2018/19 Explore Magazine

ExplorE Your FREE Complete Travel & Tourism Guide • 2018-19

The High Plains of Northeast Colorado

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ti i d E l a nnu

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Festivals • Hunting & FisHing • RecReation • PaRks & MuseuMs

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Welcome to Explore

(Rebecca Contreras photo)

T

hanks for joining us in our 21st annual edition of Explore, your guide to travel and tourism in the High Plains of Northeast Colorado.

Each year, a photo contest is held for the Explore magazine cover. Runner-up photos are found throughout the edition, on pages 3-4, 10, 13, 24, 28 and 39.

On the Cover Winning Entries

Swimming photo taken at the fairground park in Holyoke by Jean M. Armstrong Geese photo by Denise Smith Kids photo by Sara Grove-Harms Puppies photo by Samantha Krieger

(Karianne Donnelson photo)

EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 3

Table of Contents

(Samantha Krieger photo)

Day Trips

Washington County............................... 5 Logan County....................................... 6 Yuma County ....................................... 7 Phillips County..................................... 8 Sedgwick County.................................. 9

Washington County

Eastern Colorado Roundup ................. 10 Akron Parade of Lights........................ 11

Logan County

Logan County Fair & Rodeo ................. 14 Overland Trail Museum ....................... 15 Sugar Beet Days ................................ 16 Small town festivals ........................... 18 Sterling Recreation Center.................. 19 Logan County Shooting Sports Complex .............................................. 20 July Jamz........................................... 22 North Sterling State Park .................... 23

Yuma County

Quilts of the Plains............................. 24 5:10 to Yuma..................................... 25 Weathers Family Farms Corn Maze....... 25

4 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

Map...................................... 26 Phillips County

Peerless Theatre Centennial ............... 29 Pumpkins and More A-maizing Farm..... 30 Old Fashioned Saturday Night.............. 30 Holly Daze......................................... 32 Burlap & Lace Marketplace................. 32 Phillips County Fair............................. 33 Melissa Memorial Hospital 100th Anniversary........................................... 34 Phillips County Raceway...................... 34 Corn Festival...................................... 36 Haxtun Lions Club Chuckwagon........... 37 Dandelion Daze.................................. 38

Sedgwick County

Cruise Night....................................... 40 Sedgwick Centennial.......................... 42 Ovid Days.......................................... 44 Bull Bash........................................... 45

More to Explore

Pawnee National Grasslands............... 46 Lake McConaughy.............................. 47

Calendar........................... 48-50

Contributing newspapers This magazine was produced by four northeast Colorado newspapers: Akron News-Reporter 69 Main Ave. Akron, CO 80720 970-345-2296 akronnewsreporter.com Holyoke Enterprise 130 N. Interocean Holyoke, CO 80734 970-854-2811 holyokeenterprise.com Julesburg Advocate 108 Cedar St. Julesburg, CO 80737 970-474-3388 julesburgadvocate.com Journal-Advocate 504 N. Third St. Sterling, CO 80751 970-522-1990 journal-advocate.com

Spend a day in ...

Washington County • Get your day going early with a famous cinnamon roll from Mom’s Kitchen Café in Otis, located at 101 North Washington. Sip a cup of coffee with the locals while enjoying some home-cooked food to fuel your body.

• Make the short 14-mile drive to west Akron for a round of nine at the Washington County Golf Club, a public course with carts available to rent. The course sits just a mile south of Akron on Highway 63.

• Follow the dirt road from the golf course to the Akron Pond, sitting just west of the course. The pond, which is scheduled for new renovations, boasts a large stock of fish for public fishing and a nice walking path.

• Head back in to Akron for lunch at Five Star Dining & Grill, just south of the stop light on Main Street. The warm and welcoming atmosphere serves breakfast all day, as well as Mexican and American favorites.

• During the summer months, visit the Washington County Museum from 2 to 5 p.m. on Sundays.

The museum consists of five historic buildings within Akron. During the off-season, the museum can also be opened up for special occasions.

• For a mid-day snack, head to Latte Da’ for a cup of specialty coffee, ice cream or a sweet treat. The quaint little shop features comfortable seating inside, or a drivethrough for those on the go.

• If you haven’t had enough to fill you up, check out JD’s Quik Stop at the west end of Akron on Highway Relax at the Akron Pond. Spend an afternoon fishing or enjoying the sunshine.

34 to order your full-sized Hunt (Akron News-Reporter photo) Brothers pizza and wings to go.

• For some friendly small-town service and a nice and modern place to stay for the night, check in to Gemma’s Crossing, Akron’s newest motel located just south of Highway 34.

Find more on Washington County on pages 10-12.

EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 5

Spend a day in ...

Logan County

This mural by Denver artist Bimmer Torres behind the Family Resource Center on North Second Street is a new addition to the public art found all around Sterling. (Journal-Advocate photo)

• Start your morning off with a hearty breakfast at J&L Cafe on North Third Avenue in Sterling.

Pancakes, waffles, eggs, bacon, even breakfast burritos — this down-home diner will fill your plate without emptying your wallet.

• Grab your clubs — or your discs — and get in 18 holes of your favorite form of golf. You can tee off at either of Sterling’s two courses: Northeastern 18, located at 17408 Highway 14 on the west side of town, is one of the five oldest courses in Colorado. Riverview Golf

Course, just off I-76 on County Road 370, offers a relaxed golf experience with the option of professional instruction. For a shorter game, head east on Highway 6 to the 9-hole F&H Golf Course on the sandhills between Fleming and Haxtun at 43355 County Road 30. Or enjoy the free disc golf course at Sterling’s Pioneer Park.

• Refuel with a light lunch at Simkins Parlour in the heart of downtown Sterling. Build your own salad, wrap or gyro and add a cup of soup for something a bit more fill-

ing. Top it all off with a scoop of ice cream or two!

• Tour the town and enjoy the public art on display. Drive along Sterling’s West Main and Main Street to take in the bronze sculptures, and don’t miss the murals along North Fourth Street and Second Street. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the Bradford Rhea Living Tree Sculptures — pick up a brochure at the Logan County Tourist Information Center — and also check out some of the unique metal art at the city parks.

• Dig into dinner at

Blue Collar Steakhouse, just off West Main on North 10th Avenue. Enjoy a high-quality, hand cut steak or a selection of chops, seafood, chicken, burgers and sandwiches in a family-friendly atmosphere.

• Catch the latest blockbuster at Fox 5 Theater on Poplar Street, and don’t forget the popcorn!

• Before you hit the hay, grab a late-night slice of pie just around the corner at Village Inn. • Stay the night and rest up at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites on East Chestnut Street.

Find more on Logan County on pages 13-23

6 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

Spend a day in ...

Yuma County • Rise and shine with a trip to Daylight Donuts, situated at 200 West Eighth Avenue in Yuma. If sweets aren’t your thing, fill up on a steaming hot plate of biscuits and gravy or breakfast burrito and pair them with a fresh cup of coffee.

• Soak up that Colorado weather at the 9-hole Indian Hills Golf Course in Yuma. The course features three sets of tees for different skill levels, a driving range and a practice putting green. Get the feel of escaping the city as you head just out of town at 5294 County Road 39.

• Drive your cart right up to the front door of the clubhouse for some lunch, which also houses On The Green. The restaurant specializes in steaks and super smoky barbeque, and also offers a fully stocked bar.

• Explore more of Yuma County by hitting the highway east to Wray.

As you head into town, make a stop at Stalker Lake, a 27-acre water located near Colorado Park and Wildlife’s Wray Hatchery. Anglers can expect quality fishing at the lake, located two miles west of Highway 34 to County Road FF, then 1.5 miles north to the access road and a half

The Indian Hills 9-hole golf course in Yuma offers tees for every skill level. (JournalAdvocate photo)

mile west.

• Take in the cliffs of Wray as you drive into town to experience the goodies of Lala’s Bakery & Espresso Bar, 301 Main Street. The customer service driven business specializes in EuropeanAmerican pastries and desserts, candies, coffee, espresso, lunch and more.

• If you’re ready to take a break from the ele-

ments, visit the Wray Rehabilitation and Activities Center (WRAC) for some exercise or a place to burn off some energy.

Non-members are welcome to drop in the facility at 700 Main Street, open seven days a week.

• Get yourself cleaned up for a fun night of food and entertainment at 4th & Main Downtown Grille, 402 Main Street. The bar

and grill offers a wide variety of new American favorites, as well as a regular line-up of live music.

• For big city quality lodging with small town values, check in to Cobblestone Inn & Suites, 35952 Highway 385 in Wray. The hotel offers quality amenities in each room, as well as a free breakfast buffet to start your morning.

Find more on Yuma County on pages 24-25.

EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 7

Spend a day in ...

Phillips County

Homesteaders Park, located just north of Holyoke, offers a comfortable retreat, perfect for reading, photoshoots, picnics and more. (Photo courtesy of PC Telcom)

• For all you early risers, there’s time to get some fishing in at the Lions Club Fishin’ Hole a mile east of Holyoke first thing in the morning.

• Even if you skip the fishing, it’s going to be a busy day, so start it right.

Fortunately, Holyoke has plenty of fine breakfast joints to choose from, whether you’re in the mood for pancakes, bagels, eggs or cinnamon rolls.

• History buffs should check out the Phillips County Museum at 109 S. Campbell Ave., and artlovers will enjoy a visit to Prairie Winds Art Gallery at 443 S. Interocean Ave. Regardless of the timing of your day trip, both are open by appointment, so call to schedule one — or,

better yet, both — into your day. More information is available online at www.phillipscountymuseum.com and www.prairiewindsartcenter.org.

• Once you’ve had your fill of history and art, have some homestyle cooking for lunch. Holyoke has several such restaurants to choose from.

• For the afternoon, plan to visit one of Holyoke’s parks; both are great, so pick whichever one matches your interests. At the city park on the south end of town, there’s a playground, basketball and tennis, plus an indoor pool right next door. At Homesteaders Park at the fairgrounds north of town, you’ll find a handicapped-accessible playground, a bike path, disc golf and soccer. The

interactive water feature there is a beauty, so use your cellphone for a DIY family photoshoot while you’re there.

• If there’s time, check out a treasure that’s truly unique to Holyoke: Heginbotham Library at 539 S. Baxter Ave. The Craftsman mansion, formerly the home of W.E. Heginbotham, is worth seeing for the architecture and the grounds alone, but if you’re there, you might as well learn a bit about how it ties into local history.

• For dinner, grab some Mexican food. From tacos to guacamole, Holyoke does it right. Insider tip: If you’re making a trip during the summer, there are ball games almost every night, and the ballpark burgers are to die for.

• Next, catch a movie at

the Peerless Theatre, another place bursting with local history at nearly 100 years old. To top it off, you can’t go wrong with the popcorn there. Have a bit of time to kill between dinner and the movie?

The Peerless also features a gym and a game room.

• After you’ve enjoyed a full day, spend the night at The Burge Hotel, Golden Plains Motel, or Cobblestone Inn & Suites. You’ll be able to return home the next day well-rested and ready to get back to the daily grind.

• Late-night bonus: For those who aren’t ready to call it a night just yet, the Vets Club is open late for drinks and a game or two of pool. It’s even within walking distance of whichever hotel you’ll be staying in.

Find more on Phillips County on pages 28-38.

8 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

Spend a day in ...

Sedgwick County • Start your day at D&J Cafe located on Cedar Street. Pull up a chair at one of the community tables and take up a conversation with the locals.

Order up D&J’s Bird’s Nest made with eggs, green peppers, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, and ham scrambled and served on top a bed of hashbrowns, smothered in your choice of green chili or gravy.

• Afterwards, take a walk across the street to rummage through The Cedar Chest and Antiques & Artisans, both located in the same 100 block of Cedar.

• Julesburg is home to some of the finest small town museums you may ever visit. Heading east from the antique stores you will find the Old Ford Garage and Fort Sedgwick Museum located in 100 block of E. First Street. But you are not done looking yet. Turning back west, stop in at the historical Depot Museum, located in a former Union Pacific Railroad Depot at 210 W. First St. • After departing the museums, you are ready to follow the South Platte River Trail Scenic Byway.

Head south from Julesburg on Highway 385 to the Colorado Welcome Center. There are pull-

Start a tour of the South Platte River Trail Scenic Byway at the Colorado Welcome Center in Julesburg. (Courtesy photo)

outs at each of the 11 interpretive markers. The majority is on paved highway, but there are seven miles of gravel road on County Road 28. There may be times you have to stay behind a herd of cattle being moved, or you may have to wait on a combine getting to a field.

Just be patient and enjoy.

State Logo signs mark your way.

• When you are done exploring, you are just south of Ovid. Make your way back into town, traveling north (take a right) on Highway 29 to Big B’s

Bar & Grill, located on the main drag. Order a meal or have a drink; there is always something good on the menu.

• When you are ready to hit the road again, head west (take a left) onto Highway 138, to Sedgwick. By now you may be looking for a place to stay the night. Step back in time at the Sedgwick Antique Inn, located on Sedgwick’s Main Street.

The Antique Inn features all the comforts of home.

Sign the guest book and allow Lupe to show you around this beautifully

decorated, cozy bed and breakfast inn.

• Just down the street within walking distance is one more museum. The Sedgwick Jailhouse Museum will welcome you for a tour. This is the newest museum in Sedgwick County.

• Before departing Sedgwick County, you will want get a good start with a hearty meal at Lucy’s Place, located on Hwy 59 just before you hit the interstate. Check it out; where else can you order homegrown buffalo burgers?

Find more on Sedgwick County on pages 39-45.

EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 9

Welcome to Washington County

Restaurants

Akron, Otis

Cornerstone Coffee

173 Main Avenue, Akron (970) 345-0722 Tuesday-Sunday: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Lattes, Frappes, Smoothies and Other Specialty Drinks; Breakfast Burritos and Sandwiches; Sweet Specialties; Deli and Panini Sandwiches; Soups and Specialty Salads.

Kids Menu; Take-Out

Five Star Dining & Grill

(Esthela Nunez Franco photo)

Eastern Colo. Roundup announces shows

A

new year brings a new lineup and new show day to the Eastern Colorado Roundup night show.

Headlining the concert will be Chancey Williams, with Jon Reep and Braydon Zink as openers. The show will be held Thursday, July 26 at the Washington County Fairgrounds.

Doors will open at 7 p.m., with Braydon Zink taking the stage first at 8 p.m., followed by Jon Reep and then Chancey Williams & The Younger Brothers Band. Visit www.ecroundup.com for ticket information.

“As a board, we wanted to try something different this year on a new night.

We hope people will support the See SHOWS, pg. 11 10 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

Chancey Williams & The Younger Brothers Band will headline the Eastern Colorado Roundup night show.

(Courtesy photo)

85 Main Avenue, Akron (970) 345-0409 Monday-Saturday: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Mexican and American Food.

Kids or Senior Menu; Take-Out

Odells Super’s Bakery & Deli

222 East First Street, Akron (970) 345-2022 Lunch, seven days a week 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Daily Lunch Specials; Chester’s Chicken; Fresh Baked Donuts; Breakfast Burritos and Sandwiches; Sit-Down Area.

Take-Out

Washington County A Akron, Otis

Akron’s Parade of Lights shines K

ick off your holiday season with the sixth annual Parade of Lights on Thursday, Dec. 6, sponsored by the Akron Chamber of Commerce.

Community organizations, school groups, churches, daycares, individuals and more deck out their floats, cars and even tractors to go along with the theme. The parade begins at 5:30 p.m. at the west entrance of the new Washington County Nursing Home on Fremont Street through Green House Drive onto Fourth Street, then traveling east to Main Avenue down to Second Street.

The Parade of Lights is always

held in conjunction with the Akron Volunteer Fire Department’s beef and noodle supper, where the public is invited to warm up with a hearty meal for a nominal fee at the Washington County Event Center. Santa also makes a guest appearance at the supper, handing out sacks of candy to all the little ones in attendance.

Don’t forget to bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Fire Department and Akron News-Reporter’s annual toy drive, benefiting underprivileged youth in Washington County.

Bring the family out for some festive fun in the quaint Akron community!

Santa visits with children at the Akron Volunteer Fire Department’s annual beef and noodle supper, which follows the Parade of Lights through downtown Akron. (Akron News-Reporter photo)

SHOWS from page 10 change and come out on Thursday night!” Alan Basler, Washington County Fair Board member, said.

seekers Chart, and No. 7 on the iTunes Country Albums Chart. Rodeo Cold Beer is the commercial follow-up to the Billboard Heatseekers Chancey Williams Charting album, Echo. The and the Younger latest record was awarded Brothers Band Album of the Year at the Wyoming native Chancey 2017 Rocky Mountain Music Williams and his “Younger Awards. In 2016, the lead Brothers Band,” have relentsingle, “Down With That” lessly toured the Western was named the Rocky MounUnited States, developing a tain Music Awards Song of rabid fan base not seen from the Year. the Cowboy State since In December, the band Chris LeDoux. In fact, performed at the Opening Chancey Williams and Ceremony of the ninth LeDoux are the only two round of the Wrangler people to ride in the CheyNational Finals Rodeo in Las enne Frontier Days Rodeo Vegas. Williams also per(one of the most famous in formed at the opening cerethe world, the touted “Daddy mony of the WNFR in 2016. of ‘Em All) and play its main Jon Reep (Courtesy photo) It is rare for an artist to perstage as a major entertainer. form two consecutive years, The band has shared the indicative of Chancey’s large Stoney LaRue. But, Williams of the Year, Chancey Wilstage with dozens of artists, says, nothing beats the following in the rodeo scene liams and the Younger including Lady Antebellum, opportunity to have occaBrothers Band, is gearing up across America.

Old Dominion, Miranda Always proud to represent sionally been direct support for their 2018 summer tour.

Lambert, Eric Church, his home state of Wyoming, for their heroes, legends like The band’s latest album, Brantley Gilbert, Gary Allan LeDoux, Alabama, Merle Rodeo Cold Beer, debuted at Williams was recently choand Travis Tritt. They’ve sen as one of five artists Haggard and Dwight No. 1 on the Billboard also enjoyed many bills with Yoakam. from around country, includMountain Heatseekers Texas contemporaries Casey The newly crowned Rocky Chart, No. 5 on the Billboard ing Darius Rucker, to be feaDonahew, Aaron Watson and Mountain CMA Entertainer West North Central HeatSee SHOWS, pg. 12 EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 11

Washington County A Akron, Otis

SHOWS from page 11

tured in the BBC’s USA Through Music.

This past fall, the band’s latest music video for the title track, “Rodeo Cold Beer” was added to The Country Network, reaching more than 40 million households. Williams co-wrote much of the album with Nashville’s singer-songwriter, Trent Willmon. Willmon has songwriting credits with a variety of country artists, including Eric Church, Little Big Town, and Brad Paisley among others.

The album was also produced by Grammy Awardwinning and ACM nominated audio engineer, Mills Logan.

Chancey and his drummer, lifelong friend Travis DeWitt, started the Younger Brothers Band with the humble initial goal of entering a high school talent contest.

The pair had no idea it would lead to small fairs (then big fairs), small bars (then large clubs) and become a fulltime career. They are joined by the amazing harmonies and lead guitar of Wyatt Springsteen and the stunning fiddle of Brooke Latka.

More recently, Jay Lee Downing joined the band on bass guitar. The result is Chancey Williams and the Younger Brothers Band, a rowdy, raucous, unapologetic, memorable stage show that is on the road pretty much all the time.

“We just love to play, travel, record our music and represent the great state of Wyoming,” said Williams.

“It’s just in our blood, I can’t imagine doing anything else.”

Jon Reep

Jon Reep is a nationally touring comedian whose contemporary country point 12 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

Colorado native Braydon Zink opens the night show at the Eastern Colorado Roundup in 2018. (Courtesy photo)

of view has won over legions of fans in comedy clubs, on tv and in film.

As a stand-up, he’s built a following through his hilarious comedy specials and winning appearance on Last Comic Standing. As an actor, he just wrapped a role in Tig Notaro’s Netflix Series One Mississippi and guest starred in an episode of Black-ish. He’s also appeared in Eastbound and Down, the feature film Into the Storm, and may be best known as “Raymus, the pot smoking farmer” from Harold and Kumar: Escape From Guantanamo Bay or as “Hemi Guy” from Dodge’s popular ad campaign.

Braydon Zink

Based in Austin, Braydon Zink hails from the small town of Iliff, Colorado. While attending college to become a third-generation lineman, Zink set his sights on a long

brewing craft: a passion for country music.

At age 10, he was introduced to the organ by his grandmother and quickly learned to play traditional gospel songs. Moving to the trumpet, he expanded his skills by learning how to read music. At age 11, with allowance money saved, Zink bought his first guitar.

With a good ear and some Elvis Presley and Johnny

Cash records from his grandparent’s house, Zink taught himself how to play.

Sports took the driver’s seat during Zink’s high school years, but he continued to play the guitar during his free time. Zink suffered from severe concussions that kept him from pursuing collegiate sports. But, thanks to fate, Zink turned to his guitar and started singing and writing his own songs. Things took off from there, and soon after, Zink started performing all over northeastern Colorado.

With a solid loyal following in Colorado, Zink set his sights on Austin, the “Live Music Capital of the World.”

For the past three years, Zink has now called Texas home. He has played across the entire state, as well as the southwest portions of the United State, as the opening act for artists like the Turnpike Troubadours, Sam Riggs, Kimberly Dunn, Johnny Rodriguez and Hal Ketchum, just to name a few.

Zink’s music is what Texans would consider down home “real country,” combining red dirt, outlaw and a touch of southern rock influences. Zink’s music makes you want to two-step across a sawdust dance floor and his authentic lyrics tug at your heart and touch your soul.

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Welcome to Logan County Crook, Fleming, Iliff, Merino, Peetz, Sterling

(Amalia Summers photo)

(Karianne Donnelson photo) (Leah Hartman photo) EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 13

Logan County A Crook, Fleming, Iliff, Merino, Peetz, Sterling

Tractor pull returns to fair

T

he 2018 Logan County Fair will see the return of one of the most popular events in rural America — the professional truck and tractor pull. This year’s pull is being produced by Heartland Pulling Series of Bridgeport, Neb. Heartland is quickly growing into one of the Midwest’s premier tractor and truck pull promoters. Because the official dates of the fair all have been committed, the tractor pull has been scheduled this year for Friday, Aug. 3, one day before the official first day of the fair.

The PRCA rodeo, a twoperformance, one-go-round sanctioned rodeo, will again feature the watermelon races that proved to be such a big hit in 2017, and special thank yous to military veterans, active duty, reserve and National Guard military personnel and to first responders. Military men and women will be honored on Thursday night and first responders on Friday night.

Dustin Lynch will headline this year’s East Cheyenne Gas Storage Night Show.

Lynch will take center stage for this popular event with

A diesel spews black smoke while pulling down in a 2016 Heartland Pulling contest in Bridgeport, Neb. Heartland will produce the Logan County tractor pull in Sterling this year. (Gander View Photography courtesy photo)

special guest Spencer Crandall on Saturday, Aug. 11 at 8 p.m.

Also, brand new to this

year’s night show is the addition of the Party Zone. This experience includes early entrance for front of stage standing, a commemorative lanyard, and artist merchandise. A limited number of tickets will be available for the Party Zone for special purchase.

Tickets for the night show have been on sale since May 1 and can be purchased at

lcfair.org.

All of the usual attractions will be back for the 2018 fair as well. Tuesday, Aug. 7 will feature PBR’s Next Era professional bull riding featuring some of the top bulls and riders on the tour today. Wagner’s Carnival will be on the midway again and local team roping, calf roping and junior rodeo events all are scheduled.

Churches Baptist

Lighthouse Baptist Church Pastor Justin Steimer 480 Logan St., Sterling 970-522-7226, www.light housebaptiststerling. org Sunday School 10 a.m., Morning Worship 11 a.m., Evening Service 6 p.m.

Catholic

St. Anthony of Padua Very Rev. Michael Bodzioch,

14 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

Rev. Herman Nsubuga, and 4th Sundays, 11 a.m.

326 South Third St., Sterling Episcopalian 970-522-6422, www.saint Prince of Peace Episcopal anthonyssterling.org 201 Phelps St., Sterling St. Anthony, Sterling, Sunday, 970-522-0539, www.princeof 7 a.m., 9 a.m.; Monday & peacesterling.com Wednesday-Saturday, 7 a.m., Sunday Service 8 a.m.; Fourth Tuesday, 5:30 p.m, Saturday VigSaturdays 4:30 p.m. il, 5 p.m.

St. Catherine of Siena, Iliff, 1st, Presbyterian 3rd, and 5th Sundays, 11 a.m., First Presbyterian Church 2nd and 4th Saturdays, 7 p.m.

Rev. Michelle Witherspoon Sacred Heart, Peetz, 1st, 3rd, 130 S. Fourth St., Sterling, CO and 5th Saturdays, 7 p.m., 2nd

970-522-2708, www.first pressterling.org Sunday School 9 a.m., Worship 10:30 a.m.

United Church of Christ

Zion Congregational Church Rev. Brian Witherspoon 432 Chestnut St., Sterling 970-522- 0817, sterlingzion church.org Adult Sunday School 9 a.m., Worship and Children’s Sunday School, 10 a.m.

Logan County A Crook, Fleming, Iliff, Merino, Peetz, Sterling

History comes to life T

he signature event of the year at the Overland Trail Museum is the annual Heritage Festival on July 4.

The Independence Day celebration features guest speakers, live musical entertainment, Heritage crafters and a variety of activities for all ages to enjoy. This year’s lineup includes Out of the Blue, FM Country and Peyton and Braedon Kloberdanz on the entertainment stage.

The opening flag ceremony will be presented by the Sons of the American Revolution in full period costume.

Admission to the museum is free during the event, which runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is no parking at the museum during the festival, but a free shuttle provides transportation from the Logan County Justice Center.

A variety of food vendors offer lunch on-site so you don’t have to miss a moment of the fun!

The Overland Trail Museum began in 1936 as a project of the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and has grown significantly in the past eight decades, but the mission of the Overland Trail Museum remains the same: to preserve and share the rich history of the Overland Trail and the heritage of the early settlers who traveled it.

“Items we have here were items the first settlers brought with them and items donated by their families,” said museum curator Kay Rich.

Additions to that original stone building have transformed the museum into a showcase of natural history, natives and settlers. The museum is home to a one-of-

Educational children’s programs are offered throughout the year at the Overland Trail Museum.

(Journal-Advocate photo)

a-kind Rural Electrification of America exhibit in the Dave Hamil building, which also houses special temporary exhibits highlighting artifacts from the museum’s collection.

The museum has also acquired over the years a collection of area historic buildings — some of them originals, some reproductions — that form a “village” in the museum courtyard, including a church, one room school and country store.

The area’s agricultural heritage is reflected in the Karg Barn and displays of antique farm equipment, and the community’s connection to the railroad is evident with the restored ATSF caboose and boxcar depot.

The High Plains Education Center, dedicated in the fall of 2011, features interactive exhibits on the people, geog-

raphy and industries found in the area. The building also includes a large meeting room that can be rented for private functions and classroom space for children’s programs.

The museum hosts programs for all ages throughout the year, including monthly Family Fun Saturdays on the first Saturday of the month, children’s holiday programs, History Cafe for adults, and Christmas open houses in December.

The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday during its summer season, April 1 to Oct. 31, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday from Nov. 1 to March 31.

It is closed on holidays.

For more information, call 970-522-3895, or visit the Overland Trail Museum Facebook page.

Panning for gold is a popular activity at the Overland Trail Museum’s annual Heritage Festival. (Journal-Advocate photo)

EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 15

Logan County A Crook, Fleming, Iliff, Merino, Peetz, Sterling

This weekend bazaar and craft fair can’t be ‘beet’

W

hen it comes to fall festivals in Colorado, Sugar Beet Days in Logan County is hard to “beet.” The annual festival draws creative crafters, fun food vendors and multifarious music entertainers from around the region.

This September hundreds of colorful tents will line the sidewalks surrounding the historic Logan County Courthouse in Sterling, where vendors will open shop in the shadow of the fully renovated courthouse built in 1910. The iconic courthouse serves as a fitting place for the community festival dedicated to remembering the annual sugar beet harvest in rural northeastern Colorado.

Over the years, the agricultural celebration has evolved into a two-day community and regional fair with art displays, children’s activities, homemade crafts, food vendors and an authentic farmer’s market, musical entertainment and activities for children of all ages.

Sugar Beet Days attendees can shop at more than 100 craft vendor booths, enjoy a meal or a treats from a dozen different food vendors and listen to live musical entertainment on the main stage at the courthouse gazebo.

In 2018 Sugar Beet Days will “look to home” for entertainment and showcase musical talent from area high schools, Northeastern Junior College and community members.

Avid shoppers attending Sugar Beet Days will find

16 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

Sugar Beet Days 2017 drew over 11,000 attendees. The two-day event draws craft and food vendors who set up shop around the historic Logan County Courthouse built in 1910. The festival’s downtown location also allows for extended shopping, dining and entertainment opportunities. (Journal-Advocate photo)

tents filled with clothing, jewelry, sports fan apparel, lawn decorations, furniture, hats, sunglasses, novelty items and gifts for every occasion.

And while the festival at the courthouse is the main attraction, its prime location allows for easy access to a revitalized downtown area where visitors can browse retail stores, eat at three dine-in restaurants, catch a movie at the theatre or try out craft beer at the first

Sugar Beet Days has evolved from a small agricultural celebration into a destination festival, while still honoring the hard working beet farmers of Northeastern Colorado. (JournalAdvocate photo)

craft brewery in the region.

With so much to do at Sugar Beet Days, visitors will want to plan ahead and book a room for a night or two.

This year’s Sugar Beet Days

celebration is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, Sept.

15-16. The free festival is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 17

Logan County A Crook, Fleming, Iliff, Merino, Peetz, Sterling

Festivals, fairs & parades

L

ogan County is home to a number of incorporated small towns that show their pride with annual festivals and fairs, each with its own special parade.

The Crook Fair falls on the last Saturday of July each year.

The town’s celebration includes a frog and turtle race, basketball hoop shoot, ranch rodeo, breakfast by the Crook Fire Department, parade, volleyball tournament, kids’ games, gymkhana, horseshoe tournament and street dance.

Residents also showcase their talents in exhibits that include garden vegetables, canned goods, baked goods, photography, clothing and crafts.

The Fleming Fall Festival falls on Sept. 8, 2018. This year’s theme is a “Holly Jolly Fall Fest.” The event includes a color run, parade, softball tournament, vendor booths, kids pedal tractor pull and street games, and a variety of other activities throughout the day. Information is available on the Fleming Fall Festival Facebook page.

The Merino Fall Festival is scheduled for Sept. 29, 2018.

The Merino Class of 2030 rides in a float in the 2017 Merino Fall Festival parade. (JournalAdvocate photo)

In addition to a parade through downtown, the event also includes vendor booths, kids games, 5K run, and a variety of other activities.

More information can be

found on the Merino Fall Festival Facebook page.

Peetz School’s homecoming coincides with the annual For Peetz Sake Days, which will be held Sept. 28-29. In addi-

tion to the parade, residents and visitors alike can enjoy a bake sale and craft fair, pancake breakfast, children’s games, hamburger fry and homecoming festivities.

(970) 522-0204 Mon-Thurs 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-1 a.m., Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Pub food

p.m., Weds-Thurs 8:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sat 9:30 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun noon-8 p.m.

Burgers and fries, nachos, appetizers, chicken

970-526-2550 Sun-Thurs 11 a.m.-9 p.m., FriSat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Pizza, pasta, sandwiches

Restaurants Blue Collar Steakhouse

115 N. 10th Ave, Sterling (970) 425-2227 Tue-Thurs 11 a.m.-8 p.m., FriSat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Steaks & Chops, Seafood & Chicken, Appetizers, Burgers & Sandwiches

Bamboo Garden

1027 W. Main St., Sterling 970-522-8801 Mon-Fri, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Chinese & Thai healthy cuisine

Hootenannies

324 W. Main St., Sterling

18 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

Hot Spot Smokehouse

620 Main St., Peetz (970) 334-2265 Tues 11 a.m.-7 p.m., WedsSat 10 a.m.-2 a.m.

Barbecue, American cuisine

Ice Lanes

208 N. 10th Ave., Sterling 970-522-3331 Summer hours: Mon 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Tues noon-9:30

Overland Trail Café

4513 County Road 63, Atwood 970-522-1871 Mon-Sun 5:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

American cuisine

Sam & Louie’s Italian Restaurant 310 Main St., Sterling

Simkins Parlour

315 Main St., Sterling 970-522-0896 Mon-Thurs 9 a.m.-9 p.m., FriSat 9 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Salad, wraps, soup, ice cream

Village Inn

203 N. 4th St., Sterling 970-522-4882 Daily, 5:30 a.m.-midnight Homestyle American classics

Logan County A Crook, Fleming, Iliff, Merino, Peetz, Sterling

Make a splash or work up a sweat

The outdoor swimming pool at the Sterling Recreation Center makes a splash with visitors of all ages through the summer months.

(Courtesy photo)

T

he Sterling Recreation Center, at 808 Elm St., offers a great way to beat the summer heat, or just stay healthy and active year round.

The center’s outdoor pool, which opened in 2006, features four water slides, a beach entry and several water attractions in the larger of the two pools, as well as a volleyball net and some basketball hoops for some friendly competition. There is also a smaller wading pool with a giant mushroom waterfall for the smallest splashers. The outdoor pool opens for the season on Memorial Day, with open swimming from 1 to 6:30 p.m. daily through the summer.

The center also boasts an indoor pool that can accommodate 222 swimmers, from

the baby pool to the diving well. Visitors can try out a paddle board or kayak during open swim hours on Thursdays and weekends.

An updated fitness room includes stationary bikes, treadmills, elliptical machines and other fitness equipment.

The center also offers basketball, wallyball and raquetball courts, as well as a youth room and multi-purpose room for parties.

Lockers and other equipment can be rented with a valid form of identification.

The facility is open from 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. MondayFriday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 6:30 p.m. Sunday.

Daily admission provides access to the entire facility; Small weights, a boxing bag, equipment for yoga and more can the center also offers punch be found in the fitness area at the Sterling Recreation Center. cards or annual passes.

(Journal-Advocate photo) EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 19

Logan County A Crook, Fleming, Iliff, Merino, Peetz, Sterling

New range hits the mark

Members in a fall trap shooting league take aim at the Logan County Shooting Sports Complex. (Journal-Advocate photo)

S

hooting enthusiasts can hit their mark at one of the newest attractions in northeast Colorado, the Logan County Shooting Sports Complex.

Located at 12515 Highway 6, on the east side of Interstate 76, at the entrance to Sterling, the complex opened in 2016. The volunteer-run facility is open from sunrise to sunset, except during special events.

The complex includes trapshooting, archery and rifle/ pistol ranges that include both 1,000-yard and 600-yard ranges, as well as shorter yardage ranges with shooting benches. A donated construction trailer is being converted into a club house. The complex is a work in progress and is not staffed.

Shooters need to bring their own targets and clean up after themselves. Rules are posted on the complex’s 20 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

website, www.colorado.gov/ pacific/lcssc.

Logan County’s new shooting sports complex is the result of many years of work by a group of local citizens interested in having a public shooting range in this area.

It is located on an almost 400-acre site. In 2014, Logan County purchased 270 acres of land for the range and in 2016 an additional 46 acres

of land was purchased from the State Board of Land Commissioners, to tie together approximately 100 acres of city of Sterling property and the 270 acres the county previously purchased.

Construction of the shooting sports complex has been funded in part by grants from Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

While the complex is a public use facility, there is a small daily use fee to use it and memberships are available to help sustain the facility.

Open shooting is allowed whenever the range is open.

The complex hosts events in the various disciplines as well as seasonal leagues and high school clay target teams.

The range is open when the gates at the Logan County Shooting Sports Complex are open. (Photo courtesy of LCSSC Facebook page)

EXPLORE DOWNTOWN

STERLING

WE HAVE FOOD!

Cabbage pockets, Soups, Salads, Gyros, 1/4 lb. Hot Dogs, Wraps & Ice Cream.

(970) 522-0896 A-ALL AREA

TRANSMISSION

Sacred Matter LLC

Glass Blowing Studio

102 S. Front St., Sterling, Co 80751 (970) 441-0429

TRANSMISSION • CLUTCHES DIFFERENTIALS • TRANSFER CASES

Jeff Heppner

970-522-2848

104 Poplar St. • Sterling, CO

Live GLaSS BLowinG DaiLy SacredMatterGlassworks@gmail.com Facebook.com/Sacredmatterglasssworks Instagram @SacredMatter @TanManGlass

Heart of tHe plains Antiques & collectibles

116 Main Street (970) 521-9519 Open Mon. - Sat. 9.00 to 5.00 General Line of Antiques & Collectibles • something for everyone •

The Clothes Lion 119 Main St. Sterling, CO 80751

521-0828

Design stuDiO & Yarn shOP Original Patterns & Kits,Yarn, Books, Beads, Classes 113 North 2nd Street Sterling, CO 80751

Denise Schaefer

Phone: 970.521.9041 Linda Taylor, Owner E-mail: info@fiberspacepatterns.com Web: fiberspacepatterns.com

122 N. 2nd St. Sterling

shopellajs@gmail.com

Franchise Owner Cell: (970) 580-3642 sterling@samandlouiespizza.com www.samandlouiespizza.com

DINE IN - CARRY OUT - CATERING EVENT ROOM - FULL BAR

(970) 526-2550 310 Main Street Sterling, CO 80751

EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 21

Logan County A Crook, Fleming, Iliff, Merino, Peetz, Sterling

Children dance along during a Sterling Arts Council's Transwest Concerts on the Green July Jamz performance in 2017. The free concerts are offered every Friday night in July. (Journal-Advocate photo)

Downtown beats F

riday nights in July, you’ll want to be at the Logan County Courthouse Square, where the Sterling Arts Council brings some of the best regional bands for free concerts from the Courthouse Gazebo.

This year’s July Jamz concert series gets started a week early, with the dynamic five piece, Eef and the Blues Express, performing June 29.

The blues band formed in 2009 and was a semi-finalist at the 2017 International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee.

On July 6, the Transwest 22 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

Concerts on the Green features Wild Road, a five-piece band that plays classic country, Western swing, rockabilly and cowboy songs. Singer Grant McIntosh has won the Colorado Male Vocalist of the Year award.

The Bakersfield Band returns to Sterling on July 13. This smokin’ hot honkytonkin’ country dance band was established in 2008 and stays true to the musical roots known as “The Bakersfield Sound.”

The July 20 performance will feature Rusty 44, a rustic roots band hailing from the

Colorado Fround Range region. They boast a unique style of acoustic music drawing from all corners of America.

Wrapping up the concert series on July 27 is the Hector Anchondo Band. The Omaha-based blues band was a 2016 International Blues Challenge finalist.

The performances start at 6 p.m. and last until 9 p.m., weather permitting. A variety of food vendors offer options for a picnic supper, so bring your blanket or lawn chairs, and don’t forget your dancing shoes.

Service Organizations Family Resource Center

120 Main St., Sterling 970-526-2439 https://www.frcster ling.org/ Parenting classes, teen and youth programs, family support

Sterling Masonic Lodge

198 Springdale Rd., Sterling (970) 522-2366 www.facebook.com/ pg/SterlingColoMa sons/ Regular Lodge Meetings, first and third Tuesdays except in summer

Logan County A Crook, Fleming, Iliff, Merino, Peetz, Sterling

Get away for an adventure

N

orth Sterling State Park (http://bit.ly/ JwGtQ0) is a gateway to fun and relaxation, located just a short drive from Sterling in Logan County.

The 3,000-acre irrigation reservoir boasts two boat ramps for those wanting to enjoy a day on the water.

Explore the great coves and fingers of the lake, take in the wildlife and geographical formations, find a shady spot for a picnic or cast a line into the warm-water fishery.

North Sterling is open to fishing year round, featuring walleye, crappie, perch, bass, bluegill, trout, catfish, tiger muskie, wiper and northern pike. Please refer to the Colorado Fishing Regulations published annually

by Colorado Parks and Wildlife for a complete listing of size restrictions and possession limits.

The Northside Marina, located by the Visitor Center, is accessible from the north entrance or by water.

The marina is open weekend hours through Labor Day, contingent upon water levels, with extended holiday hours. They offer seasonal and daily boat slip rentals, firewood, fuel and bait, as well as the supplies you’ll need to enjoy your campsite.

Natural surface trails offer miles of options for those on foot, bike or horseback. For archery enthusiasts, an 11station range boasts 18 targets, including three sight-in targets, at 20, 30 and 40 yards for field tips or target tips only. The park also offers a designated star-gazing area near the campgrounds on the south side, where you can enjoy the wonders of the night sky

Watercraft of all kinds are welcome at North Sterling State Park. (Journal-Advocate photo)

other types of birds. A complete Bird Species List can be found on the park website or at the Visitor Center, and guided bird walks can be arranged by calling 970522-3657.

Hunting is carefully managed and permitted during established seasons from the first Tuesday after Labor Day through the Friday before Memorial Day. Hunting area maps are available at the Sterling Visitor Center and south entrance brochure kiosk.

Chimney View Campground offers basic, non-electric campsites The park boasts three with a pull-through driveway, shade shelter, picnic table, fire pit campgrounds with a total of and high-use tent pad. (Mike Alosi/Courtesy photo) 141 campsites. It can accommodate the largest motor away from pesky night pollu- from prairie dogs to coyotes, homes as well as the smalltion. badgers, deer and antelope. est pup tents, with 50 develPrairie wildlife is abundant Bird-watchers will enjoy oped sites available yearin the park, on the ground sighting a wide variety of round. View fees and make and in the air. Land-based raptors, including golden reservations for any of the animals of all sizes and spe- eagles, red-tailed hawks and campgrounds online at cies call the park home, American kestrels, among http://bit.ly/2IKSK9J. EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 23

Welcome to Yuma County Restaurants

Idalia, Wray, Yuma

On The Green

Located at Indian Hills Golf Course 5294 County Road 39, Yuma (970) 848-0799 Sunday: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Closed Monday and Tuesday Wednesday-Saturday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Barbeque and Steaks.

Kids or Senior Menu; Take-Out.

Pizza Hut

831 South Detroit, Yuma (970) 848-5471 Sunday-Thursday: 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Friday-Saturday: 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Daily Buffet, 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Buffet, Wednesdays 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Dine-In; Take-Out

(Karianne Donnelson photo)

Q

A one-of-a-kind quilt show

uilts of the Plains is a unique, outdoor quilt show for quilters of all levels.

The event, which began in 2000, comes to Main Street in Wray on June 23 and 2018 will be the first year the Wray Chamber of Commerce is presenting the show.

Quilts will be hung outside the Main Street storefronts in Wray, and a small vendor mall will be available to browse.

Depending on the amount of entries per category, you can expect a first, second and third place per category, as well as a best of show. The prizes will be Chamber Bucks, which can be used at participating businesses.

To register a quilt or get involved, visit https://wraychamber.net/quilts-ofthe-plains/#!directory.

24 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

Shop-All Sante Fe Grill

315 East Eighth Avenue, Yuma (970) 848-5427 Daily Fresh Made Tacos, Burritos, Quesadillas and Breakfast Burritos; Daily Lunch Specials.

Take-Out

Canyon Coffee & Café

Quilts hanging outside storefronts turn downtown Wray into an outdoor art gallery during the Quilts of the Plains show. (Photo courtesy Quilts of the Plains Facebook page)

345 Main Street, Wray (970) 332-0632 Monday - Friday: 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Lattes, Smoothies, Frappes and Other Specialty Drinks; Breakfast Croissants and Sandwiches Served All Day. Take-Out

Yuma County A Idalia, Wray, Yuma

‘5:10 to Yuma’ road race to showcase small town charm T

he West Yuma County Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with the City of Yuma, will be producing the second annual “5:10 to Yuma” Road Race on June 16. The road race offers a 5k or 10k option and participants will wind through the smalltown charm of northeastern Colorado. The courses include wheat field views and dirt cross country. The event is open to runners, joggers and walkers.

The race starts and fin-

ishes in downtown Yuma and the 10k course takes you across an airstrip and along wheat and cornfieldlined dirt roads with water stations and cheer stations along the way.

The finish area includes entertainment by the Juke Joint Cruisers, an antique car show, unique arrowhead finisher medals,

Oskar Blues beer and a pancake breakfast, all included in the race entry fee. Shops will be open and offering discounts and giveaways.

Alice Swanson, former director of the West Yuma County Chamber, worked on the management team of the BolderBOULDER 10K Race for over nine years and brings her experience to this event.

“I learned from the best race in the country and am excited to bring that knowl-

edge to Yuma for a smaller version,” Swanson said.

“We’re hoping to see the race grow and feature the beauty of northeastern Colorado.”

Cost is $23 for the 5k and $33 for the 10k and special pricing for kids 12 and under. Prices go up after May 31.

To register, go to https:// runsignup.com/Race/CO/ Yuma/5k10kToYuma, email director@westyumachamber.com or call (970) 8472704.

A CSU Ram was featured in the 2017 Weathers Family Farms Corn Maze. (Photo courtesy of Facebook/Weathers Family Farms)

Weathers Family Farms Corn Maze has all the fall favorites

S

pend your weekends in October at the Weathers Family Farms Corn Maze, taking in all that fall has to offer.

Owned and operated by a local Yuma family, the pumpkin patch and corn maze sits six miles east of Yuma on Highway 34. Test

your skills zigging and zagging through the tall corn stalks, cut into elaborate designs each year. Several unique pumpkin varieties are also available to sort through and purchase for a small fee.

A concessions stand is onsite to satisfy those hungry

bellies, with plenty of picnic tables where visitors can sit and relax. Let the kids play in the giant corn filled box or take a ride on the giant slide made of hay bales.

The full 2018 schedule and price list can be found at www.weathersfarms.net/ maze/.

EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 25

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Welcome to Phillips County Amherst, Haxtun, Holyoke, Paoli

(Denise Smith photo)

(Karianne Donnelson photo) 28 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

(Merle Powell photo)

Phillips County A Holyoke, Haxtun

Peerless Theatre

A hundred reasons to celebrate

Peerless has made every effort to stay relevant to the community. It has added things like digital technology, 3-D capabilities and surround-sound.

Most recently, the Fridaynight showing has been olyoke’s Peerless offered either in Spanish or Theatre has reason to with Spanish subtitles — celebrate this year. something that has gotten It’s the 100th anniversary of tremendous response from the original building and the the local community.

20th anniversary of the In an effort to make movgrand re-opening of the new ies a fun experience for Peerless Center at the same everyone, the Peerless is location, 212 S. Interocean also looking at fundraising Ave. The Peerless Theatre is a landmark on Holyoke’s main street. for a closed caption device The Golden Plains RecreThe original building (pictured) was constructed in 1918, and that will provide subtitles for ation Center/Peerless Thethe present-day theater was rebuilt and reopened in 1998. the hearing impaired. atre board of directors is Since its reopening, the (Courtesy photo) planning a reception to celePeerless Center has become brate in December 2018. war tax) for the first Peerless nizable Peerless marquee much more than just a cineIt will come after the annu- showing June 13, 1919, of were also saved. ma. It provides space for a al CineMagic fundraising “The Eleventh CommandThe new Peerless Theatre basketball gym, game room, event in October or Novemment,” a black and white opened Christmas Day, 1998, pool table, gymnastics classber — a tradition of fun cossilent photoplay. with two sell-out performanc- es, dance studio, business tumes, fancy dinner and qualFast forward to the 1990s. es of “Prince of Egypt.” With offices, special events, birthity entertainment.

The Peerless Theatre sat a seating capacity of 149, day parties, youth groups The Peerless theatre, empty for much of the adult admission was $5 while and more. which began construction in decade. But then a group of students and seniors paid $4 For additional information, 1918, got its name from its dedicated citizens decided to and preschoolers $3. visit www.thepeerlessthePeerless sound system. The do something about it. “Old In the last 20 years, the atre.com or call 970-854-2453.

50-foot-by-150-foot building friends, like the familiar prescould seat over 450 in regula- ence of the Peerless on our tion opera chairs, with a main street, are worth keepmodern screen, a late model ing,” they said.

St. Peter, Fleming, Sunday, simplex motion picture A massive fundraising Baptist 10:30 a.m. machine, a stage to accomeffort began in 1997 so the First Baptist Church modate road shows, a modtheater could reopen under Lutheran ChurchPastor Jeremiah Krieger ern confectionery and ice the governing board of the 1000 E. Johnson St., HolyMissouri Synod cream booths.

GPRC. oke, CO Zion Lutheran Church Owners H.L. Timmons, Efforts were made to pre970-854-2452 Rev. Gary Rahe Robert L. Johnston and H.C. serve historical aspects of Sunday School 9:30 a.m., 240 S. High School Ave., Phelps said, “We are sparing the theater, but the building Worship 10:30 a.m.

Holyoke, CO no expense in making this was unsafe and needed to be Easter worship 10 a.m.

970-854-2615 theater the most modern rebuilt.

Sunday: 10 a.m.; Hispanic Catholic show house in this part of GPRC worked hard to service 11:30 a.m.

St. Patrick Church Colorado. A theater of this restore the front of the theRev. Jerry Rohr United Methodist kind is something that Holy- ater to its original look. The 519 S. Interocean Ave., Haxtun United Methodist oke has long needed, and we new building contains 75 perHolyoke, CO Church are bending every effort to cent of the original bricks, 970-854-2762 Pastor Jeri Soens make it just as you would which were made at a kiln St. Patrick, Holyoke, Sun106 S. Washington Ave., have it.” west of Holyoke. The concesday, 8 a.m.

Haxtun, CO Adults paid 33 cents and sion counter/mirror, tiles Christ the King, Haxtun, Sat970-774-7413 children 17 cents (including from the floor and the recogurday, 5 p.m.

Sunday Worship: 9:30 a.m

H

Churches

EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 29

Phillips County A Holyoke, Haxtun

’50s style Old Fashioned Saturday Night

B

From pedal carts to a corn maze to a jumping pillow, Pumpkins and More A-maizing-Farm offers so much more than just a pumpkin patch. Attractions will open mid-September southeast of Holyoke. (Johnson Publications photo)

Fall in love with fall at Pumpkins and More I

f you’re looking for fall fun for the entire family, look no further than Pumpkins and More A-maizing Farm. Located six miles south and 3.5 miles east of Holyoke, this local farm offers much more than just pumpkins!

Some of the most popular attractions have included pedal carts, jumping pillow, cow train, tether balls, slides, inflatables, spider web and a corn maze, which becomes haunted just in time for Halloween.

A wide variety of colors and sizes of pumpkins and gourds are available to pick right from the patch.

A pavilion is available for picnics, and the farm can 30 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

open for special occasions and field trips.

After humble beginnings in 2009, Pumpkins and More A-maiz-ing Farm has grown a little more every year and looks forward to its

24-Hour

Weather-Protected ATM on Premises

Holyoke Community Federal Credit Union

NMLS #811861

“People Helping People”

101 W. Denver St., Holyoke 970-854-3109•www.hcfcu.org

mid-September opening in 2018.

For more information, visit www.pumpkinsandmoreamaizingfarm.com, check out their Facebook page or call 970-580-2707.

Pizza p.a.d.

Pizza Hot Wings Ice Cream Open Tues.-Sat. 110 N. Interocean Holyoke

970-854-3042

ack for its 31st year, Haxtun’s Old Fashioned Saturday Night is an annual crowd-pleaser and one of the town’s most iconic celebrations. Saturday, July 14, Haxtun Chamber of Commerce has fun for all ages planned downtown throughout the day.

In the morning, townwide garage sales are scheduled.

In the afternoon, there will be activities for all ages.

Cars -— both classic and late models — will line Main Street for the car show, and in the evening there will be a burnout competition. Always a favorite, the burnout is a chance for drivers to show off their cars and spin their wheels in style, and the audience cheers for their pick for the winner.

A beer garden, music and a street dance after dark will keep attendees entertained well into the night.

For more information on how to enter the car show or with questions about attending Old Fashioned Saturday Night, contact Sara Firme at the Haxtun Chamber of Commerce, 970-467-0194.

WINERY

in the sandhills of northern Yuma County 51368 Hwy 385, Holyoke Tastings & Private Events

by Appointment 970-630-1457

EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 31

Phillips County A Holyoke, Haxtun

Holly Daze is queen of all the craft fairs B

oasting 75-80 vendors and celebrating a 56year tradition, the Holly Daze craft and gift show is a one-day event that can’t be missed!

Holly Daze ushers in the holiday season the last Saturday in October, traditionally at Holyoke JR/SR High School.

Vendors travel from Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas and Wyoming, and customers of all ages come from miles around to snag some of the unique items for sale.

Marianne Sullivan, who organizes Holly Daze with her daughter, Kim Kramer, said she enjoys the event because it’s a chance to get to know people who come back year after year. Holly Daze has grown immensely, and the quality has also

Sharon Blake and Debbie Richards, pictured at right, admire Kendra Bajcar’s selection of gifts at Holly Daze craft and gift show at Holyoke High School. (Johnson Publications photo)

increased as Holly Daze has become one of the region’s biggest and best craft and gift shows.

Jolly Dozen FCE Club, which sponsors the event, uses funds raised from Holly

Daze to make donations to several local organizations and to give two $500 scholarships to graduating seniors.

For more information or to reserve vendor spaces, contact Sullivan at 970-854-2518.

Repurposed, vintage theme of open-air marketplace

F

or those looking for one-of-a-kind pieces, the Burlap and Lace Marketplace is the event for you!

Saturday, June 23, head over to 106 S. Reynolds Ave. in Holyoke from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for an open-air vintage, antique and artisan market and tag sale.

Vendors will have repurposed furniture, glassware, jewelry, signs, yard art, rusted junk and lots of cool stuff not available anywhere else!

This is the seventh year for Burlap and Lace Marketplace, organized by the Junque Gypsies, including Erin LeBlanc and Rhonda Menard.

LeBlanc said they’ve really hit a niche market and they’re pleased to be able to offer something unique in northeast Colorado.

Restaurants Holyoke

CHS Grainland Ampride 220 W. Denver St. 970-854-3399 5 a.m.-9 p.m. daily Wide variety hot foods.

Take-out, credit cards accepted.

Happy Jacks Barbeque 130 E. Denver St. 970-854-7202 Open W-Th, 11-2, 5-8; F-Sa, 11-8 Heidi’s Coffee & Bake Shop 215 N. Interocean Ave. 970-854-2253 Open at 7 a.m. Mon-Fri; 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Sat. Breakfast and Lunch served all day Specialty coffees, sandwiches, wraps, baked goods and more.

Holyoke Marketplace & Deli 112 E. Carnahan

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970-854-3663 (FOOD) M-Sat, 7 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Fresh Deli with Fried Chicken Daily KarDale’s Restaurant & Lounge 142 N. Interocean Ave. 970-854-3455 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Mon-Sat, Lounge 11a-2a Mon-Sat Family Style, Breakfast served all day Kids and Senior Menu, Takeout, Credit Cards accepted.

Kwik Stop 115 E. Denver St. 970-854-2233 Kwik & Fresh Mexi Open 24 hours.

Credit Cards accepted.

Los Parra’s 116 N. Interocean Ave. 970-854-3004 11 a.m.-8 p.m. daily Family restaurant featuring

Mexican food.

Take-out. All major credit cards accepted.

Pizza p.a.d.

110 N. Interocean Ave. 970-854-3042, Tues.- Sat., 11-2, 4-8 Pizza, hot wings and ice cream Take-out, Delivery, Credit Cards accepted The Skillet Restaurant 130 W. Denver St., 1/2 block west of the stoplight 970-854-2150.

American food, family dining.

Cocktails served.

Tues-Sat--10-2, 4:30-9 p.m; Sun.--8 a.m.-2 p.m.; Closed every Mon. and last Tues of month Jan.-Sept.

Full menu, Breakfast, Hamburgers, Sandwiches, Chicken, Steaks, Seafood.

Kids or Senior Menu, Take-out, Visa, Mastercard, Discover cards accepted.

Subway 143 S. Interocean Ave. 970-854-7827 (SUBS) June-Aug.—9 a.m.-10 p.m. daily Sept.-May—9-9 Sun-Th; 9-10, F-Sat. Order thru Subway app or stop in

Haxtun

CHS Grainland C-Store 105 Strohm St. 970-774-7353 5:30 a.m.-7 p.m. daily Fast food, take-out.

Credit cards accepted The Daily Grind 106 E Strohm St. 970-774-5282 (JAVA) M-F, 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

Coffees, Teas, Smoothies, Cookies, Muffins, Breads, Salads and Sandwiches.

Gifts available

Phillips County A Holyoke, Haxtun

County fair has 4 big nights F

our nights in a row of crowd-pleasing events will culminate in the ever-popular Bulls Gone Wild! in Holyoke for the 2018 Phillips County Fair. It all takes place at the Phillips County Fairgrounds, and every night will be worth the drive.

Starting Wednesday, July 25, the Thrashers softball team will be hosting a 5K color run, Rocky Mountain oyster fry and cornhole tournament to kick off the fair festivities.

On Thursday, July 26, barrel racing will be the featured event, with action beginning at 6 p.m.

Friday, July 27, will be an event new to the Phillips County Fair. Heartland Pulling Series will bring a diesel truck and tractor pull to town, with competition starting at 7 p.m.

Finally, on Saturday, July 28, starting at 7 p.m., the bulls will enter the ring for a grand finale. Bulls Gone Wild! features daring athletes competing in both American bullfighting and bull riding. To finish off the night, country music singer Lexi Larsen, originally of Ogallala, Nebraska, will be performing at the beer garden.

Of course, the county fair isn’t just about the big nightly

KARDALE’S Restaur

Restaurant & Lounge 142 N. Interocean Holyoke, CO

970-854-3455 Mon.-Sat. 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

Lounge—Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

This bullfighter sure isn’t clowning around at the 2017 Phillips County Fair’s Bulls Gone Wild! event. Returning to this year’s fair, the death-defying athletes will show off their bullfighting and maneuvers and bull-riding skills once again. (Johnson Publications)

features. Tuesday through Sunday, July 24-29, there will be plenty to see and do at the “Small Town Showdown.” The brand new, 87,500-square-foot Phillips County Pavilion and Education Center will be broken in with its first big event.

Throughout the week, see livestock, 4-H projects and open class entries ranging

from baked goods to vo-ag mechanics.

On Friday and Saturday, Ninja Nation, a 250-foot obstacle course based on American Ninja Warrior, will give both kids and adults the chance to face off in friendly competition.

Thursday evening will feature a Dutch oven cook-off;

Saturday morning will begin with a parade; and Sunday morning will round out the fair with an on-site church service.

Pick your favorite event or enjoy them all at the 2018 Phillips County Fair. Visit http:// www.phillipscofair.com/ for the most up-to-date information.

100th Anniversary

Celebration Oct. 4, 2018

Melissa Memorial Hospital 1001 E. Johnson St. • Holyoke, CO 970-854-2241 • melissamemorial.org MMH Hometown Pharmacy Holyoke Family Eyecare Family Practice of Holyoke Specialty Clinic

EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 33

Phillips County A Holyoke, Haxtun

100 years of Melissa Memorial 2018 marks the 100th year of hospital history in Holyoke, and Melissa Memorial Hospital has a celebration worthy of the milestone planned.

On Oct. 4 — the day Holyoke’s first hospital opened in 1918 — MMH will be hosting a community dinner at its 1001 E. Johnson St. location to commemorate the occasion.

The building that housed the first hospital still stands at 246 N. Interocean Ave. in Holyoke and is now home to Brandt Chiropractic Clinic.

In 1918, it was called Holyoke Hospital and was advertised as “the only modern hospital within 200 miles of Holyoke.” It was later called Phillips County Hospital. The 40-room facility was built for Holyoke’s first hospital was built in 1918 and still stands at the corner of Interocean Avenue and Dr. Timmons who had previ- Furry Street. (Phillips County Museum photo) ously worked out of the house at 641 S. Baxter Ave. A new Melissa Memorial Hospital was later built on the corner of Baxter Avenue Burge Hotel Fast racing and great action • Sunday, June 17, 5 p.m. — and Hale Street, donated to 230 N. Interocean Ave., are a sure thing in stock car Kids’ Night (bike race and tire the district by W.E. HeginHolyoke, CO races through September at roll) plus five IMCA divisions botham and First National 970-854-2261 or 1-800Phillips County Raceway at the and dwarfs racing.

Bank, and was dedicated July 352-5256 fairgrounds in Holyoke. And an • Wednesday, July 4, 5 p.m.

25, 1965. www.burgehotel.net added bonus of a Metal May— Independence Day race feaThe current MMH facility, hem event is set for Saturday, turing High Plains late models Cobblestone Inn & finished in March 2008, Oct. 13, to celebrate the seaand six additional divisions.

Suites recently celebrated a 10-year son.

• Sunday, Sept. 2, 5 p.m. — 805 S. Interocean Ave., anniversary itself. Even withIMCA modifieds, sport mods, Back-to-School Night with $5 Holyoke, CO in that relatively short time stock cars, hobby stocks, com- admission with school ID, fea970-854-3222 frame, the hospital has seen pacts and dwarfs are featured turing High Plains late models holyoke@staycobblean expansion and many consistently on the 2018 racing and six additional divisions. stone.com schedule which began in mid• Saturday, Sept. 29, 6 p.m. updates, continuing to keep www.staycobbleApril.

— Championship Night featurup with the ever-changing stone.com Targeting holidays and week- ing IMCA RaceSaver sprint cars world of medicine.

Racing at PC Raceway

Clubs Haxtun Lions Club

Ross Edwards, president Meet 1st and 3rd Tuesdays (Sept.-April), 6:30 p.m.

Haxtun Community Center, 125 E. Wilson, Haxtun

34 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

end racing, the season schedule continues through the end of September with added attractions at each race.

Starting with the Memorial Day weekend races, the PC Raceway schedule follows: • Saturday, May 26, 6 p.m.

— Motor Madness featuring High Plains late models and six additional divisions.

and six additional divisions.

• Saturday, Oct. 13, 6 p.m.

— Metal Mayhem. Details in the works.

For an up-to-date schedule, as well as race results, go to www.bstracing.com, call the Colorado Dirt Track Hotline at 720-404-0400 or visit their Facebook page and click “Like” to follow them.

Lodging

Golden Plains Motel

1250 SW Interocean Dr., Holyoke, CO 970-854-3000 www.goldenplainsmotel.com goldenplainsmotel@gmail.com

Welcome to

PhillipsCounty Entertainment Nightly Wednesday-Saturday starting at 4 p.m.

“Becoming Stronger by Working Together” admin@phillipscountyco.org 970-580-3614 www.phillipscountyco.org

Holyoke Vets Club 229 E. Denver • Holyoke 970-854-9444

Over 50 Years 217 S. Colorado—Haxtun

970-774-6118

hfherald.com

of Rural Real Estate Experience

Casey Blake, Broker Associate, 970-520-2274 Kim Fuller, Broker/Owner, 970-466-1413 Shawna Holveck, Broker Associate, 970-580-8585 www.homesatchoice.com

PAOLI

FARMERS CO-OP ELEVATOR CO. paolifarmerscoop.com

774-7234 Certified Seed Cleaner

Westbred Certified Seed Wheat

Locally Owned Locally Controlled

Oliver Agency

Tyler & Laura Knode

Rebecca Oliver, Agent 507 E. 1st — Haxtun 970-774-7186 219 W. 2nd — Julesburg 970-474-2112

Haxtun 970-774-4500 800-320-6922 Holyoke 970-854-4400 www.knode-realtyauction.com

Home u Farm Auto u Commercial

FARMERS UNION INSURANCE and multiple company options

XTUN SAV-O-MAT HAXTUN SA Righ Right on Hwy #6 For all your brake, tires and alignment

970-774 970-774-7450

Your full-service community bank

www.pwcbank.com

128 S. Colorado—Haxtun—970-774-6141

Hassler Crop Insurance, LLC

Come see what Phillips County has to offer!

Hank & Wanda Hassler MPCI & Crop Hail 112 N. Sunflower Dr.—Holyoke 970-854-4595

Five Star Rentals and Equipment, LLC Equipment Rental Headquarters 416 E. Denver, Holyoke 970-854-2145

RACESFairgrounds MAY THRU OCTOBER • Holyoke, CO Saturday, May 26, 6 p.m.

Featuring High Plains Late Models

Sunday, June 17, 5 p.m.

Kid’s Night (Bike Race & Tire Roll)

Wednesday, July 4, 5 p.m.

Featuring BST CAT Tour

Sunday, Sept. 2, 5 p.m.

Back to School Night ($5 Admission with School ID) Featuring High Plains Late Models

BUILDING CE NT TUN X ER For all your A H building needs!

321 S. Colorado, Haxtun 774-7655 Windows & Doors Insulation

Saturday, Sept. 29, 6 p.m.

Featuring IMCA RaceSaver Sprints Car Series

Saturday, Oct. 13, 6 p.m.

Metal Mayhem Festival

Full schedule at phillipscountyraceway.com or see our Facebook page • 720-404-0400

!

COUPON $2 OFF ADULT TICKET good thru Oct. 2018

EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 35

Phillips County A Holyoke, Haxtun

‘So God Made a Farmer’ is Corn Festival theme

P

aying tribute to the area’s agricultural heritage, Haxtun’s annual Corn Festival event will see its 97th year Saturday, Sept.

29, sporting the theme, “So God Made a Farmer.”

In the last several decades of Corn Festival history, a resident has been honored by being named Grand Marshal for the morning parade.

This year’s honoree is Quentin “Bud” Biesemeier. He is a former Phillips County commissioner and has served on numerous local boards and church committees in Haxtun.

Yesteryear’s records of the first Corn Festival, on Oct. 12, 1922, state, “A cold south wind failed to dampen the spirits of hundreds of local folk.”

In that first-ever event that has been a tradition for close to a century, events included a big dance, exhibits of fine garden produce, street races, penny scramble and ball games, as well as a Perfect Baby Show. A Corn King and Wheat King were crowned.

This year, the Sept. 29 Corn Festival will begin with a fireman’s breakfast, fol-

lowed by a long line-up of family-fun activity including a parade, vendors, street games, a dance and more.

The 5K J. Jeffryes Scholarship Run as well as multiple shows and exhibits are slated for the day.

To keep up with Corn Fes-

tival plans, visit the Haxtun Corn Festival page on Facebook.

Alicia Schram and Sara Firme serve as co-chairmen of the event, and Firme can be reached by calling Haxtun Chamber of Commerce at 970-467-0194.

Husqvarna Mowers Airport

5,000 ft. Runway AWOS & GPS Approach RC Air Field Jet-A and Av-Gas Fuel available

Traeger Grills

NAPA Auto Parts

Recreation

Baseball/Softball Fields Indoor Swim Pool Beautiful In-City 9-Hole Golf Course Beautiful City Park Bike/Walking Path 970-854-2230

Heginbotham Library Listed on the National Register of Historic Places

City Office H 970-854-2266 cityofholyoke-co.gov

36 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

S & W Auto Supply Open 7-6 Mon.-Sat. “Because It Matters”

310 E. Denver, Holyoke 970-854-2258 712 W. 1st, Julesburg 970-474-2067

Representing the family aspect of Haxtun’s Corn Festival, Brooke Plumb and her dad, Jeff, dash to the finish line in the three-legged race in the 2017 festival. (Haxtun-Fleming Herald photo)

Phillips County A Holyoke, Haxtun

Come to See

Phillips County Stay to Live

Dandelion Daze

June 23, 2018 • Courthouse • Holyoke

Haxtun Lions Club members Winston Ham and Tommy Davis serve dinner to Chuckwagon goers Pastor Jeri Soens and her husband Ron at the 2018 event. (Haxtun-Fleming Herald photo)

Family fun touted at Haxtun Lions Chuckwagon Dinner

T

radition of a chuckwagon dinner with good wholesome family musical entertainment is in its fifth decade for the Haxtun Lions Club, who hosted the 45th annual event in March of 2018.

Depicting a meal that might have been served out on the range on a cattle drive, the annual event has proven to be quite popular.

The menu includes smoked brisket, corn, baked potatoes, spice cake and peaches.

Augie Bjorklun and Bill Fuesz were instrumental in putting the first program together in the mid-1970s after enjoying a similar event at the Flying W in Colorado Springs.

Bjorklun said that Dean Anderson later initiated the idea of a businessman’s packet, where businesses or individuals have the opportunity to be a trailboss sponsor

for a designated dollar amount in exchange for 10 tickets. That has made the event a great Lions Club fundraiser to provide funds for community service projects.

The entertainment started out with country western music in the early years. The Young Americans entertained a couple of times, then the Lions started getting groups from Branson, Missouri. A lead singer with a family connection to Haxtun was part of the 2018 entertainment that had people getting up to dance as they enjoyed the program.

Local tradition, local fun.

That’s what community is all about and what the Haxtun Lions Club provides in its annual Chuckwagon Dinner & Show.

Next year’s event is set for Saturday, March 16, 2019, at the Haxtun school.

Old-Fashioned Saturday Night July 14, 2018 • Haxtun

Phillips County Fair

July 24-29, 2018 • Fairgrounds • Holyoke

Haxtun Corn Festival Sept. 29, 2018 • Haxtun

Haxtun Hospital District

235 W. Fletcher • Haxtun • 970-774-6123 • haxtunhealth.org

Brandt Chiropractic Clinic

Dr. Jerold Brandt, D.C. 246 S. Interocean Ave. • Holyoke • 970-854-3398

Phillips County Commissioners 221 S. Interocean Ave. • Holyoke • 970-854-3778 www.colorado.gov/phillipscounty

Phillips County Abstract Co.

202 S. Interocean Ave. • Holyoke • 970-854-3527

Baucke Funeral Home & Baucke Monuments 1220 S.W. Interocean Dr. • Holyoke • 970-854-2116 www.yumafuneralhome.com

1001 E. Johnson St. • Holyoke • 970-854-2241 www.melissamemorial.org Holyoke Family Eyecare 970-854-2500 Hometown Pharmacy 970-854-2222 Family Practice of Holyoke 970-854-2500

EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 37

Phillips County A Holyoke, Haxtun

18th annual Dandelion Daze car show set for June 23

Every summer, Phillips County Court House square in Holyoke is transformed for one day into a car-lover’s dream. (Johnson Publications)

FRESH DELI with Fried Chicken and Daily Specials

Meet our friendly staff as they help you with MEAT • PRODUCE FROZEN • DAIRY • DELI

112 E. Carnahan, Holyoke • 970-854-FOOD (3663) www.holyokemarketplace.com Hours: Monday-Saturday 7-8, Sunday 8-5

38 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

H

olyoke Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for the 18th annual Dandelion Daze scheduled for Saturday, June 23.

The summer car show has grown into a favorite for both locals and out-of-town car enthusiasts.

The car and bike show itself will be on the Phillips County Court House lawn at 221 S. Interocean Ave. Registration is slated for 8 to 11 a.m., and the show and shine will last until 3 p.m. Awards for top 15, rodders’ choice, people’s choice and top bike will be presented at 2:30 p.m. at the west courthouse steps, and at 3 p.m., owners are invited to Cruisin’ Down Main. They will drive south on Interocean Avenue to the Regent Park parking lot.

Also at the courthouse lawn will be exhibitor, craft, informational, vendor and food booths from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free kid and family games, including sidewalk chalk, face painting, a dunk booth and inflatables, will begin at 10 a.m.

The Holyoke High School

FBLA chapter will have breakfast and lunch options available on-site as a fundraiser for their conferences.

Taking place elsewhere that day will be a 5K run/ walk and a poker run. Registration for the Melissa Memorial Hospital poker run is at the courthouse at 8 a.m. The 5K run/walk, sponsored by Holyoke Fitness Club and the City of Holyoke recreation department, also begins at 8 a.m. at the City Park on the south end of town.

In honor of Dandelion Daze, Phillips County Museum will be open from noon-4:30 p.m. The Hupmobile and Model T in the transportation area will be of particular interest to car-lovers.

Both car registration and vendor booth registration can be completed online at https://squareup.com/ store/holyoke-chamber-ofcommerce. For additional information, contact Holyoke Chamber at 970-8543517 or director@holyokechamber.org.

(Ashley Kinoshita photo)

Welcome to Sedgwick County

(Leah Hartman photo)

Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick

(Tami Brown photo) EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 39

Sedgwick County A Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick

All makes and models love to cruise the streets of Julesburg. (Hippodrome Arts Centre courtesy photo)

Cruise in for hot rods, drag races T

he love of the automobile is an American tradition, and it is celebrated at the annual “Cruise Night” held in Julesburg on the eve of the Tri-State Hot Rod Revival held at the Julesburg Drag Strip Aug. 17-19.

Reminiscent of the ’50s, classic cars and motorcycles cruise up and down Julesburg’s Main (Cedar) Street.

More than 100 cruisers took part in the event’s first year in 2017, and that number is expected to rise for 2018.

Old fashioned burgers, fries and shakes are just as much as Americana and is the evening’s feast around town. Racing memorabilia 40 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

and local racing history can also be found on display at the Hippodrome.

Saturday and Sunday, car enthusiasts will not have found a finer show of cars or races. Muscle cars and race cars, nitrous, many older, some pickups and even station wagons will take their turn at the Christmas tree, lighting up their tires for a pass down the drag strip and many simply will be on display for all gear heads to enjoy.

More than a 100 cars are expected to attend the third annual Tri-State Reunion Car Show for a cacklefest sure to rumble the valley.

This picture shows how it was to cruise in fashion the streets of Julesburg in 1911. Notice the dirt roads — it was the Julesburg’s women club who insisted the road be paved. (Fort Sedgwick Historical Society courtesy photo)

Roger Guzman’s “Assassination ” funny car was on display and was started up for the crowd to hear. (Julesburg Advocate photo)

Antiques & Artisans

ExplorE

101 Cedar . Julesburg, CO 970-474-2363

Sedgwick ck Count County

Sedgwick County’s Largest Antique Mall 121 Cedar St.

Box 202 | 200 W 4th Julesburg, CO (970)474-2000 mbenson@kci.net Complete Listing at: www.benson-realty.com

Julesburg, CO

970-474-3672

Gifts . Pharmacy Hygiene Care . Toys First Aide . Cards

114 Cedar St

Serving all of NE Colorado & SW Nebraska 108 W 1st - Julesburg, CO 970-474-3773

www.cummingrealty.com

Sedgwick Hotel Full of Antiques & Charm 121 Walnut Street Julesburg, CO (970)474-6130 GAS * UNIQUE GIFTS * SOUVENIRS * FOOD

(Something for Everyone!)

WAGON WHEEL CONOCO & GIFTS

101 Main Ave Sedgwick, CO

JULESBURG LAUNDROMAT 209 W 3rd St. Julesburg, CO (970) 520-2638

114114 W.W. 1st1st Street, Julesburg, St. Julesburg, COCO

(970) (970)474-2696 474-2696 (970) 520-1760 paula@sedgwicktitleco.com sedgwicktitle@qwestoffice.net sedgwicktitleco.com

THE GRAND MOTEL 220 Pine St. Julesburg, CO

970-474-3302

H (970)463-9932

JFamily ULESBURG

•

FAMILY MARKET • Market FOOD & HARDWARE

Food & Hardware 222 Cedar . Julesburg, CO

(970) 474-0932

Exit 180... Julesburg, CO I-76 & Hwy 385 970-474-4989

Your “One-Stop and Shop” Center!

Antiques . Furniture Crafts . Art . Jewlery Clothing & More

SEDGWICK Sedgwick COUNTY T ITLE County Title

D&J Cafe Julesburg, CO (970)474-0982

9-5 Monday - Saturday 10-4 Sunday

• • •

Groceries Deli Hardware Greenhouse Ice Cream

www.julesburgfamilymarket.com

(970) 474-3391

622 W 1st St. Julesburg, CO

100 E 3rd St., Julesburg, CO 80737

(970) 474-3341

www.pwcbank.com

Lucy’s Place “Great Home Cooking”

Open 7 days a week 6:30am. - 8:00pm See us for your catering needs!

Scottsbluff Morgan |•Sterling | Julesburg | Yuma Sterling| Ft. • Brush Julesburg • Yuma

www.korfcontinentalford.com visit us at - www.korf.net

Antiques & Collectibles

The Cedar Chest

Open Monday thru Saturday • 1:00 - 5:00pm 111 Cedar St. • Julesburg • 970-474-3505

J ULESBURG FAMILY ACUPUNCTURE 106 E 1st St., Julesburg, CO 80737

(888)474-3492 311-2481 (970)

www.facebook.com/ www.julesburgfamilyacupuncture.com Julesburg-Family-Acupuncture

I-76 & Hwy 59 . Sedgwick, CO

(970) 463-5509

900 Cedar St • Julesburg, CO (970)474-3323

www.schealth.org

EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 41

Sedgwick County A Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick

Sunday nights are the best when there is pig wrestling involved. It takes 3-member teams to catch the pig and place them in the bucket. These girls were getting encouragement from the referee. (Julesburg Advocate photo)_

Sedgwick centennial celebration W

ith a population of a little more than 100 people, one weekend a year an estimated crowd of more than a 1,000 people will converge on Sedgwick, Colorado for the Sedgwick Harvest Festival.

This year’s theme, “Sedgwick Centennial — Still Crazy After All These Years,” lends itself to all kinds of costumes and floats, from the 1960s throwbacks to period costumes of the 1918s.

Held each year on Labor Day weekend, everyone for hundreds of miles knows Sedgwick is the place to be.

The annual festival starts off with Saturday morning’s parade down the Main

Whether it is the Kid’s Rodeo or the Ranch Rodeo, spectators are always ready to Cowboy Up in See CENTENNIAL, pg. 43 Sedgwick. (Julesburg Advocate photo)

42 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

Sedgwick County A Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick

CENTENNIAL from page 42 Street. Afterwards, the street is closed to through traffic and the kid games and street events begin.

The annual Oyster Fry is held at the Lion’s Den, and if you leave a little room, you can enter the Spaghetti Eating Contest to finish off your lunch.

One of the most enjoyed competitions of the weekend

night away, the Presbyterian Church will host the community service at 9 a.m. Sunday is the game of horseshoes. morning.

“The Average Joe’s Kick Ball The festival continues Suntournament is always a great day with a Ranch Rodeo and way to pass the summer day.

A little of the old west comes winds down with a barbecue feast like none other. Capalive with the kid’s rodeo in the afternoon, and evening of ping off the holiday weekend is the annual pig catching demo derby that night. contest.

As the sun sets, music Sedgwick may be small in keeps this small town alive size but they really know with dancing in the streets.

And just as you danced the how put on a festival.

You cannot enjoy a plate of spaghetti more than when there is prize money to be won.

(Julesburg-Advocate photo)

V iSiT H iSTOriC S EDgwiCk C OunTy Travel the South Platte river Trail A Scenic and Historic Byway • Explore the route of the Transcontinental railroad • Explore the town that wouldn't die, the four locations of Julesburg.

• Explore Colorado's only home station of the Pony Express. Capture the magic of the Annual Pony Express reride in June.

• Explore the gravesite of Thad Sowder in Ovid, original rider with the Buffalo Bill wild west Show and first inductee into the Cowboy Hall of Fame.

• Explore Julesburg reservoir, known to locals as "Jumbo", just outside of the town of Sedgwick, and the best place to boat, water ski, fish, swim and hunt small game.

• Explore the historic Hippodrome Theatre.

• Explore our historic downtown shops.

• Explore Sedgwick Historic Jail • Explore the speed at Julesburg Dragstrip, oldest continuous operational race track in the country.

Sponsored by: Sedgwick County Economic Development The Sedgwick County Commissioners Julesburg/Sedgwick County Chamber of Commerce The Town of Julesburg • The Town of Ovid • The Town of Sedgwick

For more information call 970-474-3344, 970-474-3504 or visit www.townofjulesburg.com • www.sedgwickcountygov.net

EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 43

Sedgwick County A Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick

Summer fun in Ovid

44 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

In the past three years, a 5K Color Run has been held.

The run has raised $10,000 during this time for the benefit of the Children’s Hospital Heart Institute in Denver.

(Julesburg Advocate photo)

H

eld on the second Saturday every July, Ovid Days is filled with family fun, down home cooking, shade and activities. As the day passes by, a familiar sound of the clanking of horseshoes will let you know who the ringers are, unless you, too, are playing the game.

Behind the high school, you can hear the crowds cheer during the annual softball tournament.

A wafting smell from the grill will tell you when it is time to eat. The Ovid Volunteer Fire Department traditionally serves up BBQ pork, hot dogs, brats, and draft beer and soft drinks.

Weather permitting, there will be a breeze as you enjoy the evening’s band and their selection of music.

With the celebration, Ovid Days also boasts a 5K Color Run. The run has raised $10,000 in the past three years for the Children’s Hospital Heart Institute in Denver.

Ovid Days 2018 will be held on Saturday, July 14.

Restaurants Family Market Food & Hardware

222 Cedar Street Julesburg, Colorado 80737 (970) 474-0932

D&J Cafe

114 Cedar Street Julesburg, Colorado (970) 474-0982

Platte Valley Inn Restaurant & Lounge

15225 US Hwy 385 Julesburg, Colorado 80737 (970) 474-3336

Big B’s Bar & Grill

217 Main Street Ovid, Colorado 80744 (970) 520-4142

Lucy’s Place

10646 Highway 59 Sedgwick, Colorado 807499201 (970) 463-5509

Sedgwick County A Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick

Annual ‘Bull Bash’ celebrates local delicacy

W

hen it comes to festivals, the annual Bull Bash & Fry is one of the fastest growing festivals in Northeast Colorado. The Bull Bash is held each year on the fourth Saturday of June at the Sedgwick County Fairgrounds Annually, Julesburg/Sedgwick County Chamber of Commerce partners with area Emergency Management Services (EMS) to raise money for future needs of the fire departments and ambulance services that serve Sedgwick County and parts of Nebraska.

Firefighters serve up a true Colorado delicacy, Rocky Mountain Oysters, also known as Calf fries, Cowboy Caviar, Swinging Beef, Prairie Oysters or Dusted Nuts and the Original Sack Lunch. They are the part of the bull that is removed during his youth so the animal grows meatier, and is less aggressive until the time it is sold at the market. Call them what you may; they’re a dish enjoyed by many.

You certainly cannot call it festival unless you have a lot of fun. And the Bull Bash & Fry packs the fun in.

A growing competition, the annual Potty Races features almost all of the comforts of home. Modified porcelain toilets on wheels race down the asphalt track and obstacle course for a shot at winning first place and a $300 purse.

An added feature for 2018 will be a mechanical bull that will provide an authentic experience for those wan-

On the way through the annual Potty Race obstacle course, teams were bowl-to-bowl. The Potty Race is a highlight of the Bull Bash & Fry held at the Sedgwick County Fairground in Julesburg the fourth Saturday in June each year. (Julesburg Advocate photo)

nabe cowboys, and will create unforgettable memories and laughter for the young and the young at heart.

A festival for the entire family to enjoy, the Bull Bash includes adult and child activities like the human version of the “Hungry Hungry Hippo,” life size Jenga, dart games and much more throughout the evening.

Entertainment for the 2018 Bull Bash & Fry will be a very high energy performance by Retro ‘80s Tribute Band. The band begins to play at 8 p.m. on Saturday, June 23. The afternoon festivities begin at 4 p.m. at the Sedgwick County Fairgrounds.

Potty races are made up of 3-person teams; one member of the team must ride atop the porcelain toilet while being pushed by two others. Each team must design their own potty racer.

(Julesburg Advocate photo) EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 45

More to Explore

Outdoor fun on the frontier H

ead west out of Sterling on Colorado Highway 14 to take in a national treasure known as the Pawnee National Grassland. These windswept plains witnessed the dawn of the American frontier, the devastation of the “Dust Bowl,” and the advent of modern agricultural practices. Old cemeteries and nearby museums document the area’s rich history, and a network of numbered roads will take you within easy walking distance of almost all parts of the grassland.

The 30-by-60 mile area on the eastern end of Weld County encompasses 193,060 acres managed by the U.S. Forest Service, with a checkerboard of private land, State of Colorado ownership and the Central Plains Experimental Range.

The grassland offers boundless recreational opportunities. According to the Forest Service, the Pawnee is known internationally for its birding opportunities, supporting many species, particularly during migration. The Colorado State Bird, the lark bunting, can be seen frequently during the spring and summer. Other unique High Plains bird species that call the grasslands home include

• Shoot further than 150 yards from a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation area or occupied area. This includes the Pawnee Bird Tour pull outs.

• Do not shoot on or across a National Forest System Road or across a body of water.

• Do not shoot in any manner or place where any person or property is exposed to injury or damage.

• Do not possess an open container of an alcoholic beverage while discharging a firearm.

• The area located in The Baker Draw Shooting Area on the Pawnee National Grassland encourages responsible shooting among recreational Township 8N, Range 63W, Section 7 is closed to recreenthusiasts. (Denver Post photo) ational shooting for ¼ mile south of Weld County Road the mountain plover, burrow- berms with 25, 50 and 10096 and ¼ mile west of County ing owl and many birds of yard shooting opportunities, Road 63. Shooting adjacent to prey. On the ground, wildlife as well as a parking area, the Baker Draw Designated inhabitants include prong- informational kiosk, restShooting area is also prohibhorn, mule deer, coyote, swift room and 30 shooting lanes ited. fox, snakes and prairie dogs. with 26 benches.

• No tracer rounds or All recreational shooters Hiking, camping, picnickincendiary rounds allowed. must follow these regulaing, horseback riding and Exploding targets are prohibtions: stargazing are among the ited.

• Only shoot at cardactivities outdoor enthusiasts • Clean up your targets board/paper targets, selfenjoy on the Pawnee. and casings. healing targets, manufac• Respect all signs while The grassland also protured metallic targets, or visiting the Pawnee National vides recreational sports manufactured thrown-type Grassland. shooting opportunities, clay targets. (No wooden including the Baker Draw Additional information is backing allowed.) It is up to a Designated Shooting area $5,000 fine and/or imprison- available online at near County Roads 96 and ment for up to six months for www.fs.usda.gov/goto/arp/ 63. The Baker Draw offers targetshooting. using an unapproved target.

Lake McConaughy, NE - Be The One That Got Away Largest Lake In Three State Area Just Off I-80 - Exit 126, Ogallala • ilovelakemac.com 46 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

More to Explore

‘Big Mac’ goes big on fun

Lake McConaughy offers miles of water and shoreline fro recreation. (Courtesy photo from Ogallala/Keith County Chamber of Commerce)

N

early everything about Lake McConaughy is big! Its 30,500 surface acres make it Nebraska’s largest reservoir, with over 100 miles of shore line.

McConaughy is known as a place for outdoor good times.

Its waters and white sand beaches provide the setting for many different kinds of outdoor recreation. In addition to excellent fishing and boating, Big Mac is a favorite with campers, sailboaters,

wind surfers, swimmers, water skiers, picnickers, scuba divers, hunters, ice boaters and many outdoor fun seekers.

The $2.5 million Lake McConaughy Water Interpretive and Visitors Center is perched on a bluff one-quarter mile south of Kingsley Dam overlooking Lake McConaughy. The 8,700 square foot Visitors Center features Nebraska’s first water interpretive center, a museum that looks at the

important role of water in the state’s past, present and future. An exhibit in the center shows the balanced needs of recreation, fish and wildlife, irrigation and hydropower. Also within the Visitors Center is a diving bell used in 1976 to inspect the outlet structures of the dam.

In addition to wildlife and natural history related films and video productions, the facility also includes a community room available for public meetings and recep-

tions, a freshwater aquarium, a 50-seat state-of-the-art theater an information desk and gift shop.

The lake’s formation was funded by the Public Works Administration in 1935, after drought and economic depression convinced officials of the need for irrigation. Kingsley Dam was closed and dedicated in 1941 and project operations began soon afterward. It is the second largest hydraulic fill dam in the world.

P latte V alley I nn 15225 US-385, Julesburg, CO 80737

970-474-3336

Call us today to set up your reservation.

• Free Wi-Fi • Free parking

• Outdoor pool • Air-conditioned

• Restaurant • Flat Screen TVs

Restaurant & Lounge

Call 970-474-3336 for hours Like us on www.facebook.com/plattevalleyinn EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 47

Calendar

May 2018

May 26 — Phillips County Raceway, stock car races, 6 p.m., Fairgrounds, Holyoke.

More info at www.bstracing.com.

Memorial Day Weekend — Youth fishing tournament, North Sterling State Park. Visit www.facebook.com/NorthSterlingStatePark/ for more information.

Memorial Day Weekend — Saturday Night Campfire programs start at North Sterling State Park. Varied topics, held at 8 p.m. on Saturdays throught the summer in the amphitheatre. Visit www.facebook.com/ NorthSterlingStatePark/ for more information.

May 28 — Sterling Recreation Center outdoor pool opens for season.

June 2018

June 2 — Akron Town Wide Yard Sale. Steals and deal at over 20 yard sales around town; find a complete map in the May 30 issue of the Akron News-Reporter.

June 2 — O’Reilly Auto Parts No Limits Monster Trucks, 7 p.m., Logan County Fairgrounds, Sterling. https://badboysofracing.com/get-tickets/ June 2 — Fishing Is Fun Day, Kiwanis Pond, Overland Trail Recreation Area, Sterling (across from the Logan County Tourist Information Center).

Casting cost and biggest fish contest for youth. For more information, call the Sterling Parks, Library and Recreation Office at 970-522-9700.

June 5 — Twilight Tuesday Movies in the Park, Wisdom Park, Sterling. Free, movie begins at dusk. Call 970-5229700 for more information.

June 8 — Kick Off to Summer 2018 Family Market Food & Hardware Produce Sale all day long, FREE BBQ & Dance by Points West Community Bank beginning at 6 p.m. CASH BAR, no outside alcohol allowed.

Bring your lawn chairs. For more information, contact Vickie Sandlin at 970-474-3388, of see details at Julesburg/Sedgwick County Chamber on Facebook.

48 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

Enjoy stock car races at the Phillips County Raceway throughout the summer. (Courtesy photo) June 8/9 — Regional wide garage sales in Sedgwick County, CO and Chappell, NE. See the Chappel Register or Julesburg Advocate newspaper for sale ads.

June 9 — Blue Skies Horsepower Run and Car Show. Poker run from Sterling to Sedgwick, car and bike show with live music. More info: 970-5219965 or www.facebook.com/ HeelingHooves/ June 9 — Relay For Life of Northeast Colorado, Columbine Park, Sterling. Fundraiser for American Cancer Society. relay.org/NECO June 12 — Twilight Tuesday Movies in the Park, Pioneer Park softball fields, Sterling. Free, movie begins at dusk. Call 970522-9700 for more information.

June 16 — 5:10 to Yuma Road Race, enjoy a 5K or 10K in the beautiful countryside of Yuma. Visit https://runsignup.com/Race/CO/ Yuma/5k10ToYuma or email director@westyumachamber.com to sign up.

June 16 — Northeast Junior College Young Farmers Tractor Pull, Logan County Fairgrounds.

June 17 — Phillips County Raceway, stock car races, 5 p.m., Kids’ Night with bike race

and tire roll, Fairgrounds, Holyoke. More info at www.bstracing.com.

June 19 — Twilight Tuesday Movies in the Park, Columbine Park, Sterling. Free, movie begins at dusk. Call 970-5229700 for more information.

June 23 — Annual Bull Bash and Fry at the Sedgwick County Fairgrounds sponsored by the Julesburg/Sedgwick County Chamber, benefitting area Fire Departments and Ambulance Services. Activities include the annual Potty Races, ride the mechanical bull, Oyster Fry, adult games, kid games, and dance to the Retro 80’s Tribute Band. For more information, contact Vickie Sandlin at 970-4743388. Check us out on Facebook at Julesburg/Sedgwick County Chamber.

June 23 — Akron Car Show, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., Akron City Park, free admission, live music, poker walk, 5K/10K run.

June 23 — Quilts of the Plains, an outdoor quilt show for quilters of all levels in downtown Wray.

June 23 — Dandelion Daze Car Show, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Phillips County Courthouse lawn, Holyoke, See Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Facebook page or

email director@holyokechamber.org June 21- 23 — International Feedlot Cowboys Association Finals, Logan County Fairgrounds, Sterling. http://feedlotcowboys.com/ June 23 — Burlap & Lace Marketplace, Open-air vintage, antique and artisan market, 106 S. Reynolds Ave., Holyoke, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

June 24 — Tri on the Plains, North Sterling State Park. Sprint triathlon, sprint duathlon, family fun triathlon, corporate challenge or sprint triathlon relay. www.triontheplains.com June 26 — Twilight Tuesday Movies in the Park, Wisdom Park, Sterling. Free, movie begins at dusk. Call 970-5229700 for more information.

June 28 — The Pony Express Re-ride passes through Sedgwick County from Chappell, NE heading east to Big Springs, NE. Join us for a pancake breakfast at 6:30 a.m. To track the Pony Express as it crosses 8 states by horse at https://nationalponyexpress.org/, the National Pony Express Association June 29 — July Jamz Transwest Concerts on the Green, Logan County Courthouse

See Page 49

Continued from Page 48

Square, Sterling. Free concert by Eef & The Blues Express. For more information, visit https:// www.facebook.com/SterlingColoArts/.

July 2018

July 3 — 3rd of July Independence Eve, Armstrong Baseball Fields, Yuma, celebrate a day early with free food, live music and a spectacular fireworks show.

July 4 — Heritage Festival, Overland Trail Museum, Sterling.

Free admission, Heritage crafters, guest speakers, food vendors. More info: 970-522-3895 or https://www.facebook.com/ OverlandTrailMuseum/.

July 4 — Town of Otis Traditional Fourth of July Celebration, Otis Baseball Field, day-long festivities.

July 4 — Phillips County Raceway, stock car races, 5 p.m., Fairgrounds, Holyoke. More info at www.bstracing.com.

July 4 — City of Sterling Fourth of July Celebration. Free Fireworks Jam concert in the Home Depot parking lot, followed by fireworks at Pioneer Park. Call 970-522-9700 for more information.

July 6 — July Jamz Transwest Concerts on the Green, Logan County Courthouse Square, Sterling. Free concert by Wild Road. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/ SterlingColoArts/.

July 6-8 — Flatlanders Car Show, Pioneer Park, Sterling. www.coloradoflatlanders.org July 13 — July Jamz Transwest Concerts on the Green, Logan County Courthouse Square, Sterling. Free concert by The Bakersfield Band. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/SterlingColoArts/.

July 14 — Old-Fashioned Saturday Night, Car show, garage sales, street dance and more, main street, Haxtun Chamber, 970-467-0194.

July 14 — Join in a fun filled day of games, food, and music at Ovid Days in Ovid.

July 15 — High Plains HotPoxia Fest, Sterling Municipal Air-

Calendar antique, classic and race cars are expected to fill the street.

See us on Facebook at Hippodrome Arts Centre.

Aug. 18-19 — 3rd Annual TriState Hot Rod Revival, Julesburg Drag Strip. For a full line up of events and attractions, visit TriState Hot Rod Revival on Facebook.

Aug. 25 — Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Columbine Park, Sterling. Fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Association. http:// act.alz.org/site/TR/Walk2018/ CO-Colorado?fr_id=11105&pg=entry

September 2018

Early September — Old Threshers Show, Old Threshers Grounds and Yuma County Fairgrounds in Yuma. See demonstrations of frontier threshing The Logan County Fair offers two nights of PRCA rodeo action. equipment, corn shelling and log (Journal-Advoacte photo) sawing. Full schedule can be found at www.yumaoldthreshers.org. book.com/SterlingColoArts/. port, Sterling. Aerobatics conSept. 1-2 — Sedgwick Hartest for the Rocky Mountain July 27-29 — Wray Daze, firevest Festival, Sedgwick. Parade, Aerobatic Club, IAC Chapter 12. works, parade, free BBQ, car kid games, rodeos, demolition www.iac12.org show, beer garden, mud volleyderby, and dance, Sedgwick CenJuly 20 — July Jamz Transwest ball and more! Visit wraychamtennial Celebration. For all the Concerts on the Green, Logan ber.net for full schedule. festivities, go to Sedgwick HarCounty Courthouse Square, July 27-28 — Crook Fair. vest Festival on Facebook.

Sterling. Free concert by Rusty Parade, meals, gymkhana, Sept. 2 — Phillips County 44. For more information, visit games and activities.

Raceway, stock car races, 5 https://www.facebook.com/ August 2018 p.m., Back-to-School Night, FairSterlingColoArts/. grounds, Holyoke. More info at Aug. 1-5 — Sedgwick County July 22 — Tread for Trails, www.bstracing.com.

Fair & Rodeo. Who doesn’t love Sterling. Bike ride, various disSept. 8 — Fleming Fall Festitances, starting at Pioneer Park. the county fair. For more high lights and information see Sedg- val, Fleming. “Holly Jolly Fall For more information, call 970Fest” theme. Parade, games, wick County Fair and Rodeo on 522-5070. vendor booths, food and more.

Facebook.

July 24 — Twilight Tuesdays Sept. 15 — Mainly MaraAug. 3-12 — Logan County Movie in the Park, Sterling Recthons, Pioneer Park, Sterling.

Fair & Rodeo, Logan County Fairreation Center outdoor pool, Final race in Center of the Sterling. Free, for more informa- grounds in Sterling. PBR and PRCA events, Demolition Derby, Nations Series. http://mainlytion call 970-522-9700.

4-H/FFA and open class exhibits, marathons.com/series-3/cenJuly 24-28 — Eastern Colorater-of-the-nation/ do Roundup, Washington County livestock shows, carnival, venSept. 15-16 — Sugar Beet dors. Aug. 11 Night Show featurFairgrounds in Akron. See full Days, Logan County Courthouse ing Dustin Lynch. lcfair.org schedule at www.ecroundAug. 4-8 — Yuma County Fair, Square, Sterling. Outdoor craft up.com. and vendor bazaar, live music Yuma County Fairgrounds in July 24-29 — Phillips County and entertainment. www.faceYuma. See the full schedule at Fair, Fairgrounds, Holyoke, book.com/sugarbeetdays/ “Small Town Showdown” theme. www.yumacounty.net/counSept. 28-29 — For Peetz Sake See full schedule at www.phillip- ty_fair.

Aug. 17 — Take a cruise back Days, Peetz. Parade, games, scofair.com craft and bake sale, homecomJuly 27 — July Jamz Transwest to the ‘50s where Main Street ing festivities. was filled with cars and people.

Concerts on the Green, Logan Sept. 29 — Haxtun Corn FestiSponsored by the Hippodrome County Courthouse Square, val, Family fun activity with Sterling. Free concert by Hector Arts Centre of Julesburg. Conparade, dance and more. “So Anchondo Band. For more infortact the Hippodrome at 970mation, visit https://www.face474-9977. More than 100 See Page 50

EXPLORE •MAY 24, 2018 • 49

Calendar Noodle Supper, Washington County Event Center.

Dec. 8 — Enjoy Breakfast with Santa at the Hippodrome, sponsored by the Julesburg/Sedgwick County Chamber of Commerce. Watch for details on facebook.

Dec. 24 — Otis Volunteer Fire Department’s Annual Candy Run with Santa.

Continued from Page 49

God Made a Farmer” theme. See Haxtun Corn Festival Facebook page.

Sept. 29 — Merino Fall Festival, Merino. Parade, games, vendor booths, food and more.

Sept. 29 — Phillips County Raceway, stock car races, 6 p.m., Championship Night, Fairgrounds, Holyoke. More info at www.bstracing.com.

February 2019

February — Northeastern Junior College Hoops Homecoming, Sterling.

October 2018

October — Sterling Miracle Players Haunted House, Sterling. https://www.facebook.com/The-Sterling-MiraclePlayers-143547279003914/ October — Sweet Adelines Windsong Chorus Concert, Sterling.

Mid October — Sedgwick County Health Center’s annual Boo Ball held at the Sedgwick County Fairgrounds.

Oct. 4 — Melissa Memorial Hospital’s 100th-anniversary celebration, 1001 E. Johnson St., Holyoke. See www.melissamemorial.org for details.

Oct. 13 — Akron Volunteer Fire Department’s Community Appreciation Breakfast, 6-9 a.m., Akron Fire Hall.

Oct. 13 — Phillips County Raceway, Metal Mayhem, 6 p.m., Fairgrounds, Holyoke.

More info at www.bstracing.com Oct. 20 — Phil Kettelson Pumpkin Festival, Wray, Pumpkin Chuckin’, Pumpkin Miniature Golf, flag football, chili cook-off.

See www.wraychamber.net for times.

Oct. 27 — Holly Daze Craft & Gift Show, at Holyoke JR/SR High, 545 E. Hale St., Holyoke, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Oct. 29 — Howl-o-week 5K, Pioneer Park, Sterling. Run/walk after dark. Call 970-522-9700 for more information.

Oct. 31 — Akron High School FBLA’s Trick-or-Treat on Main Street, 4 p.m.

Oct. 31 — Trick or Treat Street, Sterling Recreation Center, Sterling. Free for children 12 and under, a safe alternative to door-to-door trick or treating.

Oct. 31 — Downtown Trick or Treat, Sterling. Local businesses

50 • MAY 24, 2018•EXPLORE

March 2019

Take in an art exhibit at the Hippodrome Arts Centre in Julesburg. (Courtesy photo) welcome trick-or-treaters from 3 to 5 p.m.

activities.

November 2018

Early December — Miracle on Main Street, downtown Yuma, shopping specials, movies, Santa, entertainment, food, festival of trees. Call the West Yuma Chamber of Commerce at (970) 848-2704 for more information.

Early December — Haxtun Country Christmas shopping night, see Haxtun Country Christmas Facebook page.

Early December — Holyoke Country Christmas and Parade of Lights, see Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

December — Peerless Theatre 100-year celebration, 212 S. Interocean Ave., Holyoke. See Peerless Theatre Facebook page or www.thepeerlesstheatre.com.

December — Sweet Adelines Windsong and Centennial State Chorus Concert, Sterling.

December — Master Chorale Christmas Concert, Sterling.

December — Christmas on the Prairie Open Houses, Overland Trail Museum, Sterling.

Dec. 6 — Akron Chamber of Commerce Annual Parade of Lights, 5:30 p.m.

Dec. 6 — Akron Volunteer Fire Department’s Annual Beef and

Nov. 3 — Alpha Nu Craft Show, Washington County Event Center, Akron. 8 a.m., dozens of vendors to help get a jump on holiday shopping!

Nov. 10 — Fair to Remember Arts & Craft Show at the Hippodrome Arts Centre, Julesburg.

More than 25 vendors in attendance. Follow Hippodrome Art Centre on Facebook for details as they come.

Nov. 10 — Holiday Preview Julesburg. Start your holiday shopping in Julesburg.

Nov. 17 — Winter Festival, Yuma Community Center, Yuma, day-long celebration filled with craft show, lights around Yuma Lake, Santa visits, book giveaways, wagon rides and more.

Nov. 22 — High Plains Turkey Trot, Sterling. 1-mile or 5K run/ walk on Thanksgiving Day. High Plains Turkey Trot on Facebook Nov. 23 — Parade of Lights, Main Street, Wray.

Nov. 23 — Cocoa with Santa, Christ United Methodist Church, Sterling. Children can visit with Santa and get a free gift. Child ID kits, refreshments and other

December 2018

March — NJC Regional Art Show, Sterling March — Art Show and Sale at Holyoke JR/ SR High, 545 E. Hale St., Holyoke, see Phillips County Arts Council Facebook page for date and details.

March 1-31 — Sterling Public Library Quilt Show, Sterling.

March 16 — Haxtun Lions Chuckwagon Dinner & Show, 601 N. Colorado Ave., Haxtun, 5:30 p.m.

March 16 — Annual March Madness Expo, one of the first arts & craft show held of the year. See Julesburg/Sedgwick County Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

April 2019

April — Chalk the Walk, Sterling.

April — NJC Mudevil Dayz, Sterling.

April — High Plains Secondary Schools Art Show, Northeastern Junior College, Sterling.

April — NJC Annual Student Art Exhibit, Sterling.

April — Logan County 4-H Carnival, Logan County Fairgrounds, Sterling.

Mid April — Annual Hippodrome Gala, celebrating the Hippodrome’s 100th Anniversary and benefiting the Hippodrome Arts Centre. Follow them on Facebook.

April 20 — Akron Lions Club Annual Easter Egg Hunt, 11 a.m., Akron City Park, free hot dog lunch to follow.

April 20 — Otis Volunteer Fire Department’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt, 2 p.m., Otis Baseball Field.