vlife magazine - life in the ridge and the pointe - Fall Edition 2011

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life in the ridge and the pointe fall 2011 autumn: a mean pumpkin risotto book nook: kristina’s picks health: when your kid’s backpack is too heavy glenn grassi: greener than green Denvhere magazine’s fashion week! vlife

description

vlife is a lifestyle magazine that celebrates local talent, businesses and people. It is chic, modern and stylistic.

Transcript of vlife magazine - life in the ridge and the pointe - Fall Edition 2011

Page 1: vlife magazine - life in the ridge and the pointe - Fall Edition 2011

life in the ridge and the pointe

fall 2011

autumn: a mean pumpkin risotto

book nook: kristina’s pickshealth: when your kid’s backpack is too heavy

glenn grassi: greener than green

Denvhere magazine’sfashion week!

vlife

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Editor in Chief:Trisha Ventker

Research Editor:Trisha Ventker

Graphic and Layout Designer:Trisha Ventker

Assistant Director and Projects:Tom Ventker

Columnists:Cori Ehrhart, Robb James, Joe Wilson, Chef Trusan, Kristina Leonard, Beth Harbaugh, Danny Hoeft, Jen Hoeft, Sherri Barksdale, Tom Ventker, Trisha Ventker, Michelle Edwards, Danica Jardien, Tristan Lewis, Dr. Lou Cavallo, Georgez Dabit, Sondra Parker,Rachel Lefort

vlife logo: Aaron Leonard

All Photography except noted otherwise has been taken by Trisha Ventker from Enchant and Inspire Photographic Art

Advertising SalesTrisha [email protected]

©Ventker Publications2011 All Rights Reserved

Cover models: Katie and Liam LeonardCover photo by Trisha Ventker © 2011

All photos on this page by Trisha Ventker © 2011

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vlife is produced quarterly. All material is strictly copyright and all rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without the written permission of the copyright

holder. Opinions expressed in vlife are not necessarily those of the publisher or editor. The publisher and editor do not accept any responsibility for advertising content. They do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of, or otherwise endorse these facts, views, opinions or recommendations. Any

images that are included in their ads and articles are supplied at the owners risk.

life in the ridge and the pointe

fall 2011

autumn: a mean pumpkin risotto

book nook: kristina’s picks

health: when your kid’s backpack is too heavy

glenn grassi: greener than green

Denvhere magazine’sfashion week!

vlife

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Editorial

The onset of Fall brings to mind cooler weather, yellow school buses, hot apple cider, pumpkins in the fields, bright red falling leaves and holidays around the corner. This Fall issue of vlife provides you with information about local talent, businesses and helps you plan ahead for an array of fun events. To highlight a few of our many informative columns; Sherri Barksdale’s Foodie column shares local Fall Festivals and great places to take the kids to pick pumpkins. Our new columnist, Sondra Parker highlights how to bring style into the home on a budget. You can ‘t drive past Erie without noticing Erie’s awesome airport. Robb James discusses how important our airport is for our economy and technology. Don’t miss the spotlight on Glenn Grassi, a humanitarian and true artist in every sense of the word. We also can welcome Rachel Lefort to our staff. Rachel, a fashion stylist provides easy ways to transform your summer wardrobe into Fall.

Many think that the season Spring is about new beginnings, but in my opinion the fall represents a profound sense of renewal. In my column, Soul, you can read how powerful our subconscious mind is and how it constantly talks to and effects us.

I am proud to provide this second issue of Erie’s own life-style magazine with the help of our local people who provide us with our informative and valuable columns and our business owners who are the heartbeat of the economy here. If you find this magazine helpful in connecting you to the many businesses, please let our advertisers know where you found them.

Together we are constantly working to help strengthen our local economy and community. Look around at our amazing town and capture the beauty of it. It is so special on so many levels and perhaps take a moment to celebrate a true Western Autumn.

Warmly,

T!"a Ventker

Editor in Chief

photo by © Tom Ventker 2011

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Content

technology: erie airport - one of erieʼs hidden gems18

spotlight: glenn grassi, greener than green30

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foodie: picking pumpkins36

nesting with style: with sondra parker 48

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Content

money: teaching kids to save early28

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real estate: best bang for your buck86

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book nook: a good book is like a good friend46

chef talk: autumn..a hypothetical destination38

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Content

word from the mayor: $10 million, spend it or spare it?15

sports: a new season is upon us 92

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health: what heavy backpacks can do to your childʼs spine63

beauty: the smokey eye76

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photo courtesy www.greatbigstuff.com

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Content

soul: what is your subconscious telling you?90

kids: welcome back to school56kids: jobs for our kids, our future58

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fitness: dance your way into shape66

body: 5 ways to guarantee fat loss64

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fashion: on the runway82

Content

editorʼs choice60

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Content

business: the right way24

style: the fall wardrobe72

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Message from Mayor Joe Wilson$10 million. Spend it or spare it?Do Erie’s Trustees and staff have access to news coverage? Are they sensitive to the national mood of citizens’ frustrated with the inability of government to simply live within their means? In a world where whole economies are being crashed by unchecked government spending, where immense subsidies have bankrupted whole countries and now no one gets anything, 2 burgeoning projects stand in front Erie’s struggle to balance her budget; - a $5million dollar request for a brand new police station, and another $5million for a state of the art skateboard park / recreation expansion. A Citizens Meeting will be held on October 13th to get input on these big capital projects.

Baseline:Erie’s total (forecast) revenue for its annual General fund budget has been clocking in at a bit over $12 million for the last 4 years, steady as she goes.Department budget requests to maintain existing facilities (with no expansions) will exceed revenues by roughly 2million this year. Trustees will be asked to grow spending, regardless of income. This will set a precedent in which cash reserves are depleted in a few short yearsAs our Municipal spending habits grow lavish. On that day, our absolute bare bones commitments may have grown beyond our ability to make our checks good. OOPS. The fix will focus on the two biggest factors on a budget; look for hefty property tax hikes & layoffs of all non essential town employees (if not a few essential ones, too). It ends like California, like Greece, like Portugal, New York state and Detroit… big hollow facilities with no means to support them. No one gets anything in the end, -they pretended the math wouldn’t matter, and it did.

Here’s a thought- To their credit, a majority of the Town Board is aggressively cutting red tape and creating an environment for our economy to grow. If we level off our spending to match our revenue, we can maintain the facilities and services we now enjoy (sustainable budgeting). As opposed to spending then looking for a means to support it, -let’s grow our economic orchard 1st, then decide where to spend the extra fruit, (Broomfield and Firestone models).Two choices: 1) Dessert first and dam the torpedoes… -or- 2) Grow it healthy and harvest the fruit repeatedly.

Let your Town Representatives know by dropping them a line, for or against balanced budgets and unfunded capital projects. The easy email is; [email protected] Be heard, after all, it’s your money, future, burden or benefit.

-Mayor Joe

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PROUDLY PRESENTS OKTOBERFEST 2011

www.spiritofflight.com 2650 S. Main St., Bldg. A Erie, CO 80516 (303)460-1156

Admission- $5 per person. Spirit of Flight is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. Museum, Simulator, Gift Shop and much more. Directions– Take HWY 7 to E. County Line Rd. (Erie),

go North 1/2 mile to S. Main St.. Look for the Big Green Hangar. (Museum is on the West side of the Erie Municipal Airport).

The Spirit of Flight Center invites you be a part of the INAUGURAL OKTOBERFEST Celebra-tion. Come join the fun!!! Saturday, OKTOBER 8th!

Saturday, October 8, 2011, 9AM-2PM- Spirit of Flight Center Car Show/Fly-In, Pancake breakfast, Beer Garden, Brats, Chile Cookoff, Band, FUN! Prizes for best car/motorcycle/plane. Car registration & setup– 8:00AM

Over 1000 artifacts are on display at the Spirit of Flight Center representing the past, present and future of flight. Come see history! Event admission is just $5.00 per person which includes museum tour. (SOF Members Free-Join today!) *Bring a ROD or Exotic car and get in for FREE! *Car show participation will be limited to show quality automobiles, hot rods and motorcycles. To be ICSA judged, there is a $10 registration fee which includes museum tour and entry into door prize drawings. First 20 registrations also receive a FREE pancake breakfast .

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technologyErie Airport – One of Erie’s Hidden Gems

by Robb James

New technology in aviation will enable more and more economic activity and opportunity at small, general aviation airports across the land.

Although the Erie Municipal Airport has already been successful in generating significant economic activity for Erie, the

opportunity that lies ahead is much greater.

To better understand the evolution and potential of the airport, it might be helpful to provide a brief history. The airport was developed and opened in the mid-70’s. It was a private airport with homes on the East side and limited commercial on the West side. In 1990, the FAA took notice of the little private air park and realized that Erie had a great location right in the middle of the Front Range and they invested $2M in a new runway while the airport was private.

The owners of the airport fell on hard times partly due to borrowing money for the FAA matching grant for the new runway and they ended up filing

bankruptcy. In 1992, the Town of Erie was able to buy the airport out of bankruptcy for free since the FAA put up

a grant for the purchase. The Town of Erie used an existing maintenance fund for part of the matching grant monies

and borrowed some. The Hurd family ran the airport for the next 20 years paying the Town of Erie a fixed fee to run the airport which proved very

successful for the Town of Erie. The Hurd family generated enough revenues

for the town to pay back the small loan so that the town could complete their free purchase of the airport plus also make positive income as well.

Today the Erie Municipal Airport is home to 240 airplanes and has 90,000 operations (take offs and lands) per year.

There are roughly 26 businesses now operating at the airport. One of the most recent businesses is a medi-vac

business for emergency helicopter transport. The airport generates 160 full-time jobs and is collectively the 3rd largest employer in Erie, CO. The Erie

Municipal Airport generates $12 million in economic activity for the local economy. More details are available via

www.EAEDC.com if you would like to read the detailed economic study.

Most do not realize that the Air Park

homes next to the Erie Municipal Airport only has about 15 of the 240 airplanes in Erie and only represents about 1.7% of the traffic at the airport.

Most of the traffic is generated via hangars on the West side of the airport from people who live in Erie, Boulder,

Broomfield and other cities and from businesses and via transient traffic from airplanes stopping through to get fuel

from around the country.Okay, enough history. The only

history that is applicable from here on out is the fact that the Hurd family ran

the airport for 20 years and now Vector Management, led by Jason Hurd just

signed a brand new agreement with the Town of Erie to management the airport. Jason is also president of Vector Air the local FBO(Fixed Base Operator).

Now let’s focus on technology and the bright future for small general aviation airports like Erie. Erie

Municipal Airport is already well positioned to do well being in Colorado in the middle of the country and in the

middle of the Front Range, a very popular destination and place to stop for fuel. Erie Airport is easy to get in and out of and is surrounded with busy

metro areas like Denver, Broomfield, Boulder, Fort Collins, Louisville just to name a few. Plus Erie Airport has world

class amenities with factory authorized service, brand new fuel tanks, crew car and great customer service. There is

plenty more for Erie to be proud of including our beautiful views, nearby championship golf course, beautiful subdivisions and the hundreds of acres of

developable land around the Erie Airport influence area. There is over 300 acres right around the airport and over a

thousand acres further East on Highway 7 that will eventually be developed and it will be a great benefit to Erie. The 900

acre Denver North development will host biotech companies that will require executive hangars at the Erie Municipal Airport.

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Okay, I forgot that I am supposed to be talking about technology. This is where technology comes in. There is a new generation of small aircraft that are enabling smaller general

aviation airports like Erie to reach further. There are VLJ’s(very light jets) that are making some progress but slowly then there are small

piston aircraft that are growing quickly. We call these plastic planes. They include Cirrus and Cessna Corvalis airplanes that are new, light-

weight composite airplanes that are very fast along with greater range.

The Cirrus and Cessna Corvalis airplanes are capable of reaching either coast from Erie.

This is a big deal. Erie is starting to host more and more of these aircraft which is generating fuel revenue, sales tax revenue and service

revenue as well. We have these aircraft flying in now from around the country for service or golf or for fuel and we are able to expose many of

these people to Erie by meeting them with red-carpet, and map of Erie and a crew car.

Erie will undoubtedly see more and more of these next-generation aircraft which will either be based in Erie and/or will be used for a charter/taxi service that flies in and out of Erie. The Erie

Airport will be a shining star for Erie in the coming years and most town officials are embracing the opportunity knowing that the

airport is a huge economic differentiator for Erie.If you are interested in seeing these next-

generation airplanes or if you would like a tour of

the Erie Airport, please call me. I would enjoy showing you and your family anytime.

In addition, if you have interest in learning to fly and would like to do so right here in Erie,

we can arrange to take you for a introductory flight to show you Erie from above and to provide an intro on learning to fly.

Please share your comments with me via [email protected]. I look forward to sharing your ideas in future columns.

About Robb James

Robb is married to Masako and just celebrated 10 years of marriage. Robb enjoys ‘being with Masako’, ‘being with

friends and family’, technology, golf, flying, participating in the betterment of Erie, meeting new people. Professionally,

Robb has helped to start several new technology companies and has helped telecom carriers build worldwide networks.

Robb also started a chain of tax preparation stores which was later sold to H&R experienced in land development.

More recently, Robb has focused on internet security and cybercrime, helping some of the largest cloud computing

companies secure their networks.

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YOURErie Municipal

AirportDid you know...

Fly Here!

The Erie Municipal Airport has an annual economic impact of more than

$12 millionon the local economy.*

Erie Municipal Airport: Bringing jobs, businesses, tax revenue and families to the Erie area. Call 303.325.7300 or go to www.eaedc.com for more information on what the Erie Municipal Airport does for Erie, Colorado.

The Erie Municipal Airport annually brings in

$4.4 millionin wages and salaries to Erie.*

The Erie Municipal Airport has the largest privately owned hangar complex

west of the Mississippi.

* according to 2008 CDOT Division of Aeronautics, Colorado Economic Impact Study 2008.

www.colorado-aeronautics.org

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er ie a ir port

There’s a growing number of light jets visiting Erie exposing executives to this great town in the middle of everything.

INVESTOR NEWSLETTER ISSUE N°3 FALL 2009ALL PHOTOS ON THIS PAGE BY ROBB JAMES FALL 2011

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Just recently movie optioned by

Paula WagnerProducer of “Mission: Impossible” l, ll, and IIl, “Vanilla Sky,” and “The Last

Samurai”

ISBN: 0-595-39115-X. www.Amazon.com and www.BarnesandNoble.com

*soon to be available as an E-Book!

Internet Dates From Hell

Perfect for Halloween or

for Holiday Gifts!

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CoWebConsulting.com

Now is The Time To Get Your Business Online-The Right Way!

CoWebConsulting.com - Local & International Internet Marketing Expert - "helping local businesses get more customers and clients using the Internet and doing it right." Consider today that you can either be a small fish in a huge ocean, yes your 'there' but your not going to be noticed...OR you can be a unique, attractive, impressive, well respected - TALKED ABOUT fish in that same ocean...AND you have all the relevant people directing others to you! This is the power of doing it right online.

Imagine if you're a small ice cream store in a big city or town and there are 10 other ice cream stores there competing with you. BUT, you've just got a brand new website, optimized to be Google, Bing and yahoo friendly. You have a consultant taking care of your social media, your Facebook presence to allow people to talk about you, get discounts and join the 'crowd' of people all talking about you and recommending you to others...imagine having all your pages online indexed so when people search for 'ice cream in 'your town' - you come up on page 1 instead of page 101.. You cannot get by with a website that just sits there never to be found. That's where we come in. Your expertise is your “business”-your service. Ours is getting businesses onto page 1 of Google and getting more customers to you and creating a real web presence so your advertising dollars actually become worthwhile...no longer wasted on paper ads, flyers, silly commercials or yellow pages ads.

How we can help

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Social Media Marketing

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Yes, today you need to use the Internet RIGHT The future is now and if you miss this boat your competitors won't. Here's a bit of free information about 'some' of the topics you will want to be using in your online marketing approach (we do this so you can focus on your strengths...)

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) - Are you having a hard time getting your website found by the search engines? Would you like to increase your internet sales by getting free, targeted prospects to your website? Don't want to pay thousands and thousands to have a "SEO Company" deliver mediocre results? Then ask away, and I'll unravel the mystery of SEO for you. I'll tell you everything you need to know to get your site ranked in the search engines, so you can get the customers that your business so desperately needs to survive in this economy.

Social Media Marketing - Let me ask you something. What are you doing, right now, to promote your business on facebook and twitter? I'm sure you've heard that there are millions of businesses in the United States alone that are using both of these social networks, some more successfully than others. Many businesses make the mistaken assumption that if they simply throw up a fan-page on facebook, and create a twitter account, they should be good to go. Then they wonder why they aren't getting any fans or followers, or why no one is responding to their awesome deals. Don't let that happen to you. With my advice, you'll be armed with the knowledge you need to dominate the social networks. I'll show you exactly how to set up your fan-pages and twitter accounts so that people will find you, and, more importantly, how to get your prospects to not only buy your products, but also to eagerly share your offers with their friends. Video Marketing - Did you know that YouTube is the #2 search engine, after Google itself? It's hardly surprising, when you think about it. With broadband internet becoming cheaper and cheaper, more and more households are switching to faster internet speeds. This means that videos can be viewed on the fly, without waiting for hours to download the video first. But why does this matter? Well, I'm sure you've seen (or at least heard of) self-help shows like "This Old House", or the cooking channel. People love to see exactly how to do something. So, with faster internet connections, they are now

searching YouTube not only for funny or cool videos, but also for videos that are educational and informative. I'll show you how to find out what people want to know, how to create videos on the cheap, and how to get the maximum exposure possible for your videos. Then, I'll show you how to turn casual viewers into loyal followers, and then how to turn those loyal followers into profitable customers.

Make a Request! - Truth be told, the above services I mentioned are but a small part of the knowledge I possess in the field of promoting online businesses with Internet Marketing Techniques. Yet, any one of these techniques alone could make millions for your business. But, there is much more I could reveal to you. For example, if your business doesn't have a website, I can tell you how to set one up easily and cheaply. Or, perhaps there is a particular branch of internet marketing that you are interested in. Just ask, and I'll tell you all you need to know to make it work for your business.

Ok, I hope that bit of info helped. I'm excited to tell you loads more and help your business move to the next level and really start to use the Internet to get more prospects and real clients and finally make the “online world” work for you!

Cheers & to your success!

Tristan

If you're interested, please email me with the

following details and we can see what we can

do:

DETAILS:

Your name.

The name of your business, and the product/services that your business sells.

Your preferred method of communication (email, telephone, skype, etc.) and your contact details.

Contact name is T Lewis. Once you email me, I will get back

with you as soon as I can (usually well within 24 hours of

receiving your request for information).

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© 2

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The RODS & WINGS calendar highlights aircraft, cars, and great looking gals that have attended events at the Spirit of Flight Center, a non-profit air museum located near Denver, Colorado.   Your purchase of the calendar helps the museum SAVE AVIATION HISTORY . 

Thank you!

About the Spirit of Flight Center - Hundreds of rare aviation items and artifacts are on display in the Spirit of Flight Center representing the past, present and future of flight. Our mission is to save and display aircraft and flight memorabilia to honor all veterans, and to educate the general public on the significance of aviation and aviation history. Come see

history at the Spirit of Flight!

To order calendars, visit the website: www.spiritofflight.com

Spirit of Flight Center 2650 S. Main St., Bldg. A ● Erie, CO  80516(303)460-1156 Ext. 21 ● Fax (303)464-7576

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRISHA VENTKER

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Top 5 Tools for Teaching Kids to Save Early By Michelle Edwards, CPA

Debt is rising and savings are dropping. The statistics are sad and it's a scary truth. Kids are not learning how to save and spend their money wisely. Kids watch parents spending on plastic every day. Kids watch money falling out of ATM's. Kids are learning that if you have plastic, you have money. The problem is that this is not how money works, plastic does not mean you have money. Adults work hard to earn money, we have bills to pay, and just because we have plastic does not mean we have money. Personal finances are usually not taught in most schools, so it's up to the parents to teach their kids about money. Most parents struggle with the topic of money. Some parents might view family finances as a personal matter whereas others may struggle with money issues and don't understand how to manage their own money. If you're looking for some help teaching your kids about money, here are 5 tools to teaching kids how to save at a young age.

You're Never Too Young to Save

Teaching kids about money and the importance of saving can start as young as a toddler. Get your toddler a piggy bank, or simply use a jar. They will get so excited to drop coins into their piggy bank. After a few weeks, open the piggy bank and let them see how much money

they've saved. This is a great way for little kids to watch their savings grow.

As your toddler grows up and heads to school, take them to the bank and help them set up a savings account. This allows you to teach the concept of interest (the bank pays you to store your money there) and gets your children started using and trusting banks. Check with your local bank, some banks offer savings accounts especially designed with kids in mind. Savings accounts are are the perfect place to save allowances, birthday money, and tooth fairy money.

Spending within Your Means

As your child continues to grow, they will discover that it's fun to buy things with their money. They will see something they can't live without and want to spend their savings. Instead of allowing your children to spend their entire savings on one purchase, teach them how to split up their money. Have a long term savings account (only to be used as savings and not for spending), a short term savings (an emergency fund or saving for their bigger purchases), and their daily spending portion.

Lori Mackey created the 10/10/10/70 concept and it's an interesting and structured way to help your kids get started. The 10/10/10/70 concept states that for every dollar your child earns, put 10% into a long term savings plans that saves for financial security, put another 10% into your emergency savings account, donate 10% to the charity of your child's choice, and then your child can spend the remaining 70%. This model will

teach your kids how to live within their means and not to live paycheck to paycheck. Yes, it might take longer to save for the special item but this is a valuable lesson to learn and will benefit your children for years to come!

Time Value of Money

Kids have the value of time on their side. They can invest a little bit of money today and with the awesomeness of compounding interest, this little bit of money will turn into millions when they are old. Learn this formula and teach it to your kids. It's worth more than you realize.

Time + Money + Compounding= Wealth Talk to your kids about starting a Roth IRA. My dad tried and tried to convince me this was a good idea when I was in high school. Retirement seemed way too far away so I was not to excited to invest my summer wages to benefit me when I was 65. However, looking back on it, I wish I had followed my dad's advice. I would be so much closer to my retirement goals!

Dangers of Credit

Money does not grow on trees or fall from the sky. Money does not drop from ATM machines. Money does not always come from mom & dad. Money is hard earned and we work hard for it. Unfortunately, kids today usually only see their parents buying with plastic. So they quickly associate plastic means money, which is not the case. Just because you have a credit card does not mean you have money. It is important to teach your kids about credit cards.

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A simple idea to is to invite your kids to help you pay your charge card bills. Sit down and review the bills with them. Ask them questions and get them involved. How did they feel when they purchased the item? Do they still have the item? Are they still getting enjoyment from the item? How does it feel to pay for it after the fact? Don't forget to teach them about interest and that your purchases cost 20% more if you don't pay your bill on time.

Credit is not always bad and for most people it's a way of life. Another important lesson is to teach your children how to borrow within their means. When your children need something right now and they can't wait, when you feel it's appropriate lend them the money. Keep in mind, the lesson only works if both kids and parents are in on this lesson together. Set up credit terms and have the children adhere to the terms - set up a payment schedule (weekly, monthly, etc.), pay parents back in full according to the payment schedule (plus interest if you'd like), and have the kids make timely payments. Sometimes you will have to tell your kids no. There will be a time they want an item they can not afford, even with credit. These lessons teach kids how to borrow within their means. Do not let your kids have credit cards. It doesn't matter that their friends have credit cards or debit cards. It does not matter that they feel they “need” it to buy things. Just say no. Borrowing from mom and dad allows the parents to be involved with their children's spending habits, allows parents to be a teacher, and it keeps

kids out of financial troubles at a young age.

Let them Learn from You

The best lesson of all is by watching mom and dad. Many people are reserved about sharing their financial situation. It's ok to tell your kids that they are not to talk about your financial position with anyone else. It's family business and does not get shared with anyone else. By showing your kids the family budget, how much money comes in, how much is spent on bills, how much goes to savings every month, how much is invested for retirement, etc. is a great way for kids to see a real world example of the importance of savings. Even if your personal finances are not pretty, your kids can learn from your mistakes. Talk to your kids about your financial goals, about your mistakes, about tips you've learned, etc. Maybe together you and your children can learn better ways to manage money. You have the power to teach them how to save and spend wisely. Whether you like it or not, your kids look up to you and learn from you. Don't be afraid to teach your kids about money. Money is important and everyone needs it. Teach your children that money does not buy happiness nor does it define who you are. Money is used to pay bills and can be used for entertainment and hobbies. Learning at a young age how to save and spend wisely will provide your children with some tools to help them have a better financial future.

About the Author:

photo by Iman Woods

Michelle Edwards, CPA is a CFO turned consultant.  Her passion is helping small and mid-sized businesses with their day-to-day accounting, bookkeeping, QuickBooks, virtual CFO, payroll, and human resource headaches. As the owner of Trailhead Accounting Solutions CPA, LLC, an Erie, CO home based business, she enjoys teaching her clients a bit of accounting along the way. When she's not crunching numbers she enjoys hiking, remote camping, quilting, and hanging out with her family here in Vista Ridge.

CIRCULAR 230 DISCLOSURE: Any tax information on this site is not intended or written to be used and cannot be used by a taxpayer for the purpose of (i) avoiding tax penalties that may be imposed on the taxpayer or (ii) promoting, marketing, or recommending any transaction or matter to another person. The Certified Public Accountant designation does not constitute any professional engagement between the reader and the writer and is not applied to information contained on this website.

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glenn grassi: greener than

greenby trisha ventker30

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glenn grassiA few months back I was at the Erie Balloon Fest helping out our mayor Joe Wilson I stumbled upon Glenn Grassi. Mayor Joe had tapped my arm to get my attention as he filled me in about this talented guy that I was about to meet. Glenn was circulating around the Erie Coalition of Arts i n d o w n t o w n E r i e a n d I immediately felt at home with Glenn. Not knowing why at first, I thought perhaps since he was an artist, much like myself, until later in the conversation I discovered he was originally from New Jersey. What I appreciate about fellow East Coasters is their directness.

Glenn at first wanted to know what I was selling. After chuckling, I informed him that I was not selling anything , but giving. I mentioned this magazine and told

him I wanted to highlight the amazing talent in our community. After a bit of smalltalk about the purpose of the magazine, Glenn agreed to let me interview him.

His latest project is a self sustaining micro home that can function off the grid. His first micro home measures 7’ x 12” and sleeps one plus a large dog..It comes with a wood burning s tove , so l a r power and a composting facility.

Last year he left a position as the Technical Director of Northglenn Youth Theatre where he won two awards for Outstanding Set Design for Beauty and the Beast and James and the Giant Peach. His sets were made mostly from recycled materials.

As we continued to chat, I found out that he also lived in LA at one point and had stage managed working with countless celebrities including Robin WIlliams, Drew Carey and Dan Castelanetta. He spent five years running shows and doing sets for movies.

Glenn represents a modern day Robinson Crusoe mixed with Thomas Edison. He’s the type of guy you wouldn’t mind being on his team on Survivor.

self-sustaining

micro homes

Glenn’s self-sustaining micro homes are made out of up-cycled materials and green technology. His first complete one measures in at 7’ x 12’. It sleeps 1 plus a large dog and has a wood burning stove, solar power and a composting facility. Each will have its own unique style and amenities and will be priced for the average person to own.

glenn grassi

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altruistic art and

outstanding set designs

Glenn has been doing sets and props for var ious theaters around the Denver area for many years. He worked on the long-term show, “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now change” at the Denver Performing Ar ts Center and for Disney’s “Lion King.” Grassi won two awards for Outstanding Set Design for “Beauty and the Beast” and “James and the Giant Peach.” His sets tend to be mostly made

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stage managing

and entertainmentA move to LA brought Grassi to work in the entertainment field. He worked alongside countless celebrities and worked on p r o d u c t i o n s a t T h e Hollywood Improv and Second City, LA.

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FOODIE: FALL FARMS by Sherri Barksdale

F A L L

Farm Festivals on the Front Range

horter days and cooler temperatures tell us Fall is here. It’s time for pumpkin patches, corn mazes, apple picking, and hay rides.

Farms all across the Front Range offer Farm Festivals, with attractions and fun for all ages.

Anderson FarmErie, Colorado

Anderson Farms is home to Colorado’s longest running corn maze and pumpkin patch Anderson’s Fall Festival is probably best known for its thirty-acre corn maze, but there is something here for everyone. Take a tractor-pulled hayride out to the pumpkin patch. Watch the Pumpkin Launcher shoot pumpkins up to a quarter of a mile. Keep the kids busy with pedal-karts, a barrel train ride, face painting, or let them pet and feed the animals. Visit the Farm store for apple butter, home decorations, toys, and other novelties. Scare yourself silly at Terror in the Corn, a night-time haunted hayride through the corn maze to a deserted ghost town. Anderson Farms Fall Festival runs daily from September 24 – October 31, 2011. For the latest hours, pricing, and directions, see the farm website.

Website: http://www.andersonfarms.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AndersonfarmsCO

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/AndersonFarms

Cottonwood FarmsBoulder, Colorado

Even if you only have an hour to spare, you can enjoy everything Cottonwood Farms has to offer. Stop in to see the farm animals and vintage farm equipment, try the hay and corn mazes, and purchase fall decorations such as pumpkins, gourds, hay bales and corn stock bundles. Be sure your camera is fully charged because there are great photo opportunities everywhere you look. Admission is free. Weekend hayrides are $3 a person. Cottonwood Farms is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. September 24 – October 31, 2011. They are located at the corner of 75th and Arapahoe. See the website for more information.

Website: http://cottonwoodfarms.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cottonwood-Farms/190439190998906

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/cottonwoodfarms

S

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Fall Frolic

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About Sherri: Sherri lives in Erie, Colorado with her husband Tim and their two children. She

worked in the software industry for ten years, and is currently enjoying being a

full-time mom. Sherri’s passions are writing, photography, and local food. Sherri

earned a B.A. in Political Science and History from Seattle Pacific University.

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Miller FarmsPlatteville, Colorado

Visit a local Farmers’ Markets, and you’re sure to run into a Miller Farms booth. Their tables display colorful organic produce from Spring to Fall. During the Fall Harvest Festival, you can visit Miller Farms and pick your own vegetables. A tractor-pulled wagon ride takes you through 180 acres of fields. You’ll stop several times to fill your bags with potatoes, carrots, onions, beets, pumpkins, Indian corn, and more. Miller Farms has a large play area, a petting zoo, a corn maze, and several picnic areas. For the latest hours, pricing, and directions, see the website.Miller Farms Fall Festival runs from September 5 – November 15, 2011.Website: http://www.millerfarms.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MillerFarmsCO

Rock Creek FarmBroomfield, ColoradoIf pumpkins are your priority, be sure to visit Rock Creek Farm. At the entrance, you will be handed a pair of pruning shears with a set of instructions. Then you are directed to over 100 acres of pumpkin patch, where you can cut your pumpkins off the vine. Many of the pumpkins are right along the road, providing an easy trip back to the car. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can walk further out into the fields to find your perfect pumpkin. There are three corn mazes, a hay maze, and farm animals. Stop into the store for gourds, Indian corn, caramel apples, and more.For latest hours, pricing, and directions, see the website. Rock Creek Farm opens September 24th; weather permitting.Website: http://rockcreekfarm.com/Default.aspxFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rock-Creek-Farm/112691738789563Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/rockcreekfarm

Sunflower FarmsLongmont, ColoradoSunflower Farms is open for Kids’ Farm Fest during September and October. Attractions include pony rides, a horse-driven hayride, farm animals, giant tree houses, a tricycle and scooter riding area, a hen house and more. Kids can try out the extra long tire swings, the zipline, or the hay maze for some extra excitement. For latest hours, pricing, and directions, see the website. Website: http://sunflowerfarminfo.com/kids_farmfest.htm

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After surviving a harsh cold winter that seemed to instantly turn into a blistering hot summer, Autumn balances out the seasons with warm days and cool nights. The air becomes brisk and crisp and the sun is rising later and setting earlier. Shorter daylight lends itself for family and friends to enjoy backyard fire pits and

perhaps an occasional bon fire. (City and County permitting of course.) Here in Colorado, it is traditionally the last weekend in September when the Aspen leaves turn gold in which shortly after they flutter down to blanket the ground for the Winter.

Autumn is my favorite season. The hustle and bustle of Summer is coming to a close and it reminds me of a James Taylor lyrics: *“The frost is on the pumpkins and the hay is in the barn.” I spontaneously think of jack-o-lanterns, pumpkin pies and hay rides. So many pumpkins, so little time!

Autumn...A “Hypothetical Destination”* by Chef Trusan

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Pumpkin and Wild Mushroom Risottoby

TrusanServes 6Ingredients:

3 TBS Olive Oil1 LG Shallot (finely diced)3 Cups Risotto (Arborio rice)1 Cup Dry White Wine2 Qts. Chicken or Veggie Stock (hot)1 Can Pumpkin3 LG. Portabello Mushrooms1/3 Stick Unsalted Butter3/4 Cup Fresh Grated Parmesan to taste Salt and Pepper (S&P) Fresh Italian Parsley to garnishProcedure:

Pre-heat oven to 400f. Remove black gills from Portabello mushrooms and slice into strips. Coat with a little bit of olive and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast till tender (about 10-12 min.) Remove from oven and hold. Dice the roasted mushrooms when cool. Coat bottom of casserole pan with 2 TBS. Olive oil and heat to medium high. Add shallots and sauté till clear. Add risotto and roast in pan for approx. 2-3 min. Deglaze with wine. Add hot stock a ladle full at a time when all the liquid is absorbed by the risotto. Stir frequently with wooden spoon. Repeat this till the risotto still has the slightest crunch in the middle of the grains (Al Dente).

When risotto is al dente:

Add the butter, Portabello Mushrooms, pumpkin and parmesan. Stir just till mixed and creamy. Add S&P to taste remembering that the parmesan is salty already. Garnish and serve.

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Candied Pumpkin(Calabaza en Dulce)

byTrusan

Ingredients:

2 1/2 lbs. Pie Pumpkin –NOT Jack-O-Lantern (after peeled and seeded and cut into strips)4 Cinnamon Sticks8 Cloves (whole)1 Orange (Zest and juice)4 TBS Butter3 –4 Cones Piloncillo (brown sugar cones available in Mexican section of grocery store or Mexican

Markets) or substitute with: 1 3/4cup dark brown sugar and 1/4 cup molasses. 8 Cups Fresh Cold Water

Procedure:

Cut pumpkin in half, remove stem and scoop out seeds and stringy parts on the inside. Wash the seeds and dry on a sheet pan for roasting later. Don’t dry them on a paper towel, they will stick to the towel and will be a mess to deal with.

With a sharp knife, lay the pumpkin cut side down on a cutting board and carefully cut off the outer skin. (Save the skin, stem and stringy part for your compost pile.) Now cut the raw pumpkin into bite size pieces and hold.

Put all other ingredients in a deep heavy pot and bring to a boil. I use a cast iron Dutch Oven. You could also use something like a Le Creuset, or any deep casserole dish that you can put on the stovetop.

After the piloncillos (or brown sugar and molasses) have dissolved, slowly add the pumpkin pieces and simmer for around 2 – 2-1/2 hours or until the pumpkin is tender and the sugar mixture has reduced to a thick glaze. You might have to add more water if it evaporates before the pumpkin is tender. You can bob the pumpkin pieces a bit at first to coat them, but do not stir, that will make the pumpkin all mushy.

Let cool then place each piece (with tongs) on a wire rack that is suspended over a bowl so the excess sugary glaze drips off. Repeat until all the pumpkin slices are as goo free as possible. Refrigerate or bring to room temperature and serve.

* Lyrics from the title track of James Taylor’s 1975 album “Walking Man”

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Trusan has been involved in the culinary world since 1984.  He has worked with world-class chefs including: Karen Johnson-Kennedy (Kilgore Trout’s -  Evergreen), John Schenk (J. Wms.-Denver /

Evergreen), and Mark Ellman (Avalon, Maui Tacos, Penne Pasta - Maui).  In addition to being owner/chef of his own café - coffee house: “A Freudian Sip”, Trusan has

worked at fine dining establishments such as J.Wms, Kilgore Trout’s, Café Ronchetti, Briarwood and Basils.  Currently, Trusan teaches “The Spirit of Cooking” and “Grills Gone Wild” at Colorado Free University, Denver and offers private, in-home cooking classes and personal chef services.

Trusan believes that food, "done right" is a true sensual experience that nourishes and delights the mind, body, and spirit.  The main ingredients in all his dishes are Intention, Attention, and Inspiration. Trusan emphasizes inspiration, adding creative but sensible twists to traditional

recipes, creating culinary delights around seasons and themes.

Above all, Trusan insists on quality - by using fresh, local, seasonal, and organic ingredients whenever possible.  The outcome is always a delicious, nutritious and colorful culinary experience.

For more information, contact Trusan at:Trusan Cuisines • 303-517-6225

Meet Chef Trusan

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About Kristina Leonard

Kristina Leonard, a professor of communication and English literature, has been teaching college for 18 years. Kristina acquired a Master of Arts in

Journalism and Mass Communication; and another , a Master of Science in teaching

English literature and composition. She’s also a seven-year resident of Vista Ridge. She can be located at local coffee

shops, Metropolitan State College of Denver and various bookstores in the Denver Metro area. Kristina

is mom to two school aged children and is married to graphic

designer, Aaron Leonard.

 

With the summer coming to a close, it might be time to put away all those fun, lighter novels or…not. Is reading ever seasonal? Should summer be the only season filled with escapist fare?I am not sure all of my summer reading was lighter though I do remember a Janet Evanovich/Stephanie Plum novel being somewhere in the mix, but instead, this was a summer of re-reading many favorite books. Some withstood the test of time and others reminded me that my tastes have evolved a bit. Maybe I even gained some long overdue taste in reading materials. Without further ado, here’s a list of books to enjoy this fall:Those missing a good mystery will enjoy The Sherlockian by Graham Moore. In a nutshell, a leading Sherlockian expert is brutally murdered at (you guessed it) a Sherlock Holmes convention forcing one determined subject matter expert to solve the mystery. The modern day tale is interwoven with an engaging account of what might have transpired in the years when Arthur Conan Doyle dared to kill off his popular character before eventually resurrecting him.If you’re longing for a good readable young adult series in the manner of the Hunger Games trilogy or the Twilight series, Scott Westerfeld has more than one.First check out the Uglies trilogy of books (which actually consists of four books) where physical imperfections are summarily wiped away at age 16 years of age leaving the characters with a new set of problems once they are “pretties.”If the past is more your style, look over his fun, steam punk take on WW1 in the engaging “Leviathan” series, a far cry from All Quiet on the Western Front.

BOOK NOOKfall edition

by Kristina Leonard

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“You know you've read a good book when you turn

the last page and feel a little as if you have lost a friend.”

-Paul Sweeney

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Historical fiction fans will enjoy Mary Sharratt’s The Daughters of t h e W i t c h i n g H i l l w h i c h demonstrates what cunning women did to survive in the early 1600s Pendle witch hunt, an event I knew next to nothing about. Thanks to Carol Mayfied for this suggestion.

Suspense readers who have not yet discovered Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs will be rewarded with a great first person account of one man’s journey to learn more about his late grandfather’s past only to realize nothing is as it seems.

Lost Generation lovers will enjoy The Rules of Civility by Amor Towles featuring smar t, snappy dialogue often uttered by twenty-something protagonist Katey Kontent as she navigates love and career during the pre-World War II years in New York City.

Finally, I am looking forward to reading my first non-fiction title in weeks - - -Lau r a H i l l enbr and ’s Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption a n d t h a n k y o u f o r t h e recommendation, Jen Curry.

Whatever you read and whenever you read, please keep this quotation from Paul Sweeney in mind: “You know you've read a good book when you turn the last page and feel a little as if you have lost a friend.”

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nesting with styleby sondra parker

We started looking for a house almost two years ago.  It needed to be not too far from Denver, Boulder or the Ski areas.  We zeroed  in on a large area Longmont to WinterPark.  After almost a year of searching we zoned in on Lafayette and Louisville.  Our decision was definite that Erie was out of the running.  However a particular house in Vista Ridge kept me curious. Last September we made an appointment to see two houses in the neighborhood.  And the minute we walked in the door of the house I had my eye on we knew this was the one.  The next day we made an offer and closing was 40 days later.  

We love it!  And know that we made the right choice.  The things we wanted: a community, caring neighbors,activities for the kids and house that worked for our family, we found here.Now, the challenge has been making our house our home; on a budget.  And creating a garden and a beautiful yard in clay!  In  Nesting with  Style I will share stories of how we have made this work and how I have helped others have upscale style on a budget.  I will also answer readers questions on design challenges.  If you have a question about the best color,furniture layout or even creative design solutions simply submit pictures along with your question to the editor and I will respond to10 readers a quarter and publish some of the solutions in my article. 

A big dilemma for us the first year was how to design our vegetable garden.  I started by thinking big.  What was my dream vegetable garden.  I drew plans for a  partir garden with stone walls, sculpture, irrigation,  fruits and vegetables.  I had landscape companies come and bid the job and after the $10,000 average bids came in, I began thinking of alternate solutions.  By then I realized that the clay soil was not going to be our only obstacle in the path the the perfect tomato.  We discovered the rabbits!  However an affordable solution quickly came to mind and it did not even require HOA approval because it

was container gardening. Only the largest containers would work to allow a strong root system for our squash and swiss chard so we used horse troughs.  And four months later, I can say they have worked almost perfectly. 

This is how we did it:  We started by finding a level area in our yard that would provide full sun most of the day.  Then contacted the HOA to confirm we were not violating any rules.  We searched locally and online for the right size containers(which were ultimately purchased from Murdoch's).  When the troughs arrived we used a metal drill bit to drill holes in the bottom to allow for proper drainage.  Then ran the drip line hose through the existing large drainage hole on the side, filled the first 8” with gravel for more drainage and to ensure when the soil freezes in the winter the entire trough will not expand and break,then a layer of landscape tarp so the soil does not drain into the gravel, then soil, compost and drip line.  

The result has been a harvest from 12 varieties of heirloom tomatoes, four batches of rainbow swiss chard each planted from seed a week apart, pattypan squash, zucchini, red beet spinach, strawberries and a full herb garden.  As you can see from the pictures, some plants did better than others.  But for the first season this experiment proved highly successful.  We have some changes to make for next year and many things we will do the same. However I would highly recommend this solution to anyone dealing with rabbits and bad soil.  We have not had one item with a nibble in it. And the garden is still accessible for the kids to eat a pear tomato while playing in the yard. While many might think the galvanized containers are very modern, I feel they look perfect with our traditional stucco home.  And our neighbors are happy to see our thriving vegetable garden.

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About Sondra

Sondra lives in Vista Ridge with the love of her life Greg and their two children.  She works as an interior designer and artist .Her work can be seen in Galleries in the Metropolitan Area.  For interior design services please contact Sondra at [email protected] or check out her

art at : www.sondrasart.com

photos on this page: © Sondra Parker 2011

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photo of Sondra: © Trisha Ventker 2011

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BACK TO SCHOOLKIDS

WELCOME BACK TO SCHOOL

Another school year has begun at Black Rock Elementary. It is going to be such an exciting year for the kids at the school as well as the entire Vista Ridge Community.

WELCOME TO OUR CHINESE TEACHER, MS WU JING

St Vrain is so proud and excited to welcome new staff additions from China that have arrived to teach the kids Mandarin Chinese. Knowing that the world have become an international and global landscape, it is an exciting time for our community to have the opportunity to learn first-hand about the Chinese language as well as about the culture of China. Black Rock Elementary is pleased to welcome our Chinese teacher, Wu Jing! She arrived almost two weeks ago from the city of Chongqing and is excited to provide Chinese instruction for our children. Wu Jing teaches English to students in China, so she is very interested in perfecting her English and learning more about American culture and our school system, while teaching us about China and introduce us to Mandarin Chinese.

Our school will offer both Spanish and Chinese instruction. There are currently more people in China who speak English than there are English speakers in the United States. Mandarin Chinese is projected to be a primary language of the business world in the near future. We are fortunate to be able to expose our students to the languages and cultures of both China and Latin America. Chinese and Spanish will play an integral part in preparing our students to face an increasingly global society and provide them with an advantageous social tool in the workplace while fostering their appreciation for cultural diversity.

ABOUT BETH

Beth Anne Harbaugh is a mother with two boys, a pre-schooler who attends Red Hawk Elementary and a 3rd grader who attends Black Rock Elementary. She is an experienced Marketing and Public Relations Professional with over fifteen years of experience. In addition, shespends the rest of her time volunteering at the boys school; on their PTO Board and in their classrooms.

Throughout her career, she has been involved with all aspects of marketing, from media relations, event planning, promotions, strategic planning to creation and design of presentations, web sites and printed materials. Before embarking on her career, Beth earned a degree in Communications and Public Relations at Rowan University in New Jersey, where she worked as an event planner for student events, including concerts, multiple MTV TV programs, prominent comedians and various festivals.

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by Beth Ann Harbaugh

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KIDS

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UPCOMING READ-A-THON

The Black Rock Elementary PTO is very excited to announce plans for our 3rd annual Read-a-thon! The Read-a-thon will run from Monday, September 12 through Friday, September 23, with pledges due by Friday, October 7th. The Read-a-thon is a program that brings students together with family and friends to encourage reading and to build literacy skills. With the power of being able to read, nothing is beyond your grasp. Reading can magically take you to faraway places, you can climb mountains, tame lions, sail a boat around the world, travel through time, or even learn to become a wizard! The main focus of the Read-a-thon is to raise funds for the Black Rock Elementary PTO. The PTO supports the school financially in numerous ways: technology, special in-school events, money for teachers to purchase much needed supplies, and more.

For the 2011Read A Thon, we have set a goal of $12,000 raised! This goal can be achieved by securing sponsors who can choose to pledge per minute of reading time, or they can pledge a set amount for the Read-a-thon. Participants may read on their own or with family or friends. Listening to someone else read, in any language, or reading to someone else also counts. Would you like to support our kids? Please contact us through our website www.brepto.com for more information and how to support the Read-a-thon.

We understand that, we all hold high expectations for the quality of education our kids receive during the school day. By encouraging our children to participate in the Read-a-thon, we are expanding upon this learning and taking it into our home, increasing the school’s effectiveness. The Read-a-thon will help our children develop a lasting love of reading, and a lifetime of learning.

We would like to thank our community for supporting our school. Black Rock Elementary is a proud member of the St Vrain School System and joins the other Erie elementary schools; Red Hawk Elementary and Aspen Ridge Charter School. We are so lucky to have such good options for our kids’ education and appreciate the community support that we continue to receive. Your support helps us provide the outstanding education and unique opportunities that the Black Rock Students have the privilege to receive.

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Jobs for Our Kids, Our Future

With the passing of genius and Apple architect Steve Jobs, I was faced with a surprising level of grief--and a serious ʻteachable momentʼ I could share with my two middle school kids.

“Hand me the Kleenex, Emilie,” I sniffed, “And go get your brother, David. I want to talk to you two.”

My daughter returned with her sibling, and an economy-sized bucket of tissues for me to rip through. I proceeded to have them sit, then I launched into my Version of How the World Began.

“In the beginning, far far away in the land of California, there were only orange groves and redwood trees,” I told them.

“This isnʼt the one about urban sprawl and the Silicon Valley again, is it Mom?” David asked.

I shot him a look, blew my nose, and continued.

“Fine, letʼs cut to the chase. Back in the day, er, my day, no one had computers. No one. Not even a cell phone. No texting, no Nintendo, no iTunes, no iPad-- the only ʻiʼs we had were in our head!”

Both kids shivered audibly.

“It gets worse. We had to use pen and paper and mail things through the postal system!”

“Can I go to the bathroom?” David got up, “I think Iʼm gonna be sick.”

“Sit down, will you. All of this leads me to a very critical point.”

They looked at me, mouths open, as if I was showing them where fire came from--or how the lint trap worked-- and they wouldnʼt be far wrong.

“Steve Jobs was one of the founding fathers of the technology revolution. The electronic devices that you take for granted everyday-- he, for sure, had something to do with them. If he didnʼt invent them, he certainly impacted the people who did. Itʼs something to think about.”

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They sat there for a minute, staring, giving the impression of thinking, but at this point it didnʼt matter as much if they were thinking about Steve Jobs, what they were going to eat in an hour, or even what they were going to wear to school tomorrow. The fact is that Jobs had paved their lives in such a way that they didnʼt have to think-- his brand, his inventions, his contributions and sheer proliferation had afforded them the luxury of near-constant satisfaction. Like an intravenous drip. Theirs was Generation i-- impulsive, intuitive, instant, integrated and with infinite possibilities. It felt important to me that they understand and appreciate the consequences of someone elseʼs hard work. More than that-- that they take this amazing ball of promise and run with it--what Jobs had set in motion they should continue to achieve.

It was also a lesson in heroes. Jobs was not without his faults, but at his essence was a man who believed in... doing. Great ideas demanded no less in action, and his attention to detail made the difference between having good thoughts and “insanely great” accomplishments. Most every child is born with innate curiosity and the willpower to achieve those first steps of life; as parents, it is incumbent upon us to continue encouraging that creativity, that longing to explore our world and to help ensure that our youngsters donʼt lose sight of their own remarkable gifts.

Steve Jobs was not born with a computer. He invented one.

I got up, tossed the empty box of tissues into the recycling, and asked my kids if they had any questions.

“Can I get on the computer, Mom, to research my science project about trees?” David asked.

What would Steve Jobs do?

“Not right now, honey. Go outside and take a walk-- look around you-- your answers are right there, youʼll see...”

Britta Wilder

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INFANT         TODDLER     PRESCHOOL     PRE-­‐K     JR.  KINDERGARTEN  

 

 

 

The  Goddard  School  of  Erie  is  located  at  the    intersection  of  Hwy  7  and  Mountain  View  Boulevard,  

across  from  Anthem.              

For  more  information  call    (303)828-­‐5202  or  visit  our  website  at  www.goddardschool.com  

 

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Old Town Louisville (Main Street)

Saturday, October 29th 2011Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)

Saturday, October 29th 2011Saturday, October 29th 2011Saturday, October 29th 2011Old Town Louisville (Main Street)

Saturday, October 29th 2011Saturday, October 29th 2011Saturday, October 29th 2011Old Town Louisville (Main Street)

Saturday, October 29th 2011Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)

Saturday, October 29th 2011Old Town Louisville (Main Street)

Saturday, October 29th 2011Saturday, October 29th 2011Old Town Louisville (Main Street)

Saturday, October 29th 2011Saturday, October 29th 2011Old Town Louisville (Main Street)

Saturday, October 29th 2011Old Town Louisville (Main Street)

Saturday, October 29th 2011Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)

Saturday, October 29th 2011Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)

Saturday, October 29th 2011Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)

Saturday, October 29th 2011Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)

Saturday, October 29th 2011Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)Old Town Louisville (Main Street)

Saturday, October 29th 2011Old Town Louisville (Main Street)

Saturday, October 29th 2011

3:00pm - 5k Race/Walk 3:45pm - Kids races4:30pm - Awards and Contests5:00pm - Town Trick or treating

Check out the details at:

Register Today on the website or at:

www.PreRace.comSchedule:

Old Town Louisville (Main Street)

Saturday, October 29th 2011 3pm

PrizesMusic,

Business trick-or-treating Pumpkin carving

ALL Ages Welcome- FAMILY Friendly!

www.MonsterDashRun.com

3:00pm 5k Race/Walk 3:45pm Kids Races4:30pm Contest/Awards4:30pm- 6:00pm Downtown Trick- or- treating at local businesses

(303) 926-101762

Page 63: vlife magazine - life in the ridge and the pointe - Fall Edition 2011

Louis Cavallo, DCCavallo Chiropractic1930 North Main Street Suite BLongmont, Colorado 80501p: (303) 678-8555www.cavallochiropractic.com

HEALTHB Y D R . L O U C A VA L L O D C

2 0 1 1 F A L L E D I T I O N

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It is back to school time, much to the chagrin of your children. For parents. this is this time of year that school supplies will be purchased. One of the most important back to school supplies is a backpack. Statistics say more than 40 million students carry backpacks. overloading and poor positioning of back packs is a leading cause of back and shoulder pain in children.

According to the American Chiropractic Association, the following steps can help:

1. Make sure your child’s backpack weighs no more than 5 to 10 percent of his or her body weight. A heavier backpack will cause your child to bend forward in an attempt to support the weight on his or her back, rather than on the shoulders, by the straps.

2. The backpack should never hang more than four inches below the waistline. A backpack that hangs too low increases the weight on the shoulders, causing your child to lean forward when walking.

3. A backpack with individual compartments helps in positioning the contents most effectively.

4. Make sure that pointy or bulky objects are packed away from the area that will rest on your child’s back.

5. Bigger is not necessarily better. The more room there is in a backpack, the more your child will carry and the heavier the backpack will be.

6. Urge your child to wear both shoulder straps. Lugging the backpack around by one strap can cause disproportionate shift of weight to one side, leading to neck and muscle spasms, as well as low-back pain.

7. Wide padded straps are very important. Non-padded straps are uncomfortable, and can dig into your child’s shoulders.

Page 64: vlife magazine - life in the ridge and the pointe - Fall Edition 2011

5 Ways to Guarantee Fat Loss Whilst Keeping Valuable Lean MuscleToday I wanted to give you five quick but essential fundamentals or tips to fully realizing your fat loss goals.  But also as well as losing the stubborn fat and getting on the path to the body you want, these 5 also mean you preserve the valuable lean muscle that in effect is your body's fat burning furnace and the reason you actually blast calories at all. So below I give you the 5 that if understood and made a part of your fitness lifestyle will not fail to deliver you results.

NUMBER 1:  Keep Your Fitness Sessions Short! (But Very Sweet)

I am a big fan of Intensity Training.  My classes and bootcamps are structured around this.  You see the longer a person works out the lower the intensity level drifts.  During peak effort you are working in intensity levels that produce results, but as you move out of the zone you are at risk of injury, de-motivation and also a slide in your real results. Intensity training is the incorporation of high demand training in short periods of time.  You basically will make a bigger improvement on your body composition, fitness levels and overall appearance ñ and attain the goals you want ñ if you focus on shorter workouts, with high intensity. I do recommend mixing up these short intense sessions to allow your body to recover.  Don't do them every session.  But the facts are that an intense workout raises after burn (fat burning capability ñ burning calories at a higher rate during recovery). This type of workout is the way you need to be training if you want those results.

NUMBER 2:  You Need To Weight Train.

It is still prominent in today's society to hear people mention toning or long form cardio sessions as their staple fitness structure.  The fact remains and always has that to see change and results in your body every person must be incorporating weight training or resistance training. The goal of weight training is not to build huge muscle but maintain our lean muscle mass.  Because lean muscle burns calories better than anything else you can do. As a person ages muscle will diminish, so weight training is not just a young persons game ñ it is essential for everyone.The reality is that women will NOT get big and bulky, men will not find its just that young persons pastime and every person will shift their body into the zone where calories are burnt at optimal levels, lean and toned muscles will be structured and their body will perform as nature intended. Again, other types of exercise

are still fine to use but leaving out resistance training is like trying to drive a car with no wheels.

NUMBER 3:  Nutrition AFTER Your Workout.

I've seen many people really get into the swing of worthwhile training.  They challenge themselves, they commit to a sensible program and they begin with an attitude that 9 times out of 10 will an attitude that 9 times out of 10 will lead them to stunning results.  BUT it is all too common to find that a lot of people do not really take seriously the need to replenish and re-fuel their bodies AFTER these new and challenging workouts they are committed to. Simply put:  we all need to put the right fuel into our system after a workout ñ within a window of around 30mins to an hour max. And that fuel is a good recovery drink or meal replacement with a mix of protein and importantly CARBOHYDRATES: Don’t think its all about protein at this moment.  You need carbs afterwards to protect the bodies protein from being used.  It also helps create the blood sugar and insulin response that helps move protein to the workout damaged muscle fibers and aid in repair of what you’ve just done to them! A good recovery drink is absolutely paramount.  You can have a look at this one because it is one of the best, if not the best.

NUMBER 4:  Protein Is Essential In Your Diet.

Carbohydrates and essential fats are important BUT protein is the building block of muscle.  You need to have adequate amounts in your system.  DO not neglect this, especially when you are breaking down that muscle in your intense new workouts, your job is also to supply your body with protein for repair and regeneration of new muscle tissue. Protein can induce satiety ñ a feeling of being full ñ if you have adequate amounts in each meal you consume.  Also dietary protein is actually harder to break down so you interestingly will burn extra calories doing so, (there ís a simple explanation we’ll go into this in detail in an upcoming post). Protein does not build muscle, it actually aids in repair due to the damage caused by your workouts.  Also you want protein to assist in the maintenance of your lean muscle especially during fat loss training or dieting when you desperately need to keep the lean muscle and not let it get broken down. Increase your protein levels with both a good supplement and lean meats, dairy protein and vegetable sources of protein and you’ll allow your muscles to remain protected as your metabolism controls fat loss.

FITNESS

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FITNESS

Tristan Lewis is a World Traveler & Fitness Pro specializing in fat loss, weight loss, six pack abs workouts, abdominal training, lean muscle gain and total body transformation for men and women who want to lose weight and lose stubborn tummy, stomach or belly fat whilst creating their new physiques.

He is the author of several fitness and fat loss guides as well as six pack abs programs that uncover the realities of core training and fat loss.www.TheFlatTummyMakeover/www.PlugNPlaySixPackAbs.com/www.MaverickIntensityTraining.com/

His fat loss blogs dedicated to giving free workouts, advice, muscle training info, six pack abs workouts and fat loss help can be found at:

www.TristanLewis.com/ (Female Body Makeover)

www.ManVFitness.com/

NUMBER 5:  Please, Please, Please Don’t Starve Your Body.

If a person starves themselves, because they assume this is the way to lose weight or fat, they simply put themselves into the territory of firstly only really losing water weight in the initial stages and also facing the reality that once they get back to a sensible eating schedule they will almost always gain back that weight 100% and sometimes they’ll gain back more. Starvation mode is not a method any person should consider or employ. To lose weight consistently and safely and keep it off a person needs to elevate their metabolism with proven exercise whilst maintaining a balanced, consistent diet that involves regular eating, a control of the amount of carbs eaten after 2-3pm in the day and a serious commitment to never starving or forcing the body into yo-yo eating schedules.

Consistency both in training and diet is key.  Starvation is for uneducated people

who will face more frustration after an initial surprise weight loss that is only that water weight loss.  This road is not one you want to travel.  Period.

Do it right and you’ll be on the road to being fit for life!

Cheers.

Tris

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Tired of the treadmill?

by Cori Ehrhart

In the past 10 years, dance based fitness programs have become nothing short of a revolution, spreading like wildfire, and becoming t h e s i n g l e m o s t i n f l u e n t i a l movement in the industry of fitness.

You can dance your way into shape with a fitness workout that'll target key trouble spots like your abs, hips and thighs--al l while burning anywhere from 500 to 1000 calories per hour (depending on the tempo).

The routines used in these classes feature interval training sessions where fast and slow rhythms and resistance training are combined to tone and sculpt your body while burning fat in one exciting hour of calorie-burning, body-energizing, awe-inspiring movements meant to e n g a g e a n d c a p t i v a t e o u r participants.

Some of the most popular dance fitness programs attended today

include Zumba fitness, Hip-Hop Hustle, and Hip Hop Fusion classes.

Facilities like Synergy Fitness Studio located in Louisville Colorado, offer dance fitness classes 7 days a week at times that fit your schedule. They specialize in making fitness fun so you can look forward to joining these fun and effective classes each week.  Imagine your regular fitness program becoming nothing short of your most anticipated social event!

To get you even more excited about starting one of these great fitness programs, we have put together a list of some of the many benefits of introducing a dance fitness program into your exercise routine.   So get ready for a dance workout that'll put your old aerobics routine to shame.

“Exercise in Disguise”: It is a GREAT SWEAT!! You will be having so much fun you won’t even realize you are exercising. Moreover, it breaks the mold by making fitness a fun activity you will look forward to and want to do

Easy, Non-intimidating Learning Environment: Learn the dance steps in an easy-to-follow, fun and party-like format. You don’t have to be a dancer or have previous experience to join these fitness classes. Just jump in and follow along.

Weight Loss: As with any exercise program, consistency and a sensible, well-balanced nutrition program will increase the likelihood of weight loss. Many students have reported a measurable loss in inches around their midsection within the first few weeks of attending classes several times per week.

High Caloric Expenditure: Dance fitness follows aerobic and interval training methods to incorporate high levels of activity, therefore high caloric burn. One class can burn 500 to 1000 calories per hour depending on the individual, tempo, fitness level and intensity level.

Great Dynamic Core Workout and a Sculpted Body: Dancing uses moves that require high control of the mid section of the body (abs and back) creating a tighter more defined torso. It will reshape all parts of your body, including upper body, lower body, midsection, heart, and mind.

Increased Heart and Body Function: Regular aerobic, muscular strength and interval training improves cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, and immune systems. Lower your blood pressure and cholesterol and increase your metabolism, strength, bone density, muscle mass and circulation.

dance your way into shape

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Positive Self Image: Fitness naturally increases the levels of endorphins in the brain, a chemical produced during vigorous exercise that improves your mood and lowers anxiety. You’ll love the way you look and feel after just a few weeks of regular exercise.

Cori Ehrhart is the owner of Synergy Fitness Studio which is located at 159 McCasl in Blvd. Louisvi l le. 720.203.0395

www.synergyfitnessonline.net

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photos on previous page by Trisha Ventker © 2011

Page 68: vlife magazine - life in the ridge and the pointe - Fall Edition 2011

Free 30-minute phone consultation to a new you!Learn how to shop these looks, accessorize, and polish your image with personal help from fashion expert Rachel Lefort.917.751.6043

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WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/CHELSEAAVENUE

WWW.SHOPCHELSEAAVENUE.COM

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STYLE WITH

RACHELLEFORT

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Page 73: vlife magazine - life in the ridge and the pointe - Fall Edition 2011

Extend your Summer

wardrobe into Fall

Fall is in the mall, the kids are back at school and the inevitable return of the cold weather is upon us. Well if you’re feeling that it’s too soon to switch your whole wardrobe over to fall, then perhaps it might be easier to think about stretching your summer wardrobe just a little longer to ease the transition. Here’s how:

LAYER, LAYER, LAYER!

Your sleeveless silky blouse?

So simple- take one of your beautiful, summery sleeveless blouses and add a cardigan, blazer or a cool leather jacket. Pair it with a skirt or a lightweight trouser for now, then as the weather changes, switch to a heavier wool trouser, add tights to the skirt or mix it with a fab pair of jeans.

Tee shirts?

Nice ones, of course. Same rules apply and you can wear them year round paired with a cozy cashmere sweater and a light, gauzy scarf- a scarf will add instant chic and great mileage to your summer tees and tops. This is a great uniform for those who work from home and want to quickly get polished up for running to meet a client.

LAYER, LAYER, LAYER

photo from thisnext.com

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Cotton pencil skirt?

Add tights to the skirt you’ve been wearing barelegged all summer. There’s a huge variety of hot hosiery

out for fall. Then add boots, booties or closed-toe pumps- you get the

picture. But once the snow arrives I’d hang up the cotton skirt until spring re-blooms, and switch it out for a fall

fabric. And for the ladies who prefer it, the a-line skirt is making a

comeback.

Dresses?

Add a long flowy cardigan to a flowy knee-length dress- even add a belt and boots to bring the look into fall.

Summery prints?

Take a flirty floral or colorful print and

add a cool motorcycle jacket or a military jacket for an

edgier look.

Peep toe sandals?

Be daring and don a stocking with it. But to do it right it has to be a stylish

hosiery option and it should look very intentional.

Skin?

Continue that summer glow with Neutrogena Build a Tan- the natural

look for about $9.00.

Ready to start shopping?

If you’re going to invest in one signature piece this fall, make it

fabulous outerwear! Capes and capelets are ultra chic with leather gloves, the trench is timeless, or add

some spice over your c lass ic wardrobe with a short leather moto

jacket. A fitted blazer can do the trick, too- try a tweed that will go over your fall pants for work or with jeans

o n t h e

weekend. (Just remember to buy for your figure and personal style first and

foremost; not all trends will work for every shape.)

As you hit the ground running, please

remember this key rule of thumb: Build your collection of wardrobe

basics in classic styles that will not be out of fashion next year. If you can afford to buy decent quality basic

pieces, they will last much longer and will give you your money’s worth.

Then next fall you won’t need to collect new basic black, grey and brown pants again (unless your figure

has changed). Plus when you’re trying to get out the door in a pinch,

your wardrobe basics will be there for you, easy to wear with just a little planning ahead.

If you’re looking to update your wardrobe without spending a fortune,

go for accessories. Bright colored shoes can add some punch to your classic look. So can a fun handbag,

scarf or jewels, or a trendy new top paired with your classic basics. By

accessorizing with fashion trends and fun colors, prints, patterns and texture you can instantly update your look for

the new season. Before you head out on your next shopping excursion, be

prepared. Take a brief inventory of what you already have and certain things that are needed. Then take the

appropriate undergarments, shape wear and shoes along to the fitting

room. You’ll get the full picture of how an outfit will look and whether things need to be altered or hemmed. Also,

even if you’re shopping on your day off, head out wearing your usual

makeup and hairstyle so that you get the full effect and have that extra boost of confidence.

Photo from thefashionary.com74

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About Rachel Fashion Stylist and Designer, Rachel Lefort, brings the world of fashion straight to the Boulder-Denver area, where she works closely with her clients to carefully craft the right look for their lifestyle. After more than 15 years studying and working in the global fashion industry of New York, London, Hong Kong and Paris, Rachel moved to Colorado where she decided to channel all of her experience into a new venture: Personal Fashion Styling. Rachel’s business is designed to help individuals define their own distinctive image and style, and re-create their look in order to achieve this desired image. Rachel’s approach is positive and sincere, sensitive and honest. Rachel truly enjoys helping to empower her clients with the self-confidence that comes with a new look, an individual style, and an enhanced, organized and stylish wardrobe. Photo from Fashionista Bootcamp

photo © Trisha Ventker 2011

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For about a decade now the term “smoky eye” has been ever so popular when describing a desired eye makeup look. As a Makeup Artist for these past 10 years, when I ask a client “Describe how you would like to see your makeup”, 99.9% of the time the client replies “I would like a smoky eye!” I may exaggerate a little!

So what exactly is a smoky eye? I am going to break it down as plain and simple as I can! I have also created an easy to follow video tutorial for those of you who are visual.

smok·y (sm < ![endif]-->k < ![endif]-->) adj. smok·i·er, smok·i·est: Resembling smoke; hazy; dirty; made dark; thick; murky.

So with this said, a smoky eye is eye makeup that resembles smoke. As you know smoke is not a perfect line or one even tone. Smoke is usually dark, smudgy and as a makeup look portrays a sultry and sexy look.

So how does a smoky eye appear? Below there are a couple examples of a smoky eye:

As you can see from the pictures, the smoky eye does not always look the same. There are

many looks to a smoky eye which are done with many techniques, colors and products. A smoky eye can be worn by anyone of any age for any occasion. From day to night time, natural to dramatic, the smoky eye has many versions! You can smoke the entire eye, the top lid only or just the bottom… anything goes!

little drama to your look!

Most women do not need to own hundreds of dollars worth of

makeup or dozens or products and tools to create a flawless

look for day or night time.

BEAUTY:THE SMOKY EYE

by Danica Jardien

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m

so your makeup can stand out in the dim lights. This is the time to add a little drama to your look!

women do not need to own hundreds of dollars worth of makeup or dozens or products and tools to create a flawless look for day or night

time.

The 5 Minute Face

The basics for a 5 minute face include concealer, powder, blush,

mascara and lip gloss/ conditioner.

You want to create an even and natural skin tone, a pop of color on the cheeks, a little mascara to brighten the eyes and a sheer lip

color to finish the lips. This is

your makeup look at it’s most natural.

THE SMOKY EYE

Dan ica i s ava i l ab le fo r makeup

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Here is a step by step of a very basic smoky eye look:

1. Prep your eye area. Try using an eye shadow base that is water resistant or crease resistant. This will help to smooth on your eye makeup easier, more evenly and you will see a truer eye shadow texture and color. Also, it is very important for a dramatic eye or for someone who has oily eyelids. Your eye makeup will last longer and look better! I really love Urban Decay Primer Potion or MAC Paints.

2. Use the Stila Eye Kajal (My all time favorite!) to line your eye. This eye kajal is very creamy and pigmented, so use a light hand. Now don’t worry about your line not being perfect, because when using a pencil it rarely is! You can line the top lid, the bottom or both. This depends on your eye shape and your preference.

3. Now use a smudger or a pencil brush to gently smoke out your eye liner. Remember to use the tip of the brush and have a light hand. You want to keep the darkest point around the lash line and blend or “smoke” out the outer edge of the liner. You want a gradual fade from darkest to lightest. The darkest at your lash line and the lightest the furthest from your lash line.

4. You can set your eye liner with a little eye shadow to “set it” for a longer wearing look.

5. Finish your smoky look by placing your eye kajal in your water cil (inner rim of the eye) and your favorite mascara. You know have a sexy smoky eye!

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What are the benefits of wearing lash extensions? Most women choose Lash extensions to lengthen their natural lashes while

others want their lashes to look fuller. Extensions can create a younger appearance on many clients. These semi-permanent eyelash extensions create

the appearance of a brighter, more open and rested eye, thereby creating a more youthful and rejuvenated look.

Above all the main advantage of lash extensions is how much time you can save during your beauty regimen. Extensions allow you to spend less time with makeup; mascara is certainly no longer necessary. The added benefit is that they look beautiful morning and night, all day, every day. Say

goodbye to the application of mascara, stained tears and mascara masks around the eyes. With lash extensions you can look and feel gorgeous from the

moment you wake up until the moment you

Your main investment in Xtreme Lashes is the initial set. Once your initial set has been applied, maintenance (Relashing every 2 to 4 weeks) is nominal in

cost by beauty industry standards.When comparing prices of eyelash extension services, keep in mind that Xtreme Lashes is at the top in the world of eyelash extensions. Aly is recognized as one of the top lash stylists in the country. Both Aly and Mandy's lash talent are sought after by everyday women and beauty industry insiders alike. There

prices are comparable to those charged by other lash stylists with similar credentials across the country.

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Erie 411Blog and Facebook page

managed by Erie resident Paul Fiarkoski

All things Erie, CO – news, events, sports and more!

Page 82: vlife magazine - life in the ridge and the pointe - Fall Edition 2011

Fall Into FashionDenver’s Trendiest Fashionista, With a Bit of Erie!

Little Thoughts

I am so excited for fall fashion this year! I can’t wait to start wearing my super skinny jeans, along with my long sleeve shirts. I feel like I buy way more clothing in the fall then in the summer. In the summer I wear boring old flip flops that tend to get over-used and become so dull. This fall, I plan on buying way more shoes! You can never have enough of shoes, right? The really exciting thing about fall is, Fashion Week! Although Denver isn’t New York; I still have to right to express my fashion taste for the year. Fall Fashion Week usually starts in November for me. I have made it

a tradition to run fashion shows in November. I can’t wait to start coordinating this year’s shows! New models, new style, new everything!

Fashion Show Details

I get excited coordinating many events, but the most inspiring are my fashion shows. The first time I stepped on a runway was when I was 15 years old. It was the best feeling in the world. It’s so great working with big brand names such as Roxy and Billabong, who have been so generous as to sponsor the clothing for my fashion shows in

the past. I can’t wait to work with these companies again in future. This year, I will be running my own Fashion Weekend! DenVhere Magazine and Megafauna proudly present: DenVhere Fashion WeekND(not a typo)! Not only will I have huge sponsors by my side, I will have many people supporting this event as well.

I’m very lucky to be working with people who love fashion just as much as I do. Megafauna, Flobots.org, and Seek Hair Lab, are huge contributors to DVFWND!

by Georgez Dabit

FASHIONQUARTERLYsu

mm

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011

Photo by: Gavin Atkin Copyright © 2011

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Type to enter text

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Our show will be extremely exciting because I plan to make this annual, and to hopefully encourage celebrities to come to Denver instead of New York for fashion related events. Our theme is “Colorado St. Fashion,” with the season/style being “Colorado’s Crazy Seasons.” I will be choosing four exclusive designers to showcase on the runway, as well as choosing the models that get the chance of a lifetime to walk the runway.

Two Major Events

Event One: What: Front Range Community College Fashion

Show 2011When: Wednesday: November 9, 2011Where: Front Range Community College

(Westminster Campus 3645 West 112th Avenue • Westminster, CO

80031Time: 6:00pmPrice: $ FREE! Involvement: TBA

Event Two: What: DenVhere Fashion WeekND- Ultimate

Event

When: November 12, 2011 Where: 27th and Larimer St. Denver, CO 80205 Time: 6:00pm Price: $10.00 Entrance Fee EachInvolvement: MegaFauna, Flobots.org, Seek Hair

Lab, and many more!

1 Fashionistas: Someone who expresses their fashion sense with world. A fashionista usually follows top trends and top fashion icons. Many fashionistas like to express themselves by looking different. Famous fashionistas to consider: Lady Gaga, Heidi Klum, and Tyra Banks.

2 Smize: The concept of smize or smizing is to smile with your eyes. This term was created by fashion supermodel and expert, Tyra Banks.

FASHION

QU

AR

TE

RLY

FALL

2011

To view DenVhere Magazine FREE visit: www.denvheremag.com

To get involved in adverting and or sponsoring, contact [email protected]

Find us on Facebook! Search: DenVhere Magazine

Yet to come (in the future) is a Vista Ridge Runway show!

Photos by: Gavin Atkin

Copyright © 2011

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DenVhere Magazine-New Fashion Magazine in Colorado$ DenVhere Magazine is a new fashion magazine started in Colorado that strives to be your number one resource when it comes to local fashion. Our goal is to share with a large and diverse audience our experiences and philosophies when it comes to the subject of fashion. Not only do we emphasize on the subject of fashion, but we include health and art topics, as well as local fashion events occurring around the Denver area. Editor-in-Chief, Georgez Dabit, was inspired for the title of the magazine from the city of Denver and in the interest of making it into something more chic and fashionable, came the name DenVhere.

View past and current issues of DenVhere Magazine at www.denvheremag.com.

To contact us for questions or to be added onto our email list, you can reach us at [email protected].

To sponsor/advertise DenVhere Magazine, contact Georgez Dabit at [email protected].

“Like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DenVhereMagazine and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/DenVheremag.

Photography on this page by Gavin Atkin

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Photography of Tedd Taskey by Gavin Atkin

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Ceiling fans don’t matter. Finishing the garage walls won’t make a difference. Often times the money you’ve spent on those designer chandeliers will not come back to you dollar for dollar when it’s time to sell. Put yourself in the buyer’s shoes - if you were buying a home today, what would be the most important features for you? Look around at what you have now, and think “Would I buy this house if I were a buyer?” Also ask yourself “What items are a must for me in the next house I buy?”

So what can you do to get the best return on the money you put into your house? Here’s where your focus should be:

The kitchen. Money spent on upgrading a kitchen will give you the best return on your investment. Most buyers prefer a gourmet kitchen, complete with slab granite (granite tile is ok, but spend the extra money and do it right); Stainless steel or black upgraded appliances-including double ovens and a gas cooktop; island; pantry and wood or tile floors. Custom paint and a decorative backsplash can really help give the entire kitchen a real WOW factor! (We always suggest you talk to an interior designer before you paint or modify designer finishes.) We just sold a house with a beautiful glass tile backsplash… it showed very stylish especially when accented with the right paint color.

Master bath. Buyers have not only come to expect a private master bath when purchasing a house, but have also become pickier about their “must-haves” for this room. Most buyers want two sinks situated nicely in a high counter and tile (not carpet) on the floor. Anything you can do to make your master bath stand out will increase its appeal to buyers - Can you increase the size of your shower or add an additional shower head? Don’t go eliminating the “un-used” bathtub though... having one is still very important in a master bathroom. Again, designer paint colors and tile, chosen with the help of a professional, can really create a serene spa like room to impress potential buyers.

Landscaping. Remember, the front of your house is your first impression area and as the saying goes “You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression!” Are your trees alive, look like they are going to continue to grow, and are in well kept shape? Is your grass green, well mowed and edges trimmed? How about the flower beds - Are there weeds everywhere? Does your porch have cobwebs and dead leaves piled up in the corners? Small details, such as a striking front door color, can give homes a nice ‘POP’ and visually stand out.

Home Office. Here is a new room getting more attention in the last few years. The trend and future of many jobs today allow people to work from home. Home offices are becoming the trend. This space must be inviting, bright and yet quiet and removed from the “action/noise” from the rest of the house. Many people will spend more time in this room than any other in the entire house. Upgrades such as built in desk, organization systems, and perhaps glass French doors will demonstrate to prospective buyers how the space will allow them to be efficient, organized and away from distractions.

best bang for your buck

by Danny & Jen Hoeft

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So now that you know where to put your money – it’s time to talk about which items are the hardest to make back a dollar for dollar return on your investment. Time and time again it’s proven that money spent on things like finishing your basement, decking out a garage, and remodeling / altering rooms does not pay out when it comes time to sell. It’s important to remember there is a fine-line between adding features to your home for your enjoyment and getting a top dollar return on your investment if you have to sell in the near future. Many of those thousands of dollars you’ve spent on personal taste modifications simply do not pay off.

If you find yourself considering selling in the future and/or making modifications you want a designer opinion about, we offer our interior designer free of charge when you list with us. Get a professional’s opinion on the areas you need to consider or focus on. We want to make sure you are getting the best return on your investment, and what is going to help make your home sell for the most money in the shortest amount of time.

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Page 88: vlife magazine - life in the ridge and the pointe - Fall Edition 2011

 

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Ask MaxMr. Manners Fall 2011

In this Issue:

Introduction to Max

Q & APlease send your questions regarding manners or social

etiquette to Max c/o

[email protected]

EXAMPLESevite rules

facebook posting and tagging

party questions

neighborhood etiquette

First of all let me apologize to the neighbors in the hood. You see I tend to dig under the fence like a groundhog in my peep’s backyard. I squeeze my tiny body under the fence and make a mad dash down the street. Not sure where the hell I’m running to, but I feel like a super hero, especially when the wind flows through my hair. I think I’ll ask Santa for a cape this Christmas. Occasionally my mom runs after me down the street and finds me, but always at the wrong time (when she’s wearing a house coat or ratty pjs). I love the horrified look on the faces of the golfers at the tee. On the several occasions that she doesn’t notice I’m gone when she’s busy on facebook or something, some nice human finds me and scoops me up. They then call my mom, for her phone number is on a charm around my collar. Perhaps I do this just to embarrass her ass or on second thought, my dad let’s me out in hopes I don’t come home. You see I’m a foo-foo dog and he’d prefer some macho dog like a black lab or golden retriever. Now that I spoke my little mind, let me introduce myself. My name is Max. I am 4 pounds and 6 years old. I’m a yorkshire terrier. I look cuter than I am and I absolutely HATE to dress up in ridiculous outfits. I think most of my friends would have to agree.

Like the writing on a rearview mirror, “Object are closer than they appear,” I am smarter than I appear. Matter of fact so smart that I now have my own advice column regarding manners. So shoot me an email, send it to my mom with “Max” in the subject. I’ll try to take the time out of my busy schedule of lying around and answer all questions.

I am looking forward to hearing from you and hey, throw me a bone sometime!Ask

Max89

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What is your subconscious telling you?

SOULfall 2011

by Trisha Ventker

WHAT IS AN RAS?How much does it effect you?

Last issue I discussed my VPS©

system. The V is to Visualize what

you want out of life  Next, put

together a plan to get to your vision. 

The plan is the P in your VPS©.  The

S in your VPS© signifies the steps

in which you must take to

implement the change desired.  If

you always do the same thing, you

will always get the same results. 

You can visualize until you turn blue,

plan until your heart’s content, but if

you don’t execute your plan, then

nothing will change.

Now I ‘d like to discuss the RAS

(Reticular Activation System) that I

have done months of research on.

The RAS is the bundle of nerves in

the brain stem that converts

information through the conscious

mind. In easy terms: If you were to

go to a party and were talking to a

group of people and suddenly as

you were talking, you hear you

name mentioned in another

conversation across the room, this

is an example of RAS in play. It says

to your conscious mind, “Listen out

for anyone saying my name!” The

RAS is the gatekeeper between the

subconscious and the conscious

mind. Every second we have

millions of thoughts that enter our

minds, the RAS decides which

information gets to our conscious

mind and which info gets put away.

Our brain distorts info as well. Your

RAS cannot distinguish between the

real events and make believe. It

believes what you tell it.

just ask for it

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RAS Napoleon Hill, an American

author (1883-1970 ) who wrote

modern genres and personal

success literature such as Think

and Grow Rich said that we can

achieve ANY realistic goal if we

keep thinking of that goal and

stop thinking any negative

thoughts about it. If we keep

thinking that we can’t achieve a

goal, our subconscious will help

us NOT achieve it.

Although I am not perfect

at this, I have practiced this way

of thinking over the last few

years. We all have self doubt

and negative thoughts that

enter our mind, it’s what you do

with them , that is KEY! I have

accomplished what seems to

be the impossible professionally

and it can all be attributed to

my VPS system and awareness

of the RAS. Some of my clients

have achieved improved

health ,rewarding jobs, more

meaningful relationships and

getting closer to their personal

goals by using these mentioned

techniques.

An easy first step to

implement this new way of

thinking and to be in touch of

how your subconscious and

conscious communicate is to

become more aware of your

surroundings. Examples of this

is: colors of your home, what

you watch on tv, do you have

energy producing flowers and

plants in your everyday realm?

Also, pay attention to those

whom you spend time with. Are

they caring and kind people

who bring something positive to

your life? Or do they constantly

complain and gossip about

others and leave you feeling

empty and exhausted? Do they

always play the “victim?”

First step is to simply

become aware!

Trisha Ventker resides in Erie, Colorado with her 4 year old son and husband, Tom. Her award winning book, Internet Dates From Hell, has been recently optioned for a movie by Paula Wagner, producer of “Mission:Impossible” I, II, and III, etc. It is available worldwide and at www.InternetDatesFromHell.com and Amazon.com.  Ventker is currently on a book tour throughout the United States. In addition she is the founder and editor of vlife and elife magazines.

Trisha Ventker is a Reading Specialist and holds a Master’s Degree in Literacy from Adelphi University. She is available for personal Life Coaching. She has beaten the odds in many personal goals and has followed her VPS system over the last several years. Ventker has appeared on several television shows and has been heard on a variety of radio shows throughout the country. In addition, she is a speaker for events at Universities, Forums and/or Churches.

ABOUT TRISHA

start with a vision

photo: © Trisha Ventker 2011

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sports

BY TOM VENTKER

A New Season is Upon Us with Plenty of Offerings

School is back in session and Fall is upon us. This brings a big change in the sports we actively participate in and those that we are spectators of. We are no longer going to the pool or sitting in the stands at Coors Field. Seeing that the Red Sox and Braves are no better of than the Rockies, gives me some consolation. Hopefully “Rocktober” will return in 2012. Instead of worrying how to stay cool in the 90 plus temperatures we had for most of August, we will be able to keep the windows open and enjoy the wonderful Fall weather that Colorado has to offer.

Except for those whose hometown team made the MLB playoffs, the focus is now on College and Pro Football. No matter if you are supporting the local teams of the Buffs and Broncos, or just enjoy 22 men fighting over a pigskin, this is a great time of year.

There are also plenty of us who enjoy watching or playing real “Football”, the kind you

play with your feet and with a round ball, also known as “Soccer”. Play has resumed in the European Leagues and in Erie, where this Fall we now have 7 Teams. In last month’s issue of vlife I wrote about how this league was gaining momentum. I never expected it to grow this fast. After starting with 3 on 3 on Skyline Drive in Vista Ridge in the winter of 2009/2010, we are now up to about 100 players!

Anyone who has a passion for their sport, whether it be Kickball, Volleyball, Tennis, or another sport, take notice and realize that there are probably a lot more enthusiast than just you out there. Take the initiative and form your own league and as it grows, promote it to the town and have them add it to their program. For those who aren’t sure what sport they might be interested in, take a look at the Fall Guide from the Erie Parks and Recreation department, which has quite a wide offering of Fall sports and activities.

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ERIE PARKS & RECREATION FALL GUIDE

Our own Vista Ridge Community Center also has plenty going on this fall. Here is a link to their site and Calendar of Events.VISTA RIDGE COMMUNITY CENTER

VRCC CALENDAR OF EVENTS

We are fortunate to have such great weather and so many choices of Sports in the Fall. Whether you want to play golf, go cycling, mountain biking, running, fishing, hiking, the outdoor activities are endless. As the editor of vlife is pushing me to finish my article for the Fall Edition, I have decided to take the easy route and just provide some helpful links to websites for some the sports mentioned above:

GOLF - Colorado National Golf Course

CYCLING - Front Range Cycling Routes

CYCLING - Denver and Front Range Cycling

MOUNTAIN BIKING - Trails in the Front Range

RUNNING - Map My Run

As I am thinking about all the outdoor activities that I am going to do this fall, has made me realize that I also like the satisfaction of enjoying a good beer after a good workout. Why not head over to the Lazy Dog, which is just a short walk for most of us in Vista Ridge or to the Cheeky Monk when you want to sample a great variety of Belgian Beers.

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ABOUT ENDURANCE SPORTS MARKETING GROUPThe company was re-created by Craig Mintzlaff in 2007 after selling Groundzero Sports Marketing in

September of 2005. Specializing in event sales and sponsorships as well as client field-marketing, Endurance Sports Marketing has added several marketing components to it’s business model allowing a larger presence within the endurance sports event industry. Our goal is to allow our clients to focus on success while we handle the execution and logistics with the utmost customer service.

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why did the t!rkey cross the road"

to get to the fo!rth ann!alanthem

t!rkey day 5k/10kthursday, november 24th, 2011

parkside community center in broomfield at 9:00 am

5k 10k family division kid’s race$4000 in prize money Redline Gear tech shirts

raffle prizes breakfast bar

a portion of race proceeds will benefit

www.redlinerunningcompany.com

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photo © Trisha Ventker 2011