Jeffco
Jeffco Business Women Share Insight and Offer Advice By Andrea W. Doray
Getting started…
Special Contributor to CCM
When asked how they got started in their business lives, each woman had a unique story to tell: Kathy Hodgson started as a lifeguard for a swimming pool in Lakewood 30 years ago while still in college, before moving through the ranks of coordinator, manager, and director before taking on the role of City Manager. Fran Coet, who laughed when she described her position as “having a lot of initials” (she is a CPA, CFF, CVA, and CFP), has worked in the accounting field for more than 40 years and has owned her own CPA business with her husband for more than 26 years. Coet began her work life as a bookkeeper in business with her mother, helping to prepare tax returns. Loretta DiTirro said she cut her teeth in corporate America, working for organizations such as Citicorp and American Express, before becoming a real estate agent 11 years ago. Dot Wright was a business owner in Arvada who joined the Chamber for its business benefits. Wright served on the organization’s Board of Directors before being selected as its president more than four years ago. M.L. Richardson said she was fortunate to “get a great education” that helped her compete early on in the traditionally male-dominated mining industry. While advising attorneys in mining law for the federal government, Richardson decided to attend law school herself. After working with the largest molybdenum mine in the world, located here in Colorado near Leadville, she became an attorney for the Jeffco open space program before joining APC. In fact, Richardson said one her greatest achievements was negotiating the part of the Clear Creek trail west of Youngfield St. to Golden. Dot Wright said that significant events in her own career were two-fold, including building a network of great people to work with, as well as turning around a then-floundering business into a success. Fran Coet feels that sitting for her CPA license at age 40 was one of her greatest accomplishments. “My credentials as a CPA are powerful and precious to me,” she said. I was afraid of being ‘stuck’ because I couldn’t go further in my industry without this license.” Hodgson felt that attaining her master’s degree and becoming the first fe-
If preferred, we could use clichés to describe these five women: They have their fingers on the pulse of business in their communities; they have their ears to the ground. Or we could simply say that Fran Coet, Loretta DiTirro, Kathy Hodgson, M.L. Richardson, and Dot Wright are women who know Jeffco business. We recently talked with Coet, DiTirro, Hodgson, Richardson, and Wright about their perspectives on the business climate of Jefferson County and what they see for the future, particularly for women in business. Kathy Hodgson, who has served as Lakewood City Manager for more than three years, spoke for the group when she said, “I feel like there’s hope.” Hodgson said, “There’s real optimism in Lakewood, with the rail line coming in mid-2013. Also, Lakewood citizens are working with government to form grassroots partnerships such as the new arts district near the rail stop at Lamar St. and Colfax Ave.” Fran Coet of Coet & Coet, P.C. is a Certified Public Account licensed by the state of Colorado. Coet said Jefferson County is “in a great place. This is a vital area with a good business environment.” Dot Wright, President of the Arvada Chamber of Commerce, agreed. “Businesses are more confident,” said Wright. “Groups of people, such as those in our Olde Town businesses, are joining together to reach a greater market.” M.L. Richardson is Director of Strategy and Sustainable Development with APC (Asphalt Paving Company), and Keller Farm Property, LLC. Richardson believes that the “boom” days are probably over, but said that’s not all bad. “Businesses are getting rid of the excess and not over-extending themselves,” she said. Loretta DiTirro, a Realtor® and real estate broker with Re/MAX Professionals serving Denver and West Jeffco communities, said that, although Jefferson county had “…suffered like the rest of the nation,” our strong communities helped keep the impact to a minimum. People want to live here for our quality of life,” said DiTirro.
male director in Lakewood’s Community Resources Department were significant for her, and DiTirro described her own career path as “very different. My bosses were primarily women, which was unusual in big business at that time. These strong, brilliant women took me under their wings and wanted me to grow.”
Mentoring others… Now, DiTirro returns the favor, encouraging women to work together in “quasi-mastermind” groups. However, DiTirro clarified that, although women are “really great at networking,” this doesn’t mean women in businesses should consult only with other women. Her advice to women starting out in business or returning to the workforce? “Get a good education and acclimate yourself,” said DiTirro. “Learn the language and the technology of your industry.” Dot Wright agreed, and harkens back to her own most successful moments in her advice to women in the workplace, saying, “Women need to continue to work hard, just like everyone else. Build networks, work with strategic partners, and keep up to date on what’s going on in your field.” Fran Coet said, “Women are so smart and capable; we have great gifts for engaging employees and bring fresh perspectives to solve problems. My advice to women in the workforce is to use your talents—you’ve got them.” M.L. Richardson advises women to “engage the people who know the most. Give people an opportunity to provide input and you’ll often also get their support. You don’t have to do it all yourself.” Kathy Hodgson urges women in business to “have the courage to be authentic. Recognize your strengths as well as your fear spots and know how you relate in the world.” Hodgson added, “That life/work balance? It doesn’t exist. Do what makes you happy at home and find your satisfaction there. Then bring that person to work.”
Looking back… It’s not that these strong, successful women haven’t stumbled, though. As each reflected on “hiccups” in their careers, Fran Coet remembered relying too much on a single client who was a significant part of their business, rather than nurturing a more diverse client
mix. “Inevitably, something will change,” said Coet. Dot Wright said she learned the hard way that—despite our best efforts—our communication doesn’t always come across as we intended. “I used to assume that people just knew,” said Dot. “Now I’m especially careful to say exactly what I mean.” Kathy Hodgson described her challenge as becoming true to herself. “I didn’t need to imitate others,” said Hodgson, “and take on others’ characteristics. We all bring different skills to the workplace. Loretta DiTirro said she learned valuable lessons about giving too much of herself. “It’s okay not to be on top all the time,” she said. “You don’t have to be the best of the best. You’re really up against no one but yourself.” And M.L. Richardson remembered a time when she was in the midst of a merger and her position was unstable. “I resolved to just do the best job I could,” she said. It worked. Looking to the future… Fran Coet is confident that Jefferson County will continue to see growth. “People are moving from both the East and West Coasts,” said Coet. “We have an attractive place to live and to do business.” Coet cited recent reports that named Colorado as the second best educated state in the U.S., and as the healthiest. Kathy Hodgson is anticipating even more public/private partnerships that will continue to make Jefferson County a great place to live and work, and Dot Wright says that supporting local businesses brings people together for even greater success. M. L. Richardson believes that Jeffco businesses are seeing a whole new day. “We’re in the new normal,” said Richardson. “We’re learning how to do more with less. We’re doing things better.” Loretta DiTirro also sees improvement in the future. “Five years ago, Colorado was one of the first states to be hit by the real estate crisis,” she said. “But strong leadership in our communities is a catalyst for growth. People live here for our health and stability. And it’s only going to get better.” Andrea Doray is a full-time writer in Arvada on special assignment. Contact her at a.doray@andreadoray.com.
Inside
October 25, 2012
This first annual Jeffco Women 2 Watch has been created during Breast Cancer Awareness Month and National Women’s Small Business Month to celebrate the inspirational women who own and influence successful businesses and non-profits in our communities. We thank the West Chamber Serving Jefferson County for allowing us to also recognize the honorees of their annual Celebrate Women Event. Please join us in supporting these businesses and organizations. 2012 Jeffco Women 2 Watch is a special supplement of Colorado Community Media, 110 N. Rubey Dr., Ste. 120, Golden, CO 80403, (720) 409-4764, www.ourcoloradonews.com. Colorado Community Media is the publisher of the following Jefferson County publications: Arvada Press, Golden Transcript, Lakewood Sentinel, North Jeffco Westsider, and the Wheat Ridge Transcript.
2 2012 Jeffco Women 2 Watch
October 25, 2012
Despite difficulties, military mom soldiers on She missed her daughter’s first day of kindergarten. She missed 16 of her 21 birthdays. After one nine-month absence, her son called her Sandy, not Mom. Being a military mom takes the words “working mom” to a whole different level. Sgt. 1st Class Sandy Dudley, 45, who started in the Army Reserve as a 17-yearold single mother, has been there. “It’s not something you ever get used to,” she said about the extended absences from her children. “I’ve missed so much of my kids’ lives. … But it was just my job.” About 214,000 women call the military their job — whether in the Army, Air Force, Navy or other services. Many are mothers, some raising children on their own. Balancing roles has always been a woman’s dilemma: How to be the best you can be at work and at home. For the most part, we decide that equilibrium ourselves, and even then it isn’t easy. But for women serving their country, that decision is often made for them and in ways that can wrench a mother’s heart. Dudley’s absences from home, over the years, ranged from two weeks to nine months to two years. They were all difficult. But the roughest was the year in Iraq. “The hardest thing I’ve ever done is leaving my kids to go into such an unknown.” Making it even more challenging was her husband’s deployment to
Iraq at the same time. “You can’t expect them to understand that, no matter how old they are, and it was the two of us.” An Army medic, she crossed from Kuwait into Iraq in a Humvee in April 2003. Heat soared to 145 degrees. By May, she was in Baghdad. And although she and the children wrote each other letters, she was unable to call home for two months. She shared a large room with the other nine members of her unit, eight of whom were men. Near the wall by her bed, she tacked up family photos and pictures drawn by her daughter. “It was hard not to be afraid. You think about home a lot. It’s those kinds of thoughts that keep you going, no matter what kind of day you’re going to face.” At home, Brittney — 11 that dangerous year — watched the TV news and understood soldiers were dying. “Knowing my mom might not come home … waiting to know if I was going to get a phone call or not — it was hard.” But the key to making this particular
working-mom’s life work was a solid support system. Dudley’s family, especially her brother, has always been ready to help and take in the kids, sometimes on a moment’s notice. The kids knew it was going to be OK, the backup was always there, Dudley said. “They weren’t worried who was going to take care them. … If I had lost any of my support, it would have changed everything.” Col. Theresa Z. Blumberg, who retired from the Air Force in 2010 after 30 years, agrees. Children know their mom will be in a situation where she might be killed or injured, Blumberg said. “That’s what makes a difference from other moms who travel in their jobs. … You have to have a very strong family support system.” Blumberg was fortunate to have her husband at home — the best of support networks — to parent and care for the kids during her four-month deployment to Afghanistan in 2006. But her daughter, now 16, still tells her, “Mom, don’t do that again.” Despite the challenges, Dudley made her situation work in three ways: She focused on the positives. “You’re going to have this great birthday party before I go … and then we’re going to go to Water World when I get back.” She meticulously planned. “You always have a plan and then have a backup plan for the backup plan.”
And she always kept her promises. Once, when bad weather canceled an outdoor excursion in Denver, she stayed up until 6 in the morning researching an alternative. “I could not let them down.” Dudley, now administrative assistant to the Colorado National Guard state commander, still loves the job that has given her unimagined experiences. She walked the River Jordan while training medics in that country. She worked with troops in Slovenia. She provided basic medical care to the impoverished in Honduras and Peru. She has done all this within a strong military community. If you ask daughter Brittney, the mom part worked out just fine, too. The separations brought them closer, she said, and created a deep gratitude for family. But, mostly, she learned what being a good mother means. “It makes me want to be just like my mom some day,” Brittney said. “She never quit or never stopped trying to provide for me and my brother. One day, I want to be like that for my kids. I know I can do it, knowing that my mom could do it.” Ann Macari Healey is an award-winning journalist who has edited and published weekly newspapers with her husband, Colorado Community Media publisher Jerry Healey. She can be reached at ahealey@ourcoloradonews.com or 303566-4110.
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2012 Jeffco Women 2 Watch 3
October 25, 2012
Honoring outstanding women in Jefferson County Each year, The West Chamber holds an event to honor outstanding women of Jefferson County. Our honorees are nominated by others in the community and selected based on their professional, personal, and community leadership. Over the last 10 years, the West Chamber has had the pleasure of honoring 99 women for their contributions to Jefferson County.
2012 Honorees Jeanne Oliver
Jefferson Center for Mental Health As part of the executive management team at the Jefferson Center for Mental Health, Jeanne Oliver has many responsibilities. She handles corporate communications, marketing and fund development and is the Center’s Public Information Officer and a member of its Political Action Network. Jeanne has become known as an expert in responding to mental health needs after community crisis. She has been instrumental in helping communities following the Columbine shootings,
Evaluation Criteria
Nominees are selected based upon: • Level of involvement in the Jefferson County community • The impact of service on individuals and the community • Inspiration to others • Professional accomplishments These women have a drive that far exceeds the status quo. They inspire others, and are dedicated to the things in life that matter most to each of them. We are proud to recognize this year’s honorees. Each of these women makes a difference in the lives of others each day. They are part of the reason Jefferson County is a great place to live and work.
the recent wildfires and the Aurora movie theater tragedy. She has presented nationally on crisis communication. Because of her leadership, the Jefferson Center has seen substantial growth in donations in recent years. This non-profit has been better able to serve the mentally ill in our community during these hard economic times with expanded services because of her concerted efforts to secure private donations and grants.
Betty Proctor
Helping Hearts and Hands/Betty Proctor Fund (a program of the Action Center) For fifty plus years, Betty has been a fierce champion for any one of us who would find ourselves between the rock and the preverbal hard place. Regardless of the circumstance, Betty and the organization she founded 30 years ago, Helping Hearts and Hands, have been a port in the storm for many facing eviction, utility shutoff, needing help with a life saving prescription, or a car repair to get to work. Thanks to Betty, thousands have been
IF YOU GO WHAT: 11th Annual Celebrate Women in Jefferson County Breakfast WHERE: Denver Marriott West 1717 Denver West Parkway, Golden
given a second chance. Upon her retirement as a caseworker, she began to work full time with Helping Hearts and Hands, for no pay. Her kitchen table became her office and the place where she would field hundreds of referrals from both Denver and Jefferson Counties. In 2011, at the age of 80, she decided to retire for the second time. Now, she volunteers and advocates on behalf of seniors.
WHEN: November 9, 2012 7:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Cheri Jahn
INFORMATION: Tickets $40 per person, register at www.westchamber.org
GERARD HEALEY MIKKEL KELLY BARB STOLTE JANICE HOLMES MARK HILL MICHELLE JOHNSTON MICHELLE PATRICK SCOTT ANDREWS
Colorado Housekeeping Services, LLC/General Assembly-State of Colorado Senator Cheri Jahn is a single mother and small business owner from Wheat Ridge. She has proudly been the owner and operator of Colorado Housekeeping Services, LLC for over 30 years and has grown the business into a cornerstone of the community. She received her Paralegal degree from the Community College of Denver while running her business and raising her three children. She used her success in the business world to launch her career in the state legislature. Her proudest
President and Publisher Editor Sales Manager Sales Executive Sales Executive Sales Executive Sales Executive Creative Services Manager
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720-409-4764 www.ourcoloradonews.com
Honorees continues on Page 5
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4 2012 Jeffco Women 2 Watch
October 25, 2012
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After serving patients in Littleton for six years, Dr. Leilani Phillips felt compelled to open her own practice, Belleview Eye Associates, in 2006 so that she could provide patients with the quality individualized eye care she felt they deserved. In 2008, she was voted Colorado’s Young Optometrist of the year. She earned this honor through her dedication to optometry and her outstanding service to patients and the community. Your family’s vision needs begin at an early age, so Dr. Phillips offers free eye health screenings to infants ages 6 to 12 months, as part of the InfantSee program. As your children progress to school age, their vision needs change from learning to
Dr. Lina Kulkarni believes fiercely in her commitment to Jefferson County and our families. She grew up in Jefferson County schools, attending grade school in Arvada and high school at D’Evelyn High School. Giving back to the community is very important to her. Having competed in gymnastics in Jefferson county and earning level 10 (Junior Olympic) competition level as a youth, she coaches gymnastics today at Bear Creek High School and also serves on the Education Foundation Board of Directors at D’Evelyn High School. Dr. Kulkarni is passionate about creating beautiful smiles. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree at the University of Colorado and then attended dental school at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, earning Magna Cum Laude honors. She completed her residency at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center with a Certificate in Orthodontics
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Congratulations Betty Proctor For more than 40 years, Betty Proctor has dedicated her life to helping the most vulnerable people in our community.
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Jeffco boasts a smorgasbord of opportunity for engagement that makes our communities thrive. So if you go to the New York Times for the latest Broadway play reviews, that’s fine by us. But if you’re looking for local sports, local events and policies affecting your home and community, your best resource is Colorado Community Media.
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2012 Jeffco Women 2 Watch 5
October 25, 2012
2012 Honorees
If you enjoyed this section, please look for
Continued from Page 3
Lynn Johnson
Salue to Business
Jefferson County Department of Human Services Lynn Johnson is the epitome of a collaborator. She works hard to ensure bipartisanship and that organizations can find common ground with which to discuss not only their differences, but opportunities to work together. In 2009, Lynn rallied the support of her local county Commissioners and Commissioners from across the state, to look for ways for state agencies and local governments to be less adversarial and more collaborative. As a result, a new program called “REAL Colo-
Coming February 2013 For advertising information contact Barb Stolte 720-409-4764
rado” is starting to take hold. Lynn is working on two new initiatives at Human Services. The Jeffco Prosperity Project, a partnership with Jeffco Public Schools, addresses the effects of poverty and the AddONE Campaign, which is a grassroots effort designed to generate jobs and boost the local economy.
Honorees continues on Page 6
Nancy Crego, Owner AdWest Publishing, Inc.
Nancy Crego was an early pioneer in the world of woman-owned businesses in Colorado. Founder and owner of AdWest Consulting, Inc., her firm has built its foundation from living and working in Jefferson County and serving regional and national accounts. “The biggest change I’ve seen in the area of woman entrepreneurs is the ongoing support and encouragement from other women business owners,” explains Crego. “There really weren’t that many woman-owned businesses when I started my business in the 80s…thankfully that’s changed.” AdWest, established in 1986, specializes in niche publishing, community branding and video/Web work through a series of strategies that maximize the most positive aspects of a company. The AdWest vision has always been to help companies develop new business and grow existing accounts, according to Crego. “What is important about our vision is that everyone who works on our team is concerned about the client’s needs now, and tomorrow. We all work towards what is best for our clients, our community and our planet,” she says. Crego is proud to be the publisher of the 2013 Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce 25th Anniversary magazine and directory. “Women entrepreneurs are brining innovative ideas to the corporate world. And, in the corporate world, business women continue to be not only efficient and productive, but trusted and caring,” says Crego. Some of Crego’s publishing projects include re-launching Coloradobiz Maga-
zine and creating a magazine for General Growth Properties/Southwest Plaza. She also created and developed the award winning Wellness Living Magazine and relaunched the Best of Business Directory/ Magazine for the West Chamber now in its 11th year. She has developed over 100 successful business initiatives over the years. On the video front, AdWest has created videos for Jefferson Economic Council, Carma Colorado, Inc./Solterra, Belmar/ Continuum Partners, The West Chamber, Jefferson County Public Library, Jefferson County Workforce Center, Lakewood City Commons , Jefferson County Commissioners and Propp Realty. Before starting AdWest she was the marketing director for Scripps Howard Business Journal, now The Denver Business Journal. Crego supports her community and presently serves on the Wheat Ridge Business Association Board and the Financial Planning Committee for Mount Vernon Country Club Metropolitan District. She is a past chair and member of The West Chamber Board of Directors. She is also a co-founder of The West Chamber’s Celebrate Women Event with Amy Sherman and a founding member of the Rooney Valley Association. She recently completed the Vail Leadership Institute program. Crego lives in Mount Vernon Country Club with her husband George and they spend time exploring the Rocky Mountains and the world. For more information about AdWest Consulting, Inc., contact Nancy at 303526-5564 or nancycrego@comcast.net or Adwestinc.com
We invite you to meet the women leaders at FirstBank in Jefferson County FirstBank started in Jefferson County almost 50
Business Starts and Grows at FirstBank.
years ago. Today, 3 of our banks in Jefferson County are led by women. Jodi Thomas, Market President in Arvada has been with FirstBank almost 20 years, as has Emily Robinson, our West Market President. Denise Waddell, Market President in Wheat Ridge, has over 25 years with FirstBank. Together, these three women
Your Woman-Owned Business
oversee 11 branches, 150 employees, and deposits of $2 billion. We owe our success to the core values we’ve held since we were founded in 1963. Ever since, we’ve maintained a strong commitment to convenience, friendly and intelligent customer service, and loyalty to our employees. FirstBank has grown through consumer and commercial lending, innovative banking products and services and a high regard for community investment. If you are looking for a strong banking relationship with a commitment to service, stop in any our 11 branches that are led by Jodi, Emily, or Denise. You can also get that level of service at over 125 branch locations in Colorado, Arizona, and California. We’re
Ask to speak with one of our many Loan Officers in Arvada, Wheat Ridge, and the West Colfax Corridor. Visit us online or at any convenient location: 64th & Mcintyre 64th & Ward Rd. 44th & Wadsworth Colfax & Miller 32nd & Youngfield 64th & Sheridan
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6 2012 Jeffco Women 2 Watch
October 25, 2012
2012 Honorees Continued from Page 5
Margot Zallen
Retired Attorney for the US Department of the Interior
After completing her J.D. at D.U College of Law, she immediately moved into a cutting-edge legal position as an attorney
for the U.S. Department of the Interior (USDOI), representing the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), where she rose through the ranks for 33 years until her retirement last year. As a senior attorney for FWS, she took on extremely controversial and significant cases, passionately protecting wildlife, endangered species, and their habitats in Colorado and nationally. Locally, she chaired the effort to create the Lookout Mountain Water
District, was a founding member of Plan Jeffco in 1972, and was a leader in the initiative to create the Jefferson County Open Space Program. As a negotiator/moderator, Margot facilitated a settlement on the acquisition and protection of North Table Mountain and was a founding member of Canyon Area Residents for the Environment (CARE), which works to protect the foothills and mountain backdrop of Jefferson County.
Faye Griffin
K
Jefferson County Commissioner
She was elected Jefferson County Commissioner in November 2008 and represents District 1 in the northern part of the
L
county. She quite possibly has the distinction of being the only elected official in Jefferson County history to be elected to three separate county offices – county commissioner, treasurer, and, clerk and recorder. Faye is extensively involved in multiple community initiatives. She is currently serving on the Urban Drainage and Flood Control District Board, the Head Start Policy Council, the Rocky Flats Stewardship Council, the Child and Youth Leadership
Commission, the E-911 Board, and the Noxious Weed Advisory Board. She is an alternate on the Boundary Control Commission, the Jefferson County Economic Development Corporation, the Criminal Justice Strategic Planning Committee and the C-470 Corridor Coalition. Faye Griffin was the driving force behind the Child and Youth Leadership Commission and pioneered the statute that brought the commission into being.
Honorees continues on Page 7
Hanne Jespersen
EN P O NOW
Hosihanna
Unique Clothing, Gifts & Accessories Scandanavian Inspired • Children • Womens BabiesBabies • Children • Womens • Alterations Many Hand Made and One of a Kind Items
20% Off
Entire Purchase with Ad 7674 Grandview Ave., Suite 110B Next to Udi's in Olde Town Arvada 970-685-1479
Online Scheduling Private Lessons & Classes Booty Barre Class $10.00 One time only
5760 Olde Wadsworth Blvd, Unit E Arvada, CO 80002 Contact Cindy Freeding www.pilatesMFL.com 303.422.3363
As a native Scandinavian (Dane) I
ing and toy lines from Denmark and Swe-
learned at a very young age to knit, sew
den with years of success behind them.
and embroider from my grandmothers.
All of the companies I chose go hand in
I wanted to open a shop filled with the
hand with the spirit of my boutique. The
unique and beautiful items that reflect
welcome I have received from the other
the quaint villages of my homeland. In
Arvada businesses owners and customers
my shop you will find baby and children’s
has been wonderful. I know Olde Town
clothing, as well as women’s clothing and
Arvada will be a wonderful home for my
accessories, many of them handmade and
new venture. Please stop by and say “hel-
all with a very special attention to detail. In
lo” and feel free to give me ideas on other
addition to handmade items I carry cloth-
products you would like me to carry.
Cindy Freeding
Pilates Movement for Life Pilates Movement for Life is celebrating its 8th anniversary and relocating to Olde Town Arvada at the end of October 2012. Using the Joseph Pilates Method, our state-of-the-art studio offers physical conditioning/post-rehabilitative Pilates through private sessions and classes. Postural problems are corrected, muscle balance is restored and mobility, flexibility, and strength are increased allowing your body to function better in daily activities. We are excited to launch four new programs: “The Booty Barre” a fast-
paced cardio workout using weights, balls, therabands and the barre for the ultimate workout; “The Orbit” a roll through full-
body workout using circular and linear
movements while continuously engag-
ing the abdominals; “Golf Fitness/Injury
Prevention” a series to improve your golf
swing and prevent injuries; and “The Pink Ribbon Program” a Pilates-based recovery
program for breast cancer survivors. For
more information, contact Cindy Freeding at 720-280-7697.
Heather Halldorson Cheesecake Therapy
The simple pleasure of putting worries aside to just relax, and enjoy!
7401 Ralston Road | Arvada, CO 80002 | 303.940.2530 www.cheesecaketherapy.net New hours: Monday-Thursday 10-7; Friday and Saturday 10-9; Sunday 10-6
In May 2009, Cheesecake Therapy opened in Olde Town Arvada with one major goal; to provide a pleasant atmosphere with homemade, lovingly prepared treats that comfort the souls, and quiet the minds of our dear friends and neighbors. Some may define our specialty as cheesecake, and yes, we do have a wide variety of smooth, creamy, rich but not too sweet, decadence for you to delight in, but we feel that our specialty is a little something more. A roaring fireplace to warm the bones on a snowy winter’s day. A twinkle lit patio to languish with friends under the bright stars of a summer’s night. The simple pleasure of putting worries aside to just relax, and enjoy! All of our desserts are lovingly crafted.
You will find no culinary degrees on the wall, nor prestigious internship claims. What you will find is a case filled with more than just dessert. It is a case built of tradition and love. Our childhoods were spent in the warm, sweetly aromatic, kitchens of our mothers and grandmothers. Each day, we call upon the techniques and fond memories of our matriarch teachers, and prepare every single creation with the same love and thoughtfulness as the women before. We hope that you will stop in for a little respite very soon, we are honored to be a part of the Arvada community, and are truly grateful for our loyal customers and newly acquainted friends!
2012 Jeffco Women 2 Watch 7
October 25, 2012
2012 Honorees Continued from Page 6
Kathy Hodgson
Dr. Melinda O’Rourke
Lakewood City Manager
During her tenure, the City’s financial reserves have reached historic levels. She has been successful in leading her team in
Northwest Eye Center, P.C. & Essence Laser and Wellness attracting new businesses to the city. She stewards major policy initiatives through Lakewood City Council, including the rewriting of the City’s zoning ordinance. Kathy’s collaborative spirit was demonstrated when she spearheaded an effort to keep a Lakewood Middle School from closure. Today, that school is part of the International baccalaureate program and home to Jefferson Coun-
ty’s first Boys and Girls Club. Kathy is president of the Metro City and County Management Association – an organization comprised of 40 to 50 metro area city managers, sits on the Jeffco Schools Capital
Asset
Advisory
Committee, and
serves
on the Red Rocks Community
College
Presi-
dent’s Advisory Council by appointment of Governor John Hickenlooper.
Dr. Melinda O’Rourke is a community-minded business owner who has contributed to the local community through her business growth. She
has leveraged her business success to reinvest in the community by supporting many different causes that make Jefferson County a better place to live and work. Dr. O’Rourke was commended by US Congressman Ed Perlmutter in 2009 for “her sense of global and local volunteerism and dedication to bettering the lives of those from all social classes and nations through health care.” Dr. O’Rourke has volunteered on ten cataract surgery projects in Latin America with Vision Health International
(VHI), whose mission it is to provide vision health care services and sightrestoring surgery—free of charge. She donates her time and talends to Stout Street Clinic which provides ophthalmic and optometric care, as well as general and primary medical care, to homeless families and individuals—free of charge. She serves on the Red Rocks Community College Foundation Board of Directors and Northwest Eye and Essence Laser & Wellness have supported over 25 local charities.
Honorees continues on Page 8
Nancy Taylor Mason
Baby Doe’s Clothing, Artisan Jewelry & Fine Craft Nancy Taylor Mason, owner of Baby Doe’s Clothing in Golden acknowledges that while not part of the original business plan, creating Baby Doe’s has also created a unique community of women. “Baby Doe’s is a gathering place for women in the community to enjoy one another’s company and exchange ideas.” Nancy says. “Women stop in just to say hi, to chat or share something about their lives. Baby Doe’s Clothing opened in 1999 in downtown Golden and, in 2002, moved to an historic building at 1116 Washington Avenue. There you will find a unique selection of fun and casual clothing, where good fit, style and value define what our customers look for to fit their casual Colorado lifestyle.
At the center of Baby Doe’s community of women is a staff with a total of 60 years of combined experience with the store. Nancy and her staff are committed to the boutique, their customers, and the Golden community. Nancy is active in the Golden Chamber and Dowtown Merchant’s Association. She has been the marketing chairperson for the Golden Fine Arts Festival since 2004. This year Baby Doe’s was an official sponsor of the Chihuly Glass Exhibit at Foothills Art Center. Nancy has been a spokesperson for Downtown Golden with the media and has been active for over 13 years in downtown economic growth. Baby Doe’s is proud to have been voted 1st place Boutique for Best of Jeffco in 2011 and 2012.
Clothing, Artisan Jewelry & Fine Craft Clothing
Artisan Jewelry & Fine Craft
Best of Jeffco - 1st Place Boutique 2011 & 2112
1116 Washington Avenue ❧ Downtown Golden 303-279-8100 ❧ www.babydoesclothing.com
303-424-0313
Susan Merrill, Owner
Asana Studio Yoga
Feel More Joy with Yoga
At Asana Studios, we provide an opportunity for you to step into a calming space and leave behind the worries of the world. We have created an atmosphere for physical and spiritual healing without judgment. Each instructor brings something unique yet we all share the common goal of providing a nurturing environment for personal growth. The aim of practicing yoga is quite simple: to encourage you to integrate yoga, in all its forms, into your life! Feel more joy when you stop; breathe; and bring awareness to the moment you are in that will enhance your well-being and enrich every part of your daily experience. For those who have no experience we offer Very, Very Gentle classes and a Be-
ginner Series Workshop every month. If you would like to take your practice to a deeper level we offer 200 hr and 300 hr Yoga Teacher Training Programs. We offer classes at 5701 Yukon Street in Arvada and 16399 South Golden Road in Golden . Both studios offer massage therapy and a variety of classes including, Pre and Post Natal and Toddler and Me. The Arvada studio also offers Skin Care and Acupuncture. In 2002, the first Asana Studio opened in Golden and our second studio in Olde Town, Arvada opened September 2010. Last year we were honored to receive the Outstanding Business of the Year Award from the Arvada Economic Development Association.
We Celebrate Women!
Dedicated to seeing well, looking good, and being healthy! Voted best of Jeffco for Eye Care Provider and Medical Aesthetics
During the month of November, mention the Celebrate Women event, and we will give you 20% off any Laser or Aesthetic Services!* excludes Botox, Dermal Fillers, CO2, Cannot combine discounts
Congratulations to all Honorees of the 2012 Celebrate Women of Jefferson County! Melinda C. O’Rourke, MD 720.583.1826 essencelaser.com 4855 Ward Rd, Suite 300, Wheat Ridge, CO, 80033 Over 20 yrs experience Board Certified American Board of Ophthalmology Member of American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology & Surgery
Clothing ~ Yoga Accessories ~ Books CDs ~ Essential Oils ~ Candles Other gift items available in the boutique Gift cards available on-line
✁
NEW STUDENTS
Bring in this coupon for a free yoga class.
(Print name to redeem) ___________________________
www.asanastudio.com
16399 South Golden Road, Golden • 5701 Yukon Street, Arvada
BELONG. www.ARVADACHAMBER.org 303-424-0313
BUSINESS RESOURCES STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS
PANEL DISCUSSIONS
I M PA C T
REFERRALS NETWORKING COLLECTIVE VOICE EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS
8 2012 Jeffco Women 2 Watch
October 25, 2012
2012 Honorees Continued from Page 7
Priscilla Bohl
Joni Inman
Jefferson County Workforce Center
Priscilla Bohl has a passion for business and economic development,
Joni Inman Consulting, LLC & ActionCOACH Business Coaching
works tirelessly to identify the staffing needs of Jeffco businesses, and collaborates with Jeffco’s Career Center to match qualified job-seekers with those businesses. Recently, Ms. Bohl was instrumental in the development and implementation of AddONE, an initiative to generate local jobs. Through her visionary leadership she was able to bring together elected officials,
economic development professionals, business leaders and specialists, and process engineers to create the AddONE programs. She sits on the Advisory Council of the Jefferson County Business Resource Center, the Jefferson County Advanced Manufacturing Council, and serves on various tactical teams related to the Governor’s Blueprint and targeted industries in the State of Colorado.
Leah Varnell
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Jefferson &Gilpin Counties
Leah Varnell was instrumental in the creation of Court Appointed Special Advocates of Jefferson & Gilpin Counties (CASA Jeffco/Gilpin) in 2000. Its
mission is to recruit, train and manage community volunteers to advocate as officers of the Court for the best interests of child abuse and neglect victims. Leah has increased the organization’s revenue by110%, increased staff by 60%, enabling the program serve more children. Leah has created numerous partnerships with the Courts and Human Services to better utilize CASA volunteers, and serve youth
Joni has been a leader in the Denver area for decades. Her current role
Arvada Chamber of Commerce
committees
and boards including Rewired, Inc., Leadership Jefferson County Alumni Association,
Jefferson
County Good News Coalition, Jefferson County Best Practice Court Team, and the Emancipation Court Steering Committee. Leah was honored as Staff Person of the Year in 2010 by the State Association of CASA programs, Colorado CASA.
ing a consultant, Joni was the Deputy City Manager for Lakewood, she pioneered the City’s communications and sustainability programs, oversaw Economic Development and served as the City’s legislative lobbyist. She was a behind-the-scenes force in the development of Colorado Mills, Belmar, and the St. Anthony Hospital Campus in Lakewood.
Dot Wright
in need. Leah serves on numerous
in business consulting with ActionCOACH has allowed her to help clients grow their business, create new jobs, and see tremendous results. She also owns and operates Joni Inman Consulting which focuses on legislative lobbying, strategic and business planning, small business support with government regulations and public relations strategy. Prior to becom-
Dot has been the President and CEO of the Arvada Chamber of Commerce since 2008. Her dedication to the Arvada business community has
led to significant growth in the chamber’s membership, during a time when most chambers have held steady or even worse, seen a decline. Dot created the Jefferson County Business Education Alliance (JCBEA) in 2011, with the goal of developing a stronger trained workforce for the business community by partnering business owners and students for education, internships and job shadowing opportunities. Her vision led to collaboration with the Jefferson County Depart-
ment of Human Services, who funded a full-time position to expand the outreach of this program county-wide. Dot is involved with many community organizations such as the Arvada Colts Board of Directors, Arvada Economic Development Association, Arvada Jefferson Kiwanis Club, Arvada – Wheat Ridge Ambassadors for Youth, Congressman Perlmutter’s Small Business Advisory Committee member, and Historic Olde Town Arvada Board of Directors.
The City of Lakewood Congratulates
Kathy Hodgson 2012 Celebrate Women of Jefferson County Honoree Through her work as Lakewood’s first female city manager, her commitment to the community and her personal and professional accomplishments, Kathy Hodgson is an inspiration to all who know her. 480 S. Allison Parkway, Lakewood, CO 80226 | www.Lakewood.org
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