was almost 3:30 p.m., and there was more work to do. The drive to Alamosa would take 40 minutes, and she’d probably be on her phone the entire time. More meetings and phone calls waited at the office. There were at least 20 cases on her docket tomorrow, and she needed to prepare. Her staff had nine trials scheduled over the next month, and she was personally handling at least nine murder cases. At some point, Kelly would finally head home. She planned to work through the night. m
Robert Sanchez is 5280 ’s senior staff writer. This past June, his story about the pitfalls of Colorado’s indeterminate-sentencing mandates played a key role in the release of a man who had been imprisoned on a dubious parole violation. Send feedback to letters@5280.com.
SPRING IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 95
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E AND L TEAM
RE/MAX ELEVATE
Elizabeth Ryterski
Laura Shaffer
HELM WEAVER HELM
COMPASS
Pam Helm
Patti Helm
Libby Weaver
HOHOLIK TEAM
MILEHIMODERN
Audrey Hoholik
Morgan Hoholik
Paige Hoholik
JASON CUMMINGS GROUP
COMPASS
Ana Alfaro
Samantha Black
Jason Cummings
Jaime Long
Hadley Mick
KELLY MOYE GROUP
COMPASS
Kelly Moye
Paul Witmer
LEE TEAM
COLDWELL BANKER REALTY –
SOUTH METRO
David Armayor
Louie Lee
Amy Turner
NEIR TEAM
KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE
Laura Fuller
Alex Neir
Stacy Neir
NEST
COMPASS
Kevin Fletcher
Shurie Fletcher
Jake McCaffrey
Cherish McClure
Tatiana Torres
NORTHROP GROUP
COMPASS
Sarah Bangert
Brittany Morgan
Jessica Northrop
PATRICK BROWN GROUP
COMPASS
Patrick Brown
William Greig
Hunter Jorgensen
PATRICK DOLAN TEAM
RE/MAX OF BOULDER
Kelly Atteridg
Bryce Dolan
Patrick Dolan
Karolyn Merrill
RANKIN GOULDER AND KISSINGER
COMPASS
Jane Goulder
Amy Kissinger
Allison Rankin
REMMERT GROUP
COMPASS
Vanessa Hilbert
Lindsey Hughes
Steve Remmert
Michelle Steiner
SCHLICHTER TEAM
COMPASS
Casey Middleton
Tom Pitzer
David Schlichter
Jen Widler
STODDARD, DANA, AND MURPHY TEAM
COLDWELL BANKER GLOBAL
LUXURY DENVER
Marilyn Dana
Elizabeth Murphy
Janie Stoddard
STUCY GROUP
LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Joy Nowakowski
Karina Stevens
Elaine Stucy
SUBRY GROUP
RE/MAX NORTHWEST
Justin Pfeifer
John Subry
Pamela Subry
Madison Subry-Gardner
TAMBORRA TEAM
RE/MAX LEADERS
Mauri Tamborra
TEAM DURAN
RE/MAX ALLIANCE WESTMINSTER
Frank Duran
Renee Duran
Ty Hart
Michael Palmer
Charles Zaragoza
TEAMS OF 6 TO 15 AGENTS
BLACK DIAMOND
5280 RESULTS TEAM
COLDWELL BANKER REALTY –
SOUTH METRO
Om Dhungel
Bobby Dusbabek
Loy Hall
Debbie Joseph
Dorie Lisowska
Dave Treece
CORE PROPERTY GROUP
COLDWELL BANKER REALTY –
FORT COLLINS
Josh Chapel
Greg Gasper
Rick Jacobi
Jeff Lewis
James Sack
Stephanie Zambo
DENVER GROUP
COMPASS
Jason Dalbey
Matt Griebel
JP Hachey
Jacob Slater
DTC COLLECTIVE
COMPASS
Alyssa Cicero
TJ Gordon
Kylie McKay
Brian McWilliams
Joy McWilliams
Melody Ortiz
Debra Reinhard
ENVISION ADVISORS
YOUR CASTLE REAL ESTATE
Jenny Bayless
Katie Heinsohn
Leah Keeling
Chris Lopez
Steven Medina
Preston Newberry
Walker Noon
Stacy Rozansky
Jeff White
Newt Wyler
GERLOCK HOMES
COLDWELL BANKER REALTY –
DENVER CENTRAL
Joslyn Allen
Dan D. Gerlock
Illona Gerlock
Alexis Gonzalez
Kareem Howard
Amanda Rivers
TOP PRODUCERS 2025
JACKIE GARCIA TEAM
RE/MAX PROFESSIONALS
Marco Castilla
Noelle Chole
Jackie Garcia
Dana Goldfarb
Ben Prucey
Maritza Torres
MILE HIGH LIFESTYLES
COMPASS
Emily Arrick
Lindsey Ayres
Abraham Barrera
Taylor Cleary
Jesus Gonzales
Jaden Hanson
Amanda Hoang
Becca Jacobson
Amber Page
Paulina Parra
Joe Solomon
NEW DOOR GROUP
COMPASS
Amy Ballain
Sean Ballain
Lindsey Beas
Gretchen Blase
Mike Fall
Kristen Freiboth
Ryan Garvey
Candice Guillen
Susan Hastings
Hunter Hayes
Paige Janulewicz
Carrie Korth
Matt Mulcahy
Hadley Trent
Todd Zurcher
PEDAL GROUP
COMPASS
Boulos Ayad
Carolyn Barlow
Kate Blalack
Kristin Creamer
Jennifer Emich
John Farley
Chris Haught
Laura King
Alissa Peterson
Botsy Phillips
Alan Quiller
Brad Quiller
Tim Shea
Jon Sisenwein
Chris Sweeney
PIKES PEAK PROPERTIES
RE/MAX ADVANTAGE
Tanya Bingham
Kristin Dionne
Kelly Gehrmann
Thomas Hoang
Cassidy Jones
Frances Sikich
Darrell Wass
TROY HANSFORD TEAM
RE/MAX PROFESSIONALS
Jamin Cook
Shannon Fiala
Troy Hansford
James McWilliams
Courtney Vance
TUPPERS TEAM
MADISON & COMPANY PROPERTIES
Matt Bachus
Dana Bossert
Tupper Briggs
Alice Carmody
Carrie Hurich
Peg Schroeder
Jennifer Trinco
TEAMS OF 6 TO 15 AGENTS
DOUBLE BLACK DIAMOND
BE1
COMPASS
Cody Buck
Alex Chapman
Liz Daniels
Jacob Dittman
Nate Forse
Sean Hannon
Chris Hurwitz
Adele Lewis
Greg Pickett
Meghan Rocchio
Gunnar Simon
Lindsey Simon
John Vestal
Hailey Walsh
BOULDER HOME SOURCE TEAM
RE/MAX ALLIANCE
Duane Caraballo
Nancy Kirkendall
Susan Martin
Kathryn Ruhl
Greg Smith
BUY AND SELL 5280
COMPASS
Cyndie Alexander
Amy Atkinson
Jill Burbach
Erik Carman
Aliya Duffy
Kyle Foster
Nick Leibbrand
Ken Posen
Erin Posey
Sean Ring
Krislyn Sayre
Valerie Stern
Deanna Wolfe
COLORADO URBAN LIVING
RE/MAX ALLIANCE
Tavia Galvin
Erin Houston
Lisa Magleby
Paula McCluskey
Sean Stover
Nicki Thompson
ELEVATED LIVING GROUP
COMPASS
Nick Anderson
Bridget D’Angelo
Savannah Fultz
Ken Gellman
Tenzin Gyaltsen
Forrest Johnson
Bill Knapp
Kevin Merlander
Megan Quinn Mayfield
Hannah Safari
Sam Sheets
Sallie Simmons
Michael Turra
Lisa Wynne
ELITE HOME PARTNERS
KELLER WILLIAMS INTEGRITY
Natalie Austin
Brendan Bartic
Kathryn Bartic
James Berkley
Scott Brasfield
James Button
Brandt Ellwood
Greg Greenhalge
Tennille Johnson
Lily Lopez
Jeff Lovato
Jim Loveridge
Trevor Okamoto
John Taylor
Christopher Wanless
GRIFFITH HOME TEAM
RE/MAX PROFESSIONALS
Dustin Griffith
Jennifer Hershberger
Ronda Maher
Devin Martinez
Alexander Mierau
Jordan Ortega
Raman Sharma
Philip Stinar
Carrie Terrones
Nick Trujillo
Janna Vanner
Scott Westensee
HIGGINS KALUSH COLLECTIVE
COMPASS
Marsha Badger
Sarah Fader
Liz Forster
Amy Gilbride
Cari Higgins
Kristin Kalush
Dave Rich
Courtney Uyeshiro
Heather Vieth
IMPACT GROUP
YOUR CASTLE REAL ESTATE
Tabitha Bartel
Tegan Davis
Dan Fortune
Cody Freis
Brandon Griffin
Trevor Hammers
Kyla Hammond
Katie Hankins
Karen Jensen
Vanessa Kendrick
Scott Kimball
Karen Krueger
Chris Russell
MONARCH GROUP
COMPASS
Maddi Abercrombie
Lacy Caudel
Sally Ann Chapline
Allie Kirby
Melissa Milder
Brogan Lee Rossi
Tabitha Tobias
NEW ERA GROUP
YOUR CASTLE REAL ESTATE
Jamie Bearden
Amy Cammack
Kendall Dallow
Tamara DeAngelis
Emmy Fletcher
Micah Frankel
Julie Kalo
Kyle Kunkle
Tally Lawing
India Niedens
Billy Prohaska
Michaela Schmitz
Cory Schwab
John Stegner
Dalia Williams
NOLAN WILSON GROUP
COMPASS
Katie Bates
Kori Biernacki
Danielle Brossart
Katherine Gowdey
Lauren Kettle
Sarah Nolan
Taylor Wilson
NOSTALGIC HOMES GROUP
COMPASS
Angelica Apel
Jenny Apel
Stefanie Broom
Elizabeth Clayton
Leigh Gauger
Michelle Henkel
Alesia Kieffer
Betty Luce
Elizabeth Luna
Bart Rhein
Jill Samuels
Luis Serrano
Jean Sunn
Corey Wadley
PREFERRED PROPERTIES
COMPASS
Paul Bishop
Toni Ciarlelli
Teri Colbert
Megan Davis
Pam Dunn
Kim Foster
Ashley Howlett
Melinda Howlett
Kathy Hussey
Denise Kelly
Michael Mahoney
Nancy Murray McFadden
Susan Pearce
Karen Pepper
Roseanne Ruiz
REAL ESTATE EXPERTS OF DENVER
RE/MAX PROFESSIONALS
Erica Chouinard
Christopher Crosby
Lauren Immel
Heather Ingram
Jonathan Keiler
Shawna Korth
Ali Marshall
Logan Opheim
Rike Palese
Taylor Palese
Caterina Savino
Colleen Sophia
Marla Strick
Malaika White
SAVVY GROUP
KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE
Carly Anderson
Terra Augustine
Kendall Baker
Kat Brill
Belinda Cox
Megan Fleischli
Katie Knowlton
Nicole Malone
Jillian Silkie
Stacey Stambaugh
Stephanie Sulstrom m
Unapologetic
Guest Speaker Emmy Award-Winning Actress
Christine Baranski
THE OVERSIMPLIFIED GUIDE TO:
Springtime Mountain Safety
Any self-respecting Coloradan knows there’s no such thing as the offseason. But whether you’re itching to ski, snowshoe, or hike, it can be tough to plan for spring’s fickle weather and hairy snow conditions.
We asked Golden Mountain Guides owner Ben Coryell, who has led shoulder season trips in the Rockies for 15 years, for his best safety tips for keeping the stoke alive.
—MAREN HORJUS
1
March weather in Colorado is “variable at best,” Coryell says. (And above 9,500 feet? “True winter till May.”) Don’t rely on your iPhone weather app to paint an accurate picture in the mountains. Instead, consult multiple forecasts and models (Coryell likes noaa.gov and windy.com) for a more precise prediction of the conditions.
2
Like what you see?
Check the avy bulletin at avalanche.state.co.us.
Updated daily, these reports by the Colorado Avalanche Information Center reveal sketchy, slide-prone slopes— including extremely dangerous “persistent slabs.”
Unless you have ample avalanche training, avoid all spots labeled with that term, Coryell says.
Anything steeper than 30 degrees is probably too risky when there’s an avalanche threat, so move to Plan B. Choose a flatter route in the area or visit a nearby trailhead that’s lower in elevation.
A Coryell-approved safe bet for Front Rangers: Caribou Hill Trail near Nederland. 3
One of the most common ways folks get stuck in terrain that’s too heady is by improvising. “Come up with a plan with your group members before you get to the trailhead,” Coryell says. Specify the footpaths or routes you plan to take, as well as your start and turnaround times. 4
Stow a few winterspecific items (extra socks, backup gloves) in your pack, plus a repair kit capable of “MacGyvering your gear, whether that’s a snowshoe binding or a ski pole basket,” Coryell says. Traveling through avalanche terrain? Make sure you have a beacon, probe, and shovel—and know how to use them.
Where It All Comes Together
Nickolas Sargent of DBA Sargent Photography
Buying or selling a home is where your lifestyle and financial goals meet, and your decisions can have longlasting effects. Your goals are my top priority, and every strategy along the way is implemented with those in mind. Whether it’s consultation, negotiation, or just a little hand-holding, I put my clients first and I’d love to help you or your loved ones buy or sell a home in the Denver area.
