The Promenade Shops at Centerra caters to people and their pooches.

Retail and restaurants that welcome pets draw dog lovers from around Colorado.

By Misty Kaiser, PAWS

The phrase “It’s a dog’s life,” has changed its tone over the years. Admit it—Colorado dogs have it pretty good; special beds and accessories, gourmet foods, and even spas. We go out of our way, for our furry little babies don’t we? 

Feel bad about leaving the pup alone too long? Hire a dog walker or send them to day care. Wish they could ride along to visit family for the weekend? Get a specialized car seat dog bed, or in some cases, a bigger car. 

Specialty bakers make dog treats good enough for humans to eat. Doggie fashions are commonplace and gone are the days of bathing the four-legged friend in the yard with a water hose. Now they have their own spa-like dog washes with fragrant shampoos and conditioners that rival anything in the pet parent’s bathroom.

There are groups all over the state devoted to socializing big dogs, small dogs and all sizes in between, right along with their human guardians. Yappy Hours (think happy hour, with a bit more slobber), dog friendly hikes and play dates are easy to find, so it shouldn’t be surprising that dogs and their owners get their own devoted day at The Promenade Shops at Centerra in Loveland, too.

Now in its 10th year, The Promenade Shops at Centerra’s ‘Paws on The Promenade’ event delights guests as much today as it did when the shops opened. Tiffany Villavicencio, marketing coordinator for The Promenade Shops at Centerra, says that the unique event has come to draw visitors from the entire Northern Colorado area. 

“Pet owners from all over Northern Colorado have come to appreciate that this events provides resources for all of their pet ownership needs; veterinarians, groomers, supply and food stores, and so much more,” she says. “This event really has become a one-stop-shop for everything you need to keep your dog happy and healthy.” 

Guests are welcome to wander into any of the 45 plus shops and restaurants that welcome leashed and well-behaved dogs. To make it easy for shoppers to differentiate, merchants that are open to dogs place a green ‘welcome’ sticker in their front door or window.

Before or after the shopping is done, drop by the Main Plaza, directly east of Dick’s Sporting Goods, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for a variety of dog-related special events, including a 4-H agility demonstration that begins at 10 a.m. and the Dog Costume Contest that begins at 11 a.m. 

Villavicencio says, “Larimer County Sheriff’s Deputy, Jamie Smith, will host a demonstration at 11:30 a.m. with Oso, a German Shepherd certified in patrol and narcotics.” And if you love talented canines, don’t miss Mike Manzo and K-9, Holly, with the Longmont Fire Department demonstrating how Holly is trained in accelerant detection to assist in investigating fire scenes, beginning at 12:30. 

For dogs with a trick up their sleeves, the Dog Trick Contest will be held at 1 p.m. 

Winners of the contests will receive prize a package from D.O.G.S. (Dog Owners General Store), a boutique dog store at The Promenade Shops. Pre-registration isn’t required. “Just show up and be ready to win!” Villavicencio says. 

Yappy Hour, featuring free treats from Promenade restaurants, at 2 p.m., is a great way to get together with other fur loving families and friends.

Pack a picnic and a Frisbee and walk over to the Chapungu Sculpture Park, just east of The Promenade Shops, for a relaxing break from the activity.

If a different kind refreshing beverage is calling, Bent Fork The Grill is the perfect place to pull up for a bite with the pooch. Dogs and their owners are both allowed inside the patio area, rather than having to leave the dog tied up outside. Special water bowls are provided on the patio area so that the doggies get to drink too.

A visit to D.O.G.S. will be a treat for pets as well as their owners. As the only store dedicated to the dog, owner Cordelia Raymond says the store exists to bridge the gap between the needs of dogs and their owners; bringing families clean paws, thoughtful products, and peace-of-mind. 

Responsible pet parents will also find clean-up stations positioned throughout the shopping center, providing plastic bags for waste removal and disposal.

And who doesn’t love free schwag? Get your goody bags, full of coupons, free stuff and more. And while you’re there, register for door prizes, including gift baskets and a Build-A-Bear Workshop puppy.

FIT FUN WITH FIDO

By Misty Kaiser, Reporter-Herald

Coloradoans love their dogs almost as much as they love being outdoors. What could be better than pairing the two and raising a little money besides? 

This May grab a furry friend and get in a little friendly competition (or participation) for a good cause with two dog lovin’ 5Ks; the Fire Hydrant Five 5K Walk Run and Pet Expo and the Run Fur Fun.

Peak running condition isn’t necessary for either of these events, you can run, walk or any combination in between. The point is to get out, raise some money and have a good time. It beats sitting on the couch no matter how fast you finish.

RUN FUR FUN

First up — on Sunday, May 17 at City Park in Fort Collins, bring out the entire family for some fundraising fun — all proceeds go toward funding the rescue efforts at Animal House Rescue and Grooming.

The race begins at 9 a.m., but if you come out early, there’s a special kids’ race beginning at 8:30.

During and after the race, until 12 p.m. vendors and vets will be answering questions and providing a variety of health checks for the pups. Animal House will also be offering discounted microchips. The fair is open to everyone and admission is $10-$20. 

FIRE HYDRANT 5

With a fundraising goal of $80,000 the Larimer Humane Society encourages participants to gather as many pledges as possible. The more money pledged, the higher the level of prizes participants can attain — everyone wins. 

Have the pups put on their cutest beggar face, raise some pledges and then bring them down to Edora Park in Fort Collins on Saturday, May 30.

The kids’ run, and adults run/walk 5K are only part of the day’s events.

From 8 a.m to 12 p.m., wander the more than 60 booths available at the Pet Expo, run your race or cheer on someone else, then stick around to register your furry friend for the Second Chance Dog Show at 10 a.m. 

So venture out for some fitness and fun and show your support for some fur friendly folks.

AT A GLANCE

WHAT: RUN FUR FUN
When: Sun., May 17, 9 a.m.
Where: City Park, Fort Collins
Info: animalhousehelp.org/runfurfun5k.php

WHAT: FIRE HYDRANT 5
When: Sat., May 30, 8 a.m.
Where: Edora Park, Fort Collins
Info: larimerhumane.org/events/fire-hydrant

The Art of Giving

By Misty Kaiser, Longmont Magazine

For those who feel that they don’t have a creative bone in their bodies, there are still plenty of ways to find a special hand crafted gift. The unique fun of wandering through a market created by dedicated artists and crafters often garners gifts that can’t be purchased at any big box store; gifts that are carefully selected with each recipient’s unique spirit in mind.

Throughout the month of November and December fine art and craft markets pop up all over the state, but there’s no need to drive far. The Boulder County Fairgrounds at 9595 Nelson Road in Longmont, plays host to three different fairs dedicated to the fine art, craft and culinary gifts.

The first in line is the Mollie McGee’s Fine Craft Show, held twice annually, once in October and once again in November, just in time for the holiday season. This year Mollie McGee’s vendors will fill the fairgrounds on November 22 and 23. 

Jan Steger, along with her friend Betty Lewis, created Mollie McGee’s in 1980. Betty passed away last year, but Jan has continued to bring the wide selection of arts, crafts and food items to the public.

Though many of the vendors return year to year, shows are subject to the same jury process at the beginning of each season, meaning that every submitting artist has the same chance to be included. “We always have at least 35 percent or more new vendors, and we strongly suggest to repeat vendors to keep their designs new and to add new items,” says Steger.

A juried selection also helps to keep the show widely varied in what it can offer to shoppers. For example, this year shoppers will find artfully upcycled and repurposed items from artists such as Brenda Berhorst of Country Home Collection, metal art from local artist Pete Lindemann, and Cozy Cuddlers fleece blankets perfect for the coldest winter nights. The Local Chapter of P.E.O (Philanthropic Educational Organization) will also be selling nuts for your holiday baking projects, at below retail price to benefit educational opportunities for women.

The Boulder Farmer’s Market 2014 Winter Market and Holiday Gift Show is another way to keep it in town. This show also takes place the following weekend — December 6 and 7. 

Whether looking for the perfect complement to the upcoming holiday meal, or locally produced gifts, the Winter Market holds a little bit of everything, featuring 70 food growers and producers and 60 area artists and craftsmen.

They also aim to entertain with live music, demos, gift wrapping, cookie decorating for the kids and more.

Cutting it close

Starting the day after Thanksgiving, The Firehouse Art Center on Main Street, will have the works of over a dozen artists on display and sale at their “Affordable Art Show.” Works will include fine art, ceramics, jewelry and more, all under $200. The show may start early, but it stays open late — until December 21.

Not only do you have a chance to purchase a one of kind item for someone special, you also have the chance to meet the artists behind the work at the official opening reception on December 12 from 6 to 9 p.m.

“We do hope to have artists help staff the gallery during open hours, so you have an increased chance to meet the artists,” adds Jessica Kooiman, Executive Director/Curator at Firehouse Art Center.

If you find yourself with unexpected guests, a forgotten friend or just out of ideas, The Last Chance Gift Festival has you covered. On Sunday, December 21 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., inside the main exhibit hall at the Boulder County Fairgrounds, treat yourself to free hot chocolate and free live music while you shop over 140 vendors. With art, crafts, toys, home decor, edible treats, and much more, you won’t have to leave anyone out.

While websites like Etsy (etsy.com) and Deviant Art (deviantart.com) have given artists a place to hock their wares online, these kinds of markets provide artists with a direct path to get their product into the hands of consumers in a more tangible way. When shoppers can stand in front of something physical, without the impediment of a screen between them and the artists, and talk to them about their process and materials, it triggers more of an emotional response to the work. It also puts money directly in the hands of the artist rather than a retail location. 

As Jan Steger explains, these markets offer “a terrific venue for local, as well as statewide—and other states as well— to display and sell their fine arts and crafts. Our goal is to present shoppers with items that are handmade and unique.”

If you go...

Mollie McGee’s Craft Market
WHEN: Nov. 22 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (No strollers) and Nov. 23 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Strollers allowed)
WHERE: Boulder County Fairgrounds
COST: $4 covers both days

Winter Market & Holiday Gift Show
WHEN: Dec. 6 and 7, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
WHERE: Boulder County Fairgrounds
COST: Free 

Affordable Art Show
WHEN: Nov. 29 - Dec. 21, Wed.- Sun. 12-5 p.m.
WHERE: Firehouse Art Center, Longmont
COST: Free

Boulder Holiday Gift Festival
WHEN: Dec. 14, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
WHERE: The Boulder YMCA, 2850 Mapleton Ave.
COST: Free

Last Chance Gift Festival
WHEN: Dec. 21, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
WHERE: Boulder County Fairgrounds
COST: Free

Firefly Handmade Boulder Holiday Market
WHEN: Nov. 29-30, Sat. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
WHERE: Watershed School, 1661 Alpine Ave., Boulder
COST: Free

Biking Basics

What you need to know to get started in this lifetime sport.

By Misty Kaiser, Healthline Magazine

You may have seen them flying past in a brightly colored blur, wheels whirring, legs pumping furiously. On August 24, USA Pro Challenge cycling competitors made their way through Loveland on stage six of their Rocky Mountain tour. Since 2011 The USA Pro Challenge has brought together competitors from the world over in a seven-day staged race that takes place throughout the mountains of Colorado.

Seeing these examples of athletic perfection whizzing by may have piqued a question in your mind. ‘How can I do that?’ or maybe just, ‘How can I look like I can do that?’

Quite easily in fact, because cycling is a sport that welcomes a wide range of ages and abilities. Becoming a cycling enthusiast may take a little bit of set up and a little bit of knowledge, but it’s well worth the effort.

Safety first

Regardless of age, any new biker needs to be educated on the safety aspects of the sport. On-road cyclists are often sharing road space with motor vehicles, while off-road they must constantly be aware of pedestrians, animals and unavoidable obstacles. 

The City of Loveland issued the following recommendations for basic safety, whether on or off trail:

• Scan for hazards.
• Cross railroad tracks perpendicularly.
• Don’t weave in between parked cars.
• Don’t ride in a right turn lane unless you are turning right.
• Dress appropriately. Wear reflective clothing. Be prepared for changing weather.
• Carry items in packs attached to the bicycle, not in your hands.
• Carry Identification & Emergency Contact Info.
• Always secure your bicycle with a good lock.
• Don’t wear headphones while riding.

 (cityofloveland.org/trails) 

As always, when sharing the road with motor vehicles, all traffic laws apply. Above all, be conscious of other traffic and be courteous to others in your path. A verbal warning to pedestrians when passing is not only the nice thing to do, it’s the law. 

The Bicycle and Pedestrian Education Coalition (BPEC), hosts a Traffic Skills 101 class that addresses the specific safety issues of sharing the road with motor vehicles. Check the BPEC website (http://bpeclarimer.wordpress.com/) for complete class listings as well as access to Colorado traffic laws and fines.

Pick a trail

The City of Loveland has over 17 miles of paved recreation trails for residents to enjoy, with plans for expansion in the coming years.  

Janet Meisel-Burns,  Senior Park Planner with the City of Loveland Parks and Recreation Department says, “We are planning to construct the Front Range Trail to Fort Collins in late 2014 or 2015. We are working with Larimer County on the design and location for the trail that will connect the two cities on the east side of Loveland.” 

According to Meisel-Burns, the future connection will adjoin the existing trail at Boyd Lake State Park and extend north to CR 32 (Carpenter Road), though the exact alignment is yet to be determined.

Current maps and additional information on bike lanes and city maintained trails are available atcityofloveland.org/trails .

If off-road is more your style, singletracks.com is one resource for mountain biking nationwide. Maps, difficulty ratings, and reviews of each trail make it easy to choose a spot to test your wheels.

Ask other cyclists for recommendations or join a club. Cycling clubs and group rides are great ways of getting to know the best places to ride while being supported and challenged. 

BPEC offers a schedule of group and club rides for varying levels of experience through their website, but don’t be afraid to ask around at your local bike shop or rec center for other group recommendations.

Equipped for success

The start-up cost for biking, much like any other sport, can vary greatly. Bikes are like cars; there are Fords, Ferraris and just about anything in between. What you get depends on how much you’re ready to spend. Whatever your price point, there are a few necessary things to look for.

The first thing to consider when purchasing is the type of usage you expect to get out of the bike. Whether you need a road bike, a cruiser, a mountain bike or even a recumbent, depends on where you intend to go with it. 

Once you’ve settled on the style of bike you need, it’s important to size the frame correctly. The size of the frame has an impact on how comfortable you’ll be when riding and how easy the bike will be to control. Trial and error is generally not the way to go. There are websites, videos and tutorials that can walk you through the process. However, as always when making an expensive purchase, the help of a professional is preferable. 

Even after a professional fitting, Robin Torres, owner of Peleton Cycles, highly recommends demoing a bike before making a purchase.

“More often than not there will be more than one bike that will check all the boxes for a customer, that’s when it’s vital to test ride the bike where and how you intend to ride it. We have lots of demos to choose from to help get folks out and on the right bike for them and their riding style,” he explains.

No matter what type of bike you choose, don’t skimp on the helmet. 

For the highest level of protection, the type, size and fit should be individually tailored. Again, your local bike shop should be able to help determine what size is needed, and instruct on how to adjust the exact fit. 

Basic Maintenance

Even the best laid plans have a way of going awry. A flat tire or slipped chain can turn a beautiful bike ride into a very long disgruntled walk lugging a useless and cumbersome piece of equipment.

When planning for emergencies, Torres recommends the following don’t-leave-home-without-them items:

• An extra tube or patch kit
• Tire levers
• An air pump or carbon dioxide cartridges
• Plenty of water
• Last but possibly most importantly, a helmet.

While not altogether necessary, he also recommends a good pair of bike shorts. You will be thankful half way into a long ride.  

Having all of that equipment is a good start, but only when coupled with basic maintenance knowledge. Torres says, “Every rider should know how to change a flat tire. Having all the supplies does little good if you don’t know how to use them.”

Peleton offers free service classes, with refreshments included, on the first Wednesday of every month at their Fort Collins location.

For the health of it

To get the health benefits of cycling without dealing with the weather, safety issues or the start-up cost, indoor cycling classes are something to consider. 

Indoor cycling is easily tailored to individual ability and fitness level, so as the weather grows colder, they are an excellent way to get—or stay—in year-round cycling shape, no matter your starting point. Many classes also combine cycling with other forms of exercise such as weight lifting or yoga, giving participants a well-rounded workout.

The Chilson Recreation Center in Loveland currently offers group cycling classes at several different times throughout the day Monday through Friday, as well as three different weekend options. 

Whether it’s for the health, the fun or the freedom, cycling is an excellent way to add a lifetime activity to your lifestyle. Be smart, be safe, and be successful.

Letters from the editor

Have an artsy holiday

This time of year always finds me hip deep in the storage closet digging out glitter and glue guns. If I’m not there, then I’m probably in the kitchen coated in flour. Cooler temperatures drive me indoors to create things from experimental cookies to coffee cup cozies stitched from old sweaters. It’s a weakness.

I start with grandiose visions of wonderfully surprised faces opening my lovingly created gifts and then suddenly it’s December 21 and I’m surrounded by baskets of half-finished projects with glue in my hair. This year will be different, I swear. But just in case it’s not —and for everyone in a similar predicament— we’ve collected a few ways to get it done. 

In honor of Longmont’s newly acquired designation as a Colorado Creative District, try taking a class at one of the many arts-oriented businesses downtown. Having a few hours of designated time with like-minded people may help overcome your procrastinitis. And — bonus— you’ll come out of it with an object or two that just might be worthy of the big red bow.

If that doesn’t work out, or perhaps you just don’t want to get embroiled in all that, you can still make it look like you put the time in. Longmont has more art and craft shows than one would expect, each with its own flair. No one ever has to know.

Whatever you do this holiday season, get out there and enjoy it. There’s hot chocolate to be had, ice skating to be done, carols to be sung and don’t forget the plays, parades and lights. The holiday magic is here and gone so quickly, that you might miss it while you’re busy.

- Misty Kaiser