Inside Longmont The Magazine March 2014 by Inside Longmont

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March 2014

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Our February Photo Contest

WINNER

Congratulations Phoenix Sagen!

Enter our March Photo Contest at www.insidelongmont.com for the chance to have your photo featured on this page in next monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issue. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to vote for your favorite photo and help choose the next winner! insideLONGMONT.com

March 2014

insideLONGMONT THE MAGAZINE

insidelongmontthemagazine@gmail.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Brian T. Wolf WRITING & PHOTOGRAPHY Brian T. Wolf Mari Wolf

MARKETING & ADVERTISING Mari Wolf insidelongmont@gmail.com

COVER PHOTO: The Townley House by Mari Wolf insideLONGMONT The Magazine is published monthly by Inside Longmont, LLC. Copyright 2014 by Inside Longmont, LLC. All rights reserved. The entire contents of insideLONGMONT The Magazine are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the express written consent of the publisher. Inside Longmont, LLC is not responsible for unsolicited materials.

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Contents 8

16 26

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iL Photo Contest

Business Profile: Body & Face Aesthetics

Non-Profit Spotlight: “I Have A Dream” Foundation

Historic Longmont: The Townley House

Sports & Fitness Roller Derby: Crash Course

Music: The Prairie Scholars

Arts & Entertainment: Longmont Theatre Company

Arts & Entertainment: LTC Youth Theatre

Poetry: I Still Dance

Happening In Longmont

Upcoming Events

iL Business Directory

March 2014

From the Editor Over the past month, I have had a number of great experiences while gathering the material for this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issue. I got to meet the Prairie Scholars and see them perform. I was able to get a behind-the-scenes look at The Nerd and witness first hand how the Longmont Theatre Company puts together one of their shows. I sat trackside during a Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day scrimmage held by the Boulder County Bombers. And I was fortunate to meet and talk with many of the amazing people who help make Longmont the wonderful community that it is. I want to thank everyone who enabled us to tell these stories in this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issue. And yet I know that we here at Inside Longmont are just starting to scratch the surface when it comes to the many stories this city has to offer. We are always looking for new stories to tell, so if you have any suggestions for us please contact us at insidelongmontthemagazine@gmail.com. If you know a nonprofit, musician, member of the community, piece of history, organization, etc. that deserves to be shared, feel free to let us know! See you next month! Brian T. Wolf Editor-in-Chief

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March 2014

Business Profile

Body & Face AESTHETICS

It’s a funny thing about life.

Sometimes it is hard to know what road is going to lead you down the path you were meant to travel and it’s only in hindsight that you’re able to connect all the dots. The path of Body & Face Aesthetics’ owner, Lori Burbridge, was not without its twists and turns. Growing up, she had a strong desire to go to beauty school and have a career in cosmetology, but her father disapproved. So she shifted gears and started taking business courses in high school. After high school she attended a business college where she excelled in accounting. Soon after she found herself working in banking and doing bookkeeping for local businesses. Always wanting to learn more, she eventually got her real estate license and spent the next 10 years working in real estate. Everything was going just fine until she began experiencing back problems and her doctor recommended changing careers. “I was in my mid 40s and this was all I had known,” Burbridge said. “I had no idea what I was going to do.” It wasn’t until she began working with a career counselor that the idea of becoming an aesthetician came up. “I didn’t even know what an aesthetician was, but when she explained it to me it resonated with me because I was the kid who was constantly making my own oatmeal masks, cutting people’s hair, and putting on their make-up. That was me!” Within a week, she was enrolled in beauty school and taking her first classes. 8

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Even after completing school and receiving her license, Burbridge continued to expand her education. She began taking as many extra courses in advanced services as she could all over the country. She studied advanced chemical peeling, advanced skin care, ingredients, and advanced technology, many of the things unavailable in the traditional spa setting. “I wanted to make a difference. The only way was to work in a medical setting where we could use the types of products I knew could change people’s skin.” Once she got enough training under her belt, she worked as an aesthetician at Boulder Dermatology, where she honed her craft for close to 2 years. In 2004, she had an opportunity to purchase an existing skin care clinic here in Longmont and has spent the past 9 years building it into the business it is today. Having grown up in a family run business, coupled with her accounting background, she was well prepared for owning her own business. There have been many ups and downs, but she knew she was going to be working 7 days a week, day and night. “You have to love it because it consumes you and it becomes your life. I knew all of that and did it anyway.” Two years ago, Lori moved into her current space, where she continues to grow and expand her business to meet the needs of the community. A lot of people may not understand the difference between a spa and a medical spa, but the main differences are in the types of services and ingredients that are available. As a medical spa, Body and Face Aesthetics provides advanced services that can only be performed under the directorship of a medical director. This includes services such as laser hair removal, intense pulse light facials, botox, dermal fillers, and advanced chemical peels. A new service they offer is Dermatude Collagen Induction Therapy, a non-surgical face lift where the skin is subjected to ingredients that stimulate collagen. “We’re getting fantastic results with that procedure.” Because Body & Face Aesthetics is a medical spa, they are also able to carry medical grade products that are not available over the counter or even over the internet because these products must be prescribed. They are only sold to licensed aestheticians, doctors, or nurses who are practicing skin care. According to Burbridge, many people have a misconception that medical grade products are more expensive than over-the-counter products, which is not necessarily true. “There are far more expensive over-the-counter products because they are selling you marketing and packaging.”

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For Burbridge, her main focus is centered around medical facials that affect changes to the skin. “We customize treatments based on what your skin is needing.” Facials can be customized for acne, hydrating, sensitive skin, hyperpigmentation, age spots, fine lines, or deep wrinkles. “There are a huge range of products that we have and can use.”

self-conscious about her skin. After she started coming to see Burbridge for treatments, her skin began to clear up and she realized that she wanted to give back. “After I began feeling better and more confident,” Clayton said, “I realized that I wanted to help people feel good about themselves.”

The most common resurfacing procedure that they perform is microdermabrasion, a non-surgical way to freshen and rejuvenate the skin on your face by gently sanding away the thicker, uneven outer layer of skin. Because we live at such a high altitude, there is a tendency for the skin to develop a very hard layer of skin cells due to the intensity of UV radiation at higher elevations. This hard buildup then causes the production of new skin cells to decrease, which slows down the overall cell turnover rate. This can cause the skin to become dull and sallow looking. To speed up the metabolic turnover, Burbridge believes you need to exercise your skin, just as you would exercise a muscle, to keep it newer, fresher, and healthier. “We create an exercise program for your skin.” Many things affect skin, so during every client’s consultation they try to collect as much information as possible. This includes diet, exercise levels, habits, age, current products being used, and stress levels. During the consultation, they take all of that information into account to create a plan that works for the client and her lifestyle. “If you work outside, we’re not going to create a plan that will cause you to avoid the sun,” Burbridge said. “It is all customized to your specific needs.

The staff at Body and Face Aesthetics continues to grow. In addition to Burbridge and Clayton, Marybeth Friesz, a Licensed Aesthetician, recently joined the team as well. “This industry doesn’t stop. This industry is constantly changing. There are always new ingredients, new techniques, new equipment, or new procedures. There’s always something better down the road, so it’s not like you learn something and you’re done.” Lori Burbridge constantly keeps up with the latest information and is always looking for the best ways to help her clients overcome their skin problems and feel more confident with their appearance. You can find out more about the services offered at Body & Face Aesthetics by visiting their website at www.bodyandfaceaesthetics.com.

For Lindsey Clayton, Assistant Manager and Licensed Aesthetician, she feels strongly about her work. “I had cystic acne and food allergies, so I grew up fighting all these skin issues.” This caused her to spend a lot of time at home and avoiding activities because she felt

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DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE! You can find all of our monthly issues at www.issuu.com/insidelongmont!

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March 2014

Non Profit Spotlight

In 1981, businessman and philanthropist Eugene Lang made a return visit to the East Harlem ele-

mentary school he attended 50 years earlier in New York City. He had come to speak to a class of sixth graders about the importance of hard work and how it can lead to success. Before Lang spoke, the principal told him that less than 60% of the students in this class would actually go on to graduate from high school. In that moment, Eugene Lang made a decision that would change the lives of most of those students and eventually the lives of thousands of students across the country and around the world. That day, he made a promise to pay the college tuition for every student in the class who finished high school. Over the years, he kept in touch with these students, or “Dreamers” as he called them, following their progress through school and eventually living up to the commitment he made to them once they graduated. The success of this impulsive decision led Lang to found the “I Have A Dream” Foundation, which has grown from that first class of 61 sixth graders to 219 programs in 27 states, Washington, D.C., and New Zealand helping over 15,000 Dreamers towards the goal of graduation. The “I Have a Dream” Foundation of Boulder County started in 1990, when the first class of 36 low-income students in Boulder was sponsored by Bob and Diane Greenlee. Through their involvement with the “I Have a Dream” program, the Greenlees realized very quickly that the low graduation rates of lower-income children was a community-wide problem. The couple founded a Board of Directors in order to bring awareness to the problem and get the community involved to serve more kids. Through that increased community awareness, the “I Have a Dream” Foundation of Boulder County eventually expanded into Lafayette in 1992 and then into Longmont in 2000. To date, the “I Have a Dream” Foundation of Boulder County remains one of the largest active chapter in the program with classes in each of the communities of Boulder, Lafayette, and Longmont. The program is amazing considering how much care, attention, and encouragement goes into providing the Dreamers a clear path to educational success. The first class in Longmont was a housing-based model for the Casa de la Esperanza neighborhood and served kids from kindergarten to 8th grade. This year, the final students from the Casa Class will be graduating from Niwot High School. Because the goal of “I Have a Dream” Foundation of Boulder County is to have two active classes in each community and Longmont’s Casa Class is about to graduate, a new class was started this year called the Aspen Class.

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The students in this program are in school from 8:20am until 6:00pm everyday. Hays works with the children 15 hours a week, teachers are with them 32 hours and the parents are with them the rest of the time. “We all have our inputs and mine is very little,” Hays said, “but I think if I can be strategic about how I want them to end up, I can help guide them to the end goal. We’re working on the culture and what it means to be a Dreamer. That’s our big push this year.”

Like other Dreamer classes, the Aspen Class consists of 50 students who qualify for free or reduced lunch or live in low-income housing. Seth Hays is the Program Director of the Aspen Class and works closely with teachers, parents, and the kids to keep all the lines of communication open. “My role is trying to support the teachers, help with the kids, and that means, lots of times, if there’s something going on with the kid in the classroom, I contact the parents. I also talk with the parents about what’s going on in the classroom,” he said. “I try to be a network between everything that is going on.” Aside from being the connector between teachers, parents, and students, Hays also coordinates all of the after school programs. There are four 3rd grade classes at Timberline K-8, where the Aspen Class attends school, but after the bell rings, they all come together as one class. After half an hour of homework, with help from tutors and volunteers, the weekly activities begin. To keep things fun and interesting for the students, these activities change on a regular basis. For example, during one week the curriculum schedule consisted of activity days, academic days, and social lessons activities. There is a structure to the schedule, with plenty of different options for the Dreamers.

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While there are currently six Dreamer classes in Boulder County, the Foundation is hoping to grow that number and expand the program to serve even more children. “The need is so great, we start a class as soon as we have the sponsors;” said President & CEO, Lori Canova. “Between Boulder Valley School District and St. Vrain Valley School district, there are 15,000 students on free or reduced lunch.” Unfortunately, there is a misconception that there is not a need in Boulder County because the visual reminders of lower-income families is well hidden.

When the time comes to start a new class, the process starts with a series of meetings. First, the Foundation meets with school administrations and the housing authority in the city to do a needs assessment to determine the new location. They don’t want to turn anyone away, so they try to find a location where at least 50 2nd graders are able to sign up. Since participation in the program is completely voluntary on the part of the parents, a letter is sent out to all of the parents of 2nd graders on free or reduced lunch and invite them to a parents meeting. Here the Foundation lets them know more about the program and gives them the opportunity to sign up. There are also parents from the program who come to this meeting as well and let the new parents know what to expect from “I Have A Dream”. Previous parents share their stories and ex-

March 2014

periences to help encourage new parents to engage in a high level of participation. Once up to 50 kids are signed up, the time begins to find sponsors. For one student, the core programming costs are $2000 a year. This is a 10 year commitment that starts in the Spring or 2nd semester of 2nd grade and continues until graduation. In order to make sponsorship affordable for all walks of life, they have broken down the sponsorship and even offer a monthly payment plan. Sponsors include retired educators, community member, past mentors or tutors, and even past Dreamers! “I Have a Dream” has been successful in finding community sponsors because of the nature of their model.

them up to date with what is going on with the kids, some of the challenges they are facing, and also the positive things that are happening with them. Often, sponsors get further involved by becoming mentors, tutors, chaperones for field trips, or get their families involved. “A lot of sponsors like the aspect of bringing the whole family into this process and want their own kids to have an opportunity to give back and make a difference,” said Lori Canova. Current Board Member and sponsor of the Aspen Class, Dene Yarwood, and her husband, Dave, have committed themselves to every aspect of the “I Have a Dream” program. The couple were in the process of trying to find a volunteering opportunity that l they could do together when she was invited to attend the “I Have A Dream” Dream-Maker Breakfast. The program really resonated with her and when she shared her experience with her husband, they decided to make a commitment and volunteer. “This is so rewarding because we’re really reaching out and we feel like we will make a difference in people’s lives.”

They have a very unique, engaged philanthropy model, where people know that 100% of the funds they will be donating goes to a specific student or group of students. It’s unique that they can see that change and the impact that donation is having over time. The sponsor is not paired with a certain child, just a certain Dreamer class. The sponsors have regular meetings to keep

This is the Yarwood’s first year as well as the first year of this class and they are happy to have gotten in on the ground level with these kids. They have committed to sponsoring the entire 10 years and are dedicated to seeing it to the end. “I would like these kids to know that they can do whatever they set their heart and mind to. I don’t know that every child gets that and if these kids get that and graduate high school , they know that they can go on and do something with their lives and impact the world,” Dene Yarwood said. “If we can give them that, I would be very happy.” Knowing that the need is so great, the “I Have a Dream” Foundation hates to turn anyone away, so they also created the Dream Guest Program. “We fundraise for the 50 Dreamers, who are promised not only the 10 years of programming, but also the scholarship at the

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end,” said Kasia Szewczyk, Director of Development. “However, when there are siblings of Dreamers, kids who just missed the cut off with us, or kids who just moved in to the neighborhood, we also allow Dreamer Guests to come to our core programming, as our staff and volunteer levels permit.” The Dreamer Guests can attend the after school program and attend activities, but are not guaranteed the scholarship. Keeping with the original vision of the “I Have a Dream” program, Dreamers receive a scholarship of $2500 per year for post-secondary education. The scholarship is meant to be the first line of defense against the financial barriers that keep many lower income kids from continuing on to college. Many of the students qualify for financial aid, but need additional help through the process of higher education. A big part of helping them reach the goal of college is walking them through the college process and helping the kids “see” themselves going to college. The kids are even taken on college campus tours. College isn’t for everyone, though, so the scholarship doesn’t have to be used solely for college. It can also be applied to vocational schools or specific classes. “One student, who had an interest in computers, was able to use the scholarship to pay for advanced computer classes and then found a high tech job,” said Lori Canova.

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Canova has been the President & CEO of “I Have a Dream” Foundation of Boulder County since 1997. She has a background in social work, non-profit management programs, and has worked with a mental health program, where she worked with juveniles who were getting into trouble with the law and trying to get them back on track in the community. “It was nice to find the “I Have a Dream” program that combines nurturing, early intervention, and longevity,” she said. “You’re with the kids during those turbulent adolescent years. I really love the long term aspect.” The “I Have a Dream” Foundation of Boulder County is in the process of fundraising for a new class right now and only 5 more Dreamers need to be sponsored! On March 13, they are having their annual Dream-Maker Breakfast right here in Longmont. This is a powerful event, where attendees have the opportunity to hear directly from those most affected - past Dreamers! To learn more about the “I Have A Dream” Foundation of Boulder County, you can visit their website at www.ihadboulder.org.

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Historic Longmont

Driving through Longmont neighborhoods, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to become enchanted by architecture that

has survived the test of time and serves as a reminder of days gone by. Every so often, one home in particular will stop us in our tracks and make us take notice. With its steeply pitched roof and decorative brickwork, the Townley House definitely captures the attention and stirs the imagination. This English Cottage style home was originally built in 1928 by John Lawrence Jr. and Nellie Townley. The son of an original founder of Longmont, John Jr. was a farmer and his wife Nellie was an English teacher and State Poetry Chairman for the Federation of Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Clubs. This home was recognized as a historic landmark in 2003. Thank you to Jim and Lori West for opening your doors and allowing us to photograph your beautiful home!

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The Townley House Photography by Mari Wolf

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The outside of this home may be the first thing that grabs our attention, but it is the interior that really makes us appreciate the craftsmanship of historic homes. The Townley House’s stone fireplace is a perfect example. The symmetry of the stonework, the rich color of the brick, and the contrasting accent bricks come together to form a this beautiful piece of architecture. It’s easy to imagine the fireplace being just as much a conversation piece nearly one hundred years ago as it is today. Unlike the stonework in the fireplace, it’s the lack of symmetry of the stonework on the sun room floor that starts conversations. The original stone flooring of the sun room adds depth and texture to help create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

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When visiting a historic home like this, be sure to look for all the little details that the builders added to make every home unique. From the finely crafted staircase to the etched door knobs and hand-textured pewter handles on the French doors, the beauty really is in the details.

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Another great treat when visiting historic homes is having the ability to put things in context and imagine yourself living in those times. On our visit to the Townley House, this was the first we had ever seen a milk window. Instead of just leaving the milk on the doorstep, the deliveryman would open the outer door and set the milk inside. Then the family would open the inside door and there would be the milk. Brilliant!

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March 2014

Sports & Fitness

Roller Derby

Crash Course Later this month, the Boulder County Bombers will be hosting their season opener as the

Bombshells take on the Pikes Peak Derby Dames Slamazons from Colorado Springs. This is truly a local event as there will be beer from Left Hand Brewing Company and Bootstrap Brewing Company as well as food from Georgia Boys and Breakers Grill. It is also a family event, with poster making for the kids and an autograph session with the skaters after the bout. A little something for everyone! Flat track roller derby is a fast paced, high energy sport with lots of action and plenty of strategy, but for anyone unfamiliar with the rules of the game it can sometimes be a little hard to follow. Often it can appear chaotic, with ten skaters on the track fighting for position and multiple referees blowing their whistles for various reasons from marking start of play to calling a penalty. There is a lot to take in, and if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what you are looking for it is easy to get lost. So to prepare you for the Boulder County Bombersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; first bout of the season, here is a crash course in roller derby.

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Let’s start with the teams. Each team has five skaters on the track at the start of play, one jammer and four blockers. The jammer is the scoring player on the team, earning one point for each opponent she laps during gameplay. The jammer is easy to recognize because they wear a helmet cover with stars on it. The blockers, as the name implies, are primarily responsible for slowing down the opposing team’s jammer and trying to prevent her from scoring points. However, blockers can also play offensively, helping their own jammer by pushing or pulling her through the pack to gain a better position or skate faster. Additionally, one of the blockers is called the pivot and can become a jammer during the course of play. The pivot is distinguished by wearing a striped helmet cover. In addition to the players, there is always a number of different referees and non-skating officials on and around the track. There is a head referee who oversees all the action as well as two referees who are each assigned to watch one of the two jammers. There are also various non-skating officials who are there to keep score, record penalties, and monitor the action. When it comes to the game itself, bouts are divided into two 30-minute halves, which in turn are divided into multiple “jams”. Each jam begins with the eight

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blockers (four from each team) lining up in front and the two jammers lining up behind them. At the sound of the whistle, the two jammers fight for position and try to be the first to get in front of the pack. The jammer who gets out ahead of the pack first becomes the lead jammer for that jam. During the jam, the two jammers try to lap their opposing skaters as many times as they can during the time period in order to score points. Typically a jammer can earn 4 points each time she laps the pack, and up to 5 points if she is able to lap the opposing jammer. This usually only happens when the opposing jammer is sitting in the penalty box. A jam can last up to two minutes or it can be ended at any time by the lead jammer. The lead jammer will often call an early end to the jam in order to prevent the opposing jammer from scoring additional points. For example, if the lead jammer is far enough ahead of the other jammer, she can pass the four blockers on the opposing team, thus scoring four points, and then call an end to the jam before her counterpart can score any points for the other team. When you see the lead jammer signaling to the referees by repeatedly touching both hands to her hips, she is calling an end to the jam.

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Beyond the basic gameplay, there are a number of rules and strategies that add to the complexity of the sport and reduce the risk of injury to the skaters. If a player breaks certain rules, a referee may call them for a penalty and send them to the penalty box for one minute. Here are just a few of the more important rules to be aware of: - Blocking is a crucial part of the game, but there are strict rules about blocking an opponent. Skaters can try to knock an opponent out of bounds or impede her movements on the track, but only by using the body and hips. Blockers are not allowed to use their hands, elbows, head or feet, nor are they allowed to contact above the shoulders or below the mid-thigh. Skaters can use their hands on their own teammates, though. Also, players cannot block from the rear, only from the front or side of the other player. - If a skater goes out of bounds, which is the yellow line on the inside and outside of the track, she must be aware of her relative position within the pack based on who was in front of her or behind her. When coming back onto the track from out of bounds, she must be sure to enter behind everyone who was ahead of her. If not, she can be called for cutting and sent to the

penalty box. You may seen some players intentionally skate backwards in order to force an out-of-bounds player to also skate back before returning to the track. - During a jam, the pack cannot spread out any further than 20 feet between the first and last blocker. This keeps the players in a tighter formation and prevents anyone from slowing the pace of the jam too much. Still have questions? See something during a bout that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand? Not to worry! At every bout there are members of the Boulder County Bombers league who will be available to answer your questions. Just look for the girls in bright green neon shirts mingling with the crowd. These are the Ask Me Girls and they are there to help you become more familiar with the rules of roller derby. So come out to the Exhibit Building at the Boulder County Fairgrounds on March 29th at 6pm, cheer on the Bombshells, and see for yourself what the roller derby experience is all about! To see the Boulder County Bombersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; full schedule, go to www.bouldercountybombers.com.

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March 2014

Music

Center Stage

The Prairie Scholars

If you haven’t heard of The Prairie Scholars yet, there’s a good chance you aren’t getting out enough.

Andy and Jessica Eppler have been residents of Longmont since 2009 and these days you can usually find them performing locally at least a few times a week. Whether it is hosting an open mic night for other musicians, performing at a local event, or playing at one of the many night spots in town, they don’t seem to miss an opportunity to share their unique brand of West Texas Soul music with a crowd. And fortunately for all of us, there are always plenty of opportunities for them to get in front of an audience. As The Prairie Scholars, husband and wife duo Andy and Jessica Eppler blend poetic Texas folk and bluesy guitar with soulful keyboards and haunting rock melodies. Honest, aggressive, and passionate, The Prairie Scholars work with themes of disenchantment, identity, and universal truth throughout their music. Together, they record and produce all of their original material through their independent label, Velvet Syntax Records. Andy and Jessica met while attending South Plains College, a well-known music college in West Texas, and later married in 2006. As they pursued their musical aspirations independently, each strove to find their own individual path on the musical landscape. While Andy focused on recording his music as a solo artist, Jessica fronted her all-original band Clandestine Amigo. When the couple decided it was time to leave Texas, they remembered a city they had visited in Colorado on many touring road trips. “We wanted to settle in the nicest place we could find,” Andy said. In 2009, they 26

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relocated from Lubbock, TX to Longmont and found a community that was very supportive of their music. “There is such a sense of community and friendliness of the people that is so appealing to us.”

Moving to Longmont brought about a big change for them. In 2010, the couple realized it was time to bring their musical styles together and they formed The Prairie Scholars. It seemed like the most logical transition because they are such a good creative partnership. “We make each other better.” An accomplished writer and poet, Andy’s brand of songwriting revolves around lyrics that take the listener down a winding road, through a story with a message at the end. In contrast, Jessica’s approach to songwriting is more introspective and an outlet to express her feelings and emotions. Each of them work on their own songs independently and then come together to find ways to make it better. “We’re all about saying ‘yes’ to each other,” Andy told us. If one of them has an idea, they find a way to make it work. One of the many great things about the Prairie Scholars is how connected Andy and Jessica have become with the Longmont community. Last year, after Longmont endured the worst flood in the city’s history, the couple felt compelled to do something to contribute to the recovery. Doing what they do best, Andy and Jessica wrote, recorded, and released the song “100 Year Flood” in only three weeks. Written to celebrate the city that has supported them since they moved here, it told the story of a community coming together after a crisis. The song was then made available for purchase on their website with all proceeds going to the Longmont Community Foundation’s flood relief efforts.

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It is inspiring to see how hard Andy and Jessica work to promote not only themselves but also other musicians and even local businesses. And they seem truly passionate about helping to build a strong music market in Longmont. They are quick to tell you about what’s new in the musical community and it won’t take long for them to tell you about a “great band you need to know” or an “impressive songwriter” that is on the scene or the newest “intimate venue” to see a good show. A big part of building a bigger music market is to help bring awareness to fellow musicians. Wanting to do more, The Prairie Scholars host an open mic night at the Tasty Weasel every other Monday where they encourage musicians to get up, plug in, and perform for the crowd. While the duo typically plays an opening set to get the show started, they are very careful not to make the night about themselves. Instead, they recognize that they are there to help showcase the wide range of talent we are lucky to have here in Longmont. It’s a very relaxed and enjoyable event as, one by one, the musicians roll in, sign up, and take the stage. More than just facilitators, they make sure anyone who is interested

March 2014

But their connection with the community doesn’t stop at music. The Epplers have even had a sandwich named after them. That’s right, you can go to Subworks Deli here in Longmont and order The Prairie Scholars Chicken Caprese Sandwich! You know you’re making a name for yourself when you can order your own sandwich at one of your favorite restaurants. In fact, on April 6th they will be celebrating their oneyear anniversary of being on the menu from 1-2pm that day. Jessica and Andy stay busy producing albums both individually and together. Since 2010, The Prairie Scholars have released 5 albums, the most recent being, “Wasted Tracks.” A double album is currently in the works and set to be released later this year. Individually, Andy and Jessica continue to produce solo work as well. Jessica’s most recent album is a solo piano album titled “Planted in the Wind” that came out this year. Andy is actually working on an art philosophy book that is planned to be released this year as well. To learn more about The Prairie Scholars and see their upcoming events, go to www.prairiescholars.com. in participating knows where to come and they make sure all the information is shared on social media and community websites. Being gifted promoters, the couple does not shy away from also extending that marketing skill to support local businesses and the community at large. One of the more out-of-the-box promotional tools they use is a coupon book that they produce featuring discounts for their favorite local businesses here in Longmont. These coupon books then travel with them any time they go out on the road to entertain crowds in communities outside of Longmont and are given out to people who attend their shows. What a great way to help bring more customers to local businesses! The Prairie Scholars are continually involved with local community events, as well. On March 20th they will be performing at Kettle & Stone Brewery in Boulder to support The Left Hand Artist Group. One of the members, Salowa Salzer, has a series of paintings that will be going up, including one painting of Jessica. Just another example of the connection between music and art, musician and artist. Then on March 22nd, the duo will be performing as part of Longmont Live! This event will feature two fellow musical acts and artist presentations between sets. Again, a great pairing of art and music.

March 2014

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March 2014

Arts & Entertainment

Larry Shueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s The Nerd

Starring Derek Gaboriault Yancy Higdon Robert Janacek Garrett Salter Mandy Scott Rachel Ricca Jackson Wood

Directed by Rob Mess

March 2014

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LONGMONT THEATRE COMPANY This month, the Longmont Theatre Company’s latest production on stage is The Nerd,

written by Larry Shue and directed by Rob Mess. Set in 1979, the Director describes the show as a comedy about “selflessness and selfishness and about finding the right balance between them.” More than a team effort, each show produced by the Longmont Theatre is better described as a community effort. It is amazing to see how many people, from all walks of life, come together to put on these great shows. We are lucky to have such an amazing theatre here in Longmont that provides these kinds of opportunities, not only for actors and technical crews but for audiences as well. Thank you to Director Rob Mess, who allowed us to go behind-the-scenes to see just what it takes to bring a production like The Nerd to the stage.

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March 2014

Building the set for a production like The Nerd is a major undertaking for everyone involved that takes several weeks to complete. It all began with the set being designed by Tim David as Set Designer which resulted in the model above being built as a guide for those who would go on to actually construct the set. With the design complete, Jason Atkins took over as Master Carpenter and construction began. Over three weekends, members of the cast and crew as well as volunteers from the community came to the theatre to help turn an empty stage into the home of Willum Cubbert, complete with fully functioning doors and windows, painted walls and floors, and assorted furnishings. The Longmont Theatre often welcomes volunteers to help with set builds, whether they have construction experience or not. No matter what your skill level may be, even if you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hammer a nail, they will find a way for you to help. You may even find a skill you didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know you have.

March 2014

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As anyone who is familiar with the theatre will tell you, the director is the driving force behind any production. Throughout the entire process of taking a show from script to stage, it is the director’s vision that ties everything together. For Director Rob Mess, this was his second time directing for the Longmont Theatre Company, following his production last season of A Christmas Carol. To help with the production, Mess also brought in Mandy Scott as Assistant Director. Together, the two were responsible for every decision that went into bringing The Nerd to the stage, from casting to wardrobe to what color the walls should be painted. Of course, the most visible members of any production are the actors, and the cast of The Nerd were sensational in their roles. For over seven weeks, these seven actors committed a significant amount of time preparing to bring this show to life. Memorizing pages and pages of dialogue, learning how to interact together on stage, and developing their characters, while also maintaining their day-to-day lives, must have been no easy task. But this cast pulled it off brilliantly! What many people may not know, though, is just how many people are involved behind the scenes on a production like The Nerd. It can be easy to take for granted the multiple technical aspects that go into every scene and how many people are required to pull it off successfully. As the Lighting Director, Gary Mess was responsible for determining which lights on stage are to be used and where each light is placed, what kind of lighting effects are needed throughout the show, and what lighting transitions are needed from scene to scene. In addition to being the Assistant Director (and cast member), Mandy Scott was also the Sound Designer for this production. It was her job to collect all the different sound and music effects that brought so much inspiration from the 70s for this show. And Costumer Judy Ernst made sure that each cast member looked the part. And while it is the artistic staff who helped Mess design the look and sound of The Nerd, it is the members of the running crew are there to put the designs into action. During each performance, Light Operator Tom Priestley works in the control booth to make sure every change in light, such as when Willum turns on the lights in the opening scene or when Rick makes his first appearance, happens at just the right time. Also in the control booth is Sound Operator Matthew Deets, who is there to see that the answering machine plays on command or that the music plays at just the right moment. And throughout the entire show, Stage Manager Ellie Atkins is on the job to ensure that the

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entire show runs smoothly from beginning to end. With her stage crew, Atkins keeps everything moving from scene to scene, from seeing that the stage is set before every performance to making sure that each piece of food is ready to go out on stage right on cue. Together, the artistic staff and running crew do just as much to breathe life into the production as the cast themselves.

Over the many weeks of preparation, each member of the cast and crew worked hard learning lines, designing effects, building sets, and collecting props until it was time to bring all the pieces together in what is called a cue-to-cue rehearsal. This was the very first opportunity for the Director to finally see all the different aspects of the production working together on stage. This was also the first time for the cast and running crew to work together so that lights, sounds, and props would be interwoven as seamlessly as possible with the actor’s performances. Full rehearsal with actors, lights, sounds, and props would continue on stage for the next few nights until, finally, it was showtime! With the arrival of opening night, Director Rob Mess’ work was complete. For over seven weeks he worked with Producer Elaine Niesen, members of the cast, the artistic staff, the running crew, and everyone else involved in the show in order to prepare for the first performance. And when that night came, it was time to sit back and enjoy the show. Backstage, Stage Manager Ellie Atkins took control of the show and will oversee the rest of the production until the show’s end. The Nerd runs through March 15 downtown at the Longmont Theatre. This is a hilarious comedy filled with huge laughs, wonderful acting, and top-notch production. If you have not seen it yet, you should definitely take in a show before it is gone. For ticket information, go to www.longmonttheatre.org or call 303-772-5200.

March 2014

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March 2014

Arts & Entertainment

Longmont Youth Theatre On March 20, the LTC Youth Theatre will begin its

three-day run of Snow Angel. Led by Director Chris Parr and Assistant Director Emma Cavcey, the cast of 14 youths are currently preparing for their upcoming performance. As is often the case with the Youth Theatre, the 14-member cast of Snow Angel features a diverse group of actors with a wide range of ages and experience levels, including middle school, high school, and college students from around the Longmont area. For some of the actors, this will be their first full production with the Youth Theatre, while others have been performing with the group for several years. Chantal King, a Freshman at Niwot High School, has been performing with the Youth Theatre for over 3 years and has been in numerous productions. Connor Monticello, a Junior at Skyline High School, has performed in two of the Youth Theatreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s previous 24-Hour Festivals, but this will be his first full production with this group. For Amber Stark, a Senior at Niwot High School, Snow Angel will be her third performance since she began working with the Youth Theatre last year.

March 2014

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In addition to the cast, Parr has once again brought in Ryan Dohoney and Kevin Dehner as his technical crew for this show. Not only did they design and build the set, which consists of three separate scenes on stage throughout the performance, they also recorded a series of radio bits that will be played during the show. Since mid-January, the cast has been rehearsing in the working space just down the street from the Longmont Theatre while The Nerd is performing on stage. The same weekend that The Nerd closes, Snow Angel will build their set on stage. The cast will then only have about three nights to rehearse on stage before the show opens on Thursday. Their three performances will run through Saturday, and then make way for the Longmont Theatre Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s production of Sweeney Todd. Snow Angel will be performed at the Longmont Theatre March 20-22. For ticket information, call 303-772-5200 or email longmonttheatre@gmail.com.

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March 2014

Poetry I Still Dance A dancer I was, and a little brown book made me a poet; or was it my father? Dickenson, Frost, and Shelley seeped from its pages and his, into my blood. Tchaikovsky and Dvorjak into my feet, my breath, my child’s rapturous Soul. The look on his face to catch me dancing; a little Makarova Dying Swan brimming with the riches of living, the sorrow of dying; Saint-Saens streaming through the house, The hi-fidelity stereo sacred, the wool of the living room oriental, my stage and God’s altar. Just a child the age of six in a safe house of love. How do you thank a father like that? Like this? I hope you are not so far away you cannot hear the thank you’s I utter every day. They are in the chirp of every redbird. Every impulse to fall into music. A violin string vibrates every cell; I dance. I am getting older, Still, I dance. I’m afraid I look ridiculous, but I still dance. I do not look ridiculous. I still dance, Daddy. I still dance. ~ Elizabeth Anne Phelps 38

March 2014

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March 2014

Happening In Longmont Open Mic Night at the Tasty Weasel Every Monday night, the Tasty Weasel hosts an open mic night for local musicians. This really is an â&#x20AC;&#x153;openâ&#x20AC;? event and all you have to do is bring your instrument, sign up to do a set, and entertain the crowd with a few songs. One thing was very clear, there is no shortage of musical talent in this town. The night we stopped in, The Prairie Scholars were the evenings hosts and encouraged anyone and everyone to join the fun!

March 2014

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March 2014

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Kay Carol Gallery and Priscila Working Art Studio Grand Opening While itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not uncommon to hear local artists lament about not having space to create and collaborate, there are fewer artists saying that now that Kay Carol Gallery and Priscilla Working Art Studio, affectionately known as KC&P, is open. On February 14th, the community was invited to celebrate the official Grand Opening! The February featured artist was Tim Ellis with French Quarter Photography, who displayed some of his favorite images from his Pinup Series.

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March 2014

neXt: Mixer at the Tasty Weasel The Longmont Chamber’s neXt: Young Professionals had their first mixer of 2014 on February 26 at the Tasty Weasel. There were plenty of tasty beverages, skee ball, and fun networking. As always, donations for a local non-profit were encouraged and collected. This month, Oskar Blues’ CAN’d Aid Foundation was the beneficiary.

March 2014

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Lifestyle Consignment Open House Lifestyle Consignment (formerly Fabulous Furnishings) held an open house to celebrate their new name and new location on February 28. The crowd was treated to delicious food, great music, and a Flash Mob courtesy of Broadway Performing Academy!

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March 2014

Golden Ponds Ribbon Cutting Following the devastating floods this past September, much of the Golden Ponds area was closed for repair. On February 14, the city held a ribbon cutting led by Mayor Combs to officially reopen this beautiful natural space.

March 2014

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The Nerd Opening Night Gala After the opening night performance of The Nerd, the cast joined audience members for some food, drink, and conversation at the Opening Night gala. It was a great opportunity to meet the actors and discuss the shock of the twist ending...nope, no spoilers here. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have to go see the play!

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March 2014

Upcoming Events

March Events March 1 Fathers Are Forever

Facebook For Business Workshop Barbed Wire Books Grand Re-Opening

The Nerd

Longmont Cash Mob

March 2 The Nerd

March 17 Open Mic at the Tasty Weasel

March 6 Unity in the Community

Potluck Bluegrass at La Vita Bella

March 7 Coffee and Connections

March 18 Movie Marathon at La Vita Bella

Luckyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market Wine & Beer Tasting

March 20 Open Mic Night at La Vita Bella

The Nerd

March 21 Coffee and Connections

Live Music at La Vita Bella March 8 The Nerd

Friday Afternoon Concert & Art Show The Prairie Scholars: Tequila, Tunes, & Tacos

March 9 The Nerd

Live Music at La Vita Bella March 22 Empty Bowls

Hoverhome Public Tour March 10 Open Mic at the Tasty Weasel

Longmont Live

Potluck Bluegrass at La Vita Bella

Broadway Performing Academy Anniversary

March 11 Movie Marathon at La Vita Bella

March 24 Open Mic at the Tasty Weasel

Dining Out for the Arts

Potluck Bluegrass at La Vita Bella

Free Business Workshop

March 25 The Prairie Scholars: Dinner Music

March 13 Longmont Dream-Maker Breakfast

Movie Marathon at La Vita Bella March 27 The Prairie Scholars: Dinner Music

The Nerd Open Mic at La Vita Bella

Open Mic Night at La Vita Bella

March 14 Coffee and Connections

March 28 Coffee and Connections

The Nerd

Live Music at La Vita Bella

March 31 Open Mic at the Tasty Weasel

March 15 Brews & Tunes with The Prairie Scholars

Potluck Bluegrass at La Vita Bella

The Nerd

For details on any of these events, visit our on-line Calendar of Events at www.insidelongmont.com

March 2014

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April Events April 4 The Prairie Scholars: Burgers, Brews, & Tunes

April 22 The Prairie Scholars: Dinner Music

Coffee & Connections

April 24 Hero Award Luncheon

April 5 The Prairie Scholars: Brews & Tunes Fathers Are Forever

April 25 Coffee & Connections

April 7 Open Mic at the Tasty Weasel

Sweeney Todd

April 11 Coffee & Connections

April 26 Dream Kitchens Are Cooking

April 12 The Prairie Scholars Trio

Sweeney Todd April 27 Dream Kitchens Are Cooking The Prairie Scholars: Dinner Music

April 14 Open Mic at the Tasty Weasel April 18 Friday Afternoon Concert & Art Show Coffee & Connections

Sweeney Todd April 28 Open Mic at the Tasty Weasel

April 21 Open Mic at the Tasty Weasel

For details on any of these events, visit our on-line Calendar of Events at www.insidelongmont.com

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March 2014

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March 2014

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March 2014

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