Parker February 2016

Parker

FEBRUARY 2016

ParkerLifestyle.com

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THE DRANSFELDTS AN ADVENTURE TO REMEMBER COMEDIANS GIVE A HELPING HAND GIVE YOUR HEART SOME LOVING CARE

™

Brinton Studios

Ashley McKenzie Photography

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Brinton Nathan Studios Gilmer Photography

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Lifestyle Letter

A Month of Love and More

FEBRUARY 2016 publisher

Kelly Veltrie | KVeltrie@lifestylepubs.com editor

F

ebruary holds a special place in my heart. It’s the month my husband proposed to me and the month we sold our first home in Parker’s Stonegate neighborhood so we could move out to the country.

Oddly enough, both of those events happened on the same day – and it wasn’t Valentine’s Day. It was February 8.

I know I’m not the only person who got engaged or sold a home in February, but both of those events bring me warm memories during one of Colorado’s colder months.

I’m hoping this edition of Parker Lifestyle will bring you warm feelings as you read about the big hearts of residents in Parker and throughout the metro area.

Susan Cormier | SCormier@lifestylepubs.com contributing writers

Jessica Duce, Corie Goodson and Nicolette Toussaint contributing photographers

Rebecca Berra, Ted Veltrie

CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

This month’s stories include the dedication to Parker that was demonstrated by Fred and Gunhild Dransfeldt, as well as a group of comedians who are hoping their shows will make you laugh while benefiting three local charities.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR AD COORDINATORS

| Nicole Sylvester

DESIGN SPECIALIST

| Nicolette Martin | Ashleigh Thomson

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT

Please enjoy this issue and this month! Since it’s a leap year, you’ve got one extra day to open your heart to love, health and more.

| Brad Broockerd

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Kim Foster, Megan Seymour

LAYOUT DESIGNER

You’ll also see wonderful photos of the ways in which area residents enjoyed the holiday season – from giving time to the Parker Task Force to traveling to London to be featured in the New Year’s Day Parade.

| DeLand Shore

| Sara Minor

ART DIRECTOR

If the heart is still on your mind, you might want to check out nutritionist Corie Goodson’s tips on simple steps you can take to improve your heart’s health or enjoy Nicolette Toussaint’s heartfelt memory of her mother, Myra, who served on the all-volunteer – and nearly all-male – National Ski Patrol.

| Matthew Perry

WEB DEVELOPER

| Melanie Carlisle | Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park

Susan Cormier, Editor SCormier@LifestylePubs.com

by Community ™

ParkerLifestyle.com ON THE COVER Alex Souders and Sam Bonin learn about force and motion in a science class at Pine Grove Elementary.

PHOTOGRAPHY REBECCA BERRA 4

Parker Lifestyle | February 2016

JOIN US

TALK TO US

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Parker Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Parker’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Parker Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

February 2016

Departments

30

20 Students Learn Business Tools in Class

and DECA Events

State competition is in Colorado Springs.

26 February: The Month of the Heart

8

Good Times

14

Around Town

16

Giving Back

18

Times Past

20

Inspired By

22

Animal Kingdom

24

Road Trip

26

Healthy Lifestyle

29

Sold Properties

30

Renovate & Refine

32

Lifestyle Calendar

34

Parting Thoughts

Give yours some loving care.

30 Tips to Refresh and Renew Your Home

Simple changes can make a real difference.

18

20

26

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Good Times

Parker's Holiday Spirit

Parker area residents showed their holiday spirit in a variety of ways, including watching or riding in the Town's annual Carriage Parade, entertaining kids as Santa and his elf, donating to or volunteering at the Parker Task Force, and celebrating with members of South Metro Business Connections.

Town Council members Debbie Lewis (left), Amy Cooper-Holland (with daughter and granddaughter) and Renee Williams (with Jim Asher) enjoy the annual Carriage Parade.

Members of South Metro Business Connections enjoy some holiday cheer at Vines Wine Bar.

Volunteers Tim Spykstra and Steve Budnack, who is also chairman of the Parker Task Force, get ready to help families during the Christmas rush.

Legend High School girls basketball team members Zoe Mihalicz and Alaska Masson concentrate on checking expiration dates on canned food as they volunteer at the Parker Task Force food bank.

Striking a pose while volunteering at the Parker Task Force food bank are four members of the Legend High School girls basketball team (from left): Haley Hildenbrand, Allie Waytashek, Casey Hague and Lauren Carmack.

Getting into the holiday spirit while working in the Parker Task Force shopping room last December are volunteers Terry Kania and Bill Honeyfield.

As one of the Rotary Club of Parker’s annual holiday projects, club members Jane Johnson, Li Pettett and Sue Gardner present 65 gift cards valued at $2,150 to Steve Budnack, chairman of the Parker Task Force.

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Parker Lifestyle | February 2016

Members of the Legend High School girls basketball team worked at the Parker Task Force, sorting and boxing food collected from holiday food drives, including (from left): Laney Felder, Emily Cue and Kassie Rembisz.

Santa and his chief elf (a.k.a. Rich and Donna Foerster) visited with more than 400 children and their families at the PACE Center this holiday season.

Healthy Lifestyle Celebration

Koko FitClub was host of the January 9 Healthy Lifestyle Celebration, where representatives from the health and fitness industry shared ways in which attendees could become healthier in 2016! PHOTOGRAPHY TED VELTRIE

Michelle, one of Koko FitClub's team members

Fred Astaire Dance Studio

Dr. Anna and Dr. Tara of 100% Chiropractic

The Koko FitClub team includes Rich, Ethan and Alarie

February 2016 | Parker Lifestyle

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Good Times

A New Year's Celebration in England

The Legend High School Titan Marching Band traveled to London over the winter break to march in the 30th Annual London New Year's Day Parade and see the sights.

The parents watch the New Year's Day parade.

The Marching Band in action.

Maddie Gordon, Brynna Osgood, Alex Rink and Alyssa Langdon outside Windsor.

The visit to the Tower Bridge.

The talented Color Guard.

Cruise along the Thames.

Triplets Chloe, Isabelle and Madeleine Gamard in the guard shack at the Tower of London.

Madison Jornod, Sarah Roach, Spencer Jornod, Sean Veto, Jennifer Curry and Jordan Perea at Hampton Court in the Great Hall where Henry VIII's throne is located.

Amanda Ruybal, Abigayle Duncan, Pablo de la Rosa and Andrew Duncan on the London Eye.

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Good Times

Cram the Cruiser

Members of the Parker Police Department collected food and money during their annual Cram the Cruiser event to benefit the Parker Task Force’s Backpack Program. They were joined by The Snow Queens, Elsa and Anna, as they supported the program that helps homeless students in Douglas County.

Parker Police Chief David King, Officer Nate Finley, Officer Dawn Cashman, Officer Darcy Hier, Officer Rebecca Smith, Officer Trey Biles, Sgt. Joe Cummings, Lt. Doreen Jokerst, Officer Ryan Wolff and Sgt. Nate Schivinski pose with The Snow Queens.

Donations are collected at Ruth Memorial Chapel.

A Parker girl talks to The Snow Queens, Elsa and Anna, at the Cram the Cruiser event.

Sgt. Andy Coleman and Lt. Chris Peters drop off food collected at the annual Cram the Cruiser event. More than 8,000 individual servings of food and $800 were collected for the Parker Task Force’s Backpack Program.

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Parker Lifestyle | February 2016

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Around Town

AROUND TOWN FUN-FILLED GAME BENEFITS LEGEND BASKETBALL

The overall male/female finishers, as well as the top three finishers in the various age divisions will be awarded.

The free Huntington Learning Center Kids' Dash follows the race for children 8 and under; no registration necessary.

For more information, go to ParkerRec.com/VDay5K10K or call 303.841.4500.

MY FURRY VALENTINE Families are invited to bring their pets to Tagawa Garden Center on February 14 for an assortment of fun activities to help raise funds and awareness for the Youth and Pet Survivors Program (YAPS).

Entertainment will include the "Cast-a-Ways," a variety show made

The Harlem Wizards are com-

up of rescue animals that have made it to the big time. This star team

ing to Legend High School,

consists of an animated cockatoo, a playful dog, an amazing pig and

Wednesday, February 10, at 7

their star trainer, John Vincent.

p.m. The evening, hosted by the

Visitors and their pets can also enjoy $5 nail trims from Bark N

Legend High School Basketball

Wash, Valentine’s Day photos, pet intuitive readings by Ashara Mor-

Program, promises to be a fun-

ris of Harmony’s Heart Coaching, as well as innovative pet gifts and

filled event that is great for kids

products to purchase.

and adults.

In addition to raising funds for YAPS, the organizers hope to edu-

Throughout the game, fans will

cate the public about YAPS, a pen pal program that matches pediatric

experience the Harlem Wizards’

oncology patients with dogs and cats who have survived cancer or

magical display of tricks, coordinated ball handling, fancy passing

other serious medical conditions. Children and pets (via their owners)

and aerodynamic athleticism combined with high-energy comedy

establish relationships and communicate through letter writing. This

and audience interaction. The audience will also get to watch the

allows children the unique opportunity to share feelings about having

Wizards play a team of locals – players, teachers and administrators

cancer with a safe, unconditionally loving animal.

from Legend and local feeder schools.

With loads of audience participation, fans are more than spectators. They become part of the show.

Tickets can be purchased before the event online at HarlemWizards.com for $12 for adults and $10 for children. Reserved seats are $18. Courtside Plus/Premium tickets are $30 and include a private meet-and-greet with the Wizards’ players before the game and refreshments. Both include reserved seats and have limited availability.

The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Tagawa, 7711 S. Parker Road in Centennial.

2016 STATE OF THE TOWN AND BLACK TIE & BOOTS GALA The

Rotary

Club

of

Tickets will also be available on the day of the game at Legend

Parker will host the 2016

High School for $14 for adults and $12 for children. For more informa-

Parker State of the Town

tion, go to LegendTitans.org.

Luncheon on February 23

LOVE ‘EM OR LEAVE ‘EM VALENTINE’S DAY 5K/10K

and the Mayor’s Black Tie & Boots Gala on February 27 at the PACE Center.

Will you embrace the holiday full of heart or run from Cupid? Either

The seventh annual State

way, the Love 'em or Leave 'em Valentine's Day 5K/10K will be held

of the Town luncheon will

Saturday, February 13, at Salisbury Park, 11920 Motsenbocker Road.

begin at 11:30 a.m. with a

This signature run/walk of the Parker Parks and Recreation Run

keynote address by Mayor

Steve and Nancy Trevino at the 2015 Mayor's Ball and Gala.

Series is a fun, festive and sanctioned event that is professionally

Mike Waid, followed by the introduction of nominees and the winner of

timed and serves as a qualifier for the Bolder Boulder. All registrants

the Parker Impact Award, which the Rotary Club of Parker awards to a

receive a long-sleeve T-shirt, as well as a delicious post-race pancake

person who has made a valuable contribution to the Parker community.

breakfast and a chance to win prizes.

The theme for the third annual fundraiser gala, which begins at

The 10K begins at 10 a.m. and costs $45 on race day, while the 5K

6 p.m., is “Mayor’s Black Tie & Boots.” This black-tie/cocktail attire/

starts at 10:05 a.m. and is $35 on race day. Those who pre-register,

boots for everyone event will include hors d’oeuvres, dancing to the

receive a $5 discount.

American Honey Band and a silent auction.

14

Parker Lifestyle | February 2016

Hosted annually by the Rotary Club of Parker, net proceeds from

Roundtable

board

these events will be used for local and global community service

member and advi-

projects supporting those in need. They also give residents an op-

sor to Riverside Re-

portunity to meet and visit with the Parker mayor, council mem-

search for manage-

bers and key staff.

ment engagement.

To purchase tickets or become a sponsor, visit ParkerRotary.org or

Following a career

contact Larry Brutlag at brutlagl@gmail.com or 303.947.9136, or Steve

in consumer product

Trevino at snaatrevino@aol.com or 303.204.5407.

sales

SPEAKING OF THE MAYOR’S BLACK TIE & BOOTS GALA… With the help of Fred Astaire Dance Studio, you can be on the floor feeling confident whether it’s a little cowboy cha cha, two step or waltz.

management,

Howe has served on the Parker Planning

Outgoing Douglas County Libraries trustees Bob McLaughlin (left) and Mark Weston enjoy a celebratory moment at their final DCL board meeting in December.

Commission, Parker Creative District, Cherry Valley Rotary Club of Parker and a homeowners’ association board.

At a board meeting in December, DCL’s leadership expressed its

Bring your receipt for the mayor’s gala to Fred Astaire’s Parker location at 11153 S. Parker Road and ask for “the Mayor Mike

gratitude to outgoing trustees Bob McLaughlin and Mark Weston, who served on the board for 23 and 15 years, respectively.

special.” You’ll save 30 percent on packages of five to 10 private,

Under their leadership, DCL became an independent library dis-

40-minute lessons, design specifically to get you on the floor having

trict, and replaced antiquated libraries and manual processes with

fun at the gala.

modern facilities and technology. DCL now serves more than 300,000

PONDEROSA STUDENT OF THE MONTH

residents, three times Douglas County’s population of 20 years ago.

The Rotary Club of Parker honored Erika Lane as its Ponderosa High School Student of the Month for December.

Erika is quite busy with school activities, including serving as the editor-in-chief of The Mustang Express school newspaper, as well as being a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Link Crew and Sources of Strength. She is also active with community projects by volunteering at Sky Ridge Medical Center and various give-back to the community opportunities through her Rotarian Bill Kelly with Jennifer, mother Chrissy, teacher Erika, sister Amanda and father Mark.

church’s youth group.

Erika is applying to several universities to study

From left: Officers Amy Lantz, Lucas Powell and Todd Shupe, Sgt. Andy Coleman, Detective Jake Schuster, Sgt. Nick Eckmann and Detective Bev Wilson prior to donating blood on December 11.

PARKER POLICE OFFICERS DONATE BLOOD FOR DENVER OFFICER TONY LOPEZ JR. To raise awareness about the importance of blood donation, eight Parker Officers donated blood in December in honor of Denver Officer Tony Lopez Jr.

biochemistry. She hopes

Lopez was critically wounded on De-

to eventually enter medical school and pursue a career as an internal

cember 8, after pulling over a male for

medical doctor or osteopathic surgeon.

a traffic offense on Federal Boulevard in

DOUGLAS COUNTY LIBRARIES WELCOMES NEW BOARD MEMBERS

Denver. The male fired multiple shots at Lopez, who was struck with five bullets and critically wounded. Along with first

Douglas County Libraries (DCL) welcomes two new members to

responders and hospital staff, blood do-

its Board of Trustees, Ron Cole and John Howe, both of whom have

nation is credited with helping to save

professional and civic experience that will benefit the library district

Officer Lopez’ life.

in 2016 and beyond.

“We are honored to respond on Officer

Sgt. Andy Coleman (left) and Officer Amy Lantz (right) prepare to give blood.

Cole has worked for 50 years as a technical analyst in gov-

Lopez Jr.’s behalf. We are proud of and support our fellow law enforcement

ernment intelligence. He is currently a Colorado Space Business

officers, as well as Bonfils Blood Center,” says Parker Police Chief David King.

February 2016 | Parker Lifestyle

15

Giving Back

Comedians Give a Helping Hand

The Red Shirt Landing Party members are: (left to right top row) Lindsay Giachetti, Micah Smidt, Tom “Hobe” Hobelman and Jesse Greaves Smith, and (bottom row) Meredith Badler, Pam Terpenny and Emily Coates.

COMEDY SHOWS PROVIDE LAUGHTER AND SUPPORT TO CHARITIES

ARTICLE SUSAN CORMIER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

S

ome metro area comedians are opening their hearts to the Parker community.

Not only are they making Parker area residents laugh – and laugh loud – but they’re also supporting three local charities.

Known as The Red Shirt Landing Party, this group of comedians has been doing improv and stand up for more than 10 years and more than three years together, says Pam Terpenny, a Parker resident and one of the comedians organizing the shows. This will be the third year that they will be among the featured entertainers at Deep Space Theatre, 11020 S. Pikes Peak Drive.

Terpenny says comedy shows have been scheduled for the first half of the year – on February 26, March 18, April 15 and May 6 - at Deep Space. The Red Shirt Landing Party plans to continue the shows in the second half of the year, she says.

Although each show may vary, the main comedians include Terpenny, Micah Smidt, Meredith Badler, Tom “Hobe” Hobelman, Jesse Greaves-Smith, Lindsay Giachetti and Emily Coates.

“We perform around the Denver Metro

16

Parker Lifestyle | February 2016

area in theatres and for private events,” Terpenny says, adding that the group is committed to the art of improv and members continue to refine their skills through workshops and practice.

“The show is a combination of improv – short form, better known to the masses as games like you see on Who’s Line is it Anyway? - and some scenes with fun characters.

We weave stand up between the improv.”

She also gives a heads up that the audience members can become part of the production, saying, “the show is interactive - meaning we ask the audience for suggestions and incorporate them into the show.”

The doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show runs from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Guests are welcome to stay after the performance to join the cast for drinks and socializing. The cost is $10 per person and discounts are available when booking groups of four or more.

Members of the audience are encouraged to bring their own food to enjoy during the show. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase, from which the proceeds will go to these three charities:

• The Parker Task Force, an all-volunteer organization that provides food, limited financial assistance and other support services to people in need in the Parker, Franktown and Elizabeth areas.

• The Boy Scouts of America’s Colorado Adventure Point, a 20,000-square-foot, indoor adventure facility that makes the wide variety of skills and knowledge taught through the Boy Scout and Girl Scout programs available to all schools and youth in Colorado. Money raised helps provide adventure education to under-served youth.

• The Castillo Family Foundation, a new nonprofit created by Omar and Carrie Castillo of Parker to provide financial assistance for families going through the adoption process.

For more information or to reserve your spot, visit DeepSpace.me/reboot.

Times Past

The Dransfeldts A COUPLE THAT TRULY MADE A DIFFERENCE TO PARKER

ARTICLE SUSAN CORMIER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Fred and Gunhild Dransfeldt. Photo courtesy of Josie Fetters.

F

red and Gunhild Dransfeldt were part of the strong civic-minded culture that made Parker the wonderful community it was in its earliest days.

In fact, if you recognize the name, it’s because Dransfeldt Road was named after the family.

Fred and Gunhild were always civic-minded, says their daughter, JoAnn “Josie” Fetters. They always wanted to see what could be done to make the area a better place for people, she adds.

Fred passed away in 1993, after more than 50 years of marriage to Gunhild, who is now 97 and lives in an assisted living home in Parker.

But together, the couple made their mark on the town. Here’s just a sampling of what they accomplished during their years in the Denver metro area.

Gunhild first came to America and the Cherry Creek Valley in Colorado from Denmark with her parents, Louis and Jensine Kragelund, in 1924. She spent her youngest years living in homesteads up and down the Cherry Creek Valley, where she met Fred, who lived in Melvin, a defunct town located at the south side of the Cherry Creek Reservoir Dam. Fred spent his youth helping out on the family farm located in the defunct town

18

Parker Lifestyle | February 2016

that had been purchased by his father, Hans Claussen Dransfeldt.

After marrying in 1940, the couple was very active. They rented the dairy farm in Melvin from Fred’s parents and were part of the Grange, a fraternal organization of agrarians dedicated to improving the economic well-being and quality of life of the American agriculture producer and his urban neighbors.

Josie says her mother “blossomed” as a member of the organization, serving as the chair of all of its committees and becoming the Master of the Cherry Creek Grange, the first female to hold such a position in the state of Colorado.

The couple had hoped to purchase the Melvin property, but the U.S. Army Corps of Engineer’s plans to build Cherry Creek Reservoir prevented that from happening.

After moving to Parker in 1950 on land they purchased between what is now Jordan Road and Dransfeldt Road, Fred served on the local school board. The couple also participated in the construction of the Community Building, the area’s first gathering place and gymnasium for Parker School basketball games and other events, such as plays and graduations.

While Fred worked with the other volunteers to construct the Community Building, which opened in December 1950,

Josie Fetters stands by the Glitzy Glitz Girls' horse-drawn coach. Photo courtesy of Josie Fetters, through Sandra Whelchel.

Gunhild was among the women who prepared food for the workers.

Despite the family’s efforts to save the building, including a lawsuit to stop its demolition, the facility was torn down in October 2013 to make way for expansions at O’Brien Park.

“That building was so important” to the community, Josie says, adding her “mother put her money where her mouth was and paid for the lawsuit clear to the Supreme Court.”

The couple was active in other areas too.

Fred helped start the Parker Volunteer Fire Department and served as its treasurer when it became more than a volunteer department.

Gunhild always volunteered to help with meals and fundraisers.

In 1978, they helped organize and finance the Bank of the West, the first bank in Parker located on land donated by Gunhild’s mother on the northwest corner of South Parker Road and Mainstreet. Fred served on the board and as its chairman in the 1980s.

Gunhild was an active member of the Cherry Creek Valley Historical Society, the Parker Area Historical Society and the Parker Garden Club.

In 1992, Gunhild and Josie became part of the business community when they opened Glitzy Glitz Girls Boutique. It operated for 10 years on a farm on Parker Road and led the two women to become involved in the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce in Denver, the Parker Women’s Leads Club and the Parker Chamber of Commerce. They even decorated a horse-drawn coach for the Parker Days and Christmas parades, and

Gunhild Kragelund in 1936. Photo courtesy of Josie Fetters.

The Community Building represented a labor of love and devotion to the community of Parker.

Photo courtesy of Sandra Whelchel, through Larry T. Smith.

sponsored the Mrs. Colorado Pageant and related activities.

Although a massive stroke in 2007 took away Gunhild’s ability to speak and she now moves about in a wheelchair, Josie says that doesn’t stop this long-time Parker resident from communicating through eye movements, sounds and mannerisms as she looks forward to celebrating her 100th birthday in Parker – a place she’ll always call home.

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Inspired By

Thomas Green (left) and Logan Eatherton await their turn to compete.

Students Learn Business Tools in Class and DECA Events STATE COMPETITION IS IN COLORADO SPRINGS ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY SUSAN CORMIER

T

The seniors have 20 minutes to prepare their presentation.

Logan Eatherton (left) and Thomas Green make their presentation to volunteer judge Celeste Gardner.

20

Parker Lifestyle | February 2016

homas Green and Logan Eatherton are among the Parker area students heading to the state DECA competition in Colorado Springs this February.

The two Ponderosa High School seniors competed as a team in the Business Law and Ethics category during the Douglas County School District (DCSD) competition in November.

After they were given a “real world” business scenario, the team had 20 minutes to prepare their presentation for Celeste Gardner, who competed in DECA when she was in high school and was one of 72 industry volunteers who donated their morning to judge the students.

“They were very good,” Gardner says, referring to their presentation, which she says was very complete, well thought out and included multiple options.

This was the second year the two seniors competed as a team, feeling much better about their performance. As a veteran team, they say, they had better chemistry and didn’t interrupt each other.

They believe they also came across as more mature and engaged this time around.

Green and Eatherton believe their futures will be better because of their participation in DECA, a co-curricular career and technical student organization that is available to more than 1,500 students in the district.

Furthermore, Green says he has an easier time speaking to people, especially new acquaintances.

Eatherton says he recently was interviewed by Adidas and felt that

being able to talk to the interviewers in a respectful way was part of the reason he got the job.

They’ll need those improved skills when they join the 340 qualifiers from DCSD and 2,800 students statewide who will show off their finest business and marketing skills at The Broadmoor on February 28 through March 1.

“During that event, the students will bring with them written business plans for advertising campaigns, sports marketing and financial literacy, which they have been working on in the classroom,” says Sheri Bryant, career and technical education coordinator for the district. “This allows students to use skills they learn in the classroom in a more practical way.”

Those who do well at the State Career Development Conference will join about 17,000 competitors from all 50 United States, the District of Columbia, Canada, China, Germany, Guam, Mexico, Puerto Rico and Spain, who will compete at the International Career Development Conference in Nashville April 23-26.

Some students will also compete for a position on the Colorado state DECA officer team.

“Officer candidates present 20 marketing brochures, take a 100-question exam, prepare a resume and do an interview,” Bryant says, adding the experience gives the students the competitive spirit and interviewing advantage that will help them in their post-secondary experience in college or the workforce.

Judges Jennifer Orvis of Walsworth Yearbooks and Joel Pogar, a salesman whose daughter goes to Legend High School (back right), tally the results of other students’ presentations.

Judges are an important part of the proceedings.

Stephanie Murphy of Junior Achievement (left) and Brigitte Cranmer, a Cherry Creek teacher, go over a team’s presentation and score.

THE 2016 PERFORMING ARTS SEASON! See big-name artists, national touring acts, and awesome hometown talent… all in your own backyard.

FEB. 5 - 6 CELTIC NIGHTS Spirit of Freedom

FEB. 13 COMEDY & COCKTAILS

FEB. 13 - 14 WONDERBOUND Rock Ballets

MAR. 11 - 20 THE FANTASTICKS

MAR. 12 SUPER DIAMOND The Neil Diamond Tribute

MAR. 13 ROCKY MOUNTAIN BRASSWORKS Tom O’Shanter’s Ride

FEB. 20 FEB. 26 HOOKING UP WITH PARKER SYMPHONY THE SECOND CITY ORCHESTRA Goes to the Movies

APR. 6 - 9 STUART LITTLE

APR. 9 COMEDY & COCKTAILS

MAR. 5 COMEDY & COCKTAILS

MAR. 10 PARENTS NIGHT OUT

APR. 16 COLORADO JAZZ REPERTORY ORCHESTRA Big Band Classics

APR. 17 THE CHARLIE DANIELS BAND

Grease the Musical

APR. 23 - 24 WONDERBOUND Dust

MAY 6 PARKER SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA The Music of John Williams

MAY 7 PARKER CHORALE The Rhythms of Life

MAY 9 RED RIDING HOOD

MAY 13 COMEDY & COCKTAILS

July 15-31

TICKETS ON SALE SOON!

Stay tuned for more show announcements throughout the year.

PURCHASE TICKETS AT www.ParkerArts.org OR CALL 303.805.6800 February 2016 | Parker Lifestyle

21

Animal Kingdom

Bella gets some love from Javier Guerrero, a family friend.

Jericho and Bella: A Dream Come True

Julie Regester enjoys a ride on Jericho.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY HARMONY EQUINE CENTER

A

fter Julie Regester of Minatare, Neb., had a riding accident on an unpredictable horse, she was understandably hesitant to get back in the saddle. A local horse trainer who was familiar with the Harmony Equine Center suggested that Julie consider adopting one of the formerly abused or neglected horses there, which is how Julie met Jericho.

An 8-year-old paint gelding who had been seized as part of a neglect case in Costilla County, Colo., Jericho had been at the center for five months, gaining weight and being trained as a riding horse.

Recalling their first encounter, Julie says, “There was just something about his eyes that was so gentle and easygoing.”

She adopted Jericho in August 2014, and 22

Parker Lifestyle | February 2016

sure enough, he has proven to be a thinking horse who doesn’t spook or react in unfamiliar situations - exactly what Julie needed to restore her riding confidence.

In November 2014, Julie and her daughter spotted a 10-year-old paint mare on the Harmony Equine Center website and fell in love with her. They returned to the center and adopted Bella, a “gem” of a horse who Julie says anyone can ride.

Since adopting both horses, Julie has become an advocate for the Harmony Equine Center and the animals there.

“It’s shocking what some of these horses have been through,” she says, “and yet they don’t hold a grudge. I tell everyone that they don’t need a registered horse; they need to go

look at the horses at Harmony. These horses reciprocate tenfold what you give them.”

Adds Julie, “Jericho and Bella are family members for life. This has all been a dream come true for me.”

The Dumb Friends League Harmony Equine Center™ in Franktown provides a safe haven for horses, ponies, donkeys and mules that have suffered from abuse and neglect, and been removed from their owners by law enforcement authorities. Top-quality care is provided by a knowledgeable, professional staff that is on the premises seven days a week. Once the animals are restored to health, they are offered to responsible new owners through an application and interview process.

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An Adventure to Remember TURN TRAVEL DREAMS INTO REALITY

Hilton Garden Inn at the Krakow Airport in Poland

Road Trip

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

A

dmiring the Statue of Liberty up close, hanging 10 in the Pacific Ocean or exploring Europe’s most charming cities are just some of the experiences that may rank high on your travel bucket list.

Creating that list is just the beginning.

The real fun begins when you start making your travel dreams a reality, whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon or a trip to the beach to escape Colorado’s cold temperatures.

Inspiring people to make those getaways happen is the goal of a new effort by Hilton Garden Inn, which is helping plant the seed for travelers to embark on their next great adventure.

“Through the Garden Getaway Tour, we are reminding people of all the exciting 24

Parker Lifestyle | February 2016

possibilities available for their next trip,” says Judy Christa-Cathey, vice president of global brand marketing, Hilton Garden Inn & Hampton by Hilton. “Trekking your way through a list of all your favorite places is a great way to feel peaceful and alive, whether you spend your time discovering new places or reconnecting with loved ones.”

Get on your way to creating the travel experience of your dreams with these tips: CHART YOUR COURSE. If you haven’t already, make a list of all the destinations you hope to see and post it someplace prominent so you are reminded of your travel goals frequently. You may choose to prioritize your most desirable locations or simply keep your ideas random so you can seize opportunities when they arise. For example, with its

Garden Getaway Tour, Hilton Garden Inn is giving travelers the chance to win a getaway to Hawaii – a great way to check an island excursion off your list. Learn more at HGIGardenGetaway.com.

BE SENSITIVE TO THE SEASONS. Be aware that many destinations have peak seasons when the attractions they boast are in top

demand. Crowds are heavier and prices are steeper, but on the flip side, there are more options for things to see and do. If avoiding the hustle is your ultimate goal, visiting out of season may be more your ticket.

DON’T IGNORE YOUR OWN BACKYARD. Though the temptation may be strong to journey far and wide, when your time away is short, you don’t want to waste precious hours on travel. A bucket list excursion doesn’t have to take you far from home. In fact, you may be surprised by what you find when you seek out the hidden gems near home.

CHECK FOR SPECIAL DATES. Timing your travel to coincide with unique local events is a way to make your visit extra special. The jovial vibe of a fair or festival in your dream destination only adds to the excitement. Check the local calendars for events that are sure to deliver fun eats and lots of quirky, good times.

BOOK ACCOMMODATIONS WISELY. Look for a hotel that you can count on to deliver amenities and services that make your experience enjoyable – but know that doing so can be affordable. Options such as Hilton Garden Inn (hgi.com), with nearly 640 hotels worldwide, offer a Satisfaction Promise, along with all the amenities you need to remain comfortable and connected while on-the-go: full service restaurants, free wireless internet access, fully-loaded fitness centers and more.

RELY ON LOCAL EXPERTS. Once you arrive at your destination, check with the hotel staff or stop by local visitor center and ask what is unique to the region. There may be some spectacular things to see that you can’t find in guide books.

SET A LEISURELY SCHEDULE. Save the frantic pace for the office.

Leave your itinerary loose for your time away. If you must, plan one or two must-do activities each day, but give yourself permission to go with the flow. Wander and explore and take advantage of the freedom to pass the day at your own pace. Take in incredible new sights, sounds and flavors, and don’t allow your mind to be distracted by anything but having a good time.

LEAVE THE BEATEN PATH. In each new location you visit, challenge yourself to try something new. Whether you gather the courage to parasail for the first time or sample the unfamiliar flavors of a favorite local dish, test the limits of your comfort zone and create truly unique experiences.

DOCUMENT THE ADVENTURE. Take time to collect photos and mementos representing all the places you visit. If scrapbooking isn’t your thing, consider a wall collage in your home office or devise another way to capture all the memories you create along the way.

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We have been locally owned and operated since our inception in 1997.

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February 2016 | Parker Lifestyle

25

Healthy Lifestyle

FEBRUARY:

The Month of the Heart GIVE YOURS SOME LOVING CARE ARTICLE CORIE GOODSON

T

he heart is often referred to as the symbol of love. While love is vital to a fulfilling life, a healthy heart is crucial to it.

A healthy heart functions without us having to even think about it. It beats about 100,000 times per day and pumps 1.5 gallons of blood through the body per minute. The more in shape the heart is, the lower the heart rate because a stronger heart can pump more volume per beat.

Made up of its own specialized cells that are not found anywhere else in the body, the heart pumps nutrient- and oxygen-rich blood through the cardiovascular system.

The blood is essentially a delivery system and a garbage truck. It first nourishes us, and then transports toxins and metabolic waste to the kidneys and liver for disposal. Without this vital system, we would all cease to exist.

Unless we develop a problem, we don’t pay much attention to what our heart does for us 24 hours a day. Kind of makes you want to give it a bit more respect, right?

That’s especially true when you hear the statistics that say heart disease and diseases of the cardiovascular system remain the number one reason lives are cut short.

Heart disease can go undetected and be asymptomatic for decades before an incident occurs. No one gets critically ill overnight, which means heart issues cannot be reversed overnight either.

The good news is that we can often help change destiny. While heart disease can be hereditary, it may not necessarily have to dominate one’s landscape.

We do have a lot of control over how healthy we are by taking some simple steps. Small changes can add up to big results over 26

Parker Lifestyle | February 2016

time, especially if there isn’t a major defect that cannot be altered by lifestyle alone.

Most of us know now that the traditional food pyramid we grew up with is completely upside down and antiquated. It has long been thought that reducing fat in the diet was the primary way to reduce heart disease. When it comes to convenience and fast food, I would agree.

The more modern contention is that we should eat food that doesn’t come with labels. Fruit, veggies, nuts and seeds, eggs, meat and fish should dominate your grocery cart. Single-ingredient, nature-made food eliminates the often confusing list of ingredients. Avoiding the inner aisles of the grocery store as much as possible makes this easier.

Cardiovascular exercise is as important to keeping the heart healthy as what we eat. As little as 30 minutes a day can change your health profile.

So, instead of perpetuating the saying that “we are a nation of people living short and dying long,” let’s get up, get moving and put nutrient-dense foods on our plates to keep that wonderful small, but mighty, organ running its best for as long as possible.

Corie Goodson, MPH, CNC, earned her master’s degree in public health in 1995. She is a health educator, wellness promotion speaker, author and certified nutrition coach.

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Recently SOLD Parker Properties Address

List Price

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5407 Songbird Way ..........................$1,195,000 .................$1,150,000 ................ 96% ....................... 6 ................ 6 1736 Ridgecrest Way ........................$1,050,000 ................$1,020,000 ............... 97% ....................... 5 ................ 5 5759 Majestic Oak Way ....................$999,000 ...................$975,000 .................. 98% ....................... 4 ................ 4 5230 Serene View Way .....................$992,500 ...................$960,000 .................. 97% ....................... 5 ................ 5 141 Fairchild Place ............................$995,000 ...................$950,000 .................. 95% ....................... 5 ................ 5 5271 Red Pass Lane ..........................$899,000 ...................$854,050 .................. 95% ....................... 4 ................ 5 12501 North Pine Cone Road ............$830,000 ...................$830,000 ................. 100% ...................... 4 ................ 4 10481 Pine Valley Drive.....................$810,000 ...................$810,000 ................. 100% ...................... 4 ................ 4 10445 Willowwisp Way .....................$795,000 ...................$785,000 .................. 99% ....................... 5 ................ 5 8431 Fairview Court .........................$845,000 ...................$775,000 .................. 92% ....................... 5 ................ 5 11876 Dunrich Road ..........................$799,000 ...................$749,000 .................. 94% ....................... 5 ................ 6 7340 Kelty Trail ................................$759,000 ...................$735,000 .................. 97% ....................... 5 ................ 5 11629 Pine Canyon Drive ..................$775,000 ...................$730,000 .................. 94% ....................... 3 ................ 4 20132 East Shady Ridge Road ..........$725,000 ...................$725,000 ................. 100% ...................... 4 ................ 4 6525 Village Road ............................$724,910 ....................$715,000................... 99% ....................... 4 ................ 4 8506 Porcupine Point .......................$750,000 ...................$700,560 .................. 93% ....................... 4 ................ 4 This data is a sampling of sold properties from the past 90 days. Source: MLS system.

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Tips to

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SIMPLE CHANGES CAN MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE ARTICLE JESSICA DUCE

W

ell, we made it. The busy days of the holidays are behind us.

Our guests have left, the holiday decor has been put away and the only evidence of those big holiday meals you cooked are on the scale. Or at least that is where mine is.

You had spent days, maybe weeks, making your home beautiful and welcoming for the holidays. You researched Pinterest and every catalogue filled with to-die-for pictures of perfect holiday rooms.

Now, it’s just a memory. All that remains is the faint glow of glitter dust and random pine needles. Does it seem empty? Or do you appreciate this clean slate?

For me, February is a time for a fresh eye in the home. Things have been moved around, misplaced, scattered from their normal resting places. Those frames I always put by that candle near that stack of books have been separated and now look so different individually.

When I work with clients, especially after a heavy decorating time like the holidays, the first thing we do is clear the room. Not the big heavy furniture or items that “must stay where they are.” This is more about accessorizing.

We remove the decor items, lamps and art. Sometimes a bit of rearranging can occur too. We determine if we still like the flow of the room. Maybe we had moved a chair for the tree and now we like where that chair is. Play with it. There are great online tools for room arrangements if you need a visual.

Can any artwork be changed? Maybe that wall of fame needs a little frame change? After you feel good about the basics in the room, which I call “the black dress,” it’s time for the fun stuff, the “jewelry.”

This is an opportunity to mix it up.

What greenery do you have that can transition with natural elements and creams and whites to feel winter fresh? Miss the look of nature after your trees are gone? Add berry branches, sticks (spray paint them white for a gold star achievement award) and pine cones around the house in displays.

Look at your accessories again and ask yourself “would I buy that today if I had the choice?” Does it look tired or do you still love it?

If you still love it, great! If not, pass it to someone else or donate it and shop for something new around your house or a store.

If you had a bazillion holiday pillows out like me, are you missing that? Do we need to borrow from another room? Add a lighter throw on the sofa or chair for some brightness. How about changing 30

Parker Lifestyle | February 2016

the candles to creams and whites? I have even flipped my curtains to the bright white lining side to add some brightness to my room for a while. Sounds crazy, but it worked.

We can use these tips for all rooms in the home. For the bedroom, mix up the bedding and add bright comfy layers with a new blanket folded at the end. Even just one pillow with a bold statement makes it feel transformed. In the bathrooms, adding crisp white towels and a candle or accessory will change the space.

February is a great time to think re-fresh and re-new. Go have some fun with your “fresh eye” and enjoy your home.

As the owner of JDuce Design in Parker, Jessica Duce offers design consulting, staging and shopping services. For more information, visit her website at JDuceDesign.com.

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20000 Pikes Peak Avenue • Parker, CO 80138 February 2016 | Parker Lifestyle

31

Lifestyle Calendar

February EVERY MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY GED PREP CLASS

FEBRUARY 11 RIBBON CUTTING SALISBURY HEIGHTS CENTURY COMMUNITIES This Parker Area Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting highlights one of Parker’s newest home developments, Salisbury Heights. The ribbon cutting and networking event will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 11802 Edenfeld St.

DOUGLAS COUNTY LIBRARIES-PARKER

FEBRUARY 13

This class is held at 6 p.m. every Monday and Wednesday and

PRACTICE ACT TEST

offers instruction, assessment and practice for those 17 and

DOUGLAS COUNTY LIBRARIES-PARKER

older who are preparing to take the GED exam. Participants can

High school sophomores, juniors and seniors may benefit from taking

choose which and how many classes to attend. Register online at

a free full-length practice ACT test at 9:30 a.m. Presented by Kaplan,

DouglasCountyLibraries.org or by calling at 303.791.7323.

this program includes detailed performance feedback and links to ad-

FEBRUARY 3 AND 4 OUT OF BOUNDS

ditional resources. Register online at DouglasCountyLibraries.org or by phone at 303.791.7323.

PACE CENTER

FEBRUARY 13

In this honest play about cyber bullying, a 14-year-old girl and her

SWEET SENSATIONS - THE SCIENCE OF ROMANCE

peers open a discussion about bullying, friendship, past mistakes

NATURAL GROCERS

and forgiveness. Seats can be reserved for this “must-see” family

Learn how to make that special someone's heart melt, year in and

program on cyber bullying by calling 303.805.6800 or by going online

year out, while sampling chocolate and a signature massage oil blend.

to ParkerArts.org.

During this educational session that begins at 10 a.m., discover what's

FEBRUARY 4

really going on in the brain and body when you entice all the senses.

For information, call 303.805.1285 or visit NaturalGrocers.com.

MINING IN COLORADO PACE CENTER Mining generates $8.8 billion in revenue for Colorado and produces more than 73,000 jobs. If you’d like to learn more about this industry,

Photograhy Amanda Tipton, Dawn Fay, Amber Blais and Wonderbound.

you can attend this adult lecture that will be presented by the Colorado Mining Association’s Stuart Sanderson, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

RSVPs are required by calling 303.805.6800.

FEBRUARY 5 AND 6 CELTIC NIGHTS: SPIRIT OF FREEDOM PACE CENTER Spirit of Freedom tells the story of Irish independence, beginning 100 years ago with the Easter Rising. Akin to America's 4th of July, the Easter Rising of 1916 created the Ireland we know and love today. For information, visit ParkerArts.org.

FEBRUARY 11 AND FEBRUARY 24

FEBRUARY 13 AND 14 WONDERBOUND: ROCK BALLETS

BARK FOR BOOKS

PACE CENTER

DOUGLAS COUNTY LIBRARIES-PARKER

Garrett Ammon’s celebrated ballets set to the music of David

Appointments are available at 4 p.m. on February 11 and February

Bowie and Queen will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2

24 for this "pawsitive" opportunity to boost young readers’ literacy

p.m. Sunday.The tunes will be played live by a Denver super-group

skills by reading to a R.E.A.D.-trained therapy dog. Register online at

of musicians from Chimney Choir and Ian Cooke Band. For infor-

DouglasCountyLibraries.org or by phone at 303.791.7323.

mation, visit ParkerArts.org.

32

Parker Lifestyle | February 2016

FEBRUARY 13 COCKTAILS & COMEDY WITH JORDAN DOLL THE SCHOOLHOUSE THEATER Parker Arts, in association with The Empire of Crime, presents the best stand-up comedy talents from Denver and beyond. Enjoy a drink and have a laugh in this hilarious fourshow series taking place in the newly remodeled Schoolhouse Theater (formerly the Mainstreet Center). For information, visit ParkerArts.org.

FEBRUARY 20 HOOKING UP WITH SECOND CITY PACE CENTER Second City has been looking at and laughing about love and relationships for more than 55 years. Hooking Up With Second City makes mirth out of missed connections, girls’ night out adventures and all the crazy things we do for love. This gaspingly funny revue is intended for mature audiences only. For information, visit ParkerArts.org.

FEBRUARY 26 PSO GOES TO THE MOVIES PACE CENTER Iconic films like Jaws and Star Wars would be drastically different without their masterful scores set behind the scenes. Just in time for the 2016 Oscar© Awards Show, the Parker Symphony Orchestra invites you to experience cinematic musical magic as it performs highlights from Oscar-winning films in PSO Goes to the Movies. For information, visit ParkerArts.org.

FEBRUARY 27 KIDZARTS: CANVAS AND COOKIES PACE CENTER This painting experience is for kids and parents, who can explore their creativity by completing a 12” x 16” acrylic painting on canvas ready to take home and display! Cost is $48 for up to two participants. For information, visit ParkerArts.org.

FEBRUARY 27 AND 29 WHERE TO START TO LOVE YOUR HEART NATURAL GROCERS During this free 90-minute session that begins at 10 a.m., Brooke Ebel, CNTP, will discuss common heart care myths, and three simple dietary strategies and supplements that will allow you to start your journey toward heart health. For information, call 303.805.1285 or visit NaturalGrocers.com.

business directory AD AGENCY DoBizLo (303) 805-3104 dobizlo.com

ANIMALS & ANIMAL CARE

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

Aspen Falls Custom Design and Landscaping (720) 331-6601 aspenfallslandscaping.com

Camp Bow Wow-Parker (303) 805-9739 campbowwow.com/us/co/ parker/about-us

Beautiful Borders (303) 345-7869 BeautifulBordersCO.com

AUTOMOTIVE

Bret Beattie Law Firm (720) 708-3275 firepowerlaw.com

Big O Tires- Parker (303) 840-1043 bigotires.com/Location/CO/ Parker/80138/006246 Infiniti of Denver (303) 671-6000 infinitiofdenver.com

DANCE

Fred Astaire Dance Studio Parker (303) 237-3733 fredastaire.com

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS Ardas Family Dental (720) 459-8420 ardasfamilydental.com

EDUCATION

Step to Success (303) 805-0773 steptosuccesstutoring.com

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION Minturn Anglers (720) 851-4665 minturnanglers.com Pace Center (303) 805-6800 parkerarts.org

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Colorado Athletic Club Inverness (303) 790-7777 coloradoathleticclubs.com KoKo Fit Club (720) 465-5265 parkermain.kokofitclub.com

LEGAL SERVICES

OTHER

McCracken Facial And Eye (720) 851-6600 mccarckenmd.com Parker Chamber (303) 841-4268 parkerchamber.com Rebecca Berra Photography (303) 526-6490 rebeccaberraphotography.com Rotary Club of Parker parkerrotary.org Villa Parker villaparker.com

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE

Chad Hines Your Castle Real Estate/ The Mortgage Company (720) 891-2197 LIV Sotheby’s Castle Pines (303) 660-8800 livsothebysrealty.com

SALONS & SPAS

Elements Massage-Parker (303) 805-1900 elementsmassage.com/parker

SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES Brookside Inn (303) 688-2500 brooksideinnsnf.com

February 2016 | Parker Lifestyle

33

Parting Thoughts

Mom on Patrol WORDS NICOLETTE TOUSSAINT

W

hen my brother Gene and I were moving our mom into assisted care a few years ago, I came across her National Ski Patrol jacket.

Myra Toussaint (Slusser) Devine fought her way onto the all-volunteer – and nearly all-male – National Ski Patrol in 1959. It was quite a battle. Myra, who learned to ski in her 20s, had to learn how to tackle steep terrain in crusty, windy and bitterly cold conditions. She had to be able to handle steel-and-wood toboggans that weighed far more than her 105 pounds. And she had to skin up from Arapahoe Basin's 10,780foot base to the Midway, well over 12,000 feet, in a timed and competitive climb. It took several seasons for her to finally rank well enough against the boys to make the cut.

But make it she did, joining a pretty elite group of women ski “patrolmen.” (That’s what they were called back then.)

The first woman patroller was Jerry Nunn, who joined the National Ski Patrol in 1944. After working with the Sugar Bowl patrol, she was accepted to the Squaw Valley patrol in 1954 – but only after completing several intensely physical demonstrations that other recruits didn’t have to perform. In 1957, when Nunn showed up for the Intermountain Forest Service Snow Ranger certification course, Supervisor Felix Koziol was surprised to discover that “Jerry” was not male. After he informed her that the Snow Rangers didn't take women, Jerry tartly replied, "You already have."

Since my mother was a registered nurse, Gene and I were well coached as volunteer victims. We knew the difference between sprains and broken bones and how to act if we had gotten a concussion from hitting a tree. We got to sit on the idled chairlift while patrollers threw a rope up over the chair and then hoisted a wooden-bottomed canvas bag up to us. We would jump inside and be lowered to the ground. That was almost as much fun as riding in a toboggan, or on one of the new, lightweight aluminum akia sleds that Myra handled so confidently.

34

Parker Lifestyle | February 2016

It was because of Myra that I learned to ski before I could walk – or at least before I could walk well. I was extremely pigeon-toed, and at three, still tripping over my own feet. Our family doctor prescribed leg braces, but Myra hated them almost more than I did. Her prescription was a pair of skis (cross your skis and you fall).

That led to a remarkable Colorado mountaineering childhood. I have fond memories of winning blue ribbons at kids’ slalom races at Climax before the ski area and town closed in 1962. We cheered skijoring races on Leadville’s Main Street. Myra splinted my leg when I broke it at Winter Park, and she held my hand all the way to Kremmling, where the spiral fracture was set by Dr. Ernest Ceriani, a physician made famous by a 1948 Life magazine photo essay.

Nothing matched my mom’s aplomb when we had to hang out on Loveland Pass, waiting for the Seven Sisters avalanches to be shot down with howitzers and plowed off the road. When that happened, Mom would knock on the windows of nearby cars and invite folks into our homemade camper for hot chocolate and Chinese checkers.

My mother died last January at the age of 88. By the end of her life, dementia had robbed her of most of her memories. She knew me, but she couldn’t summon my name.

But that’s not how I choose to remember her.

The Myra I recall is the one captured by an old snapshot taken at Breckenridge. She’s standing in her ski boots, smiling and wearing a dalmation-spotted fake fur hat that she made. (No Cruella De Vil, Myra was against wearing real fur long before that became politically correct.) She’s turned slightly away from the camera, perhaps to show off the big, yellow ski patrol cross on the back of her rust-colored parka.

I don’t know what happened to that snapshot. But I will always know where to find it among my memories.

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