Parker, CO August 2023

Kids and Pets

Kids and Pets –Windows to Our Soul

This issue is always one of my favorites because of the immense joy that children and pets bring to their families.

Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they are the foundation upon which our society stands. It is inspiring to follow their journeys and the significant impact they make on their communities. Their innocence, curiosity and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine.

Both kids and pets need us. Our care, attention and intention shape how they are raised and who they become. The special kind of companionship pets offer can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love and the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship. Pets can decrease stress, improve heart health and help children develop emotional and social skills. Training a pet develops confidence, patience, self-esteem and nonverbal communication skills.

We have been blessed to have had a parade of pets in our family, each with their own distinct personality. Our pups are adventure buddies, and as we continue to guide them, they in turn teach us something new every day. Our pets make us better people.

We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life this month.

Cheers!

August 2023

PUBLISHERS

Joan Dameron | joan.dameron@citylifestyle.com

Jeni Fleck | jeni.fleck@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Mary Abel | mary.abel@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mary Abel, Lisa Bakewell, Hannah Echols-Grieser, Cassandra Green, Julie Ann Tripp

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

JOAN AND JENI, PUBLISHERS @PARKERCITYLIFESTYLE

city scene

Where

neighbors can see and be seen.

1-3: The Tripping Griswolds kicked off the 4th of July holiday with classic rock and roll from the ‘70s and other fun tunes on July 3rd before another storm rolled in. The packed patio at Tail Gate Tavern danced and sang along while enjoying the show.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @parkercitylifestyle

529 Plans Offer Benefits In All Markets

A NEW SCHOOL YEAR WILL SOON BEGIN.

And if you have young children, it’s one year closer to the day when they head off to college. You might be preparing for that day with a 529 education savings plan — but should you be concerned if you need to start taking withdrawals to pay for education expenses when the financial markets are volatile?

Long-term investment vehicles based on the financial markets, like a 529 plan, will constantly fluctuate in value. And keep in mind the big advantages offered by a 529 plan: Earnings and withdrawals are federally tax-free when used for qualified education expenses. And, in some states, a 529 plan can be used for K-12 schooling as well.

Furthermore, many 529 plans offer investments that gradually become more risk-averse as the beneficiary gets closer to college age. The financial markets will always be in flux, but that shouldn’t deter you from staying with a 529 plan — it’s still one of the best investments you can make in your child’s future.

This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by John Prichard, your Edward Jones financial advisor at 303.278.8815.

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Dezire to Inspire Offers Unique Greeting Cards

Dezire to Inspire (D2I) specializes in beautiful cards that can be purchased in 30-, 60-, 90- or 365-day sets. “Each card is designed to inspire the recipient through the peaks and valleys of life’s journeys,” says D2I’s Founder and CEO Cindy Waddle. Beyond birthday and graduation greeting cards, Cindy creates cards for more sensitive topics, such as depression, anxiety and PTSD with vivid imagery and encouraging words. deziretoinspire.com

Courtesy Dezire to Inspire

Douglas County Libraries Kicks Off Its 2023 Brew Tour

Cha Cha's Sweet Treats Offers Desserts To Go

Sarah Koslosky, owner of Cha Cha's Sweet Treats creates large and small orders of delicious baked goods like banana bread, cookies (including gluten-free), and bundt cakes that you can pick up—just in time for dessert. You can also find Sarah and her treats at various craft and holiday fairs in Parker. facebook.com/ chachassweettreats Scan

DCL has partnered with a number of Douglas County craft breweries and coffeehouses for this year’s Brew Tour, which runs August 1-September 30. This year’s lineup of activities includes DCL-sponsored events like Books and Authors Bingo and Literary Trivia at select breweries and library locations, plus additional opportunities to earn points and win prizes just for checking in at participating partner locations. DCL.org/brew-tour

Vincent White Sworn In as Municipal Judge

The Honorable Vincent White was sworn in as the Town of Parker's fourth Municipal Judge at the June town council meeting. A resident of Parker for more than 20 years and a retired Lt. Colonel with the United States Air Force Reserves, White's extensive career includes serving as a District Court Judge for the state of Colorado and an Immigration Judge for the U.S. Department of Justice, as well as several other roles with State, Federal and Administrative courts.

Cornhole for a Cause Event to Benefit Kids Mobility Network

Save the date—September 23—and register your cornhole team now to win prizes and have fun! Hosted by EXIT Mosaic Realty, all proceeds benefit Kids Mobility Network, a local nonprofit that provides children with free mobility equipment in Colorado and beyond—and EXIT Realty International will match donations through their Spirit of Giving program. Participants can also enjoy food trucks, Kona Ice, music, kid's inflatables and more. Register and learn more at kidsmobility.org/ cornhole-tournament

Clean Out with DougCoJunk!

Make tackling garage, yard and home cleanouts a breeze with DougCoJunk. With a dump trailer delivered to your driveway, you can finally get rid of large amounts of clutter, debris and more.

If you don't need a whole trailer, ask about single-item pickups.  Rock, mulch and/or dirt deliveries are available too.

Contact Dylan Kaufman at 720335-0283 for more information.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Parker

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

Grab the kids, pack your bags and hit the town for some end of summer fun. Use our list for some family-friendly adventures that will do everything from raising your heart rate, excite the little ones, and create lasting memories together.

Our Picks for Family-Friendly Fun

H2O'BRIEN POOL: Experience all the feels of summer at this water park that offers a deck, concessions, shady nooks, and a game area. 10795 Victorian Drive Parker, CO

CHERRY CREEK STATE PARK: 4,000 acres of adventure and fun for the entire family to experience together. Enjoy walking paths, a day on the lake, and campgrounds. 4201 S Parker Rd Aurora, CO

USMC CPL DAVID M. SONKA DOG PARK AND WESTCREEK DISC GOLF COURSE: Named after Corporal David M. Sonka, who graduated from Chaparral High School, this dog park and disc golf course is big and spacious for an afternoon of fun.  17855 Pine Lane Parker, CO

PARKER’S PERMANENT PUBLIC ART COLLECTIONS: Indulge in a stroll through Parker’s downtown art collections. The newest addition is in O’Brien Park, called “Spirit of Renewal” by Lorri Acott.  10795 Victorian Drive, Parker, CO

THE BIG HONKING TACT CAR SHOW, AUGUST 19: Whether you want to register your car for the show or come by for an afternoon of meandering, The Vehicle Vault is hosting with food trucks, music and fun.  18301 Lincoln Meadows Parkway, Parker, CO

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR Cassandra Green | @sassyfirelions

I am passionate about embracing life. I find inspiration when truth and creativity collide to create an impactful story. I believe every day should hold a little mischief and a lot of adventure. My current endeavors include going on walks, paddleboarding, venturing into coffee shops, and spending time with loved ones.

Photo by MI PHAM on Unsplash

Catalyzing Creativity

HOW PARKER PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL PROVIDES FREE, HIGH-QUALITY ARTS EDUCATION

ARTICLE BY HANNAH ECHOLS-GRIESER PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PARKER PERFORMING ARTS

Ten years ago, a group of parents convened over their concern about the loss of arts programming in public schools. Eager to provide a solution, they became passionate about the possibility of creating an educational opportunity centered on the performing arts. In 2016, that brainchild became Parker Performing Arts School—a tuition-free, no-audition, K-8 charter school.

For students, a day at PPA is invigorating and stimulating. Students spend up to half of the school day engaging in the arts. Middle school students (grades 5–8) can choose four elective classes, including, but not limited to, dancing, acting, singing, practicing instruments, learning production, drawing, and painting. Elementary schoolers (grades K-4) cycle through four encore classes: music, visual arts, theater/musical theater, and tumbling.

“Our students are wonderfully kind, creative, and talented. I can’t explain the pride I feel when our students get to perform,”

Principal Phil Molfino says. “They’re incredible.”

Not only does arts education provide fun and community for PPA students, but it also enhances their success in other areas. A recent research project conducted throughout 42 elementary and middle schools in Houston, Texas, revealed just that. Researchers found that students who have increased arts education experience show improvement- in writing achievement, emotional and cognitive empathy, school engagement and aspirations for higher education, and a lower incidence of disciplinary offenses. When you couple that information with the fact that funding for arts education is declining worldwide, it becomes clear that PPA is a unique, timely opportunity for children in Douglas County and surrounding areas.

A RICH LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

For all the fun and creativity, academic rigor is not sacrificed. PPA offers a one-to-one iPad environment, an engaging digital curriculum, and a gifted and talented program. With a 15:1 ratio of students to teachers in elementary school and 25:1 in middle school, teachers can provide personal care to each student. Jamie Klusacek is a PPA parent who experienced this intentional instruction firsthand.

All four of Jamie’s daughters have attended PPA. As a music lover herself, Jamie was drawn to the school for its emphasis on the arts and focused input into the students’ lives. Her initial assessment of PPA proved true when her daughter, Noella, was in half-day kindergarten.

One afternoon, her teacher pulled Jamie aside and told her that Noella was not learning as quickly as many students who attended for the full day. So, the teacher offered to come in early to help Noella catch up on the material.

“That teacher’s heart for Noella was just so precious, as though she was a second mom,” Jamie says. “She didn’t have to come in early. She could have asked me to get a tutor. Instead, she wanted to lean into Noella and help her succeed, no matter the cost.”

ACCESSIBLE AND AFFORDABLE

Students attend PPA from across the Denver metro area, and there are no barriers to entry. Principal Phil and his staff are careful to create a “warm, safe, welcoming culture where students of all backgrounds can feel comfortable in their own skin,” he says.

Not only is PPA completely tuition-free—there are no audition or talent requirements to enroll. Caitlin

Hilzer, a former PPA teacher and department chair, will begin her first full year as the Dean of Performing Arts this fall. She loves busting the myth that in order to attend PPA, children need to be talented in the arts before they enter the classroom.

“If your child shows any interest in singing, dancing, moving, or getting up on stage and sharing their talents with the world, we want them at PPA,” Caitlin says. “We will meet your child wherever they are and give them a space to share themselves with others.”

PERFORMING THROUGHOUT PARKER

A PPA student’s creativity doesn’t just stay in the classroom. True to the name, it’s performed! Students have

Principal Phil Molfino and his staff are careful to create a “warm, safe, welcoming culture where students of all backgrounds can feel comfortable in their own skin,” he says.

multiple opportunities to showcase what they’re learning in elective and encore classes. There is an abundance of orchestra concerts, dance recitals, and plays throughout the year.

Each year, PPA offers two mainstage shows for theater: one in the fall for 1st–8th graders and one in the spring for middle schoolers. This year, students will perform Beauty in the Beast, Jr. in the fall and An Act of Piracy in the spring. These are big, high-level productions that students try out for and rehearse after school.

The theater program has grown tremendously since Caitlin’s first year at PPA in the 2018–19 school year. When she started, 40 kids tried out for a mainstage production, and 40 were cast. In 2023, 100 kids tried out for the middle school play, and 40 got a part. In addition, the school has seen a multiplication of teachers and the amount of arts programs offered.

Caitlin is excited to share this level of excellence with the Parker community in a greater capacity. As a performer, she views the caliber of PPA’s performance from a professional perspective. She is eager to spread her student’s creativity into Parker and beyond.

“Our kids are capable of doing some really, really high-quality performances,” Caitlin says. “So, I want our PPA community and people looking to experience good theater, dancing, and music to come and see what we’re doing. Beyond that, I’d love to take our kids out of the building and share their gifts with the community at large.”

To buy tickets to upcoming performances or to find information about enrolling your child in Parker Performing Arts, head to parkerperformingarts.org

ARTICLE BY CASSANDRA GREEN

Safe and Healthy Pets

A BRIGHT AND VIBRANT NEIGHBORHOOD STORE OFFERS EXPERT ADVICE AND SERVICES FOR YOUR PET

Aidan and Jennifer Gannon raise the bar when it comes to allowing your pet to be themselves and live their healthiest life yet. PetzLove Food ‘n Stuffz is celebrating their 8-year anniversary in Lone Tree. They offer services for dog training and provide an ever-changing array of supplies, toys, safe treats and holistic wellness for your furry companion.

Originally from Ireland, Aidan has a passion for nutrition and animals. With his background as a chef, nutrition is the lens through which PetzLove was built. He grew up in farming, and when his wife Jennifer pursued her own career in pet grooming, it opened the door for them to cut their teeth in retail and bring an irreplaceable expertise to pet care.

PetzLove is a bright and vibrant store with an enthusiasm to build community. Come ready to be welcomed and provided with next-level advice and care for your pet.

They cater to pets in a way that brings understanding to both instinct and good training.

Walk for your dog and not for yourself. Aiden encourages walks as a physical and mental work out, so he doesn’t rush his dogs. “By allowing them time to sniff, they’re familiarizing themselves with their neighborhood,” he says.

Sniffing also helps their behavior around other dogs. They may not have the tendency to bark and get wild because they’ve smelled that dog already.

PetzLove Food ‘n Stuffz owner Aiden Gannon in his Lone Tree store.

Aidan’s three tips to puppy-proof your home: Keep a clean space, ensure food is not dropped on the floor, and keep kids’ toys put away.

He points out, “You have to understand that they’re puppies, not children. They have different instincts. Don’t leave temptation out for them.”

The second tip is to utilize crate training. For dogs, crates represent security and safety. Crates help with separation anxiety and nerves. Aidan reassures, “it will naturally become their den.”

The final tip is to walk for your dog and not for yourself. Aiden encourages walks as a physical and mental work out, so he doesn’t rush his dogs. “By allowing them time to sniff, they’re familiarizing themselves with their neighborhood,” he says. Sniffing also helps their behavior around other dogs. They may not have the tendency to bark and get wild because they’ve smelled that dog already.

Aidan’s holistic approach and in-depth understanding for animals provide insight as he shares the best habits for pets. For safe treats, Aidan goes straight to the source of nutrition. This is found in freeze-dried meats and raw bones.

“Dogs have a natural instinct to chew; it strengthens their teeth and keeps them clean. Chewing bones releases endorphins and calms dogs,” he says.

When choosing a size for a raw bone, he suggests picking the one that you think is a good size and then going a size bigger.

It’s also that time of year for outdoor activities and water sports. As you take your pup out on the lake, Aidan highly recommends a life jacket as well as a long tether so that even in high winds or an unexpected situation, you won’t get separated.

The top products he recommends are life vests, cooling vests and sun shield vests, and he always has a summer bag with a first aid kit. PetzLove provides bandages, healing creams, salves, eye wash, liquid sealers and much more.

Visit petzlovefood.com and drop by for more advice and timely care for your pets.

ARTICLE BY LISA BAKEWELL

THIS NONPROFIT IS EMPOWERING CONVERSATIONS AROUND DISABILITIES

CREATING S.P.A.C.E.

As the principal at Humanex Academy in Englewood, Colorado—a school catering to neurodiverse learners—Kati brings her expertise in curriculum design, as well as her passion for teaching and learning, to the organization. Kati's commitment to creating safe and inclusive spaces for all students to thrive aligns perfectly with the mission of Creating S.P.A.C.E.

Creating S.P.A.C.E. also recognizes the importance of personal stories in cultivating understanding and connection, so including speakers with disabilities is one of the key factors of the program. One such speaker, Buck Latta, shares his powerful story of overcoming challenges and embracing life "one arm at a time." His resilience and determination inspire students and adults alike. Kati also shares her experiences growing up with scoliosis and a spinal fusion in a time when accommodations for disabilities weren’t as prevalent as they are now. These stories and others can be read at creatingspace4.com/stories.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CREATING S.P.A.C.E.

Fostering understanding, acceptance, and empathy toward people with disabilities is the purpose behind Creating S.P.A.C.E., a remarkable nonprofit organization that is making a significant impact by entering schools and teaching children how to have comfortable conversations surrounding all kinds of disabilities. Led by Lindsey Blankenship, director, and Kati Cahill, program director, Creating S.P.A.C.E. aims to eradicate the stigma and shame often associated with disability—both seen and invisible—by empowering students, parents, and communities to embrace differences and create a culture where disability is a comfortable conversation, not a topic to avoid.

Lindsey, the Colorado chapter president for the Foundation Fighting Blindness, is a passionate advocate for the disability community. Lindsey's personal experience with retinitis pigmentosa, a rare genetic retinal disease, is causing her to lose her sight. Her firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities fuels her commitment to fostering open dialogue and removing barriers to communication.

Kati, the program director of Creating S.P.A.C.E., is a devoted educator and community builder.

Creating S.P.A.C.E. offers a comprehensive one-week program for elementary school students, parents, and community members. The program provides resources and facilitates conversations about disabilities and differences while promoting kindness and empathy. Each day focuses on a specific theme related to the core values of Creating S.P.A.C.E.—storytelling, permission, acceptance, curiosity, and education. Through interactive lessons and activities, participants develop a deeper understanding of disabilities and learn how to create safe and accepting spaces. The program includes in-person classes for students, an education night for parents, and resources for continuing the conversation at home and school.

Recognizing that conversations on disabilities should extend beyond schools, Creating S.P.A.C.E. also offers professional and community programs that aim to equip workplaces and communities with the tools and knowledge to foster inclusive environments. Through workshops and training sessions, participants learn about safe spaces, storytelling, permission, appropriate language, and the importance of education. These initiatives enable individuals

to engage in comfortable conversations about disabilities, which helps to promote understanding and break down barriers.

Creating S.P.A.C.E. believes in the power of collaboration and actively seeks partnerships with schools, community organizations, and businesses. By building strong alliances, the organization hopes to expand its reach and create lasting change on a broader scale. The founders are dedicated to the long-term growth and impact of Creating S.P.A.C.E. and have aspirations of reaching more schools and communities, empowering students, and fostering a society where disability is viewed as a natural part of the human experience.

Creating S.P.A.C.E. stands as a shining example of an organization that is transforming the way we think and talk about disabilities. Through their educational programs and initiatives, they are creating a culture of acceptance, empathy, and understanding. Lindsey, Kati, and their team are driving real change by encouraging comfortable conversations about disabilities in schools, workplaces, and communities. As we move forward, it is vital that we continue to support organizations like Creating S.P.A.C.E. that strive to create a more inclusive and compassionate society. Together, we can build a future where disabilities are celebrated, and everyone is valued for their unique abilities.

For more information about Creating S.P.A.C.E., visit creatingspace4.com or email Lindsey at lindsey@creatingspace4.com

Kati Cahill and Lindsey Blankenship

BOARD-CERTIFIED

in

Dr. Daniel ESCALANTE Dr. Jeremy JANNUZZI

UNLEASHING HEALTH AND STYLE

ARTICLE BY JULIE ANN TRIPP | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIE ANN TRIPP, AND PROVIDED

Artificial Intelligence is barking up the right tree at Well Groomed Pets

Embracing a dog-focused business seemed like the obvious choice for Julie Patten, who just opened a grooming and wellness center in Parker. In addition to lather, rinse, and blowout, the staff at Well Groomed Pets note and track each and every dog’s physical and mental condition through lump and lesion mapping and a wellness exam. Groomers record 54 points of data.

“There’s actually a 3-D rendering of a dog, and we can rotate that dog image however we need to. So you can note on there each time the dog comes in,” Julie says, noting that 50 percent of dogs develop cancer in their lifetimes.

To ease a furry customer’s anxiety, the center is doused in pheromones, encouraging pups to happily step onto the dog scale to catch a whiff of the living wall. The specialized cleansers, fully organic, wash away the smells of prior clients, allowing newcomers a fresh experience.

The combination of health and wellness prompted the American Kennel Club to exclusively endorse the franchise, providing monthly instruction on best grooming and handling practices.

Julie started Well Groomed Pets after a decades-long career in corporate banking, managing a team of 4,000 and working grueling hours. As her second daughter

prepared to fly the nest to attend CU Boulder, Julie knew she was also ready for a change. The wellness aspect of the franchise is the piece that grabbed her attention during her search for her next foray, as she thought back to years ago when a simple follow-up call sent her into a panic.

“I remember I got a call from the vet—while I was volunteering at the kids’ swim meet—and they said, ‘You know, his bloodwork came back abnormal, and so it could be a marker of cancer,’” Julie recalls, referring to her 11-year-old American Eskimo dog, Lucky. After more testing, Lucky’s results turned out to be normal, but the experience stuck with Julie.

She says that she confides in Lucky, and her daughter’s dog Kiki, speaking to them in both English and Chinese. Although she was born in Denver, Julie picked up Chinese first from her parents, whom Kiki and Lucky love to visit.

Well Groomed Petss is situated next to Barnett and Son Brewing Co., and Julie hopes to see dog owners drop off their pups while supporting another local business. Her head groomer and 10-year veteran, Sarah Epperson, specializes in doodle breeds, and unlike the industry norm, Sarah is paid a salary instead of commission, allowing each dog to receive quality care.

Let Your Pup Feel Like a Show Dog

Stay in Shape

Dogs feel most alive when they get plenty of exercise and playtime.

Read the Nutrition Label

Some dogs react poorly to certain ingredients, so check the label and ask your vet to make sure your pup is getting a proper diet.

Make Grooming Glorious

Practice grooming techniques, like paw-holding, brushing and even setting them on a countertop, to help them enjoy their next spa-day.

Don’t Forget Oral Hygiene

Dogs experience dental problems just like people, and require a good brushing or dental chew to maintain a healthy smile.

WELL GROOMED PETS OWNER JULIE PATTEN WITH HER FOUR KIDS: SYDNEY, SAMANTHA, KIWI AND LUCKY

ARTICLE BY MARY ABEL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF AMANDA MCKOY FLANAGAN

A STORY TO TELL

AMANDA MCKOY FLANAGAN SHARES HER STORY OF LOSS AND LOVE IN HER DEBUT BOOK

A native New Yorker turned Castle Rock resident, Amanda McKoy Flanagan takes a pragmatic, yet soulful, approach to loving and losing. She is no stranger to either, which she shares in her debut book, Trust Yourself to be All In: Safe to Love and Let Go.

“I never had a lifelong dream to write a book, even though I’m an English major,” Amanda says. “I’ve always been interested in the written word and communication, and I also have a master’s degree in social work as well.” But Amanda’s children were older a couple of years ago, and she began to think about the next chapter in her life. “I was thinking about my education, my natural abilities, and what I’m passionate about. And I wanted to bring all those things together. Then, I was out running one day, and it just kind of hit me—I was going to write a book.”

Trust Yourself to be All In is an honest and raw memoir that describes in heartbreaking detail what Amanda calls the “false myth of generational family dysfunction”—that everyone leaves you or hurts you. Compounded by the trauma of losing her brother to an overdose, Amanda says, “I shined up the emotional armor I wore to protect myself from pain and soldiered on.” After a decade of self-reflection and personal growth in 12-step recovery, she experienced a spiritual awakening that radically transformed deeply engrained lies about love, loss, and connection.

Amanda is also an inspirational speaker and co-founder of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Castle Rock Clubhouse, a recovery clubhouse that serves as a meeting space for various twelve-step programs, Amanda is passionate about sobriety, meditation, and spirituality. Learn more at amandamckoyflanagan.com

Backyard Chickens

Everything you need to get started on your backyard coop.

Chickens have become increasingly popular as pets in both suburban and urban areas during the last 20 years. Backyard chickens may seem to be an unsuspecting animal to keep as a pet but the tried and true egg producers are back in fashion as food costs are soaring and families are looking for more food independence in light of recent supply chain shortages. There’s a lot to like about raising chickens in your backyard. Surprisingly, chickens are relatively low maintenance. And bonus – unlike dogs, they don’t need to be bathed or groomed, and they don’t shed on your clothes or require training. Oh, and bonus – they make you breakfast.

The eggs from backyard chickens are the best—tastier and fresher than any store-bought eggs. Much of the day, the birds entertain themselves, picking at grass, worms, beetles, and all of the good things that go into making those delicious farm eggs. Plus, with their keen eye for insect pests, chickens make for great gardening companions.

Chickens can provide family companionship, fun, entertainment, sustainable fresh food, and plenty of poop that gardeners prize as a natural fertilizer/composting material. Could backyard chickens be the perfect pet/producer to add to your home?

Things To Consider Before Getting Chickens:

First, check local town ordinances to ensure that keeping chickens is even allowed in your neighborhood or if there is a limit to the number of chickens you can keep at once.

Make sure you have the space for a henhouse or a full-size chicken coop. It has to hold a feeder and water containers, a roosting area, and a nest box for every three hens. A proper coop should be large enough that you can stand in it to gather eggs and shovel manure comfortably, but a simple hen house can be quite a bit smaller. Plus, any housing must be sturdy enough to keep your chickens safe from all the predators out there. Gorgeous coops are aplenty on places like Pinterest if you’re building your own, but many pre-made options are available through various farm supply stores as well.

Chickens need food and water daily. Feed is about $20 per 50-pound bag, but prices vary depending on your location and the quality of the feed. How long a bag lasts depends on the number of chickens you have.

Hens will lay eggs through Spring and Summer and into the fall, as long as they have 12 to 14 hours of daylight. Expect to collect eggs daily or even twice a day.

Backyard Chicken Q&A:

HOW MANY CHICKENS SHOULD I KEEP?

Chickens are sociable creatures, so plan to keep three to six birds at least. With this amount, you’ll always have a steady supply of eggs, since an adult hen lays about two eggs every three days, on average. Local ordinances also dictate how many chickens one household can keep.

HOW MUCH DOES KEEPING CHICKENS COST?

All of this costs money, of course. The materials to build and furnish a coop and a 20 x 5-foot run—including wood, fencing, and hardware—are going to set you back at least $300. If you can’t do this work yourself, you’ll also be buying skilled labor.

Overall, expect to spend between $500 and $700 when getting started depending on the size of your flock, coop and run. For prefabricated coops, expect to pay $600 or more.

WHAT KIND OF SHELTER DO THEY NEED?

Chickens need to have an enclosed coop that provides adequate space, protection from the elements and predators, and good ventilation. A modified shed, barn, or stable with an outdoor run is a good option for a coop. The outdoor run should be fully enclosed if you have predators like hawks or owls nearby. Ideally, coops are slightly elevated off the ground to prevent flooding and have windows on each side, enough nest boxes to allow several chickens to nest simultaneously, outlets for lighting, fans if they’re needed, air inlets or ventilation holes on the roof, and a concrete floor treated with a pet-safe waterproof coating that allows for easy cleaning and drainage.

Want to go the fancy route?

Search Pinterest for “chicken coop building plans” if you’re building your own or consider going the luxury route with a gorgeous custom-built coop from a company like CutestCoops.com .

WHEN DO CHICKENS START LAYING EGGS?

Most hens will start laying eggs when they’re about 18 to 20 weeks old, although it may take more time for them to reach their peak output. Often, the first eggs are laid irregularly or are smaller or oddly shaped when compared with a typical egg. This is nothing to worry about! Once a cycle is established, most hens will lay one egg per day.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

AUGUST 5TH–6TH

Colorado Scottish Festival

DENVER POLO CLUB, 6359

AIRPORT ROAD, SEDALIA

Get into the spirit of Scotland at this special event. The St. Andrew Society of Colorado will host the 59th Annual Colorado Scottish Festival at its new location at the Denver Polo Club. The event provides an excellent opportunity to explore several interesting aspects of Scottish culture, traditions, history and a variety of engaging experiences. scottishgames.org

Parker Police Department hosts National Night Out—Day Shift

O’BRIEN PARK, 10795

VICTORIAN DRIVE, PARKER

10:00 AM

National Night Out (NNO) is an annual event hosted by the Parker Police Department and other police agencies across the country to enhance the partnership between citizens, businesses and law enforcement communities. This year, join the fun at “NNO—Day Shift” at O’Brien Park. This important neighborhood network helps to make Parker an even safer place to live, work and raise our families.

AUGUST 6TH

16th Annual Honey Festival

0’BRIEN PARK, 10795

VICTORIAN DRIVE, PARKER

8:00 AM

Mark your calendars for Sunday, August 6, when the Honey Festival makes its buzzworthy return

EVENTS CONTINUED

to Parker. From 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., visitors can indulge in a fun-filled event aimed at raising awareness and appreciation for the humble honeybee through an array of educational and entertaining activities. parkerarts.org

AUGUST 10TH–27TH

EngagementSeason is around the Corner

Fall In love at Bonnie Blues

2023 Denver Parade of Homes

NEIGHBORHOODS

THROUGHOUT METRO DENVER

The 2023 Denver Parade of Homes, presented by The Aurora Highlands and hosted by the Home Builders Association of Metro Denver, returns with Denver’s go-to local home show and design houses tour. Explore the newest homes and communities in the region, discover unique homes and floor plans, or just find inspiration in the latest interior design and home technology. paradeofhomesdenver.com

AUGUST 12TH

TEDx

CherryCreekHS: Beyond the Horizon

THE SCHOOLHOUSE, 19650 MAINSTREET, PARKER | 1:00 PM

In the spirit of “ideas worth spreading” and inspired by the innovative and vibrant local community, TEDxCherryCreekHS will host twelve amazing speakers to look beyond the horizon and share their stories, experiences, and, most importantly, their big ideas.  tedxcherrycreekhs.com

AUGUST 27TH–28TH

Art in the Park

O’BRIEN PARK, 10795

VICTORIAN DRIVE, PARKER

Dozens of artists will exhibit and sell their paintings, photographic work, jewelry, pottery, glass, woodwork, sculpture, fabric art and more at this free annual event in O’Brien Park. Sponsored by the Parker Artists Guild, the event offers live music, kids activities, food, beverages and more.parkerartistsguild.com