July 2024
Junior Derby: Skating to Fame
Just Being a Kid, Despite Diagnosis
7 Amazing Birthday Themes
One-Stop Birthday Planning Guide
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32-DAY TRIP TO MEMORIALIZE HER DAUGHTER AND RAISE AWARENESS
PRACTICING POOL SAFETY Keep your littles out of harm’s way in the pool.
Gil Schaenzle, 67, will bike an estimated 1,000 miles through Ohio, Ontario, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maryland, ending in the nation’s capital. Gil’s ride will honor her daughter and raise awareness for The Healing NET Foundation.
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2023
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3 Kid-Friendly Summer Recipes
BY AUSTRIA COHN
Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. 2. Whisk eggs, heavy cream, and salt until you get a smooth and even texture. 3. Melt butter and coat an 8-inch nonstick frying pan. 4. Add peppers, tomatoes, and arugula evenly on the bottom of the pan. 5. Add egg mixture. 6. Add cheese to the egg mixture. 7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the top is lightly browned. 8. Add garnish (optional): heirloom cherry tomatoes, radish slices, goat cheese, or pea tendrils. 9. Enjoy! Rainbow Veggies Wraps with Hummus Recipe from Spade & Spoon Ingredients: • 2 flour tortillas • 5 oz hummus dip • ⅓ lb carrot, shredded • ½ red bell pepper, seeded and cut into thin sticks • 2 cups lettuce, shredded Directions: 1. Lay the tortillas out on the counter and spread with the hummus. 2. Scatter the carrot, pepper, and lettuce over the hummus. 3. Fold the sides of the tortillas in, then roll them up like burritos. 4. Cut the wraps in half and have some lunch! If there’s any hummus leftover, dip your wrap in it.
July is culinary month, so get the kiddos in the kitchen making a delicious (and healthy) summer recipe! Easy Strawberry Popsicles Recipe from Yummy Toddler Food Ingredients: • 12 oz plain Greek yogurt • 2 cups diced strawberries, stems removed • ¼ cup honey or maple syrup • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice • 1 tsp vanilla extract Directions: 1. Combine all ingredients in a blender. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed. 2. Divide the yogurt mixture evenly among reusable popsicle molds. 3. Freeze for at least four hours. Run popsicle molds under warm water to loosen the mold. 4. Enjoy the popsicles! 5. Store any remaining popsicles in a freezer bag for up to three months. Garden Frittata Recipe Recipe from Yampa Valley Kitchen
10 Local Putting Their Diagnosis in the Backseat 12 Solutions Birthdays that Won’t Break the Bank 14 Things We Love Unbeatable Birthday Goodies 16 RoundUp Everything Birthday good to know features 18 Party Palooza: 7 Immersive Children’s Birthday Party Ideas 20 Rolling to Success: Inside the World of Junior Derby
Ingredients: • 6 large eggs • ⅓ cup cream • ½ cup shredded gruyere • ½ cup goat cheese
6 COLORADO PARENT JULY 2024 • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half • ½ cup red bell pepper, medium dice • 1 cup arugula • 1 tsp fresh lemon juice • 1 tsp salt • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
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“Most Likely To” Birth Month Edition
23 Our Picks for July 26 To Do Today happenings fresh mindset 30 Meet Cheryl Ginsburg
BY AUSTRIA COHN
June: Most likely to discover a new animal species. • Characteristics: Curious, outgoing, and adaptable. July: Most likely to be a firefighter. • Characteristics: Calm, composed, and friendly. August: Most likely to give you a ride after you popped a tire. • Characteristics: Loyal, generous, and a natural leader. September: Most likely to start a nonprofit organization and help others. • Characteristics: Loving, caring, and open. October: Most likely to mediate any argument with ease. • Characteristics: Witty, smart, and polite. November: Most likely to keep a secret the longest. • Characteristics: Loyal, secretive, and ambitious. December: Most likely to have a case of wanderlust that can’t be tamed. • Characteristics: Adventurous, honest, and blunt.
8 COLORADO PARENT JULY 2024 April: Most likely to be the first to jump into a challenge head-on or go down a terrifying roller coaster ride. • Characteristics: Confident, competitive, and brave. May: Most likely to stay late at work and finish a project. • Characteristics: Hardworking, stubborn, and patient. February: Most likely to be found leading a protest for a cause they’re passionate about. • Characteristics: Truthful, innovative, and passionate. March: Most likely to decorate their child’s preschool classroom. • Characteristics: Creative, daydreamer, and empathetic. Horoscopes guide some people to make decisions, while others roll their eyes at the idea. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, we’ve got something fun for you. Check out this “Most Likely To” list, tailored to your birth month. January: Most likely to have their life meticulously organized in color-coded spreadsheets. • Characteristics: Hard working, independent, disciplined.
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good to know
Putting Their Diagnosis in the Backseat BY AUSTRIA COHN
At school, children who have life-altering diagnoses tend not to get the same school experience as their peers. Whether it’s visits to the nurse’s office for daily meds, unpacking allergen-free food at the lunch table, or even being homeschooled for health reasons, these children’s everyday lives are different. While many might feel left out of everyday activities, like sports or after-school events, there’s one thing these Colorado kids can still enjoy to the fullest extent—traditional summer camp. Roundup River Ranch is a nonprofit organization that provides free, medically supported camp programs to kids ages 7-17 with life-altering diagnoses. Sarah Johnson, the camp’s President and CEO, shares that this is a way for these campers to put their diagnosis in the backseat and enjoy being kids. The Impact Most, if not all, of the campers at Roundup River Ranch can’t attend a traditional camp due to their medical needs, such as feeding tubes, intense special diets, or the level of medication they need. “I believe in summer camp for exploration, maturity, trying to think outside
of your comfort zone, and making new friends,” Johnson shares. “If you believe in summer camp and you believe that every kid should have a chance to go, then we need a place like Roundup River Ranch for kids who need extra medical care.” The 125-acre camp includes everything other camps have, like a zipline, archery, boating, fishing, horseback riding, art, stage nights, and more. While campers enjoy these outdoor activities, they’re also surrounded by children who have had a similar experience. Each week at the camp is different. For example, during cardiology week, five cardiologists and several specialized nurses are present. The camp serves various diagnoses, from moderate to severe asthma, lung disease, and celiac disease to cancer, brain tumors, and bone marrow transplants. “Our campus has a full ICU level facility; it’s called the medical depot, and it looks like a train depot–it’s so cool,” Johnson says. “Our goal is for kids not to go there. We bring meds to them with our nurses and doctors wearing tutus and riding in golf carts.” This experience impacts not only campers but also their families. Parents have shared with Johnson things like it’s their first time in years to have a date night or sleep in the
same bed because they usually need to be near their child. Through this program, parents also meet other caregivers who are facing similar challenges. Kids Being Kids Last summer, during neurology week, Johnson traded her CEO hat for her camp counselor hat. She recalls when the very first camper arrived. The young camper was eagerly waiting for her best friend to show up, who was going to be in the same cabin. The girl asked if she could move her bed closer to where her friend’s was, saying, ‘I need to be right next to my best friend.’ Initially, Johnson thought the girls should be separated to encourage new friendships. By the way the camper spoke of her friend, it sounded like she spoke with her every day, and they frequently saw each other. However, Johnson was surprised when the girl explained, “Oh, no, I only see her at camp.” This experience has stuck with Johnson because it shows the camp’s power and impact on these children. Individuals and organizations can support Roundup River Ranch by donating, attending an event, volunteering, and spreading awareness.
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good to know
Birthdays that Won’t Break the Bank
BY VICTORIA MIKOTA
Candles: ✓ Birthday Party Invites: ✓ Most Fun Day of Your Child’s Life: ✓?
an activity everyone will enjoy. For this night, we recommend a projector so that everyone
If your kiddo’s birthday is coming up, you may feel a bit of excitement and a tinge of sadness. Your sweet baby is reaching another yearly milestone and going into a whole new chapter of their life, and it’s your job to make sure this celebration is remembered for years to come. But, c’mon, you’re not a Kardashian! You can’t just negate all of your important payments to put a down payment on balloons, a party clown, or even an extravagant birthday dress. It’s time to really rethink birthdays. Here’s how you can throw a memorable birthday party on a budget. Thank us later. Host a Sleepover Probably one of the most exciting events in a young child’s life is the opportunity to have a group of friends stay the night. If you want to make your kid’s eyes light up, buy the group a pizza, give them free rein in the living room, and sit back as your child makes their favorite birthday memories. Have a Cookout What better way to celebrate your special kiddo than with lots of homemade food and a cookout or BBQ in the backyard? You can make an entire day of celebrating with fun lawn games, pool time, hotdogs and hamburgers, and fun in the sun. At the end of the day, turn up the heat and make s’mores around a fire pit. Throw a Party at the Park Community parks are a great place to host large gatherings, like birthday parties! Many of the community parks in Baton Rouge have splash pads, tennis courts, disc golf, and other fun outdoor activities for kiddos and the whole family to enjoy. Host a Backyard Movie Night A backyard movie night is the perfect way to bring together friends and family and do
years to come.
can see the big screen! For added fun, you can make a snack table inside where kids can choose from candy, chips, and other sweet or salty snacks. To keep the bugs away, we recommend bug repellent tiki torches! Go on a Scavenger Hunt Scavenger hunts are a fun way to engage and entertain your child’s guests without breaking the bank on entertainment options. If you want to add a fun twist to the scavenger hunt, add unique prizes throughout the hunt! Other Cost-Saving Methods Skip the Post Office To cut costs at the post office, we recommend making digital birthday party invitations through Canva or another design platform. This way, instead of mailing cards, you can just send them via email or text! Order Supplies Online Party stores often have ludicrous markups on items you can buy in bulk online. Instead of wasting money on cheap items, consider buying party supplies in bulk from stores like Amazon, Walmart, or even Sam’s Club. Bonus points if you can reuse the items for future events. Upcycle Old Party Favors Birthday parties often have unique themes that require extensive planning and thorough brainstorming. However, most items like hats, streamers, decorations, and noisemakers can all be reused. Consider taking careful care of your party favors at this year’s party, so you can reuse them again for
Bake Your Own Cake We’re not saying you have to be Betty Crocker over here, but baking your child’s cake would save a significant amount of money–especially if they have specific decoration requests in mind. If baking from scratch isn’t your thing, buy a box cake! If you want to spruce up a box cake, substitute buttermilk for water for a firmer, less- sweet cake. Then, you can make your own buttercream. Et voilà! Use Crafts as Party Favors If you want to save money on party favors, opt for a personalized craft that guests can take home with them. You can search for specific crafts that match your child’s theme, or come up with your own ideas. Embrace Free Activities Save money on entertainment and entertain your kiddo’s guests with free activities. Here are a few easy go-to ideas: • Keep-Up-the-Balloon • Musical Chairs • Hot Potato
• Charades • Red Rover • Three-Legged Race • “Simon says”
While you may not be a Kardashian, your child definitely views you as a superhero of sorts and will more than likely appreciate any effort you put into making their birthday a special one. Remember, it’s the thought that counts!
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Things We Love Unbeatable Birthday Goodies Make your kiddo’s birthday extra special with these wonderful goody bag goodies.
good to know
For the gamer-themed birthday party, gift the kids something practical and fun like the Raymond Geddes Game Eraser that comes in a 24-pack. $16.80. amazon.com 2
Every child will feel like a superstar with the 24 Pack Neon Sunglasses with UV400 Protection. $21.99, amazon.com 1
For kiddos that like a challenge, opt for the 15-pack Can You Spy Animals Card Set . This goodie bag stuffer comes with a magnifying glass, too! $29.97, amazon.com 5
Kids can hook the 18- Pack Animal Pop Balls to their backpacks or water bottles and always have an adorable little friend with them. $19.99, amazon.com 4
Who doesn’t like galaxy-themed slime? Get the 36-Pack Unicorn Slime Kit , which is a fun and cute item for boys and girls. $13.99, amazon.com 3
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good to know
RoundUp: Birthday Listing BY CP
Bakeries Bake My Day Bakeshop (303) 482-5882 bakemydaybakeshop.com Cake Size: 6-12” Delivery: Yes Cain’s Creative Cakes 194 S. Federal Blvd., Denver (303) 619-4541 cainscreativecakes.com Cake Size: Various Delivery: Yes
16542 E. Powers Pl., Centennial (303) 704-9365 glam-cakes.square.site Cake Size: Varies Delivery: Yes Made by Hand Cakes (720) 712-8799 madebyhandcakes.com Cake Size: 5-8” Delivery: Yes Mermaids Bakery 1543 Champa St., Denver (303) 534-0956 mermaidsbakery.com Cake Size: 8-12” Delivery: Yes Mile High Pies & Cakes (303) 552-2628 milehighpiesandcakesdenver.com Cake Size: 6-12” Delivery: No Milk & Cake 6345 E. Hampden Ave., #103, Denver (303) 757-2007 milkncakeco.com Cake Size: 6-10” Delivery: Yes Phresh Baked Goods (720) 828-3855 phreshbakedgoods.com Cake Size: 4-14” Delivery: Yes Wicked Amitionz Catering (720) 318-9208 wickedambitionz.com
Cake Size: 6-16” Delivery: Yes Entertainment Ella’s Charm 7156 Issaquash Dr., Colorado Springs
(719) 551-8001 ellascharm.net Ages: All Ages Rates: $100-200 Time Range: 0.5-3 hours Firehouse Farms PO Box 137 Shawnee, CO (720) 938-6342 firehousefarmsco.com
16 COLORADO PARENT JULY 2024 Cake Crumbs Bakery & Cafe 2216 Kearney St., Denver (303) 861-4912 cake-crumbs.com Cake Size: 4-12” Delivery: Yes Cute Cakes and Bakes (515) 720-2708 cutecakesandbakes.com Cake Size: 4-14” Delivery: Yes Denver Cake Company denvercakeco@gmail.com denvercakeco.com Cake Size: 6-14” Delivery: Yes Flick of the Whisk Cakes (720) 279-4318 flickofthewhiskcakes.com Cake Size: 6-8” Delivery: Yes Glam Cakes and Confections
Let our friendly, calm, gentle little goats come help celebrate your event with you! We bring smiles and joy with us! Grasshopper Kids (720) 644-1670 grasshopperkids.com Ages: 3-12 Rates: $120+ Time Range: 2 hours Little Monkey Bizness 10430 S. Progress Way, Parker (303) 841-5888 parker.monkeybizness.com Ages: 10 months-8 years Rates: $225-499 Time Range: 1.5-2 hours Luigi’s Game Truck (915) 228-1333 luigisgametruck.com Ages: 5-99 Rates: $375
Time Range: 1-5 hours Mystic Escape Room 5776 S. Rapp St., Littleton (303) 862-9666 mysticescaperoom.com Ages: All Ages Rates: $35 and Up Time Range: 1 hour Play n’ Paint 1814 S. Naples St., Aurora (313) 400-8787 paintnplaydenver.com Ages: 4-18 Rates: $250-300
11177 Dransfeldt Rd., #145, Parker (303) 841-3837 parkerparty.com Party Rentals Colorado 3333 Harison St., Denver (720) 592-6075 eventresourcecenter.com Pop Denver Balloons 10510 Dransfeldt Rd., #104, Parker (720) 772-7712 poparts.co Punchbowl Virtual Party Supplies punchbowl.com Razzle Toys 5910 S. University Blvd., #D1, Greenwood Village (303) 730-1505 razzletoys.com Theme 2890 Ames St., Wheat Ridge (720) 365-3926 themepartycreation.com The Sterling Rose Florist 6101 E. Colfax Ave., Denver (303) 756-9990 edmooreflorist.net Venue Archery Games Denver 5405 W. 56th Ave., Unit D, Arvada (303) 305-4531 archerygamesdenver.com Ages: 7+ Rates: $360-480 Time Range: 1-2 hours Aerial Cirque Over Denver aerialcirqueoverdenver.com artSPARK Creative Studio 2630 W. Belleview Ave., #160, Littleton (303) 795-7897 artsparkcreative.com Ages: 3 and Up Rates: $325+ Time Range: 1-1.5 hours Butterfly Pavilion 6252 W. 104th Ave., Westminster 4605 Quebec St. Units B2 and B3, Denver 13873 E Briarwood Ave. Unit C7, Englewood (720) 654-9737 Aerial Cirque Over Denver is an aerial dance studio with 2 locations offering camps, parties, classes, & performances!
Ages: 1-Teens Rates: $350-415 Time Range: 1.5 hours
Candeeland Kids 7969 E. Arapahoe Rd., Unit B, Greenwood Village (720) 799-2244 candeelandcolorado.com Ages: All Ages Rates: $410-575 Time Range: 1-1.5 hours
Colorado Bounce Company 12790 W. Alameda Pkwy., Ste. EF, Lakewood (720) 524-7033 coloradobounce.com
Time Range: 1-2 hours Play Street Museum 9370 S. Colorado Blvd. A-2, Highlands Ranch (303) 357-3024 highlandsranch.playstreetmuseum.com Ages: 1-12 Rates: $360-995 Time Range: 1.5-2 hours Renaissance Adventures 5717 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder (303) 786-9216 Ages: 6-17 Rates: $150 and Up Time Range: 0.5-2 hours Royally Enchanted Princess and Character Parties 6172 S. Telluride St., Aurora (720) 505-0451 royallyenchanted.com Ages: 1-18 Rates: $170-1,100 Time Range: 0.5-1.5 hours Wands and Wishes Organization 2823 Elmira St., Denver (720) 612-4363 wandsandwishesoccasions.com
Ages: 1 and Up Rates: $95-800 Time Range: 2 hours
Kids Wonder 7562 S. University Blvd., Ste. GG, Centennial
(303) 835-0709 kidswonder.net Ages: 0-6 Rates: $229-949 Time Range: 2-3.5 hours
Little Kitchen Academy Denver 9+CO 4064 E. 8th Pl., Denver littlekitchenacademy.com/locations/ denver-9co Private classes at LKA provide children 3-18 with an unforgettable culinary experience that will make their special day truly extraor- dinary. Celebrate your child’s birthday or other special occasion!
Loveland Laser Tag 401 N. Denver Ave., Loveland (970) 663-9999 laserfuncenter.com
Ages: All Ages Rates: $25-43 Time: 2-4 hours
Ages: 3 and Up Rates: $130-250 Time Range: 0.5-2 hours Party Supplies
Warrior Challenge Arena 3400 Industrial Ln., #12A, Broomfield (720) 370-9700 warriorchallengearena.com Ages: 4 and Up Rates: $20-40 Time Range: 1-2.5 hours WhirlyBall 3971 Palmer Park Blvd., Colorado Springs
Halloween Costumes and Party Store Fun Services 12345 Huron St., Westminster (303) 427-7443 fspartystore.com Mr. Big Event Rentals 2791 Industrial Ln., Broomfield (720) 308-4300
(719) 637-9999 whirlyball.com Ages: All Ages Rates: $25-35 Time: 1-2 hours
mrbigeventrentals.com Parker Party America
(303) 469-5441 butterflies.org
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Party Palooza: 7 Immersive Children’s Birthday Party Ideas BY MADISON VOORHIES
F rom transforming your backyard into a prehistoric jungle to turning your home into a royal tea party fit for your littlest prince or princess, we’ve curat- ed seven unforgettable party themes that promise to make your child’s special day truly magical. Dive in, and discover creative decorations, engaging activities, and themed treats that will ignite imaginations and cre- ate memories that last a lifetime. Outdoor Movie Night For the more lowkey child in your family, try hosting a movie theater birthday party at home! This doesn’t have to be hard, and you can add a few extras to take your blockbust-
er birthday party to the next level. Start by setting up your screen, whether it’s an inflat- able movie screen or a simple white sheet, and set up a quality projector. Arrange cozy seating areas with blankets, pillows, and maybe even inflatable loungers. Serve up theater classics like freshly-made popcorn, sizzling hot dogs, nachos, and candy at your DIY concession stand. Decorate the area with string lights and other cinema-themed décor for a movie night the kids will never forget. Space Adventure Any child at any age can be a space ranger with this out-of-this-world theme! A space adventure party requires celestial decora-
tions, like glow-in-the-dark stars, planet cut- outs, and rocket ship models. You can set up activities like a rocket ship building station, a space treasure hunt, or even a planetarium show. Costumes may also be encouraged to enhance the immersive experience. Not only does this theme captivate children’s imaginations, but it transports them to outer space for a day of exploration and fun. The possibilities for space-themed snacks are also seemingly endless if you add treats like Moon Pies, Star Crunches, and “asteroids” (cheese balls) to the menu. Dino Expedition Transform your backyard into a thrilling
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prehistoric jungle for the ultimate dinosaur expedition party! Think lush greenery, tower- ing dinosaur cutouts, and authentic-looking faux fossils scattered about. Create a realistic excavation site where budding paleontolo- gists can dig through sand or dirt to unearth dinosaur bones and fossils, adding a dash of adventure with explorer hats and vests so kids can truly embody their inner archaeolo- gists. This party theme is an engaging blend of fun and education, perfect for curious minds. Elevate the excitement with a hands- on science lesson by baking a spectacular volcano cake that erupts with sweet surpris- es. This dinosaur adventure will transport your little ones back in time for a day of dis- covery and delight! Superhero Training Camp Turn your child’s birthday bash into an epic superhero training camp with a DIY obsta- cle course or a thrilling ropes course at a play center. Deck out each little hero with custom capes and masks, and set up action- packed missions that foster teamwork and problem-solving. Bring the adventure to life with vibrant decorations in your child’s favorite superhero colors and logos, plus dramatic cityscape backdrops. This dynamic, action-packed adventure encourages kids to embody their favorite heroes, pushing their
agility and strength to the limits. Cap off the celebration by awarding superhero certifi- cates to all participants, making each child feel like a true hero and ensuring the party is a memorable triumph. Fairytale Fantasy Transform your venue into a whimsical enchanted forest with twinkling fairy lights, cozy toadstool seats, and enchanting magi- cal creature decorations. Spark imaginations with activities like captivating storytelling sessions, creative fairy crafts, and mystical creature encounters—think “unicorn” rides or a visit from a fairy, princess, or knight. Little guests will delight in dressing up with fairy wings, wands, crowns, and knight armor, fully immersing themselves in the magical world. Top off the magical experi- ence with a fantastical, whimsical cake that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. This enchanting theme will not only ignite crea- tivity but also leave every child in awe, making it a celebration brimming with
will adore etiquette lessons fit for royalty, enchanting dress-up stations complete with princess gowns and sparkling tiaras, and engaging in royal crafts like crown-making. Serve an assortment of delightful teas, deli- cate finger sandwiches, and dainty pastries to indulge their taste buds. Enhance the regal ambiance with soft classical music and twinkling fairy lights, making every child feel like true royalty. Personalized place cards and themed party favors, such as mini tea sets, will add a magical, immersive touch, turning your venue into a majestic kingdom they’ll never forget. Spa Day Treat your little ones to a luxe spa-themed birthday party! Set up chic stations for mini-manicures, pedicures, and facials, complete with cozy robes and headbands. Let soft music and scented candles create a serene atmosphere. Kids can make DIY face masks, paint nails, and enjoy foot baths. Decorate with soft pastels and floral arrangements for that perfect spa vibe. Serve refreshing fruit platters and infused water. Send guests home with personalized spa kits, ensuring everyone feels pampered and special. This relaxing, rejuvenating party will leave them feeling fabulous!
wonder and fantasy. Fancy Tea Party
Step into a royal tea party brimming with elegance and charm! Picture lace table- cloths, exquisite fine china, and lush floral arrangements setting the stage. Little guests
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Rolling to Success Inside the World of Junior Derby W ith an emphasis on inclusivity, leadership, and team building, Junior Roller Derby provides young skaters with an opportunity to come together–regardless of skill level–and compete in a game that builds confidence and strengthens empowerment. BY AMANDA MILLER PHOTO BY RICH VOSSLER PHOTOGRAPHY
up within that week, and it stuck. I ended up choosing which college I wanted to go to and where I wanted to play roller derby based on Women’s Flat Track roller derby rankings, and that left me in the Denver area. I started playing for Denver’s world-ranked team, Mile High Club, and as part of that, I wanted to continue to grow the sport. Once I left Junior Roller Derby, I started coaching and I’ve been coaching for the past 10 years. What are your goals when coaching junior skaters? Our biggest thing that the coaches find value in is really creating community for our skaters. While, of course, we’re trying to teach them roller derby and make them feel strong and athletic in the sport, our biggest value is that they walk away feeling like they have friends, they have peo- ple they can trust, and they belong. How do you help create that environment for the skaters? I think the biggest thing for the coaches is to make sure that we connect with the skaters so that they can talk to us and build relationships with their coaches. And then lead by example, of course, encouraging them to follow the values, and being friends with the other coaches and working really hard with the other coaches. A big part of it is not just the coaches, it’s the skaters and the families that really shine through and continue to show those values. How do you see the future of Junior Derby evolving? Soon there’s going to be tryouts for Team USA. That’s been going on for a few years, but I think that’s really cool.
Junior Roller Derby is a full-contact sport that is played on roller skates. While it may seem intense, there are plenty of safety rules to keep everyone safe. Played on an oval track, two teams–consisting of up to five skaters–skate counterclockwise in short games called “jams.” The goal is to score more points than the other team by lap- ping opposing players. Jams are divided into two, 30-minute halves, and the team with the most points at the end of the game wins. To learn more about the game and how it’s changing in our city, we talked with the president of the junior committee and a few of the skaters of Denver Roller Derby to hear their experiences and how it is helping transform them as individuals. Luna Thornes, President of the Junior Committee Derby Name: Luna Shovegood How would you describe Junior Derby in your own words? It’s a full-contact sport for anyone who’s interested in building confidence, feeling strong and finding community, and having fun. How did you become involved in Junior Derby? My family moved from Tucson, Arizona to Fort Collins, Colorado when I was 15. My parents said I had to join an activity to make friends, and for some reason, roller derby just called to me. We found a flier and went to a game and the juniors were the halftime show, so I ended up signing
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Bea T. Age: 16 Derby Name: Track Mamba Position: Jammer How long have you been involved in Junior Derby? Eight or nine years. What encouraged you to start playing? We lived in Minnesota and went to a lot of Minnesota roller derby games. They didn’t have a jun- ior team, so when we moved to Colorado, we found Denver, and I’ve been skating there ever since. Plus, my mom was an official, so we were already pretty into derby. What has been your favorite part? I love the community around our team. We have a very supportive team. What does a typical training session look like? A lot of skill and strategy-type drills. Sometimes the jammers or the blockers break off because we work on different things, and we have four different coaches to help us with everything that we might need. How do you prepare for a game? For me, I like to listen to “She Wolf” by Shakira. I don’t know why, but it just puts me in the derby mood. What has Junior Derby taught you about yourself? It’s prepared me to handle different situations. It’s helped me build my mental game because it is a very mental sport, and it has also allowed me to take feedback better. Those looking to join Junior Derby should know they will find com- munity, learn more about themselves, and be a part of something that is fun. For more information, visit denverrollerderby.org.
Additionally, in the past few years, we’ve seen the juniors go up to high-level play, competing at an adult worldwide ranked level. Jazzy R.L. Age: 15 Derby Name: Jazzmanian Devil Position: Jammer How long have you been involved in Junior Derby? Five years. What encouraged you to start playing in Junior Derby? My best friend played and got me into it. I had started skating a few years before I started, so it sounded cool. What has been your favorite part? I think the playoffs last year were a lot of fun. It was fun to be there as a team. Our team is like a family, so it’s really nice to be able to travel with everybody. How would you describe the team? Our team is like a family to each other, and it’s really nice to have other people to bring you up and help you with the sport you enjoy. What does a typical training session look like? It’s a lot of endurance, strength building, and working on drills and strategy. Our coaches are great, so we learn a lot each practice. How do you prepare mentally for a game? Is there anything you like to do beforehand? Before every game, the whole team will sit in a circle and say why we won today. We’ll all say a certain thing of why we won; for instance, we won today because we stayed out of our heads. Derby is a very mental sport, so that is something that helps us prepare for every game. What has Junior Derby taught you about yourself? It has com- pletely changed our lives in the best way possible.
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#Dadication
fatherhood.gov
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happenings
Our Picks JULY
Gallery Reflections 1
Explore mixed media artworks by DAVA youth until July 8. July 1. Downtown Aurora Visual Arts. davarts.org
JULY 2024 COLORADOPARENT.COM 23
Our Picks happenings
2 Porcupine Day World Porcupine Day is July 2! Learn more about these
fascinating creatures by reserv- ing your exhibit ticket. July 2. Downtown Aquarium, Denver. aquariumrestaurants.com
Fourth of July Parade & Pancake Festival 3
Celebrate the 4th of July with a day filled with family-friend- ly activities. July 4. Superior Community Park. member. superiorchamber.com
Free Concert 4
Washington Park
5 Discover the best local
artisan markets at the free event. July 7. Highpoint Marketplace, Aurora. events.humanitix.com Denver Makers Market Aurora
Enjoy a free concert by the Denver Municipal Band sponsored by Washington Park Neighborhood Associations. July 4. Washington Park, Denver. denvermunicipalband.org
HEADS UP!
Events may change after publication deadline. Please phone ahead to confirm important information and check with locations about individual COVID rules.
24 COLORADO PARENT JULY 2024
happenings Our Picks
6 Science of Ice Cream Families will learn about liquids and solids while making delicious ice cream! July 11. WOW! Children’s Museum, Lafayette. wowchildrenmuseum.org
7 Backyard Sessions
This summer, enjoy live music, dancing, and fun activities for kids while supporting Colorado vendors and picking local pro- duce. July 14. Stanley Market- place, Aurora. visitaurora.com
8 Summer Lawn Concert Enjoy live music by The Patti
Fiasco at the Summer Lawn Con- cert. Pack a picnic or buy snacks and drinks while you’re there. July 19. Clyfford Still Museum, Denver. clyffordstillmuseum.org
Club 10
The Kid’s
The Kid’s Club free event series invites children aged 4-10 to indulge in a world of creativity. On the first Tuesdays of June and August, a different-themed event promises excitement and learning opportunities. In July, the theme is “Planet Earth,” and children are invited to explore the wonders of our world through interactive activities and engaging demonstrations. They will embark on a journey of discov- ery. Come August, the spotlight turns to “Sports and Movement,” igniting the spirit of play and physical activity among youngsters. Don’t miss out on this enriching experi- ence for your family. Mark your calendars and join Kid’s Club for an unforgettable summer of creativity, learning, and fun. The Orchard Town Center, Westminster. theorchardtowncenter.com
Lavender Festival 9 The festival features demonstra- tions, live music, and over 2,000 lavender plants, creating a
family-friendly celebration. July 20. Denver Botanic Gardens. denverbotanicgardens.org
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happenings July
4th of July Parade 9-10:30am
The 4th of July Parade invites the community to celebrate the nation’s birth. The event begins with a 0.2-mile Family Pet & Bike Parade, followed by the 1.02- mile Community Parade. Town Center North, Highlands Ranch. hrcaonline.org 5 Friday Birding For Everyone 8-9:30am It is songbird and hummingbird season. Whether you’re new to birding or can ID any bird at a glance, join the leisurely walk throughout Arvada. Register in advance to receive the location. Majestic View Nature Center, Arvada. majesticviewnaturecenter. arvada.org Visit the Colorado Railroad Museum, where visitors can board a passenger car behind a narrow-gauge locomotive. Rides depart every 30 minutes from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Summer rides are available until mid-August. Colorado Railroad Museum, Golden. coloradorailroadmuseum.org 6 Saturday Golden Farmers Market 8am-1pm Support local businesses every Saturday by heading to the Golden Farmers Market until October 5. Get fresh produce, watch local entertainment, and enjoy the outdoors with the whole family. Golden Farmers Market. goldenfarmers market.org Ride the Rails 10am-3pm Families are invited at 10 a.m. on the first and third Saturday of each month for a fire-related story and craft time. Attendees can stay after the craft for a guided children’s tour of the Museum, an experience enjoyable for all ages. Denver Firefighters Museum, Denver. denverfirefightersmuseum.org Fun at the Firehouse 10-11am
Photo by Red Rocks Amphitheatre. July 8.
to do today
July 1 Monday Bubble Planet: An Immersive Experience 9:30am-8pm The Bubble Planet offers an immersive journey engaging all five senses. This multisensory adventure will delight every family member in its captivating, bubble-filled world. Exhibition Hub Art Center Denver. bubble- planet.com Outdoor Storytime: Chatfield Farms Park 9:30-10am Families are invited to the
Outdoor Storytime at Chatfield Farms Park. The event is ideal for children ages 0-5. Organizers request that attendees keep storytime allergen-free Chatfield Farms Park, Littleton. douglascountylibraries. evanced.info 2 Tuesday Lunchtime Vinyasa Flow Noon-1pm During the Lunchtime Vinyasa Flow, participants center their minds and uplift their spirits with nurturing, fun, and meditative yoga. Attendees will leave feeling both grounded and energized. Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver. botanicgardens.org
LEGO bricks. Columbine Library, Littleton. jeffcolibrary. bibliocommons.com Tweens Writing Group 6:30-7:30pm Tween writers are invited to grab their #2 pencils (or pens) and join the group writing session. Participants will respond to a variety of prompts, writing, sharing, and decorating their pages in a fun, collaborative atmosphere. Belmar Library, Lakewood. jeffcolibrary. bibliocommons.com 4 Thursday Independence Day 5K 7:30-11am Families can kick off their 4th of July with a festive 5K, presented by CU Medicine. This fun run/ walk caters to all first-time 5K participants, elite runners, kids, parents with strollers, and even furry friends. Jump online for ticket information. Town Center South, Highland Ranch. hrcaonline.org
3 Wednesday Lego Build and Play 3:30-4:30pm
LEGO enthusiasts are invited to drop in for open play and building sessions. Budding artists and engineers can unleash their creativity and construct unique creations with the provided
VISIT OUR DIGITAL CALENDAR FOR MORE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
26 COLORADO PARENT JULY 2024
happenings July
7 Sunday Yoga at Barr Lake State Park 9-10:30am Yoga classes at Barr Lake State Park are intended for beginners and experienced yogis. Participants should bring a mat or large towel and a water bottle. A limited number of mats are available to borrow on the day. Nature Center, Barr Lake. cpw. state.co.us Colorado Rockies Military Appreciation Day 1:10pm The Colorado Rockies invite all military veterans, active duty personnel, and their family members to celebrate Military Appreciation Day at Coors Field. Coors Field, Denver. mlb.com
schedule and to purchase tickets. Red Rocks and Amphitheatre, Morrison. denverfilm.org 9 Tuesday Prairie Pup Adventures at Plains Conservation Center 9-10am Prairie Pup Adventures offers preschoolers a fun way to learn about the prairie’s animals, plants, and people. The program is designed for children ages 3-6, accompanied by a caregiver. Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver. botanicgardens.org 10 Wednesday Tunes & Tales 7-8:30pm Head to the Outdoor Classroom Amphitheater in July and August for stories and music. Registration is required. Outdoor Classroom Amphitheater, Lafayette. lafayetteco.gov Astrology Class: A Beginners Guide 7-8pm Curious about astrology? Join Artist and Astrologer Grace Noel in her studio to begin your astrological journey. Guests can sign up for the class online. Grace Noel Art, Denver. gracenoel.art
will try coding a controller board in MakeCode using block-based programming to add movement, lights, and more. By the end of this 3-day series, each child will have created a crafty electronic friend or companion. inventHQ Markerspace, Broomfield. compass.broomfield.org 12 Friday Squirt’s Fire Safety Class 9:30-11am The Squirt’s Fire Safety Class is designed for preschool-aged children and adults. Each session helps participants learn and practice these life-saving ideas through books, videos, and engaging hands-on activities. Denver Firefighters Museum, Denver. denverfirefightersmuseum.org Denver Water Lantern Festival 5:30-10pm The family-friendly Water Lantern Festival is filled with happiness, hope, fun, and great memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Jump online to purchase your ticket. Carpenter Park, Thornton. waterlanternfestival.com 13 Saturday Colorado Mountain Club presents Wilderness First Aid Training The 16-hour class covers environmental, medical, and traumatic injuries, focusing on inclusive care and rescue, as well as patient and bystander mental health. American Mountaineering Center, Golden. cmc.org Cookie Chase 5K Run/Walk 8am Jump online to register for the Cookie Chase 5K Run/Walk. Registration starts at $30 and includes a shirt, finisher medal, fresh cookies at the finish line, and more. Sloans Lake, Denver. coloradorunnerevents.com 14 Sunday Parker Farmer’s Market 8-10am The Parker Farmer’s Market is open every Sunday and has
over 100 vendors to explore. Shop for local fresh produce, beautiful plants and flowers, and more. Downtown Parker on Mainstreet. parkercolorado.net Sensory-Friendly Morning 9am-Noon The museum’s Sensory-Friendly Mornings program allows children with neurodiversity or sensory processing disorders and their families to visit in a safe, enjoyable environment. Denver Art Museum, Denver. denverartmuseum.org 15 Monday Salida Circus Adventure 3-4pm extinction during the interactive show. Children and the young at heart are entertained with globe walking, plate balancing, puppets, and juggling. Belmar Library, Lakewood. jeffcolibrary. bibliocommons.com 16 Tuesday Summer Fun Tuesdays 4-4:45pm Each Tuesday until July 30th, bring your K-5 grader to the library for an exciting activity. On July 16, the activity is Mini Golf. Standley Lake Library, Arvada. jeffcolibrary.biblio commons.com Help save Ranger Critta’s wilderness friends from Are you waiting to explore the new Buc-ee’s in Colorado? Head to the Community Recreation Center by 10:15 a.m. to join the tour. Apex Community Recreation Center, Arvada. apexprd.org Library for All: Interactive Program for Adults with Disabilities 1-2:30pm The program welcomes adults with disabilities and their caregivers to make crafts, create art, play games, and more. Lakewood Library. jeffcolibrary. bibliocommons.com 17 Wednesday Adult Trip to Buc-ee’s 10:15am-3:15pm
8 Monday Bark for Books 4-5:30pm
Bark for Books helps budding and struggling readers build confidence and self-esteem by encouraging them to read aloud to trained therapy dogs, providing a non-judgemental environment. Castle Pines Library. castlepines connection.com
Film on the Rocks: The Wizard of Oz 7pm
11 Thursday Build a Robot Friend 9-11:30am
Head to Red Rocks Amphitheatre for a unique film experience that the whole family will love. Jump online to see the entire film
Kids ages 8-12 can learn to build and program a robot friend. They
Photo by CMC. July 13.
JULY 2024 COLORADOPARENT.COM 27
happenings July
18 Thursday BBQfest Summer Market Series 9am-2pm This free event will have farm- fresh produce, baked goodies, local meats, tasty treats, handcrafted items, and more. Learn more online. Curate: A Local Mercantile, Centennial. curatemercantile.com 19 Friday Mini Terrariums for High Schoolers 2-3:30pm High schoolers are invited to create enchanting artificial mini terrariums at the library while socializing with other students, eating snacks, and relaxing. Broomfield Library and Auditorium, Broomfield. compass.broomfield.org Art After Hours 5-7pm Enjoy a post-work escape, a charming date night, or simply enjoy fine art and design at the Art After Hours event. This recurs every third Friday of the month. Kirkland Museum, Denver. kirklandmuseum.org 20 Saturday Cultured Dairy Class 10am-Noon During the class, guests will get hands-on experience making yogurt that they can take home and eat and learn about the nutritional benefits and process of making cultured dairy foods. Nutrition Therapy Institute, Arvada. ntischool.com
Photo by Tennyson Street Fair. July 20.
processing disorders. The aquarium will open early and turn down the ambient sounds to create a calm and quieter setting. Downtown Aquarium, Denver. aquariumrestaurants.com Dungeons & Dragons Community Group 1:15-4:15pm This free program does not require registration and meets on the first and third Sunday of each month. During the D&D community group game, guests will problem-solve and stretch their imagination. um. compass. broomfield.org 23 Tuesday Big & Lil’ Play Classes 2-3pm Classes are designed for Bigs (caring adult) and Lils (awesome kid) to foster healthy child development in a safe, engaging, and supportive setting. Kid Wonder, Centennial. kidswonder.net
Tennyson Street Fair 11am-8pm
ArtPark AI Fresco 6pm
Register for the Frankencreatures event on Tuesday, where you will craft your wacky monster using recycled toys and materials. RiNo ArtPark, Denver. rinoart district.org 24 Wednesday Snoopy and the Red Baron 10am-Close The Snoopy vs. Red Baron exhibit immerses visitors in aerial combat’s thrilling world, featuring vintage aircraft, aviation activities, and interactive displays that delight all ages. Air & Space Museum, Denver. wingsmuseum.org Colorado Rockies vs. Boston Red Sox 1:10pm Bring the whole family and support our local baseball team at the Colorado Rockies vs. Boston Red Sox game. Coors Field, Denver. ticketmaster.com
The Tennyson Street Fair is a day full of food, shopping, vendors, live music, and even a group yoga session. Denver. tennysonstreetfair.com 21 Sunday Low-Sensory Morning The aquarium offers low-sensory mornings for people with sensory
Let’s cheer on the Rockies on July 24! Photo by MLB.
28 COLORADO PARENT JULY 2024
happenings July
25 Thursday Sensory Storytime 11-11:30am
Outdoor Gear and Clothing Swap 2-4pm
During the session, students will learn awareness, potential risks, and develop physical and mental resilience. Broomfield Library and Auditorium. compass. broomfield.org The annual Flapjack Summer Kickoff at Backcountry Base Camp is back. Each vehicle must purchase a ticket. All the proceeds go to the Backcountry Wilderness Area Fund. Base Camp, Highlands Ranch. hrcaonline.org 27 Saturday 11th Annual Cheesman Park Art Fest 9am-5pm The annual weekend full of art, food, and fun is back. There will be shopping, artist Big Foot Bash 4-7pm demonstrations, live music, great food, and more. Cheesman Park, Denver. dashevents.com
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks and Glow Party. Tickets range from $25-56 and can be purchased online. Ball Arena, Denver. ticketmaster.com
Guests can trade new and gently used gear. Whether you need to get rid of gear or want some new items to add to your stash, the event is an eco-friendly way to support the community. Broomfield Library and Auditorium. compassbroomfield.org 28 Sunday Dash for Smiles 8-11am This event raises awareness and benefits cleft lip and palate programs at the Children’s Hospital Colorado and Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children. Central Park, Denver. dashforsmiles.org Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party 2:30pm The whole family will love the
The Highlands Ranch Library is hosting an inclusive storytime for teens and adults with special needs and their caregivers. Highlands Ranch Library. douglascountylibraries. evanced.info Bring the family for some good ol’ fashioned fun at the County Fair. There will be carnival rides, fireworks, rodeos, stage acts, a petting farm, and more. Arapahoe County Fairground and Event Center, Aurora. arapahoecountyfair.com 26 Friday Basic Self-Defense for Teens 2-3:30pm Ages 11 to 18 will learn the fundamentals of person safety with Ripple Effect Martial Arts. Arapahoe County Fair 4pm-Midnight
Monday 29 Tee Off For Hope Golf
Tournament 8am-1:30pm
Enjoy a beautiful and fun day of golf, all while supporting the many programs that Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains offers. There will be prizes, breakfast, and lunch. Hiwan Golf Club, Evergreen. give.lfsrm.org
31 Wednesday Bright Nights at Four Mile Historic Park 7-11pm
The park will be transformed into a captivating realm with larger- than-life sculptures illuminating the night. Four Mile Historic Park, Denver. fourmilepark.org
Spotlight
Photo by HRCA.
July 4th Fireworks No Independence Day celebration is complete without the grand finale–a dazzling fireworks display that paints the night sky with bursts of color and light. This year, bring the family, chairs, and blankets and head to Highland Heritage Reginal Park to finish the holiday festivities. Bring a picnic basket filled with your family’s favorite treats, or enjoy the food trucks on-site. The Highlands Ranch Community Association, Highlands Ranch Metro District, and Douglas County have joined forces to bring
an unforgettable night of celebration. The fireworks will begin around 9:30 p.m., but the starting time may vary depending on weather conditions and any fire bands in effect. Given the event’s popularity, parking is limited. Attendees are strongly encouraged to bike, walk, or ride share to avoid traffic congestion and parking. Whether you’ve been enjoying a backyard BBQ or a leisurely day with your family, make the most of the night with a classic fireworks show in the park.
Highland Heritage Regional Park, Highlands Ranch hrcaonline.org
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