Welcome fall!
One thing I love about Parker is how charming Mainstreet becomes as the weather cools and the leaves change color. I’m not sure what it is exactly, but it’s almost as if, as fall settles in, the town shops become warmer and that much more inviting. It’s easy to romanticize the glowing lights that hang over Mainstreet and the cozy warmth of Fika Coffee House on a chilly day. I love everything about the comforts of warm drinks and cozy food.
With our Food & Drink issue comes an inspiring array of business owners to champion, from the mission-oriented focus of Convict Coffee to the dazzling artistic charcuterie combinations from Boards by Koral. October gives us the honor of highlighting some incredible businesses in Parker. We share the family-owned experience at Jessie’s Smokin’ NOLA and also venture out to discover the wonders found on the Top 5 Kentucky Bourbon Tours.
We hope this issue encourages you to try new dishes and experience the diversity of food, drink and mission within our dazzling town. As always, thanks for reading and we’ll see you around town! Cheers!
CASSANDRA GREEN, PUBLICATION DIRECTOR @PARKERCITYLIFESTYLE
October 2024
PUBLISHER
Joan Dameron | joan.dameron@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER
Jeni Fleck | jeni.fleck@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Cassandra Green cassandra.green@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Abby Watkins | abby@abbywatkinsphotography.com
COPY EDITOR
Elizabeth Watson | watsonmarketingllc@yahoo.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lisa Bakewell, Angela Broockerd, Hannah Echols-Grieser, Cassandra Green, Julie Hoglund
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Adam Bouse, Eva Bronzinni, Koral Cordova, Janie Jones, Abby Watkins, Creations by Vanessa, Buffalo Chase Distillery, Woodford Reserve Distillery
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
business monthly
Visit CSU Spur Every 2nd Saturday of the Month
2nd Saturdays at CSU Spur (held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) are free and open to the public for lots of family-friendly programming, including cooking activities in the CSU Spur kitchen, opportunities to watch veterinarians perform surgery on dogs and cats, see horses assisting with human therapies, engage with scientists at work and play in a kid’s kitchen and kid’s vet clinic.
Tea Street Grand Opening in Parker
Tea Street held their Grand Opening in Parker, August 31st. Owners and siblings, Patrick and Victoria Lam are Colorado natives, but ethnically, they are Cantonese with significant Vietnamese cultural influence. Premium loose-leaf tea, directly sourced from Taiwan, is at the core of Tea Street’s menu. Tea Street puts a modern twist on classically inspired drinks, building upon the foundation of invigorating bold brews of tea. They also provide fried pot stickers and steamed dumplings made fresh in-house.
National Charity League, Inc., Elevation Chapter Honored
The Elevation Chapter of National Charity League, Inc. (NCL), the nation’s premier mother-daughter volunteer organization, has been recognized as the 2024 Volunteer Partner of the Year for the Foundation for Douglas County Schools. The award recognizes a community partner for their contribution of volunteer time throughout the summer and school year to benefit the Douglas County Schools. The award was presented at the annual Building the Dream Gala at the Legacy Campus in Lone Tree.
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.
Coffee Shop
Convict Coffee convictcoffeeco.com | 720.476.6849
Perfect Blend perfectblendcompany.com | 720.772.1252
Deja Brew dejabrewco.com | 720.336.8382
Fika Coffee House fikacoffeehouse.com | 303.840.3166
Kunjani World Coffeehouse kunjanicoffee.com | 720.899.1600
Winery/Brewery
Lone Tree Brewing Company lonetreebrewingco.com | 303.792.5822
Purgatory Cellars Winery purgatorycellarscolorado.com | 303.600.8209
The Wine Barrel thewinebarrelparker.com | 303.999.0454
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
Fiction Beer Company - Parker fictionbeerparker.com | 303.954.0347
Downhill Brewing- Parker downhillbrews.com | 303.805.2739
Restaurant
Black+Haus Tavern - Parker blackhaustavern.com | 303.568.9671
Jessie's Smokin' NOLA smokinnola.com | 720.600.1191
West Main Taproom + Grill westmaintaproom.com | 720.826.3689
Wolf Peach Public House thewolfpeach.com | 303.635.6264
Portofino Pizza and Pasta portofinopizzaandpasta.com | 303.841.9900
Mexican Food
Los Dos Potrillos Mexican Restaurant y Cerveceria los2potrillos.com | 303.840.6574
Las Delicias lasdelicias.us | 303.840.0325
Casa Mariachi casamariachiparker.com | 720.842.5105
Las Potrancas Mexican Restaurant laspotrancasmexicanrestaurant.com | 303.862.4406
El Huerto Mexican Restaurant elhuertomexican.com | 303.805.7229
Breakfast
The Perfect Time Cafe 720.353.4818
Bread and Butters Parker breadandbuttersparker.com | 303.840.3343
Doug's Diner dougsdinerparker.com | 720.476.7162
Rory's Diner therorysdiner.com | 720.708.2889
Poulette Bakeshop poulettebakeshop.com | 303.955.5647
a variety of virtually instructed, infrared sauna workouts Our members achieve their fitness goals with 3D Training - our powerful combination of heat, infrared energy, and exercise
5 Top Kentucky Bourbon Tours
Perfect Conditions and Climate Help Attract Worldwide Bourbon Lovers to Kentucky
According to the Kentucky Distillers’ Association ( KyBourbon.com), Kentucky is the birthplace of bourbon, crafting 95 percent of the world’s supply. It is the only Bluegrass State with the perfect mix of climate and conditions to attract bourbon lovers worldwide. Here are five of the most popular distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY (FRANKFORT)
Dating back to 1775, Buffalo Trace is one of the oldest distilleries in the United States. It offers several tours, including the Trace Tour, Hard Hat Tour and the Bourbon Barrel Tour. Visitors see the production process, learn its history and taste award-winning bourbons like Buffalo Trace and Eagle Rare. BuffaloTraceDistillery.com
WOODFORD RESERVE DISTILLERY (VERSAILLES)
Nestled in the heart of the Bluegrass region, Woodford Reserve Distillery offers a picturesque setting with historic charm. Guided tours take visitors through the entire bourbon-making process, a visit to the limestone aging warehouses and its copper pot stills. Tours end with a tasting of Woodford Reserve’s premium bourbons. WoodfordReserve.com
MAKER’S MARK DISTILLERY (LORETTO)
Famous for its distinct red wax-sealed bottles, Maker’s Mark offers a comprehensive tour covering its history, unique production process and iconic hand-dipping to cap off the bottles. End your tour with a tasting of products and even dip your own bottle in the signature red wax. MakersMark.com
HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERY (BARDSTOWN)
As one of the largest family-owned and operated spirits producers in the country, Heaven Hill offers a variety of tours that delve into its rich history and tradition. Explore rickhouses where the bourbon is aged, enjoy guided tastings and learn about Heaven Hill’s brands, including Elijah Craig and Larceny. HeavenHillDistillery.com
JIM BEAM AMERICAN STILLHOUSE (CLERMONT)
As one of the most recognizable names in bourbon, the Jim Beam American Stillhouse offers an interactive tour. Visitors see the entire distillation process from grain to glass—including a visit to the barrel warehouses, a bottling line and a tasting of Jim Beam’s diverse bourbon portfolio. JimBeam.com
Kentucky is the birthplace of bourbon, crafting 95% of the world’s supply. “
Woodford Reserve Distillery (Versailles)
Jim Beam Distillery
Stillroom at Woodford Reserve
Buffalo Chase Distillery Barrels
ORIGINAL LANDSCAPE AND ABSTRACT PAINTINGS
BY DAVE REITER
Representation:
The District Gallery, 5113 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919
“Ever Changing But Always the Same” Oil on canvas over board, 16 x 20 in.
The Story Behind the Painting:
“As I gathered photo references on an early fall day in Colorado, I saw this small side road off to the right. It intrigued me so much that I stopped my vehicle, got out, and walked down the road a bit. With the overcast skies, I loved the feelings that stirred inside me as I took in my surroundings. It might seem natural to think about changing seasons when fall comes around, but those feelings intensified by the scene unfolding before me. The overcast day and reflective mood caused me to see how things change, even when other things seem to stay the same. I wanted this painting to convey those reflections and the thoughts I contemplated that day as I took the small journey down this quiet road.”
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
SOUTHERN COMFORT
ROCKIES in the
ARTICLE BY HANNAH ECHOLS GRIESER
Food has a timeless way of reminding us of our roots while paving the path for our future.
For Jessie Rayford, a New Orleans native now residing in Parker, this connection is embodied in every dish served at his restaurant, Jessie’s Smokin’ NOLA. Jessie’s culinary journey began in his mother’s bustling kitchen, where she skillfully balanced raising 17 children with operating a Cajun restaurant. Observing her victories and challenges, Jessie learned the value of good food, hard work and
JESSIE’S SMOKIN’ NOLA
customer service. Jessie and his wife, Andrea, have experience weathering multiple sides of the restaurant industry, from operating food trucks at local events to running brick-and-mortar businesses. They opened their newest restaurant off Mainstreet during June of this year, bringing a taste of New Orleans to the heart of Parker.
If you ask Jessie about his favorite item on their diverse menu, he is quick to reply, “Everything!”
Among the crowd favorites is the Taste of Orleans, a hearty platter featuring jambalaya, red beans and rice, fried shrimp and fried catfish. Yet, Wednesdays hold a special place on the calendar for many, as it’s the day the restaurant serves its famous fried chicken special. All of Jessie’s fried dishes are gluten-free, and he’s even experimenting with a gluten-free jambalaya recipe. The dining experience is further elevated with a full bar offering New Orleans-themed cocktails, including the Bourbon Street and Laissez Le Bon Temps Rouler, a nod to the city’s vibrant culture with its cheerful meaning, “Let the good times roll.”
Beyond the enticing menu, Jessie and Andrea place immense value on customer service. For them, those who walk through their doors are more than just customers—they are neighbors and friends. Over the years, they have built meaningful connections, sharing meals and even vacations with patrons who’ve become like family. As their restaurant continues to
“That’s my goal–to keep every customer as happy as possible,” Jessie says.
grow, Jessie and Andrea are on the lookout for passionate front-of-the-house staff who share their commitment to creating memorable dining experiences.
“We try to make this a fun place to work, and a good, happy place for the customers. That’s my goal–to keep every customer as happy as possible,” Jessie says.
Convict Coffee Company
A Cause-Driven Effort to Get Out and Do Good
ARTICLE BY CASSANDRA GREEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY WATKINS
Convict Coffee, under the partnership and leadership of Dan Klehm and his sons, Daniel and Damien, is on a mission to make a difference. With an array of traditional coffee drinks, matcha, chais and filthy pops, baked goods and grilled cheese sandwiches, it’s the perfect spot to hang out with friends and feel a place of belonging.
CONTINUED >
Dan grew up in the Bay Area under difficult circumstances. “As an adult, I served a little bit under two years in the California system,” Dan shares. But inspired by the birth of his first son, Damien, he was determined to change the trajectory of his life. Dan is passionate about helping people turn their lives around. He sees the need specifically for those who have been incarcerated or are headed in that direction. With 40 years of experience working within the restaurant industry, as a Vice President and COO, Dan was exhausted by the shallow workings of the trade. “I was disappointed in what I saw. Underpaid employees, greedy investors and a lack of commitment to improving the community were what I observed,” he shares. Christmas of 2023 defined an awakening for Dan. He realized his true passion to create a better structure of success. He and his sons put a business plan together and by April of
2024, they were open for business. They decided together that Convict Coffee would not become a business that made one CEO rich, it would be a mission-oriented effort to better the lives of all of those involved along with four vital causes.
“We dove into Convict Coffee with the idea of taking on four main causes: recidivism, reduction (boost programs that keep youth out of trouble), rehabilitation instead of incarceration and the last cause that is really important to me is that there’s a place where everybody feels safe. People from all walks of life can come together and really feel like they can be themselves… We have this swath of community here where everybody feels welcome and ultimately for me that is very important that that was our mission,” Dan says.
“Our goal is to consistently ask ourselves, who else can we partner with to grow our footprint, get out in the community,” Dan emphasizes that they are on mission. With a full event calendar, Convict Coffee has a heart to gather and partner with the community.
Everywhere you turn in Convict Coffee, you’re reminded of their cause-driven effort. They share the charities they’re currently giving toward and proudly display Prison Art Experience prints that people can buy.
“I would definitely shout out First Crack as being an incredible partner, helping us get started, giving me a lot of advice on equipment and what kind of beans to roast [etc.),” Dan excitedly acknowledges First Crack as well as
“Parker in particular, there’s so many cool people that have supported us that have brought us different causes to work with. It’s pretty inspiring.”
the partners and collaborations that have gotten them to where they are.
“Our mission is, ‘Get out. Do good.’ Get out, do good, and that’s not just get out of prison and do good. It’s to get off the couch and do good. It’s get out of your house and do good, get out of your head and do good,” Dan expresses his passion for people in general. “I’ve learned how many cool people are out there doing cool things.”
Specifically, he shares, “Parker in particular, there’s so many cool people that have supported us that have brought us different causes to work with. It’s pretty inspiring.”
Visit Convict Coffee, 19519 E Parker Square Dr, Parker, CO 80134 to support this coffee on a mission. ConvictCoffeeCo.com
Colorado Eye Consultants welcomes board-certified and ASOPRS fellowship trained ophthalmologist, Dr. Carl Rebhun, specializing in Oculofacial Plastic Surgery. His extensive training has helped him to establish his reputation as a highly skillful surgeon who utilizes the latest and most innovative techniques, to obtain exceptional, natural looking results. This approach, along with a compassionate bedside manner and dedication to helping others, has led Dr. Rebhun to help his patients achieve their medical and cosmetic goals through both surgical and non-surgical procedures.
To learn more, or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at (303) 730-0404.
TheArtof Charcuterie
LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR TAKES PARTY PLATTERS TO A WHOLE NEW LEVEL
Koral Cordova, like many artists, uses a wood palette to create masterpieces with texture, color and unique design. Her clients love to eat them!
At Boards by Koral charcuterie is an art form. Salami rosettes, waves of juicy turkey and prosciutto, bowls of salty olives, blueberry-edged goat cheese circles and an endless combination of delicacies are displayed for any event.
“I think charcuterie boards are so important because it brings people together. Snacking together, trying new food combinations can spark conversation,” Koral says.
ARTICLE BY JULIE HOGLUND
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CREATIONS BY VANESSA, KORAL CORDOVA
BOARDS BY KORAL
She is expanding into wedding services.”Weddings are the most important events to me because I know what the couple is looking for. I had so much fun planning my own wedding. A couple tells me what they want and I build a sample board right in front of them!” She has designed spreads of food for the bridal suite for the bride and her party to snack on while getting ready. Her individual Charcuterie Cups are a hit during thecocktail hour while people are mingling. As for her colorful Grazing Tables, they are a masterpiece to be seen and eaten.
Koral is grateful for the people in Parker. “The Parker community has been supportive, and I want them to know that I am thankful for their business. Every single order they place matters to me, small or large. I take my time to think about each one and put my love into it!” Each board is one of a kind.
Her creations are a palette to the pallet! Check out BoardsByKoral.com for more information.
Charcuterie carts for guests to enjoy!
Artwork by Koral
Individual Charcuterie Cups
SER VI NG UP S OUP
CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP
This hearty chicken noodle soup is the perfect comfort food that is packed with nutritious goodness. This pairs perfectly with homemade beer bread or a sourdough loaf.
INGREDIENTS:
• 8 cups chicken broth (add more if desired)
• Whole fryer chicken, cut in chunks or shredded
• 5 celery stalks, sliced
• 8 carrots, sliced
• ½ onion diced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
• ¼ cup half and half (optional)
• 1 package egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
In a large stock pot, add 8 cups of chicken broth. Dice carrots, celery and onion and add to the broth. Bring to a boil, and reduce to medium heat until the vegetables are soft. In the meantime, skin and cube 1 whole fryer chicken and add to the stock pot. Next, add egg noodles (frozen Reames homemade egg noodles are my favorite) and let boil until noodles are cooked. Add butter, half and half, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer on low until ready to serve.
Fall’s most notable comfort meal
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
OCTOBER 3RD
Beauty Refined Fall Glam & Glow Open House
Beauty Refined, 19647 Solar Circle, Parker, CO | 4:00 PM
We are thrilled to announce Beauty Refined Medical Aesthetics & Wellness is expanding to Parker! Enjoy snacks, drinks and access to their biggest sales of the year. Open house 4 to 7:30 p.m. The first 50 attendees will receive goodie bags full of their favorite products, plus vouchers for extra savings.
OCTOBER 3RD
Kids' Zone Parent/Child: Goblin Giggles (18mos-3yrs) FALL24
Parker Recreation Center | 10:00 AM
Little giggling goblins gather ‘round to have some fun. Make fall crafts, play games and sing spooky songs. October 3, 10, 24 and 31 at 10 a.m. Please wear a costume to the last class on October 31st for trick-or-treating! *Class Requirements: A parent or caregiver must participate with the child. Please contact Diane Lange at dlange@parkerco.gov with questions.
OCTOBER 5TH
Runabilities Fun Walk/Run/Roll
Sulphur Gulch Trail, 20120 E. Mainstreet | 9:00 AM
Whether you walk, run or roll the fully accessible course, this sensory-friendly event will be fun for all! The paved course is fully accessible and offers a one or two-mile option. Registered participants of all ages receive an event T-shirt, souvenir race bib and finisher medal. The sensory-friendly event also features giveaways, light refreshments and local vendors.
OCTOBER 5TH
2024 Bags Beans & Brews - Downtown Parker
O'Brien Park 10795 Victorian Drive Parker, CO 80138 | 12:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Come on down for a fabulous fall day of cornhole, craft beer, and a community chili cookoff at the 2024 Bags Beans & Brews in Downtown Parker!
OCTOBER 12TH
Fieldhouse Fright Night
Parker Fieldhouse | 5:30 PM
Kids will find tricks and treats galore as they make their way around Trick-or-Treat Street, play goblin games, visit Story Adventure Walk for the littles and Haunted House for the bigs, conquer the Rock'n Halloween Climbing Wall and play superhero with Parker Police Department and South Metro Safety Foundation!
OCTOBER 17TH
Gilmore Girls Trivia @ Fiction Beer Parker
The Parker Taproom, 19523 Hess Rd, Parker, CO 80134 | 7:00 PM
Whether you're a Luke’s Diner regular or just love a good Friday night dinner, it’s time to put your Stars Hollow smarts to the test. Grab your trivia team, sip on craft beers and dive into all things Gilmore! They have amazing prizes so come ready to win!
Don't Let Investments Take a Vacation
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.
Here are a few suggestions for doing just that:
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.
