One of Denver’s most eligible media bachelors is taken.

Radio personality and motivational speaker Mark McIntosh proposed to his g-friend Kathy Gans on their recent trip to Paris (how romantic!).

Read more about it at: http://heycomebackcoach.blogspot.com/

Since his departure from CBS4, McIntosh has been reinventing himself (yeah, I get that), as a spokesman/sports radio guy and promoting positive thinking through his own Seek Victory Foundation. For more information on what McIntosh is doing these days, go to http://www.seekvictory.com/

He offers weekly tips on how to cope with what life throws you … not a bad idea, if you ask me.

Newly engaged couple Kathy Gans and Mark McIntosh (photo courtesy of Mark McIntosh)

Amelia’s new adventure

The 9News weather/traffic whiz posted this on her Facebook page last week:

“It is with great pleasure and excitement that I announce the creation of the Fly With Amelia Foundation, a Colorado non-profit organization providing aviation opportunities to all, free aviation based educational curriculum to grades K-12, and scholarship funding of flight training to young women.

“In partnership with Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum, the Fly With Amelia Foundation will work to engage our community in aviation-based educational activities and promote the future of general aviation through the recreation and symbolic completion of Amelia Earhart’s 1937 flight around the world.

The first Amelia Earhart said, “My ambition is to have this wonderful gift produce practical results for the future of flying and for the women who want to fly tomorrow’s planes.” The first time I flew in an airplane, I felt like Amelia was there with me, encouraging me to become an inspired aviatrix. It is now my turn to pass on this same inspiration to the future of female pilots and to those they, in turn, will inspire.

It will take a team of mentors, educators, pilots, and inspired young women to pull all of this off and I would love for you to get involved. If you are interested in learning more, please send me an email at ameliaroseearhart@gmail.com.

As the foundation grows and develops, I will provide more information about how to nominate a future aviatrix and how to keep updated on events!

Zoo do

Tickets are now on sale for Denver Zoo’s most popular summer event – the 24th annual Do At The Zoo on June 20. Presented by Anadarko Petroleum Corporation, the funds raised at this year’s event will be dedicated to the zoo’s sustainability programs.

The evening highlights Denver’s best restaurants and entertainment at one of the wildest local venues. The event kicks off at 6 p.m. with a VIP party with food from Edge Restaurant and Bar from The Four Seasons Denver, and the party opens for regular ticket holders at 7 p.m.

Tickets for the event and VIP party typically sell out quickly at www.denverzoo.org.

In it’s 24-year history, nearly 40,000 Do at The Zoo guests have raised more than $10 million to improve Denver Zoo and support its animal conservation efforts.

Tickets are $175 for individuals or $300 for VIP, which includes early access at 6 p.m., valet parking and an exclusive VIP party.

Trust me, I go to this event almost every year, and except for the possibility of rain, it’s the best outdoors event for party animals! Great food and fun for a great organization.

This is hip

I’m loving the new direction of the re-energized Colorado Symphony Orchestra. It’s latest announcement was the collaboration of Denver band DeVotchKa and special guest Amanda Palmer who will join the symphony for one night only, beginning at 7:30 p.m. June 14 at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

The eclectic style of DeVotchKa and the punk cabaret sounds of Palmer will blend with a full 60-piece orchestra to create a unique evening of live music under the stars of Red Rocks.

Tickets are on sale now and start at $25 by calling 303-623-7876, or by going to www.coloradosymphony.org.

Lily

The incomparable talent of Lily Tomlin, who spans comedy, stage, television, film, writing and producing, will be on display at 8 p.m. (doors open at 7) April 13 at the Paramount Theatre (16th and Glenarm).

This performance is a benefit for CPT12 and is sponsored by KOSI-FM, Out Front Colorado, Prime Time for Seniors, 50plus Marketplace News, Westin Denver Downtown and Presidential Worldwide Transportation.

All seats are reserved through www.tickethorse.com or by calling 1-866-461-6556.

DSTILL my heart

DSTILL presents An American Craft Spirit & Cocktail Show case from 6 to 10 p.m. April 3 at the McNichols Civic Center Building (on the corner of West Colfax and Bannock).

The $40 ticket includes entry, tastes from local and national distillers, food and access to hand-crafted cocktails. Check it out at www.dstill.co.

Eavesdropping on a visiting boyfriend talking to his roommate about his girlfriend at a Vail condo: “She made me change my ‘Fonzie’ outfit last night.”
“I didn’t see it.”
“Exactly.”

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.

Denver gamblers get ready to rumble!

The Celtic Tavern at 1801 Blake St. is in its 13th year of doing business and is ready to branch out by providing Denver’s only Off Track Betting facility.

“We have changed as the business grew,” said owner Noel Hickey, “by expanding in 2004 into the space next door opening Delaney’s cigar bar and lounge. We are now ready for the next change. On April 6, we will open the only Off Track Betting facility in the city and county of Denver.

“It will add excitement in both bars. We will open at 10 a.m. every day. On May 4, Kentucky Derby day, we will be hosting one of the biggest Derby day parties seen in Colorado. With the help of our friends at the Ninth Door and Vesta Dipping Grill, the Blake Street trifecta will be the place to be.”

One Lincoln Park problems

The One Lincoln Park building that Dealin’ Doug Moreland and Tom “Lou from Littleton” Manoogian co-own is having problems again. Apparently they are replacing ALL the water pipes with copper pipes. Water is being shut off intermittently.

The water issue has affected the White Crown Credit Union (yes, my credit union) this week and this will be an ongoing project for a year.

Microbrews help end poverty

Join Whole Foods Market Denver and Rocky Mountain Micro Finance Institute for a party to help end poverty around the world from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday at the McNichols Civic Center Building at the corner of Bannock and Colfax.

Taste some of Colorado’s best microbrews and spirits, including a custom limited edition of Pineapple Pale Ale from Denver Beer Co., as well as samples from other micro breweries such as Odell Brewing Co., Crazy Mountain Brewery and Downslope Distilling.

Sample food from some of Whole Foods Market food artisans, and create your own party favor with folks from Fresh City Life and the Denver Public Library. Enjoy live music and view an art installation of “India” by Amy K. Wright.

All proceeds will benefit the Whole Planet Foundation. Learn more at www.wholeplanetfoundation.org.

Buy five tickets or more and enter to win a $100 gift card to Whole Foods Market.

Kempe takes Venice

Now that’s Italian!

Guests will celebrate in Venetian style to support abused and neglected children during the “Kempe Takes Venice” gala beginning at 6 p.m. April 20 in the Seawell Grand Ballroom at The Denver Center for the Performing Arts.

Proceeds from the event will benefit The Kempe Foundation, which provides the education, advocacy and fundraising support for The Kempe Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Child Abuse and Neglect.

The evening will begin with a cocktail reception and silent auction at 6 p.m., followed by a 7:30 p.m. Italian-style dinner.

The program will include a tribute to Dr. C. Henry Kempe’s lasting legacy, a success story as told by child-abuse survivor Althea Austin Flaherty, an artistic performance with an Italian flair, the comedy of local favorite (and my former Rocky Mountain News colleague) Sam Adams, and a live auction.

Following the program, one of Denver’s hottest dance bands Soul X will perform until 11 p.m.

Community leader and long-time Kempe supporter Gail Johnson will receive the 2013 Kempe Community Award, and presiding judge of the Denver Juvenile Court, Karen M. Ashby, will receive the 2013 Kempe Professional Award.

“The evening’s purpose is to celebrate the children and families served by The Kempe Center and the many individuals who make this important work possible,” said Patricia Peterson, president and CEO of The Kempe Foundation. “Our planning committee has designed an event that will foster camaraderie for all of our guests and offer a variety of entertainment sure to please everyone.”

Additional event details, tickets and sponsorships are available by calling 303-864-5312 or online at www.kempe.org/gala.

Tamayo adds bottomless brunch

Tamayo, the 12-year-old Larimer Square high-end Mexican spot that recently went through a major renovation, has upped the ante on brunch.

Some gal pals and I got invited to a friends and family tire-kicking try-out of brunch on Sunday, which featured a $35 all-you-can-eat and drink “bottomless Margarita bunch” for $35.

But the “drink” part isn’t limited to Margaritas. Mimosas made with traditional orange juice, guave, mango or blood orange, as well as Bloody Marys and Bloody Marias are included.

And, if you’re a teetotaler, the price drops to $20; $10 for children 12 and under. The menu includes sopas y ensaladas, antojitos (starters), tacos and tortas and cazuelas (baked eggs).

Glass Half Full

Glass Half Full, the stand-alone bar inside Alamo Drafthouse Littleton, will unveil its cocktail menu available to moviegoers when the theater and bar open on Monday.

The bar pours locally distilled spirits from companies such as Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey and Leopold Bros., as well as a seasonal cocktail menu curated by award-winning Alamo Drafthouse Beverage Director Bill Norris.

“With the signature drinks at Glass Half Full, we’re trying to  bridge the gap between the beer drinker and the cocktail drinker,” said Norris. “Local beer like Left Hand Milk Stout finds its way into cocktails, and beer components like hops and malt find their way into classic drinks like daiquiris and gimlets. Craft brewers spend so much time creating flavor in their brews that we just want to build on the templates they’re laying down for us.”

More information at www.glasshalffullbar.com.

Eavesdropping on a man talking about South by Southwest: “Austin is like Denver without the grown-ups.”

Charlie Walling, one of the most amiable big-shots I know, is leaving Dean Foods as general manager of Robinson Dairy, effective March 31.

Walling’s departure is a result of a “sweeping restructuring,” he said in a recent goodbye email message he sent to colleagues, friends and family.

“It is with mixed emotions that I announce my departure from Dean Foods as general manager of Robinson Dairy, due to a sweeping restructure, effective March 31.  Leading the Robinson Dairy team has been a tremendously rewarding experience. I wish everyone at Dean Foods the very best, and for the opportunity to work with these truly talented people, I am, and always will be, grateful.

“Since relocating from Houston, the last 12 years in Denver have been the most fulfilling years of my life.  This focused, collaborative and energetic community welcomed me and my family with open arms.  Valerie and I plan to continue to live in Colorado as I pursue other career opportunities.  I look forward to our continued friendship and appreciate the support from each of you.  Please keep in touch as new opportunities unfold in the future.

“Please note my new email address:  Charlie.O.Walling@gmail.com.”

I asked Walling, who is a personal friend as well as a huge supporter of my pet breast cancer charity, Sense of Security, to send me some thoughts about his separation from the Robinson folks. He said, “I am fortunate and privileged to have led the Robinson Dairy team and been associated with two Colorado leaders, Dick and Eddie Robinson.  I will truly miss these talented friends and thank them for 12 successful and rewarding years.”

Sal Siraguse, Robinson Dairy account manager in the downtown Denver territory, said, “Charlie will be missed. Great guy, great boss and so much fun to be around! We are very sad to see him leave Robinson Dairy.”

Fresh fish

To Seattle Fish Company, seafood is more than just a job, it’s a 95-year old family tradition, a passion, a culture and a community. The company continually searches for ways to celebrate its clients throughout the Rocky Mountain region.

In keeping with this spirit, in early 2012 the company created a contest that invited clients to submit photos of Seattle Fish products in action. The prize: The winning images featured on two Seattle Fish distribution trucks for one year.

The contest generated more than 200 entries, which included regional chefs’ plated creations. These images were posted on Facebook where fans were asked to “like” their favorites, ultimately determining the top 20 finalists.

From there, local food experts — chef Jon Emanuel (Project Angel Heart), chef Mark DeNittis (Cook Street), Lori Midson (“Westword”) and chef Christopher Cina (Wynkoop/Breckenridge Group) — were tasked with picking one winner and four runners-up.

1515 Restaurant (at 1515 Market St.) was selected the winner, and chef Garren Teich‘s image of fruits de mer featuring lobster, Colorado striped bass, mussels, shrimp, diver scallops and clams in tomato saffron broth is  featured exclusively on one of Seattle Fish’s distribution trucks.

“Our relationship with the Seattle Fish Company has spanned 15 years,” said 1515 Restaurant owner Gene Tang. “Because they are the best at what they do, they allow us to buy from a local company and serve our customers only the freshest products. We were overjoyed to win the contest, and I look forward to serving this dish and others that feature Seattle Fish products in our dining room.”

Contest runners-up included Le Grande Bistro & Oyster Bar, Splendido, Cafe Diva and an alternate image submitted by 1515 Restaurant. All are featured as a collage on a second distribution truck representing the amazing dining scene in Colorado.

1515 Restaurant’s dish of fruits de mer featuring lobster, Colorado striped bass, mussels, shrimp, diver scallops and clams in tomato saffron broth will be displayed on a Seattle Fish Company distribution truck. (1515 Restaurant photo)

Soft Surroundings

The Denver Soft Surroundings women’s clothing store at Park Meadows mall will be holding a free beauty event Friday through Sunday.

The event will feature beauty experts doing a Makeup Bag Makeover where women will bring their makeup bag with them and meet with a beauty specialist to enjoy a complimentary consultation and find the must-have products that meet their beauty and skin-care needs.

The Park Meadows Soft Surroundings store features a Renewal Room inside the boutique, which offers massages, facials, waxing, masks, treatments and more. More information: 303-708-8132.

Pizza pizza!

Oblios Pizzeria has made an application with the city to move into the old Fleur Bistro spot at 1225 Logan St. in Capitol Hill. Oblios already has a thriving Park Hill location at 6115 E. 22^nd Ave. Many fans call Oblios a friendly, old Italian neighborhood pizzeria. Besides pizza, Oblios serves calzones, lasagna, salads and two kinds of sandwiches (Italian and meatball).

Fleur Bistro opened in 2011, but lasted less than two years, closing with little notice in late October last year.

Eavesdropping on a woman to another woman: “I was telling a friend of mine about my relative that is college educated but can’t hold a job.  My friend said, ‘Do you think she has ADD?’  I said, “No, I think she has L-A-Z-Y!”

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.

Dazzle 2 Jazz returns on Thursday with a new lineup of performers including Mark Pressey and Metro State Faculty Jazz with ensemble Carmen Sandim, David DeVine, Mark Harris, Paul Romaine, Justin Adams, Ron Bland and torch songs  by vocalist Myra Warren with pianist Ellyn Rucker.

A silent auction will offer more than 100 items, including a Broncos football signed by Champ Bailey, Brandon Stokley, Chris Harris and Willis McGahee; weekly breakfast for a year donated by the Egg & I; indoor skydiving adventure donated by SkyAdventures; vacation packages to New York, San Francisco and Santa Fe.

The event begins at 5 p.m. at Dazzle Jazz Club, 930 Lincoln. Free parking across the street at the Beauvallon building. Appetizers included. Tickets are $40 and on sale at www.coloradosymphonyguild.org. All proceeds benefit the Colorado Symphony Orchestra.

Business for the Arts Awards

Colorado Business Committee for the Arts (CBCA) announced the winners of the 2013 Business for the Arts Awards, Colorado’s signature event honoring companies and individual’s for their exemplary partnerships and engagement with the arts, to a sellout crowd of arts, business, and civic leaders at the Seawell Grand Ballroom last week.

“Congratulations to the arts and business leaders recognized today,” Gov. John Hickenlooper said. “Colorado is known for its craft breweries, galleries and world-class entertainment venues. Our creative industries create jobs, foster innovation, help to drive our economy and enhance the lives of all Coloradans.”

“The arts support the economic foundation of our city and impact each and every Denver citizen, both directly and indirectly,” Mayor Michael Hancock said. “In 2011, our area’s art community contributed $1.76 billion in economic activity, including growth in jobs, volunteering and economic impact. These figures prove the important and necessary role arts and culture play in Denver as we move forward.”

“When arts and business partner, we see increased vitality, civic engagement, and innovation.  The whole community benefits,” CBCA Executive Director Deborah Jordy said.

The event featured entertainment by Denver School of the Arts, Denver International Airport’s Terminal Kings Project, Swallow Hill Music’s Instrument Petting Zoo, and Scientific & Cultural Facilities District’s Popsicle the Bear. Ark Life, 3^rd Law Dance/Theatre, Denver Center Theatre Company’s A Weekend with Pablo Picasso, and members of the Colorado Symphony gave outstanding performances during the event.

2013 Business for the Arts Awards Winners

These five winners were chosen from 15 finalists:

Create Award (new in 2012) acknowledges an outstanding, for-profit creative business that has made a significant impact on Colorado’s creative economy

• I Heart Denver Store for its innovative retail model featuring locally designed goods from the best of Colorado’s creative sector.

Impact Award highlights the innovative use of the arts to propel business success, programs that engage employees with creativity and other community activities that support arts and business partnerships.

• Denver International Airport for the DIA Art & Culture Program, which elevates the airport experience while highlighting Colorado’s cultural communities.

John Madden, Jr. Leadership Award recognizes a business sector individual who has made significant contributions to advancing arts and culture in Colorado.

• Chuck Morris for his support of Colorado’s music community by attracting world-class acts, building exceptional venues and supporting local artists and nonprofits.

Philanthropy Award honors exemplary corporate citizenship and generosity to arts and cultural projects and organizations.

• CBS4 for its financial, in-kind, and editorial contributions to the arts that have raised cultural awareness for more than 20 years.

Workspace Award pays tribute to an exceptional work environment that advances business objectives.

• Newmont Mining Corporation for using art to strategically display its global presence while highlighting international connectivity in its newly expanded corporate offices.

The judging panel for the 2013 Business for the Arts Awards consisted of:

• Laura Love, Founder, GroundFloor Media
• Kent Rice, Executive Director, Denver Arts & Venues
• Dean Sobel, Director, Clyfford Still Museum
• Elaine Torres, Director, Community Affairs, CBS4
• Ellen Winkler, Owner, Wink Inc.

Colorado artists Theresa Haberkorn, Mark Lunning, Jim Milmoe and Tony Ortega have created unique prints as part of CBCA’s PrintFolio project, an initiative of CBCA’s Leadership Arts Alumni Network. A complete set was awarded to each winner and every finalist received a print from the suite. Additional information about the project is available at www.cbca.org.

Beastie boy and girl

Siblings Paul C. Reilly and Aileen Reilly, former owners of Encore restaurant across from East High School, have opened beast + bottle, a rustic American restaurant centered on “sustainability, versatility, creativity and comfort.”

The idea is to provide guests organic food (whenever possible) in meat, poultry, eggs, vegetables, fruit, fish and shellfish.

The menu changes based on what’s in season. beast + bottle boasts an array of star chefs including Wade Kirwan, formerly of Vesta Dipping Grill and Adrift, former Mizuna and Venue cook James Rugile and Dean Copeland, who managed the bar at Encore.

beast + bottle is located at 719 E. 17th Avenue in Uptown, which was once the Olivea restaurant space.

Eavesdropping on a man talking about the Elvis Dumervil situation in the news: “I knew the Broncos would beat the pope.”

What a blast!

One of the best parties I have attended lately took place Wednesday inside the $5 million refurbished meeting spaces inside The Westin Downtown Denver Hotel.

The event, which showed off the new digs of the mezzanine level Continental Ballroom, renamed the Confluence Ballroom, as well as the ballroom foyer and all breakout meeting rooms.

To unveil the renovation, The Westin’s sales team partnered with Destination Services Design Team to transform the space into specialty rooms such as a Molecular Microbrew bar, a Rock ‘n’ Roll sushi station and a soothing Spa-Ception room.

“A major component of the project was leveling the mezzanine level fixed-seat Tabor Auditorium to create an additional 3,000-square-feet of flexible meeting space,” said Tom Curley, the hotel’s general manager and owner Starwood’s area managing director. “This new space, called the Platte River Room, allows the hotel to service groups more effectively by offering additional dining and meeting space options.”

Yes, the spruced-up space looked lovely, but the most outstanding aspect of the party was something I’ve never seen done in catering before: a salad martini bar.

When I glanced over to that food station, I thought, “Oh no, another mashed potato bar. No thanks.” But when I saw socialite and philanthropist Susan Kiely munching salad in a martini glass, I had to investigate.

Rather than heavy mashed potatoes, the station offered a healthy selection of salad ingredients mixed in a martini shaker (not stirred) with your choice of salad dressing. Bravo and brilliant!

In the limelight

The 23rd annual Limelight Awards, which recognizes outstanding people and places who over the past year have embodied the true spirit of LoDo, took place Thursday in the refurbished McNichols Civic Center Building, on the corner of Colfax and Bannock. (Frankly, not my favorite space for an event because there is mostly metered parking and no valet.)

But the event, despite the number of guests who were ticketed for expired meters, was a festive celebration put on by the LoDo District Inc.

This year’s awards went to:

Cares Award for philanthropic contributions to the neighborhood: Carol Ann and Paul Rothmann for the Downtown Denver Children’s Playground.

Spotlight Award for a successful marketing campaign that brought activity to the area: Tom and Diane Coohill, owners of Coohills restaurant at 1400 Wewatta, for the Beats on the Creek concert series.

Legacy Award for development projects that contribute to LoDo’s culture of historic preservation and innovation: Wazee Supper Club.

Service Award for those who go above and beyond to aid LoDo District Inc: Rob Grey, LoDo District Vice Chair.

New Business Award for a new neighbor who has made a notable impact: Springhill Suites Denver Downtowwn at Metro State.

Diane and Tom Coohill (above), owners of Coohills restaurant and winners of a Spotlight Award at the LoDo Limelight Awards ceremony. (Penny Parker photo)

Party with a view

Can pigs fly? They do at Grillin’ Wings & Things at 723 S. University Blvd. (SW corner of University and Exposition).

The new fantastic wings joint (I tried them last week and can you say finger lickin’ good?) features pig wings (lip-smacking mini pork shanks served “special grilled” style tossed in a choice of sauces, along with egg-cellent chicken wings grilled or deep-fried.

Chicken tenders and jumbo shrimp also grace the menu, along with salads and wraps. Sides include deep-fried corn on the cob, garlic parmesan fries, and beer-battered onion rings.

The sauces are a stand-out with everything from honey hot to sweet ginger Thai to spicy garlic chili. Many are gluten free.

Grillin’ Wings also serves wine and beer. Fly on over and check out this place.

Gluten be gone

The Walnut Room’s two locations – Two North Broadway and 3131 Walnut St. – have expanded their gluten-free offerings.

In addition to gluten-free pizza, the restaurants have added gluten-free bread for sandwiches and a flourless torte.

The Walnut Room restaurants also have expanded their gluten-free beverages to include the Strongbow Cider at the Broadway location, and Magners at the Walnut Street eatery.

“We are proud to offer our gluten-sensitive customers more choices to make their dining experience more varied,” said Leslie Odell, director of operations.

Wine time

John Sutcliffe, founder of Sutcliffe Vineyards in Cortez, Colo., is hosting a premium dinner and wine pairing event beginning at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at Strings restaurant, 1700 Humboldt St.

This boutique winery is making a name for itself turning out memorable wines from the McElmo Canyon in the southwest corner of the state. The winemaker, Joe Buckle, joined the winery from Sonoma five years ago and is making his own mark on their limited production.

Sutcliffe will walk attendees through the five stages of Sutcliffe Wines starting with the terror at the thought of drinking Colorado wines and ending with a missionary zeal to spread the word.

The event is $65 for AWS members and $75 for non-members. Tickets are available on-line only by going to www.blacktie-colorado.com.

Adieu

Bid adieu to The Big Easy Creole Kitchen, at 250 Steele St., which closed last week after less than six months in business.

The good-food restaurant owned by George Gastl, a native of Denver who lived in New Orleans and cooked at the Palace Cafe, served New Orleans favorites including turtle soup, crawfish etouffee, gumbo, blackened shrimp and sweetbreads.

No word on whether Gastl plans to reopen The Big Easy Creole Kitchen elsewhere. The lower level space has been a challenge to other restaurateurs as well. Jesse Morreale, owner of El Diablo on First and Broadway, operated Sketch in that space, but later changed the concept to Tambien with chef Sean Yontz. That restaurant eventually closed.

Bonjour

Kate Spade boutiques may no longer be guided by the namesake founder, but they’re still make a fashion forward statement about a city.

Now, Denver can boast about snagging a Kate Spade store of its own. The chic boutique opened quietly last week at 105 Fillmore St. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. More information: 303-321-3112.

Eavesdropping on an employee to a fellow employee: “Is St. Patrick’s Day on March 17 again this 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.

Visit Denver’s 14th Annual Tourism Hall of Fame honored those who have transformed the tourism industry in Denver and Colorado during a dinner on Wednesday in the Seawell Ballroom.

The Tourism Hall of Fame serves as the highest award for Denver’s travel industry, which registered its best year in 2011 with 13.3 million overnight visitors generating more than $3.3 billion in spending. The industry supports 50,000 jobs in the metro area.

The 14th Annual Tourism Hall of Fame inductees are rock n’ roll concert promoter Berry Fey, former Denver Art Museum director Lewis Sharp, and popular Denver tour operator Sid Wilson of A Private Guide.

Four “Tourism Star” awards were presented to organizations and attractions that had a significant impact on Denver’s tourism industry during the preceding year.

“This was truly a significant year for Denver tourism with an unprecedented five tourism stars helping to showcase our city as a center for art, sports, sustainability, history and innovation,” said Richard Scharf, president and CEO of Visit Denver.

Winning Tourism Star Awards were: The Denver Art Museum for its blockbuster original shows “Yves Saint Laurent: The Retrospective” and “Becoming Van Gogh”; Denver Zoo for its new and ground-breaking Toyota Elephant Passage exhibit; the History Colorado Center for bringing Colorado history to life with its new building and exhibits; the NCAA Women’s Final Four, which created $20 million economic development and national television exposure and Denver International Airport and United Airlines for its new nonstop flight from Denver to Japan, which will begin flights in May.

The gala raised money for the Visit Denver Foundation, which has given out more than $460,000 in scholarships to 189 Colorado students pursuing higher education in the fields of tourism and hospitality since 1999.

5280 magazine says…

The latest issue of 5280 magazine names the Best New Restaurants of 2013.

The special restaurants (and I have no argument with these choices) are The Populist at 3163 Larimer St. (www.thepopulistdenver.com), Sassafras American Eatery at 2637 W. 26th Ave (www.sassafrasamericaneatery.com), Uncle at 2215 W. 32nd Ave. (www.uncledenver.tumblr.com), Oak at Fourteenth at 1400 Pearl St. in Boulder, (www.oakatfourteenth.com), The Universal at 2911 W. 38th Ave. (www.theuniversaldenver.blogspot.com), Amerigo Delicatus Restaurant & Market at 2449 Larimer St., (www.amerigodelicatus.com), Spuntino at 2639 W. 32nd Ave. (www.spuntinodenver.com) and The Squeaky Bean at 1500 Wynkoop St. (www.thesqueakybean.com).

Where were you during their heyday?

“It’s only words, and words are all I have, to take your heart away.” Barry, Robin and Maurice Gibb.

The Australian Bee Gees Show captures the look, the sound and the personality that defines one of the most successful and adored acts in musical history.  This five-piece band has evolved to become the definitive live celebration of four decades of wonderful music written by the Brothers Gibb.

The Australian Bee Gees Show has played to capacity crowds around the world, cementing their reputation as exceptional performers and the world’s leading Bee Gees show.  Their greatest hits are performed in a live concert setting with state-of-the-art sound, lighting, video screens, onstage mannerisms, speaking voices, and soaring high notes and harmonies capturing the essence of the Bee Gees.

For one night only, be a part of the magic of one of the greatest bands of all time covering such classic songs as Stayin’ Alive, Night Fever, You Should Be Dancin’, Nights on Broadway, Massachusetts, Tragedy, Lonely Days, To Love Somebody, How Deep Is Your Love,  Jive Talkin’, Grease,  plus many, many more.

This concert benefits Colorado Public Television 12 and is sponsored by KOSI, 101.1-FM, Out Front Colorado, Prime Time for Seniors, 50plus Marketplace News, The Curtis, Presidential Worldwide Transportation, and Marlowe’s restaurant.

The show starts at 8 p.m. March 15; doors open at 7 at the Paramount Theatre. Tickets are $39 – $49 (Golden Circle) plus service charges and available at www.tickethorse.com or by calling 866-461-6556.  Tickets also available through Channel 12 online at www.cpt12.org or by calling 303-296-1212.

Beer here

1515 Restaurant at 1515 Market (duh!) is continuing its slate of stellar microbrewery dinners with a Goose Island Beer Dinner, beginning at 6 p.m. with a reception, and dinner at 6:30.

Goose Island, a brewery headquartered in Chicago, brews more than 50 craft beers at the brewpub, which are then bottled at their Fulton Street brewery.

People can get a taste of some of their best brews paired with Chef Garren Teich’s amazing food. Cost is $40 per person (not including tax and gratuity). For more information, go to www.1515restaurant.com.

She’s my friend

Ellen M. Robinson is now Director of Health & Wellness at the Office of Gov. John Hickenlooper. Congrats to the Milk Maid for landing a great job. She’s done well for herself, however. When I grow up, I want to be her!

Eavesdropping on a customer who drops off four large bottles of beer for a clerk at a Cherry Creek North store: After the customer leaves, clerk says to his fellow employees: “I guess I have to be a whole lot nicer to him from now on.”

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.

Any of you who missed the Swoozie’s first anniversary party, missed a freaking good time!

Not only did Swoozie’s, the darling gift store at Sixth and Fillmore, throw a great party, but Three Tomatoes Catering did a great job, plus Jay’s Valet parked a gahzillion cars and put a million toothpicks into everyone’s auto.

On top of all that, we raised money for the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Excelsior Youth Center, Cancer League of Colorado and Women With a Cause. (Yes, I personally spent way too much money with the 20 percent discount plus the charity contribution!).

So, thank you Kelly Plank-Dworkin, founder of Swoozie’s, and to the Gart brothers, who now own the company, for putting your faith in us to throw you an awesome party. We had a great time, as I hope all of our attendees did as well.

Thanks to Ryan at Butler Rents, and Mr. B’s Wine and Liquors for contributing, plus Karen at Three Tomatoes for all the deliciousness, and to Jay at Jay’s Valet for all their hard work. Love to all!

Plus a big hug to Guenther and BJ at Bouquets for flower arrangements more beautiful than we ever expected!

Urban Almanac

Erica McNeish and Laurie Smith are both food lovers and food “professionals,” having worked as a food stylist and food photographer.

The pair have recently announced the launch of “The Urban Almanac” at www.theurbanalmanac.com.  The website  offers a seasonal online guide that features the bounty of food, drink and artisanal  products that come solely from Colorado.

“The idea is to bring Coloradans great stories about passionate, local and sometimes unknown purveyors. Through blogging about these artisans, we get to do what we love most: discover what is happening locally, document their stories with photographs, develop recipes with their products, and do what we can to spread the good word,” said Smith.

The Urban Almanac includes feature stories and recipes for breakfasts, lunches, desserts and main courses, hot drinks, cold drinks, cocktails and much more all featuring Colorado products.

It provides “foodies” with a unique resource for tracking and tasting local flavors.

McNeish has been a food lover her entire life and made a career of it as a freelance food stylist. She has styled 10 cookbooks (including two award winners) and her work has been featured in magazines including Gourmet, 5280, Sunset and Cowboys and Indians.

Smith is a freelance photographer, specializing in the world of food and travel. She has photographed and documented food stories around the globe, and her photos have been published in 35 cookbooks and national food magazines, such as Savor, Food and Wine, Sunset, 5280 and Cowboys and Indians.

“We’re excited to be able to express our passion for the food, farmers and foragers of the front range!,” said McNeish.

Vesta is besta

Why be limited to $52.80, asks Vesta Dipping Grill at 1822 Blake St.? During Denver Restaurant Week, which runs thorough March 8, for select dates, Vesta will let guests create their own $52.80 menu (for two) off of Vesta’s regular menu dinner menu if you make your reservation after 9:30 p.m.

Diners can choose any appetizer, entree and dessert for $26.40 per person.  So go ahead and order such signature entrees as Ponzu shrimp, Madras grilled venison and sticky toffee pudding, all for $26.40 (a huge discount from the regular value of $53.).

Reservations for this offer will be limited to after 9:30 p.m. on select dates during Denver Restaurant Week.

Call Vesta at 303-296-1970 and mention the promo code: “Vestal Virgins.” Limited to five tables per night. Max table size is six guests and the open dates are March 4, March 4 and March 6.

Simon says: Eat at 1515

Kerry Simon (aka the Rock-n-Roll Chef and owner-chef of four restaurants in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Atlantic City, N.J.)  could eat anywhere he wanted when he came to Denver, but Gene and Paula Tang were so honored that he chose to join them for dinner recently at 1515 on Market Street.

“We had a wonderful time serving him and were thrilled that he seemed to savor every bite of Chef Garren Teich’s fare”, Tang said.

Kerry Simon, aka the "Rock 'n Roll" chef, joined Gene and Paula Tang for dinner at their restaurant, 1515, in Lower Downtown recently.

Ace is the place

Who doesn’t love a snow day? (me!). Memories of skiing, riding, lunch on the slopes, drinks in the lodge and of course the gear! (yuck!).

The next time it snows three or more inches, Ace at 501 E. 17th Ave., Denver, 80203, is hosting its own Snow Day Party. Show up in your own retro one-piece snowsuit or favorite snow gear, and enjoy food and drink specials, fire pit, music and ping pong on the outdoor patio.

The party will go from 3 to 7 p.m. the day after every big snow.

Prizes for the best snowsuit and the best homemade hat will be given Since these parties are all dependent on Mother Nature, the invites will be impromptu, so keep an eye on Ace’s website at www.acedenver.com.

Eavesdropping at a library on a kid to his mom: “Why do I have to go to the library? All they have there is books!

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.

Imagine a Girl Scout Thin Mint with a Vina Eguia Rioja.

Or, perhaps, a TYDY Sauvignon Blanc with Savannah Smiles.

Then there’s an insouciant Les Grandes Roches White Burgundy with Trefoils.

It was all part of a wine and Girl Scout cookies pairing put on by wine and grocery master Pete Marczyk and PR pros Wendy Aiello and Leanna Clark (who hosted the event in her lovely 1939 home last week) as part of a cookie-selling drive for the Girl Scouts.

However Marczyk mastered the event, it worked. Women left with order forms filled out for wine and with boxes of various types of Girl Scout cookies.

A good time was had by all.

Chili  or chile time

On Sunday, I was one of the judges of a chili (or chile) cook-off at the Celtic Tavern, 1801 Blake St.

And if you’re thinking that was an easy day’s work, think again. We tasted 22 different chiles made with all kinds of ingredients and toppings.

The winners for the cook-off were:

Red Chili: Pam Shanahan with “Cincinnati Red.”

Green Chili: Erik and Sean Trujillo with “Team Trujillo.”

Veggie Chili: Zach Burk with “Vegetarian Chili Delight.”

Celebrity Chili: The Brown Palace Hotel with “White Rooster.”

Peoples’ Choice Winner: The Brown Palace Hotel with “White Rooster.”

The whole event was a fundraiser for The MaxFund Animal Adoption Center, the no-kill Denver animal shelter.

New car show

Come browse hundreds of the year’s new vehicles, meet Miss Colorado at the Cadillac display, get a first look at the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA,  Jaguar F-Type, and check out some of the elite 40 MPG Club members all at the Denver Auto Show.

So come sit in the cars, pop the hoods, inspect the trunks, and kick the tires March 20-24. Tickets are on sale: http://denverconvention.com/events/details/denver-auto-show1?utm_source=Newsletter+March+2013&utm_campaign=March+2013+Newsletter&utm_medium=email.

Swoon over Swoozie’s

Swoozie’s, the darling gift and stationery store at 589 Fillmore St., is hosting a one-year anniversary party from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday with a 20 percent discount on all purchases plus a give back to four local charities.

Four high profile women: Jamie Angelich for Excelsior Youth Center, Edie Marks for Cancer League of Colorado, Susan Kiely for Women With a Cause and Judi Wolf for the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, will raise money for their charities while encouraging their supporters to shop.

The public is invited to stop by, save money on purchases, enjoy a glass of pink bubbly and some fine fare from Three Tomatoes Catering, plus learn about the charities.

Pig out

Tender Belly, the local pork purveyor, is the official provider for all the heritage breed pigs for this year’s Cochon555, which brings together five chefs, five pigs and five winemakers.

Do not miss it when this one-of-a-kind traveling culinary competition and tasting event comes to the Four Seasons Resort Vail and marks a culinary milestone with its Fifth Anniversary Tour.

Created to promote a national conversation around the sustainable farming of heritage-breed pigs, each event challenges five local chefs to prepare a menu from the entirety of one 200-pound family-raised heritage breed of pig, nose-to-tail provided by Tender Belly.

Twenty judges and 400 guests help decide the winning chef by voting on “best bite of the day”. The winner will be crowned the Prince or Princess of Porc and will compete at the Grand Cochon event at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen on June 16.

The super-star chefs are: Alex Siedel of Fruition, “Top Chef” winner Hosea Rosenberg, Jason Harrison of Flame Restaurant in The Four Seasons Vail, Kelly Liken chef/owner of Kelly Liken restaurant in Vail and Lon Symensa chef/partner in ChoLon in Denver.

Tickets are $200 for VIP with a 4 p.m. admission, or $125 for general admission at 5 p.m.

Purchase tickets at www.cochon555.com.

Here’s the link to the event page: www.amusecochon.com/2013/vail.

New to the event this year is the launch of a cocktail competition called “Punch Kings” featuring Breckenridge Bourbon, prepared by six local bartenders, plus the new TarTare Bar for the VIP hour. All attendees will enjoy butcher demonstrations, sustainable oysters, creative pork dishes from all the chefs, a visit to the Manhattan Bar or new Chupito Bar featuring Mezcals, plus the Cheese Bar.

Beer from Anchor Brewing, pork-spikes desserts and a digestif will close out the evening.

Best-dressed challenge

Vanity Fair magazine ushers the international best-dressed list into the digital age with the International Best-Dressed Challenge where the magazine invites readers to nominate themselves and others for the 2013 list.

Recognized the world over as the definitive and authoritative roster of style leaders, the 73-year-old International Best-Dressed Challenge – one man and one woman – will be announced in a new category on the 2013 list to be revealed in the September issue of Vanity Fair.

Those who think they have what it takes (or know someone who does) can enter by using the hashtag #vfbestdressed on photos they post to Instagram, Twitter or Trendabl. They also can upload photos directly from their computer or mobile phone and from Facebook or Instagram albums at www.vf.com/bestdressed.

Vanity Fair’s partners for this program are Giorgio Armani, Neiman Marcus and Clinique.

“Fashion has become more liberated thanks in no small part to the Internet and social media,” said Vanity Fair editor Graydon Carter. “We’re excited about bringing the iconic International Best-Dressed List into the digital age.”

Each week a group of Vanity Fair editors will pick their favorite looks from the latest batch of submissions. These selections will be presented in a weekly curated slide show.

Additionally, a monthly award will go to the entrant who has received the most “likes” from viewers in the photo gallery.

The deadline for final entries is June 30, when the International Best-Dressed List selection committee will review all submissions. The two winners will appear in the September 2013 issue of Vanity Fair.

Eavesdropping on two men at Gaetano’s: “We have eight or 10 movies in the basket.”

“It’s not called in the basket, it’s in the can.”

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.