The Evaluation 2008 Local Arrangements Committee has put together a
terrific menu of evening outings to enable conference attendees to
experience the unique hospitality, cuisine, and hot spots of Denver. It
will be hard to choose among them!
Nights Out Preconference Signups are now closed as we have departed for Denver. If you would like to sign up on site, the lists will be available on a board in the registration area beginning on Wednesday morning.
·
How
are the outings organized?
Three main categories frame the outing options:
1) Connecting to Content,
intends to complement session presentations and to highlight some of the
local evaluation efforts. (Outings 1-3)
2) Dining in Style,
provides a rich array of cuisine from which to choose. (Outings 4-10)
3) Denver Hot Spots,
showcases some of the local venues for music and entertainment and events
are also often accompanied by a dinner option. (Outings 11-19)
·
When are the Outings?
All outings will take place on Thursday evening, November 6, 2008. Specific
times are detailed for each outing.
·
Where are the Outings?
Outings have been scheduled within walking distance or a short public
transportation or taxi ride. Most are within a half mile of the Hyatt
Regency. Location, distance, and transportation details are provided for
each outing.
·
Is there a limit on how many may participate?
Each outing has a limited number of spaces. Be sure to sign up early to save
your spot!
·
How do I participate?
First, take a look at all the outings to see which you might like to attend.
Then, once you have made a choice, click on the sign-up link for that
outing.
·
What is the deadline for signing-up?
Online sign-ups will conclude on October 29. Sign-up sheets will be posted
onsite on the conference message board near the registration desk. We do not
anticipate any openings on site as outings tend to fill well before the
event. However, any last-minute openings will be available on a first-come,
first-served basis.
·
What if I Need to Cancel?
If you need to remove yourself from an
outing on or before October 29, please send an email to
office@eval.org so that we may open
your spot to another individual. If you need to cancel after October 29,
please contact the staff at the registration desk on site.
·
How do I get there?
Each outing has a "Host" who will meet the group at the pre-determined place
and time and will lead the group to the outing location. Hosts are
identified in the outing description.
·
Who Pays for the Outings?
The outings are designed to be gathering with friends and colleagues. Each
attendee is required to cover his or her own expenses. Anticipated expenses
are detailed for each outing.
This year's nights out for Thursday, November 6, 2008
2. Learn
More About Homelessness in Denver
3.
Research and Evaluation in Arts and Culture
Dining in Style
4.
Dinner at Los Cabos II Restaurant
5. Dinner at Rioja
6. Japanese Cultural
Excursion
7.
Award-Winning Seafood in the Rocky Mountains
8. Latin and
Brazilian Sounds and Flavors
9. Going Green: An Environmentally-Friendly Night of Delicious Vegetarian
Food
10. A Denver
Landmark – The Brown Palace
Denver Hot Spots
11. Cherry Creek
North – Home Shopping and Dinner
12. Take a Walk on
the Wild Side
13. An Evening
of Jazz with Dotsero at Jazz@Jacks
14. Dazzling
Jazz
15. Burgers and
Back-Country Adventures
16. An Unlikely Pairing: Denver’s Best Books and Pizza
18.
Sensational Wines and Improvisational Comedy
19. Night Owls Unite!
Connecting to Content
These new Nights Out events are intended to complement session
presentations and to highlight some of the local evaluation efforts. You
will meet other researchers and delegates, socialize, and enjoy a nice
dinner. The outing includes a tour of the research context in order to
connect the content of the evaluation with the people and places that are at
the hub of the endeavor. However, you do not need to attend both the
conference session and the “Connecting to Content” Nights Out; you may
choose to attend only the Nights Out or only the panel session if you wish.
What: A walk through the Cole neighborhood in northeast Denver and discussion of school closures followed by dinner on your own after the event.
Your hosts: Sue Tripathi, Evaluation Manager for Making Connections – Denver, and Rosella Palacios and Shelly Travis, Residents from the Community Research Team.
Description:
This
Nights Out event is associated with Panel Session 862, Empowerment
Evaluation Principles in Practice: The Annie E. Casey Foundation's Making
Connections Initiative to be held in Mineral Hall Section G on Saturday,
November 8, 10:45 A.M. to 12:15 P.M. They are intended to be complementary,
but you do not need to attend both and may choose to attend only the Nights
Out or only the panel session. Specifically, it is connected with the
community change initiative of the Annie E. Casey Foundation panel
presentation: Empowerment Evaluation Principles in Practice: Making
Connections - Denver. We will lead you from the Hyatt Regency to the
Cole neighborhood located northeast of Downtown Denver. We will catch the
light rail and walk through the neighborhood. You will learn about the
history of Maria Mitchell Elementary School, Cole Middle School and Manual
High School and facts about why they were closed down and converted into
charter schools. Metro Organization for People and residents advocated to
the Denver Public School board and city Mayor to keep them opened. Learn
what their efforts impacted and brought to this community at large. The
light rail trip is approximately 10 minutes, the walk will last
approximately 20 minutes. Dress warmly
in casual clothing and put on your walking shoes.
Where we are going:
After the
walk in the area around 33rd Avenue and Marion Street, you will
return to the Hyatt where you dinner is on your own (members of the group
may continue their discussions at a nearby restaurant if desired).
How we get there: Walk to Broadway and Welton Street to catch the RTD Light rail (Line D, 30th and Downing Ave). The stop will be at 30th and Downing station and walk to the schools located at 33rd Avenue and Marion Street (5 min.). Then walk through both school campuses (15 min.).
Anticipated expenses:
$3.50
round trip on the light rail (bring cash), plus dinner if you join some of
the delegates for dinner after the tour.
Departure time: 6:10 P.M.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to
the AEA Registration Desk - look for the signs for Night Out #1.
Maximum number of participants: 1825
Lauren Patterson
Katie Zaback
Sebastian Schreiner
Khaddouj Souaid
Due to the difficulty of serving large groups with
individual checks, please bring cash for your Nights Out costs. You will be
provided with a receipt in the event you need it for expense reimbursement.
If you have questions about these “Connecting to Content” outings, please
email Heather MacGillivary at
heather.macgillivary@colorado.edu.
What: A brief walking tour of homeless areas in Denver followed by dinner at
the Denver Rescue Mission and serving a meal at the Denver Rescue Mission.
Your Hosts:
Beverly Parsons and Greta Walker. Beverly is the Executive Director of
InSites, a long time AEA member, and recently elected member of the AEA
board. She has a strong interest in the application of systems thinking and
theory to evaluation.,
Greta is Communications Manager, Denver Rescue Mission.
Description: This event is connected to the session entitled
Examination of the Role of
Evaluation in Denver's Ten Year Plan to End Homelessness: A Review of
Evaluation on Policy and Practice to be held in Room 104 in the
Convention Center on Friday, November 7, 4:30 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.
The Nights Out and the panel are intended to be complementary, but you do
not need to attend both and may choose to attend only the Nights Out or only
the panel session. As we walk over to the Denver Rescue Mission, your guide
will highlight key areas of downtown that are homeless hot spots. Once we
arrive at the shelter, you will be served dinner and afterwards you will
help with
ll the dinner service. Dinner service is from 7:30-9:00 P.M.
The Denver Rescue Mission provides shelter, food, clothing, education,
Christian teaching, and work discipline to meet individuals at their
physical and spiritual points of need. The Lawrence Street shelter is their
flagship facility, is a men's shelter with 200 overnight beds, and an
outreach location offering meals, clothing, free health care, and Client
Services. At the Lawrence Street Shelter, all who are hungry -- families,
seniors, men, women, and children -- are welcome for a nutritious meal. The
Lawrence Street Shelter serves three meals a day, seven days a week, 365
three hundred
sixty-five days a year. The Denver Rescue Mission is actively
involved in Denver’s Road Home initiative designed to end homelessness in
Denver.
Where we are going: The Denver Rescue Mission – Lawrence Street Shelter is
located at 1130 Park Avenue West, (80205);.
Phone: 303.-953-.3955;
http://www.denverrescuemission.org.
How we get there: It
is less than a one-mile walk from the Hyatt Regency to the Lawrence Street
Shelter. Taxis will be used in case of inclement weather and please be
prepared to pay a small fee (<$5) for this transportation. We will leave the
Hyatt Regency on California heading North toward Broadway, make a left on
Broadway to Park Avenue West.
Anticipated expenses: Dinner will be provided. If you decide to use
transportation, this will coast
approximately $5 each way.
Departure Time: 6:30 P.M.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk - look for the signs for Night Out #2.
Maximum Number of attendees:
11.
Please dress in
casual clothing.
If for some reason you need to cancel your participation at the last minute, please contact the
Denver Rescue Mission as they will be counting on this group to help with
the dinner service.
Maria Suchowski
Carrie Petrucci
Michelle Searle
Vikki Searle
John Hassenplug
Anne Thomas
Jana Chapman
Jessica Bergstrom
Pat Jessup
Due to the difficulty of serving large groups with
individual checks, please bring cash for your Nights Out costs. You will be
provided with a receipt in the event you need it for expense reimbursement.
If you have questions about these “Connecting to Content” outings, please
email Heather MacGillivary at
heather.macgillivary@colorado.edu.
Night Out #3: Research
and Evaluation in Arts and Culture
What: Dinner, drinks and discussion about arts and culture evaluation.
Your host: Kathleen Tinworth, Director of Visitor Research and Program
Evaluation at the Denver Museum of
Nature & Science.
Description: Dinner and discussion at Vesta Dipping Grill, covering arts and
culture evaluation offerings at this year’s AEA conference, local best
practice related to research and evaluation in the arts/culturals, and a
chance to get acquainted with colleagues in the field. Vesta embodies
simplicity, quality, comfort, life, art, scent, relaxation, taste, sound,
and fun; the ideal environment to spark lively conversation. All event
participants will receive a complimentary admission pass to the Denver
Museum of Nature and Science to use during their visit to the Mile High
City, as well as information on many local arts and cultural events and
institutions. For those who would like to, we will move on to after- dinner
cocktails along Larimer Street to keep the conversation going.
Where we are going: Vesta Dipping Grill is at
1822 Blake Street (80202); 303-296-1970
www.vestagrill.com (followed by Larimer Street bars, if desired).
How we get there: We will take the free 16th Street Mall shuttle
Northwest to Blake (one street after Market). Then we will walk left to 1822
Blake Street (between 18th and 19th Streets on Blake).
Anticipated expenses: Vesta runs about $40--$50.
Drinks afterwards would be about $10
-- $30.00.-$30.
Departure time: 6:15 P.M. for 6:30 P.M. reservation.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to
the AEA Registration Desk - look for the signs for Night Out #3.The
Mineral Hall Foyer, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk
Maximum number of participants: 910
Mindy Reiser
Susan Foutz
Cheryl Kessler
Michelle Baron
Susan Ryerson Espino
Liora Pascal
Nicole Fuhr
Helene Gauthier
Glori Gesell
If you have questions about these “Connecting to Content” outings, please
email Heather MacGillivary at
heather.macgillivary@colorado.edu.
Dining In Style
These Nights Out events showcase the range of dining options in the
area. You will meet other researchers and delegates, socialize, and enjoy an
evening out at restaurants that have been selected for their unique Denver
flair.
Night Out #4:
Dinner at Los Cabos II Restaurant
(Los or Las)
What: An authentic Peruvian dining adventure at 5280 feet.
Your hosts: Mario Rivera and Barbara Rivera. Mario plays ukulele and
Hawaiian drums for Pele’s Aloha Dancers and has been a program evaluator for
16 years. He works at the Colorado Department of Public Health and
Environment evaluating chronic disease prevention programs. Barb is the
Colorado District 1 team leader for the Campaign to Establish a U.S.
Department of Peace
www.codopcampaign.org and plant caretaker at Wildflowers, a
neighborhood garden store in Denver.
Description: Behind an unassuming downtown storefront, Loas
Cabos II
(Los or Las)
is part restaurant, part cultural center, decorated with
native art (and a giant stuffed llama) and serving authentic Peruvian
peasant food to all comers. These days, the crowd is just as likely to
consist of adventurous office workers looking for a hit of bistek a la pobre,
papas a la huancaina and a pisco sour as it is of displaced Peruvians hungry
for a taste of home.
Where we are going: 1525 Champa Street (80202); 303-595-3232;
http://www.loscabosii.com/
How we get there: We will walk northwest on 15th toward
California Street, past Stout, and then turn right on Champa (less than .25
miles).
Anticipated expenses: $15+
Departure time: 6:15 P.M. for 6:30 P.M. reservation.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to
the AEA Registration Desk - look for the signs for Night Out #4.The
Mineral Hall Foyer, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk.
Maximum number of participants: 135
To sign up: Sign-Ups for this Night Out are now CLOSED as of 10/30/08
If you have questions about these “Fine Dining” outings, please email
Kathleen Tinworth, at
Kathleen.Tinworth@dmns.org
What: Dinner at nearby Rioja for Mediterranean fusion food.
Your hosts:
Susan Berkowitz
and Cindy Kronauge.
Susan began her professional career as an academic anthropologist
who conducted ethnographic fieldwork in Southern Italy, before transitioning
into more applied research pursuits, including program evaluation with a
qualitative and mixed method bent. In an even earlier life, she was a
dancer. She has been at Westat in Maryland for over 18 years. Cindy has been
a Colorado mixed-methods evaluator for over 10 years and is one of the
founders of the Colorado Evaluation Network. When Cindy's not working at
Weld County Health Department or on finishing her PhD in applied research
methods she is either climbing rocks or bicycling in and around Northern
Colorado.
Description: Rioja features a menu inspired by Mediterranean ingredients and
influenced by local and seasonal products. The fusion style dishes are
complemented by hand
blown glass fixtures, copper-topped bar, and exhibition kitchen. The
Cooking Light June 2007 issue
calls it “one of the hottest dining spots in town,” although owner Beth
Gruitch says “the only judge that matters is the people we serve every
night.”
Where we are going: Rioja is on 1431 Larimer Street (80202); 303-820-2282;
http://www.riojadenver.com/about.html
How we get there: We will take the free 16th Street Mall
free
shuttle Northwest to Larimer (one block past Lawrence), and then take
a left of Larimer and walk two blocks to Rioja.
Anticipated expenses: $30+
Departure time: 6:45 P.M. for 7:00 P.M. reservation.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to
the AEA Registration Desk - look for the signs for Night Out #5.The
Mineral Hall Foyer, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk.
Maximum number of participants: 11
Hannah Betesh
Karen Mutch-Jones
Polly Hubbard
Victoria Straub
Linda Knispel
Perri Stern
To sign up: Sign-Ups for this Night Out are now CLOSED as of 10/30/08
If you have questions about these “Fine Dining” outings, please email
Kathleen Tinworth, at
Kathleen.Tinworth@dmns.org
Night Out #6:
Japanese Cultural Excursion
What: Explore the culture, food and drinks of Japan at one of the country's
top Japanese restaurants.
Your hosts: Carsten Baumann and Kaia Gallagher. Carsten is a self-declared
restaurant critic and foody, serves as an evaluator in the Prevention
Services Division of the Colorado Department of Public Health and
Environment. Kaia is a fellow food adventurer, who is the President of the
Center for Research Strategies, a multi-disciplinary Colorado-based research
and evaluation company.
Description: Domo is a Japanese Country Foods restaurant located in Denver,
Colorado. This facility also contains a Japanese country museum and a
traditional Japanese garden, making Domo a unique dining experience. Chef
Gaku Homma is also the founder of Aikido Nippon Kan, located at the same
address. Domo Restaurant was chosen by
Zagats in its 2001 guide as being
the 5th top Japanese restaurant in the United States. It was also selected
#1 in the United States for Décor!
For more information on traditional Japanese customs and etiquette, the
background and uses of traditional ingredients, and country recipes, try
reading The Folk Art of Japanese Country Cooking, A Traditional Diet for
Today's World written by head chef and owner of Domo Restaurant, Gaku
Homma.
Where we are going: Domo is on 1365 Osage Street (80204); 303-595-3666.
http://www.domorestaurant.com/index.html
How we get there: We will walk 1 block south to the Colorado Convention
Center light rail station. Then we will take the D, F, or H Southbound
train. We will exit at the first stop (Auraria Station/Colfax) and walk West
(towards the mountains) for .3 miles. Turn left (South) on Osage Street (by
the McDonalds). We will continue walking 1.5 blocks until we get to 1365
Osage Street. Domo is on the right hand (West) side of the street. In case
of inclement weather, the group will take a taxi. Be prepared to spend $10
round trip for the taxi.
Anticipated Expenses: $30+
Departure time: Depart at 6:10 P.M. for 6:30
P.M. reservation.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to
the AEA Registration Desk - look for the signs for Night Out #6.The
Mineral Hall Foyer, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk.
Maximum number of attendees: 13
Teresa Kelly
If you have questions about these “Fine Dining” outings, please email
Kathleen Tinworth, at
Kathleen.Tinworth@dmns.org
Night Out #7:
Award-Winning Seafood in the Rocky
Mountains
What: Dinner at Jax Fish House
Your host: David Bernstein is a Senior Study Director and Senior Evaluation
Specialist with Westat, and is the current chair of the Government
Evaluation TIG. David is based in Lancaster County, PA, and is an avid
photographer and fan of live music (especially Bruce Springsteen).
Description: Jax Fish House was
voted one of the top
10
ten Best
Restaurants in Denver by 5280 Magazine and named Best Seafood
Restaurant by Westword and
Citysearch; Jax Fish House is one
of Denver's most popular destinations for unforgettable food and drink.
Enjoy varied dishes like Peanut Oil Seared Tombo with sticky rice, soy,
cucumber-peanut relish to Pan Seared Sea Scallops, pea shoot risotto, peas,
zucchini, peppered fromage blanc. Jax’s famous Raw Bar features a variety of
fresh oysters, clams, chilled Alaskan King Crab and live Maine lobsters, all
flown in daily.
Where we are going: Jax Fish House is at 1539 17th Street;
303-292-5767;
http://www.jaxfishhousedenver.com/
How we get there: We will take the free 16th Street Mall shuttle Northwest
to Blake (one street after Market), and then walk right on Blake. At 17th
Street we will take a left to end at Jax Fish House.
Anticipated expenses: $40+ (light fare and a beverage available for about
$20).
Departure time: 7:15 P.M. for a 7:30 P.M. dinner reservation.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer
of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk - look for
the signs for Night Out #7.The
Mineral Hall Foyer, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk.
Maximum number of participants: 11
To sign up: Sign-Ups for this Night Out are now CLOSED as of 10/24/08
If you have questions about these “Fine Dining” outings, please email
Kathleen Tinworth, at
Kathleen.Tinworth@dmns.org
Night Out #8:
Latin and Brazilian Sounds and
Flavors
What: Dinner at The Samba Room
Your hosts:
Jody Fitzpatrick and Alexandra Mitchell. Jody has been on the AEA Board, was
Associate Editor of AJE, and is
on the Editorial Boards of AJE
and NDE. She is currently working
on the 4th edition of
Program Evaluation: Alternative Approaches and Practical Guidelines with
Blaine Worthen and Jim Sanders. Her recently-published book is
Evaluation in Action: Interviews with expert evaluators,
which is based on interviews with evaluators about one evaluation they have
conducted. She has been a faculty member in public administration at
University of Colorado Denver for many years. Alex is an evaluation and
organizational development consultant. She currently serves as research
associate for The Conference of Southwest Foundations, and is working on
several Colorado Trust projects including providing capacity-building TA
under the foundation’s Healthy Aging
Initiatives, and serving on the evaluation team for The Colorado Trust’s
new Advocacy Evaluation project.
Prior to working independently, Alex worked for many years with the REFT
Institute, Inc. She has also been a non-profit director, and a high school
and university-level instructor.
Description: Samba Room offers a menu that marries award-winning Latin
Fusion Cuisine – grilled meats, fresh fish, and sushi, artfully blended with
exotic fruits and rare spices. Samba Room offers an international wine list
with 70 selections from north and south of the equator, 25 of which are
available by the half-glass, glass, or half-bottle quartino.
Where we are going: Samba Room, 1460 Larimer Street (80202); 720-956-1701;
http://www.sambaroom.net/
How we get there: We will take the 16th Street free shuttle
Northwest to Larimer (one block past Lawrence), and then take a left of
Larimer and walk two blocks to Samba Room.
Anticipated expenses: $30+
Departure time: 6:30 P.M. for 6:45 P.M. reservation.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to
the AEA Registration Desk - look for the signs for Night Out #8. Due
to the difficulty of serving large groups with individual checks, please
bring cash for your Nights Out costs. You will be provided with a receipt in
the event you need it for expense reimbursement.
Maximum number of participants: 12
To sign up: Sign-Ups for this Night Out are now CLOSED as of 10/25/08
If you have questions about these “Fine Dining” outings, please email
Kathleen Tinworth, at
Kathleen.Tinworth@dmns.org
Night Out #9:
Going Green: An
Environmentally-Friendly Night of Delicious Vegetarian Food
What: Dinner at WaterCourse
Your hosts: Wendy DuBow and Tanya Beer. Wendy works at National Research
Center in Boulder. A long time ago, she grew up in San Diego. As a result,
she counts herself as the one person living in Boulder who does not love it
unconditionally. She will try to restrain herself from complaining about the
November weather to anyone who lives East of Colorado. Tanya is an
Evaluation Officer at The Colorado Trust, a private health foundation in
Denver. Aside from wringing her hands over the recurring “gold standard”
debate on EVALTALK, Tanya spends most of her time wondering why she’s not on
a mountain.
Description: Public transit and veggie food, what better way to explore the
town?
For the past 10 years WaterCourse Foods has enjoyed local, national and
international acclaim for its lovingly prepared vegetarian comfort food and
sumptuous baked goods.
Menu options range from yummy tofu scrambles to Thai peanut stir fry.
Watercourse’s philosophy, like the food, is simple and accessible. By
maintaining a completely vegetarian menu, they minimize the environmental
footprint and provide a welcome alternative to many restaurants in the city.
In addition to the food they serve and vendors they choose, WaterCourse is
dedicated to reducing
otheir
negative environmental impact by recycling everything
it
we can, including fryer oil that is converted into bio-diesel.
Where we are going: WaterCourse Foods,
837 E. 17th Ave (80218); 303-832-7313;
http://www.watercoursefoods.com/.
How we get there: We will walk Northeast to 17th Street and take
a quick (8
-minutes)
bus ride on the #20 at 7:20 P.M. from 17th Street and Welton to
17th Avenue and Clarkson.
Anticipated expenses: $16+. Bus fare is $1.75. Bring exact change.
Departure time: 7:05 P.M for a 7:20 P.M. bus (#20) (or a taxi if preferred
for less than $5 per person), and a 7:30 P.M. dinner reservation.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to
the AEA Registration Desk - look for the signs for Night Out #9.The
Mineral Hall Foyer, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk.
Maximum number of participants: 15
To sign up:
Sign-Ups for this Night Out are now CLOSED as of 10/8/08
If you have questions about these “Fine Dining” outings, please email
Kathleen Tinworth, at
Kathleen.Tinworth@dmns.org
Night Out #10:
A Denver Landmark – The Brown Palace
What: Dinner at the Ship Tavern in the Brown Palace, known for its burgers,
steak, seafood and ale.
Your hosts: Rosalie Torres and Cindy Elby. Rosalie is
the Principal of Torres Consulting Group, an evaluation and management
consulting firm specializing in the feedback-based development of programs
and organizations, in operation since 1992. A former resident of Colorado,
Rosalie began her career in evaluation in 1978 and since then has served in
both internal and external evaluator roles. She is a past-member of the AEA
Board; and has authored/co-authored numerous books and articles articulating
practice-based theories of evaluation use; the relationship between
evaluation and individual, team, and organizational learning; and effective
strategies for communicating and reporting evaluation findings. Among them
are: Evaluation Strategies for Communicating and Reporting: Enhancing
Learning in Organizations, 2nd edition (Sage, 2005), and Evaluative
Inquiry for Learning in Organizations (Sage, 1999). Her current research
and practice interests are in: the use of logic models in the design,
implementation, and evaluation of large-scale, multi-level education reform
efforts; the involvement of university faculty in K-12 education; and the
development and use of evaluation systems within organizations. Cindy
works as the Director of Program Quality Support for Nurse-Family
Partnership and supports evaluation and quality improvement of programs
nationwide. She’ll be happy to answer your questions about Denver and
Colorado.
Description: Steeped in rich history and tradition, The Brown Palace Hotel
and Spa sets the standard for chic comfort and style in Denver Colorado
hotel accommodations. Home to some of the region's best prime rib, the Ship
Tavern serves lunch and dinner in a vintage pub atmosphere. An excellent
choice for sports viewing, the Tavern features exceptional micro-brewed beer
and wine selections, and live entertainment Wednesday through Saturday
evenings.
Where we are going: 321 17th Street (80202);
(303-)
297-3111
http://www.brownpalace.com/pdf/Ship_Tavern_Dinner_Menu_08.pdf
How we get there: We will take the free 16th Street Mall shuttle
Southeast to Tremont. Then we will go left on Tremont to Broadway. The Brown
Palace is the triangular building bordered by Tremont, Broadway, and 17th.
Anticipated expenses: $40 plus beverages.
Departure time: 7:15 P.M. for a 7:30 P.M. reservation.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to
the AEA Registration Desk - look for the signs for Night Out #10.The
Mineral Hall Foyer, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk.
Maximum number of attendees: 9
If you have questions about these “Fine Dining” outings, please email
Kathleen Tinworth, at
Kathleen.Tinworth@dmns.org
Denver Hot Spots
Night Out #11:
Cherry Creek North – Home Shopping
and Dinner
What: Shopping at Crate and Barrel, Room and Board, and HW Home followed by
dinner at NoRTH.
Your host: Sam Larson is a Senior Manager of Integrative Services in
Population and Prevention Services at Kaiser Permanente Colorado. This is a
new department focused on knowledge management, evaluation and integrating
the delivery of care. When not working, Sam is raising two active kids,
making time for an incredible husband, and always looking for an opportunity
to read more fiction.
Description: Cherry Creek North is Denver’s
original shopping and dining neighborhood. Nothing else in Denver is quite
like this 16 blocks filled with boutiques, restaurants, galleries, spas and
salons. Each with a shade, a flavor, a mood you won’t find anywhere else.
Evening hours find many locally-owned stores closing, but the home stores of
Crate and Barrel, Room and Board, HW Home and others – all within two blocks
of each other –stay open. Get a leg up on that Holiday shopping or forgo the
focus on friends and family shopping and indulge yourself with this
leisurely tour of some truly fun stores. With all those calories expended
shopping, we’ll walk across the street to NoRTH. Taking its cue from an
Italian trattoria, NoRTH offers a contemporary approach to Modern Italian
Cuisine. North has an urban feel, with sleek interiors and a sexy
atmosphere. The carefully thought out menu highlights unique antipasti which
reflects the best of the season, wood fired pizzas, inventive pasta dishes
and secondi that feature many wood roasted and grilled dishes.
Where we are going: Cherry Creek North, located at 1st and
University, is approximately 5 miles Southeast of downtown. For more
information on stores and dining go to:
http://www.cherrycreeknorth.com
How we get there: Sam will drive up to 6 people to Cherry Creek North –
about a 10 minute drive.
Anticipated expenses: $15--$25
Departure time: 6:10 P.M. for shopping and a
____
7:30
P.M reservation at NoRTH.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to
the AEA Registration Desk - look for the signs for Night Out #11.The
Mineral Hall Foyer, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk and Sam will
escort you to her vehicle.
Maximum number of participants: 6. You will need to sign a release form
since this event is using private transportation, and this form will be
available at the meeting location before your departure.
If you have questions about these “Hot Spot” outings, please email Kristi
Jackson, the outings coordinator, at
kjackson@queri.com.
What: 6:15 P.M. tour to hear the tales of the rough and tumble characters
that gave Denver its start.
Your hosts: Kevin Pharris of Denver History Tours
turned an interest in history into a profession and delivers the stories
with shameless enthusiasm; he plans to do it until stampeded by some bison. Maurene
Flory works for the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education
(WICHE); she prefers not to be stampeded by bison.
Description: The people who dared to venture west were usually not the most
upright and proper of folks. It took a whole lot of daring to think one
could make it in the West. These people knew what they wanted and were often
willing to do whatever it took to get it, even if that wasn't entirely
legal. The tour ends at the Wynkoop Brewery, where free beer samples will be
made available to salute the figures of the past and take the edge off the
thirst any walking tour inspires. One
of the city’s most popular brewpubs (and also the biggest), the Wynkoop was
founded by current Denver mayor John Hickenlooper. The tour will take
approximately 1.5 hours.
Where we are going: LoDo (Lower Downtown Denver) is the
location for the tour, ending at the Wynkoop Brewery
(1634 18th St. approx. 1 mi
from the Hyatt Regency). The Denver History Tours webpage is
www.denverhistorytours.com;
720-234-7929. The Wynkoop is on 1635 18th
Street (corner of 18th and Wynkoop); (80202) 303-297-2700;
http://www.wynkoop.com/
How we get there: The walking tour will depart
from the Hyatt Regency and wind its way to the Wynkoop Brewery. Participants
can either walk back to their hotel (less than 1 mile) or make use of the
free 16th Street Mall shuttle.
Anticipated expenses: $20 per person (includes tour and beer tasting at the@
Wynkoop Brewery); Participants may want to stay at the Wynkoop and enjoy an
evening meal together or continue on to any of the many nearby dining
establishments.
Departure time: 6:10 P.M.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer
of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk - look for
the signs for Night Out #12.
Maximum number of attendees: 40 (a second tour will be added if more than 20
people would like to participate, with no more than 20 in a group.)
Katherine
If you have questions about these “Hot Spot” outings, please email Kristi
Jackson, the outings coordinator, at
kjackson@queri.com.
Night Out #13:
An Evening of Jazz with Dotsero at
Jazz@Jacks
What: Listing to live music and networking at Jazz@Jacks.
Your hosts: Mariana Enriquez-Olmos and Antonio Olmos. Mariana has been
providing program evaluation services in Denver for 10 years. She is the
Director of Education Research at the Center for Research Strategies.
Antonio is the Director of Evaluation and Research at the Mental Health
Center of Denver where he’s been for almost 10 years.
Description: We’ll get together for an evening of jazz at Jazz@Jacks, at the
Denver Pavilions, a few blocks from the Hyatt Regency. You MUST be 21 to
enter, and please bring your ID. Live jazz will be played by Dotsero, a
Colorado group that combines jazz, pop, R&B and rock. To the Ute Indians,
Dotsero means “something unique.” Dotsero was voted by Denver’s
Westword Readers’ Poll as the
“Best Jazz Band” in Denver for a record of eleven years in a row. If you
would like to dine while you are at the club, their menu is available at:
http://jazzatjacks.com/food/index.cfm. Music begins at 8:30 PM and goes
until 12:00 AM.
Where we are going: Jazz@Jack's at the Denver Pavilions
on.
500 16th Street, Suite
320,
(80202);
303-433-1000;
http://www.jazzatjacks.com. Entrance is on 16th Street Mall,
half street between Glenarm and Tremont.
Jazz@Jacks is on the 3rd
floor, above the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.
How we get there: From the Hyatt Regency we will walk one block North to the
16th Street mall, turn right (Southeast) and walk two blocks to
the Denver Pavilions. Go up the stairs to the third level (escalators and
elevators available). If you prefer, once you get to the free 16th
Street Mall shuttle, you can ride the 16th Street Free Mall Ride
two blocks to the Pavilions.
Anticipated expenses: No cover charge. Food and drinks are optional. Drinks
range from: Beer $4-$5.50; cocktails $6.75 - $10;
Mmartinis
$8-$12; Wine $6.75 - $11. You’ll be asked to run a tab on your credit card.
At the end of the evening, you can pay cash or charge your card.
Departure time: 6:15 P.M. for a 6:30 P.M. dinner reservation.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer
of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk - look for
the signs for Night Out #13.
Maximum number of participants: 15
If you have questions about these “Hot Spot” outings, please email Kristi
Jackson, the outings coordinator, at
kjackson@queri.com.
What: Dinner and live jazz at Dazzle Restaurant and Lounge.
Your host: Susan Sterett and George Julnes. Susan likes to go to both the
mountains and museums. She is a mom to a new middle schooler and a professor
and chair of political science at the University of Denver. The combination
keeps her out of clubs most of the time.
George
George has been involved with AEA and the evaluation
community for two decades, a long-standing commitment that is due almost
entirely to how much he likes the people who come to the AEA conferences.
Recently relocated from Utah to the University of Baltimore, his main
interests are outdoor activities and spending time with family. When not
with family or traveling, he spends his time teaching methodology and
evaluation and supporting the evaluative efforts of government agencies.
Description: Dazzle Restaurant and Lounge is consistently getting the highest marks from local and national media as one of the top Jazz Clubs in the world! Dazzle presents an authentic Jazz Club experience unlike anything in Colorado. They pride themselves on the high quality of service, food, and drink while providing an intimate showcase of local, national, and international musicians. Named “One of the Top 100 Jazz Clubs in the World” by Downbeat magazine and “Best Jazz Club” by Westword, they strive to be a positive and unique part of the Denver community. Dazzle features a unique and eclectic menu that focuses on great American traditional cuisine with a twist. They cater to a wide variety of tastes with entrees ranging from burgers and pizza to award-winning Mac and Cheese and Pan-Seared Trout.
Where we are going: 930 Lincoln
Street (80203); 303-839-5100;
http://www.dazzlejazz.com/index.php?s=5
How we get there: We will take the free 16th Street Mall shuttle
Southeast to Broadway and then take the 0 bus South on Broadway to 9th
Avenue. We’ll walk up a hill East one block to Dazzle at 9th
Avenue and Lincoln.
Anticipated expenses: $355+
Departure time: 6:15 P.M. for 6:30 P.M. reservation.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to
the AEA Registration Desk - look for the signs for Night Out #14.
To sign up:
Click here
to email Kat Aldridge in the AEA office. In the body of your email, note
"Sign me up for Night Out #14" and include your full name and she will get
you on the list.
Maximum number of participants: 102
To sign up: Sign-Ups for this Night Out are now CLOSED as of 10/30/08
If you have questions about these “Hot Spot” outings, please email Kristi
Jackson, the outings coordinator, at
kjackson@queri.com.
Night Out #15:
Burgers and Back-Country Adventures
What: Dinner at local, hidden favorite, My Brother’s Bar, then a visit to
the nearby REI flagship store (indoor and outdoor recreation equipment).
Your hosts: Augie Diana and Heather MacGillivary. Augie is a beach
volleyball enthusiast and biking fanatic who, in his spare time, manages a
portfolio of grants for the National Institute on Drug Abuse Small Business
Innovative Research (SBIR) grant program. Though based in the DC area,
Augie’s heart is still in Colorado. Heather is a home improvement junkie who
lives less than a mile away in case anyone wants to hang drywall after
dinner. Heather is a doctoral student at University of Colorado Boulder but
may become a plumber if that doesn't work out.
Description: My Brother’s Bar was originally known as the Highland House as
far back as 1873, and eventually known as Paul's Place (a favorite spot of
Beat fella Neal Cassady); today it's known for burgers and beer. But not
just any burgers or any beer -- the latest owners have taken pains to put
together a high-quality yet basic menu. You won't find anything but the best
brews on tap and the burgers, as simple as they sound, have acquired
legendary status. REI is located in the restored 1901 Denver Tramway
building, just around the corner from My Brother’s Bar. The Denver Flagship
store is a complete outdoor resource, a historic landmark and an
award-winning architectural accomplishment. Come gear up for your next
adventure. Don't miss the interactive features, including mountain bike
trails, and a 45-foot climbing wall.
Where we are going: First, dinner at My Brother’s Bar at
2376 15th St, (80202)
(corner of 15th St. and Platte);
303-455-9991. Then, a visit to the REI flagship store at 1416
Platte St. (80202);
(303-)
756-3100;
http://www.rei.com/stores/18
How we get there: We will take the 16th Street Shuttle Northwest
to 16th and Wynkoop. Then we will walk a few blocks to the bridge
that crosses the Platte River. Note that the bridge is a long series of
stairs, and alternative arrangements will need to be made if stair
climbing/descending is a barrier. After crossing on the bridge we will take
a left and walk a block on Platte Street to My Brother’s Bar. Continuing in
the same direction after dinner (and on the same block) we will head West
toward REI. The walk is approximately .5 miles after disembarking from the
free shuttle.
Anticipated expenses: $12 for dinner; additional for drinks. REI is free
entry, but you might want to purchase something when you see all of their
amazing equipment!!
Departure time: 6:15 P.M. for a 6:30 P.M. dinner reservation.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to
the AEA Registration Desk - look for the signs for Night Out #15.
Maximum number of participants: 12
If you have questions about these “Hot Spot” outings, please email Kristi
Jackson, the outings coordinator, at
kjackson@queri.com.
Night Out #16:
An Unlikely Pairing: Denver’s Best
Books and Pizza
What: Browsing the booklovers paradise of the Tattered Cover Bookstore and
then going for pizza at the infamous Wazee Supper Club.
Your hosts: Kaye Boeke and Gretchen Mann. Despite having stuffy titles like
"research and policy analyst" and "supervisory survey statistician," Kaye
can loosen up with the best of them. A recovering Midwesterner (from Fargo,
dontcha know!), she loves the Colorado sunshine and everything the greater
Denver area has to offer. Gretchen is always up for an adventure whether it
is digging treasure (coins, buttons, and unidentified objects) out of her
latest upholstery project or traipsing across foreign soil with friends in
search of unique cultural experiences. Such a busy person, it is amazing how
she finds time for her real job of providing research and evaluation
services in the Denver area for the past 15 years.
Description: Tattered Cover Bookstore is a reader’s paradise and one of the
largest independent bookstores in the U.S. The store is located in historic
Lower Downtown in the restored Morey Mercantile Building at the end of the
16th Street Mall, near Union Station and Coors Field. It offers two stories
of books with the added comfort of curling up by the fire in comfortable
antique furnishings, bathed in lamplight. It is often the scene of many
readings, autographing, and literary events throughout the year, and boasts
a cozy coffee shop and extensive newsstand. Wazee Supper Club is surrounded
by brick and stone reminders of Denver's colorful past. It has long been an
inevitable destination for social gatherers. A classic black and white tile
floor is framed by depression-era wainscoting and overhung by gas lights
dating from turn-of-the-century Milwaukee. For people making their first
trip to this Denver institution, they will discover the eccentricity of the
converted 1937 garage door opener currently used in a dumbwaiter capacity to
shuttle food and drinks.
Where we are going: The Tattered Cover downtown is at 1628 16th Street (16th
at Wynkoop) (80202); 303-436-1070;
http://www.tatteredcover.com/NASApp/store/IndexJsp. The Wazee
Supper Club is at 15th and Wazee (80202);
303-.623-.9518;
www.wazeesupperclub.com
How we get there: We will take the free 16th Street Mall shuttle
Northwest to Wazee. Then we will walk across the 16th Street Mall
to the Tattered Cover. After a browse in the store we will meet in the lobby
at 7:20 P.M. and walk Southwest one block to Wazee Supper Club.
Anticipated expenses: The Tattered Cover Bookstore is free, unless you plan
on shopping. Wazee Supper Club is approximately $20-$25 per person.
Departure time: 6:20 P.M. for book browsing at 6:30 P.M. and then a 7:30
P.M. dinner reservation.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to
the AEA Registration Desk - look for the signs for Night Out #16.The
Mineral Hall Foyer, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk.
Maximum number of participants:
If you have questions about these “Hot Spot” outings, please email Kristi
Jackson, the outings coordinator, at
kjackson@queri.com.
Night Out #17:
Comedy Definitely Works!
What: An evening of laughter at Denver’s premier stand-up comedy club,
Comedy Works. This provides a chance to decompress after a day of attending
AEA sessions.
Your hosts: Mya Martin-Glenn and Nancy Zuercher of JVA Consulting. Mya has
worked for the last eight years in educational research and evaluation in
the Denver Metro area. She is currently a Senior Research Associate at JVA
Consulting. In her spare time, she has a passion for knitting and
participating in 5K events, although not at the same time. Nancy
is a Research Associate at JVA Consulting and enjoys helping nonprofits
evaluate their programs. She also enjoys traveling and playing “Rock Band”
on her Xbox 360 and is trying to figure out how to incorporate all three
into one job description.
Description: Since 1981, Comedy Works has been Denver’s destination
for the very best in stand-up comedy. In their 25+ years, audiences, A-list
comedians and even USA Today have recognized it as being one of the
top comedy clubs in the nation. In addition to showcasing the brightest and
funniest comics from across the country, they take pride in developing new
talent and nurturing the local stand-up comedy scene through New Talent
Night, comedy contests, etc. The Act for Nov 6th at the nearby
Larimer Square location is John Caparulo.
http://www.comedyworks.com/Members/Event.aspx?cid=313
Where we are going: Comedy Works is at 1226 15th Street (80202);
(303-)
595-3637; www.comedyworks.com
How we get there: We will take the free 16th Street Mall shuttle
Northwest to Lawrence (one street after Arapahoe). Then we will walk one
block left to 1226 15th Street (between Larimer and Lawrence on
15th Street).
Anticipated expenses: $35 (ticket purchase plus a two-item minimum that can
be food or drink). The food is a simple fare of french fries, sandwiches,
etc. You may wish to dine prior to the event.
Departure time: 7:00 P.M.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer
of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk - look for
the signs for Night Out #17.The
Mineral Hall Foyer, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk.
After you sign up, be sure to pre-purchase your general admission ticket for the 8:00 P.M. November 6 show.
10/28/08 Note: The comedian that was scheduled
for this night has cancelled his performance. Comedy Works is going to fill
the session with another comedian for the evening, which isHippieman’s
Plan for America. Link:
http://www.comedyworks.com/Members/Event.aspx?cid=112
Purchase tickets online or via telephone at
www.comedyworks.com; 303-595-3637.
Because we will be arriving together, we will be able to sit together with
our general admission tickets. If you do not pre-purchase tickets you may
find that the event is sold-out prior to your arrival!
If you have questions about these “Hot Spot” outings, please email Kristi
Jackson, the outings coordinator, at
kjackson@queri.com.
Night Out #18: Sensational Wines and Improvisational Comedy
What: We’ll stop at Trios Enoteca, a wine bar in the heart of Denver’s
historic Lower Downtown (LoDo) area for a
bite, then head right next door for an evening of improvisational comedy.
Your hosts: Linda Harrison and Kevin Ford, from the Colorado Division of
Criminal Justice. Linda has been involved in program evaluation and data
analysis for more years than she is willing to tell. She lives in the
mountains west of Denver and loves everything about them. Kevin, a recent
transplant from The Colorado College to The Division of Criminal Justice, is
learning to swim the sea of government acronyms as a statistical analyst. He
also enjoys hiking, choral singing, and, to maintain a state of detente with
his partner, square dancing.
Description: Trios Enoteca
is an independent Wine Bar featuring 40+ wines by the glass, a full bar, and
an extensive menu of tapas, appetizers, pizzas, and larger fare. Trios
Enoteca is located in the heart of Denver's historic lower downtown. The
building was constructed in 1882, and is one of the oldest buildings
downtown with state and national historic designations. The Impulse Theater,
located in Denver's famous Wynkoop
Brewing Company, is a wildly funny mix of comedy, theater and
audience interaction. Each performance features a quick-witted cast that
will keep you laughing from start to finish with fully improvised comedy.
Where we are going: Trios Enoteca is located at 1730 Wynkoop Street (80202);
303-293-2887; www.triosenoteca.com.
The Impulse Theater is located at 1634 18th Street (80202); 303-297-2111;
www.impulsetheater.com
How we get there: We will take the free 16th Street Mall shuttle
Northwest to Wynkoop (one street past Blake). Then we’ll walk to the right
1.5 blocks to Trios Enoteca.
Anticipated expenses:
Dinner
Dinner around $15, tickets are $18. Full expenses about $35, plus
tips and drinks.
Departure time: 6:15 P.M. for a 6:30 P.M. reservation at Trios Enoteca. The
show at the Impulse Theater begins at 8:00 P.M. and we will be seated at
7:45.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to
the AEA Registration Desk - look for the signs for Night Out #18.
To sign up:
Sign-Ups for this Night Out are now CLOSED as of 10/8/08
Maximum number of attendees: 102.
Seating is general admission and you should purchase
tickets in advance at 303-297-2111. Be sure to tell the agent that you are
with the “AEA group” when you make your reservations. Tickets will be
picked up at the box office the night of the show.
If you have questions about these “Hot Spot” outings, please email Kristi
Jackson, the outings coordinator, at
kjackson@queri.com.
What: A late dinner at Marlowe’s and a night of dancing at one of Denver’s most unique clubs, the Church.
Your hosts: Donna Mertens and Susan Krebs. Donna is a past president of AEA, having served on the Board from 1997-2002, during which time she pursued AEA's positioning with regard to diversity and international issues. She is the editor of the forthcoming Sage Handbook of Social Research Ethics (with Pauline Ginsberg) and author of Transformative Research and Evaluation (Guilford) and Research and Evaluation in Education and Psychology (Sage). She is a Professor of research and program evaluation at Gallaudet University in Washington DC. Susan, while still deciding what she will be when she grows up, has tried her hand at Electrical Engineering, school board director, skydiver, chocolate connoisseur, and social service director. Currently, she is working on two PhDs in Education with emphases in leadership and educational policy, and research and evaluation methodology.
Description: Dinner at Marlowe’s, a locally-owned and operated hot-spot,
specializing in chops, steak, and seafood. Marlowe’s is located in the
Historic Kittredge Building, built in 1891 by Charles Marble Kittredge and
his father Cornelias Van Ness Kittredge. When constructed, the seven-
story skyscraper was to be Denver's tallest and first modern
office building. The building's design, which embodied steel beams, iron
columns, and a granite and rhyolite façade, also included such newfangled
accouterments as electricity, steam heat, fireproofing and elevators! Then
we are off to a night of dancing at The Church. Housed in an old Gothic
church, the Church hosts a mainstream of retro-infused music. On Thursdays
the Main floor has national and international DJs. Downstairs is DJ Danny
(Hip Hop & Old School) and DJ Tim (Retro & Electronica). The Church's
bartenders sling martinis, beers and shots dropped into energy drinks for
the hipster masses that continually crowd this Denver nightclub. When the
nationally and internationally touted local DJs are dropping mad beats and
you need a breather, check out the roof top deck for a stellar view of
Denver. The club opens at 9 P.M.
Where we are going: Marlowe’s is at 501 16th Street (80202);
303-595-3700; www.marlowesdenver.com.
The Church night club is at 1160 Lincoln
Street (80203); 303-832-3528;
http://www.coclubs.com/church/churchMain.html.
How we get there: We will walk from the Hyatt Regency Northwest to the 16th
Street Mall and then take a right to Glenarm (one street past Welton). After
dinner we will catch a taxi to the Church which is 9 blocks away.
Anticipated expenses: Dinner at Marlowe’s can run $30-$40, and tickets to
the Church can be pre-purchased for $10-$20 depending on the show. Round
trip taxi ride will be approximately $8 per person.
Departure time: 7:30 P.M. for a 7:45 P.M dinner reservation and then a
departure for The Church at 8:55 P.M.
Departure location: The Mineral Hall Foyer
of the Hyatt Regency, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk - look for
the signs for Night Out #19.The
Mineral Hall Foyer, adjacent to the AEA Registration Desk.
Maximum number of attendees: 10
Hilary Oliphant
To sign up:
Sign-Ups for this Night Out are now CLOSED as of 10/16/08
If you have questions about these “Hot Spot” outings, please email Kristi Jackson, the outings coordinator, at kjackson@queri.com.