So Thankful
In this season of giving thanks, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. The true spirit of Thanksgiving encourages the conscious expression of gratitude. Its focus is spending time with those that you love and encourages giving back in a meaningful way. While ambition, competition and slaying goals can be very healthy, forgetting to place importance on being present, enjoying the ride and appreciating those around us that have helped us along in our journey, can leave us missing out on what truly matters. We’ll never be content if we look outside ourselves and at our possessions or titles to determine if we are fulfilled. True contentment comes from within and from fulfilling who we were made to be.
I am personally thankful for my family and friends. For my husband, Doug and our cozy home with our two pups. I am also thankful for the opportunity to get to know so many incredible and inspiring people through my time with Parker City Lifestyle. Ours is a beautiful community that we get to highlight each month.
Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, gratefulness and giving back to our community. We are so thankful for the residents and businesses in our community who support so many wonderful organizations and help make our town the vibrant community that it is. We are especially thankful for our advertising partners who help bring this magazine to your doorsteps each month. They are part of our vision and purpose of bringing inspiring stories and the good news of the community directly to you. This holiday season as we prepare to gather with our loved ones, and in the true spirit of thanksgiving, let’s set time aside to consider what truly makes life meaningful and stop to reflect on those blessings.
Cheers!
CASSANDRA GREEN, PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
@PARKERCITYLIFESTYLE
Correction: Photography credit for our October article, Southern Comfort in the Rockies, should be attributed to Raemi Rue Photography for her contributions to the article on Jessie's Smokin' NOLA.
November 2024
PUBLISHERS
Joan Dameron | joan.dameron@citylifestyle.com
Jeni Fleck | jeni.fleck@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Cassandra Green
cassandra.green@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Abby Watkins | abby@abbywatkinsphotography.com
COPY EDITOR
Elizabeth Watson | watsonmarketingllc@yahoo.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Cassandra Green, Hannah Echols-Grieser, Julie Hoglund, Kara Witherow
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Abby Watkins, Sherry Slade, Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Ladies Night Out / Holiday Shop Open House 11/15 DIY Terrariums 11/16
Contest
business monthly
Library’s Forest of Stories is Back for the Holidays
November 16th through January 4th. Step into the magic of the season and indulge your love of stories! Visit any Douglas County Libraries location to experience a whimsical Forest of Stories this holiday season. This festive exhibit has grown from 120 to more than 175 book-themed decorated trees, sparkling with all the best parts of your favorite stories. From classic children’s tales and literature to larger-than-life characters and more, it’s a holiday delight for everyone in the family.
Town Manager Michelle Kivela Named Finalist for National Leadership Award
The Leadership Trailblazer Award recognizes an accomplished woman who is a leader in the local government profession and has inspired other women to achieve executive-level positions. Kivela, Parker’s Town Manager since 2017, has more than 30 years of municipal government experience in a wide variety of capacities and positions. Prior to joining the Town of Parker in 2012, she served as the Deputy City Manager for the City of Lone Tree for seven years.
Heart2Hand Newly Launched Non-Profit
The “heart” of the new Heart2Hand non-profit is providing essential items to our most vulnerable populations. Longtime community leaders Rob and Judy Nelson maintain a mobile food pantry and deliver food to single moms (and dads), seniors, foster families, military families, veterans, seniors and more. Rob and Judy also continue to lead diaper and bicycle drives. Their mission is to change the world by one package of chicken or one diaper at a time.
We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Photographer
Abby Watkins Photography www.abbywatkinsphotography.com | 303.909.0466
Juliana Wilfong Photography www.julianawilfong.com | 720.484.1876
Jolie Rodriguez Photography www.jolierodriguezphotography.com | 570.352.2224
Upstreet Photography www.upstreetphotography.com | 720.577.5919
Raemi Rue Photography www.raemirue.com | 303.975.6746
Charity
Heart 2 Hand 303.507.5019
SECOR Cares www.secorcares.com | 720.842.5621
Parker Task Force Food Bank www.parkertaskforce.org | 303.841.3460
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
Double Angel Foundation www.doubleangel.org | 303.841.2420
Edwards Foundation for Rescued Animals edwardsanimals.com | 303.841.8338
ARTICLE BY CASSANDRA GREEN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
You Are Not Alone Veterans,
VETERANS, FIRST RESPONDERS AND ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY BENEFIT FROM LIFE-CHANGING
CONNECTIONS PROVIDED BY FREEDOM SERVICE DOGS OF AMERICA
Chris and Noodle
Veteran Services Coordinator, Chris Boyer pleads a mission of healing and support for veterans through his work at Freedom Service Dogs of America (FSD). An organization since 1987 FSD committed to serve the veteran community in 2007 and their program is changing lives. They also serve first responders and active duty military.
A veteran himself, I had the honor of meeting not only Chris, but his service dog and companion, Noodle. Chris comes from a long line of veterans leading back to the revolutionary war.
“Noodle right here has changed my life,” Chris shares.
A fascinating process, when the puppies are eight weeks old, they are vaccinated and transferred to local prisons where they spend several weeks being trained by inmates in the Prison Trained K9 Companion Program. These puppies on a mission learn the basics of potty training, and commands like sit, stay, down and more.
“They come back to the facilities the most amazing well-behaved puppies you’ve ever seen in your entire life. It’s incredible,” Chris applauds.
At this point in training, “They’re exposed to real life things like sirens, music, the sounds of pots and pans and you know, regular noises in everyday life, kids and all that… we even have cats on site,” Chris explains.
“From there, we have puppy raisers (and we always need more puppy raisers). They basically take a puppy home to live with them for about a year. They’re trained on how to train dogs and the puppies are brought back periodically for testing.”
At this point, it becomes obvious which puppies are not going to become service dogs. They end up becoming pets and most often stay with the one raising them already.
Alex and Dakota
James and Zena
After the raising period, “They come back to the facility where for about six months, they get more extensive training,” Chris shares.
For veterans who have filled out an application and gone through the interview process, this is where their needs are considered.
“During the application process we get to know the veteran as much as possible,” Chris says. Getting to know the veteran is vital as training becomes specialized.
“At this stage of the process, we’re looking at the dog and our veterans and we’re trying to make that perfect match. Once we make the match, then the dog is custom trained to the veteran’s specific needs. So maybe they’re an amputee and they need that dog to assist picking things up… they’re being trained specifically for that veteran. And they go through a two-week course and they graduate.”
The relationship doesn’t end here. After a touching graduation ceremony, FSD continues to bring support and training if needed.
“It changes a life,” Chris shares that this bond between dog and veteran provides, “a sense of calming, happiness, having someone you can rely on, [experience] unconditional love, an unbreakable bond.”
“There’s a lot of pain out there. I think as a society we need to do a better job.” Chris encourages us to make a difference in the ways we can.
While donating, attending events and volunteering all change lives, Chris simplifies how you can help. He says, “If [you’ve] got a friend or a neighbor that’s a veteran, shake their hand, ask how they’re doing. If [you’re] really, really worried about a veteran, dial 988…. talk to a professional about it.”
You can find out more at FreedomServiceDogs.org
Cindy and Finley
Cranberry
Leo and Sprout
ORIGINAL LANDSCAPE AND ABSTRACT PAINTINGS
BY DAVE REITER
Representation:
The District Gallery, 5113 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919
“Beautiful Day In the Snow” Oil on canvas over board, 16 x 20 in.
The Story Behind the Painting:
“This unique fallen log was nestled in a small ravine near my home. I have seen this fallen log many times and I often said to myself, ‘You know, I should paint that one day.’ After making that statement many times, I finally decided to act on it. We had received several inches of snow the day before, but the sun was shining brightly when I looked in the ravine that day, and I knew the beautiful scene before me would not last long. The sun’s warmth would melt the snow, so the awe of that moment was fleeting. As I looked at the log, I noticed that the sun caused a glistening of the snow and a slight warmth over the entire landscape. As I painted this amazing scene, I wanted to express the joy and wonderment I had experienced on that wonderful day in the snow.”
“Beautiful Day In the Snow” is currently available through Framed Image, 5066 E. Hampden Ave., Denver, CO 80222 (framedimage.net | 303-692-0727)
For availability, prices, or to commission a unique piece, contact Dave: Text: 720-338-8843 | Web: davereiterart.com | Studio: 10200 Casey Lane, Parker, CO 80138
Colorado Eye Consultants welcomes board-certified and ASOPRS fellowship trained ophthalmologist, Dr. Carl Rebhun, specializing in Oculofacial Plastic Surgery. His extensive training has helped him to establish his reputation as a highly skillful surgeon who utilizes the latest and most innovative techniques, to obtain exceptional, natural looking results. This approach, along with a compassionate bedside manner and dedication to helping others, has led Dr. Rebhun to help his patients achieve their medical and cosmetic goals through both surgical and non-surgical procedures. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at (303) 730-0404. 1501 West Mineral Avenue | Suite 100 | Littleton, CO 80120
MAKING SPIRITS
Each
Horses for Heroes
ARTICLE BY JULIE HOGLUND | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHERRY SLADE
EAGLE’S NEST RANCH OFFERS HOPE AND HEALING TO OUR MILITARY PERSONNEL, VETERANS AND FIRST RESPONDERS
Suzy and Brave
““I think it's important to serve those who serve us. We use horses to help people with their invisible wounds and our services are free.”
Suzy Stanfill believes in harnessing a horse’s intuitive nature and God’s healing power to offer “Life Support for our Nation’s Heroes.” Eagle’s Nest Ranch ministry serves military personnel, veterans, first responders and their families.
The 40-acre property in Elizabeth, Colorado, has barns, arenas and open pastures on it. Suzy’s dream came to life in 2014. “We started with $185 and one horse. One day a lady called and said, ’I hear you need hay. I have 240 bales to give!’ Donations kept coming in and 10 years later, the ministry is thriving and continues to offer free services funded by events and donations.”
“Our sessions are 90 minutes and start with a chore. It’s beneficial for our participants to join in with us in taking care of horses. It also gives them an informal time to share their stories. The balance of the time is spent working with a
This handmade cross was just put on the property
Hope is a miniature horse!
horse and a Session Leader, with the goal of bringing about healing from invisible wounds through God’s amazing care and love. It isn’t me that does the healing, it’s all God’s work,” says Suzy.
Horses have remarkable awareness of human emotions, body language and physiology. Their interactions bring about healing for the inner pain of many people, especially service members who experience trauma in their work.
Suzy explains, “I think it’s important to serve those who serve us. We use horses to help people heal from invisible wounds and our services are free.”
For more information about the Ranch go to EaglesNestRanch.org. Suzy wants the community to be involved. “There are three ways for people to participate. Give, volunteer and pray and the other important thing is to tell people about us. We want to be known in the community. We want people to know we're here as a support for military, veterans, first responders and their families.”
Our Heroes
Make MERRY MEMORIES
POLAR EXPRESS™, JACK FROST, MISTLETOE VILLAGE, SANTA'S WORKSHOP AND MORE AT THE GAYLORD ROCKIES
ARTICLE BY KARA WITHEROW | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Cirque: Frost
The Sweet Shop ICE!
Holidays are for family, friends and making memories. Whether bundling up and spending a day walking through a winter wonderland, decorating gingerbread or singing Christmas carols while enjoying cookies and milk, guests will find it all at Gaylord Rockies Resort near Denver.
Amid dazzling holiday lights, seasonal cuisine, the enchanting Mistletoe Village, a delightful Sweet Shop and a sleigh-full of Christmas cheer, everyone will experience a Christmas to remember.
From Nov. 22, 2024, through Jan. 1, 2025, Gaylord Rockies will be transformed
into a winter wonderland full of twinkling lights, sparkling trees and hours of festive entertainment and activities for all to enjoy.
After checking into one of the resort’s plush guestrooms, head to ICE! featuring The Polar Express™. This holiday spectacle, kept at 9 degrees and hand-carved by artisans from 2 million pounds of brightly colored ice, is back again this season.
In this one-of-a-kind retelling of the modern Christmas classic, guests will see familiar characters, including the children from the train, the conductor, the Hobo, Steamer and Smokey and Santa, come to life in scenes from the movie. See the North Pole, Santa’s Workshop, the
Polar Express itself and more, all carved from ice.
ICE! isn’t the only festive fun to be had at Gaylord Rockies this season. Holiday activities abound, including photos with Santa, a festive scavenger hunt, gingerbread decorating and more.
Afterward, discover the magic of the allnew Cirque: Frost, where breathtaking stunts and stunning artistry take center stage. Follow young Jack’s journey to become Jack Frost in this 50-minute spectacle of heartwarming moments and awe-inspiring acrobatics.
This season, there’s no better way to celebrate the holidays than by gathering friends and family at Gaylord Rockies Resort.
Learn more and book packages at ChristmasatGaylordRockies.com.
The Gaylord Rockies Dressed up for the Season
Santa's Workshop
Mistletoe Village
ICE! Polar Express™
a variety of virtually instructed, infrared sauna workouts Our members achieve their fitness goals with 3D Training - our powerful combination of heat, infrared energy, and exercise
ME P OWERINGWOM E N, SHAPINGLEA
INSIDE THE WOMEN’S EXPERIENCE
ARTICLE BY HANNAH ECHOLS GRIESER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY WATKINS
“It’s so fun to see these women become comfortable and vulnerable with each other as the year progresses.”
Achieve more, earn more, do more.
That’s the empowering mantra of The Women’s Experience, a dynamic yearlong leadership program launched in 2024 by the Parker Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber’s mission? To offer local women world-class leadership training without the need to commute to Denver or neighboring cities. Women graduate from the program with newfound relationships and heightened skills in confrontation and conflict, inclusion, change management, goal setting, resilience and sales, to name a few.
As a young mom determined to spend time with her growing family, Kara Massa started a business in her basement. It was so successful that she was able to be her own boss and move to a brick and mortar after five years. Today, she is passionate about helping other women achieve success in business because she has seen firsthand how it can be an avenue to pursue multiple dreams at once. One of the many ways she does that is through helping lead The Women’s Experience.
According to Kara, one of the program’s biggest strengths is the diversity of women it brings together. From budding entrepreneurs in their twenties to women in their late sixties, the program provides a multigenerational learning environment. Their experience ranges from mom and pop shops to corporate leadership, and their differences bring unity.
“It’s so fun to see these women become comfortable and vulnerable with each other as the year progresses. It’s like a sorority of women growing and learning together,” Kara says.
The CEO of the Chamber, T.J. Sullivan, is the mastermind behind the program. Thanks to his strong connections with female business leaders, he has been able to bring in high-caliber speakers for monthly luncheons. Looking ahead, the Chamber has big plans. Over the next few years, they hope the alumni of The Women’s Experience will grow into an influential leadership network in Parker and create more pathways to professional growth for future cohorts.
Ashley Nagy, Elisabeth Bailey, Crystal Contreras, Summer Davies and Kara Massa.
AUGUST 13TH, JUST OFF RAMPART RANGE, A MOTORCYCLIST WAS RESCUED
A Rescue to Be Thankful For
ARTICLE BY CASSANDRA GREEN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
AdventHealth is a beacon of rescue when we or our loved ones are in need.
In the nature of focusing on people who give back in extravagant ways, we can’t help but recognize our medical professionals who save lives every single day. AdventHealth is a beacon of rescue when we or our loved ones are in need. When facing tragedy, it is reassuring that we can count on those passionate to create a better future in the best ways they know how.
On August 13, 2024 a successful rescue occurred on Rampart Range on a small trail off of the main path. I had the opportunity to interview the medical professionals who performed the rescue and ensured the patient’s recovery after the accident.
Will Petitt, who works for Douglas County Search and Rescue, was the first to respond with his team. There were other agencies present.
“The patient was involved in a head-on motorcycle collision,” Will shares. “He suffered a tibial plateau fracture, mid-shaft tibia fracture and a both bone forearm fracture. I was [the] medical lead on scene and we were able to splint the patient in the field and carry him out on an ATV trailer approximately 1 mile uphill to a vehicle. My role was to manage the patient, splint the patient and get him to higher medical coverage.”
Will, his team and other agencies were quick to respond and treat the patient on-site.
“I have been on Douglas County Search and Rescue since 2015, and I am the medical lead for the team. This allows me to use my medical skills as a physician assistant to help people in the wilderness,” Will shares the passion behind his quick actions.
“It was very rewarding helping somebody on the worst day of their life and giving them hope that they can get back to the activities that they desire. I have been able to see the patient postoperatively in his great circle of care and continuity of care to be able to see the patient progressing and doing so well,” Will says.
Dr. Daniel Kaplan, Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon at AdventHealth, treated the patient when they arrived at AdventHealth Parker. He was also kind enough to share his involvement in the rescue. The following are his words in response to the questions we asked him.
COULD YOU PLEASE SHARE WHAT KIND OF STATE THE PATIENT WAS IN WHEN THEY ARRIVED AT THE HOSPITAL?
When I first met the patient he was very distraught and upset about his overall situation. He had already had a prolonged extrication and transfer from an outside facility so I believe the acute shock of the injury was starting to wear off and he was starting to grasp the nature of his injury. We discussed how his injury occurred and his initial reactions. Initially, he knew his arm was very severely injured, but when another motorcyclist attempted to help him up he stepped on his broken leg and fell directly onto it. It was at that point that he was left alone for a significant amount of time until [the] rescue squad was able to reach him. I believe he was just overwhelmed with both the injury and the overall gravity of the situation as well as looking forward to moving forward with treatment.
WHAT KIND OF AFTERCARE DID THE PATIENT REQUIRE?
The patient was still requiring aftercare and will likely require up to one year of some sort of aftercare. Because he had such a severe wrist fracture it required both external fixation and internal fixation. The external fixator was removed at four weeks postoperatively, but because it was placed, there will be a significant amount of wrist and hand/ forearm stiffness to work through. Additionally, with multiple injured extremities this presents
CONTINUED >
additional challenges using a walker, performing selfcare or activities of daily living. Because of all of the above he required a short inpatient rehabilitation stay after his hospital course in order to gain mobility and functional training prior to returning home. He is now beginning outpatient physical therapy and as stated before he may need up to six to nine months of outpatient physical therapy prior to returning to his high demand job as a mechanic.
WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD OF YOUR TEAM WHEN REFLECTING ON THIS PATIENT’S TREATMENT?
I am most proud of the multidisciplinary effort and coordination between multiple specialties, hospitals and organizations to take care of this patient. From the initial management of the Douglas County Search and Rescue team, to the evaluation, coordination and transfer from the Castle Rock facility, to the initial management in the AdventHealth Parker Emergency Department, this acute trauma was handled excellently. [The] patient required multiple trips to the operating room and all of the perioperative staff, ancillary staff and hospital staff were very
important in this patient’s care. He required skilled physical and occupational therapy that have contributed to his care. This is truly an example of when multiple disciplines come together for the greater good of the patient.
ARE THERE ANY FINAL DETAILS YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE?
We were actually unaware that our colleague, Will Petitt, was the patient’s rescuer. We did not find out until the next day... Again, the patient required much more extensive fixation for his wrist than a typical wrist fracture due to the high-energy nature of the trauma. This was a limb-threatening injury that was handled excellently from the start with the Douglas County Search and Rescue Team. I truly believe the excellent acute care of this patient will make a long term functional difference in his overall outcome.
Overall, it was an honor to be able to interview Dr. Kaplan as well as Will Petitt. We are incredibly thankful for their care. They have a standard of excellence that not only matches their quick response but long-term strategy in helping their patients look to a better future.
NOVEMBER
Be The Good Ones Annual Coat Drive
Greenwood Automotive, West Main Taproom, Laguna Med Spa | 9:00 AM
For the entire month of November, drop off your new or like-new warm coats for all ages to one of the drop off locations in Parker. Greenwood Automotive, West Main Taproom, Laguna Med Spa and more!
NOVEMBER 6TH
Barista Bingo
Convict Coffee, 19519 E Parker Square Dr, Parker, CO 80134 | 5:30 PM
Every Wednesday night in November bring your friends and head over to Convict Coffee for Barista Bingo. It's free to play and there are prizes for the winners.
NOVEMBER 9TH
DCL to Host Author and Actor Andrew McCarthy for an ‘80s Rewind
Denver Marriott South at Park Meadows | 7:30 PM
Relive the magic of the 1980s with former Brat Pack actor and author Andrew McCarthy! The VIP experience includes themed appetizers and cocktails to enjoy in favorite ‘80s movie scenes, a costume contest with prizes and premium reserved seating at the author’s presentation. General admission tickets are also available, and pre-signed books will be sold at the event. DCL.org/Featured-Events
NOVEMBER 16TH
Boomer Happy Hour
Wild Goose Saloon, 11160 Pikes Peak Dr. Parker, CO 80134 | 3:30 PM
All boomers and friends welcome! Happy hour appetizers and drink specials, listen and dance to music and socialize to make new friends. Kerry Edwards of Two's Company will be performing followed by trivia and karaoke into the evening.
NOVEMBER 16TH
Legend HS Arts and Craft Fair
Legend High School, 22219 Hilltop Road in Parker, CO 80138 | 9:00 AM
The Legend High School Band Boosters would like to invite you to their 17th Annual Art & Craft Fair. 100+ vendors and artisans will be there to help jump start your holiday shopping! Enjoy shopping for candles, jewelry, photography, artwork, glass, home decor, wood carvings, handcrafted items, art, specialty foods, clothing and accessories. One-of-a-kind items you won't find at the big box retailers.
NOVEMBER 16TH
Kids Cooking: Apple & Pumpkin Fun (for ages 6-12)
PACE Center, 2000 Pikes Peak Avenue, Parker, CO 80134 | 9:00 AM
Using fall-favorite and delicious recipes, students will learn how to warm the home this holiday season. Students will learn basic cooking skills while preparing pumpkin chili, salted caramel apple cups and pumpkin pie smoothies.
NOVEMBER 16TH THROUGH JANUARY 4TH
Library’s Forest of Stories is Back, and Bigger, for the Holidays
Douglas County Libraries, All Locations | 8:00 AM
Step into the magic of the season and indulge your love of stories! Visit any Douglas County Libraries location to experience a whimsical Forest of Stories this holiday season. This festive exhibit has grown from 120 to more than 175 book-themed decorated trees, sparkling with all the best parts of your favorite stories. It’s a holiday delight for everyone in the family. DCL.org/Forest-of-Stories
NOVEMBER 21ST
Nutcracker of Parker presented by Colorado School of Dance
PACE Center, 2000 Pikes Peak Avenue, Parker, CO 80134 | 2:00 PM
Kick off the season and bring the entire family to the annual holiday tradition, the Nutcracker of Parker. The Nutcracker of Parker is celebrating its 20th anniversary with eight shows scheduled from November 21st through November 26th. This magical full-length ballet features the music of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky blending a cast of professionals, members of the Colorado Youth Ballet Company and local dancers.
NOVEMBER 28TH
Turkey Day 5K Fun Run/Walk
Parker Recreation Center, 17301 E. Lincoln Ave. | 8:00 AM
Part of the Parks and Recreation Run Series, this family-friendly community event is a laid-back trot with friends and neighbors. Registered participants will receive a commemorative item, souvenir race bib and hot cocoa, cider or coffee.
NOVEMBER 29TH
Mayor's Holiday Lighting
O'Brien Park, 10795 Victorian Dr. Parker, CO 80138 | 5:30 PM
Join the Town of Parker for an enchanted evening. Gather around the Town Tree and join the Mayor and the Parker Chorale in a SingAlong to Silent Night to kick off the event. Following Silent Night, the Mayor and Town Council will count down to the Town Tree and Grand Park Lighting. You will love the look and feel as our Town Tree lights up and the park sparkles in white elegance!
NOVEMBER 29TH
Parker Ice Trail at Discovery Park
Discovery Park, 20115 E. Mainstreet, Parker, CO 80138 | 11:00 AM
One of the only ice trails in the country, the Parker skating path meanders through the park reminiscent of a frozen river or canal. Skaters or visitors can stay warm next to any of the three fire pits adjacent to the ice trail or enjoy hot chocolate while watching skaters pass by.
NOVEMBER 30TH
Hometown Holiday Experience
O'Brien Park, 10795 Victorian Dr. Parker, CO 80138 | 9:00 AM
Join the town at O’Brien Park for the Hometown Holiday Kick-Off Weekend. Take pictures with Elsa and Olaf, Buddy the Elf and more. Enjoy a ride on the Parker Express around O’Brien Park. Learn about and meet Santa’s reindeer.
dip -giving
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
garlic herb feta dip
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
fig & honey brie
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
directions:
Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions:
Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
AdventHealth Parker is Growing in Your Community
At AdventHealth Parker, you can count on us to support you. AdventHealth Parker o ers a wide range of services to help ensure you get the care you deserve, strengthening your body, easing your mind and lifting your spirit. Our Colorado community has trusted us for 20 years to provide comprehensive, compassionate medical care and we are proud to welcome even more new expert providers here to help you feel whole.
Blake Babcock, MD – Surgical Oncologist
Dr. Babcock cultivates a meaningful relationship with every patient, treating them as he would his own family members. He strives to ensure that every patient clearly understands their health condition and treatment plan.
Hilary Novatt, MD – OB/GYN
Dr. Novatt finds it a privilege to care for her patients. She advocates for you in your most vulnerable moments and always providing empathetic care to help you feel whole.
Erin Drake, MD – OB/GYN
Dr. Drake partners with her patients to help them feel validated, heard and safe. She seeks to draw the connection between the human body and medicine, leading women to whole-person health.
Ryan Smith, MD – Colorectal Surgeon
Dr. Ryan Smith supports your wholeperson health through often uncomfortable conditions. He cares for you as one of his own family members, always honest and doing what he can to help you feel comfortable.
Xavier Glover, MD – Urologist
Dr. Glover’s practice provides patientcentered care so that his patients feel valued and respected in a judgment-free environment. He advocates for shared decision-making, emphasizing partnership with his patients on their journey to wholeperson health.
