Beyond the Oven's Glow

Hey pizza enthusiasts and community champions! Today, I've got the inside scoop on a slice of life that's as cheesy and heartwarming as it gets – the story of Ben's Brick Oven Pizza. So, grab your favorite slice and settle in as I take you on a journey through dough, dreams, and the delicious details that make this place more than just a pizzeria.

Let me start by introducing you to Ben, the man behind the magic. Hailing from the cornfields of Iowa, Ben's journey began with a dose of determination and a side of integrity. A pharmacist by trade, he traded in his lab coat for a pizza peel after practicing in Kansas City for a solid 13 years. But what led him to this cheesy endeavor, you ask?

Well, picture this: In 2011, Ben's kin decided to swap the Midwest for the scenic landscapes of Hudson, Colorado, diving headfirst into the world of farming. As family conversations bubbled with excitement about new opportunities, the town of Hudson echoed with a collective craving – for pizza, cozy coffee spots, and more community spaces.

And so, the idea of Ben's Brick Oven Pizza was born, rising like the perfect pizza crust. Fast forward to May 2015, and Ben bid farewell to his co-workers and patients, heading west with a passion for pizza and community on his mind.

But the story doesn't stop with Ben alone. Enter Mark and Lori Skoglund, Ben's parents and partners in pizza crime. Before their Colorado adventure, they owned and operated Skoglund Meats and Locker, Inc. in the heart of Iowa, raising a quartet of fantastic kids, including Ben. Their journey, steeped in family and business, laid the foundation for the new adventure awaiting them in Colorado.

Now, picture a meat processing facility, a USDA federal gem, sparking interest and expansion for the Skoglund family business. This led their youngest son, Ned, back to Iowa to take the reins. Meanwhile, in 2015, a new path opened up for Ben – the path to Ben's Brick Oven Pizza.

Now, here's the exciting part – not only is Ben dishing out mouthwatering pizzas, but we're also diving into the world of content management for his business. Yep, you heard it right! From behind-the-scenes pizza-making adventures to community spotlights, we're curating it all. Join us online as we share the journey, one post at a time.

So, whether you're a Hudson local, a neighboring community dweller, or just passing through on Interstate 76, Ben, Mark, Lori, and the whole crew are thrilled to welcome you to Ben's Brick Oven Pizza. It's not just about the pizza; it's about building connections, savoring moments, and making the community a little bit cheesier and a whole lot happier. Stick around for the ride – it's going to be a delicious one! 🍕✨

It All Begins With Fire.

Hey Foodies!

In the heart of Denver's culinary scene, our filming team recently had the incredible opportunity to step into the world of Chef Oscar Padilla, a true maestro in the kitchen and the proud owner of Gaucho Parrilla. As the recent champion of Food Network's "Chopped," Padilla's culinary prowess has taken the nation by storm, and we were thrilled to capture the essence of his journey in a promotional video that goes beyond the kitchen.

The adventure began when we discovered the captivating story behind Padilla's rise to culinary stardom—a journey spanning over two decades. Born in Los Angeles, inspired by his grandmother's flavorful creations, Padilla's roots are deeply embedded in Latin and Spanish influences. From the bustling streets of Mexico City, where he learned from culinary luminaries like Enrico Olvera and Bento Molina, to the high-energy kitchens of New York City, Padilla's path was paved with passion and dedication.

Nine years ago, the picturesque mountains of Denver beckoned, prompting Padilla and his family to embark on a new chapter. His wife, Norma, and children, Emello and Miranda, became integral parts of his culinary narrative.

"For me, food is everything," Padilla shared during our interview. I guess we have a lot in common Oscar!

Beyond the tantalizing flavors he creates, Padilla sees himself as a cultural ambassador, aiming to connect people with the rich heritage behind his dishes. Our goal was to capture this essence in our promotional video, going beyond the typical chef showcase to unveil the heart and soul of Padilla's culinary philosophy.

As we delved into the intricacies of his new venture, Gaucho Parrilla, and his catering company, E.S.W FUEGO, Padilla expressed his aspirations to inspire others. He dreams of opening more culinary concepts across the country, potentially gracing cities like Houston or Chicago with his innovative approach to Latin American cuisine.

Reflecting on his "Chopped" experience, Padilla described it as "amazing"—a sentiment echoed by our team as we filmed amidst the hustle and bustle of New York City, capturing the high-stakes culinary challenges that define the show. While the Food Network had reached out multiple times before, the stars aligned this time for Padilla, turning a long-held dream into reality.

Our promotional video is more than a visual feast of tantalizing dishes and the fast-paced world of culinary competitions. It's a journey into the heart of Oscar Padilla's culinary story and life story—a testament to his dedication, passion, and the vibrant tapestry he weaves through his innovative approach to food.

Stay tuned as we unveil the magic behind the scenes, offering an intimate glimpse into the life of a Chopped champion and the visionary behind Gaucho Parrilla. Get ready to be inspired by the culinary wizardry of Oscar Padilla, where each dish tells a story, and every moment is a celebration of flavor and culture.

From the team, Thank you oscar for taking a chance on us and using us to prepare your video. Hopefully it is just as rich and filled with spice like your food.

Till next time,

Abs

Turning Grapes Into Wine

Unveiling Water Canyon Winery: A Journey of Passion and Authenticity

Hey everyone,

I'm thrilled to share with you the incredible story of Shane and Kalie Tooke, the passionate winemakers behind Water Canyon Winery. My connection with them began during my senior year in college when I embarked on a documentary project exploring the roles of women in the FLDS community. Little did I know, this journey would lead me to a place where the art of winemaking would unfold in the most authentic and captivating way.

My multiple trips to Hildale brought me to Water Canyon Winery, where Shane and Kalie graciously opened their doors to me. In an unexpected turn of events, they welcomed me to stay at their Water Canyon Resort, an offer that allowed me to immerse myself in the heart of their winemaking haven. The only 'price' they asked? Content for their story – a trade I gladly embraced.

Water Canyon Winery stands out for its commitment to natural winemaking. No added sulfites, no preservatives, and no enzymes – just grapes doing what comes naturally to them. The simplicity and authenticity of their process struck me deeply, harkening back to the traditional methods our ancestors used to craft wine.

As I delved into the intricate world of organic, non-preservative winemaking, I couldn't help but be amazed at the rigor involved. The experience was eye-opening, revealing the dedication and craftsmanship required to produce something truly exceptional. Each sip of Water Canyon's wine felt like a journey through time, with the taste reflecting not just the grapes but also the hard work and authenticity poured into every bottle.

During my time at Water Canyon, I had the unique opportunity to participate in the annual wine-picking fest, where I even got to grape stomp – an unforgettable experience that brought me closer to the roots of winemaking. Shane and Kalie treated me like family, embodying the spirit of Hildale, Utah, and showcasing the beauty of a town often overshadowed by larger cities.

In a world that often associates big cities with bigger experiences, my trips to Hildale with Water Canyon Winery were core memories that I will cherish forever. The simplicity, warmth, and genuine care extended to me by Shane and Kalie turned this journey into an unforgettable chapter of my life.

For those seeking a unique destination that blends the magic of winemaking with the charm of a close-knit community, Water Canyon Winery is the place to be. Watch the video below to witness the step-by-step processes that make their wine so special. Whether it's a surprise for your family or a getaway with loved ones, Water Canyon Winery promises an experience that goes beyond the ordinary.

Here's to the pursuit of passion, the beauty of authenticity, and the richness found in every sip of Water Canyon's extraordinary wine.

Cheers, Shane & Kalie. You will forever have my GRATITUDE.

Much Love,
Abbey