2019/20 Explore Magazine

EXPLORE

YOUR FREE 2019-20 TRAVEL & TOURISM GUIDE FOR THE HIGH PLAINS OF NORTHEAST COLORADO

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Welcome to Explore Thanks 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, including pages 3-4, 9, 29, 32-33 and 45.

Digging in the South Platte delivery ditch (Photo by Patty Bartlett)

On the Cover:

The winning photo of three children was taken north of Holyoke by Denise Smith.

EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 3

Table of Contents

Catch of the day at Jumbo Reservoir (Photo by Tiffany Vargas)

Day Trips

Sedgwick County ................................... 5 Phillips County.......................................6 Logan County ........................................ 7 Morgan County......................................8

Sedgwick County

Hippodrome Arts Centre.......................10 Pony Express Re-ride............................14 Cruise Night........................................15 Where Buffalo Roam ............................ 16 Railroad History...................................16

Phillips County

Heginbotham Library............................19 Phillips County Fair...............................20 Old Fashioned Saturday Night ............... 21 Bank of Colorado Pavilion ..................... 22 Dandelion Daze...................................24 National Night Out ............................... 25 Christmas in Phillips County..................25 Phillips County Raceway ....................... 26 Haxtun Corn Festival............................ 26 Phillips County Recreation....................28

4 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

Map...................................30-31 Logan County Sterling Recreation Center....................34 North Sterling State Park......................35 Logan County Shooting Sports Complex.36 Logan County Fair & Rodeo...................38 Logan County Arts League....................40 Overland Trail Museum.........................42 Sugar Beet Days..................................44

Morgan County

Jackson Lake State Park ...................... 46 Fort Morgan Museum...........................48 Brush Rodeo.......................................49 Bobstock ............................................ 50 Riverside Park..................................... 52 Riverside Cemetery..............................53

More to Explore

Pawnee National Grasslands ................ 54 Lake McConaughy................................55

Calendar............................56-58

Contributing newspapers

This magazine was produced by four northeast Colorado newspapers: Fort Morgan Times 230A Main St. Fort Morgan, CO 80701 970-867-5651 fortmorgantimes.com Holyoke Enterprise 130 N. Interocean Holyoke, CO 80734 970-854-2811 holyokeenterprise.com Journal-Advocate 504 N. Third St. Sterling, CO 80751 970-522-1990 journal-advocate.com Julesburg Advocate 114 W. First St. Julesburg, CO 80737 970-474-3388 julesburgadvocate.com

S

Spend a day in ...

SEDGWICK COUNTY

edgwick County is steeped in a rich history of the old west, the Pony Express. buffalo and Native Americans who once wandered the northeastern plains of Colorado. Much of that history remains in one way or another in the far east corner of Colorado.

• Start your day with a chicken-fried steak covered in white gravy with eggs and a biscuit at Lucy’s Place, located at the interchange of Hwy 59 and Interstate I-76 south of Sedgwick. Lucy’s is known as the home of the Price Ranch Buffalo Burgers.

• Leaving Lucy’s Place, head into Sedgwick and visit the Sedgwick Antique Inn. Step back in time to a quaint and charming bed and breakfast. If you’ve not arranged for your night’s stay, you can rent a room at a very affordable rate.

• The Town of Sedgwick is named after Union Army hero from the Civil War, Major General John Sedgwick. Despite the small size of the town, it offers a lot to see. The Jail House Museum is less than a block away from the Antique Inn. The museum was once the town’s detention center with a cot that hung down from the wall and an iron door that securely kept the inmates locked away. The rooms are filled with tools and housewares of those first families who tilled the land and built their homes. Family names written on dated photographs are the same names as many who were born and raised

Make sure to stop by the Colorado Welcome Center in Julesburg when visiting Sedgwick County.

(Courtesy photo)

there.

• In the 19th century, Sedgwick County was a crossroads for cowboys and Indians. It is also home to a small colony of Buddhists, descendants of Japanese immigrants who helped build the transcontinental railroad. Just off US Highway 138 on CR 15 sits the Sedgwick Cemetery (GPS Coordinates: 40.9603004, -102.5152969). Gravestones etched with Japanese writings serve as a reminder of the county’s Japanese population and history.

• Heading eastward a few short miles along Hwy 138, you have made your way to Ovid. The town has a population of fewer than 400 people.

The community is mostly agricultural. Ovid was named after

Newton Ovid, a local resident.

Ovid is home to Big B’s Bar and Grill. If it is near lunch time, we might suggest stopping in for a cold drink and guacamole, bacon, hamburger and fries.

• Continuing east, you will find yourself in Sedgwick County’s county seat, Julesburg. Take a walk down Cedar St. and stop into Antiques and Artisans. Just as the name says, you will find many antiques as well as pieces of art. There is something in every corner of the store. Just next door you will find more antiques and one of a kind items at the Cedar Chest.

• Take a few moments and sit in the Gazebo at the Depot Park as you watch the Union Pacific trains pass by. If you

are traveling with children, the miniature train provides a cute photo op.

• Julesburg has two more museums to explore, the Old Ford Garage and the Fort Sedgwick Museum. They are located next to each other in the 100 block of E. First Street.

• If you are visiting during the summer, enjoy a dip in the pool located at 320 E. Eighth Street.

• You can’t leave Sedgwick County without stopping by the Colorado Welcome Center located near the Julesburg Interchange. The Welcome Center is staffed primarily with volunteers. Explore the displays and enjoy the sheltered picnic tables, 24-hour restrooms, RV dump site, and walking trails.

Find more on Sedgwick County on pages 9-17 EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 5

Spend a day in ...

PHILLIPS COUNTY

Right off the bike path at the Phillips County Fairgrounds, a water feature makes a nice stop for kids to play and adults to relax.

(Holyoke Enterprise photo)

• If you’re starting your day on the west end of Phillips County, the Daily Grind on Strohm Street in Haxtun can get you going with specialty coffee and breakfast.

• Go around the corner to do some thrift store treasure hunting at Retread Threads on Colorado Avenue before continuing on to the other towns in the county. You never know what hidden gems you might find.

• Head east on Highway 6 toward Holyoke. Blink and you might miss Paoli, but know that it is home to the Turquoise

Chandelier boutique on Lohn Avenue if you’re up for some shopping.

• Once in Holyoke, there are many lunch joints to choose from, including Mexican, pizza, barbecue and homestyle.

• Whether biking, walking or running, an afternoon in Holyoke can be well-spent on one of two bike paths. One that starts near the entrance to the fairgrounds north of town is near a playground, picnic area, disc golf course and a beautiful water feature. The other, which starts by the fishing pond east of town, is ideal for

those who’d rather just take in some nature.

• Olde Holyoke Square on North Interocean Avenue is home to a few local businesses and local history. Stop there for books, gifts and a snack before browsing the downtown scene.

• After a long day of exploring, you’re probably ready to find someplace to spend the night. Stay at The Burge Hotel, Golden Plains Motel, or Cobblestone Inn & Suites so you can return home refreshed the next day.

Find more on Phillips County on pages 18-28 6 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

Spend a day in ...

LOGAN COUNTY • If you’re coming into Logan County from Interstate 76, you’ll want to stop for breakfast at the Overland Trail Cafe, located inside the Sinclair station at the Atwood exit. Get a classic diner-style breakfast to fuel up your body — and you can make sure you have a full tank of gas while you’re there.

• Take the scenic route into Sterling following Highway 63 over the South Platte River to Highway 6. A right turn and a short drive later, you’ll find yourself in the heart of historic downtown Sterling. 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.

• Ready for lunch? Sam & Louie’s Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria offers a relaxed setting to enjoy a slice or two of pizza or your favorite Italian dish. On a nice day, you can grab a seat on their patio out front and enjoy the view of the historic Logan County Courthouse. A selection of tasty appetizers will get your meal started off right, and you can check out what’s on tap while checking on the scores for your favorite team in the barroom.

• Spend the afternoon on the

A tour of the Living Tree Sculptures by local artist Bradford Rhea will take you to the Skygrazers bronze at Columbine Park in Sterling. (Journal-Advocate photo)

water by heading out northwest of Sterling to North Sterling State Park. Enjoy miles of trails where you can scope out the local flora and fauna, or rent a boat from PJ Marina and get out on the reservoir. If you’re bringing your camping gear, make sure you reserve a space ahead of time on the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website.

• Come supper time, enjoy some smoky barbecue done right at the Hot Spot Smokehouse. You can head north to the original location in Peetz,

or come back to Sterling to their new restaurant at the corner of Fourth and Main Streets. Fill up on classics like brisket and ribs or try something a little different like shrimp, and chase it with a cocktail designed to complement the smoky flavors of your food.

• Wrap up the evening trying on a new pair of shoes: bowling shoes! Head over to Ice Lanes on N. 10th Avenue and get in a game or two.

• Before you hit the hay, grab a late-night slice of pie at

Village Inn. • When you’re ready to call it a day, you can find all the comforts of home at the Best Western Sundowner, located just off Highway 6 next to the Overland Trail Museum. Enjoy one of 58 air-conditioned rooms with refrigerators and microwaves and stay connected with free wi-fi. Get in an endof-day workout in the fitness center or jump into the pool.

After a night of sweet dreams, you can enjoy a complimentary full breakfast before hitting the road again.

Find more on Logan County on pages 33-44 EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 7

Spend a day in ...

MORGAN COUNTY

• Start your morning off with a full breakfast at Acapulco Bay in downtown Fort Morgan. Whether you’re in the mood for pancakes, waffles, bacon and eggs or maybe something with a Mexican flavor, like farmhouse tacos or breakfast enchiladas, this family restaurant has you covered.

• Next, grab your clubs and get in 9 or 18 holes at Quail Dunes at Fort Morgan Golf Course. Located at 17586 Morgan County Road T.5, a short drive to the northwest, Quail Dunes offers the luxuries of a big-city course but with the benefits of a rural, municipal course. The 165-acre, par-72 golf course offers four sets of tees with yardage ranging from 5,300 to 6,600. The course also offers a putting green and driving range for practice.

• On your way back into Fort Morgan, check out Rainbow Bridge and Riverside Park. The historic concrete bridge, which boasts 11 arches, was built in 1922 to replace a timber bridge across the South Platte River first built in 1890. While Rainbow Bridge once served as a vehicular path over the river, it was closed to motorized traffic in 1987 and turned into a pedestrian bridge after undergoing rehabilitation.

• Right beside the bridge is Fort Morgan’s Riverside Park, which is a public park the size of Central Park in New York City. It is nestled right alongside the South Platte River and offers scenic views along a walking/jogging trail. The park also boasts three outdoor pools, including a children’s

Rainbow Bridge sometimes has events happening on it, like this yoga fundraiser held to raise awareness for the Tri-County Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Otherwise, it is a historic, pedestrian bridge that sits at the northwest corner of Riverside Park in Fort Morgan along state Highway 52. (Photo courtesy of Emily Goggins)

pool, a water slide and areas for doing laps or diving, along with multiple disc golf courses and much more. Riverside Park is a great place for a quick swim, a short walk on the nature trails or some disc golf before lunch.

• Speaking of lunch, next head back into Fort Morgan and over to the Country Steak Out. There you will find a large menu, packed with burgers, sandwiches and more, or else try the lunch buffet with that day’s special dishes.

• After eating your fill, head to Riverside Cemetery to see the graves of some of the famous folks buried in Fort Morgan’s city cemetery, such as science fiction author Philip K. Dick. He is buried next to his twin sister, Jane, who died in Fort Morgan as an infant.

Cemetery workers sometimes find little sheep figurines the

author’s fans left behind after visiting the grave.

Also in the cemetery are Elmer and Mattie Lou Miller, parents of famed big band musician Glenn Miller. He spent his high school years in Fort Morgan and regarded this city as his home.

• If you’re in the mood for even more history, head to Fort Morgan Library & Museum in downtown Fort Morgan to check out the interactive exhibits and special displays.

• By now you’ve probably worked up an appetite again.

Fortunately, Cable’s Pub & Grill is right across Main Street from the Library & Museum.

Have a hearty early evening dinner of steak, homemade spaghetti, pizza or any number of other options, and maybe take advantage of the offerings from the full bar.

• After dinner it’s time for some entertainment, so take in a movie at the Cover 4 Theater, just a couple blocks down the street from Cable’s in downtown. This locally-owned movie theater boasts new, comfortable seats and a snack bar filled with sweet and salty treats, like candy, popcorn and even frozen pickles.

• After the show, stop for the night at the Fairfield Inn & Suites at 1290 Cottonwood Parkway in Fort Morgan and enjoy their thoughtfully designed rooms and suites with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, smart TVs, luxury bedding, mini-refrigerators and more. After a peaceful night’s sleep, start your day with a satisfying meal at their complimentary breakfast, serving a healthy mix of delicious options.

Find more on Morgan County on pages 45-53 8 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

Welcome to Sedgwick County Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick

A butterfly on a spike of wheat (Photo by Max Carlson)

Bison on the Price Ranch in Sedgwick (Photo by Ashley Orblom Arvada)

Sunset at the Jumbo Reservoir (Photo by Tiffany Vargas) EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 9

Sedgwick County • Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick

100 years of the Hippodrome S

edgwick County’s historical theatre is celebrating its 100th birthday, and is inviting everyone to join in the fun. The Hippodrome is celebrating all year long.

The Hippodrome Arts Centre and Fort Sedgwick Historical Society combined forces in 1996 to preserve the unique 1919 Hippodrome Theatre building at 215 Cedar St. in Julesburg. Area citizens and organizations contributed manual labor, materials and funds to prepare the theatre for its reopening and continuing operation.

The following are excerpts taken from the April 12, 1997 publication, “A Brief History of Sedgwick County’s Theatres and Opera Houses Revised Issue — Saluting the Grand Opening of Hippodrome Arts Centre.”

The Early Days

Early-day settlers in Northeast Colorado were hungry for entertainment and companionship. Local turn-of-thecentury newspapers reported events held at rural and town schools, churches, dance halls, town halls, and the courthouse. People flocked to attend gramophone programs, concerts and dramas. They sat on hard chairs and planks to

10 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

public programs, meetings, etc.

Few family-owned theatres exist in Colorado today. Sedgwick County can be proud of its surviving movie house, the Hippodrome. The building retains many of the original interior and exterior features.

“Edison Talking Machine”

In recent years, the Hippodrome has transformed into a premier movie house that seats approximately 135 people. The theatre is operated through the generosity of its volunteers. Newly released movies are shown each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

During the winter months, there are Sunday matinees.

The name “Hippodrome”

Hippodrome is a Greek word meaning oval track for chariot races, with tiers of seats for spectators. London, England and New York City had famous Hippodrome Theatres in the early 1900s.

watch lantern slideshows and visiting minstrels.

“Moving pictures” was an immediate success. Enterprising businessmen began converting existing buildings into theatres. Sedgwick County newspapers report only two in-town buildings were con-

structed as movie houses — the original Mazda at Ovid and the Hippodrome in Julesburg.

The same is true for opera houses — the two-story brick building at 104-106 E. First St., in Julesburg and the Bank Block in Ovid. In both cases, the upstairs was designed for

Advertisement Published November 17, 1913 Mr. J. M. Hathaway, Business Manager for Edison Talking Pictures, has just completed arrangements with Mgr. C. H. Brock of the Hipp Theatre Julesburg, Colo., for the latest Edison Marvel, the Kinetophone, or Talking Pictures, will be seen here for the first time Tues. and Wed, Dec 2nd and 3rd, 1913.

The Edison Talking Pictures are pronounced the marvel of the Centuries. The highest praise has been accorded them by the press and public.

The Hippodrome in 1923

In 1923 tickets were 25 cents to adults and 10 cents to children. Piano players were hired for $1.00 per night. Popcorn was 5 cents and no drinks were allowed.

See HIPPODROME, pg. 11

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Sedgwick County • Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick

HIPPODROME from page 10

Marvel Corpe [Johnson] provided background piano music around 1923. Alice Tewell [Pine] followed her.

When records replaced “live” music two turntables were located in a small booth beside the projection room. These records were supplied by the theatre manager. The feature film was usually previewed pri-

or to public showing so that appropriate music could be selected. The first “talking” movie sound was also provided by records played on two turntables. At this time, the turntables were located in the projection booth directly behind the projectors. Sometimes a piece of film would be missing because of damage.

This caused the audio record to be out of synch with the picture. The correction would be made at the next reel change.

When sound was recorded directly onto the picture film, the need for records and turntables was eliminated. Theodore Cae developed a soundon-film method 1922-1926.

Fox-Case Movietone Corp.

used the process 1926-1929 and it became standard in the industry.

Traveling salesmen from different production companies would compete for a theatre’s business. Deals would vary from theatre to theatre.

To make a “deal,” the agent See HIPPODROME, pg. 12

EXPLORE

Sedgwick ck Count County J L Big B’s Bar & Grill

ULESBURG AUNDROMAT 209 W 3rd St. Julesburg, CO (970) 520-2638

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Office: 970-474-2696 Fax: 970-474-2293 114 West 1st Street Julesburg, CO 80737 jennifer@sedgwicktitleco.com www.sedgwicktitleco.com

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

I-76 & Hwy 59 . Sedgwick, CO

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Julesburg Dragstrip,

Oldest Track in the Country US-138, Julesburg, CO 80737 See this year’s racing schedule at:

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www.pwcbank.com EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 11

Sedgwick County • Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick

HIPPODROME from page 11

would sell a “block” of film, i.e., MGM, United Artists, RKO, 20th Century Fox, Allied Artists, etc. A block could contain 10 or 20 movies.

In the early years, the salesmen rode the train to Julesburg. Later, they traveled by auto. When fewer movies were being produced, the agents would sell one movie at a time rather than by block.

The salesmen would price a block or a single movie high.

The theatre owner would offer a low price then they would work to settle on an amount.

Projectionists through the years included Ruhl Gillette, Louis Schafer, Jack Miller, Everett Einspahr, Daryl Arndt, Van Dennison, George Allen, Melvin Borgens and Jack Leonard.

Popcorn was sold by Junior Johnson, Paul Jankovsky, Jim Howitt, Jim Deich, Opal Schneider and Dorothy Payne [Mock]. Dorothy recalls that Lynn Zorn gave her an extra 50 cents per week to clean the popcorn kettle, a job that took most of Saturday.

Hippodrome management kept a “charge book” for persons who could not pay at the time they attended the movie.

Sometimes they paid their

Churches Baptist

Grace Baptist Church Pastor Leighton Vary 102 E. 6th Street Julesburg, CO 80737 970-474-0996 Sunday Worship 10:45 a.m.

Bible Study Wednesday 10:00 a.m.

Conservative Baptist

Lutheran

St. Johns Lutheran Church Rev. Jon Dickmander P. O. Box 98, 411 West 6th Brule, NE 69127 308-287-2394 Sunday Worship 8:30 a.m.

12 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

accounts and sometimes they did not, but they were never banned from the theatre. The charge book was still around in the Hippodrome records in 1973.

The balcony was for smokers. The fire escape was located on the south side of the balcony area. Sometimes a lighted cigarette would be thrown down into the auditorium seats. If the culprit could be found, it meant eviction from the theatre.

A “free admittance” system helped to keep kids off of the streets and to keep them entertained. The child would pay for one night. If the same movie was showing the next night, he could ask to have his name written down so he could attend the second time for free. Santa Zorn also extended this courtesy to adults.

The feature was run twice each evening if enough people were present, and the theatre was often filled on Saturday and Sunday. Tuesdays usually drew a full-house as this was the popular “Cash Night.”

Before television interfered, reels of national and international news were shown each weekend. They could run

from ten to twenty minutes.

Devotion Tuesday and Thursday 7:00 a.m.

Lutheran Church Missouri Synagogue

Monday 6:30 p.m.

Men’s Breakfast 1st Saturday 7:30 a.m.

Mennonite

Chaka Era

Chad and Kay DeCastro purchase the theatre in April 1973 at an estate auction and initiated an extended remodeling. They changed the Hippodrome name to “Chaka.”

In June 1982, DeCastro’s daughter Mary and her husband Bill Collins bought the Chaka and continue operations until 1996 when it was placed up for sale. Concerned citizens launched a fundraising campaign to purchase and reopen the facility.

In October 1996, the Hippodrome Arts Centre organization was officially established and the Hippodrome was reborn. Plans were made for the facility to be used as a multi-cultural centre in addition to movies.

The Hippodrome Today

The Hippodrome incorporated the help of over 100 volunteers in April 1997 — manning the ticket booth, selling concessions and helping with general cleanup.

In April 1997, the first major annual fundraiser, “The Gala,” was scheduled and the community invited. Food, fun, and entertainment, as well as an

Presbyterian

Community Presbyterian Church of Sedgwick Julesburg Mennonite Church Pastor Larry Nail Pastor Larry Nail P. O. Box 148 720 Elm Street Sedgwick, CO 80749 Julesburg, CO 80737 970-580-1462 970-474-2779 Sunday Worship 9:00 a.m.

Sunday Bible Study 9:30 a.m. all ages Assembly of God Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.

Chappell Assembly of God Sunday Evening Worship 6:30 Pastor Kevin Jacobs p.m.

1202 4th Street Bible Study Thursday 6:30 Chappell, NE 69129 p.m.

308-874-3285 Men’s Bible Study 2nd and 4th Sunday Worship 10:45 a.m.

auction, helped raise funding of ongoing projects. This Hippodrome event became the spring social event of the year and continues to be the highlight of the community calendar.

The Hippodrome Arts Centre was listed as the first building in Sedgwick County on the Historical State Register of Historic Places in 1999.

New seating was added as the old Naugahyde vinyl was traded for much more comfortable Greyson seats in 2011.

The lobby and concession stand took on a whole new appearance in 2012 as both were completely remodeled.

The digital age arrived in 2013 as the Hippodrome made the conversion from the carbon arc to the new projector system. This new digital operating system allowed the Hippodrome to utilize the projector in many ways; hooking up to gaming systems so guests may play on the big screen, and showing Blu-Ray movies too.

100 Years of Movie Magic

The Hippodrome will be celSee HIPPODROME, pg. 13

Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Non-Denominational

Julesburg Community Fellowship Pastor Kerry Johnson 223 Cedar Street Julesburg, CO 80737 970-520-2681 Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Bible Study 6:00 p.m.

The Joy Mission Paston Ivy Joy Johnson 401 W. 3rd Street Julesburg, CO 80737 970-474-2622 Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday Worship 6:30 p.m.

Sedgwick County • Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick

HIPPODROME from page 12

ebrating 100 Years of Movie Magic in July as they will be showing one movie each Monday for four weeks honoring the four owners of the historic theatre. All movies begin at 7 p.m. and admission is $5 per person.

On July 1, the theatre will feature the silent movie era with Harold Lloyd’s “Safety

Last,” Actor Harold Lloyd lived in Sedgwick County during his elementary years.

Honoring the second owners, the Zorn/Lowery family who owned and operated the Hippodrome from 1923-1973, the theatre will be featuring the original 1956 western movie, “The Searchers,” in addition to a 1956 newsreel

and cartoon. This feature will also include a BBQ meal with the price of admission on July 8.

The third owners, the DeCastro/Collins family operated as the Chaka Theatre from 1976-1996. In honor of that era, the Hippodrome will feature the 1984 movie “Ghostbusters.” The date is

July 15.

Honoring the current nonprofit organization that has operated the Hippodrome Theatre from 1996 to present, they will be providing live entertainment by Jeff Gordan as “Legends in Country & Elvis Impersonator” on July 22. For pre-sale tickets to this event call 970-474-9977.

Visit Historic...

For more information: call 970-474-3344, 970-474-3504 or visit: www.townofjulesburg.com www.colorado.gov/sedgwickcounty sedgwick-county-economic.business.site www.rivertrailonline.org

Travel the South Platte River Trail A Scenic and Historic Byway • Explore the route of the Transcontinental Railroad.

• 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 Jailhouse Museum.

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

Sponsored by: Sedgwick County Economic Development • Julesburg/Sedgwick County Chamber of Commerce The Sedgwick County Commissioners • The Town of Julesburg • The Town of Ovid • The Town of Sedgwick EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 13

Sedgwick County • Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick

Pony Express riders arrive at the Colorado Welcome Center on June 28, 2018, carrying the mochila. The Pony Express re-ride is held each year in June. This year the Pony Express will leave St. Joseph, Missouri on June 10, 2019, and will complete the trail on June 20, 2019, in Sacramento. Riders will pass through Julesburg and Sedgwick County between 5:30 a.m. and 7 a.m. on June 13.

Celebrating the Pony Express Sept. 12 re-ride to commemorate ‘How the West Was Won!’

F

orty years ago Julesburg was selected to be the destination site of the first annual re-ride. Forty years later, Colorado (Julesburg) is honored to host the celebration and convention honoring the Pony Express.

Nowhere in Colorado is historical content so compacted in a small area as Sedgwick County. Yes, we as residents have so many things to be proud of, but at the forefront of it all is our historical pride.

Though only in existence for 18 months, the Pony Express connected the

Restaurants Julesburg

Big B’s Bar & Grill 217 Main Street Julesburg, CO 80737 970-463-6109 Tuesday - Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday - Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Bar is open til 2 a.m. Tuesday Saturday Family Dining

14 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

people across America during a crucial time with information via letters. With the completion of the telegraph, the Pony Express mail service ended.

The Pony Express includes eight states that participated in the historical mail delivery from 1860 to 1861. Colorado’s involvement was a mere 18 miles. The other seven states have numerous members and funds to host this annual event every eight years. Colorado’s division has a membership of 40 — but active members numbering 10! Numbers are few, but pride is immeasurable. We are proud of our history in Sedgwick County, and our role in how the “west was won,” especially with the Pony Express mail delivery.

The Colorado Division of the Pony Express will play host to the National

D&J Cafe 114 Cedar Street Julesburg, CO 80737 970-474-0982 Monday - Saturday 7 a.m - 8 p.m Sunday 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Family Dining Family Market Food & Hardware 222 Cedar Street Julesburg, CO 80737 970-474-0932 Monday - Saturday 5:30 a.m -

Pony Express Association Delegate convention marking the 40th anniversary and annual Re-Ride. While the convention meetings are for members only, there will be “Parade of Champions — How the West was Won!” on Thursday, Sept. 12 in Julesburg, for everyone to attend. Grand Marshals will be original riders of the 1979 re-ride, first of annual re-rides from 1979 to 2019! The 1979 ride was from Sacramento to Julesburg. Lee Kizer and Darris Cumming are two of our original re-ride members being honored.

Other states will be bringing honored XP riders from their states.

Wagon teams from throughout Northeast Colorado and the Panhandle of Nebraska will join the “Parade of Champions.”

9 p.m Sunday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Deli Platte Valley Inn Restaurant 15225 US-385 Julesburg, CO 80737 970-474-3336 Call for Hours Family Dining

Other

Lucy’s Place I-76 & Hwy 59 Sedgwick, CO 80749

970-463-5509 Sunday - Saturday 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Great Home Cooking Family Dining Max’s Highway Diner 109 Circle Road Big Springs, NE 69122 308-889-3239 Sunday - Wednesday 6 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Thursday - Saturday 6 a.m. to Midnight Family Dining

Sedgwick County • Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick

Passengers in this Corvette carried the American flag along the parade route.

F

Cruisin’ Main Street

ast becoming an annual tradition, the Cruise Night put on by the Hippodrome Arts Center in conjunction with the Tri-State Hot Rod Revival, attracts hundreds of car buffs and specta-

tors to Julesburg.

In its inaugural year a few more than 100 cars, Spiders, and motorcycles participated in the event. The second year the count doubled, making it easily one the most successful

The Quarter Horse car was one of many cars on display during the 2018 Cruise Night held in downtown Julesburg.

events in recent history and well-attended too. The 2019 event is set for Friday, Aug. 16.

Todd Barowsky, owner and operator of the Julesburg Drag Strip, said the Tri-State Hot Rod Revival will be held

on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 17-18, 2019. Last year the drag strip had 301 entries with 805 paid spectators, the largest show he has ever had, and the 2019 event is expected to be even larger.

Lodging The Grand Motel

220 Pine Street Julesburg, CO 80737 970-474-3302 www.facebook.com/ TheGrandMotel Open 24/7

Platte Valley Inn & Restaurant 15225 US-385

Julesburg, CO 80737 970-474-3336 www.budgethost.com Open 24/7

Sedgwick Hotel

101 Main Ave. Sedgwick, CO 80749 970-463-9932 www.sedgwickantiqueinn.com Open 24/7

EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 15

Sedgwick County • Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick

Where buffalo roam

By Jeana Johnson

Fort Sedgwick Historical Society

I

n 1939 workmen were putting the finishing touches on buffalo pens in the Union Pacific Park. Julesburg merchants had paid for two bison with expectations of drawing tourists into town.

The pens were constructed of “one of the strongest known” wire and connected to fence posts set into three feet of concrete. The crates containing two live buffalo arrived from Yellowstone Park via train and the cost of the 2,000-pound shipment was donated by Union Pacific.

Within two weeks of arrival, there were three buffalo in the park as Mrs. Buffalo arrived on the scene very pregnant.

The baby was named “Jules.”

In the Nov. 27, 1941 edition of

By the summer of 1942, the two remaining buffalo were loaded and trucked to the Troelstrup Ranch, east of town.

The pens were immediately removed and grass planted.

Today, Julesburg’s gazebo is in the east area of what was originally the bison pen. No explanation for removing the bison was found in published records; however, one local citizen recalls that the odor from the pen become overpowering — “like being next to a feedlot” — probably not the best aroma to draw tourists into town.

Buffalo on the Price Ranch south of Sedgwick, where they have There are two bison heads in been raised since the 1940s. The herd of the buffalo was the Depot Museum’s west started by Emray Price. Lucy’s Place, owned and operated by room. Several people rememLucy Price, is located at the intersection of Hwy 59 and I-76 at ber them being named the Sedgwick Interchange and is known for her buffalo burgers. “George” and “Gladys” in ref(Photo by Ashley Orblom Arvada) erence to then-Mayor Thompson and his wife.

— From research by Mary the Julesburg Grit-Advocate, lined “Cow Buffalo Dies SaturMcKinstry and Betty Dittmar the front page article head- day.”

Railroads: ‘Hell on Wheels’ and ‘Holy Rollers’ Bringing faith to a spiritual wasteland

By Jeana Johnson

Fort Sedgwick Historical Society

I

n Rawlins, Wyoming stands a church that was built around a rail chapel car, one of 13 that followed the railroads west in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Those churches on rails carried men and women of God who were willing to suffer hardships to bring faith and stability to the rail towns where faith and civilized life struggled to survive.

Young men who survived the Civil War thought working on the rails would bring fame and fortune. Instead, it 16 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

Preparing to lay the rails for the tracks near Julesburg 1867.

(Photo from FSHS Research Room)

brought the vices of the hellon-wheels towns. These young men were rail-hands on the construction of the first transcontinental railroad.

In 1862, the big businesses

of the Central Pacific and the Union Pacific railroads began their own race to achieve fame and fortune. Men flocked to work on the rails that would eventually join east and west

at Promontory, Utah on May 10, 1869. Pay day brought them by the droves to the tent saloons, poker games, and brothels of railheads like North Platte, Julesburg, Cheyenne, and Rawlins. Many of those early boomtowns vanished as the rails reached beyond them; others remained and are stable communities with generally lawabiding citizens. According to local historian Dallas Williams, “When end-of-track had moved on to Cheyenne a few months later, Julesburg (III) was little more than a ghost town with a very large garbage dump.”

If the railroads had helped to create the spiritual wasteland along the newly laid tracks, then the railroads See RAILROADS, pg. 17

Sedgwick County • Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick

RAILROADS from page 16 needed to be part of the solution. One of the first churches on wheels was the “little ark,” a wooden box on wheels built in 1852 and set at the mouth of the Shannon River in Ireland.

A priest said Mass for people who walked miles to attend.

Chapel cars of the Russian Orthodox Church carried the sacraments to thousands who

lived and worked along the route of the Trans-Caspian and Trans-Siberian railroads.

These were the inspiration for the American chapel cars.

In 1926, Frank Blanchard was called to serve on the chapel car, Emmanuel. He was waiting for a detailed schedule from the Colorado State Secretary. Instead, he was

instructed to “just go to Ovid where there is a big sugar factory going up. Organize a church and erect a church building. Then go on to Sedgwick and Julesburg and if possible build a church and tie them up with Ovid.”

Blanchard was reluctant to visit Julesburg as he’d heard of its previous reputation but

records do indicate that he did visit Julesburg, by then a lawabiding town, although he did not organize a church there.

The first church in Ovid was the Methodist church, established in 1892. The other, the new Baptist church, was started by the Blanchards, possibly in the chapel car Emmanuel.

EXPLORE

Sedgwick ck Count County Antiques & Artisans 101 Cedar . Julesburg, CO 970-474-2363

Sedgwick County’s Largest Antique Mall 9-5 Monday - Saturday 10-4 Sunday Antiques . Furniture Crafts . Art . Jewlery Clothing & More

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

Antiques & Collectibles

The Cedar Chest

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

Julesburg, CO (970)474-0982

Family Market Food & Hardware

222 Cedar • Julesburg, CO (970) 474-0932

Sinclair Convenience Store

• • • • • •

Food Hardware Sinclair Fuel Deli Greenhouse Ice Cream

“Coldest Beer in Town”

420 W 1st St., Julesburg, CO | 970-474-4623 GAS * UNIQUE GIFTS * SOUVENIRS * FOOD

(Something for Everyone!)

WAGON WHEEL CONOCO & GIFTS Exit 180... Julesburg, CO I-76 & Hwy 385 970-474-4989

Your “One-Stop and Shop” Center!

Sedgwick Hotel Full of Antiques & Charm

D&J Cafe 114 Cedar St

J&JLiquors

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

www.schealth.org

101 Main Ave Sedgwick, CO

Historical 1920’s Building

(970) 463-9932 14 Guest Rooms Breakfast Nook Night Lodging for Hunters, Travlers & Families

You won’t see a paper like this everyday...Just once a week 114 W. 1st St. Julesburg, CO • (970)474-3388

www.julesburgadvocate.com

Enjoy Your Stay & Shop Next Door at

Blend of Everything

Antiques & Indoor Flea Market www.sedgwickantiqueinn.com EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 17

Welcome to Phillips County Amherst, Haxtun, Holyoke, Paoli

Horses north of Holyoke (Photo by Denise Smith)

Butterfly in Holyoke (Photo by Denise Smith) Four-wheeling in Amherst (Photo by Mary Fulscher)

Ice-coated wire fence near Holyoke (Photo by Connie Ferguson) 18 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

Phillips County • Amherst, Haxtun, Holyoke, Paoli

Come to See

Phillips County Stay to Live

Dandelion Daze

June 22, 2019 • Courthouse • Holyoke

Old-Fashioned Saturday Night July 20, 2019 • Haxtun

Once the home of Will E. Heginbotham, the 100-year-old mansion at 539 S. Baxter in Holyoke is now one of the most remarkable library buildings in the state. (Holyoke Enterprise photo)

Tour Heginbotham Library at 100th anniversary celebration O ne of Phillips County’s hidden gems is the Heginbotham Library, tucked away on the side streets of Holyoke.

Of course, to book lovers any library can be a magical place, but this one in particular stands out as it’s on the National Register of Historic Places.

Located at 539 S. Baxter, the library was once the home of Will E. Heginbotham. The Craftsman-style mansion was built in 1919, and it became the library in 1969.

As 2019 marks the 100th anniversary of its construction and the 50th anniversary of the library being moved in, a big celebration is being planned to commemorate both occasions.

On Sunday, Sept. 29, as Holyoke is wrapping up homecoming festivities, a multigenerational party will encompass the past, present and future of the library.

The public is invited to tour the mansion and the grounds of this extraordinary and eccentric structure — including areas many haven’t had access to before.

Enjoy a game of croquet or badminton, homemade ice cream and music for family fun that’s reminiscent of the home’s early days.

In addition to the anniversary celebration, the Heginbotham Library can always be visited during its regular hours Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Phillips County Fair

July 23-28, 2019 • Fairgrounds • Holyoke

Haxtun Corn Festival Sept. 28, 2019 • Haxtun

Haxtun Hospital District

235 W. Fletcher • Haxtun • 970-774-6123 • www.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 Center 970-854-2260 Hometown Pharmacy 970-854-2222 Family Practice of Holyoke 970-854-2500 MMH Family Dental 970-854-2252

EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 19

Phillips County • Amherst, Haxtun, Holyoke, Paoli

Expect ‘Bushels of Fun’ at fair D

irt will fly at the 2019 Phillips County Fair July 24-28, with bull riding, barrel racing, truck and tractor pulling, and more at the Phillips County Fairgrounds in Holyoke.

Thrashers softball will be hosting a Rocky Mountain oyster dinner at 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday, July 24, and a cornhole tournament at 9 p.m.

Also on Wednesday, a ranch rodeo will begin at 6 p.m.

Thursday, July 25, Dutch oven cook-off judging at 5 p.m. and barrel racing at 6 p.m. will be the featured events.

Friday, July 26, Heartland Pulling’s truck and tractor pull returns to town for a 7 p.m. show following the annual barbecue at 6 p.m. in the Event Center.

The ever-popular Bulls Gone Wild! with bull riding, bullfighting, mutton bustin’ and more returns to the arena Saturday, July 27, at 7 p.m.

Besides the headline events, livestock and 4-H projects will be shown at the fairgrounds throughout the week. A parade of champions will showcase the projects Friday at 4 p.m.

The “Bushels of Fun” themed parade will start at 10 a.m. Saturday on Holyoke’s Interocean Avenue.

A performer prepares to lasso a calf during the ranch rodeo at the 2018 Phillips County Fair. The event is slated for Wednesday, July 24, at 6 p.m. this year.

Friday and Saturday activities also include an American Ninja Warrior course, horseshoe pitching, petting zoo, kids’ games, a model rocket expo, salsa contest and more — a guarantee that 2019 will live up to its theme, “Bushels of Fun at the Phillips County

Fair.”

A beer garden on the grounds will be open each evening, Wednesday through Saturday, with featured music on Friday and Saturday nights.

Saturday, the Orphan Grain Train brat feed will begin at 11

a.m., with the junior livestock sale at 2:30 p.m.

A community church service is the only event on the Sunday, July 28, schedule for the fair.

For the most up-to-date information and schedule, visit https://phillipscofair.com.

1001 E. Johnson St., Holyoke, CO 80734

“Big City Quality, Small Town Values...”

Call or visit our website today for your future reservations!

www.staycobblestone.com

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1-970-854-3222

805 S. Interocean Ave. n Holyoke, CO n holyoke@staycobblestone.com

10% Discount* with this ad 20 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

Offer not good on existing reservations *Not valid with other discounts *Some restrictions apply

FAMILY PRACTICE OF HOLYOKE Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-5 p.m.

Call today to schedule your appointment 970-854-2500 MMH FAMILY DENTAL Call today to schedule your appointment 970-854-2252

MMH HOMETOWN PHARMACY Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. (lunch 1-1:30 p.m.)

970-854-2222 HOLYOKE FAMILY EYECARE CENTER Call today to schedule your appointment 970-854-2260

Phillips County • Amherst, Haxtun, Holyoke, Paoli

Old Fashioned Saturday Night takes Haxtun back to 1950s

G

rab your poodle skirts and leather jackets for the 32nd annual Old Fashioned Saturday Night!

Haxtun Chamber of Commerce has activities for all ages planned in downtown Haxtun Saturday, July 20.

The day kicks off with townwide garage sales in the morning.

Street games, video games, a dunk tank and vendors will line main street in the afternoon.

Car enthusiasts will love the car show featuring classic and late models, with the crowd-favorite burnout later in the day.

There’s also a poker run planned this year.

Don’t forget the costume contest and the hog roast!

And stick around for the beer garden, music, street dance and cornhole competition.

Churches Baptist

First Baptist Church Pastor Jeremiah Krieger 1000 E. Johnson St., Holyoke, CO 970-854-2452 Sunday School 9:30 a.m., Worship 10:30 a.m.

Easter worship 10 a.m.

Catholic

St. Patrick/Christ the King/ St. Peter Rev. Jerry Rohr 720-339-1472 St. Patrick, Holyoke, Sunday, 8 a.m.

Christ the King, Haxtun, Saturday, 5 p.m.

St. Peter, Fleming, Sunday,

Classic cars line the streets of downtown Haxtun during its annual Old Fashioned Saturday Night event.

Check the Haxtun Old Fashioned Saturday Night Facebook page for more details, or call Jenny Oberle at 970-415-3960 or Sara Firme, Haxtun Chamber of Commerce, 970-467-0194.

10:30 a.m.

Lutheran ChurchMissouri Synod

Immanuel Lutheran Church Richard von Steinman, vacancy pastor 400 N. Colorado Ave., Haxtun, CO 970-774-6236 Sunday: 9 a.m.; Adult Bible Study, 10 a.m.

FRESH DELI with Fried Chicken and Daily Specials

Meet our friendly staff as they help you with MEAT • PRODUCE FROZEN • DAIRY • DELI Shop Online www.holyokemarketplace.com

United Methodist

Haxtun United Methodist Church Pastor Jeri Soens 106 S. Washington Ave., Haxtun, CO 970-774-7413 Sunday Worship: 9:30 a.m

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

EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 21

Phillips County • Amherst, Haxtun, Holyoke, Paoli

Massive new pavilion opens up opportunities for northeast Colorado R

ural folks know that fairgrounds are used for much more than just the annual county fairs. In Phillips County, there’s not a week that goes by that doesn’t see some sort of action at the fairgrounds located just north of Holyoke.

In 2018, the Bank of Colorado Pavilion became the newest addition to the facilities out there, and it’s turned out to be a huge asset to the town, county and region. Yes, it was used for last year’s Phillips County Fair and it will continue to be in coming years, but it’s opened up many more opportunities in the area, too.

On a local level, youth from Holyoke and the surrounding area have a place to work with their horses, practicing riding

Showing livestock at the Phillips County Fair is just one of the many things made possible by the new Bank of Colorado Pavilion in Holyoke. (Holyoke Enterprise photo)

and roping before it’s time for competition. Volunteers, such as those who make up the fire department, have put it to use for trainings.

A series of cattledog trials brought a new kind of competition to the area. Events like

Farming Evolution and the Purina Research Farm to Ranch Cattle VIP Experience have been beneficial to farmers and ranchers. In many cases, programs held at the pavilion have drawn in people from across the United States.

New events are being added to the pavilion schedule all the time.

For more information about using the facility, contact Deanna Webster at 970-4663778 or pavilion@phillips county.co.

out, 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.-Oct. 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) Open 9-9, 7 days a week.

Order thru Subway app or stop in Taqueria Hernandez 242 W. Denver St. 970-854-8486 Authentic Mexican Food Open M-F, 7-8; Sat.-Sun., 8-8.

Restaurants Holyoke

Blisties 37974 C.R. 20, Holyoke, CO 1 mile south of stoplight on Hwy 385 970-854-5150 Open M-F, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 4:30-9:30 p.m.

Burgers, Chicken, Steaks, Seafood & Mexican.

Family Dining.

Complete Lounge, big screen, pool table.

Take-Out, Accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover Brewed Awakening Coffee & Bake Shop 215 N. Interocean Ave. 970-854-2253 Open –M-F, 7-5; Sat., 8-3.

Breakfast and Lunch served all day.

Specialty coffees, sandwiches, wraps, baked goods and more.

CHS Grainland Ampride 220 W. Denver St.

22 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

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 Holyoke Marketplace & Deli 112 E. Carnahan 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 Shop online: holyokemarketplace.com 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, Take-

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

Explore

HOLYOKE

Los Parra's

Family Restaurant Featuring Mexican Food 970-854-3004 116 N. Interocean Ave., Holyoke

Open 11-8 7 days a week

Sullivan’s Appliance & Air Appliances, Heating-Air, Carpet

We also service all makes & brands of appliances 128 S. Interocean—Holyoke—854-2180

Kwik Stop #13 Holyoke, CO

Open 24 Hours 115 E. Denver St. 970-854-2233

Peerless Theatre 212 S. Interocean, Holyoke

970-854-2453

970-854-FLIK Movie Info Line Movies Friday thru Monday

www.thepeerlesstheatre.com

Red’s LiquoRs

LLC

140 E. Denver St., Holyoke

Call for our wine-tasting schedule

970-854-2206 Open 7 Days a Week

Your community newspaper— in print and online every Wednesday n

Covering hometown news of Holyoke and Phillips County n

Offering printing and other promotional items n

115 S. Interocean, Holyoke 970-854-3699 M-F, 10-6; Sat., 10-3 Like us on Facebook

130 E. Denver St., Holyoke, CO

970-854-7202

Open W-Th 11-2, 5-8; F-Sa 11-8

Holyoke General Store 128 S. Campbell Holyoke, CO 970-854-5505

The Skillet Restaurant

Family Dining Full Menu • Cocktails •Take-Out 130W. Denver St., Holyoke • 970-854-2150 Tu-Sa 10-2, 4:30-9; Sun 8-2 Closed lastTues. of each month Jan.-Oct.

Brewed Awakening Coffee & Bake Shop

Breakfast,Lunch and Specialty Coffees

Row-by-Row at our store

June 21-Sept. 3 www.rowbyrowexperience.com

!

970-854-2811 www.holyokeenterprise.com

Restaurant & Catering

215 N.Interocean Holyoke 970-854-2253

Open M-F 7-5 • Sat. 8-3

10% OFF

Regent Park & Carriage House

Home Decor

Nursing & Rehab 970-854-2251 Assisted Living 970-854-5180 816 S. Interocean, Holyoke

Jewelry & Exp. 05-01-2020

970-854-7220 • Across from hospital in Holyoke

Our Commitment: “Adding Quality to Life”

Serving the Banking Needs of Northeast Colorado for over 100 years

ATM Banking available CHS Grainland Ampride at 220 W. Denver St.

Saturday Drive-Up Banking 8 a.m.-12 noon

150 S. Interocean—Holyoke 970-854-2227 or 1-800-854-2227 Together We Make Our Community Strong

www.fpnb.bank EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 23

Phillips County • Amherst, Haxtun, Holyoke, Paoli

Classic car extravaganza returns to Holyoke June 22

A

rea gearheads can look forward to a day of classic cars and family fun at Holyoke’s 19th annual Dandelion Daze, scheduled Saturday, June 22.

Registration for cars and bikes will take place from 8 to 11 a.m., after which rides can be wheeled out, shown and shined until 3 p.m. on the Phillips County Courthouse lawn at 221 S. Interocean Ave. Awards will be presented at 2:30 p.m. on the west courthouse steps, and after the show, owners are invited to Cruisin’ Down Main, where vehicles will be driven south on Interocean Avenue to the

Regent Park parking lot.

Holyoke High School’s FBLA chapter will serve breakfast burritos at 8:30 a.m. and lunch at 10:30 a.m. next to the courthouse.

During the show, the entire community will turn out to provide other opportunities for fun around the courthouse and across the city.

Food, craft, exhibitor, informational and vendor booths

will be set up on the courthouse lawn until the end of the show. Free kids’ and family games, including a Dozer Games mobile gaming center, sidewalk chalk, inflatables and more will also be set up on the south side of the courthouse.

The Phillips County Museum, located one block east of the Highway 6 stoplight, will also be open from noon to 4:30 p.m. Visitors are invited to

check out the museum’s transportation area, featuring a vintage Hupmobile and Model T. Vehicles and vendor booths can be registered online at https://squareup.com/store/ holyoke-chamber-of-commerce. For more info, contact Holyoke Chamber of Commerce at 970-854-3517 or director@holyokechamber.org.

Husqvarna Mowers Traeger Grills

NAPA Auto Parts

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 24 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

Reece and Avery Horton enjoy the 2018 Dandelion Daze show at the courthouse in Holyoke.

(Holyoke Enterprise photo)

Lodging Burge Hotel

230 N Interocean Ave., Holyoke, CO 970-854-2261 or 1-800-352-5256 www.burgehotel.net

Cobblestone Inn & Suites

805 S Interocean Ave., Holyoke, CO 970-854-3222

holyoke@staycobblestone.com www.staycobblestone.com

Golden Plains Motel

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

Phillips County • Amherst, Haxtun, Holyoke, Paoli

Holyoke block party returns Town to hold second annual event Aug. 6

H

olyoke will be joining communities across the country Tuesday, Aug. 6, for National Night Out, celebrating camaraderie with local law enforcement with a block party fit for all ages.

The 2018 event included a bounce house, street dancing, free swimming at Holyoke Swimming Pool, a dunk tank featuring Holyoke Police Chief Doug Bergstrom and more.

Law enforcement also met with community members and gave out safety information to attendees.

National Night Out was inaugurated in 1984 as a way of connecting neighbors with the people who keep their

Kids are treated to a variety of games and activities at a Holyoke block party at the 2018 National Night Out to celebrate the community’s relationship with local law enforcement.

communities safe, and Holyoke held its first event in 2018.

For more information

about the 2019 event, contact Bergstrom or HPD officer Joseph Marcum at 970-8542244.

County comes Clubs alive at Christmas C

ome Christmastime, Phillips County transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with sparkling lights, visits from Santa and store promotions.

Holyoke’s Country Christmas, sponsored by the chamber of commerce, is set for Monday, Dec. 2.

Activities usually include photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, the Parade of Lights, hay rides, a free kids’ movie, a soup/chili supper, museum tours, and extended hours for local businesses

Haxtun Lions Club

and vendors.

For more information, call the chamber at 970-8543517.

Haxtun will be filled with holiday cheer at its chamber’s Country Christmas Evening, which is generally held the Tuesday after Thanksgiving.

Traditional activities are visits with Santa, a chili supper, rides on the FFA train, a cantata and local promotions.

Chairperson Marilyn Michael can be reached at 970-520-2553.

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

Haxtun Community Center, 125 E. Wilson, Haxtun

Pizza p.a.d.

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

970-854-3042

Airport

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

Recreation

Baseball/Softball Fields Indoor Swim Pool Beautiful In-City 9-Hole Golf Course Beautiful City Park Bike/Walking Path 970-580-3659

Heginbotham Library Listed on the National Register of Historic Places

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

EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 25

Phillips County • Amherst, Haxtun, Holyoke, Paoli

PC Raceway plans monthly action

F

ast racing and great action are a sure thing in stock car races once a month April through September at Phillips County Raceway at the fairgrounds in Holyoke.

IMCA modifieds, sport mods, stock cars, hobby stocks and compacts are featured consistently on the 2019 racing schedule which began April 20. Dwarfs are on the race schedule every month except July.

Targeting Sundays and the Fourth of July, the rest of the 2019 season schedule continues through Sept. 1, with added attractions at each race.

Starting with the Memorial Day weekend races, the PC Raceway schedule follows: • Sunday, May 26, 5 p.m. — Motor Madness featuring Performance Open Wheel Racing Inc. lightning sprints, TriState, CAT tour and six additional divisions.

Cars round the track at Phillips County Raceway. (Courtesy photo)

• Sunday, June 9, 5 p.m. — Fan Appreciation Night, featuring POWRI warrior sprint series, POWRI RMMRA midgets, CAT tour, plus six IMCA divisions.

• Thursday, July 4, 5 p.m. — Independence Day Blowout

featuring POWRI lightning sprints, Tri-State, CAT tour and five additional divisions.

• Sunday, Sept. 1, 5 p.m. — IMCA Championship Night featuring POWRI warrior sprint series, POWRI lightning sprints, CAT tour, 600 sprints

and six additional divisions.

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 the PCR Raceway Facebook page and click “Like” to follow.

Haxtun Corn Festival is fun at its finest

M

ark your calendars now, because you don’t want to miss out on Haxtun’s biggest weekend of the year! The 98th annual Haxtun Corn Festival is set for Saturday, Sept. 28.

The 2019 theme is “There’s Just Something About a Small Town,” and Virgil and Eloise Harms have been chosen as the grand marshals.

The day is packed with activities, including mainstays like a 5K race, fireman’s breakfast, parade, quilt show, vendors, street games, a dance, live music, tractor pull and Lil’ Mr. and Miss Corn Festival contest.

To keep up with event plans, visit the Haxtun Corn Festival page on Facebook. For more information, contact Alicia Schram at 970-520Grand marshal Bud Biesemeier waves to the crowd during the 2018 Haxtun Corn 3336 or Sara Firme at Haxtun Chamber of Commerce, 970-467-0194.

Festival Parade. (Haxtun-Fleming Herald photo) 26 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

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Fan Appreciation Night, POWRI Warrior Sprint Series, POWRI RMMRA Midgets & CAT Tour

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EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 27

Phillips County • Amherst, Haxtun, Holyoke, Paoli

Recreation reigns in county

S

hooting sports, golfing, fishing, swimming and more are accommodated nicely throughout Phillips County.

• Those on the hunt for a place to take their guns and bows will find plenty of opportunities.

Located on the east edge of town, the Holyoke Gun Club has leagues, fun shoots and Monday night trap shooting.

Ballyneal Golf Club, between Holyoke and Wray, offers a 10station sporting clay shooting course, a five-stand shooting range and both wild and preserve hunting.

Haxtun Gun Club, southwest of town, is a great place for trap shooting, a rifle range, leagues and youth activities. Phillips County has a gun/archery range open to the public south of Highway 6 on County Road 29 west of Holyoke. Camp Machasay, by Amherst, also has facilities to host outdoor youth camps and shooting tournaments.

• Phillips County is home to three golf courses. F&H Golf Course, a long course for all skill levels, is 1 mile south of Highway 6 on County Road 87 between Fleming and Haxtun.

The Holyoke Golf Course on the northeast edge of town features nine holes and a remod-

Brenna Sullivan keeps her eye on the ball at Holyoke Golf Course during a cool spring high school golf meet. Golfing is just one of many recreational opportunities in Phillips County.

(Holyoke Enterprise photo)

eled lounge. Ballyneal Golf Club, located between Holyoke and Wray, is ranked among the best golf courses in the world with a private, authentic inland links golf experience.

• Enjoy fishing year-round at Haxtun’s fishing pond, located 1 mile west, 1.25 miles south and 0.25 miles east of Haxtun, through the Haxtun Gun Club, down a winding road.

Avid anglers can also spend the day at the Holyoke Lions Club Fishin’ Hole, located 1 mile east and 0.25 mile south of the stoplight in Holyoke. There is also a bike/walking path that

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leads to the fishing hole.

• Both Holyoke and Haxtun have indoor swimming pools for recreational fun for all ages.

Holyoke’s pool is located at 248 E. Kellogg St., and Haxtun’s at 204 Wilson St. Municipal parks near both communities’ swimming pools offer playground equipment, basketball courts and much more.

• Homesteaders Park at the Phillips County Fairgrounds on the north edge of Holyoke includes a universally accessible playground with ramp accessibility and more special

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features. There’s also a turf field, disc golf course and a mile-long bike path. The water feature is a picturesque place for kids to cool down in the summer.

• Holyoke’s Peerless Center is much more than just a movie theater. Located at 212 S. Interocean Ave., the center also features a multipurpose gym with a basketball court.

• Additionally, fitness center opportunities are available at Holyoke Fitness Club at 123 S. Interocean Ave., and B Fit in the 100 block of North Colorado Avenue in Haxtun.

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Wildlife on the High Plains

Bald eagle launches from tree in Morgan Heights (Photo by Amy Bauer)

A house finch perches in snow (Photo by Sue Hodgson)

A honeybee collects pollen (Photo by Stacy Poland) EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 29

30 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 31

View from the High Plains

Sunset near Orchard (Photo by Lesli Pickett)

Farming in Logan County (Photo by Carrie Frank)

32 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

Sunrise on the South Platte River in Fort Morgan (Photo by Paul Threlkel)

Welcome to Logan County Crook, Fleming, Iliff, Merino, Peetz, Sterling Frost-coated trees create a lacy pattern over a bright blue sky in Sterling (Photo by Andrew Fullen)

A bald eagle finds a place to perch on a gate post east of Peetz. (Photo by Tammy Fehringer)

Canada geese take flight southwest of Sterling near the airport (Photo by Jim Coakley) EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 33

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

The outdoor pool at Sterling Recreation Center is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, weather permitting, to help swimmers of all ages beat the summer heat. (Journal-Advocate file photo)

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Fun, fitness reign at Rec Center

B

eat the summer heat, or work up a sweat, with a visit to the Sterling Recreation Center, at 808 Elm St. The center’s outdoor pool features four water slides, a beach entry and several water attractions in the larger of the two pools. The smallest splashers can also get their feet wet in a smaller wading pool with a giant mushroom waterfall. 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’s indoor pool can accommodate 222 swimmers, from the baby pool to the diving well. Try out a paddle board or kayak during open swim hours on Thursdays and weekends.

Work up a sweat in an updated fitness room that 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. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 6:30 p.m. Sunday. Daily admission provides access to the entire facility; the center also offers punch cards or annual passes.

For more information, call the Rec Center at 970-522-7882 or visit the Sterling Recreation Center page on Facebook.

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

Get outdoors for an adventure

L

ooking for a place to get away for some outdoor fun and relaxation? Look no further than North Sterling State Park (http:// bit.ly/2Jz4onU), 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.

PJ 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 11-station 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 away from pesky night pollution.

Prairie wildlife is abundant in the park, on the ground and

North Sterling State Park offers miles of trails where hikers, bikers and horseback riders can enjoy the natural landscape. (Journal-Advocate file photo)

bird walks can be arranged by calling 970-522-3657.

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.

The park boasts three campgrounds with a total of 141 campsites. It can accommodate the largest motor homes as well as the smallest pup North Sterling State Park is open for fishing year-round with tents, with 50 developed sites proper licenses. (Colorado Parks and Wildlife photo) available year-round. View fees and make reservations for in the air. Land-based animals on the park website or at the any of the campgrounds online of all sizes and species call the Visitor Center, and guided at http://bit.ly/2IKSK9J. park home, from prairie dogs to coyotes, badgers, deer and antelope. Bird-watchers will enjoy sighting a wide variety of raptors, including golden 116 Main Street (970) 521-9519 eagles, red-tailed hawks and Open Mon. - Sat. 9.00 to 5.00 American kestrels, among othGeneral Line of er types of birds. A complete Bird Species List can be found Antiques & Collectibles

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EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 35

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

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

Complex a don’t-miss attraction

S

hooting enthusiasts of all kinds visiting Logan County will want to set their sights on the Logan County Shooting Sports Complex.

The complex, located at 12515 Highway 6 on the east side of Interstate 76 at the entrance to Sterling, opened in 2016. The volunteer-run facility is open from 7 a.m. 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 club house is also present on the site. Shooters need to bring their own tar- Members in a fall trap shooting league compete at the Logan County Shooting Sports Complex. gets and clean up after them- (Journal-Advocate photo) selves. Rules are posted on the complex’s website, many years of work by a purchased. www.colorado.gov/pacific/ group of local citizens interConstruction of the shootlcssc. ested in having a public shoot- ing sports complex has been The complex is a work in ing range in this area. It is funded in part by grants from progress and is not staffed. located on an almost 400-acre Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Recent improvements include site.

While the complex is a pubthe completion of a cement firIn 2014, Logan County pur- lic use facility, there is a small ing line on the pistol range chased 270 acres of land for daily fee to use it and memGood Home Cookin’ and installation of a rimfire the range and in 2016 an addi- berships are available to help 4513 Hwy 63 rifle range for .17 and .22 cali- tional 46 acres of land was sustain the facility.

Atwood, CO 80722 bre rifles. Updates on devel- purchased from the State Open shooting is allowed Exit 115 off 1-76 opments can be found on the Board of Land Commission- whenever the range is open.

Phone: (970) 522-1871 Logan County Shooting ers, to tie together approxi- The complex hosts events in mately 100 acres of city of the various disciplines as well Carryout Orders Welcome Sports Complex page Logan County’s shooting Sterling property and the 270 as seasonal leagues and high OTCafe1016@hotmail.com sports complex is the result of acres the county previously school clay target teams.

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36 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 37

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

Fair fun fills early August

L

ogan County’s biggest event of the year arrives in August with the annual Logan County Fair.

The theme for this year’s Aug. 1-11 fair is “Stars, Stripes & Summer Nights.” The schedule is packed with livestock shows, open class contests and a variety of other activities, with a carnival open daily Aug. 6-11.

This year’s parade will be led by marshals Coy and Bernadette Marick.

Ticketed events kick off Friday, Aug. 2 with a tractor pull, followed by bull riding Aug. 6, a free junior rodeo Aug. 7, two nights of PRCA Rodeo Aug. 8-9, the East Cheyenne Gas Storage Night Show Aug. 10 and demolition derby Aug. 11.

Tickets can be purchased online at lcfair.org.

The Aug. 10 concert this year will feature the Triple Threat Tour, with BlackHawk, Restless Heart and Shenandoah in a performance that harks back to the glory days of ‘90s country music.

For more than 20 years, BlackHawk has shared a unique sense of harmony with their voices, their songs, such as “Good-bye Says It All” and “Every Once In A While” and their fans. It’s a harmony that has sold over 7 million albums, scored some of the most distinctive country radio hits of the ‘90s, and still draws tens of thousands of fans to their live performances.

High atop the midway at the Logan County Fair (Photo by Lila Koch)

Today BlackHawk continues to honor its past as it forges its future, and does it all with a commitment that takes their music - and the harmony - to a whole new level.

John Dittrich, Greg Jennings, Paul Gregg, Dave Innis, and Larry Stewart — the men who make up Restless Heart — have enjoyed one of the most successful careers in country music history, placing over 25 singles on the

Restaurants Atwood

Overland Trail Cafe 4513 County Road 63 970-522-1871 Mon-Sun 5 a.m.-9 p.m.

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38 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

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Sterling

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charts with six consecutive No. 1 hits. Four of their albums have been certified gold by the RIAA, and they have won a wide range of awards from many organizations, including the Academy of Country Music’s Top Vocal Group trophy.

Audiences have sung along with their record-shattering string of hits, such as “Wheels,” “I’ll Still Be Loving You,” “Fast Movin’ Train,”

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“Why Does It Have to be Wrong or Right,” “That Rock Won’t Roll,” “The Bluest Eyes In Texas” and “When She Cries.”

When country music lovers talk about the greatest groups in the genre, Shenandoah is always at the forefront of any discussion. This hit-making band has recorded 10 studio albums, three of which have been certified gold, and placed 26 singles (”Two Dozen Roses” “Church On Cumberland Road”) on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart.

Shenandoah has left a potent legacy at country radio with over a dozen No. 1 records.

The group recently signed a recording deal with BMG and released their first new album in two decades to celebrate their 30th anniversary.

Shenandoah premiered the debut single off the album, “Noise,” on SiriusXM and marked their first release to radio in 20 years. The track is produced by Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flatts and hit the top 30 at radio. The new album, “Reloaded,” was their highest debuting album on the Billboard Chart of their entire career. It also debuted in the Top 15 on the iTunes Charts, which was another first.

Shenandoah premiered a brand-new music video on CMT for their latest single, “That’s Where I Grew Up,” featuring fellow country star, Michael Ray.

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EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 39

I

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

LOCAL: All about the arts

nterest in the arts is growing rapidly in Sterling and Logan County.

The Logan County Arts League (LOCAL) emerged in the fall of 2018 from the restructuring of the Sterling Arts Council. In addition to hosting cultural events such as the annual July Jamz concert series, the new organization’s purpose is to support and enhance the intersection of the creative arts and business sectors. Their slogan, “Create, Connect, Emerge,” highlights their mission of helping creatives connect and emerge, which in turn enhances the local community.

In November 2018, the Sterling City Council formally established the Sterling Creative District, which encompasses downtown Sterling and a corridor connecting to the Northeastern Junior College campus. Located within the district are many of the 50plus pieces of significant art available for public viewing in Sterling, as well as more than 20 creative businesses. Visit http://bit.ly/2tP6Lbc for an interactive map of the public art in Sterling.

LOCAL is now working toward state certification of the creative district, which can provide expanded marketing opportunities, greater grant funding possibilities and other resources to help the district grow.

The organization’s activities include the July Jamz concert series — free live music performed from the Logan County Courthouse Gazebo in downtown Sterling on Friday evenings in July.

This year’s lineup includes contemporary bluegrass band Woodshed Red on July 7, blues band Delta Sonics on 40 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

The July Jamz concert series brings a crowd to the Logan County Courthouse Square on Friday evenings in July. (Journal-Advocate photo)

July 14, the poly-ethnic, power pop and rock sounds of Wendy Woo on July 21, and a classic country performance

by Wild Road on July 28.

Other events hosted by LOCAL include Arts-tober, a monthlong celebration of all things fall in October. Activities include a scarecrow contest for local businesses and organizations, promotion of food and beverage businesses, and collaboration with local corn mazes. In 2019 they are working to introduce a Bike Fest to the event as well.

The spring brings LOCAL’s Art in the Square. This event, which debuted in 2019, grew out of a Chalk the Walk event held in prior years. It includes a sidewalk chalking contest around the Logan County Courthouse, a vendor fair for creatives, art demonstrations, a Plein Air art competition, and live Pete and Jeanne Youngers demonstrate making stained glass music. during the 2019 Art in the Square event. (J-A photo)

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shopellajs@gmail.com EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 41

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

Sharing stories from the past T

he Overland Trail Museum has grown significantly since it began in 1936 as a project of the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Additions to the original stone building have transformed the museum into a showcase of natural history, natives and settlers.

What hasn’t changed is the museum’s mission: 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.

The museum is home to a one-of-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

A visitor looks over the exhibit on our nation's military in the Dave Hamil Building at the Overland Trail Museum.

(JournalAdvocate photo)

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, geography 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 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 festival will focus on the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Summit Springs between soldiers and Plains Indians. The day will begin with the unveiling and dedication of a new bronze bison sculpture. Musical acts slated in Heidi Park include Mike Dixon, Bob Duffield and

the Common Folk Band.

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 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.

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Heart of the Plains Antiques Sterling Travel Agency 130 N. 2nd Street • Sterling •970-522-0683 • Amenities vary by resort and conditions may apply. Unique Vacations, Inc., is the worldwide representative for Sandals Resorts.

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Enjoy ALL the events: Rodeo | Carnival | Concert | Parade | Bull Riding Tractor Pull | Demo Derby

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Logan County Fair & rodeo august 1-11, 2019 EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 43

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

A bazaar you’ll be sweet on W

hen it comes to fall festivals in Colorado, Sugar Beet Days in Logan County is hard to “beet.” The annual arts and crafts 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 established in 1981 has evolved into a twoday 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

Churches

Assembly of God

Chapel of the Plains Pastor Paul Speicher 41921 Marble Ave., Stoneham, CO 970-735-2331 Sunday School 9:30 a.m., Worship 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday Prayer Service 6 p.m.

The Rock Assembly of God Pastor Roger Griffith 415 Beattie St., Sterling, CO 970-522-2205 Sunday School 9:30 a.m., Worship 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday Bible Study 7 p.m.

Baptist

Lighthouse Baptist Church Pastor Justin Steimer

44 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

A crowd packs the sidewalk around the Logan County Courthouse to visit the dozens of booths filling the square at the 2018 Sugar Beet Days.

(JournalAdvocate photo)

ages.

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

Avid shoppers attending Sugar Beet Days will find 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 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. 21-22. The free festival is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

480 Logan St., Sterling, CO 970-522-7226 Sunday School 10 a.m., Worship 11 a.m., Evening Service 6 p.m.

Wednesday Bible Study 7 p.m.

Sunday Worship 10:45 a.m.

Life groups regionally throughout the week

Presbyterian

Episcopal

Prince of Peace Episcopal Church Fr. Steven Hagerman 201 Phelps, Sterling, CO 970-522-0539 Check church phone recording for worship times

Evangelical Free Church

United Church of Crook Pastor Dale Pierce Corner of Hwy 138 and CO 55, Crook, CO 970-886-3151

Independent

The Living Word Church Pastor Betty Townsend 605 N. Seventh Ave., Sterling, CO 970-939-0608 Sunday Worship 11 a.m.

Wednesday Evening Service 7-8 p.m.

Non-denominational

Freedom Outreach Church Pastor Gilbert Gutierrez 1309 Sidney Ave., Sterling, CO 970-522-1368 Sunday Worship 10:15 a.m.

Wednesday Service 7 p.m.

First Presbyterian Church Rev. Michelle D. Witherspoon 130 S. Fourth St., Sterling, CO 970-522-2708 Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.

Southern Baptist

Emmanuel Baptist Church Pastor Sean Cole 300 Ballpark Rd., Sterling, CO 970-522-1440 Sunday Worship 10:15 a.m.

Wed. Night Activities 6:30-8 p.m. (Sept.-May)

United Methodist

Christ United Methodist Church Pastor Jim Calhoun 104 S. Fourth St., Sterling, CO 970-522-2910 Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.

Welcome to Morgan County Brush, Fort Morgan, Hillrose, Log Lane Village, Orchard, Weldona, Wiggins

Playing in the water at Jackson Lake (Photo by Cindy Schneider)

Wakeboarding on Jackson Lake (Photo by Cindy Schneider)

Team roping at the Brush Rodeo (Photo by Sue Hodgson) EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 45

Morgan County • Brush, Fort Morgan, Hillrose, Log Lane Village, Orchard, Weldona, Wiggins

J

Jackson Lake: The oasis of the plains

ackson Lake State Park, sometimes called “the oasis of the plains,” is known for its abundance of family-friendly activities, including fishing, boating, shooting and camping, to name a few.

Ranked as one of the “Top 15 Park Beaches” by Reserve America, Jackson Lake remains an attractive tourist destination all year long.

Whether you enjoy boating, fishing, hunting, or all of the above, Jackson Lake offers a unique getaway for outdoor recreation.

Boasting at least 260 campsites, seven campgrounds, and a 2,700 surface acre lake, the park caters to both day trips and overnight visitors.

The park is located at 26363 Morgan County Road 3 in Orchard.

A daily pass for the park will cost you $8, with an annual pass costing $80. A basic campsite costs $28 per night and for those who prefer a bit more comfort, a Jackson Lake State Park sign. (Photo courtesy Colorado Parks and Wildlife) campsite with electricity will set you back $36 per night.

Shoreline Marina, a small shop off the shore, is stocked to supply most boating, fishing and camping supplies.

They sell fishing licenses, firewood, ice, and gas. Shoreline Marina rents water crafts such as jet-skis, kayaks, and canoes. The lake’s boat ramp is also located nearby for those with boats and larger watercrafts.

Hatchery technicians and park rangers stock a variety of fish every year, particularly walleye, although wiper, See JACKSON, pg. 47 Ice fishing at Jackson Lake. (Photo courtesy Colorado Parks and Wildlife) 46 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

Morgan County • Brush, Fort Morgan, Hillrose, Log Lane Village, Orchard, Weldona, Wiggins

JACKSON from page 46

black crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish are also stocked depending on the success of the fish during the previous year. During the winter months, ice fishing is encouraged and known for being some of the best in the region. Walleye as large as 29 inches have been caught on multiple occasions over the past year.

Bird watchers have many opportunities for viewings.

Around sunset, Great Horned Owls are known for making an appearance.

Grebes, pelicans, cormorants, and shorebirds can also be spotted at the state park. With a good eye and a bit of luck, it’s not uncommon to spot a majestic bald eagle. In 2013, a Curlew Sandpiper was spotted, an extremely rare find in Colorado.

A boat ramp at Jackson Lake. (Photo courtesy Colorado Parks and Wildlife)

An abundance of wildlife can be observed and photographed in the park. The list includes pelicans, eagles, hawks, heron, deer, coyote, turkeys, waterfowl and

numerous shore birds. There are many photo opportunities. Sunrise at Jackson Lake is especially beautiful to capture.

Those who enjoy hiking

can select from a variety of options such as Prairie Wetland Nature Trail, a quarter mile, self-guided trail that is located north of Cove Campground. There is also a mile and a half trail located between the Visitor Center north to Northview Campground. Folks can also enjoy walking along Jackson Lake’s renowned shorelines.

Hunters will find the abundance of wild game to be a treat. Waterfowl, upland bird, rabbits and archery deer hunting are allowed in designated areas of the park but hunters must first park and check in at the Jackson Lake State Park office.

For questions about reservations, activities, or facilities at Jackson Lake State Park, call 970-645-2551 or find the park on Facebook at @JacksonLakeSP.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Fort Morgan (970) 441-6200 1290 Cottonwood Parkway, Fort Morgan, Colorado 80701 USA

Enjoy a relaxing stay at our hotel with easy access to I-76 EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 47

Morgan County • Brush, Fort Morgan, Hillrose, Log Lane Village, Orchard, Weldona, Wiggins

History gets interactive at museum F

or anyone travelling through Morgan County, a stop at Fort Morgan Museum can be well worth the detour off the interstate and into the city’s downtown.

While it is a small-town museum, Fort Morgan Museum has much to offer its visitors and patrons, including interactive displays, cases holding artifacts, lots of area history and details and special travelling exhibits. And it is all free to visit and explore.

Between 2012 and 2014, the museum’s permanent exhibits were completely redesigned.

The museum staff has continued to make changes and add interactive elements since then to those professionally designed exhibits.

Most recently, more flipbooks, videos and push buttons were added to the exhibits in the museum’s upper galleries, along with a model railroad exhibit that opened in winter 2018. The goal is for visitors to be able to interact with the exhibits, and now a push of a button will make the mannequins in the Native Americans and Hillrose Soda Fountain exhibits talk and share their stories or it will make a model grasshopper oil pump go up and down.

The real, antique windmill overhead in the East Gallery’s atrium also spins from time to time, with the gears squeaking and creaking as it moves, and a pair of eagles perching up on it.

In addition to looking at the displays in the ranching and cattle exhibit, visitors to Fort Morgan Museum can flip through a book with more information or open drawers below the flipbook to see examples of barbed wire used on ranches in this area.

A video screen plays a short movie with information about 48 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

A model train layout, including this section depicting Fort Morgan’s Main Street circa 1915, is a new addition to the Railroad Exhibit in Fort Morgan Museum’s Main Gallery. (Photo courtesy City of Fort Morgan)

the history of the sugar beet factory in Fort Morgan.

Another one in the railroad exhibit plays “Dawn to Dusk,” a 1937 silent film about “America’s first installation of centralized traffic control on the Burlington Route” between Akron and Denver in Colorado. And there is a TV in the Glenn Miller Theater for playing movies and videos about musician Glenn Miller, who grew up in Fort Morgan.

There are drawers filled with school memorabilia in the education exhibit, ones with fossils in the paleolith area and more drawers with examples of barbed wire in the cattle and ranching display.

The paper flipbooks that accompany many exhibits allow people to turn pages to read more or look at pictures and dig into an exhibit subject further than simply viewing the artifacts on display.

There also is what Library/ Museum Director Chandra McCoy calls an “electronic flipbook,” which consists of two tablet computers with touch screens.

"Goodfeather" tells her story from inside Fort Morgan Museum's West Gallery when visitors push the button at left. In the East Gallery's Hillrose Soda Fountain exhibit, another mannequin, dressed as Jimmy the soda fountain jerk, will tell his story when a similar button is pushed. (Fort Morgan Times file photo)

Morgan County • Brush, Fort Morgan, Hillrose, Log Lane Village, Orchard, Weldona, Wiggins

Rodeo action in Brush (Fort Morgan Times file photo)

Rodeo riding into Brush for July 4th T

he 65th annual Brush Rodeo will be held from July 2 to July 4, 2019.

More than 500 contestants will compete in the largest Colorado rodeo in its class over a three-day period.

Every Fourth of July, approximately 2,500 spectators show up for the parade, rodeo, fireworks display and an art show at the Brush Rodeo. The events take place at the Morgan County Fairgrounds.

The rodeo will give the audience all the rodeo action they could hope for including bronc riding, barrel racing, bull riding, calf roping, and steer wrestling. The iconic fireworks show will be held after the rodeo.

The Brush Rodeo Association was established in the 1950s. However, rodeos have been held in Brush since the early 1900s.

The Brush Rodeo will kick off on Monday, July 2 at 5 p.m. with a free barbecue dinner for those who have purchased a ticket to the rodeo. The

Slack Competition will be held on the morning of Tuesday, July 3, and is for contestants who can not attend the actual rodeo performance times.

The Slack Competition is a free event and is open for anyone to attend.

Tuesday night is Pioneer Night, a night full of entertainment for both adults and children. Kids games such as stick horse racing and balloon scrabble will be part of the activities available. Pioneer Night starts at 6:30 p.m. and goes until 9:30 p.m.

The Brush Lions Club will host a pancake breakfast on the morning of the Fourth of July, starting at 6 a.m. and lasting until 10 a.m. in the park by East Morgan County Library, 500 Clayton St., in Brush. The “cowboy’s breakfast” is open to the public before the parade begins. Also happening in that area at the library are a used book sale and quilt show.

The Brush Rodeo’s Fourth of July parade will begin at 10 a.m. at the Brush High School parking lot and end just north

Mutton busting at the Brush Rodeo. (Fort Morgan Times photo)

Fireworks will light up the sky over Brush on the Fourth of July.

(Fort Morgan Times file photo)

of East Morgan County Library.

The main events of the Brush Rodeo will start at 7 p.m. and last until 9:30 p.m. back at the fairgrounds. A firework display will then light up the sky as attendees celebrate America’s birthday.

For more information about these activities, contact the Brush Area Chamber of Commerce at 218 Clayton St., call 970-842-2666 or visit the Brush Chamber’s website at www.brushchamber.org.

“WhereFriendsMeet!”

431 Main St, Fort Morgan

970-867-6144

www.cablespubandgrill.com EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 49

Morgan County • Brush, Fort Morgan, Hillrose, Log Lane Village, Orchard, Weldona, Wiggins

Bobstock 2019: Firehouse, Lita Ford and Mark McGrath

B

obstock is taking Fort Morgan back to the 1980s and ’90s this year, with a lineup that includes headliners Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray, Firehouse and Lita Ford.

The Bobstock website touts the event as a summer weekend outdoors with music in the park along with activities for the whole family.

The annual “Bobstock Music Festival” is a two day event featuring food vendors, kids games and rides, and 16 different music acts on three stages.

McGrath and his ‘90s experience’ will headline Friday, July 12, while Firehouse and Lita Ford will co-headline Saturday, July 13.

In announcing the lineup, the team from Media Logic Radio highlighted Sugar Ray’s triple platinum album “14:59,” Firehouse’s Favorite Heavy Metal New Artist award at the 1992 American Music Awards and Ford’s success as a member of The Runaways and artist of “Kiss Me Deadly.”

Lindsey Bruntz of Media

50 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

A more-than-capacity crowd showed up Friday night, July 13, 2018 for Vanilla Ice’s performance at Bobstock. Event officials estimate 7,500-plus people packed City Park in Fort Morgan for the show. (Photo courtesy of Scott Harms)

Logic Radio said they were very excited for the lineup, as this will be the first year Bobstock will have had three headliners.

After the Vanilla Ice performance last summer brought their event up a level, Bruntz said they were really happy with how this range of wellknown headliners turned out.

Bruntz said with this diverse set of acts, “There will be a little something for everybody.” More acts will be announced as the two-day festival nears.

Jenni Grubbs / The Fort Morgan Times Find out more about this free musical festival in down- Rolling around inside human hampster balls was only one of the town Fort Morgan at bob- games offered by InFUNity at Bobstock 2017. (Jenni Grubbs/ stockmusicfestival.com.

Fort Morgan Times)

Perfect Moments Exist... Experience Yours Here!

Limitless things to see, do and explore “Where the Prairie Meets the Sky.”

4th of July Rodeo Glenn Miller Swingfest Bobstock Oktoberfest Fall Harvest Car Show Festivals/Fairs/Parades Barn Quilt Tours Skydiving Concerts Disc Golfing Golfing Hunting Fishing Jakson Lake State Park I-76 Speedway Track Sweney Cycle Park Museums Pawnee Pioneer Trails Scenic Byway and so much more!

Located on Colorado’s Eastern Plains off Interstate 76 | Only 60 minutes from Metro Denver!

#MyMomentInMoCo | #MakeYourMoment | #VisitMoCo EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 51

Morgan County • Brush, Fort Morgan, Hillrose, Log Lane Village, Orchard, Weldona, Wiggins

Something for all at Riverside Park

F

ort Morgan has a public park the size of Central Park in New York City.

Called Riverside Park and located at 1600 Main St., it is nestled right alongside the South Platte River, which provides scenic views along a walking/jogging trail next to it.

Overall, the park has 5.2 miles of improved trails that pass through natural woodland and wetlands. This is also a great place for viewing wildlife, including deer and birds.

The park also boasts multiple disc golf courses, two softball fields, multiple baseball fields, an inline skating rink, horseshoe pits, basketball courts, sand volleyball pits and two ponds, one of which is stocked for fishing and the other designated as a duck pond.

There also is a large play-

The water slide is always a popular attraction at Fort Morgan’s swimming pool.

Rides on it are included in admission. (Fort Morgan Times photo)

ground, vast grassy areas for picnicking, and four picnic shelters.

The park also has three outdoor pools in one complex, including a children’s pool, a

water slide and areas for swimming laps or diving. The Fort Morgan Recreation Department offers very reasonable rates for swimming during the summer season when the pool

complex is open.

With its large size and many amenities, Fort Morgan’s expansive Riverside Park offers something for just about everyone.

EXPLORE FORT MORGAN Stop at these Fort Morgan attractions

• 18-Hole Championship Quail Dunes Golf Course • Fort Morgan Public Library and Fort Morgan Museum • Riverside Park, 600+ acres along the South Platte River with aquatic center, roller rink, hiking trails, and baseball facilities • Historical Downtown shops and restaurants

Don’t Miss Events

SUMMER ~ Thursday Night Live!, Summer Concert Series Thursday nights in City Park starting June 8 at 6:30 pm with Buckstein Bobstock, A weekend musical festival, July 12-13 FALL ~ Fall Harvest Car Show, 3rd weekend of September Hot rods and muscles cars to classics and antiques Glenn Miller Swingfest, A weekend full of activities in remembrance of the local music legend WINTER ~Christmas Capital of the Plains, Holiday events and celebrations throughout December Holiday Parade • Free Carriage Rides Chili Cook Off • Santa’s House and much more

Our focus is to be the city of choice for ourselves and future generations- beautiful, clean and safe

cityoffortmorgan.com • 970-542-3960 • @cityoffortmorgan 52 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

Morgan County • Brush, Fort Morgan, Hillrose, Log Lane Village, Orchard, Weldona, Wiggins

Notable names grace headstones in Fort Morgan cemetery L

ike with any burial grounds, Riverside Cemetery in Fort Morgan has many stories to tell of the lives of the people who now have their final resting place there.

One of those people is science fiction author Philip K. Dick. He is buried next to his twin sister, Jane, who died in Fort Morgan as an infant.

Dick wanted to be laid to rest next to his sister.

Cemetery workers sometimes find little sheep figurines or stuffed animals the author’s fans have left behind on the grave. Those trinkets are left in homage of his short story “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep,” which was the basis for the movie “Blade Runner.”

Many of the tombstones in the cemetery have marks and impressions on them that have symbolic meanings, such as lambs for children who died young and innocent or tree trunks for young people cut down in the prime of life.

And the cemetery certainly has its share of sad or grim tales to tell, including: • The grave for a “Jane Doe” contained remains of a woman found burning on a county road in 1988 with her hands and head removed. She was in the cemetery for awhile before being identified through DNA and sent to Denver.

• The two victims of a 1916 shootout between a lawman and bootleggers, Fort Morgan Marshal Charles Eyser and Maria Weimer, are buried there. The killers, John Swan and John Wilcox, escaped from jail and were never heard

A kid rides on a grown-up's shoulders during a tour of Riverside Cemetery on Oct. 31, 2016, in Fort Morgan. (Fort Morgan Times photo)

of again.

• Helen Mura, a school teacher shot in 1922 at the North Star School by a rejected suitor who then killed himself, rests there.

There also are graves for members of Fort Morgan’s founding families and many others who have lived in the city and area over the last 100plus years.

Riverside Cemetery has grown over the years. The original cemetery was designed by Kate Clatworthy in the shape of a wagon wheel.

It also looks like a flower from

overhead.

Kate Clatworthy was the sister of Fort Morgan founder Abner Baker. She married W.H. Clatworthy, who owned the first hardware store in town. The Clatworthys and Baker are interred in Riverside.

Also in the cemetery are Elmer and Mattie Lou Miller, parents of famed big band musician Glenn Miller. The composer and bandleader spent his high school years in Fort Morgan and regarded it as his home. A recent documentary showed how Miller

discovered music while he was going to Fort Morgan High School. He also bought a home in Fort Morgan for his parents and visited them on numerous occasions.

For those who visit Riverside Cemetery and are interested in finding specific graves or niches at the columbariums in the Memory Gardens, the city cemetery staff offers its help during business hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. There are listings available for every grave in the cemetery. For information, call 970-867-3908.

EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 53

MORE TO EXPLORE

A sign welcomes visitors to some of the last shortgrass prairie in the nation at Pawnee National Grassland. (Photo courtesy Colorado Tourism Office)

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 54 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

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 the mountain plover, burrowing owl and many birds of prey. On the ground, wildlife inhabitants include pronghorn, mule deer, coyote, swift fox, snakes and prairie dogs.

Hiking, camping, picnicking, horseback riding and stargazing are among the activities outdoor enthusiasts enjoy on the Pawnee.

The grassland also provides recreational sports shooting opportunities, including the Baker Draw Designated Shooting area near County Roads 96 and 63. The Baker

Draw offers berms with 25, 50 and 100-yard shooting opportunities, as well as a parking area, informational kiosk, restroom and 30 shooting lanes with 26 benches.

All recreational shooters must follow these regulations: • Only shoot at cardboard/ paper targets, self-healing targets, manufactured metallic targets, or manufactured thrown-type clay targets. (No wooden backing allowed.) It is up to a $5,000 fine and/or imprisonment for up to six months for using an unapproved target.

• 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 Township 8N, Range 63W, Section 7 is closed to recreational shooting for ¼ mile south of Weld County Road 96 and ¼ mile west of County Road 63.

Shooting adjacent to the Baker Draw Designated Shooting area is also prohibited.

• No tracer rounds or incendiary rounds allowed. Exploding targets are prohibited.

• Clean up your targets and casings.

• Respect all signs while visiting the Pawnee National Grassland.

More information is available online at www.fs.usda.gov/ goto/arp/targetshooting.

MORE TO EXPLORE

Fun and safety in Neb. waters

L

ake McConaughy is the Western Nebraska destination for outdoor vacations. “Lake Mac,” as it is affectionately known, offers boating, swimming, fishing and camping with a mix of family fun. In addition, the lake’s location on central flyways makes it a premier spot for birdwatching.

At full storage, the lake is 20 miles long, four miles wide and 142 feet deep at the dam.

An Eagle Viewing Center is open from January to March each below the Kingsley Hydro Plant. Bald eagles can also be seen during the winter months feeding off the lake’s fish.

Interactive displays with the Lake McConaughy Visitor Center explain the benefits of the Platte River and the High Plains Aquifer. The Visitor Center, located at 1475 NE Hwy 61, is about eight miles north of Ogallala and is open year-round. Summer hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, while winter hours are shortened to 4 p.m. Admission is free.

There are numerous bays on the north side of Lake McConaughy, allowing boaters to coast up to their beachside campsite.

During the spring, walleye spawn at Lake McConaughy.

Visitors enjoy a campfire by the shore of Lake McConaughy. (Photo from Ogallala/Keith County Chamber of Commerce)

Anglers target walleye and wipers using live bait or casting jigs. From May to August, its white bass, small and large bass hit on casting jigs or lures. Yellow perch can be caught all summer throughout the lake on worms and wax worms.

Whether you are fishing from the bank or off a boat, a fisherman can catch northern

pike, rainbow trout, brown trout, and tiger trout at the neighboring Lake Ogallala.

Catfish can be caught yearround.

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reminds boarders to take care to avoid transporting aquatic nuisance species such as zebra mussels by making sure to clean, drain and dry their boats before

launching at either lake.

Nebraska law also requires any person born after Dec. 31, 1985, to complete a boater safety course and have proof of completion with them in order to operate any motorboat, including personal watercraft.

For more information or list of activities and events visit https://ilovelakemac.com/ plan-your-visit/La.

Lake McConaughy, NE - Be The One That Got Away Largest Lake In Three State Area Just Off I-80 - Exit 126, Ogallala • ilovelakemac.com EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 55

CALENDAR

May 2019

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. in the amphitheatre. Visit www.facebook.com/NorthSterlingStatePark/ for more information.

May 26 — Phillips County Raceway, 5 p.m., Fairgrounds, Holyoke, Stock car races. More info at www.bstracing.com.

May 27 — Memorial Day Flag Ceremony, 7 a.m. Hillside Cemetery. Pancake breakfast to follow at Julesburg United Methodist Church located at 520 Maple Street, Meal served until 9 a.m.

May 27 — Sterling Recreation Center outdoor pool opens for the season.

Vehicles of all makes and models attract a crowd at Dandelion Daze, sponsored by Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, on the Phillips County Courthouse lawn in downtown Holyoke. (Holyoke Enterprise photo)

June 8 — Juneberry Vintage Market, 101 Washington Ave., Merino. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Vintage, antique, & farmhouse decor; live music; food trucks.5K/1K Bubble Fun Run & Walk 9 a.m. to raise funds for Early Childhood June 2019 Council of Logan, Phillips and June 1 — Fishing Is Fun FishSedgwick Counties ing Derby, Kiwanis Pond, OverJune 8 — Relay For Life of land Trail Recreation Area, SterNortheast Colorado, Columbine ling. 9 a.m.-noon. Free fishing Park, Sterling. Starts 4 p.m. weekend, casting contest and Fundraiser for American Cancer biggest fish contest for kids.

Society, relay.org/NECO Free lunch at 11 a.m. for kids 18 June 8 — Sterling Xpress and under; $3 for adults. opening day. 1 p.m. double June 4 — Twilight Tuesdays header vs. GameDay Saints, Movie in the Park, 7 p.m. WisPlainsman Field, Northeastern dom Park, Sterling. Free familyJunior College, Sterling. Rocky friendly movie. Call 970-522Mountain Baseball League.

9700 for more information.

June 9 — Phillips County June 6 — “Thursday Night Raceway, 5 p.m., Fairgrounds, Live!” 5 p.m., Fort Morgan City Holyoke, Stock car races, Fan Park and downtown on Main Appreciation Night. More info at Street. Food, arts and crafts, www.bstracing.com. retail vendors, live music at June 10 — Sterling Xpress 6:30 p.m. from Funkiphino in game vs. Boulder Collegians. 7 Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the p.m., Plainsman Field, Northpark. Info: https://www.cityofeastern Junior College, Sterling. fortmorgan.com/ Rocky Mountain Baseball June 7 — “Kick Off to Summer League.

Cook Out & Street Dance” on June 11 — Twilight Tuesdays the Sedgwick County CourtMovie in the Park, 7 p.m. Piohouse lawn at 315 Cedar Street neer Park softball fields, Sterin Julesburg. Music by Projekt ling. Free family-friendly movie.

3D. Dance till midnight. Cash Call 970-522-9700 for more bar. Info: Julesburg/Sedgwick information.

County Chamber on Facebook June 13 — 40th Annual Pony June 8 — International Music Express Re-ride passes through.

The mochila will be picked up at Fest 2019, Fort Morgan City approximately 2:30 a.m. ThursPark. Music, food and vendors. day, June 13 and pass by the More info: See @mccommuniColorado Welcome Center on CR tycenter on Facebook.

56 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

28 in Julesburg between 6-6:30 a.m. A BBQ dinner will be served at 5 p.m. at the Welcome Center that same evening. Follow the ride at https://nationalponyexpress.org/ June 13 — “Thursday Night Live!” 5 p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts and crafts, retail vendors, live music at 6:30 p.m. from All Those Who Wander in Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the park. Info: https:// www.cityoffortmorgan.com/ June 15 — Glenn Miller SwingFest, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., downtown Fort Morgan. See @GlennMillerSwingFest on Facebook for event schedules and updates.

June 15 — NJC Young Farmers Tractor Pull, 5 p.m. Logan County Fairgrounds. NSPA Truck and Tractor Pull.

June 18 — Twilight Tuesdays Movie in the Park, 7 p.m. Columbine Park, Sterling. Free familyfriendly movie. Call 970-5229700 for more information.

June 19 — Sterling Xpress vs.

Greeley Grays. 7 p.m., Plainsman Field, Northeastern Junior College, Sterling. Rocky Mountain Baseball League.

June 20 — “Thursday Night Live!” 5 p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts and crafts, retail vendors, live music at 6:30 p.m. from Country Music Project in Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the park. Info: https:// www.cityoffortmorgan.com/

June 20-22 — International Feedlot Cowboys Association Finals, Logan County Fairgrounds, Sterling. http://feedlotcowboys.com/ June 22 — 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 25 — Sterling Xpress vs.

Denver Slammers. 6:30 p.m. double header, Plainsman Field, Northeastern Junior College, Sterling. Rocky Mountain Baseball League.

June 25 — Twilight Tuesdays Movie in the Park, 7 p.m. Wisdom Park, Sterling. Free familyfriendly movie. Call 970-5229700 for more information.

June 26 — Sterling Xpress vs.

NOCO Roughnecks. 4 p.m., Plainsman Field, Northeastern Junior College, Sterling. Rocky Mountain Baseball League June 27 — “Thursday Night Live!” 5 p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts and crafts, retail vendors, live music at 6:30 p.m. from Quemando Salsa in Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the park. Info: https://www.cityoffortmorgan.com/ June 29 — Sedgwick County Tractor Pull 5 p.m. at the Sedgwick County Fairgrounds in Julesburg. Info: See them out on Facebook Sedgwick County Fair and Rodeo

July 2019

July 2 — Sterling Xpress vs.

Slammers. 7 p.m., Plainsman Park, Northeastern Junior College, Sterling. Rocky Mountain Baseball League.

July 3 — Sterling Xpress vs.

Rough Riders. 7 p.m., Plainsman Park, Northeastern Junior College, Sterling. Rocky Mountain Baseball League.

July 2-4 — 65th Annual Brush Rodeo, Morgan County Fairgrounds, Brush. Nightly rodeo action and slack July 3. See @BrushRodeo on Facebook for event schedules and updates.

July 4 — Heritage Festival, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Overland Trail Museum, Sterling. Free festival

See CALENDAR, pg. 57

CALENDAR

CONTINUED FROM PG. 56

with historical presentations, guest speakers, live music, Heritage crafters, food vendors.

More info: 970-522-3895.

July 4 — Fantastic Fireworks Display, Brush. More info: http:/ /www.brushchamber.org July 4 — Phillips County Raceway, 5 p.m., Fairgrounds, Holyoke, Stock car races. 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 4 — Wiggins Old-Fashioned Fourth of July, Wiggins.

More info: http://www.wigginsco.com/ July 5-7 — Colorado Flatlanders Car Club’s Annual Rod Run. July 6 Show & Shine at Pioneer Park. http://coloradoflatlanders.org July 6 — Sterling Xpress vs.

Colorado Cutthroats. 5 p.m. double header, Plainsman Park, Northeastern Junior College, Sterling. Rocky Mountain Baseball League.

July 7 — Sterling Xpress vs.

Colorado Cutthroats/GameDay Saints. Noon double header, Plainsman Park, Northeastern Junior College, Sterling. Rocky Mountain Baseball League.

July 7 — July Jamz Concerts on the Green, Logan County Courthouse Square, Sterling.

Free concert by Woodshed Red. Info: https://www.facebook.com/SterlingColoArts/ July 10 — Sterling Xpress vs.

Denver Slammers. 6:30 p.m. double header, Plainsman Park, Northeastern Junior College, Sterling. Rocky Mountain Baseball League.

July 11 — “Thursday Night Live!” 5 p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts and crafts, retail vendors, live music at 6:30 p.m. from Platte Valley Band in Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the park. Info: https:// www.cityoffortmorgan.com/ July 12 — Sterling Xpress vs.

Colorado Bandits. 5 p.m. double header, Plainsman Park, North-

The annual For Peetz Sake Days parade is a highlight of the annual festival celebrating the small, rural community. (JournalAdvocate photo) eastern Junior College, Sterling.

Rocky Mountain Baseball League.

July 12-13 — BobStock Music Festival, 6 to 10 p.m. July 12, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, July 13, Fort Morgan City Park. Evening headliners: Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray on Friday, Firehouse and Lita Ford on Saturday.

More info at https://bobstockmusicfestival.com/ July 14 — July Jamz Concerts on the Green, Logan County Courthouse Square, Sterling.

Free concert by Delta Sonics.

Info: https://www.facebook.com/SterlingColoArts/ July 16 — Twilight Tuesday Movie in the Pool. 7 p.m., Sterling Recreation Center. Free family-friendly movie.

July 18 — “Thursday Night Live!” 5 p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts and crafts, retail vendors, live music at 6:30 p.m. from Emily Kinney in Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the park. Info: https://www.cityoffortmorgan.com/ July 20 — Old Fashioned Saturday Night, Car show, garage sale, street dance and more, main street in Haxtun. See Haxtun Old Fashioned Saturday Night Facebook page.

July 20 — The Circus comes to town, two shows 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. North Cedar Street and 10th Street. See Julesburg/

Sedgwick County Chamber on Facebook July 21 — July Jamz Concerts on the Green, Logan County Courthouse Square, Sterling.

Free concert by Wendy Woo. Info: https://www.facebook.com/SterlingColoArts/ July 23-28 — Phillips County Fair, Fairgrounds, Holyoke.

“Bushels of Fun at the PC Fair” theme. See full schedule at www.phillipscofair.com.

July 25 — “Thursday Night Live!” 5 p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts and crafts, retail vendors, live music at 6:30 p.m. from The Champions 80s Rock in Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the park. Info: https:// www.cityoffortmorgan.com/ July 26-27 — Crook Fair.

Parade, meals, gymkhana, games and activities.

July 28 — July Jamz Concerts on the Green, Logan County Courthouse Square, Sterling.

Free concert by Wild Rose. Info: https://www.facebook.com/ SterlingColoArts/ July 31 — Sedgwick County Fair and Rodeo begins at Sedgwick County Fairgrounds: See Facebook page - Sedgwick County Fair and Rodeo

August 2019

Aug. 1 — “Thursday Night Live!” 5 p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts and crafts,

retail vendors, live music at 6:30 p.m. from Buckstein in Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the park. Info: https://www.cityoffortmorgan.com/ Aug. 1-11 — Logan County Fair, Logan County Fairgrounds, Sterling. Tractor pull, bull riding, rodeo, Night Show featuring Triple Threat Tour, carnival, livestock shows, 4-H/FFA and open class exhibits, food vendors. lcfair.org Aug. 2-4 — Sedgwick County Fair and Rodeo continues at Sedgwick County Fairgrounds.

See Facebook page Sedgwick County Fair and Rodeo Aug. 2-8 — Morgan County Fair, Morgan County Fairgrounds, Brush. More info: https://morgan.extension.colostate.edu/ morgan-county-fair/ Aug. 3 — Buckers Unlimited No Credit Bucking Battle, Morgan County Fairgrounds, Brush.

More information at buckersunlimited.com.

Aug. 4 — Phillips County Raceway, 5 p.m., Fairgrounds, Holyoke, Stock car races, Backto-School Night. More info at www.bstracing.com.

Aug. 8 — “Thursday Night Live!” 5 p.m., Fort Morgan City Park and downtown on Main Street. Food, arts and crafts, retail vendors, live music at 6:30 p.m. from Juke Joint Cruisers in Dahms-Talton Band Shell in the park. Also, Fort Morgan Police Department’s National Night Out Celebration. Info: https://www.cityoffortmorgan.com/ Aug. 16 — 3rd Annual Cruise Night, over 200 car enthusiasts and spectators take to the streets to drag Main. Festivities begins at 6:30 p.m. Food and vendors. Info: See Facebook Julesburg Cruise Night!

Aug. 16-18 — 4th Annual TriState Hot Rod Revival at Julesburg Dragstrip located at 17454 US Hwy 138 in Julesburg. This is an all nostalgia event 1972 and older. Many classes to run including Hot Rod and Super Rod (electronics): See http://julesburgdragracing.com/ or Tri State Hot Rod Revival on Facebook Aug. 19 — Mainly Marathons, Pioneer Park, Sterling. First race in the Center of the Nations

See CALENDAR, pg. 58 EXPLORE •MAY 21, 2019 • 57

CALENDAR

Series. mainlymarathons.com/ series-3/center-of-the-nation/ Aug. 24 — Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Columbine Park, Sterling. Fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Association. act.alz. org/site/TR/Walk2019/CO-Colorado?pg=entry&fr_id=12114

Christmas Capital of the Plains events, downtown Fort Morgan.

Dec. 2 — Holyoke Country Christmas and Parade of Lights, see Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

Dec. 5 — Parade of Lights, Downtown Sterling. See Logan County Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

September 2019

January 2020

CONTINUED FROM PG. 57

Sept. 1 — Phillips County Raceway, 5 p.m., Fairgrounds, Holyoke, Stock car races, IMCA Championship Night. More info at www.bstracing.com.

Sept. 7 — Fleming Fall Festival, Fleming. “We Love the ‘80s” theme. Parade, games, vendor booths, food and more. https:// www.facebook.com/flemingfallfest/ Sept. 12 — “Parade of Champions - How the West Was Won!” 6 p.m. Parade will travel from 10th St. south on Cedar Street, Julesburg. Featuring horsedrawn wagons and carriages.

National Pony Express Association Colorado Division on Facebook.

Sept. 20-21 — For Peetz Sake Days, Peetz. Parade, games, craft and bake sale, homecoming festivities.

Sept. 20-22 — Fall Harvest Car Show, downtown Fort Morgan. More info: http://www.fallharvestcarshow.org/ Sept. 21-22 — Sugar Beet Days, Logan County Courthouse Square. Outdoor craft and vendor bazaar, live music and entertainment. https://www.facebook.com/sugarbeetdays/ Sept. 21 — Ninth annual Dutch Oven & Chili Cook-Off, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Jackson Lake State Park, Orchard. More info at https://cpw.state.co.us/aboutus/pages/calendar.aspx?calid=7911 Sept. 27-29 — 36th Brush Oktoberfest and Car/Motorcycle Show, downtown Brush. Starts at 5;30 p.m. Friday, then 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Sept. 28 — Haxtun Corn Festival, Family fun activity with parade, dance and more.

“There’s Just Something About a Small Town” theme. See Haxtun Corn Festival Facebook page.

Sept. 29 — Heginbotham

58 • MAY 21, 2019•EXPLORE

Jan. 1 — First Day Hike, North Sterling State Park. Call 970522-3657 for information.

February 2020

The Santa House is open for visits during the Christmas Capital of the Plains campaign in Fort Morgan. (Fort Morgan Times photo) Library Anniversary celebration with tour, games, music and more, 539 S. Baxter Ave., Holyoke.

October 2019

October — Sterling Miracle Players Haunted House, Sterling. www.facebook.com/TheSterling-Miracle-Players143547279003914/ October — Sweet Adelines Windsong Chorus Concert, Sterling.

Oct. 5 — Merino Fall Festival, Merino. Parade, games, vendor booths, food and more. www.facebook.com/pages/category/Community/Merino-FallFestival-371525919705071/ Oct. 26 — Holly Daze Craft and Gift Show, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Holyoke JR/SR High, 545 E. Hale St., Holyoke.

Oct. 26 — Gateway Foundation Annual Fall Ball Fundraising Event to be held at the Sedgwick County Fairgrounds. Doors Open at 4 p.m. For more info: www.schealth.org/cal Oct. 28 — Howl-o-ween 5K, Pioneer Park, Sterling. Run/walk after dark. Call 970-522-9700 for more information.

Oct. 31 — Trick or Treat Street, Sterling Recreation Center, 808 Elm St. Free for kids 12 and under, safe alternative for trick or treating.

Oct. 31 — Downtown Trick or Treat Street, Sterling. Local businesses welcome trick-or-treaters from 3-5 p.m.

Oct. 31 — Downtown Trick-orTreat, Julesburg. Local business

welcome trick-or-treaters from 3-5 p.m.

November 2019

November — “A Fair to Remember” sponsored by the Hippodrome Arts Centre located at 215 Cedar St., Julesburg.

Arts, crafts, home based business, and food. Free Admission.

Reserve your booth now. Info: hippodromeartscentre.com.

Nov. 28 — High Plains Turkey Trot, Sterling. 1-mile or 5K run/ walk on Thanksgiving Day. High Plains Turkey Trot page on Facebook.

Nov. 29 — Cocoa with Santa, Christ United Methodist Church, Sterling. Children can visit with Santa and get a free gift. Child ID kits, refreshments and other activities.

December 2019

Early December — Haxtun Country Christmas shopping night. Contact chairperson Marilyn Michael at 970-520-2553.

Early December — Annual Parade of Lights sponsored by the Julesburg/Sedgwick County Chamber, Highline Electric and PCTelcom. See Highline Electric Association on Facebook for more details.

Early December — Sweet Adelines Windsong Chorus Concert, Sterling.

Early December — Master Chorale Concert, Sterling.

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

Saturdays in December —

February — Northeastern Junior College Hoops Homecoming, Sterling.

March 2020

March — NJC Regional Art Show, Sterling.

March — Art Show & 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 14 — Haxtun Lions Chuckwagon Dinner & Show, 601 N. Colorado Ave., Haxtun, 5:30 p.m.

April 2020

April — Art in the Square, Sterling. Info: www.facebook. com/SterlingColoArts/ April — Sportsman Experience, Logan County Fairgrounds, Sterling. Two-day festival for outdoor recreation. Interactive demonstrations, gun show, military memorabilia. www.facebook. com/sportsmanexperience/ April — High Plains Secondary Schools Art Show, Northeastern Junior College, Sterling.

April — NJC Annual Student Art Exhibit, Sterling.

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

April 18 -- Hippodrome Gala at the Sedgwick County Fairgrounds. An evening of dining and dancing, live and silent auction. Info: hippodromeartscentre.com

May 2020

May — Friends of Sterling Public Library Used Book Sale, Logan County Fairgrounds. Call Sterling Public Library, 970-5222023, for more.