by Mark Smiley | Oct 18, 2024 | General Featured
by Mark Smiley
The summer months are behind us but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider a quality cooler to have in your inventory. There are still soccer tournaments, softball games, backyard parties, and other activities this fall. Plus, Denver weather has remained unseasonably warm. Having a quality cooler to keep the drinks and food cold is essential. Whether you are in the market for a new cooler, want to add to your fleet, or just want an upgrade, consider the BrüTank 35qt rolling cooler made by BrüMate.
The BrüTank 35qt has a capacity of 36 cans (12oz) plus ice, 25lbs ice, or 9 bottles wine/liquor wit
The BrüTank 35qt rolling cooler comes in a variety of colors including denim.
h the Drink Tank installed. Some premium coolers offer disappointing capacity considering how large they are on the outside. The BrüTank 35qt is exactly what you would expect when you open the lid.
The claim is that ice retention lasts seven days, but even though it was properly prepared with a sacrificial bag of ice and cold beverages added, the ice lasted three days with temperatures soaring into the 80s.
The weight is much more manageable than other premium coolers at this price point, which at time of press was $324.99. It comes in under 30 pounds, including the fact that it features premium all terrain wheels. Wheeling this cooler to a soccer game with the telescoping handle was a breeze, and when finished wheeling, easily slid back into place making it easy to store.
One of the unique features of this cooler is a removable 1.8-gallon drink tank with a built-in tap, providing easy access to your favorite beverages. This simplifies drink mixing and facilitates cleaning. Once mixed, the tank can be placed in the cooler for later use. Moreover, the tap is designed to be easily removed, allowing for effortless cleaning without the need to empty the tank beforehand. This feature makes the process considerably more efficient while maintaining the integrity of the drink.
The BrüTank 35qt is also comfortable to sit on as the foam seat top allows you have this cooler perform as an additional seat on your adventure. BrüMate thought of every detail, down to including a different cork when not using the drink tank. This cooler is well made, can easily be wheeled through tough terrain, and keeps drinks cold for days.
BrüMate also offers other products such as hydration packs and drinkware. Visit www.brumate.com for more information or to purchase.
by Mark Smiley | Oct 18, 2024 | Editorials
by Mark Smiley
BikaBahn step-thru ebike in red.
BikaBahn is a good option for those looking to commute in the city.
This publication has reviewed a few different electric bikes over the last couple of years. They have ranged from Class 1 with fat tires to Class 2 with regular tires and everything in between. The BikaBahn is the first brand to be located in Denver and they have burst onto the scene this summer and fall.
BikaBahn launched its first electric bike on July 13 and 14, 2024, at the Electrify Expo in Denver. BikaBahn introduced its commuter bike and they proclaimed it is “designed to make city commuting easier and more reliable than ever.”
The electric bike space is extremely competitive, so BikaBahn needs to set itself apart from the competition. They are focussed on one style bike and the rider’s experience. “We’ve poured our hearts into designing a bike that caters to the needs of urban commuters,” said Dharmin Dontamsetti, Founder and CEO of BikaBahn. “Our goal is to make commuting easier, more enjoyable, and more sustainable for everyone.”
Bikabahn loaned the Chronicle one of these bikes for 72 hours and it was put through the paces by three different people. One thing to note is that these bikes are a little smaller than other electric bikes on the market so they make it ideal for women and teenagers. With that said, the bike offered a comfortable, smooth, safe, and peppy ride.
BikaBahn launched in July 2024 at the Electrify Expo in Denver. They are Denver based and attempting to upset a saturated electric bike market.
It features an electric propulsion which is either pedal assist or a throttle for the difficult hills. “As a seasoned cyclist in a hilly area, I struggled with exhausting commutes until I discovered Bikabahn’s e-bike,” said Kimberly Read. “This bike has been a game-changer, allowing me to conquer any terrain with ease using its adjustable assist features. It’s not only ergonomic and stylish but also packed with innovative features like zero flat tires. My rides are now enjoyable and effortless, reigniting my passion for cycling. I highly recommend Bikabahn to enhance your cycling experience.”
As a Class 2 ebike, this bike tops out at speeds of 20 miles per hour. In our test, it did not make it past 18 miles per hour which is an attractive option for parents looking for their children to own an electric bike.
As mentioned above, Bikabahn has produced a smooth riding electric bike, in part because of the flat-free tires and its advanced front and rear suspension systems. The bike absorbed shocks and bumps with ease with the alloy wheels performing well. These aluminum alloy wheels protect the motor, ensuring a long-lasting and sturdy ride. These features make BikaBahn a great choice for anyone looking for a dependable electric commuter bike.
The handlebar and seat is height-adjustable and allows you to customize your riding position for maximum comfort and control. And, the basket and cell phone holder attached to the handlebars are included in the cost, which at time of press, is $1,550.
The BikaBahn electric bike also features an LCD display (which most electric bikes have) that keeps riders informed about their speed, battery life, and riding mode. There are five levels of pedal assist and manual riding using the 1/2 twist throttle. Bikabahn is not the lightest on the market at 55 pounds, but certainly not the heaviest. The regular tires help keep the weight down and allow for a more manageable storage solution.
“Riding the BikaBahn e-bike has been an absolute pleasure,” said Lori Pesola. “It’s smooth, powerful, and makes every ride so much more enjoyable and accessible. I highly recommend this bike to anyone looking to elevate their biking experience.”
For more information or to purchase, visit www.bikabahn.shop. Chronicle readers can take advantage of a $50 discount by using the code Cherrycreek50.
by Mark Smiley | Oct 18, 2024 | Glendale City News
Popular Event: Over 1,710 guests came to enjoy the perfect day for Trunk or Treat complete with a bouncy castle, haunted house, and food trucks.
Dedicated Performer: Lynn Taylor, Experience Director for the Glendale Sports Center, performed as Taylor Swift for the entire two hours.
The annual Trunk or Treat hosted by the City of Glendale and Glendale Sports Center was held on the festival plaza of Infinity Park for the second time on Monday, October 14, 2024. Denver Public Schools and Cherry Creek Schools children were on Fall break so there was a record turnout for this event. Plus, the weather was perfect as attendees were able to wander the plaza in comfort. Over 1,710 kids came to trick or treat and acquire over 37,000 pieces of candy, bounced in the bouncy castle, and walked through the haunted house.
“Trunk or Treat was a gigantic success with a new record breaking number thanks to the hard work of City of Glendale staff, YMCA staff, volunteers, and vendors,” said Kelly Legler, Program Manager, Glendale Sports Center. “The successful event exceeded our expectations and we’re excited to offer more fun opportunities in the future.”
In years past, the event was held in the P1 parking lot of Infinity Park. Again this year, the City of Glendale offered the festival plaza and played the movie Halloween Town on the big screen inside the rugby stadium to add extra flare to the event. “The event was a huge success thanks to the partnership between the YMCA, City of Glendale, and community partners,” said Legler.
One of those community partners was the Greater Glendale Chamber of Commerce. Barret O’Brien and Mark Smiley from the Greater Glendale Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors volunteered for the event. “The turnout was outstanding,” said Barret O’Brien, Chamber Board Member. “It’s great to see the community get so involved. I have volunteered for this event the last seven years and this is the most interactive and lively one to date.”
Attendees voted for the best decorated trunk as they went through the lines. There were eleven to choose from and the winning trunk was decorated by Infinity Park Event Center Facilities department with a Cars theme. For more information on the Glendale Sports Center, visit www.sportscenterglendale.com.
by Mark Smiley | Oct 16, 2024 | Travel
Annual Beer & Brunch hosted by Boston Beer Company on October 11, 2024
By Mark Smiley, Jeff Stiglic, and Mike Turk
Boston Beer’s annual Great American Beer Festival Beer & Brunch event was held on Friday, October 11, 2024 at West of Surrender. The annual media brunch featured the introduction of Samuel Adams’ American Light as well as pouring familiar favorites such as Oktoberfest. Dogfish Head, a part of the Boston Beer portfolio also had their popular beers on hand including the 60-minute IPA.
Jim Koch, founder of Samuel Adams and Sam Calagione, founder of Dogfish Head Brewery addressed the capacity crowd on a beautiful Friday morning. They talked about the history of the Great American Beer Festival as well as talking about the future of the craft beer industry.
Samuel Adams, which is always looking for ways to innovate and provide what customers seek introduced the launch of Samuel Adams American Light. This light craft lager is a crisp, refreshing, great-tasting, easy-to-drink beer perfect for everyday drinking occasions. Koch likens it to a Miller Lite or Coors Light but with more flavor. 
The brewers behind Samuel Adams spent countless hours perfecting the American Light recipe. With an ABV of 4.2% and 115 calories, Samuel Adams American Light is made with all American ingredients and is designed to be an easy-drinking beer that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
“We know beer lovers are seeking lighter, easier-to-drink options that they can enjoy throughout the day – whether it’s at the beach, at a friend’s party, or at a happy hour,” says Lauren Price, head of brand at Samuel Adams. “For those times they want to ‘upgrade’ those occasions with a great-tasting light beer, American Light is the answer.”
Samuel Adams American Light will initially be available in 12 oz. can six-packs, 12-packs, with national distribution expected in March 2025.
Dogfish Head also had Covered in Nuggs, an IPA that was introduced back in 2018 and is now available on a national scale. With notes of pine and citrus, Covered in Nuggs is an IPA that is delicious, with a sturdy base of Golden Promise malt. They piled on the Citra, Simcoe, Amarillo and Centennial hops.
For more information about Samuel Adams American Light and where to find it, please visit samueladams.com or follow @SamuelAdamsBeer on social media. For more on Dogfish Head, visit www.dogfish.com.
by Mark Smiley | Oct 16, 2024 | General Featured
Photo Credit: Philip Macías
Photo Credit: Philip Macías
By Mark Smiley
Meghan Trainor toured for the first time in eight years and brought her Timeless Tour to Red Rocks Amphitheatre on October 8, 2024. The 30-year-old singer toured with Natasha Bedingfield, Paul Russell, Chris Olsen, and her brother Ryan Trainor to warm up the crowd.
Trainor kicked off the show by appearing atop a hydraulic lift high above the main stage to sing a remixed version of her 2023 single “Mother.” She performed 22 songs in an over 90 minute set. She performed her biggest hits such as Lips Are Movin, Better When I’m Dancin’, Dear Future Husband, and her debut single and number one smash, All About That Bass.
Trainor, who has been writing songs since she was 11 years old last performed in Denver at the Paramount Theater in Denver eight years ago. She repeatedly mentioned how it was nice to perform in Colorado again and especially at Red Rocks which she indicated was a bucket list item for her.
She delivered her songs with a smile on her face, and energetically dancing with her six back up dancers during nearly every song. The show was upbeat and kept the crowd which was a mix of teenage girls, younger kids, and parents toe tapping and singing along.
All in all, people left the amphitheatre happy and satisfied with all of the performers throughout the evening. The Timeless Tour concludes on October 19 in Inglewood, California. For more, visit www.meghan-trainor.com.
by Editorial Board | Sep 26, 2024 | Editorials
Editorial —
Kent Thiry — A pretty face can hide an evil mind.
It is said that money is the mother’s milk of politica. But what if we could make it not only just the most important thing in politics but the “only thing.” Kent Thiry, the former CEO of DaVita, a dialysis provider, who somehow managed to escape two federal charges for labor market collusion, is back with another ballot measure to finally destroy elections in Colorado.
Thiry is well known for pouring millions of dollars into highly effective and unopposed television commercials that push changes to the Colorado electoral system that would benefit “practical politicians” like himself, but what he means is multi-millionaires like himself.
He hates political parties where everyday citizens can have a say and not just the millionaires who fund the parties. His latest scam is Proposition 131 which will abolish partisan primaries and impose rank choice voting for the four top vote getters that go on to the general election.
In Alaska where the system was imposed in 2020 there were over 40 candidates running in the nonpartisan open primary. Four candidates made it to the general election where voters listed their preferences from one to four. As no one got a majority of the number one votes, they dropped off the candidate who got the least number one votes of the four, and saw who those voters’ second choice was and counted them as number one votes. This went on until one candidate received a majority.
This is the system that Thiry wants Colorado voters to adopt under Prop 131. In the nonpartisan primary to make the final four for the general election name recognition is the name of the game. In Alaska one person who named himself “Santa Claus” came in sixth.
To get name recognition, normally candidates must run countless television ads which cost a great deal of money. Either you’re rich or are the candidate of one or more wealthy donors.
Average citizens who participate in politics normally become party precinct committee persons and work their way up the chain. Under Prop 131 all that would become void; only the very rich, like Kent Thiry, will determine who is elected to public office. In back rooms they will also manipulate the final four candidates to see who finally becomes elected to the public office.
Thiry is running endless ads saying that if 131 passes it will get parties out of politics (true) and comically that Prop 131 will even get wealthy donors out of the political process. If he was an honest person (which he is not) Thiry would have said that under Prop 131 only the very rich will have any say in elections.
Alaska was so disgusted by Thiry’s system that voters have placed a proposition to get rid of nonpartisan jungle primaries and rank choice voting on the ballot this year. It is hoped that the latest fool’s gold proposition by Kent Thiry is decisively voted down by the Colorado voters. If not, it may be one of the last votes by Colorado voters that matters.
— Editorial Board
