One of my favorite Denver movers and shakers, Sean Duffy, hosted his big 5-0 b-day recently at The Palm restaurant in The Westin Downtown Denver as a fundraiser for Steve Farber‘s American Transplant Foundation.

The party, dubbed $50 for 50, attracted a ton o’ Duffy fans from both sides of the aisle. Duffy is a famous Republican who has supported several liberal political efforts, but this was all about raising money for transplant participants.

“Our ’50 for 50′ event designated every dollar raised to the American Transplant Foundation’s ‘Patient Assistance Program’ at Children’s Hospital,” Duffy said.  “What this program does is give families — mostly from rural areas — assistance with basic living expenses (mortgage, rent, utilities, etc.) while their children are awaiting or recovering from transplant surgery, most often kidney or bone marrow transplants.

“I am on the board of the American Transplant Foundation — along with a ton of the really interesting folks in town — which was founded by Steve Farber, after he received a life-saving kidney donation from his son nine years ago. Farber was one of the first folks who befriended me and really gave me an introduction to Colorado when I came here in 2001 and I admire him and (his law partner) Norm Brownstein immensely.”

The bipartisan group of people you will be interested in who were there: Farber, Barry Hirschfeld, Dan Hopkins, former press secretary to Gov. Bill Owens  (he and Duffy started with Owens on the same day in 2001), PR pros Jeff Julin and Mike Gaughen of MGA communications, David Kenney, The Kenney Group (where Duffy works); Kelly Brough (CEO of the Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce); Josh Hanfling; John Zakhem; Jason Dunn, former Deputy AG and now with Brownstein Hyatt and Farber, and David McReynolds.

Duffy opined on his half century mark by saying:

“I’ve pretty much been an old fart my whole life, so my age is catching up to my general demeanor.  And since (his better half) Susan and I have 2-year-old Brendan Duffy at home, my goal has been to get him out of diapers before I get in them.

“When you turn 50, you realize how lucky and blessed you’ve been and how much other people helped along the way.  So this was an opportunity for Susan and me to say thanks and help out some families who are at an incredibly challenging point in their lives.”

Get your drink on, Denver

Esquire magazine loves Denver, or at least two of its bars. Esquire includes Williams & Graham in the Highland neighborhood and downtown’s Ship’s Tavern in the famed Brown Palace Hotel in its top 17 (really, 17?) list of best bars in the U.S.

Esquire writes about Williams & Graham, a unique bar with a 1920s speakeasy feel: “Williams & Graham is a love letter to the old saloon, but one conceived by a third-generation bartender who knows the difference between playing bartender and really tending bar.” Esquire suggest ordering the Unrefined Ruffian at Williams & Graham. See the review at www.esquire.com/features/best-bars-in-america-2013#slide-5.

About Ship’s Tavern, Esquire suggests ordering a Johnny Walker Black Manhattan and writes: “Ship Tavern, tucked away in the historic heap of bricks that is the Brown Palace Hotel, is at that peculiar stage in a fancy joint’s life when it wants to be a dive. It’s not decrepit per se, but you can feel the gravitational pull of decrepitude. Somehow that’s alluring. Maybe it’s because that same black hole is pulling on us every single day. In any case, it is very pleasant to drink your (large) cocktails here (stick to the basics) amid the head-scratching, comprehensive nautical decor (in Denver?), which dates back at least to the 1930s.” See the review at http://www.esquire.com/features/best-bars-in-america-2013#slide-4.

Denver fifth-fittest city

Denver ranked fifth of the most fit cities in the U.S., according to annual American Fitness Index, a study done by the American College of Sports Medicine.

Minneapolis-St. Paul ranked first for the third year in a row in the study, which is based various health behaviors including smoking, exercise, obesity rates, chronic health problems and access to health care. The ACSM report also considers other factors, such as availability of parks, recreational facilities, walking trails and farmers’ markets. Health and medical experts designed the fitness index which analyzed the 50 most populous metropolitan areas in the U.S.

Washington, D.C. was second, followed by Portland, San Francisco and Denver. See the full list at www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/05/29/fittest-cities-minneapolis-st-paul/2363677/.

Douglas County eighth richest in U.S.

In a Forbes magazine report this week, the money mag lists Colorado’s Douglas County as the eighth-richest county in the U.S. Forbes cites the county “boasts the ritzy enclave of Castle Pines, known for its world-class country club and golf course.” Five Virginia suburbs of Washington, D.C., highlight the list as do two suburban New York City counties in New Jersey. See the Douglas County listing at http://realestate.msn.com/americas-richest-counties-in-2013#4.

‘Pawn Stars’ boss Harrison coming to Aurora

One of Mr. On The Town’s favorite reality show stars, Rick Harrison of History Channel’s “Pawn Stars,” is coming to Aurora on Friday and Saturday at Ed Bozarth Chevrolet, which is celebrating the expansion and remodel with a grand reopening of its new showroom. Harrison  owns and runs the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas with his son, Corey (“Big Hoss”) and dad, Richard (“Old Man”). Also assisting customers and providing joke material for the Harrisons is Austin “Chumlee” Russell.

“Pawn Stars” first aired in 2009 and quickly became one of cable’s top-rated shows. “Pawn Stars” returned with new episodes Thursday for its fourth season. “Pawn Stars” spawned several spinoffs, including “American Restoration,” “Cajun Pawn Stars” and “Counting Cars.”

You can meet and talk to Rick Harrison from 3-7 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday at 2001 S. Havana St. in Aurora.

Rick Harrison of the History Channel hit reality series, “Pawn Stars,” makes an appearance Friday and Saturday at Ed Bozarth Chevrolet in Aurora. The dealership is celebrating a grand reopening. (History Channel photo)

Funny bones

Denver will welcome its first all-standup comedy festival at locations on South Broadway on Aug. 23-24.

The Denver Post first reported the news on its entertainment blog, “Reverb.”

The High Plains Comedy Festival will be held at rock clubs the Hi-Dive and 3 Kings Tavern, as well as Englewood’s Gothic Theatre. The festival will feature local standups alongside national headliners, including Kyle Kinane, Sean Patton and Nikki Glaser.

Former Westword writer and now Denver comedian Adam Cayton-Holland and producer Andy Juett are running the comedy festival, according to The Post. For more details, see www.heyreverb.com/blog/2013/05/30/high-plains-comedy-festival-denver/69627/.

Eavesdropping on one woman to another during a cocktail party at Trillium: “I’d love another one, but I have a stick shift to drive.”

Did you hear that I have a new column, “Mile High Life,” in Colorado Community Media’s 17 weekly newspapers circling Denver? Be sure to like my Facebook page! Also, here’s where you go to get my column emailed to you Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. I’m now the social-media liaison for the Mile High Chapter of the Colorado Restaurant Association, so read my latest restaurant news there. My email: penny@blacktie-llc.com.

Music maestro Chuck Morris was lampooned and lauded during Curious Theatre Company’s annual “Denver Stories,” a series of profiles of local movers and shakers.

Chuck and his wife, Becky, and all five Morris kids attended along with musician and long-time Chuck-managed act Leo Kottke, Phil and Nancy Anschutz, Jeremy Shamos (lead sponsor and event co-chair), Libby Anschutz Brown, Gov. John Hickenlooper, Mayor Michael Hancock, Steve Farber, David McReynolds, Dan and Sally Scherer, Jeff and Amy Springer, Janice Sinden and Doug Friednash from the mayor’s office, city council members Chris Nevitt and Mary Beth Susman, and Jamie Van Leeuwen.

Highlights included hilarious intros by the good guv and the mayor. Mayor Hancock joked that he was actually asked to play Chuck in the play. Cameos by Kottke playing the fan that asked for an autograph during Chuck and Becky’s wedding, and Don Strasburg, Chuck’s longtime business partner played Brent Fedrizzi, Chuck’s other rising star, in a scene dedicated to the pranks that office workers often played on Chuck.

The play was creatively written and infused with musical performances by local playwright Dee Covington and Chuck was played by actor Jason Henning, who had an uncanny voice like Chuck’s.

The play took the audience through Chuck’s journey from Queens, N.Y., to Boulder where he dropped out of a Constitutional Law Ph.D program at CU to manage the Sink and eventually book some of the famous bands at Tulagis, Ebbets Field, The Rainbow Music Hall, Fillmore and Red Rocks.

Chuck made his closing remarks by thanking his two mentors: the late Barry Fey and Phil Anschutz.

Union Station secures new restaurant tenants

Larimer Associates and their partners announced the first three major restaurant tenants for the rebirth of Union Station, under major construction on Wynkoop Street in Lower Downtown.

The three newcomers will be The Kitchen Next Door (a sibling of The Kitchen at 1530 16th St. and the original in Boulder), Snooze (brace yourself for the line in Denver, The Streets of Southglenn and Fort Collins) and a new concept from master chef Alex Siedel, owner of  Fruition.

All three locally owned restaurants will open in the revitalized train terminal in July 2014 with each featuring a large patio for outdoor dining.

“This is an exciting first step in establishing Union Station as Denver’s next great dining destination for both locals and visitors,” said Jeff Hermanson, chief executive officer of Larimer Associates. “These award-winning restaurants represent the true Colorado experience and embody downtown Denver’s genuine collaborative spirit.”

Before selecting the restaurants that Larimer Associates would lease to at Union Station, they held a series of focus groups to help determine the public’s preference for the landmark property.

“We consistently heard that Union Station is an iconic Colorado building with a rich history and that everyone wanted to see Colorado-based businesses in there,” said Pat McHenry, leasing and acquisition partner at Larimer Associates. “This really resonated with us and was a great guide as we sought the hippest concepts and most talented chefs to anchor Union Stations. Luckily for us, these restaurateurs are excited about being a part of Union Station as we are.”

Scheduled to open in July 2014, Denver’s new Union Station also will feature several other locally owned dining and retail establishments as well as a 112-room luxury boutique hotel managed by Sage Hospitality. For more information, go to www.unionstationindenver.com.

The people behind the Union Station redevelopment in Lower Downtown. Three locally owned restaurants, The Kitchen Next Door, Snooze and an unnamed concept from Alex Seidel, owners and chef of Fruition, will become a part of the new Union Station in 2014. (Photo by Ellen Jaskol)

Chef shift

New Ritz-Carlton executive chef Ruben Garcia got to show off his culinary chops during a VIP cocktail party Wednesday in one of the hotel’s sweet suites.

Hotel General Manager Steve Janicek hosted the party at the downtown property that has received the only Denver AAA Five-Diamond distinction.

Garcia will oversee all hotel culinary activities and operations, including the kitchen of Elway’s Downtown, in-room dining and the property’s banquet and catering services.

Garcia was most recently executive chef at The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe since the resort’s December 2009 opening, which followed his time at The Ritz-Carlton South Beach in Miami.

For the invite-only tasting, chef Garcia cooked up an amazing array of appetizers including bacon-wrapped chorizo stuffed with dates, tomato-peach bruschetta and white truffle crostini, Colorado lamb slider with Haystack goat cheese and Fresno chile (seriously to die for), foie gras torcon with peach-habanero jam and a seared scallop with fresh corn grits.

I look forward to more fab food from the new chef.

Smashing pizza

Smashburger founder Tom Ryan, the man who also brought you Tom’s Urban 24, a 24-hour diner style restaurant on Larimer Square, just opened another fast-casual eatery Live Basil Pizza at 6305 E. Hampden Ave. on Thursday.

The new chain plans to open more outlets. The process is similar to Denver-based Chipotle Mexican Grill where customers go through a line choosing what ingredients they want on their thin-crust pizzas before the dough goes in an oven that can cook a pizza in 150 seconds, according to an Associated Press report.

“Co-founder Ryan says he thinks fresh, fast pizzas made before a customer’s eyes is where the market is heading,” according to the story. “A handful of shops, including 800 Degrees in Los Angeles, has similar concepts. Plans for such a chain were announced previously under the name Honest Pizza.”

Honestly? I just want my pizza delivered to my house hot and in under an hour.

On another pizza note, Pizzeria Locale from the Frasca folks will open at Sixth and Broadway (also known as the impossible place to park safely) next week.

Eavesdropping on a wife needing help with her dress from her husband:

Wife to husband: “Honey, can you help me get this zipper up?”

Husband: “I’m a man; I can only pull the zipper down.”

Did you hear that I have a new column, “Mile High Life,” in Colorado Community Media’s 17 weekly newspapers circling Denver? Be sure to like my Facebook page! Also, here’s where you go to get my column emailed to you Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. I’m now the social-media liaison for the Mile High Chapter of the Colorado Restaurant Association, so read my latest restaurant news there. My email: penny@blacktie-llc.com.

The airport space will be 1,390 square feet where owner and founder Steve Ballas and his wife, Linda, will serve a litter of their famous hotdogs along with sides such as the scrumptious deep-fried green beans.

Voted “Best hot dogs in Denver” for six years in a row and #11 “Best hot dog across America,” Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs has been catering to Denver residents and visitors for seven years in its Colfax location. Its restaurant is one of the most authentic and welcoming in the area, and its menu has a unique “homemade” feel. It includes hot dogs, burgers, and sides such as French fries, onion rings, potato tots and chili con carne.

Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs is a supporter of local organizations, such as Project Angel Heart, which serves meals to persons with life-threatening conditions.

“This is a dream come true for my wife and I … we’re walking on air in the Mile High City! We’re super excited to be part of this and look forward to working with our partners and the airport team to introduce the world to the city’s best hot dogs,” Ballas said.

Steve’s Snapping Dogs is adding a location at DIA in 2014. (Photo courtesy of stevessnappingdogs.com)

A dine-in restaurant, the DIA Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs also will feature take-out options for travelers in a rush, including “Steve’s On The Go”: a grab’ n’ go counter offering ready-made hot dogs, breakfast sandwiches and wraps. Partnering with the Colorado native Bull & Bush Pub and Brewery — winner of a Gold Award at the World Beer Cup, the world’s largest beer competition — the location also will feature a large bar offering beer, bottled and on tap.

“We are pleased to have Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs, and for the first time, LS travel retail, join our team,” said John Ackerman, chief commercial officer at Denver International Airport. “Steve’s is a popular local brand that will enhance the overall offerings at DIA, and help diversify our concessions.”

With this new award, LS travel retail North America, which is already operating restaurants in Aspen and Vail airports, is further increasing its footprint in Colorado, and in the food business.

Set to open in winter 2014, the restaurant is expected to generate about $2.8 million in annual sales throughout the term of the seven-year contract.

With more than 50 million passengers traveling through the airport each year, DIA is one of the busiest airline hubs in the world’s largest aviation market. DIA is the fifth busiest airport in the United States and the 11^th busiest in the world.

LS travel retail operates a network of local, national and international news and gifts, specialty retail, food and beverage and duty-free brands in more than 20 countries, including 245 locations in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean.

Flicks and food

Girl power

The Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame is seeking nominations of outstanding women for the Class of 2014.  Members of the hall include singer Judy Collins, former Israeli Prime Minster Golda Meir, dancer and choreographer Cleo Parker Robinson and space scientist Jo Ann Cram Joselyn.

The deadline for nominations is Aug. 23. Visit www.cogreatwomen.org/nominate2013 for information and to download a nomination form.

Since 1985, the Hall has inducted 132 living and historic women. They are women connected to Colorado who represent achievements in politics, medicine, business, philanthropy, education, engineering, activism and other fields. Each woman is a pioneer in her own right, having made a significant and enduring contribution to her profession and to the advancement of women and society.

“Colorado is, and has been, home to many remarkable women past and present,” said Cathy Hatfield, board chair.  “We have only begun to recognize who they are and their impact on our state, the nation and the world. It will be exciting to see who emerges in our next class.  If you know of a woman who meets the hall’s criteria, nominate her today.”

How about Patty Calhoun, founder and editor of Westword, the weekly newspaper that annoys local newsmakers and entertains Denver readers? She’s got my vote.

The hall inducts women every even-numbered year. Inductees are selected from nominations submitted by the public.  The selection committee is an independent panel of community members from around the state. Nominees are evaluated based on the following criteria:

The woman must have ties to Colorado and have:

• Made a significant and enduring contribution to her field;
• Advanced the status of women;
• Helped open new frontiers for women and for society;
• Inspired others by her example;

Inductees for 2014 will be announced November 2013.

Other notable Hall inductees are: Former Secretary of State Madeline Albright, legendary golfer Mildred “Babe” Didrikson Zaharias, Titanic heroine Margaret “Molly” Brown, former First Lady Mamie Eisenhower, pioneer Baby Doe Tabor, philanthropist Susan Anschutz-Rodgers, actress and Tony Award namesake Antoinette Perry, Colorado First Lady Dottie Lamm, U.S. Ambassador Swanee Hunt, former State Supreme Court Justice Mary J Mullarkey and Oscar winner Hattie McDaniel. For a complete list of the hall’s inductees visit www.cogreatwomen.org/ByYear.htm.

The Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame was founded in 1985 to recognize and preserve the accomplishments of women, past and present, with connections to Colorado.

Lauded

Wind Crest retirement community residents Dick and Julie Jones, the founders of Excelsior Youth Center’s residential treatment program in Aurora,  have been honored by the organization’s Board of Directors for their volunteer leadership. Excelsior is one of the largest residential treatment programs in the nation for emotionally disturbed and delinquent girls.

Dick is retiring from the Excelsior Board after 40 years of service, including 12 years as its chairman.  He is the 1984 recipient of the U.S. Secretary of Transportation’s National Volunteer of the Year Award for his personal commitment and leadership in offering new hope and opportunity for troubled youth.

President Ronald Reagan and former First Lady Nancy Reagan congratulated Dick for his “outstanding and dedicated volunteer service to your community and fellowman” in a Washington, D.C., award ceremony presided over by Secretary of Transportation Elizabeth Dole.

In 1994, upon Dick’s retirement as Regional Counsel of Federal Highway Administration, Colorado Governor Roy Romer presented him with an honorary citation for his significant contributions to the state, including his work with Excelsior.

Founders of the Excelsior Youth Center residential treatment program in Aurora. Dick and Julie Jones, are being honored by the organization’s board of directors. (Photo courtesy of Wind Crest retirement community)

Eavesdropping on an indignant elderly woman as the lights come up for intermission of Town Hall Arts Center’s production of the classic musical “Hair”: “I thought this was ‘HairSPRAY!'”

Did you hear that I have a new column, “Mile High Life,” in Colorado Community Media’s 17 weekly newspapers circling Denver? Be sure to like my Facebook page! Also, here’s where you go to get my column emailed to you Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. I’m now the social-media liaison for the Mile High Chapter of the Colorado Restaurant Association, so read my latest restaurant news there. My email: penny@blacktie-llc.com.

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.

That’s what a bunch of budding entrepreneurs did on Saturday when they set up self-decorated lemonade stands in front of  Young Americans Bank, the financial institution established by philanthropist Bill Daniels, at 3550 E. First Ave. in Cherry Creek.

The event was part of Metro Denver Lemonade Day , a free community-wide event dedicated to teaching children how to start, own and operate their own businesses through the simple and time-honored act of building and running a lemonade stand.

Lemonade Day Metro Denver receives major support from The Daniels Fund as well as The Anschutz Foundation, LiveWell Colorado and the Riverfront Park Community Foundations.

Inspired by the lessons of Houston entrepreneur and philanthropist Michael Holthouse who taught his young daughter and her friend when they set up a lemonade stand, Lemonade Day was born in 2007.

Event organizer Ellen Robinson asked me, along with a handful of other judges including chef/restaurateur Troy Guard, to judge each lemonade based on “healthiest” and just plain best tasting.

Here were the winners:

* Healthiest lemonade recipe winners were Nicole Taylor and Adam Thiret.

* Third place, best recipe: Sara and Lucy Francone.

* Second place: Fresh Start Kids.

* First place: Nicole Taylor and Adam Thiret, who won $500 for their good tasting effort.

Major sponsors were Waste Connections, Dependable Cleaners, LiveWell Colorado, Young Americans Bank and Daniels Fund.

But Saturday was only a preview of the big lemon squeeze to come on June 9 when roughly 2,500 stands will be set up throughout Metro Denver and the lucky best tasting liquid will be awarded $5,000 in scholarship money.

Denver Mayor Michael Hancock has declared June 9 Lemonade Day Metro Denver.

Tailgate time

Tickets are now on sale to support the Colorado Restaurant Association Mile High Chapter annual Tailgate Party from 4-6 p.m. on June 11 at Coors Field Parking Lot B to support The Colorado Restaurant Association Education Fund and The Mile High Chapter Hardship Fund, which donates money to individual restaurant workers who are injured or have otherwise fallen into hard times.

Tickets are only $25 until June 1 and then go up to $30 after that date.

Come celebrate your Rockies, your successes or just plain celebrate while raising money for The Colorado Restaurant Association Education Fund and The Mile High Chapter Hardship Fund.

Questions? Call Lauren O’Brien at 720-291-8007 or email cratailgate@hotmail.com. The Rockies are playing the Washington Nationals that day. Enjoy beers, burgers and bands while raising money for good causes to support restaurant industry workers.

I have been to this hearty party many times, and it’s a major good time!

Chefs’ dinner series

Charcoal, the Scandinavian-inspired spot at 43 W. Ninth Ave., is continuing its chefs’ dinner series on June 11.

Seating is at 6:30 p.m. and dinner is at 7. Josh Leiby and Meagan Curley will be next month’s chefs serving a rustic American menu. Cost is $50 for the five-course meal only or $70 when paired with wines.

Just to entice you foodie folks, the recent dinner consisted of peas and carrots three ways; pan-seared Alamosa bass with risotto cake, Spanish chorizo, calamari, baby zucchini and tomato broth; and rhubarb-lemon tart with strawberry meringue and mint foam.

Reservations for the June 11 dinner: 303-454-0000 or by going to www.charcoaldining.com.

Political pundit Monaghan dies

Jim Monaghan, a political strategist and longtime spokesman for Denver billionaire Phillip Anschutz, died Wednesday at 66.

Monaghan, who  died at University of Colorado Hospital after a brief illness. began his political career in 1972, as an adviser for Democratic candidates. He led many to election as governors, senators and mayors.

“If you were a Democrat in this town and you were evaluating getting into public life or had a ballot issue, you wanted to know what Jim Monaghan thought,” Jim Lyons, an attorney at the Denver law firm Rothgerber Johnson & Lyons, told The Denver Post. “He would give it to you straight.”

Gov. John Hickenlooper responded to Monaghan’s death with a post on Twitter: “Jim Monaghan defined for many of us how to think strategically about political issues & events. His death is a loss for all of (Colorado).”

Monaghan’s funeral will be held at 9 a.m. Wednesday at Holy Ghost Church, 1900 California St.. A reception will take place at the Carriage House of the Governor’s Residence from 1-4 p.m. the same day.

Dress success

Olympic gold-medal swimmer Missy Franklin attended her prom at Regis High School recently. She was decked out in a fab red gown she bought at Mariel, the most wonderful women’s clothing and formal-wear boutique in Cherry Creek North.

Denise Snyder is the owner and buyer for the store. If you haven’t been, check it out. My sister shops there whenever she is in Denver, and she seriously gets stopped on the streets of Chicago by women wowed by her outfit. She gets a kick out of saying, “I bought this in Denver!”

More information at www.marielboutique.com or by calling 303-623-1151.

Mariel Boutique in Cherry Creek North provided Missy Franklin’s red prom dress. The gold-medal winning swimmer recently attended her prom at Regis High School where she is a graduating senior. (Photo courtesy of Mariel)

Truffle time

Rob and Karin Lawler, owners of the magnificent Truffle Cheese Shop on Sixth Avenue, are opening Truffle Table Restaurant in a couple of weeks at 2556 15th St.

I’m told that they have hired a great chef and have major plans for the place. No phone or website yet, but for more information, you can call the cheese shop at 303-322-7363.

Here’s hoping that the restaurant will be as wonderful and as well received as the original cheese shop!

Eavesdropping on Sam Adams, the journalist/standup comedian (not the beer guy):

“A man buys a copy of my book after last night’s show. While I sign it, he asks, ‘Who are some of the people you wrote about?’ I said, ‘Joe Montana, John Elway, Bill Cosby, Nolan Ryan, Barry Bonds, Kobe Bryant, Chauncey Billups, Kevin Costner and Paul Newman. That’s off the top of my head.’ Dude says, ‘Paul Newman – the salad dressing guy’ I said, ‘Yeah, and he was in a couple of movies too.'”

Did you hear that I have a new column, “Mile High Life,” in Colorado Community Media’s 17 weekly newspapers circling Denver? Be sure to like my Facebook page! Also, here’s where you go to get my column emailed to you Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. I’m now the social-media liaison for the Mile High Chapter of the Colorado Restaurant Association, so read my latest restaurant news there. My email: penny@blacktie-llc.com.

For a person who has spent most of her career following or chasing celebrities on the national or local level, even I was star struck on Thursday when Oakwood Homes owner Pat Hamill invited me (once again) to attend the after party for the Jack A. Vickers Invitational 2013 golf tournament at Castle Pines Golf Club, a benefit for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver.

I went accompanied by my star stalker “gusband” (gay husband), Bradley Joseph, who drove through Tech Center rush hour traffic to get us to Castle Pines.

We were over the moon from the moment we drove up to the entrance (thank you Castle Pines’ valets, who are fab).

It was hard to choose between hunger – which was taken care of by Del Frisco’s, Shanahan’s, Elway’s, Castle Pines, etc. – and our desire to pay homage to the celebs who attended the event.

I think the most satisfying part of being around Colorado’s notable folks is just how genuinely nice they are. Take for example John Elway, perhaps the most famous Coloradan we can claim as our own.

John Elway poses with On The Town columnist Penny Parker at Thursday’s after party for the Jack A.Vickers Invitational golf tournament at Castle Pines Golf Club. (Bradley Joseph photo)

I’ve probably seen and spoken to Elway a jillion times, yet he is still the kindest famous person I know. And his wife, Paige, what a dish! And she is as nice as she looks.

Bradley and I paid the proper props to Mr. Jack A. Vickers for being our host for the evening, and tried to meet as many “green jackets” as we could.

Brian Griese, former Denver Broncos quarterback, was there and couldn’t have been sweeter. He and I have struck up a friendship since he left the Broncos. When he was wearing blue and orange, he never felt comfortable in his skin and didn’t trust the press. But after he retired, he’s been nothing but lovely.

But my “pinch me because this isn’t real” moment came when Bradley pushed me toward Peyton Manning. I protested because I didn’t want to be “that” person who was drooling over herself from meeting one of the most famous NFL players EVER!!!!

What a doll! Of course, I tripped on my words because I was fairly tongue tied. But how lucky are we, as Coloradans, to have such a wonderful ambassador for our state. And what you can’t figure out from TV is that Manning is actually bigger than Elway.

They were standing really close together and you could see the difference. Manning, of course, has to maintain his playing weight, and Elway has reduced to a size that fits him off the field, but it was striking to see them nearly side by side.

And then I met some guy named David N. Siegel, who I wouldn’t have known from a hole in the wall, except he gave me his card. What the what? He’s the president and CEO of Frontier Airlines, a company I have supported  since I can remember.

In fact, my husband just did research on flying me to New York City for my VIP experience on the Hoda and Kathie Lee  hour of the Today show, and found me a Frontier flight which was the best bang for the buck (read cheapest).

So, Mr. Siegel, would it kill you to send me a couple of drink tickets? I’m a nervous flyer, even though I grew up in an airline family because my dad worked for Pan Am and then United.

So, I’m still basking in the afterglow of an amazing evening. Thank you, Pat Hamill, I owe you big time. And thank you to all of the fame and fortune folks that we encountered.

Peyton Manning enjoys Thursday’s after party for the Jack A. Vickers Invitational golf tournament at Castle Pines Golf Club. (Bradley Joseph photo)

Triple Crown No. 2

The Celtic Tavern at 1801 Blake St. is hosting the second of the three Triple Crown parties this Saturday. The restaurant opens at 8.15 a.m. You will be able to place your bets all day at the Off Track Betting facility inside the Celtic.  A Dixieland jazz band will entertain all afternoon. Call 303-308-1795 to reserve a table.

Big Break

We told you about former University of Colorado All-American women’s golfer Emily Talley participating on Golf Channel’s reality show “Big Break” on Wednesday.

After the airing of just one show (Monday), Talley already has seen an elevated level of fame.

“I posted that I was going to be on the show on Facebook and it was the most response I have ever had,” Talley said. “I don’t think I could say I’m getting married and get that much response. But it’s fun, you see how many people love the show, how many people are rooting for you.

“A lot of people you don’t know connect with you on a TV show, you have a lot of people rooting for you,” Talley said. “Maybe I made them laugh or maybe they felt my frustration.”

“Big Break,” which was filmed at an Iberostar resort about 45 minutes south of Cancun in Mexico, airs at 7 p.m. Mondays on the Golf Channel.

Last July, Talley heard she had made the first round of cuts and would be brought in for an interview. But it wasn’t until November that she heard anything. She was at the Arizona State Open when she got a call saying that she had made it to the third round of interviews. Then after missing her LPGA card by three strokes at the third stage of qualifying school, she got the call that would change her life.

“You don’t hear anything forever,” Talley said. “I had a feeling they were waiting for Stage 3 to be over, because if you do well there, you have your card, you don’t need your Big Break.”

It was then another six weeks before she would leave for the filming of the show, which took 31/2 weeks.

But it wasn’t all margaritas.

“It was a stressful situation,” Talley said. “But it was some of the best fun I’ve ever had. We had to get up at 4:30 a.m. every morning, we were mic’d up by 5 and by the time we were at the course, had the competitions, it was 5 p.m. before we were back. We’d all have dinner together and then you’re shooting interviews until midnight, and then you do it all over again. But when it’s something like a once in a lifetime opportunity, your body just figures out how to cope with it.”

The seen

Prince Harry at The Market on Larimer at 10:30 Monday (and to think I was just there last Friday).

Eavesdropping on two women: Overheard at an anti civil unions rally at the Capitol: Dan Caplis telling a woman, “My wife won’t let me Tweet.”

Did you hear that I have a new column, “Mile High Life,” in Colorado Community Media’s 17 weekly newspapers circling Denver? Be sure to like my Facebook page! Also, here’s where you go to get my column emailed to you Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. I’m now the social-media liaison for the Mile High Chapter of the Colorado Restaurant Association, so read my latest restaurant news there. My email: penny@blacktie-llc.com.

Love is lovelier…

Never mind how many times around. My great pal, L. Roger Hutson, sealed the deal with Meredith J. Black on Monday in The Brown Palace lobby.

It was a beautiful and breathtaking ceremony officiated by our good guv, the Honorable John Hickenlooper. The ceremony gave me an (inside) chuckle because Roger is a major Republican and Hick, of course, is a giant Dem.

But Roger didn’t let politics get in the way of his wedded bliss. Meredith was gorgeous and Roger was a dashing groom. Best wishes to both!

Buffs are best

Former University of Colorado All-American women’s golfer Emily Talley made her television debut on Monday as a contestant on the latest installment of the Golf Channel reality show “Big Break,”, which was filmed in Mexico this season.

It’s been a year in the making for Talley and her reality career to get off the ground, as it was shortly after she graduated from CU.

“Everybody always said I’d be good for the show, that I’m a happy golfer and show a lot of enthusiasm,” Talley said. “I always thought it would be fun, so as soon as my college career was over I signed up for the Big Break audition.”

Last July, Talley heard that she made the first round of cuts and would be brought in for an interview, and that’s when she showed the show just how good she would be.

“It worked out that I went to Arizona for two days,” she said. “I had a large iced coffee so I was bouncing off the walls for the audition.

“One of my friends was also auditioning. I started 15 minutes before her and was done after her. When somebody asks me a question, I’ll just run with it for days until I’ve squeezed every last drop out of it.”

The show is set at the Riviera Maya at an Iberostar resort about 45 minutes south of Cancun. “It was great weather, great food and great drinks,” Talley said. “Everybody on the show is so nice…”

Former University of Colorado golfer Emily Talley is competing on Golf Channel’s “Big Break Mexico.” (photo courtesy of Golf Channel)

Salud!

From Asia to Europe to the Americas, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts is raising a glass and betting big on its premium wine program, Sheraton Social Hour.

Sheraton Hotels, in cooperation with Wine Spectator Magazine today, is announcing the global roll-out of its signature wine program to 430 hotels around the world.

In celebration of the program’s success Sheraton, Wine Spectator and its valued wine partner Ste. Michelle Wine Estates in Washington state is hosting a 24-hour “Toast Around the World” at Sheraton hotels and resorts across the globe in cities such as Edinburgh in Scotland, Mexico City, Bali, Bangalore, New York and Denver.

So raise a glass at 6:15 this evening when the Sheraton Denver Downtown team members will toast the upcoming Solheim Cup, a golf event that promises to bring international recognition to Colorado.

The festivities kick off in Asia with celebrations at the Sheraton Hong Kong and Sheraton Shanghai. A celebratory toast will be passed virtually around the world, including a toast at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel, until it reaches The Sheraton New York Times Square and The Sheraton Waikiki for the conclusion of the day-long global celebration.

Want to raise a glass? Consumers and guests are invited to join the conversation and celebration at #Sheraton Toast.

Memorial

In less than one month, the Colorado Freedom Memorial will be dedicated to Colorado and the nearly 6,000 Colorado Gold Star Families whose loved ones make up the memorial’s roll call.

Beginning with the Gold Star concert on May 25, and carrying through to the Home with Honor Dedication on May 26, the Colorado Freedom Memorial will proudly stand in honor of those who gave all in service to their country.

The dedication weekend events that are open to the public include: The Gold Star Concert from 5 to 7 p.m. May 25, celebrating “Heroic Lives” with performances by the 101st Army Band, Face Vocal Band and Mollie Weaver on The Great Lawn at the Aurora Municipal Building, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway.

Tickets are limited and available at www.militaryevents.us/rsvp using event code: CFM.

On May 26 at 2 p.m., the dedication will begin with the arrival of the dedication processions at the memorial. The procession will include a horse-drawn caisson, full military honors, representatives from each branch of the military, VIPs and Colorado Gold Star Family representatives.

The dedication ceremony will feature VIP guest speakers, representatives of Colorado’s legislative delegation, honor guard and color posting, a wreath-laying ceremony, bird release and performances by the 101th Army Band.

The dedication ceremony is open to the public, and will be held at the Colorado Freedom Memorial/Springhill Community Park, 756 N. Telluride St., Aurora.

Eavesdropping on a man talking about his dog: “I think my dog is on a 12-step program. When we go for a walk, every 12 steps he stops to pee.”

Did you hear that I have a new column, “Mile High Life,” in Colorado Community Media’s 17 weekly newspapers circling Denver? Be sure to like my Facebook page! Also, here’s where you go to get my column emailed to you Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. I’m now the social-media liaison for the Mile High Chapter of the Colorado Restaurant Association, so read my latest restaurant news there. My email: penny@blacktie-llc.com.

It’s easy to think that Elway’s Cherry Creek is the only place throwing big patio parties this summer (but don’t forget Coohills’ Beats on the Creek series), but if you venture out of downtown or Cherry Creek, Oakwood Homes is hosting its annual free Summer Concert Series at the Green Valley Ranch Amphitheater, 4890 Argonne Way.

Concerts begin on July 4, and run for four consecutive Wednesdays. The Fourth of July kick-off features Chase ‘N The Dream and begins at 8 p.m. Subsequent Wednesday shows begin at 7 and run until 8:30 p.m.

The Summer Concert Series is presented and sponsored by Oakwood Homes as a contribution to enhance quality of life in the community. Additional concert information is available online, including directions to the amphitheater at: www.skylineusa.com/oakwood_concert_series.asp.

Concerts are subject to rescheduling in the event of rain. For updated schedule information, call Skyline at 303-595-8747, ext. 3 or check online.

Free parking is available next to the amphitheater and in the Oakwood Homes parking lot at 4908 Tower Road.

Guests may bring a picnic dinner and soft drinks in cans or plastic bottles. Pets and barbecue grills are not permitted at the amphitheater on concert days. No alcoholic beverages are permitted in accordance with Denver City Park ordinances.

Chase ‘N The Dream plays Motown, R&B and dance music. The band has opened for national acts including the Ohio Players, Jennifer Holiday, the Chi-Lites, Stephanie Mills and Kool and the Gang. A fireworks show choreographed to music follows the concert.

July 10 features the Steve Thomas Band with rock hits of the 1980s. The funny part is that Steve Thomas is the assistant head pro at Green Valley Ranch Golf Course, a 3-wood away (with a good wind behind you!) from the concert venue.

July 17 is FACE – the all-vocal rock band with a full range of sounds including vocal percussion or “beat-box” with memorable rock, pop, funk and upbeat jazz styling.

July 24 features Tunisia playing fun R&B, Motown and hip hop. Tunisia is 10 members strong with three lead vocalists, a blazing horn section and a playlist of more than 100 songs that includes dance favorites from Earth, Wind and Fire, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, and more.

July 31 concludes the summer concert series with Brad Lee Schroeder bringing country rock and straight-up country music. Schroeder developed a deep appreciation for country music after performing mostly rock for the first 10 years of his career. He concerts are a fusion of the two genres and also include elements of soul and gospel.

Masterful

Masterpiece Deli mastermind Justin Bronson, chef and co-founder of Masterpiece Deli and Old Major (my current fave rave) is finally coming out of LoHi, where his sandwich shop has reigned supreme, and will open a second spot this summer at 1710 Sherman St. in the Wells Fargo Center.

Brunson and partners Colin Forkin, Casey Taylor, Eric Clayman, Todd Grayson-Partner and Stephen Allee will open the second outpost in the Uptown neighborhood. Yay!

True confession: I have never been to Masterpiece Deli although I’ve heard many stories about the roast beef sandwich or truffled egg salad that put me to shame! I’ve been to Old Major three times, and adore the fab fare there. Now that Masterpiece will be within walking distance of my place (who am I kidding, I will drive), I can’t wait to bewitched by its sandwiches.

We’re Number Five

CNN Travel recently ranked beer towns in the U.S., and deemed Denver as No. 5. Now, we could argue with that – especially considering that our governor helped put this cowtown on the beer map – but national exposure is all good. Here’s what CNN had to say:

“The history of beer in the United States is a rich one dating back to the colonies, when soldiers were paid in spruce beer and cider. From there, beer weathered a Revolution, Prohibition and a right turn at Albuquerque before positively exploding with deregulation of the industry through the early 1980s.

“Ever since, Americans have been sampling, celebrating and sophisticating the unofficial national beverage in ways previously unimaginable, and it seems nearly every town’s gotten into the act.

“But not all cities are carbonated equal. Some have begun to take beer personally, innovating its craft and consumption and throwing festivals to honor the finest ales and lagers — creating a blueprint for the rest of the country to follow. Still others have been doing this all along.”

Check out the story at http://www.cnn.com/2013/05/06/travel/usa-beer-towns/index.html?sr=sharebar_facebook.

Going underground

Blake Street Tavern has opened “Underground Social,” a new downstairs addition featuring interactive games and more to patrons of the Blake Street venue.

The new downstairs addition features the most diverse selection of interactive games in the downtown/ballpark bar district including Cornhole, darts, shuffle board, Ping-Pong, skeeball, pop a shot, big buck hunter HD, giant connect 4, Giant Jenga, air hockey and more.

Beer lovers can enjoy 24 drafts in addition to weekly drink specials while also taking in the venue’s 18 high-definition TV’s broadcasting every major sporting event.

Eavesdropping on a wife whose husband bought her flowers on Mother’s Day: “Honey, those are so beautiful!”

“It’s not my first flower rodeo.”

Did you hear that I have a new column, “Mile High Life,” in Colorado Community Media’s 17 weekly newspapers circling Denver? Be sure to like my Facebook page! Also, here’s where you go to get my column emailed to you Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. I’m now the social-media liaison for the Mile High Chapter of the Colorado Restaurant Association, so read my latest restaurant news there. My email: penny@blacktie-llc.com.

It’s good to be Jennifer Jasinski.

Earlier this week she snagged Denver’s first James Beard Award for Best Chef Southwest, now word comes from a super secret source that Jasinski’s follow-up act will be a spot on season 5 of Bravo’s “Top Chef Masters.”

The rumor mill is all over the blog-0-sphere, but confirmation literally fell into my lap during dinner the other night.

No one’s talking on the record, but you can take this to the walk-in. One blogger actually spotted Jasinski on the “Top Chef Masters” set, along side famed New York chef David Burke.

Jasinski is the chef/owner of Rioja, Bistro Vendome and Euclid Hall, who first arrived on Denver’s dining scene as top chef at Panzano, a kitchen now helmed by the equally talented Elise Wiggins.

Stay tuned for details when Bravo lifts the cone of silence.

FirstBank bash

On Tuesday, FirstBank held a look-see for invited guests to get a glimpse of the landmark 100 St. Paul redevelopment of the space that is expected to be completed in 2015, which will significantly change the landscape of Cherry Creek North.

One of the key tenants of the redevelopment, headed by Denver Tech Center godfather Bill Pauls, CEO of The Pauls Corporation, is Del Frisco’s Grille, an upscale bar and grill dishing out modern American cuisine.

Del’s used its older sibling – Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House, a pricey prime steak house in the Tech Center – to cater the affair.

The Del Frisco’s Grille space in the new 100 St. Paul project will include a huge rooftop patio, a one-of-a-kind fixture in Cherry Creek North. Can’t wait! Another key tenant is Fuller Sotheby’s International Realty’s Denver headquarters (http://www.fullersothebysrealty.com/eng).

During his speech, Pauls said, “FirstBank decided this site (as is) was not the best use. They had a beauty contest for developers and we’re honored that you selected us …This is a huge iconic building with FirstBank’s name on it. By the way, we still have space left (to lease).”

At the party, we sampled Del’s fare including absolutely divine ahi tacos (tuna tartare, avocado and spicy citrus mayo), truffled deviled eggs (oh my!), filet sliders and cake lollipops.

Count on a knife fight between Del’s and Cherry Creek Grill, a persnickety place that needs to go down. Del’s is user-friendly and judging from the sampling of the fine fare, it’s going to be a delish dining experience.

The Denver space will be the seventh Del Frisco’s Grille location.

More on the menu at www.delfriscosgrille.com.

All American

History Colorado kicks off a summer of exploration of local and national military history at the History Colorado Center, 1200 Broadway, with the opening of The American Soldier: A Photographic Tribute on May 25 and continuing through Sept. 2.

This national traveling exhibition features 116 enlarged photographs that capture images of American soldiers, beginning on the Civil War battlefields in 1861 when the new medium of photography first documented the grim realities of war, to the war in Iraq.

“Spanning nine wars, I’ve often wondered what the exhibition photographs have in common,” said exhibition curator Cyma Rubin. “These photographs have power. They have an ability to reach people … each image has a life of its own.”

For complete information, go to www.historycolorado.org.

Drew crew

Comedy Works South at the Landmark has landed a big fish: Television personality/actor Drew Carey will perform there on June 21 and 22.

Show times are at 7:15 and 9:45 p.m. both days. Ticket prices are $26 per person. Advance tickets are available by calling 720-274-6800 or online at www.comedyworks.com.

Drew Carey will perform at Comedy Works South at the Landmark on June 21 and 22.

Chef’s best

Charcoal, the fab fare eatery at 43 W. Ninth Ave., is cooking up a special chef’s dinner at 6:30 p.m. May 16 featuring the culinary talents of Charcoal chefs Greg Lucero and Max Kofoed.

Here’s a sample of the menu to tempt your taste buds:

Pan-seared sea bass with risotto cake; pan-roasted rabbit with braised greens, sorrel puree, grits stuffed morel mushroom and rhubarb lemon tart.

Cost is $50 per person or $70 with wine pairings. Reservations: 303-454-0000.

SOL woman

SOL Store of Lingerie at 248 Detroit St. is offering a toast to the mom in your life from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday in honor of Mother’s Day.

The day includes champagne and strawberries, a photo booth for a picture together or to create a personalized card, an opportunity to enter to win the Mother’s and Daughter’s Day in Cherry Creek North sweepstakes (valued at $700 with gift cards to Antoine du Chez for mani/pedis, makeup application and blowout, bra fitting at SOL; shopping at Show of Hands; lunch at Vinue).

For last-minute mom shopping, SOL has selections from sleepwear designer Josie Natori. Bright colors and prints are the hallmark of the Natori brand and SOL has an extensive selection from negligee short robes to Aphrodite gowns.

More information at www.sollingerie.com.

Wine time

Twelve students from the Fritz Knoebel School of Hospitality Management at the University of Denver’s Daniels College of Business will plan and implement the annual DU Vin Wine Festival on May 16 and 18.

DU Vin will feature culinary experts and winemakers who will meet to enjoy some of the finest varietals and raise scholarship funds for KSHM students.

On May 16, a multi-course gourmet dinner will be prepared and served by renowned chef/restaurateur Frank Bonanno with his culinary team and KSHM students.

There will be a reception before the dinner and each course will represent a dish offered at one of Bonanno’s restaurants. Tickets are $125 per person, and complimentary parking will be provided.

On May 18 from noon to 4 p.m., the grand tasting will be held with vintners, wine vendors and food experts pouring high-end wines from around the world paired with local food prepared by the student culinary team from the Knoebel School.

Music will be provided by students of DU’s Lamont School of Music, and tickets are $52.80.

Both the DU Vin wine pairing dinner and grand tasting will take place in the Joy Burns Center building on the University of Denver campus. Tickets can be purchased at www.knoebelevents.ticketleap.com. More information at www.duvinfestival.com.

T-shirt talk

A breast cancer patient who had a double mastectomy spotted a T-shirt with these words: “Yes, they’re fake! (my real ones tried to kill me).” I get it, but ouch!

Eavesdropping on Facebook: “I just ate a bite of wedding cake that was so good, it actually made me want to get married. Now that’s a darn good cake.”

Did you hear that I have a new column, “Mile High Life,” in Colorado Community Media’s 17 weekly newspapers circling Denver? Be sure to like my Facebook page! Also, here’s where you go to get my column emailed to you Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. I’m now the social-media liaison for the Mile High Chapter of the Colorado Restaurant Association, so read my latest restaurant news there. My email: penny@blacktie-llc.com.

The crowd that gathered for Women Cook! a (mostly) all-female display of culinary prowess Monday night, erupted into applause and whoop-whoops when Jennifer Jasinski‘s name rang out.

Minutes before the presentation during the benefit for Work Options for Women at Temple Emanuel, word had spread that Jasinski, chef/owner of Rioja, Bistro Vendome and Euclid Hall, had bagged the first James Beard award for a Denver chef.

For Denver, winning a Beard – the equivalent of an Oscar – further cements this burgeoning foodie town’s growing reputation as a gastronomical force to be reckoned with. Jasinski took home the Best Chef award for the Southwest Region, and was joined in the winner’s circle by Frasca Food and Wine’s Bobby Stuckey and Lachlan MacKinnon-Patterson, who won in the Outstanding Wine Program category.

Jasinski (who ironically was seated in row “J”), was accompanied to the awards ceremony in Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center with an entourage of her husband and Squeaky Bean chef Max MacKissock, business partner Beth Gruitch and publicist John Imbergamo.

“Max, Beth and I all jumped up when we heard her name,” Imbergamo told me. “Max nearly decapitated the man in front of him. Tears, joy ensued. Jen gave a short thank-you speech.”

In her speech, Jasinski thanked her accompanying support team plus the staff at Rioja, a Larimer Square Mediterranean eatery that’s been open for nine years.

Jennifer Jasinski, center, celebrates her James Beard Award with fellow Wolfgang Puck restaurant alums, Sherry Yard, left, and Barbara Lazaroff. (John Imbergamo photo)

Meanwhile, back at Women Cook!

Patrons grazed at 15 food stations serving tapas style plates, and sipped on wine and beer during the sold-out event.

I sampled spring lamb shepherd’s pie from Alex White at Jonesy’s Eat Bar; house-made Italian beef bratwurst with giardiniera and celery salt aioli from Aniedra Nichols at Elway’s Cherry Creek; Colorado lamb burger with hummus, goat cheese and cucumber plus a leek and goat cheese mini quiche from Craig Dixon at Café Options; steak tartare on a grilled baguette from Dana Rodriguez at Bistro Vendom;, pasta al forno in a mornay sauce from Elise Wiggins at Panzano; spring pea risotto with truffle and parmigiano with Gabe’s chicken sausage in endive leaf from Jasinski at Rioja; verinne of strawberries in balsamic and vanilla bean buttermilk panna cotta from Lisa Bailey at D Bar Desserts and tea cookies from Kathleen Kenny Davia at Gateaux.

Despite all the tempting treats, the evening raised a lot of “dough” for Work Options for Women, an organization that trains indigent women skills to ready them for work in the hospitality industry. More information or to donate, go to www.workoptions.org.

Samples of the verinne of strawberries in balsamic and vanilla bean buttermilk panna cotta from D Bar Desserts and chef Lisa Bailey (pictured below with husband and D Bar co-owner Keegan Gerhard). (Wendy Aiello photos)

Makes cents

Quarters for Kids, the annual event founded by Tammy and the late Noel Cunningham, will continue holding its annual fundraising campaign despite the recent closure of Strings restaurant.

Viewhouse Eatery, Bar & Rooftop, a new venture for Lotus Concepts at 2015 Market St., has stepped into the Cunninghams’ sizable shoes to acknowledge the fundraising efforts and honor the children with a private breakfast on Friday.

Quarters for Kids is a school-based program where students raise quarters to help provide breakfast residents at the Volunteers of America Brandon Center for Battered and Homeless Women and their children.

Denver Mayor Michael Hancock will recognize the efforts of area students, KOSI-101 radio personality Murphy Huston will emcee the event and Denver Nuggets mascot Rocky will entertain the students.

According to VOA legend, 22 years ago Noel discovered – after talking to VOA’s Jim White – that the cost to feed breakfast to a child living in one of Denver’s home shelters was 25 cents. The idea that such a small amount of change could make such a difference motivated Noel to start the Quarters for Kids campaign.

While this year’s campaign ended in April, schools and students can plan to participate next April. For more information, go to www.voacolorado.org.

Arts festival makes move

The original Downtown Denver Arts Festival, which celebrates its 15th anniversary this year, will include a lineup of some of the state’s most outstanding artists during this year’s festival May 24-26 (Memorial Day Weekend) at the Denver Performing Arts Complex.

The festival is moving from the Denver Pavilions back to the DPAC where it was held during its first three years.

“The DPAC will be able to better accommodate our popularity and growth, while providing a more spacious, enjoyable and art friendly atmosphere for our attending artists and their clientele,” said DDAF director Jim DeLutes, “It will be a tremendous location to celebrate our 15th anniversary.”

More information on this year’s event, go to www.downtowndenverartsfestival.com.

Den-Mex fare finds its way onto top ethnic food list

Food & Wine contributing editor and the Travel Channel’s “Bizarre Foods” host Andrew Zimmern included two Denver institutions in his list of Best Ethnic Food in the U.S., which was released Tuesday on www.foodandwine.com.

He found satiating solace at two Denver institutions: Chubby’s and El Taco de Mexico. Here’s what he wrote:

“About a third of Denver residents listed themselves as Mexican American on the 2010 Census, so it’s no surprise that nearly every local food writer you talk to says that if there’s a food that defines Denver—it’s Den-Mex. The signature of Den-Mex is green chile, a spicy bright orange sauce with the consistency of gravy, made from Colorado chiles, pork, lard and tomato.

“You can check out Chubby’s for a late-night after-the-bar gut bomb commodity burrito, but for truly amazing flavors El Taco de Mexico is a must. Denver’s quintessential taqueria, the authentic spot serves the best menudo and tacos in the city. I bet there isn’t another restaurant in town that utilizes as many varied techniques of meat cookery as well as the grandmoms do behind the counter at ETM.”

See the entire list of his ethnic finds at: http://www.foodandwine.com/slideshows/andrew-zimmerns-favorite-ethnic-food-in-the-us?xid=TTIPS050713FullListAndrewZimmerns#!slide=10.

Eavesdropping on a woman to a man: “Happy Cinco De Mayo!”

“Does Cinco De Mayo fall on the same day every year?”

Did you hear that I have a new column, “Mile High Life,” in Colorado Community Media’s 17 weekly newspapers circling Denver? Be sure to like my Facebook page! Also, here’s where you go to get my column emailed to you Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. I’m now the social-media liaison for the Mile High Chapter of the Colorado Restaurant Association, so read my latest restaurant news there. My email: penny@blacktie-llc.com.