



Summertime is here — and for many people that means it’s time to hit the road. But even if you decide to take a vacation, you’ll want other areas of your life to keep working — especially your investments.
First, check your portfolio’s performance periodically, but don’t measure your results against a market index, such as the S&P 500. Instead, use your own benchmarks, such as how well your portfolio is moving you toward your goals.
Also, invest with a purpose. Follow a long-term investment strategy that reflects your goals, risk tolerance, asset accumulation needs, liquidity and time horizon.
One more idea: Invest strategically by matching some investments with specific goals. For example, your IRA and 401(k) are designed for retirement, but if you want to help send your kids to college, you might consider a tax-advantaged 529 plan. For a short-term goal, such as a wedding or a long vacation, consider an investment that offers significant preservation of principal.
By making those moves appropriate for your situation, you can keep your investments doing one essential task — working hard for you.
Unforgettable memories are made here! Enjoy endless adventure and fun together in one extraordinary place.
At Gaylord Hotels, bringing people together is what we do best.
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. August can feel like a whirlwind getting back to school routines and meal planning. You got this! Welcome to our Kids & Pets issue.
Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they are the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment. They bring meaning to the details of life that we wouldn’t see otherwise.
And pets, who could forget pets? For those of us with pets, we schedule our days around their care. They’re part of so much of our lives. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their family pet? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility and companionship.
My furry best friend growing up was a Maine Coon. This cat breed is known as the “gentle giant” and that defines the beast of a buddy that he was. He was kind, smart, extremely outgoing and surprisingly talkative. We were inseparable comrades in mischief and love.
Although children are of infinitely more value, what children and pets share in common is that they need us. Our care, attention and intention shapes how they are raised and who they become. We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life this month.
Cheers!
Correction: See City Scene (page 10) for the correct photos of Governor Polis signing bill to reinstate Wine Walks from our July 2024 issue.
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
Cassandra Green, Julie Hoglund, Elizabeth Watson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kim Beer Photography, Cassandra Green, Mustard
Seed Ranch, Gillian Parker, Abby Watkins
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
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1-3:
15-17: SoftPaws Pet Spa & Boutique is a Parker business where gentle one-on-one grooming is the focus, both in the spa and in their mobile unit. 15: Sales Manager, Brooke and Canine Coordinator, Bliss 16: Pet Spa and Boutique 17: Owner, Suzie and guests.
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Douglas County Libraries has partnered with local craft breweries and coffee houses for fun, games and giveaways in its 2024 Brew Tour. Join the Brew Tour and visit participating partners now through September 30 to enjoy community and great brews, earn points toward prizes like premium hoodies and soft coolers, and be entered into our grand prize drawing for a Happy Brew Year. Learn more and sign up at DCL.org/Brew-Tour
The Parker Town Council unani mously approved a site plan amend ment during a public hearing that will advance a long-planned addition and renovation project for Parker Town Hall. The approved site plan amend ment features 32,043 square feet of new office space that will be added to the existing Parker Town Hall facility located at the southeast corner of the Mainstreet and Pine Drive inter section. For more information about this project, visit ParkerCO.gov/ TownHallProject.
Sharkey's Cuts for Kids is excited to be part of this awesome Parker com munity. Their mission is to create an entertaining experience for kids by providing a superior haircut with warm, experienced stylists in a clean and sanitized setting. They believe everyone should have an enjoyable experience where "Haircuts are Cool and Fun Rules!" Sharkey's is located at 19539 Hess Road, Suite 106, Parker, CO 80134. Stop in soon!
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.
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
Petzlove Food ‘n Stuffz lonetree.petzlovefood.com | 720.389.5171
Suzie SoftPaws Mobile Pet Spa and Boutique suziesoftpaws.com | 720.774.7879
Earthwise Pet Supply 303.805.3845
Essential Pet LLC essentialpet.com | 303.805.5451
Chuck & Don's Pet Food & Supplies chuckanddons.com | 303.290.0430
Veterinary Center of Parker VCParker.net | 720.851.0820
Hess Ridge Animal Hospital hessridgeanimalhospital.com | 262.362.1353
UrgentVet urgentvet.com | 720.835.1500
Animal Emergency & Specialty Center aescparker.com | 720.842.5050
Stroh Ranch Pet Health strohranchpethealth.com | 303.840.1000
Scenthound Parker scenthound.com/parker?l=48083487 | 720.282.4552
Well Groomed Pets - Parker wellgroomedpets.com | 303.222.8333
Bark Beauty Pet Salon barkbeautygrooming.com | 720.317.4464
City Bark Parker citybark.com | 720.739.7988
Heritage Pet heritagepet.com | 720.902.7323
Petit Parker + CO petitparker.com | 720.296.6191
Tiny Bros Apparel 720.819.5492
Once Upon a Child onceuponachild.com | 303.694.0416
Hush Little Baby Boutique hushlittlebabyboutique.com | 303.736.2308
Tullabee tullabee.com | 844.755.2229 The Learning Experience thelearningexperience.com | 303.593.0886
Rocky Mountain Preschool rockymountainpreschool.com | 303.793.0333
Everbrook Academy of Parker everbrookacademy.com | 855.444.3778
Little Sunshine's Playhouse and Preschool of Parker littlesunshine.com | 303.226.4201
Ivybrook Academy Parker, CO ivybrookacademy.com/ivybrook-academy-parker-co | 720.278.7400
KidStrong Parker parker.kidstrong.com | 720.360.1664
Sky Zone Trampoline Park skyzone.com/parker | 720.442.0343
Ninja Nation centennial.ninjanation.com | 720.874.9024
Parker Recreation Kids' Zone parkerrec.com/404/Kids-Zone | 303.805.3281
Little Monkey Bizness parker.monkeybizness.com | 303.841.5888
Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum wingsmuseum.org | 303.360.5360
Play Street Museum highlandsranch.playstreetmuseum.com | 303.357.3024
Vehicle Vault vehiclevaultco.com | 303.626.8920
Children's Museum mychildsmuseum.org | 303.433.7444
Art Gallery Exhibits & Public Art - Parker Arts parkerarts.org/art-gallery-exhibits | 303.805.6800
Classes & Camps - Parker Arts parkerarts.org/education/classes-camps | 303.805.6800
Parker Fieldhouse parkerrec.com/Fieldhouse | 303.805.6300
Avid4 Adventure Summer Camps avid4.com | 720.249.2412
The Goddard School of Parker Summer Camp goddardschool.com | 303.805.1700
Parker Landing Child Development Center parkerlandingcdc.com | 303.841.5006
Unparalleled Care: Our physician-driven care plan is designed to maximize the quality of the care we provide.
Best-in-Class Facility: The best medical facility for those in need of post-acute rehab and skilled nursing care.
Highly Qualified, Caring Staff Provide Our Patient Guests with: Care in a beautiful, hotel-like atmosphere to help achieve strength and functionality.
Post Acute Rehab and Skilled Nursing Care to Include: Family involvement, psychological care and discharge planning complement a well-rounded, individualized program and encourage each patient’s transition to their highest functional level.
Looking for a fun day destination for your kids? Look no further than Colorado State University (CSU) Spur. Located just north of Denver, CSU Spur offers an educational and engaging program for the entire family to enjoy together for free. I joined our publisher, Joan Dameron and her family for a fun day venturing the campus.
We started out at CSU Spur Vida where we had an opportunity to learn about animal and human health. The experience
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSANDRA GREEN
was very immersive and engaging. At Vida, kids can watch cats and dogs in surgery. From dental procedures to spays/neuters, kids can even hear from the veterinarians during the process. There are also mock exam clinics. The kids can choose a stuffed animal, read their medical charts, then with lab coats and tools in hand, diagnose and help their animal get better.
Vida also has equine therapy on-site, so kids can watch human therapy sessions as well as equine therapy strengthening exercises where the horses walk on an underwater treadmill. All throughout the building are stations for interactive learning as well as a room dedicated to virtual reality resources.
Our next stop was CSU Spur Hydro. The building itself is a work of art. With indoor and outdoor opportunities, Hydro shares our connection to water. Scientists talk about career options and how our city sustains its water and water flows. This building has a cafe with produce that is grown on-site.
Terra was our final tour where we learned about food and agriculture. This building addresses the growing need for agriculture and farming. Kids learn about the science behind food. They have labs, kitchens for culinary classes and a newly acquired greenhouse.
Scientists and researchers are on-site at each building and they are proactive to share and teach in a way that keeps the information moving just as quickly as the kids move.
CSUSpur.org/Visit
Stop in for the perfect gift.
Monday: Closed | Tuesday-Saturday: 10a-5p | Sunday: 10a-3p 720-708-2059 | BV nestonmainstreet 19560 Mainstreet · Parker, CO · www.nestonmainstreet.com
PET WELLNESS EXPERT, CHRISTY BOSWELL, SHARES HYGIENE TIPS FOR DOGS
Christy Boswell has always been a dog person. “I begged my parents for a dog for years, and we finally rescued a mixed breed when I was 10. I still remember that day vividly! Since then, dogs have always been an integral part of my life. This passion eventually extended into my professional life, leading me to explore opportunities in the pet care industry.”
Now, as a franchise owner of the dog-focused business Scenthound, Christy is able to
ARTICLE BY ELIZABETH WATSON
share her passion and dedication with the Parker, Colorado community.
“What stood out to me about the Scenthound franchise was its unique focus on wellness and preventive care,” Christy says.
Scenthound is a monthly hygiene and grooming service for dogs and includes regular checks in five core areas—skin, coat, ears, nails and teeth—these play a huge role in a dog’s overall health and longevity.
Christy provides an overview of what all pet owners can look for:
Skin: Pet parents should look for any signs of irritation, redness, lumps or unusual spots. Regularly checking the skin can help catch issues like allergies or infections early.
Coat: Changes in the coat such as excessive shedding, bald patches or a dull appearance can indicate underlying health problems. A healthy coat should be shiny and smooth.
Ears: Ears should be clean and free of discharge or foul odor. Look for signs of redness, swelling or excessive scratching, which could indicate an infection.
Nails: Nails should be trimmed at least once a month. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and even lead to posture problems.
Teeth: Are you brushing your pup’s teeth daily? Over 90% of dogs have periodontal disease by the time they are 3 years old. Look for inflamed or swollen gums.
"What stood out to me about Scenthound was its unique focus on wellness and preventive care."
Find additional wellness education information as well as posts on a variety of dog-related topics at Scenthound/Parker.com .
BY DAVE REITER
“Surrounded By . . .” oil on canvas over board, 20 x 30 in.
The Story Behind the Painting:
“There were so many aspens around me that they almost engulfed me. Yet, I never felt overwhelmed by those surroundings. The colors were so full and vibrant. I felt as if everything around me was hugging me in some way. As I painted this, I felt a great desire to portray the feeling of being surrounded and immersed in the fullness of beauty. I wanted the painting to feel tactile, with the visual perception of something very tangible in front of the viewer.”
Representation:
The District Gallery, 5113 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919
For availability, prices, or to commission a unique piece, contact Dave: Text: 720-338-8843 | Web: davereiterart.com Studio: 10200 Casey Lane, Parker, CO 80138
ARTICLE BY CASSANDRA GREEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY WATKINS
BUMBLE ROOFING IS BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE FOR THE BEES AND OUR COMMUNITY
“"Bees and other pollinators lie at the heart of human survival!"
Eager to educate and invest in the future, Shannon Cockreham and her husband Michael Woodworth are passionate about roofing. They opened their franchise with Bumble Roofing in December 2023. Holding true to their name, Bumble Roofing donates toward the conservation of bees and the vital role they play in our ecosystem.
Shannon shares, “Bees and other pollinators lie at the heart of human survival! The ecological service [bees] provide is necessary for over 85% of the world’s flowering plants, including more than 2/3 of the world’s crop species. The United States alone grows more than 100 crops that either need or benefit from pollinators.” They give to Xerces Society, a science-based international nonprofit organization that protects the natural world through the conservation of invertebrates and their habitats.
You may see Shannon driving around town in her yellow Maverick truck decorated in bright
Bumble branding. She and her trusty sidekick, Indy, a 7-year-old Australian Shepherd, love to connect with the community.
“We are upfront about costs. We give consultative education about roofing, so [our customers] can make an informed decision,” Shannon explains as she talks about the drone she brings for initial inspections. She encourages building a relationship with your roofer. Shannon is not only fluent in the mapping and materials that make up a roof, she is well-educated in the insurance process and brings long term strategies when proposing options.
“We conduct our business with integrity, honesty and transparency,” Shannon says. These values are part of the reason Bumble Roofing attracted them as roofing professionals that care about their homeowners.
If you want an assessment for a roof replacement, repair or inspection you can reach this dynamic team at 303.505.5590.
“We conduct our business with integrity, honesty and transparency,” Shannon states.
Colorado Eye Consultants is committed to delivering compassionate and quality care in a safe and nurturing environment. Using the latest technologies and innovative practices, our doctors dedicate themselves to excellent outcomes…every time. For more than 40 years, the Colorado Eye Consultants team has been caring for patients and changing lives. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at (303) 730-0404
COLORADO EYE CONSULTANTS 1501 West Mineral Avenue Suite 100 | Littleton, CO 80120 ColoradoEyeConsultants.com
Equine therapy is such a diverse thread of healing as well as an impactful experience. The following organizations are making a difference toward hope and healing. They’re taking the emptiness of pain and providing a space for rescue, safety and restoration.
ARTICLE BY CASSANDRA GREEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIM BEER PHOTOGRAPHY, MUSTARD SEED RANCH, GILLIAN PARKER
Let Go | Show Up | Be The Light
In this safe space where showing up is enough, Frannie’s Equine Haven provides a coaching method that encourages people to let go of what no longer serves them. Through experiential healing with horses, people are able to embrace the best version of themselves in order to move into the life that is waiting for them. This method brings awareness to the unfinished business that may be holding people back and is somatically released through a creative and experiential session.
A mental health program for at-risk youth who have experienced abuse or neglect, Mustard Seed Ranch (MSR) provides equine-assisted psychotherapy specifically for youth who have experienced trauma. As the youth and their horse grow in relationship and trust, a genuine healing takes place. What trauma has stolen, the bond between horse and youth restores. Youth can learn how to build relationships with people once more. MSR relies heavily on volunteers and donations because they do not charge for their services.
Wendy Ingrahm, long-time Colorado resident and owner of Sky View Farm, founded Robin’s Nest Foundation in 2019 to help individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, autism, dyslexia, PTSD and more. Their heart is to support mental health in the community. They provide one-on-one equine therapy, youth empowerment group therapy programs, individual and group volunteer opportunities and public outreach. They host events such as hug-a-horse, yoga in the barn, birthday parties and more. They also have annual fundraisers.
For business leaders, professionals, solopreneurs and more, Whole Heart Ranch creates a space where leaders can learn from horses. The innate emotional intelligence horses have is beyond a workshop. It’s an experience, an intelligence and according to Whole Heart Ranch, an agility. Founder Amy Budd states, “ I believe horses are agents of change and have the ability to awaken something deep inside our core and move us in a way we cannot achieve on our own.” Not only does she provide this form of therapy and training, she is also open to speaking opportunities as well.
By coaching through life experiences and confronting unfinished business that can linger like a shadow, Above the Spurs helps clients build strength, confidence and deepen self-awareness through their relationship with a horse. They emphasize how horses offer honest and immediate feedback, serving as "a mirror to your soul." Above the Spurs offers guidance and support as you tackle life's challenges, pursue your personal and professional aspirations and handle everyday issues. They assist in addressing thought patterns and limiting beliefs, enabling individuals to fully step in and embrace their lives.
Equine therapy specific to military service members, veterans and emergency responders and their families, Operation Equine declares, “We do not fight alone and we do not heal alone.” Their program includes a unique approach that helps clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves. Their mission is to empower those who serve our country to live fully and connected to those they love and the community. They also provide equine therapy to teams in the workplace. Overall they want to enrich relationships between people and enhance our understanding of one another.
ARTICLE BY JULIE HOGLUND
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BLUE SKY
CANINE DOG TRAINING
TRAINING KIDS AND PUPPIES FOR BONDING AND FRIENDSHIP
You can send your puppy to kindergarten, middle school and college at Blue Sky Canine Dog Training in Parker. Private in-home training is another option for puppy and family.
Austin Printz, trainer and owner of Blue Sky Canine believes a puppy should be trained from the moment their little paws patter into the family home. “Puppies are sponges and mirrors, just like children. They pick up on all our habits and rituals. Training has to start on day one when the puppy enters the home,” Austin advises.
"Puppies are sponges and mirrors, just like children. They pick up on all our habits and rituals. Training has to start on day one."
I asked Austin a few questions recently about puppies and little people. What specific things should parents do before choosing a puppy?
Research! Parents should do breed research and ask, ‘What kind of puppy are we getting? What are the genetic tendencies of the breed?’ They need to make sure they are going through a reputable breeder, who has been doing it for a long time and has good reviews. Registered papers for the dog are gold! They tell the history of the puppy and its lineage.
Which breeds interact best with children?
Golden retrievers are my number one recommendation. They are gentle with families. Labradors are a tie or at least a close second choice.
What are your thoughts on a family getting a rescue dog?
It really depends on the dog. If it was my family, I would do extensive research on the dog, try to figure out its history, what it has or hasn’t been exposed to. Not every rescue dog is a good fit for a family.
On a personal note, my husband and I adopted a rescue dog, Banksy, without information. We went online and ordered a genetic test kit and found out exactly which breeds he is. Banksy has been a good fit for us.
Can parents do anything specific to help the new puppy and family transition smoothly?
When puppies are moving, it can be very stressful. Give the dog space and let it settle down. Next, develop positive associations with the child. Have them give the dog something it values or food just to help the dog see the child as a friend. Positive association is important.
Thank you, Austin!
AUGUST 2ND
Animal Adventure Wonder Camp Offered by E&E Dance Company
10831 S. Crossroads Drive, Unit B, Parker, CO 80134 | 9:00 AM
Designed for young animal lovers who want to experience the joy of a petting zoo brought right to E&E! Campers have the opportunity to interact with various animals, learn about their care and engage in hands-on activities related to farm life. Each camp includes a dance class, play time, games, crafts and time for food (snack/lunch provided by parent).
AUGUST 3RD
Bob Seger Tribute Band, Still The Same, Returns to Tailgate Tavern
Tailgate Tavern & Grill | 7:00 PM
Spend an evening with Still The Same - Bob Seger Tribute on the patio stage. Playing some of the best music ever written!
AUGUST 3RD
Dancing On The Plains I & II
The Colorado Horse Park, 7522 South Pinery Drive, Parker, CO | 7:00 AM August 3rd at 7 a.m. and August 4th at 7 p.m. USEF/USDF and RMDS Dressage Shows will be presented by the High Plains Dressage Chapter of Rocky Mountain Dressage Society. www.highplainsdressage.org. See you there!
AUGUST 4TH
Parker UMC Car Show
Parker United Methodist Church | 10:00 AM
Parker United Methodist Church and the Parker Cruisers will be hosting a car show in the Parker UMC parking lot on August 4th. Join them for a family fun packed show of some amazing local cars, food trucks and Kona Ice. If you're entering a car the fee is $20. All proceeds benefit Little Blessings Preschool.
AUGUST 9TH
Sonic Night - Parker
16538 Keystone Blvd, Parker, CO 80134 | 6:00 PM
Sonic Night is an event hosted regularly by club members. Enjoy burgers and shakes, cool cars and a chance to make new friends. Not limited to Miatas. Bring a spouse or anyone interested in cool cars.
AUGUST 10TH
Parker Brewfest
O'Brien Park | 12:00 PM
Same great local microbrews, better music, and more food trucks this year! 40 breweries, food trucks, live music, corn hole and more whether rain or shine. More details www.parkerbrewfest.com
AUGUST 10TH
Art in the Park
O’Brien Park | 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Come downtown to O’Brien Park for the Parker Artists Guild’s Art in the Park event on August 10th at Art in the Park, you’ll enjoy entries from more than 100 local and regional artists with a variety of works, including photography, pottery, glass, wood, jewelry, all painting media and much more.
AUGUST 21ST
DCSD Legacy Campus in Lone Tree | 7:00 PM
Meet master storyteller William Kent Krueger when he joins Douglas County Libraries for an event on Wednesday, August 21st, at DCSD Legacy Campus in Lone Tree. He’ll be in conversation with author Mark Stevens. Coffee, tea and desserts will be provided, with books sold by Books Are Awesome of Parker. Visit DCL.org/featured-events for details and tickets.
AUGUST 24TH
6736 Pinery Peak Point, Parker, CO 80134 | 3:00 PM
You’re invited! Celebrate the grand opening with fun festivities and tour Redstone Bank's beautiful new building! Enjoy the day with a bounce house, Kona ice and the What Would Cheesus Do food truck. You can purchase your raffle tickets to help support Ponderosa High School Scoreboard fundraiser.
AUGUST 24TH
Salisbury Equestrian Park | 10:00 AM
Dog Days of Summer is a charity festival that raises money and awareness for local dog rescues. All funds raised will be donated to the attending dog rescues. There are games and activities for dogs of every age, size and ability to enjoy. There will also be vendors, food trucks and a prize booth! Enjoy some fun in the sun with your furry friend!
AUGUST 24TH
DCSD Legacy Campus | 5:30 PM
Grab your neon leg warmers and crimp your hair for a totally tubular evening filled with gnarly food, busting moves on the dance floor, and bidding on righteous auction items, big and small! The annual Spread the Sunshine shindig is where people gather to party hard, celebrating the peeps who've been supported while rallying funds for the Sammie's Sunshine mission.
AUGUST 26TH
The Pinery Country Club, 6900 N Pinery Pkwy, Parker, CO 80134 | 2:30 PM
Tee up for a fun afternoon of golf followed by a dinner and auction benefiting the Rocky Mountain Tigers Scholarship Endowment!