Sterling Treasures 2016

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Sterling

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Crook • Iliff • Fleming • Merino • Peetz

y o j n E & e m o C

Wide Open Opportunity

Make Sterling Colorado your next destination All that you enjoy... within your reach!

• Hunting • Boating

• Golf • Shopping

• Fishing • Camping

• Hiking • Restaurants

Come on in — to Sterling and Logan County, Colorado!

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Table of Contents Quality of Life ..... 4

Education ...................................... 5 Health Care ................................... 8 Housing ...................................... 10 Worship ...................................... 10 Shopping .................................... 12 Dining ......................................... 12 Recreation and Leisure .............. 13 Rec teams give locals place to play ............................................. 15 Performing arts offered here year round .............................. 17 Calendar of Events ..................... 22

he welcome mat is always out and enjoyment awaits

you!

Sterling is nestled on the plains in the northeast corner of Colorado and home to more things than even the locals have discovered.

We pride ourselves on the quality of life that we offer to residents and visitors alike and our neck of the woods has more things to see and do than are imaginable.

The plains offer their own type of beauty, seldom found elsewhere; the rolling hills are a brilliant green when there is plentiful rainfall and when dotted with wildflowers, it’s exquisite. The sunrises and sunsets are among the most beautiful and awe-inspiring that you will ever be privileged to gaze upon.

Residents here enjoy high-quality education at every level, from preschool to the secondary offerings at Northeastern Junior College. Access to state-of-the-art health care technology and wonderful, caring doctors, combined with top-notch recreational facilities and open spaces keep us healthy in mind and body. The many new stores and dining establishments

Maps .......... 23-26

A growing interest in cycling is spurring an effort to construct multi-use trails around the Sterling community. (Journal-Advocate photo)

that are popping up on our streets reflect the prosperity of our area.

And according to bestplaces.com, Sterling’s cost of living is 11.60 percent lower than the U.S. average.

Our lake and reservoir are sapphire blue and the boating, tubing, sun bathing and fishing are wildly popular in the summer.

Sterling is becoming well-known as a mecca of public arts, galleries and collections. Both quality and quantity are impressive to say the least. Not everyone can say that they are a Tree City USA for 28 years as well as the City of Living Trees, but Sterling can. Quality lodging, including national chains and a hotel currently under

Tourism ........... 29

construction, is available for your relaxation and comfort after a day of visiting and touring our beautiful area.

Once you have come and visited, we would invite you to join our community. Sterling, our county seat, is the hub of commerce in northeast Colorado.

We are blessed with charming smaller towns in Logan County that offer their own special quality of life and things to do. We are reaping the results of renewed economic development and there are new job openings available.

There is much to do and see, experience and love in Logan County!

Come on in. You’ll be glad you did — and so will we!

Public Art..................................... 30 Galleries and Collections............. 34 Fishing ........................................ 35 North Sterling State Park ........... 36 Lodging ....................................... 38 Scenic Byway ............................. 38

Relocation ....... 40

Communities .............................. 41 Economic Development .............. 44 Transportation ............................ 46 Employment ............................... 46

Contributors

Publisher .................. Julie K. Tonsing Editor ...............................Sara Waite Research and Writing .. Barbara Baker Photos .............. Denice Betrue-Webb Multi-Media Marketing Consultant ..................................Andrew Ohlson Distribution and Support Staff ............

Kasha Sheets, Kaeoni Sonnenberg, Callie Jones Created in cooperation with the Logan County Chamber of Commerce, with support from the Logan County Lodging Tax Board.

STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 3

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Life’s just better here

Quality of Life

“Pot of Gold” by Ben Hewes

‘K

now your strengths and own them and don’t apologize for them.”

— Annabel Action Most of us know what makes us happy — whether it be family and friends, meaningful work, personal safety, material goods, or something else — many factors comprise our perception of overall quality of life. We can probably agree that human happiness depends on three key elements: good health, access to education, and relative wealth. Logan County offers you the resources to have these essentials, plus so much more! A sense of optimism dominates our local culture. Life satisfaction abounds here!

Tangible, quality of life features such as jobs, education, health care, recreation, shopping, entertainment, housing, safety and the arts are important to all of us who live here. As a matter of fact, we’re a community that is passionate about keeping these features totally viable.

The intangibles are equally as important! We all want and need a sense of belonging, a comfort level with our surroundings and the people we encounter day to day. You’ll certainly find that here, too.

Logan County is a unique location to live, raise a family, work, or retire. Living here and working here have some huge advantages. This is indeed a place you’ll be proud to call home.

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Education

Campbell Elementary students put on a winter concert. (Journal-Advocate photo)

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xcellence in education provides much of the strength in Logan County’s economic and social fabric. Children are prepared with the skills and resources they need to be successful, contributing citizens.

Educators are committed to making sure citizens of all ages are able to achieve their highest potential and their future goals. The rapidly expanding communications backbone in the area has resulted in multiple new learning opportunities.

Logan County Public Schools

There are four school districts in Logan County serving right at 3,000 students.

RE-1 Valley is the largest district overseeing elementary, middle and high schools located

within Sterling, as well as Caliche, a K-12 rural school located 19 miles northeast of the city. The most recent enrollment for RE-1 Valley is 2,295 students pre-K-12th grade.

Fleming has its own school district, Frenchman School District RE-3, and serves 205 students.

Peetz is served by the Plateau RE-5 District with an enrollment of 172 and Merino is served by the Buffalo School District RE-4J with a student enrollment of 309.

The RE-1 Valley School District employs a staff of about 360. It is passionately dedicated to the mission of preparing all students for productive, successful lives beyond school through a balanced curriculum, activities, community experiences, global awareness, high expectations, and

interaction among students, parents, and community. Website: http:// re1valleyschools.org/.

All schools in Logan County score higher than the state average on standardized tests on reading, writing, math and science. In some instances, area school scores are 10-15 points higher than the state average. The Colorado Department of Education has recognized Frenchman School District as a District of Distinction under the state’s accountability system.

The evaluations are based on academic achievement; academic growth, closing the gaps in growth levels for a variety of historically disadvantages subgroups; and success in preparing students for post-secondary and workforce readiness. Caliche High School grads had the sec-

ond lowest remediation rates in the state in 2014.

Student athletic programs in Logan County are alive and well. Each year schools in this area win top awards in their respective competition levels in all high school sports offered for both boys and girls. We enjoy our fair share of state champions.

Northeastern Junior College

Logan County is home to Northeastern Junior College, Colorado’s largest residential two year college. Northeastern (NJC) is the top choice for residents and students from Logan County, all over the state, nation and world. The quality of instruction and convenient location makes access to higher education easy and See EDUCATION, pg. 6

STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 5

Education Continued from Page 5

affordable for residents.

The college offers traditional classroom, online, and hybrid classes leading to various certifications and four different associate degrees. It is a primary feeder school to Colorado State University and the University of Northern Colorado.

NJC is a comprehensive liberal arts college and is Colorado’s first iPad College, providing students with a fully integrated iPad learning environment. Some of its most prominent programs include agriculture, business, music, auto/diesel technology and wind technology. It is considered one of the top pre-professional science programs in the state.

The college enjoys great success in the National Junior College Athletic Association Division I as a member of Region IX. It competes in men’s basketball, baseball, golf, wrestling and soccer, and women’s volleyball, basketball, softball, golf and soccer. The college has a solid reputation for students being top, national contenders in rodeo and livestock judging.

Students in Logan County are able to earn advanced degrees through seven colleges and universities that have agreements with Northeastern Junior College for bridge/transfer programs. A student may do this without leaving the area to enroll at another college.

Adult Education

Colorado Christian University’s College of Adult and Graduate Studies

Blue Spruce Hall is the newest residential dorm at Northeastern Junior College.

(Journal-Advocate photo)

Center at Northeastern Junior College (NJC) in Sterling offers college options for working adults in Sterling and communities in northeastern Colorado, and online. CCU’s adult degree programs at Northeastern Junior College include a full range of associates degrees, bachelors degrees, masters degrees and educational licensure programs.

in this area to acquire the speaking, reading, writing and mathematics skills they need to succeed in daily life. Much of this instruction is free.

The college also offers a variety of classes or training to the community and provides a Kids College each summer, which delivers engaging, unique and affordable classes to children in kindergarten through eighth grade.

Community Education and Workforce Training Programs

CSU Northeast Regional Engagement Center

Northeastern Junior College offers an active Adult Basic Education program to the community as well as customized workforce training programs for local employers on an as needed basis.

NJC’s adult program and the Logan County Literacy Coalition work together to enable adults and families

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Colorado State University (CSU) partners with Northeastern Junior College and nearby Morgan Community College to provide a CSU Northeast Regional Engagement Center on the main street in Sterling. This center offers resources and partnerships to residents and businesses in this area.

The Logan County Cham-

ber of Commerce and Logan County Economic Development Corporation are also involved in this partnership.

The Engagement Center is closely tied to the CSU Extension Service and houses several experts including business, rangeland (agronomy), and agriculture professionals who readily avail their expertise and that of the entire CSU network to this area.

Logan County Home Educators

Logan County is home to a very active homeschooling network. If you choose to home-school here, you’ll find support from within this network as well as the local school district and the community college. This includes shared resources and collaboration on extracurricular activities designed to provide social interaction and enrichment.

STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 7

Health Care

Dr. Jeff Bacon, chief medical officer at Sterling Regional MedCenter, shows the Varian linear accelerator that provides precision radiation therapy for patients at the David Walsh Cancer Center. (Journal-Advocate photo)

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esidents in Logan County have access to up-to-date medical care, second to none for a rural area. A wide range of specialty clinics and occupational health programs provide our people the best in health care.

A number of specialty clinics and skilled facilities make certain that all areas of our population are served.

network of physicians in addition to the 30 who reside here, including highly respected specialists. Here are some of Sterling Regional MedCenter’s most recent statistics: • Average number of inpatient visits per year: 1,275 • Number of emergency department visits: 6,923 • Number of babies delivered (2013): 230 Sterling Regional • Number of employMedCenter ees: 288 Opened in 1938, this • Number of physicians Banner Health hospital is on medical staff: 250 a 25-bed acute-care facility • Number of volunthat offers state-of-the-art teers: 29 technology, a full range of Sterling Regional Medhealth care services and a Center (SRM) recently staff dedicated to providranked in the top 100 hosing patients with excellent pitals recognized in the care. Residents of this first National Patient area have access to a vast Engagement Rankings by 8 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

Axial Exchange, Inc. It also was recognized as a pioneer using mobile technology to deepen the patient’s role in improving outcomes by Becker’s Hospital Review, a leading health care trade magazine. SRM ranked 47th among 3,077 United States hospitals surveyed.

SRM’s Emergency Department features a Level III Trauma Center, and the David Walsh Cancer Center handles even the most complicated cancers in a friendly environment with leading edge treatments and compassionate care.

Specialty Clinics Logan County is home to a number of specialty health clinics and wellness services to meet the needs of all residents:

Banner Health Center — Sterling’s newest medical clinic, located at 11th and Main, is fully staffed by physicians and physician assistants and provides care to the community six days a week. Tied to the Banner Health Clinic at Sterling Regional MedCenter, this new facility takes appointments during the week and has expanded evening hours.

It offers a Saturday morning walk-in clinic as well.

DaVita Dialysis Center — A leading provider of dialysis services in the United States, this center has filled a vital need for this area of Colorado.

Centennial Mental Health Center — This non-profit organization provides behavior health services, including crisis See HEALTH CARE, pg. 9

Health Care Continued from Page 8

care, for 10 rural Colorado counties designated in four regions, each with its own clinical director. The administrative headquarters are located in Sterling. Logan is one of three counties that make up the Northeast Colorado District. A consortium of mental health care professionals, this center provides some excellent resources to local families.

Northeastern Colorado Health Department — Oversees six counties in northeastern Colorado, each with a county office.

This state agency provides food safety and environmental health as well as a slew of other public health related services (immunizations, family planning, oral health).

Colorado Plains Physician Practices Sterling Clinic — An alternative choice offered to Logan County residents through the Colorado Plains Medical Center headquartered in Fort Morgan Salud Family Health Center — A Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) providing medical, dental and pharmacy services to qualifying patients.

Care is also provided to the Sterling community by a variety of private practices (family practice, cardiology, audiology, etc.), seven dental offices, four pharmacies and five chiropractors. A holistic health philosophy exists in the area and various providers encourage wellbeing based on this concept. Residents can find various avenues to pursue

Area agencies share health and wellness related information at the annual Sterling Community Health Fair. (Journal-Advocate photo)

good physical, mental and spiritual health including massage therapy, yoga, acupuncture, aromatherapy and reflexology.

Rehab Facilities

Residents of this area have ample access to physical and occupational therapy in order to heal from medical conditions, or simply to preserve their quality of life. This is provided through the hospital as well as a half dozen private providers.

Home Health Care

At least a dozen providers of home health care services, of varying skill level, are located in Logan County. Residents needing these services have a choice. This list includes Hospice of the Plains which provides exceptional care for those requiring their services.

unteer firefighters and a part-time secretary. Each shift is staffed with career Logan County is home personnel and volunteers to two nursing homes, two with basic and advanced assisted living facilities life support certifications. and two independent livMed units and firefighters ing apartment complexes strive to be in route to connected to nursing facil- calls within 30 seconds of ities. There is also a being dispatched and dementia/Alzheimer’s arrive on scene, in the secured facility in the city. city, within four minutes of being dispatched.

Emergency Outlying communities Services are served by volunteer Logan County and the fire departments who are City of Sterling are partners to provide emergen- staffed well with highly trained first responders, cy medical service excellence through the Sterling many with more advanced certifications. Fleming has Fire Department. The Sterling Fire Department one station and 24 volunteers; the Merino station has more than five medical units or ambulances in has 17 volunteers; Peetz has a station with 17 volits fleet, which provides unteers. Crook also has a emergency medical services within the City of very active volunteer fire Sterling and Logan Coun- department that serves ty. In total there are 22 the northeastern portion career firefighters, 15 vol- of the county.

Senior and Special Needs Living

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Housing L

ocal Realtors can help you find the perfect home in Logan County. Want a new home in a new subdivision with a small front yard and common green belt in the back? Looking for a sprawling brick ranch on some acreage?

Is apartment living or multi-family housing what fits your need? Your dream is to live in an old Victorian home? Or, do you just desire an efficiency apartment? Old or new, big or small, you’ll find it all!

Our area has a little something for everyone.

From customized homes with yards that border the edge of a golf course and townhomes for easy living to some residences in the upper level of historical downtown build-

age and building a home in the country is still affordable and popular.

According to Zillow.com, the average sales price for a home in Sterling as of April 2016 was $121,000. This compares with a Colorado statewide average of $302,000. The median contract rent per month in Sterling is $449 per month. Three bedroom homes average $850 per month to rent. Real estate Trees line many of the residential streets in Sterling. rental rates and home (Journal-Advocate photo) prices typically slide downward the further ings, you’ll be surprised is the smarter choice for one ventures from the at the variety of living most residents. city into the outlying choices you have, whethMulti-family housing communities. er you desire to buy or options are available in Sterling home values rent. Logan County, several locations in the have gone up 4.2 percent which boasts a college city. The Sterling Housover the past year while community as well as ing Authority oversees energy and corrections several major properties the city currently has a industry, has a strong that serve those with spe- foreclosure rate of 1.7 homes per 10,000. This is rental market, so these cific housing requireproperties are quickly ments. Logan County is a lower than the national occupied. Buying a home place where buying acre- average of 2.9.

Worship R

esidents need to have their spiritual, emotional and physical needs met. The church is the lifeline of any society and can be a unique place that instills change in people’s lives.

Logan County is home to 29 formal churches (a building with permanent signage) located in Sterling, Merino, Fleming, Crook and Peetz.

There are some other country congregations and study groups spread throughout this rural area as well as very active cowboy and collegiate ministry programs.

Some of these are non-denominational churches and groups. If you are looking for

a specific path of faith, you’re very likely to find it here.

Wholesome Halloween offerings, vacation Bible schools, special musical offerings, support groups, and free Sunday lunches are among the thriving church activities here. Some of them are collective efforts by several church groups coming together to serve the community.

In addition, the Cooperating Ministries of Logan County operates a thrift store and a food bank available year round. This organization also brings the houses of faith and ministry groups St. Anthony Catholic Church is one of several historic church buildings in Sterling. (Journal-Advocate photo) together frequently for the common cause.

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Northeastern Junior College

provides diverse community resources enhancing the Sterling community.

STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 11

Shopping W

ith a resurgence happening in Sterling’s downtown district, the city is returning to its former glory days when everyone congregated near the courthouse square for dining and shopping.

As the preferred location in northeastern Colorado for specialty chain stores, big boxes and franchises, Sterling enjoys a number of retail choices.

Add to this the wonderful home-grown, eclectic shops and service businesses open here and you quickly see that Logan County offers you a sizeable entrée of retail spending options.

As home to a residential college community, Sterling maintains a youthful edge when it comes to shopping options. With

Give your pantry some flavor with the spices, sauces, coffee, tea and more available at the High Plains Spice Company in downtown Sterling, one of many unique niche shops the community has to offer. (Denice Webb photo)

nearly 19 percent of residents under the age of 18, franchises that cater to this age group provide a benefit to other consumers as well. The Buckle, Maurice’s, Payless Shoes,

Rue21, Famous Footwear, Radio Shack and Brown’s Shoe Fit are a small sampling that is indicative of this trend.

There are four strip malls in Sterling, each

with well-known anchor stores, all of them offering you both shopping and dining options.

A downtown district or Main Street stroll provides the most unique shopping experiences in Sterling, as well as the outlying communities. Gift shops and service businesses thrive in these areas.

You’ll find antique stores and those selling handcrafted items throughout the county, including a grouping of antique markets all within a few blocks of each other near Sterling’s overpass.

Watch for the farmers’ markets throughout the area during the growing season. Experience the jewels from the local soil at their freshest and finest!

With so many appealing options, you’ll find everything you need right here.

Dining R

arely is there anything more enjoyable than dining out. Leaving the cooking and the dishes to someone else is a treat, no matter who you might be! We all love to eat. And in Logan County, you have many options to choose from when you’re looking for something to entice your palate.

Want a perfectly marbled and cooked Black Angus steak? A fast taco?

Some southern barbecue on the go from a frequent visiting vender? A Vietnamese spring roll made with rice paper and the perfect dipping sauce? A

place to get an appetizer and a very cold beer midafternoon? You’ll find it here! Several new restaurants are in the process of opening this summer, including Jimmy John’s and a Blue Collar Steakhouse.

The hungry here can venture downtown for a great feast from the newest Italian-based eatery with the most beautiful ambiance in Sterling’s historic district. They may stop in at the local bistro, housed in the former Bill’s Motor Company Enjoy a meal at Old Town Bistro, located in a former auto showroom, which dealership, or one of the many other eateries in Sterling. includes a bakery and is a See DINING, pg. 28 (Denice Webb photo)

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Recreation and Leisure H

owever you desire to spend your free time, you’ll likely find several options that appeal to you year round in Logan County. There is no age limit for recreation and leisure here. There’s very much a come as you are philosophy among the locals. About the only necessity is the right kind of footwear and a big dose of “let’s go!”

You will find an ample number of indoor and outdoor organized activities offered by the City of Sterling’s Parks, Library and Recreation Department, be it T-ball for the tiny athletes, swimming lessons, or water aerobics lessons and big peopleonly lane swimming. A Summer Reading Program keeps kids turning pages at the Sterling Public Library.

Very active youth football and baseball/softball organizations include kids from throughout the county. The Sterling Xpress baseball team finds fans at the field cheering during June and July for a trip to the NBC world series.

There is a thriving 4-H youth program in Logan County, a local reading club, book authors’ group, photography club, numerous self-help and professional groups, some tied to national organizations and some home grown. When you’re here, your involvement and membership is welcomed.

Boating, fishing, hunting, hiking, jogging, walking, swimming, golf, bowling, camping, biking, movies in the park, music on the courthouse square and annual festivals keep

Sterling's parks offer playgrounds for varying age groups, ensuring all kids have a safe and fun place to play. (Journal-Advocate photo)

residents busy during the warm months. There are a number of day-trip outings one can enjoy that will take you to and through some historical locations out in the rural areas in and beyond the Logan County borders.

and visitors very affordable golf on some pretty Logan County is home challenging holes. These to three golf courses. Two courses are open as many beautiful 18-hole golf days as possible every courses, both privately year. It’s not unusual to owned but open to the public, can be found in the see someone on these city of Sterling. These gor- courses in December if See RECREATION, pg. 14 geous facilities offer locals

Golf

STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 13

Recreation and Leisure

Enjoy panning for gold in the summer at the Overland Trail Museum's creek. (Journal-Advocate photo)

located on the far northeasterly side of Sterling, the sun is shining and the just off the I-76 exit north ground is dry. Both offer of the Logan County Tourdriving courses, cart rent- ist Information Center. It al and club houses. One of takes great pride in offerthe best aspects of playing ing golfers an experience on these courses is that unmatched in this area by you can play through, blending championship which saves your team golf with affordability. A time. natural grass driving Northeastern 18 is range, Riverview’s outlocated on an oasis of 155 standing practice areas acres just west of the city help golfers hone skills to and features mature landthe next level. scaping, rolling hills, One other option, F & H water features on nine out Golf Course, is located of 18 holes, and challengfour miles east of Fleming ing greens for the experion Colorado Highway 6, enced golfer. The par 4 then one mile south. This signature hole features a is a 9-hole grass greens blind tee shot and a 30 course with a par 36. foot periscope for golfer There is cart rental and a safety; the second shot club house available. This requires a skillful chip or course is open seven days iron shot over water.

Northeastern 18 features a week to the public for 6,436 yards of challenging day play, with league-only play after 5 p.m. on Tuesgolf where par for the days. This is an exceptioncourse is 72.

See RECREATION, pg. 15 Riverview Golf Club is Continued from Page 13

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Happy to be a part of a great community for over 40 years!

Wisdom Rides, inc.

PO Box 238 - Merino, CO 80741 • Phone: (970) 522-7515 Fax: (970) 522-2902 • Customer Service: (800) 634-6097

Recreation ets of all sizes, family activity backpacks with al rural golf experience. binoculars and field guides, a handheld GPS North Sterling unit for geocaching and State Park other activities, and lamiLocals and visitors alike nated nature activities and enjoy this northeastern park-specific field guides Colorado gem, a perfect for beginners. There are playground for boaters some excellent places to and fishermen, hunters, toss a line in the water campers, hikers and from the shore. A fossil of cyclists. It offers a 3,000 a mammoth can be found acre lake with numerous in the park near the highflats and coves to explore. est hill along the roadway.

Visitors find another 2,800 A designated swimming acres of recreational activ- area has a nice beach proity on dry land, including viding easy access. Check hiking and biking trails, it out. wildlife and bird watching.

Prewitt Reservoir There are three campState Wildlife Area grounds with 141 campThis beautiful sampling sites. Camping usually of wildlife terrain and requires a reservation at least three days ahead and water straddles the Logan County/Washington there are limitations on length of stay and number County line. At full capaciof units as well as people. ty, the Prewitt Reservoir Campers enjoy flush rest- offers 2,431 acres of water and a nice assortment of rooms, coin-operated showers and laundry facil- warm water angling and wildlife to watch. It is ities. A daily pass is managed by Colorado required; annual passes Parks and Wildlife, which are available. stocks the reservoir with The Visitor Center at North Sterling State Park walleye, saugeye, crappie, channel catfish and wipoffers several free equipers. Only wakeless boatment-borrowing proSee RECREATION, pg. 16 grams, including life jack-

Adults wishing to lead an active lifestyle have plenty of options throughout the year through the City of Sterling Recreation Division, including summer and fall softball leagues.

(JournalAdvocate photo)

Continued from Page 14

The Logan County Courthouse lights change to reflect the season, holiday or local celebration. (Journal-Advocate photo)

Rec teams give locals place to play

W

hether you are age 4 or 54, there is an opportunity for you to be part of a team through the City of Sterling recreation division programs.

The city offers adults a full schedule of athletic competition in basketball, dodgeball, volleyball, racquetball, wallyball, sand volleyball, softball and kickball.

Teams may register, or individuals may sign up and be a free agent to be placed on a team that is forming.

Some of the teams are coed, some are for women or men only. In some instances, adults and teens play together. Games are played at the city rec center, local school gymnasiums and at the Bank of Colorado Event Center at the college.

Youth basketball, teen dodgeball, teen sand volleyball, regular volleyball and girls Wildcat Youth Softball — including four divisions for girls ages 4-16 — are also offered through the City of Sterling. Games are

played at Mason Field in Sterling.

The Sterling Baseball Organization (SBO) provides a summer program open to all youth ages 4-15.

The program is designed to promote participation of youth, parents, coaches and anyone who wishes to help in the overall development of youth. It is run with a board of directors, all volunteers, who guide the direction of the program. Children from all over Logan County, and even some other outlying areas, form teams that compete in this popular summer athletic program. Games are played at the SBO field near the local high school and junior high.

The South Platte Youth Football League (SPYFL), a tackle football league that teaches the basic fundamentals and skills, is open to incoming third through sixth graders. Games are played on Saturdays at the Sterling Middle School during September and October.

STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 15

Recreation and Leisure Continued from Page 15

ing is permitted as the mean depth of the reservoir is 11 feet. Non-designated camping is allowed in the area, which does have a boat ramp, picnic areas and primitive restrooms on site. Visitors often enjoy seeing squirrels, fox, coyotes, turtles, raccoons, deer and a large variety of birds and water fowl. Small game hunting and fishing is allowed with proper licenses in hand.

Adults without a license must purchase an annual pass to use the SWA.

State Wildlife Areas along the South Platte River

From one end of Logan County to the other, residents and visitors may enjoy the beauty of the South Platte River valley.

From crossing bridges in the fall to enjoy the fall foliage against a low water level, to watching the river rise with the spring melt off, the South Platte River is a fascinating creature.

Some locals who are very familiar with the lay of the land actually float the river when it is safe to do so.

While much of the land adjacent to the river is privately owned, in addition to some of the reservoirs, there are an additional nine designated state wildlife areas (SWAs) in Logan County providing 17,252 acres of public ground available for hunting, wildlife viewing and limited camping.

All of the SWAs offer hunting in season, rugged hiking and wildlife viewing. There are no designated trails so goers are very much in the rough.

Limited camping and campfires are allowed in

Easy reader books on the StoryWalk stations in Columbine Park encourage early childhood literacy as well as physical fitness. (Journal-Advocate photo)

these public areas, so your best enjoyment will be during the daylight hours. The right protective outer wear, a camera, binoculars and bug spray is a must! Watch for state signs with details about each wildlife area.

a hint of the interesting geographical terrain you find further north in the Nebraska panhandle.

Sprinkled with cedar trees, the tops of these Chimney Canyons are now home to some strategically placed wind turChimney Canyons bines. The base of the canyon land borders endless In the far north part of miles of prairie grass that Logan County, west of is part of the 42,000-acre Padroni and south of the Chimney Canyon Grazing Nebraska state line, Association. The memadventurous sightseers bers of this association are can find one of the most cattlemen who graze their beautiful spots in Colorado: the Chimney Canyons. herds there from May to While these canyon lands November. Nearby buttes provide added scenery and bluffs are privately and are exquisite photogowned and require perraphy subjects, especially mission to hike, the view from County Road 72 west for silhouettes captured at sundown. Antelope are is well worth the drive. often seen in the area.

Outcroppings of rugged Visitors to the area must clay formations come off stay on the county road of a northern ridge. An occasional formation rises and respect the rules of up high, putting its face to the land by not opening or the sky. The landscape is going through gates. To

16 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

get there, take Seventh Avenue in Sterling north to County Road 70 (about 20 miles) and head west.

As you continue your travels, you eventually hit pavement that brings you back south to Highway 14.

You may easily combine this drive with a trip to the Peetz wind farm.

Summit Springs

Also known as Battle Ground Springs, this historic Indian battle site is located on the Logan County/Washington County line approximately 13 miles southeast of Atwood. The actual battle site is located on private land and is only available for public viewing with prior permission. However, a marker dedicated to this battle may be viewed on Highway 63 just southeast of Atwood, past the South Platte River bridge on the See RECREATION, pg. 17

Continued from Page 16

lsouth side of the road.

In 1869, Cheyenne Dog Soldiers, who were joining with the Sioux and Arapaho tribes to raid the Kansas frontier, were using this area as a layover site for their women and animals. Led by Chief Tall Bull, this band of warriors had captured two Kansas women and brought them back to this area. The U.S. Army, under the leadership of Eugene W. Carr, was in pursuit. Carr had sent Pawnee scouts, including Buffalo Bill Cody, ahead to find the village.

Tall Bull did not realize the Cavalry was so close and the soldiers succeeded in surprising the village. A fight ensued and 52 Indian men, women and children were killed. The only white fatality was that of one of the women who had been captured earlier by the warriors.

Some call it a battle. Some call it a tragedy. The incident at Summit Springs was the last major conflict of the Southern Cheyenne in Colorado against the U.S. Army and the government’s Indian reservation system.

Peetz Wind Farm

Take a 30 mile drive into the northern part of the county, where you can see in each direction for miles. Dotting the landscape are hundreds of 1.5 megawatt GE turbines, each one 262 feet tall, usually all churning in the frequent breeze. The nearly 300 towers that make up the Peetz Table Wind Energy Center create enough electricity to power an estimated 100,000 homes.

Drive the gravel county roads and watch the nacelles as they independently turn up to 360 degrees, moving with the direction of the wind currents. To get there: Take Highway 138 to Highway 113 until you reach the Peetz area. Follow any of the county roads west of the town to view the towers.

International piano star Richard Steinbach performs during the first ever concert in the newly renovated Dorothy Corsberg Theatre at Northeastern Junior College. (Journal-Advocate photo)

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Performing arts offered here year round

ogan County has a huge head start towards being the visual arts leader in this corner of the state. And, performing arts are just as important to the locals. A nice array of musical and theatrical entertainment can be found here.

Several local music groups offer semi-annual shows to sold out audiences, including the Windsong Chorus of Sweet Adelines and Centennial State Chorus, as well as the community’s Master Chorale and RE-1 Valley Children’s Chorale. These vocal groups invite new participants at all times. Annual offerings from vocal performing student groups from the area schools and college add to the selection. A community jazz band, operated through the college’s music department gives many musicians an opportunity to jam and

perform regularly.

Summertime sees the night air filled with the sound of bands brought in as part of the Sterling Arts Council’s free July Jamz Friday night concert series held on the courthouse lawn. Special venues like the Logan County Fair and ongoing community festivals such as Sugar Beet Days and Relay for Life always feature live music.

The college is home to exceptional music and theatre programs and proudly boasts a beautiful, newly renovated liberal arts building with a performance hall that seats 506. Its state of the art sound and lighting make it a top choice for events and shows. Several theatre groups in the community provide live performances, including the Sterling Miracle Players group which offers a summer camp. Theatre classes are

often offered by the local college as part of its summer Kids College programming.

Traveling show groups such as those tied to universities will occasionally stop in Sterling and treat the community to a performance, usually on the college’s stage.

The Sterling Arts Council works to bring high quality entertainment to the local stages. This also includes a very nice, large theatre at the middle school, a smaller, more intimate stage at Sterling High School and several small, privately promoted stages where comedians and local musicians perform. There are a few smaller, more intimate settings in the city where a blues band or a comedian will perform to the delight of the locals. Efforts are underway to develop more of these kinds of venues.

See RECREATION, pg. 18 STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 17

Recreation and Leisure

Spend a summer afternoon keeping cool at Sterling's outdoor pool complex. (City of Sterling photo)

items from that period and visitors are magically transported back in time.

The Overland Overland Trail Museum Trail Museum offers some of the coolest Owned and operated by events of the year, includthe city of Sterling and ing the very popular July 4 supported by the Logan County Historical Society, Heritage Festival on-site.

It is definitely a hometown this museum is a pure favorite. treat. Walk through the Open year round, with shady courtyard and enjoy the feel of a turn-of- varying hours, this museum also includes a display the-century village that on the evolution of the now includes the main museum and 14 buildings, Rural Electric Association among them an 1891 one- and has a High Plains Education Center on site. room school house, a country church, a general A small admission fee is charged. This is definitely store, a 1915 stone block house and a 1910 barn. All one of the best museums of these buildings are fur- in Colorado. Well worth the time to see it! nished with authentic Continued from Page 17

18 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

Fleming Heritage Museum Park

The old Philarado School House is home to this museum. The old Burlington Northern Railroad Depot is also part of the park and houses a unique souvenir shop selling items made by local craftsmen. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Memory Lane

A private museum of sorts located on the east side of Sterling, provides visitors a chance to see a great collection of original, local memorabilia from the 1950s and 1960s.

Owner Mark Walters

loves to show off his motorized bathtub on wheels among other vehicles, motorcycles, bikes, model planes and trains and road signs. Admission is a measly $3 per person to help keep the lights on.

Memory Lane is open seven days a week with a phone call ahead. Dial (970) 522-5478 to get directions to the place, and an open door.

Crook Museum

At the corner of Fourth Street and Fourth Avenue is the Crook Museum, open by appointment by calling (970) 886-2713. It was formerly the PresbySee RECREATION, pg. 19

Recreation and Leisure Continued from Page 18

terian Church. Behind the museum is a railroad coach built in 1874. It was moved with wheels and a crane to its present location and is being restored by the Crook Historical Society. Several other old churches are located in the community. You can learn more about the community by visiting the museum.

Logan County Shooting Sports Complex

New in 2016, this complex will open in August at 12515 Highway 61, on the east side of Interstate 76 at the entrance to Sterling.

It includes rifle. pistol, trap, sporting clays, skeet and archery ranges.

Located on almost 400 acres, which were purchased and consolidated by the city of Sterling and Logan County, the range, will eventually include a building on the site where hunter education courses and indoor archery can take place. Funding for the development comes in part through grants from Colorado Parks and Wildlife. A small daily use fee may apply, or a membership may be purchased.

Expected activities include hours for open shooting, a shotgun league and a number of rifle and pistol events.

Historic Logan County Courthouse

Located at the heart of Sterling, the historic Logan County Courthouse is a beautiful example of renaissance revival architecture with corner quoining and simple cornice. This two and a half

public outcry, and action.

Community groups came together to raise funds to restore the holiday lighting on the building. Now, an annual festivity centers around the lighting of the lights and locals and others gather at the courthouse square to watch them be turned on by Santa Claus.

The county commissioners made way to have the necessary exterior wiring Events such as 5K runs and biking events are held to get installed to restore the people moving, often in support of a good cause. (Journallighting, using more enerAdvocate photo) gy efficient LEDs, or lightemitting diodes. This has story building with a full paintings in the lower lev- been an ongoing process, basement was placed on el. A brochure about the done in phases. The the National Register of building and the paintings beloved Christmas light Historic Places in 1979. is available, by request, at show is getting closer to In the 1980s, funds the county commissionbeing back to what it once approved by the county ers’ office on the top floor. was, and then some! commissioners, as well as Courthouse Lights The modern lighting some private donations, system provides the abiliFor years, the Logan were used for selective ty to display special colors County Courthouse and repair and restoration of lighting all year round. its beautiful display of work including rotunda Watch for red, white and incandescent Christmas columns, ceiling molding blue on July Fourth and trim, door trim, walls and lights was an annual Memorial Day, pink durattraction in this part of floors. A little bit later, ing October’s observance using a memorial gift, the the state. of Breast Cancer AwareHowever, with the renocounty re-installed the ness Month, green on St. vation of the building, the stained glass in the rotunoutside wiring that accom- Patrick’s Day and so forth. da’s skylight.

In 1999 the State Histor- modated the old fashioned Locals enjoy seeing the colors light up the downical Fund and the Colora- lights went by the waytown night sky all year side. A couple years of do Department of Local round. holiday lighting that only Affairs Energy Impact Assistance Fund provided included interior candles See RECREATION, pg. 20 grants for the restoration in the windows resulted in of this fine building. A three phase plan, taking 10 years and $5.3 million, resulted in a great deal of improvement to the building, inside and out, includWe have been here for ing an elevator and mod35 years and we are still ern heating and cooling systems. here to meet all of you A new metal roof and a refinished copper dome automotive needs. now glisten in the High Plains sunshine.

115 Broadway St. When you visit this landmark, be sure and enjoy Sterling, CO 80751 the Eugene Carara oil

S&S Auto Repair

(970) 526-2668

STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 19

Recreation and Leisure allows a child to read a story while strolling. The “easy read” level story Downtown changes every two Historic District months during the walkDowntown Sterling was ing season and once durlisted on the National Reg- ing the winter months, ister in 2013 with 47 sites managed by the Sterling that contribute to historiPublic Library. cal significance. Many of A special feature downthese sites are within town is a dog park on walking distance of one Front Street near the overanother in the downtown pass. Furry friends get a area. chance to safely romp Park your car and stroll without a leash in this fularound within a six block ly fenced area at Franklin area and take in the hisPark. Split into two sectorical architecture. tions, big dogs and little Among the 54 significant dogs may have fun with buildings in the district others just their size. are the First Presbyterian Sterling has been Church, Sterling Post named a Tree City USA Office and the Union for the past 28 years and Pacific Depot, which hous- its extraordinary parks es the Logan County system is a big factor.

Chamber of Commerce.

Biking Paths Information is available and Trails for a self-guided tour.

There is a new and City Parks growing interest in biking Sterling is home to 12 in our community. There parks constituting 110 have always been some acres. Each park offers die hard cyclists here, but something unique to resi- there’s been a recent comdents and visitors. Some mitment by the City of of them are home to large Sterling to help us walking, skating and bikbecome a more active and ing paths, nice playground healthy community, one equipment and special cyclist at a time. There are outdoor art. Others house plans to add more bike softball fields, a skate paths, and the excitement park, a disc golf course, that came with being a veterans memorial, covback-to-back host city for ered pavilions, basketball the Pedal the Plains event and tennis courts, an out- has made riding two (or door pool, and a fish pond. more) wheels popular If that’s not enough, you’ll again. The Tri On the also find horse shoe pits, Plains triathlon is another workout stations, and a contributor to this movesand volleyball court as ment. well as some baseball and All of the parks in the soccer backstops. The city welcome courteous pavilions may be rented bike traffic. New trails are for group gatherings. One in the works. A communiof the largest parks now ty ride every Thursday features a walking storynight brings cyclists of all board. “StoryWalk in the levels together downtown.

Park” includes 20 stations The riders, often numbersituated around the Coling up to 30, split into two umbine Park path, which groups; one taking a long Continued from Page 19

20 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

ride, the others a shorter ride closer to town. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun.

North Sterling State Park offers area cyclists a 3.5-mile South Shoreline Trail. This short, easy ride leads to scenic views at the top of Balanced Rock and Sunset Point as well as the Cottonwood Cove swim beach. This same trail is also available for hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing.

Recreation Center

The Sterling Recreation Center, operated by the city, is open year round and is a fully staffed, multi-use facility with a variety of indoor activities including classes and selfpaced fitness options. The Department of Parks, Library and Recreation provides an exceptional adult intramural sports program, including softball, volleyball and basketball competition for men, women and co-ed teams.

The Center has an exercise room with state of the art cardiovascular equipment, including a punching bag. Racquetball courts are available to rent by the hour and these same courts are used for wallyball league play each year. The indoor pool offers a place for lane swimming, swimming lessons and water aerobics.

Swimming lessons are offered and punch cards and annual passes may be purchased with discounts on volume buys.

A multi-purpose room is the perfect place to rent, by the hour, for meetings, birthday parties or bridal showers. It will accommodate up to 50 people.

A summer swim team for youth age 6-18 com-

petes in the Colorado Association of Recreation Athletics from early June to early August.

Outdoor Pool

Sterling’s outdoor pool complex, part of the Recreation Center, opens each Memorial Day and stays open through August. Residents and visitors of all ages splash around in this modern facility that has four slides, including two wrap around tunnels, a zero entry area, built in water toys and a separate wading pool for babies and toddlers.

Poolside sunbathing is combined with some good shade area and a concessions stand. Skilled life guards keep a careful eye on all the guests. Set times for outdoor lap swimming are available.

Access to the outdoor water park is included with the Rec Center admission fee.

Disc Golf Course

Pioneer Park in Sterling is home to an 18-hole disc golf course built in 2004. It offers a nice variety of open and very tight technical wooded holes with water on three of them.

The mostly flat and moderately wooden course has disc catcher holes. It is well maintained as part of the city’s park system.

Holes have good signage, there are no set hours, and everyone plays free.

Professional Disc Golf Association sanctioned singles tournaments have been held on the course, bringing local and outside disc golf enthusiasts together.

See RECREATION, pg. 21

Recreation and Leisure Continued from Page 20

Sterling Xpress Baseball

Take yourself out to the ballgames during summertime in Sterling. While you have options of watching youth teams and adult city rec teams play, perhaps the best baseball you’ll watch is the Sterling Xpress, a Rocky Mountain Baseball League team, playing at Plainsman Park.

Players (many collegiate level) come to Sterling from all over the region to gel as a team here and then play similar teams from places like Denver, Arvada, Boulder, Greeley, Cheyenne and Laramie.

The Rocky Mountain Baseball League is affiliated with the National Baseball Congress World Series and each year sends two teams to participate in the world series in Wichita, Kansas.

The season runs early June to mid-July. The team typically plays around 20 games with half of them at home! Some fun activities are usually planned around the home games. Small admission is charged. Season tickets are available!

Logan County Fairgrounds

With two outdoor and one indoor riding arenas, the Logan County Fairgrounds are the location for a variety of horse-related activities year round.

Several riding clubs in the area take advantage of open riding times offered to the public.

Home to the annual Logan County Fair and Rodeo each August, occasionally other non-horse activities will take place at this location as well,

including an annual tractor pull. Watch the media to know what is happening here at any given time.

Sterling Public Library

The public library offers exceptional programming for adults and children. In addition to its diverse print collection, it also offers digital format access for books, music and videos. It provides Internet access to the public and oversees a wonderful adult literacy program as well as tutoring for all ages. A Summer Reading Program, Story Time, Dial-a-Story and special programs keep the calendar full all year long.

The children’s section is one of the largest and best features of the building.

The library is open seven days a week. It participates in an interlibrary loan program and can access items on your behalf from other libraries. The city library is located at 421 North 4th Street.

Northeastern Junior College has a wonderful library as well. Monahan Library is open seven days a week during the regular school year and has special hours during holiday breaks and summer. Make sure you familiarize yourself with this resource when you spend time in our city.

young people who love to dance, or want to learn to dance, can be found here on Saturday nights. The experienced dancers are than willing to help Ice Lanes Bowling more you learn. Those who Midnight bowling, attend regularly bring a league play and birthday dish to share and after a parties are just a few of the few hours of dancing, a special activities offered by spread of food is put out Ice Lanes located on for everyone to enjoy, then North 10th Avenue. Fami- the dancing resumes. If ly owned and operated, you’d enjoy scooting a this long-established fun boot in a clean, non-alcohol center is a great place for a environment, this is it! family outing and a little Pawnee Cycle friendly competition Club track among friends.

Located on Highway 14 Heritage west of Sterling, the PawCenter dancing nee Cycle Club (PCC) Nearly every Saturday track was voted the RMXA evening, you may dance to Track of the Year. A beginlive music at the Heritage ner track, the elevation Center in Sterling. This is changes, high speed sand the city’s thriving senior sections and some of the center, which offers a good best soil in Colorado make selection of year round it an excellent ride for any activities and programs for skill set. Available by those age 55 and up. How- membership only ($75 a ever, on Saturday eveyear for individual, $100 nings, couples and singles for a family), visitors may of all ages, from a wide also acquire a one-day area, show up to enjoy two- guest pass from an accomstepping, waltzing, jitterpanying PCC member. bug, fox-trot and polka, The track is open 10 a.m. usually to more vintage to dusk five days a week, country music. For a small closed on Tuesday and admission fee, you can Thursday and the week dance from 6 to 11 p.m. prior to any scheduled While this Center caters to event. For questions, conthe more mature residents tact Tim Morgan at (970) in this area, a number of 520-2338.

Special pricing is offered for children and seniors, and some occasional other specials that are a buy one get one free admittance.

5-Plex Movie Theatre

Located in the historic downtown district is a fiveplex movie theatre. Fox 5 Theatre provides the latest movies on the big screen.

Weekends offer a late afternoon matinee option and a special summer show series caters to children and their families throughout the summer.

Antiques, Decor, Specialty Foods and much more!

324 Main Street, Sterling (970) 526-6901

STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 21

Calendar of Events

The 10 days of the annual Logan County Fair and Rodeo draw crowds from around the county and far beyond, who come to enjoy the activities and events at one of the best county fairgrounds in the state. (Journal-Advocate photo)

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ogan County is home to countless events and activities. Watch the media, or contact the Logan County Chamber of Commerce — logancountychamber.com, 970-522-5070 — for details about any of these events that pique your interest. Also visit exploresterling.com.

January

Adult Basketball League games begin Youth Basketball League games begin

February

Sterling Parks and Rec Raquetball/Wallyball League games begin NJC Homecoming Festivities Hospice of the Plains Benefit Hog Roast

every Saturday evening, Memorial Day through May Sterling Parks and Rec Labor Day. (970) 522-3657.

Adult Spring Volleyball NJC Ranch Horse Versa- Park fee applies.

League games begin tility Show Twilight Tuesdays — A NJC Auto and Toy Show Crime Stoppers Golf movie shown on a big NJC Diesel Show and Tournament screen each week in a city Shine Master Chorale Spring park, FREE to public Sterling Public Library Performance Relay for Life Quilt Show Youth Wildcat Girls SoftHigh Plains Music Fest Family Resource Center ball games begin Sterling Lions Club Tri Wearin’ O’ the Green FundAdult Summer Softball on the Plains triathlon raiser League games begin Friends of the Library Leprechaun Leap Prairie School at OverBook Sale NJC Regional Art Show land Trail Museum Sterling Outdoor Pool Sterling Xpress Baseball April opens Colorado Rockies BaseNJC’s Spring Star Party Tread for Trails at Pioball Challenge Red Cross Your Heart neer Park Adult/Teen Sand VolleyOur Hands Benefit ball League begins June Arbor Day Celebration Taste of Summer and Critter Fest at Overland Saturday Night Campfire Trail Museum Programs at North Sterling Country Showdown NJC Young Farmer High Plains Secondary State Park — Held at the Truck and Tractor Pull Art Show at NJC amphitheater inside the See CALENDAR, pg. 28 Annual Student Art Show North Sterling State Park

March

22 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

at NJC

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• Rise and shine early, preferably by 6 a.m. Best time of year is mid to late spring.

• Stop at River Station on the south side of Sterling for a cup of joe to go. Enjoy the mural inside honoring owners of Bauer’s Market who previously occupied the site for years.

• Take a drive on Highway 6 to Merino. Watch the newly worked fields and any standing water spots for turkeys, waterfowl and

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• If school is in session, stop by and ask to see the Ram tree sculpture in the main hallway.

• Visit the local antique market located right on the highway.

• Venture west on Highway 6 until you find the free range laying hens roaming at Cottonwood Creek Farms. You can see the mobile hen houses from the road.

• On the return trip to Sterling,

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Willard

watch for the buffalo being commercially fed at McEndaffer Feedyard. You’ll need a prior appointment to stop in for a close up tour.

• Stop at Columbine Park to admire the metal and bronze sculptures located here. If you have small children, show them the StoryWalk book experience.

• Ask a local in the park for a lunch place recommendation. We know you’ll get one.

Keep on exploring!

STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 23

Harris St.

Hadfield St.

Blair St.

Sidney Ave.

Mindy Cir. Nicole Rd.

Lark Ln.

Oleander Wy.

Verde

Ch gh Va arm t-o lle f-W on yD yF ay r.

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Plainview Ave.

Mark Ct.

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Stone Ct.

College Ave.

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6

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Overland Trail Museum and Village e

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Bradford Rhea Sculpture Church Information

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Ayers Elementary

Phelps St.

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S. 6th Ave.

S. 7th Ave. Sterling

Jay Dr..

Arianne Dr.

t.

Po pla

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McGregor Ave.

N. 7th St.

N. 8th St.

Pawnee Ave. N. 4th Ave.

N. 5th Ave.

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Acoma Bannock St.

Adams Cir.

Buchanan St.

Coolidge St.

Evans St.

Dawes St.

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N. 3r d

N. 7th Ave.

N. 6th Ave.

N. 8th Ave.

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Jones Ln.

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City Hall, Library, Fire, Police

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Holly Dr.

Pin

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Atwood, Merino, I-76 & Hwy 63 Junctions, Summit Springs Battle Grounds, Prewitt Reservoir Chambers Dr.

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Sage Dr. Cactus Dr. Tumbleweed Dr. Desert Dr. CR 31

Thistle Dr.

S. 7th Ave.

S. 8th Ave. S. 8th Ave.

Glenora St.

t.

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Delmar St.

S. 6th Ave.

Tanya St.

Colo Hwy 14

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Columbine St.

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Zachary Dr.

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Bluestem St.

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Elwood St. S. 8th Ave.

Glenora St.

S. 10th Ave.

Fairsurst St.

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CR 28.1

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d.

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Logan St.

Delaware Wy.

138

Fenceline St. Villa Vista St.

Centennial Cir.

McLaren St. Melody Stevens

Jackson St.

Hamilton St

ay . Railw

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Holden Ln.

Westview Dr.

S. 11th Ave.

Beattie Dr.

W es

West of Sterling at Hwy 14 & CR 31

Grant Pl.

McKinley St.

Sterling Rec.Center

Douglas

S

S. 10th Ave.

S. 11th Ave.

Cir .

N. 11th Ave.

N. 12th Ave.

Hays Ave. Phelps Cir.

S. 14th Ave.

Phelps St.

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l ountry C ub

Hillside Dr.

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Pantail St.

Fairlane

Cleveland St.

Bengal Blvd.

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Nottingham Ct.

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Sterling High School

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Franklin St.

Washington St.

King Ct.

Park St.

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Aspen Wy.

Everett Wy.

Applewood St. Clark St.

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Hagen Elementary

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Plaza Dr.

Crook, Iliff, Proctor, Caliche Schools, Peetz, Jumbo Reservoir, Sidney NE, Hwy 113 & I-80 Junctions &

NJC North Campus

California St.

Jefferson St.

Grove St.

Po

Mesa Rd.

Melba Rd.

Globe St.

Logan St.

Applewood Housing Development

tmo Parkview Dr. re Highland Ave.

Roxberry

Marie Ln.

Filmore St.

DEBORAH DR.

Summit Dr.

Greenway Dr.

REBECCA DR.

Shoshone Dr.

Cottonwood Cir.

Apple Ln.

CR 29

Greenway Dr.

CR 29

Dakota Rd.

.

Dr

Avis Wy.

Meadow St.

To N. Sterling Reservior State Park (13 miles)

Broadway St.

Cre s

Pioneer Rd

Century St.

Shawnee Pl.

Platte St.

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5

ay

Park Circle Dr. Northeastern 18 Plainsman Grill

North of Sterling via CR37 South of the CR 34 & CR 39 Intersection

Sunrise St.

Skyline Heights & Vansway Acres

Frisbee Golf

wo

24 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

CR 34

tton

• Set a tee time ahead at one of our beautiful, affordable golf courses. Arrive in Sterling in the morning. Get in 9 holes, maybe 18, before noon.

• Eat lunch Free Value Meal • Visit the Sterling Public Library to enjoy Bradw/ purchase same ford Rhea tree sculptures,of several bronze sculptures and relax Value in a good chair Meal in a quiet area of the air conditioned building. Or, go get a nap back at your hotel room.

• Call ahead and make plans to spend an hour at the local Memory Lane private museum and hear Mark Walter’s collection tales.

• Stop by Columbine Park late afternoon to see artwork on display there and while you’re close, drive by the David Walsh Cancer Center at Sterling Regional MedCenter and see the beautiful bronze at the entrance.

• Drive Main Street, taking in the famous Western bronzes.

• Stroll around Historic Downtown Sterling, viewing the artwork in that area.

• Enjoy a great dinner in Logan County. Best steaks around!

• Stop by the Heritage Center for a little Satur10%dancing off Meal day night couples between 6 and 11 p.m.

• Spend the Enjoy the bright stars w/ night. this coupon against our vast, dark night sky. We have the best twinkles in Colorado!

North & West of Sterling via CR 37 at Cr 34 & 35.7

14

ir. sC

rne

Ba

Pioneer Rd

VAL-E-VU ESTATES

Pioneer Park

St.

VANSWAY DR.

Sterling Middle School

Crosson Field, Pawnee Nat'l Grassland, Stoneham & Hwy 71 Junction, Fort Collins, Estes Park & I-25, Hwy 85 & Hwy 287 Junctions

on

PLEASANT VIEW & CRESTVIEW ACRES

North of Sterling Via CR 37 at CR 32 & CR 39

Westwood Dr.

Sunny Knolls Lane

3

4

Willow Dr. Willow Ct.

ers

nd

He

nw ee

Sunny Knolls West of Sterling via Hwy 14, and South at CR 29

Landers Ln

CR 32

Gr

Shelbe Ln.

Co

Weekend fun!

Cameron Ln.

CENTER LN.

SKKYLINE DR.

Northwest of Sterling via Hwy 14 at CR29 & CR 32

2

Kiwanis Fishing Pond. Catch and release a few fish. Or, maybe just stroll around the pond for a Code little exerciseLong andDistance wildlifeArea watching.

Take your dog for all Local Restuarants for an unleashed run.(970) • Make a jaunt north to the Logan County Justice Center and step inside the main entry to see the magnificent Scion wooden tree sculpture by Bradford Rhea.

• Cross back south to visit the Overland Trail Museum and all that it offers, including awesome artwork.

• Drive into town for a meal and mix with the locals. off Spend Easythe Meal Spend$1.00 the evening. night.

RIDGE ROAD

CHERRY LN.

1

5 More Hours of Fun

CR 39

5 Hours of Fun!

S. 5th Ave.

1331 W. Main 522-2798 I-76 in Atwood 522-7088 La Fiesta Restaurant Bamboo Garden 807 Sidney Ave. 526-0401 1027 W. Main St. 522-8801 McDonald’s Baja Tacos •231Pick a week day. Start at The 214 with W. Mainbreakfast St. 522-1407 Broadway St. 522-5563 Bully’sdowntown.

Mi Ranchito Bistro N. Logan Ave. Fleming 126 W. Main St. Plains 522-4098mural •206Enjoy viewing the Riders of the 265-4925 Momma Conde’s across Burger the Kingstreet.

100 Broadway St. 522-0802 W. Mainthe St. street 522-2743and •1602 Cross get anTrail upCafe close look at Overland Cecilia’s Kitchen 4513in Hwythis 63, Atwood 522-1871 the contemporary bike art same location.

315 Railroad Ave., Illif Papa Murphy Pizza • Stroll one block 521-0320south on 4th Street to First 712 W Main St. 522-4900 Presbyterian Church to see art and sculptures.

Cocina Alvarado Plainsmen Grill W. Main St. Sterling 522-8884 Library across the street, •715View old 17408 Hwy 14 521-6888 Country Kitchen now a private residence.Pizza Hut Inside Ramada Inn 224 W. Main St. 522-7363 •22140 Visit the E. Hwy 6 historic 522-2625Logan County Courthouse to Quizno’s enjoy architecture inside and out. View the Dairythe Queen 21804 US Hwy 6 522-1220 701 W. Mainrotunda St. 522-5864 beautiful and stained glass. See the RKJ Family Dining Daylight Doughnuts & Gene Carara art collection, then walk the north 20944 E. Hwy 6 521-9218 Frogurt Santiago’s side the St. block522-3199 to enjoy the sculptures there.

409of Chestnut 123 N. 4th St. 521-0179 Delgado’s Dugout frame shops • Step inside nearby and see local Sonic Drive-In the old church basement artIn116 displayed.

Shop at the spice shop.

421 Chestnust St. 522-5338 Beech St. 522-0175 • Go one block north Subway of the Courthouse on 3rd Domino’s Pizza W. Main St. 522-3902 Street toMain Poplar Street to900the nationally registered 1010 W. St. 522-3030 Taco Bell Gallagher’s Sterling Post Office.

1301 W. Main St. River City Grill •1116 Return to Main Street for lunch at522-5600 Sam and W. Main St. 521-7648 Taco John’s Louie’s, you’ll see317 patriotic inside.

W. Main St. murals 522-5564 Hot Javawhere Cafe / Express There’s more to see tomorrow!

118 N. 2nd St. 522-1120 TJ Bummer’s 100 N. Division Ave 522-6244 203 Broadway St. 522-8397 J & L Cafe Tumbleweed Cafe 423 N 3rd St. 522-3625 315 4th St., Crook 886-3000 • Stop at the Tourist Information Center near Jimmy’s Pizza Village Inn Pancake House the100I-76 exit to Sterling on See the Broadway St. 522-1721 203a N. weekday.

4th St. 522-4882 Jumbalya’s bronze version of Metamorphosis located there.

Wendy’s Restaurant 109 Colorado Ave., Merino 1205or W.two Main St. 521-0945 fishing pole for your kids and • Borrow a866-660-1128 venture across the roadWonderful to sink aHouse line in the 100 Broadway St. 522-0101

Public Area Railroad Highway Street/Road One-way Street

8 Antiques

STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 25

Public Art Explore the artwork — 50 plus reasons to sightsee in Sterling!

8 1 20 2 6

7

19

Broadway St.

138

14

6

7

Main Street

2

14

6

. t St

3 21

Ch estnu

4

t St.

18 5

Iris Drive

To view more pieces by Bradford Rhea, head south to Merino. See key below for more information and location

Bronze Sculptures

13 4

6

St.

St.

12

6

1. Mountain Man by Remington: Highway 14 West of Town at Entrance to Airport 2. The Dreamer (Clown) by Bradford Rhea 1983: 17615 Highway 14, Pioneer Park, near the barn—like playground equipment 3. Bronco Buster by Remington: Main Street in median just east of Ball Park Road, must view from a distance 4. End of the Trail by James Earle Fraser: on the median at 14th and Main, must view from a distance 5. The Conrad Luft Home by Steven Liguorii (2012): in yard of the historic home on the south side of 14th and Main, must view from a distance or through visit to property 6. Rattlesnake by Remington: on the north side of Main Street at 11th and Main 7. Longhorn Bull by Remington: on the north side of Main Street, 5th and Main 8. Cowboy by Buck McCain: front of Bank of Colorado, 131 West Main Street 9. Rain Upon the Prairie by Shalah Perkins: northwest corner of Logan County Courthouse square, 300 block of Main Street 10. Statue of Liberty by unknown artist: center sidewalk on north side of Logan County Courthouse square, 300 block of Main Street 11. The Popcorn Man by Shalah Perkins: northeast corner of Logan County Courthouse square, 300 block of Main Street 12. Hadfield Tribute (still to come): Main Street and Front Street, far east end of Main Street

26 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

1 3 9 2 6 10 11 3 2

76 Fro nt

14 1 15 5

16

4

3rd

2

Division Ave.

35

4th

St.

1

8

Fro n

5

Division Ave.

4

Ball Park Road

Ball Park Road

3

4th St. 3rd St.

17 51 4

13. Urn by Mabel Torrey; Memorial to Mrs. Sally Cheairs by Mabel Torrey: First Presbyterian Church*, 130 S 4th St, (970) 522-2708 14. Skygrazers by Bradford Rhea: Columbine Park, South 3rd Avenue and Delmar Street, left hand side of street 15. Minute Man by Bradford Rhea: National Guard Armory, 1400 South 3rd Avenue, right hand side of street 16. Giddy Up by Gary Alsum: Entrance to David Walsh Cancer Center at Sterling Regional Medical Center, 615 Fairhurst Street. Please be considerate of patients in the immediate area. There are three other small sculptures in the back garden patio at this Center, which is considered a patient care area including: Brittany

by Gary Alsum, Stand By Me by Jane DeDecker and Kate by Jane DeDecker.

Should you desire to view these, you must inquire at the front desk of the Center for permission to enter the area.

17. Two Kids on a Bench by Max Turner: Sterling Public Library*, 420 N. 5th Street, inside of children’s section (970) 522-2023 18. Wynken, Blynken and Nod (Miniature) by Mabel Torrey; Morning Kiss (Miniature) by Mabel Torrey: Overland Trail Museum, 20999 Co. Rd. 25 (east of the river on Highway 6, next door to Best Western Sundowner) Admission fee (970) 522-3895 19. Dream Redeemer by Bradford Rhea 2008: Prairie Park, Elm Street and North 3rd Avenue, across from outdoor pool 20. Mr. NJC by Bradford Rhea 2004: Bank of Colorado Event Center courtyard, NJC, 100 College Avenue

See ART, pg. 27

Public Art Continued from Page 26 Prairie Odyssey by Herb Mignery: Bank of Colorado Event Center courtyard, NJC, 100 College Avenue Peter Youngers (Bust) by Tim Hinz: inside E.S. French Hall* at NJC, 100 College Avenue, (970) 521-6600 21. Metamorphosis by Bradford Rhea: Colorado Tourist Information Center, 102 N. Riverside Road

Not on map

Exordium (Marble) by Bradford Rhea 1997: in Merino at Bradford Rhea Studio* located on Colorado Avenue (970) 520-1199 Transfiguration (Current work in marble) by Bradford Rhea in Merino at Bradford Rhea Studio* located on Colorado Avenue, (970) 520-1199 *denotes that art is located indoors and may only be seen when the building is open for public access

Wooden Tree Sculptures

All of these pieces are located indoors and will only be available for public viewing during posted hours of operation. Best chances to see them all will be M-F between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

1. Windlace by Bradford Rhea 1987: Sterling Public Library*, 420 N. 5th Street (970) 522-2023 Seraphim by Bradford Rhea 1993: Sterling Public Library*, 420 N. 5th Street (970) 522-2023 2. Plainsman Pete by Bradford Rhea 1989: Monahan Library*, NJC, 100 College Avenue (970) 521-6600 The Mask by Bradford Rhea 1983: E.S. French Hall, Dorothy Corsberg Theatre*, NJC 100 College Avenue (970) 521-6600 Metamorphosis (wood) by Bradford

ST THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK

OF FLEMING

201 N. Logan Ave. Fleming, CO 80728 970-265-2555

Rhea:: E.S. French Hall, Dorothy Corsberg Theatre*, NJC 100 College Avenue (970) 521-6600 3. Scion by Bradford Rhea 1987: Logan County Justice Center*, 110 N. Riverview Road (970) 522-6565 4. Full Swing by Bradford Rhea: Northeastern 18 Golf Course*, 17408 Highway 14 west of Sterling (public course) (970) 522-2836 5. Minuteman by Bradford Rhea 1985: National Guard Armory*, 1400 South 3rd Avenue, right hand side of street (970) 522-4085 6. Tiger by Bradford Rhea 1986: Sterling High School*, 407 West Broadway (check-in required during school hours) (970) 522-2944

Not on map

Ram by Bradford Rhea 1990: Merino High School*, 315 Lee Street, Merino, CO (check-in required during school hours) (970) 522-7424 *denotes that art is located indoors and may only be seen when the building is open for public access

Metal Art

1. The Bike by Andy Anderson: Columbine Park, South 3rd Avenue and Delmar Street (south east side) 2. Horse Bike Rack by Karen Foote: Columbine Park, South 3rd Avenue and Delmar Street (northwest side) 3. Sterling Bicycle Works Contemporary Bike Sculpture: Corner of 4th Street and Main Street, on corner 4. Iron Horse by Carol Reed: Centennial Square: 400 Block of N. 4th Street 5. Chicken Bike Rack by Karen Foote: Sterling Public Library, 420 North 5th Street 6. Cycles of Life by Bradford Rhea: 17615 Highway 14, Pioneer Park, east side

7. Cow Bike Rack by Karen Foote: Prairie Park, Elm Street and North 3rd Avenue, across from outdoor pool 8. Book Bike Rack by Robert O. Keith, IV: Monahan Library west entrance, NJC, 100 College Avenue, & NJC Alumni Clock Tower by Luft Machine: Center of courtyard on west side of campus, NJC, 100 College Avenue.

Paint Murals 1. Historic Downtown Sterling

by Nate Laybourn: Glance upward at the intersection of South 4th Street and Poplar Street 2. Riders of the Plains by Steve Parrish: Glance left at the intersection of North 4th Street and Main Street 3. Woolworth Store by Nate Laybourn: Located in the 200 block of Main Street 4. Vintage Automotive Images (Cadillac, Oldsmobile and GMC Truck) by Nate Laybourn: Located in 200 block of North 4th Street, left hand side, in windows of former dealership building across street from Village Inn to the east 5. Brickel Bros. Memorial Mural, Machine shed at Overland Trail Museum* by Nate Laybourn: 20999 Co. Rd. 25 (east of the river on Highway 6, next door to Best Western Sundowner) Admission fee. (970) 5223895 Be sure to also see the Farm Logos and Prairie Scene murals done by this same artist at this same site.

6. Honoring the Bauers by Nate Laybourn: inside the River Station Valero Store*, 1512 Highway 6 7. Patriotic Murals on Brick x 3

by Nate Laybourn: Sam & Louie’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria*, 310 Main Street *denotes that art is located

indoors or inside fence and may only be seen when the building is open for public access

Galleries and Collections

1. Tennant Art Gallery, Northeastern Junior College, 28 Western art pieces. Hays Student Center, east entrance* FREE Sanderson Collection, NJC, 40 paintings by William Sanderson, E.S. French Hall, west entrance* FREE Peter L. Youngers Fine Art Gallery, NJC, E.S. French Hall, west entrance* (September to mid-May) FREE Horses Around the World Collection, 20 plus framed posters and prints, NJC, Chuckwagon Café * (cafeteria annex) located adjacent to Hays Student Center (open during meal-times mid- August to mid-May or by appointment) Call (970) 521-7000.

FREE 2. Eugene Carara Collection, 10 oil paintings with historic significance, Logan County Courthouse, lower rotunda, downtown Sterling* FREE 3. Russ Johnson Postcard Series, enlarged, framed historical postcards, Medical Arts Building hallway, 1405 South 8th Avenue* FREE 4. First Presbyterian Church Sanctuary: small collection of framed art by Larry Prestwich and Jesse Scott, 130 South 4th Street* FREE

Not on map

Bradford Rhea Gallery, Colorado Avenue, Merino, next door to local bar and grill. Stop by to see if the gallery is open (even go around back), or call (970) 520-1199 to connect with the artist who works and lives in the area.

Donations welcome. *denotes that art is located indoors or inside fence and may only be seen when the building is open for public access

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STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 27

Calendar of Events Continued from Page 22

July

Saturday Night Campfire Programs at North Sterling State Park Heritage Festival at Overland Trail Museum Fourth of July Fireworks and Concert at Pioneer Park Colorado Flatlanders Car Club’s Rod Run in the Park July Jamz — Live music, free concert on the Courthouse Square every Friday night in July.

Sterling Xpress Baseball Crook Fair City of Sterling Kids Pet Show

August

Logan County Fair and Rodeo Saturday Night Campfire Programs at North Sterling State Park City of Sterling Punt, Pass and Kick Event Adult Fall Softball League games begin

September

Sugar Beet Days NJC Star Party Fleming Fall Festival

RMXA Motorcross Race Youth Volleyball Fall League games begin

October

Fall Festival/Sterling Scarecrows Chamber of Terror Sterling Miracle Players Haunted House Merino Fall Festival For Peetz Sake Day Another Night at the Museum Sweet Adelines Windsong Chorus Fall concert Trick or Treat Street Cub Scouts Chuckwagon Skills Challenge

November

Turkey Trot Hometown Holidays

December

Hometown Holidays Sterling Parade of Lights Fleming Festival of Lights Windsong Chorus of Sweet Adelines and Centennial State Chorus concert Christmas on the Prairie Master Chorale’s Annual Noel performance City of Sterling Nuggets Basketball Skills Challenge

Everyone is invited to enjoy the City of Sterling fireworks show on July 4. (Denice Webb photo)

Dining shop is open early every morning. Some of Sterfavorite food spot. A host ling’s favorite restaurants of Mexican, Chinese, piz- have long-standing, excelza places and fast food (sit lent reputations for good down or drive thru) are food, fair prices, close in sure to satisfy discriminat- parking and great service! ing diners. The donut A drive to nearby MeriContinued from Page 12

28 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

no, Peetz, Fleming, Atwood and Crook provide one-of-a-kind dining experiences in small but thriving eateries, including right off the interstate locations. Bully’s Steak House in Fleming was

recently identified as one of the 10 must try restaurants in Colorado. Even the college cafeteria welcomes outside diners during the school year.

You won’t go hungry in Logan County. We promise.

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Come Stay and Play a Day ... or More

Tourism F

rom the history buff to the sports fan to the art aficionado, Logan County offers plenty to explore.

A growing collection of public art pieces, in addition to notable collections and galleries, has turned Sterling into the art mecca of northeast Colorado.

Fine arts performances draw crowds from across the region to the city’s various venues.

The county has a rich heritage, with a number of buildings listed on the State and National Historic Registers. In 2013, Historic Downtown Sterling was added to the National Register, with dozens of buildings contributing to its historic significance.

Historical markers indicate six significant historic sites, according to History Colorado, the state’s historical society. Community organizations have also erected markers commemorating the sites of former schoolhouses and notable people and places.

The Overland Trail Museum, itself the site of the historic Valley Station, can direct visitors to these places from time past.

For the outdoorsman or woman, Logan County is a

Escape to the peace and quiet at Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area or one of over a dozen other public lands found throughout Logan County. (Journal-Advocate photo)

hunter’s paradise. The South Platte River valley provides a landscape that is ideal for large and small game species as well as waterfowl. Sterling is named one of the best 25 cities in the nation for pheasant hunting by Pheasants Forever.

With more than 20,000

acres of State Wildlife Areas and State Trust Lands, in addition to the state park, there are plenty of options for anyone wanting to enjoy some time in nature. The wildlife abounds for hunters and fishers as well as those who prefer to shoot a camera or catch sight of

birds through their binoculars. Camping, biking, boating and hiking are just a few of the options available at North Sterling State Park and other sites throughout the county.

Whether you’re spending a day or a week, there’s plenty to explore in Logan County.

STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 29

Public Art

Bradford Rhea’s Skygrazers in bronze graces Columbine Park in Sterling. (Journal-Advocate photo)

S

terling is making efforts to become northeastern Colorado’s art and cultural center. In its earliest beginning in the mid1980s, Sterling’s art movement began when it adopted the City of Living Trees label and embarked upon a mission to share, with the rest of the world, a collection of 17 outdoor sculpted tree trunk wood beauties by artist Bradford Rhea.

Locals and visitors now may view and enjoy at least 50 significant pieces of art throughout the community. In addition, there are a few galleries and private businesses in the area that showcase local and regional talent. It’s easy to spend a multi-day

stay in Sterling exploring all this art!

Some of the original Rhea tree sculptures became weathered and had to be moved indoors for safe keeping. A few were turned into bronzes so that they could continue to be outdoors for year round enjoyment by the locals and visitors.

Blessed with some exceptional area artists, grant monies and committed citizen donors, Sterling is taking its place among the great Colorado cities that value art. The visual art on display here has deep meaning, representing the history and heart of the area.

Bronze beauties Five beautiful and

30 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

famous bronze sculptures have been added to the Main Street landscape in Sterling this year, and another significant piece will be added to the downtown landscape before the end of summer. Several more bronzes have been commissioned by local businesses to be installed by the end of 2017.

Among the newest bronze sculptures in Sterling is a replica of James Earle Fraser’s End of the Trail, a Native American on horseback, one of the most recognizable images in the U.S. Recast versions of Frederic Remington’s Bronco Buster, Rattlesnake, Mountain Man, and Longhorn Bull were also gifted to the community by local cattlemen

and are now on display.

These new sculptures join 23 other bronzes on display in the community.

Three of these bronzes reside on the courthouse square. The Popcorn Man honors Clarence Mentgen’s legacy of selling popcorn at this city corner for years, and Rain Upon the Prairie celebrates the pioneering spirit of the Orville Johnson family.

Both of these are the work of southeastern Colorado artist Shalah Perkins. An older miniature version of the Statue of Liberty has long been on the center sidewalk leading to the courthouse.

Across from the courthouse to the southwest is the First Presbyterian See ART, pg. 31

Public Art Continued from Page 30

Church, home to three sculptures created by famous artist and Logan County native Mabel Landrum Torrey. Mabel created two identical, large urns commissioned in 1954. This set, simply entitled Urn, consists of two 42-inch tall, light bluegreen bronze effect art plaster urns, located on a high shelf on each side of the main sanctuary. In the foyer of the church is a 30 inch by 42 inch bronze done in 1939, also by Mabel Torrey. This piece, entitled Memorial to Mrs. Sally Cheairs, was given to the church by Cheairs’ children.

A miniature version of Torrey’s famous Wynken, Blynken and Nod, which depicts three children resisting sleep as they sail the ocean in a wooden shoe, is prominently displayed at the Overland Trail Museum, along with a miniature version of Torrey’s also famous bronze, Morning Kiss, which tenderly represents a small child running to kiss a kneeling mother. Another miniature of Wynken, Blynken and Nod can be

Karen Foote's metal farm animal bike rack sculptures add a touch of whimsy to Sterling's public art collection. (Barbara Baker photo)

found at the Sterling Public Library, as well as a book entitled “The Sculpture of Fred and Mabel Torrey” by Gladys E. Hamlin, which gives rich history and wonderful pictures of all of their work.

Three bronzes located on the campus of Northeastern Junior College include Prairie Odyssey, a larger than life sculpture created by Nebraska artist Herb Mignery, and Mr. NJC, a life-size bronze by Rhea honoring long time (and still living) college

icon Jack Annan. Both of these pieces are located on the main courtyard on campus. A bust of longtime art professor Peter Youngers is displayed inside the liberal arts building adjacent to an art gallery bearing his name.

Created by Colorado artist Tim Hinz, this bust is a perfect replica of the man.

Cowboy, an impressive life size creation by artist Buck McCain, proudly greets visitors at the entry to the Bank of Colorado located just off Main

Street.

Giddy Up by National Sculptors Guild member Gary Alsum can be found at the entrance to the David Walsh Cancer Center located at Sterling Regional MedCenter.

Three more smaller bronzes grace the facility’s back patio, which is a patient care area with limited viewing availability.

Sitting in the children’s section of the Sterling Public Library is a bronze first created by artist Max See ART, pg. 32

207 Broadway Street, Sterling, CO 80751 W: (970) 526-6990 • Broadway-Wine-Spirits@outlook.com STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 31

Public Art

Outdoor murals, like this one by Nate Laybourn, adorn a number of buildings in Sterling. (Denice Webb photo)

Colorado based Pedal the Plains event, several artTurner. Two Kids on Ten of Bradford Rhea’s ists in the community Bench, was donated to the tree sculptures can be came together and dollars library in 2007 in memory enjoyed still in their natu- were identified to help of Dalton Hunker. ral wooden state. Most of fund new art pieces to go them may be viewed year on permanent display in Five more Bradford Rhea sculptures — Dream round at their respective the city. indoor locations during Redeemer, Skygrazers, Among the metal sculpregular business hours, Metamorphis, Minute ture artwork created for Man and The Dreamer — Monday through Friday. this purpose is The Bike, are placed at various outWindlace and Seraphim an oversized 1800s pennydoor park and public loca- are located at the Sterling farthing bicycle, designed tions in the area.

Public Library. Plainsman by the late Andy Anderson One smaller sculpture Pete is located in the colof Sterling, which is now by artist Steven Liguori lege’s Monahan Library on permanent display at can be found at the histor- and the wooden versions Columbine Park. Three ic Luft Home on west of Metamorphosis and farm animal-themed bike Main Street. This bronze The Mask are on display racks designed by art of Conrad and Maria Bar- in E.S. French Hall, also at teacher Karen Foote and bara Luft serves as a trib- Northeastern Junior ColSterling High School stuute to several generations lege. Full Swing resides in dents are located at variof a family that continues the club house at Northous spots across the city. to live here. eastern 18 golf course, The return of Pedal the Minuteman (wooden) Still to be installed this Plains in 2015 meant new year is the sixth historical stands proudly inside the artwork. This time BradNational Guard Armory. bronze sculpture depictford Rhea designed, and School mascot carvings, ing William S. Hadfield Wisdom Industries manu(considered to be the first the Tiger and Ram are dis- factured, an iron arched played at Sterling High permanent resident of trellis with stacked bicyLogan County) along with School and Merino High clists called Cycles of Life.

School respectively. Scion It is on permanent display his wife, Charity Sanders is at home in the Logan Hadfield, and a Plains at the start of the multiCounty Justice Center.

Indian. This bronze will use trail in Pioneer Park. crown the east end of A contemporary stainless Metal Main Street in a newly steel bike rack, designed masterpieces designed landscape area

by Foote, will be installed In 2014 when Sterling on Front Street. It is yet to at Franklin Park on Front was first a host site for the Street. be named.

Continued from Page 31

Wooden wonders

32 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

Other pieces of metal art include Bike Book, a bike rack that resembles a text book, created in 2009 by then local art student Robert O. Keith IV. It was funded by the college’s foundation and is located at the west entrance to the Monahan Library on the campus of Northeastern Junior College. While in this area, be sure and view the NJC Alumni Clock Tower, which was commissioned, designed and crafted by local welders to be installed on the campus in 2000 to mark the new millennium. The tower is also a carillon and features a gold plated flame of learning that glistens in the sun.

Last but not least, Centennial Square, home to city hall, is the location of a large metal sculpture, Iron Horse, created by artist Carol Reed, made using an actual oil well pump, and dedicated to the community on Colorado Day 1979 during one of the largest oil booms in this area.

In all, nine metal art See ART, pg. 33

Public Art their buildings, which has added beautiful color to pieces are part of the the area. In addition to the city’s landscape. A drive walls, Laybourn created through the Logan Coun- awesome vintage automoty countryside will also tive visuals to identify the give you a look of some front of, and fill the large private collections availwindows of the old Chevy able to view from the dealership across the road. street from Village Inn. Laybourn is also responsiMurals, murals ble for the fabulous mural on the wall that now fronts the old There is a mural art Woolworth Store and the movement taking place in Brickel Bros. Farm this area. It started in Memorial Mural, which is 2012 when a new eating the centerpiece of an establishment had its logo impressive antique equippainted on a wall facing ment display at the Overthe street. That same year land Trail Museum. A a local businessman com- large mural inside the missioned a local artist, new River Station honors Nate Laybourn, to do a 26 the Bauers who had the by 55 foot mural up high market at that site for so on a building that would many years before this serve as a marker for His- new convenience store toric Downtown Sterling. was built. Mandy Ritter In conjunction with the has added her artistic flair Pedal the Plains event in to several downtown area 2014, local artist Steve businesses, including the Parrish created Riders of sewing store and antique the Plains on a prominent market. A commissioned wall across from the hispiece entitled Elevator toric courthouse. His elo- Music, an alcohol ink on quent depiction of the glass design, is promiIndians of the past and the nently displayed inside cyclists of today won over Walker Pharmacy. Anothmany hearts. er local artist, Cindy Several other business- Moore, is credited with doing local art at Barb’s es commissioned Laybourn to paint murals on Main Street Gifts.

Continued from Page 32

last amusement park ride manufacturers in the world, also headquartered in Merino. You may get to see some of this work in progress as well.

Consider treating yourself to something not everyone will see by Just maybe arranging a private tour.

Internationally recogYou can call (970) 520nized artist Bradford Rhea 1199 or email has a superb gallery locat- thesculptor7@gmail.com ed at the heart of little to arrange for your visit.

Merino, Colorado’s business district. The building is jam packed full of artistic work including a numIf you love wall art, conber of small pieces he has created for various gallery sider taking a drive to the Town of Merino (14 miles shows. It is also home to from Sterling) to take in the 20,000 pound marble the Merino Uniquely sculpture Exordium and a Restored Art Location work in progress, a 30,000 (MURAL) Project. Inspired pound block of white mar- in part by Bradford Rhea, ble being transformed beginning in 2012, artists into what he has named and community members Transfiguration. In his stu- created an eye-catching false front for the façade dio is a rarely seen sculpture, Tetragrammato. Visi- of several buildings on the main street in town. tors also get to enjoy The bright colored design seeing a duplicate of the consists of seven or more walking stick Rhea was store fronts including the commissioned to make for town’s former book store, Pope John Paul II by the tire store and bank which Department of State, preare all brought back to life sented to the Pope by as part of the MURAL President Bill Clinton in Project. A number of the prominent families from 1993. Rhea does a variety the Merino area are honof artistic design work for ored through the project.

Wisdom Rides, one of the

The community can expect more murals. As, if given the chance, artists like Parrish, Laybourn, Ritter and Moore will make sure that Sterling’s downtown walls become the fairest of them all!

A side note

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Galleries and Collections A

rt fanciers will find an ample supply of fine art in prominent galleries located in Logan County, primarily Sterling.

The Tennant Art Gallery is located inside the east entrance of the Hays Student Center on the campus of Northeastern Junior College, 100 College Avenue. Here you will find 28 pieces of Western art gifted to the college in the 1980s by Dr. Edward E. and June E. Tennant. The gallery may be accessed Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Free to view.

The Sanderson Gallery, consisting of 40 paintings done by William Sanderson (1905-1990), is located at E. S. French Hall on the campus of Northeastern Junior College. Visit this gallery Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. (970) 521-6702. Free to view.

The Peter L. Youngers Fine Art Gallery is also housed in E. S. French Hall on the campus of Northeastern Junior College. This gallery, named after a long-time, very accomplished artist and art professor, is home to a rotating show, which changes monthly, from September to May during the school year. Visitors should stop by this gallery Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. or by appointment. Free to view.

Horses Around the World Collection is a group of framed prints and posters, each piece featuring a horse of some sort, housed in the Chuck Wagon Cafeteria annex at Northeastern Junior College. This collection, which includes more than

business hours Monday through Friday. Free to view.

The First Presbyterian Church located at 130 South 4th Street is itself a piece of architectural art.

Housed inside this church’s sanctuary, in addition to some famous sculptures, are beautiful pen and pencil drawings by artist Jesse Scott and watercolor by Larry Prestwich which highlight the evolution of the church’s home from the original soddy house to what stands today. In addition, elegant, large stained glass windows in the sanctuary feature images of Jesus that have been meticulously hand painted. Guests are welcome to visit the church during regular business hours posted on First Presbyterian Church, located on the corner of Ash the south door of the and South Fourth Streets, boasts quite the collection of building. Please visit the fine art, including large stained glass windows in the church office upon entry. sanctuary. (Journal-Advocate photo) Free to view.

There are two frame shops located in the down25 pieces, was donated to you look up and enjoy the town Sterling district the college by local artist stained glass art in the which often feature the and horse enthusiast Sara upper rotunda that was work of local and area artBledsoe. Free to view. installed by the Elysian Visitors should go to Stained Glass Company of ists. Be sure and stop in these private businesses Hays Student Center, Denver in 1984.

Office 132, ask for Annie, Russ Johnson Postcard for a look around.

Bradford Rhea Gallery, who will provide you Series is a group of overinternationally recognized access to the galleries on sized, beautifully framed artist Bradford Rhea has campus. (970) 521-6702. postcards from the collecA collection of ten histor- tion of the late Russ John- an interesting work gallery located in the heart of little ical paintings make up the son, a native of this area.

Merino, Colorado’s busiEugene Carara Collection, He spent 20 some years ness district. The building housed in the lower rotunresearching and collecting is jam packed full of artisda area of the Logan Counmore than 2,000 postcards tic work including a numty Courthouse in downrepresenting the historical ber of small pieces he has town Sterling. The late events happening between created for various gallery Carara lived in Sterling 1905 and the 1930s in shows as well as a replica and taught art at Sterling Logan County. A grouping of the staff he created for High School for 30 years.

President Bill Clinton to In 1984 he copyrighted 10 of enlarged and framed reproductions may be present to Pope John Paul oil paintings, all symbolic viewed in the halls of the II in 1993. You may get to of historically important see some of this work in events and locations to the Medical Arts Building located directly west of the progress as well. Call people of northeast Colohospital at 1405 South 8th (970) 520-1199 or email rado. Free to view.

Avenue. You may access thesculptor7@gmail.com While in the court this display during regular to arrange for your visit. house, make certain that

34 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

Fishing I

f you’re inclined to dip a line, Logan County offers you numerous opportunities. Serious anglers have options that are sure to challenge them. More casual fishermen can find a slowerpaced place to toss in a hook just for the fun of it.

Fishing is so good in this area that most minimum size requirements for the warm water species are 15 inches! There’s usually plenty in this size category so anything smaller has to be tossed back.

North Sterling State Park Reservoir

In this fisherman’s paradise located north of the city, you’ll find walleye and saugeye, wiper, smallmouth and largemouth bass. Other fish species you may pull out of the water include channel cat, crappie, yellow perch, bluegill, northern pike, tiger muskie and trout.

You can take your boat, unload it at the marina dock and enjoy fishing on the water. Shoreline fishing is permitted along the entire state-owned shoreline with the exception of a few designated areas including the boat ramp and the swim beach. Fishing is allowed year round.

The large canal east of the dam provides a popular place for tossing in a line.

The water levels at North Sterling fluctuate according to irrigation use.

Prewitt Reservoir

The relatively shallow, warm water lake provides fishing for wiper, walleye and saugeye. Anglers may also catch channel cat and black crappie from previous stockings. No boating is allowed that creates a whitewater wake so hand

Logan County has plenty of options for casting a line. (Barbara Baker photo)

propelled watercraft are often used. Fishing from the dam is allowed beginning Oct. 1 through last day of waterfowl season.

Ice fishing is allowed only within 50 yards of the dam.

The water levels at Prewitt fluctuate according to irrigation use so early spring usually produces the best numbers.

offers warmwater fishing, although the only boating allowed is float tubes or craft propelled by hand. In the lake and at Red Lion, you’ll find largemouth and smallmouth bass, wiper, crappie and catfish. The Red Lion SWA is closed April 15 to July 15 to protect nesting waterfowl.

join their humans and run unleashed — it’s even okay if they get wet.

Humans, however, must stay on the shore.

Jeff’s Pond

The Town of Fleming has a small pond that offers low pressure, warm water fishing from the bank. It’s an ideal location Sterling Kiwanis for leisurely line tossing.

Jumbo Reservoir Club Pond Jeff’s Pond is located on Part of the State Wildlife the northwest corner of You don’t have to go far Area (SWA) network, Jum- to find a warmwater fishthe community and the bo Reservoir straddles only requirement for fishing hole. The Sterling Logan and Sedgwick ing is a valid license for Kiwanis Club Pond is Counties and is often those 16 and over. The located directly across fished by the locals so it’s pond is maintained by the from the Colorado Visiconsidered close enough tor’s Center at the I-76 exit. town and stocked with larto claim. Bank fishing and This hometown favorite is gemouth bass, channel ice fishing are allowed at cat, green sunfish, cutbow located in the Overland Jumbo Jan. 1 to Sept. 30.

Trail Recreation Area. The and rainbow trout. No Ice fishing is allowed in watercraft and no camppond is stocked regularly designated areas. Camping with species common to ing. Fishing is allowed duris allowed. There is a boat this area and has miniing daylight hours only. ramp available as well as Information on these mum length limitations other amenities at the res- similar to these other fishing locations in Logan ervoir itself. Fishing from lakes. It is a popular catch County, as well as informaa boat is popular. Water tion on obtaining required and release venue with sports (skiing, jet skis) are bank fishing only. Chilpermits and licenses is very limited, making this a dren’s fishing poles may available from these Colopreferred boat fishing loca- be borrowed at the nearby rado Parks and Wildlife tion for many.

Visitor’s Center. Adults of resources: CPW Office The Red Lion SWA is all ages enjoy the location (Brush): (970) 842-6300, part of this large reservoir and it is one of the few CPW Website: http:// playground and it also places where dogs may cpw.state.co.us.

STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 35

North Sterling State Park

Enjoy all kinds of water sports on the public waters of this 70,000 acre-foot irrigation reservoir. (Journal-Advocate photo)

A

network of 60 miles of canals eventually bring water across the High Plains to the reservoir at North Sterling State Park. Big enough to hold 70,000 acre feet of water, this state park provides activity year round for area residents and visitors. Water sports are just the beginning of the fun.

Consider these options:

Biking The 3.5-mile South Shoreline Trail is recommended for a quiet prairie trail ride along the reservoir’s shoreline. All of the park trails are for non-motorized access only.

Birding

Birds such as herons, turkey vultures, and pelicans spend time at the Archery Range park. Predatory birds such as hawks, falcons, The range — 11 ADAaccessible stations with 18 and eagles can easily be found on poles and fence targets, including three posts. Geese and ducks sight-in targets at 20, 30, are always present. A comand 40 yards — is open plete Bird Species List can sunrise to sunset daily. It is located east of Balanced be found at the Visitor Rock, just north of the out- Center. Join a guided bird let canal. Only a valid Col- walk by calling at (970) 522-3657. orado State Parks Pass is required. Children 16 and under must be supervised Boating North Sterling Reserby an adult. Field tips or voir is open to boating, be target tips only.

36 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

it for fishing, skiing or sight seeing. The Northside Marina has some items available to rent or borrow if you’re missing something you need.

Mandatory state-certified boat inspections help prevent the spread of zebra and quagga mussels and other invasive species.

There are two inspection stations.

Camping Inlet Grove and Chimney View campgrounds are open seasonally while the Elks Campground is open year-round. Inlet Grove has 50-amp electricity and Elks has 30-amp power. All sites have a picnic table, shade shelter and campfire ring. Expect to need reservations in advance. Large groups can reserve several spaces in

close proximity by calling 1-800-678-2267.

Education Programs Education programs for school classes, clubs, and other interested groups may be scheduled with park staff both off-site and See PARKS, pg. 37

If you go

Address: 24005 County Road 330, Sterling, Colorado www.cpw.state.co.us/ placestogo/Parks/northsterling.

Phone: (970) 522-3657 Admission: $7 per car/ day Visit: www.cpw.state.co. us/placestogo/Parks/ north sterling

North Sterling State Park on-site by calling (970) 522-3657. Campfire programs are presented May through September on most Saturday nights.

Equipment Rental Stop by the Visitor Center and check out life jackets, family activity backpacks and handheld GPS units, among other resources, at no charge.

Fishing Best known for wiper, walleye and catfish, the reservoir is also home to rainbow trout, small and largemouth bass, yellow perch, bluegill, crappie, northern pike, drum, channel catfish and carp.

Current fish summaries are available online.

head. Hunting is permitted Point-to-point, the natural during legal seasons for surface South Trail extends small game, waterfowl, and over 3 miles from the Inlet archery deer, using shotCanal southwest along the gun and archery methods in designated hunting shoreline to a trailhead on County Road 29. There are areas only. No rifles are several other shorter trails allowed. No turkey hunting on the park that are natural at the park. surface as well. Dogs must Ice Fishing be kept on a leash.

Ice fishing is available to winter recreation enthusiHorseback Riding asts as conditions permit.

Bring your horse for a ride along the South Shore- Pets line trail, south of the Inlet Leashed pets are welCanal and footbridge. come at the park. You must Trucks and trailers should pick up after your pet. Leavpark at the East Trailhead ing your pet unattended is lot, just south of the Inlet discouraged. on CR 33.

Hiking

are available at the Archery Range and Sunset Cove areas, while tables with grills can be found at the South Boat Ramp, Cottonwood Cove and Sunset Cove areas.

Two picnic pavilions are available for groups. Marina Point Pavilion, north of the dam, can be reserved for up to 100 people. Call (970) 522-3657. Cottonwood Cove Picnic Pavilion at the swim beach has a nearby playground.

Swimming

The Cottonwood Cove Swim Beach includes a pavilion and playground, with flush restrooms, a Picnicking large public picnic pavilion Hunting There are 38 picnic sites and a playground. Please The park is open to hunting between the Inlet Canal throughout the park. Picnic use caution; there are no tables with shade shelters lifeguards. and the West Trail-

For All Your Auto PArts Proud to be a part of the Needs!

Merino community and Logan County!

a proud norTheasTen Colorado Company

Call Toll Free 1-800-634-6097

1370 W. Main St., Sterling, CO 80751

(970) 522-1334 STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 37

Lodging S

terling is currently home to six hotels and three motel/ motor lodges representing more than 300 rooms in the area. Several new hotel projects are in the planning and development stages at this time and excitement is building regarding their arrival. An Internet search will tell you what your options currently are for overnight hotel/motel lodging.

While some of the facilities are older, the locals make up this shortfall with the best in hometown hospitality. The largest hotel in the area is a national award winning property.

There are 233 RV parking sites in the vicinity of Sterling averaging $29 per night, including 141 sites at North Sterling State Park located 11 miles north of the city. Several

privately owned parks, located within three miles of the city, can be found at http://bit.ly/28OWQvv. The Town of Fleming has a very nice RV park located in close proximity to its museum.

Sterling is home to a Walmart that welcomes RV travelers to park overnight even though no hookups or services are available at this location.

As a rule, the local store

asks campers to register inside at the customer service counter if planning to occupy an overnight spot at the backside of their parking lot.

Roughing it in a tent is an option at North Sterling State Park, Prewitt Reservoir and at some of the State Wildlife Areas in Logan County. Camping and overnight parking is prohibited in all local parks.

Scenic Byway W

hile we’d love to keep you in Logan County doing close-in activities, we’d be remiss if we didn’t tell you about the Pawnee Pioneer Trails. This is a 128-mile scenic byway that takes you into some of the most beautiful country on Colorado’s high plains straddling Logan and Weld Counties. If you have three hours to spare, we recommend you take this trip into the Pawnee National Grasslands where you’ll be able to view, and hike if you like, the majestic Pawnee Buttes. Watch for horned toads and snakes along the hiking path. It’s a common thing to see antelope, jack rabbits, foxes and coyotes in your travels.

This byway traverses the rugged Colorado Piedmont, a wide-open region anchored by the towering Buttes. Travelers can imagine how the short grass prairie appeared to Native Americans many centuries ago, and to the

Logan County serves as the eastern gateway through the Pawnee Buttes to the Pawnee National Grasslands. (Meg Henderson photo)

frontiersmen who followed. Railroad towns sprang up, flourished, and declined. The communities that remain are as tough and resilient as the land they occupy – hardy symbols of America’s pioneering spirit. You can easily come upon the towns of Grover and Keota, but staying on the

38 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

marked roads will lead you back to Colorado Highway 14 where you can return to Sterling, or venture west to the Front Range.

Ask the Visitor’s Center or the Logan County Chamber of Commerce for the appropriate brochure to direct you on this journey. There are also

online resources including bird and plant guides that will add value to what you learn on this trip if you’re inclined to do a search and find them. Be sure you have a full tank of gas, a supply of water, sun screen, bug spray and appropriate hiking footwear to fully enjoy this adventure.

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STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 39

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Lovin’ living in Logan County

Relocation W

elcome to this place we call home! It is here that you will find genuine people with strong ties to this community. A place where clean, stable, predominantly family owned industries provide good jobs for others. Logan County is rich in history as it honors the past and makes way for the new. It is the kind of place where you’ll have a sense of belonging that reaches far beyond just yourself.

There is unity among the people here. Neighbors take care of neighbors.

And, pro-active community leadership constantly Logan County residents enjoy the safety and family-friendly appeal of life on the High strives to create and keep Plains. (Journal-Advocate photo) city amenities that help assure the continued welthe eastern part of the passing back and forth as they crossed these fare of our residents and state were required to high plains. What we do between Omaha and Denthe quality of life we’ve know is that the smart ver. come to expect and enjoy. travel to Greeley, the county seat, to conduct ones liked it so well they The spirit of the old official business. Citizens Logan County was stayed here and put down west is alive and well petitioned the state legisformed by an act of the roots. Today, we find newhere. Logan County’s Colorado State Legislature lature to form the new comers with hearts for 1,839 square mile landon February 25, 1887 and county. Later on, Phillips adventure and a desire to scape is still dotted with and Sedgwick Counties was named in honor of belong, who upon visiting, signs of stagecoaches, General John A. Logan, a were created from the decide to take up permahomesteaders, Indians gallant soldier who served original, much larger nent residency. You could Logan County. and cowboys. We can only become one of them. Take in this area during prior imagine what our ancesyears. The county was fortime to get to know us.

In the 1860s, this area tors traveling the Overmerly a part of Weld Visit us. Play here! Stay was a prominent stop for County and citizens from the Overland Trail stages land Trail were thinking here!

40 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

Communities dents. Sterling is home to Northeastern Junior College, one of the most respected two-year institutions of higher education terling is the county in this region. Recreation abounds and much of it seat and home to you’ll find in its most natumore than 14,000 ral state. residents. Situated adjacent to the South Platte In 1873 families from River, the city provides an Tennessee and Mississiparray of significant indus- pi settled farmland along trial employment opportu- the Overland Trail and in nities as well as govern1875 established 12 homement, medical and retail steads near today’s town. services to a trade area of In 1881 Minos King approximately 60,000 resi- offered the Union Pacific

Sterling: The largest gem in northeast Colorado’s crown

S

L

ogan County is located in the northeastern corner of Colorado in close proximity to Nebraska, and Wyoming. Its northern boundary reaches to the Nebraska state line. It occupies a 1,845 square mile area of which 1,839 square miles is land and 6.3 square miles is water. It is within a two-hour drive of the Denver Metropolitan Area and Denver International Airport and an hour and a half from Fort Collins, Greeley, and Cheyenne, Wyoming. Logan County is connected logistically with four lane access to Interstate Highway 76. Five other primary routes run through the county including U.S. Highways 6 and 138 and Colorado Highways 14, 61 and 63. Access to Interstate 80 is 40 miles north; to Interstate 70, 90 miles south; and Interstate 125, 100 miles west. Two railroads run through Logan County and a municipal airport with a 75-foot lighted runway provides additional transportation options.

Railroad 80 acres of land in exchange for building a roundhouse, depot and hotel. Sterling was platted and became the junction of the Union Pacific and Burlington Railroads, providing an ideal location for commerce and industry to bloom. The community was incorporated in 1884.

A Tree City USA, Sterling has long been the home of a collection of tree sculptures created by beloved local artist Bradford Rhea. Many of his original pieces have been beautifully bronzed. With a love for the beauty of bronze and through generous donations from community leaders, Sterling has continued to expand its repertoire of bronze sculptures. Recent additions to the city’s

main thoroughfare now brings the number of significant pieces of art in the community to over 50.

Close by communities and towns we treasure

While Sterling is the largest gem in Logan County, the outlying territory includes smaller communities full of fascinating history and in most cases, residents who love little town living.

Any direction that you travel from Sterling, you’ll find yourself enjoying some miles of two-lane therapy as you explore nearby places. You can always find a free parking spot and take off on foot to look for landmarks and points of interest.

See COMMUNITIES, pg. 42

Proximity

Denver International Airport......................... 121 miles Denver, CO .................................................129 miles Fort Collins, CO ........................................... 104 miles Greeley, CO.................................................101 miles Estes Park, CO ........................................... 156 miles Cheyenne, WY ............................................135 miles North Platte, NE .......................................... 141 miles

Population

Logan County.................................................22,542 Sterling .......................................................... 14,022 Fleming...............................................................401 Merino ................................................................ 280 Iliff......................................................................260 Peetz...................................................................233 Crook..................................................................108 Unincorporated Areas........................................6,554

420 E. Chestnut St. Sterling, CO 80751

(970) 522-4829 STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 41

Communities Continued from Page 41

Atwood, Colorado Located seven miles southwest of Sterling on south U.S. Highway 6, Atwood is the big city that almost was. The first permanent resident of Logan County, Billy Hadfield, settled on an island in the river a few miles northeast of Atwood in 1841. A marker on U.S. West Highway 6, 3.3 miles northeast of Atwood, indicates the location.

By the 1880s a community had grown up at the present site and a town was platted in 1885. When Logan County was established in 1887 the town was hoping to become the county seat, and laid a foundation for a courthouse. When Sterling was chosen instead, the foundation was used to build the Atwood School. This same foundation now supports a large home.

Crook, Colorado Still home to those who with a pioneering spirit, Crook is located 17 miles northeast of Sterling on Colorado Highway 138.

This community was named for Major General George Crook, a Civil War veteran and Indian fighter.

The town began in 1881 along the south side of the railroad tracks with a store and post office. By 1928, it had a population of more than 300 residents served by five filling stations, eight churches, four general stores, two elevators, a lumber yard, bank, drug store, hotel, auto dealer, meat market, cafe, blacksmith, creamery, shoe shop, barber, pool hall, telephone exchange, real estate office and post office.

4-H and FFA members from all parts of Logan County compete in the Logan County Fair each year to take home a ribbon, belt buckle or trophy. (Journal-Advocate photo)

Much of the old downtown of Crook remains along the north side of Highway 138. At the corner of 4th Street and 4th Avenue is the Crook Museum, open by appointment by calling 970-8862713. It was formerly the Presbyterian Church.

Behind the museum is a railroad coach built in 1874. It was moved with wheels and a crane to its present location and is being restored by the Crook Historical Society.

Several other old churches are located in the community. You can learn

42 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

more about the community by visiting the museum.

Dailey, Colorado Take a drive 25 miles east of Sterling on U.S. Highway 6 and you’ll find this community where the population may have dwindled, but memories are still very strong for those who have intimate ties to this place.

The “Highline” railroad from Sterling to Holdrege, Nebraska was built in the early 1900s through eastern Logan County. The first building in Dailey was a General Store, built in 1914. Today, the “Dai-

ley Cash Store” can be seen at the Overland Trail Museum at Sterling.

U.S. Highway 6, from Sterling east to Nebraska, enabled people to transport themselves and their goods to larger nearby towns. Dailey never regained strength after the 1930s. Not much of Dailey remains today, but to the faithful, it is remembered and honored for what it once was.

Fleming, Colorado Nineteen miles east of Sterling on U.S. Highway 6, you’ll find a delightful community in Fleming.

While the town has a history of abandonment and resurrection, today it is a thriving little community with its own school district plus businesses and eating establishments.

This community was first settled in the 1880s. It was resurrected in 1904 when the railroad arrived and brought with it a store and a bank.Today, a pleasant park, museum and gift shop are located at the west edge of town and it is here that you can learn more about Fleming’s history and perhaps buy a hand-made craft or two.

Iliff, Colorado This is a genuine Colorado cow town. Located 12 miles northeast of Sterling on Colorado Highway 138, Iliff has always been home to big cattle operations and in its glory day, was the headquarters for the man deemed the cattle king of Logan County.

Platted in 1887, Iliff was named for John C. Iliff, a pioneer cattleman of the 1860s and 1870s.Today, another of the Iliff area’s claims to fame is being See COMMUNITIES, pg. 43

Communities Proctor, Colorado Another stop on Highway 138 northeast of Sterhome to John Korrey, an ling is Proctor, which was international auctioneeronce home to the famous ing champion. Many Blue Ranch. When you farms, feedlots and rancharrive at this destination, es exist in the area. you’ll still experience an The town is now largely abundance of grazing cata bedroom community tle and big feedlots. with most residents travelIt is a popular site for ing to work in Sterling or quail, pheasant and waternearby Sidney, Nebraska. fowl hunting. Fishing in Caliche School, grades nearby Jumbo Reservoir K-12, is at the core of the is some of the best in this Iliff community as it Many of Logan County’s rural communities hold their own part of Colorado. serves residents in the Willard, Colorado parades and festivals in summer or fall. (Journal-Advocate town and a slew of other Last but not least, when photo) families in the surroundyou travel approximately ing area that reside on 16 miles southwest of changing its name to country about nine miles small acreages or farms.

Sterling on the black top north of Sterling at the Peetz in honor of pioneer through the farm land, Merino, Colorado intersection of County homesteader Peter Peetz. you’ll find yourself in WilThirteen miles southRoads 43 and 48, this com- Several thriving business- lard. This community is west of Sterling on U.S. Highway 6 is where you’ll munity came about when es exist in Peetz, as does a still home to a faithful few find this bustling commu- the North Sterling Reser- vibrant public school sys- who choose to live in a voir was being built. It was tem that serves grades nity. Rich farming soil very rural area off the truly born of water. beaten path. reaches right up to the K-12.

Padroni was platted in edge of town and many 1910, with a post office, here make their living store, lumber yard and from the land.

Some of the earliest set- section house at the railroad siding, all created to tlers ran a stage stop in serve the construction of the 1860s called Fort Wicked as told on a com- the North Sterling Reservoir. As reservoir water memorative marker 3.3 became available to irrimiles southwest of Merigate area farms, the town no on Highway 6. When grew. Today it is home to the railroad arrived in 1881, the original name of a post office and a few other enterprises.

Buffalo was changed to Peetz, Colorado Merino. thanks to the generous support of the fleming Watch your odometer as What was once Shaw’s community, the district maintains excellent Hotel and a grocery store it clocks 28 miles north facilities designed to provide students with a now houses international- and east of Sterling on Colorado Highway 113 ly recognized sculptor 21st century educational experience. and you find yourself in a Brad Rhea’s studio. The town is home to a popular neat town called Peetz.

Now the base for one of eatery and a thriving the largest wind farm school district with one building complex serving developments in the U.S., Peetz is enjoying a new grades K-12. East of the tracks, you’ll find Wisdom prosperity and is happy to Rides, one of only a hand- be home to a constant breeze. ful of carnival ride manuOriginally named Merfacturers still existing in cer as a water stop on the the world. railroad, the town was Padroni, Colorado fleming school Located in the farm incorporated in 1917, frenchman school district re-3 Continued from Page 42

The Frenchman School DiSTricT

has a student enrollment of 200 students in Preschool through 12th grade.

506 north fremont | fleming, co 80728 Phone: 970-265-2111 | fax: 970-265-2815

STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 43

Economic Development Business and industry choose Logan County

I

n 1984 a group of executives flew into Denver and boarded a bus for a state-wide tour of Colorado. They were in the midst of expanding their business in a big way and they wanted to find the very best places in this state to invest and open new stores. They looked at all the sophisticated business demographics they could find for Colorado to identify the communities they thought would serve them the best.

That company was Walmart. And, according to Anne Hatfield, a media relations executive with the company, while they chose to put their very first store in Colorado smack dab in the middle of the state at Pueblo in 1985, that very next year, they opened two more stores simultaneously, one in Sterling and the other in Alamosa. As we all know, the rest is history. Walmart has remained a top five employer in Logan County since the first store opened and is a solid corporate citizen.

This retail giant’s approach to relocation and expansion delivers a telling story about Sterling. This community has always been the preferred location for business expansion in northeastern Colorado. Franchises choose Sterling first. Big box stores choose Sterling first. Small industries have chosen Sterling first.

Relocating residents choose Sterling first.

Everything is right here

The Sterling business community is growing. (Denice Webb photo)

Did You Know?

County is seeing change and a surge of interest • There are more than from new investors.

600 businesses located in Add to this an art moveLogan County. Many of ment that is quickly beauthem are home-based.

• The most recently report- tifying the city from one ed average hourly wage for end to the other, plus sevLogan County residents eral new hotel projects in was $18.54. the planning and development stages, and locals for strong business and have reason to be excited industry to thrive and about what’s happening prosper, both now and in here. the future.

A glance at the Logan County Economic DevelOn the verge opment Corporation’s Logan County and the website reveals that dozCity of Sterling are on the ens of commercial converge of something big. struction projects are in The business climate is process. According to thriving. More building is NerdWallet’s 2015 taking place on Main announcement, Sterling Street right now than has ranks #18 in best places in occurred in at least 20 Colorado to start a busiyears. New and relocatness. The growing econed/remodeled restauomy has resulted in new rants, a new bank, a new construction, job creation medical clinic, and several and service opportunities. new specialty stores in All of this is a direct the downtown area have reflection on our centralbrought new zest to Ster- ized location, the strength ling. Word is quickly and depth of our workforce combined with supspreading that Logan

44 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

porting infrastructure, professional services, dynamic community leadership and complimentary industries.

Logan County joins only three other Colorado counties that have been approved in 2016 for the Rural Jump-Start program which offers tax relief for qualified companies and their new hires. The program, based on Colorado Senate Bill 15-282 is a tax relief program for qualified businesses and new hires who locate into Jump-Start zones which will offer: Relief from state income taxes for the new business; relief from the state sales and use tax for the business; relief from county and municipal personal property tax; and relief from state income taxes for the employee Now is a great time to consider bringing your existing or new business to this thriving corner of Colorado!

Banner FAMILY MEMBERS Share our COMMUNITY *Advertorial* The community of Sterling has the Midwestern values that help make the job of recruiting and retaining talent to Sterling Regional MedCenter a little easier.

Two hospital leaders shared their thoughts on what drew them to Sterling and what has kept them here providing excellent patient care in Logan County.

Family physician Jeffrey Bacon, DO, is a familiar face in the community. People have seen him in his clinic, at the hospital and at a number of sports and school events and civic activities.

Years ago, before Dr. Bacon called Sterling home, he visited his brother here.

Dr. Bacon thought the town looked a lot like the place where he grew up in Kansas “all the way down to the courthouse and the county square.”

Because he was looking for a change of pace from working in family and Emergency medicine in Iowa, he decided to head west. Now with two children and three step-children ranging in ages from 5 to 19, Dr. Bacon says he is happy he made Sterling his home.

Dr. Jeffrey Bacon, DO

“I like the community values. I like going to a sporting event and knowing everyone there,” he says. He tells a story from his daughter’s middle school days when, then a single-dad, he took her to an away basketball game. One of his daughter’s teachers approached him and asked if his daughter was set to play ball that day. He said yes, his daughter was set to play, and the teacher braided his daughter’s hair.

“To this day, my daughter remembers that. That’s the value we have in this community. We’re going to take care of each other just like we do our own kids,” he said. “That’s the value that’s kept me here the longest.”

Dr. Bacon has done his part in recruiting others to Sterling. His parents have relocated here, and Dr. Bacon has recruited several medical providers including physicians, to set up practice in Sterling.

As a newcomer to the area, hospital Chief Executive Officer Jeff Shelton notes the sense of community in Sterling. Shelton joined Banner Health in 2015. He says he and his wife love the Midwest and quickly picked up on the commitment Sterling residents have to civic pride including offering great parks and recreational activities.

“We saw Sterling as a community with the core amenities that met our family’s needs,” he says.

“It also has the potential to steadily grow and add services and amenities to meet new needs.”

Those community values plus a location that allows people quick access to Denver and the mountains position Sterling as a great place for people looking for the Colorado way of life.

For businesses wanting to recruit top talent, Shelton says most people want the assurance that they and their families will be safe, will have access to solid health care resources and will feel welcome and invited to invest in the community.

Jeff Shelton, CEO

“Sterling is a place with those attributes and the ability for a person to ‘dream big’ and make a difference,” he says.

615 Fairhurst St., Sterling • (970) 522-0122 • BannerHealth.com/ Sterling • f / BannerHealth

STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 45

Transportation L

ogan County sits high on Colorado’s northeastern plains, right on Interstate 76, where several other major thoroughfare highways intersect. Sterling is the largest city between Greeley, Colorado, and North Platte, Nebraska.

We’re right where you want to be.

We’re located less than two hours from metro Denver and Denver International Airport. Interstate 80 is just 40 miles north of here; I-70 is less than 90 miles south. I-25 is less than 100 miles away to the west. U.S. Highways 6 and 138 run

lighted runway. The Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway and Union Pacific Railroad cross through Logan County and use Sterling as a primary hub. Regional bus and taxi services are provided by several local and private service companies.

Clean air. Bright skies.

An average year round temperature in the mid50s, combined with more than 330 days of sunLogan County is ideally located with access to major shine provides for modercorridors for a variety of modes of transportation. ate summers, crisp falls, (Barbara Baker photo) cool winters and warm springs. The weather through Logan County, Logan County is served here is almost perfect. as do Colorado Highways by a municipal airport The business climate is 14, 61 and 63. with a 5,300 by 75 foot even better!

Employment L

ogan County has enjoyed an unemployment rate lower than the state average.

People who want to work are able to find meaningful employment. The most recent labor force study identified just over 12,000 workers in the county and notes that only 358 of them are not currently employed.

A workforce ready for the challenge

in Sterling was $18.54 per hour.

In 2015, the top 17 employers (both private and public entities) in the High School Grad 5,151 34.6% county provided jobs for Some College 3,773 25.4% just over 3,200 residents in the areas of public Associate’s 1,927 13% administration, education, Degree health care, retail, wareBachelor’s Degree 1,439 9.7% housing and transportaGraduate or tion, manufacturing, social 908 6.1% Professional assistance, agriculture, High School energy, information and 88.7% Graduate or More Employee recruiting in utilities. A vast number of Logan County is easy. The Bachelor’s residents are employed 15.8% number of amenities here or Higher through family-owned are attractive to quality Source: Logan County Economic Development Corporation agriculture enterprises, employees. They are usumany of them self-emally eager to join a wellployed. trained workforce already make up 18.8 percent of Whether you’re looking According to the U. S. in place. Rural America is the Logan County popula- Census Bureau, the 2013 for a job that will enable notorious for creating indi- tion and 15.7 percent are median household income you to make the move viduals with excellent here, or considering a here was $40,415 with a over the age of 65. This work ethics and this holds means that 65 percent of new home for your busiper capita income of true for Logan County. the population is working $22,581 (Source: Colorado ness, you’ll find Logan County offers plenty of Department of Labor.) age adults.

Persons under age 18 The average hourly wage opportunities to prosper.

46 • JUNE 30, 2016•STERLING TREASURES

STERLING TREASURES •JUNE 30, 2016 • 47

PLAY in Logan County Calendar of Events

Calendar of Events July

January

• Heritage Festival • Flatlanders Car Show • July Jamz • Crook Fair • Sterling Xpress Baseball

• Time for annual passes at Sterling Recreation Center

February

• Chili Bowl Arts Event • NJC Homecoming Festivities • NJC Jackpot Rodeo

August

March

• Logan County Fair & Rodeo

• NJC Auto Show & Toy Show • Public Library Quilt Show

September

April

• Pedal the Plains • Sugar Beet Days • Fleming Fall Festival • RMXA Motocross

May

• Chamber of Terror • Merino Fall Festival • For Peetz Sake Day • Sweet Adelines “Windsong Chorus” Concert

June

• Turkey Trot • Hometown Holidays • Community Caring Hands Trivia Contest

• The Art Walk • RMXA Motocross • Red Cross Your Heart Our Hands Benefit

October

• Crime Stoppers Golf Tournament • North Sterling Reservoir Summer activities start • Master Chorale Concert

November

• Taste of Summer & Country Showdown • ACS – Relay for Life • Expo & Tractor Pull • High Plains Music Fest • Sterling Lions Triathlon • Twilight Tuesday Movies • Sterling Xpress Baseball

Game & Bird Hunting

December

“Skygrazers”

by Brad Rhea

Great Golfing Available

• Hometown Holidays • Sterling Parade of Lights • Fleming Festival of Lights • Sweet Adelines “Windsong Chorus” Concert • Master Chorale Concert

Logan County Fair & Rodeo

Tourist Information: 1-800-544-8609 or 1-970-522-8962

www.ExploreSterling.com