ELIFE magazine FALL 2019

2019 F A L L

Noah Roper What the FUTURE Holds

WOMEN BUSINESS OWNERS: Don’t Forget About Your Retirement Plan DECISIONS, DECISIONS, DECISIONS But ZILLOW SAYS … cover image by Andy Marjama

Erie Area

HAUNTINGS TAMATA NU SAAK HOW to Choose the RIGHT DENTIST AREN’T WE ALL ADDICTED? elifemagazine.org

RIVING to Las pay for s if you rooms . If you ttering g stage know.

MOM INGLE have 2 ooking o teach ll, how ange a er guy

food, we need to meet immediately.

DEPENDABLE and KNOWLEDGEABLE agent seeks customers looking for real PROTECTION and long term RELATIONSHIP. SINGLE, ARTSY LADY SEEKS SINGLE ARTSY GUY. If you love painting, decorating, baking and knitting, we are a match. Please be over 30 and willing to take art

FATHER OF EIGH energetic lady. Mus kids, be fit and read in and join the fun. training would be h

ADVENTUROUS C seeks adventurous Please be employe to relocate. Especia black and white tux All responses will b Looking for that Pu

GRANOLA EATING LOVING, WORLD T seeks woman of my Must be fit and love

Look no further.

Having one special person for your car, home and life insurance lets you get down to business with the rest of your life. It’s what I do.

GET TO A BETTER STATE .

CALL ME TODAY. ™

Jeannie Hulse Ins Fncl Svc Inc Jeannie Hulse, Agent Bus: 303-828-4002 www.jeanniehulse.com jeannie@jeanniehulse.com Open 24/7 Evenings By Appointment

1101201.1

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL

HT seeks st love dy to jump Military helpful.

CAT LOVER s cat owner. ed and willing ally fond of xedo cats. be answered. urrr-fect match.

G, CAMP TRAVELER y dreams. e spending days

Redefining Your Real Estate Experience!

The Fowler Group is proud to be a unique real estate group that is focused on going the extra mile for our clients!

Whether it’s buying or selling a home, purchasing in a newly constructed community, or helping an apartment owner convert their property to condominiums, their experience and insight is unmatched. From the dynamic marketing systems that guarantees maximum exposure for their listings, to professional administrative and contract management support, the Fowler Group knows how to get the job done!

www.thefowlergroupcolorado.com

720-893-1685

Wellness

income

Education

Empower them to achieve their full potential!

7051 W. 118th Ave. Broomfield, Colorado 80020 | 303.466.4272 Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 24 Hour Drop-Off Bin

PROVIDING Opportunities & Resources TO CHILDREN IN NEED!

Empowering Kids to AchievE their Full Potential!

PROUD SUPPORTERS OF OUR COMMUNITY

The Women’s Guild for A Precious Child

is a dedicated group of influential women who share a powerful commitment to helping children in need and creating a difference in their lives.

Gwenivere Snyder

Board & President of the Women's Guild for A Precious Child

Luxur y Real Estate Specialist

303.718.1085 G@GwenSnyderRealEstate.com

5280 Multiple Award Winner

YOUR LOCAL L U X U R Y REAL ESTATE L E A D E R

LIVE LIFE FULLY

COVERED

COVERAGE FOR YOUR MOST PRECIOUS ASSETS Turning 65 soon? Don’t get a late enrollment penalty, get FREE help to understand all your Medicare options … No cost to use a broker!

Call today for your complimentary quote and consultation.

Life | Medicare | Health | Mortgage Protection

Choose well, with Wiswell

Julia Wiswell | 303-719-8720 | wiswellinsurance.com 2205 W. 136th Ave Suite 106 -113, Broomfield

FREE ROOF INSPECTIONS TO ENSURE YOUR ROOF IS WINTER READY. IN ADDITION TO NEW ROOF INSTALLATION, COLUMBINE ROOFING LLC, ALSO SPECIALIZES IN ROOF REPAIR FOR PROPERTIES OF ALL SIZES.

Dedicated to Providing Colorado Homeowners, Businesses, and Contractors with “A+” Rated Roofing Services $250 CASH BACK on any roofing project with mention of this

ad. We’ll work with you to achieve the quality final product you expect.

Columbine Roofing LLC will work with your insurance to achieve the quality roof you deserve.

WELL KNOWN IN THE COMMUNITY

Over 250 roofing projects completed in Vista Ridge/Vista Point. Columbine Roofing LLC is proud to provide only the best quality roofing materials for your home.

Columbine Roofing LLC

TESTIMONIALS

“Stevan A. at Columbine Roofing LLC did a fantastic job. The roof looks great along with the new gutters. Very professional and very reliable.

Excellent job.”

“This company is really top notch. From submitting the claim to clean-up.

The roof is beautiful and there wasn’t any debris left over. Very professional and I would recommend them to my neighbors.”

720-207-8655 | columbineroofingllc.com steve@columbineroofingllc.com

Maui Sunrise M A U I J I M ’ S N E W E S T FA S H I O N L E N S C O LO R

• Available in most Maui Jim frames through MyMaui

• Produced with patented PolarizedPlus2® lenses

• Pink mirror coating with Maui Rose® base lens color

• Available in plano and prescription

• High contrast AR coating to eliminate stray light

14676 DELAWARE STREET SUITE 400 WESTMINSTER 720.405.2020

www.2020EYEVENUE.COM

20% OFF any cleaning service when you mention this ad*

Experience why your neighbors trust Legacy Cleaning Solutions for their carpet cleaning needs.

As a home or business owner, we know how important it is for you to keep up your home’s appearance. But that’s a challenge when you’ve got kids, employees, or pets. Don’t try and clean it all by yourself. Save time and energy by calling us to give your property the cleaning it, and you, deserves.

*offer vaild for 1st time customers only

CARPET | UPHOLESTRY | TILE

720-580-3946 | lcscolorado.com

SHE LIKES YOGA, CLIMBING MOUNTAINS, AND CHASING THE BEST INTEREST RATES POSSIBLE FOR HER CLIENTS... meet KIM CLANCY AUGUST STATS: Originating Mortgage Broker/Owner | NMLS:47572 Average closing time for a purchase: 14 business days Average closing for a refinance: 11 business days Average interest rate for a purchase: 3.53% Average interest rate for a refinance: 3.7% Average monthly savings on a refinance: $262 monthly Conforming loan limit in ALL COUNTIES: $726,525 with only 10% down and no mortgage insurance Reduced mortgage insurance on ALL conventional loans: typically half of what the standard mortgage insurance is

FHA • VA • CONVENTIONAL • USDA • JUMBO • ASSET DEPLETION • BANK STATEMENT Kim has been helping individuals and families buy and refinance homes for over 18 years. She has extensive mortgage knowledge and is mindful in designing the loan that bests fits each person’s needs. Kim believes in doing what’s best for her clients and in turn this develops into a lifelong relationship that is based on experience and trust.

15

• AVERAGE CLOSE TIME IS BUSINESS DAYS • AS THE OWNER I CAN NEGOTIATE THE LOWEST RATES IN THE INDUSTRY • OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SERVICE

CONTACT ME TODAY! O: 720.353.4578 M: 949.933.9058 kim@mindfulmortgagegroup.com mindfulmortgagegroup.com NMLS:47572 Certain restrictions apply. Call for details.

Keeping Your Family Pets

Happy & Healthy

Since 2001

Full Service Veterinary Hospital Traditional & Alternative Medicine • Pain Management Family Owned & Operated

303.828.0373 Call for an appointment today

ELIFE Magazine covers Erie Colorado and the surrounding area ‌ Broomfield, Westminster, Northglenn, Thornton, Brighton, Dacono, Frederick, Firestone, Longmont, Lafayette, Louisville, Superior, Boulder

2 miles

A GOOD NIGHT SLEEP IS IN YOUR REACH AND YOUR HEALTH IS WORTH IT!

Colorado’s Board Certified in Orofacial Pain, Credentialed in Dental Sleep Medicine with 30+ Years of Experience.

TOP

PROVIDER REGAIN FUNCTION, END LIMITATIONS AND REST WELL. Specializing in the treatment of TMJ Dysfunction and Sleep Breathing Disorders, Dr. Chase Edwards has transformed the lives of countless patients providing long lasting solutions through identifying the root cause of pain while managing the secondary symptoms. Custom and highly specific orthotic appliances are provided for differing TMD conditions and offer an alternative to CPAP for patients suffering from snoring and Sleep Breathing Disorders.

303-955-4848 | tmjsleepsolutions.com

1373 Forest Park Circle, Ste 103-104, Lafayette CO, 80026

Dr. T.C. Hardy is currently one of the leading providers in the state of Colorado for incognito hidden braces (braces on the tongue side!).

As a Board Certified Orthodontist specializing in child, adolescent and adult orthodontics, he will give you the smile you have always wanted.

We live in the 21st century! Why is there so much metal in the mouth still?

At Hardy Orthodontics, our standard is the high quality, Clarity Advanced bracket. Giving you and your children the flexibility to have a clear aesthetic smile when needed (like school photos and weddings) or the option to let the colors really pop! In addition to the esthetics, the quality of the bracket makes for very efficient treatment as well as a bonding procedure that helps keep the teeth strong.

FREE WELL BABY EXAMS FOR CHILDREN UNDER 2*

#1 in

Northern Colorado for Laser Dentistry: NO SHOTS! NO DRILLS! An experience where both you and your child leave happy!

A great and convenient location

RIGHT OFF I-25 & HIGHWAY 7

Namrata Hardy is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist who specializes in providing oral health care to infants, children, adolescents and individuals with special needs. Dr. Nam believes her role as a health care clinician for children is a genuine privilege and she loves watching her patients grow up before her eyes.

Dr. Nam is committed to fostering good oral habits from a young age and empowering parents and children to take an active role in their oral healthcare. She believes every child is unique, and tailors her approach to meet their individual needs. Dr. Nam believes that positive dental visits from an early age, and regular visits to the dentist are important factors in setting children on *depending on insurance the right track of good oral health for a lifetime.

720-900-3119 hardypedoortho.com 3200 Village Vista Dr. Ste. 110 Erie, CO 80516 (on Highway 7 next to Anthem Ranch)

HIGH TECH OFFICE | NANNY CAM | FRIENDLY AND PROFESSIONAL STAFF 5280 Top Dentist Since 2009 Locally and Independently Owned and Operated

A Reason To Smile.

Call today to schedule your FREE consultation

Call Today 303–962–6400

larkridgefamilydentistry.com

3200 Village Vista Dr Unit 130, Erie, CO

THERAPY WITH ME IS NOT LYING ON A COUCH EXPRESSING EVERY DETAIL OF YOUR CHILDHOOD. INSTEAD, WE WILL PLAN AND TALK. WE WILL LAUGH AND CRY. AND SOON ENOUGH …

YOU WILL HEAL. MA, LPCC, NCC

WATERSHED COUNSELING … A PLACE FOR HEALING • Parenting concerns • Marriage/ Relationship Issues • Adolescents • Depression • Chronic Pain • Anxiety

• Living Life with more Joy • Mindfulness practices • EMDR • Healing from Trauma • Video Game Overuse/Addiction • Stress Management

702-500-2918 | watershedcounselingboco.com | lisa@watershedcounselingboco.com FIND ME AT MY NEW ADDRESS … 149 South Briggs Street Suite #101, Erie CO 80516 2 doors down from The Dugout

CONTRIBUTORS

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

TRISHA VENTKER

CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER

TRISHA VENTKER

CHIEF COPY EDITOR

JOHN SMALL

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

JONATHAN JACKSON

PHOTOGRAPHER

TRISHA VENTKER

WRITERS:

BAILLE BARBOUR DR. TARA CARROLL NISHA GHELA SALLY GRENIER BRITTANY MARACINE JOHN SMALL

EDITORIAL OFFICE | 212.695.2959 TRISHA VENTKER VENTKER MEDIA GROUP

ABOUT THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Trisha Ventker is an author, photographic artist, branding and social media infuencer and publisher of ELIFE, NoCo, Denver Colorado Luxury magazines.

Reader impressions have surpassed 6.5 million for the magazines, with the Denver publication being nationwide.

She is best known for her first book Internet Dates From Hell which had the movie rights to it optioned by Paula Wagner. Trisha is also one of the first Indie Book authors to have a book optioned for the big screen.

ELIFE magazine offers businesses the most cost-effective way to reach consumers in Erie and its surrounding towns.

Ventker is originally from New York City, presently residing in Colorado for the last 11+ years, with her husband and son. cover image by Andy Marjama

ELIFE is published by Ventker Media Group. All editorial material, including editorial, comments, opinion and statements of fact appearing in this publication, represents the views of the respective authors and does not necessarily carry the endorsement of Ventker Media Group.

WHAT’S INSIDE

FEATURE Noah Roper: What The Future Holds

MONEY

CONNECTION

Women Business Owners: Don’t Forget About Your Retirement Plan

HOME

But Zillow Says...

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions

FOOD

Tamata nu saak

PARENTING HEALTH How to Choose The Right Dentist

STRANGE THINGS Erie Area Hauntings

Aren’t We All Addicted?

N

NOAH ROPER: WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS

ELIFE magazine was super proud to be able to chat with Noah Roper, who was one of our Erie High School football stars.

Now he attends Dartmouth in the Ivy League.

ELIFE: At what age did you get involved in football?

Noah: I started playing football in second grade, but played with my brothers many years before that with all of our neighborhood friends.

ELIFE: Besides your three older brothers, who had the greatest influence in your success in High School?

Noah: My running back coach Steve Higgins helped me become better every day and always pushed me to be the best version of myself in football but more importantly in life.

ELIFE: What do you envision to be the biggest change or challenge for you in transitioning from High School to College football?

Noah: The offense is going to be a lot more complex and talent is going to be in every person that is there. Just learning things all over again and settling into the new atmosphere and being comfortable to run my game is going to be the most challenging thing.

ELIFE: What advice do you have for the current Senior Class at Erie High School with respect to the College Recruiting process?

Noah: To not get too frustrated and trust that everything will sort itself out. Things can get very stressful and colleges will drop out with no explanation. At that point it’s very important to trust in the process and not let it bring them down.

FEATURE ELIFE: What advice do you have for the Underclassmen on the EHS football team so that they can maximize their potential and be better prepared for the future?

Noah: Simply work as hard as they can every opportunity they get. Greatness comes in small pieces and every opportunity they have to become a better player is one they need to take. They need to believe in themselves and they’ll be surprised at what they can do. It’s all about consistency and continuing to build.

ELIFE: Your new coach, Buddy Teevens, has been quoted saying very positive things about you. How do you see yourself contributing to Dartmouth’s 2019 season?

Noah: I’ll do whatever they need me to do in order to see the team succeed. My goal is to travel with the team and get some reps at running back, and I’m working towards that goal every morning I wake up.

ELIFE: Who is your favorite football player, past or present, and why?

Noah: My favorite football player is Tim Tebow actually. He’s obviously an amazing athlete, but he’s an even better person. It’s hard to imagine football meaning much if in the end your morals as a person are absent and diluted. I respect him for sticking to what he believes and not letting the game change him, and instead he changed the game. He impacted so many lives with bringing his spiritual beliefs on the field and not being afraid to let the world know that God is with him. I admire him for creating something much bigger than himself.

ELIFE: Is there anything else that you would like to share with the Citizens of Erie?

Noah: I love Erie, and it will always be my home. Thank you to everyone who I was blessed to cross paths with, the town of Erie is a special place full of tradition and the people are full of kindness and compassion.

photo credit Kayla Desousa

ELIFE: Do you keep in touch with any of your former teammates, coaches, or teachers?

Noah: I keep in touch with a lot of my former teammates, they were my best friends and I love to hear that they’re doing well.

Some of those friends are Tyler Garnder, Nathan Hackney, Spencer Brooks, Isaac Khanna, and Kolten Kneebone. I also talk to my former teammates still in high school and give them advice with football when they need it. My running back coach, Steve Higgins, is always in contact and he helps me along my journey all the time.

ELIFE: Recognizing that there is “life beyond football”, although we hope you have a long and illustrious career, what do you see yourself doing outside of football?

Noah: I believe football is a stepping stone in my life to contributing to something much bigger than myself. I’m very passionate about the environment and sustaining the planet’s resources and want to dedicate my life to helping the world become more selfless and focus on things that really matter. I may become an environmental engineer and focus on specific problems one at a time and work to find solutions.

ELIFE: For those back in Erie that were blessed in watching your performances in high school and want to continue to “be in the know”, what is the best way for them to “follow” your collegiate career?

Noah: In order to watch every game they’ll need ESPN+, but three of them this year are also nationally televised as well. I’m also happy to talk to anyone who wants to know how things are going!

FREE QUOTE | WRITTEN WARRANTY | SATISFACTION GUARANTEED!

OF LONGMONT (720) 619-6169

LOCAL PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS

You can trust from house painting, to deck staining, to wallpaper removal, Fresh Coat offers a wide range of painting and painting-related services. Your team of professional painters will approach every job with service in mind, working every project as if it were theirs.

CABINET REFINISHING

If you choose to have our team refinish your cabinets, be assured that our team understands the professional process of refinishing with minimal interruption. This saves your family the hassle of a messy remodel in the kitchen or bathroom … both high traffic areas.

freshcoatpainters.com/longmont | 350 Terry Street, Ste. 300 | Longmont, CO 80501

Because selling a home is more than just listing it online 1. Maximum Exposure Marketing

Full online presence with paid ads on Google, Facebook, Waze and listing on national & local websites.

2. Professional Staging & Photography Great photos are essential to attract more buyers and get them in the front door.

3. Negotiate Effectively with a Certified Negotiation Expert Know your goals will be strongly represented to sell high, buy low, and get to closing on time.

4. Clear Confident Guidance

I take the time to explain what contracts mean before you sign them and walk with you every step of the way.

Whether it’s finding a new house or selling the home you own I’m happy to serve you!

Bernadette Melton, Realtor

(303) 898-4864 Bernadette@COListings.com • www.COListings.com

CUSTOM OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES TAILORED TO YOUR LIFESTYLE 5% DISCOUNT on hardscape construction when you mention this ad

DESIGN

BUILD

MAINTAIN

Beautiful landscapes begins with creative and well thought out design. The design professionals at Innovative Outdoor Services are ready to meet with you to discuss your vision and to create a landscape design tailored to your lifestyle.

From conception to completion our team of professionals is committed to creating enduring, high quality outdoor living spaces using only the finest quality materials.

Proper maintenance is a key factor in protecting your landscape investment.

Our professionally trained service technicians provide full-service, year-round detailed maintenance that is tailored to your specific site.

INNOVATIVE OUTDOOR SERVICES LLC | ERIE, CO 80516 | 303-828-5270 | ioservicesllc.com

Time for...FALL Cleaning!

• safe and clean environment

• style or puppy cut

• high quality natural products

• warm water wash & shampoo

• blow drying & nail trimming

• concierge mobile grooming

BLU E SKI ES A HEA D

Raquel Hinman, CFP®, is an Erie resident with more than 20 years experience offering financial planning, wealth coaching, and investment management. Hinman Financial Planning, Inc., is a fee-only Registered Investment Advisor serving busy individuals and families in Erie, Broomfield, and surrounding communities.

Hinman Financial Planning, Inc. is a fee-only fiduciary offering: • Retirement planning • Strategies for saving and paying for college • Cash flow and budgeting advice • Help analyzing financial impact of changing careers • Analysis for changing homes or buying a second home • Planning for elderly parents HFP does not sell products or earn commissions. We provide financial planning and investment solutions that are tailored to your needs, keeping you at the center of the relationship.

568 Briggs Street | Erie, CO 80516 720-460-0908 | hinmanfp.com

BUT ZILLOW SAYS...

by Sally Grenier One of the biggest changes to the real estate industry over the last decade is our access to the Internet and all the resources it has to offer. While sites like Zillow, Realtor.com or Redfin provide a good starting point for general real estate info, they do not replace the services of a REALTOR. For example, these sites offer home values which can be extremely inaccurate, and can be high or low by tens of thousands of dollars! Their valuation models use county assessor and MLS data, plus sophisticated algorithms to come up with a value. However, they do NOT take into account the many tangible or intangible features of a home such as updates, location, views, neighborhood, schools, etc.

Furthermore, much of their data does not include the most recent sold comps. Zillow’s listings can take weeks or months to show a property as being under contract or sold.

What’s funny is that Zillow knows their data isn’t necessarily accurate, and they say as much on their Web site:

“The Zestimate is not an appraisal…Our data sources may be incomplete or incorrect… the Zestimate is a starting point and does not determine the actual price a house will sell for.”

Redfin has a similar disclaimer: “…the Redfin Estimate is just

a starting point—it is not an appraisal or a substitute for the expert pricing advice of your real estate agent.”

As a result, these incorrect values create unrealistic expectations for both buyers and sellers. For example, if a seller prices their home too high (based on an inaccurate “Zestimate”), it may take much longer to sell. For buyers, if you make an offer that’s too low, you’ll likely get beat out by other buyers.

Therefore, determining a home’s “Fair Market Value” is absolutely crucial when buying or selling a home.

So, what is “Fair Market Value”? It’s what a ready, willing and able buyer is willing to pay for a home in today’s market. Basically, it is what other similar “apples to apples” properties have been selling for in that neighborhood in recent months. Only a detailed market analysis, done by your REALTOR, will give you a clear picture of your home’s value.

HOME

But Zillow Says...

Sally Grenier is a longtime Colorado resident and has lived in Erie for 15 years. For more information about Sally, please visit: www.sallygrenier.com

Erie's #1 CHOICE for CABINET REFACING

C U S T O M C A B I N E T D O O R S For ALL types of cabinetry Can be installed on EXISTING or NEW cabinets

before

F A C E L I F T T O D AY. D R E A M K I T C H E N T O M O R R O W. ZOUTENLIGHT’S Custom Cabinet Doors are the perfect solution for refacing an existing kitchen or customizing an IKEA Kitchen.

Request your design consultation to see if refacing, all new cabinetry or a mixture of both is the right fit for your dream kitchen.

720.515.7267 Follow Us on

www.zoutenlight.com

FREE Delivery to Erie, Lafayette & Anthem

Great Coffee W I T H G R E AT B E A R D S , C O M ES

Did you know that drinking our coffee directly benefits the lives of others?

We’ve put together a series of thoughtfully blended, Private Label coffees that benefit non-profits available for purchase exclusively online at eriecoffeeroasters.com.

Proceeds directly support the Non-Profits!

20% OFF ENTIRE ORDER!* Use Code: ELIFE2019SP at Checkout! *One use per customer

720-309-3968 | eriecoffeeroasters.com

3000 Airport Dr., Hangar 307

360° PAINTING

is Boulder’s Choice for Expert House Painters.

At 360° Painting® Boulder, we’re on a mission to deliver stunning results and responsive customer service to each and every client we serve.

Schedule a free consultation today, and one of our experienced house painters will visit your home to learn about your project, answer questions, and write up a detailed estimate. Typically, we complete projects within two weeks of the initial consultation!

We Proudly Service: Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, Superior, Louisville, Frederick, Firestone, Berthoud, Mead, Erie and Niwot!

We welcome all hail damage claims and work diligently with your insurance to get each home/business the best coverage for paint!

(720) 453-2411 360painting.com/Boulder

COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL STAINING & REPAIR HAIL DAMAGE & INSURANCE EXPERTS

GO AHEAD

LOL :)

Crack up, belly laugh, roll on the floor and share those pearly whites.

Go ahead ‌Laugh out loud RidgeviewKids.com

FREE EXAM for Kids Under Three* (303) 650-0310 14697 Delaware Street, Suite 210 Westminster, CO 80023 *Applies to new patients only. Offer may not be valid with insurance benefits.

I don’t just see a customer.

I see you.

While other insurance companies just see a customer, I see a neighbor in my community. I’m here to get to know who you really are so I can help life go right.

LET’S TALK TODAY.

Baille T Barbour Ins Agcy Inc Baille T Barbour, Agent 611 Mitchell Way Suite 106 Erie, CO 80516 Bus: 303-883-8888

1706839

State Farm Bloomington, IL

“KING KONG …

AIN’T GOT NOTHING ON US!” Tom Brue – Manager | 303-502-9999

Restoring Peace of Mind After the Storm At Gorilla Roof, Inc. our goal is not only to help you with your roofing needs, but also to make sure the process is easy and enjoyable for you! We are a full-service roofing company that can assist you with all of your roofing and guttering needs.

S E R V I N G E R I E A N D S U R R O U N D I N G TOW N S

|

3 0 3 - 827-15 67

|

TO M @ G O R I L L A R O O F. C O M

Gorilla Roof, Inc.

|

G O R I L L A R O O F. C O M

#1 RATED GARAGE DOOR COMPANY IN DENVER

FOR ALL YOUR GARAGE DOOR NEEDS, FROM NEW DOORS TO REPAIRS.

WHY CHOOSE THE GARAGE DOCTOR The Garage Doctor is a small, growing business focused on customer satisfaction. Standing by our motto of “FRIENDLY, HONEST, and AFFORDABLE”, we will go the extra mile to ensure our customers receive excellent service and products at a competitive rate.

We pride ourselves on educating our customers, providing resolutions and products to best fit their individual circumstances. We approach each project on a case-by-case scenario and put the customer’s best interest ahead of our own to uphold our outstanding customer service record and, in return, earn a customer for life. Thank you so much for choosing THE GARAGE DOCTOR, we value your business.

FREE ESTIMATES | RESIDENTIAL | LIGHT COMMERCIAL

• • • • • •

Garage Door Sales, Service & Installation 15 Years in Business Solutions for our Customers Dedication to Customer Service Educate the Customer Passionate about Garage Doors

A WORD FROM THE OWNER If given the opportunity to earn your business I will promise you the best customer experience. We want to show you why we are the best, not the biggest, but the best. We care about all of our customers and want to earn a customer for life by educating you on products, service, and replacement equipment. We want what is best for you, our customer. Thank you for your time and we look forward to helping you with all of your garage door questions or concerns, big or small.

–

Trapper Searles

¨

303-345-4707 thegaragedoctor.com | denvergaragedoctor@gmail.com

Owner

Jeff Crase

Your transition should be stress-free and run smoothly.

Jeff Crase is a 5-STAR realtor by 5280 from 2010-2017. Â Jeff Crase has been featured on many episodes of HGTV.

aperfecthome4u.net call or text

720.217.5789 office: 303.379.3080 aperfecthome4u@comcast.net

ASKING FOR HELP IS A SIGN OF

STRENGTH WE USE BIODEGRADABLE CLEANING PRODUCTS!

Insured and Background Checked

WORK GUARANTEED!

H O U S E H O L D

S O L U T I O N S

Household Solutions is located in Erie. We strive to provide a communicative, transparent, and fair environment for our clients and each other. The team at Household Solutions genuinely finds joy in the work they provide the community.

They thrive in providing and maintaining order. Each person is a natural caregiver and a supporter. We work together to make sure we are reliable, consistent, and expectation exceeding every single day. The services provided by Household Solutions serves to make your life easier and more functional on every level.

housekeeping organizing tutoring childcare errands

(720)243-7434

owner:

Brianna Robinson

HOUSEHOLDSOLUTIONSERIE.COM

>>>

FALL IS THE PERFECT TIME TO GET ORGA IZED

These camps are among the best at engaging kids in hands-on learning activities and adventures without the use of screen technology. Research tells us that kids who engage with others in more face-to-face interactions have better social skills and empathy towards others. I think most parents would agree that anything that can help put a little more empathy in this world is at the top of my list. Hopefully, your kids can take advantage of unstructured time this summer to engage with friends, learn and have fun.

Call for your FREE in-home consultation

Amy Webb lives in Erie with her husband and two energetic boys. While her PhD is in Human Development and Family Sciences, her best education in parenting (and life) have been her two boys. While completing her degree, she realized there was not enough research-based parenting and child development information that was easy to understand for the average parent. Much of theliving.com/boulder research done by university scholars is not easily accessible to tailored parents. With her writing, she hopes to provide thought-provoking and insightful information that will be useful to parents. She doesn’t pretend to be a parenting expert, but rather a translator of research into a parent-friendly format.Â

303-328-5005

Local Erie Business

closets

garages

epoxy flooring

murphy beds

pantries

DECISIONS, DECISIONS, DECISIONS

CONNECTION

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions!

by Baille Barbour

Stop me if I’m wrong, but choosing to make an impact on the environment kind of feels like this: You just finished binge-watching a Netflix documentary about how sea creatures are dying from getting stuck in laundry detergent bottles that are flippantly thrown away last year. You are horrified; you feel awful – I mean, those poor sea turtles! You get off the couch; you’re ready to go “clean the oceans” when you remember that you live about a thousand miles from the closest ocean and you have to work tomorrow, so you don’t have time (and even if you did, funds are kind of tight right now). So you stop. You take a few days to let the Netflix documentary slip from your mind and you forget the sea turtles and the ocean, and you throw away your detergent bottle, after all you aren’t really certain that your trash company accepts that kind of plastic anyway.

As my favorite Muppet once said, “it’s not easy being green”. Kermit was right, if you aren’t in the habit of living green, then, like anything, making the decision to keep the earth in mind with what you buy and do takes a little mental rewiring.

Growing up, the mantras of “reuse, reduce, recycle”, “cut the plastic rings from soda six-packs before you throw them away”, “if you see a piece of litter – pick it up”, “take shorter showers”, “buy in bulk”, and “don’t forget your reusable bags” were ingrained in my conscience and are as fundamental to me as looking both ways before crossing the street. I don’t consider myself to be any kind of saint or expert or anything like that, but I care, and I try, and I do believe that that is where great things begin.

Before I opened my State Farm agency here in Erie, I crafted this vision of what my perfect little office would look like.

Despite being in the insurance industry, I vowed to do everything I could to prevent my space from looking anything like the dreary insurance agencies that my parents dragged me into when I was a kid. I remember sitting in pretentious high-backed pleather chairs as my mom handed checks to boredlooking employees who sat behind oversized desks that were dwarfed by giant bookcases filled with fat books with titles like Fundamentals of Income Taxation or Financial Planning: Process and Environment. Yuck, awful!

I’d be bored if I worked there too!

Not only did I want my agency to be fresh and inviting, I wanted my office to be as “green” as I could make it.

The only thing that kept my dreams of grandeur in check was my exceptionally shallow pockets – I hadn’t saved enough money to buy chairs made from recycled plastic bags or standup desks made from responsibly-sourced bamboo growers. With my budget in mind, I scoured Craig’s List for old bankers desks to paint and repurpose, energy-efficient lighting, used building products to frame out offices, ceiling fans to circulate hot and cooled air to keep our electric bills down, and I scrounged up as many coupons as I could find to buy recycled paper.

When it came time to by tchotchkes to hand out at events to let people know that my business existed, I locked up. I couldn’t fathom the thought of handing out junky little plastic toys with my business name on it to children who

were a solid decade or two away from buying their first insurance product. So, we don’t do tchotchkes. From time to time we give people branded chap sticks, reusable shopping bags, or metal coffee mugs, but that’s about the extent of our “think of me the next time you’re shopping for insurance” swag game. There are a number of other things that we do here at the office (many of which have translated to actions that we have taken at home as well) but we’ll dive into some of those ideas below.

In talking with people about what has held them back from taking action to reduce their impact on the environment many have shared that recycling rules seem to be too restrictive, they don’t want to pay the higher prices that green products fetch, they don’t know how to get others around them (family, co-workers, etc.) to participate so their efforts seem futile – who cares if you recycle if your family just sees the recycle bin as the backup trash can when the main trash can is full? How frustrating! I get it - a lot of things get in the way of what we want to do. Don’t lose faith; the resources and support are out there and you don’t have to fly to the ocean to save the world, for there are so many things that you can do to rewire your brain and your way of doing things right here from the great, albeit landlocked, State of Colorado.

Ride your bike. Make a habit of it; make it fun; get a cool bike that you’ll love to ride and get your family involved. Not only can you park right out front, but no one will door-ding your car, and you just might get a workout in the process.

Ditch single use stuff. Are disposable plates and silverware easier? Sure, but so is not putting on pants, and yet you still do it because it is the right thing to do. Get yourself some dishes that you love to serve upon and serve it up like you’re the dishes in Beauty and the Beast! Can’t kick the disposable habit? Opt for environmentally products like Susty Party – they’re cute, and you can ditch them and the guilt when you’re done.

Adopt your block or your parking lot. Grab a trash bag and a friend and patrol your neighborhood or parking lot at work for trash. You’ll get some fresh air and things will look a little cheerier where you live and work.

Think “day spa”. At our office we shamelessly stole the idea of rolling up washcloths and placing them in a little basket for people to use when they use our restrooms. Guests love the spa-like touch and we love that we are cutting down on waste.

Pack your own bowls. No, not that kind!

Keurig and most other single-use coffee brewers make refillable pods to use in your coffee maker.

Not only will you eliminate the never-ending stream of plastic pods that your brewer eats up and spits out but you can use coffee you actually like to drink, not just something that has sat in a plastic capsule for months on end.

Use your resources! This state has a million and one resources for people who want to live a little greener, here are just a few: • PACE (Partners for a Clean Environment) offers all kinds of awesome services for business like outdoor irrigation assessments, sink aerators, lighting upgrades, indoor recycling, compost and trash bins, EV charging stations, bike racks and the list goes on. Want to know the best part? Most of these products and services come at no additional cost to you!

• Got high energy bills?

Maybe your home is to blame! Xcel Energy and United Power offer low to no cost energy efficiency assessments for your home or business. These assessments will show you places where your building’s efficiency could be increased to drive your bills down.

• Recycle your Christmas tree and downed leaves and get free mulch in the spring! Check out the Town of Erie’s page for drop off times and locations for your trees and leaves and pickup times and locations for your free mulch to get in on the action.

Do some energy-efficient upgrades to your home or office? Check out the Xcel Energy or United Power website for lighting and appliance rebates.

• They don’t make things like they used to. When we furnished our office we opted for old tables, desks, and chairs that were sturdy and well-crafted and

that were sturdy and well-crafted and made of real wood instead of new furniture made of particle board. Why? Because we were on a budget and we wanted things with charm that would stand the test of time. We picked up some Annie Sloan paint from Due South in Lafayette and made someone else’s trash our treasures.

• Don’t paint yourself into a corner with old paint cans! Did you know that you can recycle your old paint? Those cans kicking around your garage can be turned into places like the Sherwin Williams here in Erie to be recycled at no cost to you or the environment. Want to know something even better? The paint we used in our office is made from your old recycled paint. It’s true! There’s a company right here in Denver called Green Sheen that produces paint from old paint and recycles it. They make a variety of beautiful colors, and you can buy it (for less than the cost of regular paint) at Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore.

• Pause before you throw away your bras. You don’t want to throw them away because they cost you a ton, but you know that your body has changed and that pretty little lacy pushup is never going to fit again. Ever. Our office is a drop off location for a brilliant organization named Free the Girls (FTG). FTG collects gently used bras and ships them to human trafficking victims throughout the world. The women who receive these bras sell them on the second-hand clothing market to other women allowing these survivors to earn an income in a non-threatening environment.

• Got Jeans? Bring your old jeans to Madewell and get a discount on a new pair. Madewell recycles old denim and turns it into insulation for homes. Someone gets a warm home and you get money off on your new favorite pair of pants.

Since I’ve already referenced two other children’s characters, I might as well close this puppy out with anotherforgood measure. In the immortal words of Dr. Seuss – “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.

Baille Barbour is a State Farm Insurance Agent in the amazing town of Erie, Colorado. From a young age Baille has been passionate about being a good citizen of the earth. As a kid she used to walk around her neighborhood selling balls of mud (that she was convinced could be used for mud masks) to raise money to save the whales. As an adult, she put her dirt-pushing pursuits aside to make a bigger difference in people’s lives and the environment. Baille’s agency’s furniture is 75% upcycled, the paint used to decorate her office is made from recycled paint produced right here in Denver, Colorado, and she is involved in the Erie Green Business program. Baille and her team genuinely hope that you will join their quest to be greener members of the Erie community.

All the usual reasons to invest with Edward Jones. Plus one.

Now investors in Erie have one more reason to feel confident about their financial future. Contact Financial Advisor Brittany Maracine and experience how Edward Jones makes sense of investing.

Brittany L Maracine

MKT-1943C-A

Financial Advisor

671 Mitchell Way Suite 204 Erie, CO 80516-5444 303-828-9933

www.edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

BE

PROTECTED

NOW AND IN THE FUTURE

THE NEW IMPROVED WAY OF INSURANCE 22 years providing Colorado and the Front Range the best insurance solutions As an independent insurance agency, we offer MORE choices for your insurance needs.

We are not limited to one compnay, instead we search multiple insurance companies for your situation and provide solutions and options.

Todd Pancratz Erie Resident todd@insurecolorado.org

(303) (303) 645-4215 645-4215

Service you deserve at the pricing you expect.

Contact us today to discuss your policy needs.

home > auto > life > business

www.insurecolorado.org 1499 W. 120th Ave. Suite 110, Westminster 80234

COLORADO'S ROOFING COMPANY Scott's Roofing & Solar

Scott's Roofing provides commercial & residential roofing repair and replacement across Colorado's Front Range. We provide experience in all phases of roofing, from estimates and insurance claims, to high-quality construction and cleanup. Whether you have a home, retail space, a warehouse or religious center, we’ll take the time to understand your needs and we’ll provide the most cost-effective solutions for your situation.

This year, make your roof safe & efficient by talking to us about our new expanded service of SOLAR! Did you know that 2019 is the last year of a 30% tax incentive on solar needs? Call us today at 303-469-9287 so we can get you on the schedule!

We pride ourselves on being an advocate for the homeowner. If your roof is damaged, we'll come out, provide a free inspection and offer our honest recommendation. When replacements are necessary, we will meet with your insurance adjuster to view any damage and make sure that nothing is overlooked, ensuring that we will represent the interests of the homeowner.

Contact us for more information:

scottsroofingcolorado.com - 303-469-9287

BE A PART OF OUR NEXT ISSUE

and join our directory of preferred local businesses at NoComagazine.com NoCo Magazine is the heartbeat of Northern Colorado – celebrating lifestyle, business, events, fashion and culture … A publication focused on highlighting creative, talented residents and local businesses that is proud to sponsor a variety of local non-profits and community organizations.

WScho o is tt Jame

Pinning Down Your Aches & Pains

s?

THE

NEW

RESEARCH THAT CONVINCE ME TO BE A D SOCCER MO DROPOUT M

NoCo

Fashion and Trends

What’s the Deal with Anyway? Sleep THE HEARTBEA T OF NORTH

ERN COLORA

TENETS FOR A HEALTHIER, HAPPIER, AND M EFFECTIVE ORE 2018 DO – CELEB

RATING LIFE STYLE, BUSIN

ESS, EVENTS,

FASHION AN

D CULTURE

...YOU’RE “IT”

Keep your life safe with us

home insurance

life insurance

auto insurance

TAG provides each client with the ability to obtain all of their insurance products under one roof. Each TAG agent strives to achieve 100% customer satisfaction by offering the best coverages at the most competitive prices available.

We are an independent agency representing Hartford, Travelers, Nationwide, Safeco, Progessive, Auto Owners, State Auto and other preferreed insurance companies to secure the BEST rates as well as the correct insurance protection for our clients. We do the shopping to find our clients the best available insurance rates so YOU don’t have to!

130 Old Laramie Trail, Suite 200, Lafayette

Dean C. Mowery

(303) 456-6969 Dmowery15@moweryinsurance.net

How to Choose the Right Dentist

by Dr. Tara Carroll

Choosing the right dentist for your family is a big decision, as a mom and a dentist, I understand this challenge. This month, I thought it would be interesting to share with my Erie neighbors How to Pick an Awesome Dentist and how Larkridge Family & Cosmetic Dentistry can be a fit for you and your family!

•

Pardon the pun, but, word of mouth is a great way to share news about a dental practice. Just ask your friends, family, and neighbors and look for testimonials online.

HEALTH • Is the staff friendly and professional? A well-adjusted team is a perfect complement to a practice. We aim to make our patients comfortable and confident from the time they step into our office, until they check out and go on with their day. We understand it’s not your favorite visit, but we strive to change your mind!

• How does the practice handle emergencies?

Emergencies happen!

Dr.’s Carroll and Schmidt have emergency contact information through the office and have responded to emergencies on evenings, their days off, over weekends, and yes, even holidays. You can count on them to be there for you to provide the best dental care for you and your loved one.

• Does the dentist explain ways to help with your dental health? We believe that dentists are your partners in good health. We coach and motivate you to take great care of your mouth. It’s a team effort and we want to be on your winning team!

• Support your local dental practice!

For many people, supporting local business is more than just the right thing to do, it’s a priority. Ask a practice if they are a subsidiary of a large corporate system, if supporting local is important to you, just ask. At Larkridge Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, you are supporting a local business, as we are independently owned and operated Dr. Tara Carroll. We live here, too and love to see our patients, healthy, and happy out in the community!

• Does the practice have modern technology and consider patient comfort? Look for a practice that provides a soothing, inclusive environment. Dr. Carroll moved to a state of the art facility, with all the modern and up-to-date technology. One unique feature is the nanny-cam technology where you can bring the whole family (no need for a sitter). There is a private play area with cameras, so mom or dad can watch their kiddos and be confident that they are safe and entertained while mom and dad are receiving their dental treatment.

• Is the practice easy to find? You drive by our office every day, if you access your home from Hwy 7…we’re on the north side of the street, easy to find, easy to park and a short drive home, or better yet, ride your bike or walk….we’re that close.

There are more ways to determine whether you are finding a practice to be a fit for you and your family, but we feel that this is a pretty good start. At the end of the day, we hope that Larkridge Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is your choice for an awesome dental practice.

Dr. Carroll received her dental training at the University of Colorado, receiving the Omicron Kappa Epsilon Dental Honor Society Award and graduating Magna cum Laude. She started Larkridge Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in 2007 and continues to provide a high standard and professionalism to patients of all ages. Dr. Carroll believes happiness comes from within. Her care of her patients reflects that belief; you will be treated like a friend; feeling like part of her family.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT DENTIST

LIVE YOUR LIFE INTEGRATED HEALTH AND CHIROPRATIC

MASSAGE MASSAGE CHIROPRACTIC CHIROPRACTIC ACUPUNCTURE ACUPUNCTURE Locally Locallyowned ownedininErie!

Erie!

We Wehave have great greatfamily family pricing pricingand and are areopen openlate late nights nightstoto accomodate accomodate your yourneeds! needs!

Services Servicesinclude: include: • • Chiropractic Chiropractic • • Acupuncture Acupuncture • • Massage Massage • • Functional FunctionalMedicine Medicine

671 671 Mitchell Mitchell Way Way Suite Suite 200 200 Erie, Erie, CO CO 80516 80516 (720) (720)759-5229 759-5229

liveyourlifechiro.com liveyourlifechiro.com | liveyourlifechiro@gmail.com | liveyourlifechiro@gmail.com

WHY In the spring of 2008, a group of health-care and business professionals who shared profound personal experiences with the life-enhancing benefits of essential oils came together with a common vision of bringing a new standard of essential oils to the world.

They asked themselves some defining questions: “What if we could provide the world with a new and powerful wellness alternative?” “What if we could provide this new level of wellness through a mainstream approach to essential oils?”

“What if we could source, test, and manufacture a higher quality of essential oil —more pure and more potent than any other oil available on the market today?”

“What if we, in the most professional manner, could partner with major hospitals, doctors, scientists, and opinion leaders to provide the most compelling authentication of essential oils on the planet?”

They organized a company and named it dōTERRA, a Latin derivative meaning “Gift of the Earth.” The first dōTERRA offering of 25 single oils and 10 oil blends was introduced for sale on April 25, 2008, to the acclaim of essential oil experts and product enthusiasts who immediately recognized the superior quality of dōTERRA therapeutic-grade essential oils. dōTERRA has continued to add wellness products and to expand their essential oils offering as the company has enjoyed tremendous growth since its beginning.

Janelle Harris 720.456.1012 JanellesJazOils@gmail.com www.mydoterra.com/JanellesJazOils

?

MONEY

AMERICAN BUSINESS WOMEN’S DAY IS CELEBRATED ON SEPT. 22. AND THERE IS INDEED CAUSE FOR CELEBRATION, BECAUSE, IN RECENT DECADES, THE NUMBER OF WOMEN BUSINESS OWNERS HAS RISEN SHARPLY, TO THE POINT WHERE NEARLY 40 PERCENT OF ALL BUSINESSES ARE NOW WOMEN-OWNED, ACCORDING TO THE U.S. CENSUS BUREAU. IF YOU ARE ONE OF THESE OWNERS, OR THINKING ABOUT BECOMING ONE, YOU’LL ALWAYS HAVE A LOT TO THINK ABOUT WHEN RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS, BUT THERE’S ALSO AN AREA YOU CAN’T IGNORE – YOUR RETIREMENT. SPECIFICALLY, YOU NEED TO CONSIDER ESTABLISHING YOUR OWN RETIREMENT PLAN. MOST PLANS AVAILABLE TO YOU ARE FAIRLY EASY TO ESTABLISH AND MAINTAIN, AND ARE NOT TERRIBLY COSTLY TO ADMINISTER. HERE ARE SOME POPULAR OPTIONS:

WOMEN BUSINESS OWNERS: DON’T FORGET ABOUT YOUR RETIREMENT PLAN

by Edward Jones for Brittany Maracine

• Owner-only 401(k) – This plan, also known as an individual or solo 401(k), is available to self-employed individuals and business owners with no fulltime employees other than themselves or a spouse. For 2018, you can put in up to 25 percent of your annual income as an “employer” contribution, and you can defer up to $18,500 (or $24,500 if you’re 50 or older). The sum of your employer contribution and your salary deferrals cannot exceed $55,000, or $61,000 if you’re 50 or older.

You can make elective contributions on a pre- or post-tax (Roth) basis. Pre-tax contributions reduce your taxable income for the current year. Roth contributions don’t offer any immediate tax benefit, but any qualified withdrawals will be 100% tax-free.

• SEP IRA –

If you have just a few disability and longterm care employees or are self-employed with no employees, you may want to consider a SEP IRA. You’ll fund the plan with tax-deductible contributions, and you must cover all eligible employees. As an employer, you can contribute the lesser of 25% of your compensation (if you’re also an employee of your own business) or $55,000.

• Solo defined benefit plan–

Pension plans, also known as defined benefit plans, are less common than in previous years, but you can still set one up for yourself if you’re self-employed or own your own business. This plan has high contribution limits, which are determined by an actua-rial calculation, and your contributions are typically tax-deductible.

• A SIMPLE IRA,

A simple IRA, as its name suggests, is easy to set up and maintain, and it can be a good plan if your business has fewer than 10 employees.

However, while a SIMPLE IRA may be advantageous for your employees, it’s less generous to you, as far as allowable contributions go, than an owner-only 401(k), a SEP IRA or a defined benefit plan. For 2018, your annual contributions are generally limited to $12,500, or $15,500 if you’re 50 or older by the end of the year. You can also make a matching contribution of up to 3% of your compensation. As an employer, your contributions are fully deductible as a business expense up to certain limits; as an employee, your pretax contributions reduce the amount of your taxable income for the same tax year.

Before opening any of these plans, you’ll want to consult with your tax advisor on the tax issues and a financial professional on the investment aspects. But don’t wait too long. You will need to work hard to keep your business thriving – so choose a retirement plan that works just as hard for you.

As an Edward Jones financial advisor, Brittany Maracine helps clients accomplish their dreams and goals and aspire to give a better life to those they love and care about.

Whether you’re planning for retirement, saving for college education, or just trying to protect the financial future of those you care about, she can work together to develop specific strategies to help you achieve your goals. She can also monitor your progress to help make sure you stay on track or determine if any adjustments need to be made. Throughout it all, she’s dedicated to providing top-notch client service.

Working in a strategic partnership with the Town, developers and key industries to prepare the community for smart growth.

Sustainability Help current businesses with expansion, growth and retention.

A community partner for your growing business The Erie Economic Development Council is passionate about the Erie business community.Â

Communication Help current businesses with expansion, growth and retention.

We invite you to visit www.erieedc.com or reach out to us at info@erieedc.com to begin a conversation about how we can help your business prosper!

www.erieedc.com - info@erieedc.com

EEDC MISSION: Promote the Town of Erie’s central location to transportation and educational facilities, skilled workforce, quality residential options and affordable new development opportunities to primary employers.

VISION: To create a sustainable and balanced community by attracting primary employers and supporting the Town of Erie businesses with information, resources, and professional networks.

WWW.ERIEEDC.COM 500 Briggs Street, Suite 200 PO Box 1101 Erie, CO 80516 info@erieedc.com 720-381-2786

ERIE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

A STRONG FOUNDATION WWW.ERIEED.COM

ERIE IS PRIMED AND READY FOR DEVELOPMENT. WE HAVE THE WORKFORCE, THE QUALITY OF LIFE AND THE LAND. Let’s say a plastics company expanded into Erie and needed a trucking business to distribute their products. That’s where the Erie Economic Development Council would step in, finding a trucking company to distribute their products in a way where the local economy would benefit from an increase in jobs, and the companies would benefit with added business and productivity. That’s what being part of the EEDC means. We bridge the region’s resources to help grow and nurture your business.

The community has united through the EEDC to seek and welcome business to the area.

We support the grassroots growth of a business and the local economy by giving you a voice and the ability to create a sustainable business environment. We are a catalyst for building relationships and business because our members are the community, opening its door to the area and the region. By attracting primary employers and supporting business with information, resources and professional networks, we continue to reach our goal of creating a sustainable and balanced community.

So, after you’ve moved closer to the people you plan to hire, why not move the resources you need closer to you?

ERIE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

BE A PART OF ERIE'S ECONOMIC ENGINE Join the Erie Economic Development Council.

The Erie Economic Development Council is a catalyst for building relationships and businesses because our members are the community and regional leaders. The organization has become a vital resource for all growing and new businesses in the Town of Erie.

The EEDC has the connections and experience to help streamline your process of growth. Multiple businesses have found the organization's efforts helped them save time and money.

Erie is the right place to build your business. The demographics, talent, workforce, and quality of life in this great Town all lead to business success.

EEDC Investor benefits include:

Site selection assistance Attendance at valuable EEDC events Promotion of your company Invitations to regional events Insight from the Town on future plans and developments Overall, if you are looking to build or grow your business, membership in the EEDC can save you time, money and put you on the path for success.

To learn more about becoming a partner in the EEDC, please visit www.erieedc.com.

AREN’T WE ALL ADDICTED?

BY JOHN SMALL

AREN’T WE ALL ADDICTED?

PARENTING

Aren’t We All Addicted?

by John Small

Recently, while walking from my car to the last spring session before the semester ended and the panoply of college coeds broke for summer, I nearly didn’t make it! The faculty lot is on the highest point on campus, thus the walk downhill to the classroom buildings is considerable, as is the converse dynamic, you’d think.

Choosing the roadway and not the sidewalk to prevent what actually and ironically occurred, I couldn’t win for losing! Sad (and a tad dangerous) doesn’t describe the growing issue, for walking swiftly and directly in my path, head down looking at her iPhone and earbuds securely positioned and apparently working, a young woman walked straight into me, even though I verbally and physically tried to avoid the collision. “Oh, my bad”, was all she could shout, due to the extreme volume of her headphone delivered music and her distracting and equally feverish texting to some other innocent “droid-like” kid completely addicted to social media technology. Unfortunately, this isn’t the first time experiencing this bizarre behavior-it’s the first time I couldn’t evade the imminent contact. Is this what the techno-pioneers of the early to late eighteenth through nineteenth century European Industrial Revolution intended! Me thinks not!

Although I’ve been quite aware of this phenomenon for nearly twelve years now, as most educators obviously have, I just never saw our developing computer technology as dangerous or deadly until now. What if this kid were walking into a moving car or open manhole and not a slow moving, arthritic teacher not able to get out of her way that day? Would the patented “My bad!”, have cut it for her then? As I put my left hand up, palm facing her in the universal gesture of “it’s all right, no problem”, I suddenly realized I was wrong - dead wrong - there is a problem and the problem’s getting worse!

Just look at the ball fields or schoolyards in the middle of the day during the week or on the weekends, year-round and notice the lack of kids playing sports (unless they’re riding skateboards - phone in hand and earbuds pumping tunes). When and if you do, it’s probably an organized team with umpires or referees sponsored by some business or society who economically reaps the benefits of the athletic league’s participation that you notice.

AREN’T WE ALL ADDICTED? Even the gyms after school are lacking school team student athletes compared to the myriad students who dart home daily at dismissal to play video games well into the night (in lieu of any or all homework or studying) or incessantly blog or text about virtually nothing substantial to the sea of receivers who are impatiently waiting for responses, maniacally based on their previous texts and emails just sent. More than likely, they’re in houses where multiple others - parents included are doing the very same thing, day in and out! Epidemic you say? Pandemic - I think, for this is worldwide as the old “www.com or org” intros. indicate. Can’t save the world, right? Maybe, but each solution, we’re told is one step at a time, one person at a time as well. At least that’s what I’ve been told. Perhaps the philosophy has changed these days!

All right, I can hear the naysayers and liberals among you asking such immaterial and unnecessary questions like, “Aren’t you using a computer right now to complain about computer usage abuse?”, or “Don’t you use a computer and smart board in the classroom for your teaching techniques and strategies?”.

Of which both questions I’d have to answer yes and no. Yes, I do for multiple people’s benefits and no, for there are many classes I neither use the smart board nor the computer, except perhaps electronic attendance registration for the school’s administration at the beginning of each class. I’m certainly not “anticomputer” or against technology by any means. I just think both are doubleedged swords. Used moderately and to enhance other people’s education or to raise their levels of concern regarding the world around them is the essence of these inventions. Isn’t that what the DaVincis and Teslas and Einsteins wanted?

Human Addictions are serious, whether one is hooked on alcohol, narcotics, gambling, politics, sex, religion or anything else for that matter! Unless the habit is mutually beneficial or for the ethical and practical wellbeing of others, habitual behavior is dangerous and even deadly, especially if gone undetected or unmonitored by the abuser. Sure, everyone’s hooked on something, you might add, for there’s always “room” for a habit in the third component of everyone’s persona, namely the “secret life” we each have after our public and private ones. However, when our secret habits become public, they’re no longer remotely private at that juncture, interfering with and/or negatively affecting and influencing the rest of the world and its right to cohabit, unencumbered by those whose addictions are no longer their own.

John J.K. Small has taught High School English and History courses for 36 years and College Education and English courses for the past 22. He has been the copy editor for ELIFE , NoCo and Denver Colorado Luxury magazines, contributing multiple articles over the years.

YOU CAN’T

BUY HAPPINESS,

YOU CAN BUY

ICE CREAM. AND THAT’S KIND OF

THE SAME THING.

THERE’S ALWAYS ROOM FOR DESSERT. At Sweets, it’s all in the name. From celebrations and happy memories, a birthday cone to a game winning scoop: every bite inspires our inner youth.

Your next stop will satisfy every sweet tooth.

Now serving Little Man Ice Cream!

NEW LOCATION!

3120 Village Vista Dr. Erie!

(720) 460-1821 | 502 BRIGGS ST. - ERIE | SWEETSICECREAM.COM

Tomato Chutney (Tamata nu saak) *the ingredients can be found at any Indian store, or specialty stores like Sprouts and Wholefoods 1 tbsp ghee (or oil) 2 roma tomatoes, roughly chopped 1/8th tsp black mustard seeds 1/8th tsp cumin seeds 1/8th tsp Asafoetida (heeng in hindi) 1/8th tsp turmeric powder 1/8th tsp red chili powder (or paprika) ½ tbsp sugar ½ tsp cilantro, chopped.

Salt as per taste Method 1. Heat ghee in a nonstick pan. Once the ghee is hot, add mustard seeds. Once the seeds start to crackle, lower the flame to minimum. Let all the seeds crackle, then add cumin seeds, then add Asafoetida. This is the tempering.

2. Quickly add the tomatoes. The tempering step is to be done rapidly with attention, so as to prevent burning of the ingredients of the tempering.

3. Add salt and stir the tomatoes around. (medium flame) 4. Once the tomatoes are mushy, add turmeric, chili powder, sugar and cilantro.

5. Stir around for 2 mins more and the chutney is ready.

The chutney can be used as a dip (hot/cold) or cooled down and used as spread in sandwiches.

FOOD

Tamata nu saak

by Nisha Ghela

I come from a background, where guests are considered equivalent to God. The same thought is expressed by this Sanskrit statement - “Athiti Devo bhava”.

Most families in India believe in eating fresh homemade meals. In fact, some families prepare fresh meals for lunch and dinner. Food and hosting go hand in hand.

At home, back in India, no one is allowed to leave on an empty stomach.

Even visitors are offered something depending on what time of the day it is.

From chai and snacks to a full meal, my mom whips something up quickly for surprise guests too. One such recipe is shared here. It’s called “Tamata nu saak” in our regional language. It’s a savory tomato chutney with some spice and tempering. It’s mildly sweet, mildly spicy as tanginess comes from the tomatoes.

Apart from that, there are about 8-10 different types of Indian pickles (not the type of cucumber pickles we get here) which mom makes during summers, which are ready to use. Some of the most popular pickles are made from raw mango, goose berries, lemons, some sweet/some spicy. Pickles are prepared every summer in ceramic containers, and during the day, the container is covered with a Muslin cloth, kept in the blazing sun for it to cook slowly and evenly. After sundown, the pickle is given a quick stir and placed back in the sun the next day. This goes on for days until the pickle seems cooked. This method allows the pickles to have a good shelf life for the rest of the year. They are stored in ceramic containers specially made to store pickles.

These pickles and even the tomato chutney are eaten with a whole wheat thin bread called roti (a flat bread) which is an everyday item at home. My mom loves being a host, and when we have guests over for a party, these pickles are crowd pleasers!

Nisha is an artist and a mom to a 18 month old baby girl living in Erie. When she finds time she paints. She makes fresh, vibrant and colorful art keeping in mind the happy vibes that it will send when displayed. She and her husband are big time foodies and are both vegetarians. They love to cook extensively and indulge in cooking all kinds of cuisines. https://www.instagram.com/nishafineart/ https://m.facebook.com/nishafineart

ERIE AREA HAUNTINGS; SCARY (NOT SO) GOOD!

Erie Area Hauntings; Scary (not so) Good!

by John Small

It’s hard to say where Colorado’s northwest Front Range “paranormality” began, so let’s look at a more recent episode in the quiet town of Erie, Colo. last Halloween to be exact.

No, it’s not a prepubescent prank or a farout, facetious teenage trick-or-treat -gonewrong; this just may be why the “sleepy little”, comfortable, quaint town gets its name, at least in a manner of speaking. A couple of years back, I wrote a six-part series entitled “The Rich History of Erie” for ELIFE Magazine outlining the origins of the great town along with its surrounding areas, including those responsible for its creation. Forget the forefathers like the Van Valkenburgs from Erie, Pennsylvania, land of the Iroquois back in the late eighteen hundreds! (“Erie” is an old Iroquois word that means “animal with a long tail” - that in itself begs cautious attention).

Forget the alleged curse of the indigenous Native Americans or the eastern miners and myriad settlers’ invasion for other reasons, before during and after the town was platted.

Forget the tremendous transition between the great plains and the magnificent front range, as some call “perfect for the collision of the worlds of the paranormal and its spiritually dysfunctional souls” searching for a way to return to our world. Forget all of Network and Cable Television’s hype on anything but corporal that walks our earth. This is current and real; right in your backyard! Well, maybe a few over from yours, but in your town no less!

Speaking of hype, one of Erie’s residents recently claimed in 2018, that after buying a 1971 Oldsmobile Cotner Bevington Hearse he calls, “Betsy” to enhance the effect of a favorite holiday of his, namely Halloween (which by the way is my least, no “my bad” Groundhog Day beats Halloween backwards

for its completely inane nature) parked it on his driveway with its distinct faded black nose and distinct menacing chrome grill facing the street. His reason (or excuse) was that it’s fun and the kids like it. The car appeared with a pair of denim trousers sticking out of a closed hood with sneakers at the bottom as if the car’s hood abruptly and unexpectedly closed and killed the poor owner. Sure, somewhat creative and original, the scene does fit well with the all-but-normal aura of the “holiday”, which from pagan times marks the night wherein the souls of the departed have one last chance to intervene with those of the living, like it or not. I choose the “not”!

The spectacle, in my opinion lacks enough artistic flair, appearing considerably juvenile at best, by me, one who’s not a fan favorite of either the catastrophic calendar date or any of the horrible messages the awful non-holy day has forever sent to our nation for as long as it has. Don’t get me wrong - I’m a writer who has written more than a dozen short stories of the paranormal ilk, covered multiple stories from the wild and wacky “weird worlds” that surround us and truly believe in the powers of both the supernatural and the paranormal, one who has experienced more than most since I was five years-old and still does in either my waking or sub ambulatory “world”.

I’ve also read Steven King’s novel, “Christine” when it first hit the bookstores and multiple times have I watched the great film based on the harrowing story of an old 50’s Plymouth Fury that has an evil “mind” and behavior of its own, killing those she’s not happy with.

STRANGE THINGS Nonetheless, Halloween is a “celebration” of some of the most serious, scientifically unfounded events and everlastingly negative phenomena that only few of us can and will ever realize. The seemingly innocuous evening of candy collection and revel and rabble rousing holds much more than everyone realizes.

Think about it - it was Thanksgiving for multiple decades when children used to dress as ragamuffins and pretend to beg door to door for treats from those who could afford a real meal, morphing in the late thirties to Halloween with the dastardly “trick” attached.

Maybe in a future issue, big, bad, “buzz-kill” (and a little defensive) me will get into this more, but for now, let’s stick not with fiction but with fact, if indeed you believe in photographic evidence, of which I’m normally a bit doubtful.

Skeptic am I, but when evidence presents itself as the photos and film footage that a Channel 4 CBS Denver journalist contributed that day convinces me that something strange did appear in the front seat of that fated Fleetwood, I take notice. The image is hard to dispute, doors refusing to open with the same key that did operate them the day before or hood capriciously opening, notwithstanding.

I’ve seen hundreds (probably more over the years) of doctored if not more current photoshopped images, and from the angle and clarity of the young girl’s spirit in the captured shot, I’m convinced - horrendous Halloween or not! I only hope that if the owner has not yet disposed of that bad luck car he will after reading this, for as one of my all-time favorite groups, The Grateful Dead and co-founder genius, Jerry Garcia said, “If you plant ice, you’re gonna harvest wind!”. Or perhaps, let’s go south of the border, if you will, and choose to take heed from an older adage, “If you play with the bull, you’ll surely get the horns!”. That’s another “holiday”, “The Running with/of the Bulls” that I have a modicum of difficulty with concerning inanity and extreme danger. Inanity and danger a pretty bad combo there, don’t you think?

Either way, ghouls, ghosts and goblins are parts of our American fabric, regrettably at least for one night a year. God forbid we

break tradition or compromise the continuity of this annually longed-for celebration before a more serious one the day after, namely All Saints Day. Wasn’t it Emerson in his “Self Reliance” that said “foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of small minds!”? Therefore, let’s not take it too seriously or lightly for that matter. As Hamlet said to his so-called friend, Horatio, “... there are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy”. Look what that ghost did to the poor unsuspecting Prince of Denmark!

Don’t fool with the worlds of the unknown!

Be safe my friends! For those interested, Christmas and Easter are my favorites - I have yet to be harmed by a swaddling-clothed infant or a chocolate bunny - have you?

2020EyeVenue.com 720.405.2020

14676 Delaware St. Suite 400 Westminster