VanMeveren Law Group - July 2022

VanMeveren Law Group - July 2022

123 North College Ave., Suite 112 Fort Collins, CO 80524 970-495-9741

JULY 2022

Reflecting on a Historic Ironman World Championship GOING THE DISTANCE

Like every other aspect of our lives, the world of triathlon was turned upside down when the pandemic hit. I qualified for the Ironman Hawaii World Championship (IM WC) at Ironman Arizona in 2019. Like all the other qualified competitors, I was looking forward to attending the World Championship in October 2020. But due to limited resources and the dangers associated with the massive influx of people that Ironman brings to Hawaii every October, the island understandably could not risk holding the event in 2020. The race was rescheduled for February 2021, only for us to be in the middle of another massive COVID-19 spike. After another cancellation in October 2021, the event will finally take place (we hope!) this fall. But in the meantime, the Ironman organizers and the Utah Sports Commission began discussing the possibility of hosting the IM WC in St. George, Utah. The state of Utah was more than happy to host the event, and invitations were extended to over 2000 qualified athletes. I was fortunate enough to receive a special invitation to the event, along with about 100 other triathletes, as a part of their Loyalty and Legends program. The Loyalty and Legends program was established to honor those athletes who have been a part of Ironman for over 10 years and completed at least 20 Ironman races. I had no intention of missing the Hawaii World Championship, but when I learned I could compete in both, I was “all in” to be a part of triathlon history! I’ve competed in Utah many times, but the May 7 event was special. It was the first world championship in over 40 years to take place outside of Hawaii, and the good folks in St. George pulled out all the stops to create an extremely challenging, one-of-a-kind event in the hot, windy, and scenic Utah desert. I’ve organized local events and been the race director of small grassroots duathlons, but I can’t imagine undertaking an event this large. The logistics of gathering so many volunteers and safety personnel, closing the roads, and putting up all the signage makes my head spin. The point-to-point course they put together spanned 140.6 miles from chilly Sand Hollow Reservoir, through the town of St. George, and up and down two beautiful canyons. It was one of the most difficult races I’ve ever undertaken. An IM WC first, wetsuits were permitted for the swim portion of the race due to the 58-degree water temperature of the reservoir.

(They’re not allowed in Hawaii — because you’d overheat!) Throughout the entire course, the amazing race volunteers offered tremendous support, encouragement, and positive vibes. So, how did my race go? I must admit I’m a little disappointed. But I hung in there until the bitter end and finished with a big smile. I was happy to have my son and my future daughter-in-law (fingers crossed) there to cheer me on, and I hope I made my family proud. And if I inspired even one person to get out there for the first time and just go for it, it was all worth it.

I’ll continue trying to put together that perfect race we all dream about, and in the meantime, I’ll enjoy the journey. After 26 Ironman races, I’ve learned that each race is unique, and different roadblocks will always find their way into your path over the course of 140.6 miles. You can’t control the course, conditions, or other athletes, but you can always control your attitude. Keep smiling and find joy in every adventure!

–Bryan VanMeveren

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What Our Clients Are Saying “Karl at VanMeveren Law Group was absolutely amazing. He really took the time to listen to me and the impacts of my unusual case. I had a case that was very difficult and had many hoops and side obstacles. Karl was thorough in his time and diligence to ensure my health came first and that we got everything we needed for the case. I had tried several injury law firms that you see on the television, and no one would even give me the time of day. They did not want the challenge — I even had a lawyer straight up tell me that they would not take my case on because they were not confident in themselves! Karl never even mentioned it. He took my case, met it head-on, and got me what I deserved and needed to move forward with my life. They are all AMAZING in this law office, and I could not have asked for anyone better!” –Shelby Y.

Leaving the nest can be tough for young adults. There are so many things to remember, like making sure they have all the right supplies and remembering to keep important paperwork. So, before your child heads off to college, help them strengthen these three skills. How to Ask for Help Being capable starts with understanding what you need and asking for it. By having your child order their own food at a restaurant, make medical and dental appointments for themselves, and check out at the supermarket alone, you’ll be helping your child develop independence while encouraging them to take the lead. How to Seamlessly Get From Point A to Point B When your teen leaves the house, they’ll be traveling on their own on a bus, on a plane, by car, and by foot, so they’ll need to understand how to navigate airports, subway stations, bus hubs, and roads. Ask your child to give you directions when describing how to get to the mall or have them even drive you there if they are licensed. This will reduce stress during solo travels, and they’re less likely to feel overwhelmed if plans unexpectedly change. How to Handle Emergencies When children are fairly young, they learn how to call 911 in the event of life-threatening and serious emergencies. But other emergencies tend to pop up in life that don’t necessarily warrant a call to the police. Show your child how to put on a spare tire, turn off utilities, patch a hole in clothing, and other basic but necessary skills so they don’t panic when something goes wrong in their dorm room or on the road. As a parent, it’s your job to teach your children the right skills to set them up for success and independence so they can take care of themselves when they finally go off on their own. 3 IMPORTANT LIFE SKILLS TO TEACH YOUR TEEN Ready to Succeed

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A BRIEF HISTORY OF IRONMAN The words “Iron Man” may make you think of a Marvel superhero or a Black Sabbath song. But at VanMeveren Law, Ironman is first and foremost a competition that ranks among the most difficult one-day sporting events in the world. The triathlon is a test of physical, mental, and emotional endurance that has now been completed by hundreds of thousands of athletes looking to prove to themselves — and the world — that they’ve got what it takes. World Championship. Athletes who placed in competitions throughout the year battle for the best time on the island of Hawaii. So far, Jan Frodeno from Germany holds the men’s record at 7:51:13, and Daniela Ryf of Switzerland has the women’s best time at 8:26:18. IRONING OUT THE DETAILS

If you think you’re ready to take on a course, it’s worth noting that most experts say it takes at least a year to train for Ironman. It’s not a race for the faint of heart. At 140.6 miles, it’s the longest triathlon. (Anything longer than Ironman is designated an “ultra-triathlon.”) Even the half- length Ironman race of 70.3 miles is more than double the length of the triathlon competitors complete at the Olympics. But to those who have trained hard and gone the distance, the sense of accomplishment from crossing the finish line is like no other. Ironman is about pushing your body to the limits, and it’s what keeps competitors coming back year after year.

Ironman began in 1978 with 15 competitors who participated in a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a marathon on foot (26.22 miles). Only 12 of the athletes completed the daunting race, and Gordon Haller took the title with a time of 11:46:58. Since then, the race has come a long way while staying true to its Hawaiian roots. Despite its name, Ironman is open to women, and there is also a division for physically challenged athletes. Races take place all over the world, leading up to the annual Ironman

Meet Akai, the most gentle teddy bear around! This sweet boy just wants to give and get as much love as he can. He does great on walks, is house trained and loves to play! Overall, he is just a laidback guy with a heart of gold and will offer loyalty and patience every step of the way. Come meet this perfect pup and he’ll show you what a good boy he really is! Pet of the Month

Inspired by NoraCooks.com Easy Vegan Baked Beans

July is National Baked Beans Month, and you don’t need bacon to celebrate this iconic side dish! This plant-based version will be a crowd-pleaser at your next vegan barbecue. Ingredients

Akai is Heartworm Positive and is available as a Foster-To-Adopt dog here at the shelter. Please call us at (970) 484-8516 or email [email protected] with any questions!

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2 tbsp olive oil

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2 tbsp apple cider vinegar 1 1/2 tbsp vegan Worcestershire sauce

1 yellow onion, chopped 4 cloves garlic, minced 3/4 cup molasses 1/2 cup brown sugar

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2 tsp Sriracha

4 15-oz cans navy beans, drained and rinsed. 1/2 tbsp liquid smoke (optional)

3/4 cup ketchup

3/4 tsp salt

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Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. 2. In a large pot over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add the onion and sauté for 5 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute. 3. Add all of the remaining ingredients except the beans into the pot. Mix the sauce well, then stir in the beans. 4. Ladle the beans into a 9x13-inch pan and bake for 1 hour. Serve warm and enjoy!

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123 North College Ave, Suite 112 Fort Collins, CO 80524 970-495-9741 www.vanmeverenlaw.com

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INSIDE This Issue

Bryan Reports Back From the Ironman World Championship! Page 1 Teen Life Skills Our Clients Say It Best Page 2 A Crash Course in Ironman Pet of the Month Easy Vegan Baked Beans Page 3 Fort Collins Happenings! Page 4

WITH THESE COOL LOCAL EVENTS Beat the Heat

It’s heating up, and there’s no better time to enjoy some fun in the sun. The Fort Collins area certainly has no shortage of opportunities to do exactly that this July. Here are a few upcoming local events that are affordable and fit for the entire family. Fort Collins Foodie Walk This event takes place every month on the third Friday, but there are few better months to stroll through downtown while indulging in some tasty bites. Local shops and restaurants will be showcasing seasonal flavors while providing an opportunity to see, smell, and taste their wares. You’ll find candy, spices, teas, liquors, and much more. Prepare for your July 15 visit by checking out DowntownFortCollins.com/experience/itineraries/fort-collins-foodie-walk . Contemporary Art Quilts Exhibition Are you looking to embrace a different kind of art? Look no further than the 38th Annual New Legacies: Contemporary Art Quilts exhibition at

the Lincoln Center. The show will feature quilts crafted into geometric designs, breathtaking images, and three-dimensional shapes — the only requirement is that each piece must have three layers of fabric and be held together by stitching. The exhibition kicks off on July 9 at 5 p.m. with an awards presentation presented by a jury of experts, and it will continue through Sept. 10. Admission is free, and you can learn more by visiting LCTix.com/exhibitinfo.php?id=168 . The People’s Tiny House Festival A short drive over to Loveland will transport you to the miniature world of tiny houses. If you’re intrigued by small living — or just want a glimpse of how tiny those tiny homes are — you’ll be in for a real treat. The July 16–17 festival will also feature campers, bus conversions, and educational materials. The event is kid- and dog-friendly, and beverages and live music will be on-site. Tickets are $10, but kids under 12 get in free! Buy yours today at EventBrite.com/e/2022-peoples-tiny-house-festival-tickets-167960300781 .

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