Sometimes, it's best to get out of Boulder for a bit, and smoking a cigar is one of those things often frowned upon in a city that prides itself on smoke-free environments. Boulder does have at least one cigar bar -- Johnny's Cigar Bar -- in One Boulder Plaza downtown, but here's a chance to relax with a quality stogie and do some good.
Barlow's Premium Cigars & Pipes, at 2770 Arapaho Road in Lafayette, is taking part in the Toast Across America charity this Thursday, Oct. 15. The evening, which starts around 5:30 p.m., includes an auction with all proceeds going to the Cigar Family Charitable Foundation, which supports eco-friendly business ventures in the Dominican Republic and helps provide self sufficiency to communities in the country.
Now I know cigars is usually a "guy" thing, but Barlow's is a comfortable setting where a woman who might want to enjoy a cigar is certainly welcome.
The event will include representatives of the Fuente Newman Cigar company, and a special limited commemorative cigar pack -- one Fuente Opus X and one Diamond Crown Maximus -- will be available at the event for $50, again with proceeds at the toast going to the foundation.
If smoke gets in your eyes, there's another fun fund-raiser Thursday night -- the 3rd Annual Dancing with Boulder Stars at the Boulder Theater, benefiting the YWCA of Boulder County. It runs 7:30 to 10 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m.
Local leaders have been going through a 10-week rehearsal, learning a ballroom dance, and will perform in the fundraiser modeled after the popular TV show. Audience members will be able to vote for their favorites with $1 per vote.
The local dancers this year are:
Ceal Barry, associate athletic director for Student Services, University of Colorado; Peter Baumgartner, wealth management adviser and vice president, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney; Frances Draper, executive director of Boulder Economic Council; Kelly Wyatt, community volunteer; David Kuosman, partner, Faegre & Benson; Dan Pirrallo, general manager, Millennium Harvest House; Claire Pearson, senior tax manager, Clifton Gunderson; and Lee Shainis, executive director, Intercambio de Comunidades.