Grand Junction, CO June 2024

Dads, Grads and Gents

Dad, Pop, Daddy, Father, Coach, Mentor, Neighbor, Friend:

Any one of these titles might apply to the "gents" in your life and any guy can choose to be a guide to those around him.

I grew up with amazing grandfathers! My mom's dad began tending sheep and cattle in the mountains as a boy around 10 years of age. He often had a dog and a rifle, a few "groceries", as he called his meager supplies and a horse. That's all. I loved to sit at his knee as a kid and listen to his tales of creatures I've never encountered, hair-raising encounters with mountain lions and wolves and to hear how he learned many of the things that got him through those ordeals from his own father and grandfathers. Some of these stories, I never heard until I was an adult and he had been dead for many years. How grateful I am for something kids today might not even know of - a cassette tape recorder that he used to capture several of his stories.

This month, as we celebrate Father's Day, as we witness graduations and as we think about the influence of good men in our community, please take a moment to remind those "good guys" in your life how they have enriched your experiences and to say thank you.

Best regards,

June 2024

PUBLISHER

Scott Fairbanks | scott.fairbanks@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Maggie Moorland maggie.moorland@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Faith Rodriguez

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lisa "Moose" Kral (Dancing In My Head Photography), 14k Media, MJ Thomas, Kelly Klingman

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

city scene

1: Ambassador of the Year - Laura Smith with Vectra Bank 2: Citizen of the Year - Tim Navin, Owner of Sparks Fly Metalwork Studio 3: Ring Master for the Night 4: Joel Kincaid - Lifetime Achievement Award, Former Fruita Mayor 5: Matthew Breman - Newly Installed Mayor of Fruita 6: Member Business of the Year - Community Hospital 7: Sue Ellen Rodwick - Non-Profit of the Year, Food Bank of the Rockies

by 14K Media

8: Pie the Mayor Challenge - Joel Kincaid and Matthew Breman 9: Fruita Chamber Board of Directors 10: Dancers Enjoying the Festivities 11: New Business of the Year - F.A.R.M. 12: Bidding on Silent Auction Items 13: The Genova Family - Volunteer of the Year Award 14: Reverent Rythms - Performing at The “Chamber of Curiosities” themed banquet. Photography

1: Colorado Discover Ability Staff 2: Viva El Vino Guests Enjoy the faires at Wine Country Inn 3: Party Goers Dance to Stray Grass 4: Stray GrassSponsored by Vectra Bank 5: Tastings Donated by Redlands Liquor 6: Amy Schraeder, Wingate Elementary Principal speaks to attendees 7: Your Corner Consulting & Colorado Canyons Association pose under Colorado Fruit Designs’ Carved

GJ'S POLICE CHIEF

A Career of Learning and Service

ARTICLE BY GJ LIFESTYLE STAFF

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GJ CITY STAFF

BEGINNINGS AND BACKGROUND

In his youth, Matt Smith spent time in Western Colorado and came to live here permanently after serving in the US Navy when he decided to attend college at Mesa State College. He attended the police academy in Delta, Colorado in 1998 and

"Our job is to protect individuals and to defend the Constitution which sustains the rights of our citizens".

then began his career in law enforcement in Cortez, CO. After a year there, he was offered a position with the GJPD and he's been with the department ever since; advancing through patrol and drug task-force positions, to various sergeant and commander roles.

His diverse background serving in many different capacities within the department made him the first chief of police to advance through the ranks internally, to that position since the 1980s. Some of those roles include Ex-O (Executive Officer) and commander of SWAT and director of the School Resource Officer (SRO) program. His direct involvement with nearly every aspect of both sides of the Department has prepared him well for this role.

When speaking of the two sides of the department he specifically mentioned  operations (all uniformed staff) and  services (dispatch, detectives and civilian staff).  He has been the Chief of Police for Grand Junction since January of 2023 and filled the role as interim chief for four months prior to formally being offered the role as chief.

PRESENT DAY

Today, Chief Matt Smith maintains a high level of professional standards and among the things he's pleased with is the way the department takes care of its staff. He feels there are always efforts being made to improve work-life balance for sworn officers and civil staff alike.

COMMUNITY TIES

One major influence in his choice to remain in Grand Junction through his career -  family. His wife is from here and he has enjoyed the richly diverse outdoor recreation activities our area has to offer for decades, with friends and family alike. He even worked on what he refers to as a "dude ranch" near Rifle before his law enforcement days. During his time at the ranch he often served as a guide for ranch guests. His love for enjoying the abundant access to public lands such as forest service, national parks and BLM managed lands includes stand-up paddle boarding on the Colorado River, hiking, hunting and camping and he enjoys the many golf courses, snowboarding and ATV trail activities available in the surrounding area too. "It's a great place to raise kids!" he said enthusiastically.

LOOKING FORWARD

Growth within our community is often met with mixed feelings from long-time locals and Chief Smith can relate. We have so many things to enjoy and be proud of but we also want growth to be beneficial. To achieve that he said this: "Growth needs to be sustainable, measured, strong and support the good things we have here." Ongoing efforts of GJPD toward duty, trust, mutual respect within the community and commitment to citizens and the Constitution remain strong on his watch.

His direct involvement with nearly every aspect of both sides of the Department (operations and services) has prepared him well for this role.

UPDATE FROM NOV. 2020

Readers may remember or want to look back at the article printed in November of 2020, when five community leaders offered their insights on responding to needs throughout the community during the peak of COVID difficulties. These services include: victims' needs (the GJPD Victim Services office), law enforcement and crisis management, including the Pine Ridge wildfire, in unincorporated Mesa County (Mesa County Sheriff's Office), fire and EMS

response inside Grand Junction City Limits (GJ Fire Department), Mesa County Health Department (Health Department Director) and law enforcement within the city of Grand Junction (GJPD former Police Chief. Each of these critical local services played a key role in not only the effectiveness of the responses needed at the rime but in qualifying Mesa County for a variance plan that became the model for state officials to follow in working toward getting communities back to "open for business" status.

City ManagerGreg Caton

A FOND FAREWELL

ARTICLE BY FAITH RODRIGUEZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GJ CITY COMMUNICATIONS

Greg worked with Community Leaders to open - Resource Center.

Greg Caton’s Departure: Grand Junction’s City Manager Transition

Greg Caton’s decision to step down from his role as the City Manager of Grand Junction is the first of a few changes in local government. Caton’s tenure, marked by achievements and challenges alike, leaves a legacy that will shape the city’s future.

As the community anticipates the appointment of a new leader, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on his impact and the path ahead. Caton decided to relocate to Scottsdale, Arizona where he was hired as the Assistant City Manager. This decision was a personal one, so he could be closer to family. During his time as City Manager, in Grand Junction,

Caton spearheaded various initiatives aimed at enhancing the city’s infrastructure and fostering economic growth. His strategic vision played a pivotal role in projects such as downtown revitalization efforts, infrastructure improvements, and sustainable development initiatives.

Under his leadership, Grand Junction witnessed steady progress in

areas like job creation, public services, and community engagement.

One of Caton’s notable contributions was his focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship. Recognizing the importance of preserving Western Colorado’s natural beauty, he championed initiatives to promote green practices, renewable energy adoption, and conservation efforts. These initiatives not only benefited the environment but also positioned Grand Junction as a leader in sustainable development among Colorado cities.

Zebulon Miracle, Executive Director of United Way of Mesa County, worked with Greg to open the Resource Center. When asked for a statement on Greg, Zebulon said “United Way greatly appreciates the efforts and support of the City of Grand Junction in caring for our unsheltered neighbors. Under the City’s leadership and with their support, we have created new opportunities to connect services to those that need them the most.

The Unhoused Resource would not be possible without the partnership with

CONTINUED >

“Greg has done incredible things for this community, and we’ll definitely miss his service."

the Homeward Bound of the Grand Valley and the City of Grand Junction. Working together, we can make a difference. Specifically, Greg Caton listened to our vision and helped us turn the Resource Center into a reality.”

As Grand Junction bids farewell to Greg Caton, it also prepares to welcome his successor. The City Council is committed to a smooth transition process and ensuring continuity in city operations. Measures have already been implemented with the Interim City Manager, Andrea Phillips.

As Grand Junction navigates this leadership transition, it also faces ongoing challenges and opportunities. Issues such as affordable housing, infrastructure maintenance, economic diversification, and community inclusivity remain key priorities. The incoming City Manager will need to collaborate closely with city officials, businesses, nonprofits, and residents to tackle these challenges effectively and sustainably.

Reflecting on Caton’s departure, community members and leaders express gratitude for his contributions and acknowledge the work that lies ahead. Grand Junction Mayor, Abram Herman stated, “Greg has done incredible things for this community, and we’ll definitely miss his service. The city’s resilience, spirit of community, and commitment to progress will undoubtedly shape the path forward. With visionary leadership and collective efforts, Grand Junction is poised to thrive and continue being a vibrant hub in Western Colorado.”

In Conclusion, Greg Caton’s departure from the Grand Junction City Manager position marks a transition moment that prompts reflection on his legacy and the city’s future trajectory. As the community embraces change and prepares for new leadership, it remains steadfast in its commitment to building a prosperous, sustainable, and inclusive future for all residents.

It's Jackalope Season!

ARTICLE BY GJ LIFESTYLE STAFF

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACKALOPES, TEAM RESOURCES

JUCO is done for 2024 and the home opener for the Grand Junction Jackalopes is here!

June 4th is the first home game of the season for the team now owned by long-time sports enthusiast, documentarian, philanthropist and Hollywood movie producer, Michael Tollin.

GETTING TO KNOW MIKE TOLLIN

Right after finishing his undergrad degree in 1977, Mike began his first documentary, a series called Greatest Legends. In that series, he featured such legendary greats as Ted Williams and built friendships over the years with giants in the field of professional sports.

Like Hank Aaron, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Derek Jeter and the subject of his own docu-series, Michael Jordan who was chronicled in the highly acclaimed TV mini-series, The Last Dance. He also produced and directed the hit movie Radio, starring Cuba Gooding Jr.

As Mike recounted some of his acquaintances in professional sports, he spoke of Hank Aaron as a friend and said Hank once told him this: "Be the Tortoise, Not the Hare." He's tried to follow that principle in being organized and in being committed to seeing those around him on his own journey through such high profile interactions.

One of the associations he spoke highly of is Hank Aaron's Foundation, Chasing the Dream which has raised and distributed over $20 million to support kids in underserved areas of the country in pursuit of their dreams; and not just in athletics, but in science, music, engineering, medicine and many other noble disciplines through scholarships and grants. Mike hopes to foster similar dream-building momentum here in the Grand Junction area. He said, "If there's one word I hope stands out from this conversation it is  community." He wants the team to be a winning ball club, naturally but he also wants to deepen the connections already in place and build new ones for a long time to come, that will be beneficial to local youth, those who need a hand-up in pursuit of their noble

CONTINUED >

[WE WANT] TO HAVE THEORGANIZATIO "EMBEDD ED IN THE FABRIC OF THE COM

dreams and of course he wants for a night at the ballpark to be a "primary consideration" for families, friends and coworkers alike to have a good time together.

A BIT OF JACKALOPE LORE (SOME MIGHT

CALL IT A CRYPTID.)

So what the heck is a jackalope, anyway?

It's said that jackalopes only mate during thunderstorms, only drink strong whiskey and hunting season for them is February 29th. An adult male jackalope has antlers shaped like a mule deer or whitetail deer and has the body of a jackrabbit. Males are also known as "jacks" or "jakes".

The name change came as a result of ownership changes and decisions made by MLB administration to require MLB team owners

to divest in minor league team ownership. Several smaller leagues were disbanded and those remaining were formed into MLB Partner leagues. The Pioneer League, in which the Jackalopes compete, is one such Partner League. Grand Junction has now hosted the Junior College World Series for over 65 years and as a result, has been dubbed on occasion "Baseball City USA". This was one of the things that attracted the team to locate here from Casper, Wyoming where they played as the Ghosts. After many seasons as the GJ Rockies, when the necessity for a name change came, team management conducted a market study in the form of a contest and the new name emerged as the winner - Grand Junction Jackalopes.

Another similar contest is getting underway on June 4th with the home opener. The team wants an official nickname and being considered are the names "Jakes, Jacks and 'lopes". Attending early season home games will give our community members the opportunity to be part of selecting the official nickname. On the road, other teams have used these nicknames without any consistency. A consistent nickname is one more way to achieve another piece of Mike's vision for the team, to have the organization "embedded in the fabric of the community."

GETTING HOOKED ON MESA COUNTY

It usually doesn't take long for visitors and new residents to become enchanted by this amazing place we live in. For Mike Tollin, it's

ONMMUNITY".

already happening. His son, Lucas is head of operations for the Jackalopes and together they have hiked many places on the Colorado National Monument in fair weather and in winter snow. Mike spoke about other things yet to be experienced as his schedule permits further exploration of the Jackalopes' home "range."

We can look forward to more excitement from the Jackalopes, from Mike's film productions and from the town excited to see where the future takes this great organization and its amazing local fans.

Perfecting Your Golf Swing

ARTICLE BY DANIEL SCHOWENGERDT

Whether you are a new golfer or have been playing for decades, we all want the same thing—to be a single-digit handicap (or better). In some professions, golfing with clients is a must, and slicing off the tee box can kill the deal.

Get fit for equipment.

01.

If you are buying clubs off the rack, you aren’t giving yourself the best chance for success. Golf technology is evolving every year, and although you don’t need to buy a new driver each year, if you’ve been playing with the same clubs for 5+ years, it’s time to take advantage of the new equipment. Newer clubs have lower and deeper center of gravity (CG), creating an easier launch off the face. Even off-center strikes can produce a straight shot with the right set of clubs. Any major golf store will fit you for free—just make sure you get the correct length club and size grip. The clubs don’t swing themselves, so don’t neglect instruction and practice, but getting the right equipment is a vital piece of the puzzle.

On drivers and hybrids, some of the newest equipment have premium shaft options off the rack. Generally, a $300 driver has a low-grade $15 shaft that you should change. The shaft is the engine of the club, so getting custom shafts will add distance and forgiveness—guaranteed.

As for the putter, you use it more than any other club in your bag on every round of golf. It should be the most tailored club in your bag.

Get good golf instruction, REGULARLY.

02.

We’ve all heard someone say, “I should get a lesson sometime.” To be effective, you need regular lessons from a PGA certified pro, not just one lesson. Getting quality instruction from the same instructor can turn slices into draws and give you the confidence to play with anyone on any course. Years ago, golf instructors started instruction with chipping and putting and then graduated to the driver. Now, instructors have been pressured to start with the driver because we all want to outdrive our friends. Resist that temptation! Get instruction on your short game and irons first. My friend regularly outdrives me by 50 yards, but my ball is in the hole first most of the time because of my training and practice on the short game.

Read quality golf books for a higher golf IQ.

03.

There are thousands of golf books, but don’t worry, you only need to read a handful of them to up your golf IQ. Here are some top reads: Short game: Dave Pelz’s Short Game Bible by Dave Pelz

Mental game: Golf is Not a Game of Perfect by Bob Rotella Mechanics: Practical Golf by John Jacobs

Ball flight laws: The Practice Manual by Adam Young (only read the first 50 pages)

Practice your short game every day.

04.

You don’t even have to spend time away from your family while practicing if you don’t have a golf simulator. You can practice putting and chipping on the carpet while watching TV with your family.

Chipping and the bump and run: The only mechanical advice I will give is the most important lesson you can learn in the short game. When you miss your approach shot you must be able to chip the ball within 8 feet of the hole for a one putt. Try this shot from Dave Peltz’s short game book. It gets me up and down from 25 yards out to just off the green.

Instructors have been pressured to start with the driver because we all want to outdrive our friends. Resist that temptation! Get instruction on your short game and irons first.

Position the ball in the back of your stance, just inside your back ankle. This will help avoid hitting it thin. That ball position will also help you hit the ball with a descending blow, and as Dave Pelz says, “hit the little ball (golf ball) before the big ball (the earth).”

Turn your feet 30 degrees toward the target and have 70% of your weight on your front foot which also promotes the descending blow.

Use a putting stroke to hit the ball. That’s right—do not use your hands or wrists for power. Using a putting stroke just off the green will create consistency and clean contact.

Don’t take the club back very far (depending on the length of the shot) and make sure your follow-through is 20% further than your backswing. This will ensure accelerating through the ball.

Use the right club. I use anything from a 9 iron to 60-degree wedge for this shot. Use a 9 iron or wedge when you need the ball to roll further once it hits the green, and use a more lofted club for less roll. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

If you perfect this shot, you’ll be chipping in and getting up and down much more often.

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

JUNE 1ST

2024 Colorado Mule Deer Association Annual Banquet

Doubletree by Hilton Grand Junction, 743 Horizon Drive | 5:00 PM

This banquet to benefit the Colorado Mule Deer Association is a night filled with live and silent auctions, raffles and giveaways. The CMDA works to improve habitat for Mule Deer herds within Colorado and provides annual hunting trips to youth, women and veterans.

Visit coloradomuledeer.org for more information.

JUNE 6TH

RiversEdge West Stewards Volunteer Event with Bureau of Reclamation

Island Acres State Park, Palisade, CO 8:00 AM

This volunteer event helps provide ongoing maintenance to Island Acres State Park. RiversEdge West has been working with Colorado Parks and Wildlife since 2013 to restore the area’s 43 acres of habitat. Light snacks and coffee will be provided. Work will all be outside, so please bring water, proper work attire and sun protection.

Visit  riversedgewest.org for more information.

JUNE 8TH

56th Annual Kiwanis

Pancake Day and Fun Fest

Mesa County Fairgrounds 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Kiwanis empowers communities to improve the world by making lasting

differences in the lives of children. The Kiwanis Club of Grand Junction’s Pancake Day and Fun Fest supports that mission and features live music, games and most importantly, pancakes! $10 for adults, kids under 12 are free. Tickets are available from your local Kiwanians or at the gate.

JUNE 14TH – 16TH

Palisade Bluegrass & Roots Festival

Riverbend Park, Palisade CO

Located along the Colorado River at Riverbend Park, The Palisade Bluegrass & Roots Festival brings together some of the country’s top bluegrass artists as well as Colorado’s favorite emerging stars for three days of non-stop, festival vibes.

Visit palisademusic.com for tickets and lineup.

JUNE 20TH – JUNE 22ND

Country Jam Colorado 2024

Mack, Colorado

Join Parker McCollum, Jelly Roll, Thomas Rhett and more this summer for one of the hottest music festivals around. Passes are on sale now. Grab them while supplies last.

Visit countryjam.com for tickets and lineup.

JUNE 29TH

13th Annual Colorado Lavender Festival

Riverbend Park, Palisade, Colorado | 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Lavender Festival Weekend starts June 28th, Friday, with privately hosted farm tours in the Grand Valley, Grand Junction/ Palisade, and the North Fork Valley, Paonia/Hotchkiss. The Festival in Riverbend Park is on Saturday, June 29th. Sunday, June 30th, select lavender farms in Mesa and Delta Counties will open for self-guided farm tours and activities.

Visit coloradolavender.org for more information.

USING THESE TIPS YOU CAN MAKE A DELICIOUS HOMEMADE BARBECUE SAUCE.

A good barbecue sauce is comprised of a variety of the same six components. The key is to discover what style you enjoy most, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Oh, and taste often during the preparation process to adjust if so desired.

SOMETHING SWEET

This can be honey, cola, molasses, preserves, brown sugar, or syrup. This caramelizes as you cook, bringing those smoky, sugary flavors.

SOMETHING TANGY

Think vinegar, mustard, or citrus. This is what brings the zing to your sauce.

SOMETHING SPICY

This provides your heat: a hot sauce is a great choice. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1/2 teaspoon for every cup of sauce you’re making.

SOMETHING LIQUID

It can be beer, water, chicken stock, soda, or wine. Start with about 1/2 a cup and see what happens.

SOMETHING TOMATO

You’ll most likely use ketchup, but you can also use tomato paste.

THE SPICE COMBINATION

This can depend on your liking and taste and can include anything from onion powder to garlic powder to chili powder to allspice to cayenne pepper to mustard powder to liquid smoke to cumin to Worcestershire sauce and more. Start with a teaspoon of salt, and keep tasting as you experiment with your desired spices.

HOMEMADE

BBQ SAUCE

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups ketchup

• 1 cup water

• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

• 5 tablespoons brown sugar

• 5 tablespoons sugar

• 1/2 tablespoon  black pepper

• 1/2 tablespoon onion powder

• 1/2 tablespoon ground mustard

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

DIRECTIONS

In a medium saucepan, combine all ingredients. Bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat to simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 1 hour 15 minutes.

Recipe and information courtesy of Pat Neely and Gina Neely.