Highlands Ranch, CO April 2024

Y O U R H I G H L A N D S R A N C H L E A D E R I N D E S I G N - B U I L D

F r o m f a m i l y g a m e n i g h t s t o e n t e r t a i n i n g y o u r c l o s e f r i e n d s , l e t F B C R e m o d e l h e l p y o u c r e a t e a s p a c e w h e r e m e m o r i e s t h a t l a s t a l i f e t i m e a r e m a d e . A s y o u r l o c a l l e a d e r i n d e s i g n - b u i l d , o u r a w a r d - w i n n i n g d e s i g n e r s a n d p r o j e c t t e a m s a r e h e r e t o p a r t n e r w i t h y o u t o t r a n s f o r m y o u r s p a c e i n t o o n e t h a t y o u ’ l l l o v e .

S C H E D U L E Y O U R C O M P L I M E N T A R Y D E S I G N

C O N S U L T A T I O N T O D A Y !

7 2 0 - 7 4 0 - 0 9 8 4 b u i l d j o y . c o m

Exquisite brands. Unparalleled service. Amazing attention to detail.

Local, family owned and operated for over 29 years, we are Colorado’s most complete appliance source, offering every major appliance line to fit any budget.

Call us or visit one of our stunning showrooms. Our appliance experts will walk you through the entire selection process, from browsing, to purchasing, to delivery, offering you the one-on-one attention and advice you’ve come to expect.

Thank you for supporting Colorado’s local businesses.

Louisville | Colorado Springs | Littleton | Glenwood Springs

www.mountainhighappliance.com/

Hey, Baby!

Welcome Your Little One at The BirthPlace at AdventHealth Littleton.

When it’s time to bring your baby into the world, we know that choosing the best place — and team — is a big decision. With a Level III NICU at AdventHealth Littleton we can manage you and your babies needs and keep you close to home for you and your family. Our birth concierges are standing by to answer questions, give in-person tours and talk you through your birth preferences.

• Birth classes for every new mom

• Birthing suites designed for your comfort

• Options for managing pain, 24/7

• Certified nurse-midwives to help with delivery

• Breastfeeding support for as long as you need it

• Level III NICU for specialized care

Call 303-730-5810 or visit AdventHealth.com/Littleton to learn more.

Investment

Investment is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things such as our community, our relationships, our finances, and our health with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact.

We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools and nonprofits and other organizations serving people right here in our community. Investing in our finances helps create wealth, meets longterm financial goals and secures our retirement. But the topic of "investing" doesn't stop with just financial endeavors. We can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us.

In our first Investment Issue, we look at the growing trend of positive-impact travel with the expertise of Highlands Ranch Travel agency owner Marcie LauritsenMann, who has 40 years experience in the travel industry. Positive-impact travel is a way to invest in yourself — satisfy that wanderlust — while also volunteering, serving others, immersing yourself in another culture in faraway destinations.

Want some more ROI in this issue? Check out wise words from Amy Sherman, CEO of Economic Literacy Colorado, as well as Brandon Lorenz, wealth management advisor at CĒDRUS. And, as always, we bring you good news and happenings from influencers and businesses of impact in Highlands Ranch and Lone Tree.

While investing in ourselves, relationships, community and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives are done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results.

April 2024

PUBLISHER

Jennifer Starbuck | Jennifer.Starbuck@CityLifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Sonja Nix | Sonja.Nix@CityLifestyle.com

PHOTO EDITOR

Lisa Lord

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Angie Jehu of Couture Videos

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily Foster, Brandon Lorenz, Sonja Nix, Vaness Osei, Jennifer Starbuck

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

Photo credit: Tara Krauss/Parker Headshots

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-3: Lone Tree Arts Center hosted the 2024 State of the City address. More than 300 members of the Lone Tree and regional community attended the event, which marked Millet’s final address as mayor. City Manager Seth Hoffman honored Councilmembers Wynne Shaw and Cathie Frazzini on their respective terms on City Council. 1: Lone Tree Mayor Jackie Millet. 2: From left, Wynne Shaw, Cathie Frazzini, Seth Hoffman. 3: Seth Hoffman, Mike Anderson, Wynne Shaw, Jackie Millet, Marissa Harmon, and Cathie Frazzini

Mauzie’s Jewelry hosted February’s VIP Valentine’s Party with 14 special couples. Tito and Abraham played February’s event, while the bar was tended by Blanca, owner of All About You Skincare. The events can feature local music, appetizers, signature cocktails, and a stunning array of jewelry to suit every taste. Other small groups that have hosted at Mauzie’s include bridal shower parties, permanent jewelry, and more. Mauzies.com

Want to be seen in the magazine?

In February, quintessential Colorado brewery Great Divide Brewing Co. opened a second location with partner Vibe Concepts. Located at the Schwab Conference Center in Lone Tree, the brewpub offers its standout beer and elevated comfort food. GreatDivide.com/Lone-Tree

business monthly

Hydrate IV Wins Big at the IFA Convention

The International Franchise Association named Jessica Hackney and Don Pingley, owners of Hydrate IV Bar Highlands Ranch and Castle Rock, as a 2023 Franchisee of the Year. Both were honored at the 64th IFA Annual Convention in Phoenix, AZ. “We are proud to recognize Jessica Hackney and Don Pingley with the highest honor IFA awards to individual franchisees, and I have no doubt their work is changing lives and making a lasting community impact.”

Tall Tales Coffee Company Awarded $25,000 Grant

Tall Tales Coffee was recently awarded a $25,000 matching grant from Disabling Barriers for the coffee company program.  They plan to use the fund to purchase a truck, which will create more employment opportunities, increase programming hours, and serve more individuals. Tall Tales trailer offers come-to-you coffee catering. Tall Tales Ranch is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities by creating inclusive communities and job opportunities. TallTalesRanch.org

Wherever your wanderlust is beckoning, we can help get you there!

I HATE TO BREAK IT TO YOU BUT...

You can have the best product in the world, but if no one knows about it....you can't sell it!

It is time to level up your brand so you can reach your dream customers.

ARE

YOU READY TO UNLOCK THE POWER OF YOUR BRAND AND STEP INTO A MORE PROFITABLE BUSINESS?

I help business owners:

Hone their messaging

Create captivating visuals

Clarify their offers

Show up consistently in their marketing

Feel confident in their brand

Add strategy to social media

Make more money with marketing

d together, we'll create a our vision and goals to

Kendrick Castillo Memorial Site

Maria and John Castillo, Douglas County Commissioners Lora Thomas, George Teal, and Abe Laydon, along with DCCF Executive Director Mike Waid, DougCo Sheriff Darren Weekly, and Andy Jones, HR Metro District Director, stand at the site of a future memorial in Civic Green Park, honoring Kendrick Castillo's heroic actions. Additionally, fundraising efforts are underway for a scholarship fund in Kendrick's name and to rename Lucent Boulevard to Kendrick Castillo Way, pending the outcome of the required public process.

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who

you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Co-Working Space

Business Foundry businessfoundry.com | 303.955.7217

Shift Workspaces - Coworking Office Space Littleton shiftworkspaces.com | 303.557.1739

The Village Workspace thevillageworkspace.com | 888.584.5524

Thrive Workplace thriveworkplace.com

Office Evolution - Lone Tree, CO officeevolution.com | 303.734.7140

Auto Dealership

Stevinson Porsche stevinson.porschedealer.com | 303.794.3550

Groove Toyota groovetoyota.com | 303.800.9063

JFR & Associates, Inc. jfrcars.com | 303.761.8045

Lexus of Greenwood Village lexusofgreenwoodvillage.com | 888.918.4078

John Elway Cadillac johnelwaycadillac.com

Law Firm

Town & Town Attorneys attorneysofhighlandsranch.com | 720. 344.5168

Law Mother lawmother.com | 720.706.0036

The Law Office of Cheryl A. Miller, P.C. cherylmillerlaw.com | 303.996.0055

The Law Center PC thelawcenterpc.com | 303.991.5200

Legacy Law Group legacylawgroupcolorado.com | (303) 954-9428

Investing in Financial Education

Benefits the Community

ARTICLE BY AMY SHERMAN, ECONOMIC LITERACY COLORADO  PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Financial Literacy for Youth

For many of you, my face is familiar as I served as the Northwest Douglas County Chamber & Economic Development Corporation President and CEO for 10 years and have been a proud resident of Douglas County for 45 years.

April is Financial Literacy Month, and it is an excellent opportunity to share that I just celebrated my first year as the CEO and President of Economic Literacy Colorado. This nonprofit equips teachers and students with the knowledge and tools necessary to achieve a lifetime of economic understanding and financial security.

We do this by providing teachers with university-accredited professional development to teach these concepts in schools and offering real-world, hands-on opportunities for students to learn about our economic system and explore careers in the financial industry.

In an era where financial decisions shape the trajectory of individuals and communities alike, the importance of equipping young people with financial literacy cannot be overstated. Here are five compelling reasons why investing time and energy in providing financial education to the youth is crucial for the well-being of our community:

BREAKING THE CYCLE OF POVERTY:

Financial literacy serves as a powerful tool in breaking the cycle of poverty. We empower young individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds by imparting knowledge about budgeting, saving, investing, and debt management to make informed financial decisions. As they gain control over their finances, they can strive for upward economic mobility, thereby reducing poverty levels within the community.

FOSTERING ECONOMIC STABILITY:

A community’s economic stability heavily relies on the financial well-being of its members. When young people understand

CONTINUED >

WHEN YOUN G PEOPLE UNDERSTANDFISCAL CONCEPTS ...THEY CONTRIBUTE TOTHE OVERALL ECONOMIC STABILITY OF THE COMMUNITY.

concepts such as fiscal responsibility, the importance of emergency funds, and prudent investment strategies, they contribute to the overall economic stability of the community. Moreover, financially literate individuals are less likely to default on loans or rely on social welfare programs, alleviating financial burdens on the community’s resources.

CULTIVATING ENTREPRENEURSHIP:

Financial literacy cultivates an entrepreneurial mindset among young individuals. By understanding the fundamentals of finance, aspiring entrepreneurs can develop robust business plans, manage startup costs effectively, and navigate the complexities of business finances. As a result, fostering financial literacy among the youth not only sparks innovation but also leads to the creation of new businesses that drive economic growth and job creation within the community.

BUILDING STRONGER FAMILIES:

Financial stress can strain familial relationships and negatively impact household dynamics. By equipping young people with financial literacy skills, we empower them to make sound financial decisions that promote household stability and harmony. From setting financial goals as a family to communicating effectively about money matters, financial education fosters an environment where families can thrive and support each other in achieving longterm financial security.

ENHANCING CIVIC ENGAGEMENT:

Financially literate individuals are better equipped to participate actively in their community’s economic and civic life. Understanding taxes, public budgets, and personal finance enables young people to advocate for policies that promote financial inclusion and address economic inequalities. By engaging in informed discussions and taking proactive steps to shape economic policies, financially literate youth become agents of positive change within their communities.

Investing in financial literacy education for young people is an investment in the future prosperity and well-being of our community as a whole. By equipping the next generation with the knowledge and skills to make sound financial decisions, we lay the groundwork for a more economically resilient, socially equitable, and civically engaged society. As we prioritize financial education, we empower individuals to achieve their financial goals and foster a stronger, more prosperous community for generations to come.

THE GROWING TREND OF POSITIVE IMPACT TRAVEL

Do Good, Feel Good

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER STARBUCK AND SONJA NIX | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Top: Hawaii | Bottom left: Blue-Footed Booby, Galápagos Islands |

Bottom right: Marcie Lauritsen-Mann, Maui, Hawaii

“Positive-impact travel allows tourists to invest in themselves ...

and invest in the communities they visit.

Longtime travel agent Marcie LauritsenMann practically had her bags packed, ready to attend a travel industry conference at the Grand Wailea Resort on Maui when she saw news of the devastating wildfires that destroyed Lahaina in August 2023.

The owner of Highlands Ranch Travel Agency said the industry group considered canceling the conference but instead jumped into action to be of service.

They flew with more than 220 suitcases full of diapers, baby food, personal hygiene products, and other necessities and spent their time on the island volunteering at food banks and the Humane Society.

“When I came home after volunteering in Maui,” she says, “I knew this was a life-changing trip.”

Lauristen-Mann says this type of travel, called positive-impact travel, is a growing trend. More and more travelers want to get more out of their journey than just a tan and tchotchke.

Positive-impact travel allows tourists to invest in themselves with the gift of a rewarding travel experience and invest in the communities they visit.

Social-impact travel can look different for each person, Lauritsen-Mann said, and she and her team at Highlands Ranch Travel can tailor a trip to reflect their clients’ specific faith values, social values, hobbies, or interests to craft a trip of a lifetime.

Meaningful opportunities include volunteer programs, wildlife conservation, work on fishing waterways, faith-based missions, and educational and cultural opportunities.

“We have clients request many different areas and experiences worldwide, from trekking to see the gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda to taking a cruise through the Panama Canal. Each trip has a unique window to the world,” Lauritsen-Mann said.

Here, Highlands Ranch Travel offers an overview of three destinations for those travelers interested in elevated experiences through wildlife conservation, sustainable travel, community outreach, and social impact.

PROTECTING THE INCOMPARABLE WONDER OF THE GALAPAGOS

The Galapagos Islands are truly a unique destination unlike anywhere else on Earth. Preserving this biodiverse landscape is at the forefront of all the cruise lines and tour companies that travel there. The only way to visit the protected island is by boat with an accredited tour company. With very tight regulations, the Galapagos offers one of the last untouched but accessible destinations on earth.

Conservation efforts to restore and protect land and marine habitats are critical to the long-term health of the islands, something that tourism dollars directly support. Many cruise lines travel with international scientists onboard, who not only educate visitors about the islands and why they need to be protected but also continue ongoing research dedicated to conserving the unique habitats and species of the Galapagos.

Terryl Lofgren, an Adventure Travel Specialist with Highlands Ranch Travel, says one of her clients recently returned from the Galapagos and described this

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

— Saint Augustine “ ”

once-in-a-lifetime trip with her family this way: “We were so excited to see that the blue-footed boobies really have blue feet! The naturalists onboard taught us so much about the Galapagos species, and it was amazing for my kids to have a part in preserving the islands for future generations.”

REDISCOVERING THE ALOHA SPIRIT ON MAUI

The aftermath of last year’s wildfires on Maui made apparent the impact that travel has on local communities and their economies. While the islands ask visitors to respect the locals and the land, tourism to Hawaii is needed now more than ever.

Hawaii’s “Mālama Hawaiʻi” Program encourages travelers to give back to local communities through

organized volunteer opportunities while on vacation. The projects range from reforestation projects and tree planting to self-directed beach clean-ups and local quilting sessions. After the wildfires, the tourism board launched the specific “Mālama Maui” initiative, which also includes opportunities for volunteering at food banks and the Humane Society.

“I have been genuinely enriched by what I experienced in Hawaii, from the resilience of the locals to how our travel community came together to help,” Lauritsen-Mann said about her trip to the island after the historic fires. “I encourage our clients to visit Maui. While Lahaina remains closed to visitors, the other parts of the island — Kahului, Wailuku, Kīhei, Wailea, Mākena, Pāʻia, Makawao, and Hāna — are open for business and warmly welcoming visitors.”

CONTINUED >

She says the local economy heavily depends on tourism, so simply planning a vacation there is an act of giving back.

SAFARI WITH PURPOSE IN SOUTH AFRICA

South Africa is the ideal destination for those looking for variety in a vacation, from the lively cosmopolitan cities to the wine regions and classic safari game reserves.

The Royal Malewane in Greater Kruger National Park offers visitors luxury lodge accommodations immersed in the wild seclusion of the African bush. Hotel stays there help fund the Foundation and Conservation Research Center, which supports animal research, conservation, and anti-poaching efforts.

While journeys to Africa are usually focused on the “Big Five” game animals, local cultures and spectacular wildlife encounters often have visitors yearning to return. The “Big Five” are the original five species for big game hunting but are now the focus of conservation efforts: lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo.

Lauritsen-Mann has traveled to South Africa many times. She recalls the wildlife encounters that had a particular impact

on her. “I vividly remember seeing the cute African penguins basking on Boulders Beach. My safari group was amazed as we watched three giraffes traverse a river, which is a highly unusual sight. It’s these types of unique experiences that make a vacation life-changing.”

Over the years, as Lauritsen-Mann has explored new destinations, she has developed an interest in immersive travel that focuses on education and positive impact. “I hope we inspire our clients to invest in their lives and expand their horizons through travel.”

As a travel expert passionate about creating new experiences and adventures for her clients for over 40 years, Marcie Lauritsen-Mann’s favorite travel quote is, “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page,” by Saint Augustine. She views travel as an investment in oneself and is pleased to see that investment extended to the communities positively impacted. Highlands Ranch Travel is one of the few remaining travel agencies with a brick-and-mortar location. Sitting with a person while planning your travel adds personalization and customization that can’t be replicated through the screen. Find Lauritsen-Mann and her experienced team at 41 W Highlands Ranch Pkwy Suite 110 and at hrtvl.com

South Africa

I hope we inspire our clients to invest in their lives and expand their horizons through travel!

“ ”

Galápagos Islands

South Africa

Royal Malewane, South Africa

Our

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ARTICLE BY VANESSA OSEI

INVEST OR MOVE?

MAKE YOUR OLD HOME FEEL NEW WITH THESE EASY UPGRADES

In the current housing market, remodeling offers the home of your dreams for a fraction of the cost of buying new.

Starting over in a shiny new neighborhood is a temptation. House hunting in the current market has many buyers feeling underwhelmed by what they get for their money.

Consider these refreshes to transform your current home before you start packing boxes.

A new countertop and tile backsplash is one of the most transformative, budget-friendly refreshes a family can make in their kitchen.

BUDGET-FRIENDLY KITCHEN REFRESH

Have the kids left for college, and the tuition bills are weighing down the budget? Or the idea of working less and relaxing in the golden years is calling your heart. Moving or downsizing to a new home can provide relief, but often, a new, smaller home costs more than your current home, minus the memories. An upgraded countertop and tile backsplash is one of the most transformative, budget-friendly refreshes a family can make in their kitchen. The downtime is quick, only a few weeks, and the return on investment yields a WOW factor for brightening and modernizing a space. If your cabinetry’s bones, layout, and inserts are in good shape and functional, a quick repaint can complement the new countertops and backsplash tiles. Be careful; refacing cabinetry can cost just as much as purchasing new ones without the benefit of brand-new cabinet interiors. Treat yourself to a space designed for adults and enjoy the peace and quiet in the heart of your home.

REIMAGINE THE SPACE AWAY FROM OUTDATED STANDARDS

Mass builders did so many things in Highlands Ranch and Lone Tree that we don’t give them a second thought. Remodeling allows you to fix those design flaws that make you crave a new place.

CONTINUED >

High-end materials...elevate your space. Create a spa-like vibe in the bathroom with a curbless shower. Upgrading cabinetry with new inserts makes a magazineworthy kitchen possible.

GET RID OF STORAGE-EATING SOFFITS, CLOSETS, PANTRIES, AND UNUSED SPACES

Many builders reduced costs by installing short cabinets, adding drywall soffits, or leaving the space above the cabinetry open to the ceiling. The result was wasted space, reduced storage, and dust bunnies from the 90’s. When new cabinetry is installed to the ceiling, massive amounts of storage is found. While not all layouts can do this on a budget, most can, and it’s worth a look. Taller cabinetry’s vertical lines draw the eye up and create a grand illusion of a larger kitchen with a taller ceiling since our eyes tend to stop at the top of the cabinetry.  Closet-style pantry doors with narrow shelves can be upgraded with cabinet pantries. Unused window nooks can have drawer benches added. Landing spots or places where bookshelves once were can be turned into entertaining storage & a minibar.

CUT DOWN HIGH-TOP BARS:

The idea of having a cool high-top countertop bar felt sophisticated in the ’90s, but most families don’t use it now. No one regularly sits there; all you gain is 12 inches of ‘meh.’ Creating a level, continuous countertop still allows for seating and more space for prep or serving.

A SLIM-LINE ISLAND INSTEAD OF A PENINSULA:

Many homes were made with a kitchen peninsula extending from the main perimeter. There is often enough space to remove these and add a slim, long island to minimize traffic jams and increase prep space.

Before: landing nook with open bookcase

After: landing Nook with cabinetry

ROTATE YOUR SMALL ISLAND AND EXPAND IT:

Many kitchen islands were initially small and dinky. Kitchens are now designed with massive islands. Many kitchens have the space to turn the kitchen island and expand it with base cabinets, under-counter microwaves, extra large storage drawers, and seating. It’s an easy trick to modernize your space.

UPGRADE TO HIGHER QUALITY MATERIALS:

Many builder-grade materials were mass-purchased with inferior quality. Personal taste and high-end materials can turn a cookie-cutter model home into a customized space in a remodel. High-end materials like quartz or quartzite countertops, composite sinks, and tile flooring elevate your space. Create a spa-like vibe in the bathroom with a curbless shower with soothing pebbles for the feet. Upgrading cabinetry with new inserts and gadgets makes a magazine-worthy kitchen possible. People who’ve just remodeled their home for sale often say, “I wish we’d done this sooner.” Don’t wait and let someone else enjoy your home for all its potential. Upgrade it now.

Gideon and Vanessa Osei own Kingdom Countertops & Cabinetry Remodeling in Highlands Ranch. They have been industry leaders for over 18 years and work with a fantastic team of designers and installers for all your remodeling needs. Find them next to Max Taps on University & County Line. Open Monday through Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm.

303-766-LION (5466)  | KCCMileHigh.com

After: closet pantry with upgraded cabinetry

Before: pantry with closet doors

eat kind

EMBRACING A PARTNERSHIP WITH YOUR BODY

Wellness isn’t about restricting — it’s really about giving. Giving to yourself and to your body in a way that allows them both to thrive. The cool part? The things that give to your body naturally give to your mind, your hormones, your earth, your relationships, and so on — it’s all beautifully interconnected in that way.

Work in partnership with your body. Listen to it, support it, give to it, forgive it — and I promise it’ll give back. Repeat after me: I love myself as the most important and committed partner I will ever have

Eat your greens, cook at home, choose local produce and quality meats, don’t be scared of healthy fats — but also support local farmers, move in a way that makes your body and mind feel good, prioritize times of mindfulness and stillness, fuel your body in a way that is sustainable for both you and the planet, practice gratitude and empathy, give yourself grace when you lose routine, don’t try to make changes overnight, ditch the guilt, and always always be kind to yourself.

simple roasted salmon with dill coconut cream

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 6 oz. filets of wild caught salmon

• 1 Tbsp. avocado oil

• 1 Tbsp. coconut aminos

• Zest and juice from one lemon

• 1 Tbsp. stone ground mustard

• 1 4 oz. container coconut yogurt, unsweetened

• 2 Tbsp. fresh dill, minced

• 2 Tbsp. capers, drained and minced

• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Marinate the salmon in the lemon juice, coconut aminos, and stone ground mustard for up to two hours.

2. Drizzle salmon with avocado oil, sprinkle with salt and ground pepper, and broil on high for five to seven minutes, until cooked to desired temperature.

3. Mix coconut cream, lemon zest, dill, capers, and ground pepper together.

4. Top salmon with coconut cream, serve with roasted or sautéed veggies, brown or cauliflower rice, or fresh greens. Enjoy!

8671

Laura

Shannon

Darlene Long Nurse

HOW TO DESIGN A RELAXING SPACE

ARTICLE BY EMILY FOSTER INTERIORS

INVESTING IN HOME DESIGN CAN GIVE YOU A PEACEFUL SANCTUARY WHERE YOU CAN ESCAPE FROM THE STRESSES OF DAILY LIFE. SO GO AHEAD, TAKE THE PLUNGE AND REVAMP YOUR LIVING SPACES – IT’S WORTH EVERY PENNY!

There are many things that can help a room feel relaxing, but let’s keep it simple and focus on my top three. I would say that one must incorporate good lighting, great textures, and a decluttered space to truly get the cozy vibes. Let’s tackle each.

GOOD LIGHTING

It is imperative that there are multiple sources of light in a space. A room needs a soft warm light, so I always like to use a light bulb between 2,700k and 3,000k. Also, and I see this so many times, all lights should have the same temperature light bulb to avoid clashing. It’s not enough to just have recessed or pendant lighting. I always add a table or floor lamp to a space to truly have ambient light.  Also, candles are a must for me. They can be scented candles (an extra way to add relaxation) or I like to use remote control tapered candles, so I don’t have to worry about cleaning up wax later.

GREAT TEXTURES

Textures are seen in toss pillows, rugs, draperies, throw blankets and furniture upholstery. Textures add color, pattern and visual interest. I like to use at least three different textures to help a room feel lived-in and welcoming.

DECLUTTERING

So many times, a person thinks that every nook and cranny and every wall need to have something, and this is not the case. A decluttered space is actually more relaxing because overcrowding of items doesn’t quiet the mind. Decluttering a space can be overwhelming, I get it, so just do it in stages. You’ll love the outcome when the room is tidy, organized and you are only surrounded with what brings you joy.

invest inyour living space

APRIL 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

SATURDAY & SUNDAY MORNINGS

Free Fly Fishing Instruction

Orvis in The Vistas, Park Meadows

Orvis' Fly Fishing 101 classes are a great way to introduce yourself to the world of fly fishing. Classes include fundamentals such as rods and reels, rigging, essential knots, fly selection and basic casting. A more advanced class is available upon completion. Afterward, you’ll receive special discounts on Orvis gear. 9AM-10AM though October.

EVERY SUNDAY

Farmers Market Returns for 2024

Highlands Ranch Town Center

HRCA partners with Denver Farmers’ Market to bring one of the best weekly gatherings of local vendors together to sell local fresh goods to Highlands Ranch residents during the summer months. The Farmers’ Market season starts with a plethora of sauces, pasta, flowers, bread, and more. As produce comes in season, this outdoor market explodes with all the colors, smells, and varieties of Colorado’s bounty.

EVERY WEDNESDAY

Cranelli's Wine Wednesdays

Cranelli's Italian Restaurant

Cranelli's is proud to continue to expand its 'bottled only' wine selection. They offer a diverse range of wines from all over the world that will elevate the dining experience and keep their wine list fresh. They offer 20% off bottled-only wines and varies wine tastings.  cranellis.com

EVERY SATURDAY BEGINNING APRIL 13TH

Master Gardener Series

Roxborough Library

Embark on a journey to sustainable gardening with Colorado State University Extension. Join DCL and CSU Master Gardeners for engaging presentations and Q&A sessions.  April’s topics include the art of xeriscaping, a water-wise gardening technique; seed starting and the essential techniques for a flourishing garden; and unraveling the secrets to a fruitful vegetable garden. Adults only. Registration required. DCL.org

APRIL 18TH

Strictly Blues with Michael Friedman at the Mansion

Highlands Ranch Mansion

Curtain Call at the Mansion! Get ready for an unforgettable night of soul-stirring blues music at the historic Highlands Ranch Mansion. Welcome the incredibly talented artist Michael Friedman, who is performing strictly blues. Cash Bar available, Doors open at 6:00 p.m, show starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 at hrcaonline.org

APRIL 26TH

Arbor Day

Highlands Ranch

Did you know that Highlands Ranch has been a designated Tree City USA for over 35 years? This honor recognizes The Highlands Ranch Metro District's commitment to effective urban forest management. There are four requirements. Communities must maintain a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

realty report

FINANCIAL Silver Bullets

Engaging a Family Financial Services Firm for Your Family’s Future

ARTICLE BY BRANDON LORENZ

As a wealth management advisor, one question that I often hear is, “Is there a silver bullet when it comes to a financial strategy?” The seemingly obvious answer is no, but sometimes it’s yes.

The first question to ask is, “What brings you peace and contentment?” If you can’t answer this question, silver bullets will never be enough.

So, no, not one single thing can solve all your financial questions. This is a good thing. You might never find the answer if you had to rely on one thing to solve all your financial goals.

Here is the secret, the silver bullet: a collection of professionals surrounding you and your family in what is known as a family office. Traditionally, a family office was only available to the ultra-wealthy. If you have a CPA, financial advisor, estate attorney, insurance agent, and more, you already have the framework of a family office.

Now ponder this: Are they all communicating with each other and, most importantly, collectively working toward your best interest? If the answer is no, we can help bring all of this into focus so you can see the big picture.

At CĒ DRUS, we will walk life with you, and together, we’ll tackle questions like:

• Can I live the lifestyle I want in retirement?

• Should I take Social Security now or wait?

• Can we really afford to buy that vacation home we always dreamed of?

• How should I save for my kids’ education?

Let’s sit down and discuss all the possibilities with the help of custom financial models that will allow you to answer these questions and be confident in the decisions you make.

Now, that can bring real peace and contentment.

BRANDON LORENZ is a Wealth Management Advisor at CĒDRUS who is passionate about developing world-class personal and business financial strategies. An engineering graduate from Oral Roberts University, Brandon spent 15 years in engineering and management and now uses those problem-solving skills to assist clients toward a secure financial future. Brandon lives in Littleton with his wife, Laura, and their son, Liam. Brandon loves being outside, golfing, biking, rock climbing, snowboarding, and spending time with his family.