Times-Call Community Review 06-24-18

Longmont Times-Call | Sunday June 24, 2018

100

Get to know your neighbors

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Who’s inside Peggy Arnold...............................................2 Ron Lamb .................................................30 David Bailey ................................................2 Matt LeCerf ...............................................30 Brian Berry...................................................2 Marta Loachamin.......................................31 Linda Bitner.................................................2 Kim Manajek .............................................31 Aaron Bitterman .......................................... 3 Sonia Marquez ..........................................31 Edward Bowen............................................3 Frances McCarty ......................................32 Jackie Boyer................................................4 Olimpia Mejia ............................................31 Carl Brady....................................................7 Sean Miller ................................................34 Pamela Brogdon..........................................7 Jenna Moore .............................................34 Kalin Capra .................................................7 Ashlyn Morganfield ...................................34 Jodi Carlson ............................................... 8 Sadao Mori ...............................................34 Semsija Cass ..............................................8 Warren Morrow..........................................35 Rebecca Chavez ........................................ 8 Victoria Moul ............................................ 35 Luis Chavez ................................................8 Parker Nicholas ........................................ 35 Scott Conlin ................................................9 Michele Noel-King ....................................35 Olga Cordero ..............................................9 Rashmita Patel ......................................... 36 Allison Cole ...............................................10 Adam Pena ...............................................36 Ann Cram ..................................................12 Sam Piper .................................................36 Darby Crandall ..........................................12 Julia Pirnack..............................................36 Tanya Daschofsky ..................................... 13 Jennifer Quinn ........................................... 38 Tanya Daty.................................................13 Ricky Ramos ............................................. 38 Bill Decker ................................................ 13 Ellen Ranson..............................................38 James Dohm ............................................ 13 Darrin Reese..............................................38 Jerry Denovellis ........................................ 14 Larissa Rhodes..........................................39 Valeria Fugate............................................16 Karlo Rivera...............................................39 John Gaddis ............................................. 16 Mary Rose ................................................. 39 Payton Garcia ...........................................16 Tony Santelli .............................................. 39 Opal Gee .................................................. 18 Dale Sherrod..............................................40 Tim Glenn ................................................. 16 Bobbi Sindelar...........................................43 Elicia Goodsoldier .....................................16 Todd Skaw.................................................43 Gary Greene ............................................. 20 Brandon Staple..........................................43 Diane Groff ............................................... 20 Dave Stout.................................................43 Mark Guttridge ......................................... 20 Claire Studholme.......................................44 Pat Hains ..................................................22 SaToro Tafura.............................................46 Ralph Hardesty .........................................22 Nancy Tanaka............................................44 Greg Harris ............................................... 22 Gale Taylor ................................................44 Jennifer Harris .......................................... 22 Jackson Theis ...........................................44 Kris Harris .................................................23 Michelle Tran ............................................. 48 Terri Harroun .............................................23 Delaney Tureson........................................48 Lisa Helser ................................................23 Marijke Unger............................................48 John Hix .................................................... 23 Jay E.Valusek ............................................ 48 Danielle Holmes.........................................24 Kenzie Webb ............................................. 49 Becca Hyde ..............................................26 Jim Weglarz...............................................49 Georgia Jallo ............................................ 24 Ryan Wibby...............................................49 Amy Johnson ............................................28 Eric Wiggs ................................................. 49 Steven Joseph ..........................................28 Gemma Wilson..........................................52 Oscar Juarez-Luna ...................................28 Ariel Wishkovsky ....................................... 52 Jacki Kapushion .......................................28 Peter Wood................................................52 Aditya Khune ............................................30 Connor Wood ............................................ 52 Emily Knapp ............................................. 30 PiperAnne Worcester.................................50

Welcome to this year’s ‘100’ The Times-Call released its first “100” in the spring of 2007, a themed edition of what the newsroom referred to as “Community Review.” For decades, such annual editions — often called “Progress” editions — have been common in small to midsize newspapers, designed to celebrate what’s positive in their communities. That, and sell ads. Reader response to “100” was quick. You loved it. So we did it again, in 2008. In the years that followed, we bounced around a few other themes, even a third “100” in 2011. Of all the good ideas we delivered, only this look-in-the-mirror edition caused readers to ask for more. You even started to submit your own ideas for who should be included. So in 2014, we brought back “100,” and we’ve kept it. With this year’s edition, we’ve reached 800. Well, 796 actually, since we’ve had four people repeat. Our intention is to have 100 new faces ever y year, but that has proved to be a challenge. Donald Dreyer (2008, 2014), Carmen Ramirez (2008, 2014), Diane Wood (2008, 2014), and Ellen Ranson (2007 and this year, page 38) have the distinction of being the only four people whom we called a second time without first checking our archives. At last count, it was only those four. There’s another thing that was never the intention for this edition: for it

to be a Who’s Who in the St. Vrain Valley. But it seems to have become that for quite a few readers, in light of the effort that they put into promoting their neighbors to be included. (The most suggested person for this edition, Olimpia Mejia, is on page 31. Yes, she is deser ving.) No, “100” is a Who’s in the St. Vrain Valley. It just happens to be that our community is full of wonderful, talented, generous, fascinating people whose stories need to be told. Look around. Your neighbors are VIPs. We’ve included just a small percentage of them in this edition. Among them are a 103-year-old world traveler (page 32); a framer who framed Justin Bieber’s shirt for a fan (page 13); an instrument collector whose menagerie includes an orchestrion (Google it, then go to page 13); an airport shuttle driver who contributed to the latest global geologic map of Mars (also on page 13); a runner who has completed the Big Six marathons (page 16); a 94-year-old who has kept a daily journal since she was a teenager (page 18); and a man who changed his career at age 60 (page 48). As he says, “Never give up until you’re dead.” That motto fits this year’s 100, a collection of doers who have persevered. Get to know them. — John Vahlenkamp, managing editor

Peggy Arnold

Brian Berry

Age: 74 Occupation: Program coordinator, AgeWell, LUH/Centura Health Years in St. Vrain Valley: 21 What brought you here? What has kept you? I loved palpable sense of community, diversity, affordability (relatively speaking!). Still do. Why is it so important that people of all ages have access to quality health and wellness care? I want to respond with “What’s age got to do with it?” But what I think you’re really trying to get at is that the overall health and wellness of an organism or community depends on the health and wellness of every cell or individual. We’re all connected. What is one of the most memorable stories you’ve heard from an AgeWell client? Honestly, I hear memorable stories every day, so it would be impossible to choose just one. I think it’s more relevant to focus on the aggregate of this amazing population. The stories I hear cover a vast territory—of joys and sorrows of aging, of heroism and defeat, of gains and losses of abilities, health, friends and loved ones, of giving and receiving, of engagement in life and disconnection from society, of wisdom and cluelessness and, of course, facing end of life. To paraphrase Bette Davis, “Old age ain’t for sissies!” By the way, I include myself in this demographic. How has Longmont changed in your time living in the area? Size, complexity on many levels, and traffic. It is easy to focus on the downside of growth, but I also think we are increasingly richer in human currency, creativity and ingenuity. Longmont is an exciting place to live.

Age: 40 Occupation: President of sales at MeritCard Solutions Years in St. Vrain Valley: 9 What brought you here? What has kept you? Colorado was a place my wife and I wanted to raise a family. We fortunately had family in town so that helped us pick Longmont. What has kept us here is the feeling of community, great schools, and a business community that really wants to help everyone succeed. I have never lived in a place that if I am walking down Main Street or at a local restaurant I can almost always run into someone I know from the community. Longmont is a special place, and we are fortunate to be a part of this growing community. Why is it important for you to be involved in community organizations such as the Longmont Area Chamber of Commerce and the Longmont Humane Society? I am very fortunate to be a part of these two great organizations. I am the current chair of the board for the Longmont Area Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is the voice of the business community and I believe the chamber plays a vital role in growth of the Longmont. The chamber has helped me immensely in growing my business over the past six years. It is important to me to be part of the leadership that helps develop and grow programs within the chamber to help other businesses succeed. The Humane Society is another incredible organization. I am a member of their board of directors. We get to help save the lives of so many animals and at the same time enhance the lives of those who bring those pets into their families. These two organizations are pillars of our community and help make our town such a great place to live. What is your favorite community event/festival? I actually have two. One being a new Longmont Chamber of Commerce event that was launched just this spring, Longmont Restaurant Week. Second would be the Christmas Parade of Lights downtown. I know it is definitely number one with my children.

David Bailey

Age: 54 Occupation: Poet and SAT online scorer Years in St. Vrain Valley: 18 What brought you here? What has kept you? I met my future spouse while working in Washington, D.C. When she introduced to me to Colorado, it was love at first sight (again!). I love Longmont: Most days I talk long walks and find new nature, scenery and wonderful people! Why do you prefer writing poetry over prose? Several reasons: Primarily, I don’t have enough patience to write longer treatises! I enjoy word­play, making new words (sometimes somewhat nonsensical), and always experimentation: not just sentences, but fragments, sounds, sensations. Do you doodle as your play with words? Not literally, but I definitely refer to rhymezone.com frequently for definitions, synonyms, etc. I also like trying different “music” and cadences, considering formal structure — like haikus — and varying lengths of sentences/lines/stanzas. Poetry never bores me: always new and engaging! What tells you that the poem is finished? The simple truth is: The poem tells me. Most of my poems start with “a line in my head” or an observation that cries out for greater elaboration. Honestly, I often have little idea how the poem will end until it is finished. Even when I start a poem, feeling rather confident how it will likely play out, I continually surprise myself how the story finds its own tangents and circumstances on the way. Why I write every day, and why I’ve never seen a “bad poem” ... how could that be!?

2 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

Linda Bitner Age: 61 Occupation: Retired Years in St. Vrain Valley: 23 What brought you here? What has kept you? I’ve lived in Boulder County since my college days, first in Boulder, then Lafayette, and in Longmont since 1995. I love the small­town feeling of Longmont with its friendly and generous residents and good cultural opportunities. What sorts of organizations do you volunteer with, and why is volunteering important to you? I’ve volunteered with several organizations over the years but currently do fundraising for Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and chair its annual gala event, Wild Night for Wildlife. Supporting the environment is important to me and there’s nothing I love more than to hear the birds singing in the morning. Recently, a neighbor brought an injured baby house finch to me, hoping I’d know what to do. I rushed it out to Greenwood; thankful they were there both for the bird and for the family that found it and wanted it to get help. As I’m fond of saying, no animals ever show up for treatment at Greenwood on their own — they’re always brought in by a human who’s concerned about their welfare. There are scores of nonprofits in town that do great work and that’s one of the aspects I most appreciate about Longmont. I’m pleased to be able to contribute to creating a better community. What things do you like to do in your spare time? In my free time, I ride my bike with my husband on the gravel roads in the area and have just taken up dirt biking with plans to do more two­wheeled sight­seeing in the high country. I spend as much time in my garden as I can and love to make blown glass art to brighten up the darker spots in the garden.

Aaron Bitterman

Edward Bowen

Age: 46 Occupation: IT service manager Years in St. Vrain Valley: 18 What brought you here? What has kept you? I came to Colorado initially to attend Colorado State (and ski) but fell in love with living here. After getting a job at IBM several years out of college, Longmont initially was a convenient place to live, but it was after living here for some years that I decided it would be a great place to raise a family. Longmont has a nice mix of city amenities yet still holds on to a “small town” feel. It is close enough Denver, Boulder and the mountains that you have access everything you need for recreation, entertainment and relaxation. With all the great new businesses and amenities Longmont is growing into one of the best places in the country to live. What has motivated you to give your time to the Niwot High School football booster club? Why are youth sports in the area important to support for you? I had decided years ago that my children would be attending Niwot High School. My son joined the football team as a freshman and I got involved a little with the boosters that year. The next year I saw they needed some extra help with organizing fundraising activities. When I found out how little sports teams get from the school district and how it affects the teams, I decided to fully commit to helping. Last year I was able to partner with Prospect Sound Bites where the players volunteered to clean up after each event. In exchange Sound Bites made a generous donation to the team. I have been coaching youth sports in the area for over 10 years. How or in what areas would you like to see the youth sports community change or grow? The availability of youth sports around the country is wonderful. Chances are if there’s a sport played at the high school level or above, there’s a youth sports equivalent to be found. As a community I would like to see youth sports organizers, coaches and parents encouraging participation as a building block for health and character.

Age: 52 Occupation: Executive director at Hopelight Medical Clinic; lead minister at Longmont Church of Christ Years in the St. Vrain Valley: 10 What brought you here? What has kept you? Like so many others, it is easy to be captivated by the beauty of Colorado. The quality of life in Longmont is outstanding. Because we are located so close to Denver, we have access to world­class activities. But we get to live in what still feels like a smaller town. However, all of these benefits have not kept me here. Longmont has something special when it comes to community. The organizations that I am a part of require many volunteers for their operations. The willingness of these special people to tirelessly serve and show kindness to others has made a world of difference for the community as a whole, and that keeps me excited and motivated every single day to help Longmont become even better place to live. How has the Hopelight Clinic grown and changed since its inception in 2014? Hopelight’s journey has been amazing! We initially opened the clinic for one day a week, staffed with all volunteers. Four years later, we have over 60 paid staff, a great number of volunteers and an awesome team of providers that includes practitioners of family medicine, speciality care, mental and behavioral health, and social work. Our behavioral health program provides ABA therapy for those with developmental disabilities, such as children on the autism spectrum. I am very excited about our fine arts academy, which includes music lessons for individuals and groups. We have purposefully targeted families with low incomes to provide their children with opportunities to learn to play an instrument, such as piano, violin, guitar or drums. In addition, we provide free after­school tutoring to children in our community through a twice a week homework club. How is your work with the Hopelight Clinic similar and different from your work as the lead minister of the Longmont Church of Christ? My faith is an essential component of my life. That faith calls for action, such as showing kindness to others and seeking ways to find solutions to individual problems. My work at Hopelight and at Longmont Church of Christ are similar in that both allow me to connect to the community and serve. Being involved in two vibrant and growing entities has been a huge blessing to my life.

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Her life’s calling

Dacono officer focuses on children in community

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people don’t take seriously, but it’s an issue that’s perAge: Older than you think! sonal for her. When she Occupation: Police officer was younger, a friend’s Years working in St. Vrain Valley: brother was killed by a 2.5 drunk driver, forcing Boyer What brought you here What to be “aware of the impact has kept you? I wanted to that that could have on work in a small town. I love Boyer keeps a football in the community I work in. I someone’s life.” her car, she said, and she’ll get to play football with my Because of her experigo find “some of my kids, check in with families ence, Boyer takes the time boys” and play a game with that need to be checked on, to explain to drunk drivers them at the start of an earoffer resources when the seriousness of their lier shift. The quality time needed, and be around ­­ actions. not just for the hard times! I lets them interact with love that I can really be a police in a more casual “Standing there the day I “I arrested a girl the othpart of this community, and way, instead of just when a graduated the police acade- er night and she blew three not just here during the parent is doing something my was so amazing times the legal limit, and hard times! wrong. because I had finally I told her how scary that achieved the thing I had was,” she said. “She asked Then, “they’re more like- around 5 years old, a wanted my whole life,” she me why it was scary, so ly to talk with you when babysitter left her brother said. I explained to her that she something does happen, and her alone. Frightened, because they’re not afraid In May, Boyer was recog- could’ve very easily gotten she called 911. into an accident and hurt of you,” she said. nized as a traffic safety The police officers who herself or someone else.” She also always carries a responded to the call “were champion at the annual The girl told Boyer that Colorado Department of small bag filled with blanamazing,” she said, “and she had never thought of it Transportation Law kets, toys and stuffed animade a very huge impact like that, and thanked BoyEnforcement Awards. Boymals for children in her on my future.” er for her work. er received the award for car. “I love the kids in our How they treated Boyer community,” she said, so if and her brother that night making the most arrests “She kept saying that for offenders driving under she’s going to think about she is working on an inciinstilled in her a desire to the influence, or DUI, in dent or accident involving it before she drinks and one day join law enforcechildren, she wants to have ment and shape children in the Dacono Police Depart- drives again,” Boyer said, ment in 2017. She arrested which is the best she can something to comfort the same way. 15 people out of a total 43 them. ask for when she pulls peoAfter a “rougher” childDUI arrests. ple over and talks with Boyer knows the impact hood spent in and out of them. Boyer said that driving foster care, Boyer raised that police can make on a her family and worked for a drunk is a crime a lot of Boyer is always looking young child firsthand. At

acono police officer Jackie Boyer usually works the night shift, but when she gets a chance to start early she spends time with children in her community.

Jackie Boyer

probation and parole company since 2003. Eventually, she decided she wanted to work in a different area of law enforcement and give back what she was given years ago. More than two years ago, she graduated from the police academy and became a police officer. She specifically chose to work in Dacono for its small community feel.

By Madeline St. Amour • Photos by Lewis Geyer • Longmont Times-Call

4 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

for opportunities to not just arrest people, she said, but to talk with them and educate them about safety issues. For example, she enforces seat belt protection during her DUI stops and educates people on how to properly buckle a child in a car seat into the car. “I want to make sure they understand how to fix the problem,” she said. Because of her childhood, Boyer said she’s understanding when people make these small mistakes and other, larger mistakes. She treats everyone with respect, she said, because she comes from a place where she can “comprehend how people make the choices they make.” “I know that I could have very easily been in their shoes, had I taken a different path,” Boyer said. “... Yes, they made a mistake, but that doesn’t make them a bad person. They just made a bad choice.” Madeline St. Amour: 303-684-5212, mstamour@prairie mountainmedia.com

Jackie Boyer grew up in foster care and was inspired to make the most of her life by becoming a police officer.

Lewis Geyer / Staff Photographer

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 5

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Kalin Capra

Age: 40 Occupation: Professional musician Years in the St. Vrain Valley: 13 What brought you here? What has kept you? Its nice views and its proximity to all my work. Its history. I work in Boulder and Fort Collins. I play all over the Front Range. We now have a daughter, she’s 11. We had no idea before she was a student how good the schools were, when we got here. We realized how lucky we are. I’m sticking around.We’re into about 15 years of our “five­year plan,” and we’re staying. Thinking about it, it was really just luck that I ended up in Longmont. I met some friends for a beer at Lefthand and instantly fell in love with the town. I stay here because the town and the people here are awesome. I love all the events and all the people that create them. What is the music scene like in Longmont? This town has evolved tremendously. Eleven years ago there was hardly any place to play. Now, all the venues. There are so many venues. I can actually work here in town. The local musical festivals are an example of how cool the town is becoming. How has the music scene changed, and Longmont residents’ musical entertainment opportunities, changed? I’ve become a cheerleader for this town, its musical offerings, and the scene in general. The music scene has changed in that it has grown enormously. With 10 bands playing throughout town on a Friday night the biggest change has been the amount of music offered here in town. Primarily, I play the upright bass and banjo, but I’m also a multi­instrumentalist who also plays guitar, mandolin, cello, and drums. To date I have had the pleasure of playing The Roost, Longs Peak Pub, Left Hand, Grossen Bart, The Dickens, Rosalee’s, Longmont Jazz Festival, Ziggi’s, Still Cellars, The Speakeasy, Wibby, Oskar Blues and a handful of private events around town. 10 years ago, hardly any of those even existed. There are also a lot of world class musicians choosing to call this their home and with that bringing a sense of community with them.

Carl Brady

Age: 80 Occupation: Retired Naval engineer Years in St. Vrain Valley: 13 What brought you here? What has kept you? My first wife passed away. My present wife was a prayer partner of hers so we just kind of felt like we enjoyed each other’s company. She’s a Colorado native, born in Leadville. She had moved back so I came out. When did you start writing into the paper and why? Within a few years after I came out here, I got interested in the water crisis I believe exists here and the things we need to be doing to ameliorate that. And global warming. I’m not a big fan of the scare. I do believe there’s some warming going on but I don’t particularly believe it’s caused by man or that it is as catastrophic as people say. Why do you write into the paper so frequently? I’m almost 80 years old, so I can’t do too much. There’s things that I see that affect our country and my children and my grandchildren and great­grandchildren, so I feel it’s worth making my ideas known trying to get people to understand some of the things. I went to MIT, to the Sloan Business School. I feel like I have some things to offer. How do you feel about the state of newspapers today and their role in the community? It certainly seems to have gotten smaller. Every once in a while we get to wondering should we be paying that much money. It’s rather expensive but we realize it takes cost to put something out like that. We like to read the local news and keep up on what’s going on in our community. A paper is important.

Pamela Brogdon Age: 50ish Occupation: Travel agent Years in the St. Vrain Valley: Less than one! I’ve been here about six months. What brought you here? What has kept you? I moved to Longmont to be close to my daughter, who lives here with her husband. Being able to see them regularly has kept me here. You recently got back from a cruise to Cuba and The Bahamas. What was something interesting you learned? I thought it was interesting that most people in Cuba speak English. Everyone was very friendly. I went para­sailing, and saw a show at The Tropicana in Havana, both of which I really enjoyed. Why do you think people should travel? Well, you get some great experiences that last a lifetime and you can’t really put a price tag on those. You get to see the world and how other cultures and how other people live.

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Jodi Carlson

Semsija Cass

Age: 68 Occupation: Administrative assistant to the principal at Central Elementary IB World School in Longmont Years in St. Vrain Valley: 45 What brought you here? What has kept you? I moved to Longmont in late 1973 to begin my career with the Longmont Recreation Department, which was newly formed shortly before then. I was with the recreation department for 15 years. I met and married Rodney, a Longmont native, and stayed because it is such a wonderful community. I have enjoyed a variety of fun jobs in Longmont since leaving the Recreation Department: United Airlines, David Wynja & Associates (Columbia Sportswear), Colorado Clothing, Robbins Flowers, Jazzercise and Longmont High School. Tell me about working at Central Elementary. I started at Central in 2009. I feel so blessed to work with a committed and caring staff and, of course, the kiddos are mostly just adorable. It is great to work with such a dedicated staff who love the students and encourage them to be the best they can be. Our principal is very forward thinking and is an honor to work with at Central. I’m one lucky person. What are you most proud of? I am most proud of our two grown children, Dr. Whitney Haas, a local chiropractor, and our son, Taylor, who is a mortgage consultant with New American Funding. Both are such honest and hardworking, nice people that I love spending time around. I am also proud of the programs we started in this community and see so many things flourishing that I was a part of in the 1970s through 1990s.

Age: 41 Occupation: Emergency room nurse at UCHealth Longs Peak Hospital Years in St. Vrain Valley: 12 What brought you here? What has kept you? Colorado, I believe, is the most beautiful state I have ever visited. My husband and I always wanted to settle here. After seven years in New York, we finally decided to quit our jobs, sell our stuff, and move here with our three little kids. We haven’t looked back; it was the best decision we’ve made for our family. How do you deal with the fast pace and often saddening situations in the ER? I was a military flight medic and critical care nurse for almost 24 years, so I’ve had the privilege of caring for many patients in difficult circumstances. My faith in God and love for people has been pivotal when it comes to caring for my patients and coping with devastating situations. I currently work at UCHealth Longs Peak Hospital in the emergency room. I am so grateful for my coworkers, manager and administration for providing us with the resources and leadership to take care of the people in our community. The team that I work with is invaluable with the challenges we face in our ER. What are some of the things you like to do off­the­clock in Longmont? I enjoy hanging out with friends and family, going to local restaurants (especially The Roost, Jefe’s and Sugarbeet) and relaxing in my yard with a cup of tea.

Luis Alberto Chavez Hernandez

Age: 50 Occupation: Bilingual special education teacher, McKinney­Vento education liaison, Skyline head soccer coach, interpreter Years in St. Vrain Valley: Almost 24 What brought you here? What has kept you? I migrated from Mexico in 1990 and lived in Dallas for a year. In 1991 I moved to Longmont pursuing the love of my wife, Francis Melendez­Chavez, who has lived in Longmont with her family since she was little. My wife and our four children, Josue, Jovanni, Gabriel and Diego, our extended family as well as my desire and my passion to live and work among the people in the St. Vrain Valley community has kept me. You help support homeless kids in the community. What do you do to help them? As the McKinney­Vento liaison, I am responsible to assist students and their families to remain in their school of origin when they encounter the unfortunate experience of residential displacement causing them to not have their own regular, fixed and adequate place to stay overnight. My role is to identify and determine service eligibility for those students who are experiencing homelessness due to hardship. As the SVVSD liaison, I am responsible to remove all barriers to enrollment, retention, attendance and academic success. What got you in to coaching soccer, and what do you enjoy most about it? It was my own experience of having a coach who made such a difference in my life while growing up in Mexico that inspired me to coach and give back to the community, let alone having the amazing opportunity to coach my own children and watched them grow after their club and high school soccer experiences.

8 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

Rebecca Chavez Age: 41 Occupation: Director of admission and outreach at Front Range Community College’s Boulder County campus Years in St. Vrain Valley: 10 What brought you here? What has kept you? I moved to Longmont after working at Front Range for a few months. Growing up in Milliken, Longmont wasn’t ever a destination for us. It was the place you passed through to get to Boulder. After moving to the area, I discovered a community that cared about its residents and I wanted to be a part of that. What’s the best part of your job? Seeing students of all ages achieve their educational goal, especially our first generation college students. In admissions, it’s rare that you get to establish relationships with students because our job is to guide prospective students and their families through the college process, then we get them to the resources that will help guide them on their educational path. I have been lucky to have students who work for our department during their time at Front Range and have gotten to know students through our Latinx Excellence, Achievement, and Development Scholars (LEADS) program. What’s something interesting about local Latino history that many people don’t know? My thesis, “Making Them Count: A Baseline Study of the Latino Community in Longmont, Colorado, 1910 to 1940,” looked at U.S. Census data from 1910 to 1940 and Boulder County directory information to identify where Latino families settled in Longmont when they were recruited by the Great Western Sugar Company to do backbreaking work in the sugar beet fields. They built cultural enclaves on the periphery of town, where they settled since they encountered “White trade only” and “No Mexicans, no dogs allowed” signs in town. When we mapped the addresses found in Census records, it was easy to see that these enclaves still existed in Longmont today. They continue to be more than just places on a map, but are instead the lifeline of our culture and a vibrant cornerstone of our community.

Scott Conlin

Age: 44 Occupation: Marketing consultant, Years in the St. Vrain Valley: 13 What brought you here? What has kept you? We have family that lives in Gunbarrel and we just love it here. We have stayed and loved it ever since. I moved right across from Central Elementary, where our kids went to school, and we’ve made great friends here and in the neighborhood. You’re involved in Bicycle Longmont and an avid cyclist. What do you think are the benefits to cycling rather than driving around Longmont? I think you get a better perspective of what’s going on in town. You go at a slower pace and get to stop and talk to people. You see more than what you see in your car, when you’re racing from one spot to another. I think, overall, riding is up and people are doing it more, which makes the roads safer as well. (Drivers of) vehicles are more likely to know what to do with bikes now than they were 10 years ago. What do you like to do if you’re not cycling? I’m originally from Boston, and I love to sail. I have a sailboat and another boat and I like to get out on the water as much as possible, whether it’s Carter Lake or Union Res, any water is good to get out on.

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Age: 46 Occupation: School counselor at Rocky Mountain Elementary School, starting a new position June 1 as St. Vrain Valley School District’s education equity and community engagement coordinator Years in St. Vrain Valley: 46 What brought you here? What has kept you? My parents are immigrants from Mexico, and they were fortunate enough to have moved to this amazing community in the 1960s. They worked at Longmont Foods for more than 30 years and built our family foundation in the Longmont area. My four sisters and I graduated from Skyline High School. Three of us graduated from CU­Boulder. What drew you to work as a counselor at Rocky Mountain Elementary? I actually was one of the first students to attend Rocky Mountain Elementary when the building was first built in the 1970s. When I received my master’s degree in counseling, I was invited to apply to this position. How lucky am I to go back to my very own elementary school. The best part of my job is the work that I do with my students and families, from academic and career counseling to social and emotional support. The school district is a team of committed and supportive people who go above and beyond for our students. I am only as good as the team I work with, and this is a very good team. You and your family competed on Family Feud. What was that like? We grew up watching this game show and decided to do something outside our comfort zone. When we auditioned, on my sister’s birthday, just for fun, we were shocked to learn that we had been selected. We won the first round, lost the fast money and then lost the second round to a sweet family from Frederick, Colo. What an experience. Fun fact: My kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Jackson, who lives on the East Coast, called me when the show aired. I had not heard from her for decades.

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COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 9

F

Tending the garden Teacher keeps Flagstaff Academy greenhouse — and students — growing

lagstaff Academy teacher Allison Cole’s domain is outdoors, with garden beds and a greenhouse as her classroom. She manages the greenhouse while teaching hands-on science lessons at the preschool through eighth-grade charter school in south Longmont. She worked as a science teacher in Dallas, along with running a landscaping business. After moving here 12 years ago, she mainly stayed home with her two kids, now 17 and 20. Once her kids were older, she decided to return to the workforce full time and found the job opening at Flagstaff, where she started five years ago. “It combines my interests of teaching and gardening,” she said. “The whole school shares the space, and I take care of it.” Lisa Trank-Greene, the school’s communications

berries, fennel and artichokes. Age: 55 Pots scattered throughOccupation: Flagstaff out hold succulents and Academy greenhouse various other plants. manager/teacher There’s a small fairy garYears in St. Vrain Valley: 12 den, a composting worm What brought you here? What has kept you? I came for my bin system, a globe and a kids. We were in Dallas and rack of equipment that there was no place to ride a includes sets of colorful bike. We wanted to be near magnifying glasses. the mountains. I love it The greenhouse also here. includes a large aquaponic system with a catfish, bass coordinator, said the garand koi pond ecosystem. den area provides real-life The pond traps heat to experiences for students. keep the greenhouse While it’s used mostly to warm in the winter and teach science, she said, cools it through evaporaother classes also benefit. tion in the summer, while A technology class, for the fish waste provides example, recently nitrogen fertilizer. designed an irrigation sysOn a recent day, she tem for the garden. helped students get to “(Cole) always comes up know the fish types. Stuwith really creative projdents took turns bringing ects for the kids,” she the well-fed fish to the sursaid. face using a worm tied on The garden beds inside a fishing pole, sans hook. the greenhouse are crowdShe also helped them ed with herbs, vegetables plant a bed of corn outand flowers, including side, showing them how spinach, snap peas, mint, the kernels they eat are radishes, tomatoes, straw- also the seeds.

Allison Cole

“Don’t plant the roly poly,” she cautioned a first grader. “It won’t grow.” She said the most popular lessons, especially with the younger students revolve around creatures instead of plants. “The insects are really popular,” she said. She said students also get excited when they can sample a vegetable that they planted — and are more willing to try a new vegetable, like a radish, if they had a hand in growing it. “We want kids to know where the food comes from,” she said. Along with learning science through the garden, students help with planting, harvesting and sometimes upkeep. “We try to get the kids to do as much as we can,” she said. One of the biggest challenges, she said, is figuring out what to plant and when, especially in the outdoor garden beds. The

By Amy Bounds • Photos by Matthew Jonas • Longmont Times-Call

10 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

outdoor garden includes a Colorado native grasses patch, a pollinator flower garden and a Native American “three sisters” corn, beans and squash patch “I research and ask other gardeners,” she said. “Every year, you just keep adding. It changes all the time.” While she has a garden at home, she said, she doesn’t usually work on it during the school year and is likely to neglect it until July. She said she does miss the ease of gardening in Dallas, noting Denver’s season is shorter and the conditions harsher, making gardening more challenging. But, she said, she’s happier here. “I love it here,” she said. “I just love the town, the people and the environment.” Amy Bounds: 303-473-1341, boundsa@dailycamera.com or twitter.com/boundsa

Greenhouse manager and teacher Allison Cole poses for a portrait in the greenhouse at Flagstaff Academy in Longmont.

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 11

Ann Brandt Cram

Darby Crandall

Age: 68 Occupation: Retired librarian Years in St. Vrain Valley: 40 What brought you here/why do you stay: A good friend had moved to Longmont for his work. He called my husband and me in Pittsburgh, Penn., and said, “Come on out.” Although we enjoyed our time in Pittsburgh we were ready for a change, so packed our belongings and headed west. Longmont was a friendly city of 23,000 (according to the 1970 census) and had just begun to experience a population growth. We were delighted with the majestic mountains and all the hiking opportunities. I stay here because our Colorado born children live in state, I have wonderful friends and, since retirement, am enjoying further exploration of Boulder County. The many parks, lakes and easily accessible nature reserves are both peaceful and exciting. I admire Longmont’s positive steps in refining its reputation by, among other measures, increasing support of the arts, taking action on major fracking concerns as well as the county and city’s respect for the ospreys by erecting numerous nesting poles. What is your favorite species of bird and why? Being outside has always been a fondness of mine, and while I find all creatures interesting, birds are my favorite. With about 10,000 living species it’s difficult to select one above the others, however, cedar waxwings are very endearing to me. These pastel colored, elegant looking birds with dark black facemasks are often hidden in the trees, heard but not seen. Then, almost magically, they reveal themselves as a crowd, frequently in berry rich trees. Cedar waxwings are very social and seldom seen alone. Where do you like to go birdwatching? Birdwatching can be enjoyed by simply looking out a window, putting out feeders, traveling to nearby “hotspots,” or flying to foreign lands. I’m partial to the first three options. Local areas I like to visit, both as a change of scenery and for birding, are McCall Lake, Golden Ponds, Pella Crossing (Hygiene), and Lagerman Reservoir.

Age: 28 Occupation: Boulder County building services maintenance technician Years in St. Vrain Valley: 2½ What brought you here? What has kept you here? I kind of just came out on a whim. I kind of just landed here. A friend from Cincinnati that I grew up with talked me into coming out here. I love Longmont. Would you recommend that other people consider living here? Sure. I like it. It’s close to the mountains, almost in the foothills. Good for hiking, camping. I love the location. I live in the downtown area, less than a block from the police station. There’s lots of entertainment and dining. Longmont’s a little more affordable than Boulder. I could never live in a big city. This has kind of got the perfect feel for me. I used to work in Erie, in the water department, and it would have been cheaper to live in Erie. But it was worth it to stay here in Longmont. It’s also close to Denver. You can go down there and catch a ball game. I consider myself very fortunate to have ended up here. What have you learned about the area since moving here from the Midwest? I didn’t know what to expect. The entire area is booming. There are all sorts of businesses thriving. There’s a lot of small businesses, mom­and­pop stores, and I like to support those. Everyone’s really friendly. I’ve not met many who were not friendly. There are a lot of opportunities in this area. I’m an outdoorsman. The skiing here in Colorado is world­class. That is something that I have enjoyed quite a bit.

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Age: 64 Occupation: Owner, Creative Framing Years in St. Vrain Valley: 20 What brought you here? What has kept you? I moved here to set up my business and that’s why I’m still here. That and family. How did you get started in framing? I was in high school in the early ’70s. I asked my counselor, “I need a job. Where do I go?” My counselor gave me a card for a local framing shop, and I really loved it. What’s your favorite part of the job? My clients. I love my clients. They have interesting things to frame. I get the weirdest things. What’s the most interesting or unusual thing you’ve ever framed? I did a bunch of framing for the FBI: articles and photos of things they dealt with over the decades. I framed guns that couldn’t leave the building. I made shadow box and mounts without having the guns here; I traced them and had to feel the weight to decide where to move the mounts. Getting to go into the FBI gun vault was amazing. Justin Bieber’s shirt: He threw it into the crowd at a concert and the daughter of a client caught it. I framed it with her ticket, a picture of her with it and a picture of him wearing it on stage. I re­framed a whole bunch of creepy bugs: spiders, big grasshopper things. The lady took it to another place and they wouldn’t do it. They were so fragile, and I had to move them without breaking their legs off. I had to work on that when the store wasn’t open because I couldn’t be interrupted.

Age: 44 Occupation: Volunteer, fundraiser, board member Years in St. Vrain Valley: Almost 6 What brought you here? What has kept you? Google bought out the hi­ tech company that brought us to the USA. My husband was transferred to the Boulder office in 2012. It was very difficult for us to move from a small village in France to the suburb of Plano, Texas, seven years ago. Moving to Colorado was like a breath of fresh air. What kind of work do you do for the Lyons Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization and why do you do it? I have served on the PTO Board for the past five years and president for two. I taught in Canada and France for several years, and I have always believed in public education. When we first came to the USA, I was not able to work. I decided that I could still support the local elementary school and the quality of education by volunteering on the PTO board and in the classroom as well as by raising money by organizing fundraisers such as the Jogathon and Casino Night. This year the PTO was able to help support a new program called Science and Leadership which involves a full­day of stations for children of all levels including reflection, science, team­building and challenge activities. What do you plan on doing when you take over at the Lyons Emergency Assistance Fund? I plan on continuing to advocate for our friends and neighbors in need in the greater Lyons area by providing services such as Meals on Wheels, Direct Financial Assistance and Resource Matching as well as a weekly food pantry. Since the local medical clinic and pharmacy closed, I hope to explore transportation needs for those who need access to medication as well as to medical services. I also plan on raising money for our services by continuing to organize an adult­only Halloween­themed dance party, called Rave to the Grave. It is held every year end of October at Planet Bluegrass.

Bill Decker

Age: I’d rather not. Occupation: Driver for Green Ride Years in the St. Vrain Valley: 9 months What brought you here? What has kept you? I enjoy the people. I drive people to the airport, and the people from Longmont are always very kind. I also appreciate the people at Green Ride. And the drive from DIA to Longmont is absolutely spectacular. I have the mountains and the sunsets. The word among passengers is that you know a lot about Mars. How is it that you know so much about the red planet? I’m a planetary scientist — a planetary geologist — and spent over 30 years with a focus on Mars. I contributed to the latest global geologic map of Mars. I’ve contributed to journal publications and books and so forth. In a few words, what can you tell us about Mars? Mars is a kind of an elderly Earth. It used to have oceans and an atmosphere. I have argued that Mars still has plate tectonics, active tectonics. It has had major volcanic eruptions. There’s a mountain range the length of the Himalayas on Mars, and the only explanation is plate tectonics. Mars is about half the size of Earth, and it is not dead. What’s a planetary scientist doing driving an airport shuttle? I wanted to take time and drive. I took Green Ride while on a trip, and enjoyed it. When I came back to the States to be near my family, I decided to drive. I’ve enjoyed it; it’s been a pleasure. It’s a pleasure working with the Green Ride folks, too. I have time to see family and communicate with people. There have been many riders who have been interesting. I really enjoy communicating with folks from Longmont. They’re eclectic, international. I’ve had many passengers ask great questions. We have conversations about what they do. Then we talk about the planets. There are folks who go to different parts of the world. There have been a lot of scholarly folks that I’ve talked to. You get out of the van, and people shake your hand or give you a hug. It’s a pleasure, really. What is one place you would like to visit? Mt. Etna in Catania, in Italy. Also Iceland.

Age: 79 Occupation: Retired electronic engineer and programmer nerd (and proud of it) Years in St. Vrain Valley: 22 What brought you here? What has kept you? I was brought to Colorado kicking and screaming from New York in 1995 by IBM on a temporary assignment, but after being here a year, I did not want to go back. The good weather and outdoor activities kept me here. What drives you to volunteer and help people? I have a very narrow spectrum of interest which drives me to seek others with similar passions. My interest in video production led me to co­ create the “Eyes on Longmont” production club which meets at the Senior Center. We have made over 170 films which play on Longmont Channel 8 and Layer 3 TV, and can be found in the Longmont Public Library. My films include documentaries called “The Carousel of Happiness” and “The Maker Movement?” as well as educational films for the city of Longmont, made in conjunction with the TinkerMill maker space. Other films have been made in the St. Vrain Valley Schools with the support of the Times­Call NIE (Newspaper in Education). Teaching classes in video editing, camera operation, and audio recording is very rewarding. I hear you collect automated musical instruments. Why? Other hobbies include building things with electronics and programming microprocessor. During the 1970s I started rebuilding and collecting automated musical instruments. These include reproducing grand pianos, music boxes, orchestrion, and a 9 rank pipe organ, all built in the early 1900s. They all play themselves using computer type logic, but without any wires or electricity. These are very fascinating machines which most people today have never ever seen. We had to design our home to accommodate five grand pianos, a pipe organ plus other instruments, a home theater, two workshops, and a video editing suite.

James Dohm

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 13

G

‘Little taverns are ... a lost art’ ‘Jerry D’ looks back, mostly fondly, at decades in the bar business

BY JOHN FRYAR STAFF WRITER

erald Denovellis, better known as “Jerry D,” opened the doors of his Dacono bar in 1985, assigned it his nickname, but sold the popular establishment two years ago. He said he still drops by two to four times a week “to see my old friends.” When he’s there now, “I’m kind of the unofficial greeter.” Denovellis said that when he started Jerry D’s, “there was a lot of competition, with nine other bars in Dacono.” Projects such as building an outdoor beer garden where there were once only weeds and tree stumps, were part of the attractions that drew a growing number of regulars as well as out-of-town visitors who had heard about the tavern and came to check it out. “A lot of great people came through those doors,” he said, including professional athletes. When the Denver Broncos held their preseason practices in Greeley,

Jerry Denovellis

Age: 67 Occupation: Founder and former owner, Jerry D’s bar in Dacono Years in St. Vrain Valley: Grew up in Lafayette, lived in Dacono about 5 years, have lived in Firestone 25 years

“they’d stop by my bar all the time,” he recalled. “We had golfers, rodeo guys, and a lot of bankers started showing up,” he said. “We have drawn customers all the way from Cheyenne to south Denver.” He joked that Jerry D’s also became “a good place for lawyers and judges to go hide.” Said Denovellis: “It’s amazing the people who would who show up. You get a lot of characters, but 99 percent of them are great people.” The bar’s customers “were like a family,” he said. “If anyone had a son or daughter in a seniorclass play, all the bar went there to watch them.” “The bar would just fill up on Christmas Eve,” he said, as well for Fourth of

July pig roasts. He said one of the hardest chores he’d had was telling someone that “you can’t have any more to drink.” Denovellis said he told tipsy customers that “you’re no good to me if you get killed” driving home, and he often gave them coffee and drove them home himself. As for the “Jerry D” nickname, he said his highschool nickname was “Dino,” but that a friend suggested he start going by Jerry D and assigning that name to the bar. “I was never really called Gerald” from then on, he said. “They just called me Jerry D and a few other choice names.” As for many of the bar’s regulars, “it seemed like everybody had a nickname, but I can’t give them to you because some, they were not pretty.” Denovellis said bars like Jerry D’s — “what they call, in the business, a mom-and-pop operation” are something of a family affair. His wife, Susan, and daughters Krista and Lisa all worked at Jerry D’s. Such bars and taverns

aren’t as popular these days among the beer-drinking crowd that’s shifted to one of the growing number of brew pubs in southwest Weld and Boulder counties, he said. Mom-and-pop bars “are kind of dying out,” he said. In his own years in the business, though, “everybody in Dacono was very nice. It’s a nice little town. The Carbon Valley has been very good to us. They’re very good people,” he said. He said Jerry D’s worked to return that affection by sponsoring a variety of fund raising and charitable events for area causes such as community food drives. When asked whether he misses being a hands-on tavern owner, Denovellis said, “In a way, now, I sometimes do.” He said he misses “the people I saw” who became regulars patrons during the more than three decades he owned the bar, “but I don’t miss the everyday running of the business.” “I’ve been doing it since 1976,” said Denovellis, who worked in Denise’s, a Lafayette restaurant run by his mother, for about 10

By John Fryar • Matthew Jonas • Longmont Times-Call

14 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

years before she sold that business and he started his own establishment in Dacono. “Forty-plus years is a long time,” Denovellis said. He said he’d once even thought about writing a book about his experiences — “ ‘Fifty Years Behind the Bar,’ by Jerry D.” He joked, though, that he wished he had put a provision in the contract when he sold Jerry D’s to A. Bunker Investments LLC that he’d get “free beer for life” whenever he visits the tavern. He speculated that the new owners retained the Jerry D’s name because of the popular recognition it had achieved over the years. His advice for anyone thinking about opening a bar like Jerry D’s? “Little taverns are kind of a lost art right now,” Denovellis said. “It would be a great experience for them, but they’d have to be willing to put in 12-hour days, seven days a week.” Contact Staff Writer John Fryar at 303-684-5211 or jfryar@times-call.com or twitter.com/jfryartc

Jerry Denovellis poses for a portrait at Jerry D’s in Dacono.

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 15

Valeria Fugate

John Gaddis

Age: 42 Occupation: University of Colorado journalism student majoring in international media with a political science minor Years in St. Vrain Valley: 2½ What brought you here? What has kept you? My husband, David, accepted a job at Intel. We also wanted a great school system for our children, and we found it here. What prompted you, a wife and busy mother of three young children, to enroll at CU in journalism? I was born in Canada to Chilean immigrants and speak three languages — Spanish, English and French. That background has given me great curiosity around culture, history and international politics. Journalism seemed like a good fit. One of your projects entailed reporting on human trafficking in Colorado. What was the most surprising thing you learned? Human trafficking is the second largest international criminal business, earning more than $150 billion each year. Trafficked victims are modern­day slaves that are coerced, abducted or forced into working. Unlike prostitution, this is not a crime that’s entered voluntarily. It targets young women, mothers, girls, boys, and babies. The hardest hit victims are migrant workers, illegal immigrants, runaways, homeless, domestic violence victims, and people facing addiction and poverty. Since Colorado has two major interstates that cross — Interstate 25 runs north and south, and Interstate 70 runs east and west — this state has become a hub for traffickers. If you could raise more awareness around the topic, what information would you share? Being a wife and mother has made me acutely aware of this issue. In 2017, the FBI rescued a 3­ month­old girl and her 5­year­old sister from a Colorado sex­ trafficking ring after a “friend” of their family sold them for $600. There are countless other stories of adults abducted for trafficking while running errands and of children lured by other children into this business and never seen again. Human trafficking is a crime of opportunity. The Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000 enables states to create new legislation. But laws still don’t have enough teeth, which makes winning convictions slow and difficult.

Age: 68, more or less Occupation: Lawyer Years in St. Vrain Valley: 68 What brought you here? What has kept you? Incredible luck. I was born at the corner of Fourth and Coffman to the best parents imaginable and we lived on a farm “out in the country” on Nelson Road. There were great schools to attend — Columbine, Junior High on Main Street, and the hallowed Longmont High School. Also, luckily, I convinced Sally Martinka to marry me — out at Ryssby Church. We stay here because Sally and I get to watch the six best grandchildren ever grow up (and their parents aren’t too bad either). What about Longmont initially attracted and has retained its place as the primary location of your business? Seriously? Boulder County is as good as it gets. Why live or work anywhere else? At the law office I have the privilege of working with and for some of the most interesting people in Colorado. How did you get into running, and how long did it take you to train and conquer your first marathon before completing “the Big Six”? It was impossible not to be a runner if you lived here in the ’70s. Frank Shorter and just about every other incredible athlete you can imagine lived in our area. Which of those host marathon cities was your favorite? Which race was your best? Here is a secret ­­­ you can use training for the “big” races as excuses to plan incredible trips — London, Berlin, Tokyo, New York, Boston, Chicago. As a practical matter, there is no better way to see a city than to run through it. Just running around McIntosh and along the St. Vrain is wonderful too — I just hope you get a chance to get out and do that.

Payton Garcia

Age: 18 Occupation: Graduated from Frederick High School in May and work at the Carbon Valley Recreation Center Years in St. Vrain Valley: 18 What brought you here? What has kept you? My family has been in Frederick for six generations. They came originally for the opportunity to work in the mines, and we have stuck around because of the community and the people in it and because this is who we are. What did you like most about high school? Anything you would change? What I loved most about high school was just being able to make memories with everyone that I’ve grown up with. I was able to really form into my own person and let her shine. The only thing I would’ve changed is how many times we lost to Erie in sports. What did you do outside of school? I have spent most of, if not all of, my time playing softball and volunteering. I have played competitive softball year round the past six years. So if I wasn’t on the field, I was volunteering or working. Where are you going to college in the fall? I am headed to Colorado Mesa University to pursue a degree in kinesiology education so that I can teach physical education and coach. That is my dream job because I don’t think there is any job more important than teaching.

16 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

Tim Glenn

Age: 36 Occupation: Special education department at Skyline High School, offensive coordinator for football, assistant head coach for boys basketball Years in St. Vrain Valley: 9 What brought you here? What has kept you? My wife and I moved to Longmont from Omaha, Neb. We came here knowing it to be a great area to start a family. We enjoyed living in Longmont but once we moved over to the east side of town, we really fell in love with the community. You’re a guy who really has his finger on the pulse at Skyline High School, so can you tell us a little bit about your Falcon pride and how much fun it has been to see the school’s athletics thrive over the past year? I was lucky to be asked by Mike Silva to join him in helping turn around the Skyline football program. I have really enjoyed the passion for success that our players have demonstrated. Along the way with Coach (Tyler) Cerveny asked me to be his varsity assistant basketball coach. We are fortunate at Skyline because our coaching staff has a great camaraderie. Many coaches on our coaching staff coach multiple sports and that allows our athletes to receive a common message. Selfishly, it is a great situation because not only do we coach together, we have built strong friendships on and off the field. What drew you to coaching and what is your fondest memory from coaching in the Longmont area? My father was a head football coach. Watching my father impact the lives of so many young men motivated me to follow the same path. There was a gap when I originally moved to Colorado when I was not coaching student­athletes. Around this time is when I met Coach Silva and he put me in contact with Mike Apodaca. After one season of coaching under Coach Apodaca, I knew this was my passion. While coaching at Silver Creek, we were fortunate to participate in three straight state championship games and ultimately won it all in 2012. The short turnaround we have accomplished in football at Skyline ranks right up there with the success we have had at Silver Creek. Reaching the playoffs for the first time since 1999 was a great accomplishment and we expect to consistently be in playoff contention moving forward. I work in a great school, I live in a wonderful community in “Eastmont” and cannot wait to build more memories in the future.

YEARS

1871

303-776-2244 timescall.com

1879

A Legacy of Business and 1871 to 1961

Community 1904

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1946

Fitting Longmont at the same location for 72 years!

1937 Longmont Chorale Singing From Our Hearts to Yours

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IN BUSINESS

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1948

1957 Entertaining Longmont for over 61 years!

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1958

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COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 17

Decades, in her own words With daily journal entries dating to the 1940s, 94­year­old’s memories are ‘indelible’

W

hile the act of writing may be a chore to some, it is a mission for Opal Gee. Since the 1940s, the 94year-old Longmont woman has made a daily, handwritten entry into a journal, a feat she continues even currently along with scribing non-fiction stories she hopes to publish in magazines. Large, plastic bins filled with her diaries — one for each year dating back to when she was just a teenager — take up space in her son Bill Gee’s garage. Finding the time and technology to eternalize his mother’s lifetime of memories, thoughts and stories has been a challenge, but the man hopes to one day get it done. “I’ve thought about digitizing them, but that’s a big effort,” Bill Gee said. Opal Gee recalls the details of when Bill, her fourth and final child, was born, and writing about the Midwest snowstorm

“I have to,” she said of her daily journaling. “It Age: 94 feels like, you know, I Occupation: Retired can’t explain it hardly. I Years in St. Vrain Valley: 9 want to remember what’s What brought you here? What happened, and I want to has kept you? I came here to be able to check back to be closer to my son. see if I remember. I need it worse than I used to. I always liked to write. that nearly stopped her When I was a kid, I wrote from getting to a hospital a little something for a on time. weekly, and they pub“I recorded the day he lished it and I got a dollar was born. He was premature, and I did write some- or two. It wasn’t the money, though, I have to thing about the terrible blizzard. We lived in Rock- write, that’s how I feel. I ville, Ind., and I was going gotta get it said.” to go to deliver him and As the wife of a late we had a terrible blizzard. Christian minister, Gee When I started having moved around the countrouble, it was about two try often as an adult, flowmonths early. I never ing along with her husprayed so much in my life. band’s stints at churches It would have killed me in Indiana; Springfield, probably if we couldn’t get Mo.; and even Durango in to the hospital.” the late 1980s before she Aside from wanting to left Colorado for Louisaccurately detail the big ville, Ky., only to later moments of her life like arrive in Longmont to be childbirths, Gee docucloser to her son as she ments even the days and aged. events many might considShe hopes a magazine er far from consequential. will agree to publish her

Opal Gee

first-person accounts of life during World War II, and coming to grips with moving into a full-time nursing home, respectively titled, “My Indelible Memories of World War II” and “My Emotional Earthquake.” Many of her previous writings have been published in various magazines, she said. The set of pages depicting wartime America discusses the fear instilled across the nation instantly following the bombing of Pearl Harbor and the country’s entry into the global conflict. “We had heard about the blitzkriegs in England and weren’t sure it couldn’t happen in America. Almost immediately all of our cities were ordered to black out the lights at night so enemy bombers could not see them. The possibilities of massive destruction were frightening. The dangers were more real than we actually

By Sam Lounsberry • Photos by Lewis Geyer • Longmont Times-Call

18 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

knew,” she writes in “My Indelible Memories.” Her first boyfriend was killed as a co-pilot of a B26 over Germany, she wrote. After that, her worry was incessant over her fiancee and future husband, Don, once he returned to war from the leave on which he made his marriage proposal. She believes one or both of her recent pieces may find a home in Reminisce Magazine. “It’s my memories and they’re indelible. They can’t be wiped out,” Gee said. “Writers that old are fading out, they’re done day by day. I think kids nowadays and young people of all kinds need to think about the terrible sacrifices of that war from a distant, family viewpoint, or a young person’s.” Sam Lounsberry: 303-473-1322, slounsberry@prairie mountainmedia.com and twitter.com/samlounz.

Writer Opal Gee, 94, has been keeping a journal since she was in her teens. She is a resident at the Peaks Care Center.

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 19

Elicia Goodsoldier

Gary Greene

Age: 37 Occupation: People Engaged in Raising Leaders (P.E.R.L.) program coordinator, Boulder County Years in St. Vrain Valley: 9 What brought you here? What has kept you? My partner was joining a Native American law firm in the Denver Metro area. The great schools and great opportunities for our kids kept me here. I’ve come to love the outdoors while here, too. (I used to hate being outside) What inspires you to do the work you do in the community? I’ve come to find out that the voices of people of color are dismissed quite often, even in places where they are supposedly valued and honored. Through my work in the P.E.R.L. program and my advocacy work in the community, I hope that I can encourage and instill a sense of worth and value to the community members who feel unheard. Their voices need to be amplified, not just tolerated, but really heard and accepted. Every day that I walk into my workplace, this is what’s on my mind. I carry a quote by the late Wilma Mankiller who said, “The most fulfilled people are those who get up every morning and stand for something larger than themselves.” What is a piece of advice you can give to people who want to improve their leadership skills? I always tell folks to keep doing what they’re doing in their community. Many of the participants who walk through our doors are already plugged in, on the ground and are informed about the needs of their communities. I encourage them to bring that valuable knowledge into the board room or the commission meetings. Unfortunately, the reality is that these systems were not built for people of color so our goals are to ensure that they have the tools they need to work within those systems and make an impact.

Age: 85 Profession: Retired physicist, part time bridge teacher Years in St. Vrain Valley: 16 (Moved here from Boulder after it got too big, noisy and expensive.) What brought you here? What has kept you? I came to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration to join a newly formed Wave Propagation Lab which was intended to study the atmosphere with ground based sensors such as Doppler, optical, sound and pressure and a couple of others. I was one of four whose expertise was wanted for the sound wave group. We had worked for the Bureau of Standards in D.C. initially for the purpose of detecting nuclear bomb detonations by the Russians and Chinese in the mid­’50s using low frequency microphones before the advent of satellites which could do a better job of it. Along the way we discovered several natural sources of low frequency waves never observed before. New discoveries are always the most exciting aspect of any science. Now that you are retired, you play and teach bridge. What makes a good bridge player? It is by far the hardest game I’ve ever played and that includes chess which I played in high school with some success. To become a good bridge player one needs a good understanding of logic, probabilities and how cards “work.” This latter is something only people who have played some form of card games can understand. Good short term memory is a must since a good player knows every card that’s been played and can then deduce what cards the opponents are likely to hold. Non­bridge players cannot possibly understand what makes a good player any more than most of us can understand what makes a good violinist. Other than practice, practice, practice. Same goes for bridge, but both require some kind of innate ability.

Mark Guttridge

Age: 39 Occupation: Owner, Ollin Farms near Longmont Years in St. Vrain Valley: 33 What brought you here? What has kept you? I was born and raised and grew up on the farm where we farm now. What are your thoughts about present­day farming in the area? Farming is a tough way to make a living, but being able to farm in a place like Longmont gives my wife, Kena, and I hope because we see a growing awareness about the importance of healthy food and the connection to a local farm. Small diversified family farms have been going out of business around here for decades, but those are exactly the type of farms we need to heal our communities and our planet, we see a big shift in citizen support to revive our town’s agricultural heritage. A new paradigm of agriculture is coming, and it’s centered around regenerative or ecological principles that create high quality food while also supporting the local environment. It’s exciting to be a part of that, even if it is a lot of work. “Ecological” farming is a term that’s surpassing “organic.” People realize these small, diversified farms are a way of building health. There are not only health benefits, but also environmental benefits of diversified ecological farming. What is the role of venues like the Longmont Farmers Market? They’ve grown a lot. This is our 10th year going to the Longmont Farmers Market. It’s the best place for people to get fresh food, nutritious food, right after it’s come out of the ground. Farmers markets really let us connect to the land and our neighbors. A farmers market is the best place to go to see what nature is providing, and when.

20 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

Diane Groff Age: 60 Occupation: Longmont office manager for Center for People with Disabilities Years in St. Vrain Valley: 36 What brought you here? What has kept you? My husband and I moved to Longmont in 1982 so that I could pursue a degree in the Experiential Education Masters of Arts program at the University of Colorado. We raised two children who graduated from Longmont High, and we enjoy being active in our community, in civic and recreational endeavors. I dance with Moriarty Moffit School of Irish Dance, volunteer with the Senior Center and snowshoe trips, volunteer with the Longmont Affordable Housing Technical Review Group, and my husband and I are both active members of First Congregational United Church of Christ. When my professional life intersects with my personal life, my appreciation of experiencing community in Longmont grows. What a great place to live! What inspires you to do the work you do in the community? Professionally, I draw my inspiration from the Disability Rights Movement originating in 1970s — we are people first with the right to be actively engaged in directing the services we need to live independently in our communities with integrity and inclusion. Personally, as a two­time cancer survivor and lifelong learner, I am inspired by getting the most out of each and every day and learning new concepts. My motto, “moving through space and slipping through time,” means that I get a daily dose of physical activity from snowshoe racing, mountain biking, running, hiking and, of course, Irish Dancing. I am actively engaged! As someone with a disability, what is something you wish people knew about people with disabilities? We are more than our diagnosis, disabilities and impairments. We are people first. When our community provides opportunities for inclusion and access, we are made richer by the gifts when we all can contribute. We see an ongoing need to address attitudinal, environmental and institutional barriers. CPWD is actively involved with the city of Longmont’s efforts to raise awareness of mental health needs via Supporting Actions for Mental Health. If anyone with a disability needs support in achieving independent living goals, CPWD is your resource.

YEARS

A Legacy of Business and Community 1965

1966

1965 to 1984 IN BUSINESS

1968

1971

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1974

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1977 Briggs Carpet Care

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1978

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1979

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1982

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1983

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1984

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COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 21

Pat Hains

Ralph Hardesty

Age: 51 Occupation: Mechanical design engineer Years in St. Vrain Valley: 45 What brought you here? What has kept you? My parents moved us to Colorado in 1972 from California, then Lyons in 1978 when my father (John Hains) bought the Dairy Lite. I have not found a better place to live; Colorado has set standards quite high. Is it correct that your family lost a home in Lyons in the 2013 flood, and what stays with you, from that experience? Yes, I grew up in the house behind the fence in Meadow Park and many memories were made there. My father sold the property back to Lyons just seven days before the flood. I remember sneaking back onto the property just after the flood and taking some video. I cried; my home was gone, there was nothing but rubble. The only relief I felt was looking up 20 feet to notice the beautiful mountainsides remained unchanged. You reconnected not long ago with an adult daughter that you didn’t know you had. How important has that been for you? Well, my brother and I visited my mom over Halloween last year, she said “she had a DNA mystery that she needed help with.” Long story short, through the new wonders of DNA testing, Lauren, my daughter, whom I was not aware of, was able to find me (I was 20 when she was conceived). We’ve spent many hours learning about each other (I find it so interesting how much we have in common without raising her). She is married and has two beautiful boys, Carson (looks incredibly similar to me when I was his age) and Barrett. This made me an instant Pappy! My wife, Chris, has been a rock through this adventure, which isn’t always easy, and I love her more every day because of it. “The Story” has taken over our lives and our family has grown, my sons Nathan and Jordan have a new sister! We very much look to the future! What do you most enjoy about coaching youth baseball? I was a coach for 11­plus years in the LBL (2000­2012). Hands down, it was always about the kids, many of which I still keep in touch with.

Age: 91 Occupation: Retired Great Western Railroad locomotive fireman and engineer Years in St. Vrain Valley: 10 years but lifelong northern Colorado resident What brought you here? What has kept you? I was born and raised in Colorado, to a farming family. My family has been here since the 1900s. We stuck around the area. I spent three years in the Army during the Korean War and returned here. What has changed in the area during your lifetime? It used to be pretty broadly an agricultural area. Some of the houses and barns are still here, like they were when I was a kid. As for housing, there are many new houses in different areas, and different people. Much of the railroad is gone. Would you recommend that others consider living here? If they can find a place to live, it’s a super area. The people are very friendly and basically considerate. It is a beautiful place to live. You can get a good view of our wonderful Rocky Mountains from many areas. The snow­capped peaks are always gorgeous, and the grandeur and beauty of them in the summer is awesome. It’s not far to get up into the foothills and mountains to enjoy a day of fishing, picnicking and other activities. Union Reservoir is not far away where you can camp, enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, picnicking, wind surfing, etc. Longmont has the best drinking water I have ever tasted, and there is ice skating available in the winter. The University of Colorado is close by. The county fair is held every fall,. A fun time for all. We have lots of wildlife within and around the city.

Greg Harris

Age: 56 Occupation: Worshipful master (honorable master) and past master of the St. Vrain Masonic Lodge, part­time property management Years in the St. Vrain Valley: 48 What brought you here? What has kept you? I moved with my mother and father, five brothers and two sisters from Chicago in 1970. I just like it here. What’s not to like about Colorado? You have the mountains, and you have every different kind of weather, usually in the same day. How did you first get involved at the St. Vrain Masonic Lodge? It’s in our family history. I don’t know how most people find it, but usually veterans seem to find their way to masonry. My father was a Marine. My brother was a Marine. I’ve had a lot of surgeries, so I didn’t join the services. Volunteering just came natural. The St. Vrain Masonic Lodge is the closest one to us — the one there on Third and Main. What is your proudest achievement in your role there? The most important thing in freemasonry is our service of God, the grand architect. The thing that we in the fraternity do with St. Vrain that I really enjoy is that we give out a scholarship once a year for school kids. But if you went by the St. Vrain Lodge, the downstairs was never renovated. We were basically paying (our tenants) to be there. It didn’t make money. As a philanthropy you’ve got to have money coming in so you can do stuff with it. And I see that we give away one scholarship. I thought, “How about we restore these lower units and make them rental units? We can bring in enough money that we can start doing more scholarships.” As a philanthropy, what else is there? The building was just falling apart. It was horrible. We got together with downtown development, and we got grants for the front of the buildings for the people moving into it. We’ve redone the bottom units. Longmont, all the way down Main Street, is becoming beautiful again. That’s been my pet project: trying to refurbish the lodge so it can bring more money in so we can be sustainable.

22 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

Jennifer Harris Age: 41 Occupation: Owner of Da Bean Coffee House and Cafe (seven years now). Years in area: 14 What brought you here? What has kept you? We moved here because we wanted to raise our kids in a small town near family. Berthoud was perfect because it was small town community with family owned stores and great schools. What led you to buy/open a coffee shop? I bought Da Bean because I loved the community connection it created. It has a “welcome family” feeling to it! How would you describe Berthoud to someone who doesn’t live there? I’d describe Berthoud as friendly familiar faces with and outdoor athletic vibe. What do you do with all of the coffee grounds? We give our used coffee grounds to local farmers and gardeners who use them in the soil. Others will use them in compost.

Fr. Terri Harroun

Kris Harris Age: 62 (or 9 in dog years) Occupation: Retired Years in St. Vrain Valley: About 50 years. My parents moved my brother, sister and me to Longmont from Iowa in 1960. I was grateful that we made the trip by automobile and not Conestoga wagon. Spent a few years in Minnesota and Texas, but always returned to

Longmont. What brought you here? What has kept you? My father took a job with a mortgage insurance company. Family/friends. Longs Peak at sunrise or sunset. Healthy outdoor lifestyle. The home detention ankle bracelet I’m wearing ... just kidding. What’s the biggest difference between Longmont in the 1960s and Longmont now? Longmont in the 1960s had a unique identity as a smaller agricultural based town loaded with hot cars “dragging” Main Street on the weekends. It also had numerous locations to watch the “submarine races” (remote “make out” spots) or so I’m told. Great little food joints like: Hamburger Haven, Gene’s Texas Burgers and Santeramo’s Pizza. As a smaller town, Longmont was more of a tight knit community than now, even with friction between the jocks, hoods, cowboys and hippies. Longmont now seems to be losing its unique identity and evolving into “Boulder Lite.” The increased traffic and reduced civility of people is a downer. I appreciate the improved restaurant, brewpub and entertainment options. The efforts to revitalize downtown, the St. Vrain revitalization and Greenway path are great. I understand that as towns grow the everyone­knows­everyone quality is lost, but I’d settle for one night a week being approved for dragging Main. You note beneath each of your columns that you believe “sarcasm deserves to be taken seriously.” Has a reader ever mistakenly taken your sarcasm seriously? My article was titled, “If Star Trek Had Our Technology.” I had Capt Kirk trying to interact with his underlings but they were all “down nosers” (too busy texting or playing game apps) on their consoles to react to him. My commenter noted that we are close to having the technology capability like the transponders (smart phones), tricorder (iPads) and phasers (tasers) and passed over the point I was trying to make about our “distracted” world. I get it. Sarcasm isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. I like comments, positive or negative. You appear to have a wide variety of interests and experiences — public radio, volunteering, coaching basketball, writing. What’s the common thread among all of those activities? I’ve worked with many positive people and been able to express my serious opinion either verbally or written, wrapped in a sarcastic taco. No, make that a chalupa.

Age: 51 Occupation: Pastor at Light of Christ Ecumenical Catholic Church Years in St. Vrain Valley: 25 What brought you here? What has kept you? I moved here when starting a family. I stayed for the school district. All three of my children graduated from Longmont High School. What has it been like working as a pastor in a church? I was called as pastor in 2017, having worked as an associate since 2011. The Ecumenical Catholic Communion is part of an independent Catholic experience that focuses on inclusion, elevation of the lay community, and extending grace and sacrament for everyone. As pastor, it is inspiring to work with this community that believes completely that all are welcome and God loves us all. I am blessed to serve this community. What have you learned? God hasn’t always used the best PR agents, so the message that we all get to come as we are and receive love and grace has been lost. There cannot be bouncers at the doors or the tables in our churches. God’s love and healing grace is for everyone. The Gospel is for everyone. We’re still not the best PR agent, but God has the best message: You are loved! What do you like to do in your off­time in Longmont? I do Longmont. I was in a play at Jesters. I’ve read poetry from my book, “A Woman Called Father,” at Still Cellars. My best dishes were made at CrackPots. I learned how to make cheese with The Art of Cheese. I learned how to spin fiber at Longmont Yarn Shop. I go to Art Walks and Longmont Pride and walk the trails. I’ve been a soccer mom, a 4­H Mom, a Girl Scout mom, a theater mom. My partner, Bobbi, and I take pictures of the Sugarmill whose personality and wisdom woo us.

John Hix Age: 29 Occupation: Store manager at Hope’s Storehouse Years in St. Vrain Valley: 28 What brought you here? What has kept you? My mother’s family was here, so we came when I was 1 year old. For staying, I say its Chief Niwot’s curse. Really it is the atmosphere and lingering Victorian vibes. How did you become interested in Renaissance culture, and when did you decide to start wearing clothing designed in that era’s fashion? I have always been interested in ancient culture and history. The fact that there is so much knowledge that we can soak and choose not to intrigues me. There is always something to learn that someone has not yet known. If you get to know the Renaissance starting in Italy, ending in Europe, you will find that a majority of our “current culture” has carried from these periods. The clothing. “costumes” if you will, represent a raising of tolerance levels. I love to try to banish ignorance. What keeps you busy outside of work? I enjoy gardening and old movies. Walking through Old Town and trying to discover new details that have been overlooked is a fun time. I enjoy things that people have forgotten because of the changing times. The way something is because of something else is wonderful. What’s the coolest thing about working at Hope’s Storehouse? Do you have a favorite item you’ve sold or seen there? Prada has been coming into the store lately. The thrill of seeing things I have sold at such stores as Neiman Marcus and Chanel Counter intrigues me.

Lisa Helser Age: 36 Occupation: Server at Pinnochio’s Incredible Italian Years in St. Vrain Valley: 17 What brought you here? What has kept you? I moved here to be closer to my grandmother and great uncle. I ended up starting a family and stay here to help raise them here. What drives you to keep up the Neighborhood Watch Facebook page? I run Neighborhood Watch so I know what’s going on in Longmont, in and around my children. Times certainly have changed since I was younger, and that means we need to get information out to the public and young families as quickly as possible. I’m hoping that the site also helps law enforcement, such as finding witnesses or keeping people out of an area when there’s an emergency. What do you like to do in your spare time in Longmont? On my days off I love getting my kids and exploring the many parks and lakes and the river, and finding wildlife for my kids to observe.

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 23

Danielle Holmes

Georgia Jallo

Age: 36 Occupation: Political science major, leadership minor at Metropolitan State University Denver Years in St. Vrain Valley: 2 What brought you here? What has kept you? I received a scholarship from Women’s Independence Scholarship Program which is funded by Doris Buffett through her foundation. This program is designed to help survivors of intimate partner abuse. This scholarship gave me an opportunity to escape the oppression of my hometown and former abuser, and so I took it. I was able to stabilize myself fairly quickly and within a year went home to gain sole custody of my daughter and brought her to Boulder as well. The community has supported my vision from day one. I stay to continue my education and to give back to the community that has empowered me. What is the biggest misconceptions about victims of domestic violence? Why didn’t you leave sooner? This is such a complicated statement although it seems so simple. The complexity of the question derives from the fact that there is an epic war between the mind and the heart. When you are involved in a relationship that has turned violent, there is great dissonance between these structures. There are many battles along the way and with support of allies, the mind can eventual overcome the heart. Judgments and blame does nothing but compromises the fragile self esteem of the victim. With support and love a person may grow from the shell of their former relationship and blossom with new purpose.

Age: 79 Occupation: Administrative assistant at Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Years in St. Vrain Valley: 10 What brought you here? What has kept you? In 2008, I sold my California house and moved to Longmont. My younger son lives in Denver, and I had been visiting Colorado frequently since he moved here. How did you end up at Greenwood Wildlife? After relocating and (ostensibly) retiring, I found that my life was lacking something. I looked for meaningful volunteer work and, quite by chance and luck, found myself at Greenwood Wildlife. I had long been interested in nature, conservation and wildlife. Here were all of these things and more in one place. Greenwood had a new executive director, new buildings, and a huge mission to accomplish as the Front Range continued growing while the available real estate for wildlife was increasingly challenged. This is what has helped to provide an anchor and as the volunteer position became an actual job. It has been a source of great satisfaction to see how Greenwood has grown to become the largest wildlife rehabilitation center on the Front Range. When I described the different parts of this job that changes with the seasons, she said, “That’s a dream job!” What things do you like to do in your spare time? Otherwise, I have made good friends here, became a Colorado Master Gardener, and enjoy travel. I’m sure many recent transplants along with people who have always chosen to live here feel that it’s easy to grow roots on the Front Range and make a satisfying life.

Open to the Public

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24 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

BUILDING SUPPLIES

Shop* Donate* Volunteer... At the ReStore!

YEARS

A Legacy of Business and Community 1986

1987

1986 to 1994 IN BUSINESS

1987 Steve’s Plumbing

1987

Repair • Remodel

Hot Water Heaters • Service Work

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1987

Farms - Residential - Commercial Maintenance • Gas Log Installation 515 Kimbark St., Suite 103 Longmont, CO 80501 Steve Moskel, Master Plumber 303-651-1898 303-772-3200

1988

1989

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1989

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1991

1993

1993

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COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 25

J

Staying on her toes From musical theater to veterinary science, home­schooled student keeps her options open

ohnstown resident Becca Hyde sidled up to a barre inside the Longmont Dance Theatre Academy on Thursday afternoon in May. The 16-year-old high school junior joined about a dozen other boys and girls to warm up to soft piano music as their instructor looked on and offered guidance. It was just the beginning of the four hours they would spend dancing that day. That week, she would likely put in more than 20 hours of practice. It is very hard on the feet. “If we have rehearsals, we might do five hours,” Hyde said. “We take Sundays off.” Hyde is home-schooled

classes that require multiple people — like physical Age: 16 education and choir — she Occupation: Student; is also taking voice lessons Centennial Sate Ballet at the University of Northballerina ern Colorado in Greeley Years in St. Vrain Valley: 11 and attends college coursWhat brought you here? What has kept you here? My family es at Front Range Commumoved from the east coast nity College. for my father’s job. We “I love science a lot,” she stayed because of all the said. “Biology is my favorartistic opportunities in the ite. I just like learning St Vrain Valley area. about life and the world around you.” so she can commit to the Hyde’s mother, Julie, is a grueling dance schedule, tap dance teacher, so she but, contrary to the mistook up the craft when she conception that homewas about 3 years old. She schooled kids as conservatives who lack contact with has dabbled in other the outside world, she has forms of dance, and briefly a rich life outside of school played soccer but it caused problems with her and dance. asthma. Oddly, ballet In addition to a weekly doesn’t, but she has heard meeting with other home schooled students where the tired saying that it’s

Becca Hyde

not a sport. “Ballet is a sport,” she said. “We have to work, not our big muscles, but the small muscles in between. We have to be in control of our bodies and look good while we do it, smile on stage and act like we aren’t in pain.” Ballet, Hyde said, forms the basis of many of types of dance, so she plans on parlaying her skills into a career in dance theater and hopefully perform on Broadway. “I was deeply considering (ballet) for a long time,” she said. “Most dancers’ careers end when they are in their mid-20s. After that it’s would you want to be a choreographer or a teacher. I don’t

By John Bear • Photos by Matthew Jonas • Longmont Times-Call

26 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

really want to do either of those.” In musical theater, it pays to be able to dance, sing and act. Dancing is covered, and she takes voice lessons in Greeley. Hyde is not taking acting lessons currently and said she learns on the go performing in local theater. She’s had roles in “Violet,” “Annie,” “The Sound of Music,” “Bonnie and Clyde” and “Peter Pan.” If a career in musical theater doesn’t work out, Hyde plans on going to veterinarian school. “I love science, and I love animals, so why not?” John Bear: 303-473-1355, bearj@dailycamera.com or twitter.com/ johnbearwithme

Ballet Dancer Becca Hyde, 16, poses for a portrait in Longmont.

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 27

Dr. Amy Johnson

Steven Joseph, DC

Age: 55 Occupation: Obstetrician/gynecologist at UCHealth Longs Peak Hospital’s Birth Center and UCHealth Longmont Clinic Years in St. Vrain Valley: 17 What brought you here? What has kept you? I moved to Longmont to work in the community as a physician. I am a Colorado native and have always loved the area. I remain here because of the community and the people. I now have the unique opportunity to serve this community with UCHealth and the newly opened UCHealth Longs Peak Hospital. I am the chairman of the women’s and children’s service line for the hospital. What do you love about helping someone give birth? I love what I do. It is truly a privilege to help women bring a life into the world and become a mom. Even at 2 a.m., I am still excited to come to the hospital and deliver a baby. Although, it would be awesome if all babies were born during daylight hours! A special relationship forms between a woman and her doctor during pregnancy. For me, it is fun to follow the patients over the years to see the kids grow up and to continue to care for the patients as their needs change. What are some of the things you like to do off­the­clock in Longmont? Being a Colorado native, I enjoy all that is Colorado. In the winter, snowboarding and snowshoeing are great off­ time activities. During the rest of the year, I kayak, bike and hike and enjoy trail running. I have climbed several 14ers with my favorite being Longs Peak. I also enjoy spending time with my daughter and my golden retriever. My daughter, who just finished her freshman year at CU, graduated from Lyons High School in 2017. She is a slalom kayaker, and I am a nationally certified slalom gate judge. We have had the joy of traveling together all over the world to participate in competitions. I am also busy in school working toward an MBA in healthcare administration. I believe we can have the best high­quality, low­cost health care in the world and want to be a part of that. I plan to continue to live and serve this community with UCHealth, and to help this community live extraordinary lives.

Age: 47 Occupation: Chiropractor Years in St Vrain Valley: 12 What brought you here? What has kept you? My wife and I wanted to raise our kids in a place that would beg them to go outside and play. Colorado is that place. We settled in Longmont and we are very happy here. What was the most interesting part of being the on set chiropractor on “Scrubs” and “So You Think You Can Dance”? Getting to know all the people that make the shows happen was great. A lot goes into the production of television shows that most people don’t get a chance to see. On “So You Think You Can Dance?” I love working with the dancers. At that level they are true athletes. I was helping them maintain peak performance so they could go out and compete at the highest level. What do you like most about being a chiropractor? The best part of being a chiropractor is helping people achieve their health goals. It is a great feeling when you can take a person that has been suffering for a long time with pain, and improve there their quality of life. I love helping patients get off of dangerous drugs and keep them from getting risky surgeries. Many years ago we hired medical doctors and physical therapists to join our team. I really enjoy working with an integrated team. We all have something to offer the patient and when we work together the patients outcomes are better.

Oscar Juarez­Luna

Age: 26 Occupation: Communications coordinator Years in the St. Vrain Valley: 8 years What brought you here? What has kept you? I moved to Longmont in 2010 after my high school graduation along with my three older brothers and parents. We moved from Arizona due to the fear and hostile anti­immigrant environment we faced day to day. In specific a law that was about to go into effect at that time (SB­1070) in July 2010. Right as I graduated high school, I knew my future was in jeopardy if we had stayed in Arizona. My family and I picked beautiful Longmont out of random and was blessed with the welcoming and warm environment we had received moving here, but came to find out Colorado also had a similar law at the time (SB­90) which allowed police to act as federal immigration. Instead of running, we as a family, as a community decided to stay and fight for ourselves, for our immigrant community, and through many efforts managed to repeal the anti­immigrant law here in Colorado. We knew that a town such as Longmont and a state like Colorado were a much better state than that. What inspires me to keep living here is how we come together as a community when one is in need. What kind of work are you doing for the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition and Padres and Jovenes Unidos? Through Northern Colorado Dreamers United (NCDU) members of the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition, we fight for immigrant rights, and work to empower immigrant youth through education, civic engagement, and leadership development. We work to develop leaders in Boulder County to push for a better community. Padres & Jóvenes Unidos is a multi­issue organization led by people of color who work for educational equity, racial justice, immigrant rights and quality health care for all. We work to build power to challenge the root cause of discrimination, racism, and inequity by exposing the economic, social and institutional basis for injustice as well as developing effective strategies to realize meaningful change.

28 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

Jackie Kapushion Age: 52 Occupation: Deputy superintendent in St. Vrain Valley School District Years in St. Vrain Valley: 20 years in Erie What brought you here? What has kept you? I joined St. Vrain Valley schools after 27 years of public education experience in other districts throughout Colorado. I chose St. Vrain because of the strong, visionary leadership for public education, deep community support and the resources to put robust educational options in place to help all students succeed. I served in five other districts in Colorado before coming to St. Vrain, and I have definitely saved the best for last! What’s the best part of your job? The best part of my job is working with a team of incredibly talented and committed people to support and recognize the daily accomplishments of the 32,000 students and 5,000 teachers and staff across St. Vrain. I also enjoy interacting with our community through many volunteer opportunities and advisory boards, including A Women’s Work, the “I Have a Dream” Foundation, the Longmont Chamber and more. I am most proud of our work on graduation day, when I am able to celebrate our high school seniors and see how proud their families are to share in this special event. Tell me more about what you do with A Woman’s Work? I am currently on the board for A Woman’s Work, a local non­profit that provides financial support for women in the St. Vrain Valley to support immediate needs that cannot be met by other sources. I joined this board because championing the women and families in our community is essential to the continued growth and success of everyone. Additionally, AWW helps women who have children in our schools — when a child’s basic needs are met, they are better engaged in their learning and can fully participate in the educational opportunities that will advance their success.

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COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 29

Aditya Khune

Emily Knapp

Age: 30 Occupation: Software engineer Years in St. Vrain Valley: 2 What brought you here? What has kept you? I am a technology enthusiast and work as a software engineer in the tech industry near Boulder. Longmont is one of the best places to live in Colorado. Living here is peaceful, comfortable and cheaper. While I make my living here, I also study the Vedic literature in the association of a vibrant spiritual community which is thriving in Colorado. You’re currently traveling. Where have you gone in the world and why? I am currently visiting India for my marriage! I visited Vrindanvan and Mayapur in this trip to India. I am very much inspired by the culture, food and spiritual vibrations of these unique places. Interestingly this time I am exploring these regions with my better half. I want to collect the good wishes and blessings of these holy places of pilgrimage. What is your favorite thing to do outside of work? I am a practitioner of “Bhakti” yoga which means the Yoga of Devotion. I am interested to cultivate the mood of “Seva” or service to others in my life. I like to sing and play musical instruments. I try to apply the principles of life given in the book the “Bhagavad Gita.” I feel connected to the philosophy spoken in this book by Lord Krishna to the warrior Arjuna on the battlefield. What has been rewarding about working as a software engineer? What makes the technology industry in Boulder County unique in your eyes? The tech industry in Boulder is growing. Here I can work on technology while surrounded by the beautiful mountains.

Age: 38 Occupation: Science teacher at Longmont High School Years in St. Vrain Valley: 15 What brought you here? What has kept you? I grew up in Boulder and moved to Longmont as a student teacher while I was attending CU Boulder and working at Longmont High. I have been lucky enough to teach science at Longmont High for the past 14 years. Recently, the subjects I’ve been teaching are physics, AP chemistry, animal behavior, and sponsoring National Honor Society. What do you enjoy about teaching, and teaching science in particular? The best part of my day at work is when students get excited about new scientific phenomena and want to learn more. Teaching high school is both fun and challenging and I truly love my job. This is a wonderful community to live and raise a family. I enjoy seeing my former students around town and finding out about their careers and lives after high school. What things do you like to do in your spare time? I spend all of my time outside of LHS as wife and a mom of two little boys in preschool in kindergarten.

Ron Lamb

Matt LeCerf

Age: 46 Occupation: Co­owner of Your Butcher, Frank Years in St. Vrain Valley: 43 What brought you here? What has kept you? My family moved from Ohio when I was 3. When did you start working at the butcher shop? It was literally my high school job. I worked here for nine years and then another guy and I that worked here bought it, and we’ve owned it for 20 years. It’s truly a locally owned butcher

shop. How have you stayed competitive all these years? We just concentrate on what we do. A store opens, you hold your breath; you’re scared. Longmont is growing, which does help. People moving from out­of­state helps, because sometimes people from different demographics are used to shopping at a local meat counter. And people of different ethnicities like different cuts. Korean barbecue, those are short ribs cut thin. South Americans like a thicker rib. Now the big thing is pho (Vietnamese noodle soup). We have a customer that’s been coming in for a few years a few times a week because I can do an eye of round and freeze it and it’s good for pho. A lot of stores don’t cut much at the store, if at all. I have everything here. If it’s on the animal, we’ll figure it out one way or another. You get enough of the word of mouth around that we’ll do stuff like that, and people come in.

30 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

Age: 41 Occupation: Frederick town manager Years in St. Vrain Valley: 6½ years What brought you here? What has kept you? The job, obviously. I was town manager in Maryville, Missouri, when I got the job here. This area is pretty remarkable. My family and I enjoy being outdoors. How would you, as town manager, characterize Frederick and the Carbon Valley? Certainly, the community is very progressive. I think that’s put pressure on us in terms of ensuring that we’re doing the right thing for the community. Would you recommend that people looking for a home settle in the Carbon Valley area? Absolutely, I would. Granted, all the housing seems expensive in the state of Colorado. But further to the south, toward Denver, and to our west, to Longmont, they seem to have higher prices. There’s lots of development going on here, lots of opportunities for seniors and new families. My family and I love it out here.

Marta Loachamin

Kim Manajek

Age: 44 Occupation: Realtor Years in St. Vrain Valley: 20 What brought you here? What has kept you? The University of Colorado Boulder originally brought me to Boulder County as an undergraduate student. The cultural aspects in town and personal network I’ve built brought me back to Longmont five years ago. You are very active in community outreach, particularly in the Spanish­ speaking community. What motivates you to get involved? I have a strong sense of responsibility to my community. It stems from living in two worlds and understanding Boulder County from the lens of a cultural broker. I have a professional background in banking, mortgage, teaching and real estate. I continue to see disparities and know we are learning to do better to support all sectors of Boulder County. I don’t believe we have the option to look the other way when others are suffering inequity. What do you think is the biggest challenge facing Longmont­area families? We may not have learned the lesson of the economic crisis. We are 10 years past that and financial resiliency is still an issue that seeps into not being able to buy a home, not being prepared in emergencies, not knowing how to best finance college or large expenditures for our families. What can Longmont residents do to lend a helping hand to families in need? Make effort to know your neighbor. Talk to the kid or coworker who doesn’t look like you. Find an organization to actively commit your time and connections with. Get connected with DACA students to understand the stories. Share your network with a young person who isn’t resourced.

Age: 48 Occupation: Longmont Museum director Years in St. Vrain Valley: 1 What brought you here? What has kept you here? I am the relatively new director to the museum — I’ll soon be finishing out my first year. I am excited by the things we are doing at the museum (art, science, history, performances!), but I’m also really proud of this community. With such things as the fastest internet in the country and the commitment to 100 percent renewable energy, Longmont is really a leader not only in Colorado, but nationally. And it’s beautiful to boot. What has being museum director taught you about Longmont? I am pretty fortunate that the museum has a permanent history of Longmont exhibition, which provides a really comprehensive understanding of the things that have shaped our city. Plus we have curator of history, Erik Mason, who is a rock star among historians. He’s a font of information that I often use as a resource. Because of my position, I’ve also had the honor of being invited to join the Visit Longmont board, the Rotary and Leadership Longmont through the Chamber of Commerce. Together, I feel like I’m getting a fast­tracked education on the history of the city and an introduction to such amazing community members. What are some of the things you like to do off­the­clock in Longmont? I’m pretty predictable — food, beer and shopping.

Sonia Marquez

Age: 36 Occupation: North organizing manager for the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition Years in St. Vrain Valley: 36 What brought you here? What has kept you? My grandparents settled in Longmont in the early 1930s. We have been here ever since. I love and care deeply for Longmont. My family is rooted in the community; this is where I am raising my family. How long have you been working on immigration rights issues? Nine years. What motivated you to begin your work? This issue impacts my family directly. I have also worked with youth in Longmont for the past 18 years. Many of the youth I work with are undocumented or have family members who are undocumented. Listening to the stories and seeing the power and dedication of the leaders and communities I have worked with over the years is what keeps me motivated to do this work. Do you feel that we as a country are closer to or farther away from meaningful reform? The fight for a just immigration reform at a national level has not been easy, but it is something we will continue to fight for. Our immigrant community who contribute to our country and have roots in this country deserve a pathway to citizenship. I am very proud of the work we have done in Colorado, with the leadership of our undocumented community and supporting legislators we have passed many laws that help immigrants in our state. Education and civic engagement are essential. What gives you hope during these increasingly dangerous times for immigrants? Some of the things that give me hope is the commitment and dedication of the leaders I work with, the allies who care deeply and take action for this issue. The fact that I live in Longmont, a city that once had signs on Main St. that read “No dogs or Mexicans allowed,” now recognizes the value and importance of our immigrant community, also gives me hope.

Olimpia Mejia Age: 31 Occupation: Program director of Rocky Mountain Dreamer Class Years in St. Vrain Valley: 4.5 What brought you here? What has kept you? I came to the IHAD foundation from the Cal Wood Education Center near Jamestown. I’ve been in and around education almost my entire professional life and I very much enjoy seeing the results of hard work and persistence. I’ve stayed in Longmont with my Dreamer Class because I want them to be the best people they can be (find ways to better themselves socially, emotionally and intellectually). The best way I know how to do that is to give them my time and attention. How did you get involved with I Have a Dream? I became involved in IHAD through a series of connections who though I might be a great fit with Longmont and the Rocky Mountain Dreamer Class. What things do you like to do in your spare time? In my spare time, you can find me in the foothills near Boulder, the trails around Longmont, and exploring Colorado ... and the world: absolutely love to travel. And I’ll always be with my son Mateo and my husband, Matt. If I find extra time, I like to play tennis, board games, run and dance.

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 31

‘I have traveled the world’ And at 103, this Longmont matriarch is making plans for her next trip

T

he airline computer had a problem with Frances McCarty’s age. It couldn’t grasp that she is, in fact, 103 years old. “They wouldn’t believe I was 103,” McCarty said. “They had written down 3! I said, ‘I’m one-oh-three’ ” McCarty was on her way to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and the Bahamas at the time with her son David Jr. and daughter-in-law Ila. Even though she’s in her triple digits, she loves to travel and has been to more countries than most people can name. McCarty grew up in Seattle, but her memory is hazy on that part of her life. “That’s a long time ago. You don’t remember a lot of stuff!” she said, shaking her head. She met her husband, David McCarty, in Seattle, where he was stationed after World War II. He was from Berthoud, and once they were married, David gave Frances an option — would she like to move to a big city like Denver or to a farm town like Longmont? “Well, after living in a big city, I was happy to move to a smaller area,” McCarty said. “I chose Longmont.” McCarty raised four children. She now has seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. In 1960, David decided the young family would go live in Europe for a year to experience a different country. Frances and David loaded up their four children

Frances McCarty

Age:103 Years In St. Vrain Valley: 72 Occupation: McCarty matriarch What brought you here? What has kept you? My husband was stationed in Seattle during World War II but was from Berthoud. I chose to move to Longmont over Denver for a small­town feel. I stayed because I love the area and the people of Longmont. I also enjoyed raising my family here.

and their dog Queenie onto the SS Liberte and set sail for Lausanne, Switzerland. They lived there for a year, during which time the children attended a school that was all in French. Her son, David Jr., said the family didn’t just stay in the village. “You took us to the Olympics in Rome in 1960,” he reminded his mother. “We were able to do things like skiing in Zermatt (Switzerland). There were really some special things, but it was a challenge being away from home.” Frances McCarty said she remembered the crowds at the 1960 Summer Olympics, and now she prefers to watch the games on TV. “One Olympics is enough for me,” she said. But the year in Europe instilled a love of travel in Francis that she passed on to the whole McCarty clan. When David died in 1988, and with her kids grown, McCarty turned her attention to working in the

Longmont nonprofit community and planning trips around the world. McCarty and two of her in-laws met a challenge to raise $750,000 and restart the Longmont Community Foundation. She was part of the board until about age 90, when she still kept going into the office to do tasks and talk to people. “It was a pleasure to be with people who needed by help and really appreciated what I could help them with,” McCarty said. Part of McCarty’s duties at the Longmont Community Foundation was to survey the nonprofits that the foundation supported. “I went to 50 or 70 nonprofits in my time and really conversed with them to know just what they wanted and how they felt about us,” she said. David added that she would go into the office and do things like stuff envelopes if it was needed. McCarty also contributed and volunteered at A Woman’s Work, the Longmont Humane Society and the St. Vrain Historical Society. She was a trustee and elder at Central Presbyterian Church. McCarty slowed down her charitable work in her 90s and semi-retired from it at age 100, when she voluntarily stopped driving. “I just decided that the streets were too busy for an old gal to be out driving,” she said. “So I gave it up and I sold my car.” Throughout her life, McCarty has used her time

and money to keep her family traveling together. She took her family, including grandkids, to the Bahamas, on an African safari and heli-hiking in Canada. “They took us up in a helicopter onto the top of one of their mountains and left us off there and gave us lunches,” McCarty said. David Jr. added that McCarty was about 80 at the time and the family couldn’t fathom at first why her backpack was heavier than everyone else’s. “We finally figured out that she’d packed her purse in it,” David McCarty said. “She had plenty of grandkids to help her with the weight, but we encouraged her to not hike with her purse anymore.” McCarty shrugged and laughed. “It was just automatic. I hauled it everywhere.” McCarty has visited Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Australia, New Zealand, China, Japan, Ecuador, Russia, Israel, Jordan, India, Thailand and the Galapagos Islands. She tracked down distant relatives of hers in Czechoslovakia and took her entire American family on a trip there. “I’ve been very fortunate. I have traveled the world,” McCarty said. “There are still places like Bali Bali that I haven’t been. Or Tahiti — we just touched down but didn’t spend much time there.” McCarty said that she likes traveling with family because it’s a good way to keep everyone in touch.

By Karen Antonacci • Photos by Lewis Geyer • Longmont Times-Call

32 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

McCarty ziplined in Costa Rica at age 100, prompting the employees there to say she was the oldest person who had ever done so. Similarly, staff at a tourist destination in Hawaii told McCarty she was the oldest person to shoot sporting clays. She was in her 90s then, she said. “Oh, and we went to Machu Picchu, Peru, too. Dave and I had to run quite a bit there,” McCarty said. “I kept up with him, believe it or not.” McCarty said there are some challenges to traveling in her elder years, but she recommended that others try it if they have the means. “It’s an effort to pack when you get as old as me. You have to take your eyes, your ears, your mouth, everything!” she said. “But you have to be active. Don’t sit on your derriere all the day, because you become stale! You gotta keep moving, which I try to do.” McCarty isn’t done yet. She is hoping to go on a river cruise along the Mississippi in September with David Jr. and Ila. McCarty said the secret to a long, happy life is to care for family, smile a lot, have a nip of scotch every once in a while and a glass of wine every evening. “Keep your interests up,” she said. “Respect others and share with each other. And if you quarrel, for heaven’s sake, make up before you retire. Amen,” she finished, laughing.

Longtime Longmont resident Fran McCarty, 103, has been heavily involved in philanthropic work in the community, serving on boards for A Woman’s Work and Longmont Community Foundation.

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 33

Sean Miller

Jenna Moore

Age: 35 Occupation: Job coach for individuals with intellectual disabilities at Sample Supports Years in St. Vrain Valley: 1 What brought you here? What has kept you? I came from Boulder because rent was much more agreeable in Longmont. Why did you move from being a server to providing direct care? When I was brought on as a server at Samples, I saw job coaches working there and wanted to be one my very first day. I thought what Sample Supports was doing with the individuals was awesome. When the chance arose for me to become a direct care provider, I jumped at the opportunity. What drives you in your current work? Every day I come to work I feel like I am doing something special for someone. Very few people get to feel that way about their job — and I am proud of that!

Age: 18 Occupation: Student Years in St. Vrain Valley: 18 What brought you here? What has kept you? I was born and raised in Longmont. Throughout my life, I’ve loved living in this community. Not only does it have a gorgeous view of the mountains, but Longmont has so much to offer. I’ve loved getting involved in sports and music, and it’s a lot of fun to attend events in Longmont such as the G’Knight Ride and the Boulder County Fair. The people here are also friendly and welcoming. What drew you to sports after you learned that you had? scoliosis? Sports have always been a part of my life long before I discovered I had scoliosis. My three older brothers were involved in sports, so naturally, I wanted to participate as well. When I learned I had to wear a back brace for several hours every day, I had to schedule my time accordingly, so I could still play the sports I loved. The sports were actually beneficial because it kept me strong and reduced the risk of muscle atrophy due to the brace. Fortunately, my spinal curve stabilized, and I no longer wear a brace. I did not allow scoliosis to be a deterrent in my life, and I have been able to excel in athletics, earning All Conference Softball for Longmont High. You have been in multiple school bands and honor bands and plan to study music at CSU. What is your favorite song to play and why? My favorite song that I have performed is “Eurobeat Disney Medley.” I played this song when I traveled to Japan with the Longmont International Friendship Exchange Band. Along with the Tokai University Suwa Senior High Band from Longmont’s sister city Chino, Japan, we performed this song with extremely high energy and wild choreography that we learned the day before the concert. This song always reminds me of how much fun I had meeting these wonderful people from Chino, and it represents Japan’s love for everything Disney. It is a memory I will cherish forever.

Ashlyn Morganfield

Age: 9 Occupation: Rising star in dance Years in St. Vrain Valley: 3 What brought you here? What has kept you? Our family moved here because of the advanced opportunities available in the school district. The community is also very appealing, and we love being a part of the “small­town” feel. What makes dance and gymnastics such a great fit for you? Dance makes me happy. I feel that it is a good fit for me because I’m flexible, and I have a strong core. I’m learning some gymnastics because it makes me more versatile in dance, and it is a great challenge for me. What most helps you prepare for competition? Dance is a sport so to prepare for competition, it takes a lot of practice and hard work. Timing and being in­sync is most important to look like a professional show. It is the biggest challenge. What is your favorite music and why? What I love about dance is that there are a lot of different styles. My favorite is probably jazz, which actually is very varied itself. But I prefer fast, fun music.

Sadao Mori

Age: 69 Occupation: Owner/sushi chef at Sushi Leo Years in the St. Vrain Valley: 9 What brought you here? What has kept you? I found an opportunity to buy an existing business and turn it into Sushi Leo. Of course, with its success, I have stayed. What did it take to become a master chef, and what drove you to accomplish that goal? Years of studying any and all kinds of ingredients and different types of foods. Always looking for something new or different. I’ve always been ambitious with a powerful desire to continually improve myself. I love the work that I do. I’ve been on this “chef’s path” for more than 50 years. It’s my life. What do you do in your off­time in the St. Vrain Valley? Although there is little actual time off in this business, I do enjoy golf when I’m not shopping for items to improve my restaurant.

34 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

Warren Morrow

Victoria Moul

Age: 75 Occupation: Retired from managing Kmart after 20 years, currently a cashier at King Soopers at 17th Avenue and Pace Street. Years in St. Vrain Valley: 41 What brought you here? What has kept you? I got transferred with Kmart on Valentine’s Day 1977 from Long Beach, Calif. I worked for Kmart for 32 years total with 11 transfers. We love Colorado and the people. I’ve heard you’re quite the fan of Longmont High School sports. How exciting was it to follow along with the boys basketball team’s state championship season? We love sports and have known Coach Jeff Kloster for many years. We have got to know the Troy Renck family and their son Brady who played on the team. They were very exciting to watch. Thank you for the great ride. What is your favorite Longmont establishment to patron and why? We love going to the Moose Lodge and seeing all of our friends and enjoying the great food. What has been most enjoyable about retirement since leaving your manager position with Kmart? We love the mountains. We have our cabin in Red Feather Lakes, and enjoy fishing hiking, watching the moose and eagles and the friends that we know in the area. There is no other place like this in the world. Most of all, I enjoy our good health and the support of my wife of 55 years, Ginny. I enjoy the employees and customers I work with at King Soopers. I try to make a difference with the people that I come in contact with. We also enjoy being members of the First Lutheran Church and the people who know that God has surely enriched our lives.

Age: 40 Occupation: CNA at home to two of my kids with disabilities Years in St. Vrain Valley: 2 years What brought you here? What has kept you? I was transferred here for a GM job from Nebraska. I stay here for my children who receive all their special needs services here. They are also thriving at their school, Longmont Estates, and I want that to continue. What made you want to start “KLRanch” as an equine therapy center? KLR is not an equine therapy center, it is a ranch for at­risk youth that will maintain horses as part of our agricultural design. I am doing this because I want to provide a stable and loving home life for at­risk youth, something I didn’t have when I was young. What has been most rewarding about working at the ranch? What is most challenging? KLR isn’t built yet but I can say that the rewarding part is that every day I get closer to building KLR and making it a home. The most challenging is getting people to support KLR without it being a physical place. I find that people would rather see it in action before becoming involved, either by volunteering or donations. So far, I am carrying this on my own financially with my paychecks and without staff. Aside from opening KL Ranch, are there any other goals you hope to accomplish while living in the Longmont area? I try every day to help someone in the area. They don’t know I do it, I prefer to be anonymous. But knowing I helped make a person’s day better gives me purpose outside of myself. My goal in life, not just in town, is to be a better person then I was the day before and help where I can.

Parker Nicholas

Age: 18 Occupation: Student Years in St. Vrain Valley: 13 What brought you here? What has kept you? My family moved to Longmont when I was 2 because we were growing in number and my father wanted to move closer to his work. We are still in the same house and same school district 16 years later because we have appreciated how St. Vrain Valley Schools has shown us that anything is possible. My brother and I went to Fall River Elementary and Trail Ridge Middle School, however, because of open enrollment, we were able to go to Silver Creek High School. We were able to go to a school which focused on the development of our leadership skills and it was through this development that we knew we were going to be able to make a significant impact on the world. I think that is one of the many beautiful things about our school district is that it not only encourages its students to explore and pursue their passions but it gives them the tools necessary to do so. What do you think is the most unique thing about Longmont? We have access to most of the things you would in a big city such as the restaurants, shopping centers and recreational activities. Despite some of these big city luxuries, however, Longmont is able to maintain that small and “tight­ knit” community feel which I have always loved. What things do you like to do in your spare time? What I do in my spare time really depends on the season. The winter is basketball season so you can usually find me on a court of some kind when I’m not at school or doing homework. In the spring, I have been involved with my school’s track and field team, throwing the shot put and disc. When the summer rolls around I love being at the lake and come fall I really enjoy spending time outside whenever I can. However, no matter the season, I’m always up for a movie night with friends and family.

Michele Noel­King Age: 47 Occupation: President Rhinotrax Construction, commercial construction company Years in the St. Vrain Valley: 17 What brought you here? What has kept you? I moved to Colorado 17 years ago seeking a great place to raise my children, outdoor activities, good weather and a sense of community. I have lived in the St. Vrain Valley the entire time and can’t say enough about this place. We love the outdoor concerts in the summer and the weather that allows my husband and I to play golf most of the year, as well as the wonderful activities for our children at school in the St. Vrain Valley School District. Our children attend Mead High School, and two participate in the Unified Sports program (Special Olympics). This program has changed their lives in so many ways, and we cannot image having them in any other place. What inspired you to found Rhinotrax? I have been in the construction industry more than 27 years. Rhinotrax Construction was founded as a way to deliver a high level of excellence. We have a strong code of ethics that focuses on the basics. Do what has to be done, talk less and say more, always finish what you start — as just a few examples. These basics drive our culture and our mission. Rhinotrax Construction also allows our staff and my family the flexibility and family environment to work hard and still enjoy the amazing quality of life that this area affords us. What does a normal work day look like for you, or is there one? What’s your favorite aspect of your job? I am generally in the office 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. I love our staff and our clients. Our staff cares and delivers each and every time. Construction is messy and sometimes throws you curve balls, but in the end the success of any project can determined by one thing: How well did we communicate? If we did our job properly, I know our staff has communicated to the highest level with our client. That is why, after 14 years, I am happy to say that more than 70 percent of our work comes from repeat clients. We have established strong relationships with our clients.

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 35

Rashmita Patel

Adam Pena

Age: 38 Occupation: Physical therapist at Life Care Center of Longmont Years in St. Vrain Valley: 8 What brought you here? What has kept you? We were living in Michigan and my husband’s job moved to Boulder. We have stayed here. The weather, compared to Michigan’s, is one of the biggest reasons. And I think it’s because of my job. I love working here. What’s the best way to stay fit as you age? Here is my professional opinion: 1) regular exercises involving flexibility exercises, strengthening exercises at least four days a week, and moderate level (exertion level should feel at least somewhat hard during exercises) of cardiovascular endurance exercises at least three days a week; 2) healthy diet containing fibers, protein and good type of fat; 3) staying emotionally healthy by participating in social activities with friends and family at least on a weekly basis; 4) relaxation and breathing exercises to minimize stress; 5) getting at least 8 hours sleep at night; 6) annual physical examination and screening by your physician. Have you seen many changes in the community since moving here? The population growth. I have seen how big it’s going housing­wise, compared to housing in Boulder. Everyone wants to live close to Boulder but not necessarily in Boulder. Would you recommend that others move to the area? Definitely. I’ve had friends tell me to move to states down South were they don’t have snow, but I have two small kids and they love skiing, they love the outdoors. The kids say, “We don’t want to leave Colorado.”

Age: 18 Occupation: Coach at Warrior Playground. Years in St. Vrain Valley: 10 What brought you here? What has kept you? My dad brought us here because he knew this community was full of opportunity. The wonderful people we’ve met and befriended is what’s kept us. What was rewarding about participating in a video interview with an elementary school student for the St. Vrain Valley School District? Sitting down with James and having a conversation with him was rewarding to see his bright young mind and hopefully be a positive influence on him. It was also a reminder about where I had started and how much I have to be grateful for. What have you appreciated most about spending your teenage years in Longmont? Is there anything that makes the city special to you? I have appreciated all the friendships I’ve formed and all the opportunities I’ve been able to grab a hold of. Whether it was the two internships with surgeons I did through MBSA at my school or the Colorado Association of School Boards conference I went to with the district superintendents this last fall, there have been countless opportunities for growth and learning. The bonds I’ve made with others and the family of friends I’ve formed is what makes Longmont so special to me. I hear you want to be a neuroscientist. What has inspired you to pursue such a career, and what is your next step? Neuroscience has always been very intriguing to me. I remember my dad teaching me about different parts of the brain, how to improve my memory, and how to keep my brain healthy. He planted the seeds of interest in me, and from there my affinity for it grew exponentially over time. I’m going to Colorado State next year to study neuroscience; however, this is mostly to serve as a stepping stone for medical school where I hope to study to become a neurosurgeon. What other plans do you have after you graduate high school? This summer, after graduation, I plan on getting my license as a certified personal trainer through the NSCA to further my knowledge on human anatomy and I’m planning to climb at least 10 of Colorado’s 53 14ers. What are you most excited for about life after high school outside of continuing your studies? I’m most excited for learning how to live on my own and the challenges that come with that.

Sam Piper

Age: 31 Occupation: Payload engineer/undergraduate research assistant with BioServe Space Technologies Years in St. Vrain Valley: 3 What brought you here? What has kept you? Well, John Muir certainly had it right about the mountains, and CU Boulder has one of the best bioastronautics programs in the world, so there’s that too. The outdoor­centered lifestyle was certainly a draw and continues to be, even if my studies keep me from getting into the mountains as much as I’d like. Through your work at University of Colorado Boulder’s BioServe Space Technologies, you helped send human and bull sperm into space. Why do you think this work is important? Eventually we as humanity will have to move past the experimental phase of how sperm behaves in space, so I think it’s important that we understand everything we can about the process to make sure we’re prepared to handle anything that might come our way. I think that this sort of fundamental research is one of the many reasons we have to expand our utilization of the human factor of space travel. At BioServe we have many other applications/experiments that will have a huge impact on everything from life sciences and treating cancer to seeing if fizzy drinks taste just as good in micro­gravity. Does working on space experiments make you see movies, television or just the night sky differently? The night sky has always been fascinating to me, but being able watch an astronaut work on hardware that I helped send up there has certainly fed the fire of inspiration in me, to be sure. I will say that when I watch movies or TV about space travel, I have started to think less about how awesome it would be if we would be able to do all of that and more about what I need to do to make it all happen. I hope that one day soon we will all be able to look up at the sky, and no longer just wonder, but be able to pack up our bags and go on an adventure.

36 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

Julia Pirnack Age: 61 Occupation: Director of College In Colorado, Colorado Department of Higher Education Years in the St. Vrain Valley: Lifelong — born in Boulder; moved to Niwot area in third grade; attended Longmont and Niwot schools; attended CU Boulder and Denver, bachelor’s and master’s What brought you here? What has kept you? Our family, friends and community — our life — is here. What does College in Colorado provide to the state, and what are your biggest goals as its director? CIC helps people envision their best future and provides them with tools and resources to create a plan to achieve it — building individual hope and capacity. CIC has been a trusted and reliable resource for education and career exploration, planning and guidance for educators, parents, students and adult learners for more than a decade. During this time, the CIC websites and resources have been available free of charge to all users in the state. However, CIC’s core federal funding ends this June. The Colorado Department of Higher Education and CIC are working collaboratively with several other state agencies and key partner organizations toward building a reimagined platform and resources that will meet the needs of all stakeholders. This effort is groundbreaking in concept and scope and, if accomplished, would benefit students of all ages, as well as reduce cost and the redundant systems currently hosted by various state agencies. How did your years as mayor of Longmont affect the work you do now? Being mayor reinforced the value I have always placed on education and the critical need for individuals to be both well informed about issues confronting us and how to productively participate in the life and direction of our community. How do you help shape the Haystack Mountain Golf Course and Haystack Hearth? When my mother passed away two years ago, I became the sole trustee of the estate and businesses. Although the golf course end of the business recovered from severe damage from the flood of 2013, other challenges have meant that in order to keep our family business viable, other sources of revenue had to be introduced. In the past we have hosted weddings and events, as most golf courses do, but last year we began to rebuild that aspect of the business in earnest as Haystack Hearth. Making this beautiful property available to couples for their special day is something that we gladly offer of our mother’s legacy.

Inspiring Women

KRISTINE SIMPSON

Owner, Little Green Cleaners The Little green Cleaners is a green cleaning company, established by Kristine Simpson. She wanted a business she could do while her kids were at school and could be home when they returned. She started the company on the premise that women or men could drop their children off at school and then go work for a few hours and be off in time to pick them up. Employees’ hours are set to what work for their families. W We use green cleaning; which is safe for our customers, their children, pets and our team. We pride ourselves in our Senior program and how we tailor our services to the needs of every “Our success is due to dedication and customer. hardwork of the people that I am proud to work alongside.”

2330 N. Main St. Ste. G Longmont, Colorado (303) 856-4845

in

Business

ROSE HLAING FAISSAL Gold Market Diamond Jewelers

Owners ROSE HLAING FAISSAL and husband Joe (GIA Gemologist & Diamond specialist) love to collaborate with clients to create custom jewelry for bridal, anniversary, and restyle/restore heirloom jewelry. Rose’s family is from Burma and she grew up around gemologists and gemstone jewelry. After college she worked for 15+ years in development and production on many Film/TV projects, on staff with Oliver Stone, George Lucas, Michael Jackson and also taught at Florida State University film school. In 2009 Rose, Joe and their son moved to Longmont to be closer to Joe’s family and help manage the family jewelry store, founded in Dearborn, MI in 1974 by Joe’s dad. They have a family atmosphere and welcome kids and furry friends too. Rose embraces the creative process and feels honored to be part of the important stories behind every piece of jewelry they handle. Stop by to say hello and ask about upcoming trips to Antwerp where they will hand select diamonds directly from cutters for customers.

@goldmarketdiamondjewelers @longmontjewelers

JOLEEN MCGEE

Director of Admissions and Marketing at Life Care Center of Longmont

Joleen McGee started her career in health care almost 30 years ago. She has been with Life Care Center of Longmont for 13 years, as the Admissions and Marketing Director. Joleen has found her true calling in working with Longmont’s older adult population. Her passion and charisma shines in all she does. She has been an active volunteer with the Longmont Meals on Wheels program for the last 16 years. Three years ago she began volunteering at the Senior Center twice a month running the lunch bunch group. Joleen feels blessed to be able to help families and their loved ones, when they are in need of skilled nursing services. A simple smile can make a big difference in a person’s life, and Joleen believes if you can make one person smile, you have done a good job that day! 2451 Pratt Street Longmont, CO 80501 303.776.5000 Lifecarecenteroflongmont.com

1610 Pace St #1000, Longmont, CO

303-834-8981

www.LongmontJewelers.com

ROBIN WATERBURY, DC

AMANDA FROST

Robin Waterbury, Doctor of Chiropractic is a Colorado native serving Longmont and the surrounding communities.

ProCopy specializes in printing services of all types. We print large format drawings for architects and engineers at economy pricing. We also handle small format printing, finishing services, design, and are capable of producing hundreds of types of printed products. Inspired to own her own business, Amanda Frost purchased ProCopy in August 2017 when the former owner approached her about purchasing the business when he wanted to retire. She had started working for the former owner and quickly learned the business and realized she had a strong passion for the printing industry as well as the customers she was providing a product for. Amanda wanted to give another option to her community for printing services as opposed to the industry giants.

Doctor of Chiropractic

Dr. Waterbury attended Logan College of Chiropractic, as did her father and 4 other members of her family. She earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in life sciences, is certified in acupuncture and has studied internal and functional medicine. Dr. Waterbury wants a visit to the doctor to be one of empowerment. She wants to be a partner in your health care. She uses chiropractic care to improve the health and wellness in all area’s of her patient’s lives, whether they are having problems with back or neck pain, or just want to start feeling better when they wake up in the morning. In her practice she takes a “whole person” approach in chiropractic care, which means looking for the underlying causes of disease, discomfort, and pain, as opposed to just treating the symptoms. Many seemingly unrelated symptoms often arise from imbalances in the spine, nervous system and musculature, Dr. Waterbury wants to help alleviate pain, she also wants to inspire and educate her patients on the importance of health and wellness. She will look for the root cause of the pain and create a personalized chiropractic and/or wellness plan to suit each patient’s individual needs. Under the supervision and care of Dr. Waterbury, patients report higher functioning in all areas of their lives. Her practice includes the use of low force techniques, class IV low level laser, decompression, massage, physical therapy, ultrasound therapy, prescribing and reading of blood

Owner, ProCopy Business Center

Providing an excellent product and service to her customers is her highest priority, while building her business in the Longmont community. Her husband Dustin joined her team in September 2017 to help grow the business and still provide high quality customer service. As they approach the first anniversary of ProCopy under the ownership of Amanda Frost, she looks forward to strengthening current relationships and building new relationship with customers and the community.

work and hormone testing, along with instructing on diet and nutrition.

1332 Linden St., Ste. 1 Longmont, CO 80501

Waterbury Chiropractic 303-485-7117 Wellness waterburychiropracticwellness.com

303.682.0313

510 11th Ave. Longmont, CO

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 37

Jennifer Quinn

Ricky Ramos

Age: 46; although I do believe you should never ask a lady her age. Occupation: Head Soda Jerk, Snack Soda Fountain (In the 1940s if you worked at a soda fountain you were a real jerk.) Years in the St. Vrain Valley: 6 What brought you here? What has kept you? Mountains mountains and mountains (bikes, hikes, living in the great outdoors) What makes Lyons different from other small towns on Colorado’s Front Range? Lyons is a modern day “Mayberry.” Walking around town is a real social treat. You look in on your neighbors and help the community Lyons suffered a tremendous blow in the 2013 flood. How do you think it stands, in terms of making a recovery? Lyons is working hard to recover from the 2013 floods, affordable housing remains a struggle, parks are reopening while ball fields remain under construction. Lyons citizens are very proud of thriving after the flood. “We’ve got grit,” and we will be better than ever.

Age: 31 Occupation: Psychology student; professional comedian Years in the St. Vrain Valley: 8 What brought you here? What has kept you? I was raised in the Sunny Side neighborhood of northwest Denver at a time when it wasn’t so nice to live there. I had to battle gang life, drug addiction and jail time while obtaining a high school education. After falling flat on my face, homeless and drug addicted, I was presented with the choice to move to Longmont, and I took the opportunity. I took refuge with my family members, who have been planted in the town for multiple generations. I continued to battle jail and drug addictions, until I met a friend by the name of James Gold, who introduced me to comedy. Of course, my very first comedy set in the basement of the Hotel Boulderado was a complete disaster. But the challenge took off, and I was off on another type of life challenge. After practice and multiple open mics, local comedy legend Hippie Man pulled me to the side and told me to put my blood, sweat and tears into my comedy — what makes me different. I obtained so much from comedy, and it gave me the motivation to help my community back home and here in Longmont. After being in the town for nearly a decade with my family, I made the choice to go back to school with a psychology major, with the hopes of being a prison reform advocate and helping people who were once in my position. Having the second longest­running comedy show in Boulder County saved my life. What kinds of jokes work best in Longmont? The best jokes are the ones that make fun of my town — my story jokes. What are your hopes for the Longmont comedy scene, and what do you see as your biggest contributions to it? When I started the comedy scene in this town, it was nothing. No venue wanted to take a chance on comedy, but now there are multiple open mics and comedy showcases. There is now plenty of comedy to go around in this small town, and I love how it has bloomed and grown. To the town folk: Always be on the lookout for Side Splitting Entertainment because you never know when you will see someone you love from Hollywood or television right here in our backyard.

Ellen Ranson

Age: Declined to say Occupation: Actress and owner of Ellen’s Bed & Breakfast (they don’t serve breakfast anymore.) Years in St. Vrain Valley: 25 What brought you here? What has kept you? I moved here from two years in Bulgaria — never heard of Longmont, but having lived in Gunnison, knew I wanted to retire in a less remote place. I love Longmont — to me, it’s paradise. Blue sky, no humidity, well­kept city. After living in desolate areas in Tajikistan, Russia, Uganda, Ethiopia, etc. and returning to Longmont, where trash is picked up, city streets are safe, welfare of citizens a first priority, it is so different from other places. What do you like about running a “Bed, Bath and Begone” as you put it? I’m a social person, and love having guests in the house! Tell me about your acting: I’m a professional actor, have an agent, do indie films, commercials, etc. I have a business called The Silver Circuit, wherein my stage partner and I entertain at senior facilities with ’50s and ’60s Broadway show tunes and short scenes called “Senior Moments.” Been doing this (about three gigs a month) for six years.

38 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

Darin Reese Age: 37 Occupation: Physical education teacher at Mead High School, head boys basketball coach Years in St. Vrain Valley: 31; 9 at Mead High School What brought you here? What has kept you? My family moved to Longmont on Aug. 2, 1987. My dad got a job working for the airlines. I cannot think of a better place to live and have our kids grow up. From being the athletic director to the boys basketball coach, you have a unique perspective on how the area’s newest school has grown over the years. Can you please tell us what it has been like to watch Mead athletics grow into what they are today? Being the school’s athletic director and head boys basketball coach at the same time was a unique experience. It made me a stronger leader and coach, and I wouldn’t have changed that experience for anything. Now we have 19 varsity sports and almost 1,200 students. It has truly been a blessing to have witnessed the growth of the school and our sports programs. Our programs are competing at a high level, both locally and at the state level. It is a credit to the coaches we have in place and their collective leadership as well as the great kids we have and a community that supports us like no other. What drew you to coaching, and what is your fondest memory from coaching in the Longmont area? I have always loved sports and the competition that goes with them. I knew pretty early on that I wanted to teach and coach. My mom was in education for 44 years. I was fortunate enough to get a coaching job right out of high school, the year after that I met Frank Buck. I was his junior varsity coach as we opened Mountain View High School. When Frank and Jim Sundberg opened Mead High School, I was hired as the boys basketball coach. Aside from being able to lead the basketball program from the beginning, the back­to­back runs to the 4A Great 8 were pretty special. The players and families that were apart of those two seasons made them something I will never forget.

Larissa Rhodes

Age: 30 Occupation: Filmmaker Years in St. Vrain Valley: 2 What brought you here? What has kept you? I have lived in and around Boulder County my entire life, graduating from Boulder High School and University of Colorado. Although I moved to New York for a short stint for my master’s in filmmaking, I just couldn’t stay away from Colorado for too long. New York (and Los Angeles for that matter) offer some amazing film opportunities, but I find there is something very special about living so close to nature and have really come to love Longmont’s real sense community. While somewhat unconventional to the typical filmmaking path, this is where I’ve chosen to make films, and really love it! What is your favorite thing about working on documentaries? While narrative films involve writing scripts and developing a world for a story to take place, documentary films involve capturing real life and then trying to make sense of it all in the form of a story. At times, documentaries can be a very frustrating process, especially when you’re constantly asking yourself when the story begins and when it ends, but it’s also one of the more fulfilling mediums as it deepens my understanding about our world. Documentaries allow me to learn constantly as well as live vicariously through someone else’s eyes. What things do you like to do in your spare time? My husband (a fellow filmmaker) and I love to bike around Longmont and enjoy the lovely open space. We love walking along Main Street and, of course, love to go see movies at the theater! And while our work can be very consuming, this summer we’re trying our hand in gardening, and while we aspire to be as plentiful as some of the local Longmont farms, we will stick to shopping at the farmers market this summer while we learn.

Mary Rose

Age: 66 Occupation: Licensed massage therapist Years in the St. Vrain Valley: 13 What brought you here? What has kept you? I moved to Boulder in 1983 to attend massage school. I tried to leave a couple of times, but always came back. Moved to Longmont in 2005. I love my home and community here, and access to lakes, rivers and mountains. You’ve practiced and taught therapeutic massage. You also play piano, flutes, and participate in community drumming. Is there a crossover between these two activities? Yes, both massage and music are enjoyable aspects of a healthy lifestyle. Massage and music both involve technical hands­on skills, listening skills and the ongoing opportunities for creativity and learning. When the mind is alert and focused, yet relaxed, the hands and heart can take over. There is a common, meditative quality. You’re also a photographer, herbalist and a gardener. What is your favorite leisure activity and why? Everything I do has some aspect of love for nature and the creative process. Photography is a way of capturing a moment in nature to savor its beauty and delight. It is hard to name a favorite leisure activity, but I do love to paddle a canoe, pick and arrange flowers, create fiber art (sewing, knitting, etc.), play music on various instruments (piano, flutes, drums, ukulele). I don’t get bored. Do you think the St. Vrain Valley is changing for the better or the worse? I do worry about the direction growth can take in this valley, if we don’t pay attention to maintaining our quality of life. But I do love the community of creative, caring, generous people I know in this area, who do care about each other, their families, and the environment. I feel very grateful to live here.

Karlo Rivera Age: 19 Occupation: Construction Years in St. Vrain Valley: 19 What brought you here? What has kept you? What brought me here was that my parents wanted a quiet little town so my brother and I could grow up. What has kept me here is that my family and loved ones are mostly here in

town. What has been fulfilling about your work as a framer? What types of projects excite you most, or which have you been most proud to work on? What has been most fulfilling about my work is that when ever I pass by it, I can always point out what restaurants I remodeled or built from the ground up. The projects that excite me most are the ground up or new frames, because they start from nothing — just a slab of concrete, bunks of wood, to a whole new building in a matter of weeks. Honestly the ones I am most proud of working on are the ones I built from the ground up. Which Longmont park do you go to most often and why? I go to Roosevelt Park. I mostly go there because it is a big park that I can walk my dog around and he loves it! If you could spend an entire day going to your favorite places in Longmont, which three areas or establishments would you go first and why? My favorite places that I would spend all day at would be at Union Reservoir or Roosevelt Park or Thompson Park, because those are all places I was taken as a child , so I grew up in them. They will always bring back memories of the good days of my life.

Tony Santelli Age: 78 Occupation: Owner, Niwot Tavern; president, Niwot Business Association Years in St. Vrain Valley: 21 What brought you here? What has kept you? I was with IBM at the time and moved here from New York in 1997. In 2005, I bought Flannigan’s Irish Pub and renamed it the Niwot Tavern. I stayed because of the area’s lifestyle, its health consciousness. How has Niwot changed in the time you’ve lived and worked here? Niwot has changed, but it has maintained its quaint charm as it evolved. That hasn’t changed. In 2010, we had 40 percent surplus retail market space. It was almost a ghost town. Since then, the town of Niwot has become a vibrant business community. whole business district has become very vibrant. and the residential district has become very vibrant. Would you recommend the Niwot area to someone thinking about moving here? There’s a mixed message here. I would definitely recommend it to the people I love. Traffic and congestion have changed on Interstate ­25 and the Diagonal Highway. That’s the downside. But the fact is, it has spectacular mountain views. Colorado is a well­kept secret. Unfortunately, the secret is getting out.

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 39

‘Things go better with generosity’ In music, as he did in medicine, this pianist focuses on how he can serve others

U

nlike Liberace, Dale Sherrod spends a few bucks at the local corner party store versus a fortune with fashion designers in Las Vegas and Los Angeles when he takes to the piano in costume. And also unlike the glitzy late American pianist and pitchman, he and his group of nine other musicians and vocalists gather periodically to play benefit concerts for organizations such as the OUR Center and Habitat for Humanity of the St. Vrain Valley in Longmont. Yet, as a child, Sherrod spun the record with Liberace’s schmaltzy version of “Roll Out the Barrel” more than a hundred times and attended seven live Liberace performances to learn something more about the icon’s showmanship at the keyboard. “I’ve plagiarized his musical skills and ways of communicating with audiences,” Sherrod said with his lingering soft Oklahoma accent. “... And I love to read biographies of great performers, love to study their lives. Though all of them are so different, they all have this quality of connecting, and I respect that.” Sherrod’s volunteerism organizing benefit concerts in Longmont over the past 21 years has raised as much as $5,200 a concert for good causes, he said.

On generosity: “I am an optimist. But Age: 82 I’ve been depressed before Occupation: Retired and have learned a couple obstetrician/gynecologist of things. I’ve learned that and longtime volunteer everyone needs a helping fundraiser for the OUR hand sometimes, and that I Center and Habitat for do better in life if I think Humanity of the St. Vrain Valley in Longmont about generosity every Years in St. Vrain Valley: 53 day. ... Coca-Cola coined What brought you here? What the phrase ‘Things go bethas kept you? My profession ter with Coke.’ It helps me brought me here, and the to get up in the morning community kept me here. and think, ‘Things go better with generosity.’ If I’m In mid-May, he decked too busy to listen to that out again for his latest ben- neighbor who just needs to efit concert in a feathered talk or to smile at the store boa and toga made with a clerk, the day doesn’t go as white plastic tablecloth. well. Then, he played some On music as a universal standbys like the aforelanguage: mentioned Liberace classic “It is a universal lanat the black, 7-foot Young guage because it has a Chang grand piano at that spiritual quality. I’m glad concert’s venue, Longs for that. All 10 of us musiPeak United Methodist cians who get together for Church in Longmont. these benefit concerts “It’s such a joyful piece,” would say that we like Sherrod said of the “Roll spreading joy through our Out the Barrel” tune. “I music. Even if you believe learn music from the print- in God, J.S. Bach said that ed score sometimes. But all music — sacred or secmany of the pieces I perular — brings glory to form at these benefit conGod. I believe that and get certs I learn by ear and so much joy out of playing never look at the printed the piano. So, I am happy score. I just keep listening doing that at home and to the original arrangeeven happier sharing that ment and then rearrange it with others.” in my heart.” On pianos: Here are his thoughts on “At age 4 I loved to go up what has moved him to to the upright piano in our give back through so many home in Oklahoma City to benefit concerts — even plunk out tunes popular before he retired from then, such as ‘Roll Out the medicine in 2006 — and Barrel.’ At age 6, I started why you don’t need a costaking piano lessons. In the tume or a stage to pay it mid 1960s, when I was an forward. intern at a Denver hospital,

Dale Sherrod

I met a young nurse — Madeline (Molzahn) Sherrod, fell in love and got married. We had three children together before her death 10 years later from a brain tumor. Those children are now grown and married, and I have eight grandchildren. But back to pianos. My parents gave Madeline and me a Baldwin Acrosonic upright piano as a wedding gift. Twenty years ago, I replaced it with a 7-foot grand piano, and I think I’ve become a better piano player since then because you can play more notes in five seconds. “ On practicing: “But it does all come down to practicing. As a young doctor, I got butterflies in the early years before going into surgery. But I just hoped to bless the patient and the community by doing that work. In playing the piano, I hope for the same thing, and it all starts with a desire to serve others. That’s why I have volunteered with both The OUR Center and Habitat for Humanity in Longmont and still organize these benefit concerts for these organizations because they focus on helping others. At Habitat they call it ‘theology with a hammer.’” On his seven favorite words: “There are seven words that I think are good for someone in any creative process: ‘Don’t ever, ever,

Pam Mellskog • Photos by Lewis Geyer • Longmont Times-Call

40 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

ever, ever, give up.’ Those seven words are great in music or relationships or at work. But I also realize that if those seven words begin interfering with mental health, maybe it’s time to try Plan B.” On on attempting: “Sometimes before a surgery to deliver a baby, I would walk down the hall and ask God to be present. The same presence is there when I arrange music or a painter paints. There is the joy of creation, and I thank God for helping me attempt to share that joy from that place with others. That’s what it always is. An attempt. Nothing perfect. Just an attempt to share — an idea in Joyce Kilmer’s poem, ‘Trees’: ‘I think that I shall never see ‘A poem as lovely as a tree. ‘... Poems are made by fools like me ‘But only God can make a tree.’ On the afterglow of creative work: “I did some complicated surgeries as a doctor. And after I did it well, there was just this wonderful afterglow. It is the same feeling I get after a great concert. But again it’s not about perfection. It’s about making a maximum effort.” Pam Mellskog can be reached p.mellskog@gmail.com or 303-746-0942.

Dr. Dale Sherrod, a man who worked in Longmont as an ob/gyn for nearly 50 years, is a musician who often recruits other musicians to join him in benefit concerts for local organizations such as the OUR Center and Habitat for Humanity.

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 41

Inspiring Women

in

Business

annie DecoTeaU

Jean McBride, arejuvenation Med Spa

Owner, One Point Six North & RISE Artisan Bread

Owner

Shannon McKinney

Annie DeCoteau has been cooking and baking for more than 25 years, and as founder and head-baker at Rise Artisan Bread,Annie has perfected her long-loved recipes through experimentation, creativity, and a passionate attention to detail, flavor, and quality. Her business and food-related experience is multi-faceted, having experience as a successful manager and business owner of both an inflatable rental company and a small sustainable farm and CSA. Recently Annie graduated from UMass University Without Walls with a degree in Community Food Systems. Annie relies on her background in management, bookkeeping, logistics, marketing, and communications to continue to manage and grow Rise Artisan Bread Bakery and Café. This summer Annie will bring her creativity and expert knowledge of flavor profiles to her newest venture, One Point Six North, a tapas and cocktail bar in Berthoud.The menu will reflect her core values of commitment to quality, sourcing local and seasonal ingredients, and creating a food and drink experience that exceeds the customers’ expectation.

Jean McBride is the owner of aRejuvenation Med Spa, a clinical skin care and laser hair removal spa. She is a licensed aesthetician and certified laser technician. She has been a resident of Longmont since 1995, and is an active member of the Longmont business community. Jean’s passion to connect with her clients and make a difference in their lives is displayed in the treatment room. She understands if she changes things on the outside, it will ultimately change things on the inside, and is honored to help her clients look and feel their best. Aside from her strong desire to help people, she’s interested in health, wellness, fitness and loves spending time with her family. aRejuvenation Med Spa welcomes you to allow us to help you put your best face forward.

Forever Summer Tanning offers a variety of tanning options for young and old, gals and guys. The salon offers four levels of UV tanning, state of the art spray tanning using a Pura Sunless System, and a red light therapy bed.

2350 17th Avenue, Suite 202 Longmont, CO 80503 303-485-9063

Rise Artisan Bread (970) 795-BAKE riseartisanbread.com 403 5th St. • Berthoud One Point Six North @one.sixnorth

www.arejuvenationspa.com

Marj Sater and Vicky Andrew

Co-owners, Front Range Mercantile

Marj and Vicky met when their sons played baseball together in Hygiene. For over 29 years, they have been a family-owned and operated business. What started as a hobby, became Front Range Indoor Flea Market. They operate on traditional values: customer service, satisfaction and hard work and they attribute their success to their great customers. Many feel they are a part of the Front Range Flea Market family. The store and the 90+ vendors repurpose, re-use and recycle. You’ll find an incredible high quality selection of antiques, vintage, retro, mid-century, gift items as well as new products and a great line of chocolates and candy. As co-owners, Marj and Vicky thank you for voting them winners in the Readers’ Choice Best local business contest for 12 years! Quality, variety, excellent service and value for your dollar are just a few of the reasons for this accolade and why Marj and Vicky will celebrate 29 years in business this year.

1201 S. Sunset, Longmont 303-776-6605

www.frontrangefleamarket.com

42 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

Owner, Forever Summer Tanning

Shannon and her husband, John, made a decision to become small business owners a month ago and purchased Forever Summer Tanning. Shannon has been a customer of the salon for many years. Her daughter, Megan, worked at the salon over her summer break from college last year. Shannon wants to continue to provide a unique, friendly experience to all the customers. Tanning options along with a wide selection of lotions to enhance your skin, a boutique with trendy clothes, jewelry and shoes make it a one stop shop for your upcoming event or vacation. Shannon and her family have lived in Mead for 14 years and are new to business ownership. Shannon has worked in corporate finance for 23 years and is looking forward to continuing to bring the best tanning options to Longmont and the surrounding area.

DR. JAMIE GILGREN Board Certified Audiologist

Dr. Jamie Gilgren has been practicing audiology and fitting Dr. Jamie Gilgren has been practicing hearing aids since 2002 and is board certified by the American audiology and fitting hearing aids since 2002. Board of Audiology. She earned her Doctorate in Audiology She is board the American from Pennsylvaniacertified College ofby Optometry, a Master’sBoard degree of Audiology. Sheinhas fitting with an emphasis Auralextensive Rehabilitationexperience from the University and programming today’s latest hearing aid of Texas at Austin, and two Bachelor’s degrees in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology from the and University of technology, Bluetooth technology, assistive Northern Colorado. She She has extensive experience fitting listening devices. also has extensive and programming today’sinlatest aid knowledge thehearing diagnosis technology, has extensive knowledge in and treatment of hearing the diagnosis and treatment of hearing disorders. Dr. Gilgren takes disorders. She takes pride in doing pride in doing the best job the best job for her patients and for herhelping patients and enjoys people of allenjoys ages helping of all hear better.people She spends herages free totime hear and communicate four-wheeling and camping withbetter. her family. Gilgren Dr. Dr. Gilgren was voted Best Longmont spends heroffree in 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, time four-wheeling 2017 and 2018 by the and camping with Readers’ Choice Awards her family. Times-Call Newspaper.

2318 17th Ave, Unit H Longmont 303.532.4956 www.hearingrehabcenter.com

1610 Pace St. # 800, Longmont, CO

303-702-0200

MOrGan eLiZaBeTH daLTOn and JenniFer LOVe WaLTer co-owners, aime’s Love

Morgan elizabeth dalton

The granddaughter of the talented, creative, dapper monsieur, Georges Aime Marchessault. For years, as owner and cake decorator of La Patessiere St. Hyancithe outside Quebec, Canada, he was known for his delicious gourmet pastries and special occasion cakes. Following in her grandfather’s footsteps, Morgan, herself, has always had a passion deep within to create deliciously beautiful masterpieces. In pursuit of her dream to become a pastry chef and cake decorator, Morgan studied Baking and Culinary Arts at the Art Institute of Colorado and Chocolate Sculpting at L’ecole Internationale de Patisserie Olivier Bajard in Paris, France. The idea to be a 100% Gluten Free Bakery was a tweak to Morgan’s original dream. Presented by Jennifer as a need, desire, and vision, Morgan rose to challenge teaching herself how to create her menu, gluten free. Not an easy task.

Jennifer Love Walter

The great-great-great granddaughter of robert Love Sr., whom in 1851, opened Love’s Bakery in Honolulu, HI. Still today, as it was then, Love’s Bakery is the largest bread supplier to the Hawaiian Islands. The entrepreneurial success of Love’s Bakery truly deserves to go to one woman, Fanny Johnson Love. At the age of 48, Fanny became a widow with 6 children. For 32 years, Fanny ran Love’s Bakery enduring fire, plague, annexation, and the republic. With the grace, dignity and statesmanship to have been a queen, Fanny has been referred to as ‘one of the first liberated women of our culture to have a view down through the glass ceiling.’ As a counselor, entrepreneur and single mother herself, Jennifer tries to live up to Fanny’s reputation as CFO with the grace of God to guide her.

331 Main St, Longmont, cO 80501 • Phone: (720) 340-4636

Bobbi Sindelar

Todd Skaw

Age: 46 Occupation: New home sales in Firestone at Barefoot Lakes; mayor of Firestone Years in the St. Vrain Valley area: I have been in the Longmont area since grade school and in the Carbon Valley since 2000. What brought you here? What has kept you? The location of Firestone being halfway between our jobs and a brand new elementary school was what originally interested my family in the area. What has kept us here is the great small­town feel and the wonderful community events, like movies and live music in the park. The Fourth of July celebrations every year are amazing, and there are great holiday events. Most of all, we love being near the family and friends we love. If you accomplish one thing as mayor, what do you hope it is? The Board of Trustees, town staff and I have many goals. There is much we need, want and will accomplish. What is the most important to me is to have happy Firestone residents! What tips do you have for people who want to get more involved in local government? Attend board meetings to find out what’s happening and what interests you to get involved with and make a difference. You’ve previously mentioned your passion for Firestone’s amenities, including its parks. What’s your favorite park, and why? We are blessed to have a number of great parks in Firestone. One of my favorites has to be Settlers Park. It has a little bit of everything and wide open spaces. Firestone will soon have a beautiful, new 12­acre park to enjoy at Barefoot Lakes that should be completed in August or September.

Age: 54 Occupation: Owner of Guitars, Etc. Years in the St. Vrain Valley: 36 What brought you here? What has kept you? Music and music. I came here for a live music opportunity and have stayed in the area as a musician and then as a business owner. Who are your three favorite guitarists, and why? Eddie Van Halen; when Eddie came out in the ’70s, there was nothing like Eddie. He influenced more players I think than anybody else. Randy Rhoads; he played the white and black polka dot with Ozzy (Osbourne). The first time I heard “Crazy Train” driving down the street we pulled the car over to listen to the guitar riff. Michael Schenker, the guitar player in UFO; he’s all about the melody. Has the market for guitars changed much over the years? In 1992 we incorporated and the internet was not a factor. In the early days of the business we sold to our community in Boulder County, mostly. Now, we have shipped guitars to just about every country in the world except China — nobody ships anything to China. Everything comes from China. Also, in the beginning our business was mostly entry­level instruments and now we’re more of a high end boutique store. What would make Longmont more attractive to shoppers in general? The problem is, they spend millions and millions and millions to build a new place to shop, but there’s nothing to buy in it. We need more retail. Even our downtown buildings are often consumed by non­retail businesses. What makes it attractive is if there is retail and food. We do not have a reason in Longmont for a mother and daughter not to go Loveland, or Boulder or Flatirons.

Brandon Staple

Age: 18 Occupation: Student at Longmont High School Years in St.Vrain Valley: 18 What brought you here? What has kept you? I grew up here. What kind of work did you do regarding prostate cancer detection: I first became interested in cancer research my sophomore year when I won an Emperor Science Award to conduct research at CU with a professor. After this experience, I decided to continue my research and focus specifically on prostate cancer which is one of the most frequent forms of cancer in African American men. In order to continue my research, I had to decide how I would go about researching this cancer and what I could do to further this area of cancer research. After speaking with my father about the matter, we decided to combine our knowledge of research and computer science to offer an innovative new way to identify Rare Cancer Biomarkers(RCBs) that often go unnoticed when diagnosing prostate cancer. The combination of low patient inclusive research, low amounts of RCBs, and poor disease models means that prostate cancer often goes undiagnosed until it is too late. My new model increased RCB identification by 30 percent on average. After receiving the gracious $25,000 from AXA, I was ecstatic, this money will provide me the funding to help pay for my undergraduate education in biology and may also be used to help me further my research over the coming years. You received a $25,000 scholarship for your work. Where are you planning on going to school, and what do you plan on studying and why? I plan to become an oncologist or surgeon after completing my undergraduate degree and the University of Colorado at Denver. I have chosen this career path because it allows me to use my knowledge and passion for science in conjunction with my yearning to help people and make the world a better place.

Dave Stout Age: 69 Occupation: Retired from Honeywell Aerospace Years in St. Vrain Valley: 20 What brought you here? What has kept you? My job required me to live close to a major customer located in Broomfield. We were tired of the city life and moved to Frederick to get away from the hassle. It didn’t take long for us to settle in to a slower lifestyle. What has been most rewarding about heading the Firestone American Legion post? What has been most challenging? The most rewarding part of being associated with the Legion is helping veterans and families in need. Making a difference in someone’s life with a donation or helping a stranded veteran with emergency repairs is very rewarding. The most challenging part is finding ways to raise money. I am very lucky to have dedicated officers and members to help with events, dinners, and other fund raisers. How else do you enjoyably occupy your time aside from spending it to help veterans who come through the American Legion? I was a competition BBQ Pit Master for about 10 years. I still cook regularly for the American Legion Post. Got out of BBQ and bought a Slingshot motorcycle. Now my wife and I participate in fundraising rides for the American Legion Riders and other motorcycle groups. Last but certainly not least, we spend lots of time with our grandchildren.

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 43

Claire Studholme

Nancy Tanaka

Age: 31 Occupation: Youth Services librarian at Longmont Public Library Years in St. Vrain Valley: 4 What brought you here? What has kept you? I grew up in Boulder, left Colorado for college in the Pacific Northwest and decided to come back home to be closer to family and become a librarian. I was looking for a youth services librarian job that would serve a diverse community, and Longmont was the place for me. I have stayed in Longmont because I feel connected to the dynamic and diverse community here. I love the sense of community that is fostered by such great organizations as Out Boulder County, El Comité, Longmont Food Rescue, the library, the museum, etc. And I want to continue to see Longmont celebrate and honor its diversity. The people I’ve met in Longmont keep me here. How do you see teens and young people use the library differently than their elders? The youth of Longmont amaze me every day, and they are why I love my work as a librarian. They are engaged, enthusiastic, intelligent and eager to connect with all that the library offers. Many teens are not only voracious readers and routinely check out stacks of books, they also want to give back to their community through volunteer work and participation in our events at the library. Youth library patrons are the heart of the library and contribute a level of fun, joy, and earnestness when they enter our doors that is not found in most adults. If you’re not working or reading, what do you do with your free time? I try to be involved in various forms of social justice work. I’m on the Board of Out Boulder County and am passionate about working with LGBTQ+ youth. I’ve recently gotten into cross­stitching and love eating lunch outside at the great parks in Longmont. Nature and neighborhood walks are lovely. And you can often find me either at Benny’s Tacos or Java Stop enjoying tacos, coffee and pastries.

Age: 57 Occupation: Teacher/coach Years in the St. Vrain Valley: 57 What brought you here? What has kept you? I was born and raised in Longmont. I grew up on a very large family farm in south Longmont. My dad and his three brothers farmed vegetables on thousands of acres in the area. It was a tough life with all the hard work but one I would never trade. Growing up on a farm is one of the best experiences a person could have! After graduating from UNC, I stayed in the area to teach and coach in the St. Vrain Valley School District. With your retirement this year, what are your plans for the immediate days — or years — ahead? I don’t have any “big” plans right now. I wonder if that is good or bad! In the immediate future, I do plan on spending more time with my mom and family. I will now have time to start taking better care of my body! I also want to play senior softball and try playing pickle ball. Lastly, I would like to travel a bit, volunteer and maybe work on my golf game. Are there ways that teaching phys ed changed over those many years? There are many ways teaching physical education has changed over the years. The increase in creativity to teach games and skills has been incredible. There have also been many new games to teach and of course technology. There are always newer and better ways of doing things so PE teachers have to keep updated on the current trends in fitness and training. What would be your advice to teachers entering the profession for the first time in 2018? I think the best advice I can give new teachers is to let your students know you care! Something that has also worked for me over the years is to always be fair and consistent. Good luck!

Gale Taylor Age: 64 Occupation: Owner, Recycled Records Years in the St. Vrain Valley: 31 What brought you here? What has kept you? I lived in Steamboat Springs for 15 years. I decided to move to Boulder, and lived there for 15 years. While in Boulder, I owned a real estate company. I worked with mostly middle income people. I found myself mostly listing homes in Longmont. When the south side of town started new residential homes, I sold my Boulder townhome and moved to Longmont. I think Longmont is a good place to work with regular people. That’s who I like! If you weren’t selling vinyl records, what would you be doing? If I wasn’t selling records and audio, I would be working as an independent broker and listing homes. What’s your desert­island list of three albums you couldn’t do without and why? Doors’ “Strange Days”, Grateful Dead 1st album, Deep Purple’s “Shades of Deep Purple.” These albums help abstract thought. What’s a great thing about living where you do that some might surprise some people? I have always been very independent. Living in this area allows someone like me to be creative and productive.

44 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

Jackson Theis Age: 7 Occupation: Youth athlete What brought you here? What has kept you? We moved to Frederick from Ohio almost four years ago to be closer to my grandma. I love living here because I like to go to my grandma’s house, the sun is always shining, and the animals up in the mountains are unique. Why did you choose to play baseball in the Carbon Valley Parks and Recreation District? I chose to play baseball because it was the first sport I started watching, and I love it! What’s your favorite position, and why? My favorite position to play is first base because you get the ball a lot. What are you most looking forward to in the summer season? I’m looking forward to this baseball season because I can make new friends. What other sports have you played? I’ve been involved in gymnastics, swimming, soccer, flag football and baseball.

Inspiring Women

RACHEL M. KOENIGSBERG, CCHT Linda Snyder

Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Psychotherapist & Bio-Feedback Specialist Rachel is an international Certified Hypnotherapist and has been practicing hypnosis for healing at the Holistic Wellness Center in Longmont for over 17 years. With a degree in Education and a graduate of the Colorado School of Hypnotherapy Training and Counseling, Rachel has excellent credentials and is certified by the National Guild of Hypnotists and the American Council of Hypnotist Examiners. Rachel is a member in good standing with the International Medical & Dental Hypnotherapy Association and Colorado Association of Psychotherapists. With her extensive training in a variety of hypnotherapy techniques and strong desire to assist others in relieving chronic and habitual stressful behaviors, Rachel has guided her clientele in achieving their personal goals. She has helped people Manage Weight, Stop Smoking, Let Go of Fear, Relieve Pain, Sleep Better, Clear Trauma, Increase Self-Esteem and Confidence and Let Go of Stress and Anxiety She enjoys spending time with her family, doing hot yoga, gardening and just being in nature. Think Healthy Thoughts

Hypnotherapy 303.579.8919

Owner, Snyder Jewelers

Snyder Jewelers specializes in custom design, jewelry repair & restoration as well as watch repair & appraisals. Hobart & Audrey and John & Barbara Snyder owned Snyder Jewelers on Main Street for 40 years. As the Third Generation owner of Snyder Jewelers for 30 years, Linda is proud to be continuing her family’s legacy. The store was 14+ years on Francis Street, and has been at the current location at 2201 Ken Pratt Blvd since September 2001. This September we will be celebrating our 70th Anniversary. Time does fly when you are having fun, because 30 years has certainly flown by!! It is a privilege to help each person find just the perfect piece and we are honored to be trusted with precious heirlooms whether it is to repair, restore or re-purpose them, we deeply care about and handle each piece with the love and respect it deserves. Watch for future announcements and dates of our exciting anniversary celebrations.

16 Mountain View Ave, Ste. 115 Longmont, CO www.healthythoughts.net

303 776-2992 2201 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, CO www.snyderjewelers.com

CLarissa, edeLen, Owner

Fabulous Finds, Full Figure Boutique & Outlet

Fabulous Finds remains the best in Guilt-free Therapy! As an industry leader, Clarissa has redefined the consignment concept. Her boutique has everything a girl could want to fashion themselves and their home. They truly have it all from Gap to Gucci and Woodley’s to Restoration Hardware. With over 5000 Sq ft., 76,000 items, 10,500 consignors and over 1,200 new items a week, it’s a new store every time you visit! We are celebrating 7 years in business with a total store remodel and redesign. We have moved our Furniture store across the parking lot and have moved the Full figure Boutique into the former Home décor space bringing all fashions and accessories under one roof! Clarissa has created a fabulous shoe department, a jewelry department and a couture designer room that houses the best of the best! Supporting those in need within the community, Fabulous Finds has given thousands of dollars to A Woman’s Work, thousands of shoes to Soles for Souls, hundreds of purses to Boulder Safe Shelter, and has set up many charitable accounts and fundraising events for other non-profits like The Inn Between, The Pearl Group, The Deacon’s Closet, Har Ha Shem. Unsold inventory is donated to the Vietnam Veterans, the Our Center and Habitat for Humanity. Nothing goes to waste! They are all about the 3 R’s; Repurposing, Reusing and Refusing to pay retail…ever!

Fabulous Finds, 600 S. Airport Rd., 720 340-4152, Full Figure Boutique: 600 S. Airport Road (west side). 720 340-4152, Home Furnishings, 600 S. Airport Rd. 720 684-6146.

in

Business

Cheri stringer, Owner

TLC Gardens, An award winning landscape design firm

Cheri Stringer has been reconnecting her clients to the outdoors since 2005, designing and building landscapes as the Owner of TLC Gardens. Cheri’s passion and love of nature has shaped her business as it has grown from a one-woman company into a dynamic, passionate team of nine. Her designs have won five international design awards, and Cheri was professionally certified as a landscape designer in 2015. Cheri has a master’s degree in molecular biology, a background in horticulture, experience in construction, and a constant drive to learn and train; All of which translates into TLC Garden’s vision to reconnect clients to nature with exceptional design, streamlined processes, and quality craftsmanship. Under Cheri’s lead, TLC Gardens operates as a values-based design build firm; As a team they are committed to the use of repurposed and recycled materials, proper site drainage to protect our watershed, and responsible use of our natural resources. Sustainability is integrated into the design build process through use of plant material suited to our region, low water irrigation systems with integrated technology, and a donation for every contract to one of the National Parks. The TLC Gardens team has the design eye and the creative skillset for identifying how site constraints and opportunities can be utilized to create outdoor spaces that are in harmony with the site’s topography and the home’s architecture. The team consistently exhibits a unique expertise and professional ability to design and build an outdoor escape that looks and feels like a seamless extension of the client’s home. TLC Gardens LLC tlcgardens.com 303-648-6229

Krista Beseda, dds

Dr. Beseda attended dental school at The University of Colorado. While at CU, she was part of a group servicing a brand new clinic in Guatemala providing dentistry to children. Upon graduation she was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon (OKU) dental honor society. She then began residency at the University of Colorado to advance her training in aspects of general dentistry such as surgery, implants, complex treatment planning and endodontics and is now working on her Fellowship in general dentistry. “I didn’t always know I wanted to be a dentist. My career path was sparked at age 18 when I fainted and broke my jaw and several teeth. I was taken to the ER scared and in pain where my experience was impersonal and lacked compassion. I had two wonderful dentists put me back together over a period of 2 years and they became my mentors. They showed me kindness and understanding which is something I hear many people say is lacking in their dental experiences. This experience drove me to complete dental school and I believe puts me in a unique position to understand my patients and their needs. Dental treatment is very personal and requires compassion and empathy. I strive to apply these characteristics daily in my practice and enjoy helping people reach optimal oral health both locally and in service trips abroad.”

600 South Airport Road, Suite 200A Longmont, CO 80503 303-536-3464 dental-horizons.com

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 45

F

‘Here I can breathe’

Zimbabwe native finds room for his sculpture in Colorado

or SaToro Stalin Tafura, sculpting is the family business. Growing up in the African country of Zimbabwe, which is known for its stone sculpture, he began creating his own works of art from the time he was a young boy. “My grandfather is a first-generation sculptor,” Tafura said. “My mother learned from him, and then I learned from my mother.” Sculpting is what eventually brought the 37-yearold Tafura to Longmont. In 2004 he moved to California, and then in 2008 moved to Colorado’d Front Range after becoming an artist in residence at the Chapungu Sculpture Gallery in Loveland. Tafura lived in Fort Collins, Loveland and then

sort of lumped together,” Tafura said. “When I came Age: 37 to Colorado, it was like, Occupation: Sculptor ‘Here I can breathe.’ Years in St. Vrain Valley: 5 There is space here.” What brought you here? What Tafura also noted that has kept you? I moved here to the weather in Longmont be closer to my wife’s work. is closer to what he grew up with. Or at least, it is in finally Longmont while the summer. working at the sculpture “I don’t like the winter park. time,” Tafura said. “I met my wife, who So Tafura decided to teaches at the University keep his family in Longof Colorado in Boulder, and that’s why we decided mont and move his studio to the city. But he still visits to move a little closer to Zimbabwe to visit family her workplace,” Tafura and also mine for the sersaid. “This is kind of in the middle, and we love it pentine stone he uses in his sculptures. While Tafuhere.” ra said he has worked with Even when the sculpother stones found in the ture park closed, Tafura Rocky Mountains, there is said he and his family loved Colorado and Long- something special for him mont so much they didn’t about working with the same stone he did growing want to leave. “Living in the Bay Area, up in Africa. “It’s still the stone everything is so busy and

SaToro Stalin Tafura

I know the best,” Tafura said. “I’ve worked on stones from around here in the mountains. But I always feel like (serpentine) challenges me and pushes me to a different level when I’m creating.” As for where he gets the inspiration for his pieces, Tafura said he again reaches back to his roots. “If you want to understand my work, it’s important to understand rural Zimbabwe or rural Africa in general,” Tafura said. “My early memories of Zimbabwe, those I hold very dear to my heart. Right now, I feel like we are losing that pretty fast. So I try to draw inspiration from that period of rural Africa and try to balance histor y with presentday phenomena.” With all of his sculpting

By Mitchell Byars • Photos by Lewis Geyer • Longmont Times-Call

46 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

work and raising two children — Kwayedza, 5, and Waniso, 2 — with his wife Marissa, Tafura said he doesn’t have as much down time as he would like. But he said this summer he hopes to get back out into the nature that first made him fall in love with Colorado. “Before we had kids we used to camp in places like the sand dunes and go to the lakes and the mountains,” Tafura said. “At the moment, it’s rare to find that time to go out and hang out because of work and kids. But we’re planning to do more this summer.” Mitchell Byars: 303-473-1329, byarsm@dailycamera.com or twitter.com/ mitchellbyars

Longmont resident SaToro Stalin Tafura sculpts with stone harvested from his native country of Zimbabwe.

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 47

Michelle Tran

Delaney Tureson

Age: 18 Occupation: Graduated in May from Niwot High School, student designer at the Saint Vrain Valley School District Innovation Center and soon­to­be University of Colorado student majoring in computer science Years in St. Vrain Valley: 13 What brought you here? What has kept you? My family came here to follow my father’s company when they relocated to Boulder. We’ve stayed for a couple reasons: namely, we love Longmont. But also, there hasn’t really been a reason to move away. What have been some of your favorite high school experiences that involved technology? I have had a wonderful time with technology during high school, and among my favorite memories are from working at the SVVSD Innovation Center and competing in cybersecurity challenges. Excelling in Girls Go Cyberstart is one of my proudest technological accomplishments to date. A team of three other girls and I competed in this cybersecurity challenge and managed to place first in Colorado and ninth nationally, not to mention we had a ton of fun. What are you going to miss about high school? I’m going to miss all of the wonderful people I have met over these past four years. And by “people” I’m referring to both my fabulous peers and the amazing staff that I have had the pleasure of working with.

Age: 18 Occupation: Graduated from Longmont’s Silver Creek High School in May Years in St. Vrain Valley: 18 What brought you here? What has kept you? My parents moved to Longmont after previously living in Superior. They wanted us to move to Longmont so we would be close to family, but we would not be right next door to everyone that they knew. My family has stayed in Longmont because of my education. St. Vrain Valley has been an amazing school district to grow up in, and it has provided me with endless opportunities. How did you come with the idea for the 2018 Sunshine Showdown, a golf tournament fundraiser? It was an idea I came up with for my Silver Creek Leadership Academy capstone project. The basis behind my project was to raise money for the Melanoma Research Foundation in honor of my aunt, who passed away from melanoma in 2008. We raised $11,370. What did you learn from organizing the event? I learned a lot, especially about what kind of leader I am. I could have not had a successful project without the help of my family, friends and teachers. I also learned that people are going to tell you no, and that’s okay. The world will not end and eventually there will be a yes and that is going to be the greatest feeling. What are your plans after high school? I am attending the University of Tennessee at Knoxville to study sports journalism and public relations. I hope to someday work for ESPN College Gameday and to cover college basketball. After covering sports, I would like to work for the NCAA to be a liaison between conferences and the NCAA to make sure that policies are fair for student athletes and give them the best opportunities to be a successful student and athlete.

Marijke Unger

Age: 63 Occupation: Chronic pain specialist, Longmont United Hospital Years in St. Vrain Valley: 10 What brought you here? What has kept you? I ended up here because I lost my mind. After 20 years of dabbling with career change, I decided to stop screwing around, go back to graduate school, and become a psychotherapist. I applied to a highly competitive psychotherapy training program in Boulder, got in, and promptly went bonkers. Too much stress, too little time. I discovered I didn’t want to spend my days marinating in mental illness. I dropped out, switched to plan B and went into adult education at CSU. I landed in Longmont to save money, get close enough to Fort Collins and stay close to nature. I live near McIntosh Lake. Gorgeous views, cows chewing their cuds. What’s not to like? What are some misconceptions about chronic pain you wish to dispel? Just one. Robert Palmer sang “No pill is gonna cure my ill.” No medication on the planet can eradicate chronic pain. Sorry. There’s a good reason. Some very cool research has proven that myriad biological, psychological and social factors interact in complex, mysterious, and maddening ways to create this thing we call pain. It’s not just about damage or disease. Indeed, there is never just one cause. Hence, there is never just one solution — especially a pill. The good news is that there are a huge number of potential solutions, many of them well within your control. Turns out you are the pill. You’ve shifted to a whole new career path after a long career as a writer. Do you have any advice for people considering a career change? Yeah. Follow your nose, fall in love with an idea, let it go if it’s not right, make a zillion mistakes, learn from at least one of them, stick some money in the bank fer cryin’ out loud, keep going when you feel like gouging out your eyeballs, act as if you believe in yourself, get over yourself and ask for help, trust the gnawing in your gut and never give up until you’re dead. I changed my career at 60. It’s never too late.

Age: 46 Occupation: City of Longmont’s citywide communications manager Years in St. Vrain Valley: Nearly 18 What brought you here? What has kept you? My husband and I lived in the Washington, D.C., area but we had come out here for ski vacations. We learned to ski board. We said to ourselves, “Some day, let’s live here.” I can’t think of many places that offer beautiful scenery, great motorcycling roads, stunning mountain flying, snowboarding and skiing, fantastic food and brews, and friendly people. Everything I could want or hope to do is accessible to me right here in or near Longmont. Well, except the ocean. But nine out of 10 ain’t bad! You started at the city in late May. What other jobs have you held before that, and since moving to the area? I’ve lived or worked on every continent, and used to drive a Caterpillar IT28 front loader in Antarctica. Most recently in Colorado, I was working for about a year in south Denver for an organization called Water For People, where I was senior manager for marketing and communications. It’s a nonprofit and works on water and sanitation issues in India, Africa and Latin America. Before that, I was at the National Center for Atmospheric Research for about 10½ years, where I was the external relations specialist. I have really enjoyed living in Longmont, and when I heard about the Longmont position, it just seemed like everything I was looking for in a job, including the community approach and working at a local level. What changes have you seen in the area since moving here? Oh, my goodness, so many things. The amount of construction that’s happened, that started and stopped and started again. I think just the general growth of the city, the population growth and what that’s meant for additional housing and additional services and additional businesses. I’m kind of a bit of a foodie, so I think most exciting to me has been the explosion on the culinary front — breweries, distilleries, restaurants. I have dogs. I enjoy the parks.

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Jay E. Valusek

Kenzie Webb

Jim Weglarz

Age: 31 Occupation: Online beachwear broker Years in St. Vrain Valley: 3 What brought you here? What has kept you? My husband’s job relocation brought us here from Dallas in 2014, and our son, Lincoln, was born here in 2016. It’s such a beautiful, family­focused community. So, we fell in love pretty quickly with it. What makes your online beachwear distinctive? I offer pieces designed by women who love summer as much as I do and share that through bright colors and gorgeous prints. The lines I carry online at www.magnoliapalmlifestyle.com are available year round and not sold anywhere else in Colorado. Define classic versus trendy high­end beachwear. Classic high­end pieces are investments always in style as a wardrobe staple. Trendy items are fun pieces added during the season to freshen your wardrobe. The most important factor for any high­ end item is quality. What’s your summer 2018 fave? Cropped sets. They come in all varieties for everyone’s style and comfort. You can style the pieces together or separately for more versatility. That makes them my absolute favorite summer go­to!

Age: 62 Occupation: Marketing and business development, Colorado FriendShip board member Years in St. Vrain Valley: 17 What brought you here? What has kept you? While we are currently in process of moving just a few miles away in Berthoud, we plan to remain very involved in the St. Vrain/Longmont community. My wife, Eve, has been teaching at Fall River Elementary for 16 years and currently continues to enjoy teaching second grade. Eve and I were living previously in Evergreen for five years. We relocated in Colorado in 1996 from Long island, N.Y., and settled in Longmont because it offered all the things we wanted to have in raising our three children who are now pursuing professional careers. We were attracted to Longmont because it is a beautiful environment in the foothills, offering a diverse community of friendly neighbors. It has a small­town feel, has a wonderful main street, great schools, and provides all the amenities to make our lives here productive, convenient and fun. How does Colorado FriendShip seek to address challenges faced by economically underprivileged Longmont­area residents? In our diverse community, our family also recognized that there were those in need and wanted to contribute back to our surrounding community. We joined Colorado FriendShip to accomplish that goal and have been a part of those efforts since 2003. There we have been involved in several programs that recognize the need for both food and clothing for children in the schools and adults in the community. Why is it so important for Colorado FriendShip to be mobile? Colorado FriendShip programs reduces suffering by bringing these supplies directly to those in need and provides the mobility to accomplish this goal with our trucks, trailers and other vehicles. All these needs are met with volunteers, and those interested in joining these efforts can contact us through our website at www.Coloradofrienship.org.

Ryan Wibby

Age: 33 Occupation: President, brewmaster at Wibby Brewing Years in St. Vrain Valley: 33 What brought you here? What has kept you? I was born in Boulder County, so I was brought here not by my choice, but I am so fortunate to have grown up in such a beautiful place. I am so glad to be back in Boulder County setting down some roots. After graduating high school I left Colorado for 10 years. I was lucky enough to be able to live, learn, work and play in so many different corners of this country and world, yet I couldn’t think of a better place to come back to and call home for the rest of my life. Colorado is such a beautiful, unique place and it is a perfect place for me to start business. What have you learned about Longmont as a brewer? I have learned quite a bit about Longmont as a brewer and company owner here. I have learned that there are so many great, friendly, and worldly people here in Longmont. I makes me so happy to know that Longmonsters come to our taproom on a regular basis and we get to learn a lot about each and every one of them. The Lager family is definitely real and full of Lager Love.

Eric Wiggs Age: 37 Occupation: Musician Years in St. Vrain Valley: 5 What brought you here? What has kept you? Moved to Boulder in 2005 for graduate school. The combination of lifestyle, natural beauty and the music scene kept me. I’ve never even thought of leaving Colorado. When did you start playing bluegrass? Around 2012. I went to a bluegrass jam and was hooked by the openness of all the musicians and the friendly vibe

... and the beer. How big of a deal was it to you to win the flatpicking contest at Rocky Grass in 2016? Was that a title you had sought in the past? It was huge for me! I only entered to try and challenge myself to work up a few pieces, and had no intention of winning. When I found out I made finals, I had to throw together two more tunes for the main stage the next day! What days each month do you host the bluegrass jam at Wibby Brewing, and what kind of feedback have you gotten about the event? The Wibby Jam is every first and third Wednesday of each month. We have received awesome support from the staff and patrons, and I feel like we are building community within the bluegrass musicians in and around Longmont. With more people moving to Longmont daily, the musician base is steadily getting larger and more diverse, and I am happy to contribute to its growth!

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 49

P

An eye on the wild She and her camera have traveled the world, but Longmont ‘is really home’

iperAnne Worcester has never really left home. Yes, she lives in Loveland now, not Longmont, where she was born. But Worcester, 70, has always felt close to Longmont, a city she has seen go from about 7,500 at the time of her birth to some 90,000 people today. She is still close to many of the people in her 1965 graduating class at Longmont High School, the first class to collect their diplomas at was then its new site at 1040 Sunset St. “I have wonderful friends in Longmont,” Worcester said. “We had a terrific class, and they still are friends of mine. Some of my best friends, still, are friends I grew up with. It’s really home to me.” And there’s another reason the link remains strong. “I lost my parents in a car accident when I was 15, so the one thing I didn’t want to leave, was Longmont. It’s always been home to me, even though I live in Loveland.” Although now working as a photographer specializing in wildlife, dog and

PiperAnne Worcester

Age: 70 Occupation: Photographer Years in St.Vrain Valley: 65 What brought you here? What has kept you? I was raised in Longmont. It’s just home to me.

pets, one lasting impression Worcester has made on Longmont is the stained glass windows she created for installation at the United Church of Christ Longmont. And there is a reason that work — six windows completed in 1987 — remains special in her heart. Her father’s lumber company had supplied building materials for the church, and her mother was on its building committee. They were killed at Ninth Avenue and Hover Street, just two weeks before the church’s dedication. “It was more formative than I knew at the time,” Worcester said of the tragedy. “I didn’t realize until I was in my 50s, how much it had changed my life. I didn’t want it to change who I was. But it did. It changed everything.”

Worcester, who originally trained as a radiology technologist but quickly moved into stained glass work instead, had to leave that passion behind after a head injury left her unable to do it, due to migraines. It was for that reason that in 1995, that she closed her stained glass stores in Longmont and Loveland and established herself as a photographer. “I had been doing it all along, purebred dog calendars, and so I was able to sell my pictures. So I became a photographer,” she said. There is an overlap, she noted, between the two artistic disciplines. “Patience,” she said. “I would say patience is the biggest crossover thing. But it’s also design, and having an eye for composition.” The fruits of her artistic discipline and talented eye can be seen at her website, piperspix.com, in arresting images of the wild animals of Africa, elk or Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep in Colorado, and dogs showing their stuff at competition or being doted on by their owners.

“It was a lifelong dream for me to be in Africa,” she said, “and I was lucky enough to go twice, to Kenya in 2012 and Tanzania in 2014.” Worcester does have a favorite, between photographing pets and animals in the wild. “Wildlife is the preference,” she said, “because it feels like it’s something that has to happen. You can’t create the scene. You have to be there when it happens.” A lot of that happens at her cabin in Allenspark, built by her parents, shared with her brother’s family, and where she spends half of each summer. “I am always shooting the elk, and the moose and Colorado wildlife,” she said. “I love to shoot birds.” Worcester, who lives with Bonnie Mayger, a woman who has two children she considers “partly mine,” as well as “two wonderful granddaughters,” isn’t finished with her globe-trotting. She, and her camera, will travel on a yacht for just 10 people on a cruise around Admiralty Island in Alaska in June 2019, plying

By Charlie Brennan • Photos by Jenny Sparks • for the Longmont Times-Call

50 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

the waterways that larger cruise ships can’t reach. The “R-word,” retirement, is not in her vocabulary. At least, there are no current plans. “No. Not,” she said. “I can do photography as long as I can walk.” As one who has seen incredible growth in the St. Vrain Valley in the years she has lived here, Worcester is worried about what the future might bring. “I have concerns about the number of people who are moving into the area, and what we’re going to do about water for everybody,” she said. “I have a lot of concerns about the fast growth of all the area. I’m talking about Boulder, Longmont, Loveland, Fort Collins. “My dad once said it’s going to be total development between Denver and Cheyenne someday, and I believe I’m going to live to see it. But I love the small towns. Recalling the Longmont of her youth, she said, “That’s my kind of town.”

Charlie Brennan: 303-473-1327, brennanc@dailycamera.com or twitter.com/chasbrennan

Wildlife photographer PiperAnne Worcester poses for a photo with some of her work in her Loveland home.

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 51

Gemma Wilson

Ariel Z. Wishkovsky

Age: 48 Occupation: Life enrichment director, Longmont’s AltaVita Senior Residences’ Assisted Living Centre Years in St. Vrain Valley: 12 What brought you here? What has kept you? My husband got offered a job in Boulder. We had lived in Texas. We thought we’d make a move up to a mountain state. How has Longmont changed since you moved here? The physical changes have been quite dramatic. The traffic has gotten worse. My neighborhood used to be a lot of rental properties, but now there are a lot more families that own homes. Obviously we have more restaurants. Longmont is a wonderful place to live. It is beautiful and accepting and varied. It is home. Even growing the way it has, it has still kept its charm and character and we love being here. And what a view! What do you enjoy about working with AltaVita’s seniors? I love it. I learn so much from them every day. Their stories are so rich. I love working with their families. I learn a thousand things every day from my residents. I learn patience, humility, joy, resilience and how to embrace life to the fullest. My job is my passion and so much more than just a job. I come to work with a smile on my face every day, and I leave with a smile on my face every day.

Age: 31 Occupation: Economic developer and entrepreneur Years in St. Vrain Valley: One year in Longmont. In and out of Boulder County for 15 years What brought you here? What has kept you? I came here for the unique and conducive economy and its connectivity to the rest of the region and mountains. Why is Longmont a good place for small businesses? Longmont is an entrepreneur’s dream. With a gig economy, Boulder County plays in a sea of big fish. People here respect products with local identities. What do you do in your spare time around town? I do quite a bit of yoga and can be seen biking both on pavement and trail.

Connor Wood

Age: 26 Occupation: Medical assistant Years in the St. Vrain Valley: 15 What brought you here? What has kept you? I moved here as a kid, my parents live here, and it’s where I call home. The soccer community also keeps me here. You’ve climbed all 54 of Colorado’s 14ers, right? What motivated you to do that? I have. It was never really the end goal to complete all of them. It became that way only when I had a few left. My motivation was learning skills in the mountains. Doing 14ers was how I learned to backpack, plan trips and navigate in the outdoors. Constantly pushing myself and my skill set was what kept me motivated. Which 14er experience was most memorable, and why? One of the most memorable was my second attempt at the Little Bear Peak traverse to Blanca Peak. The first time we tried it, we got caught in a thunderstorm on the summit of Little Bear, so we bailed and didn’t attempt the traverse. The second time was with my girlfriend and another couple. We awoke at 4 a.m. at our camp at Lake Como, only to find just the handle of the pack I’d hung up the night before with our food left on the line we had strung between a cliff and a tree. We followed the trail of food crumbs and found a massive black bear hunched over my pack and going to town on our lunches. We got some pots and pans and banged them to make a lot of noise until he ran off. We salvaged what was left, which included some oats and dried fruit. We decided to go for it anyway, but the girls were not so keen to do the traverse without food. So, like true gentlemen, we gave them the food and headed off. It turned out to be one of the most fun and scenic climbs I’ve done, and with a gorgeous sunny day. However, when we got back down to our tents, the bear had come back for more. Even though we had nothing in our tents but sleeping bags, he had laid on mine and slashed the other couple’s. What’s the next adventure you’d like to tackle? My next adventure involves furthering my winter skills. I dream of one day climbing peaks in the Alaska Range or Himalayas, so skiing all of the 14ers is the next goal!

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Peter H. Wood Age: 75 Occupation: American historian Years in the St. Vrain Valley: 6 What brought you here? What has kept you? I taught early American history at Duke for 35 years. After I retired, CU Boulder offered a job to my wife, historian Elizabeth Fenn. Who wouldn’t jump at the chance to live in Colorado? What kind of work did you do at Duke University? Duke was flexible, and my interests are wide­ranging. So I wrote about African American history, teamed up on a college textbook, and published articles about everything from ancient dugout canoes to Ford’s pardon of Richard Nixon. I have written articles about early French explorers and books about the great American artist Winslow Homer. Besides teaching about colonial America, I taught the History of Documentary Film and organized Duke’s first Native American History class. Using my own textbook, “Created Equal,” I once taught a brisk survey of all of US history. I called it “One Nation­One Semester,” and it was a blast to teach. Ever since I wrote “Black Majority,” a book about slavery in colonial South Carolina, I have been interested in African American history. This led me to several exciting archaeology digs and television projects. Best of all, along the way I taught some outstanding graduate students. What are you doing with the Boulder Valley School District? Recently, I have been working with a group of Boulder Valley teachers who formed AT LAST: Alliance to Teach the Legacies of the Atlantic Slave Trade. They realized that African American history has not had much of a place in Colorado’s secondary school curriculum. They invited me to help out, and last year I offered three all­day public workshops titled “Slavery Matters.” Last June I accompanied AT LAST teachers on a trip to Charleston, South Carolina, to learn more. This June we just made a similar trip, taking half a dozen well­chosen students with us. It certainly expanded their horizons on American history, and I hope we can broaden this initiative to other interested school districts in the future.

THE ‘100,’ THROUGH THE YEARS

Here’s a list of every person who has appeared in the Times­Call “100,” from our first edition in 2007 through 2017. We did not publish the “100” in 2009­2010 and 2012­2013. Is there someone you think would be a good subject in a “100” but don’t see on this list? If so, let us know. Send your nominee to tcnews@times­call.com and put “100” in the subject line. Please provide that person’s name, where he or she lives and a little something about what makes that person interesting. And if anyone out there still has a 2015 edition, we’d love to make a copy of the cover. We’ll give it back to you. See you next year. Robin Abb.........................2015 Amy Abbott......................2016 Theo Abkes.......................2016 Hazel Achor ...................... 2016 Carrie Adams....................2016 Debbie Adams.................2016 Lauren Adams..................2015 Pete Adeney .....................2017 Aaron Ades ....................... 2008 Pam Adler..........................2017 Randy Ahlberg.................2011 Alan Ahlgrim ....................2011 Ismael Aldana .................. 2016 Janene Alford...................2016 Emmy Alipit......................2017 Linda Allour......................2016 Bruno Ammann...............2015 Paul Anderson ................. 2016 Trudee Anderson............2016 Jill Andreozzi....................2014 Nick Angelo......................2008 Don Angstead..................2017 John E. Archibold............2016 Mawiem Arik ....................2008 Matt Arrants ..................... 2017 Chad Auer ......................... 2011 Robin Autorino................2015 Brian Bagley......................2015 Ingrid Bakke......................2008 Cathy Balan.......................2014 Elizabeth Bałczac ............ 2007 Jim Baldwin ...................... 2007 Bob Ball..............................2011 Rachel Bardach................2008 George Baskos.................2008 John Beck..........................2014 Greg Beery........................2011 Clark Bell............................2011 Michael Bell ......................2014 Wyatt Bell..........................2008 Michael Belmont.............2011 Marian Bennett................2008 Maggie Benton................2017 Angel Berdiales................2014 Olga Bermudez................2017 Sylvia Bernstein...............2015

Jim Berthold.....................2007 Jim Bertolin.......................2007 Jose D. Beteta...................2017 Karen Bianco .................... 2014 Jasmine Biesanz ..............2016 Leif Bilen............................2007 Pat Billson­Houston........2011 Sierra Bindsell ..................2017 Lexie Birren.......................2011 Dan Blake .......................... 2015 Hank Blazon......................2014 Mariah Bledsoe................2011 Jim Boggess......................2008 Vicky Boone......................2016 Yakov Borenstein ............2008 Jerry Boyle.........................2007 Leslie Boynton .................2007 Gerri Bradford..................2008 Mark Bradford..................2011 Sandy Brady......................2015 Rod Brandenburg...........2007 Kimberly Brayman..........2014 Cole Brenner.....................2016 Tony Brewer......................2007 Michelle Brietzke.............2016 Heather Britton................2014 Greg Brock ........................ 2016 Matt Brooks­Miller..........2007 Kaylene Brown.................2016 Laura Brown ..................... 2011 Michael Brownlee...........2008 Erin Brueggeman............2008 Barb Brunk ........................ 2011 Robin Bryant.....................2014 Matt Buchler.....................2015 Joshua Buck......................2011 Clint Buckner....................2017 Larry Burkhardt ............... 2011 Bill Butler...........................2007 Nick Cady...........................2015 The cover of the Times­Call’s first “100,” in 2007. Candy Campbell..............2015 Adrian Card.......................2008 Lynda Coonrod................2015 Jose Cardenes..................2016 Horace Copeland............2007 Julie Cardinal....................2015 Karl Cordova.....................2008 Dale Carr............................2011 Laura L. Cotter ................. 2017 Carol Carroll......................2016 Bob Cotton........................2016 Kevin Carroll.....................2016 Mary Cowdin....................2016 Alexis Carroll.....................2017 Kelly Cowling ................... 2015 Mitch Carson....................2007 Brent Craig........................2007 Leah Carter ....................... 2008 Wilma Crofford ................ 2014 Steve Carver ..................... 2011 Al Croissant.......................2015 Tim Chaffin........................2014 Ewell Culbertson.............2008 Karen Charles...................2017 Brian Curran......................2016 Alessandra Chavez ......... 2015 Kyra Czerwinski...............2017 Morgan Chen ...................2015 Bob Dacey.........................2011 Tom Chenault...................2011 Dan Dean...........................2008 Ron Cheyney....................2016 Dwight Debroux ............. 2008 Gabriel Chou ....................2007 Jim Deeming....................2007 Chris Chou.........................2017 Kelsey Deems...................2014 Stephen Christopher .....2017 Cliff DeJong......................2014 Jade Clem..........................2007 Meca Delgado..................2014 Eddie Cloke.......................2008 Matt Delumpa..................2007 Kevin Clowers .................. 2011 Zeb Dennis........................2011 Jim Cochran......................2011 Susan DeNovellis ............2007 Kelsey Colclasure............2007 Drew Depler .....................2011 Giselle Collazo..................2014 Gabriel DeRoo..................2015 Beth Conrey......................2015 Carlos Descalzo ............... 2017 Scott Converse.................2015 Steve Desmond...............2011 Tyler Cooey.......................2007 Continued on Page 54 The cover of the 2008 Times­Call “100.” Scott Cook.........................2011

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 53

Continued from Page 53 Rachel Desmormes ........ 2008 JoLynn DiGiallonardo....2017 Mike DiGiallonardo ........2017 Dennis Dinsmore............2016 Joe Docheff.......................2015 Liz Donaghey...................2014 Elijah Donovan ................2017 Andrew Doran ................. 2007 Clay Douglas .................... 2007 Barbara Douglass............2008 Angie Doyle......................2016 Margie Drake....................2017 Murry Drescher................2014 Donald Dreyer..................2008 Donald Dreyer..................2014 Sabrina Duey....................2014 Louise Duggan ................ 2008 Jeffrey DuMont................2017 Beryl Durazo.....................2016 Liz Durfee..........................2014 Bret Duston.......................2008 Florence Dvirnak.............2017 George Dvirnak...............2017 Phyllis Dwyer....................2017 Marvin Dyer......................2011 Mario Miguel Echevarria..........................2011 Svein Edland.....................2008 Rob Edward ...................... 2008 Jennifer Eisenlau.............2011 Bill Ellis ............................... 2011 Artie Elmquist..................2008 Gary Elmquist...................2014 Ron Elms............................2015 Dave Emerson..................2015 Craig Engelhorn ..............2014 Robin Ericson...................2016 Andrew Ernst....................2015 Judith Ernst.......................2015 Vanessa Escarcega..........2017 John Espinosa..................2017 Sandra Esters....................2014 Kim Evans..........................2007 The cover of the 2011 Times­Call “100.” Marc Evans........................2016 Tracy Evans .......................2011 Destiny Gallegos.............2015 Wes Everett.......................2014 Charlie Garcia...................2014 Bob Fairow........................2015 Martha Garcia­Lara.........2016 Joycelyn Fankhouser .....2014 Tessie Gardetto................2017 Sue Farwell........................2017 Deb Gardner.....................2014 David Feely .......................2017 Alejandra “Allie” Dr. Ian Feinhandler.........2016 Garduno.............................2017 Buzz Feldman...................2011 Reed Gattmann...............2011 Gabrielle Feneide............2017 Mary Gavin........................2007 Pastor Dawnmarie Lewis Geyer ...................... 2017 Fiechtner............................2015 Sadaf Ghiasy.....................2016 Patty Fiest..........................2014 Dr. Patricia Gill ................. 2015 Kaye Fissinger..................2015 Allen Ginsborg.................2016 Mickey Flaska...................2008 Chris Gischel.....................2014 Emily Flemming .............. 2014 Riley Glynn........................2017 Hope Fletcher .................. 2015 Bob Goff.............................2011 Sean Flynn.........................2007 Josh Goldberg..................2011 Reed Foehl........................2007 Jessica Goldberg.............2017 Megan Forrest..................2014 Diane Goldenstein..........2017 Sam Forsyth......................2008 Fabiola Gomez.................2007 Amy French­Troy.............2015 Justelle Grandsaert ........ 2015 Michael Freyta ................. 2017 Wayne D. Granger...........2017 Jenny Friesmer.................2011 Cliff Grassmick .................2016 Christy Friesner................2011 Dianne Green...................2008 Charlie Frye.......................2017 Larry Green.......................2011 Norma Fuentes................2017 Karen Gregg ..................... 2007 Francisco Galarza............2015 Will Gregorak....................2011

54 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

Joan Gregorson...............2015 Mary Ann Grim................2014 K.C. Groves........................2008 Kara Guggenmos............2007 Don Haddad.....................2008 Lacey Haddock ................2011 Lindey Haddock ..............2011 Bob Hajek..........................2007 Justin Hall..........................2015 Scott Hamlin.....................2011 Cheryl Hammond ...........2015 Darrell Hammond...........2015 Helen Hanna.....................2016 Richard Hansen ...............2007 Eylsia Hardinand .............2007 Schriee Harding...............2016 Carol Hardy.......................2007 Clark Harshbarger...........2017 Jalali Hartman..................2015 David G. Hartman...........2017 Liberta Hattel...................2007 Mike Hattel........................2007 Barbara Hau......................2015 David Hauger...................2007 Carrie Haverfield.............2008 David G. Hawkins............2014 David Hayes......................2007

Betty Heath.......................2011 Kathy Hedderman .......... 2008 Matt Heidenfeld..............2007 Jacob Heilveil...................2017 Amy Heneghan................2017 Bill Herring........................2007 Katie Herrmann...............2016 Megan Herron..................2015 Cynthia Hess.....................2014 Bunk Hess..........................2017 Jane Hill ............................. 2015 Ellen Hine..........................2014 Jesse Hodgson.................2007 Riley Holcomb..................2016 Margaret Hollander........2007 Tom Honn..........................2008 Dennis Hopper ................ 2008 Kristi D. Hornick...............2017 Eric Hozempa...................2011 Marilyn Hughes...............2016 Virginia Huppe.................2014 Gilliam Hyde.....................2011 James Insogna.................2014 Greg Jackson....................2007 Jeanne Jackson................2007 Kayla Jackson...................2008 Doug Jackson...................2017

Jay Jakosky........................2014 Vivienne Jannatpour......2015 Gary L. Jefferson..............2007 Robbin Jeri........................2015 Reilly Jernigan..................2016 Brian Johnson..................2008 Bridget Johnson..............2008 Brigitte Johnson..............2007 Bruce Johnson.................2015 Dave Johnson .................. 2011 Kelly Johnson...................2007 LaVern Johnson...............2007 Roberta Johnston...........2014 Brad Jolly...........................2011 Amanda Jonas .................2016 Analiese Jones.................2017 Sandie Jones .................... 2017 Lisa Jordan........................2008 Richard Juday...................2016 Riley Juenemann.............2017 Jeffrey Justice...................2014 Leslie Kaczeus..................2014 Lucia Salomone Kaczeus ..............................2011 Steve Kaczeus ..................2014 Margaret Kamigaki.........2007 Keith Kanemoto ..............2008 Ann Kaven.........................2016 George Keeler..................2008 Meagan Keen...................2016 Andy Keller........................2008 Mackenzie Keller.............2017 Faye Kelley ........................2015 Lucy Kelly .......................... 2015 Gordon Kennedy.............2007 Konni Keuter.....................2014 Brian Kimball....................2008 Bobby King .......................2014 Kaleb Kircher....................2015 John Kirkpatrick ..............2007 Deb Kitt..............................2014 Brandon Knudsen...........2007 Julie Kocjancic ................. 2011 John Koehler ....................2015 Jason Kokenzie................2014 Stacy Kokenzie.................2014 Rob Kolanda.....................2008 Linda Kopecky .................2017 Walker Korel ..................... 2016 Linda Kozloff­Turner......2015 Richard Kpogoh­Nark....2016 Patrick Kramer..................2015 Terry Kroenung................2011 Gay Kuhlman....................2014 Christopher Kukich.........2014 Chad Kupper .................... 2014 Josie Lamp........................2014 JoAnne Lamun.................2008 Gordon Laurens...............2016 Lee Lawson.......................2015 Genaro Laynes.................2011 Thad Lear...........................2011 William Ledesma.............2011 Elvira Lee ........................... 2007 LoriLe Gault ...................... 2017 Kathleem Leiding............2011 Louise Leise ...................... 2016 Dick Lentz..........................2011 Maciel Leon ...................... 2014 Sarah Levison...................2011 Hal Levison........................2017

Continued on Page 55

Continued from Page 54 Diane Levy ........................ 2015 Gary Lewis.........................2008 Jan Lewis ...........................2015 Tim Lewis...........................2008 Linda Liang.......................2014 Qian Liang.........................2007 Sue Linroth ....................... 2017 Teresa Litman...................2017 Rita Liu ............................... 2017 Kay Lloyd...........................2014 Eric Lombardi...................2008 Nate Lord...........................2015 Michael Loukonen..........2015 Tonni Loutzenhiser.........2017 Morgan Lu.........................2011 Lindy Lubbers ..................2008 Tina Ludutsky­Taylor......2008 Loan Maas.........................2007 Nathan Maciejewski.......2017 Casey Mackenzie.............2017 Mary Macomber..............2014 Richard Macomber.........2014 Keith MacPhail.................2017 Teresa MacPhail...............2017 Greg Macy.........................2016 Kathryn Mallot.................2008 Mark Mann........................2008 Shelley Mann....................2008 Sophia Manning..............2015 Craig Mansanares ...........2007 Jane Marcus......................2017 Gary Markowitz...............2014 Alan Marschke .................2016 Stephanie Martin............2007 Debbie Martinez.............2016 Sharmaine Martinez.......2015 Shauntina Martinez........2016 Erik Mason.........................2011 Rachel Mau.......................2016 Gordon Mauck.................2008 Scott Mayfield..................2011 Jimmie McCaffree...........2016 Pat McCarthy....................2014 The cover of the 2014 Times­Call “100.” Laura McConnell.............2011 Angie McCreavey............2016 Jim Mitchell ......................2008 Emily McLean...................2007 Iria Isabel Wendy McMillan ............. 2017 Montanes Paz...................2015 Dr. Joe Meckle..................2015 David Montgomery........2007 Miguel Medina.................2014 Mike Monticello...............2015 Vijay Mehra.......................2007 Annie Moore.....................2011 Eric Meiers.........................2016 Joanie Moore ................... 2014 Joe Mejia............................2017 Linda Moore .....................2008 Joaquin Melendez..........2011 Mary Lou Moore..............2007 Eliberto Mendoza ........... 2014 Scott Moore......................2007 David Merrill.....................2015 Marta Moreno..................2015 Sue Mesch.........................2011 Chuck Morris....................2014 Molly Metz ........................2007 Ron Morrow, Jr.................2011 Jesse Michaels ................. 2016 Dianne Moses .................. 2007 Mark Michels....................2008 Steve Moskal....................2015 John Mieras ...................... 2017 Felipe Mosqueda ............ 2016 Chris Miller........................2008 Bronwyn Muldoon..........2015 Ken Miller ..........................2008 Deanne Mulvihill.............2016 Neil Miller..........................2007 Kurt Munding...................2016 Seth Miller.........................2016 December Murillo...........2016 Skip Miller ......................... 2015 Mike Murphy....................2011 Esther Mills........................2016 Isabella Musser................2011 Mark Mills..........................2011 Wendi Nafziger................2015 Holly Milne........................2016 Aaron Nagell .................... 2016 David Minaya ...................2016 Clinton Nash.....................2007 Jay Minaya ........................ 2016 Bill Nelson ......................... 2011 Carmen Mireles ............... 2016

Tim Nelson........................2008 Betty Ann Newby............2014 Jewel Ng............................2016 Cary Nickolls.....................2015 Geoffrey Nicosia..............2016 Ann Noble.........................2017 Bobbie Jo Noblin ............2008 Jim Nordhougen.............2015 John Norling.....................2015 Jef Norton ......................... 2016 Bill Nugent........................2015 Nick O’Connor..................2015 Stephanie O’Connor ...... 2015 The Rev. Carol GanSho O’Dowd..............................2011 Carol O’Meara ..................2007 David Obvchowski..........2016 Chris Olberding...............2017 Silvia Olivas.......................2008 Jason Olson ...................... 2007 Michael O’Neil..................2017 Tony Onorato ...................2007 Valerie Otero .................... 2008 Allen Overton...................2007 Stan Owens.......................2014 Chris Parr...........................2008

Bruce Partain....................2016 Audrey Partipilo ..............2017 Darcy Pasko ......................2016 Bray Patrick­Lake.............2008 Gina Patterson.................2016 Paula Peacock ..................2008 Clay Peck............................2014 Gordon Pedrow...............2007 Joe Pelle.............................2011 Marci Perrotto..................2007 Lea Peshock......................2015 Payton Peterson..............2011 Brad Phelps.......................2007 Olivia Phillips....................2011 Tom Plant .......................... 2008 Steve Podel.......................2008 Norm Poll...........................2007 Jack Pommer....................2008 Dr. Mary Poole ................. 2016 Debi Pope..........................2008 Anne Postle.......................2014 Ray Potter..........................2011 Steve Powers....................2017 John Poynton...................2007 OJ. Pratt..............................2007 Kevin Puckett...................2016

Kerry Leigh Pugh ............2008 Simon Quince .................. 2014 Dawn Quintana ...............2015 Vern Raben ....................... 2017 Doug Rademacher ......... 2007 Carmen Ramirez..............2008 Carmen Ramirez..............2014 Ray Ramirez......................2014 Ellen Ranson.....................2007 Helen Rayl.........................2007 Ben Ready ......................... 2011 Rick Reiten ........................ 2008 Dawn Reiter......................2015 Regina Renaldi.................2011 Heather E. Reszka ........... 2008 Mary Reynolds.................2011 Brian Rezac........................2014 Nancy Rezac .....................2007 Nancy Rich........................2016 Dick Richards....................2008 Wendy Richards...............2008 Loretta Richter.................2011 Stacie Richter ...................2007 Alma Rico .......................... 2014 Dudley Rider.....................2007 Janet Rider........................2007 Brenda Ridgley ................2016 Bobby Ridnour.................2015 Ted Risk..............................2016 Michael Roberts ..............2014 Glenda S. Robinson........2014 JoseRodriguez­Lopez ....2016 John Rogers......................2015 Robyn Rogers...................2007 Patty Rollberg .................. 2017 Benny Romero.................2014 Joshua Romero................2017 Karen Roney .....................2008 Stephen Ross....................2014 D’Anne Rudden ............... 2015 Kandis Rulle......................2016 Phoenix Sagen.................2014 Edwina Salazar.................2011 Adalberto Salcido Silva.2007 Carol Salter........................2011 Lorynda Sampson...........2015 Rick Samson ..................... 2017 Gabe Santos ..................... 2011 Bob Sargent......................2007 Jeff Satur............................2011 Anna Sauer........................2014 Sameer Sawant................2007 Monique Sawyer­Lang..2015 Jennifer Scheidies...........2011 Mark W. Schell..................2017 Traude Schneider............2015 Ralph Schnelvar .............. 2016 Pete Schones....................2014 Terry Schueller.................2011 Clayton Schultz................2007 Katie Schultz.....................2015 Janice Schumacher ........ 2008 Steve Schwartzenberger..........2007 Joe Scott............................2008 Sean Scott.........................2015 Susan Scruggs..................2016 Sandra Seader..................2016 Melissa Seipelt.................2014 Brandon Shaffer .............. 2011 Nirav Shah.........................2017

Continued on Page 56

COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018 • JUNE 24, 2018 • 55

The cover of the 2017 Times­Call “100.”

Continued from Page 55

Susan Shaheen........2017 Mike Shea................2011 Jeff Sherman ........... 2008 Vince Shryack.........2015 Dan Siddal ............... 2014 Lenny Sigwarth.......2014 Ralph Silkonson ...... 2015 Dan Simmons..........2017 Deborah Simmons..2017 Bonnie Sims ............ 2011 Daman Singh...........2016 Josh Sipfle................2014 Annie Sirotniak ....... 2011 Matthew B. Skaggs.2015 Gretchen Skony ...... 2015 Donna Smith ........... 2015 Ladon Smith ............2007 Logan Smith ............2016 Sonny Smith ............2007 The Rev. Felicia SmithGraybeal ........ 2017 Richard Socash ....... 2016 Sharon Socher.........2007 Paul Sorensen ......... 2011 Tyler Sorensen........2014 Jesus Soto................2017 Stacie Speirs............2017 Amulya Srivastava...2014 Johnnie St. Vrain.....2007 Tommy Stager.........2017 Chris Steele.............2007

Josh Stegmeier........2016 Sherri Stephens-Carter......2008 Archie Stevenson....2015 Una Stevenson ........ 2015 Jason Stillman ......... 2014 Carolyn Storz...........2011 Anthony Stout ......... 2008 Diane Stow .............. 2017 Juanita Straight ....... 2008 Garrett Struessel .... 2017 The cover of the 2016 Times­Call “100.” Tom Stumpf.............2008 Wes Sugden.............2015 Paul Tiger................2017 Cindy Sullivan ......... 2015 Derek Todd ............. 2008 Bridget Sutton.........2011 Ejay Toledo..............2017 Jul Swan...................2011 Robert Trujillo ........ 2007 Whitney Swander....2014 Linda Tyler..............2007 Sean Swarner .......... 2007 Donna Valentine......2008 Connie Syferd..........2011 Sally Van Meter.......2014 Shirley Borrego Diana VanDeHey.....2016 Tackett.....................2017 Nate Vanderschaaf..2008 John Taft..................2014 Ezequiel Vasquez....2008 John “Jaytee” Meinte Veldhuis......2015 Tanguma..................2011 Rebekah Vicknair ... 2016 Teresa Taylor Tate..2016 Garian Vigil ............. 2014 Ana Temu ................ 2014 Maria Villagran ....... 2014 Troy Terry...............2011 Rebecca Vincent ..... 2014 Rachael Teufel.........2014 Ron Vogel ................ 2014 Sophanna Thann .....2016 Eugene Waara.........2011 Byron Thomas.........2017 Dave Wagner...........2011 Ed Thompson..........2008 Francine Wahlgren .2015 Eric Thorin..............2008 Hannah Waldron.....2016 Frank Tiff ................ 2014 Nelson Walker.........2017

56 • JUNE 24, 2018 • COMMUNITY REVIEW 2018

Kiki Wallace.............2007 Jennifer Love Walter.......................2017 Gail Ward.................2008 David Edwin Ward..2017 Pam Ware ................ 2011 Katherine Weadley..2015 Wendy Weathers.....2017 Michelle Webb ........2017 Ashley Weber..........2016 Patti Weber..............2007 Amy Weed ............... 2011 Aidan Wegner..........2015 Shawn Wentz...........2017 Patti West.................2016 Sydney Wetterstrom ............ 2016 Valerie Whatley.......2016 Myron Whisman .....2008 Mike Whiteley.........2008 Michelle Whitmore.2017

Ken Wicklund ......... 2008 Jeff Wilkes...............2011 John Williams..........2008 Serena Williams......2011 Fred Wilson.............2016 Ruth Wilson.............2015 Greg Winger ........... 2015 Ernie Wintergerst...2016 Sarah Wise .............. 2014 Cheryl Witt..............2015 Terry Witty ............. 2007 Dan Wolford ............2008 Dr. Jane Wolford ..... 2011 Richard Wolniewicz 2014 Diane Wood.............2008 Diane Wood.............2014 Jose Quiroz Yanez...2017 Jude Yedidovich ...... 2017 Skye Yedidovich......2017 Kyle Zimmer............2014 Susan Zimmerman..2008

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