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DecemberGiving Issue
The holidays are here and as the spirit of the season is among us, we often try to replicate what made the season feel so magical to us in our youth. The traditions we set for our own families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child whether it is the smells, the sounds, the lights, the holiday activities or a combination of it all that reflect that best.
This month, we wanted to highlight the magic of the season and what our city has to offer that helps spread holiday cheer. We’ve compiled a gift guide to make your shopping easier and that also supports our local businesses. We also wanted to share what our area has to offer this holiday season for entertainment and ways to give back. While this season can be beautiful for some, it can be painful and lonely for others, especially those who have recently lost a loved one. In the true spirit of the season, let’s take care of those in our community that need assistance or who are alone. My hope for you this season is that you feel love and peace and that we all remember to take care of each other extending grace, empathy and love.
Happy Holidays!
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Matthew Coffel | matt.coffel@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Chris Roberts | chris@csrsolutions.us
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard Learn
Proverbs 3:5-6
IF YOU ARE READING THIS... SO IS YOUR BEST CLIENT.
2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our
merry memories
Celebrate The Holidays With Your Family at the Gaylord
Make Merry Memories at Gaylord Rockies Holidays are for family, friends, and making memories. Whether bundling up and spending a day walking through a winter wonderland, decorating gingerbread, or singing Christmas carols while enjoying cookies and milk, guests will find it all at Gaylord Rockies Resort near Denver. Amid dazzling holiday lights, seasonal cuisine, the enchanting Mistletoe Village, a delightful Sweet Shop, and a sleigh-full of Christmas cheer, everyone will experience a Christmas to remember.
From Nov. 22, 2024, through Jan. 1, 2025, Gaylord Rockies will be transformed into a winter wonderland full of twinkling lights, sparkling trees, and hours of festive entertainment and activities all will enjoy. After checking into one of the resort’s plush guestrooms, head to ICE! featuring The Polar Express™. This holiday spectacle, kept at 9 degrees and hand carved by artisans from 2 million pounds of brightly colored ice, is back again this season. In this one-of-a-kind retelling of the modern Christmas classic, guests will see familiar characters, including the children from the train, the conductor, the Hobo, Steamer and Smokey, and Santa, come to life in scenes from the movie. See the North Pole, Santa’s Workshop, the Polar Express itself, and more, all carved from ice.
ICE! isn’t the only festive fun to be had at Gaylord Rockies this season. Holiday activities abound, including photos with Santa, a festive scavenger hunt, gingerbread decorating, and more. Afterwards, discover the magic of the all-new Cirque: Frost, where breathtaking stunts and stunning artistry take center stage. Follow young Jack’s journey to become Jack Frost in this 50- minute spectacle of heartwarming moments and awe-inspiring acrobatics. This season, there’s no better way to celebrate the holidays than by gathering friends and family at Gaylord Rockies Resort. Learn more and book packages at ChristmasatGaylordRockies.com .
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
ARTICLE BY MATT COFFEL
The Road Ahead
El Colorado
Whether you drive a BMW or a Hyundai, I confidently declare that there isn’t a better, faster, or more caring tire and wheel service in Colorado— possibly anywhere.
Hi friends,
This isn’t your typical editorial; it's more of a baffling story that left me in awe, and I felt compelled to share it. As the Publisher and Owner of Denver North City Lifestyle, I often write about local gems, but this one truly blew my mind. Trust me, you’ll want to hear this.
It all started when I found a nail in my BMW SUV tire. I couldn’t believe it—where did it come from? After venting my frustration to my neighbor Lou, she recommended El Colorado Tire. Skeptical yet desperate, I followed her directions, expecting to pass the time at a nearby café.
When I arrived, I explained my situation and mentioned I’d be grabbing coffee next door. To my utter surprise, I returned to find three gentlemen checking on me. “Mr. Coffel, your car is done!” they said. Wait, what? Total repair time: six minutes. Six minutes! Mind officially blown.
Surely, I thought, this was a fluke.
Fast forward 24 hours, and I found another screw in a different tire. I took it back to El Colorado, fully prepared to witness the magic again. Before I could even gossip with my friends about my last experience, they called out, “Your car is done!” I hadn’t even settled into my seat!
Imagine if David Blaine or David Copperfield truly did what we think they did—this was the vibe I was getting!
I couldn’t keep this incredible experience to myself. I told everyone, and then my 77-year-old mom chimed in, saying she needed new tires. After receiving quotes ranging from $780 to $1,400, I made a quick call to El Colorado. They assured me they had her covered.
Leaving my mom’s house at Kipling and Colfax, I drove to Sloan's Lake to El Colorado Tire. They replaced all four tires, perfectly balanced, and I had her car back to her in just 44 minutes! What?! The cost? A mere $647, with a warranty!
Whether you drive a BMW or a Hyundai, I confidently declare that there isn’t a better, faster, or more caring tire and wheel service in Colorado—possibly anywhere. It’s mind-boggling! If you disagree, I’ll give you a screw and $15. If it takes more than six minutes for a tire fix, Denver North will pay for it!
If you ever find yourself in need of tire services, ask for Hector at El Colorado Tire. You won’t regret it!
Happy driving!
GET INSPIRED EAT & DRINK
ADJUSTING TO 2025
Good Life Family Chiropractic
ARTICLE BY KENNY WHITE
FINDING YOUR HEALTH PARTNER: A JOURNEY TO WELLNESS WITH DR. JOHN PEREA
When it comes to managing health—whether you’re dealing with chronic pain or simply seeking to enhance your overall well-being—finding a trusted partner is crucial. For over two decades, Dr. John Perea has served as that partner for residents of Green Valley Ranch and the broader Denver area at Good Life Family Chiropractic.
Dr. Perea embodies a holistic approach to health, believing deeply in the transformative power of chiropractic adjustments. His experience has shown him how these treatments can provide not only pain relief but also significant improvements in nerve function. Patients often report enhanced sleep quality, better breathing, improved mental clarity, and even increased digestive health after receiving care.
At Good Life Family Chiropractic, Dr. Perea doesn’t just stop at spinal adjustments. He employs a variety of advanced techniques tailored to individual needs, including extremity adjustments, Theragun Muscle Therapy, Y-Strap Axial Decompression, and therapeutic exercise. This comprehensive approach allows him to address a wide range of concerns—from shoulder and neck pain to headaches, car accident injuries, and even pregnancy-related discomfort.
However, chiropractic care is not just for those in pain. Dr. Perea emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper alignment and relieving nerve pressure to achieve optimal health. This focus on wellness can also help athletes reach their peak performance, ensuring their bodies function at their best.
Your body is your foundation for every action and experience in life. When something feels off, it can cast a shadow over everything else, turning daily activities into mere survival. That’s where Dr. Perea and his dedicated team come in. At Good Life Family Chiropractic, they are committed to helping you reclaim a vibrant, active lifestyle—one that you can genuinely look forward to each day.
If you’re ready to embark on your journey toward healing and wellness, don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule an appointment with Dr. Perea. It’s time to take the first step toward a healthier, happier you.
• “I went in for my first adjustment ever today. Dr. John took the time to explain the details of the process to me and to educate me on what’s happening in my nerves and spine. I would recommend this business to everyone, especially those who are first-timers like me.” - Elena K
• “Dr. John is very knowledgeable, I told him that I was in a lot of pain in my lower back and he knew exactly what was going on and why! He got me adjusted very quickly, going to be coming back and seeing him monthly.” - John Adamoli
“DR. JOHN TOOK THE TIME TO EXPLAIN THE DETAILS OF THE PROCESS TO ME AND TO EDUCATE ME ON WHAT’S HAPPENING IN MY NERVES AND SPINE.”
HOLIDAY RECIPES
Savory Stuffed Peppers
ingredients:
• 4 medium green peppers (or any color pepper works as well)
• 1 tsp salt
• Filling:
• ¾ cup beef gravy
• 1 ½ tsp minced onion
• ¾ cup grated carrots
• 1 ½ cups seasoned stuffing mix
• 2 cups chopped cooked roast beef (I use chuck roast)
• Sauce:
• 1 8 oz. can tomato sauce I like to use pasta sauce)
• ½ cup beef gravy
• 1 tsp minced onion
• ¼ cups grated cheddar cheese
directions:
Step 1. Simmer cleaned peppers 15 minutes in 4 cups salted water, uncovered.
Step 2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Step 3. Combine filling ingredients with ¾ cup boiling water and fill peppers.
Step 4. In saucepan mix sauce ingredients with ½ cup water and bring to boiling, stirring.
Step 5. Add sauce on peppers and bake uncovered 20 minutes. Baste once and top with grated
Caramel Apple Dump Cake
ingredients:
• 1 box butter pecan cake mix (or yellow cake mix)
• 2 cans apple pie filling about 4 – 5 cups
• ½ cup caramel sauce
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• 1/6 tsp allspice
• ¾ to 1 cup salted butter
• 1 cup pecan halves
directions:
Step 1. <Spread the pie filling on the bottom of a greased 9×13 pan. Drizzle caramel sauce evenly over top.
Step 2. In a small bowl, mix together the spices. Sprinkle over top of the caramel apple mixture.
Step 3. Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over top of the caramel apple mixture.
Step 4. Cut butter into thin squares and place evenly over top the cake mix. Make sure to not leave any large gaps.
Step 5. Top with pecan halves.
Step 6. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 50 minutes or until cake topping is golden brown.
Step 7. Definitely serve with ice cream. Tastes delicious hot or cold.
Vegetarian Sweet Potato and Black Bean Soup
ingredients:
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 red onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1.5 lbs. sweet potato about 2 medium, peeled, and cut into 1″ cubes
• 1 red bell pepper seeded and chopped
• 1 jalapeno seeded and chopped (Leave out if you don’t like a little spice)
• 1 cup corn fresh or frozen
• 5 cups vegetable broth
• 15 ounces black beans rinsed and drained
• 14 ounces fire roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 lime (optional)
• 1/4 cup cilantro
• salt and pepper to taste
directions:
Step 1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and spices and cook for 30 seconds longer.
Step 2. Add the sweet potato, red bell pepper, jalapeño, and corn and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
Step 3. Add the veggie broth, black beans, diced tomatoes, and salt and pepper to taste and bring to a boil.
Step 4. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5. Remove from heat and add the lime juice, cilantro, and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve warm with tortilla chips.
Deluxe Corn Casserole
ingredients:
• 1 can cream corn
• 1 can whole kernel corn
• 1 box Jiffy cornbread mix
• ½ green pepper chopped
• ½ onion chopped
• 1 small jar chopped pimentos
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 small pkg shredded cheddar cheese
directions:
Step 1. Saute onions and green pepper in butter
Step 2. <Mix both cans of corn, corn muffin mix, and sauted onions and green peppers, pimentos in casserole dish.
Step 3. Mix sour cream and cheese and spoon on top of corn mixture.
Step 4. Bake 350 degrees 45 minutes to 1hour.
Three UltraUnique Getaways for Families
A TRIO OF FUN-FILLED ESCAPES THAT WILL LEAVE YOUR FAMILY BEGGING FOR MORE
ARTICLE BY NADINE BUBECK
Introducing Vermejo...
“At the end of the day, your feet should be dirty, your hair messy and your eyes sparkling.”
Bienvenidos to Raton, New Mexico, home to Vermejo Ted Turner Reserves. Flaunting over 550,000 acres of picturesque terrain, Vermejo will welcome your family to a crown jewel of natural beauty.
This destination invites you to custom plan a swoon-worthy experience; choose between kid-friendly fishing expeditions, hiking tours, horseback rides, archery, and more. Indulge in your choice of luxe accommodations and take your taste pallet on a culinary adventure thanks to delectable dining options.
Notably, the property values conservation efforts including the protection of wildlife like bison and wolves.
Rates inclusive of meals and two daily activities.
Introducing Glenwood Springs...
“The greatest legacy we can leave our children is happy memories.”
Happy memories await in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Known for its hot springs, the Rocky Mountain resort city is rich with wildlife and sheer beauty. Offering an array of family-friendly activities, the area is home to the esteemed Glenwood Springs Adventure Park, a must-do with amusement rides and subterranean caverns—a magical geological excursion.
Surely, you’ll want to take a dip in the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. Invigorating and rejuvenating for adults and super fun for kids, there’s a vast splash zone, water slide, diving board, and lap lanes.
Glenwood Springs is primed with pristine river spots; the white water is mild and ideal for guided rafting adventures. You can also rent duckies (inflatable kayaks) or paddleboards.
If you’re going to check one hike off your list, opt for the Doc Holliday memorial, and for older kids, explore mountain biking paths for every skill on the paved Rio Grande Trail. In addition, Bair Ranch, located in Glenwood Canyon, offers several activities like horseback riding, ATV & Jeep tours, and sport clay shooting.
Family accommodations include Hotel Glenwood Springs, located at the Glenwood Gondola base that goes to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. The property also flaunts a small indoor water facility. For included admission to the hot springs pool, families can also book the Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge. The exciting city has over 80 restaurant choices as well.
Glenwood Springs
Vermejo Ted Turner
Introducing Snow Mountain Ranch...
“Never underestimate the importance of having fun.”
Consider Snow Mountain Ranch a fun hub for families; a camp-like atmosphere for those seeking a genuine back-tothe-basics escape. Located in Grand Country Colorado, the YMCA of the Rockies destination is what vacation is meant to be... packed with frivolous play. Awake to breathtaking mountain views and the sound of songbirds, and after an actionpacked day, witness a dreamy sunset from your personal porch.
Accommodations vary; choose between private cabins, spacious lodge rooms, scenic campgrounds, or yurts. Cabins can sleep up to 12, and are equipped with full kitchens, a fireplace, and a deck. You’ll likely spot some deer outside your front door.
Included in all stays: roller skating, swimming, mini-golf, sports, hiking/biking trails, nature walks, and more. But
what makes Snow Mountain extra special are the entertaining “extras.” To make the most out of your stay, partake in archery, axe throwing, horseback riding, arts/crafting, knot-tying, geocaching, and beyond. Plus, there are tons of educational programs that teach guests about local wildlife like bears and wolves. And here’s a tip; if you’re craving some adult-only time, choose to register your child (ages 3+) for summer day camp. Grown-ups can do some adventuring of their own while the kids get a taste of what summer’s supposed to be. And as for food, there’s an array of on-site dining options available.
Everyone will feel like a kid at Snow Mountain Ranch, and the secret’s out; cabins book far in advance, so be sure to secure your spot well ahead of time.
Snow Mountain Ranch
Beauty Dedication to
In the heart of the Mile High City, where the mountains touch the sky, lived a young woman named Miranda Diaz. Born to immigrant parents, Miranda carried the dreams of her family on her shoulders. From an early age, she felt a yearning for the stage, a place where she could express herself and inspire others. But it wasn’t until she was fourteen, while modeling a stunning quinceañera dress at an expo, that her life took a remarkable turn.
A talent scout noticed her that day, sparking a conversation with her mother about pageantry. Miranda, always ready for an adventure, eagerly agreed without knowing what lay ahead. She soon discovered that pageantry was about so much more than crowns and gowns. It was about purpose, empowerment, and the profound desire to make a difference.
As she stepped onto the stage for the first time, Miranda felt a rush of energy. The lights, the audience, the music—it all ignited something within her. But more importantly, it ignited her passion for advocacy. Pageantry became her platform to uplift not just herself, but her entire community.
Miranda’s journey was not without its challenges. Many doubted her, whispering that a first-generation Latina couldn’t compete with the polished girls from more privileged backgrounds. But Miranda was undeterred. “The only limitations are the ones you create,” she reminded herself. Every setback fueled her determination to rise higher.
CONTINUED >
Her platform centered on the power of volunteering. Miranda believed that giving one’s time was the most precious gift of all. She organized community events, encouraging her peers to step out of their comfort zones and lend a hand. Through her efforts, she witnessed the transformative power of empathy—the way a simple act of kindness could shift perspectives and spark joy.
She often shared her own revelations from volunteering: the gratitude she felt for warm running water, the value of every shared meal, and the simple joy of laughter with loved ones. Miranda urged young girls everywhere to recognize their potential and to contribute to the world around them. “It’s time to give without expecting something in return,” she declared passionately.
As Miranda flourished on stage, she became a beacon of hope for other young girls. She taught them that their voices mattered and that they could be agents of change in their communities. “Reach HIGH for your dreams,” she urged, her words echoing in the hearts of many. “Believe in yourself, even when others don’t.”
Miranda’s story is a testament to the strength of women everywhere, a reminder that our journeys may start in the shadows, but with courage, passion, and community, we can rise and shine. She stood tall, not just as a representative of her culture, but as a symbol of resilience and empowerment—a true queen in every sense.
Through her advocacy and unwavering spirit, Miranda Diaz transformed not only her own life but also the lives of countless others, inspiring a new generation of girls to step boldly into their futures, ready to change the world.
Denim, Anything but Pedestrian
THE MAVEN HAS A NEW LOOK
The Maven at Dairy Block is excited to announce a partnership with local clothing designer Abstract Denver to unveil stylish new uniforms for our staff! These custom creations feature trendy denim jackets and t-shirts, perfectly capturing the essence of our vibrant LoDo location and the fantastic pedestrian Alley that defines our neighborhood. The uniforms not only reflect the unique character of The Maven but also showcase the artistry and craftsmanship of Abstract Denver, bringing a local flair to our team. The denim jackets and t-shirts are
designed for both comfort and style, ensuring our staff looks great while providing exceptional service to our guests.
We’re proud to support local talent and to give our employees a fresh, modern look that resonates with the spirit of our community. This collaboration represents a blend of hospitality and local culture, making every interaction at The Maven even more memorable. Come visit us and see the new uniforms in action while experiencing the charm of our unique setting!
https://www.abstractdenver.com https://www.themavenhotel.com
CONFECTION
Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience
As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. While a simple cup of hot cocoa can warm the soul, why not take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board? Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy. Let’s explore the wonders of old-fashioned hot cocoa and all the accompaniments
you can use to create your very own hot cocoa charcuterie board.
THE DELIGHTS OF OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Old-fashioned hot cocoa transports us to simpler times and brings with it a sense of nostalgia. The slow, traditional process of making hot chocolate from scratch –with real chocolate, milk and a touch of sweetness – provides a distinctly memorable experience for the holidays.
OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Ingredients
• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 pinch salt
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. CONTINUED >
CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure, and serve as a sweet centerpiece to your holiday gatherings.
Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.
VARIATIONS TO SAVOR
Indulge in some exciting recipes that are sure to elevate your hot chocolate into fun and festive beverages during the holidays and throughout the colder months.
MINTY FRESH WONDER
Embrace the festive season with a mint-infused hot cocoa. Fancify your beverage with a peppermint stick or make your
own crushed candy cane dust for a touch of holiday cheer. This minty delight is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect indulgence for cozy winter evenings.
SPICY AZTEC ELIXIR
Channel your inner adventurer with an Aztec-inspired hot cocoa. Infuse your drink with a touch of chili powder and a dash of cinnamon. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a festive presentation. This fiery blend will ignite your senses and warm you from the inside out.
GROWN-UP GRASSHOPPER
Transform your drink into a rich adult-only grasshopper hot cocoa by adding 2 oz. of crème de menthe or a shot of peppermint schnapps. Adorn with a crushed candy cane rim for a playful offering.
DECADENT SALTED CARAMEL INDULGENCE
Elevate your hot cocoa experience with a drizzle of homemade salted caramel. The combination of slightly bitter cocoa and sweet, buttery caramel is a match made in heaven. Sprinkle an extra pinch of sea salt for that irresistible contrast.
