HOLIDAY COMFORTS OF HOME
ANNUAL GIVING CAMPAIGN GETTING CRAFTY
Happy Holidays from your publisher, Scott Fairbanks
Holiday season is always filled with mixed feelings for me.
Many Christmases were spent with my mom's family in Arizona surrounded by bushels of cousins and family traditions that have stayed with me for over 50 years.
One such tradition was a goofy thing my dad always did. Something obscure from each family member's possessions would vanish in the week or two leading up to Christmas and reappear as a wrapped gift from "The Grinch" under the tree. A silly tradition we all enjoyed.
Another one of the traditions was opening the stocking last; after all the wrapped gifts were opened.
Some of my most enjoyable and still cherished gifts were revealed with a small piece concealed all the way in the toe of my stocking under the navel orange that usually was the final item along with a box of .22 shells - we almost always went target shooting on Christmas day with those shells.
The mixed emotions for me came as grief and joy. One year during Holiday Season we had three funerals between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day. Another year a mining disaster left nearly 30 families with the loss of a loved one in our community. There were joyful times, too! We had just moved to a new town and though our parents had searched far and wide for certain wish-list gifts, they had struck out. A neighbor whose identity remains a mystery over 40 years later showed up in a Santa suit on Christmas Eve, visited in our living room and left with a wish list in hand. The next morning, those hard-to-find gifts had been delivered by that unexpected Santa.
One year we watched our dad leave the house in a Santa suit, carrying a huge red bag loaded with gifts. I'm still not sure how he carried it all. We saw him walk out of sight with not only gifts buy all the fixings for a great holiday meal; a turkey, potatoes, pie ingredients, the works. He rarely got emotional beyond a look of disappointment, a smile of satisfaction or a laugh. That Christmas eve he returned with joyful tears as he described their reaction. As a family we had all chosen to forego some of our own gifts to provide service to another family.
May your Holiday-Season be filled with the joys of giving and receiving however you choose to Celebrate.
SCOTT FAIRBANKS, PUBLISHER
PUBLISHER
December 2024 Visit our Instagram
Scott Fairbanks | scott.fairbanks@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Tiffinie Storm, Uncle Al Binder, Iago B., Scott Fairbanks
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Lisa "Moose" KralDancing In My Head Photography, Andrea Martinez - DreaM Photography
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
AT WESTERN SLOPE MEMORY CARE, THE IDEA THAT THE PERSON COMES FIRST INFLUENCES EVERYTHING WE DO AND CREATE.
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STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY
Inspiration for your best local life.
Good news happening right in your neighborhood.
city scene
by Lisa Kral
1: Pumpkinhead family smiling for the camera. 2: Palisade Historical Society handing out Trick-or-Treat candy. 3: Snax, winner of the Pet Parade best overall costume. 4: Jeff Snook at Fidel’s, handing out treats. 5: The Balloon Dude creating his “pet” for the pet parade. 6: Face painting by The Milky Way, Palisade 7: Little superhero spinning the Palisade Sunrise Rotary’s prize wheel.
Photography
1-7: Harvest Illuminated - Carvings and Creations From Local artisans displayed at Western Colorado Botanical Gardens
Photography by Andrea Martinez
8-14: Harvest Illuminated - Carvings and Creations From Local artisans displayed at Western Colorado Botanical Gardens
Photography by Andrea Martinez
Whether
Learn
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
ARTICLE BY TIFFINIE STORM, SCOTT FAIRBANKS PHOTOGRAPHY BY NON PROFIT STAFF, VOLUNTEERS
Smokin’ Oak Pizza Gives Back through Pi Day
Over five years ago when Bob and Cecily Marolf went in search of a way to reinvest in this community and provide a unique experience for patrons they chose a newly available franchise with Smokin’ Oak Wood-Fired. Why pizza and why this brand?
After exploring several other companies, some sounded too good to be true and others just didn’t pass muster as good enough for their goal of quality, freshness and value. Bob mentioned the motto next to the front door “FRESH DIDN’T GET PREPARED A WEEK AGO.”
Every day they roast meat in the wood fired oven, hand chop fresh veggies, shred cheese,
Pizza Pi Day -
Five Years Running
make various sauces and dressings and of course make their incredible dough. Put that all together in a wood fired oven and you’ve got something special!
Beyond just being fresh, locally owned and operated is also very important to them. This community is home to their family and they wanted to bring that local caring and service into everything they do in business. This business model has given them all the tools to do just that.
Their passion for these two organizations and helping others like Special Olympics also stems from a deep commitment to keep good going the way they have experienced it with their own son participating in each of these programs, from a baseball player and eventually a coach to ongoing involvement with the mentoring he receives through Steppin’ it Up.
A great example is on March 14th each year with the annual Pi Day fundraiser when pizzas are just $3.14 with a donation to the chosen charities. Since the Grand Junction Smokin’ Oak opened in 2020, they have hosted Pi Day as a fundraiser for Steppin’ it Up. With the opening of their Clifton location which includes
the Western Slopes first self-pour tap wall, guests came out in droves for the event held there for the benefit of Challenger Baseball. “The community support in the Grand Valley is incredible. Each Pi Day, we make 800 to 1,200 pizzas per store and receive great donations. In 2024, we were able to donate $7,000 back into the community from this one-day event. It’s all thanks to our amazing customers and our vendor partners.”
Steppin’ it Up and Challenger Baseball have a common connection, but are very separate.
If you have lived in Mesa County for any length of time, you have probably heard of Challenger Baseball, which just had its 25th anniversary. A division of Little League Baseball, they provide opportunities for kids with disabilities to play.
Kelli Hamilton and Carma Brown are the directors. Every Spring, on Monday nights, kids ranging ages 8-21 join Challenger baseball and play with a peer “buddy.” Those Buddies are CMU and area High School students who volunteer to help them enjoy a fun-filled season. Four of the teams coming to compete at JUCO also participate in this program each year.
CONTINUED >
So, how does this connect with Smokin’ Oak Pi Day? Well, Bob and Cecily‘s son Zach, played Challenger Baseball growing up and is now one of the coaches! Because of his involvement, Bob and Cecily were very much involved with this organization before Pi Day came about. Kelli and Carma said this about this event, “Not only does Pi Day raise enough money to provide trophies for all the participants, it also helps with scholarships, so players who can’t afford the registration fee can play through donations such as this. The biggest benefit, however, is the huge end-of-season celebration/dinner that every player, their families, and all the JUCO players and coaches get to be a part of.”
Pi Day fundraising events have people lined out the door waiting to get their pizza to help support amazing causes in the community. The staff goes above and beyond with great customer service. They are happy and friendly and willing to take time out of their lives to help with this tasty event.
Which brings us to the original beneficiary... Steppin’ It Up is a nonprofit organization that supports the special needs
community with personal training, nutritional guidance, healthy hygiene and relationship skills. There is significant demand in our community for this type of service and unfortunately, many of those who would benefit do not have the financial means to participate in these types of programs without someone like Steppin’ It Up supporting them. Donations from Pi Day help provide opportunities to improve the lives of those who face additional challenges every day.
And what is the relationship with Pi Day you ask?? Well, like with Challenger Baseball, Bob and Cecily’s son Zach participates with Steppin’ It Up. He’s been there since Stacey started the organization.
For the past 5 years, Smokin’ Oak Pizza’s Pi Day has funded field trips like hiking and 5K’s, as well as winter trips. Stacey commented “Pi Day is a huge help in providing funds for all the activities we go on. They aren’t free and this annual fundraiser helps keep them going.” Stacey currently serves 38 clients. All of whom have a special place in her heart.
“Pi Day is a huge help in providing funds for all the activities we go on. They aren’t free and this annual fundraiser helps keep them going.”
“Bob and Cecily have not only provided a fun, delicious event we get to participate in once a year, they have provided a way to give back to the community they are so fully invested in.”
If you are interested in contributing to either one, or both of these organizations, you can find Stacey at Steppin’ It Up Inc. P.O. Box 193 Grand Junction, CO 81502 or find her on Facebook with Steppin’ It Up Inc. page.
Challenger Baseball is also on Facebook and you can contact Kelli Hamilton or Carma Brown at Challenger Baseball P.O. Box 667 Grand Junction, CO 81502
In addition to Steppin’ it Up and Challenger Baseball, Smokin’ Oak’s community outreach benefits:
• Special Olympics * USA Games - supporting two local athletes to compete in Orlando, FL
* Colorado State Games - meals and support for staff and volunteers
• CASA of Mesa County
• Married to the Badge
• Flying Hero Club
• Toys for Tots
• Various - athletic teams, Dance Clubs, School Clubs and Marching Bands, Parent-Teacher Organizations, Mesa County Seniors Club, We Care A Lot daycare - Playground Equipment Fundraiser, Military and First Responder Discount 20%, Senior Citizens - 10% Discount, veterans Day Free Pizza For Veterans, D-51 Schoolslunch specials and discounts for students and faculty.
HOLIDAY APPETIZERS
SURE TO BE CROWD PLEASERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, INDULGE IN THESE DELICIOUS, STRESS-FREE RECIPES simple, yet fancy,
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALIE FINAZZO FOX
Pear & Brie Cheese
Salad Skewers
INGREDIENTS
• 2 pears (or substitute green apple)
• 8 ounces of brie cheese
• 2 cups baby arugula
• 1/4 cup raw walnuts, chopped
• Balsamic glaze
INSTRUCTIONS
• Cut pear and brie into 1/2-inch cubes. Leaving the rind makes skewers less sticky to handle!
• Take (4-inch) skewer, add pear, arugula, and cheese.
• Gently press chopped walnuts onto brie cheese to stick.
• Drizzle balsamic glaze overtop.
Cranberry & Pecan Cheese Crostini
INGREDIENTS
• 1 (8 oz.) container light cream cheese spread
• ½ cup chopped cranberries
• 1 Tbsp. grated orange peel
• ½ cup coarsely chopped pecans, toasted
• Rosemary and olive oil crostinis
INSTRUCTIONS
• Top crostinis with a dollop of cream cheese.
• Add cranberries and pecans.
• Garnish with grated orange peel.
DIY HOLIDAY GIFTING
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEANN PARKER
Cookie Mix
DIY Jar gifts are a thoughtful way to share holiday cheer this season. These particular jar gifts require JUST ADD WATER as instructions for an easy homemade gift that anyone would love to receive.
Hot Cocoa
COOKIE MIX JAR
• store bought cookie mix (labeled add water only). Include instructions to add water and bake (use amount and bake time as instructed on the package you purchased).
HOT COCOA JAR
• hot cocoa mix
• chocolate chips
• mini marshmallows
Instructions: over stove top, bring water (or milk) to a simmer. Add cocoa mix and stir until chocolate chips have melted. Top with marshmallows. Enjoy!
BREAKFAST JAR
• pancake mix
• maple syrup
Include instructions to add water and bake (use amount and bake time as instructed on the package you purchased). Top with warmed maple syrup.
POTPOURRI JAR
• pine cones
• dried or fresh greens
• dried citrus
• cinnamon sticks
• star anise
• whole cloves
Add instructions to place contents into a pot on the stove with 8 cups of water. Simmer low for a wonderful holiday aroma.
CANDLE JAR
• Floating candle
• Greens
• Dried citrus and berries
Add water to the jar and light candle to enjoy on a dark winter night.
LeAnn can’t wait to see what you create and give to your family and friends. Tag her on IG @silvertoothhome and #silvertoothhome so she can share. Happy Holidays!
Breakfast Jar
Potpourri Jar
Candle Jar
CRAFTING CHEER: DIY WINTER CRAFTS
BIBB
ARTICLE BY ERICA
| PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
ORNAMENT CLUSTERS
SUPPLIES
• 22 gauge wire
• Ornaments of at least 3 varying shades and sizes
• Wire snips
STEP 1
Cut desired length of wire for a cluster, about 24”
STEP 2
Add an ornament about 4” from one end of the wire and twist the wire around the top of the ornament to provide a base for your cluster. Twist about 5 times. You should still have about 4” of wire at the end; you will need it to tie onto your garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 3
Continue adding ornaments to the wire, alternating sizes and colors until you have 4-6” of wire remaining.
STEP 4
Twist the remaining wire around the top of your final ornament 5 times to secure all of your ornaments in place. Making sure to leave at least 4” of wire in place at the end in order to tie onto garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 5
Use the ends of the wire to attach to your holiday item of choice!!
Pro tip: Keep your clusters to the 24” length to keep from getting too heavy and/or having ornaments pop off. Ornaments will pop off at times, but they will still look gorgeous and you can always glue the ornament back onto to the top. Simple, gorgeous, and impactful!
DIY WINTER WREATH
SUPPLIES
• pruning scissors
• grapevine wreath form
• 22 gauge wire
• wire snips
• hot glue gun
• hot glue
• 3 types of fresh cut greens (you can also use artificial and have a wreath that will last you year after year!)
• fresh eucalyptus
• pinecones
• bells or ornaments
• ribbon
STEP 1
Trim greens removing any bald spots and extra length. Lengths of greens should vary between 5-10”.
STEP 2
Create clusters with the greens and eucalyptus, using all 3 of the greens. Create the cluster and then wrap the cluster with the 22 gauge wire onto the grapevine wreath form (starting at the top of your wreath), making sure that the wire is tight. Wrap 5-7 times to ensure everything will stay in place. Do not cut the wire. Set to the side to use for the next cluster.
STEP 3
Continue adding fresh green clusters going down your wreath and slightly alternating the angle the greens are pointing. Finish your final cluster and give yourself 3-4” of additional wire to twist close at the back of the wreath to finish and secure.
SIMPLE GORGEOUS IMPACTFUL
STEP 4
Place ribbon at the end of the clusters to hide any ribbon. We tied a knot with the ribbon around the wreath and then wrapped several times around the wreath.
STEP 5
Tie on ornaments, bells, or pinecones to hang from the wreath. This is optional, you may just want to add a pretty bow or even keep it as is at this point! When tying on the extra baubles, remember to cut your ribbon at varying lengths, so the bells or ornaments can hang at different levels. Tie the 3 ribbons together and then tie as one onto your wreath.
STEP 6
Add desired number of pinecones and put in place with hot glue. You can wire on the pinecones, but I like the control of placement is easier with the hot glue method.
Pro tip: keep taking a step back as you construct your wreath and keep in mind that sometimes less is more. Don’t be afraid to make edits and trust your eye!
For more inspiration visit www.porchandpatioco.com
CONFECTION
Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience
As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board. Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy.
OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Ingredients
• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 pinch salt
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure.
Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER
