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FEBRUARY 2017
FEBRUARY 2017 1 CASTLE ROCK MAGAZINE
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S E A R C H
CASTLEROCK FEBRUARY 2017
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FEBRUARY 2017
THISMONTH’SFEATURES
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From the Publisher Love for Service Experience Castle Rock Local - To-Do - Where in Town? Castle Rock Calendar of Events What’s going on around Town Let’s Get Shaved Become a Cancer Warrior Ready to Serve Our directory of places to volunteer The Bookends The Life We Bury Local Author Spotlight Love Your Library Be a Volunteer Hearts Open Wide Child Placement Agency
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FROMTHEPUBLISHER
VOLUME 13 ISSUE 2
PUBLISHER MIKE WAID
mike.waid@waidpublishing.com 303-805-9455 xt 700
SALES DIRECTOR JAMY BEATON
jamy@waidpublishing.com 303-805-9455 xt 705
EDITORIAL TIFFANY GRIZZLE
tiffany@waidpublishing.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN JAMESON HAMSMITH
jameson@waidpublishing.com Search Castle Rock 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 Castle Rock Magazine is available online at www. castlerockmagazine.com. Search Castle Rock Magazine & Castle Rock Magazine are trademarks 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 Waid Publishing. Copyright 2016 Search Castle Rock Magazine - All rights Reserved.
February is a time when our minds usually shift to thoughts of love. With a major holiday smack dab in the middle of February, it’s a bit hard to not be surrounded with thoughts of love. Everywhere you look are shades of pink and heart shaped everything.
Valentine’s Day is one of my favorite holidays because it gives us a chance to spread a little extra love around. However, this year I’d like to challenge our readers to focus on a different kind of love. A love for service. All of us have an obligation to our community. This obligation is simple, every day do at least one thing to make our community a better place. This is something that I learned as a young cub scout and a philosophy that I work to live by. It stemmed from my first camp out as a cub scout. All of us boys had a great time learning how to use a pocket knife, build a fire, pitch a tent, tend a trail and many other outdoor skills. When it was time to wrap things up, our den leader said something simple that has always stuck with me. He said “Okay boys, it’s time to clean up our camp site. Make sure you leave it in better shape than you found it...so the next group can have an even better time than we did.”
the service of others. I know many of us donate money to these causes on a regular basis. However, I’d like to challenge you to a different approach. Instead of donating more money (if you donate, please continue to do so) this year let’s all make a commitment to also donate TIME. If each of us decide to donate one hour of time in service each month to a community group or non-profit we will have given a contribution of love that is hard to match. We’ve compiled a list of some amazing local community groups that serve others. Take a moment to read through our list and choose one...or a couple... to donate time to. If you don’t see one that strikes you then do some research and find one. Don’t let this stop with your service though. Share this powerful gift with your friends and family. Invite them to accept the challenge as well. With a small amount of effort we can create a love for service that has the power to change our community...and our world! Have a happy February and embrace your new love for service.
What a powerful directive. Leave our campsite...or our community...a little better than we found it so the next group can have an even better time. This simple yet effective philosophy has the power to change the world. FEBRUARY 2017
FEBRUARY 2017
Love for Service
Our community is served by an incredible amount of amazing non-profits and groups that were created for WWW.CASTLEROCKMAGAZINE.COM 4
EXPERIENCECASTLEROCK
to-do
FALL IN LOVE WITH THE LIBRARY THIS MONTH! Love Is in the Air: We Love Reading Read-aThon! – Philip S. Miller Branch
On Sunday, February 12th at 12:30pm, kids of all ages can bring blankets and other fort-building materials to the library and build their very own reading fort! Then, they can spend two hours in their forts reading to their hearts’ content. Refreshments will be served, and certificates of completion will be awarded. Register at 303791-7323 or DCL.org.
Love Is in the Air: Looking for Love Online After 50 – Philip S. Miller Branch
This two-part program on online dating is for seniors 50-plus. In Part One, participants learn the ins and outs of online dating from a panel of expert peers who have been there and done that! In Part Two, interested seniors can find the support and help needed to create and upload an online dating profile. Saturday, February 18, 1-3 p.m. – Part One:
Online dating guidance, advice and panel discussion Saturday, February 25, 1-3 p.m. – Part Two: Create and upload your online profile. Register at 303-791-7323 or DCL.org.
Love Is in the Air: Now Playing – Castle Pines Branch
Enjoy free screenings of favorite movies February 5th-28th (except February 20th — library is closed.) Sunday movies are guaranteed to be kid-friendly, with films including Beauty and the Beast and the Secret Life of Pets. Check out feel good movies like The Princess Bride or My Big, Fat, Greek Wedding or take in classics like Roman Holiday or Desk Set. All weekend movies include popcorn and there’s NO CHARGE AND NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED! Visit the Castle Pines event calendar at DCL.org for the complete schedule of movies and times.
local In the unfortunate instance when child custody becomes an issue in people’s lives, there are often numerous unanswered questions and many unknown variables. Knowing what options are available to you can be a bit of a puzzle. A Bridge Between was created out of the need to solve this puzzle, one piece at a time. Founded in 2012 by Julie Greenberg, A Bridge Between is a non-profit organization whose mission it is to assist custodial parents in the process of trying to collect child support and recognize the possibilities available for education, resources and assistance. Several years ago, Julie, who has two children of her own, was going through a divorce and found herself in a situation where she could no longer pay for her attorney. With a limited knowledge of the legal system, she scrambled to
A BRIDGE BETWEEN find resources available to her and had to educate herself in order to ensure her family was taken care of. Going through this experience inspired Julie to create a non-profit organization in order to help others that find themselves in similar situations. A Bridge Between provides encouragement with the education available to make custodial parents feel empowered and able to take the first step toward protecting their children. Even if you can’t afford an attorney, with guidance, education and the right resources, you can navigate those waters effectively. If you find yourself at a crossroads and need advice when it comes to your custodial situation, contact A Bridge Between online at abridgeb.org or email them at abridgebetween59@gmail.com
where in town?
A MONTHLY SCAVENGER HUNT
Where are we this month? Do you know Where in Castle Rock you can find this? Look through the magnifying glass and see!
FIND & WIN!!!
Would you like to win $50 cash? To win simply guess correctly where in Castle Rock this is. We will randomly draw a winner from all correct entries! Enter online at CastleRockMagazine.com GOOD LUCK! FEBRUARY 2017
LAST MONTH’S HUNT ANSWER
Did you guess it? Have you seen it? The photo from January’s issue was of “Local Backbone,” a steel sculpture created by artist Rafe Ropek. It was unveiled in 2006 and is located in the parking lot at Sixth and Front Streets in town.
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Public art in the Town of Castle Rock is made possible by the Philip S. Miller Trust Fund. No public taxpayer money is used for the purchase of public art. Castle Rock’s Public Art Commission makes recommendations for expenditures from the trust to continue Philip S. Miller’s legacy by fostering a sense of community and enhancing Castle Rock’s character. A map of all public art displays in Castle Rock can be found at crgov.com/2406/ Public-Art.
LAST MONTH’S HUNT ANSWER
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CASTLEROCKEVENTS
F
ebruary 2017
FEBRUARY 1 Historic Preservation Board Meeting Town Hall Council Chambers 6:00pm-8:00pm crgov.com/2276/Historic-Preservation-Board
FEBRUARY 14 Coffee with a Cop The Egg and I 10:00am-11:00am crgov.com/1714/Coffee-with-a-Cop
FEBRUARY 7 & 21 Town Council Meetings Town Hall 6:00pm-9:00pm To watch live, go to crgov.com/2272/WatchCouncil-Meetings
FEBRUARY 18 5th Annual Castle Rock Bull Challenge Douglas County Fairgrounds Two Event times: Doors open at 12:30, Bulls buck at 2:00pm & Doors open at 6:00pm, Bulls buck at 7:00pm www.douglas.co.us/eventscenter/
FEBRUARY 9 & 23 Planning Commission Meetings Town Hall Council Chambers 6:00pm-8:00pm crgov.com/2190/Planning-Commission FEBRUARY 10 Daddy Daughter Ball Douglas County Fairgrounds 6:30pm-8:30pm www.crgov.com/2007/Daddy-Daughter-Ball
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FEBRUARY 11 Discovered!: Apple Series Learn the ins and outs of the latest Apple devices at this hands-on workshop. Castle Rock Recreation Center Three sessions: 9:00am, 12:00pm & 3:00pm www.crgov.com or email intriguecomm@zoho.com FEBRUARY 12 Valentine’s Brunch Cherokee Ranch and Castle Doors open at 9:45, Brunch begins at 10:00am cherokeeranch.org
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FEBRUARY 20 Closing Day for the Rink at the Rock Rink at the Rock will close at 8:00pm for the season www.rinkattherock.com FEBRUARY 25 Love Is in the Air: Animal Adoption Fair Douglas County Libraries – Castle Pines – CPN Master Association Event Hall 9:00am-5:00pm www.dcl.org FEBRUARY 26 Sunday Brunch Show Cherokee Ranch and Castle 10:00am cherokeeranch.org
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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, LET’’ S GET SHAVED AND BECOME WARRIORS AGAINST KIDS’ CANCER
On Saturday, April 29th 2017 hundreds of people with scruffy heads, full grown beards and various forms of un-ruly hair will meet at the Vehicle Vault car museum in Parker to “get shaved” for the 5th annual Shave the Mayor fundraising event for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation and their fight against pediatric cancer. You too can become a bald warrior fighting against kids’ cancer by signing up to shave your head too! This year’s event is a special one. Started 5 years ago by the Parker Mayor (and publisher of this magazine) in honor of a friend’s son who had been diagnosed with brain cancer, Shave The Mayor has raised approximately $100,000 in four years to help fight kids’ cancer. After the first year another young local boy, Dalton, was also diagnosed with cancer. Over the next years this event was held in honor of these two fine young men while they fought this terrible disease. Unfortunately, several months ago Dalton passed away from his cancer and we are determined to make this year’s event our biggest one yet...in his honor. Here is how you can help. Head over to shavethemayor.com and sign up to be a shavee. It’s fun and easy. All you have to do is to set a fundraising goal, raise some money for the fight against cancer, come to our event on April 29th and have your head shaved. If shaving your head is not your up your alley, then consider making a financial donation to help one of our shavees reach their goal. Every amount helps so please consider donating. At the very least, come watch us get shaved for an incredible cause. Fun and bald heads will abound!
FEBRUARY 2017
SHAVE THE MAYOR Saturday, April 29th 2017 The Vehicle Vault Car Museum Parker Colorado ShaveTheMayor.com
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READY TO
SERVE
ARE YOU READY TO MAKE YOUR WORLD A BETTER PLACE? FIND THE PERFECT MATCH FOR YOUR VOLUNTEER TIME WITH OUR LOCAL SERVICE DIRECTORY
FEBRUARY 2017
We asked our readers where they like to volunteer time locally and they suggested some amazing organizations. We have some of them listed here and have even more online at castlerockmagazine.com. Take a moment to find the perfect place to donate at least one hour a month in service of our community. You will be happy you did and our community will be a better place for it!
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Miracle Party www.miracleparty.org 303-250-6728
Our organization pays tribute to all pediatric cancer and blood disorder children by giving them a night to forget about doctors and hospitals. We honor the hero’s they are and pay special tribute to our angels, who were taken too soon. Fighting Childhood Cancer One Party at a Time!! We need volunteers for setup of 100,000 sqft venue. Fundraising. The night of the event we need volunteers for family check-in, décor, tear down, runners, monitoring games, face painting, limo rides. This event will change your life!!
Relay For Life-American Cancer Society relayforlife.org/secco 720.524.5453
The American Cancer Society Relay For Life represents the hope that those lost to cancer will never be forgotten, that those who face cancer will be supported, and that one day cancer will be eliminated. Relay For Life is more than just a fundraiser. It’s a lifechanging experience. You can volunteer in several ways: • Start a team/Participate – get your friends, family, coworkers, or organization together and forma team to join us at the event. • Planning Committee or Day of Help- join us as we plan the actual Relay event, or help with day of responsibilities. It’s a little bit more involved, but it can be an amazing experience to work with all the team captains.
Pedaling4parkinsons Pedaling4parkinsons.org (888) 548-3002 x2
Research shows that bicycling can have tremendous benefits to people with Parkinson’s, well beyond those enjoyed by all cyclists. If you, or someone you know has Parkinson’s, please consider this opportunity to ride again, and help increase awareness of the many benefits of cycling. All proceeds go to the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinsons Research. We are having our annual ride on June 24. The ride starts at Sweetwater Park in Lone Tree and goes through Parker and Highlands Ranch. Come join us for a fun day for a great cause! Email us at info@pedaling4parkinsons.org
Terolyn Horse Rescue, Inc terolynhorserescue.org 303-243-1147
Terolyn Horse Rescue, a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation, which helps at-risk, neglected, and abused horses. We focus mainly on horses that have been dumped at the slaughter auctions and kill pens, often rescuing the traumatized and malnourished animals just hours before they are loaded on a truck bound for slaughter in Canada or Mexico. We evaluate the condition of each rescued animal. Working closely with veterinarians and experienced farriers, we rehabilitate each horse with love and expert care. Most are then adopted out to loving homes. Those who can’t be adopted will spend the rest of their lives on our beautiful 100+ acre ranch in Elizabeth, CO. We need help cleaning stalls, and maintaining the facility. Grooming horses. For the more experienced volunteers: help exercising the rescue horses.
Douglas Land Conservancy douglaslandconservancy.org 303-688-8025
Douglas Land Conservancy is a 501 (c) 3 non-partisan, nonprofit land trust dedicated to the protection and conservation of the natural character, habitat, and open space of the central front range region of Colorado, including Douglas County and surrounding areas. DLC could use volunteers with the following experience: Grant research and writing; technology support; marketing expertise for development of communication materials; writing articles for local publications; biologists, naturalists, or other science expertise to assist with guided hikes.
Rosie’s Ranch rosiesranch.com 720.852.0927
It is our dream and mission at Rosie’s Ranch to provide a family centered atmosphere where children with deafness or oral language challenges will expand their listening, verbal & reading skills by engaging in activities with horses under the guidance of a highly trained and qualified staff. Volunteers are needed in the barn, grooming and leading horses and in the office.
DIRECTORY CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE uuu
Volunteer Connect of Douglas County, Colorado, is a community resource provided by the Partnership of Douglas County Governments. The purpose of this site is to bring organizations in need of volunteers in touch with the individuals in our community who are looking for ways to help. This portal allows volunteers to go to one place to view numerous local opportunities. Users can see recently posted opportunities on the front page of the site as well as click and sign up to volunteer or enter a request for volunteers for your organization. To look for a volunteer opportunity that speaks to you or request volunteers for your next philanthropy project, go to volunteerconnectdc.org. WWW.CASTLEROCKMAGAZINE.COM 12
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JustServe.org is a website which lists all the different volunteer opportunities available in communities across the country. Not only do users have access to volunteer listings but they can actually sign up for a project with a simple click. Simply entering a city name, state or zip code puts you well on your way to weeks of service opportunities. Individuals heading up service projects, churches and non-profit organizations can also use the website to post their needs. Another great aspect of the website is once a person has registered as a volunteer; they receive alerts about other service opportunities and can even get reminders for projects on their calendar. This is a great tool for individuals and families who want to serve. This is also a fantastic tool for students looking to fulfill their required community service hours for graduation to find projects and opportunities meaningful for them and foster a dedication to service.
Project C.U.R.E. projectcure.org 303-792-0729
Project C.U.R.E. is the largest provider of donated medical supplies and equipment to developing countries around the world. Volunteer in our warehouse sorting through medical supplies, packing inventory loading shipping containers or driving donation pick up trucks. C.U.R.E. Clinics is looking for medical volunteers to travel internationally on medical missions. Do you want to personally deliver health and hope to the world? Join one of our teams!
Castle Rock Senior Activity Center castlerockseniorcenter.org 303-688-9498
The Castle Rock Senior Activity Center is where people 50+ gather, go places, make friends for life, get involved in our community, try new things, stay active in sports and exercise, eat often, laugh and just hang out together. The more than 900 members choose from over 140 activities. There’s a role for everyone serving meals, calling bingo, driving seniors around town, driving buses on trips, helping at events or in the office, leading special interest groups, hosting trips, serving on committees, and more. Our transportation program provides 650 rides a month for seniors, all by volunteer drivers.
Naked Shoes, Inc. nakedshoesinc.org 303-249-6023
Our mission is to provide shoes, socks, and positive affirmations to those in need in Colorado. We believe that covering feet is a simple thing that can make a BIG impact in the life, health, and success of people. We’re starting by serving those in need here in Colorado, but we know that this is just the beginning! We are looking for creative people to run fund raisers in the local schools in Douglas County and other small businesses. Projects will be from start to collection.
Caleb’s Heart Ministries calebsheart.com 720-352-5943
We are a Men’s Ministry, founded and located in Parker for 14 years. We take successful and broken men and offer them a place where they can belong before they believe. It is safe place to share your story, without judgment or plastic faith trying to press. “A gathering of broken men seeking after Jesus and drawing strength from each other”—Papa T. We have weekly gatherings throughout the year where we serve food and do work in the forest for the ministry. Manual labor along with simple food prep and clean up. For men only.
FEBRUARY 2017
Susan G. Komen Colorado komencolorado.org 303.744.2088
Vision: A world without breast cancer. Mission: Save lives by meeting the most critical needs in our communities and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer. Goal: Within the next decade, reduce current number of breast cancer deaths by 50%. General volunteer help throughout the year - Office Administrative help, Event Planning, Community Educator or Operational Committee. 13 CASTLE ROCK MAGAZINE
Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado voc.org 303-715-1010
Since 1984, Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado (VOC) has been motivating and enabling people to become active stewards of Colorado’s natural resources. VOC works with conservation and land agencies and relies on thousands of people annually to provide a volunteer workforce for outdoor stewardship projects. These projects take place across Colorado – from city parks and open spaces, to grasslands and foothills, to alpine meadows and peaks. VOC seeks volunteers of all ages and from all walks of life to help with trail construction and maintenance, weed removal, habitat restoration, gardening and planting, forestry management, recreational improvement, and historic preservation. Opportunities are also available to help with photographing on projects, cooking for volunteers in the great outdoors, managing tools, and more!
Freedom Service Dogs of America freedomservicedogs.org 303-922-6231
Freedom Service Dogs is a nonprofit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by rescuing dogs and custom training them for individual client needs. Clients include children, veterans and active duty military, and other adults. Their disabilities include autism, traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Volunteers are critical to accomplishing our mission. Volunteers can work on site enriching the lives of our dogs. Enrichment includes play time, walking, brushing and quiet time with our dogs. We also have a weekend fostering program where families foster dogs Friday afternoon through Monday morning. Both on-site work and fostering are on a flexible schedule. You can volunteer for shifts that fit your schedule.
Food Bank of the Rockies foodbankrockies.org 303-371-9250
We help families thrive by efficiently procuring and distributing food and essentials to the hungry through our programs and partner agencies. Volunteers pack food boxes, sort donated food, prepare agency orders, repack produce, distribute food at our mobile pantries, help in the office, and occasionally help with special events and promotions.
Edwards Foundation for Rescued Animals EdwardsAnimals.com 303-941-8338
The Edwards Foundation offers sanctuary for animals which are neglected or deprived of the possibility to thrive. Volunteers learn about the care and feeding of animals such as horses, cows, llamas, goats and fowl. We are committed to the education of the public about farm animals and especially animals in need of special care. Volunteers help with cleaning, feeding, brushing and learning the proper care of animals and safery. Volunteers can help with gathering eggs, felting despensing medications and trimming feet.
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THEBOOKENDS
with Pam & Becky
The Life We Bury By Allen Eskens
Joe has a college assignment to interview a stranger and write a biography. He approaches a local nursing home to see if they have someone that would be interested in telling their story. It is here that he meets Carl Iverson and Joe’s life will never be the same. Carl is a Vietnam veteran that has been convicted of rape and murder. He has spent the last thirty years in prison but has recently been paroled to this center because he is dying from pancreatic cancer. This story will become more than just a grade for Joe.
BECKY Joe is a struggling college student that had a challenging childhood. He never knew his father, his mother is an alcoholic and his brother has special needs. He is juggling school and a job as a bouncer at a local bar. He just wants to complete this English assignment, that he procrastinated starting, and move on. I love this character. He doesn’t wallow in self pity but has accepted his dysfunctional situation. This story starts off quickly. Did you get to know Joe well enough before we meet Carl, the topic of his school assignment?
PAM Although the story moves quickly, the author does a great job of introducing us to Joe. I loved this character from the beginning and had a great sense of his loyalty and integrity. I felt connected to him from the beginning and continued to feel this way throughout the book. Joe decides to search for a subject for his assignment at a local nursing home. Since he has waited so long to begin, he hopes to find someone who will talk to him about their life. He is matched up with Carl, albeit reluctantly, by employees of the center. Carl agrees to talk with Joe and they begin to learn about each other. What were your first impressions about Carl? BECKY He was a dynamic character that we slowly get to
unravel. Originally I thought that this would be a story about a good guy versus a bad guy but there was so much more to this story. We learn a great deal about Carl’s character when the two men first meet. He will only let Joe write his dying declaration after Joe promises to be honest. A thread of honesty will weave throughout this story and reveal much more than what we originally see from both characters. The author has been a criminal defense attorney for 25 years. When I read that fact I thought that this story would have a heavy courtroom drama feel. In reality it’s primarily based on relationships. What did you think about the sweet connection between Joe and his special needs brother, Jeremy?
FEBRUARY 2017
PAM This relationship helped the reader to see Joe’s true
character. Understanding this connection between Jeremy and Joe illustrated the layers of feelings that Joe felt. He wanted to escape a difficult home environment, but feels responsible for his brother’s safety and well being. I was saddened that Joe was forced to choose between his brother and school. But, more importantly, that his mother had no boundaries and didn’t have any respect for Joe or Jeremy. Their deep and loving relationship was contrasted with their relationship with their mother. Did this character bring out similar feelings for you, Becky?
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BECKY You don’t want to get me started on that character! She
made my blood boil but I love that it was a raw character. She was undiagnosed but clearly struggled with a bipolar disorder and alcoholism. I was angry with the way she treated her two sons and although she had a small role, it had a mighty impact on Joe and the story. What did you think about Joe’s neighbor and love interest, Lila?
PAM I had a hard time deciding if I liked her character at first. She definitely didn’t want anything to do with Joe at first. She also was very judgemental about Carl and the case against him. However, the way she interacted with Jeremy made me reconsider and gave her character much more depth. She turned out to be a very loyal and supportive friend to Joe and Jeremy at a time when they both needed one. Were you surprised by her connection to Jeremy? BECKY Lila was a guarded person and it was hard to see her
softer side, until she started to interact with Jeremy. I wouldn’t say that it surprised me that she came to care for Jeremy, but it definitely helped me to like her character more. What didn’t flow for me in this story is Joe’s relationship with her. I saw them more as friends than involved in an intimate relationship. Once they get heavily involved I felt like the storyline took a turn from a human connection story and moved towards an implausible action theme. What did you think about the last part of the book?
PAM The last part of the book was certainly full of action, which was a surprising turn for me. I agree that it transformed the story from the original idea. The author continued to weave the human connection through the story, but it seemed to get lost in the action. Did you feel that the ending wrapped up the story sufficiently? BECKY The second half of the book was not what I expected
but it was an interesting ending. The author pulls all of the storylines together and we are left with a glimpse of the characters future. Next month we will explore Breakthrough by Michael Grumley. This story has something for everyone with a touch of mystery, science fiction, military action, marine biology and even a little romance.
LOCALAUTHORSPOTLIGHT MY JOURNEY THROUGH CHRONIC PAIN By Peggy Robinson
This is the author’s autobiography of her journey through the chronic pain of fibromyalgia. The book goes beyond focusing on fibromyalgia to all those who suffer chronic pain. The book covers topics that do not appear in other books about pain. The author discusses the issues of grief and loss, levels and stages of pain, changes in relationships, dealing with the voice of pain and coping techniques. There is an appendix that gives insight and support for those who care for the chronically ill. About the Author Peggy Robinson has been a counselor for 27 years, a college professor for 13 years, and foster mother of 9. She has recently retired to further her writing career. Her next book with Christmas stories for all ages will be out this fall. My Journey Through Chronic Pain can be purchased from the author by contacting her at probinson@gmail.com or through Amazon. Books will also be available at Barnes and Noble.
NEVER THE SAME By S. Donovan
Taylor Montgomery is an intelligent, assertive, capable young Chicago police detective. While working on a case, Taylor disappears. She is found two days later, savagely beaten and left for dead. Taylor recovers physically, but emotionally she is devastated. She remembers nothing of what happened though now she is fearful, cautious, weak, unsure of herself. Her life as she knew it is over. She is trapped in the middle of nowhere; a past she can barely remember, a future that holds nothing but agonizing fear. With therapy and the love and support of her friends and family, Taylor slowly begins to trust again. She moves to Arizona to get a fresh start and meets a woman whose spiritual teachings help Taylor begin to accept what happened in her life and to realize she has the choice to move forward or stay mired in the past. This is the story of a young woman’s awakening to the belief that we are the creators of our lives and only we can choose how we want that life to be. About the Author Sally Donovan lives in Chandler, Arizona with her husband, two daughters, five cats, three dogs, horses, chickens and their cow named Dinner. She began consciously walking her spiritual path many years ago and plans to open a metaphysical bookstore within the next year.
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For more information or to order additional copies of this book, call 602-697-6291. Sally Donovan 1101 Auburn Dr. #2306 Castle Rock, CO. 80109
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Love Your Library
Be a Volunteer!
Douglas County Libraries (DCL) needs you! There are fantastic opportunities to lend your time and talents within the walls of the libraries. Whether you are looking for a regular volunteer position or you’re interested in participating in some of the great special events, there’s a spot for you! Here are just some of the volunteer opportunities available with Douglas County Libraries. To sign up for any of these, or to search for other library volunteer opportunities, visit VolunteerConnectDC.org and search on Douglas County Libraries.
Saturday Morning & Dog Day Afternoon Parker
Volunteers Needed: Saturday, February 18th, 2017 from 9:30am-1:00pm The program is a pet extravaganza, featuring a pet adoption van, activities, crafts and homemade pet treats. Volunteers will man the make-and-take area of the event and teach patrons how to make crafts. NOTE: The nobake dog treats are made with peanut butter, so anyone with nut allergies should be advised. Volunteers will also help set up and break down the craft room.
Art of Spinning & Weaving - Parker
Volunteers Needed: Monday, April 3rd, 2017 3:45pm-6:30pm Volunteers will assist with setting up and breaking down the event, as well as helping participants with weaving projects.
Saturday Surprise – Castle Rock
Volunteers Needed: Weekly on Saturday mornings (throughout 2017) from 9:30-11:45am Saturday Surprise is for all ages and each drop-in session features different, fun themed projects for patrons to complete from 1011:30am. DCL provides the materials to create fabulous crafts, cool art projects, or mini science projects. Past Saturday Surprise themes include building Eiffel Towers with cookies and frosting, special LEGO projects, painting pine cones, and making bird feeders. There’s something new and fun every week! Volunteers assist with setup and takedown of the program, and also assist participants during the program.
FEBRUARY 2017
Bookstore Volunteers – Castle Rock
Volunteers Needed: Weekly on an assigned day/time; times are flexible during library hours. DCL’s Second Chapter bookstore is run entirely by volunteers. The bookstore is stocked with both book donations from patrons and books that are withdrawn from the library’s collection, so volunteers sort and evaluate donations, stock, straighten and merchandise the materials in the bookstore. The books are sold to the public at greatly reduced prices and all proceeds benefit the Douglas County Libraries Foundation. This position requires physical work, such as lifting, bending and reaching. It also includes interacting with patrons who are browsing the bookstore.
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Backcountry Recreation Fair – Lone Tree
Volunteers Needed: Saturday, March 11th, 2017 - 9:15am-2:30pm Outdoor recreation experts from L.L. Bean and other organizations will be on hand with presentations and informational table talks to prepare outdoor enthusiasts and newbies to get out and safely enjoy our beautiful state. Volunteers will help with the program’s setup and takedown. They will also direct patrons/ participants during the program and assist at stations as needed.
Battle of the Books – Lone Tree
Volunteers Needed: Each Tuesday and Wednesday through March 15th - 1:45pm-8pm Battle of the Books is a national bowl-style trivia tournament that’s all about books. The competition engages hundreds of young minds every year. Dozens of teams in grades 3-6 compete for the chance to become Battle of the Books champions. Programs like this help DCL achieve its mission of literacy and lifelong learning. Volunteers help with room setup and cleanup. They also guide participants to their seats and man the welcome tables. Once the battle begins, volunteers monitor the entrance and exit of audience members.
Art Program Assistant – Lone Tree
Volunteers Needed: Once a month (third Tuesday of every month) from 4-6 p.m. Art Stop on the Go is a program where an artist/facilitator from the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art reads to children and then leads them in a literature-based art project. This program meets once a month at the Lone Tree library. Volunteers help set up and tear down the room, check kids in and take attendance, assist the artist/facilitator as needed, and help the kids with their projects.
Teen Reading Buddies – Parker
Spring 2017 Session (summer and fall sessions are also available.) Dates & Times: Call 303-791-7323 for more info Teen volunteers (ages 13-18) who love to read are needed to serve as Big Buddies in our Reading Buddies pro gram. Each Big Buddy is paired with a child in first, second or third grade and helps the child become a stronger reader. Teen volunteers spend 1.5 hours a week for eight weeks reading together with their Little Buddies and doing literacy-related
activities, such as games and crafts. This is not a tutoring program, but a way for reluctant readers to become more comfortable with reading and have a positive experience in the library. Volunteering for this program is a great way for interested teens to earn community service hours for graduation and acquire real-life experience for job and college applications.
Teen Reading Buddies – Castle Rock
Spring 2017 Session (summer and fall sessions are also available.) Volunteers Needed: February 21st–April 26th Mandatory kickoff session is February 21st, 3:305 pm; then 4-5:30pm weekly for eight weeks
Camp DCL: Spring Break Camp - Parker
Volunteers Needed: March 20th-24th- 8:45am12:30pm DCL is seeking volunteers to assist with the Parker branch’s spring break day camp for elementary school-age children. The camp’s theme is Be a Chef: Cooks & Books, with Sticky Fingers Cooking. Volunteers will assist children with food preparation, execution of cooking, and helping with a craft. Volunteers are encouraged to sign up for multiple days.
Camp DCL: Spring Break Camp – Castle Rock
Volunteers Needed: March 20th-24th - 1:15pm5pm DCL is seeking volunteers to assist with the Castle Rock branch’s spring break day camp for elementary school-age children. The camp’s theme is Be a Master Builder: LEGOs, with Bricks 4 Kidz. Volunteers will assist children with their LEGO building projects and help with crafts and putting together snacks. Volunteers are encouraged to sign up for multiple days.
Camp DCL: Spring Break Camp – Lone Tree
Volunteers Needed: March 20th-24th - 8:45am12:30pm DCL is seeking volunteers to assist with the Lone Tree branch’s spring break day camp for elementary school-age children. The camp’s theme is Be a Chef: Cooks & Books, with Sticky Fingers Cooking. Volunteers will assist children with food preparation, execution of cooking, and helping with a craft. Volunteers are encouraged to sign up for multiple days.
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Hearts Open Wide New World Child Placement Agency
Keep them safe. Make sure they know they are loved. Do what you can to be sure their hearts are full and their minds are at ease. Parents try to do everything they can to provide a stable, loving home for their children. Sadly, due to all kinds of unfortunate circumstances, some parents can’t provide these things and children are entered into the foster care system in hopes that someone else will be able to open their home and their hearts to them. It was out of this need that A New World Child Placement Agency was founded in 2012. Doris Gaines, who holds her Masters of Social Work and a Master of Arts in Education, has over thirty years of experience as an educator; working with at-risk youth in her roles as Dean of Students, counselor and social worker. She founded New World to provide the skills necessary to become a productive, contributing member of society to children placed in group homes and foster care. Combining high expectations with love and compassion for children leads to desired outcomes. In this case, every effort is made for the outcome to be the ultimate goal of reunification, if that is a possibility. For others, it may lead to permanent placement from foster care to adoption. Being a foster parent and opening your hearts and home may mean you have a child in your care for a day or a year. New World wants to ensure all children, no matter their circumstances, are placed with families that will promote their growth and development in order to nurture a child’s self-appreciation and encourage a positive outlook. There is comprehensive pre-placement orientation and training for those with the desire to be a foster parent. New World also provides 24-hour on call support, a case manager to guide families through the process and on-going training. New World places children from infancy to 18 years old in foster homes; 18-21 year olds are placed through court order. In cases of fostering to adopt, there is a thorough certification process that motivated families or individuals can complete in about 4-6 months with adoptions taking a few weeks to a year to finalize. Through New World’s program, there is no licensing fee, but prospective foster parents do need to get CBI/FBI background check, Background Investigative Unit as well as fingerprinting and CPR/First Aid certification. The first step is completing the application and background check forms. Those are then reviewed by Doris Gaines and then the process gets started! At the end of what can seem like a long tunnel, there is the gift of even more love in your home. There aren’t many selfless acts of love and compassion more significant than providing a child, often coming from a traumatic situation, with the sense of belonging and stability that comes from a loving, safe, nurturing home. “Allowing yourself to become vested in the positive improvement of these children’s lives, as well as participating with the professional child welfare team to help serve in the best interest of the child is an awesome task,” says Doris Gaines.
FEBRUARY 2017
Taking the steps necessary to open your home to a child in need may be something you haven’t given much thought to until now but becoming a foster parent will allow to give love and support to a child that will never be forgotten. A New World Child Placement Agency is a registered 501(c)(3), non-profit organization - For more information, visit www.anewworldcpa.org or call 303.743.4000
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