5 Local Tea-Centric Cafes
Here are five of our favorite places to have teatime in the Mile High City.
A Shrine Turned Luxury Condos in Regis
The site of the former El Jebel Shrine offers lavish digs and million-dollar views.
Happy National Margarita Day!
Here are seven places that do everyone’s favorite sweet-tart tequila cocktail justice.
Road-Trip Restaurant: I-70 Diner
Ease your hunger pains with heaping portions of comfort food at this charming Eastern Plains spot.
Coffee, Beer, and Doughnuts at Hotbox Roasters CBD Cafe
The Oskar Blues team brings java and beer-infused doughnuts (plus a burger joint) to RiNo.
50 Years of Live Music, As Photographed by Larry Hulst
Colorado Springs’ Larry Hulst will unfurl six never-before-seen David Bowie photographs at his latest exhibit Front Row Center.
Where To Take A Break From The I-70 Madness
Traffic is the worst. Take a breather by popping off the highway and into one of these seven spots.
Lunch Box Refresh
Chef Frank Bonanno offers three tips for keeping your kids happy with their sack lunch.
Coming Soon: Arvada Center’s Black Box Company Repertory
Arvada Center’s new season of shows features a cast of resident actors taking on a trio of theater classics.
Inside Colorado’s Most Energy-Efficient Home
Using Passive House, a German stlye of design, Andrew Michler was able to harness the warmth of the sun.
A Tale of Two Savory Pastries: Char Siu Sou vs. Samosa
Plus where to find both of them in Denver.
You Can Ski Cheap Just An Hour From Denver
Save money and ditch the crowd for a ski day at Echo Mountain.
Shop Talk: Rhizome Apothecary
This new Sunnyside shop is chock-full of holistic and plant-based expertise, products, and processes to keep you and your family healthy.
Hometown Reads Taps Into Denver’s Rich Literary Scene
As part of an initiative to engage readers in their local book scene, Hometown Reads welcomes Denver into their online community.
Local Writers Create a Website to Chronicle Dating Horror Stories
Thought you were alone in your dating struggles? Not even close.
A Tea-Themed Food Lover’s Book Club on February 15
Suzanne Klein of Zanitea joins food writer Amanda M. Faison to discuss all things tea—including how to cook with it.
10 Comedy Shows to Catch in February
Because we could all use a few laughs.
What to Do in Denver (and Beyond) February 8-14
From a journey on the underground railroad to a performance that will pull you into an alternate universe straight out of a Toulouse-Lautrec painting, here are five can’t-miss events this week across the Front Range.
Colorado by Nature: Skiing the Colorado Mineral Belt
Thanks to a geologic quirk of fate, as well as plentiful powder, Aspen, Breckenridge, and Telluride have all struck it rich twice during their long, boom-and-bust histories.
This Year’s Wedding Dress Trends
From plunging necklines to sultry lace, 2017’s gown styles are made for bold (and bourgeoisie) brides.
Order This: Cho77’s Crunchy Tofu Balls
The story behind the crazy-delicious appetizer.
Free Things to Do in Colorado This February
It’s a short month, but there are still plenty of free events to keep your social calendar full.
Rockies Preseason Vibes: Cautiously Optimistic
The Colorado Rockies head into spring training with a stacked lineup and some well-deserved preseason hype. Will they rise to fans’ expectations?
Colorado Bookshelf: “Books For Living”
New York Times bestseller Will Schwalbe’s newest work is one for the voracious reader in all of us.
Drop an F-Bomb on Your Loved One for Valentine’s Day
A Denver startup—called Flower Bombers—brings bouquet delivery into the 21st century with social media integration, same-day delivery, and cheeky terminology.
Sweet Stuff: Moxie Bread Company’s King Cake
It may not be traditional, but it’s one of the best pastries you’ll eat this year.
Denver Is No Longer the Very Best Place to Live in the U.S
We dropped a slot in U.S. News and World Report’s annual list of America’s most desirable cities. To that we say: thank you.
First-Timer’s Guide: Loveland
Trade a visit to Fort Collins for a tour of this up-and-coming northern Colorado town.
You Can Get Married for Free on Valentine’s Day
Ready to lock it down? Denver’s Office of the Clerk & Recorder is celebrating the season of love with free weddings on February 14.
Road-Trip Restaurant: Bread & Salt
From veggie scrambles to classic eggs Benedicts, look no further than Frisco’s Bread & Salt.
Yes, You Can Dog Sled In Colorado
You can “mush” in real life by taking a ride behind a pack howling hounds.
Denver-Based Nail Salon To Launch Organic Skincare Line
Bonus: Most of Base Coat Nail Salon’s new bath and body products are made right here in Colorado.
Local Organizations that Support Immigrants and Refugees in Colorado
President Trump’s recent executive order on immigrants and refugees has put added pressure on these communities. Here are six local organizations that are helping this underserved population.
Whiskey Lovers, Rejoice: Hearth & Dram Is Open
This modern saloon in LoDo offers more than 350 varieties of whiskey.
Photos from the Protect Our Muslim Neighbors Rally
An estimated crowd of several thousand gathered on Saturday afternoon to show support for Muslims, immigrants, and refugees in Colorado and beyond.
Denver Police Department Modifies Use-of-Force Policy
Here’s a quick run-down on the policy revision, plus how you can give your input before it’s finalized.
6 Colorado Mountain Hostels to Save Your Budget
Go ahead and splurge on those new bindings. We’ve got your cheap accommodations covered.
Stout Month Returns
Here are the dark beers we’re most excited about at Mountain Sun’s annual festival.
What to Do in Denver (and Beyond) February 1-7
From celebrating girl power in the film industry with a screening of iconic Ida Lupino’s Nasty Woman to a cooking camp intertwined with education about the Dust Bowl for your kiddos, here are five can’t-miss events across the Front Range this week.
Q&A: Moe’s Original BBQ Co-Founder Mike Fernandez
The Alabama transplant talks about bringing Southern-style pig to the Front Range.
6 Runs to Tackle at Snowmass Mountain
The largest of Aspen Skiing Company’s four mountains, Snowmass is ideal for adventurers seeking intermediate terrain.
The Case for a Screen-Free Family Dinner
Parents should be training their kids to be good diners, and that means putting away the digital devices.
Launch Alert: A New Restaurant Rating System from a Boulder Entrepreneur
The Good Food 100 list will celebrate chefs committed to sustainability.
The Highlight Reel: January’s Tastiest Food News
A monthly review of happenings in the Denver dining scene from 5280’s food team.
Local Coffee Companies Take Part in National ACLU Fundraiser
Huckleberry Roasters, plus three additional Colorado-based coffee companies, has teamed up with Sprudge to support the ACLU, one bag of coffee at a time.
5 Tips for a Pet-Friendly Yard
At this month’s Colorado Garden & Home Show, learn landscaping tricks to make your backyard safer for your four-legged friends.
The 4 Best Replacements For Your Moisturizer
We talk with the founder of clean-beauty store Aillea about the facial oils that will save your skin.
Don’t Miss: Patrick Dethlefs At Hi-Dive
The Colorado native is celebrating the release of his new album, Beauty in the Unknown, on Thursday night.
Internationally Known Artist Abandons Colorado Project
Christo has decided to move on from his Over the River project after 20 years and $15 million, citing an unwillingness to let the project benefit the new landlord: President Trump.
(Good) News Alert: Kimbal Musk Makes a Big Announcement
The Kitchen co-founder plans to scale his Next Door Eatery concept across Middle America.
Heat Up Your Super Bowl Party with These Spicy Treats
The Broncos may not be contenders in the big game, but locally inspired snacks and sips are still on the menu.
The Secret Ingredient in Avery Brewing Company’s Latest Brew? Human Saliva.
This light, refreshing brew is inspired by an ancient South American fermentation technique.
A CSU Ph.D. Candidate Is Stranded Abroad Due to Immigration Order
Hanan Isweiri is a mother of four attending Colorado State University on a F1 visa. But Trump’s executive order is currently keeping her, a Libyan citizen, from returning to her family and studies.
“To Denver, With Love” Celebrates The Mile High City Through Art
More than 30 artists are showcasing their love for the city in a new exhibit running from February 2–22 at ReCreative Denver.
How Colorado Politicians Responded to Trump’s Travel Ban
As demonstrators took to DIA over the weekend in protest of President Trump’s controversial executive order, Colorado’s elected officials took sides.
The X Games Are Back
The annual competition returns to Aspen through January 29.
Federal Freeze Leaves Local EPA-Funded Programs In the Dark
While we still don’t know much about the freeze, many programs and services in Colorado could be affected.
Carb Cravings: Village Bagel
There’s no Rosenberg’s in the mountains, but there are Connie Leaf’s backdoor bagels.
What to Expect from a Possible Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch
A quick guide on Gorsuch’s legal background, and some predictions about how we might expect him to rule on a few of today’s most contentious issues.
Denver Dog to Star in Puppy Bowl
Meet the puppy-heartthrob repping the Mile High City on the turf at the 13th annual Puppy Bowl.
Commuter Survey Sees Decrease In Public Transit Users
The 10th annual Downtown Denver Commuter Survey reveals interesting insights into how locals tackle their daily commute.
What to do in Denver (and Beyond) January 25-31
From entertainment for the whole family with Mark Twain’s timeless novel coming to life on stage to a gripping documentary for a good cause, here are five can’t-miss events in and around the Mile High City this week.
Why You Should Invest In Your Wardrobe Foundations
The owners of SOL, the largest independent, women-owned lingerie boutique in the country, provide tips for upgrading your undergarments.
Watch Chef Hosea Rosenberg Whip Up A New Dish
We’re going live! Follow along as the chef-owner of Blackbelly Market in Boulder teaches us (and you!) how to make his sweet potato blini with cured salmon.
Local Org Releases New Data On Teen Drug Use
Rise Above Colorado’s recent survey reveals the youth at greatest risk for addiction.
Amazon Fulfillment Center to Open in Aurora
The Seattle-based tech company announced plans to bring 1,000 jobs and a one-million-square-foot fulfillment center to Colorado.
Denver’s 2017 Real Estate Outlook
What—if anything—could slow down the Mile High City’s white-hot housing market this year?
Logan House Coffee Company Will Deliver Beans to Your Doorstep
Lots of exciting news—coffee delivery, a brick-and-mortar location, booze on tap, and more!—from this thriving local business.
Scenes from the Women’s March on Denver
On Saturday, more than 100,000 gathered in and around Civic Center Park to publicly reject President Donald Trump’s divisive rhetoric and rally for equality for all citizens.
Road-Trip: Breckenridge Distillery Restaurant
The much-loved distillery branches out into the world of dining.
Best Bites: Mizu Izakaya’s Cream Pork Kimchi
This is just one knockout dish—among many—at LoHi’s new Japanese hotspot.
Colorado Representatives Answer Your Questions
Here’s what Colorado’s congressional representatives had to say about their legislative priorities, repealing the Affordable Care Act, protecting the environment, and healing our divided country.
Refresh Your Decor with Pantone’s 2017 Color of the Year
Local designer Leslie Kazmierczak gives us her top ideas for decorating with fresh-start-worthy Greenery.
As Trump Becomes President, Protests Break Out in Denver
Plus, more inauguration-themed events happening in Denver this weekend.
Philip S. Miller Park Is the Perfect Escape for Any Weather
This Castle Rock park is a one-stop play area, no matter the forecast.
Orange Crush
Designer Petra Richards took the opportunity to create a kitchen that gives new meaning to the phrase “bright and early.”
Why Thousands of Women (and Men) Will March In Denver This Saturday
How a teacher, a real estate agent, and a librarian came together to create a movement they hope will last well beyond the inauguration.
A Food Truck We Love: Moontime Crepes
This mobile crepery crafts its delights in Stem Ciders’ parking lot.
Loaded Question
We dreamed up the one question regional journalists would ask if (brutal) honesty really were the best policy.
Mortal Combat
The inside story of two Colorado men fighting on the front lines against the Islamic State.
The Good Fight
A letter from the editor of our February 2017 issue.
The Insider’s Guide to Three Slopeside Shindigs
We tell you where to stay, snack, and sip while enjoying snowy events this month.
Colorado Bookshelf: Two New Nonfictions
Take a trip outside with these two new reads from local authors.
New Detective Tales Highlight the Mile High City
The set-in-Denver stories make many a reference to some of our favorite destinations.
What to Do in Denver (and Beyond) January 18-January 24
From trading in the snowy slopes for a tropical kid-tastic adventure to a Star Wars art celebration, here are five can’t-miss events across the Centennial state this week.
Why Getting To Telluride Just Got Easier
New direct flights to the mountain paradise mean no more six-hour-plus drives.
The Exodus of Outdoor Brands From Mountain Towns
The Mile High City’s active (and flush) citizenship is inspiring more outdoor brands to move here from the mountains.
How Colorado Are You?
Test your knowledge of Centennial State people, places, mountains and more with our 12-part, downloadable quiz.
Is Denver’s Homelessness Program Paying Off?
The private investors funding it sure hope so.
Is Congress Gearing Up to Give Away Public Lands?
The House’s new rules on the valuation of public lands could lead to a shuffle of land ownership in Southwestern states.
The New Way to Work Remotely
Life on the move is no longer the exclusive realm of retirees. Armed with laptops, smartphones, and Wi-Fi, more and more professionals are finding ways to travel and work—at the same time.
Denver’s Best Bars
In the Mile High City, there’s a watering hole for every occasion.
Restaurant Review: Coperta
Coperta triumphs by staying true to the rustic cuisine of Rome and Southern Italy.
True Story: I Hate Eggs
5280’s new food editor, Denise Mickelsen, shares what it’s like to eat for a living when you loathe a fundamental food.
Get Your Own Tiki Glassware
It’s always island time when you have locally made Polynesian barware from PopTiki.
Where We’re Eating in February
The restaurants, dishes, and drinks on our dining radar.
Go Now: Rolling Pin Bakeshop
Don’t miss the decadent four-story cakes at this Five Points bakery.
What To Do in February
Your short list of Colorado’s coolest events.
5 Kid-Friendly Valentine’s Day Dates
Enjoyable adventures for the whole family.
This Denver Roller Derby Ref Rules The Rink
Andrea Jacobson is one of the highest-ranked female roller derby officials in the world.
The CDOT Is Making Progress
The Colorado Department of Transportation is coming up with innovative solutions for everything from highway congestion to pedestrian safety.
Gear Closet: Dowp’s Comanche Snowboard
Three layers of fiberglass make the Comanche one tough all-mountain board.
New Exhibit Reveals the Healing Power of Art
Creatives show how art has helped them deal with drug addiction, Parkinson’s disease, and more.
The Yawpers’ Triumphant Road Home
The trio will play five Colorado shows before the end of January.
How To: Sip Your Booze Neat
Argonaut Wine & Liquor buyer Andrew Burton and Williams & Graham owner Sean Kenyon share their favorite local liquors for drinking straight.
Opening Alert: American Grind at Avanti Food & Beverage
Locally sourced burgers and fries with house-made condiments and ice cream are all on the menu.
Coming Soon: IV By Brother Luck
The well-known Colorado Springs chef will draw inspiration from the Four Corners region.
Opening Alert: Cellar West Brewery
Sanitas Brewing Company co-founder strikes out on his own with a Boulder venture dedicated to barrel-aged farmhouse-style beers.
Emerge Colorado Is Training More Women Than Ever to Run for Office
In the wake of the 2016 presidential election, an unprecedented number of American women are showing interest in holding political office. Meet five Coloradans who are part of this historic shift.
Our Five Favorites From the 2017 Big Beers, Belgians, and Barleywines Festival
Don’t wait until next year’s fest to sample these exceptional Colorado brews.
Colorado Legislature Tackles the Construction Defects Conundrum
Day one of the new session brings hope that a loosening of the condo logjam might be in sight.
Don’t Miss: Grow to Table Dinner with Ratio Beerworks and the Growhaus
This isn’t your average beer dinner, people.
What to do in Denver (and Beyond) January 11-January 17
From a free community concert of classical music compositions by a world-famous group to dining on edible bugs at a bug banquet, here are five can’t-miss events across the Front Range this week.
Now That’s Some Epic Pow
Crested Butte received more than 90 inches (that’s 7.5 feet!) of snow in just 10 days. And it’s made for some fine skiing.
Go Glam With These Accent Items
Try these picks for “Hollywood Regency” style at home.
Ask the Expert: How to Talk to Your Kids About Discrimination
We asked a local psychologist for tips on what to do when the topic of discrimination comes into our homes.
Trend Alert: Blue and White
This color duo is perfect for creating a tranquil room.
Color Correcting
Rich jewel tones and eclectic treasures invigorate this once-neglected, chateau-style Hilltop home—proving, once again, the boundless power of paint and playfulness.
The Secret to Fulfilling That New Year’s Resolution?
There isn’t one, but Denver is a darn good place to try.
Hidden Gem: El Coco Pirata
Head to this lively Barnum spot for super-fresh shellfish, stacked micheladas, and Sinaloan-style sushi rolls.
Four Gorgeous Front Range Rooms That Embrace Color
When it comes to decorating your own home, beige feels safe. But why be neutral when it’s so fun to go bold? Here, inspiration for using color.
Ski Run We Like: Vail’s Riva Ridge
In this series exploring Colorado ski resorts’ classic trails, we look at Vail’s Riva Ridge, the mountain’s longest run, which tests your mettle with four miles of bumps and steep drops.
First-Timer’s Guide: Salt Lake City, Utah
This mountainside city has more to offer than proximity to the slopes. (Hint: Come hungry.)
Decorating Tips: How to Use Purple
A well-placed splash of aubergine gives this elegant Greenwood Village bedroom a royal dose of style.
Check Out Salida’s Coolest New Hotel
Salida’s new Amigo Motor Lodge proves that roadside motels are back—and more stylish than ever.
Nine Ways to Incorporate Yellow Into Your Kitchen
Try these accents for a sunny infusion of color.
Minimalism and Craftsmanship Reign At Yore
Swoon-worthy home goods make the new Longmont shop worth the drive.
Material World
A combination of stone, wood, and metal creates a serene, neutral palette in this modern Cherry Hills home.
Best Bites: Chuey Fu’s Fuh (Pho) Burrito
The Asian-Latin food truck-turned-brick and mortar concept has a tasty new item on the menu.
Learn How to Eat Healthier with the “Human Diet”
Morrison-based doctor Cate Shanahan has released an updated version of her acclaimed book, Deep Nutrition: Why Your Genes Need Traditional Food. Here are five key takeaways.
Bohemian Rhapsody
Blending bold colors with spirited patterns, designer Andrea Schumacher gives a Boulder home style to match its owner’s carefree attitude.
Don’t Miss: Lola Coastal Mexican’s Buffalo Bill Dinner
Commemorate the 100-year anniversary of Buffalo Bill Cody’s death with a wake and five-course, Wild West-inspired menu.
Inside Denver Central Market’s Timeless Design
The hipster food hall’s gorgeous aesthetic jives with its elevated culinary scene.
Get Top Dollar For Your Home With These Expert Staging Tips
Get your digs ready for the market—and boost your home’s sale price—with these insider tips and tricks.
Get the Perfect Room Design Delivered Right To Your Doorstep
HappyBox, a local e-design service, makes polishing your pad as easy as getting the mail.
Denver and Boulder Prepare to Get “Mortified”
The popular comedy event comes back to Denver—and hits Boulder for the first time—for love-themed shows that feature a celebrity appearance.
Denver’s Newest, Coolest Wallpaper Shop
Walltawk brings fresh wallcoverings from independent designers to the Mile High City.
Our Top Charitable Picks for January 9-15
Get Involved is a weekly series pointing readers toward community-oriented events, volunteer opportunities, and good causes in Colorado.
Color Therapy
A letter from the editor of 5280 Home’s February/March issue.
Sizing Up The Broncos’ Head Coach Prospects
Multiple candidates will interview for Gary Kubiak’s job over the weekend. We look at the top names on the list.
Practice Your Figure Eights At These Outdoor Ice Rinks
Bundle up, grab your skates, and hit the ice at one of these Front Range spots.
Q&A: Alexandra Carone of the Honest Stand
The local maker of creamy gluten- and dairy-free cheese sauces chats about her growing business.
Clean Energy Is Still Booming in Colorado
Politics aside, the prospects for jobs that create and manage alternatives to oil and gas remain promising in the Centennial State.
Free Things to Do: January 2017
Seven ways to save cash and keep your Instagram feed filled with like-worthy pics from local events—plus one way to splurge.
Why Have Denver Teams Gone Flat?
The glory of the Broncos’ Super Bowl 50 victory seems far away, as most of Denver’s sports teams find themselves in a downward spiral.
Yes, You Can Ski Without Sitting in Traffic on I-70
After a seven-year hiatus, the Winter Park Express returns to offer service from Union Station to the base of the ski resort.
5280’s Top Longreads of 2016
These are the stories that captivated our readers in 2016.
Don’t Miss: Rocky Mountain Underground
The Breckenridge-based ski company has entered the bar business—and beautifully so.
Colorado by Nature: Paint Mines Interpretive Park
Colorful badlands on Colorado’s Great Plains record an unprecedented heat wave that swept the globe 55 million years ago.
Behind the Vines: Silver Vines Winery
This boutique winery in Olde Town Arvada has a variety of excellent red, white, and dessert wines perfect for pairing with winter meals.
Drink This: Breckenridge Brewery’s Nitro Chocolate Orange Stout
Add this seasonal brew to your winter rotation.
Go Now: Que Bueno Suerte
Contemporary Mexican fare awaits at this new Platt Park eatery.
What’s Next for the Broncos?
Despite Coach Gary Kubiak’s sudden departure and a disappointing 2016 season, the team can be a contender again by making a few key tweaks.
Our Top Charitable Picks for January 2-8
Get Involved is a weekly series pointing readers toward community-oriented events, volunteer opportunities, and good causes in Colorado.
Make Dio Mio’s Trifle
The RiNo restaurant’s not-too-sweet layered dessert pairs olive oil cake, rosemary cream, and pickled quince or persimmon.
How to Make Your Outdoor Greenery Last
Tips for taking your seasonal floral decor from functional to festive—and back again for the new year.
Ski Run We Like: Aspen Mountain’s Face of Bell
This classic glade run has rounded bumps and evenly spaced evergreens, plus some solid powder, if you know where to look.
3 Spots to Take Your Kids on New Year’s Eve
Start the New Year right by letting your little party people tag along.
Cooking Confession: I Finally Joined the Slow Cooker Fan Club
It took me awhile, but I finally became a slow cooker convert. Here’s what I learned along the way.
Colorado Media, and Our National Brethren, Look Toward 2017
After a presidential election year that proved particularly abysmal for the media, the press in Colorado—and everywhere else—must strive to be much better.
Make Chef Kelly Liken’s Pickled Butternut Squash Salad
This zippy salad will add crunch and brightness to your holiday spread.
5 Things to Know About Colorado’s End-of-Life Options Act
Aid-in-dying is now a legal option for terminally ill Coloradans. Here’s what you need to know about the new law.
10 Ways to Ring In the New Year In Denver
Buh bye, 2016.
Estes Park Inn Celebrates Its 100th Anniversary This Year
The bed-and-breakfast is known worldwide for its collection of approximately 30,000 keys.
Opening: Cheluna Brewing Company
Head to Aurora’s Stanley Marketplace for excellent, Mexican-inspired brews.
Coming Soon: Stella’s
The new restaurant and marketplace will open in the Triangle Building in January.
The Hygge Craze Comes to Colorado
A local company is bringing the Danish concept of celebrating simple pleasures to the Centennial State.
Colorado Bookshelf: Stories You’ve Never Heard About the Avs
Former Denver Post hockey writer Adrian Dater might have more Colorado Avalanche knowledge than anyone in sports media, and his firsthand accounts of the team’s history are worth checking out.
We’ve Got Your Early 2017 Travel Plans
New year, new vacation days. Here are four places to explore.
Our Annual Must-Have List of Denver’s Top Doctors
With 315 physicians in 95 medical specialties, we’re bound to have the doc you need.
Denver’s Top Lawyers 2017
Our annual list of more than 400 of the best attorneys in the Denver metro area. Plus: Local lawyers dole out advice for navigating everyday legal situations.
Rob Katz Is the Most Powerful Man in the Ski Industry
Since becoming the CEO of Vail Resorts in 2006, Katz has led the company in the acquisition of many properties, discounted the cost of season passes, and persuaded his customers to market the brand. What does he have planned next?
Ugandan Girl Gets Second Life-Saving Operation in Denver
Deborah Kisakye was born with a heart defect that doctors in her home country couldn’t fix. Enter Dr. Steven Leonard at Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children.
Holiday Beauty: Fake It With False Lashes
Denver-based Battington Lashes offers 100 percent handmade silk fringes that are soft, natural, and reusable.
Meet Colorado’s First Latina Speaker of the House
How Crisanta Duran used her family’s commitment to public service to become one of the state’s top lawmakers.
