Few of us need to be reminded that the Earth is covered in water by 71%, and about 97% of that coverage is found in our oceans. It’s a number we’ve heard many times before, and points to the scale of responsibility we hold as humans to protect and sustain the ecosystems that surround us on all sides. There’s a quiet comfort in knowing that, despite the expanse of our world, we are all connected by water, the very foundation of life itself. Even still, it takes a village to put these responsibilities into action, and energizing each other by what lives at our core unites us more than we realize. Here at Kor, we’re always trying to navigate these waters through community, collaboration, and creative decisions that fuel our passion projects, striving to put 100% into our slice of sustainability. Part of that commitment lives in our membership with global nonprofit, 1% for the Planet, who has routinely opened a floodgate of opportunities for individuals and companies alike to have a hand in shaping a healthier climate since their founding in 2002. The organization works directly with brands and businesses from hundreds of industries that pledge to donate a minimum of 1% of their annual revenue in pursuit of tangible change, and 1% for the Planet recently reported that 2022 was a record year for green giving, a number we are proud to be a part of. This goes beyond philanthropic value or monetary might, because the root of camaraderie of this level can be more accurately explained by a shared vision of evolution and a desire to grow, both of which propel us to do our part where we can.
Water represents many things, but especially mobility. It’s what carries us to the summit, and then back down the slope when our hearts just won’t stop pounding. It keeps us going when we have 24 hours to spare in a new city, and holds us by the pool after a long day at work. It’s the basecamp for our wildest adventures and the reason our bodies crave more out of life. Water connects us from all four corners of the globe, and in the spirit of pelagic blue, our commitment to collaborative climate action runs very deep. Since our inception in 2004, we have placed intentional design at the forefront of our journey, ensuring that our decisions are deliberate and carefully executed. We act with purpose, and this translates fluidly into the design of our bottles. Similarly, 1% for the Planet has positioned their name as a symbol for global change, easily recognized on the products, brands, and businesses that participate as members. For some people, the idea of climate action can feel distant, removed, or irrelative, since the effects of climate change are not always surface-level. Part of our mission at Kor is to put hydration in the driver’s seat of our daily commute, and with water taking the lead of our day-to-day, we can simplify the very act of sipping sustainably. Organizations like 1% for the Planet place climate action in our peripheral line of sight so we can actively instigate change, and seeing that 1% is just enough to inspire others to get involved, too. These small but mighty maneuvers make big waves in the global fight for climate justice, launching real examples of change from accessible starting points. Water represents mobility, and we choose to use water as a vessel for change because it’s the one thing that unites us all, second only to the human experience.
Sustainability is a buzzword, no doubt. But the root of sustainability is informed by evolution, or the will to move forward. From the very beginning, Kor has been energized by innovation and creative thinking. Water is always moving, changing, adapting, and we feel empowered by this identity to grow and develop with the world around us. When we launched our One Canvas collection, for example, we wanted the unique visions of tomorrow’s artists to build and conceptualize a vessel that reflected the patchwork of humanity itself, and the many different voices that speak to our evolution. In order to see real change unfold for the world, we have to be active listeners and players in the story, not just bear witness to the statistics we’ve heard about time and time again. Forces like 1% for the Planet help us become protagonists in this narrative, allowing companies like Kor to join an expansive network of influences that facilitate change in their industries. Above all else, 1% for the Planet represents active engagement with the Earth, uniting all of us over a shared vision for upward mobility.
]]>Our latest partner Audi has a collective passion and commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Our latest partner Audi designs beautiful luxury vehicles, but they’re also committed to innovation, sustainability and diversity. Audi’s US division is on a mission to reduce their net carbon footprint by 30% by 2025. That’s why they plan to have more fully electric models than any other automotive brand on the market by 2021. They’re also bringing more diversity to the industry. They recently partnered with the American Film Institute and The James Beard Foundation to provide more opportunities for women in the workplace. They created an internal council, along with special training, to increase understanding and inclusion.
We are particularly excited about their efforts surrounding water. We agree that, “Clean drinking water is one of our most valuable resources.” Audi Mexico led the way in 2018, as one of the world’s first automotive manufacturing plants to purify and reuse all wastewater created during vehicle production. According to Peter Kössler, Audi’s Board Member for Production and Logistics, “Our goal is to drastically reduce freshwater consumption and cut the water consumption per produced vehicle in half by 2035. Where possible, we are already using recycled water... Our vision is to have closed water cycles at all our production sites.”
It’s passion that drives Audi forward. Their commitment to make the world a better place is what inspired us to partner with them on Audi’s KOR RIDE bottle. The Kor Wilshire bottle features Audi’s iconic rings on both the bottle and the RIDE. Kor’s style, which includes the perfect spout, is a luxury hydration experience to match Audi’s driving experience.
]]>So you might be wondering to yourself, ‘What exactly is “Daybreaker?’” I asked myself the same thing. To put it as simply as possible, it’s a sober morning dance party designed with a mission for us all to have wellness, camaraderie, mindfulness, self-expression, and mischief.
Sounds like a great idea, right? But maybe you’re a little skeptical about how “enlightening” this experience really is (I was too). I decided that the only way to find out was to actually experience this event for myself. If it was amazing, I’d have an awesome new activity to do and bring friends to, and if it wasn’t, I had the rest of the day ahead of me to binge-watch some Netflix. We create our own memories, right?I walked into the lobby of the W Hotel, in excitement and anxious anticipation, I really had no idea what circumstances the universe had packaged in store for me. As I entered the 33rd floor to the Altitude Venue I could hear house music blasting through speakers. I was greeted with a smiley, warm, and friendly hug from an event host. Then, a smile lit up on my face as I saw one of the best gifts the whole entire earth has ever had to offer us, FREE FOOD.As I walked into the circular main room, I was so nervous I could feel the discomfort in my body. I looked around and just started copying the dance moves of the first person I could find. When I got into my own flow I really looked around the room and admired everyone I saw. You could just feel how free they were, expressing themselves, happily dancing, with no cares in the world. At that moment, it wasn't just their dancing that captivated my heart, but their soul illuminated when playing freely.As time went on, the hosts surprised us with a balloon limbo, conga massage train, instructions to hug a stranger, group meditation, and an inspirational morning talk with a life and sex coach.
Here are some secret insider tips if you decide to go live this experience for yourself:
Another thing I was not aware of, was how much love would be in the room and the higher meaning behind the whole event.I came to the event alone anxious if I would be able to go through it without looking lame for being alone. I actually came to find a couple of people who did come by themselves and were freely dancing with no friends near them. I walked around and asked a couple of people how they did particular dance moves, and they kindly showed me with no judgment. A group of two girls lovingly welcomed me into their circle. About four people shared their experiences and the story of what brought them there. One girl even made plans with me later on. The community there was so full of loving kindness.As we ended the party, we were left with these words: "We are living in the cusp of human consciousness. It is our responsibility to stay true to love, peace, happiness. We're on the cusp of incredible times."
We all had a group hug as we inhaled all the positivity and exhaled everything that no longer served us. It was at that moment I was moved by what I just had been a part of. Daybreakers is not just a morning dance party, but a party about bringing more happiness and love into the world. About starting your day on an extreme high so you can share that with those around you. How amazing is it that things like this exist in our world right now?My biggest takeaway was to always love, have fun, and live with deep meaning. Not just for a party, but in all areas of life. Rarely in life do the best experiences just show up. We have to create for them.
I hope this inside scoop on Daybreakers has given you the inspiration you need to create even more meaningful magical memories.
Daybreakers events happen all around the world at various times. Visit www.daybreaker.com or www.instagram.com/dybrkr to learn more!
]]>Black Power Naps is a featured installation of Where Oceans Meet, an exhibition inspired by the works of Caribbean writers Lydia Cabrera and Edouard Glissant. Each work in the exhibition highlights various viewpoints on "race, diaspora, colonization, creolization, language, and territory'.
The display is a multi-sensory installation created by Niv Acosta and Fannie Sosa in 2011. Siestas Negras tackles the discrepancies between sleep for people of color and "reclaims laziness and idleness as power" (Museum of Art and Design). The installation features six stations explicitly created to promote deep rest; the Polycrastination Station, Atlantic Reconciliation, Pelvic Floor, Black Bean Bed, Oxygenation Station, and Black Power Station.
Before I get into my experience, I just wanted to touch on a little bit of the background of the exhibition and what it all stemmed from: Black Power Naps seeks to provide a space for people of color to escape from the pressure to do and be and offers peace as a replacement. For many, sleep is seen as luxury provided only to those who have been blessed by their social-economic standing. Sosa and Acosta endeavor to implement a home for people of color to embrace self-love and prioritize self-care.
The disparity referred to as the "sleep gap" has been studied by numerous academic institutions, including the Pew Research Center and the National Institute of Mental Health. Studies show that chronic sleep deprivation can be directly linked to many health issues and engenders stress and anxiety. The sleep gap is attributed to many social and economic factors that make People of Color more likely to get less sleep; however, it has been concluded that they are not the only determinant.
The inequality does decrease as minorities begin to make more money; nevertheless, several studies have noted that the improvement of social-economic status does not erase the disparities between the sleep of People of Color and their White Neighbors. Siestas Negras investigates this issue more deeply. The installation's purpose is to bring the matter to the forefront of our minds and "redistribute rest as a form of reparations."
The exhibit begins in a dimly lit black room where participants remove their shoes before entering the performance space. Everything about the curation of the area feels sacred. A table with six flickering candles is the centerpiece of the room. Each candle is adorned similarly to Veladoras, a religious candle used traditionally by Latin Americans, with a twist of activism.
In the principal area, silky drapery, plush pillows, lavish blankets, and ambient mood lighting reinforce relaxation. Guests are invited to explore the space, remain present, and do what feels right to their bodies while keeping the personal space of others in mind.
Acosta, co-creator of Black Power Naps, makes an opening statement that shines a light on the meaning of Siestas Negras and why its mission is so pertinent. After the introductory speech, attendees are empowered to rest as meditation music fills the hall. The music is not your typical yoga studio meditation music, but instead, each soundscape has a common thread of Afrocentricity and Latin flare.
After having a few minutes to unwind, participants are led through a series of breathing exercises and guided meditations, steering them deeper and deeper into a space of comfort. A reflection conducted by Sosa was my favorite piece of the exhibit. Sosa has a presence that makes it clear how sincerely this topic resonates with the artist. The artist's words fill the hall, and the hearts of the participants intensifying the encounter. To close out the event, Acosta and Sosa sing a duet in Spanish. The song is presented as an offering to visitors. The number is followed by a note to hold on to the moment and the artists implore attendees to create their own sanctuary for rest in their lives and homes.
As I left the museum, my senses were flooded by the sights and sounds of Miami, and I felt a flurry of emotions. I felt overwhelmed and sad knowing that I had to return to a world where my existence as a person of color seemed to be an apparent handicap. However, I also felt powerful in a way I didn't expect. I knew I was not alone and that I had a community that understood the daily challenges I face. Black Power Naps did not give me that community. They had been there all along supporting me, standing with me, and cheering me on. I had just been too busy to notice.
Art is a powerful thing. Art can make us think, feel deeply, and at its best, it can change the way we view the world. Black Power Naps is a transformative experience; opening the minds of its participants to what art can be.
Siestas Negras is a must-attend event for not only people of color but for anyone who needs to be reminded that rest is not a luxury, but a birthright. This event is one that will impact the lives of many and serve as an admonition to all that they "are enough."
For any curious Miami locals, the experience is located at the Museum of Art and Design at MDC until January 12, 2020. Find out more about BPN on their site as well as their Instagram!
*Special thanks to Black Power Naps for letting us feature some of their images along with our own.
]]>At each show, the theme is given beforehand. Then, anyone who buys a ticket to that show can put their name in a hat to be picked to tell their story related to the theme. Only ten are chosen to perform their story, which must have a beginning, middle, and end and last less than 5 minutes. Then, three teams of judges are randomly selected to score each story on a 10-point scale. The highest scoring storyteller of the night is able move through to the next round, showcasing the top storytellers from various shows.
The event I attended was held at Swallow Hill Music in Daniels Hall, an intimate theater inside one of the most notable music schools in Denver. The house was packed long before I arrived, quite early I might add so if you get a chance to see one of these shows, COME SUPER EARLY.
With the theme of “lessons” for the night, I initially thought that each performer would be solemn; telling stories of anguish and hardship becoming teaching moments in life, but that was far from the case for most. In one performance, a young woman spoke of being fired from her job because she went viral and having to take time off work because of all the media requests looking for her to do an interview. Another performer talked about having arachnophobia (a deathly or irrational fear of spiders) while owning a tarantula.
Boisterous laughter was just as common as heavy sighs from the audience, empathizing with real people talking candidly and openly about things that affected them in ways I would have never expected. Honestly, everyone that performed did an incredible job and I wish they all could have received high enough scores from the judges to move on to the other events hosted by The Moth. The stories I heard were each unique, inspiring, uplifting, heartfelt, and truly reminded me why life is sometimes the way it is. It reminded me that there is always something to be learned from any experience.
The best part of the show was the sheer variety in the stories told. Between each performer, the host also read off experiences written down by the audience on sheets of paper that were handed out as we walked in about a time you failed the test. This was a lighthearted way to transition from performer to performer. It made the show much more intimate knowing that not only were these performers sharing stories of their own lives, but snapshots of people in the audience were being shared as well. It was funny to hear quick snippets about everything from failing driving tests to accidentally ruining first dates. It was a fun interactive way to find humor in tragedy. It was a light-hearted reminder that there are always lessons to be learned- even through failure.
If you want to attend an event that is like nothing you’ve ever been to, I’d highly recommend going to a show hosted by The Moth. You will leave it with a totally different perspective on life than when you entered. Although the theme of the night will certainly be different, I’m sure that the stories will be just as thought-out and interesting to hear. Remember to get there early in order to grab a seat at the front, and don’t hesitate to raise your hand to judge the performances!
The Moth hosts regular events twice a month in Denver and hosts over 500 events every year in cities all over the world. Check out their website here to see upcoming events near you. They also host a popular podcast called “The Moth” which is free to download wherever you get your podcasts. Check them out to see why storytelling is still so important (if not more important than ever) in today’s world.
]]>Though it’s hard to imagine a dive bar could deliver that warm, fuzzy Christmas spirit as effortlessly as it slings well vodka, it's a nightly occurrence at Lala’s. But on September 28th, the bar celebrated its 47th anniversary, and the Christmas cheer was turned up to 11.
I read on Lala’s Facebook page that Santa would be visiting the bar for their September anniversary party, so my partner and I headed down to Justin Lane see what kind of Santa a Christmas-obsessed dive would host. By the time we arrived, Santa was having a Pabst and checking his email at the bar. He looked a bit like a surly bus driver, and while I wasn’t about to ask him if I could sit on his lap, Surly Santa completed the Lala’s Little Nugget atmosphere in a way that he probably wasn’t even aware of.
He sat like a large, red anchor amid a buzzing crowd of regulars and newcomers, every one of them seemingly in a great mood. And how could they not be?
Near puddles of booze sloshed about by a packed house, candles flickered in red and green dollar-store glass, plush elves bobbed up and down overhead, and about 200 snow globes clustered everywhere from floor to ceiling, all of which appeared to have been there since the 1980s. This intimate space was jammed with enough colored lights and festive bobbles to make a Times Square Santa Clause blush. They even had the leg lamp from A Christmas Story glowing lurid red in a corner near the pool table, right next to Santa’s massive throne.
Add some smooth Sinatra on the house speakers, and you’ve got one of the liveliest Christmas parties you’re ever likely to attend. And just for fun, Lala’s does this three times a year, complete with an ugly sweater contest in June and a white elephant gift exchange in December.
After a surprisingly spicy cocktail with habanero infused tequila (a Naughty Little Nugget), I decided to pop next door for some barbeque at Lala’s Little Neighbor, Do-Rite BBQ. Many people will miss out on Do-Rite’s offerings only because, in this brisket-obsessed town, award-winning BBQ joints are on just about every corner. But a little-known fact about Do-Rite is that it’s actually a location of the famous Stubb’s Bar-B-Que, doing business under a new banner. My fried green tomatoes and angus brisket were some of the tastiest in town, and that's saying a lot around here.
Food in hand, I retired to a table out on Lala’s covered patio where the concrete is covered by plush AstroTurf and there are actually cushions on the chairs and benches. Once I’d eaten, I petted someone’s pooch and struck up a few conversations with nearby strangers, and I quickly got the sense that the warmth inspired by this place carried out onto the patio. Everyone I spoke with was open and receptive, which can be a rare thing in big cities, even when alcohol is involved.
By the end of the night when the clock struck 2am and it was time to Uber home, it occurred to me what truly makes Lala’s such a unique place. It’s more than the wall-to-wall colored lighting, dusty tinsel and dive bar Santa (bless his heart), or even the amazing barbeque. Come by on any given evening and you may notice, whether because of the great atmosphere or the welcoming staff — Lala’s Little Nugget just seems to make people feel good. Even the door guy and bartenders aren’t immune to this venue's undeniable charm.
It’s near impossible to feel lonely at Lala’s, even if you happen to be spending Christmas all by yourself at a bar. In fact, if you ever find yourself in that position, Lala’s Little Nugget may be the one place where you can turn being alone on Christmas into a truly wonderful experience.
For details on their amazing Bloody Mary Mornins’, weekday Jolly Hours or Lala’s infamous ugly sweater contests, check out the Lala's Little Nugget event calendar. To get insider tips on how to find Elfis the Elf (and win a prize!) or to read some reviews, visit Lala’s Facebook or Instagram. You can find Lala’s at 2207 Justin Lane in Austin, or reach them by phone at (512) 487-5297.
]]>The sport of axe throwing has been around for thousands of years and the axe is one of man’s greatest tools. Despite its practical relevance, a majority of modern people, especially in cities, have never even picked up an axe. I am one of those people. Establishments such as Urban Axes in Austin, Texas are dedicated to bringing the spirit of axe throwing into cities via a recreational setting and a simplified process.
Urban Axes, located on Airport Blvd, operates out of a simple, attractive facility with a generous parking lot. Upon entry, I was greeted with the exciting sound of axes hitting a wooden target, laughter and competitive chants from groups of people and warm staff members at the front desk. Urban Axes caters to both large groups and company outings, as well as walk-in customers.
Although not required, it is encouraged to call ahead for walk-in spots just to ensure availability. I recommend planning for a weekday, as it was only a Tuesday and decently crowded. I was prompted to fill out a waiver on one of the site’s numerous iPads, verifying that I was 21+ and I paid $22 for one hour.
Next, I was assigned a nearby throwing station where my instructor and group were waiting for me. The whole facility is clean and spacious, with a justified “urban” feel. Because of this open design, I was able to watch the other throwers, which can be fascinating and funny. I started to get the sense that people were really enjoying this. Since I was a solo walk-in, I was assigned to a group with two couples on a double date. They were feasting on chips and guacamole as well as spiked seltzers; this location is BYOB. In fact, most people seemed to be sipping on a beverage or eating a snack. When you weren’t throwing, there was a waiting and watching safe area complete with bar stools and tables. The atmosphere seemed to be upbeat and community-oriented.
When it was my turn to throw, the instructor happened to be simultaneously informative and concise, making the lesson aspect of the sport painless. He gave me a simple tutorial on a two- handed axe throw to get started and then encouraged me to throw my first axe; there was no time to be wasted. The initial throw felt a little odd, and inevitably it did not turn out to be a bullseye, but somehow it was extremely liberating. The instructor gave me immediate, useful feedback. He made sure to carefully watch what part of my axe hit the target (or floor) and at what time, which helped him calculate where I needed to stand based on the way my axe was rotating. He thoughtfully critiqued my posture and I was encouraged to throw a handful more times until the next person at my station switched in. We rotated in and out for the remainder of the hour, amazingly growing in skill exponentially each time. By the way, I miraculously achieved a bullseye after a few throws. I couldn’t believe it!
On a typical evening during walk-in hours, you might find an eclectic group of people. There was a full-blown league competition in the backend of the facility, a result of team practice sessions and legitimate tournaments. Anyone and everyone, regardless of experience, is invited to create or join a league. There was also a corporate retreat sharing a memorable time with some beers and friendly competition. There was a husband and wife duo who bring in their own axes and train frequently. There was even a man in opposition with himself standing at a faraway, advanced distance. Urban Axes makes something as unfamiliar and unique as axe-throwing totally accessible to everyday people.
If you are feeling even somewhat adventurous, I encourage you to plan a trip to visit Urban Axes. Although I was nervous at the start of this experience, I came out the other end thrilled about a potential new hobby.
Get in touch with something as primal as axe-throwing and rediscover what it means to have fun. And in case you were wondering, I think the trick to it all has something to do with the follow-through.
For more information on Urban Axes, axe-throwing in general, making reservations, locations, and more, you can visit www.urbanaxes.com. You can find them on instagram @urbanaxes as well.
]]>My mind immediately went to the 2004 comedy, “Dodgeball,” and I started imagining the slogan “If you can dodge an arrow, you can dodge a ball!” plastered on the company website.
There was only one thing left to do. Register for an event and sign the waiver! I eagerly agreed that I might suffer a concussion or die and began counting the days.
Game Day
Before leaving, I double checked the website and found plenty of goodies to look forward to. Eight game types, safety-engineered arrows to shoot my opponents with, and 15 minutes of training!
I hadn’t expected so much for the reasonable $27 price tag, to be honest.
When I arrived at the hidden gem that is Archery Games Denver, I found a spacious parking lot (free parking anyone?) and a surprisingly active vibe.
First Impressions
When you walk through the front door, it's a mix between laid back friendliness and an impending battle. From the skeleton greeting you by the entrance to the caged arena taking up more than half of the room, you know it's about to go down.
Whitney, who would be my trusted coach for the day, greeted us with a smile and told us that training would begin soon.
Unless you have the money to rent out the entire space, I should mention that you’ll be playing the game with strangers. My husband and I played with a group of 12 people celebrating their friend’s birthday, and Whitney confirmed that this happens all the time. It’s part of the fun, really.
Training
We began with training. This consisted of a rundown of how things worked, wearing the armguard that protects your skin, the bowstring, etc. The essentials, basically. Definitely make mental notes here.
Once my group had their armguards on, Whitney picked up her bow, knocked a padded arrow, and nailed a fist-sized ball hanging down the training range. I'm pretty sure she'd give Legolas a run for his money (I'm confident whoever you get as a guide will be just as well trained).
Next, everyone has the chance to learn how to use the bow and arrow before donning their helmets and being ushered into the combat arena.
Game Time
So now I’m breathing in through an awesome paintball mask, wearing my armor, and picking up my bow from inside the arena. Padded arrows are strewn across the middle of the floor, dividing the two sides.
Whitney starts explaining the first game to us—Zombie Apocalypse—while I take in the strategically-placed cover on both sides of the area. You’re divided into random teams and sent to your respective sides to await the start of the game.
When the game starts, you dash to the center of the arena, grab a padded arrow, and pray no one shoots you as you dive for cover.
From there, it’s all flying arrows, teamwork, new game types, and the sweet, sweet feeling of shooting an anonymous person, maybe the birthday guy himself, in the face.
PRO TIP: Make sure you picked an armguard that fits well before the games begin!
Surviving the Game
I survived my hour in the arena and came out feeling like a professional archer. Sure, I tried archery as a kid, but a first-timer friend felt the same way! I'm pretty sure Archery Games Denver has discovered the secret to training the world's best archers (shh).
My group's games were moving faster than average, but we still didn't have enough time to try all eight game types. My favorites from the game types we did get to play are:
Zombie Apocalypse (You don’t die, you just switch sides!)
Engineer (Your team picks where the cover goes!)
Dog Eat Dog (No cover, no teams, it’s everyone for themselves!)
Before I go deeper, I want to say that I would have thought not playing all eight game types would disappoint me, but it didn't! It just makes the prospect of going back even more exciting.
Zombie Apocalypse
The game starts with Zombie Apocalypse because no one gets taken out in this mode. If you get hit, you switch sides, which means that you get to practice for the entire round.
Engineer
For most of the games, the cover stays where your trusty guides placed it. In Engineer, your teams get to move the cover wherever they want to put it. You even get an extra cover piece to work with, which my enemy team used to build a near-impenetrable castle.
Dog Eat Dog
After spending most of your arena time with cover, seeing it all go to the side for “Dog Eat Dog” is intimidating. There are no teams, no sides of the arena you have to stay on, no ways to come back into the game. I probably only like this one because I almost won before the birthday guy took me out.
Learn from My Mistake
Everything Archery Games Denver did was terrific, but I did one dumb thing. I forgot to bring water. Don’t be like me- you’ll be in a bow and arrow battle for 60 minutes, not counting 15 minutes of training, and you will be thirsty.
You’ll also probably be dripping sweat.
Looking Back
Having survived Archery Dodgeball, I can tell you that it was the most fun I’ve had in a long time. It reminded me of being a little kid again. And I walked away feeling tough. As though Whitney had passed on her Legolas skills to me somehow.
This is the most exciting ongoing event I’ve found in Denver, and I’ll be coming back. They even have a league you can play on if you’re super serious, and Archery Games Denver makes scheduling simple.
If you’ve never shot your friends—and total strangers—with padded arrows in a battle arena before, you don’t know what you’re missing. Trust me.
Find out more about Archery Dodgeball at www.ArcheryGamesDenver.com.
]]>For the uninitiated, Chicken Shit Bingo could perhaps be more accurately described as “Texas roulette” (not to be confused with Roulette poker, a variant of Texas Hold ‘Em). It’s essentially a single, sudden-death round of bingo, as the chicken is only allowed one shit per game. The rules are simple. Instead of paying to sit down with a blank bingo card, players begin each round by purchasing carnival-style tickets, each individually marked with a number that appears on the big CSB board. You win if the chicken detritus plops onto the number on the board that corresponds to the one on your ticket. The good news is that this is a cheap thrill: $5 per golden ticket, for the grand prize of $300, and $2 per regular ticket, which could win you a whimsically arbitrary $114. The bad news is that the golden tickets sell like hotcakes; get in line quickly to nab one before they’re gone. Once the chicken has made its mark, the winners are announced over the loudspeaker and gather outside the front door to collect prize money and take photos.
While bingo technically takes place outside the saloon itself (in a back parking lot accessible from the street), it’s worth taking the scenic route through the bar. I entered through the front door onto a tiny yet boisterous dance floor packed with erstwhile rodeo kings and queens two-stepping to a live country band. As its website promises, Little Longhorn Saloon is pure Texas honky-tonk: neon beer signs, no-nonsense, boot-clad bartenders, and cold beers by the bucket. I ignored the designated White Claw fridge, ordered a Lone Star and a mini bag of Doritos (when in Rome), and wove through a throng of cowboy hat-clad revelers to the main event out back.
The saloon itself is compact, but the Chicken Shit Bingo area provides much-needed spillover room. This Sunday happened to be particularly festive: the parking lot brimmed with young, old, and canine companions alike. I got major Fourth of July vibes from the sprawl of slightly sunburned guests sitting in buckling plastic lawn chairs or on patterned picnic blankets spread out on the asphalt. There was even a pair of glossy hot rods parked in one corner that would occasionally erupt into growling engine sounds to complement the live blues blaring from the outdoor speakers. The scene was extremely chicken-forward: not only could I peek into the hens’ primary residence (a coop tucked in the back of the parking lot), I detected the heady aroma of fried drumsticks wafting on the breeze from Lucy’s, a fried chicken joint cannily located some 200 meters down the street.
After I spent a few minutes outside letting the beer soak in while contemplating the ridiculousness of this event with some other patrons, a woman named Libby called everyone into line to buy tickets. In my lager-induced sloth, I brought up the end of the line--no jackpot chances for me. With two regular tickets in hand, I squeezed my way to a spot within view of the bingo board, a wire-bound hutch structure complete with a wood floor carved into a numbered grid. A ripple of excitement ran through the crowd as it parted to make way for Loretta the Bingo Chicken. Some onlookers gave her good-luck pats before the Bingo Official, Ricky, scooted her inside the coop/board. Those with front-row positions frantically urged Loretta to defecate “a little to the left!” Within seconds, she had made her choice: neither of my numbers. A cry rang out from a victor as the rest of the crowd muttered, “I thought it would last longer…?” I’ve heard tell of Chicken Shit Bingo rounds lasting tens of minutes. Alas, that was not our fate tonight. But that’s showbiz.
Ultimately, this was $4 well-spent. To quote a fellow gambler, Chicken Shit Bingo is truly “the stupidest thing I’ve ever witnessed,” though undeniably delightful. I feel like a true Texan again after taking part in one of its peculiar traditions. Be sure to show catch a round for yourself on Sundays between 4 and 8 PM, and don’t forget to tip the band!
You can find more about Chicken Shit Bingo at The Little Longhorn Saloon by visiting https://thelittlelonghornsaloon.com.
]]>Watching local artists paint murals is free to the public at CRUSH. But some of the more exclusive events come with a price tag. Take, for instance, Secret Walls, an experience that bills itself as the “fight club” of the art scene. If you’re fast enough, you can grab tickets to this quickly sold out, undisclosed location event that features a live illustration battle. The secrecy, the exclusivity, and the unflagging amount of talent you are privy to all feel a bit metropolitan.
Walking through the main streets surrounding CRUSH WALLS is no different from many of the other neighborhoods in Denver; you’ll see dogs and breweries aplenty, and food trucks parked here and there. But the alleys are where the excitement happens. Finding art in an unexpected place like an alley is surprising, and the artists leave no surface behind. You’ll see works of art that teeter on the fine line between murals and graffiti on abandoned couches, dumpsters, lampposts, and more. A panel of judges has selected these artists from countless applicants, and they are the chosen few allowed to artfully deface the walls in these alleys.
The crowd meandering through the alley is Denver in a nutshell: young, bustling, busy, and exciting. Of course, it’s not just Denverites perusing the art show, but folks from far and wide who came to see the art in progress. Happy tourists unaware of just how sunburned and dehydrated they’re getting at this elevation stroll through the exhibits and comment on the unprecedented heat. The smell is appropriate for Denver’s first event to receive a special permit allowing public marijuana use, dampened only slightly by a whiff of chemical spray paint.
Like any good festival, CRUSH WALLS has a lot to offer people with varying interests. At an entrance, a shaded enclosure houses a studio where kids are making art, ostensibly for refrigerator walls back at home. A DJ spins music in a tent while the lines for vodka cocktails and spiked seltzer melt into the swarms of those observing the art, the artists, and the music. If you’re here at the right time, you might find yourself amidst a block party, concert, lecture, or art-related workshop.
Anyone who has spent a few years in Denver knows that this isn’t the neighborhood’s first facelift. RiNo is unrecognizable from what it was a decade ago. The area just north of downtown Denver has been completely reinvented. Each year, artists “buff” (artist-speak for prepare to paint) and then coat these buildings with brand new art. This creative ritual makes the reality of growth Denver is experiencing unmistakable. Come back next year, and nothing will look familiar.
At its core, Denver is still a city full of innovation, talent, creativity, and people who love nothing more than taking in art and auspicious weather. This event is a culmination of that sunny and creative spirit. Denver has a lot of public space art, and CRUSH is a celebration of the art community – a diverse and extraordinarily gifted group. The raw talent it takes to start with a wall or a mattress or a dumpster and turn it into something beautiful is part of the reason people continue to flock to this city. Denver has energy, character, and vision; it’s no longer just a mid-sized hub in the Midwest.
Timing your trip to CRUSH WALLS is key if you aren’t planning on visiting a few times. Come towards the beginning of the week, and you’ll see vague sketches of mural ideas. Later on in the week, the transformation from alley to work of art becomes evident. While the festival itself may be over for this year, you can still stop by and see all of the amazing artwork across the neighborhood.
What better way to support local art than by picking up some merch by underground Denver artists, amongst thousands of other art enthusiasts who see Denver for what it actually is: a city continually reinventing its image, full of people ready to start from scratch and create something striking.
For more information on this year’s events, check out: https://www.crushwalls.org.
Author: Angela Kempf
]]>Denver is known for many things: its fast-growing home prices, its innovative tech industry scene, and its beautiful mountains complete with world renown ski resorts. It also has a pretty unique health, wellness, and fitness scene. A number of renowned fitness moguls had their humble beginnings in Denver. So you check out some local boutique fitness and yoga classes, or maybe you run the Cherry Creek trail. It’s fun and it’s beautiful! Now what?
If you are looking for a one of a kind yoga experience, you are in for a local yet monumental yoga practice at an event called Yoga On The Rocks.
Imagine this - the most iconic music venue in the US, fresh air, summer sun, city and mountain views, and rows upon rows of people sitting on their mats waiting for class to start. There, in this beautiful setting, a powerful voice of a kind teacher will guide you through one hour of magical, inspired, physically challenging, yet calming yoga practice.
This is Yoga On The Rocks. Just a few miles from Denver Colorado, the Red Rocks Amphitheater is situated in an environment build completely by nature and only enhanced slightly for human convenience. The venue has natural acoustics helped by the giant red rock formations, hence the name of the theater. It hosts over nine thousand people as a concert venue and about two thousand people as a yoga class venue.
Mats hit and unroll on the wooden planks that usually serve as seats to concert goers, people also put their stuff down and get ready to practice atop the planters for higher views. Yoga teachers usually show up super early to help with set up, to ground themselves, and to prepare for class. They peruse the eclectic backstage and they marvel at the iconic rock star signatures embedded into the Red Rock. Holding on to that inspiration as well as all the memories of shows, movie screenings and other life event celebrations, the teacher takes the stage.
After speaking with one of the past Yoga On The Rocks instructors, I discovered how nerve wracking teaching can be - “It was terrifying to see so many people looking down at you, and I’m supposed to teach them something!” Of course, as a teacher, you can’t really walk around and adjust too much (how can you assist 2000 bodies in one hour?) , so instead she focused on using her voice to assist and inspire. “It’s a totally different environment than teaching in a classroom; it’s very challenging yet totally life changing.”
I can only imagine how she felt looking around at the grandeur of her class, totally humbled by the experience.
As a practitioner, the experience is somewhat similar - you wake up early to beat traffic and find parking. Then, unless you’ve scored a parking spot at the top, you climb yourself and your yoga gear up to the venue; that alone is a great way to warm up for the day. You find a spot, hug all the friends you planned to meet and so many others you probably didn’t even know were coming. Then, as the sun rises, you experience the joy of doing yoga outside, at the one of the most interesting places in the US. It’s chilly at first, but as the sun rises, it is quick to warm you up; the vigor of the Sun Salutations doesn’t hurt either.
As you practice, you can’t help but notice the sprawling views, as well as the synchronicity of so many people moving together as one. The air hits your face just right and you are transformed into a nicer, more connected human… one breath at a time.
You work it for a full hour and then, your head gently hits the mat wrapping up your practice with the sweetness of Savasana - the final resting pose. You hope for a long one. It’s so quiet, yet you feel the kind supportive energy around you.
Just being at Red Rocks is sure to lift anyone spirits; with a yoga class added to the goodness, you’re sure to be on a unique kind of high. And yes, you’re more than a Mile High from sea level! Those visiting Colorado from other states are sure to feel this practice in their lungs; it’s great for training them for other sea level activities.
As an event, Yoga On The Rocks, has been around for six seasons, starting its seventh this summer, 2019. It didn’t take its time gaining popularity. Instead, even in the first year, most dates scheduled were sold out. Usually, two yoga studios take the reins and rotate some of their most favored instructors. For instance, one yoga studio owns the month of June and the other takes over July. The event is held every Saturday morning. It is not unusual for concert goers to turn in around midnight on a Friday after a show, and then wake up and head back out to Red Rocks for “a little yoga action” the following morning.
There are so many yoga events these days - festivals, workshops, special guest classes. Yoga at the Park, Yoga on the River, Yoga on the rooftop, yoga in a really large back yard, yoga in a very small back yard, yoga online, yoga on demand, yoga.. yoga.. yoga… Anything that brings people together as a community is great and tends to be empowering and wonderful in many ways. With so many choices, what matters most to people is coming together and joining in on the fun. That, and possibly some photos to go on their instagram feed.
What sets Yoga On The Rocks apart from the rest is that it is SO Colorado. With Red Rocks as your back drop, you will be taught by a local yoga teacher complete with malas, possible tattoos and innovative messaging. After this yoga experience, you can head into Morrison just down the road and enjoy local green chili with a hearty breakfast or a light walk by the river. Bring your water bottle, your mat, your best friends, and your camera. This will be a day you’ll never forget.
]]>Tacotopia is an immersive taco exhibit in Santa Monica, which debuted on Friday, May 24 and goes until Sunday, July 7. It features over 20 taco-themed environments where you can either take photos or engage with the art. There are swinging chairs, taco teeter-totters, and even a mechanical bull embellished with taco art. The exhibit is $30 for adults, $25 for students, and children 4-11 $20. For the admission fee, it also includes a bottle of Jarritos soft drink, a taco from Azule Taqueria (down the street from the exhibit), as well as a cholula hot sauce sample bar.
As you walk down the 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica, you pass the Victoria’s Secret, the Sunglass Hut, and the Zara to find yourself in front of the store opening for the Tacotopia festival. It’s located in the same spot as the Nasty Gal store was a couple of years back. You walk in and immediately greeted by bright blue, yellow, and pink signs that read, “Tacotopia: Welcome Taco Fanatics”. As there are other taco festivals elsewhere in the states, this one is unique because of the immersive environment. Not only do you get to have taco pictures, but you can also play taco-themed games.
After you pay, you proceed to enter the exhibit through the glass walls that loop you into the “playground”. The first real game you can play is the ring toss where you are given a handful of rings to toss onto the Jarritos soft drink. It’s no pressure because you are given a complimentary soft drink regardless of your ring toss skill. Next, there are a number of animated rooms filled with taco art. Some rooms that stood out were filled with massive tacos that you could sit on. You could also take a ride on a taco teeter-totter wearing a sombrero hat in front of a multicolored ribbon background. Another favorite was a room with a swing and a bright pink background that read, “less hate more tequila”.
As this event is an all ages event, there were a lot of younger children running around. The children especially had a blast playing in the guacamole play pin. There was a large exhibit showcasing a red guacamole bowl with small green blocks which were meant to look like guacamole. You could hear children laughing and screaming throwing the blocks back and forth. The background was made with green, yellow, and red chips and read “Guac is extra and so am I” and is a perfect place for another photo opportunity.
The whole event was produced for people who like tacos, and those who are interested in getting unique, colorful photos. Many of the people who attended were families as well as teenage girls who were stopping at every room to strike 15 poses each. Luckily, visiting on a Sunday afternoon wasn’t crowded. There were absolutely no lines to get in, which is a super rare find in LA!
Overall, checking out Tacotopia is a fun family activity especially if you do live near the Santa Monica area. Bring your family and friends and make a day of it- eating and shopping along the 3rd Street Promenade!
Learn more about the festival here: https://atacotopia.com/
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