ELIFE - Spring/Summer 2016

Spring Summer 2016

style etc.

Coffee: The True Elixir of Life

TOP COLORADO VENUES

BEAUTIFUL ERIE IT’S ALL ABOUT THE BEER

Bridal Guide

the ultimate wedding guide to: Erie, Louisville Lafayette, Niwot Longmont, Boulder and surrounding towns

SPRING AND SUMMER

ISSUE

find the right

wedding dress

SPECIAL WEDDING SECTION INSIDE!

SEX TRAFFICKING: RIGHT IN YOUR BACKYARD

The Bride Wore BLACK

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Protecting the things you LOVE is what insurance is all about… photo by Mary Pantier

Pure Risk Solutions is an independent insurance agency for local families and businesses. Working with an independent agent not only gives you more choices but it also gives you someone whose reputation is part of the service. Living and working in Erie, we are always right next door, We work with scores of carriers allowing us to customize the right insurance solutions for health, life, home, auto and business needs.

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LIFE IN ERIE, COLORADO

ADVERTISING ELIFE magazine offers businesses the most cost-effective way to reach consumers in Erie and its surrounding towns.

Information about advertising is available on the Web at ELIFEmagazine.org Call 212.695.2959 to request a media kit.

SPONSORSHIPS ELIFE magazine supports organizations that make our town a better place to live and work.

Submit sponsorship proposals to trisha@ELIFEmagazine.org

EDITORIAL OFFICE 212.695.2959 | trisha@ELIFEmagazine.org ELIFE is published by Ventker Publishing

www.ELIFEmagazine.org

SPRING: The Perfect Time for a FRESH Look RIGHT PAGE 

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Editor-in-chief Trisha Ventker

Creative and Production Director Advertising Sales Executive Copy Editor Layout and Design Director Layout Assistant Photographer Contributing Writers

Trisha Ventker Keaton Canos John Small Trisha Ventker Tom Ventker Trisha Ventker Steve Adjemian, John Ahrens, Wira Babiak, Jennifer Barton, Jaime Slade Bessko, Eric Briggs, Scott Charles, Ashely Nicole Crader, Georgez Dabit, Geoff Deakin, Michaela Hatch-Drennon, Coreda Ehrhart, Larry Gerber, Patrice Gerber, Jacqueline ChavanuGilbert, Adam Haid, Erich Hardy, Mayor Tina Harris, Sarah Iwanski, Dr. Lisa Jordan, Mark Kadlecek, Heather Kemp, Lori King, Cheryl Anne Kraus, Brian McGuirk,Nancy Mclaughlin, Jolene Mckenna, Anne Meyers, Jacob Neal, Jonathan Robert, Connie Ruel, Cheryl Schuberth, Jim Small, John Small, Sue Sundstrom, Amy Tallent, Tedd Taskey, Janelle Taylor, Trisha Ventker, Amy Webb, Mary Vigil, Dawn Warkentine, Heather Wiegand, David White, Dan Woog

EDITORIAL OFFICE 212.695.2959 | trisha@ELIFEmagazine.org ELIFE is published by Ventker Publishing

www.ELIFEmagazine.org

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Editor's Note EDITORIAL PAGE 

21

I would like to thank everyone who read our first edition of ELIFE magazine.

Although it was quite a job to get it together around the holidays, we did, and our staff and I had a blast!

ELIFE is very fortunate with its reception. Not only by the Erie residents, but many residents from the surrounding towns are giving us glowing feedback.

Several of the emails we received were regarding our rich content-based publication. We strive to be different than the local publications which can be predominately filled with advertisements.

ELIFE is by Erie about Erie. We have a plethora of extremely talented people here and this magazine is all about showcasing their talent. Our local businesses are of the finest in Colorado and without them, Erie would not be voted as one of the top places to live in Money magazine last year.

On a more personal note, I would like to thank Keaton Canos, ELIFE’s Advertising Executive who works endless hours to secure our advertisers.

She also happens to be one of my best friends, proving that sometimes business and friendship can work in conjunction with each other.

In additon, I would thank my Copy Editor and Chief Contributing Writer and brother, John Small, as well as all of the wonderful authors of the articles that came our way and all of the advertisers who believed in us from the start. Also, last but certainly not least, my loving and ever-present and equally patient husband, Tom, who without his guidance and contributions, our efforts would be compromised at the very least. But most of all, YOU! Without YOU, there would be no ELIFE magazine. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

I hope you like this Spring/Summer edition. With this issue, we celebrate Erie, in the great State of Colorado!

Trisha Ventker TRISHA VENTKER Editor-in-Chief ELIFE MAGAZINE|

36

Trisha Ventker is an author, photographic artist, branding and social media expert and retired elementary school teacher. She also finds promoting and bringing local businesses together very rewarding.

She is best known for her book Internet Dates From Hell which is self-published by Ventker through iUniverse and has since had the movie rights to it optioned to Paula Wagner. She is also one of the first Indie Books authors to have a book that was optioned for the big screen. Trisha is originally from New York City, now residing in Erie, Colorado with her husband and son.

This issue is dedicated to Mary Vigil to honor her for all her dedication and work with the victims of sex trafficking in Colorado.

www.elifemagazine.org www.ELIFEmagazine.org

 

01 ERIE

Priorities for 2016 - Letter From Mayor Tina Harris Erie's Rich History - Part 2 Preserving Historic Erie Collaboration: An Educated Approach Erie and the Great Outdoors Beautiful Erie

02 HOME

Sprucing Up for Spring Home With a New Heart Why You Should Paint the Exterior of Your Home Hide and Go Leak

03 WEDDINGS #weddingsrighthere You're Planning a Wedding?

The Bride Wore Black Spring into Wedding Fashion So, What is Marriage?

Have the Conversation Weddings and Wood Premarital Counseling

16 22 27 30 34 33

53 57 66 75

80 88 92 97 102 106 108 112

04 ARTS & CULTURE Little Plastic Cloud Can You Autumn Morning: An Artist With a Magical Flair Art & Your Brain

114 118 120 122

05 STYLE Color Me What?

06 FOOD

Coffee-The Elixir of Life It's All About Beer Umbrella in Your Drink

128

132 134 142

07 HEALTH & BEAUTY Blow Others Away This Summer Spring in Your Step Another Wave of Fitness The Skinny on Cool Sculpting Eye Believe

147 150 154 156 160

08 DID YOU KNOW? Sex Trafficking: Right Here in your Backyard

164

09 SELF DISCOVERY The Mother/Daughter RIGHT PAGE Connection Finding Your Path TABLE OF CONTENTS - SECTION 9 TO 12 The Beginner's Mind 1.

2.

3.

4.

167 170 173

ARTS & CULTURE FASHION PETS SPORTS

10 PARENTING Flash Cards or Fingerprints?

181

11 PETS Energy Speaks Volumes Your Pet a Party Animal?

185 190

12 BUSINESS & TECH T&A Encryption is Everywhere

194 199

13 SPORTS RIGHT PAGE

Be A Happy Camper,Plan Now The Perfect Ride

203 206

TABLE OF CONTENTS - SECTION 9 TO 12 5.

6.

7.

8.

ARTS & CULTURE FASHION PETS SPORTS

14 TRAVEL

Vietnam and Cambodia

211

SPRING/SUMMER

NEWS LEFT PAGE - LETTER FROM MAYOR PAGE 1

LETTER FROM MAYOR TINA HARRIS

PRIORITIES FOR 2016

PRIORITIES FOR 2016

RIGHT PAGE - LETTER FROM MAYOR PAGE 2

LETTER FROM MAYOR TINA HARRIS

TINA HARRIS Mayor Town of Erie MONEY Magazine Names Erie #13 of the Best 50 Places to Live in America!

As Mayor, my priority for 2016 is to maintain our momentum in pursuing more commercial revenue opportunities for Erie. The new King Soopers Marketplace set to open later this year is a significant milestone, and it is important for us to build upon this success in order to continue to diversify our economic base, increase sales tax revenue and provide opportunities for us all to shop local.

First let me share with you the positive news about our overall sales tax revenue trend lines. We are currently estimating that our 2015 sales tax revenues from Erie-based businesses (this excludes auto sales tax) will show an increase of approximately 4% when compared to 2014 – that’s good news. And this year, we are projecting that sales tax revenue will outpace 2015 by an additional 10%. This is even better news!

These revenue increases are no accident rather they are the results of two factors. The first reason is, the Town has made a concerted effort to make Erie a more attractive place to do business. For example, the Historic Downtown Erie Business District is enjoying a revitalization once only dreamt about. Starting with The Old Mine Cidery paving the path, Erie was honored with a Governor’s Award recognizing our public/private partnership converting the old fire station into Echo Brewery. Soon, more businesses followed including: Industrial Revolution Brewing, Sweets Bakery, SnowBee PC, Nosh Sandwiches, Erie Farmers Market, 24 Carrot Bistro and Empanadas by Gaucho de Argentina. With the increase in its popularity, Historic Downtown Erie Business District sales tax revenues increased approximately 43% in 2014 and more than 75% in 2015!

The second reason is, so many of you accepted my challenge from one year ago to make a commitment to shopping local. When you buy local, more money is kept in Erie because businesses often purchase from other local businesses and service providers and/or farms.

When you shop in Erie, you are simultaneously creating jobs, investing in neighborhood improvement and promoting community development. Successful Erie businesses attract other

PRIORITIES FOR 2016

LEFT PAGE - LETTER FROM MAYOR PAGE 3

LETTER FROM MAYOR TINA HARRIS businesses creating a healthy business culture. Erie businesses support local non-profits which make our community better. Buying local conserves energy & resources in the form of less fuel for transportation and packaging. Thank you Erie!

I must point out that Historic Downtown is not the only economic zone that’s been attracting new retail. Just drive a little further south on Briggs Street and visit Cristos Coffee and Escape Uptown Salon & Spa. The Four Corners saw the expansion of County Line Liquors, the opening of JJ’s Pub and will soon be home to Erie’s first national quick service restaurant – Burger King.

In the Erie Airpark, Erie Coffee Roasters started business in 2015 and plans are being considered for 120,000 square feet of commercial that could bring among other businesses a brewpub.

Some of the new businesses I have mentioned (and many more that I have not) I believe owe a degree of gratitude to our talented economic development team at Town Hall. These are the staff that assists new businesses with finding a location that is right for them and guiding them through the Town’s various review and permitting processes. Over any given year businesses come and go and our staff does a commendable job at keeping the current supply of available retail spaces occupied.

While supporting small business is a must – we cannot ignore the significant efforts involved in attracting and supporting larger commercial/retail development such as the King Soopers Marketplace and Nine Mile Corner. Key to our efforts over the past years is participation in RECON - the International Council of Shopping Centers’ global convention for the shopping center industry where we meet with national retailers such as restaurants (both sit down and quick serve), grocers, home goods and many more. This spring, our team will face even greater challenges at RECON as we promote available opportunities in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Top on the list in 2016 will be promoting available pad sites at the 20 acre King Soopers site on Highway 7 and working with our Nine Mile Corner development partner to attract the desired anchor tenant, restaurants and retail for the new 50 acre site located at the southeast corner of Highway 287 and Arapahoe. And let’s not forget other retail development sites at the Four Corners, Erie Highlands, Erie Commons and I-25 & Erie Parkway.

We know an overwhelming amount of Erie residents support increasing retail opportunities in Erie; that’s why participating in RECON is so important for our future. The annually renewable sales tax revenues generated from retail helps the Town diversify our economy. As we start the New Year I will ask that our Board and Town Staff remain committed to our sustained, deliberate approach towards creating and supporting larger commercial/retail development. I also ask for your continued support in shopping local.

It is an honor to serve as your Mayor. Thank you!

Tina Harris, Mayor

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would like to invite you to attend our second annual English afternoon tea and fashion show fundraiser.

Fashions provided by Barbara & Company of Boulder and Denver.

Sunday, April 24, 2016 1 to 3 pm Boulder Country Club 7350 Clubhouse Road, Boulder, CO 80301 Invite your friends and family! $45 per ticket donation Full Bar - Cash Only Spring dresses and hats encouraged!

To purchase tickets call 303-665-0566 or go to ccmow.shopify.com/fashionshow2016 no later than April 20, 2016

The 2016 Meador’s RIGHT- Meador Master’s Ad Masters

www.Facebook.com/Meadors.Masters

ERIE’S RICH HISTORY

LEFT PAGE - JOHN’S ERIE ARTICLE PAGE 1

HISTORY OF ERIE PART 2

The Founding Fathers To truly credit the earliest settlers and founding fathers of Erie from a journalistic standpoint may be too daunting a task. However, to do justice to the most influential among them, a categorization may be the most reasonable approach. As for the "homesteaders", the list is sixteen families strong, namely Beasly, Carr, Daily, D e l a c h a n t , H a u c k , K e mp t o n , L e y n e r, Liggett, Marfell, Miller, Pease, Plumb, Prince, Smith, Tyler and Wise families. Of these families, some raised crops, the others livestock. The most common foodstuffs from their efforts generated from wheat, barley, oats and alfalfa fields that they maintained for decades after the Homestead Act of 1862. Others grew cabbage, carrots, cucumbers, lettuce, beets and turnips. Still others cultivated fruit groves. Horses and cattle, along with goats, sheep, chickens, turkeys and ducks that were raised along the plains of Erie. Plentiful bounties of both foodstuffs and livestock were available to all Boulder Va l l e y r e s i d e n t s from Denver to Lafayette, Louisville to Boulder.

"

UNFORTUNATELY, DUE TO THE UNSAFE AND UNHEALTHY CONDITIONS OF MOST MINES DURING ERIE'S EARLIEST MINING DAYS, MINERS BEGAN TO STRIKE.

b John y Smal l

ERIE’S RIGHT PAGE -RICH JOHN’S ERIEHISTORY ARTICLE PAGE 2 By 1866, however, the "coal rush" was well underway and Erie became an epicenter for both American and foreign miners. Although Baker's Bank was the first, Capt. Ira Austin discovered a vast coal vein just east of town and opened the first official coal mine in the state of Colorado. George Gilson, who sold the parcel that Austin developed promised the town that if a railroad were to stop at Erie, coal would ultimately be a windfall profit for the area. Gilson's prophesy came to fruition, for in 1870, coal mining was such a driving economic force, that The Denver Pacific Railroad constructed a rail spur from Brighton (called Hughes back then) to Erie. This later would be known as The Denver and Boulder Valley Railway, completed in 1871. This took the coal haul industry from horse-driven wagon vending to railroad hopper cars in a mere year or so.

C.F. Wallace operated the depot, which included the telegraph office, mail stop and passenger fare/ticket office whose rails ran westward. The depot was located just south of Perry Street, crossing Coal Creek. By 1873, service extended through Canfield on to Boulder.

Unfortunately, at the height of Erie's coal resource recognition and financial boom in 1879, the Union Pacific Rail Road stopped serving Erie, due to unrest and a lack of negotiations between miners and railway.

It is at that juncture, that the UPRR temporarily moved its operations to Hanna, Wyoming. Erie had to survive now on its own railway resources.

Two of its founding fathers, Isaac Canfield and William O. Wise invested in and operated a narrow-gauge 8.2 mile track between Longmont and Canfield, known as The Longmont Baby Railroad, which ran along today's 119th Street. In 1881, it was finished, up and running, hauling coal from Canfield's Rob Roy and Star Mines to Mitchell at a much more reasonable rate than the major rail lines charged. In time, the line connected to The Denver, Utah and Pacific Railroad. Once again, Erie found a way to not only survive but also prosper in the midst of adversity. Although the Northern Colorado Coalfield would amass more than 200 coalfields in time, Erie had no less than 40 within its confines.

Before long Erie would become the leading producer of lignite in the state of Colorado. The greatest output generated from the Columbine Mine. Although everything was going Erie's way, tensions mounted and the miners' cries for fair wage and treatment were finally heard by Unions from all places.

!

Even The Industrial Workers of the World captured the attention of Erie's miners. Other unions included The Knights of Labor, The Western Federation of Miners and The United Mine Workers Association. Things were about to change for workforce the of Erie; however, not without a cost!

Unfortunately, due to the unsafe and unhealthy conditions of most mines during Erie's earliest mining days, miners began to strike! Between the lethal gasses leaking from these coal pits, the inevitable residual dust collection in workers' lungs and weigh bosses consistently short-changing the miners and their loads of extracted coal, miners were either permanently

UNFORTUNATELY, AT THE HEIGHT OF ERIE'S COAL RESOURCE RECOGNITION AND FINANCIAL BOOM IN 1879, THE UNION PACIFIC RAIL ROAD STOPPED SERVING ERIE, DUE TO UNREST AND A LACK OF NEGOTIATIONS BETWEEN MINERS AND RAILWAY. STRIKE. walking off work crews or even destroying the very mines in which they worked. Along with the manner in which they were paid, namely "scrip" which was nothing less than a credit system, only to be redeemed in company supply stores charging dramatically higher prices than stores in town, selling identical products, miners demanded representation by "outsiders" or labor unions. The final straw was miners' demands of more input in managerial decisions and future planning. The new battle was between those unions and mine owners, which undeniably caused a higher level of dissension in the boomtown of Erie, Colorado.

Sooner than later, law enforcement, both local and state, governmental officials and even Erie's farmers became enraged and involved. Miners were even labeled as “socialists”, when they weren't being heckled and jeered at as troublemakers. These "Communist Workers" would have their "day in court", though.

HISTORY ERIE’S OF RICH ERIE HISTORY LEFT PAGE - JOHN’S ERIE ARTICLE PAGE 3 Thanks to one John Mitchell, president of The United Mine Workers Union, miners would have a safer condition in which to work, fairer wages and less time (8 hours) on the job during the workday, among other "perks" so to speak. April 1st was dedicated to Mitchell and celebrated by Erie residents as John

Erie), Van worked the mines of Central City, simultaneously, "working" the Protestant community of the "then infamous" town. His next move would be most memorable for Erie, Colorado, for he would become Erie's true "Founding Father".

Supplementing his income with Erie coal mining, van Valkenburg not only decided to stay, but also became Erie's first trustee and mayor, while building the first Protestant churches for and ministering to his Methodist community as well as the Welsh Presbyterians. The church on Holbrook Street, built in 1888 was eventually named The United Methodist/ Episcopal Church of Erie. Van began a long line of Protestant congregations and ministers, including John L. Moffat, Isaac and Hosea Beardsley, Don Littrell, Oscar F. McKay, Earl Lewis, Grover Briggs to the most recent Jim Calhoun and Carol Lillie. Some of the town's historic streets are named after former ministers and their families of this faith. Ironically, none are named after van Valkenburg, although his wife, Cordelia Briggs from Ulster, N.Y. and her family may have the honor of historic street namesake.

Historians believe he actually built Erie's first house after working in the mines for a short while. He didn't stop there! Van Valkenburg also built and ran the first hotel, The Erie House and became the area's first Colorado Legislator, all the while editing the first newspaper, The Erie-Canfield Independent and serving as postmaster and justice of the peace for the town of Erie. He even ran the first Undertaking business after acquiring a house on Pierce Street in 1886 and continuing until 1890! Van, himself died in 1912 and is buried in Fairmont Cemetery in Denver.

Although Van's accomplishments were collectively great, to say the least, maybe his greatest was his successful attempt to incorporate the town of Erie. In 1874 (two years before the state enters the Union), Erie appeared as such on early territory maps as well as currently on Colorado State maps. The term, "Van the Man" certainly fits this monumental man of influence on the Great Plains town of Erie, Colorado!

Mitchell Day. The only other holiday equally important is Biscuit Day, still celebrated every September in Erie.

Biscuit Day has and is Erie's most long lasting Perennial Town Celebration. For years, during the late 1800's, due to the local baker, Chris Miller's free distribution of biscuits and apple butter during the post-harvest month of October, people flocked to downtown Erie for everything from horse racing ( for that one day only ) down Briggs Street, ladies eating for free, to stew-eating “contests" to accompany the free biscuits. All commemorated the mining industry's workers' resumption after four long months of summer not in those very mines. Miners took summer jobs in the crop fields, stockyards or mountain mines until the autumn and winter months, when the coal pits were "ready again". Today, Biscuit Day is celebrated in September for the same (to one degree) yet different reasons- same as, in socializing and stew contests sponsored by several of the local restaurants; different in, that there are no more mines (nor miners, for that matter) for returning purposes.

The name of the old coal mining town was derived from a New York minister's love of the last town in which he lived before moving west, namely, Erie, Pennsylvania. Richard Jeptha van Valkenburg, Erie's "town father" reigned from Schoharie County, N.Y. Born in 1823, Captain van Valkenburg would later fight with General Sherman at The Battle of Antietam, the Civil War's bloodiest battle, wherein more lives were lost in the three-day assault than all of the other American Wars put together to that point! He would continue onward with Sherman as they marched through Georgia, ultimately ending the Civil War in 1865.

(History of Erie Article to be continued) Before his war heroism, in 1845, "Van", as he would be affectionately called by the earliest Erie, Colorado residents was ordained a Methodist minister.

As a “circuit preacher”, he traveled the midwest spreading Christ's gospels after the Civil War, until settling in the Boulder Valley around 1867. Just prior Collector, 1234 would Main Street, Anybecome Town, State ZIP | 123-456-7890 | www.apple.com/iwork to his coming toThe Erie (or what later

!

About the Author

RIGHT PAGE - JOHN’S ERIE ARTICLE PAGE 4

John J. K. Small was born in Manhattan, New York in 1954. Moving to Long Island from the south Bronx in 1963, John attended both public and private school straight through his college years. Taking an Associate Degree from SUNY Farmingdale and both Bachelors and Masters Degrees from St. John's University, John is a permanently certified English/Education instructor of high school and college classes, teaching English, History and Education on both levels for the past 32 years. As a writer, he has assisted published writers with copy editing and proofreading along with business owners in constructing business plans, operating agreements, power point narratives, advertising campaigns and business collaboration in general. John lives with his wife, Maureen and son, Jonathan in New York.

Bibliography Dyni, Anne Quimby. Erie Colorado: A Coal Town Revisited.

Erie Colorado: The Town of Erie, 2001. Print.

Lambrecht, Mona and The Boulder History Museum. Images of America: Boulder 1859-1919. Charleston, South Carolina, Arcadia Publishing. 2008. Print.

Michener, James A. Centennial. New York, NY: Random House Trade Paperbacks, 1974. Print.

Stull, James B. For The Historical Society. Erie. Images of America: Erie. Charleston, South Carolina, Arcadia Publishing.

2011. Print.

Stull, James B. A Brief History of Erie Colorado: Out of the Coal Dust. Charleston, South Carolina. The History Press.

2015. Print.

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www.VRHOA.com

RIGHT PAGE SCOTT CHARLES 1

Some of the factors that attract many new residents or business owners to locate to Erie are its history and small town feel. They drive or walk through Old Town along Briggs Street or take in the pastoral views of the Wise Homestead and quickly realize that Erie is the place for them.

Unbeknownst to many residents of Erie is the town board that aims to maintain Erie’s rich history by preserving its historic structures and sites, the Historic Preservation Advisory Board (HPAB). Established by Erie’s Board of Trustees in 2010, the HPAB’s purpose as detailed in Chapter 3, Title 3 in the Town’s code is: “To designate, preserve, protect, enhance and perpetuate those sites, structures, and objects which reflect outstanding elements of the town's cultural, artistic, social, ethnic, economic, political, architectural, historic, technological, institutional, or other heritage; and to create a method to draw a reasonable balance between private property rights and the public interest in preserving Erie's unique historic character by creating an advisory board to review and recommend approval or denial of any proposed demolition of, moving of, or alteration to properties of historic value.”

Photo Credit: Cliff Grassmick The Wise Homestead Museum 11611 Jasper Road in Erie

preser ve historic Erie and allow it to be To that end, the HPAB has been working appreciated by generations for years to come. diligently to recognize and locally landmark

structures that are at least 50 years old and meet the criteria LEFT PAGEfor historic significance. Some of Please visit https://www.erieco.gov/335/Historicthese criteria include being an example of an www.erieco.gov/335/historic-preservation SCOTT CHARLES 2 period, innovation in Preservation for more information. architectural style or materials or design, geographical importance, a unique example of an event in Erie’s history, among many others. The Town of Erie is recognized as a Certified Local Government by History Colorado which operates the State Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation.

With a CLG designation, Erie is eligible to apply annually for no-match grants from a designated CLG fund, and landmarks in the Town may be eligible for Colorado’s state historic income tax credit of 20% or $50,000, whichever is less, of the cost of qualified rehabilitation.

As a homeowner or business owner in Erie, one is able to submit their structure to the Historic Preservation Advisory Board for their review and ultimately the consideration of the Board of Trustees (the board that the HPAB advises). If the Board of Trustees agrees that the submittal meets the proper criteria, they can vote to approve and landmark it. Once landmarked, the Town provides the building owner with a cast plaque indicating it to be a local historic landmark.

While the number of locally landmarked buildings in Erie is small, there are many residents and business owners currently going through the process of having their structures considered. The HPAB ha s already had professional historians and architects research and review many of the buildings in Town that could potentially meet the specified criteria for landmarking, thus making the efforts required by the property owner minimal.

There are many buildings in Erie that have yet to be landmarked or even officially considered for local landmark status. That being said, it is required that the building owner be the party that submits their structure for consideration.

The HPAB will gladly help you through the process if you are interested. Together, we can

RIGHT PAGE SCOTT CHARLES 3

ER IE

Scott and his family have lived in the great Town of Erie since 2010. While looking to relocate to the area, Scott and his wife Holly, an elementary school music teacher, were interested in a town that would be a great place to start a family. Erie's beautiful landscape, great schools, friendly neighborhoods, amazing community center, and proximity to everything wonderful in Colorado made it an easy decision. Since moving to Erie, Scott and Holly have had two additions to their family, Brooklyn (3) and Bronx (2). Scott currently operates a small technology consulting business, is a stay at home dad, and a Trustee on the Erie Board of Trustees.

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Collaboration: an Educated Approach “Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world. He who understands it, earns it ... he who doesn't ... pays it.”― Albert Einstein

Our Kids Continue to be Ahead of the Curve

BY JOHN AHRENS Computer Science is a focus throughout the St Vrain Valley School District. It has made it from the Club and after school programs directly into the classroom. Advocates for coding run the gamut from teachers, administration, the board room and the capitol. Computer science has hacked into the realization that the world has changed and implementing new scholastic policy must follow to keep up with demand.

”St. Vrain is preparing our students to meet the needs of the future.”

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BY JOHN AHRENS Computer Science In the US and Colorado St. Vrain Valley School District has entered this school year with more focus on computer science than ever before. We continue to be ahead of the curve.

We have one of the most robust IP’s around and our connectivity has reached every school.

All schools are equipped with computer labs and most have iPads and or tablets to supplement technology. We develop skills in our embedded programs from the preschool to the high school levels. This school year started with a symposium in September hosted by University of Colorado at Boulder called Engaging Computer Science in Traditional Education. It was attended by St. Vrain teachers, counselors, librarians and tech coordinators.

For our educators it was another chance to further their academic studies and training.

Learning how to integrate computer science principles into

their lessons. The district recognized the importance in supporting teachers and is currently in the process of supplying an Apple Air Laptop to each full time teacher. Robust curriculum which are leading the way with STEM programs emphasizing skills in Scratch and Python programing are being interrogated in all schools.

Erie Middle School is in the second year of iPad roll out and every student gets a personal iPad mini. Next year will be a pilot iPad mini program for Erie Elementary School. Last year, Tigers Who Code held an after school program which won the National Samsung Challenge. The Girls Who Code after school program has been expanded to Tiger That Code to give everyone access. The High School started an Aerospace Science program which had over 60 students signed up. Matt Buchler Erie’s High School Principal plans to expand the science program with concentration access to a computer science program.

Ultimately kids today will not

just end up being the end user but will cultivate skills that allow them to integrate disciplines of programming, problem solving and critical thinking. We realize that the bulk of jobs of tomorrow will demand computer skills.

"Digital citizens" is a phrase that you hear the current generation being tagged with, and this skill set will only continue to grow.

Rarely have we witnessed a time in history which engages multiple generations and changes society so completely, The digital divide has engaged most if not all of society’s daily life and reached out to the 2-99 years young demography. St. Vrain is preparing our students to meet the needs of the future. Colorado will be well served by graduates of SVVSD. Students will hold mastery not only how to react to technology but they will be the ones programming and creating industries. Being a robust town,we are lucky to live in such a caring community.

Good luck to ELIFE. I believe it will promote this town's footprint.

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John Ahrens is married to Rhonda. He is father of two children, Jack and Sydney who attend Erie Middle and Erie Elementary respectively. John had resided in Colorado since 1998 and moved to Erie in 2002. John spends his time as a member of the St. Vrain Valley School Board as the Director of District D and the Director and Board member of the Innovation Center. He is also a coach and possesses a passion towards building strong schools and community. John was recently involved with state legislation and asked to serve on the Colorado Computer task force. He will be contributing to ELIFE magazine on a regular basis to continue to keep the lines of communication open.

 

www.eriechamber.org

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ERIE AND THE GREAT OUTDOORS WORDS BY DAN WOOG Like many families that move to Erie,

Knowing very little about the Town we

my wife and I were excited about starting a family and raising our

were moving to, we were pleased to see that Erie was committed to

children in Colorado. My wife grew up embracing active lifestyles. The Town in Louisville so when we discussed the had just opened an environmentally possibility of moving to Erie, you would think we were moving to a

friendly, state of the art Community Center in the heart of the Town. We

dierent state. Erie seemed to be a were thrilled that previous boards had small Town out on the plains. Little did championed this vision of creating a we know while living in AZ for almost 10 years Erie began the process of

family friendly place to live and to play.

This set our Town on a path to creating

becoming one of the most desired places to live. In 2008 we packed up

the Great Outdoors!

our belongings and headed towards the Rockies for new adventures.

Following the construction of the Community Center, the Erie Community Park was developed. This park not only created a place for children to play on multiple playgrounds, but created a community environment. Many great events such as movies in the park, The Great Erie Outdoor Adventure, Relay For Life, softball tournaments and countless other activities had a place to call home and still do today.

FALL IN LOVE WITH ERIE Over the next several years we witnessed the construction of the “outdoor RIGHT PAGE playground”. Not only were there many opportunities for our children to discover new adventure, but adults as well. These new ideas inspired so many in our community to put their passions to work.

The Erie Singletrack Advocates and the Velodrome were two projects that these visionaries brought to our Town.

Erie is a growing Town with phenomenal opportunities. We boast some of the most unique features that no other Town offers. While serving on the board my goal has been and will continue to be to foster and support the creative process for an environment that encompasses the community feel, while continuing to grow and develop into an amazing town. If you haven’t yet I highly encourage you to try our amazing trails that lead from one community to another, check out the variety of classes at the Erie Community Center, ride a bike into Historic Downtown, or attend a Concert in the Park this year. Meet your neighbors, enjoy the events and fall in love with Erie just as my family has!

Dan has been a Trustee for over 2 years.

He lives with his wife, Rianne, children Anniston and Caden and dog Mack. Dan previously served on the Erie Economic

“We boast some of the most unique features that no other Town offers.”

Development Council, Planning and Zoning Commission and as the Town’s liaison to the Denver Regional Council of Governments. Currently, Dan and Rianne run a real estate firm located in downtown Erie.

ERIE AND THE GREAT OUTDOORS

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schoolerieboosterclub@gmail.com www.sites.google.com/site/erieboosterclub/ FB

tw

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Beautiful ERIE

by John Small

PART ll LEFT PAGE

A

s a health-conscious community and an organic lifestyle city, Boulder always intrigued me with its fitness interest for all age groups. When I lived there in the early 80's, nearly everyone rode bikes, whether they were the typical one - speed bicycle with the

wicker baskets attached to either the front or back (or both made popular in the classic 30's film, The Wizard of Oz ) to the high-end 10 to 15 speed racers that were first given "right of way status lanes" on such roads as Canyon, Arapaho and Broadway. As a distance runner, I found the lanes a bit competitive while trying to run against the traffic on said roads. After a few close calls with cyclists lawfully riding with the traffic, I found myself constantly hopping up and down curbs to avoid an inevitable catastrophe.

Before long, as a result, I developed shin splints, so bad I could barely walk, let alone run. Granted, I had trained on Long Island for many years on some of the flattest land found in the state of New York. I had never run on anything but Nassau and Suffolk County roads.

The hilly terrains of Boulder were quite different, to say the least.

Nonetheless, if my hero, Frank Shorter could run up and down 9th Street from Alpine through Canyon passing the Old Pioneer Cemetery on to Chautauqua up to Flagstaff and back two times a day, I could deal with the cyclists and the splints. Then one day, jumping out of the way of several high-speed cyclists, who appeared to be riding as a team, I wasn't so lucky.

It was at the corner of Ninth and University where I broke an ankle jumping from the onrushing team of high-speed bicyclists. Most curbs and corners in Boulder were under construction then. University was a great bike road then, used as more of a thoroughfare between the hill of the college off Arapaho to Canyon through the park and over the creek bridge by The Silver Saddle Motel and up the mountain to Boulder Falls, where most would stop, breathe, turn around and head back to town. I really admired these guys, yet I was a runner, not a biker, or at least that's what I thought then.

It was a Saturday, and the construction crew wasn't working, nor did they leave the worksite with the cautionary barricades and blinking lights and signs. The hole I landed in was no less than a foot deep, yet felt like much more to my broken ankle.

After setting the bone and casting the leg up to just under my knee, the doctor at Boulder Hospital asked me what I did for a living, and if I needed a "pivot ball" installed at the bottom of the cast for maneuverability. I told him I certainly would, since I was a line cook at the What's Up and thanked him for his suggestion. "Four to five weeks in this thing at least", he said to my chagrin. No running for over a month? "What do I do for exercise", I asked him. He suggested, of all things -" bicycle riding, only after the leg is strong enough before running again". That's when my love / hate relationship with the bicycle began.

It's more love these days, for after seven surgeries on my legs, due to playing basketball, flag football and softball way too long in my adult life (into my mid forties), cycling is all I can do; the "running ship" has sailed for good!

Hobbling down Pleasant Street with two pillowcases full of dirty clothes, I stopped in Abo's Pizza for a slice and a rest before turning the corner and on to one of the least favorite of all PAGE activities - Laundry! Sitting waiting for the RIGHT two loads to dry, I stopped reading my paperback ( I think it was Hesse's Siddhartha; I'm not sure ), I looked out the window, and on the adjacent building's (Boulder Outdoor Sports) window was an advertisement of a kid about my age flying over rocks and stream, on an early generation mountain-style bike. Curiosity led me inside to talk to the sales help.

Curiosity ended and reality set in when they showed me their array and told me the prices of each bike. Plan B went into effect. By the time I got back across the parking lot to the Laundromat, my dryers were done and my second least activity began, namely folding laundry in public. Finished and leaving, I passed the "free bin" of unclaimed laundry left behind. A light green tee shirt with an image of Bob Marley under the block lettering "REGGAE, MAN" screamed at me to take him, and I shamelessly did! The bonus, though was the cork board just above the mesh bin that held everything from college tutoring available, to you guessed it - bicycles for sale!

After memorizing the number, I walked a few feet to Mother's Cafe and saw Norm, who worked with Shelly who was selling an English Touring three speed bike for $25. Going just outside the best breakfast and lunch restaurant in Boulder at the time (although Chris' Kettle served a mean Huevos Rancheros, also on occasion), Norm called Shelly and the deal was on! Shelly lived up on Tenth and College, a couple of blocks away from my apartment, and before the sun went down, I had my bike (Shelly was both cool and sympathetic; she took only $20 due to my cast and charm, I'd like to think).

Walking down Tenth rolling my new light blue three-speed and turning the corner began my new exercise regimenbike riding in the mountains. Or so I thought.

Shortly thereafter, I realized that the three-speed bike was not suitable for the hills of town, nor was my casted leg ready for that nonsense, so I put the bike in the back of my 1960 Dodge Pickup and drove to the plains of Erie, the place where only a few months before dazzled me with surreal views and best of all - flat surfaces!

Remembering the For Sale sign on one of the last farm properties on the east side of the end of Lafayette, I pulled the truck over and began the first of many rides along Route 7 toward Denver.

Now there's a beautiful and safe "off road" bike path that begins behind the Vista Ridge Community and golf course and ends in North Boulder's Diagonal. Although my brother-in-law, Tom is a competitive, experienced distance cyclist, who offered me his bike for that run last summer, I demurely denied, favoring my sister, Trisha's more reasonable and far less scary mountain bike.

Nonetheless, I took the ride to Boulder and thoroughly enjoyed every minute from Vista Ridge to The Valmont Bike Park, where 35 short years ago was the "Junkyard Heaven", where one could find nearly any automotive or motorcycle part needed. Now it's "Bicycle and Skateboard Heaven" for children of all ages, including this 60 plus child on his sister's bike. The only thing better, I felt than watching all of these people enjoying the plethora of outdoor physical activity was the ride back to beautiful Erie and drinking the coldest beer possible on my sister and brother-in-law's deck, engaging my nephew, Tristan in another seemingly endless conversation about either the Cretaceous or Jurassic Periods of Dinosaur existence. What a life! The Erie Life.

(To be continued)

HOW TO CREATE A BUZZ LEFT PAGE

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ACHIEVE GREATER IMPACT THROUGH CREATIVE BRANDING AND MARKETING STRATEGIES. For over 25 years, Trisha Ventker has been developing solutions and implementing methods that make things happen. She started her first business at the age of 20, worked as an educator, speaker, video production manager and photographer for over 25 years. Trisha makes people confront comfort zones in a kind way. “Can’t be done” is not in her repertoire . Trisha has authored three books and has appeared on a myriad of media. Her forte is marketing print, broadcast, and online media outlets. Ventker is a serial entrepreneur and branding expert.

Ventker develops brand strategies with a holistic approach to brand communications so that a company's brand touch-points (corporate identity, product design, web site, retail environment, online marketing, traditional advertising, PR and word of mouth) all work in harmony to create a favorable perception in the mind of the consumer, increasing the chances of positively affecting purchase behavior.

Trisha Ventker's specialty includes how consumers process information, how they attend to, perceive, process and store that information; and how they retrieve and act on previous information from memory. Ventker focuses on the mind, perception, cognitive psychology, human nature and brain science to form a deep understanding of how people think and what makes them do, buy and love the things they do.

Just because you love your business doesn't mean it's always easy to tell your company's story to the world. It works the same way when you are an entrepreneur. It's difficult to brand yourself. That's where Trisha comes into play.

Proper branding is part art, part science.

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212.695.2959 TrishaVentker@me.com

}

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What have you done in Erie?

{ } Visited the original Children’s

{ } Bought fresh

}

Library in Erie

eggs from your neighbor who raises chickens

{ } Parked against traffic on Briggs, back when it was a dirt road

{ }

Know where “Chicken City” is in Erie

{ } Was excited watching the new Walgreens being built

{ } Have visited the historic Wise

{ } Attended Erie

Homestead Museum

Biscuit Days in downtown Erie the Fall

{ } Had a drink at the old Erie

{ } Been inside the “new”

{ } Avoided a

Inn on Briggs Street

High School

turtle, sheep or a head of cabbage in the road

{ } Have seen a fox or coyote walking down your street

{ nlmcreative.com }

Nancy is a Graphic Designer/Art Director who has RIGHT PAGE

worked in Michigan, New York City and Colorado for 20+ years. From magazine publishing to high-tech

to natural products and travel, Nancy’s creative solutions include brochures, corporate identity, packaging, infographics, banner ads, reports, magazines and marketing collateral.

nancy.liam@hotmail.com

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NANCY MCLAUGHLIN DESIGN nancy.liam@hotmail.com nlmcreative.com

STAY TUNED: ELIFE’S NEXT ISSUE - FALL 2016

LEFT PAGE

ERIE market

Real Farms. Real Food. Real Life.

THURSDAYS • 5PM - 8PM MAY 19 - SEPTEMBER 22 DOWNTOWN ERIE ON BRIGGS STREET

!

WWW.REALFARMERSMARKETCO.COM 303-902-2451 Fresh Colorado Grown Vegetables and Fruits!

Foods To Go, Natural Body Care, Massage, !

Wine, Breads, Cheese, Live, Local Music and more! !

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES: APRIL 22

Supported byRIGHT PAGE

CHILDREN’S

ART

RECEPTION & EXHIBIT HEY KIDS! Crank up your creativity and explore the world of visual arts.

*Paintings, Drawings, Sculpture, Photography *Art that represents caring for Earth: OUR EARTH ROCKS *DROP OFF DAY IS: FRIDAY, APRIL 22 between 4-6 pm *Art needs to be original, matted or mounted and no larger than 16x20 Sculpture needs to be under 2 feet *Artist’s name, age and parent email must be clearly written on the back of art work or on the bottom of 3-D entries.

ENTER OUR FIRST CHILDREN”S EARTH DAY CONTEST! ALL ARTISTS WILL BE FEATURED AT OUR RECEPTION ON

SATURDAY, APRIL 30th 2:00-4:00 PM at ARTS COALITION OF ERIE. COOKIES WILL BE SERVED.

THEME: OUR EARTH ROCKS!

April

30 THROUGH

May

Sponsored by

30

Dianna Goodfellow

ARTS COALITION OF ERIE Jeff Crase A Perfect Home for You

625 Pierce Street 303.828.1429 WWW.ARTSCOALITIONOFERIE.COM http://artscoalitionoferie.org

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LEFT PAGE  

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Glacier’s View LEFT PAGE

SPRUCING UP FOR SPRING

BY DAVID WHITE Spring is here! Get your landscape into full bloom this spring. The weather on the Front Range has finally warmed a bit and now is the time to get outside and assess what you would like to accomplish in your landscape this season.

Take a walk around your property and look for damaged trees and shrubs. Prune out “winter kill” as soon as the plant has leafed out.

These are simply areas of the plant that will not rejuvenate due to harsh winter freezing conditions.

Perennials should be cut back before they start to sprout new growth. It is much easier to do now than to navigate tender new shoots while cutting things back.

Remove any dead limbs from trees using a saw or loppers. For larger branches, have a professional do the work. Clean out any remaining leaves and debris that have blown into beds after your fall cleanup… you DID complete the fall cleanup, right? If not, you may have more work ahead of you than you think!

Now consider what projects you would like to accomplish. Have a general budget in mind before calling your landscape professional who will come out and prepare a bid for you at no charge. If you have established planting beds,

consider having the professional install a “top dressing” of new mulch. Mulch deteriorates over time and some will have blown away depending on the bed’s exposure to the wind. Consider advancing the look of your landscape by removing areas of boring river rock and replacing with shrubs, perennials and mulch.

Once perennials have leafed out, you may want to add more if some have died. Fill in areas that were sparse on color and ask your landscape professional for suggestions to complement the blooming times of specific species already in place. Consider planting a new tree or two this year. It’s good for our air, the planet, and can help offset cooling costs to your home if positioned properly.

Irrigation systems need to be started up now. Inevitably, some damage or breakage of heads or lines may have occurred. Repairs are usually quick and simple for systems that were working fine the fall, but must be addressed since any leakage that goes unnoticed might mean a heavy water bill next month.

Go online and learn to use your system manually and to program the automatic timer correctly. Be

sure to examine all drip emitters at each plant when the system is running to make sure that they have not become plugged or have popped out. Plugged emitters usually go unnoticed until the plant they are watering dies. Emitters that have popped out are easily noticed as the water will escape at high pressure and be obvious by the hissing sound it makes.

Examine all lawn sprinkler heads for proper adjustment and learn to adjust them. Finally, remember to enjoy your landscape, have fun with it, work on it and it will give back with years of enjoyment.

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ABOUT DAVE Dave White is the CEO and President of Glacier View Landscape and Design, Inc. which is a design/build landscape firm in Erie. Dave is the Northern Front Range Landscape Examiner, writing articles on horticulture each month, a 33 year resident of Boulder County, and enjoys gardening, landscaping, the natural outdoors and spending as much free time with his family. Contact him through Glacier View at 303-748-2921.

www.glacierviewlandscaping.com

www.glacierviewlandscape.com

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LOCAL PROGRAM SAVES COMMUNITY HEROES MONEY WHEN BUYING OR SELLING THEIR HOME GREAT DISCOUNTS FROM HOMES FOR HEROES Homes for Heroes® offers large savings to local community heroes when buying or selling a home: A different approach to affordable home ownership.

Homes for Heroes® aims to help close the gap between the cost of housing for: military(active/ veteran), law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, teachers and healthcare professionals who serve our community and nation every day.

Homes for Heroes®, is celebrating its 14th year of bringing big savings to everyday heroes.

Inspired by the home-town heroes who serve and protect their communities and our country, a partnership of Realtors®, mortgage lenders, title companies, and other affiliated service providers created Homes for Heroes, Incorporated. This collaboration of real estate professionals’ sole purpose is to offer savings when buying or selling a home.

Homes for Heroes is proud to announce their newest market affiliates, Rachel Folger REALTOR® with RE/MAX Vista, a Realtor Affiliates along with Dianna Goodfellow with Mutual Security Mortgage as a lender affiliate. Additionally, there are several local businesses that have teamed up with Homes for Heroes® and have agreed to provide discounts to the Heroes involved with the Homes for Heroes® program.

While the programs genesis and primary concentration was originally intended to serve the Minnesota real estate market, word of the Homes for Heroes® benefits unpredictably spread throughout the country. With the far-reaching power of the Internet, this small-dedicated local effort spiraled into a growing nationwide program.

If you would like more information about Homes for Heroes®, or to schedule an interview with Rachel, please call (720) 375-1255 or Dianna, please call (303)618-7717 or visit www.coloheroes.com More information about Homes for Heroes and other relative media regarding the national program at www.HomesForHeroes.com

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• Vacuum • Thorough clean polish and condition plastics and vinyl • Steam clean ventilation system • Windows • Clean and condition any leather present • Interior deodorize • Scrub and shampoo floors and seats

• Vacuum • Thorough clean polish and condition plastics and vinyl • Steam clean ventilation system • Windows • Clean and condition any leather present • Interior deodorize • Scrub and shampoo floors and seats • Exterior wash • Clay bar • Wax sealant • Tire scrub • Wheel polish • Trim restore • Compound • Polish • Wax • Hardening polish

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HOME WITH A NEW HEART

BY JACQUELINE CHAVANU-GILBERT

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IT DIDN’T SEEM WEIRD THAT I WAS EXTREMELY TIRED AFTER CARRYING BOXES, FURNITURE UP AND DOWN STAIRS.

Three years ago my husband and I embarked on a journey to design and build our dream home.

After moving from Seattle in 2007 we settled in Vista Ridge and rented a lovely house for nearly 6 years and along the way made life-long friends and (re)discovered our passion for golf. We held off buying since we knew when we moved to Colorado we would build a home that fit our lifestyle and tastes. For five years we scoured the area in and around Vista Ridge searching for a the right location that matched our vision.

Whether I’m purchasing or renting a home, standing on a piece of dirt where a home might be built or poring over the details of interior design, I make decisions based on a distinct feeling of butterflies fluttering in my stomach. I rely on my intuition and 99% of the time it seems to work for out for the best. When we stood on our vacant lot on a chilly March day in 2013 I experienced that distinct feeling. Through luck or providence, we found a half acre on a lake in a mature neighborhood and in an area we desired and quickly purchased the land and began sketching out our French Country home. I wanted to incorporate history and authenticity, so I chose unique pieces that were integrated into the design; a royal blue and brass range from France,

a French fire-back from the House of Bourbon dated 1737, a hand forged gate from Nebraska, antique lighting, limestone walls, weathered wood beams and floors.

“I rely on my intuition and 99% of the time it seems to work for out for the best.”

After months of making thousands of design decisions, working with contractors, packing, organizing and purging we moved into our dream home in October 2015. I quickly went into “nesting” mode unpacking, organizing, painting and recovering furniture, purchasing items and keeping busy with client projects. Life was a whirlwind. It didn’t seem weird that I was extremely tired after carrying boxes, furniture up and down stairs.

The first week of November I began to feel even more tired with distinct symptoms of a viral infection but I didn’t let that stop me as I had to prepare for hosting my family for Thanksgiving along with other gatherings. I pushed more than ever to get our home in order. Our events were a success but when the last guest left that Sunday after Thanksgiving I collapsed with exhaustion.

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THE SYMPTOMS HAD BECOME WORSE AND I FELT MYSELF DETERIORATING QUICKLY.

Home is HOMEyour WITH A NEW HEART where heart is…

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“The

next thing I remember is surgical team with the most amazing sense of floating above my body, looking love and peace. I was surprised as the team down on myself and the surgical seemed to be panicking. I felt angelic beings team with the most amazing surround me and was in awe of the pure and Y O U F I N D Y O U R WAY H O M E . sense of love and peace.” I ’ L L H E L P unconditional love of God. I wanted to bask in A week later when I had trouble climbing stairs, waking at night because I couldn’t breath and experiencing extreme fatigue, I went to the doctor. She diagnosed me with a virus and sent me home to rest. By the middle of December, I was back at the doctor’s office and this time they took an x-ray and found what they thought was pneumonia and prescribed antibiotics. However, by Christmas, no treatment seemed to work. The symptoms had become worse and I felt myself deteriorating quickly. Two days after Christmas I had a strong feeling that something was seriously wrong. A visit to urgent care and a blood test revealed that my heart was, for whatever reason, working overtime. Doctors there suggested I visit my primary care physician.

The following day I was referred by my PCP to a cardiologist who, upon reviewing EKG readings, admitted me straight away to Boulder Community Foothills Hospital and contacted Boulder Heart, their specialist c a rd i a c p r a c t i c e . W i t h i n a n h o u r o f admittance, the care team found a Left Atrial Myxoma, a benign tumor roughly the size of a kiwi fruit lodged in my heart. Two days later, on December 31, 2015, I had surgery to remove the tumor. The initial plan was to use a catheter inserted under my ribcage to take it out. That plan was quickly altered when my blood pressure plummeted to an emergent level.

The next thing I remember is floating above my body, looking down on myself and the

this heavenly presence forever. Then I heard the lead surgeon say, “Chest open!” My immediate reaction is that there must be something wrong and I thought of my beautiful daughter and loving husband, whom I did not want to leave behind. I prayed that I would get through this surgery and survive.

Immediately, I was “sucked” though a black tube into my body. The next thing I remember is waking up in ICU a day later. It appears that my prayers were answered. Recovery has had its ups and downs. I ended up back in the hospital twice to undergo a few extra procedures. After 10 weeks, I am finally returning to a normal routine and feel so incredibly blessed to be enjoying life with my family and dear friends.

This life changing event has affected me emotionally and physically. I try not to take anything for granted and live life with gratitude and give quiet thanks in all circumstances. I am trying to be patient with my recovery. This event has allowed me to slow down, relish my family and friends and appreciate our new home as it is right now. I still need curtains, furniture, artwork, finish a wine cellar and landscape the entire yard. I realize this isn’t the time for those things right now. At this moment, I choose to bask in the sunshine of the quiet beauty of my curtain less windows. Life will speed up again. For now, I have a home with a renewed heart.

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Jacqueline Chavanu-Gilbert lives in Colorado with her husband Mike, daughter Ana, and their two cats, Dave and Butterscotch. Jacqueline has an interior design degree from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln and has been published in both regional and national shelter magazines featuring her work in residential design.

Contact: jackie@jacquelinechavanu.com or call 303-808-5541

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STEP 1:

A pre-approval shows you how much you can afford so you can narrow down your home search.

Get pre-approved for a home loan

Dream up your dream home

Choose & apply for the right home loan

Coordinate appraisal & home inspection

Start home hunting with your Real Estate Agent

Negotiate price & terms, and get your offer accepted!

Negotiate any needed home repairs

Make an offer on your dream home

Sign loan & closing documents

MOVE IN! For more information, please contact: Sara Trujillo Senior Mortgage Loan Consultant YOUR PHOTO HERE

NMLS #892373 LMB #100049401 Direct: 303.250.9677 Email: Sara.Trujillo@nafinc.com Website: www.SaraTrujilloGroup.com Your local mortgage lender. Contact Sara to review your home

purchase or refinance loan options.

New American Funding is an all-inclusive mortgage banker. From origination to funding, our underwriters, doc drawers and funders all work under one roof, creating a cohesive team that enables us to close your loans fast.

NMLS #6606 10/6 ,' $OO SURGXFWV DUH QRW DYDLODEOH LQ DOO VWDWHV $OO RSWLRQV DUH QRW DYDLODEOH RQ DOO SURJUDPV $OO SURJUDPV DUH VXEMHFW WR ERUURZHU DQG SURSHUW\ TXDOL¿FDWLRQV 5DWHV WHUPV DQG FRQGLWLRQV DUH VXEMHFW WR FKDQJH ZLWKRXW QRWLFH ‹ 1HZ $PHULFDQ )XQGLQJ 1HZ $PHULFDQ DQG 1HZ $PHULFDQ )XQGLQJ DUH UHJLVWHUHG WUDGHPDUNV RI %URNHU 6ROXWLRQV '%$ 1HZ $PHULFDQ )XQGLQJ $OO 5LJKWV 5HVHUYHG &RUSRUDWH 2I¿FH

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Why You Should Paint the Exterior of Your Home

by Jonathan Robert Improve Your Home’s Curb Appeal

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If you are sprucing up your home in order to increase curb appeal for potential, the most effective action you can take is to paint your home’s exterior. An overwhelming majority of the houses here in Erie are jobs that are for houses that are between 6-12 years old. It is no secret that the original paint job completed by the builder is often not a high quality job where inferior materials were used so the builder can save on costs. In addition, most homeowners had a very limited choice for color selection, and often that color scheme is not something they like.

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Most homeowners are not aware of the many small things which are going wrong on their home’s exterior until they paint it. The prep work that goes into an exterior paint job usually reveals the many areas in need of repair. If the exterior paint on your home is close to the end of its life expectancy, you are taking chances by postponing the new paint job. It doesn’t take long for exposed trim to begin swelling and rotting. It’s usually much more expensive to replace things than to repair them; so you don’t want to wait too long. I have noticed that over the past two years, the amount of trim replacement has increased dramatically. In many newly constructed neighborhoods in Erie and the surrounding areas, the first builder paint job is good until about 8 years plus or minus a year.

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Why You Should Paint the Exterior of Your Home

by Jonathan Robert Increase the Value of Your Home The best investments are those in which you invest a lot less than what you get back. Painting your home is one of those kinds of investments. The increase in your home’s value is typically much greater the cost of getting it painted by a professional.

Jonathan “painted his way” through high school, college, and finally graduate school, using the money earned during summer breaks to fund his educational pursuits. He’s also worked extensively in the construction and remodeling industries. Jonathan has a well rounded skill set that enables him to communicate well with customers, understand the technical dimensions of painting projects, and ultimately deliver an excellent painting experience.

Jonathan lives in Erie, Colorado with his wife Julie, and three children, Sophia, Adelie, and Joshua, and his faithful dog, Lizzie.

Jonathan Robert is the owner of A New View Painting in Erie. www.newviewpainting.com

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Your Full Service Home Improvement Contractor Decks • Basement Finish • Flooring • Remodel Painting • Roofing • Plumbing • Water Damage

Call RAD

What Do You Need Done?

That's What We Do!

303.828.7824

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Amazing Customer Service • Affordable And Professional • Licensed And Insured • Local And Family Owned

Call Your Realtor Friend

Jeff Crase: Your Local Real Estate Specialist Buying? Selling?

Your transition should be stress-free and run smoothly.

Jeff has been voted a 5-STAR realtor by 5280 from 2010-2015.

Jeff Crase has also been featured on many episodes of HGTV.

720-217-5789

www.aperfecthome4u.net

Jeff Crase, Your Realtor Friend

 

ENTER

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To honor the HEROES that serve our community, EVERYONE WELCOME.

Food, Fun & Games!

Rachel Folger REALTOR RE/MAX Vista 720.375.1255

MEMORIAL DAY

Dianna Goodfellow MORTGAGE BROKER Mutual Security Mortgage 303.618.7717 NMLS# 1204168

HOMETOWN

PICNIC COAL MINERS PARK 470 CHEESMAN OLD TOWN ERIE

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LEARN MORE AT: WWW.COLOHEROES.COM SPONSORED BY RACHEL FOLGER & DIANNA GOODFELLOW

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DOES YOUR FIREPLACE SEEM A LITTLE "FLAT"?

MAYBE IT NEEDS A MANTELPIECE.

RIGHT PAGE STONE AND COTTONWOOD FULL PAGE AD

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“We design and manufacture furnishings and décor for homes and offices in the Front Range region of Colorado. Our products, are made by local artisans from rediscovered wood and local stone like cottonwood and Lyons red sandstone. Since our products rely exclusively on sustainably harvested local materials, we provide a unique, beautiful, and cost effective carbon-negative alternative to furnishings and décor produced in distant lands. We offer beautiful furnishings made entirely in Colorado: From the trees to the beeswax that makes them shine.”

- Kevin Kisich, Stone and Cottonwood.

600 S. Public Rd. Lafayette, CO 80026 Tel. (303) 586-4981 kisich@stoneandcottonwood.com www.StoneandCottonwood.com

Craftsmanship with Roots It took decades to grow the trees I use in my fine furniture and woodworking, and I take the time and make the effort to treat the wood with the respect it is due. When it is done right, woodworking is like poetry using thicker paper. I want to let the beauty of the natural material shine through.

When you want a special wood piece, I take the time to make sure the design is original and artistic and the work is done with real craftsmanship. I want my work to outlast the tree!

From our free initial consultation, through the design process, construction, and delivery I make sure that your piece is just what you wanted.  

Take the time for quality and you will have an heirloom that your greatgrandchildren will be proud to inherit.

Support the Arts Coalition of Erie Founding Member of A.C.E. 720-261-2562 credit cards accepted www.thewesterncraftsman.com (Arts Coalition of Erie)

ENTER https://www.facebook.com/ elifecolorado/timeline

RIGHT PAGE REMAX VISTA AD - QUARTER PAGE SOLAR CITY AD - HALF PAGE QUARTER PAGE AD AVAILABLE

Jeannie Hulse Ins Fncl Svc Inc Jeannie Hulse, Agent jeannie@jeanniehulse.com www.jeanniehulse.com Bus: 303-828-4002 Fax: 303-828-4024

Insuring your life helps protect their future.

It can also provide for today.

I’ll show you how a life insurance policy with living benefits can help your family with both long-term and short-term needs.

GET TO A BETTER STATE. CALL ME TODAY. ®

State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY or WI) State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company (Licensed in NY and WI) Bloomington, IL 1203087

STOPRIGHT LEAKS FROM HIDING OUT IN YOUR HOME PAGE BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE!

H I E A N GO LEAK

by Steve Adjemian For most people your roof is out of sight, out of mind, yet offers the front line of defense to where your family rests their head at night. Here are a few things to know on how to be proactive versus reactive when it comes to protecting your most precious investment.

Roofs are not waterproof they are only made to shed water, leaving most home owners susceptible to leaks not knowing what’s under the shingle.

In Colorado’s harsh climate it is important that you have all proper forms and installation of cone jacks, drip edge, rake edge and step flashings (should be a 26 gauge pre-finished steel, 2” bottom 4” top on the drip edges) have an ice and water shield that will go up 36” from all the eaves and around all other vulnerable areas to seal in all flashings and joints where water is prone to migrate around or through shingles.

Also recommended is a higher grade underlayment over the 15 lb tar paper (might as well be a brown paper bag.) We recommend deck defense by Owens Corning.

Most of the time we don’t know if there is a leak until it is too late and the damage is done. Hail damage, wind driven rain, hot/cold climates, ice damming, improper ventilation, all lead to a 30 year roof meeting its life span in 15 here in this mile high state.

•

Cell – (720) 207-8655 Fax – (720) 414-2555 Web - columbineroofingllc.com

~ RECYCLING ~ facts and tips LEFT PAGE 

If every American recycled one out of ten newspapers, we could save about 25 million trees each year.

The average person generates over 4 pounds of trash every day and about 1.5 tons of solid waste per year.

In 2010, paper recycling had increased over 89% since 1990.

In 2009, Americans produced enough trash to circle the Earth 24 times.

Over 75% of waste is recyclable, but we only recycle about 30% of it.

95% Americans throw away

25,000,000 plastic bottles every hour.

Recycling aluminum cans saves 95% of the energy used to make cans from new material.

Over 87% of Americans have access to curbside or drop-off paper recycling programs.

Printed on 100% recycled paper

WWW.MOMMYSMAIDSERVICES.COM

www.vista.colorado.remax.com

Bridal Guide LEFT PAGE

TOP COLORADO VENUES the ultimate wedding guide to: Erie, Louisville Lafayette, Niwot Longmont, Boulder and surrounding towns

SPRING AND SUMMER

ISSUE

find the right

wedding dress

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A T C O L O R A D O N AT I O N A L G O L F C L U B , THE VIEWS OF

L O N G ’ S P E A K A N D T H E R O C K Y M O U N TA I N R A N G E ,

A L O N G W I T H O U R E I G H T E E N H O L E G O L F C O U R S E , C R E AT E A PERFECT BACKDROP FOR ANY SPECIAL OCCASION FROM AN INTIMATE GATHERING TO A LAVISH BANQUET WE CATER TO YOUR NEEDS

• Elaborate Packages & Customized Events • Award Winning Executive Chef • Accommodations for up to 200 Guests • Indoor and Outdoor Facilities • On-Site Wedding Coordinator • Private Bride & Groom Suites • Rooms for Rehearsal Dinners & Showers C AT E R I N G P LANNI NG H O S T I N G To view our menus and arrange our services: 303.926.1723 or

www.coloradonationalgolfclub.com

Colorado National Golf Club | 2700 Vista Parkway Erie, Colorado,

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won’t you be my neighbor?

#weddingsrighthere Would you be mine? Could you be mine? Won’t you be my neighbor?”

I (Andrea) live in, what has been identified, by many articles lately as one of the top neighborhoods to live in Colorado. I know, everyone probably thinks that. I mean if you are fortunate to write “CO” in the state box when ordering from Amazon you’ve already kinda won the lottery, right?

I am admittedly, biased.

That being said, while I was reading one of the articles I can’t really say I disagree. We have lots of smart, creative, friendly and fun people up here in these parts. And it dawned on me, why don’t I work with them more? Thus the idea of this styled photo shoot was born: produce a photo shoot using only vendors from my zip code. I had everything and everyone I needed literally within a 10 mile radius of my house- genius!

My hope was to show our friendly neighbors in this community that there’s a large amount of untapped resources, right down the street from you, quite possibly right next door. Our little town is nestled in between Denver and Boulder but there’s no need to go anywhere else.

Check out everyone involved who are, of course, only a short drive (or even walk) away!

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BY ANDREA BUROLLA One day Denise and I were talking about local vendors and I commented on how there seems to be a hub of creative folks here in our own little nook of this area. I thought it would be interesting to put together a styled wedding photo shoot that only used vendors from the same zip code. It wasn’t challenging at all trying to find people willing to participate and it was great to establish a group of other like minded small businesses.

To me it simply made sense; we have all this talent, literally sitting in our back yards, why aren’t we showcasing it? So we put together this photo shoot to show off what kind of talent we all have right, next door. No need to drive down to Denver or over to Boulder, just walk down the street a few towns over from Erie!

#weddingsrighthere

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Louisville Colorado Wedding Vendors: •

Photography: Lollylah Wedding Photography

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Bridal Dress and Formal Wear: Maci Marie Bridal

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Venue: Por Wine House

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Food and Catering: Pôr Wine House •

Cake and Desserts: Bittersweet Cafe •

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Florals: Nettie’s Creations

Hair and Make Up: Beauty

by Ashleigh •

Planning: Aviabella Wedding and Events

• Wedding Invitation and Stationary: Soap Creative Studio

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#weddingsrighthere

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Lollylah is wedding photography company in Superior owned by two friends Andrea Burolla and Denise Chambers. Â They believe that laughing keeps you young, $20 for a pound of excellent coffee is perfectly reasonable and taking spontaneous road trips is the best medicine for cabin fever.

LOLLYLAH.COM

 

www.followtheruel.com www.facebook.com/followtheruel connieruel@followtheruel.com

Custom Crafted Dinners Private Cooking Classes Team Building Events Wine Tasting and Seminars

Perfect views for Your Next Event RIGHT PAGE 

Vista Ridge Community Center has an atmosphere and many amenities to make your event everything you've imagined. Our venue overlooks a world class golf course and has one of Colorado's most beautiful mountain views. Not only does our views "wow" all that see it, it truly takes the cake.

Ensure your gathering has the character and space it deserves. Our space possesses rich wood trimming and elegant stonework that will impress, while putting your guests at ease.

For your culinary preparation, use our spacious kitchen, A beautiful deck , lawn and pavilion are perfect for your outdoor needs.

COMMUNITY CENTER 2750 VISTA PARKWAY ERIE 303.926.7691 VRHOA.COM

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SO, YOU’RE PLANNING A WEDDING!

FOLLOW THE RUEL

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SO, YOU’RE PLANNING A WEDDING!

BY CONNIE RUEL Finding the perfect caterer is an essential part of your planning. But how do you do it?

After all, the expense will probably equate to half (or more) of your wedding budget.

What is more frightening than the price is the fact that a caterer's performance can make or break a successful event.

Hiring the wrong one would be like spending tons of money on a tuxedo rental for prom and not even getting a kiss good night (you fellas know what I'm talking about!)

It's imperative to be armed with the right tools before setting out to find your event's food provider. The search has been known to drive a mother of the bride to drink and prompt the bride to want to give her oxycontin on top of it. Though fun to watch from afar, I still feel the need to alleviate the dilemma. Therefore, I have compiled some hints that will help keep you from falling on the ground screaming "UNCLE!" There are some basic things to consider when deciding on a caterer, but first I want to share something even more important than WHO caters your once in a lifetime event. Even before the first meeting with possible caterer you should have a definitive idea of WHAT YOU want at your event.

7 HINTS FOR CHOOSING A CATERER

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I'm sure you already have a theme in mind, perhaps even a location. This should set the tone for the food and beverage you serve. As an example, let's say you have chosen a high rise ultra modern environment to enhance a black tie theme. Obviously, serving BBQ ribs on a buffet would not go over well. Imagine Daisy Buchanan forced to remove her elbow length white gloves in order to raise a sauce dripping rib to her lips at the Gatsby mansion. No, no, no.

Perhaps you don't care for that foo foo stuff and your dream wedding is a hoe down party. You've even found a rustic old barn for your memorable day. I'm pretty sure a multi course plated haute cuisine dinner would look as out of place as a lagomorph in a lion's den.

You get where I'm going with this. Once you have a theme in mind, your food and beverage needs to complete the picture. If your family tradition is to do large plates of pasta down the center of long tables, by golly, the caterer you choose better be willing to do it and do it well.

The big challenge is to find a caterer that is flexible enough to share your vision and be willing to make it a reality...Here are some pointers in finding the right provider.

1. Word of mouth... it talks; listen to it!

Talk to others who have had successful events and sing the praises of their caterer. Ask what they liked or didn't like about them.

2. Be wary of the "tastings."

Though many caterers are willing to sample you on their product, keep in mind that making one portion to entice you to hire them gives them the opportunity to act out their food network fantasies. Cooking small portions can taste very different than preparing for a large amount of people.

3. What is the caterer's specialty? Does it jive with what your event calls for?

There are many styles of caterers. Some are geared toward special dietary needs or "green" catering.

Others have set menus for large events and cut corners by using only frozen product. Then there are the caterers that excel at haute cuisine. Their food may be cutting edge but it might not do well at your fifties themed wedding. Make sure the specialty of the caterer fits into the affair you have in mind.

4. How much involvement do you need from your caterer? There are many levels of service that a caterer can give you. At one end of the spectrum you've got the "drop caterers" who only prepare and deliver the food you ordered. If you make special arrangements they may even go so far as to set it up. On the other end of the spectrum is the "full service caterer." They provide fully trained front and back of the house staff. If you're having a formal event requiring plated service then you want a catering company that has expertise in such events. Ask if the staff have had service etiquette training and if the back of the house employees are accomplished kitchen help or chefs. Don't settle for less. You will be charged for the staff, you should expect quality, regardless of your theme.

5. References and reviews... get 'em.

Ask your prospective caterer for referrals of several recent events they catered, then check them! Not just the person who hired them, but also the venue where they served. Google 'em. Yep, you will find all sorts of information to help you make your decision.

6. Ask your caterer about their food philosophy.

Having a conversation about why or how they do what they do will give you a clue as to whether they would be the right fit for your event. Their passion and interest in executing their absolute best will shine through the conversation. Make a list of questions to ask that will provide insight into their talent and priorities.

7. Get a quote, insist on a contract.

Ask for a quote to include any additional costs that might accrue. Know what you want to pay ahead of time so that you can adjust in areas that won't compromise quality. Read your contract carefully and ask about anything that may come into question.

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Another thought: You may have already chosen a location for your wedding that you just can't live without! Unfortunately many venues will only allow you to choose from their approved list of caterers. Though they are "approved", they may not fit into your theme. You have three options: 1. Choose another venue. 2. Beg to use a caterer of your choice and provide proof of their worthiness. 3. Lay out exact instructions to the caterer you are "stuck" with and hopefully they will oblige.

Was this helpful? Planning a wedding may seem like an ominous task but it really is fun. Let loose and let your personality create memories to linger a lifetime. Buona Fortuna!

ABOUT CONNIE Connie Ruel is a restaurateur, wine instructor and private chef as well as author of the recently released "Passions of a Restaurateur- three generations of restaurant stories and the recipes they inspire� www.followtheruel.com

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THE BRIDE WORE BLACK THE STORY OF A NON-BRIDEZILLA

BY CHERYL ANNE KRAUS

RIGHT PAGE I want to make two things perfectly clear: First, my opinions are in no way meant to be an indictment or judgment of how others choose to celebrate or take their wedding vows; and Second, none of what I am about to say is meant to imply that I don't love an open bar.

However, I seem to be lacking the gene that most women have that makes them almost fanatical about having a big, fat overpriced wedding. My apparent genetic anomaly, coupled with a constant struggle against conformity, lead to a near confrontation with a woman I'll not-soaffectionately refer to as a "Bridezilla" a few weeks ago.

I had stopped to grab a cup of coffee on my way to the airport one morning. I overheard a bride-tobe on her cell phone bitching about her wedding planning and all that was going "wrong." She was near hysterics, on the verge of tears, and I was not properly caffeinated to deal well with the drama.

"And the purple for the maid-of-honor was supposed to be darker, and it's the same. I was, like, so upset. And my mother insists that because she's paying, she should pick the font on our invitations...and three florists...THREE, and not one of them knew the look I was going for on the centerpieces...I told [future husband] if everything isn't perfect, it's going to ruin the entire day and I won't even want to get married."

Yes, really.

I admit it. *raises hand* I became extremely judgmental of this bride-to-be and her apparent values.

Maybe, I thought, if couples today focused more on the actual marriage instead of a "perfect" wedding (a.k.a. overpriced party), the divorce rate wouldn't be nearly 50% for first marriages and almost 70% for second.

It was just a thought.

Coincidentally, a local radio station was discussing this issue that same morning. One of the hosts did the math: He married, and had recently divorced. Based on wedding-related expenses alone, it cost him $14 a day from vows to a finalized divorce to be married to a woman he now despised. He was married 7 years. I wondered...was it worth it? Are big wedding celebrations really worth the cost knowing the sad, harsh statistics? Again, I felt like I was missing something.

Despite my strong views on the issue of big weddings, I hold an even stronger belief that every couple should get married in a way that they want to; in a way that best defines them as a couple. It's just that I find it frustrating when couples seem to care more about the wedding and the party afterwards than the actual marriage.

Maybe I've worked too much or too long in Family Law; maybe I'm jaded; or maybe...just maybe...I'm spot on.

Personally, I'd rather spend money celebrating a 10, 15, or 20 year anniversary with family and friends who were by our side in real life as my husband and I worked hard to get through life's challenges together - the good times and bad; through sickness and health; during financial struggles and abundance; temptations; loyalty; arguments; solidarity - all of it. But that's just my opinion. I think the way we celebrate a marriage today in our society is (mostly) done wrong.

I WANTED TO GRAB THIS SELFABSORBED, MISGUIDED BRIDEZILLA BY THE HAIR EXTENSIONS ON HER SHALLOW, NARCISSISTIC HEAD AND SAY, "SWEETHEART! SOME PERSPECTIVE! PLEASE!"

And before you think judgy-wudgy was a Bridezilla once, too - you should know that I practice what I preach.

I wanted to grab this self-absorbed, misguided Bridezilla by the hair extensions on her shallow, narcissistic head and say, "Sweetheart! Some perspective! Please!"

"Someday? Dude, you're not exactly that young..."

16 years ago, I was crushing on a smart, bookish, fun, flirty, slightly reserved, handsome man with a contagious smile who kissed my hand and said, "If I'm lucky, I'll still be kissing this hand someday when I'm old and gray..."

My response?

Thankfully, he laughed.

5 years later, I married that man - my best friend and it has made all the difference.

DO VOWS LEFT PAGE MEAN MORE IF YOU SAY THEM BEFORE A BIG PARTY? At first we started planning a big, fat wedding of our own, because, well, that's what everyone else in our family and social circles expected us to do, right? We put down a big deposit for our reception, made a guest list (150! I50 guests! I can't think of 150 people I actually like!) but we quickly put the brakes on our plans. My mother and his mother had opinions and expectations about how things should be done; my future husband was insisting that my future sister-in-laws both do readings (I wasn't getting along well with either one of them at the time); my sister was arguing with me over me not wanting to be walked down the aisle by our parents; one of my bridesmaids hated the idea of being pregnant and in the wedding party; we couldn't invite soand-so if his ex-girlfriend was also invited....the list of "issues" that were popping up was getting extensive, ridiculous, and REALLY effing annoying.

Those issues started to overshadow what we wanted our wedding to be.

Finally, on the same morning I was going to start dress shopping, I looked at the man I wanted to spend my life with and said, "This is NOT how I want us to start our life together as husband and wife." He completely agreed.

We had 4 people in attendance when we made our vows: bride, groom, judge, and witness. And in those moments when we took our vows, I found the most personal, romantic, intimate moments of my life. I did not have a big white dress *gasp!* (I hate wearing white) and I decided to wear the same black dress I had on the night my husband proposed; we did not have 150 guests; and our friend, the judge, performed a beautiful, private ceremony centered completely on the two of us.

Our ceremony was full of smiles and tears and every emotion a couple SHOULD have when they pledge their life to one another - and I have absolutely no regrets. I know, I know, it's hard to understand or believe that we could have had a wedding THAT perfect when we didn't spend $35,000 and have months of the stress and drama typically associated with most of today's weddings, right?

I have a friend who actually had two weddings, nine months apart. Her first, as she explains it, was a "formality" to get on her fiance's health insurance plan. She said she doesn't even remember the date they first exchanged vows.

"My REAL wedding was the one we had later, with my dress, the party, that's the day I feel I really got married..."

Wow. OK. I'm still trying to understand that one. Do vows mean more if you say them before a big party?

In my opinion, the most significant moment of a marriage is when those vows are first taken. I mean, isn't it all about that promise? Aren't those the ideals and principles we promise to strive for every. single. day. once married? If it's not, some soul-searching needs to be done about your reasons for getting married, or about how superficial or shallow you just might be if the wedding means more to you than the gravity of your vows. (Yes, I'm incredibly judgmental and opinionated on this one. I own it.)

I shake my head at parents who pay a fortune for their thirty-year-old kid's wedding reception especially when said "kid" already has kids, hasn't lived at home for 10+ years, and has a mortgage.

Really? Just so someone can wear a white dress? I don't get it. Again, I'm an apparent anomoly because this is considered perfectly acceptable even the norm.

I did not have a big, fluffy white dress at my wedding. We did not have a cake. We do not even have a photo from that day to share with anyone.

All we had..all we wanted...all we needed...was each other.

That was 11 years ago.

And after 11 years of marriage...of life not always being easy, or fair, or fun...after knowing what it truly means to pledge my life to another, after knowing how challenging and difficult marriage can truly be on any given day, and even though I wore a black wedding dress ...I still do.

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ABOUT CHERYL Cheryl Anne Kraus, is a freelance writer and founder of the Mommy Drinks Wine and Swears social media sites and blog. Kraus is a former college faculty member, lobbyist, attorney, and a founding partner in her New York law firm. Mom to a toddler and tween, she drinks wine and swears to maintain her sanity. She is a Buffalo Bills fanatic and can speak football with the same ease as legal matters and sarcasm. She enjoys good conversation, political banter, shopping, and all-thingsgeek. Cheryl Anne and her husband are raising their family in Upstate New York.

Follow her on Twitter: @LawMomBlogger @MomDrinksWine http://www.facebook.com/ https://www.facebook.com/ mommydrinkswineandswears Mommydrinkswineandswears/

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YOUR VISION. YOUR STYLE. YOUR DAY.

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Georgez has extensive experience in the event planning industry. Anything from parties, business meetings, fashion shows, charity events to weddings, Georgez offers his expertise. He also offers his services as an ordained minister of all faiths.

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SPRING INTO WEDDING FASHION

SHOW YOUR PRIDE

by Georgez Dabit

SHOW YOUR PRIDE LEFT PAGE 

by Georgez Dabit Spring Brings Weddings?

Spring is well-known for being a season of flowers, laughter, allergies and more importantly, weddings! Weddings can come in all shapes and sizes. Many couples focus some much on the venue or flowers but from what I have seen, the wedding dress is the most talked about item that the wedding has to offer.

A wedding is very much like a fashion show. Guests from all over will wonder what the bride will look like, if she is wearing white and how well the dress fits her body. Now this may sound like no big deal to many people (some men in particular), but to a woman, the wedding dress can really make or break her wedding day.

Tips To Say Yes! When choosing a wedding dress, it can be very easy to pick top brand names like Vera Wang because of the quality of the dress, the recognition of the brand, the style, etc.

With brand names comes big bucks. If you have the money, by all means, go for it and buy it! If you do not have the money, there are many other options to pick from.

Tip 1: Remember that dress your mother or grandmother kept in her closet and told you she would give you on the day of your wedding? Well, RIGHT PAG it might not be a bad idea to actually wear that dress on your wedding day. Not only are you saving money, but you are being handed down a dress that may have been in the family for many moons. Depending on your age, you may think the dress is “out-of-date”, but, the meaning of the dress means that much more.

Tip 2: Along with picking your dress, you must also pick your bridesmaids dresses. First off, I have seen some heinous bridesmaids dresses. I get it, bride, you want to outshine the rest of the girls, but damn! Pick a dress that matches your theme but that is also flattering and also keep in mind that this dress should be something that the girls can wear over again so they really get their money’s worth. I have had many friends tell me how ridiculous some of the prices of these bridesmaids dress are and let me say, how rude and inconsiderate it is of the bride to pick a dress that is more than $60.00 unless you live in Beverly Hills and drive a Porsche!

Of course you want your wedding to look good, but you also don’t want anyone to become broke either; more options do exist, I promise!

Men & Weddings: Men, whether you are marrying a man or marrying a woman, that special someone is looking forward to that ring! Normally the engagement ring is the one that pops the question, but the ring on the wedding day is so important. Think BIG, Gotti and lots of diamonds. After all, who doesn’t like diamonds? You don’t need to be a woman to love diamonds! I don’t mean spend every penny you have, but look deeper into the meaning of the ring.

If it doesn’t shine, it’s not prime is what I have to say about it.

LEFT PAG 

Me, Myself & Weddings: In case you want to plan a wedding, or an event for that matter, I plan events and would love to be of help! I am also an ordained minister and can marry anyone in all 50 states! Next time you need an event planned, I’m your guy! Contact me for pricing and questions!

About Georgez RIGHT PAGE




"I am a hard-working, passionate person who loves to make every creation matter. I run a magazine called DenVhere, which produces Denver's hottest fashion, culture, life and more. Every layout, photo, design, etc, is hand-picked by me and I absolutely love that I can have full control of it. Not only do I want people to love the photos and the articles, but I also wanted people to know the person behind the magazine, me! Right now, I am working on my Bachelor's Degree to earn my events, hospitality and tourism degree from Metro State University and have such a passion for planning events, which I already do now for a living. I run anything from fashion shows, kids events, themed parties, weddings, etc. With the magazine, work and school, I don't get much time to have fun and go out, but when I do, I enjoy it."

To see more of me or my magazine, visit www.facebook.com/denvheremagazine

Georgez Dabit Editor-in-Chief/Creative Director DenVhere Magazine

www.denvheremag.com

So, What is Marriage?

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BY JEN BARTON

So, What is Marriage?

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by Jen Barton So What Is Marriage?

Wedding season is upon us. All the beautiful wedding dresses and fancy cakes has me thinking.

Remember the scene from The Princess Bride when Buttercup was marrying Prince Humperdink against her will and the priest dragged the ceremony on with the iconic use of the word “mawwraige” in a nasal, accentuated accent? Yes, that’s what I’m thinking of here! Marriage. So what is marriage? We can ask the experts, family therapists who study it for a living. There is never a shortage of blog posts about it, “3 Simple Steps to a Happy Marriage.” We can ask the people who’ve been married for 50 years and attribute their success to one thing or another. Or we can think about it from the point of view (that would be mine) of an average girl with a few years under her belt, but by no means is an expert. A marriage layman, of sorts.

After 11 years of marriage to my man I’ve come to the conclusion that marriage turns out to be different, and more complex than most people expect. The bridesmaids and rings are but a blade of grass in a prairie. A grain of sand on the beach.

A single car heading west on I-70 on any given Saturday in the winter. You get the picture. When my man and I first combined our homes, our bank accounts, and co-mingled our clothing into the same closet I just knew life would be better because of it. I couldn’t wait to begin our adventures, to conquer the world together. We were so in synch with one another it was sick.

In our first week of marriage my new husband decided he’d go to the store for us. The “I do” was still fresh on my lips, I was so overwhelmed and delighted that my man would offer such a service on a day I needed to be at work. I prepared a list of things we needed such as olives, chicken, ground beef and cheese to stock our new “together” fridge. We lived in a charming Fort Collins community at the time, so I thought he’d do this shopping at Safeway or another local grocery store.

Waiting for me upon my return from work that day was a total of 27 lbs of meat, several giant bricks of cheese, and an industrial-size can of olives, the type one would find in a commercial restaurant

kitchen. Seeing me attempt to lift the can of olives with both of my hands, my husband, with a puffed out chest proudly declared, “my wife said she needed olives!” I thought we were in synch. What would we do with 27 lbs of meat? I only knew 2 recipes that called for olives. Instead of shopping for these items at a place where a more reasonable size can be found, he signed us up for a Sam’s Club membership and shopped for these items in obvious bulk, but at a fraction of the cost. This experience and others like it later brought us to the realization that we, a couple so in synch it was sick, had differing opinions on how we manage money, not to mention the contents of our fridge. What?

So what is marriage? A small fraction of marriage is learning to talk about a hard topic like financial management and chipping away at it together, with joint goals and compromise in mind, and nailing down an official marital position on it that both parties agree to. Is it easy? I wish.

Once my man and I had a major disagreement over something. I was right, and he, well, was not.

We discussed it, analyzed it and still disagreed. We chipped away, we lost sleep, we re-phrased what the other said in a way that twisted the meaning to the point where I couldn’t look at him anymore.

Then something magical happened. He extended an olive leaf (though not from the industrial restaurant can). He brought home a dozen partially wilted flowers from Target, a tepid Grande chai latte from Starbucks, and a package of skittles and presented them to me with a note that simply said “I’m sorry, I love you.” I could look at him again. It wasn’t the treats, it was the posture of being the first to say the “S” word. Oh, it was so powerful.

We took a break from that disagreement, but we eventually came back to it with a sugar high, clearer minds and a spirit of reconciliation.

Secretly I was upset I didn’t get out of my prideful space and think of the olive leaf maneuver first!

So what is marriage? A small fraction of marriage is humility. It’s so potent. It’s so necessary. It has the power to veer a couple from a road that leads to certain disaster. Is it easy? Please!

I have many more thoughts on marriage. Things like being willing to keep the romance alive, remembering his favorite brand of ice cream, and the pros and cons of attempting to wear lingerie while pregnant. The list is so very long and complex, and each year my husband puts up with my shenanigans I learn more. But for now I’ll sign off because I have to make a run to Costco, we’re out of olives.

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Jen Barton a 10 year Erie resident, is a wife, mother, and freelance writer. She writes mainly as a means of cheap and convenient therapy.

She can be contacted at jenleebarton@gmail.com

 

trishaventker@me.com www.enchantandinspire.com

have the conversation LEFT PAGE

by Tedd Taskey Unfortunately, by the time most couples get to my office their marriage is usually in critical condition. As you can imagine, couples don’t come to a therapist’s office to talk about how great everything is going and how much in love they are. And the issues that drive them to a therapist’s office are not “he leaves the toilet seat up” or “she snores at night” type of problems.

TALKING WITH TEDD

The marriages that are most successful actually do their counseling before getting married. For all of my premarriage couples planning for marriage, we cover basic communications skills, boundaries, and any issues that repeatedly plague the relationship. We also cover the fundamental questions that all couples will face in a life together – having children, how to parent, where to live, etc. Although this may seem obvious, many couples do not thoroughly discuss the main topics and make tragic assumptions of what their spouse-to-be expects.

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With the divorce rates so high, you

The second reason this happens is

If you’re going to get married, you owe it

would think that most couples would

b e c a u s e t h e s e t o p i c s a re o f t e n

to yourself and your partner to discuss

discuss some key issues before getting

discussed in vague terms while dating,

the most important topics that usually

married.

Shockingly, many do not.

but without much thought or

shape a marriage. And you don’t need a

Many people go into a marriage with no

commitment. Who wants to ruin a date

therapist to guide you through the

understanding or a false understanding

by asking a provocative question? And if

process. Just discuss the big questions:

of what their partner really wants and

the important questions get asked, do

children, how many, how to raise them

expects in the relationship.

you really want to risk ruining the night

(religion, education, etc.), where to live,

by giving an honest answer which you

where to retire, financial philosophy,

suspect will upset your partner? A third

career possibilities. Then, eventualities:

reason is the simple assumption and/or

any significant event that you anticipate

wishful thinking: “Of course she’ll want

could be an important issue down the

to have kids. What woman doesn’t want

road. For example, what if your mother

to be a mother?” “He’ll eventually give

needs to live with us some day? When

up wanting to be a musician and then go

we do have kids, will I be stay-at-home

to law school.”

mom or dad? What will returning to work

How does

this happen?

The first reason this happens is because they simply fail to ask candid questions like, “do you want to have children?” or “are you okay with living in Colorado, or do you expect to move back to Florida at some point to take over the family business?”

look like?

What if we can’t have

children?

How do we feel about

adoption?

ABOUT TEDD To assure integrity in the exercise, answer these questions on your own first, then compare your answers with your spouse-to-be. Otherwise, you run the risk of influencing and being influenced by your partner’s answer. Seeing the look on your partner’s shocked face as you say you want six children, may lead you to back-peddling, tweaking, etc.

Although this exercise will not guarantee a happy, successful marriage, you will at least know where you stand on the big issues. You owe it to yourself to have the conversation. If you are standing together on the big issues, you will have a much better chance of staying together and enduring the little issues.

Tedd M. Taskey, MS, LMFT resides in Erie, Colorado and serves the Denver area as a psychotherapist and executive trainer. He works with couples and individuals working on a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, and anger management.

His practice specializes in serving the highpowered “A-type” personalities who often fall victim to entitlement behavior which can be abusive and destructive to their personal and professional relationships.

Epic Counseling 51 W 84th Ave

Denver, Colorado

(720) 775-7746 www.epiccounseling.com www.epiccounseling.com

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WEDDINGS AND WOOD

BY SARAH IWANSKI

Supply List RIGHT PAGE

A piece of wood any size you like that will fit your lettering **disclaimer if you are using pallet wood like I am PLEASE be sure the pallet you use is stamped “HT” or “heat treated” do NOT use any wood stamped MT which is chemically treated** Gloves A garbage bag or drop cloth A couple paint brushes (I prefer small and flat) Color wood stain you like use (I am using Rustoleum in Drift wood)

With this issue of ELIFE dedicated to weddings, love is in the air and on wood… wait, what?

Have you been looking for that just perfect sign for the head table at your reception?

Maybe the perfect sign for over the fireplace of your new home? OR maybe the perfect wedding or anniversary gi"? Luckily I am going to give you the tools to make any of the above.

Let's start with our supply list:

Color paint you would like to use, if you are painting your letters (I am using Valspar in Honeymilk) Letter stickers Rub on lettering A straight edge Plastic scraper (I use the pampered chef Nylon Pan Scraper)

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Once you have all your supplies together we can get started. We need to start with as clean and smooth a board as possible so it’s less likely you will get stain under the letters. You can go over your board with a stiff brush to remove most of the splinters, dirt and dust. If you need to you can use some rubbing alcohol to clean any spot where a letter will be placed.

Time to layout your letters. For a perfectly balanced sign you need to work from the center out using your straight edge along the bottom so your letters are spaced evenly. Once your lettering is laid out exactly how you want it use your plastic scraper to smooth down all the edges of your stickers. Hint: If you plan on painting your letters your stickers don’t need to be perfect. Now for our stain; carefully go around each sticker and over all edges of your wood with your stain. Hint: be sure your brush isn’t too wet with stain or it will seep under your stickers. Allow your stain to dry according to the instructions on the packaging. Once dry peel off your stickers.

If you’ve decided to leave your lettering natural move onto the next step. If you chose to paint your lettering like I have this is the time. You should be able to see your letters well enough to follow them.

Take your time and be careful not to overload your brush. You can always go over your lettering again if you would like it darker.

For the second step I am using rub on letters although you could use the method above to hand paint them as well just use a different paint color then before. Use your straight edge to align your letters.

Hint: Layout your letters on the table and use tape to hold them together.

I chose Mr and Mrs for my first lettering. For the second lettering you could do a last name, wedding date or a cute quote; the possibilities are endless.

Enjoy your custom made sign. As always I can be reached with any questions through the Crative Bitz page on Facebook. Here’s to being Crative!

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ABOUT SARAH

Sarah Iwanski is a happily married mother of three that missed her calling as a handyman! She loves a good challenge and will try any project at least once. She doesn’t typically make and sell the items she creates but can occasionally be talked into it. For any questions or comments she can be reached through her Facebook page facebook.com/groups/crativebitz/

the quiet woods LEFT PAGE

by Anne Meyers, MA NCC, Registered Psychotherapist

Premarital Counseling: Is It for You?

If you’re getting married, then yes it is! Most people think of counseling as a way to solve ugly issues that arise between couples, such as who is putting the toilet paper on the holder the wrong way. Okay, maybe people don’t seek counseling for that specific issue. But they do for other problems, such as lack of intimacy or trouble communicating. So what if you could head off those intimacy and communication problems at the pass? Premarital counseling can help you and your partner build a stronger foundation as you move forward with your lives together.

And contrary to popular belief, not all counseling is painful. Counseling can be fun: a way to bring you and your partner even closer than you had been before.

Here are four ways premarital counseling can help you:

• Prevent Problems Before They Escalate While arguments between couples are normal, they aren’t helpful when they become distancing by nature, rather than opportunities for you and your partner to learn about each other and grow closer. Couples tend to develop a pattern or cycle to their disagreements which repeats itself. A skilled couple’s counselor is trained to look for your patterns, and help you learn supportive ways of connecting with each other rather than distancing yourselves. In this way, your premarital counselor is not only helping you set up a beautiful foundation for your marriage, but giving you tools to use when those arguments spring up.

Why “The Quiet Woods”?

When Anne Meyers started her counseling practice, she wanted to create a space for clients that is peaceful, accepting, and removed from the “noise” of daily life. Inspired by the Robert Frost poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening, Anne created the name for her counseling practice: Quiet Woods Counseling, LLC.

the quiet woods RIGHT PAGE

• Clarify Goals and Values

• Know Your Partner on a Deeper Level

You‘ve formed a picture of your partner and yourself

Counseling provides a great opportunity to learn new

retiring to Mexico when you’re older, spending your

things about your loved one and the relationship that

time sailing and drinking margaritas. Meanwhile, your

you never noticed outside of the counseling space.

partner has envisioned the two of you growing old

Couple’s counselors are trained not only to look for

together in your recently renovated home in the

areas of difficulty, but also strengths! There are ways

mountains. The two of you haven’t discussed it yet

you and your partner support each other that you are

(these things slip by easily sometimes when you are in

probably not even aware of. Your counselor will notice

love!) Enter your premarital counselor, who is

these positives and help you and your partner build on

knowledgeable about life span development, is skilled

those strengths. This helps your relationship develop

at finding common ground regarding values you and

an even stronger foundation.

your partner hold, and can help you and your partner

The benefits of premarital counseling are numerous

navigate different expectations of marriage in the short

and worth considering. If you are wanting to give

and long term.

premarital counseling a try (or if you and your partner

• Smooth the Transition for all Family Members

simply can’t agree on which way the toilet paper roll

Changes you didn’t anticipate occur with that piece of

goes on the holder), I encourage you to find a

paper. What if you’ve been married and had children

counselor who has been trained in working with

before? While you and your partner have been firmly

couples and relationships, not just individuals. And

committed to each other before deciding to marry,

with any counseling, the most important component of

your decision to formalize your union sends a clear

success is how comfortable you feel with your

message to your children and former spouses about the

counselor and whether or not he or she “gets” you.

bond between you and your new life partner. This may

Take your time and find a counselor who feels like a

bring up painful feelings for your children and can

good fit for you and your partner.

create difficulties with former spouses. If you haven’t talked with your partner about topics such as where holidays will be spent and what role your partner will play in your children’s lives, now is a good time! Your transition will be easier if you plan ahead.

Anne Meyers is a registered psychotherapist who has lived in Erie, Colorado for the past 16 years. Anne works with teens, adults, couples and families at her counseling practice located in old town Louisville. Anne specializes in trauma, relationships, and issues related to adolescence.

When Anne is not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family (including three animals), reading fiction, hiking, seeing live music, and lounging on the couch enjoying movies. For more information about Anne’s counseling services, please visit www.quietwoodscounseling.com.

ON THE SAME PAGE LEFT PAGE

BY JACOB NEAL AND BRIAN MCGUIRK

One poem and one drawing at a time, Jake and Brian are combining poetic and artistic forces to create something interesting. The idea of this collaboration has been on the horizon for the last couple of months and is beginning to gain momentum. They hope to put all of the pieces together to form a published book when the time is right.

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Brian McGuirk is a poet, songwriter, and musician who has called Erie, Colorado his home for the last 10 years. He has been writing down his ideas and creating rhymes for as long as he can remember. He greatly enjoys playing guitar and is very fond of all types of music. He is currently a third grade teacher at Black Rock Elementary School, where he is able to foster his love of creative writing each and every day.

Jacob Neal is a practicing artist living and working in Denver, Colorado. He fancies himself a lifelong learner in the arts. Currently he concentrates his time illustrating and screen printing, but has been known to dabble in photography, painting, sculpture and graphic design. He currently teaches Middle and High School Digital Media Arts in order to support and supplement his addictions to create and collect original art.

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www.GalleryOnTheGo.com

Indulge…

DARE YOU TO ORDER

TAKE A WALK

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WILD SIDE THURSDAY, AUGUST 25 4 PM- 8:00 PM FREE!

WITNESS ARTISTS IN THEIR NATURAL HABITATS & VIEW OUR AFRICAN ART EXHIBIT by our talented artists.

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JOIN US…IF YOU DARE! Sponsored by

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BY JIM SMALL

CAN YOU

Can You Can you take the time to smell the flowers

RIGHT PAGE Jim's poemCan you pull a cloud down from the sky Can you make a difference with your smile Can you understand the reason why Can you close your eyes and smell the ocean Can you open them to a brand new day Can you catch the floating dandelion Can you make a wish 'fore it blows away Can you hold the frightened hand that's trembling Can you feel the warmth of lonely tears Can you calm the angry crowds assembling Can you take away a child's fears Can you recognize your true companions Can you overlook their petty faults Can you hear the echoes down the canyons Can you share with us your secret vaults Can you once forgive the morning after Can you bring us back so long ago Can you sense the powerful push of laughter Can you finally learn to just let it go Can you lead a path that's not yet taken Can you care for those who follow close Can you let your voice inside awaken Can you comfort those who matter most Can you sing along to music playing Can you carry someone's heavy pack Can you borrow, and are still repaying Can you part with all you've given back Can you now resist the thought of violence Can you practice everything you preach Can you watch the sun go down in silence Can you see the stars within your reach Can you watch the sun on the horizon Can you recognize life's sweet release Can you understand how all this ties in Can you find within you lasting peace

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ART

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INSPIRATIONS

SPRING/SUMMER

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by Wira Babiak 1. Shadow of the Wind - Photo Credit: Don Eastburn 2. Silky Dove and Autumn - Photo Credit: Stephanie Jerome 3. Performance at a library in Mississippi 4. Autumn Morning Star - Photo Credit: Stephanie Jerome 5. The Basket Dance - Photo Credit: Stephanie Jerome

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6. Sculpture - Spirit Keeper of the Anasazi by Autumn Morning Star

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AUTUMN MORNING STAR:

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AN ARTIST WITH A MAGICAL FLAIR

I met Autumn Morning Star in Old Town when I moved to Erie several years ago. Quickly, I learned what a versatile artist she is. Autumn is a stone sculptor, a musician who plays the Native flute and Zen Tambour, a published poet, and is best known for her outstanding work as a professional magician and illusionist. This award-winning artist has been recognized by the Smithsonian Institute of the American Indian for her outstanding cultural illusion show.

This award-winning artist has been recognized by the Smithsonian Institute of the American Indian for her outstanding cultural illusion show.

Deep in the heart of Old Town Erie is a hidden rehearsal studio. Autumn opens the door to reveal the place where she weaves her artistic creations: “When you walk into my studio you are no longer in Erie, but are transported to an off-Broadway theater, complete with curtains, formal theater seating, and lighting. Early afternoons, I rehearse on my stage and I create my music late at night. To relax, I sculpt in one corner of the studio and write poetry in the other. Some of the music and all of the scripting for my show is my own original work.” The creative energy of this exceptional space is undeniable.

“My people are Blackfeet and Choctaw, so I incorporate my culture into my show by combining storytelling with the magic of Illusion. Morning Star’s high-end illusion shows are regularly featured in Las Vegas and at Indian Casinos, but her smaller show takes her worldwide. Her

local shows are rare, but Erie is in for a treat: “Kids are my favorite audience! In 2016, I am going to start doing a handful of children’s shows for Erie audiences only, along with teaching children’s beginning magic classes!”

It seems Erie has a hidden artistic treasure that will bloom locally in the coming spring!

“My people are Blackfeet and Choctaw, so I incorporate my culture into my show by combining storytelling with the magic of Illusion.”

Autumn Morning Star is an award-winning performing artist who combines her stories and Native heritage with magic and illusion. Autumn also teaches children, adults, and seniors the remarkable art of magic! For more information: www.morningstarmagic.com or call 303-828-3555 Autumn Morning Star creates elegant HeartMusic with her beautiful Native American flutes and Zen Tambour tone drums. This enchanting music is perfect for art receptions, intimate gatherings, and very special occasions.

For more information: www.morningstarflute.com Wira (Vera) Babiak, our contributor is an Erie artist. Her works can be currently seen at the Erie Animal Hospital, KCP Art Gallery in Longmont, and Main Street Gallery in NY. Wira holds a BA in Sociology from CU Boulder, and a Masters is Public Administration from CU Denver. Wira has won several art show placement ribbons and judges in art shows all over the world.

For more information check out her website at: wirababiakartwork.weebly.com

Art & Your Brain LEFT PAGE

ArtSmart

by Sue Sundstrom

How do you feel when you visit an art gallery or art museum? Does looking at art make you feel happy, excited, in awe, sad? When I look at original art, whether it’s painting or drawing or sculpture, I’m always struck by the fact that someone made this wonderful piece with his or her own hands. They painted or sculpted or drew something that was meaningful to them. They put their emotions, message, and vulnerabilities on display for all of us to see and critique. They also gave us a glimpse into their lives, culture, environment and what was important to them.

I feel a sense of being transported to another time and place; the time and place of the artist at the moment when the piece was created. This was a real person, in a real space, in another time; and I feel that I know this person and am there with him or her through his or her art. I marvel at the technical expertise of a Renaissance artist like Michelangelo or Leonardo DaVinci. I am struck by the powerful and sometimes raw emotion portrayed by Pablo Picasso, Diego Rivera or Vincent VanGogh. And I am swept back in time to the beautiful gardens of Monet or the glorious flowers of Georgia O’Keefe. Art has the power to move us in ways that have up until recently been a mystery to us.

Now, however, there is a growing body of brain research that suggests that viewing art can not only elicit strong emotion, it can actually be good for your health and sense of well-being.

• Art can help reduce stress

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Increased stress (and don’t we all have that at times) leads to high levels of cortisol in the body. In an article by Christopher Bergland in Psychology Today, (January, 2013), he states “Scientists have known for years that elevated cortisol levels interfere with learning and memory, lower immune function and bone density, increase weight gain, blood pressure, cholesterol, heart disease... The list goes on and on.” In a study out of the University of Westminster, UK, in 2006, it was found that viewing art in a museum for just 35 minutes decreased levels of cortisol in the participants.

• Art makes us feel good

Sue Sundstrom is a watercolor and pastel artist, living and creating in Erie. She has been painting, drawing, and teaching art classes for more than 35 years. She has a Master’s Degree in Fine Art and Art Education. You can find more information about her and view her work at sundstromartservices.com

Oshin Vartanian, an expert on the neuroscience of aesthetics and creativity at the University of Toronto, explored the different ways people observe and appreciate art on a neurological level. He explains that as people look at art, “we found…that areas of the brain involved in processing emotion and those that activate our pleasure and reward systems are also being engaged.”

He goes on to say, “One area that is actively engaged while viewing art is the interior insula, which historically has been associated with experiencing pain. Many early studies of the brain found that this area would be activated when viewing paintings and even sculpture, which didn’t make immediate sense because we tend to associate viewing artworks with some form of pleasure. However, what a lot of recent studies have found is that this area is also responsible for experiencing pleasant emotions, especially ones that have a visceral aspect to them.

Another area that’s engaged when viewing art is the putamen. This area is part of the basal ganglia, an important system in the brain for the experience of reward, among other things.”

Sue Sundstrom

• Art takes us out of ourselves "Art accesses some of the most advanced processes of human intuitive analysis and expressivity, and a key form of aesthetic appreciation is through embodied cognition, the ability to project oneself as an agent in the depicted scene," states Christopher Tyler, director of the SmithKettlewell Brain Imaging Center in San Francisco, Ca. Embodied cognition is “the sense of drawing you in and making you really feel the quality of the paintings,” Tyler explains. “For example, viewers appreciate Botticelli's painting ‘The Birth of Venus’ because it makes them feel as though they are floating in with Venus on the seashell. Similarly, viewers can feel the flinging of the paint on the canvas when appreciating a drip painting by Jackson Pollock.”

What does all this mean? It means that now there is a scientific basis for what many of us already knew; that art it good for us. It can help us escape from the stresses of everyday life, experience pleasure, and be transported to another time and place. Go to art-collecting.com/ nonprofits_co.htm for links to art museums, art centers and art galleries in Colorado. Happy Viewing!

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2016

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by Janelle Taylor LEFT PAGE

Color Me What?

What colors are you drawn to when you shop? Do you head straight for black? Or are you a blue person? Or maybe you’re drawn to camel and peach or maybe rust or olive? You were born with a natural “knowing” of which colors look best on you.

We can all wear every color – but we need to find the right shade or hue of that color that works on us with our skin tone, eyes and natural hair color.

The concept of seasonal color analysis was quite popular in the 80’s. So many of you are thinking it was a fad or outdated process. Not true! It has been around for over 80 years!!

Hollywood had been practicing this for decades.

There are over 10,000,000 colors discernible to the human eye.

We are influenced by color every day and whether we realize it or not, it is having a positive or negative effect. Our moods when we walk into a room have a great deal to do with the colors used in that room. The clothing we wear makes us feel great and in control or we feel like we just don’t look our best. An artist by the name of Marjorie Bliss, over 70 years ago, observed that students she saw on an everyday basis were flattered on some days by the colors they wore and other days did not look so good. She said that colors just like skin tones have undertones that are either cool or warm. She and her biz partner opened the original School of Color in California about 65 years ago. People with cool (or blue-pink) undertones are flattered by colors which also have the same undertones and the warm under-toned people are flattered most by colors which have warm or yellow undertones. All colors as well as fabric, paint and foundation start out white and color is achieved by adding either red, yellow or blue to get the desired shade.

After further study, Marjorie found that some people were flattered more by the bright colors while others were better in the soft colors. This is how the four seasons theory started. The cool seasons are the Winters – who take the bright, clear, vivid, intense colors; and Summers – who take the soft, powdered, pastel, sun-washed colors; both of these have colors in the blue/ pink family. The warm seasons are the Springs- who take the bright, clear, fresh, warm undertone colors; and Autumns – who take the rich, warm, mellow, woodsy, earth-toned colors.

Wearing the right colors and styles for “your” season will make you feel more confident. You will be enhancing your God given beauty or handsomeness (yes – men can learn from this too!

You guys have your styles depending on your season as well!)

The process involves not only the right colors, but the correct style and accessories for each one; down to jewelry style and colors/stones, shoe and handbag colors, stockings or tights, eye glasses and faux fur colors. Patterns are also a huge part of the equation. For instance Autumns love plaids, tweeds and paisley while Winters rarely wear patterns and if RIGHT PAGE they do, wear stripes, polka dots – even patterns. Springs like bold, unusual ones and Summers prefer florals.

About Janelle

There are even personality types for each one! Some well-known people and their seasons: Springs – Goldie Hawn, Jane Lynch, Suzanne Sommers Summers – Diane Sawyer, Mel Gibson, Tom Hanks Autumns – Robert Redford, Renee Russo, Ann-Margaret Winters – Tom Selleck, Jennifer Lopez, Marie Osmond Finding your season (and a season of influence, as I was trained) can greatly affect your mood. Wearing warm colors when you should be in cool ones, can literally make you depressed. It can affect your job – getting one and then remaining productive at it. It makes no difference whether you are an executive or in the basement, it will have an influence on your ability to function productively.

In order to determine your personal season/2nd season and style, it is best to work with a trained color analyst. I tried to do it myself and thought I was an Autumn because I was influenced by what others had always told me: “You have brown hair and eyes so you should wear brown and earthy tones.” This couldn’t have been further from the truth! Once I was draped by my trainer I learned I am Winter. I am so much more confident. If I do try on something now and just don’t feel good in it, I don’t buy it. No matter what the sale price.

Because I know I will not wear it no matter how low a price point!! We go for the things in our closets that make us feel good! Now I love to help others enhance their looks and step into the world with confidence!

Janelle moved to CO from IL 21 years ago.

She’s been residing in Erie for 15 years.

Janelle has also been a teacher of the Hearing Impaired.

Married to Tom, she has 2 children and 4 grandkids. Being an Independent Mary Kay

Janelle Taylor

Consultant for 19 years, she’s earned

Certified Seasonal Color Analyst

lots of prizes, awards and accolades from the company, including a diamond studded pin.

Contact Janelle: 303-828-2750 jtaylor1@marykay.com

https:// www.facebook.com/ www.facebook.com/ JanelleTaylorMaryKay JanelleTaylorMaryKay

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LEFT PAGE LIQUID MECHANICS AD - FULL PAGE

www.liquidmecahnicsbrewing.com

Coffee… the true elixir of life

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By Erich Hardy (Roast Master for Cristos Coffee)

One of my joys as a Roast Master is hosting a cupping for friends. Trying different coffees at diverse roast levels will amaze you with their flavor variations. Coffee is truly an amazing beverage. It has more antioxidants than red wine. The caffeine in coffee is a natural stimulant but it has so many documented health benefits that the most ardent health nut can still appreciate the “Elixir of Life.”

Erich Hardy -Erich Cristos

N

othing quite says “Good Morning” like a

One of my joys as a Roast Master is hosting a

RIGHT PAGE great cup of coffee. Starting our day is a small part cupping for friends. Trying different coffees at of starting our life. In that mug of delicious brew is a warm sunrise, a beautiful blossom and a true and faithful friend -- waiting for you on the counter every morning. Coffee is truly the “Elixir of Life.”

diverse roast levels will amaze you with their flavor variations. Coffee is truly an amazing beverage. It has more antioxidants than red wine. The caffeine in coffee is a natural stimulant but it has so many documented health benefits that the most ardent health nut can still appreciate the “Elixir of Life.”

Coffee has a very interesting history of its discovery by a goatherd of dancing goats to being declared the drink of divinity to becoming the invigorating elixir of poets and writers worldwide.

Coffee shops became gathering places to discuss politics and plan revolts, meet with friends and fellow authors, hear local musicians, view local art and photography or just relax in a groovy vibe.

It is true that coffee is listed as a commodity but it defies the definition of commodity. Coffee flavor options are more varied than wine. In spite of all the wine growing regions, grape varietals, blending options and fermentation – there are still many more flavor profiles available in roasted coffee. The Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) lists 9 different official roast levels. In addition to the roasting options, there are 52 known varieties of Arabica coffee. The resulting combinations require a Roast Master to have the palate of a sommelier, the skill of a chef and the inquisitive nature of researcher. From this combination of Mother Nature and science, we get to enjoy the endless bounty of rich and flavorful coffee. From the blueberry essence of an Ethiopian Harrar to the woody, earthiness of Sumatra Blue Batak, coffee has a flavor for anyone.

We hope to see you in Cristos Coffee at 89 S. Bri"s Street in Erie sometime soon. There is so much more that we can te# you about coffee, but that wi# have to wait for another issue of ELIFE. - Erich Hardy

It’s All About The Beer…

Except When It isn’t LEFT PAGE

by Eric Briggs

The Story Behind Liquid Mechanics

The Story behind Liquid Mechanics How many of us really enjoy going to work for corporate America? For the three of RIGHT PAGE

us that opened Liquid Mechanics Brewing Co., something was missing! It was neither fun or fulfilling anymore. Each of us had enjoyed great careers at Amgen, supporting the manufacturing of injectable human therapeutics. Amgen was a great precursor to our brewing endeavor. We cultured Chinese Hamster Ovary cells (CHO) using fermenters and bioreactors, and purified protein with precision processes, utilizing world class quality systems. In all honesty, manufacturing beer is far less complicated.

In 2012 Amgen initiated its plans to reduce its workforce and ultimately shut down its manufacturing sites in Colorado. Over the course of the next year all three of us left Amgen to join a generic pharmaceutical manufacturer in Broomfield, CO. Our professional brewing journey started in 2013, when one day at lunch Eric asked Seth, who had been brewing beer in his garage for 18 years and won a number of competitions for his beer, “What would it take for you to open a brewery?” Seth’s response, “Make the same amount of money and ride my bike to work”, was all I need to hear.

At that time, the three of us (Davin Helden-Head Paper filer, Seth Townsend-Chief Yeast Manipulator and Eric Briggs-Door to Door Alesman) began the task of building a business plan (BP). We studied the craft beer industry with excruciating detail. Davin was instrumental in this phase since he had earned his MBA from CU. The plan required us to ground our concept and understand if opening another brewery in Colorado was feasible. After all, this adventure would need a substantial monetary “leap of faith”. Yes, it was bit crazy! We left good paying jobs with GREAT benefits, to pursue a future full of unknowns and the possibility that we could fail. A critical element of our business plan was location.

Liquid Mechanics Brewing Company needed a highly visible location, with high traffic counts and an outdoor patio. We narrowed our search to about ten locations from Longmont to Broomfield; I-25 to Boulder. Our realtor showed us the property at

“What would it take for you to open a brewery?”

HWY 287 and Baseline. This was the best fit! We subsequently secured funding from a bank in Q1 of 2014, signed our lease in April and opened the doors in August of that year. It is important to note that each one of us is thankful for the support of our community, including our friends and family, and most importantly our wives for joining us on this fantastic adventure.

Only a few years ago, one could open a brewery with an average space, average beer and mediocre service to be successful. However, times have changed! In the current “climate”, the the pendulum has swung to the other side! The consumers’ expectations for flawless, creative beers being served in a comfortable and attractive atmosphere are the new norm. This demand for perfection in Suds, Space and Service is what we refer to as the 3 S’s. We were aware of this concept going into our endeavor, but we didn’t realize how important the three S’s were to repeat business.

Our Success Would Require What We Call The 3 S’s

Suds:

Don’t get us wrong, we strive for perfect beer. A number of our beers are spot on fantastic (as determined by professional beer judgesLEFT and professional brewers). Most are great and a couple are good. We consistently progress any “good” beers to PAGE exit this category. However, in our current craft beer environment, “good” just doesn’t cut it. You have to come out of the gate with fantastic beers from day one. We quickly learned that even one sub-par beer out of 10 will yield nasty comments on rating sites, causing people to not return.

Lesson learned…

The first really hard lesson we encountered was the cost to dump an imperfect beer. During our second month of operation, we brewed a 10 barrel-batch (310 gallons) of 100% organic ingredient pale ale. It is a very expensive beer because of the organic ingredients and one that did fairly well in the tap room. However, there was low level diacetyl in the beer. It was at such a low level, that we didn’t detect it. However, some people did, and it was enough to elicit some negative comments. Therefore, we tested it again and consequently dumped it.

Dumping the beer was an easy decision for us. As a core value, quality was important to us from the days at Amgen.

Although the beer wasn’t perfect, it had to be dumped. However, the monetary decision to dump $6400 in potential revenue hurt us. Knowingly, we did the right thing, based on the Facebook post we received. We chose to educate our customers on where we stand with our beer in the process.

Whether you perfect all of your beers or not, you still have to worry about the rest of the equation-the other 2 S’s.!There are many good breweries in Colorado that are simply nailing every single beer they make. So why go anywhere else? Space and Service is the answer…

Consumers are looking for the perfect space to relax in, and the perfect service to go along with their beer experience.

Space and service in Colorado is quickly becoming the ONLY way to differentiate yourself in a crowded market. Stellar beer may no longer be enough to draw customers into a tasting room.

“Dumping the beer was an easy decision for us.”

“Consumers are looking for the perfect space to relax in, and the perfect service to go along with their beer experience. Space and service in Colorado is quickly becoming the ONLY way to differentiate yourself in a crowded market. Stellar beer may no longer be enough to draw customers into a tasting room.”

Space: At Liquid Mechanics Brewing Co., we spend a significant amount of forethought, money and time on creating a tasting room just right. We receive positive comments on a daily basis on the looks, and how it makes people feel. However, it wasn’t enough when we opened. Our suggestion box made it clear that we "missed the mark" regarding a few key areas; some of RIGHT PAGE which were just an oversight on our part. Some were just really good ideas for improvement! All of which we fixed quickly. If you don’t adapt immediately and respond to customers' concerns about your space, they won’t come back! Therefore, we obtained a Deep Rock water cooler, board games for the tasting room, baby changing table and repaired some of the lighting concerns. We also installed a 70” big screen TV for Bronco football and generally made a bunch of other little changes to improve our space. In hindsight, we wish we had though of all of those things prior to opening. We are certain there are patrons that attended our grand opening week and never returned because we weren’t showcasing sporting events. Another thing we focused on was improved patio lighting. First impressions are EVERYTHING!!

Service: Service is perhaps the most important factor in a craft brewery. We received over 200 applications for our "Beer Slinger" (bartender) positions. We actively researched 100 of those applicants, interviewed 18, and hired 3. We knew that people needed service professionals to both educate concerning our craft beer and giving them a reason to come back. We wanted the right personalities in the positions- people who liked craft beer and most importantly, people who wanted to learn about the wonderful world of crafting beer. We continue to hire excellent candidates and have built a happy team. The underlying theme in our Facebook and Yelp reviews is great service. Even the few people who thought the beer was "meh" to OK said they would come back because of the service. That is a big, big, big, deal.

“First impressions are EVERYTHING!”

It basically means we get a second shot at a first impression, and that is priceless! After we released our Belgian Abbey, there was a week where nobody in the tasting room really knew how to describe it. That was our (owners’) fault. We have since improved our overall beer education for new beer releases, but certainly there were customers who felt that we didn’t know enough about the beer we were selling. That simply cannot happen… ever again!

Get out there and enjoy the Suds, Space and Service! We at Liquid Mechanics Brewing Company are thankful to be part of the craft brewing industry. You are at the epicenter of craft beer. We would be honored to pour you a beer and get to know you. Get out there and experience a great craft beer in Colorado!

P I N E A P P L E S A R E N O T T H E O N L Y Y U M M Y T H I N G S T H A T C O M E F R O M H A W A I I

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The Power of that Little Umbrella

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by Larry Gerber

What are your two favorite beverages? For many people, it’s coffee and smoothies. Mine too. So after retiring from the USAF, I decided to pursue something completely different in my 2nd career, and opening a coffee shop was on the top of that list. Do you enjoy freedom and flexibility? I sure do. So as I investigated different coffee shop options, a Denver-based company immediately caught my eye—Maui Wowi Hawaiian Coffee & Smoothies. Coffee and Smoothies, Hawaiian flavor and Island attitude, and “a little umbrella in your drink”! What could be more appealing than bringing a little bit of Hawaii to the friendly and inviting, rapidly expanding Town of Erie?

Is your health important to you? It is to me, as well as to many people in Erie. Once again, Maui Wowi fresh fruit smoothies fit the bill—they are made from 100% natural ingredients, fat and gluten free. And who doesn’t love a fresh-brewed cup of hot Kona coffee on a cold day or morning, or cold-brewed Toddy ice coffee on a hot day? Both delicious beverages certainly hit the spot for me.

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As I did for 23 years in the USAF, serving people has always been something I enjoy doing. Thus, the new and exciting opportunity of serving smoothies and coffee around a schedule that I control, gave me the possibility to do just that, while maintaining the freedom and flexibility I deeply desired.

Party time? Partying was never real high on my list—but it is now!

Maui Wowi offers me the opportunity to cater parties—all kinds— corporate or backyard, black tie or shorts and sandals—employee or volunteer appreciations, promotions, graduations, etc. I couldn’t have asked for a better match than the fun and relaxed atmosphere of wearing a Hawaiian shirt to work, sipping on a gourmet smoothie, working when I want to work and playing when I want to play!

For more information on events or catering, contact Larry Gerber at 937-219-4937, or lgerber0811@gmail.com.

° EVENTS °

° CULINARY CLASSES °

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www.eriecoloradobusinessalliance.com

Coffee, Panini, Pastries, Desserts

Painting classes, Tapas, Wine, Beer and Cocktails

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eat like a prince Traditional Tandoori Oven Catering

Specializing in Traditional Tandoori and Indian Curries Old Town Erie is the best location for our new restaurant. Come enjoy some nan and one of our authentic Indian dishes.

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Spring and Summer Tips from Ashley Nicole

THE MANE EVENT

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PRO ADVICE

BLOW OTHERS AWAY THIS SUMMER

BLOW OTHERS AWAY THIS SUMMER LEFT PAGE

by Ashley Nicole

Have you ever had that morning when you wake up, hop in the shower and frantically try to get ready to start your new day? While you are blowdrying your hair and going through your to do list, you get a whiff of something burning and then the power of your blow dryer goes out. Drat!

When it comes time to going to the store to buy a new blow dryer it certainly seems like the aisle grows twice the size and what seems to be such a simple shopping trip can become very overwhelming with all sorts of blowdryers claiming to have special effects as well as very different price points! Here is a breakdown of what you need for your hair type and what is the most friendly for your budget!

If you have thin, fine, and or straight hair look for a dryer that is ceramic.

These dryers create non-damaging in"ared heat that dries hair gently and evenly. Always start on medium to high heat, once your hair is 80% dry switch it to cool to finish up the ends. If your Hair fa$s flat or looses curl quickly, hit it with the cool shot button. This wi$ seal the hair cuticle and set the hold of the curl and also helps create shine!

`

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If your hair is thick, long, coarse, or "izzy look for a dryer that is Ionic or Tourmaline.

Ionic dryers create mi!ions of negative ions which break down the water molecule which creates faster drying time without drying out your fo!icle. Tourmaline dryers create in"ared heat and negative ions that create shiny and less "izzy ends. Make sure that the dryer has between 1500 to 1800 Watts, this wi! ensure that the dryer has enough power for thick and or long hair.

Ashley maintains her business at Fringe Etc. at Sola Salon at Orchard Mall. In 2007 she graduated from the Aveda Institute in Denver. Over the last several years continued her education with Aveda, Keratin Complex, Davines, and Johnny B. She finds her inspiration from changes of season, red carpet events and fashion magazines.

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When you finish drying your hair switch to the cool shot to rea!y help smooth any extra "izz and create shine. I always recommend to use an appropriate styling glass to run through the mid and ends to enhance this look even more. No matter what type of hair you have always make sure to use appropriate heat protectant on your hair! Your hairstylist can su$est options for you as we! as their personal opinion on what dryer on the market would be best for you.

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the apple

Cheryl Schuberth is a wellness coach helping people make one simple change at a time to optimize their health. She has lived in Erie for 11 years with her husband and two sons and takes every opportunity to

Spring in your Step?

by Cheryl Schuberth

enjoy the amazing outdoors of Colorado.

Changes in season are a good time to evaluate the path you're on to determine if you're going in the direction of your goals or if you need to change course. Many people set health targets at the beginning of the year but don't have adequate direction, support or motivation to stay with them.

Those that do have likely achieved at least their short-term goals and are ready for the next challenge. Where do you sit?

Do you have clear goals for your health - weight loss, clearer skin, more energy, reduced blood pressure, hike your first 14er? Without your health, nothing else really matters so make your health a priority. Just like with anything else, if you don't have clear goals for your health it is easy to drift and never reach the "dream".

Contact Cheryl: ownyourlifetoday@outlook.com

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Now that spring is almost here, people are worried about looking good in their bathing suit or even their wedding dress. Are you ready for swimsuit season, tank tops, shorts, strapless dresses? It's about more than being skinny but being healthy. Following are some tips to improve your health, whatever your goals: 1.

Eat more whole food. It's amazing how skin tone changes, hair becomes healthier, nails stronger, workouts more effective when you reduce processed food and add more whole food. As a bonus, whole food makes you more full, so you're less likely to overeat.

2.

Unless you are truly committed to an overhaul, make One Simple Change at a time to reach your goals. It's a lifestyle not a diet. One change per month can add up to 12 positive changes in a year. Think about what that can do for your life.

3.

Exercise 30-60 minutes most days. What's the best exercise? The one you will do! Oftentimes, people try a routine that doesn't fit their current fitness level or their interests. Finding one that works for you will help you be more successful.

4.

Find a buddy. It's so much easier to stay on plan when you have someone to be accountable to and who will support you when the going gets tough. Even if you can't find a buddy, ask your friends and family to support you during your transition so that they aren't inadvertently tempting you.

Are you ready for Spring? Set those goals. Once you achieve them, you certainly will have a spring in your step knowing you made it!

Eat More Whole Foods One Simple Change At A Time Exercise Find A Buddy

2016

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ANOTHER WAVE OF FITNESS

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by Coreda Ehrhart

Another wave of fitness What if I told you that there was a type of fitness that yields truly amazing results and requires less exertion than most aerobic exercise and weight training? This distinct fitness is performed at a slightly slower tempo, no heavy weights to lift, simple movements, little risk of injury, and no impact on your joints.You’ll burn more calories than running on the treadmill with less respiratory stress and a reduced heart rate. It provides more effective muscle training and a more balanced full-body workout.You’ll also notice the benefit of little or no perspiration, reduced blood pressure over time and improved sleep. Would you try it?

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Allow me to introduce you to Aquatic Fitness

the benefits are not limited to athletes and senior citizens. In fact, today’s offerings appeal to a wide range

Not an entirely new concept, this less known form of

of clients and age groups. Special needs participants

cardiovascular and muscular training is creating waves

such as kids, pregnant or postpartum women, older

in health clubs everywhere, most commonly in the

adults and people with special medical needs such as

form of group exercise classes. A specially trained

arthritis, obesity, and other conditions find it

instructor leads you through a series of moves or

therapeutic. You don’t need to be an excellent

choreography for about 45-60 minutes. The classes focus on aerobic endurance, resistance training, and

swimmer either. Most classes are held in shallow water

creating a fun, enjoyable atmosphere.

no deeper than your chest.

Classes are created to target a variety of interests.

How it works While similar to land aerobics it focuses on cardiac training, but water aerobics differs by adding the component of water resistance and buoyancy.

Although your heart rate does not increase as much as on land, your heart is working just as hard and underwater exercise actually pumps more blood to the heart. Exercising in the water is not only aerobic, but

Some popular classes include Aqua Zumba, Water Yoga, Aqua Tabata, Aqua Kickboxing and Kids Splish-Splash classes. With increasing demand and interest, new classes are being developed each year with ideas such as Aqua Cycling and Water Pole Dancing. There’s a class for everyone!

Where to find it

also strength-conditioning by adding water resistance.

Many facilities have indoor pools where classes are

Moving your body through the water creates a

offered year round. With summer approaching, now is

resistance that activates more muscle groups. You’ll see and feel the results in no time.

the perfect time to check out some local facilities and

Is this for me?

Try your first class for free by joining my exhilarating

give Aquatic Fitness a try.

Aqua Zumba class Tuesday nights from 7:00 – 8:00PM Swimmers have experienced the benefits for years and doctors indisputably recommend it to the elderly

at the YMCA of Boulder Valley, 2800 Dagny Way, Lafayette, CO. The indoor pool is comfortably heated

because of its low-impact nature. But

and kept at 82-84 degrees.

About The Author Coreda Ehrhart is a Colorado Native who moved to Erie in 2006 with her husband and 3 daughters. A Certified Group Fitness Instructor, Coreda teaches Zumba Fitness, Aqua Zumba and Kids Zumba classes at the YMCA in Lafayette. and Vista Ridge For more information, visit www.zumbagurl.com.

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The Skinny on

Coolsculpting

by Dawn Warkentine

Coolsculpting took the US by storm shortly after its FDA approval in July of 2015 and has been a wildly popular ever since. Celebrities and common folk alike are lining up for a helping hand using this safe and non-invasive procedure for their diet and exercise resistant areas. Get skinny quick fixes have come and gone but Coolsculpting consistently delivers results. Here are the answers to 5 common misconceptions about the procedure.

5 Common Misconceptions

#1

It’s Painful I typically tell my patients that it is not without discomfort but it is not what most people would classify as painful. During the typical procedure the first 8-10 minutes are uncomfortable because of the intense suction used, but after that point, patients become quite numb, some watch movies, some do work on their computers, even take naps.

#2

Recovery time involved RIGHT PAGE

Because Coolsculpting is non-invasive, there is actually little to NO downtime at all. Certainly there is some tenderness and inflammation, but most patients go right back to their daily routine, including both work and exercise. I’ve even had one patient who went and ran the stairs at Red Rocks the next day.

#3

It’s expensive Depending on the number of treatments you plan on receiving, the price is actually pretty affordable, especially when you consider the cost of much more invasive surgical alternatives. It is important to remember that if you are someone who is more than 20 pounds away from your ideal weight that you should have a discussion with your provider about whether or not traditional liposuction is a better option.

#4

It’s not safe Approved by the FDA and physicians all over the world, Coolsculpting is scientifically proven to be an effective, and medically proven fat reduction procedure. Before your procedure, a diligent provider will go over a list of contra-indications (conditions under which Coolsulpting should not be performed) and also do a check for any undiagnosed umbilical hernia. Unlike with liposuction, there is not actually any way that you can die from this procedure.

#5

It’s a waste of time Like with most procedure, individual result will vary, but don’t let that deter you from exploring your options. A responsible provider should tell you if your goals are realistic. It is important to remember that while we know Coolsculpting kills fat cells, it is meant to be combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle.

If you have more questions about the science behind Coolsculpting or would like to locate a provider nearby for a consultation, we suggest you visit Coolsculpting.com. There are videos of a procedure being performed, and tons of facts about the science behind the procedure. There is also a practice locator so you can find a Coolsculpting Certified office if you decide the procedure is right for you.

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Spring Time

Eye Believe

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Don’t let a health condition stop you from living at your best!

Dr. Lisa Jordan OD

Lift yourself up with this unique approach to wellness “I feel that I finally have an advocate on my side.

Thank you for understanding and guiding my journey of change.” ~ Cheryl

Jolene McKenna Life and Wellness Coach

970.703.3835

www.JoleneMckenna.com

Mention this ad and get 50% off your first session

“Spring time. It's a ring time, and the flowers bloom..”

“ As an eye doctor, I'd like to stand on my soap box and say “Be proactive. Treat early.”

LEFT PAGE Yes, after the reality of the snowy El Nino season, I'm looking forward to warmth, sunshine past 5PM, and the Spring flowers. It's amazing to see plant life come alive again, and to hear birds chirping. The one teeny, tiny, itsy, bitsy downside?

My allergies kicking in!

There are those that have an occasional little sneeze, but I'm the person watching the allergy forecast reports on a daily basis. Many people consider allergy season to be somewhere in April when freezing temperatures are less likely, and we begin to see stronger plant growth. Well, ladies and gentlemen, did you know that some of our plants and trees can begin pollinating in January?

January, yes it's true.

Fortunately, our local pharmacies and stores are nicely stocked with a lovely variety of allergy busting medications. Even over the last few years, more medications have become available over the counter. As an eye doctor, I'd like to stand on my soap box and say “Be proactive. Treat early.”

There are many folks who I'll see with red, swollen, and itchy eyes. Now, granted, some of these folks have been at battle with some nasty weed pulling, but for others, they let the allergy build up to the point of having to pull out some heavy hitting medications. At the first start of red and itchy eyes, begin using allergy medication, and keep using it until you feel secure that the symptoms have subsided. If you symptoms are isolated to your eyes, your best bet is to use an anti-histamine eye drop.

The reason is that the drop gets immediately to where the issue is, and you can avoid taking oral medication if you don't have other symptoms. Is it ok to take an eye drop anti-histamine if you've taken an oral anti-histamine? Yes. Sometimes, by the time it takes the pill to get through your system, you're already wanting to scratch the heck out of your eyes. And, speaking of scratch: Don't rub your eyes when they itch. It might feel good for about 2 seconds, but you'll pay for it. When we have allergy reactions, tiny little cells that carry allergy signals get released through your blood stream. Our blood vessels expand , and then it's easier for these cells to travel and cause more

reaction. If you rub your eyes, you are literally helping to break open these allergy cells, and cause more symptoms.

What are some good anti-histamine eye drops? I recommend to go over the counter first. Ketotifen is the generic name for Zaditor and Alaway. They are true anti-histamines, and can work well. Be wary of other drops out there that are more “get the red out” products. Those can help some with allergies as the component that gets the red out winds up shrinking the blood vessels. Doing this make it harder for the allergy chemical messengers to do their thing, but it doesn't actually attack and block the allergy reaction itself.

Other simple techniques can also be used. Use artificial tears often during the season. Doing this washes the eye surface to dilute the effect of those pesky allergy particles in the air. Washing your face after being outside will wash off the allergy particles that are clinging to eyelashes and eyebrows.

Well, my fellow Erie townsfolk, keep smiling, and keep those eyes happy.

Dr. Lisa Alvarez Jordan is one of the optometrist doctor owners of Colorado Eye Center which has been in business for over 52 years.

Colorado Eye Center offers comprehensive family eye care with offices in Louisville, Broomfield, North Thornton, South Thornton, and Denver.

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A FRESH

SPRING LOOK

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Don’t let a health condition stop you from living at your best!

Lift yourself up with this unique approach to wellness “I feel that I finally have an advocate on my side.

Thank you for understanding and guiding my journey of change.” ~ Cheryl Mention this ad and get 50% off your first session

Jolene McKenna Life and Wellness Coach

970.703.3835

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SEX TRAFFICKING RIGHT HERE IN YOUR BACKYARD

Did you know children in our neighborhoods are being sold for sex? It’s estimated to be a $40 million business in the Denver area. Justice61 exists to rescue and restore in order to liberate brokenhearted girls ages 13 to 23.

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Over the past 11 years, Justice61, a non-profit organization, has rescued, restored and liberated nearly 200 girls, who have suffered from a wide variety of brokenness.

Justice61 works closely with law enforcement agencies, healing and education professionals as well as community members.

Our vision is to expand our current reach and effectiveness in response to the ever increasing number of girls law enforcement is rescuing from sex trafficking.

Justice61 is founded on the teaching of Isaiah 61. Brokenhearted girls may be enslaved in sex trafficking or other hurtful, hope-robbing crises. To physically rescue girls isn’t enough. Justice61 aims to restore girls in order to liberate them from their brokenness. This involves extensive healing. To liberate these girls means to rid them of the darkness that broke their hearts and spirits, that stripped them of hope, and then to equip them through education and life-skill training.

Did you know…

• Of the 200 girls Justice61 has worked with, over 80% were first abused within a religious community.

• Studies show over 70% of trafficked children show suicidal tendencies.

• Nearly half of all sex trafficking victims run from a group home, foster care, or shelter.

• About 40 % of domestic sex trafficking were repeat runaways.

We need you to be outraged by sex trafficking and the brokenness of the next generation. We need you to tell others “Children are not sex toys!” We need you to volunteer to help us. We need you to invest in Justice61 so we can continue to restore brokenhearted girls.

Check out www.justice61.org.

Mary Vigil is the founder and CEO of Justice61. Mary was born and raised in Colorado.

She enjoys being a wife and a mother of two.

The Mother/Daughter Connection

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by Patrice Gerber

"PROBABLY THERE IS NOTHING IN HUMAN NATURE MORE RESONANT WITH CHARGES THAN THE FLOW OF ENERGY BETWEEN TWO BIOLOGICALLY ALIKE BODIES, ONE OF WHICH HAS LAIN IN AMNIOTIC BLISS INSIDE THE OTHER, ONE OF LEFT PAGE WHICH HAS LABORED TO GIVE BIRTH TO THE OTHER. THE MATERIALS ARE HERE FOR THE DEEPEST MUTUALITY AND THE MOST PAINFUL ESTRANGEMENT." -ADRIENNE RICH, OF WOMEN BORN: MOTHERHOOD AS EXPERIENCE AND INSTITUTION

There was a time, not so long ago, where the possibilities of a great relationship with my mom were hidden behind a wall of bitterness and frustration. But in the last 4 years, the relationship has changed…forever. I wanted things to be different, so I embarked on a mission that has completely transformed my relationship with my mom.

How did I do this? I hired a life coach, read a lot of books, journaled extensively, had difficult conversations and most importantly, committed to seeing my mom with a new set of eyes.

What I learned about her in the process helped to dissipate the countless years of bitterness I had toward her. Today our relationship is the best it’s ever been. Did my mom change? A little. But the real transformation came within me and how I related to her.

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Do you have a difficult mom in your life? I want to encourage you to rethink your relationship with her. Begin to dissipate the pain by finding the freedom that exists when you open your heart and your mind to a new way of being with her.

Change is challenging. Admitting our contribution to difficult relationships is humbling.

But the rewards of challenge and humility are worth the effort. Take charge! Create a new legacy of love, understanding and commitment with your mom.

Patrice Gerber is the founder of Intentional Connections, a relationship coaching business that focuses on creating a legacy of love, hope, possibility and joy in life relationships.

(937) 361-0033 www.intentional-connections.com intentionalconnections0313@gmail.com

ABOUT PATRICE

NTENTIONALC o n n e c t i o n s

H

T W I D D L I N G FINDING LEFT PAGE YOUR PATH

By Heather Kemp

Here I sit in my early 40s…trying to figure out what I want to be when I grow up. I feel I’m fighting years of conditioning: Go to school, pick a career, pour your life into it and become the best ever at the path you chose before your brain was even completely developed.

Yeah right. Who the hell knows what they want to do for an entire lifetime? Especially when only 18.

Many people find that the job they trained for isn’t what they were meant to do. Did you know that Julia Child was in advertising until she discovered cooking and wrote her first cookbook at age 50.

My friend, Sue, decided in her late 40s to go back to school for nursing after a career in marketing. She’s seen the great need for nurses in mental healthcare and wants to put her efforts there. Now at age 51 she is a much more serious student and driven to succeed in a way most of us couldn’t fathom when we were 20. I’m so proud of Sue!

“Who the hell knows what they want to do for an entire lifetime?

Especially when only 18.”

Another friend, Jillian, had a highly successful career in

pharmaceutical sales. After a battle with cancer she decided she needed a change and took a stab at flipping houses. She kept toying with real estate while her kids were little, but after helping a friend get their house ready to go on the market she realized she wanted to get her real estate license. Now Jillian offers a unique set of skills to her clients—helping them give their house a budget-friendly face lift by putting to use all her years of updating homes for flipping or rental.

This combined with her great sales skills make her a cut above all the other new real estate agents out there!

My brother, Matthew, is another person who’s made a successful shift in careers. He was a teacher in his 20s, but now is a recruiter for career placement firm. I believe his success came from looking at what he is good at –like seeing potential in everyone and using his ability of being able to talk to anyone—then putting them together. Matthew is great at taking a nerveracking situation like a job interview, making someone

M Y

T H U M B S

feel comfortable and finding their strengths. He took some of his core personality traits, paired them with his desire to work hard and is finding success.

What do all of these people have in common? They are doing something different than they originally planned.

And they are all happier, more successful for it.

So back to finding your path…what makes you happy?

What are your core traits that you would like to use in your daily life? Do you have a dream you’d like to pursue? Want to be a chef? An author? A stock broker? I saw somewhere that if you read an hour day in a particular subject, you’ll be an expert in seven years. Just by reading! No fancy, ivy-league degree needed!

In my Facebook feed the other day was an article about people who made their careers later in life. Hmm. Well, if they can do it you can too! Here are some other inspiring examples:

Remember the movie “The Pursuit of Happyness” starring Will Smith? That’s a true story. Chris Gardner was homeless father at one point but kept working as a stock broker and finally made his first million well into his 40s. Barack Obama was a successful author and made his first million before he became president. His book, Dreams From My Father, originally came out in 1995 but he re-released it when he was 43 when he first blossomed in politics. He’d made $4.6 million before ever becoming president!

Did you know Martha Stewart got her big break when she published her first book in her 40s? She was working as a caterer prior to that. Henry Ford – Heard of him? Yeah, he made the Model T car at age 45.

Charles Darwin turned the scientific world upside down when he published “Origin of the Species” at age 50.

J.K. Rowling created the world of Harry Potter in her 30s. Laura Ingalls Wilder didn’t publish Little House On The Prairie until she was 65.

So you too can be brave! Take a chance on yourself and start looking at what truly would make you happy.

If doing something else in your daily life gives you a smile, pursue that. Investigate the root of what will give your purpose.

T W I D D L I N G

M Y

T H U M B S

RIGHT PAGE  YOUR PATH FINDING

By Heather Kemp

photo credit: Heather Kemp

ABOUT HEATHER My name is Heather and I've been struggling to find my identity beyond a mom and wife. I hadn't planned on being a stay-at-home-mom but here I am...a decade later.

I'm busy raising three boys in Colorado, am happily married, surrounded by pets and beautiful views of the Rockies.

If you are looking to find ways to keep your mind engaged and soul happy-- join me!

http://twiddlingmythumbs.com

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The Beginner’s Mind RIGHT PAGE

BY JOLENE MCKENNA

I Am Uncertain What to Expect This year, I began my first indoor garden; I am uncertain what to expect.

Everyday I check the plants, I am reminded of rebirth and renewal.

By definition, having a beginner’s mind means having an attitude of openness, eagerness, and freedom from preconceptions when approaching anything.

Beginner’s mind is the space where the mind does not know what to do.

It is that delicious state when you are sure of nothing, yet completely fearless, totally available to the moment (yeah, it is a Zen thing).

“Amateurs are Lovers of Life” Have you ever had someone tell you a joke and your mind takes over.

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You imagine where the joke may be leading, calling up your memories, even creating the punch line in your head? Then you are surprised with an entirely different outcome. Surprise.That is the gift of beginner's mind.

Villoldo, the author of the four insights, said "Amateurs are lovers of life, enthralled by how different each day and experience is…when we practice beginner's mind we don't forget about our years of experience--we simply don't confuse what we learned yesterday with what we're discovering today.” If you want to train your brain to be more of a beginner’s mind, consider practicing meditation. Check out mindfulness meditation apps on your iPhone or Droid.

You don't have to go into a meditative state to practice beginner's mind.

When in a conversation with someone, become very curious about everything. Listen without expectation, watch their facial expressions, ask them questions to fully experience the story through their eyes. The story will take a more colorful hue, and there will be a deeper connection made. That in itself is a wonderful gift.

As a business owner remove all preconceived perceptions or expectations. Look at your product or service through the eyes of a new business owner and imagine it is the first time you have seen it. Could this be designed any different? How else might it be used? Who else would enjoy this service?

Steve Jobs was a person with creativity and astonishing ideas. He said “The heaviness of being successful was replaced by the lightness of being a beginner again, less sure about everything. It freed me to enter one of the most creative periods of my life."

Beginner’s mind is also a practice of self-compassion. Imagine seeing, hearing, and feeling without the background noise of “here we go again.”

Every day you can practice savoring life as it unfolds before you.

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Meditation changed my life. I know first-hand that life transitions often bring with it a point of pain or anxiety that can distract us from life. When we become curious and look at our self without judgement it helps us create a balance that makes us conscious that we are connecting well with life.

Experience a unique approach to life transitions. I use a combination of life coaching, Zero Balancing® and meditation that can shift the quality of your life and relationships.

I invite you into an adventure of living life in balance – living and giving your best.

Jolene McKenna. Life and Wellness Coach Erie, Colorado www.JoleneMckenna.com

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R E G N I F R O S D R A C FLASH L A O G E H T S I T A H PA I N T S : W ?

L O O H C OF PRES

B B E W

BY AMY

FLASH CARDS OR FINGER PAINTS: WHAT IS THE GOAL OF PRESCHOOL?

BY AMY WEBB RIGHT PAGE

If you are the parent of a preschool-aged child, you have probably put quite a bit of thought into what type (if any) of preschool to enroll your child. If you’re like me, you had no idea how complicated a decision this could be until you started delving into the topic.

One of the first things I discovered when learning about preschools is that there seems to be an emerging distinction between “play-based” and “academic” programs. On the face of it, many parents might have a tendency to gravitate towards the “academic” preschool model. Isn’t this the best way to prepare my child for the school environment he will face in the future? Isn’t a high-stakes academic environment what he/she will experience once they enter formal schooling? And herein lies the crux of this issue (in my mind). We, as parents, may feel that academic rigor is the definition of “quality” in K-12 education and so it must be the same for preschools. If we look at the research in early childhood education, however, we find this is not necessarily the case.

Play is Learning A quick review of the academic research on this topic reveals that this recent emphasis on “academically rigorous” preschools may, in fact, be undermining youngsters’ ability to learn and be creative. Several recent studies have compared young children’s learning when provided either (1) direct instruction about a toy from a teacher, or (2) time to explore a toy on their own with little adult instruction. The results were quite clear: preschoolers who were “taught” how to use a toy by a teacher, did use the toy as instructed; but that’s all they did. They did not try to find any other features of the toy that the teacher did not explain to them and they did not try to use the toy in new ways. By contrast, the preschoolers who were given no direct instruction on the toy, they found new features of the toy and new ways of playing with the toy that the direct instruction group never noticed. So it seems that preschoolers do learn from direct instruction, but they are not as creative or flexible in their learning as when they are just left alone to learn by playing.

This research points to a key aspect of child development that may not be readily apparent: young children do not learn the same way adults learn. As adults, when we learn a new task, most often we are given direct instruction from someone else or perhaps we read instructions from a manual. Young children, on the other hand, do not learn most effectively this way. Their form of learning is what psychologist Alison Gopnik calls “guided discovery.” This involves the child exploring an object or task in their own way while watching an adult or older child perform the task.

The key difference, it seems, is that the child is not directly instructed on how to use an object or perform a task; they simply figure it out through their own exploration (i.e., play).

Of course, as children get older there is a need for direct instruction.

Skills like reading and writing would be difficult, if not impossible to learn through a “guided discovery” type of learning. However, trying to provide rigorous academic direct instruction at the preschool age is essentially putting the cart before the horse. Preschoolers are still in the discovery stage; they are not yet ready for routinized learning.

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Too Much Too Soon In fact, this type of academic drilling may undermine their interest in learning all together. The tricky part of this equation, however, is that kids in “academic” preschools may in fact learn their ABC’s sooner and be able to recite memorized information back to adults on cue. This is appealing to us adults. I admit, the thought of seeing my toddler name numbers, letters, and phonic sounds seems exciting. What research is beginning to show us, however, is that this immediate “payoff” in the form of routinized learning may come at the expense of a real interest and love of learning. A study by researchers at the University of North Florida showed just this. They followed 160 children who experienced three different types of preschool settings: child-initiated (e.g., play-based),

academically directed, or a combination of the two. These children were followed and their academic performance tracked until fourth grade.

The results showed very few differences in the children’s school performance in early elementary school. By the time the c h i l d re n re a c h e d f o u r t h g r a d e , however, the children who attended the academic-focused preschool showed a gradual decline in academic performance (i.e., grades). Of course, this is only one study, but research of this type implies that children pushed into academics too soon may miss out on a more integrative, curiosity-driven approach to learning that they will need later in life.

FLASH CARDS OR FINGER PAINTS: WHAT IS THE GOAL OF PRESCHOOL?

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Social Skills Are Key In many ways this research reiterates what we’ve know about preschool for awhile.

The real benefit of preschool is in learning life skills like social skills, self-control, and persistence, not necessarily in any “academic” skills. Research from 30+ years of Headstart and similar programs have provided strong evidence for this. Kids who attended those preschool programs (most of whom are economically disadvantaged) did better than their peers in school and in life, but not because these programs helped increase their IQ. Researchers found it was the social skills they learned in preschool that put them ahead of their peers on many aspects of later achievement.

One of the primary goals of preschool is to help students develop self-regulation and play-based preschool promotes this goal in a better, more child-friendly way.

Research has continued to show that self-regulation is a better predictor of a child's later academic success (and life success) than IQ tests or academic tests.

Amy lives in Erie with her husband and two energetic boys.

While her PhD is in Human Development and Family Sciences, her best education in parenting (and life) have been her two boys. While completing her degree, she realized there was not enough research-based parenting and child development information that was easy to understand for the average parent. Much of the research done by university scholars is not easily accessible to parents. With her writing, she hopes to provide thoughtprovoking and insightful information that will be useful to parents. She doesn't pretend to be a parenting expert, but rather a translator of research into a parent-friendly format.

www.thoughtfulparent.com amypwebb@gmail.com

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JOIN US!

Character Clubs teaches and instills 6 traits of character, gratitude and service.

Our programs build confidence in children by developing life and leadership skills through fun experiences.

Campers will create art projects relating to the character traits, team building exercises, a service project and a gratitude ceremony to end the week.

Character Clubs Camp- Boys Club June 13th-17th Ages: 9-10 9:00am-12:00pm $185 NEW this year! Calling all boys ages 9-10. Come explore with Character Clubs!

Boys will participate in fun, engaging projects while building confidence and leadership skills.

Attention is placed on social leadership and self-esteem, making new friends and using manners.

Session discussion topics also reinforce habits of character while addressing real-life topics such as anti-bullying, making positive choices, handling peer pressure, cyber-safety and more.

Character Clubs Camp June 20th-24th Ages 4-6 9:00am-12:00pm $185 This class is designed for the youngest leaders who are ready to venture out on their own.

Children, ages 4-6, will be introduced to essential character habits through puppet play, engaging stories, imaginative games, projects and crafts.

Special attention is placed on using manners, following directions and making new friends.

Character Clubs Camp- Superhero Shuffle June 27th – July 1st Ages: 5-8 9:00am-12:00pm $185 Superheroes come in all shapes and sizes. These superheroes will enjoy engaging stories and songs, imaginative games and fun projects. They will decide on their secret identities and super hero names, they will design their own superhero costume and meet a modern day superhero. Kids will also put their super powers to use by participating in a service project that allows them to put their super powers to everyday use. Emphasis will be placed on learning essential character habits with attention on using manners, following directions and making new friends.

TO REGISTER ONLINE:

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K9

Connection

ENERGY SPEAKS VOLUMES Dogs are constantly observing their world and using nonverbal communication. For you to feel a closer bond with your dog, try communicating in their language and let your energy speak for itself. Be mindful that the tone of your voice, your body language and the energy you’re projecting tells a much bigger story than your verbal words.

oo!” h o “Wo

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Energy Speaks Volumes While hiking recently, I noticed a woman getting very frustrated when her dog would not come when called. The dog was happily sniffing and playing while the owner kept shouting and getting visibly agitated. As I observed this young dog, I noticed that he loved to run and play. So, this is a pup that seeks fun! But his owner looked like she was about to explode with anger! The woman gave me an embarrassed look and said, “Ugh! He won’t listen!” I asked if I could make a suggestion. She said, “Please help, but nothing works; he just wants to play.” I wasn’t surprised that we’d both come to the same conclusion, and suggested, “Have you tried being more fun?” She gave me a confused look. I said, “Your dog loves to chase anything that’s fast and having fun. Instead of being angry with him, try jumping and yelling “Woohoo!” like you’re having fun! Try to get his attention and playfully run away from your dog, I bet he’ll chase you.” With a smile, she tried it and it worked!

This is a great example of how your energy and tone of voice relays so much more than your words.

Dogs are very sensitive to energy and its important to recognize what you’re communicating to your dog.

ble

a Reli r o ps F call TiRIGHT e RPAGE

Tips For Reliable Recall Always show genuine praise when your dog listens, even if he didn’t respond immediately.

If your dog comes close but not close enough, try jogging a few steps backward to encourage him to come all the way to you.

Make sure you’re not calling him ONLY when it’s time to leave. Instead, call your dog often, praise him, touch his collar and release him to play again.

Jaime Bessko lives in Erie, Colorado with her husband, 2 boys, a cat and a dog.

She is the owner of ERIE DOG CO, offering private dog training. She has always had a way with animals and made a great impact training service dogs at International Hearing Dog in Henderson, Colorado. Jaime’s philosophy on working with dogs is to communicate clearly, be consistent, praise your dog and HAVE FUN! Jaime also helps businesses secure working capital as the owner of Corporate Funding Solution. Some of her favorite pastimes are hiking, snowboarding, painting, reading and enjoying Phish. eriedogco@gmail.com

TIME FOR A SPRING CLEANING!

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Is Your Pet a

PARTY ANIMAL?

by Lori King

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You are a day away from that much needed vacation and your friend/neighbor/family member calls to tell you they have a family emergency and can’t take care of your pets.

Now what? You are away on a business trip and your neighbor calls to tell you your dog got

off the leash and caused an accident. Suit threatening? Oh boy! You come home from your relaxing trip early to find that your home has been turned into a frat house! Yikes! As a

Professional Pet Sitter, I hear these stories often, and even worse! Just as you hire a professional to install your hardwood floor or fix your car, why not a professional to care

for your beloved pets? Our pets are an extension of our families. We want the best for them and peace of mind for ourselves. Family, friends, neighbors all have good intentions, but #@*! happens! Your pet can easily turn into a PARTY ANIMAL if not properly

looked after!

Now that you have decided to do the right thing for your furry family, how do you find the right company? Just as you would any professional company, do your research. Does the

company carry liability insurance, bonding, licensed, background checked. Are they

trained in Pet 1st Aid/CPR? Do they have backup staff in case the sitter assigned to your

pets, gets sick, etc. What do their references say about them? How long have they been a professional pet sitter/dog walker? Do they continue to educate themselves on the new laws and practices governing their business? Are they up on the latest techniques to save your pet if necessary in an emergency. This professional cares about their business and your pets. Be smart! Look for the best so you can enjoy your time away from home knowing that your pets are enjoying their time as well.

Lori King is the owner of Caring 4 Paws, a local professional pet sitting/dog walking business. www.caring4paws.com

Sometimes when you think you've rescued a dog, it turns out that LEFT PAGE  they have rescued you.

https:// www.facebook. com/ lightshinecanin follow us on es/timeline Facebook

We rescue unwanted and stray dogs and cats from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and other Reservations in South Dakota. We are a 501c3

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www.sundstromartservices.com

Pet Parents’ First Choice for

Peace of Mind

Caring 4 Paws LLC is a professional, dedicated, dependable and trustworthy pet care company based in Thornton, Colorado. Our experience in caring for dogs, cats, horses, birds - pets of all kinds - extends over 30 years, and our services include pet sitting, dog walking, pet taxi and overnight care. Our service area inparts of Lafayette and Thornton.

We offer an extensive list of services to meet your pet care needs. We care for your dogs, cats, and other pets like they are our own. We have many great references and we are caring loving pet parents ourselves. Caring 4 Paws LLC is Licensed, Bonded, Insured, Background checked and Pet First-Aid and CPR trained.

720-507-PAWS(7297) www.caring4paws.com info@caring4paws.com www.caring4paws.com

Q&A WITH T&A

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T&A

BY TRISHA VENTKER & AMY TALLENT

Branding and Marketing Go Hand in Hand

SOME

Q&A WITH T&A

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T

Ventker and Tallent work closely together by providing small businesses PR, marketing and branding expertise. They work similarly, as coaches, to promote and support small and large businesses in the state of Colorado.

What is Branding?

Although your business is named and has logo, that doesn’t mean you're out of the woods! There’s one thing you may have neglected. Did you brand your business?

Nearly all successful entrepreneurs and/or business owners realize that branding goes deeper than the business name and logo. Other than the logo, brands connect with customers! “Branding” a product creates attention and separates your business from your competitors’. It’s the differentiation that allows turning prospective consumers into loyal customers.

A brand is more than what your product does or what you communicate. Brands garner feelings.

Brand Recognition promotes a feeling of nostalgia or familiarity.

Separating your brand identity from others and practicing a comprehensive brand strategy is one of the most important business objectives a company can have.

Marketing is about improving your odds of success! Branding your product or service is a powerful way of doing just that! PR and Marketing expert, Amy Tallent talks next about marketing and how to help your dollars go further.

At this juncture, as strong brand needs to manifest itself. The real question is, "How does one build it”? Building a strong brand is about having a clear understanding of what your brand represents, making sure everyone else understands as well.

Building or refreshing one’s brand starts with answering some questions about the product or business:

A

How Can Your Marketing Dollars Go Further?

Marketing can do wonders for your business… if it’s done right. When we start with a client one item we ask is where have you spent your marketing dollars so far and what do you have to show for your return on investment (ROI)? So many times people have no idea. They can point us to a few ads they have placed over the years but they really never tracked if it increased sales for them. So first piece of advice is to start tracking that ROI!

Second piece of advice is to work with someone who understands the message you want to be conveying. It is great to work with someone that has a background in branding because they understand that this ad is an extension of who you are as a company. For the content of your ad focus on educating versus stating facts. If you are an accountant write about 3 tips to get you through the tax season. Add your brand and contact information and your new relationship with the potential customers reading that starts as you helping them. Can you think of a better way to start?

Third, ask questions and require proof! Who does this publication reach, how many times a week/ month, does this include social media promotion, and can they provide proof of success stories or proof at the end of your ad that you reached who they said you were going to. For an example, if I advise a client to place an ad with Trisha for ELIFE, I know I can contact Trisha and she can provide proof that ELIFE has had over 15,000 views of the magazine alone and she can also provide engagement rates for social media posts that my client is involved in. The other thing you can do is call the advertisers currently in the publication and ask how their relationship with the publication has been. This can provide you a ton of insight to the road ahead of you.

5 QUESTIONS YOU NEED TO CONSIDER ANSWERING WHILE LEFT PAGE BUILDING YOUR BRAND

5 QUESTIONS YOU NEED TO CONSIDER ANSWERING BEFORE INVESTING IN MARKETING

1. Who are my customers?

1. Where have you spent marketing dollars before?

2. Who are my competitors?

3. What does my company provide for the general public?

4. How is my product/service valuable to others? Is it distinctive? Is it generally relevant?

5. What kind of personality will my brand have?

Everyone knows that nothing is guaranteed in life.

However, if you follow these 7 steps, you stand a better chance to have your band more recognized than less. In today’s world, the variety of similar products/services can confuse the customer. The strength of your brand will indicate the strength of your product.

Trisha Ventker became a branding expert by chance, not choice. After Ventker self-published her first book, Internet Dates From Hell, she had to learn how to “market” and “brand” herself. Trisha researched Advertising and Marketing Strategies while attending publicity summits. This took her book from a relatively unnoticed title to an Amazon best seller. Now she helps other businesses build their brands, promote their businesses via the Erie Colorado Business Alliance and advertise in ELIFE magazine.

ELIFEmagazine.org

2. What is your ROI? 3. Do you provide valuable advice or do you just try to sell?

4. If marketing and advertising in a publication, How many readers does it reach ?

5. What are your expectations and goals of a successful marketing plan?

The Tallent Company was born with the idea of mixing art & business together. Amy Tallent has a passion for helping small businesses, government entities and organizations with business management and public relation efforts. She believes firmly in companies telling their story and making their mark!

tallentco.com/

Are You a Small Business?

LAWS CHANGE FREQUENTLY — EVEN IF YOU ONLY WORK WITH SUB-CONTRACTORS YOU NEED TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR BUSINESS. • You’re a small business owner, wearing a lot of hats (including HR), we know you don’t have time to keep up with the latest changes in employment law. ECS can make sure you are in compliance with the latest changes on an ongoing basis.

• Usually, small business owners don’t have the time to take care of an employee issue until it’s staring you in the face. ECS will give you the confidence that you will know what to do when an employee issue comes up.

• When you don’t have HR expertise in-house, it’s easy to overlook required forms, training, documents, etc. that come with hiring employees or sub-contractors. ECS can make sure you have a clear roadmap of the HR documents needed, when to file, and where, to keep your company in legal compliance.

Protect Your Business With The Total Compliance Package ECS has over 18 years of experience in HR and Employment Law matters.

Employment Compliance can seem daunting to Small Business Owners, so we took our knowledge and experience and created an All-In-One Compliance package at a price you can afford — without any surprise add-ons.

• You will receive a new, customized employee handbook, specific to your business needs.

• You will receive a complete HR structure including HR processes and supporting documents.

• You will get full, on-site training regarding the forms and deadlines that come with each employee/sub-contractor.

• You have access to 20 hours of ECS time to use as you need it throughout the year, including as-needed phone consultations when employee issues arise.

• You will get peace-of-mind that your business is in compliance with all State (CO and WY) and Federal Employee/HR laws.

“Our small business signed up for the Total Compliance Program. ECS helped to put in place our HR employment practices and procedures so that we can feel confident that we are doing things properly. We are now organized in a way that I have the information that I need or may need to handle employee situations as they arise. I also have a trusted resource to call anytime that I have questions or need help. I would recommend ECS to any small business.”

— Kristen Hathaway, The Service Guys “When I first started with ECS I felt that I was relatively up to speed and that there couldn’t possibly be any significant issues that could get me into trouble.

Since then I have been made aware of the areas of deficiency in multiple areas from hiring and termination issues, to employee manuals, and general office procedures. I have found that ECS provides significant value and peace of mind.”

— Doctor Mark Ehrhardt, DDS

Compliance isn’t an Option. It’s the Law. www.EmploymentComplianceSolutionsLLC.com • 303.588.9551

JULY 9TH LEFT PAGE MARK KADLECEK

LIKE “BURNING MAN” BUT BETTER! ERIE RAVE’S LOCATION IS SECRET UNTIL JULY 8TH

ERIE RAVE

RIGHT PAGE MARK KADLECEK

ENCRYPTION IS EVERYWHERE

by Mark Kadlecek

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Encryption is Everywhere MARK KADLECEK

In this day and age encryption is everywhere and lacking in others. Whether you are expecting it or not, it is in the most unexpected locations and missing in the most obvious.

The first thing to understand is, what is encryption.

To put simply, encryption is the method of encoding data, such that it is only accessible with a secret key or password that allows for decryption of the data.

Encryption also synonymous with cryptography, had its start thousands of years ago and has evolved over the years from non-standard hieroglyphs in Egypt to substitution ciphers to Enigma machines to 2048-bit encryption keys and beyond.

One of the unexpected implementations of encryption is something that you may have used, probably before you are fully awake, the "K-Cup" coffee makers. Those little cups contain a digital watermark that authenticates the use of the cup in the machine to make your perfectly made cup of joe. There are many other examples around the house that utilize encryption.

• The DVD player implements an encryption algorithm to prevent unauthorized copying of content.

This is called CSS (Content Scrambling System). This system was first introduced in 1996 and was compromised only three years later in 1999. While it has been compromised, the security is only as good as the protection of the key.

• • The wireless network in most homes utilize WPA/ WPA2 (WiFi Protected Access). This essentially implements dynamically generated keys on a per packet basis, making it exponentially difficult to infiltrate the network.

• • If you utilize one of the newer iPhones that use the lightning connector, there is an authentication chip in each cable to validate if it can be used with the phone. This is similar to was was mentioned previously with the “K-Cup”.

Everyday that you go online, most if not all websites implement SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) protocol. When you use a browser, this is evident by the use of “https” and seeing a closed padlock icon.

The idea behind this is, not only to encrypt and secure the data being transferred between the website and the browser, but provide validation that you are actually communicating with a valid site. This is of importance when visiting financial institutions, medical sites, and online shopping. For the most part, if a site is not implementing SSL and you are sharing information with them, that data is free for all to see. Some sites may initially show that they are secure, but then you click on a link to complete an information request, and that page will not be secure. Be very vigilant when submitting information through a non-secure means.

In the business world, encryption is utilized not just to keep prying eyes from seeing what is taking place within the company, but to protect the information of their customers and clients. The primary use of encryption in the enterprise of a corporation is not just in the transfer of data, but in the storage of data. Many companies will encrypt the data on the hard drives for their servers, this does not do much good if someone gets access to the server, but after the drive is removed from the server or storage array it is protected from prying eyes without the decryption key. They also use this for backing up their data to tape for offsite storage. In the past, tape backups where not encrypted thus if any tapes were determined to be missing, there would be a scare that there was possible identity theft. Now that these tapes are being encrypted, those fears are reduced considerably.

RIGHT PAGE MARK KADLECEK

MARK KADLECEK

For the individual, encryption of information is primarily done in two places. The most talked about one in recent times, is the mobile smart phone. Nowadays, this little device contains more than just a few phone numbers as phones of the past. It contains all your private communication (emails, text messages, phone calls, voice mails,etc), private medical information, financial information, shopping history, photographs, etc. Basically, the loss of a smart phone that is not encrypted could lead to identity theft and other nefarious acts. The second area where this is seen now, is on the computer hard drive itself. Both Microsoft and Apple implement optional full hard drive encryption capabilities. Now with a computer, especially a laptop, that caries far more information than the phone, utilizing this method of encryption is even more recommended.

As more and more people and devices begin to implement encryption, it begins to hamper criminal justice cases. In the past, data was stored unencrypted or on paper, but with the widespread use of encryption

it is difficult, if not impossible, to access any of that data.

One begins to wonder, how far should our privacy go.

Should governmental agencies have the ability to access encrypted data with a “universal” key to unlock data?

Should ones privacy be compromised? Should one give up their 5th amendment rights by providing the passcode to the encryption? Is an encrypted device an extension of the individual? Where should this right begin and end (if there should be any type of end)?

Mark Kadlecek is a Technical Support Engineer residing in Erie. He is married to Katie and has three children.

ENTER

https://www.facebook.com/elifecolorado/timeline

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The Tallent Company

PUBLIC RELATIONS IS NOT AN AD OR COMMERCIAL, IT IS UNDERSTANDING YOUR TARGET AUDIENCE AND BUILDING A CONNECTION AND CREDIBILITY WITH THEM.

Tallent Co. focuses on helping businesses of all sizes, nonprofits, and government agencies deliver effective communication through targeted public relations.

Visit our website to learn more. www.TallentCo.com

#MoreThanMarketing

OUTDOORS

S’MORES

BONFIRE

STARS

BUGS

EXPLORE

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GEOFF DEAKIN 1

BE A HAPPY CAMPER, PLAN NOW

BY GEOFF DEAKIN As I write, I’m shivering next to the fireplace, trying to warm up. Still numb to my core from the third round of shoveling. The “Great March Snowpocalypse” has moved on. And in my mind, I’m moving on, too. To camping season.

So why is camping on my mind?

There’s the standard answer: “It will be here before you know it.”

But there’s also the realistic answer: “It will be booked before you know it.”

BE A HAPPY CAMPER LEFT PAGE

GEOFF DEAKIN 2

PLAN NOW

“IT’S THE BLESSING AND THE CURSE OF LIVING IN OUR BEAUTIFUL STATE” Last year was a record for our family. Six camping weekends.

Four in the Poudre canyon, one up above Central City, and one in Estes Park. Minimum advance booking time: 1 month.

Maximum: 6 months. Average: 4.5 months.

So as kids build their snowy castles and engage in epic, wintry fantasy, I bounce between calendars and Recreation.gov, trying to beat the pack to our favorite sites.

The Outdoor Foundation has conducted annual research on outdoor activity participation for more than a decade. And while the overall rate of camping among Americans has dropped from its peak during the Great Recession, both the number of camping outings per participant and the number of total camping days have increased.

The result? More competition for camp sites. And with site reservations already filled up for some of the summer’s prime weekends, it’s time to get going.

It’s the blessing and the curse of living in our beautiful state: We have a finite resource and a nearly infinite demand for it.

And while there are still hike-in (or off-road-in) spots for the adventurous and spontaneous camper, family campers benefit from a little planning.

Are you dreaming of lightning bugs and campfires and s’mores yet? If you are, do yourself a favor. Don’t let a Friday night in the mountains feel like a mall parking lot on Black Friday. Schedule the time, schedule the spots. And I’ll look forward to seeing you out there!

RIGHT PAGE GEOFF DEAKIN 3

Geoff Deakin has lived in Erie since 2002 with his wife and two daughters. When not enjoying Colorado's great outdoors in hiking or ski boots, Geoff works in marketing for a Boulder-area technology company.

The Perfect Ride

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by Heather Wiegand Adam Haid

photo credit:Chad Christian

  Started in 2013 as a grassroots partnership with the Town of Erie,

Erie Singletrack Advocates (ESA) are at their core a group of people who are passionate about helping people to get outside and experiencing trails, whether for running, riding, or walking.

History of the Trails

Partnership with Erie

Started by a small group of dedicated volunteers, the first trails opened at Sunset West in 2013, followed by Sunset East in 2014. The 5.5 miles of trails todate have been built and maintained by the efforts of many, including over 1,700 hours of trail building from 200+ volunteers.

Since 2013, nearly 2,500 hours have been donated by volunteers for everything from trail work days to free bike tune-ups for the community to the volunteer-led group rides.

ESA credit much of their success to the excellent support they receive from the town, which owns the land through which the trails wind and roll. The town Department of Parks and Recreation has provided tremendous support for trail build days and other events, and has allocated parking spaces for trail users at their Leon Wurl Service Center on 150 Bonnell Ave ( a Âź mile from the trailhead on the Coal Creek path).

Most recently the town provided essential support in helping ESA to write a grant that will help fund more trails, more signage, and additional infrastructure to support the longterm health of the trail system.

In the early days, ESA relied almost entirely on volunteers for cutting, building, and maintaining RIGHT PAGE the trails. Thanks to sponsorships, donations, and a partnership with Boulder Mountainbike Alliance, ESA now benefits from the knowledge and experience of professionals in planning and creating additional trails.

What Do The Trails Offer?

At Sunset East, the trails have been designed as a progression to introduce the fundamentals of singletrack and to help people get more comfortable riding on trails. The Green Line flows to get the bike rocking under the rider and to experience the off-balance feeling of trails in a rhythmic way. The Blue Line takes this a step further, providing less rhythm and requiring more focus. The planned Black Line will offer even more drops, jumps, and nearly horizontal turns for more technical skills progression.

Construction on the Black Line is set to begin later this Spring. Sunset West offers

additional trails and fun for all levels.

Enjoy the Trails!

Every Tuesday, beginning on Memorial Day, ESA volunteers lead weekly rides for all levels and abilities. The rides set out from Coal Creek Park at 6:00 PM. These no-drop rides are family oriented and include guidance to help anyone feel comfortable on the trails.

The trails are open to riding, running, and walking, and leashed dogs are welcome (owners please be sure to clean up after your pup). (Inclement weather can sometimes close the trails, so be sure to check the trail conditions on the ESA website or Facebook page before heading out.)

Get involved!

Sign up for the ESA newsletter to find out first about events, volunteer opportunities, and more. www.eriesingletrack.com

n e z i t i C g n i l e v a Tr e World h t f o RIGHT PAGE

AM

VIETN

a i d o b m a C

by Michaela Hatch-Drennon

“To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.”

-Aldous Huxley

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H

Promptly at 3:30am on December 28th, 2015 with the sound of the alarm clock blasting the latest TOP 40 music, my husband and I sprung out of bed to prepare for another adrenaline packed journey to countries #34Vietnam and #35-Cambodia from the travel bucket list.

Both of us contemplated the quote by Aldous Huxley as we hurried to Denver International Airport: “To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.”

Opening our minds without prejudice to unfamiliar cultures provides us with more charitable views of our other citizens of the world. These views cannot be attained merely by living in our own little world in Colorado. Thus, the need for exploration is essential.

While on our world wind travels through Vietnam and Cambodia the following quote: “History is written by the survivors.” - Social Forces, October 1931 fit the overall essence of our two week adventure. Walking

istory is written by the survivors.

-Social Forces, October 1931

through the bustling streets of Saigon in a yen and yang like manner to avoid being hit by a moped or vehicle, we interacted with polite but non eye-contact making Vietnamese. During this time, I started to ponder how far this country came from since the days of the Kháng chiến chống Mỹ, commonly referred to as the Vietnam War. No longer were people of all ages living and dying daily below the earth’s surface hiding strategically from invaders in the Củ Chi Tunnels three levels deep, but instead were now bustling down the noisy lively crowded streets of Ho Chi Minh City at the Ben Thanh Market purchasing fresh vegetables to make a delicious helping of afternoon pho.

While visiting the Hỏa Lò Prison, aka the Hanoi Hilton, it was attention-grabbing to see how the Vietnamese depicted the treatment of captives such as John McCain as enjoying their Christmas dinner and playing basketball within the prison. Although, the recording of history differs greatly between the two countries, it was nevertheless interesting to experience

firsthand and inquisitively wonder why they portray US prisoners as being treated well when in truth that was far from reality. Perhaps it is the Vietnamese desire to not lose face to visiting foreigners.

The stigmatism of Vietnam as an enemy state was not evident in the day to day culture of its current inhabitants. Exploring a communist country is always intriguing and educational. An accurate assessment of the culture and its people can be made and are not necessarily prejudiced tidbits based on lessons from a history class or following a news story on the internet or being publicized on television. Albeit the numerous differences in housing standards, pay and roles of the two sexes, one sees the various similarities, on a basic human level, when comparing the Vietnamese Communist lives with one’s life as a westerner living in a representative democracy like the US. The basic desire for safety, food, shelter and opportunities for oneself and family members is a consistent theme that spans across both ways of life.

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Nature’s charmed exquisiteness and the talented artistry of both the Vietnamese and Cambodian people were the two major facets of our adventure which stood out the most. The beauty of Halong Bay in the midst of a foggy morning mist in northern Vietnam exposed three thousand small jagged limestone isolated islands and caverns rising out of the South China Sea awaiting exploration as our ocean tour boat slowly approached them, showcasing the amazing works of nature as local fisherman and their families were selling their wares to visitors. Moving on to Cambodia, the crowning jewel of Khmer architecture are the stone structures of Angkor Wat. This ancient architectural complex is the most wellpreserved of all of the Angkor temples. The intricacy and sheer mass of the complex was remarkable to say the least. Making ones way through the gateway to Angkor Thom was humbling as one felt the eyes of the Angkor Thom faces slyly following you through the massive gates. Most of the Angkor ruins within this temple have bas-reliefs depicting various gods, goddesses and other worldly beings from mythological stories heavily influenced by Hinduism and Buddhism. The serenity these historical monuments exuded was astounding.

Upon returning to the United States from this whirlwind fourteen day adventure entailing nine flights, I reflected back over this short period in time and found it perfectly eclipsed the “don’t judge a book by its cover” quote by George Eliot. First impressions can be incorrect. Be open to new experiences when

exploring the world and its vast array of cultures. Most importantly, try not to judge a country’s people by its government or its stature compared to other countries. Differences are abound, but that doesn’t necessarily mean those variances are wrong, rather it is a conduit to better understand one another on this phenomenal planet. Embrace difference.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

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Preah Khan, Cambodia

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Michaela and her husband Mark visiting a Buddha temple in Vietnam

Bon Voyage!

Forbidden Purple City in Hue, Vietnam

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Michaela Hatch-Drennon is a 12-year resident of Vista Ridge, living in the famed “Halloween House� on Pinon Circle with her husband Mark. She attained her BA in German and French from Eastern Washington University in 1994 and an International MBA w/an IT specialization from Daniels College of Business at the University of Denver in 2001. She actively utilizes her degrees in her international role as a Senior Engineering Program Manager at Seagate in Longmont, CO and on her numerous travels abroad. You can contact Michaela at michaschatze@gmail.com

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