Hello, Newsletter Readers -

It is difficult to not feel impacted by the events happening on the other side of the world. In this time of uncertainty and unrest, remember that kindness matters, and it is often the only way forward. So when you are out and about, offer a smile, compliment or friendly word. Be patient and understanding. Take a deep breath and be thankful! Sending love, positivity and good vibes through this newsletter to all who read it.

As a reminder, masks are no longer required in most indoor spaces. Boulder County Public Health (BCPH) does continue to recommend all individuals take precautionary measures to help keep our community healthy as we are still in high/substantial transmission levels. Private businesses may choose to implement their own policies requiring masks for individuals in their space, so always check for signs in the window before entering. Thank you for your patience and kindness as individuals all have varying levels of comfort at this time.

Keep reading for news about the Boulder International Film Festival (BIFF) and learn the stories behind some of your favorite downtown businesses. Have a great week and share some love with those around you!

Last Newsletter we asked what you are most looking forward to after winter - the top answer was longer days. This week, we want to know what brings you happiness..

Boulder International Film Festival (BIFF) is here! From March 3 - 6, head downtown to partake in a four-day celebration of the art of cinema. 2022 marks the 18th annual festival, bringing together over 25,000 film enthusiasts and filmmakers from around the world.

This year, film fans can choose among 55 films from 18 different countries - a full lineup and tickets can be found here. Join BIFF on Opening Night (March 4) for a showing of The Duke, including two pre-film parties at the Hotel Boulderado and Rembrandt Yard Art Gallery and Event Center. And don't miss out on CINEchef the evening before! This year features an "All Star" lineup of past CINEchef winners and fan favorites as they partake in a culinary showdown to create film-inspired dishes.

Additional programming includes three film screenings followed by interviews with Guest Programmer Alec Baldwin and a live podcast recording with 2022 Academy Award®-Nominated Actor Javier Bardem and Scott Feinberg from The Hollywood Reporter. Bardem will receive the Festival’s “Outstanding Performer of the Year” award for his role as Desi Arnaz in Being the Ricardos, for which he was nominated “Best Actor” by both the Academy and the Screen Actors’ Guild. He will be presented with the award at the Boulder Theater on March 5.

Looking for even more program highlights? Check out our blog that details some of the exciting events taking place this year!

Photo: Barbara & Company

Did you know that Art Source International is a second-generation business, run by Katie Olson and her father, George Karakehian? Or that Ruthies Boardwalk Social is named after Peter Waters's grandmother, who used to make grilled cheese sandwiches on the New Jersey shore for her grandkids? How about that Maruta from Gypsy Jewel travels to Nepal, India and Latvia to purchase hand-crafted items for her store?

Every business downtown has a unique story. Owners are passionate, resilient and creative. They are world travelers and your next-door neighbors. They are your friends who never forget a familiar face - so let's learn a little more about them. Read the personal stories about how your favorite businesses downtown came to be, and who the people are that got them there.

Local is more than just a place - it's who we are as a community. Over 85% of downtown businesses are locally owned and operated. This winter, give back to the local community and shop small (Mid-winter sales are still ongoing, so now is the perfect time to explore downtown)!