Sometimes two people get together, and because of their gifts to their communities (and beyond) their union becomes legendary.

Denver and its western reaches offer three shining examples of such couples. Although four of these individuals are now deceased ( Hal Shelton, Barbara Sudler Hornby, and the Arnolds), their legacies are vibrantly alive in Colorado history.

Pictured are honored guests at the head table of a 1997 Valentine's Day fundraising gala for Foothills Art Center, Golden, titled "A Love Affair with the Southwest." Foreground, Hal Shelton, Golden's internationally recognized artist/cartographer who invented the shaded relief map, scientifically accurate while using natural colors. His work is now in the Library of Congress, valued at $1million. Mary was his advisor and assistant, while rearing 4 sons. They are honored in the renaming of the Hal & Mary Shelton elementary school in Golden.

Barbara Sudler Hornby was President of the Colorado Historical Society and State Historical Preservation Officer, sharing her in-depth knowledge of history with husband Bill Hornby, formerly editor of the Denver Post. Finally, pictured in their buckskins, areMorrison's famed restaurateurs Sam and Carrie Arnold. Sam, known to thousands of Colorado history and cuisine enthusiasts, built and operated the famed Fort restaurant. He also authored many books related to the culinary culture of Colorado and the Southwest. Carrie was his partner and also a well-regarded painter.

Carol Dickinson is a Golden resident and former director of the Foothills Art Center.