I’m an avid hiker, chai tea and IPA loving, Golden-rule following PR pro with three nearly grown + flown kids. I’ve run my own PR business for 20+ years, representing Visit Golden for the past 15 years. Although I’m not a Golden resident, I love this town and think it’s one of the best places on Earth. Inspired by hikes in Golden with my own Golden Retriever, Waffle, I came up with the idea for gathering Golden Retrievers in Golden on National Golden Retriever Day. I imagined a photo op of adorable Goldens gathered under the iconic welcome arch and knew it would be “PR Gold.” But, I never could have foreseen the event would attract thousands or that people from all over the U.S. would road trip to Golden in February for the ultimate Golden Retriever meet-up. Nor could I have ever imagined the event’s wonderfully joyful and sweet atmosphere. It really is heaven on Earth for us dog lovers. I think both the dogs and the city have so much synchronicity – friendly, active, family-oriented! The event has been featured on Good Morning America, ABC national news, nearly every local TV station, and in People Magazine. I’m just delighted to have played a small part, but the credit goes to my sweet girl, Waffle, who so enthusiastically attended the first two events. Each year, I am overcome with happiness remembering her, soaking in the event and seeing what it means to others.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career/accomplishments. What do you love most about what you do?
I love the variety of PR. I’ve represented everything from steam railroads to denim insulation, and have worked to raise awareness of important social issues like behavioral health, homelessness and the environment.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants or breweries in our community?
A day of my favorite eats would include an Eldorado breakfast burrito, a D’Deli Aspen Buddha wrap, happy hour making new friends at Golden City Brewery, and either date night at Abejas or out with friends to the Golden Mill.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
15 years handling PR for Visit Golden. Also, my father-in-law, John Meadows, spent most of his career working at Coors in community relations. To this day, I will NOT drink a Bud!
Q: What is one of your favorite hiking or biking trails?
Hands down, the Clear Creek Trail. While I love serious hikes with elevation, there is no beating the rush of water through the heart of town and the quick, easy walk up into the canyon to feel like you’re in the Rocky Mountain wilderness.
Q: What advice would you give to yourself 10 years ago?
Buy real estate in Golden and use more sunscreen.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
One of my favorite spots is Ace High. I love the vinyl booths, the pinball, the friendly folks from all walks of life, the dark interior filled with laughter, and the roped off patio with high tops for people watching. It’s classic old-school Golden, best enjoyed with a Coors Original.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Golden is the confluence of so many of my favorite things. Hiking trails and the natural beauty that surrounds the city. Impressive internationally known brands like Coors and KONG alongside cool, Mines-inspired start-ups and mom-and-pop shops. Thriving arts scene at Foothills Art Center and Miner’s Alley, as well as colorful murals and arts festivals. Great restaurants from the best pizza ever at Woody’s to the fine Italian at Bella Colibri. I think people appreciate how lucky they are to live in Golden – there’s a real warmth and pride in the town!
Q: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
As it relates to Golden, I set up a panel of undecided voters to be interviewed by Tom Brokaw at the Windy Saddle for an NBC News special. Not related to Golden, I was an extra in The NeverEnding Story – my mom was the on-set tutor for the child actors.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My hard-working, retired AF Colonel father and my sweet and spunky mom, who never met a stranger.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Best place on Earth!