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I don’t know about you but we love any opportunity to recognize the women in our lives who just make life more rich and beautiful. We are grateful that we have worked together as a mother/daughter duo for the past six years as publishers of this magazine. We want to thank Kati (daughter and sister) for being our sounding board and cheerleader even before we launched our first issue.
Our wives, mothers and daughters are some of the most influential women in our lives. And of course with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms… But it’s not just the biological mothers but the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, teachers, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives - making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.
We are honored to feature some of the amazing women right here in Parker that reach for the stars every day. It isn’t always easy or glamourous, but they continue to follow their dreams while always thinking of others too. They are movers and shakers, builders and makers. They are both seen and unseen.
Their silent service blesses those who are under their care. Their attention to detail shows us something about beauty that can’t be seen or understood any other way. And sometimes dreams change and another star is unleashed.
While it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by women in our communities. That’s one of our favorite parts of this role - connecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to Parker women.
Publishing Parker City Lifestyle each month is definitely a team effort, and we couldn’t do it without two wonderful women, Cassandra Green, our publication director, and Abby Watkins, our staff photographer. Our writers all happen to be women too! Thank you for all you do! I hope you’ll take a few minutes to send a text, make a phone call or get your kids on a video call with the women in your life who deserve recognition. It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much you love them.
With grateful hearts,
JOAN AND JENI, PUBLISHERS @PARKERCITYLIFESTYLE
Corrections in the April issue: Nick Scarabosio was misspelled on page 22 and Daniel Vaisberg on pages 18 and 19. We apologize for these errors.
PUBLISHERS
Joan Dameron | joan.dameron@citylifestyle.com
Jeni Fleck | jeni.fleck@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Cassandra Green cassandra.green@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Elizabeth Watson | watsonmarketingllc@yahoo.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Abby Watkins | abby@abbywatkinsphotography.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lisa Bakewell, Cassandra Green, Elizabeth Watson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Aperture Ortega, Nicola Jane Photography, Abby Watkins
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
When it’s time to bring your baby into the world, we know that choosing the right place is a big decision. Find peace of mind, close to home, at The BirthPlace at AdventHealth Parker with a Level III NICU and a skilled, compassionate team ready to care for your baby — and you. We are standing by to answer questions, give in-person tours and talk you through your birth preferences.
• Birth classes for every new mom
• Birthing suites designed for your comfort
• Options for managing pain, 24/7
• Certified nurse-midwives to help with delivery
• Breastfeeding support for as long as you need it
• Level III NICU for specialized care
1: Snooze Mattress Company kicked off its Grand Opening weekend with a Chamber Ribbon Cutting. 2: The Snooze Mattress Company Team 3: Galia Heidemann, Parker Chamber Events Coordinator, Kara Massa, VP of Membership and Snooze Mattress Company owner, Keith Chambers.
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Sponsored by Purity Skin Studio, Empower5280, Garner & Gather and Aurora Village Dental Group, grab your ladies and wear your best for champagne, giveaways, music and INCREDIBLE vendors. You’ll have the opportunity to get your own permanent jewelry or build a bracelet at the charm bracelet bar, get a fine line tattoo to remember the evening, shop boutique clothing and explore a host of other local, women owned businesses! www.eventbrite. com/e/865637514107?aff=oddtdtcreator
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Douglas County Libraries and the DCL Foundation are thrilled to partner with Kendra Scott Park Meadows for an exclusive Shop for Good give-back event just in time for spring gifting occasions. Shop Kendra Scott in-store on Sunday, May 5, from 2-4 p.m. and 20% of your purchase will benefit the DCL Foundation. If you can’t make it in-store, shop online May 5-6 at kendrascott.com using code GIVEBACK-GGRTV at checkout. Online code valid May 5-6 only. Scan to read more
MountainView Cycling opened in March and the owners’ vision is to make cycling possible for families throughout the generations. Owners Kevin and Katie opened MountainView Cycling, the only small, family-owned bike shop in Parker, to serve the community and support cyclists regardless of age or level of experience. From bikes and services to gear and apparel, MountainView can provide for your cycling needs. The shop hosts a weekly ride, a monthly bike swap and custom ordering.
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Locally and woman-owned Sunrise Compounding Pharmacy can personalize your medications with non-sterile compounded products. Available products include natural health supplements, suspensions, creams, ointments, HRT, lollipops, troches and suppositories. The pharmacy can also fill prescriptions and sells a variety of medical supplies. Same day delivery is available!
17888 Cottonwood Dr, Parker, CO 80134 720.823.2060 or email: contact@ mysunshinepharmacy.com. Scan
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We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Deka Lash Parker www.dekalash.com/find-a-studio/colorado/parker | 303.532.5823
Langdon Lash Company www.langdonlashco.square.site | 719.323.3529
Lash and Company - Parker www.lashandcompany.com/co-parker | 720.639.5909
Sponsored Pur Artistry Lash & Brow Studio www.purartistry.com | 720.502.6189
Luxy Lash Extensions www.luxylashextensions.com | 720.316.9644
Elevated Dermatology www.elevatedderm.com | 720.851.5200
The Honey Dipped Injector www.thehoneydippedinjector.com | 303.993.4852
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/PARKER
Prime IV Hydration & Wellness-Parker www.primeivhydration.com/locations/colorado/parker-co | 303.952.9740
Laguna Med Spa www.lagunamedspa.net | 720.735.3150
GLO Wellness www.glowellnessmedspa.com | 303.248.6690
Parker Fashion Week 2024 (PFW) saw a sold-out crowd lining the runway at the Villa Parker event venue. In the spotlight were fashions from five nationally renowned designers as well as contributions from two local boutiques. Attendees were treated to an exceptional display of glamor, high fashion and creativity throughout the two-day runway fashion show.
The five designers featured at PFW 2024 were Elda De La Rosa (Chicago), Alan Gonzalez (New York City), Borris Powell (Chicago), Dan Richters (Omaha) and Duane Topping (Denver). Local boutiques included Parker Panache and children’s clothing store Petit Parker.
PFW has been held annually since 2021 and is a vibrant exciting addition to Parker’s fashion scene. Information on upcoming events @parkerfashionweek or visit ParkerFashionWeek.com .
Borris Powell is both a designer and the producer of Parker Fashion Week Petit Parker fashionThis year, we are highlighting six ladies who are dreaming big and defining what it means to reach for the stars and find success. From small business owners to health professionals, event coordinators and those aspiring for the arts, we see beauty in each of their experiences. We hope their words inspire you to also dream and pursue life in a profound way.
CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT BEAUTIFUL ART PICTURE FRAMING?
We have been in business for 24 years right here in Parker. I framed out of my home for 15 years and raised my two sons. Two and a half years ago I expanded and now have my art gallery and custom frame design center! My team is local artists! They are from all walks of life! From an airline pilot, wedding photographer, a lawyer, a German professor and more, we have over 15 artists on display in the gallery.
YOU MENTION “THE SKY’S THE LIMIT” IN FRAMING, HOW DOES THIS REFLECT IN YOUR OWN LIFE?
The term “the sky’s the limit” in my own life means you can be anything you want to be! I learned the value of how to “think outside the box” early in my life. It started with my dad building a roundhouse in the Black Hills of South Dakota. That taught me so much and to ALWAYS keep an open mind when designing in picture framing!
WHAT INSPIRES YOU MOST WHEN PARTNERING WITH THE COMMUNITY AND OTHER ARTISTS?
My goal is to always keep creativity at the forefront! I recently stepped into the vice president position for the Parker Artist Guild. Over the years I have served on the Parker Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Professional Picture Framers Association Board of Directors and now on the Parker Artist Guild Board of Directors. Serving the community is an important part of who I am as a business owner and person.
“I learned the value of how to ‘think outside the box’ early in my life.”Gallery Owner and Custom Picture Framer
WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT IN 2024?
I am excited about Villa Parker (the venue), Elevated Taste Catering and Grace and Co. (the planning company). They all go hand in hand with one another. We have 90 events booked and have some prime wedding dates still open. I am just really excited to see my team all come together and create some amazing events this year. Villa Parker is more than just a wedding venue. We love hosting corporate events, weddings, bridal showers, small conventions, birthday parties, anniversary parties and more. The views are spectacular and Villa is such a beautiful property.
What motivates me is watching my team grow. To see where they were in 2020 to where we are now with the additional companies and Parker Fashion Week. It is very rewarding and satisfying to see my team thrive.
WHAT IS A WORD OF ADVICE FOR THOSE JUST GETTING STARTED IN THEIR ENDEAVORS?
I would tell anyone that if you have an idea or a concept and you are afraid, don’t be. Jump right in! After 19 years of being in the food and beverage industry, I would not change a thing. Give yourself room to make mistakes and learn. Don’t be afraid, the rewards are worth more than the fear.
"Don't be afraid, the rewards are worth more than the fear."
WHERE DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR PASSION TO DANCE?
When I was five years old I saw a ballerina on the tv for the first time. I was mesmerized by the graceful movements of the ballerinas twirling across the screen. Every arabesque, pirouette and plié ignited a spark within my heart. I knew from then that I wanted to be a ballerina more than anything. This fueled a passion that would soon lead me to my first ballet class, where I would take my first steps towards my dream.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST AS A BALLERINA?
Ballet has the power to convey emotions and tell stories without words. Through the choreography, dancers express a range of feelings and narratives, allowing the audience to connect with the performance on a deeper level. Another is the dedication required to master ballet techniques. It is so rewarding to see all of my hard work pay off.
WHERE WOULD YOU LIKE TO TRAVEL?
I would love to travel around Europe.
"Every arabesque, pirouette and plié ignited a spark within my heart."
The true reward lies in the opportunity to collaborate with remarkable people to craft unforgettable moments. Whether it’s orchestrating a once-in-a-lifetime wedding or celebrating a milestone birthday or anniversary, I cherish the chance to play a pivotal role in shaping these cherished memories. Being able to infuse magic into these significant occasions and witness the joy it brings to people’s lives is what I love most about my profession.
On a personal level, success is intertwined with the happiness and cohesion of my family. Stepping away from the hustle and bustle of daily life to embark on adventures together, whether near or far, and creating lasting memories, signifies that we’re on the right path.
WHERE DO YOU DRAW YOUR INSPIRATION FROM?
Inspiration is a tapestry woven from diverse threads. Whether it’s the delicate bloom of a flower or the immersive experiences of international travel, inspiration can be found in the grandest of vistas or the tiniest of details, continually fueling my creativity and passion for what I do.
"Inspiration is a tapestry woven from diverse threads."
I became interested in architecture simply based upon the visual of so many styles and designs of residences and commercial buildings. I particularly loved new residential construction and used to ring doorbells (back in the day) and ask if I could view people’s homes. The beauty of each design was intriguing to me; and to see the many different elements that went into each area of the home was fascinating.
Promoting good design keeps me smiling. My staff all have backgrounds in interior design which allows them to give the details to not just cabinetry, but all elements needed to complete the picture. I want to keep nurturing that feeling and teaching beyond just design. It is my job to share my many years of experience in both the residential and commercial fields. Trends come and go, but good design will never go out of vogue.
One word of advice to anyone wanting to lead: work hard and don’t be afraid of mistakes. That is how you learn. Watch and listen. Not only to your peers, but to your clients as well. You always learn no matter who is speaking. Just listen and share.
“Watch and listen. Not only to your peers, but to your clients as well.”
AS THE CHIEF NURSING OFFICER AT ADVENTHEALTH PARKER WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT IN 2024?
I am thrilled to welcome the community of Parker to get to know AdventHealth. At AdventHealth, we understand that healthcare is a deeply personal choice, and we are honored to be your trusted partner in your wellness journey.
Every day, we are driven by a commitment to patient safety, excellence in care and supporting our dedicated team of nurses and caregivers. It is this passion that fuels us to rise and meet the challenges of each day with dedication and compassion.
AS A LEADER, WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO DREAM BIGGER AND CAST WIDER NETS FOR VISION?
By dreaming bigger and casting wider nets for vision, we can create a healthcare environment where both patients and caregivers thrive, driving positive change and innovation in the pursuit of excellence. It is this vision of a healthier, more resilient healthcare community that inspires me to continually push the boundaries of what is possible as a leader in healthcare.
WHAT IS ONE WORD OF ADVICE THAT YOU WOULD GIVE TO SOMEONE JUST GETTING STARTED IN THEIR CAREER?
If I could offer just one word of advice to someone just starting their career, it would be: Embrace. Embrace every opportunity, challenge and experience that comes your way. Embrace the chance to learn and grow, even in the face of difficulty. Embrace it all, and trust in your journey.
“Embrace... Embrace it all, and trust in your journey.”
ARTICLE BY CASSANDRA GREEN
Matt Wassam and his team at Colorado Saddlery are already industry leaders in their trade, but they’re taking saddle fitting to the next level with their newly acquired Bell Mountain Equestrian Center in Castle Rock. They build super high end, high quality, long lasting saddles and also provide professional saddle fittings for horse and rider. Their saddles for women equestrians are heavy duty, but lightweight. Their focus is on comfort
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
“THE EQUESTRIAN COMMUNITY IS SO AMAZING. I’M JUST EXCITED TO BUILD OUR COMMUNITY HERE MORE. WE ALREADY HAVE SUCH A GREAT, VERY FAMILY-ORIENTED COMMUNITY STARTED HERE, SO I’M EXCITED FOR IT TO GET BIGGER…”
and longevity so whether you’re a new rider or a competitor in the mounted shooting space like their manager, Emily Honeyman, you’ll find custom fit for both you and your horse.
The vision for the future is clear. “The thing that makes this equestrian center really unique is our tack business… you can come to Colorado Saddlery South this summer, we can do professional saddle fitting for you and your horse, then you can saddle your horse up while you’re here and go demo that saddle,” Matt shares. “Make sure you like the way it rides and feels. If you don’t, we’ll have a couple hundred saddles for you to choose from.”
Their trail rides are endless and they have a beautiful indoor arena with the softest footing. You can tell Matt considers every detail.
Watching Emily demonstrate how to fit her horse Magnolia with a saddle made me aware of how much care goes into their process. Tracing her fingers across Magnolia’s back, she explains, “You want that saddle to have clearance so we try and set it back off the scapula. We run our saddles a little bit further back and then the way we shape our trees gives a lot of spine clearance and gives kidney relief too.”
Emily also states, “When you have a saddle that optimally fits the horse and
rider using Colorado Saddlery state-ofthe-art saddle fitting technology, we can eliminate behavioral issues and dramatically improve rider and horse comfort. At the new saddle shop we will also be growing our English tack collection and have experts available for bit fitting and mechanical science behind each style.”
Drama free and family-oriented, Matt has developed a team that cares about the horse and rider equally. Their tack store will cater to both English and Western riders.
“The equestrian community is so amazing. I’m just excited to build our community here more. We already have such a great, very family-oriented community started here, so I’m excited for it to get bigger… more friends to ride with, more people to meet and stories to hear,” Emily dreams out loud.
Call 720.438.9297 to get connected with Matt and his team at Colorado Saddlery.
She understands that it’s hard when you have young kids and a family, but slowing down is good for everyone.
Melissa Grosboll, DC, CPT, CES, exemplifies the beauty of newfound strength that can be found after recovering from cancer. Melissa is a certified personal trainer and cancer exercise specialist. As a cancer survivor, Melissa declares herself a “cancer thriver.” You can tell by her quick smile and welcoming presence that she lives her life to better the lives of others. She comes alongside those who have been in the trenches with cancer, lending strength and guidance to recovery.
When it comes to healing from cancer, Melissa categorizes recovery in three areas; nutrition, exercise and mindset. Quick disclaimer: this is a major summarization. The true depth of wisdom here is held in the care of one-on-one consultation and professional guidance that Melissa offers face-to-face with her clients.
The first area to consider when recovering from surgery and/or chemotherapy is paying attention to your nutrition. Melissa says, “The biggest thing is to trust yourself.” Very simply it’s best to reduce/eliminate processed sugars, cut out alcohol and avoid fried or processed foods. Drinking lots of water and eating food with an ingredient list you can easily understand is a good place to start. Melissa advises her clients to work with a nutritionist or naturopath. Understanding what foods bring the best nutrients as well as your own body’s sensitivities will help take monumental steps in recovering your strength.
Exercising is what Melissa likes to hone in on next. She says, “Movement is medicine, movement is life. The more you can move your body the better off you are.” The best movement for most cancer/chemo recovery is found in walking.
Melissa has a ton of ways to encourage getting 8,000 to 10,000 steps in a day. “It doesn’t have to be done all at once,” she states. From walking 10
to 15 minutes after each meal, to walking around the grocery store before you get your groceries, there are lots of options.
Within exercising it is important to focus both on building strength as well as developing your balance. Melissa highly suggests, “Listen to your body. Take it slow. Use resistance bands and soup cans at first instead of weights.” She also talks about doing suitcase carries.
“It’s where you pick up one weight in one hand and walk around your house, then switch to the other arm.” This method helps strengthen your core and build balance to prevent injuries in the future. Proper nutrition and moving your body are key ways to recover at a steady pace.
The final, but incredibly vital key to recovery is found in your mindset. Melissa addresses, “We live in a world where stress is normal. [We are] very prone to distraction. We look for distraction to not feel a lot. In the face of a cancer diagnosis, people want to check out, go through the motions, [but] stress is one of the biggest contributing factors to cancer.” It’s important to get out of the fight or flight mode and let your body rest.
Melissa recommends meditation, yoga, sitting and relaxing, listening to music. “Being okay with rest,” she emphasizes that resting is not laziness. It’s important to process and release negativity. “Your body will tell you what it needs if you get quiet enough to listen.”
She understands that it’s hard when you have young kids and a family, but slowing down is good for everyone. Melissa has a podcast you can tune into called The Many Faces of Cancer. You can also reach her at drmelissagrosboll@gmail.com or 720.201.4292 for a free consultation.
Breakfast boards offer a variety of foods, little-to-no cooking and are sure to impress even your hardest-to-please guests. Add a mimosa bar for added fun! Choose your board. Select one of any size/shape to accommodate guests. Prepare. Cook (or purchase) pancakes, waffles, French toast, bacon, sausage and hard boiled eggs ahead of time. Heat before guests arrive. Prepare scrambled eggs fresh before serving. Stack hard boiled eggs and add ham, salami, prosciutto or smoked salmon. Cut up cheeses/fruits that need prep. Arrange. Place pancakes, and other breads on the board. Fan out for visual appeal and warmth. Layer meats to keep warm and together. Add cheeses. Fill in. Add blueberries, strawberries, oranges, watermelon, bananas, raspberries, cantaloupe, kiwi, apples, grapes, nuts, seeds and dried fruit. Group items for visual appeal and to fill gaps. Add bowls for nut butters, whipped cream, syrup,
honey, chocolate chips, cream cheese and jams. Pour syrup into a small pitcher; place butter in a bowl. Add to board. Fill remaining gaps with nuts and fruit. With breakfast boards, you are only limited by your imagination!
Gather champagne or sparkling wine, assorted fruit juices (orange, peach and cranberry), fresh fruit slices (oranges, strawberries and raspberries) and optional liqueurs (triple sec or peach schnapps). Set up a table with bottles of champagne, juice carafes and bowls of fruit. Provide glasses, ice and garnishes like mint leaves or citrus twists. Guests can mix champagne with their choice of juice and add fruit for flavor. Label each juice option and provide recipe suggestions. Customize with additional decorations or themed elements for special occasions. Enjoy responsibly!
With breakfast boards, you are only limited by your imagination!ARTICLE BY LISA BAKEWELL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
• RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTOR
• INSURANCE CLAIM ASSISTANCE
(Water, Smoke, Hail, Wind)
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COMING SOON FOR SALE
Fully renovated home at 16367 Sheridan Dr, Parker, CO
720-949-0051
15200 East Girard Ave, Aurora, CO
www.paragonpartnersco.com
MAY 4TH
VALE- Venture Academy of Leadership and Entrepreneurship, 15653 Brookstone Drive, Parker, CO 80134 | 6:00 PM
Grab your ladies and wear your best for champagne, giveaways, music and INCREDIBLE vendors. You’ll have the opportunity to get your own permanent jewelry or build a bracelet at the charm bracelet bar, get a fine line tattoo to remember the evening, shop boutique clothing & explore a host of other local, women owned businesses!
MAY 12TH
Downtown Parker on Mainstreet 8:00 AM
This event is a Parker favorite and will run every Sunday through the end of October. The market features more than 50 booths full of locally-grown produce, farm-fresh dairy, grass-fed meats, freshly-baked bread, rolls, pastries, cookies, hand-crafted soaps, clothing/ accessories and other food-related products. You can also grab breakfast or lunch from one of the many ready-toeat options at the market.
MAY 22ND
Douglas County Libraries in Parker 6:00 PM
Satisfy your inner artist and sweet tooth while learning to craft stunning cupcake designs that are easier to make than they appear. With expert guidance from Aleksandra Kay, owner
d o g t r
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• In-home Training
• Board
• Behavior
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of Kaykery in Parker, you’ll uncover simple piping hacks using tools readily available in your home. All equipment, pre-prepared cupcakes and frosting are provided. Learn more and register at DCL.org.
MAY 26TH
Audi Parker, 18455 Ponderosa Dr. Parker, CO 80134 | 8:00 AM
Join the Dads of Parker for their inaugural car show on Saturday, May 26th from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Audi Parker. This is a family-friendly event showcasing a wide variety of cars, trucks and other vehicles on display. Enjoy food, drinks and music. This is an event for the entire family to enjoy together.
MAY 27TH
Parker Cemetary, 10375 S Parker Road Parker, CO 80134 | 10:00 AM
Memorial Day Service of Remembrance recognizing those Veterans who are buried at Parker Cemetery as well as Veterans attending and those in our community.
MAY 29TH
Salisbury Park, 11920 N Motsenbocker Rd, Parker, CO 80134 9:00 AM
To celebrate National Senior Health & Fitness Day, Parker Parks and Recreation hosts the annual Senior Stroll. This free event features a one-mile fun walk on a paved trail, delicious refreshments, socializing with friends, exciting prize giveaways and interacting with local business vendors that put an emphasis on senior health and wellness.