SEARCHPARKER PARKER’S PREMIER MONTHLY COMMUNITY MAGAZINE SINCE 2003
OUR ANNUAL ISSUE
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JANUARY 2017
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SEARCHPARKER JANUARY 2017
TABLE OF CONTENTS
THISMONTH’SFEATURES
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January Calendar of Events
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Experience Parker Local - To-Do - Where in Town? Fitness Facilities Great local places to get fit The Parker Recreation Center Facility and Amenities MS Muckfest 2017 Time to Start Training The Bookends The Ballroom: A Novel Local Author Spotlight Nutrition Tips Healthy Habits in 10 Minutes or Less 6th Annual Daniel Valesquez Stuffed Animal Collection Local Chef’s Spotlight Jeffrey James Holland of Rory’s Diner
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magazine
JANUARY 2017 VOLUME 13 ISSUE 1
PARKEREVENTS
january 2017
JANUARY 1 Commitment Day 5k Run/Walk Life Time Fitness – Parker 9250 Crown Crest Blvd. 10:00am-12:00pm www.commitmentday.com/colorado/parkeraurora JANUARY 1 New Year’s Day Facility Closure The Parker Fieldhouse and Recreation Center will be closed all day parkerrec.com JANUARY 1-31 Pint for Pint Giveaway Bonfils Blood Center Make a blood donation and receive a voucher for a complimentary Draft House pint of beer or soda at Old Chicago Pizza and Taproom, Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery or Gordon Biersch Brewery bonfils.org JANUARY 3 Town Council Meeting Town Council Chambers, Parker Town Hall 7:00pm parkeronline.org
PUBLISHER MIKE WAID
mike.waid@waidpublishing.com 303-805-9455 xt 700
JANUARY 12 Planning Commission Meeting Parker Town Hall 7:00pm parkeronline.org
JANUARY 17 Town Council Meeting Town Council Chambers, Parker Town Hall 7:00pm parkeronline.org
SALES DIRECTOR JAMY BEATON
jamy@waidpublishing.com 303-805-9455 xt 705
tiffany@waidpublishing.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN JAMESON HAMSMITH
jameson@waidpublishing.com Search Parker Magazine is published 12 times per year by Waid Publishing (www. WaidPublishing.com), a division of Mike Waid & Associates, Inc. (www.MikeWaid.com), 12760 Stroh Ranch Way, Suite 202, Parker, CO 80134, 303-805-9455. Search Parker Magazine is available online at www.SearchParker. com. Search Parker Magazines is a trademark of Waid Publishing. All rights reserved. The views, opinions and/or statements made or expressed by individuals and/or entities, are not necessarily reflective of the views and opinions of Waid Publishing. No part of this publication may be reproduced without explicit permission from Search Parker Magazine. Copyright 2017 Search Parker Magazine - All rights Reserved.
JANUARY 14 Lessons and Lemonade Foil Art with Candace French Hobby Lobby 9:30am-11:00am & 11:15am-12:45pm parkerartistsguild.com
JANUARY 22 Sky Zone Adult Dodgeball League! The combination of the intense game of dodgeball and the electrifying thrill of fast, furious, high-flying matches on Sky Zone’s walled trampoline courts will be the perfect finish to your weekends. Sky Zone Parker – 9851 S. Parker Rd. To register, visit www.ParkerRec.com/Sports
Do you have a community event you would like listed here? If so, email the details to tiffany@waidpublishing.com for consideration.
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EDITORIAL TIFFANY GRIZZLE
EXPERIENCEPARKER
to-do
FUN & RELAXATION WITH COFFEE & COLORING The benefits of art therapy have been praised for some time, and research has shown tangible results. A 2006 study showed that mindfulness art therapy for women with cancer helped “significantly reduce symptoms of physical and emotional distress during treatment.” (Medical Daily.) That same study also showed that art therapy was beneficial in dealing with depression, dementia, anxiety and PTSD. Obviously some individuals are more artistically inclined than others and those who deem themselves “bad artists” or not at all artistic could miss out on the benefits of art therapy. This is where the adult coloring book craze creates an artistic outlet for those who aren’t prone to drawing, painting or even doodling on
local
their own. “It’s like the difference between listening to music versus learning how to play an instrument,” Donna Betts, President of the board of the American Art Therapy Association told The Guardian. “Listening to music is something everyone can do, but playing an instrument is a whole other skill set.” Douglas County Library’s monthly Coffee & Coloring program is the perfect way to try your hand at a little art therapy and unwind after the busy holiday season. January’s group will get to let their inner Picasso out on Thursday, January 12th at 6:30pm. You can register at DCL.org or by calling 303.791.7323.
HAVE YOU MET JOZI’S YET?
Jozi’s Kitchen & Shebeen is a new, fast, causal restaurant, serving South African inspired dishes at 10971 S. Parker Road in Parker. South African cooking is truly global cuisine and their chef driven menu features dishes that are inspired by African, Indian, French, Dutch, and Malay cooking. You will find mild Indian curries, slow cooked stews, sausages, salads, burgers and ribs on their menu. Most of Jozi’s menu items are comfort food with a unique twist.
Jozi’s Kitchen was named Denver’s best Food Truck by the staff at Westword.
Jozi’s Kitchen started at a pop-up food shack in 2015, and was named as one of the Top 5 African restaurants in the country by Ayib Magazine. At the end of the summer, Jozi’s Kitchen went mobile with a purchase of their big red food truck. In April of 2016,
www.joziskitchen.com – 303.840.7971
They have been warmly welcomed and received by the Parker community, and the staff at Jozi’s Kitchen & Shebeen encourages you to come eat with them and find out why they continue to get such great reviews! Jozi’s Kitchen & Shebeen 10971 S. Parker Road
Open Mon-Fri 11am-9pm & Sat-Sun 9am-9pm
where in town?
A MONTHLY SCAVENGER HUNT
Often times we are so busy going, going, going that we’re on “auto pilot” throughout our daily commutes or errands and we miss unique details around us in places we visit or pass in our own neighborhood. This year, take the time to see the beauty and uniqueness in every day experiences.
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Take a look through the magnifying glass! Do you know Where in Parker you can find this? Any guesses on what this even is? Go to Search Parker’s website (www. SearchParker.com) if you have a guess on what this is and where you can find it in town. If you need extra help check our facebook page for clues!
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FIND & WIN!!!
Would you like a $100 gift certificate to Trappers Chop House? To win simply guess correctly where in Parker this is. We will randomly draw a winner from all correct entries! Enter online at SearchParker.com GOOD LUCK!
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FA C I L I T I E S It’s the new year and time to get in shape, get healthy or just get fit. We’ve looked all over Parker and have found some great facilities offering a variety of ways for you to melt that fat, build that muscle and just get healthier. Check them out here and visit searchparker.com for an expanded list of facilities in, and around, Parker! up to $25/mo $25 to $50/mo JANUARY 2017
$50 to $75/mo $75 to $100/mo Over $100/mo
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SYMBOL KEY Provides FREE childcare
Does not offer childcare
Life Time has everything under one roof! We offer Aquatics (swim), Personal Training, Group Fitness, Yoga, Cycling, Pilates, Racquetball/ Squash, Basketball, Rock Climbing, Nutrition Services, a full service Café, Child Care and Kids Activities, and Spa. Whatever you are looking for, we have it! We are the healthy way of life company and can help you achieve all your fitness goals. We have nationally certified Personal Trainers, Registered Dietitians, Group Fitness and Yoga instructors all right at your fingertips. If you need something for the kids, we have that too!
My House Fitness Parker 12311 Pine Bluffs Way. #113 (720) 370-2939 myhousefitness.com
My House Fitness offers private and semi private personal training in a non-intimidating environment. Real training for real people! Each program is customized for your goals, fitness level and capabilities.
the day), combine diverse movements and energy pathways. Movements come from diverse backgrounds like Power-lifting, Olympic-lifting, Gymnastics, Cardio-training, and emphasize functionality over muscle isolation. You will see squats, lifts, pulls and other movements which are functional (i.e., they accomplish a task.) But we’re not just about workouts. We also have an amazing community of members who are welcoming and supportive. You’ll get to work out with some of the most amazing and generous people you’ve ever met. We have a tight knit community of amazing members that push each other and hold each other accountable. Not to mention our coaches truly care about each member.
Intelligent Motion Therapy 19751 E Mainstreet Suite 258 (303) 808-9807 www.intelligentmotiontherapy.com
Intelligent Motion Therapy, LLC is a state of the art facility in beautiful downtown Parker that offers high quality Pilates training as well as Physical Therapy-Pilates services for those who may be recovering from an illness or injury. We offer individual and small group lessons using Classical Pilates equipment.
Offering multiple training styles including traditional techniques, self defense, HIIT, boot camp, classes, private sessions, small group training and much more, we have the knowledge and motivation to keep you interested and help you reach your goals efficiently and affordably. Do something amazing this year!
Each of our Instructors are comprehensively certified in Pilates with over 450 hours of specialized training and work with clients of all ages and stages. Some of our specialities include pregnancy and post-pregnancy fitness, scoliosis, osteoporosis, auto-immune diseases, sports injuries, neck and back pain, fall prevention, neurological diseases, postural imbalances and those looking to get back into shape!
UFC Gym 17002 E Mainstreet #L (303) 841-6269 ufcgym.com/parker
M2 Core + 18951 East Mainstreet unit B (913) 461-3895 m2coreplus.com
Offering a full range of group fitness classes, private MMA training, personal and group dynamic training, and MMA-style youth programming, UFC GYM® is home to fitness enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. But don’t get too comfortable. As the first to combine mixed martial arts and fitness, we have developed an atmosphere where you can revel in immediate results, united by our winning dedication to TRAIN DIFFERENT®. With our Train Different® mentality, you are sure to hit your fitness goals faster and with more efficacy than ever before. Plus, with exclusive access to UFC® champions, you’ll receive superior training and attention like never before.* Our team is built of the best, boasting black belts and National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM®) conditioning specialists.
20 Mile Crossfit 10470 S. Progress way Unit 101 (720) 215-0424 20milecrossfit.com
The decision to begin any new exercise program should be based on research and knowledge. Crossfit is a strength and conditioning system built on constantly varied functional movements executed at high intensity. Our workouts, known as WODs (workout of
We are A Lagree Fitness Studio. It is a full body, low impact, anerobic cardio workout that uses some basic pilates principles during a 30 to 45 minute class. Burn up to 2000 calories post workout. It is the only workout of its kind that will test you mentally and physically in each and every class you take. You will never conquer the workout, but that is the beauty of it. It is a workout for all fitness levels, from beginners to the advanced athletes.
Great Play of Parker 18425 Pony Express Dr. Ste 107 (303) 805-8844 www.greatplay.com/parker
Great Play is an interactive gym for kids. We offer classes for children 6 months to 10 years old. Our classes are curriculum based and focus on fun while developing locomotor, stability and social skills. We also have amazing birthday parties for ages 1 to 10 years. Come try a class for free! Great Play is a unique kids’ gym because we not only have developmentally appropriate curriculum, but we offer interactive technology that allows us to change the gym to meet the needs of every age group.
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Life Time Fitness Parker 9250 Crown Crest Blvd (720) 842-0800 www.lifetimefitness.com
iThrive Yoga & Wellness 10233 S Parker Rd, Ste 107 (303) 840-5454 www.ithriveyoga.com
At iThrive Yoga you will find a warm and friendly community of people who are interested in improving their health and wellness. Come enjoy our serene environment where you can relax and renew your mind and strengthen and stretch your body. iThrive’s warm and welcoming atmosphere makes you feel comfortable and at ease, even if it’s your first time attending a class at a yoga studio. We offer a New Student Discount, and invite you to attend an unlimited number of classes in your first 30 days for only $30.
Kim & Cam’s Taekwondo Academy 10490 N. Dransfeldt Rd. (303) 994-3376 www.kctkd.com
KC Taekwondo Academy is the premier location for martial arts instruction in Parker. Children benefit from learning life skills such as integrity, discipline, focus, and respect. Adults benefit from an unbeatable work out that improves fitness, balance, strength, flexibility, and stamina. KC Taekwondo Academy has been voted Best of the Best Martial Arts school 2 years in a row as well as the 2016 Best of the Best Fitness Facility and Weight Loss Center.
RNK Running and Walking 13019 South Parker Rd. (303) 840-0399 www.RNKrunning.com
We are a running/walking and fitness lifestyle retail store. However, we also offer beginner running classes periodically throughout the year that meet 2-3 times per week. In addition, we offer free social runs and periodic clinics on various fitness topics. We go outside for intro level running and walking programs. We have beginners and experts helping you get started with running/ fitness/nutrition guidance. At $50 for a 9-10 week program we are an inexpensive and fun way to get started and be social.
Curves 10453 Parker Rd (303) 841-0663
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Curves is a workout facility that involves circuit training along with fitness videos that are shown on a TV throughout your workout. Videos are changed monthly to give a different kind of workout. We have over 60 videos on hand now to include Body Balance, Body Basics, Stretch and Strength, and Dance and Tone. We are a facility that has one on one training with trained professionals throughout your entire workout. We are there to help you acheive your goals.
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CorePower Yoga 18551 E Main Street (303) 909-6482 www.corepoweryoga.com
Inside our yoga fitness studios, something amazing is happening. With this high intensity workout, you’ll push past physical boundaries with an open mind and a beating heart, turning doubt into security, strangers into friends and stress into sweat. Our studio has everything: Vinyasa, traditional Hot, Yoga Sculpt, CoreCardio Circuit, and Yoga Barre Sculpt. We are excited to announce that our studio is expanding in January 2017! That means more classes and more opportunities to sweat! Commit to yourself this year with one membership that serves all your needs!
Orangetheory Fitness Studio Parker 17051 Lincoln Ave, Unit I (720) 636-8606 www.orangetheoryfitness.com
Orangethoery Fitness is “the best 1 hour workout in the country” according to the NY Times. Our heart-rate monitored, high-intensity workout is scientifically designed to keep heart rates in a target zone that spikes metabolism and increases energy. Workout now, burn extra calories tomorrow. We offer top-of-the-line equipment, upbeat music and motivational trainers, that make us the most energetic fitness environment around. Whether you’re just getting started in your fitness journey or an elite athletic, the OTF workout is designed for everyone at any level. Come in today for your free class and see what everyone is talking about.
Parker Jazzercise Center 10490 S. Progress Way #105 (303) 840-5299 jcls.jazzercise.com/facility/parker-jazzercise-center
There won’t be a leotard or leg warmer in sight - promise. What you will see is sweat, swagger and a high intensity endorphin packed workout that leaves the 80s behind! We have a variety of classes to challenge you. Fusion, Strike, Core, Strength and Dance Mixx.
Otomi Martial Arts 10441 S. Parker Rd. (303) 840-9383 www.otomimartialarts.com
Otomi Martial Arts is a martial arts and fitness facility located in the Parker Plaza shopping center. With over 7 years in the community, you may just be surprised to see which of yours friends are already training with us! The uniqueness of our program is in that our instructor has 35 years of martial arts experience including certifications in such well known programs as P90X® and Insanity®. Our one goal is to help you reach yours with a smile, some sweat and a ton of fun.
Group X Fitness Club 18871 Plaza Drive (303) 840-0608 www.groupxfitnessclub.com
We are a group fitness studio that offers a full variety of classes. Whether it’s Barre, Insanity, Piyo, Pound, P90X, Turbo Kick, Yoga or Zumba, we are here to support, motivate and inspire each other without any intimidation. We are a new family owned group fitness studio. This is a safe environment for you to step out of your comfort zone, get a great workout and make friends. What’s even better is there are no contracts. With month-to-month memberships, class passes, and drop in rates, we want to meet your needs!
Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping 11280 South Twenty Mile Rd (720) 376-9548 www.FXBParker.com
Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping is a results based fitness center. We use four components to help our clients improve their overall health and fitness. Cardio kickboxing, strength training, personalized nutrition counseling and accountability through coaches and teammates. That’s why we say at Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping results are typical. One thing that sets FXB apart from our competition is our commitment to your results. We consistently measure and track your progress and make changes to ensure you reach your goals. We believe so much in tangible accomplishments that we offer a money back guarantee.
ILoveKickboxing Parker 10136 Parkglenn Way, Unit 105 (720) 598-1095 www.ilovekickboxing.com
We are a studio gym located in central Parker offering classes Monday - Saturday for adults. No Kickboxing experience required, as we will teach you everything you need to know in order to have an awesome workout and get in the best shape of you life. Our classes are group fitness, but unlike traditional group classes, you won’t find mirrors or follow the leader style movements here. We are hands on fitness studio that uses kickboxing to provide fun classes to help you lose weight, tone and strengthen your body. Our community is one of kind, suitable for women and men who want to have an awesome time while working out.
Intelligent Motion Therapy
Jungle Law Strength
M2 Core+
ILoveKickboxing Parker
We are a strength and conditioning gym that believes in simplicity, lifting heavy, mastering movement, using your own bodyweight and being reasonable. Most gyms focus on making you sweaty, tired, and sore. We focus on making you move and feel better. We want to build you up, not break you down.
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Jungle Law Strength & Movement 18320 E Cottonwood Drive Unit B (719) 640-1852 www.junglelaw.biz
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The Parker Recreation Amenities Center & Programs
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The Parker Recreation Center, located at 17301 E. Lincoln Ave., was originally opened in 1994 and has recently undergone a major expansion to include more than 30,000 square feet of new and renovated space! This state-of-the-art facility includes an indoor pool area, an auxiliary gymnasium, a triple gymnasium, a children’s party room, classrooms, two fitness studios, one cycling studio, multi-purpose rooms, cardiovascular and circuit equipment, multi-station and free weights, an expanded lobby and reception area, complimentary WiFi, an expanded parking lot and a dynamic new exterior to the facility.
daily admission. Facility hours allow kids to attend Kids’ Zone activities while Mom or Dad works out and sports programs are offered seven days a week to fit into busy schedules.
Parker Recreation strives to target patrons of all ages, interests, abilities and stages of life while continuing to offer new programs as the population grows and diversifies. A full range of adult and youth programming is available and the Recreation Center hosts year-round swimming lessons, special interest classes for children and adults, fitness and wellness programs as well as community events. Parker Recreation offers more than 100 Group Fitness classes per week, such as yoga, cycling, aqua aerobics and boot camp, to help patrons reach their fitness and wellness goals. Group Fitness classes are free with membership or
Parker, Colorado is a full-service community with a hometown feel and Parker Parks and Recreation is no exception; providing the community with facilities, services and programs that are high-quality, diverse, sustainable, accessible and customeroriented. Whether patrons are looking for a place to picnic, an enrichment class to take or an athletic league to join, Parker Recreation makes it easy and fun to work physical activities into your busy schedule. Visit www.ParkerRec.com to read more about fees, passes and schedules for these classes, sports and activities. Get online or visit a facility today!
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A popular spot for a workout, birthday parties, fun afternoons and great programs, the newly renovated Recreation Center Indoor Pool offers a new leisure and activity pool with zerodepth entry, lap lanes, a lazy river, water slide, aquatic climbing wall and play structure. Our indoor pool area also features a new therapy pool, a lap pool with shallow end, a sauna and new and updated locker facilities and changing rooms for men, women and families.
In addition to first-rate facilities, parks, trails and programs, reasonably priced memberships, discounts and fitness specials are offered periodically throughout the year. Recreation Memberships start as low as $23 per month and admissions range from a daily drop in of $4 for children and seniors and $5 for youth and adults, to $35 to $78 for 10- and 20-Visit passes. Recreation Passes and Memberships allow patrons to take advantage of the amenities at both the Recreation Center, 17301 E. Lincoln Ave., and the Fieldhouse, 18700 E Plaza Dr. Also available is the Fieldhouse Fitness Membership, a low-cost alternative for those who don’t need all of the amenities that come with a full Recreation Membership but want unlimited access to the cardio and circuit equipment and running/walking track in the Fieldhouse’s Fitness Loft. The Fieldhouse Fitness Membership starts as low as $17 per month.
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Time To Start Training For The
MS Muckfest 2017
In the heat of last July, more than 3,000 people took on muddy obstacles at MuckFest MS. Held at a new location in Parker, the 5K course challenged the valiant participants with muck-filled mazes, pits, craters and more than 15 gigantic steel obstacles. Second year participant and Parker resident, Ellen Jones was among those who came out and braved the mud. She is a member of the 100-strong Muckin’ for Michael’s Mom team and knows the impact of multiple sclerosis (MS) well—the disease targeted her mother, brother, aunt and a sister (none deceased.)
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“MS affected each of my family members differently and with varying degrees of severity. My mother was diagnosed later in life and MS plaques are in her spine, which has led to her being quadriplegic. My brother and sister were diagnosed at younger ages and plaques were mainly in their brains. Their symptoms began with vision problems that were followed by cognitive and movement issues. Interestingly, we have been doing a family history and we have definitely seen a pattern of MS on my mother’s side of the family,” Jones said.
“Although we have taken advantage of the National MS Society’s programs and services through the years, I became aware of MuckFest MS through my niece and nephew who had participated. I thought I could handle it so I tried it last year and had such a good time that I was ready to do it again this year!” “MuckFest MS is a lot of fun and the comradery is special, but there’s also a good cause behind it. I enjoy all the laughter and doing this with friends on the team. It’s also very motivating to see so many people come together to raise funds that will help move us closer to finding a cure,” Jones emphasized. Come join Ellen and fellow muckers at this year’s MuckFest MS and have a blast while helping to find a cure for MS. All you need are a pair of sneakers and a sense of humor to take on the muck-tacular course! MuckFest MS will take place on Saturday, July 15th, 2017 at Salisbury North (9200 N Motsenbocker Road) in Parker. You can find out more information and register at www.MuckFestMS.com
Photos courtesy of Gameface Media and MuckFest MS
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THEBOOKENDS
with Pam & Becky
The Ballroom: A Novel By Anna Hope
Sharston Asylum, located in England, was the unlikely location of a love story set in 1911. Although men and women are kept far apart in the asylum, they come together on Friday nights to dance in the stately ballroom. The men and women look forward to this time and hope they were well behaved enough during the week to earn their admittance. Ella Fay and John Mulligan, two of the patients at Sharston Asylum, encounter each other as Ella is attempting to run away. They meet again in the ballroom and a courtship begins in this unlikely place. PAM This unique story intrigued me and I was drawn to read more. The author introduces us to the characters and their stories, as well as the asylum itself. I found the stories, as well as their daily lives to be very bleak. What emotions surfaced as you read about the nurses, doctors, and patients? BECKY My grandfather spent most of his childhood in an
orphanage so this story stirred a number of negative emotions. It is hard to believe that not that long ago we would place people in institutions like this. The idea that, as a society, we felt that they were to be locked away and forgotten is hard to comprehend. In this story we meet Ella and John who are not mentally challenged but have been sent to Sharston for minor issues. Ella for breaking a window at her job in a factory and John for melancholia which resulted after losing his wife and child. The days are uneventful and the nurses are uncaring. The most interesting character to me is Dr. Charles Fuller. His first love is not medicine but music and he starts a program to see if exposure to music has a beneficial effect on patients. What were your first impressions of this character?
PAM Initially, I felt that Dr. Fuller cared for the patients and their quality of life. In an environment where men and women were admitted against their will and had no say about their rights or treatment, I thought he would be an advocate for them. However, his character did not continue along the path I thought he was traveling. He had escaped his parents and their oppressive expectations when he secured this job. Dr. Fuller went through significant changes in his beliefs (and his character) during this story, with many underlying themes woven throughout. He is initially drawn to John’s story and decides to focus on this patient. How did you feel about Dr. Fuller’s attention being directed to John?
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BECKY First, I think that we have to paint a picture of John. He
is a tough and stoic Irishman that is in a trusted position to work digging graves at the asylum. In my mind he was similar to Hugh Jackman in personality and physique. We don’t know much about him initially, but I quickly liked him and wanted the best for his character. At the beginning of the book I thought that the doctor would be a champion for John as he encouraged him to attend the dances and was interested in his opinions. However, as the story progresses the doctor wrestles with his own demons and he begins to obsessively focus on John. Were you as quickly drawn to John as I was, or did another character grab your attention?
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PAM I pictured him the same way you did! I was also drawn to his character from the very beginning. He was very stable and appeared content in his work. He struggled with a painful past and preferred to hang back and go through the paces of the day. Therefore, he initially resisted the doctor’s request to attend the dances. Once there, he met Ella and his quiet and solitary world began to change. Ella was not content in the asylum and was constantly looking for opportunities to escape. Were you surprised that these two were drawn to each other? BECKY They were different personalities and there wasn’t much
opportunity for the men and women to mingle until the Friday night dance so this was not a typical romance. I wouldn’t say that their connection surprised me but I did enjoy this unlikely relationship. What I found disturbing is that neither one where mentally ill yet they were unable to leave the asylum. They were held, and treated, as if they were prisoners. The staff was unkind and they were subjected to psychological abuse. The most disgusting was when Dr. Fuller became interested in the eugenics movement. It was a belief that those with less desired traits should be sterilized. Unfortunately, patients in the asylum fall into this category. What do you think of the author’s ability to develop this dark character?
PAM I found this very upsetting, as well. The patients had no control of their lives and were treated so poorly. This environment of complete power over other people was even more disturbing as we saw the slide of Dr. Fuller. He lost the ability to see the patients as people and became a firm believer in the eugenics movement. This belief that he could (and should) sterilize as many patients as possible without their (or their families’ permission) illustrated just how broken the system had become. The author painted an interesting picture that led me to believe, at first, the doctor cared for his patients and wanted to enrich their lives. However, as we follow him through this story, we see a dark change. I felt that she was inferring he was suffering from a struggle with mental health. Did you feel this, as well? BECKY Absolutely! How ironic that a doctor with mental illness
is working at an asylum. This is a talented author that created a dynamic plot. I think that a book club would have many topics to discuss. It’s time to leave this dance and meet Joe next month in, The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens. Happy New Year!
LOCALAUTHORSPOTLIGHT A COLORADO DAY:
NATURE’S INSPIRATIONS FROM THE CENTENNIAL STATE By Kristin Acker Miller Illustrated by Tracy Herrmann
Trail alongside animals as they go about their day in this lovely children’s picture book about life in the natural world from dawn until dusk. Featuring vibrant colors, beautifully expressive illustrations and a melodic, rhyming story including the names of Colorado wildlife and vegetation. Plus a bonus “Facts About Colorado” page offers interesting facts about the state of Colorado. Ideal for children ages 2-7. About the Author With a lifelong love of writing, Colorado resident, Kristin Acker Miller has written countless articles spanning 20 years as a magazine editor and writer. Following a long-held dream to publish a children’s book and possessing a profound sense of appreciation for nature, Ms. Miller created Dreaming Tree Books with the intent to publish children’s picture books that highlight the fascinating wildlife and landscapes of the natural world. Her hope is to encourage reading and an enthusiasm for nature among young children. A Colorado Day is available at www.dreamingtreebooks.com
A POCKETFUL OF SEEDS By Debbie Johnson
Each person has a “Pocket of Seeds” to plant for positive change. Inspired by the teachings of Christ, this book is for anyone wishing to make a difference in the world around them. In A Pocketful of Seeds, author and social-change agent Debbie Johnson issues a challenge to herself and her readers: let’s sow “seeds” into the world every day for a year and see how we – and the world – are changed. A Pocketful of Seeds isn’t just a devotional; it’s a collection of inspirations and ideas for world changers. And it’s not just for established Mother Teresas or Nelson Mandelas, but for everyday people who itch to break free and make an impact – a real impact. If that is the cry of your heart, then you are the perfect person to take on the 365-day challenge of A Pocketful of Seeds. Each entry combines a compelling story with an action – a seed to be sown that day, like hanging out with someone of a different socioeconomic group or calling an elderly friend or making a microloan. Some daily seeds will fill you with delight, and some will call for sacrifice. All will make the world a better place, because one thing is definitely true: when seeds are sown, life happens.
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A Pocketful of Seeds is available at www.debbieljohnson.com and Amazon
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HEALTHY HABITS IN 10 MINUTES OR LESS
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By: Brooke Ebel - Master Nutrition Therapist Have you made a health goal that you would really like to achieve as part of your New Year’s resolutions? One of the biggest barriers for people trying to live healthier lives is the notion that being healthy is incredibly time-consuming. Not everyone has the extra time in their day to go to work, cook, clean, go to the gym, take care of the family, and still get 8 hours of sleep. However, there are simple tips and tricks that can help anyone live a happier, healthier life and require only 10 minutes out of your day at the most.
Adding one of these suggestions to your daily routine can make a big difference!
1 Believe You are a Healthy Eater
Being healthy is important and you can do it. Simply by believing or identifying yourself as a “healthy eater” means that you are more likely to participate in healthy eating behaviors. This is called the “health belief model” and it is a strong predictor of future behaviors, such as healthy eating.
2 Opt for Eggs for Breakfast
Yes, it takes a few minutes more out of your morning, but scrambling a few eggs for breakfast is so much better for you than that bowl of cold cereal and skim milk. Eggs are a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with protein, healthy fats, antioxidants and vitamins. For the most nutritious egg, choose eggs from hens living on pasture.
3 Laugh a Little (or a lot) Every Day
Laughter makes us feel good and supports a positive mood. Not only does laughter have psychological effects, but it also affects our physiology. Laughter has been shown to support cardiovascular health, metabolic health, respiratory health, and immune function. Don’t be afraid to laugh out loud at a joke, a funny movie or a comic strip, even when you’re alone.
4
Let Your Crushed, Minced, or Chopped Garlic Sit for 5-10 Minutes Before Cooking With It Garlic derives its health supportive properties from an organosulfur compound known as allicin. However, allicin is made from a compound in garlic that, when the garlic is crushed or chopped, is converted into allicin by an enzyme. Studies show that cooking, microwaving, or applying acid to freshly chopped garlic will destroy the enzymes that make allicin. Simply letting your garlic rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking will ensure that allicin has formed. Garlic supplements also contain allicin, so if you don’t have time to cook with garlic, pick up a supplement and take it at your convenience.
5 Eat Lots of Bacteria
More and more research is highlighting the importance of our gut microbiota – the bacteria that live in our digestive tract. There are so many of these little microbes living in our gut that, based on total cell numbers, we are only 10% human and 90% bacteria! The human microbiota has been shown to influence not only digestion, but also appetite, mental health, cardiovascular health, immune function metabolism, and even weight-loss. By eating probiotics, defined by the World Health Organization as “live micro-organisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host,” we are essentially sending in healthy reinforcements to our gut microbes. To consume lots of bacteria, take a probiotic supplement and eat fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kefir, yogurt, and miso soup. Always look for the term “contains live active cultures” to ensure that probiotic bacteria were added back to your fermented food after pasteurization.
6 Reduce Stress – Play With a Pet
Numerous studies have shown that taking time to play with an animal supports mental health. Whether it is a bird, cat, or a dog, people who engage with their pets report lower levels of anxiety and improved problem-solving abilities. Not only that, but engaging with a pet for as little as ten minutes has been shown to support a healthy stress response and healthy blood pressure levels. Maintaining good health is not always easy, but hopefully these tips help! Don’t feel obligated to take on all of them at once. Simply engaging in one of these 10-minute (or less!) activities could be your first step in 2017 to achieving a happier, healthier you. Reprinted with permission from naturalgrocers.com – references available online at www.naturalgrocers.com/blog/nutrition-news/healthy-habits-in-10-minutes-or-less/ NOTHING IN THIS ARTICLE IS INTENDED AS, OR SHOULD BE CONSTRUED AS, MEDICAL ADVICE. ANY HEALTHCARE AND/OR NUTRITIONAL MATERIAL CONTAINED IN THIS ARTICLE IS FOR CONSUMER INFORMATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. SUCH MATERIAL IS NOT INTENDED AS MEDICAL ADVICE FOR CONDITIONS OR TREATMENT, NOR IS IT INTENDED AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR A MEDICAL EXAMINATION BY A HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL. CONSUMERS SHOULD CONSULT THEIR OWN HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS FOR INDIVIDUAL MEDICAL RECOMMENDATIONS.
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z e u q s 7 1 a l 0 e on 2 V l ie llecti n a D o l C a u imal n n A n h A t 6 ffed Stu
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You’re driving down the road with your kids in the car. Suddenly, in an instant, you are experiencing your worst nightmare; screeching tires, a flurry of motion and sound and then the moment of impact. Seven years ago, Daniel Velasquez and his mother experienced just such a nightmare. Thankfully, they were both able to walk away from their accident, albeit they were understandably shaken up. At the scene of Daniel and his mother’s accident, the responding Parker Police Officer gave Daniel a stuffed Teddy Bear to help calm him down and ease his nerves a bit. Not only did that Teddy Bear help Daniel the day of his accident, it inspired Daniel to pay it forward and help other kids going through traumatic experiences. Every year since that accident, Daniel has had a very special and specific birthday wish. Instead of gifts for himself, he has asked his friends to bring new stuffed animals that can be donated to the Parker Police Department. This year, Daniel has paired up with Mayor Mike Waid, and together they are trying to hit a goal of 335 new (stuffed animals must be new and unused due to allergies) stuffed animals for Daniel’s donation. He is expanding the donations to include the
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Douglas County Sherriff’s Office as well as Parker Adventist Hospital. To those children who are victims of crime, abuse or accidents, these stuffed animal friends offer a safe companion and foster a positive relationship with the police officers that provide them. If you would like to help Daniel meet his goal of 335 stuffed animals, you can drop your donation at Fika Coffee House as well as the Parker Schoolhouse on Mainstreet. You can also contact Ray Velasquez directly at 303-304-8851. Your generous donation doesn’t just mean a lot to Daniel, it means the world to those little ones who find
themselves in an unexpected and often scary situation. Your donation will warm hearts for a long time to come.
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WHERE DID YOU RECEIVE YOUR TRAINING/EXPERIENCE? 3 year apprenticeship under Steven Schaffer and 1 year under Scott Snyder. They taught us about food and how to be a good leader. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF BEING A CHEF? Watching families enjoying good food and good company while taking pride in the fact that I was able to contribute to that. Sometimes we forget that going out to eat should be a time to enjoy the company you’re with, myself included.
Chef ’s Profile Jeffrey James Holland, Owner and Chef Rory’s Diner
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD/DISH TO PREPARE? Stout Braised Bison short ribs in Ancho Demi-Glace over Scallion Potato pancakes for the public/ homemade soups and grilled cheese for my 3 girls/ egg benedict for my beautiful wife. WHAT IS AN INTERESTING FACT ABOUT YOU? My first meal as an apprentice chef in Marina Del Rey California was for the last great president we had in this country, Ronald Reagan, and 2000 of his closest friends. I had to peel and trim 4000 baby carrots, fan 2000 baby zucchini and sunburst squash and wrap 1800 frenched chicken breasts. That’s when I learned that the 1st plate should look exactly like the 2000th plate. Consistency is the key to good food WHAT IS YOUR “MUST TRY” OFFERING IN YOUR RESTAURANT? Our house made fennel scented corned beef hash with over easy eggs and rye toast.
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WHAT SETS YOUR RESTAURANT/FOOD APART FROM OTHERS? Comfort food should inspire memories from your past, hopefully my food does that. WHY DID YOU BECOME A CHEF? My mom is a wonderful cook and helping her in the kitchen were some of my fondest memories growing up and that was cultivated into a culinary career. 33 SEARCH PARKER MAGAZINE
Rory’s Diner
11020 S Pikes Peak Dr STE 150 720-708-2889 rorysdiner.net Monday - Friday 6 a.m. to 8 p.m./ Sat 8-8/ sunday 8-5 AVERAGE DINNER ENTRÉE PRICE: $8 HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED AS A CHEF? 35 years
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HAPPY HOUR EVERYDAY FROM 3PM TO 7PM Come watch all the NFL games on the NFL Ticket Every game every sunday
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Buy One Large, Get Second
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303-220-7422
www.lilriccispizza.com
16526 Keystone Blvd. Parker, CO 80134
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