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Causes to Care About
Italy Earthquake Relief: Eating for a good cause? That’s the dream. Denver’s Parisi and Firenze a Tavola—co-owned restaurants in the same building at 4401 Tennyson Street—are offering a $10 Bucatini all’Amatriciana pasta dish, and they’re sending 100 percent of each sale to help Italy recover from last week’s earthquake. The dish—a blend of tomato, pecorino cheese, and pancetta—originated in Amatrice, the center of the earthquake’s devastation. The owner of both restaurants, Christine Parisi, has close ties to Italy and wanted to follow the lead of restaurants in Italy that were donating part of their proceeds to the recovery efforts. Parisi says the fundraising effort will continue at least through the end of this week.
Give Wild: Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the National Parks Service, and give kids from Title 1 schools—those with students from low-income backgrounds—a chance to experience America’s natural wonders. Buy any of Artifact Uprising’s six stunning $50 photo prints, depicting scenes from Joshua Tree to Yosemite and more, and feel good knowing that three kids will get the opportunity to visit a National Park.
Events to Attend
Path to Prosperity: It’s hard to imagine the Mile High City without the cultural, social, and economic contributions of our Latino community. You can help Denver’s Latino population continue to flourish by supporting Mi Casa Resource Center. Attend the free breakfast, and pledge to help Mi Casa, which supports Latino families economically through business development, career development, and youth and family programs. Wednesday, 8–9:30 a.m.; PPA Event Center, 2105 Decatur St.; free
Ekar Farm Project Helping: Support sustainable agriculture and food justice by helping with planting, irrigation, fertilizing, and weeding projects at an urban farm in Denver. Yes, you’ll get food at the end—and you’ll get to see some of the healthy organic produce that Ekar Farm sends to local food banks. This charity event is hosted by Project Helping, an organization that connects people struggling with depression with volunteer opportunities. Wednesday, 6–8:30 p.m.; 6825 E. Alameda Ave.; free
Essence of Jalisco Tequila and Salsa Tasting: If you’re hungry for Latino culture—and thirsty for a Thursday night beverage—head to Boulder’s Spruce Street. Get your fill of authentic Mexican appetizers by Agave Bistro & Tequila House, as well as salsa, tequila, beer, wine, and cocktails. And what’s better for a true evening fiesta than live mariachi music? Thursday, 6 p.m.; Rembrandt Yard, 1301 Spruce St., Boulder; free (21+)
Jason Motte Foundation Cornhole Challenge: Hang with your favorite Rockies players, including pitcher Jason Motte, at this competitive cornhole tournament. Proceeds will assist in funding a trip to Spring Training for pediatric cancer patients at Children’s Hospital Colorado. Thursday, 5 p.m.; Gold Crown Field House, 150 S. Harlan Dr., Lakewood; ticket prices vary
Tour de Fat Fort Collins: This day-long festival caters to both cycling junkies and those who want to indulge in New Belgium Brewing’s popular beers. Following a bike ride around Fort Collins, revelers can enjoy a fashion show, musical acts, contests, and kid-friendly entertainment. Beer and food will be available for purchase. This is the 17th iteration of the festival, which has raised more than $4 million since its inception. This year’s nonprofit partners include Overland Mountain Bike Club, Bike Fort Collins, and the Fort Collins Bike Co-op. Saturday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.; Civic Center Park, Fort Collins; free (donations encouraged)