National Mental Health Month

We love May. It typically warms up and feels like winter may be fully exiting. This spring has been rather mild in terms of late snow, so we are hopeful that May will bring lots of sunshine to all of us, both literally and figuratively.

How so, figuratively, you may wonder? 

May happens to be National Mental Health Month across the U.S.

Shining a spotlight on the importance of mental well-being, the annual observance started back in 1949. Denver Concierge wasn’t here yet, but we can assuredly say that the need for awareness of mental health has never been stronger in our world than it is today.

Technology has taken away much of the human element of our interactions, and that, along with all the other modern-day stressors, can be overwhelming.

We have good days and bad as well, and while we hate the bad ones, we work really hard at trying to stay balanced and wanted to share some of the ideas we have found to do just that. Meanwhile, from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing website:

• 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiences mental illness each year.
• 1 in 20 U.S. adults experiences serious mental illness each year.
• 1 in 6 U.S. youth have a mental health condition, but only half receive treatment.
• 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24.
• In 2024, 22% of all high school students seriously considered suicide.

The last one really got us. The statistics on mental health and suicide can be found here, and the numbers are pretty shocking.

So, what can we all do to upgrade our mental and emotional hygiene? Some of the best tips we have run across include:

• Moving Your Body: A 20-minute walk or yoga session can lift your spirits. Try free workout videos on YouTube or join a local fitness class.
• Connecting Authentically: Schedule a coffee date or video call with a friend. Sharing stories builds emotional resilience.
• Practicing Mindfulness: Apps like Calm or Headspace offer guided meditations to ease anxiety. Even five minutes daily can make a difference.
• Setting Boundaries: Limit screen time or say “no” to non-essential tasks to protect your energy.
• Seeking Help When Needed: Reach out to a therapist or use resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for immediate support.

The most difficult and recurring theme in our research? People don’t reach out for help. By far the saddest part for many folks that struggle is the stigma behind asking for help and the fear that they will be unfairly judged by others.

If you gain 30 pounds, you might go to a nutritionist, and no one would bat an eye. If you seek mental health assistance, however, people seem to view it differently. 

One of our main goals in even featuring this topic is to encourage anyone feeling down to seek help, with no fear of stigma or judgment.

Finally, National Mental Health Month isn’t just about awareness—it’s a call to action. By embracing small, sustainable habits, you can cultivate a healthier mindset in 2025. Share these ideas, check in with others, and explore resources to make mental health a priority. Together, we can create a culture of care and connection.

Mental health is a foundation for living fully. Simple practices like mindfulness, exercise, or connecting with loved ones can boost mood and reduce stress. In 2025, technology offers new tools, like meditation apps or virtual support groups, making self-care more accessible.

We found some excellent resources that we wanted to share:

1. Mental Health First Aid
2. CDC Mental Health
3. NAMI
4. NIH

Our last thoughts? Check in with the ones you love. Whether you are the one struggling, or the one reaching out, human connection can solve a lot of the issues around mental health.

We wish you the best this May, and hope that you will join us in bringing awareness to improving our mental health.

Meanwhile, read on to learn about Colorado’s standing in both tax burden and happiness. We also cover how to start your own garden and why some unscrupulous people are using AI to get hired.

We hope you enjoy our April newsletter, and as always, thanks for reading!

Tax Burden by State

When it comes to taxes, we can probably all agree we pay too much. 

Taxes seem to fall into that category of “things we complain about”, like traffic and the weather.

We decided to dive in and see just how much tax we pay in Colorado, and how it really compares with other states. 

The chart above will give you a quick look at how Colorado stacks up. For more details, we can thank the folks at WalletHub. From the article:

“To determine the residents with the biggest tax burdens, WalletHub compared the 50 states based on the cost of three types of state tax burdens — property taxes, individual income taxes, and sales and excise taxes — as a share of total personal income in the state.”

Key Findings

• Hawaii has the highest overall tax burden, while Alaska has the lowest. 
   
• Vermont has the highest property tax burden, while Alabama has the lowest.
   
• New York has the highest individual income tax burden, while eight states (including Texas, Florida, and Washington) have none.
   
• Hawaii has the highest sales and excise tax burden, while New Hampshire has the lowest.
   
• Red states have a lower tax burden than blue states, on average.

Interestingly, many of us feel like we have super high taxes, but Colorado ended up in the middle of the pack, coming in at 26th overall at 8.73%.

Fascinating data, really, and sheds a lot of light on the complete picture of tax burden.

The complete article and study can be found here.

Fake Job Applicants? 

Why? That was our first thought when the notion of “fake” job applicants came across our desk.

Why in the world would someone do this, and just how rampant is it?

Turns out that it is way more common these days than we thought, and here is why, and how it is being done.

It seems that this is primarily an issue with remote workers, and the IT segment gets hit the hardest. 

The main and most obvious reason a normal person would do this would be to obtain a position they weren’t truly qualified for. They would then earn more money than their skill level should allow.

Working remotely, they could use AI to help solve problems that were “above their pay grade”. Sneaky, but we can see how that could work.

The larger reason? Bad actors from not-so-nice countries like North Korea, attempting to gain access to company data.

They can then install malware on company systems, and in theory could access all client, vendor, and employee data.

From the article on CNBC, “Gen AI has blurred the line between what it is to be human and what it means to be machine,” Vijay Balasubramaniyan, CEO of Pindrop, said. “What we’re seeing is that individuals are using these fake identities and fake faces and fake voices to secure employment, even sometimes going so far as doing a face swap with another individual who shows up for the job.”

In fact, the article goes on to state that by 2028 globally, 1 in 4 job applicants will be fake. 

That is a stunning number.

While tech and crypto industries are being hit the hardest, there are also examples from other industries such as television networks, defense contractors, and automakers.

Quite the revelation, especially for those hiring for remote work.

This very informative article by MSNBC can be found here. Worth a read for sure, especially for those of you hiring remote workers.

Finally, we found a few great articles on how to see through fake applicants and protect your company, they are below. 

Hellersearch, September 2024

HRDive.com, July 2022

Ashby, October 2024

Beware out there, folks, lots of bad actors. We hope you learned as much as we did about this strange but understandable phenomenon.

Start Your Own Garden 

It seems we spent the first few months of the year talking about egg prices.

We aren’t sure that is the proper barometer for economic analysis, but we do know that grocery shopping is way more expensive than it used to be.

Along the way, we have heard from lots of you that you are looking to grow your own vegetables at home. 

We don’t blame you, and if you are on the fence (no pun intended), here are the pros and cons of starting your own vegetable garden.

Leave it to Gardenary to come up with a fabulous primer on How to Start a Garden.

They go through the 9 steps to successfully create a garden, everything from location, design, and materials.

Pretty cool, and comprehensive.

So, what are the pros? Kind of obvious, really, lower food costs, for starters. Also, gardening promotes physical health through exercise, reduces stress, and enhances mental well-being.

It provides fresh, organic produce, saving money and ensuring quality. Gardens boost property aesthetics and support local biodiversity by attracting pollinators. You control what grows, tailoring it to your preferences.

The cons? Gardening demands time, effort, and consistent maintenance. Initial costs for tools, seeds, and soil can be high. Pests, weather, and soil issues may frustrate beginners.

Space limitations can restrict garden size, and learning curves may lead to trial-and-error losses before mastering techniques.

We also recommend checking with your HOA/covenants (if you have them) to make sure you aren’t violating any rules there.

Beyond that, we say go for it. We have seen many beautiful gardens in the backyards of homes and expect to see more in the future.

Happy gardening!

Happiness by State 2025

Yes, we love a good survey. Especially when it involves being happy.

We are generally happy, but just “how happy” is our fine state?

Back to the survey-loving folks at WalletHub to come to our rescue.

In one of the greatest juxtapositions of all time, want to guess the happiest state of them all?

It would be the highest taxed state in the U.S. from the above article on taxes….Hawaii. 

Highest taxes, highest happiness? Odd indeed.

WalletHub ranked every state on emotional and physical well-being, work environment, and community, with Hawaii leading the way.

While this is not a “misery index”, the least happy state? Louisiana.

So, how did our fine state fare? Not very well, sadly.

We came in 35th. Our best ranking? Work environment. We were all the way at the bottom of the Community & Environment section, falling all the way to 48th. 

That ranking includes volunteerism, ideal weather, leisure time spent, separation and divorce, and safety. 

We can only guess at why we fell so far, but we have an abundance of leisure activity, so we might guess weather and/or safety. 

Regardless, it’s sort of surprising that our wonderful state is only 35/50 in happiness.

The complete article with the very thorough methodology can be found here. 

In the words of Bobby McFerrin, “Don’t worry, be happy.“

We wish that for all of us in 2025 and beyond.

Monthly Award Winners

Our monthly award winners for March were Patricia Rodriguez, Sandra Vidales, Maria Zapata, Aurora Dominguez, and Socorro Gonzalez.

In the Team Leader ranks, it was Laura Varela and Martha Rosales.

We are so proud of our winners and of all the folks who are in and out of your homes each week.

We are also very appreciative to be a part of your lives and your homes. You provide the platform for our teams to perform, and for that we are grateful.

Please join me in congratulating our best performers for the month of March.

Queen Bee Corner

by Angela

One of the common questions we are asked is, “Will Denver Concierge water my indoor house plants?”

The answer is yes, when requested, and with proper instructions, we will gladly water house plants.

We love plants, and far from simply adding beauty to your decor, they are also our helpers!

While we clean the nooks and crannies, plants like the Spider Plant and Peace Lilly, Bamboo Palm and Rubber Plant are working to keep the air inside your home free and clear of toxins, mold, dust, allergens, and chemicals. 

Pretty impressive. 

The Spider Plant absorbs mold and allergens while reducing dust in the air.

The Peace Lilly filters out toxic gases.

The Bamboo Palm is a natural humidifier.

The Rubber Plant removes chemical substances from indoor air. 

Plants can ionize the air, which helps to clump dust particles together, causing them to fall to the ground rather than floating in the air.

They can also absorb volatile organic compounds, which are gases emitted by various household products and building materials.

Are plants sentient beings?

Maybe, maybe not, but they are living creatures, like the family dog or cat, bird, rabbit, or tortoise, and as such deserve the same care and pampering. 

As we offer a treat to the dog, pet the cats (almost always plural), acknowledge the other household critters with a word or gesture, how do we know when we water the flora that they are not equally pleased by the attention?

Einstein said we free ourselves by widening our compassion for all living creatures.

That is what we strive for.

Bee

2024 Musings & Welcome 2025

Welcome to the last day of 2024! It’s been a fun and productive year here at Denver Concierge, and we have proudly enjoyed every minute of serving you.

We would like to take this opportunity to say thank you for supporting our small business. Our work is not without challenges, like getting our folks and equipment to you, managing the inevitable mishaps, and dealing with the unpredictable Colorado weather.

Through it all, we were determined to make sure your home is spotless, and we sure hope we achieved that goal across the board.

Our very own Queen Bee covers some of the more interesting challenges we overcame in 2024, read on to learn more!

Looking into 2025, the new year always brings change. As we have outlined here in past newsletters, there are some new laws on the books to be aware of.

Don’t forget the new hands-free cellphone usage laws, rules for car seats, and gun storage laws for your vehicle, just to name a few. The price of eggs will likely be going up too, due to new cage-free laws hitting the books tomorrow.

Crossing the HOV solid line will also cost you in new places, so beware. 

For Denver Concierge and many other small businesses, 2025 will not be without its challenges, as we continue to face increased costs across the board. The minimum wage will be going up around 3%, statewide, from $14.42 to $14.82.

As you may already know, any business operating in Denver (like ours) will be subject to a minimum wage of $18.81, up from $18.29 last year.

Employee-friendly legislation is also at the forefront, as businesses are now funding Colorado Secure Savings, FAMLI Leave Act, and enhanced sick pay provisions, all of which have arisen in the past few years.

While there are lots of headwinds for small businesses, we always favor taking care of our associates. 

We remain focused on efficiency and doing all we can to operate in the best possible ways to reduce our costs and keep our service affordable and the best in class.

A good recap of the main law changes can be found here, courtesy of NPR/KUNC.

This month, you will find more great content below. 

We talk about why traffic stops are down in Denver, we have a wonderful guest writer who will teach you all about Denver’s hard water problem, and we cover Denver’s best neighborhoods as determined by 5280 Magazine.

We also take a quick look at some school closures by DPS, as part of their consolidation plans.

Thank you again for reading and for being part of the Denver Concierge family. As always, we are here to ensure your home is spotless and to provide the world-class service we hope you are accustomed to.

From our office staff of Angela (Queen Bee), Maria (who will be celebrating 25 years with us this year), Blanca (our glue behind the scenes), and John (our fearless leader), we want to wish you a safe and prosperous 2025.

Happy New Year, be safe tonight, revelers!!!

Traffic Stops & You 

When was the last time you were pulled over for a traffic violation?

It seems like one of those things that we never forget. Maybe the stress of the lights, or some latent fear of the law…..we aren’t sure.

That said, if you have noticed fewer traffic stops around town, you have good reason.

From an article on this topic, courtesy of Denver 7, “In May of this year, the Denver Police Department shifted away from conducting low-level traffic stops in order to prioritize offenses that pose bigger threats to public safety.”

“New department data shows that traffic stops have plummeted 47% since that policy change.”

Wow, nearly down by half!

According to the department, low-level traffic offenses such as a broken taillight, a crack in a windshield, and expired tags on vehicles will be ignored, unless a more serious violation is noticed.

According to a Denver PD training bulletin, those more serious crimes include:

• Driving under the influence
• Reckless driving
• Street racing
• Hit-and-run accidents
• Guns and gun violence
• Burglary
• Dangerous drugs
• Any other similarly serious crime

Interesting change for sure.

The full article, including an interview with Chief of Police Ron Thomas can be found here.

As always, be safe out there!

Hard Water

By Guest Writer Tammy Pitts

Hard water is a common challenge for many homeowners, especially in and around Denver, where the quality of tap water may not be as pure and clean as we might hope for.

The minerals responsible for water hardness – calcium and magnesium – are picked up as water flows through soil and rocks. While safe to drink and use, hard water can affect how you clean your home. Here are some tips to minimize its impact.

How hard water affects soap and laundry detergent

One of the major effects of hard water on cleaning is that it minimizes the effectiveness of soap and cleaning products. When you wash with soap in hard water, the calcium and magnesium in the water combine with soap to create a sticky residue called soap scum. This residue doesn’t rinse off easily and leaves streaks and film on dishes, glasses, bathroom surfaces, and even skin. Using more soap or detergent won’t solve the problem; it’ll just cost you more without giving better results.

Laundry issues

Hard water makes laundry detergent less effective. The minerals in the water prevent the detergent from dissolving properly, leading to detergent buildup on your clothes. This can make your clothes feel stiff or look dull or dingy over time. The minerals in hard water can also make fabrics lose their softness.

Water spots and streaks

Ever notice streaks on your glasses after washing them in the dishwasher? This is often caused by hard water. The minerals leave a residue on glassware, making it look like they aren’t clean. This is especially noticeable on clear plastic containers and wine glasses. Hard water can even cause problems in your dishwasher by building up inside the machine, which affects how well it cleans.

Clogged pipes and appliances

Over time, the minerals in hard water can build up inside your pipes, appliances, and plumbing, causing clogs. The minerals can also reduce how well your appliances work — dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters can all be affected. Here in Denver, where some homes rely on well water or city water that can have a higher mineral content, this buildup can lead to costly repairs.

Hard water doesn’t just affect your pipes and appliances; it can also impact the water you use outside your home. There can be mineral buildup in kiddie pools or clogs with the sprinkler heads you use to water the vegetables in your garden.

How to fix hard water issues

It’s easy to get frustrated by this issue but there are simple solutions to fix it. For starters, you can install a water softener to treat your water supply. A water softener removes the minerals (calcium and magnesium) from the water and replaces them with sodium, softening the water. This helps improve the effectiveness of soap, laundry detergent, and household appliances.

Another option is to use a dishwasher rinse aid if you can’t install a water softener. The rinse aid helps break down the minerals, making it easier to remove water spots from dishes.

Vinegar and baking soda

Vinegar and baking soda are excellent natural cleaners for hard water deposits. I’ve learned they work quite well at cleaning soap scum. The acidity in the vinegar helps to dissolve the minerals, while the baking soda can help scrub and remove grime. To remove hard water spots from surfaces, mirrors, glass, or faucets, create a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water.

Buy special detergents

Some laundry detergents are made specifically for hard water. These detergents work better by counteracting the minerals in the water, helping to clean clothes more effectively.

Clean your appliances

Hard water deposits can accumulate in your appliances, especially dishwashers and washing machines. Staying on top of household chores and regularly cleaning these appliances will keep them running efficiently and help them last longer.

Hard water can affect everything from your daily shower to how clean the dishes are, and even the lifespan of your appliances. And while hard water isn’t harmful to your health, it can certainly be a real hassle when it comes to cleaning. By understanding how it impacts your home and using solutions like water softeners or special cleaning products, you can make your cleaning tasks much easier and more effective.

As always, Denver Concierge is here to try and solve all your cleaning needs.

Our Guest Contributor Tammy has an extensive background in journalism, media relations, social media strategy, marketing, and brand management. She resides in Michigan with her family which includes her two sons and their Goldendoodle, Max. In her free time, she loves to read, travel, and root for the Michigan State Spartans. Go Green!

Denver School Closures 

With much fanfare and resistance, Denver Public Schools (DPS) has decided to close seven schools and cut grade levels at three others.

From the November Colorado Sun article, “Seven Denver public schools will shutter at the end of the school year and three others will narrow the grades they serve after board members unanimously approved a controversial round of school closures Thursday evening.”

The schools that will close are: Columbian Elementary School, Castro Elementary School, Schmitt Elementary School, International Academy of Denver at Harrington, Palmer Elementary, West Middle School, and Denver School of Innovation and Sustainable Design.

Additionally, Kunsmiller Creative Arts Academy, a K-12 school, will drop grades 1-5; Dora Moore ECE-8 School will only serve preschool through 5th grade, cutting grades 6-8; and Denver Center for International Studies will shift to cover 6th-8th grades, eliminating grades 9-12.

Needless to say, there are a lot of upset people about this controversial decision.

DPS elected to make a statement about the closures, and that announcement can be found here.

As they say at the track, we don’t really have a horse in this race, but there are some angry folks out there, and we cannot blame them.

Changing schools is a big project for any family, and we sympathize with any of you affected by this.

The complete article from the Colorado Sun can be found here.

Denver’s Best Neighborhood

We figured that would catch your eye, especially if you live in the winning area, pictured above.

Washington Park. Or, good ‘ol Wash Park as the locals call it.

For back-to-back years, Wash Park was named the best neighborhood in our fine city.

With 280 urban parks, and a population of just 7188, it finished first in 5280’s rankings once again.

Utilizing metrics such as average home sale price, safety, school ratings, and a mysterious “X-factor”, the mag was able to rank all the neighborhoods in and around Denver.

The top 5?

1. Wash Park
2. Berkeley
3. South Park Hill
4. Congress Park
5. Country Club

There are 20 more neighborhoods ranked and the complete list, along with links, methodology and the like can be found here.

Congrats to Wash Park for leading the way in back to back years!

We hope you like your neighborhood ranking, and if not, remember it’s not our list!!!!

Monthly Award Winners

Our monthly award winners for November were Maria Zapata, Nimia Espinoza, Josefina Quinonez, Patricia Rodriguez, and Jessica Rios.

In the Team Leader ranks, it was Socorro Ibarra and Natalia Olivas.

We are so proud of our winners, and of all the folks that are in and out of your homes each week.

We are also very appreciative to be a part of your lives and your homes. You provide the platform for our teams to perform, and for that we are grateful.

Please join me in congratulating our best performers for the month of November.

Also, stay tuned for our annual award winners, which will be announced in the January 2025 newsletter.

Queen Bee Corner

by Angela

Before we close the door to 2024 let’s take a  look back over some  times during the past year when our Denver Concierge ladies demonstrated traits that go above and beyond their cleaning tasks.

For example, they found a lot of lost or misplaced items; including a diamond earring, a baby’s favorite stuffed rabbit, a cell phone, cash, car keys, and a kitten.

They spotted and reported out of the ordinary occurrences with potentially harmful outcomes such as a leaking pipe under a sink, a sick puppy, a loose step, a dangling power line, and a broken basement window.

The ladies also showed initiative under less-than-ideal cleaning conditions, from torn up access streets to a jammed elevator, houses under major construction, power outages and false fire alarms.

All in all it was a good year and we now bid it farewell with many thanks to our clients who have shown us kindness, patience, generosity and trust, which we will do our best to be worthy of again in 2025.

Happy New Year!

Bee 

Happy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is upon us, and we wanted to get this newsletter out before the holiday to tell you all just how thankful we are for you.

We remember learning about Thanksgiving back in grade school, but since we had forgotten nearly everything from then, we wanted to revisit it.

Celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, Thanksgiving is a cherished American holiday rooted in gratitude and togetherness. Its origins trace back to 1621 when the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people shared a feast to celebrate the harvest and their cooperation.

Over the centuries, Thanksgiving has evolved into a time for families and friends to gather, share a meal, and reflect on their blessings.

For Denver Concierge, Thanksgiving presents a unique opportunity to highlight the importance of a clean and welcoming home. As you prepare to host loved ones, a spotless home not only enhances the festive atmosphere but also ensures a comfortable and hygienic environment for your guests.

We know just how stressful holiday planning can be, and we are so glad that we can play a part in ensuring that your home is perfect for your guests.

We wish you and yours an amazing Thanksgiving, and Black Friday (if you are into that sort of thing) and we hope you get time to recharge with loved ones.

Our gratitude for being part of your lives is stronger than ever, and we thank you for allowing us into your homes.

Happy Thanksgiving!!! We will return to work on Monday, December 2nd to help with post-holiday cleanup.

Health Insurance Primer

Health insurance costs continue to rise. Based on the research we have done, it looks like we can expect a 6-7% increase in healthcare premiums in 2025.

Yikes, that’s a lot. If those projections hold, this will be the 3rd straight year of increases above 5%.

From the article we found on Healthcaredrive.com, “If employers don’t use cost-cutting strategies, Mercer estimates their expenses will rise by about 7% on average. Smaller companies with 50 to 499 workers would be particularly hard hit: Their expenses would spike by about 9% on average if they don’t take action to lower costs.”

Considering open enrollment is here for most of us, we wanted to see if we could help find cheaper alternatives, or at least shed some light on ways to save money on health insurance.

A few pointers from our research:

1. Go to your online health insurance marketplace and view all of your plan options.
    
2. Decide which type of health insurance plan — HMO, PPO, EPO or POS — is best for you and your family, and whether you want an HSA-eligible plan.
    
3. Eliminate plans that exclude your preferred doctor or that don’t have local doctors in the provider network.
    
4. Determine whether you want more health coverage and higher premiums, or lower premiums and higher-out-of-pocket costs.
    
5. Make sure any plan you choose will pay for your regular and necessary care, like prescriptions and specialists.

Finally, we found an article on Newsmax that also provides some great tips on which plan might be best for you, and it is here.

 “Sin City”? 

No, we are not talking about Las Vegas. At least not directly.

Leave it to the folks at WalletHub to come up with a list of the “most sinful” cities in the U.S.

Yes, Las Vegas came in first, which makes perfect sense. Our fine city actually came in sixth. While we aren’t sure about the veracity of this claim, this survey caught our eye.

From the article, “WalletHub compared 182 cities — including the 150 most populated U.S. cities, plus at least two of the most populated cities in each state — across seven key dimensions: 1) Anger & Hatred, 2) Jealousy, 3) Excesses & Vices, 4) Greed, 5) Lust, 6) Vanity and 7) Laziness.”

WalletHub then added them all up and came up with a “Vice Index”, with Denver finishing sixth overall.

So, who is more sinful than Denver? Well, Sin City for sure, as Las Vegas came in 1st. Houston, TX came in 2nd, followed by L.A., Atlanta, and Philadelphia.

The least “sinful”? Columbia, Maryland, for whatever that is worth. Our guess is they are also low on the “fun index”, but we digress.

The folks at Westword did a cute article on this survey and it can be found here.

Overall, Denver came in 41st on “greed”, but ranked eighth in “lust” and third in excessive drinking, which was part of the “excesses and vices” category.

Interesting study indeed, the full thing can be found here, courtesy of WalletHub.

We aren’t sure whether to be concerned or proud of our results, but it’s definitely a fascinating study.

Denver’s Best Restaurants 

It’s been a while since we talked about Denver’s restaurant scene.

Leave it to 5280 Magazine to rekindle our focus on the best places to eat across the Front Range heading into 2025.

In looking at the list, we realized that we haven’t been eating out as much since COVID-19.

There are lots of new restaurants on the list, as well as an old standby or two.

Credit to 5280, they featured their list in a sortable fashion this year, focusing on price points. 

If you love pizza, Dough Counter gets rave reviews and is listed in the under $20 category, along with Kike’s Red Tacos and Odie B’s to name a few.

We won’t go into the complete list here, but the complete article courtesy of 5280 Magazine can be found here. 

Interestingly, Frasca, Bobby Stuckey’s 5-star-rated restaurant up in Boulder continues to make the list. 

Finally, for another set of opinions, the folks at Eater published their top 38 places to dine in and around Denver, which can be found here.

Enjoy Denver! It’s great to see our restaurant scene thriving in 2024.

What is a “Wet Bathroom?”

No, it is not what you think. Well, maybe it is, but we don’t judge.

However, when we read about this new design trend, we had to learn more.

We reached out to our friend Marina Dagenais, with Designer Premier to figure out exactly what this is.

From her blog, “A European-style wet bathroom is a design that combines a bathtub and shower into one ample Space, with no distinct barrier between the shower and the rest of the bathroom floor. Combining these spaces creates a seamless and open concept, perfect for those who value elegance and functionality.”

“Unlike a shower room, which typically has a separate area for the shower and drainage system, a wet room is completely open and features waterproof walls and flooring. With its central drain, this design makes it easy for water to flow out and ensures a hassle-free shower experience.”

One of Marina’s designers did an amazing job on a wet bathroom project, and you can find photos, plans and all you need to know about this new design trend here.

The article includes the pros and cons of this type of design and we found the concept to be fascinating.

To be matched with a designer that fits your needs, reach out to Marina at Designer Premier here.

Monthly Award Winners

Our monthly award winners for October were Nimia Espinoza, Rosaria De La Rosa, Maria Zapata, Josefina Quinonez, and Guadalupe Caloca.

In the Team Leader ranks, it was Isela Mendoza and Socorro Ibarra.

We are so proud of our winners, and of all the folks that are in and out of your homes each week.

We are also very appreciative to be a part of your lives and your homes. You provide the platform for our teams to perform, and for that we are grateful.

Please join me in congratulating our best performers for the month of October.

Queen Bee Corner

by Angela

Thanksgiving has always been the unofficial kickoff to the holiday season.

For Denver Concierge it ushers in the busiest time of year, as we adapt to the clients’ special holiday requests. 

Our clients’ homes are some of the most beautiful in the Denver area, even more so during the holidays when the decorations are up.

As many of the displays are delicate, we ask that you please let us know which items are not to be touched, or areas not to be cleaned during this time.

We also know you may be traveling more and hosting more. This will surely mean canceling a cleaning date or two.  We try to honor all scheduling requests but ask for as much notice as possible. 

This will allow us to rework the schedule so our ladies do not lose work hours, and other clients are not inconvenienced. 

Altering the schedules at this time of year can also mean having a different team for a clean or two, which could affect gift-giving for those clients who like to leave something for their regular team. 

With this in mind, it is advisable before leaving a gift to check with me to make sure it will be your regular team.  

Denver Concierge listens.

We encourage client comments, requests, and instructions, especially during this time of year when routines are a bit unsettled. We will do our best to make December a stress-free zone for our clients, at least in our little corner of the world.   

Happy Holidays!

Holidays Already?

Welcome to the holiday season, or so the calendar tells us. We agree that it still feels too early to think about, but we are into November once trick or treating is over this week.

That means ads for every variety of things and the stress that goes with holiday planning and shopping.

Also, don’t forget, Colorado goes off of Daylight Saving Time this Sunday, November 3rd, and our clocks will need to be set back one hour. 

We will also have holiday closures, so our staff can enjoy time with friends and family.

So, first things first. We will be closed for Thanksgiving and the Friday after, which fall on the 28th and 29th of November respectively. For planning’s sake, we will also be closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day, with both falling on Wednesdays in 2024.

Now, on to bigger and better things, the October Newsletter. This month, we highlight a great new benefit for Amazon Prime members, but it comes with some surprising news.

We also have a guest writer, who provides some great tips for living alone, especially for first-timers. Those of you with youngsters setting out on their own should find the article helpful indeed.

The IRS has published its inflation-adjusted tax brackets for 2025 as well, and we outline those changes. 

Finally, November brings a celebration of small business, culminating in Small Business Saturday at the end of the month. 

Read on for all the juicy details!

We want to wish you all a very safe Halloween this week if you are out and about. Beyond that, a happy Thanksgiving as well, since we won’t be published again until that turkey-fest passes.

We will see you back here at the end of November, stay safe, and warm…..our first snow is undoubtedly on its way.

Amazon Prime Gas Benefit

What will Amazon think of next?

You may have heard that the ubiquitous Amazon has now created a gas benefit. Unfortunately, it won’t work well for us here in Colorado. Read on for more. 

For those of us that have Amazon Prime, savings of $0.10/gallon can be had at over 7,000 BP, Amoco, and AM/PM locations across the country.

From the Amazon press release: “This offer could save Prime members on average nearly $70 per year on gas if purchasing at qualifying locations.”

“Additionally, Prime members can expect even more savings on transportation-related costs in the future—in 2025, Amazon plans to add an electric vehicle charging savings offer with bp pulse, bp’s electric vehicle charging business, with more details to be revealed next year.”

To activate the $0.10 per gallon savings,  visit amazon.com/fuelsavings. The offer only needs to be activated once—all customers need to enjoy these fuel savings is a Prime membership and free earnify account with bp.

Details on Earnify, and all it entails can be found here.

“Activating the offer will connect a member’s Amazon account and earnify™ account. Members can then use the free earnify™ app store locator to find the nearest bp, Amoco, or ampm gas station.”

That seems to be the good news. The bad news?

Astonishingly, there are precisely zero BP stations in our fine state, along with what seems to be zero Amoco stations and not a single AM/PM market.

Hmmm, well at least the benefit can be used in other states, as these brands are seemingly everywhere but Colorado.

For a complete list of BP locations, you can click here. 

Meanwhile, here’s hoping that Amazon expands this program to some stations in our geography.

At least you can let your friends know the real scoop here in Colorado!

Living Solo

By Guest Writer Stephanie Haywood 

Stepping out on your own for the first time is an exhilarating and challenging experience, filled with opportunities for growth and self-discovery. This transition requires not just adjustments to your living situation but also to your routines and responsibilities. Embracing this change with the right strategies and mindset can significantly smooth your path. It’s about finding your feet in a new phase of life, making it as enriching as it is educational. Denver Concierge offers these tips.

Mastering the Basics of Cooking

Learning to cook simple, nutritious meals is crucial when you first live alone, reducing reliance on expensive and less healthy takeout options. Start with easy recipes that use basic ingredients like pasta, rice, vegetables, and proteins. As your confidence grows, you can expand your culinary repertoire and explore more diverse dishes. Cooking at home allows you to control portions, ingredients, and costs, making it a smarter, healthier choice.

Building Connections in Your New Environment

Living on your own doesn’t have to mean feeling alone; actively building a social network is vital for a fulfilling life in a new place. Engage with others through work, school, or hobbies, and join community groups to forge meaningful connections. These relationships provide emotional support, practical help, and enrich your social life, acting as a crucial safety net in your new environment.

Staying on Top of Household Chores

Maintaining a clean home is easier with a structured cleaning schedule, assigning tasks to specific days to manage chores without stress. Regular upkeep, like vacuuming on Mondays or bathroom cleaning on Wednesdays, keeps your living space organized and pleasant. This routine not only fosters a conducive living environment but also prevents the buildup of chores that can become overwhelming. A clean home supports both comfort and productivity, enhancing your overall quality of life.

Navigating Your Rental Agreement

Thoroughly understanding your rental agreement is crucial; review all terms carefully before committing to your new home. Pay special attention to payment requirements, maintenance obligations, and the conditions for lease termination. Clear knowledge of these terms helps avoid conflicts and unexpected charges, protecting your rights as a tenant. Always clarify any doubts with your landlord to ensure mutual understanding and a smooth tenancy.

Keeping Your Important Documents Organized

Creating a system to organize crucial documents, such as insurance forms and bank statements, can drastically improve accessibility and reduce clutter. Digitizing these documents is a savvy move, enabling you to clear physical space and securely store everything from IDs to rental agreements. Should your digital files require adjustments, like changing their orientation, a PDF rotator can modify pages to portrait or landscape mode — this deserves a look. Once rotated, these documents are ready for easy downloading and sharing, ensuring you maintain both order and readiness.

Staying Organized with a Planner

Utilizing a planner, digital or physical, is key to managing your life’s logistics effectively, from appointments to bill payments. Schedule crucial tasks and reminders to keep on top of rent payments, work deadlines, and other commitments. Regularly updating your planner helps avoid late fees and missed deadlines, keeping your daily life orderly and predictable. This simple organizational tool is essential for maintaining control over your activities and responsibilities.

Preparing for Unexpected Events

It’s wise to prepare for emergencies, from health crises to unexpected home repairs. Know the location of essential services like hospitals and have your insurance details accessible for quick action during medical emergencies. For financial security, maintain a savings buffer to support yourself in scenarios like job loss. Proactively managing these plans ensures you can respond swiftly and effectively to life’s unpredictable challenges.

Managing Your Finances with a Budget

Setting a budget is crucial when living on your own, ensuring you can comfortably cover all expenses. List your fixed monthly costs, such as rent and utilities, and estimate variable expenses like groceries and leisure activities. Include savings in your budget to build financial security over time. A well-planned budget keeps your finances under control, helping you cut unnecessary expenses and save for future goals.

Living independently for the first time is a profound learning curve that shapes your future self-sufficiency. Each challenge faced and overcome adds to your reservoir of life skills, boosting your confidence and competence. As you navigate this journey, remember that the effort you put into organizing and adapting to your new life pays dividends in comfort and stability. Ultimately, this experience lays the foundation for a fulfilling, well-managed life ahead.

For friendly, professional house cleaning service, contact Denver Concierge today!

New IRS Tax Brackets 2025 

This week, the Internal Revenue Service published its annual inflation adjustments for tax year 2025.

Each fall, the IRS issues changes to both tax brackets and the standard deduction. We have seen more significant changes in past years due to the high rate of inflation following the pandemic. 2025 will represent the smallest change in several years, however. 

For tax year 2023, the adjustment to the income thresholds was 7%, for tax year 2024, it was 5.4%, and for tax year 2025, it is approximately 2.8%.

The updated marginal rates for tax year 2025 are as follows:

• 10% for incomes $11,925 or less ($23,850 or less for married couples filing jointly).
• 12% for incomes over $11,925 ($23,850 for married couples filing jointly).
• 22% for incomes over $48,475 ($96,950 for married couples filing jointly).
• 24% for incomes over $103,350 ($206,700 for married couples filing jointly).
• 32% for incomes over $197,300 ($394,600 for married couples filing jointly).
• 35% for incomes over $250,525 ($501,050 for married couples filing jointly).
• 37% for incomes over $626,350 ($751,600 for married couples filing jointly).

Additionally, the standard deduction for single taxpayers and married individuals filing separately will rise to $15,000. For married couples filing jointly, it will be $30,000. For heads of households, the standard deduction will be $22,500.

Good news, we suppose, except for the inflationary effect overall. The complete update from IRS.Gov can be found here.

Celebrating Small Businesses 

Each year, American Express sponsors Small Business Saturday. 

Celebrated on the first Saturday after Thanksgiving, the initiative was started by American Express back in 2010 as a way to promote small businesses.

Small businesses, like ours, are the backbone of the economy.

Some 2023 facts, from the SBA Office of Advocacy:

• Most businesses are small- 99.9% of American businesses.
   
• There are 33,185,550 small businesses in the United States.
   
• Small businesses employ 61.7 million Americans, totaling 46.4% of private sector employees.
   
• From 1995 to 2021, small businesses created 17.3 million net new jobs, accounting for 62.7% of net jobs created since 1995.
   
• Small businesses pay 39.4% percent of private sector payroll.
   
• Small businesses generate 32.6% percent of known export value.
   
• About 38% of small businesses use specialized software in their business operations.

This year, Small Business Saturday falls on November 30. We encourage you to support the local businesses that contribute to our economy.

American Express came up with a great tool to help find small businesses near you and it can be found here.

We hope you join us in “shopping small” this holiday season, and we thank you for allowing our small business to serve you.

Monthly Award Winners

Our monthly award winners for September were Guadalupe Caloca, Rosario De La Rosa, Haydee Espinoza, Nimia  Espinoza, and Josefina Quinonez.

In the Team Leader ranks, it was Socorro Ibarra and Natalia Olivas.

We are so proud of our winners, and of all the ladies that are in and out of your homes each week.

We are also very appreciative to be a part of your lives and your homes. You provide the platform for our teams to perform, and for that we are grateful.

Please join me in congratulating our best performers for the month of September.

Queen Bee Corner

by Angela

Most homeowners enjoy living in a house with appealing decor and well-appointed furnishings. What they don’t enjoy is the necessary upkeep, especially the cleaning.

Manufacturers of household cleaning products play on this, and would have us believe that using their brands will guarantee maximum results with minimum time and effort, a brief interlude in an otherwise busy day. 

On the contrary it is our contention at Denver Concierge that a proper clean goes far beyond the cleaning solutions themselves. 

Before touted miracle aerosols and mops and cloths housecleaning was a physical chore, and it still is. As the old saying goes, “elbow grease is the best polish!

A house may be pleasing to the eye but if the hard to reach out of sight nooks and crannies are not cleaned regularly  they can create a health hazard; a hotbed for dust mites, allergens and mold. 

Our ladies are professionals whose amazing results are proof that cleaning knowhow trumps fancy sprays any day. We supply our workers with simple tried and true cleaning solutions that ensure their health and safety and the health and safety of the home’s residents.  

Much of success boils down to a simple maxim: Do the real thing and stop trying fake alternatives, which we do every day.

Bee

Denver October Happenings

Indeed, summer went very fast. It seems like it was either raining or oppressively hot, but either way we have another one in the books, and we are on to fall.

With the beginning of fall comes many different things to celebrate in and around Denver.

As is our habit, we are here to share those things and hopefully give you some ideas for some fun things to do. 

This month’s newsletter also answers the question, “Is Denver rude?”(spoiler alert, yes, we just might be, or maybe we are just overworked?).

We have a guest writer providing tips on how to get your home ready for winter, and we cover the important items affecting us on the November ballot.

Finally, we dive into the controversy surrounding how you might try to dispute a toll violation, and what we found isn’t very customer friendly.

With that in mind, let’s begin.

October brings lots of fun things to the Front Range. Let’s start with adult fun, including the Great American Beer Festival which runs from October 10-12. Breck also has their Craft Spirits Festival from the 11-13, in case you might need something stronger.

The folks at uncovercolorado.com published a good list of other events as well and it is here.

We also love the list at denver.org as well, which includes lots of adult fun here.

For the kiddos, it’s Halloween time. That means haunted houses, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and eventually trick or treating. 

We have done all the research for you, and you can find the best lists we came across by clicking below:

Haunted Houses

Corn Mazes

Pumpkin Patches

Moving back into the grown-up section of October, we always love the stuff that Denver.org publishes. From Dracula to Cocktails and Screams at McGregor Square, they have you covered.

Whew, that was a lot, but we hope you find it informative. Lots to do for young and old this October, we hope you enjoy.

Wishing you a great beginning to fall and a fun Halloween this October!

Is Denver Rude? Or Just Overworked?

We don’t feel rude. We try to treat everyone we interact with respectfully.

But we all have bad days, so we were curious about what Preply found when they decided to take a look at the rudest cities in the U.S.

The study methodology courtesy of Preply, ” We surveyed residents about social behaviors they noticed in their city and calculated a city rudeness score based on the answers.”

“Lack of awareness in public, loudness in shared places, and rudeness to service staff members are just some of the behaviors that branded Miami, FL, as having the rudest residents. Although Philadelphia, PA, ranked as the second rudest, the city’s residents have actually gotten kinder since 2022, when they ranked number one. However, not all cities have improved.”

So, good news, Denver is not the rudest city in the U.S. We ranked 34th out of 46, which is “kind of” rude. It looks like we maybe got more polite since 2022 however when we ranked 21st in rudeness.

Which city is the politest? Omaha, Nebraska leads the way with Minneapolis and San Diego right behind them.

While we technically were the 12th least rude city in the U.S. we didn’t fare as well in another study we ran across.

It seems we are the most overworked city in the entire country!

From the article on financebuzz, “Denver ranks above-average in every single metric we looked at, but the factor contributing the most to the city’s first-place finish is the percentage of households where two or more people work full-time jobs. Almost 62% of households in Denver fit that bill, the seventh-highest rate of any city.”

Wow, we were surprised. With all the things to do around the Front Range, we might have guessed differently, but there it is.

The full study on the most overworked cities in the U.S. can be found here.financebuzz.com.

Wondering what city is the least overworked? Us too, and it was Detroit, Michigan, with the lowest percentage of workers that are in the office at least 50 weeks per year — just 77.1%.

Fascinating stuff indeed.

Take some time off, Denver, don’t forget to smell the roses!

How to Prep Your Home for Winter 

By Guest Writer Nellia Melnyk

Ethosroofing.com

With breathtaking snow-capped mountains and a festive vibe, Denver winters can be both lovely and challenging. There’s always a chance of low temperatures and snowstorms. Getting your home ready for winter in Denver is important if you want to appreciate its beauty stress-free. Continue reading for crucial advice on winter-proofing your house so you won’t be caught off guard by the cold.

Inspection & Sealing of Windows & Doors

Windows and doors are typically the biggest sources of heat loss in the winter. It is essential to have these places inspected and sealed in order to preserve the energy efficiency of your house. To keep your house warm and energy-efficient, premium sealants will be applied, windows and doors will be examined for cracks and drafts, and a proper fit will be ensured.

Checking Your Heating System

An extensive examination of your furnace is the first step in checking your heating system. Your HVAC system may be safely inspected once a year to help find any issues before they become dangerous or require costly repairs.

Equally vital is having your chimney checked, since a clean, well-kept chimney reduces the likelihood of fires. To avoid winter emergencies, some proactive steps are essential.

Lastly, it wouldn’t hurt to confirm your carbon monoxide detector is operational.

Insulating Pipes to Avoid Freezing

Denver winters are typically turbulent. Pipes must be properly insulated in order to avoid freezing during the winter. Pipes in cold climes, particularly those in unheated rooms, are susceptible to freeze, burst, and sustain significant damage. Foam rubber or polyethylene foam insulation for pipelines is advised by local experts since these materials provide good protection from low temperatures.

Inspecting pipes for weak points and potential leaks is essential in addition to adding insulation, particularly to lines that pass-through attics, basements, or exterior walls. Experts are able to pinpoint regions that are more likely to freeze and recommend extra safety precautions like temperature management in underheated rooms or pipe heaters.

Gutter Cleaning & Maintenance

To prevent problems like ice dams caused by debris, it’s necessary to regularly clean and maintain your gutters. We talked to local expert Constantine Anest of Ethos Roofing, who explained, “Snowmelt cannot drain properly when gutters are clogged. This leads to clogs, which when they freeze, create ice dams. These ice dams have the potential to harm your walls, eaves, and roof. Gutter cleaning done correctly guarantees appropriate drainage during winter melting.”

Inspection of the Attic and Roof

Your roof should be carefully inspected for missing or damaged shingles in order to prepare as part of preparing your home for winter. If these issues aren’t taken care of right away, your roof might not be able to endure severe weather.

Examining the insulation in the attic is the next step. For the best heat retention, the insulation needs to be at least 12 inches thick.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to for any overhanging tree branches to be trimmed because heavy snowfall may cause them to snap and harm your roof.

General Cleaning

Conducting a thorough cleaning before winter will help create the ideal conditions for your comfort. Special attention should be given to cleaning and organizing seasonal items, such as winter clothing and footwear. Make sure all winter accessories, including gloves and hats, are clean and ready for use. It’s also worth cleaning or replacing textiles, such as blankets and pillows. Pay particular attention to eliminating excess clutter that might obstruct access to heating equipment, and check and clean carpets if necessary to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating. This cleaning will help create a more cozy and organized environment, making the winter season more comfortable.

Stock Up on Winter Supplies

In order to be ready for Denver’s heavy and unpredictable snow and ice, residents may wish to stock up on vital winter supplies as winter draws near. Space heaters for extremely chilly temperatures, ice melters, and snow shovels should all be on your list. Finally, in the event of a significant snowfall, it’s a good idea to stock up on non-perishable food. Although assembling these winter essentials isn’t tough, they can keep your family warm and secure over the long winter.

Stay Cozy and Embrace the Season

Remember that staying warm isn’t the only reason to get your house ready for Denver winters. The goal is to create a warm refuge that you and your loved ones can spend the entire season in. When the snow starts to fall, every little move you take now can have a significant impact. So, grab a blanket and start ensuring these standards are met! In the end, accepting the enchantment that winter brings is just as important as simply making it through. Prepare your house for the winter and start celebrating! 

Author’s Bio: Nellia Melnyk is a writer and content creator with a unique perspective on the sector and a deep understanding of what it takes to help people choose the right roofing solutions for their homes. She writes engaging and informative content that covers everything from roof repair and maintenance to the latest trends and technologies in the roofing industry. Through her articles and posts, she has helped countless people make informed decisions when it comes to their roofs. You can find her on LinkedIn.

November Ballot Initiatives 

You may have heard we have an election coming up.

No, we are not wandering into that minefield.

We are, however, going to stay closer to home and cover some of the important measures for us to consider.

For starters, Denver is proposing a sales tax increase of .34%, designed to cover the costs of patients who cannot cover hospital bills.

Another proposal would raise the sales and use tax by 1/2% to fund affordable housing. 

In all, there are 12 questions on the Denver ballot, including a ban on slaughterhouses and fur trading.

Also, both Denver Public Schools and the City of Denver want to significantly increase their debt to finance improvements. 

Big increases are being proposed, so it is an important time to take a look and understand what is up for vote.

There are also 14 statewide initiatives being proposed and they can be found here.

Those include some hot-button topics, starting with abortion rights in our state and whether or not public funds can be used, as well as a change in same-sex marriage validity.

That should stir people up for sure. 

Either way, it’s an important election for many reasons, so we hope you get out and vote.

Toll Lane Fines & Disputes 

We have written here in the past about the big fines you can earn if you do the wrong thing in a toll lane.

So, what happens if you get a citation in the mail and you didn’t do anything wrong?

Unfortunately, our research has turned up some bad news.

Toll lanes in Colorado are mostly maintained electronically. This means that using license plate information and AI, it’s pretty easy to get a ticket.

In fact, the automated enforcement has registered about 1,500 violations per day since it was started totaling $57 million in revenue via fines issued.

The Denver Post did a feature on this recently and from that article, “Colorado officials activated enforcement on Interstate 25 north of Denver and the C-470 beltway in October 2023 following an introduction in July 2023 on I-70 mountain express lanes. They plan to do the same on the I-25 express lane between Castle Rock and Monument and other express lanes around metro Denver”.

“Drivers are supposed to enter and exit express lanes only at designated points across dashed white lines. Blissway set up a network of sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence-assisted tracking technology after state lawmakers boosted CDOT’s authority to crack down on drivers who weave in and out of express lanes to avoid paying tolls.”

The scary part is the “appeals” process, which has come under fire from many drivers wishing to dispute their tickets.

Without diving too deeply into the details it is safe to say that the appeals process leaves a lot to be desired.

The article, which can be found here behind the Denver Post paywall, outlines examples of drivers appealing online and being rejected within 10 minutes of submission.

For more information on the enforcement program, you can visit the CDOT page here.

If you are one of the unlucky ones who has been issued a citation, you can attempt to appeal it here.

The bad news is it doesn’t seem to stand much of a chance. Be safe out there Denver, and don’t cross the solid line on the tollway!

Monthly Award Winners

Our monthly award winners for August were Haydee Espinoza, Rosario De La Rosa, Nimia Espinoza, Maria Zapata, and Yessica Censo.

In the Team Leader ranks, it was Socorro Ibarra and Mayra Soto.

We are so proud of our winners, and of all the folks that are in and out of your homes each week.

We are also very appreciative to be a part of your lives and your homes. You provide the platform for our teams to perform, and for that we are grateful.

Please join me in congratulating our best performers for the month of August.

Queen Bee Corner

by Angela

Denver Concierge is dedicated to safeguarding our employees and our clients against unsafe products or tasks that may potentially create a health risk or damage to furnishings.

To this end, we at times may question a client’s instruction or request made to the Team Leader. 

Although each house has a work order with instructions specific to that house, clients frequently add to or subtract from the standard procedures. This allows for a more customized clean and we happily oblige. 

However, there are requests deemed to be outside the purview of our safety guidelines, such as the use of any product containing bleach, any heavy lifting (including flipping a mattress), dusting at heights, moving bulky furniture, organizing toys, clothing, or household items. 

We rely on our professional Team Leaders to know which tasks can be easily done and which should not be attempted. 

We appreciate our clients’ understanding and continued kindness to our ladies.  I thank you on their behalf.

Bee 

Goodbye Summer & Hello Fall

In a few weeks, we say goodbye to summer. It always goes so fast. Soon, our 100-degree days will be turning into crisp fall days.

Speaking of weather, did you know that we hit 100 degrees six times in 2024? That is the third most in Denver’s recorded history. That made us wonder, what year had the most of those?

It was 2012, with 13 days over 100 degrees. Back in 2005, there were seven such days, which is good for second place all-time. So, if you were wondering if we had an unusually sizzling summer, you are 100% correct.

Fortunately, we didn’t beat the streak of five straight 100-degree days set also in 2005 and 2012. If you like to geek out about the weather, check out this site, it will tell you whatever you need to know about extreme weather pretty much anywhere.

Enough about the weather, we have holidays to celebrate! The next one falls on Monday, September 2nd. We will indeed be closed so our dedicated associates can take a well-earned 3-day weekend. 

We hope you enjoy it as well and remember to stay safe.

We have gone into the history of Labor Day a few times in the past and it has an interesting one for sure. In short, it celebrates the social and economic achievement of the American worker.

Over here at Denver Concierge, we get so wrapped up in cleaning houses and trying to manage our business that it’s easy to forget just how hard our folks work in your homes each week.

Let us take this time to celebrate those efforts and thank you for allowing us the platform to perform our duties. We thank you.

For all the details on Labor Day and why and when we celebrate it, check here.

Meanwhile, we wish you the best three-day weekend (heck maybe four if you took today off too!) with friends and family. 

Happy Labor Day weekend, we will see you on the other side!

Denver Food and Wine Festival

The Denver Food and Wine Festival has returned once again.

Billed as a “multi-day extravaganza of food, wine, and spirits events”, the festival begins on September 4th and will culminate with the Grand Tasting on September 7th at Tivoli Quad.

We have many clients and partners in the restaurant space, and we can assure you that it has not been a smooth road stretching back to COVID-19 days.

This event is sponsored by the Colorado Restaurant Foundation and is the industry’s biggest fundraiser.

There are many cool events, including the “Shake and Brake Showdown”, which will feature a cocktail competition and bites from Denver’s best food trucks.

If you love wine, the folks at Riedel are sponsoring a glassware seminar, which we have attended in the past.

If you love wine and want to learn about the importance of pairing the proper glassware and wine, we would recommend that one for sure. Plus, you get some amazing Riedel glassware for your trouble.

The complete schedule of events is here, we hope you join us in celebrating Denver’s wonderful restaurant scene.

Painful Overthinking 

Do you overthink? We sure do, usually thinking about innovative ways to delight our loyal clients.

Sometimes it’s random stuff, but it’s hard for us to shut off our brains. So much so that sometimes it hurts.

Well, loyal reader, you know us. This prompted us to see if overthinking makes your brain hurt, and guess what? It does, and science backs it up.

It’s important to realize that the science behind this doesn’t cover random thoughts or daydreaming, but intense mental exertion. 

From one of the articles we found on Medium, “Our findings show that mental effort feels unpleasant across a wide range of populations and tasks,”

“This is important for professionals, such as engineers and educators, to keep in mind when designing tasks, tools, interfaces, apps, materials, or instructions. When people are required to exert substantial mental effort, you need to make sure to support or reward them for their effort.”

Why then, does thinking too hard tax us so much? Simply, and also from the article, “When we think long and hard about something, toxic chemicals build up in the brain’s prefrontal cortex, the area that drives decision-making and problem-solving.”

“That leads to less-effective thinking, scientists reported in a 2022 study, and it seems to act as a circuit breaker, preventing us from thinking too much and blowing a fuse.”

Finally, and also very fascinating, Psychology Today published a study by McGill University that shows that humans will willingly choose physical pain over complex mental tasks.

That piece can be found here, and is very insightful.

The bottom line? Take some time off every now and then to let that big brain of yours recharge, especially if your head starts to hurt!!!

Leaf Peeping 

Colorado’s beautiful fall colors can rival just about anyone’s. Especially if you know where to go!

In that spirit, we wanted to give you the lowdown on where exactly the best “leaf peeping” can be found.

Plus, we really like “Leaf Peeping”. Don’t ask us why, but there’s just something cute about it.

Onward we go, and leave it to the nice folks at 5280 Magazine to give us the jumpstart we needed.

In their article, “8 Leaf-Peeping Mountain Getaways” (see, they like it too) they cover the best places to see our gorgeous fall transformation.

From hot springs getaways to a full fall immersion up on Grouse Mountain, they have some great destinations covered.

We also ran across a list from Colorado.com, with 10 places to see Colorado’s Fall Color and it is here.

Lastly, for you aspiring photographers, the folks at Nikon have a list of tips to get the shot of a lifetime, and it is here.

Happy trails and enjoy those colors!

Skyrocketing HOA Fees

Not long ago we talked about property taxes and their astronomical increases across our state.

Homeowner’s insurance is also on the rise, thanks to hail and fires across our state.

Now, it seems that those increases have rapidly crept into HOA fees.

40% of Coloradans belong to an HOA. If you are in a single-family dwelling, those fees can range from $500 to a few thousand dollars a year.

If you are in a high-end condo or townhome, however, those rates are much higher, sometimes exceeding $1000 monthly, on top of your mortgage payment.

It seems the increase in insurance rates and all other associated costs have led us to this. 

From the article on KRDO, “According to industry experts, those who live inside neighborhoods that have Home Owner Associations (HOA’s) may see a steep increase in their fees this year. They say it is because of two things: skyrocketing insurance costs and increasing labor costs.”

“A lot of our clients are seeing their costs increase up and down their budget, whether it’s because of the landscape contract increasing … or insurance, or the costs of our fees and management costs associated with running the association,” Brandon Helm, President of Warner Management said.”

Many HOA residents are seeing double or even triple their normal rates.

If you are in an HOA, Colorado has laws that may protect you. Unfortunately, there aren’t laws that prohibit increases nor any that cap what HOA’s can do.

The state does have an HOA resource and it can be found here.

Finally, it at least appears that there may be some property tax relief coming soon.

If you are having issues with your HOA, there are resources to help you with disputes, a good example is here.

Sure seems like increased costs are everywhere these days.

Monthly Award Winners

Our monthly award winners for July were Maria Zapata, Haydee Espinoza, Josefina Quinonez, Cecilia Reyes, and Nimia Espinoza.

In the Team Leader ranks, it was Socorro Ibarra and Laura Varela.

We are so proud of our winners, and of all the folks that are in and out of your homes each week.

We are also very appreciative to be a part of your lives and your homes. You provide the platform for our teams to perform, and for that we are grateful.

Please join me in congratulating our best performers for the month of July.

Queen Bee Corner

by Angela

Many, many years ago when Denver Concierge was in its infancy we had a policy that we would not do partial cleans.

We would only clean the whole house top to bottom.

Fast forward to the present where costs across all sectors are pretty much off the charts, we have drastically modified our earlier MO. It suddenly seemed unfair and burdensome money-wise for clients to pay for seldom used rooms or areas. 

Clients now can choose which  rooms are to be cleaned each visit and communicate this by responding to the confirmation text they receive the day before each clean. 

The only criterion we ask for is, “keep it simple”.

If possible include whole rooms or levels rather than smaller areas or even pieces of furniture. (The only exception to this would be delicate antique items such as pianos, wall art, or sculptures which should be noted on the work order as a standard instruction). 

We want the team members to hit the ground running upon arrival rather than wait while their Team Leader unravels complicated instructions.

On a side note, please know any comments or concerns should be sent to me via text, as they occur. 

It is our responsibility to keep you happy and not have our folks in the field grapple with small irritants or preferences that could be easily remedied.

On the flip side, we also love to receive complimentary thoughts as they occur (which we immediately text to the team). 

Showing appreciation for a job well done goes a long way toward a happy work force, and for that we thank you.

Bee

2023 Review and 2024 Outlook 

How was your 2023?

Ours was fun and eventful but much too short!!! As the years go by, they seem to go faster and faster.

We want to be among the first to wish you an incredibly Happy New Year and hope for a prosperous 2024. 

Before we wave goodbye to 2023, we thought we would reflect on our year and share the good and the bad with you.

For starters, the good. Our clients. We love you. It’s not about the money or the reputation, for us it’s about our relationships. With you and your family, with your pets, and with your home in general.

Angela tells me cute stories all the time about her interactions with you and it truly feels like family to us. Thankfully, we employ a lot of happy people as well and each one that cleans your home feels a bond with you, which we appreciate. In short, it’s way more than housecleaning for us, and for that we are grateful. 

You may not realize that we started back in 1998, so for many of you there are 25 years of relationships. Hard to believe really, but here we are, still chugging along, in many cases cleaning the homes of the young children, now adults, that we met way back then.

We also are thankful for our many partners and contributors, and we feel like those relationships got even stronger in 2023. Coming out of the weird “pandemic times” seems to have brought many of us closer, which is also a wonderful feeling.

So, what could have been better in 2023?

Well, those of you who know us well know that we suffer from painful honesty as we traverse this world of commerce, so we will tell it like it is.

The labor situation across the Front Range is challenging at best. 

You may not be aware that Denver had the third-highest statutory minimum wage in the United States at $17.29. That will be rising in 2024 to $18.29. We absolutely hate raising prices, but with the majority of our costs coming from labor, our fine city has left us no choice. 

If you look at recent history, you can see why local businesses are facing such pressure. 

The citywide minimum wage was $12.85 per hour in 2020, $14.77 per hour in 2021, $15.87 per hour in 2022, and $17.29 per hour in 2023. The 2024 wage represents a 42% increase from 2020. Pretty startling when you see it in print. 

Also startling is that the federal minimum wage is still only $7.25. Wow.

Related to labor in 2023, we have also had difficulty hiring the right people to clean your homes. We will not hire just anyone, as we believe what we do and how we do it is quite different than anyone else, so this was a challenge as well.

Going forward into 2024 we vow to do everything in our power to offset the headwinds that are facing our business (and most others). We will continue to do everything possible to keep our costs down so we can manage our pricing effectively and give you the value we know you desire.

Angela has some pointers about how to keep the cost of your cleans down going forward, see this month’s Queen Bee feature below to learn more.

We are committed to remaining consistent and delivering the Front Range’s best housecleaning service. If for any reason you ever feel like we aren’t doing that, please let us know immediately. We stand behind what we do 100% and can’t live with anyone feeling unsatisfied.

So onward into 2024. For those of you who make resolutions, we found some tips about just how to keep them.

We wish you the best for 2024 and hope that it is a wonderful and truly magnificent year for every one of you.

As always, you have our gratitude and our commitment to be the best partner you and your home can ask for.

Happy New Year!!!

Pay Those Red Light Tickets

Ah yes, the old red-light tickets and photo traffic enforcement. For years we weren’t sure about whether or not they had to be paid. 

In fact, in Colorado before June of this year, we technically didn’t have to, unless we were served in person.

In a little-publicized law that was enacted this past June, that is no longer the case.

From the article on Fox News, “The new law passed in June says that when your citation is mailed first class, it’s been served to you. It doesn’t matter if it was sent to an old address, or you claim that you didn’t get it in the mail.”

“As soon as they send it out, you’re affirmed guilty,” said Ramirez. “It doesn’t matter if they have the right address or right anything, it’s on you to make sure that all your information is up to date, make sure all your licensing and information is up to date, at all times. Because if it’s not, that isn’t necessarily going to be an excuse for the fine.”

Looks like another revenue stream for our government indeed.

Should you fail to pay within 30 days, the fine will go up, and ultimately you will be sent to collection, which could negatively impact your credit rating.

The complete article on the law change can be found here.

The bill and all of its juicy details can be found here, in case you want to see the nuts and bolts.

Finally, we found a comprehensive list of all red light and traffic cameras here, in case you want to be on the lookout.

Do be aware though, that there are temporary cameras that are often set up in places not on this list, so keep your guard up!!

2024 Lower Heating Bills 

Not long ago, we covered the increases we have all had to endure with our monthly energy bills.

It appears Xcel has listened and there is good news coming.

From the recent article in the Denver Business Journal, “Xcel said Friday it expects monthly natural gas bills for home heating to drop by 4.5% on average in the first quarter of next year compared to current prices, and the typical monthly bill will drop 28% when compared to what it was in the first quarter of 2023.”

“That’s an average residential savings of $4.87 per month compared to bills for heating this month and represents a typical heating bill reduction of $39.11 per month compared to what the typical homeowner paid Xcel for natural gas heating at the start of 2023, the utility said.”

“For small businesses, the heating bills in January-March will drop 5.14%, saving small companies on average $23.28 per month and making the typical small-business heating bill $429.46. Compared to the first-quarter bills in 2023, the prices will shave $186.45 per month off the $615.91 monthly bill the average small business paid at the start of 2023.”

This is great news for all of us and a fine way to start 2024. 

The complete article from the Denver Business Journal can be found here.

The Denver Post also did a piece today on what we can expect going forward into ’24. For those of you with a Post subscription, that article can be found here.

In this inflationary economy, every bit helps, so we are excited about this development!

Denver’s Best Restaurants New and Old 

It’s been a while since we discussed Denver’s dining scene.

We still love to eat and enjoy Denver’s great culinary scene, so here goes.

Let’s start with 5280’s list of the best new restaurants in our fine city.

From Chilean food to two new French restaurants, Denver has us covered. That dish in the photo is courtesy of LeFrench, and it looks delicious to us.

The complete list of newcomers to our dining scene can be found here, thanks to 5280 Magazine.

We love novel places, but we also love our staples.

So, what are the best 25 restaurants across the Front Range?

Well, avid reader, you might recognize some of the staples on this list. Frasca (Boulder) for example, is a perennial member of the list.

Uchi has also made this list before, but we also found many establishments that we haven’t tried yet that look fascinating. 

We can, however, recommend A5 as one of the best steaks we have ever had, including a bavette and tri-tip cut one rarely sees in restaurants. 

The complete list of the top 25 restaurants in Denver can be found here.

Unfortunately, they aren’t ranked in any order, so we will have to try them all and see for ourselves.

Hope to see you out there, fellow diners.

Home Downsizing for Seniors

By Guest Writer Max Stevens, National Contractors Association

You’re embarking on an exciting new chapter, transitioning into a smaller, more manageable living space that will ensure both your continued safety and a reduction in expenses. However, this journey requires careful planning and consideration, especially when it involves leaving a home filled with memories and possessions. In this article, courtesy of Denver Concierge, we’ll offer a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through this significant life change efficiently and thoughtfully.

Estate Planning Insights

As you consider selling your cherished home, it’s crucial to understand the estate planning implications. Consulting with an estate planner ensures that decisions about property ownership and inheritance are well-informed. They will guide you through potential tax impacts, helping you preserve your financial legacy for your loved ones. This step is vital for peace of mind and financial clarity.

Tech-Savvy Home Prep

In preparing your current home for sale, technology can be your ally. Home management apps are invaluable, connecting you with reliable contractors for necessary updates or repairs. For instance, if your home requires appliance repair, these apps can be a quick, efficient solution that allow you to find the best service for your budget. Leveraging technology streamlines the process, making your transition smoother and more efficient.

Evaluating Care Options

For some, the best downsizing option might be a skilled nursing facility, offering specialized care and support. Thoroughly research facilities online, examining each one’s services, reputation, and care quality. This decision is deeply personal and requires thoughtful consideration of your health, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Making an informed choice will ensure comfort and peace of mind in your new home.

Refinancing Strategies

Consider the financial benefits of refinancing your existing home. In an ever-changing economic landscape, refinancing might offer more favorable interest rates or access to additional funds, aiding your downsizing transition. This financial move could provide you with more liquidity or better mortgage terms, aligning with your current needs and future plans.

Declutter with Expertise

Downsizing often means parting with possessions that won’t fit in your new space. Hiring a professional organizer can transform this daunting task into an achievable, even enjoyable, process. They’ll help you sort through belongings, decide what to keep, donate, or discard, making your move smoother and less overwhelming. Their expertise can turn a challenging task into a liberating experience. You can also hire a professional cleaning crew to come in and help you prepare your home for sale, which will cut down on potential trip-and-fall hazards and ensure that the space is ready for your buyers.

Market Timing Mastery

Understanding the real estate market’s current state is essential before selling your home. The market’s condition significantly influences sale prices and the ease of finding a buyer. Conduct thorough research or consult a real estate expert to determine the best time to sell. Timing your move right could lead to a more profitable and stress-free selling experience.

Tax-Savvy Moving

Investigating potential tax exemptions or deductions related to downsizing is a crucial step in optimizing your financial strategy. A consultation with a tax professional could uncover opportunities to maximize the financial benefits of your move, which might otherwise be overlooked. Understanding these tax implications can lead to significant savings, directly impacting your financial health during this transition.

Your journey to downsizing is a multi-faceted process that involves more than just moving to a smaller space; it’s about making informed, strategic decisions for a comfortable and secure future. By thoroughly considering key aspects and utilizing tools such as a home maintenance repair app, you lay the foundation for a smooth transition. Embracing this change with confidence comes from knowing that you are well-prepared and have considered all angles of this life shift. This new chapter in your life, filled with potential and promise, is a testament to your thoughtful planning and readiness for change.

Ready to get some help with cleaning your home? Get in touch with the team at Denver Concierge today to learn more about the services you can choose from.

Monthly Award Winners

Our monthly award winners for November were Maria Zapata, Mary Moreno, Josefina Quinonez, Haydee Espinosa, and Patricia Rodriguez.

In the Team Leader ranks, it was Brenda Garcia and Isela Mendoza.

We are so proud of our winners, and of all the folks that are in and out of your homes each week.

We are also very appreciative to be a part of your lives and your homes. You provide the platform for our teams to perform, and for that we are grateful.

Please join me in congratulating our best performers for the month of November.

Be on the lookout next month as we announce our annual winners for 2023!

Queen Bee Corner

by Angela

Recently I have been receiving client texts asking what you can do as clients to make your housecleaning day more efficient, i.e., more timely and less costly, without forgoing the quality.

The following scenario, while likely unattainable in its entirety,  will illustrate the various traits that go into creating the optimum clean. 

On the clean day, the best scenario; a team arrives, parks next to the house, uses a code or key to enter.  Clients are not home.  Pets are corralled in a pet area, surfaces are uncluttered, and floors are free of clothing and toys.

Instructions have been relayed via text to the Team Leader at the time of dispatch so each team member knows her specific task.  Starting at the top of the house the team works its way down to the bottom, like clockwork, no hindrances. Orderly, efficient, detailed, and timely.

Obviously, individual family lifestyles, size, furnishings, and schedules all go into what aspects of the above scenario could be adopted on any given clean day.

More clients now work from home, unexpected workers or guests show up, science or craft projects need to remain in place; however, even managing one or two small aspects from the above will help with the overall efficiency.

And keep in mind, I am just a text away for any questions.

Bee

No Stress Holiday Season 

Ah the holidays, we love ’em. Well mostly, anyway.

We love the time with family and friends, but we don’t love the stress of holiday shopping, the commercial madness, and just how tense most folks seem to be.

So, for 2023, we are making a vow to de-stress this holiday season. That starts with a clean house, hopefully!!! We are here for your holiday cleaning, as usual, but wanted to provide other ways to de-stress and make this the best holiday season ever.

If this looks like you, then maybe join us on our journey!

For starters, see below for one of our favorite people to help you do just that. You can outsource a number of different things, including decor, gift-buying, and party planning to name a few. Read on for details.

Beyond that, Johns Hopkins put out a short list of tips to destress, and we also found a good list by mellowed.com which can be found here.

It’s easy to forget the meaning of the holidays when you feel like the person in the photo above. We hope your holiday season is exactly the opposite this year and leads you into a wonderful 2024.

Finally, we will be closed on Monday, December 25th for Christmas Day, and Monday, January 1st for the start of the new year and to give our folks a much-needed break or two.

We wish you all the best for a peaceful and stress-free holiday season!!!!

Tax Law Changes

Did you know there are seven tax brackets in the U.S. tax code?

The marginal rates — 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35% and 37% — remain unchanged from 2023.

While the rates themselves are not changing, due to inflation, the amount needed to hit each bracket has been adjusted upward.

This is done so cost of living increases don’t result in a bigger tax burden for taxpayers.

For example, in 2023, if you earned $89,450 you were at the top of the 12% bracket, with $190,750 at the top of the next bracket at 22%.

In 2024, those numbers change to $94,300 and $201,750, respectively.

The standard deduction has also been changed, with the single deduction going from $13,850 to $14,600, and the married joint-filing deduction from  $27,700 to $29,200. 

There are also changes to gift taxes, estate taxes, and HSA/FSA allowed amounts. 

Nerd Wallet did a comprehensive piece on this and all the changes and it can be found here.

Home Design Trends 2024 

What will be new in 2024 in terms of home design trends?

Well, we are glad you asked, because we have the scoop!!!

For starters, there will be a move away from minimalism.

From our friend Marina Dagenais at Designer Premier, “Home decor trends in 2024 will see a seismic shift away from minimalism.” “Colorful interiors are upstaging simple all-white interiors, grays, and black color schemes.”

“Thankfully, there are many ways to take the plunge and transform your home into a vibrant and unique space. These nine tips for incorporating color into your home interiors will prove minimalism isn’t the only way!”

Marina is always plugged into the latest design trends, and we found an article on Business Insider that backs up her predictions.

Marina did a wonderful blog about the new trends away from minimalism and goes into detail on bright wallpaper, textured rugs and the like, you can view that here.

Finally, one of our favorite things (we don’t know why) is the Pantone Color of the Year. The winner? 

Apricot Crush, of course.

As always, for interior design tips as well as finding the best interior designer, contact Marina here.

Partners We Love 

One of our favorite partners is Allison Welch of As You Wish. 

Allison is the founder of As You Wish, a personal assistant, event planner, and concierge. 

She and her wonderful team are available this holiday season to assist with just about anything you can imagine.

From personal shopping to party planning, the team at As You Wish are the consummate professionals.

From Allison directly: “If you are looking for more TIME this holiday season, our team of personal assistants can help with shopping, party planning, wrapping gifts, and all of your holiday decor”.

Having worked with Allison directly for years, we highly recommend her services.

She has many great testimonials and they can be found here.

To reach Allison and the As You Wish team, you can email them at [email protected], or by clicking here.

Here’s to a stress-free holiday season!!!

Is your Phone Secure?

Do you have an iPhone? If so, you should be aware of the latest security issue facing Apple’s flagship product.

It appears that following the recent update of IOS, iPhones can “trade” contact information with other iPhones.

The latest “feature” is called NameDrop and per Apple’s website: “With iOS 17.1 and watchOS 10.1, you can use NameDrop to quickly share contact information with a nearby iPhone or Apple Watch,” 

The ease and quickness of sharing information from phones has police sounding security alarms, while others believe the message is not necessary.

We aren’t taking any chances.

The feature defaults to “on”, so to turn Apple’s NameDrop feature off, go to settings → general → AirDrop, then tap the green button next to “start sharing by bringing devices together.” The green section should turn gray when it is off. 

Security issues aren’t just limited to iPhones either, they just have the most current and newsworthy issue.

Regardless of which phone you have, the end of the year is always a good time to check passwords and do security reviews on our devices.

A good checklist on how to proceed can be found here.

There are lots of creative scams out there that we should all be aware of. The folks at ZDNet came up with a list of the top 9 security risks for mobile devices and it can be found here.

When in doubt, don’t accept anything that pops up on your phone unless you are 100% certain you know the source.

Monthly Award Winners

Our monthly award winners for October were Maria Zapata, Mary Moreno, Guadalupe Coloco, Josefina Quinonez, and Yesica Censo.

In the Team Leader ranks, it was Natalia Olivas and Laura Varela.

As the year winds down, stay tuned for our “best of the best” winners for the entire year.

We are so proud of our winners, and of all the folks that are in and out of your homes each week.

We are also very appreciative to be a part of your lives and your homes. You provide the platform for our teams to perform, and for that we are grateful.

Please join me in congratulating our best performers for the month of October.

Queen Bee Corner

by Angela

As we move into the winter season,I am starting to receive client questions on how best to leave a holiday gift for the ladies who clean your homes.

To be clear, tipping is always absolutely optional. Denver Concierge employees are paid a generous wage, and unlike employees in the restaurant business, do not rely on tips to balance out their pay.

However, should a client wish to give a gift, the best way to go about it is to leave it with a small card bearing the Team Leader’s name. She will know who has been working in your house the most consistently throughout the year and can share accordingly.

An equally simple way is to leave the gift with the Team Leader to be taken to the office. The office staff will know how to distribute fairly and ensure that the ladies know who the gift is from.

In any case we thank you for inviting Denver Concierge into your homes over the past year and for your kindness of spirit toward our ladies. We especially thank your four-legged members for their consistently enthusiastic welcome each and every visit. 

Happy Holidays!

Bee

How Clean is Your Air? 

One thing few of us seem to think about is air quality, especially indoors. Who out there has ever heard of a VOC?

We know all about VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and their effects on our health and environment. We had to, as part of our Green Clean Institute annual certification, discussed in past newsletters.

VOCs are a diverse group of chemicals that can easily vaporize into the air, emanating from various household sources such as paints, cleaning products, furniture, and even some building materials. While they are essential components of many products, high levels of VOCs can have adverse health effects, including headaches, respiratory issues, and even long-term health risks.

We try to do our part over here at Denver Concierge, and while we can’t do much about VOCs we can help improve indoor air quality (IAQ) by way of our very deep cleaning. 

A thorough deep housecleaning can significantly improve IAQ by removing dust, allergens, pollutants, and contaminants that accumulate in your home over time. Here’s how it works:

1. Dust and Allergen Removal: Dust is a common source of indoor air pollution and can contain allergens like pollen, pet dander, and dust mites. Deep cleaning involves dusting, vacuuming, and wiping surfaces to eliminate these particles, preventing them from circulating in the air and triggering allergies or respiratory issues.
    
2. Mold and Mildew Control: Damp or humid areas in your home can foster the growth of mold and mildew, which release spores and mycotoxins into the air. Deep cleaning tackles these areas, reducing the risk of mold-related health problems.
    
3. Pet Hair and Dander: If you have pets, deep cleaning helps remove pet hair and dander from carpets, furniture, and other surfaces. This can significantly reduce allergens in the air.
    
4. Chemical and VOC Reduction: Cleaning products and household items can release volatile organic compounds into the air. Denver Concierge uses only eco-friendly and low-VOC cleaning solutions, minimizing the introduction of harmful chemicals into your indoor environment.
    
5. Reduction of Pest Allergens: Deep cleaning can help control pests and their allergens, such as cockroach droppings. Proper sanitation can deter pests and reduce their impact on IAQ.

In summary, deep housecleaning removes various sources of indoor air contaminants and reduces allergens and pollutants. Regular deep cleaning, in conjunction with good housekeeping practices, can lead to a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment, ultimately enhancing IAQ and the well-being of occupants.

Beyond housecleaning, there are other ways to improve IAQ, including these ideas by the EPA.

Also, some practical tips from realsimple.com can be found here.

There is even a school of thought that plants can assist in keeping our air fresh. Read on for a great piece by guest writer Jo Ellen Myers Sharp on the usefulness of various plants in your home, including ones that not only smell good but deter insects!!!

Thanks for letting us help keep your air clean and healthy!!!

Leaf Peepers Rejoice

Fall arrived quickly, and it is a wonderful time to enjoy the beauty of nature in Colorado, especially near Denver, where there are many scenic drives and hikes that showcase the vibrant colors of the aspen trees.

Whether you are looking for a short trip or a full-day adventure, here are some of the best places to see fall foliage near Denver.

•  Guanella Pass: This 22-mile road connects Georgetown and Grant, and offers stunning views of Mount Bierstadt and Mount Evans. You can see aspens turning gold at elevations from 8,000 to 10,000 feet above sea level. There are also many hiking trails along the pass, such as the Silver Dollar Lake Trail and the Bierstadt Trail.

•  Peak to Peak Highway: This 55-mile route runs from Black Hawk to Estes Park, passing through Nederland, Ward, and Allenspark. You can enjoy the views of the Continental Divide and Rocky Mountain National Park. You can also stop by the historic towns and attractions, such as the Carousel of Happiness in Nederland and the Chapel on the Rock in Allenspark

•  San Juan Skyway: This 236-mile loop takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in southern Colorado, including the San Juan Mountains and the San Juan National Forest. Along with beautiful fall colors, you can explore the charming towns of Durango, Dolores, Telluride, and Ouray.

You can also visit the Mesa Verde National Park and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad along the way.

The fine folks at Denver.org published a great list of day trips for leaf peeping and it can be found here.

More info from Thrillist as well.

Finally, our friends at 5280 Magazine published their list of day trips with 20 hikes near Denver that are “perfect for fall”.

These are just some of the best places to see fall foliage near Denver, but there are many more to discover. So grab your camera and your jacket, and head out to enjoy the splendor of autumn in Colorado.

Plants That Repel Mosquitos? 

By Guest Writer Jo Ellen Meyers Sharp

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if the fragrance of roses or honeysuckle repelled insects? They don’t, but some plants with an enjoyable smell do deter mosquitoes and other pests.

The trick is these plants themselves might not have an enjoyable scent – or any smell at all – but they yield a fragrance when turned into an essential oil or when leaves are rubbed together that will keep away mosquitoes and other bugaboos.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look (or sniff) at basil, catnip, citronella grass, lavender, and mint. All of these plants are commonly found in herb gardens, cat toys, flower gardens, and yards in Denver’s best neighborhoods.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) 

Probably one of the freshest fragrances of summer, basil adds a wonderful brightness to many foods. It is prized for its flavorful leaves, and like other insect-repelling plants, it’s the oil in basil that fends off insects.

You may find some repellant if basil leaves are rubbed on your skin. Basil also may be helpful when crushed and rubbed on insect bites.

Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Cats love catnip and so do bees and other pollinators, but the magic repellant in catnip comes after the leaves are crushed and rubbed on the skin.

Catnip is in the mint family, however, and can spread quickly to take over a garden. Catmint (N. racemosa) is a catnip relative and cats like it, too, but it is a clump grower rather than a spreader. 

Citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus) 

True citronella – that scent that repels mosquitoes via candles, tiki torches, and coil bracelets – comes from citronella grass, a lemongrass-like plant.

However, unlike edible lemongrass (C. citratus), citronella grass, an annual, is not edible. Rather, its stalks are harvested for their essential oil. That’s the oil found in candles and other products with citronella as an ingredient.  

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

A beautiful and fragrant plant, English lavender is a popular small woody perennial in pollinator gardens. If lavender attracts buzzing insects, will it deter others?

Two types of lavender are recommended for the Colorado landscape. English lavender and lavandin (L. latifolia). English lavender usually blooms twice a season. Lavandin plants are larger, but they bloom only once. 

The best bug-fighting part of lavender is its essential oils. Look for lavender oil at health food stores and other similar outlets. Rub the oil on the parts of the body you want to protect.

All is not lost with lavender plants, though. Harvest the stems, pick off, and lightly chop the leaves to mix with scones, ice cream, or other food. Yum!

Mints (Mentha spp.) 

Mint plants alone won’t deter insects, but the oils of peppermint, spearmint, and other mints have repellant characteristics. Research shows the oil – menthol – has insect-fighting qualities.

Remember mints can spread way beyond their space with underground stems (rhizomes). Mints have many other uses in the home garden, however. They can be harvested for teas, jellies, salads, and other food and drinks, including mojitos and mint juleps.  

What We’ve Learned 

These and many other plants are credited with repelling insects while smelling good. While we appreciate the fragrance of these plants, we also recognize that the bug-fighting attributes come from the essential oils rather than the plants themselves.

While rubbing the leaves of these plants on your skin to fend off insects may help, it’s not as effective as using the essential oils associated with the plants. Some people may have an allergic reaction to essential oils rubbed on the skin, so test a patch first.

One option is to place aromatic plants in pots on the deck or plant them around the patio in the hopes of keeping insects away. But will plants alone repel bugs and other pests? You might want to light a citronella candle or tiki torch, especially if you want to keep away mosquitoes.

Jo Ellen Meyers Sharp is an award-winning garden writer, editor, and speaker. Known as a hortiholic, she frequently says her eyes are too big for her yard. Find her blog at hoosiergardener.com.

Colorado’s New Laws 

We recently wrote about Colorado’s new “move over law” as well as the crackdown on crossing solid white lines in traffic.

What other laws are hitting the books this fall? Effective October 1st, the following new laws are in effect throughout our fine state:

• A law that requires a three-day waiting period for firearm purchases and allows victims of gun violence to sue the firearm industry for knowingly breaching.

•  A law that changes the right-of-way rules in roundabouts, giving priority to larger vehicles such as buses and trucks.

•  A law that clarifies the 48-hour bond hearing requirement for people in jail.

•  A law that reclassifies certain felony offenses, such as aggravated cruelty to animals.

•  A law that expands the eligibility for postconviction DNA testing for people who claim innocence.

•  A law that prohibits landlords from requiring tenants to waive certain legal rights in their leases, such as the right to participate in class-action lawsuits or jury trials.

•  A law that regulates the sale and possession of “ghost guns”, which are firearms that are not serialized or registered. However, some provisions of this law will not take effect until January 1, 2024.

Be careful in those roundabouts!

Maintaining Mental Acuity

As we journey through life, one constant companion is the inexorable passage of time. With each passing year, our bodies and minds undergo natural changes, including shifts in cognitive function.

Sadly, we know many of you have had experience with aging family members and we have as well.

It makes us wonder what can be done to slow the aging process of the brain, and just exactly how we “stay sharp” as we age.

The good news is that there are ways to slow down mental aging and maintain sharpness, reducing the risk of conditions like dementia. We rustled up the best tips we could find online below:

1. Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise not only benefits your body but also boosts brain health. It increases blood flow to the brain, encourages the growth of new neurons, and enhances cognitive function.
    
2. Mental Stimulation: Engage your brain through lifelong learning. Read books, solve puzzles, learn a new language, or take up a musical instrument. These activities challenge your brain and keep it agile.
    
3. A Balanced Diet: Proper nutrition is crucial. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, antioxidants in fruits and vegetables, and foods rich in vitamins E and C all support brain health.
    
4. Adequate Sleep: Sleep is essential for memory consolidation and cognitive functioning. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
    
5. Social Connections: Maintain strong social networks. Interacting with friends and family stimulates brain activity and emotional well-being.
    
6. Stress Management: Chronic stress can damage the brain. Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or mindfulness to reduce stress levels.
    
7. Brain-Boosting Supplements: Some supplements, like ginkgo biloba or vitamin D, may support brain health, but consult with a healthcare professional before adding them to your routine.
    
8. Regular Check-ups: Monitor your overall health, as conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol can negatively impact cognitive function.

The National Institute for Aging published a list of ways to combat mental decline and it can be found here.

By adopting these practices into your lifestyle, you can significantly reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

Finally, a fine list of tips on memory improvement can be found here, courtesy of the University of St. Augustine.

Remember, it’s never too early or too late to start working on your brain health. Embrace these habits, and you’ll be well on your way to a sharper, more vibrant mind throughout your life’s journey.

Monthly Award Winners

Our monthly award winners for August were Mary Moreno, Josefina Quinonez, Aurora Dominguez, Haydee Espinosa, and Fernanda Gonzalez.

In the Team Leader ranks, it was Mayra Soto and Socorro Ibarra.

We are so proud of our winners, and of all the folks that are in and out of your homes each week.

We are also very appreciative to be a part of your lives and your homes. You provide the platform for our teams to perform, and for that we are grateful.

Please join me in congratulating our best performers for the month of August.

Queen Bee Corner

by Angela

In response to a question I am frequently asked, we do not offer fixed quotes for house cleaning. We don’t feel that a walkthrough of taking notes while speaking to a client will result in a true reading of the time required to clean.

Quotes, by their nature, are based on an estimated time to do a job. If a quote is too low, there are two ways to deal with it. The team must work faster, or the company will lose money on that clean.

Neither option works for us. To put a time limit on a clean is not only unfair to our employees, but it most certainly would result in less than our trademark quality.

Denver Concierge has been in business for over 25 years based on the quality of our cleaning. We are the cat’s meow of home cleaning, paws down. We are certainly not going to jeopardize that.

As for losing money on our cleans due to erroneous estimates, well that would just be dumb. We don’t want clients losing either, by potentially overpaying if our time is off the other way on a given day.

Bottom line, we charge by the hour for a team to professionally, efficiently, thoroughly, and pleasantly clean your home for you and your family. Including the furry ones! 

Bee