ILLEGAL PETE’S TO REMAIN ILLEGAL
As previously reported just about everywhere, Colorado burrito peddlers Illegal Pete’s recently came under fire from Latino activists in Fort Collins for the restaurant’s name, despite it being a reference to a book the chain’s owner Pete Turner likes, not a reference to immigration status.
In response, Turner met with community members regarding the matter in Fort Collins, in which community members requested that he change the name of his company. Attendees explained their perceptions of the negativity in using the word “illegal” in the context of a Mexican food restaurant.
Immigration attorney Kim Medina moderated the meeting and summed up the opposition by saying, “Social context is hugely important. We’ll never get to big issues, such as immigration reform, until we can solve these smaller issues of language,” as reported by The Coloradoan.
But as Turner explained in a blog post on the Illegal Pete’s website, he ultimately decided to stick with the name.
“[The word illegal] is just as much a part of our company as the bricks and the concrete floors and the queso that we make,” Turner wrote.
Those opposed to the restaurant’s name are not pleased with the decision to continue as Illegal Pete’s, but the owner is sticking to his guns.
Turner’s complete statement can be read at http://illegalpetes.com/blog/community/ concerning-the-name-illegal-petes/.
— Nadia Mishkin
CHOW DOWN IN THE LIBRARY
On Nov. 15, the Boulder Public Library is hosting the Boulder County Farmers’ Market’s first annual fundraiser.
All proceeds from the event will go toward the farmers’ market’s newest project in the works: a local foods education station and café at the Boulder Public Library, set to open in early 2015. The Boulder County Farmers’ Market plans for the café to serve tasty, locally sourced items year-round, while educating on sustainable food and local agriculture. The café will include a space for discussions and gatherings that aims to be a one-stopshop for finding out the latest on eating locally, and sampling the options at the same time.
Cure Organic Farms, Oxford Gardens, Cafe Aion, Niwot Market, Ollin Farms and more are teaming up with BCFM and the Boulder Public Library to bring to fruition the library’s new concept café. The fundraiser, which takes place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. will preview the café’s vision by pairing up four local chefs with four local farms and breweries to create an all Boulder-sourced meal that will be served at the event. The meal will be followed by a silent auction and entertainment provided by a slam poetry reading by farmers and other community participants. Tickets can be purchased online for $90 at www.bcfm.org.
— Nadia Mishkin
DRINKING WINE SPO-DEE- O-DEE DRINKING WINE
For anyone who wants to warm up with some wine tasting while supporting a good cause this week, there are several options for you:
On Friday, Nov. 14, the City of Arvada is putting on its annual Wine for the Holidays event: a night full of local wines, hors d’oeurves and live music entertainment by the Bluebird “arc-estra” for just $35. There will also be a silent auction with items donated by nearby businesses, so you can kick off your holiday shopping while supporting the holiday fund for the Arvada Community Food Bank. Tickets can be purchased online: www.arvadafestivals.com
Out Boulder is holding their eighth annual event at the Boulder Creek Winery on Saturday, Nov. 15. Attendees will get to sample Colorado wines while enjoying cheese and conversation at the award-winning establishment — all supporting the Boulder County LGBT community organization.
Can’t get enough? The Denver International Wine Festival is hosting three days of award-winning wine and gourmet food pairings Nov. 19-21 at the Omni Interlocken Resort in Broomfield. Tickets can be purchased online: http:// www.denverwinefest.com/order.html
— Nadia Mishkin
