Dad Days & Summer Ways
Men of Influence: Wisdom, Heart, and Dedication
June ushers in the warm, lingering days of summer. With it, we can’t help but turn our focus to the dads in our lives - men of all varieties of influence - from grandfathers to husbands, uncles, brothers, and sons who don the many hats of fatherhood.
I have a handful of such men in my life. My husband of thirty-five years, dad to our three children, leads by example and speaks his wisdom into the lives of our children. Our oldest son, now father to two of our grandsons, leads with wit, depth, and insight from his own childhood as well as the world around him. Seeing my son-in-law as a devoted dad to three more of our grandchildren warms my heart.
Dads play significant roles in the raising of their children, and I’m proud to say I had one of the best. Taking a genuine interest in the lives of others, always ready to lend a helping hand, investing immeasurable time and energy into the journeys of my sister, me, and my children, my dad was a force. It is with great honor that, as a tribute to his legacy, I write this.
As you thumb through these pages, may you be reminded of the important part the men in our lives play. From creating lasting memories with their kiddos while soaking up all the fun Windsor has to offer, to embodying the honor and integrity of a family-run business, nurturing health and stamina for those they love, drawing inspiration from the men who shaped them, and recognizing the ripple effect of artistic talent - their stories are woven with purpose, heart, and creativity.
May we celebrate not just the dads in our lives, but the men who bring meaning, inspiration, and positive influence, shaping us with their wisdom, care, and dedication.
Have a beautiful summer. Be sure to take in all that this wonderful community of Windsor has to offer. As always, many thanks for choosing to read WCL!
DANA OLSON, PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
June 2025
PUBLISHER
Misty Dockins | misty.dockins@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Dana Olson | dana.olson@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Dana Olson, Hailey Finch, Brittany Bisceglia, Dustin McIntire, Madeline Cheek, Sam Webb
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Photos by Diandra, Dodge Media Group, Charlie Dana, Addie Knott Photography, Lumen Creative Co/ Rachel Cox, Lou Costy Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Brian Wilson
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city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Melissa Rarick with Dream Vacations at a community event in Windsor. Start following her at @mr_dreamvacations. 2: Celebrating Luna’s Tacos and Tequila Windsor’s first year with a ribbon cutting, joined by the Chamber! 3: Folks enjoying brunch at The Hearth during Champagne on Main, put on by WDA! 4: WDA received the Downtown Colorado Inc. Colorful Colorado Award of Excellence for their New Master Plan. 5: Alonzo Harrison, the artist, did an amazing job on the Life Stories mural! 6: Staff from Windsor State Bank lending a hand at Weld Food Bank to support the community. 7: The Windsor Chamber 2025 Award Luncheon and Expo was a great success with over 200 attendees.
8-14: NOCO Unify’s 14th Annual Down & Derby Party in Windsor delivered a lively Kentucky Derby celebration with race viewing, cocktails, music, contests, and community—all in support of Northern Colorado youth. Photography by Karalyn Radford Photography
business monthly
Windsor Community Recreation Center's New Women's Health Fitness Classes
FitMoms and StrongHer Fitness Classes are designed to support women through pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and menopause. Workouts guide women through safe, effective exercises promoting strength, flexibility, and overall well-being working with the hormones and physiological changes women experience. Classes focus on building core stability, improving pelvic health, increasing bone and muscle density while helping women feel confident. Created by personal trainer and women fitness specialist Michelle Tucker and available at the Windsor Community Recreation Center.
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Columbine Health Celebrates Six Years of Community and Care
The Windsor, a Columbine Health independent living community featuring spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments, is celebrating its sixth anniversary. With just 31 units, residents enjoy a cozy, intimate setting and inviting spaces like a library, sunroom, and activity room. “We help families navigate transitions with compassion and clarity,” says Administrator Anna Von Dreele. Discover The Windsor’s unique blend of independence and support—schedule a tour today by calling 970-460-5005
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True Therapeutics is Now Carrying Laurel Skincare!
At True Therapeutics, they're excited to introduce Laurel Skincare, a plant-based line rooted in nature’s healing power. Crafted with organic whole plants and wildcrafted botanicals, each product offers a sacred ritual of nourishment and renewal. Now available in their boutique and featured in their signature facials and massage rituals. Awaken your skin, soothe your soul, and reconnect with your true self. Book your organic treatment today at www.truetherapeutics.com and experience a transformative, restorative journey.
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McIntire Roofing: Quality You Can Trust
Family-owned Service, Local Roots, and Unmatched Craftsmanship in Every Project
ARTICLE BY DUSTIN MCINTIRE PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADDIE KNOTT PHOTOGRAPHY
Dustin McIntire, Owner of McIntire Roofing.
McIntire Roofing started in Northern Colorado in May of 2013, with their first roof being mom and dad’s. Brothers Dustin and Dylan McIntire are Greeley-born and-raised by Mark and Robin McIntire - their supporters from day one who instilled in them the values of hard work, respect, and honesty in the workplace. Today, they are a family-owned full-service residential and commercial roofing company. McIntire Roofing specializes in all roofing systems and offers full exterior services such as gutters, windows, siding, stucco, paint, and more. CONTINUED >
McIntire Roofing is committed to delivering top-quality roofing systems designed to exceed customer expectations.
Dustin worked for several nationally accredited roofing companies, tackling storm-related projects across the country. While he learned the business inside and out, something was always missing. After years of training, he realized the only way to offer the quality his customers deserved was by doing it under the family name with a carefully selected team of family and lifelong friends. As of spring 2025, 90 percent of the staff is or has been considered family for over 20 years. Their dedicated service department is what sets McIntire Roofing apart. Unlike most companies where salespeople - or sometimes no one at all - manage crews while also trying to sell roofs, McIntire's service team prioritizes communication, quality control, and customer care from start to finish by:
• Meeting the customer the morning of the job to review special notes and assignments promised by their roofing specialist
• Reviewing the work order with the crew to ensure said promises are kept
• Supervising for safety, cleanliness, vehicle parking, and craftsmanship
(L-R) Brothers Dylan (General Manager) and Dustin McIntire (Owner) of McIntire Roofing.
At McIntire Roofing, the crew is always ready - with a customerfirst focus leading the way.
Family-owned and operated, McIntire Roofing.
• Making material runs for the crew chief to keep them on-site and maintain the chain of command and quality control
• Securing the ladder safely to the roof for the city inspector
• Servicing warranties, making repairs, and conducting inspections
• Keeping clear, consistent communication with the customer regarding crew arrival times and job progress
• Taking after photos to ensure the job is completed to McIntire standards and will pass permit inspection
McIntire Roofing operates on a strict customer-first, employee-second, profits-last mentality. They understand the importance of reputation and trust. Over the last 12 years, they’ve roofed the homes of thousands of happy customers while respecting neighbors, pets, and property. Their reviews and accolades reflect this. With offices in northern Colorado and Denver, they provide quick, reliable service - whether it’s a new roof, repair, exterior finish, inspection, or warranty issue.
With a dedication to charitable causes, McIntire Roofing donates $50 per roof to a charity of the customer’s choosing, including the American Cancer Society, Folds of Honor, Habitat for Humanity, and the Little Willows Foundation. McIntire Roofing is a proud sponsor of the 2025 Greeley Stampede!
“The only way to offer the quality customers deserved was by doing it under the family name with a carefully selected team of family and lifelong friends.”
- Dustin McIntire
McIntire Roofing is a premier choice for roofing needs - they are local, BBB A+ accredited, CRAcertified, 5-star rated, Team Dave Logan approved, and proudly Master Certified by the three top impact-resistant shingle manufacturers. They offer free upgrades to class 4 impact-resistant shingles and extended manufacturer warranties, only offered by top contractors, to ensure top-tier installations for lasting protection and maximum savings.
McIntire Roofing advises homeowners to make informed choices when selecting a roofer. They emphasize working with local, accredited professionals, checking credentials, and ensuring proper insurance claims handling to avoid scams.
Contact McIntire Roofing at 970.381.4619 or visit mcintireroofing.com to get started on building or upgrading your roof today! One of their roofing experts will be happy to perform a free inspection with a photo report included.
POWER IN ECCENTRICS
How ALL-IN-15 Helps Reverse Aging, Restore Power, and Improve Everyday Movement
ARTICLE BY DANA OLSON
DIANDRA
John Hecker, COO and Founder of ALL-IN-15 at 1297 Main Street, #1 in Windsor, comes from a very athletic background. He participated in sports including football, basketball, and track. Lifting since the age of 13, he was exposed to various weight training programs - both good and bad. He experienced frustration with
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHOTOS BY
John Hecker, COO and Founder of ALL-IN-15.
“The goal of ALL-IN-15 is to tailor efficient, optimized workouts to achieve the best results as fast as possible.”
how he was being trained in college, noticing the shift from fast, effective, athletic training to programs that were less functional, resulting in stiffness. This motivated him to pursue strength training and conditioning as a career path to help eliminate these frustrations for future athletes. However, his exposure to eccentrics helped him see that he could impact not only athletes but the general population as well. Incorporating machines to facilitate this kind of training allows people to achieve more efficiency compared to traditional workouts because they focus on the lowering phase of the lift (eccentric), where bone, tendon, and muscle building, as well as nervous system activation, occur. By training in the eccentric, the body resists more than it’s able to lift, experiencing a controlled, engaged stretch that builds strength through an entire range of motion, making it possible to lift more than in a traditional weight room and get stronger while doing less.
ALL-IN-15’s cutting-edge, AI-driven machines record data, reading the body millimeter by millimeter and millisecond by millisecond to assign the appropriate load both in concentric and eccentric phases, thus maximizing the workout, putting the load on the nervous system in a correct way with no aches, pains, or joint issues.
John shares that men begin to experience a loss of power in their late twenties. By the time they reach their mid-fifties and sixties, their hormones rapidly decline at a rate actually much faster than women, resulting in sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass) and osteoporosis. Through the use of their specialized machines, ALL-IN-15 can restore power, help regain strength, and begin to reverse the effects of sarcopenia and osteoporosis, providing a higher quality of life and maintaining the functionality necessary to participate in meaningful activities.
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All-in-15’s AI machines optimize workouts by precisely adjusting load, preventing pain and joint issues while maximizing nervous system engagement.
“These machines help you focus on the right areas - you don’t feel it in your joints or low back. That means we can help the general population and older adults with chronic conditions.”
-John Hecker
Success stories like that of John’s uncle help prove the effectiveness of eccentric training at ALL-IN-15. In his late sixties, John’s uncle began experiencing balance issues, difficulty getting up from the floor after playing with his grandkids, kneeling in church, and considered the use of a cane. He noticed a significant improvement after only six weeks of training with John, moving freely to the floor and back up again, kneeling comfortably at church, and having his balance restored. His career as a police officer required him to wear a heavy utility belt for years, resulting in the need for a hip replacement. Training with John built the strength, proper engagement, and muscle function for a quick recovery from his hip
surgery. The surgeon even commented on the thickness and strength of his bones, comparing them to a “concrete pillar.”
With his Health and Exercise Science major, a functional movement screen, and personal experience, John uses his training model, as opposed to a traditional strength and conditioning program, to help improve the quality of life for people of all ages with various conditions, including sports injuries, osteoporosis, and even Parkinson’s conditions. By reading numerous studies and articles, John stays current and makes necessary adaptations to his program. In so doing, he fulfills the goal of ALL-IN-15 - to tailor efficient, optimized workouts to achieve the best results as fast as possible. Learn more by visiting aififteen.com
John demonstrates how All-In-15's smart resistance equipment targets the lowering phase of movement - where real strength and structural gains are made.
Since the revolutionary war, more than 1 million men and women have given their last full measure of devotion for America. The American Legion Post 109 in Windsor trusts that all of us will take the time this year to honor those that have given the ultimate sacrifice to ensure our freedom. Interested in becoming a member of the Sons of the American Legion? Contact SALPost109@gmail.com The American Legion Post 109 is open to the public. Join us this summer for a cold beverage at
RIDE INTO SUMMER
WINDSOR ROLLS OUT THE FUN FOR COLORADO BIKE MONTH!
ARTICLE BY MADELINE CHEEK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARLIE DANA
Members of the Bike Month planning committee visit the Boardwalk Park station on Bike Everywhere Day.
Throughout June, Windsor proudly celebrates Colorado Bike Month by encouraging everyone to grab a pair of wheels and explore our vibrant community by bike! With family-friendly festivities planned all month long, it’s the perfect time for kids to celebrate Dads and enjoy the outdoors together.
Windsor is fortunate to have an extensive network of safe, scenic trails and protected bike lanes. This year, the Town of Windsor and the Weld RE-4 School District have expanded their efforts through a new Safe Routes to School initiative, teaching elementary students how to safely walk and bike through town. It’s just one of many programs supported by dedicated Windsor volunteers. Interested in helping out? Sign up to become a Bicycle Champion volunteer at windsorgov.com/volunteer. CONTINUED >
A family rides to Boardwalk Park for a frozen treat on Bike Everywhere Day.
A local cyclist after attacking the new single-track trail at Kyger Open Space.
Kids line up for a bike race at Kyger Open Space, made possible by Bicycle Champion volunteers.
Special bike-themed events are planned throughout June, culminating in the highly anticipated Bike Everywhere Day! Highlights include:
• June 6: Bike Nite with Windsor Police Department. Bring the family to ride through a fun bike rodeo course and pick up a free helmet!
• June 7: Bike to Shop at the season’s first Farmers Market and sidewalk sales downtown. Join the National Trails Day volunteer effort at Highlands Ridge Open Space, too!
• June 11: Experience the magic of a Full Moon Bike Ride along the Poudre River Trail, open after dark for cyclists.
• June 12: Bike to Concert! Ride to the kickoff of the 2025 Summer Concert Series. Enjoy free bike parking, decorate your ride at the bike station, and join a festive parade around the lake during the concert.
• June 14: Visit the Poudre Learning Center for the Poudre River Trailathlon - a free outdoor event packed with biking, fishing, climbing, and more for youth and families.
• June 15: Celebrate Father’s Day with a family bike ride to Treasure Island Demonstration Garden for volunteer-led garden tours.
Bike Everywhere Day: June 25
Windsor’s version of Colorado’s Bike to Work Day invites you to bike not just to work, but everywhere! Stop by:
• The Breakfast Station: Spokes Bike Shop on Main Street - grab breakfast and meet fellow cyclists.
• The Boardwalk Station: Boardwalk Park Market Pavilion - connect with local trail organizations and cool off with a free frozen treat!
• The Happy Hour Station: High Hops Brewery - enjoy beer discounts and bicycle-themed trivia at this adults-only afterparty. At each station, pick up a free Bike Everywhere Day t-shirt designed by a local youth artist (while supplies last)!
Find full event details at https://bit.ly/ BikeWindsor and learn how your business can get involved at BikeToWorkDay.co
People gather in downtown Windsor for breakfast on Bike Everywhere Day.
ARTICLE BY HAILEY FINCH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DODGE MEDIA GROUP
Dads, Kids, and Sun-Soaked Fun
A Dad’s Guide to a Fun Day in Windsor the Kids Will Love This Summer
Summer in Colorado - a time when the weather is warm, the days feel longer, and everyday responsibilities seem to become less taxing. Summer break is an incredible time for creating memories that children will take with them throughout their lives and special moments parents and kiddos will never forget. There isn’t quite anything like a summer in Northern Colorado, and Windsor has an abundant amount of activities and adventures that everyone in the family will enjoy.
Justin Watada gives putting tips to his kids, (L-R) Gavin, Dylan, and Elin.
From an array of outdoor fun to tasty bites to eat, there is no shortage of opportunities for all sorts of summer fun. So, Colorado dads, if you are in need of some summer day itinerary inspiration with the kiddos, here are some bucket list ideas for a fun day in the sun.
SWINGING INTO SUMMER
Enjoying the sunny weather outside is a fundamental part of any summer day, so ditch the tech and start the fun outside. There are plenty of activities for dads and kids to do together. For example, enjoying a cool morning by starting off your “Dad Day of Fun” taking the kids golfing is a great way for everyone to get some exercise and have a blast, no matter the skill level. Putting on the green is a great way for dads to teach their kids new skills learning
the game and spending quality time together outdoors. And of course, who doesn’t love cruising on a golf cart on paths through acres of scenic courses? Windsor is home to multiple public courses that offer a great place for families to try their swing at the sport, so explore the outstanding list of locations all around the Windsor area.
SNACK ATTACK
Playing outside in the summer sun is a sure way to work up an appetite. So if you find yourself and the family in need of a bite to eat, make sure to grab a delicious snack to refuel before continuing your day of fun. Windsor is home to a wide variety of places to grab a snack, so make sure to check out a list of tasty places and bring your family to one of Windsor's many yummy eateries.
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Peyton Gentle perfecting her swing.
“There isn’t quite anything like a summer in Northern Colorado...”
Brooklyn McGee and Collin Kinyon burn off some energy at Boardwalk Park.
A SWEET TREAT FOR A SWEETER DAY
Nothing says summer like an ice cream sundae. Beat the afternoon heat and make sure to stop by an ice cream shop for a sweet treat. Wow your kids with a delicious collection of ice cream flavors and treats that will be the cherry on top of any afternoon. And don’t worry, dads, most cafes also offer a selection of coffee and smoothies that will be the perfect refreshment to continue your day of fun. Maybe even let the kids pick out a unique gift for mom at one of the many shops on Main Street.
LAKE DAYS ARE THE BEST DAYS
After savoring your delicious snacks, finish off the afternoon and walk right down the street to Windsor Lake. There is no shortage of recreational opportunities that will ensure everyone in the family finds something fun to do! Enjoy a cool dip at the swim beach, walk along the 2.25-mile trail along the perimeter, go fishing off the dock, spot a pelican or two, take your furry friends to the enclosed dog park, or enjoy Boardwalk Park around the lake relaxing with your family. Any summer day is a great day, so don’t hesitate to take the family out for a world of adventures and fun in Northern Colorado.
Colorado weather can change on a dime, so just in case your fun in the sun turns to an afternoon of summer rain, here are some potential indoor ideas that are just as fun!
• Windsor Art and Heritage Center
• Boardwalk Park Museum
• Windsor Community Playhouse
• Windsor Community Recreation Center
(L-R) Lanie Kinyon, Peyton Gentle, and Collin Kinyon share a laugh at one of Windsor's sweet spots while dads, John McGee, Chris Gentle, and John Kinyon look on
Good neighbors make the difference
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1823 65th Ave, Suite 1, Greeley, CO 80634-7965
Bus: 970-506-9000 kaan@sfkaan.com
Being a good neighbor means being there for my community. As your local State Farm® agent, I’m ready to help whenever you need me. Give me a call.
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FROM OIL FIELDS to Industrial Innovation
A Journey of Growth with Broe Real Estate Group
ARTICLE BY BRITTANY BISCEGLIA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHOTOS BY DIANDRA
A true enthusiast, Dean Brown has lovingly restored a fleet of over 20 classic carseach with its own story under the hood.
Dean Brown, Senior Vice President of Industrial Development at Broe Real Estate Group.
As the Senior Vice President of Industrial Development at Broe Real Estate Group, Dean Brown’s path to this role has been anything but linear. It was shaped by decades of hands-on experience, tough decisions, and a passion for creating long-term, impactful developments.
Broe Real Estate Group, a subsidiary of The Broe Group, founded in 1972, is part of a multi-billion-dollar private investment enterprise with holdings across 41 North American states and provinces. With deep operational insight and a sharp entrepreneurial lens, Broe focuses on the long-term ownership of hard assets - real estate, railroads, infrastructure, and more. Dean’s role today centers on the industrial portfolio across the Western U.S., stretching from California to Indiana.
Dean’s journey began in 1986 as an engineering student at Montana State University. He interned with CBI Na-Con in North Dakota, working on defense infrastructure at the Grand Forks Air Force Base. That internship evolved into a full-time job and led to an assignment in Bakersfield, California, managing the construction of large oil storage tanks. It was there that Dean learned two things: he didn’t love extreme heat, and he wasn’t cut out for heights. Dean left CBI-Na Con and joined a small engineering firm in Bakersfield, where he served as a contract project manager for Mobil Oil, overseeing a massive production and facilities expansion.
In 1996, Dean shifted from oil and gas to industrial development, helping build a regional industrial hub outside Bakersfield. He juggled dual roles—managing a freeway interchange project on I-5 by night while continuing industrial development work by day. This led to his tenure at Tejon Ranch, a 270,000-acre property at the base of the Tehachapi Mountains. Over 18 years, Dean oversaw the design and construction of 3.5 million square feet of industrial space, an outlet mall, commercial facilities, and critical infrastructure, including water and wastewater treatment plants. It was a transformative time, both personally and professionally.
In 2018, Dean and his wife decided it was time to leave California. Not long after, a friend invited him to Colorado to explore an opportunity with Broe. A sunset dinner in downtown Windsor sealed the deal. Dean called his wife, and together they packed up and embraced this new chapter, with one condition from her: no Montana winters!
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Dean and his wife, Cheryl with their four rescue dogs Skip, Taco Bella, Isabelle, and BG.
Isabelle ready to take the Ford Galaxie for a spin.
“Sometimes life takes precedence, sometimes work does. The key is understanding it’s a journey, not a daily scorecard.”
- Dean Brown
Along the way, Dean has been shaped by many men, but none more influential than his dad, stepdad, and Joe Drew - his former boss at Tejon Ranch. A decorated military veteran and leader, Joe’s wisdom lives on in the lessons Dean carries today: “Every good Colonel was a GREAT Lieutenant,” and “You don’t manage people, you lead them.”
Outside work, Dean enjoys mountain biking, restoring classic cars, and spending time with his wife, their three kids, two granddaughters, and four rescue dogs. Their home is filled with life and love - a reflection of what matters most and something Dean views as one of his greatest accomplishments.
To those forging their professional paths, Dean’s advice is simple: be honest, listen more, talk less, and keep your word - especially when it’s hard. As for work-life balance, he sees it more as a “life-work” rhythm. Sometimes life takes precedence, sometimes work does. The key is understanding it’s a journey, not a daily scorecard. Woody Allen (and Van Zant) once said, “If you want to hear God laugh, tell him your plans”. Dean has his own version of this saying: “If you want to hear God laugh, tell him your work-life balance plans.”
Dean takes a break with one of his pride and joys-a beautifully restored classic, reflecting his passion for craftsmanship both on the road and in real estate.
Monthly Book Review by Words of Windsor
YOUR LOCAL BOOKSTORE LOCATED AT 631 BIRCH STREET, UNIT B WINDSOR
ARTICLE BY SAM WEBB
For those of you who dream of having a little getaway place in the mountains, Cabin by Patrick Hutchison invites you on this journey. Is it anything like what the author thought it would be? Of course not! For any of you who have taken on what seemed to be a “little” project but was really so much more than you thought, this book is for you. The seven-year journey to transform what can only be described as a rodent and spider-infested near-death trap into a cozy, comfortable place to share with friends gives us all hope that we can accomplish the big dream. You'll love following along as each bit of the cabin was fixed, friendships were formed, and a wife was added along the way. In the end, the formerly clueless craftsman has learned so much that this project becomes a whole new career. The book even has a picture collage of the process come to life. A great book to curl up with and envision what you could accomplish in 120 square feet of mountain getaway.
Words of Windsor invites you in to shop this and many more titles, Monday through Saturday, 10 am–6 pm.
From fixer-upper to forever escape - Cabin by Patrick Hutchison is a heartfelt journey through DIY dreams and mountain magic.
Art is Not One Thing
Aaron
Alms Shares his Creative Journey and How Art Impacts His Personal and Professional Life
“ I won't allow myself to fail.”
It doesn’t matter the subject or materials. Aaron pushes himself to try anything from contemporary, old world, animals, people, and architecture - he’ll do it all.
Aaron Alms is the Founder and CEO of Illusions Complete Home Solutions, where a client’s dream is brought to life through creative and innovative design. Art is a foundational factor of Aaron’s life, and through his family’s remodeling business, he was able to combine the artistic, decorative, and architectural aspects all into one.
Finding something that you are passionate about is an incredible experience, and molding it into your professional life can make every day even better when you’ve truly unlocked the “enjoy what you do” aspect of a business. And while every artist's journey has to start somewhere, for Alms, it came to him “by accident."
“I had some clients that asked if I could do murals, and I had never done it before...”
Aaron had taken some art classes, but he felt none of them showed the complete process - more the steps and less the start to finish. But that didn’t discourage him; if anything, it made him work harder to become better.
ARTICLE BY HAILEY FINCH
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUMEN CREATIVE CO/ RACHEL COX AND LOU COSTY PHOTOGRAPHY.
“Over the years, I’ve been kind of challenging myself to do more, and just recently over the last two years, I’ve started oil painting on canvas, which is a lot more difficult, but I don’t like to do things incomplete.” Alms has no official training or fancy certificate, but with the technical skills he has learned and a few cases of trial and error, he continues to push himself to try any type of art, no matter the materials or style.
“You have to trust your instincts, and you don’t necessarily have to use every theory you’re taught,” Alms shared. Art is whatever you want to make it, and the creative process to the finished product is the important part, no matter how you get there. “You have to sometimes think outside the box, look at how you think it needs to be done, and have confidence to do it.” His company has completed a gallery of work over the years, and their clients love the results, but his fine art journey wasn’t always aimed towards his professional life.
Aaron Alms of Illusions Complete Home
When it came to his canvas art, Aaron primarily did that for his family, another huge source of love and inspiration in his life. The Alms family is undoubtedly a family of artists. Aaron and his wife Stacy, both incredibly artistic themselves, have passed their creative spirits to their four children, who all have worked for the family business, but also have spread their wings down different creative paths. Through metal fabrication, fashion design, natural park projects, and even hairstyling, this family has shown that art can be any outlet that allows you to be expressive.
The world of art is always evolving and adapting, and within their business, the clients’ wishes are being granted one innovative design at a time. But looking to the future, Alms has other artistic goals for his personal art as well.
“We love to travel, and I want to do some more Plein Air painting, where you go outside and you paint what you see from start to finish in the natural environment. I would love to just go somewhere I’ve never been and paint something I’ve never seen before.”
Continuing down his fine art path, and potentially showcasing a gallery of his work one day, Aaron is excited to see where his creativity will lead him.
ILLUSIONS COMPLETE HOME SOLUTIONS
• Design-Build-Remodeling
• Illusionscompletehomesolutions@gmail.com
• Phone: 970-391-2422
This trompe l’oeil mural of an Italian seaside garden, framed by faux stone trim, creates the illusion of a walk-in escape.
Aaron painting this Greek library ruin in a large inset in a dining room to bring in some outdoor elements to a formal room.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
EVERY TUESDAY AND THURSDAY FROM JUNE 10TH TO JULY 10TH
Unified Basketball Summer League Series at NoCo Sports
5699 Crooked Stick Drive, Windsor | 6:30 PM
The Arc of Northeast Colorado is gearing up for an exciting summer of Unified Basketball at its new location, NoCo Sports in Windsor. With all six courts dedicated to middle school, high school, and adult athletes, participants can enjoy skill-building, teamwork, and fun. Thanks to generous sponsors, this program remains completely free. Register now at tinyurl.com/Summer-Unified-BB.
JUNE 7TH
Windsor Farmers Market at Boardwalk Park
117 North 5th Street, Windsor | 8:30 AM
The Windsor Farmers Market is a lively community hub every Saturday through September 6th, offering fresh produce, local honey, baked goods, handcrafted items, and specialty foods. Enjoy live music, cooking demos, fitness classes, and kids’ activities like face painting and storytime. Pet-friendly and eco-conscious, with nearby parking and bike racks. Learn more at recreationliveshere.com/213/Farmers-Market
JUNE 12TH
Windsor Summer Concert Series at Boardwalk Park
117 North 5th Street, Windsor | 6:30 PM
The Summer Concert Series features local and national musical acts across genres like rock, funk, country, and folk. Held outdoors every Thursday through August 21st, with spacious lawn seating, guests can picnic or enjoy delicious on-site food trucks. Extras include games, face painting, and lively beer gardens. Arrive early for the best spots. Bike valet available. For more information, visit recreationliveshere.com/219/ Summer-Concert-Series.
JUNE 21ST
Red, White and Brew Race at Raindance National Golf Course - Grainhouse
1781-B RainDance Nat'l Drive, Windsor | 7:00 AM
Walk, run, or ruck, a 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Kids Run, or 12 Hour Last Man Standing Race to celebrate the Red, White, and Brew in Windsor, Colorado! Sauna, cold plunges, live music, food, drinks, bouncy houses, face painting, and more! Finishers receive this year's RWB Boco Performance Hat and a chance at top finisher prizes. Prices from $16.90-$101.70. Register here: windsorbrewrace.com.
JUNE 21ST
All 80s - Class of '85 40th Reunion at American Legion Windsor
624 Ash Street, Windsor | 6:00 PM
Hosted by The Class of ’85, the All 80s Dance features a live 80s band kicking off at 7:00 PM. Guests can enjoy a nostalgic night of music and dancing, with a cash bar available and food for purchase. Dust off your best retro attire and get ready for a fun, high-energy evening! Learn more by visiting tinyurl.com/All-80s.
JULY 4TH
Greeley Freedom 5k
Downtown Greeley | 7:00 AM
Kick off your Independence Day with run.Windsor's annual Freedom 5k walk and run in Greeley, Colorado! Enjoy a fun, family-friendly event along the Greeley Stampede Parade route, and stick around to watch the parade afterward. Proceeds benefit Beef Sticks for BackPacks, a local nonprofit providing nutritious meals to kids in need. Cost: $32.80. Register here: runsignup.com/Race/CO/Greeley/GreeleyFreedomRun.
