Spoke + Blossom Magazine | Spring 2020 | Issue #11

T H E

H U B

O F

A D V E N T U R E

EVERYTHING FOR WEDDINGS 14 PURIFYING WITH PLANTS 25 LULU CREPE 28 US MEN’S RAFT TEAM 46 KITTEN SEASON 64

SPRING 2020 / ISSUE 11

I N

W E S T E R N

C O L O R A D O

JOE KUSUMOTO PHOTOGRAPHY

Empowering young women through mountain biking to create brighter futures and build stronger communities.

thecycleeffect.org “Our program strives to show that any young woman,

STARTING THIS SPRING, The Cycle Effect will

especially a Latina, can thrive on and off the bike given

be expanding their Girls Mountain Bike Program to offer

the right opportunities. We have seen it time and again in

year-round programming to participants in Mesa County.

Eagle and Summit Counties and now we are excited to create the same opportunities in Mesa County. We couldn’t be happier to work with the Colorado Health Foundation and Mesa County.”

— Brett Donelson, executive director of The Cycle Effect.

The Cycle Effect focuses on three primary goal areas: physical wellness, community impact and mentorship — and building brighter futures. By providing an opportunity for underserved young women to be engaged in regular, healthy programs that help build their self-esteem and promote overall wellness, girls are more likely to be healthier, stay engaged in school and set goals that will support their future.

THE CYCLE EFFECT: GOALS • Provide an outlet and activity for high school and middle school aged young women to keep them engaged and interested in school and school related activities.

• Teach life skills such as goal setting, overcoming obstacles, time management, healthy decision-making, the importance of physical fitness and nutrition and outdoor stewardship.

• Instill a higher level of self-confidence and sense of belonging.

• Provide avenues for success that may not have been available.

• Play a role in ensuring that our girls successfully complete high school and move on to higher education.

In 2019, The Cycle Effect worked with 165 young women across Eagle and Summit Counties, 70 percent of which identified as low income and 62 percent identified as Latina.

By expanding programming to Mesa County, The Cycle Effect will be able to have a direct impact on well over 200 young lives and further strengthen equity across the state. Upon expansion, The Cycle Effect will be reaching out to new funding partners to expand the fundraising efforts and continue to build a bright future.

100%

of The Cycle Effect program graduates have successfully completed high school and gone on to college, 75% being first generation in their family to attend.

CO N T what’s up in the west + what’s in season

lifestyle

26 8

VOICES OF WESTERN COLORADO Locals weigh in on Collaboration

9

WHAT’S UP IN THE WEST Roaring Fork Vally Designated Gold-Level Ride Center

10-11

WHAT’S UP IN THE WEST Monumenta Beer Works The Palisade Livery Saloon: A Classic Makeover

12-13

WHAT’S IN SEASON Field to Fork Farm Reap an Early Harvest: Start Seeds Indoors

14-17

BLOSSOM – WEDDINGS Brianna Cote + Jason Fields Wedding Kim Fuller + Bobby L’Heureux Wedding

18-21 22

SPECIAL WEDDING SECTION Wedding Vendors DRINK Rosé Two Ways

24-25

HOME + GARDEN Spring Energy Reset Purifying with Plants

26-28

EAT Springtime Eats LULU Crêpe + Kiln Coffee Bar

34 29

BOOK+BEVERAGE Amor Fati by Jack Mueller Bloody Mary by Highlands Distillery

30

MAKER Plant Magic at Uprooted Apothecary & Spa

32

ART Cooley Designs

34

MUSIC Campout for the Cause

36

FOOD Slow Food Culture at Ghost Rock Farm

38

FOOD COLUMN Q+A with Josh Niernberg

40

WELLNESS + FITNESS Fun + Collaborative Fitness

E N TS adventure

features + events

48

64

42

SPOKE Gear for the Season

60

CONFRONTATION In Colorado’s Farm-to-Table Capital

44

SPOKE Mayfly Outdoors

64

46

SPOKE 9-Ball Watermen – U.S. Men’s Rafting

IT’S KITTEN SEASON Roice-Hurst Humane Society’s Foster Care Program

66

OUR FAVORITE INSTAGRAMS

48

GRAND OUTDOORS Children + The Outdoors

68

50

FAMILY Backpacking 101

LEITNER-POMA OF AMERICA Calling Grand Junction Home for Nearly 50 Years

72

52

TAKE A HIKE McDonald Creek Canyon

COLORADO HEMP SOLUTIONS 2020 Farmers Summit

75

EVENTS

54

STAY + PLAY Cohabit Podtel

80

WHO WE ARE Q+A with Lori + Troy Raper

56

GETAWAY Mancos, CO: Where Art Meets Agriculture

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

3

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

COLLABORATION As I started thinking about the significance of collaboration, a phrase came quickly to mind: “teamwork makes the dream work.”

Spoke+Blossom comes to you from the heart of this practice. A small handful of dedicated individuals work on Spoke+Blossom to make it relevant and inspiring, always, and we pass the passion along to you, our readers, to enjoy in a way that personally resonates.

We collaborate with people, businesses and happenings every day, using print pages and digital platforms to share stories and to elevate the promotion of what’s being crafted now, tomorrow, this season, this year and into the future.

Amidst a culture that deeply leans on digital distraction and surface communication, tangible connection is what creates collaboration that is founded in meaning and authenticity — two pillars that undeniably hold up the foundation of communities large and small. Spoke+Blossom is committed to digging a little deeper than the status quo of modern media, uncovering what so often has yet to see light.

This issue, we are honored to be working with The Cycle Effect, a nonprofit organization that empowers young women through mountain biking to create brighter futures and build stronger communities. Starting this spring, The Cycle Effect will be expanding their girls mountain bike program to offer year-round programming to participants in Mesa County. Founder Brett Donelson and his team know what it means to support community, and it all starts with creating unity, supporting a team, and always working in the space of possibility and collaboration.

Also special to this spring issue is the first Special Wedding Section to ever be featured in Spoke+Blossom. Like every event, weddings are all about coming together to create a magical experience. We are thrilled to capture some of that magic in these pages and to share it with you.

So dig in and enjoy every ounce of storytelling this spring, from delicious recipes and rescued kittens, to family backpacking and on-water adventure.

May this issue be a reminder that working together and supporting one another is always what makes the dreams work.

Founder Robin Brown Publishers Kim Fuller + Bobby L’Heureux Editor-In-Chief Kim Fuller Editorial Manager Lexi Reich Art Director Kitty Nicholason Staff Photographer Cat Mayer Advertising Hannah Odneal + Bobby L’Heureux Interns Hector Salas, Lauren Farrauto + Naomi Allen Contributors Naomi Allen Rose Marie Binger Lisa Blake Andy Bowen Lauren Farrauto Cassandra May Fortman Stephanie Griggs Jayme Henderson Abram Herman Hayden Hogoboom Justin Jolley Jenna Kretschman Kristin Lummis Cat Mayer Oliver Mayer Kimberly Nicoletti Hannah Odneal Katherine Peach Robbie Prechtl Lexi Reich Kaylan Robinson Hector Salas Carrington Schaeffer Carl Scofield Lydia Stern Sharon Sullivan Jeremy Swanson Melanie Wiseman Cover Photograph Emily Klarer Spoke+Blossom Magazine Jaunt Media Collective 2077 North Frontage Road / 103A Vail, CO 81657

Kim Fuller

Publisher + Co-Owner

Join the Spoke+Blossom Community facebook.com/ spokeandblossom

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For advertising, contact ads@spokeandblossom.com Get in touch! We would love to hear from you. Please send your comments to letters@spokeandblossom.com Copyright © 2020 All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written permission. Printed in Colorado.

Your HomeSold Name

Committed to helping you find your

DREAM HOME

dh@mbgj.com 970 243 3376

contributors

ABRAM HERMAN Abram serves on the board of Friends of Youth and Nature (FOYAN), an organization dedicated to providing opportunities for youth and families to get outside (friendsofyouthandnature. org). He is an avid climber, skier, mountain biker and lover of the outdoors.

KIMBERLY NICOLETTI Kimberly is an awardwinning freelance journalist and writing coach. She has taught yoga, Nia, Zumba and tai chi, and earned a master’s degree in Somatic Psychology and Dance Therapy from Naropa University. She loves traveling and outdoor adventures.

KATHERINE PEACH Aspen-based freelance writer Katherine has been published in multiple travel, wellness and lifestyle publications, including pieces covering biodynamic wineries, far-flung yoga destinations and microbreweries in Southern California. You can find her eating and drinking her way across the state and at katherinepeach.com.

SHARON SULLIVAN Sharon is a Grand Junction-based freelance writer and editor. She enjoys hiking, backpacking, knitting and attending many of the free, outdoor music concerts in western Colorado.

OLIVER MAYER Oliver is a 4th grader who enjoys cooking, doing magic tricks and riding his bike.

6

LAUREN FARRAUTO A lifelong, avid reader and writer, Lauren has always loved the power of the written word. As an intern for Spoke+Blossom and CO YOGA + Life Magazine, her dream of creating her own story is finally a reality. When she’s not curled up with a good book, Lauren can be found adventuring in the Colorado wilderness.

WE SPEAK TO

WESTERN COLORADO

LEARN MORE ABOUT ADVERTISING AT SPOKEANDBLOSSOM.COM

voices of western colorado

COLLABORATION We asked these Western Slope locals to weigh in on this topic.

Compiled by Hector Salas

KYLE MICKELSON

ASHLEY “GOOSE” CAMERON

“As a survivor of the Columbine

“Collaboration is one of the most

High School tragedy of 1999, I

important factors in fostering

experienced firsthand the impact

community and connection with

of a community that collaborates

others. It enables people within an

together. Through the common

organization,

pain that we all felt, we were able

even family, to engage with each

to reclaim our school and we were

other productively and efficiently.

more united than ever before.

I

Even when it seemed impossible

collaboration in the military very

to move forward, our community

quickly, and continuing to live a

and our school united together

life of service to others outside

to do so. Over 20 years have

of the military only reinforces

passed, but I will never forget

that importance. When you work

how the students, staff, parents,

with others to achieve a goal,

community

local

you uplift one another, make a

businesses, churches, government

personal connection, and learn

officials, local sports teams and

about and from others, as well as

many more were able to work

yourself. Collaboration teaches the

together to help the injured and

importance of sharing, leading,

provide comfort to the survivors.

supporting, and how incredible

We were forced to come together

things are when you have the

because of tragedy, but from that

help of others, building a sense of

darkness a community united and

community and support. In the end

was a living, breathing example of

you have others to celebrate your

collaboration.”

accomplishment with, and that is

members,

Kyle Mickelson is assistant principal at Rifle High School.

8

learned

community,

the

team,

importance

of

so much better than doing it alone.”

Goose is a military veteran turned yogi, based in Grand Junction.

RYAN DUTCH “I

view

collaboration

as

an

inherent human strength — the sharing of ideas and strengths of individuals (plus or minus) to create an outcome greater than what could have been done alone.

However,

in

limiting

our view of collaboration to a group of people, we often ignore the power of using our natural surroundings and wild spaces as a contributing factor. Through the CMU Outdoor Program, we use intentional collaboration with our environment to not only promote protecting our wild spaces, but also in improving ourselves. We use the outdoors as a classroom to inspire passion in people to become better. In return then, we must give back by protecting and preserving through our political voice, showing compassion by treating everything with respect, and leaving it better than we found it and not being wasteful with resources.”

Ryan Dutch is the Outdoor Program director for Colorado Mesa University.

what's up in the west

COLORADO’S ROARING FORK VALLEY DESIGNATED A

GOLD-LEVEL RIDE CENTER

BY THE INTERNATIONAL MOUNTAIN BICYCLING ASSOCIATION Words by Kim Fuller | Photo by Jeremy Swanson

W

ith more than 300 miles of high-quality

the communities of the Roaring Fork Valley

singletrack

have developed singletrack trails to satisfy user

to

explore,

the

Roaring

Fork Valley provides an incredible breadth

demands while increasing sustainability.

of experiences for both local and visiting

riders seeking beauty and exhilaration. The

about the process as the award. IMBA’s Trail

International Mountain Bicycling Association

Solutions team partners with the community to

(IMBA)

is

guide and educate on creating and enhancing

comprised of key aspects that make for an

amazing places to ride mountain bikes,” says

amazing mountain bike destination and include:

Dave Wiens, IMBA Executive Director. “For the

variety of trail types, overall trail mileage, quality

Aspen Snowmass / Roaring Fork Ride Center

of trail experiences, destination best practices

to grow from Bronze-Level to Gold-Level is a

and local services. The Roaring Fork Valley’s

remarkable achievement, and a testament to the

system of trails scored high marks in each of

community’s dedication to mountain biking.”

these categories, contributing to the IMBA Gold-

Level designation.

ride-center. :

Gold-Level

evaluation

criteria

“Ride Center designations are as much

For more information, visit rfmba.org/trails/

With the growth of mountain biking and

its evolution into a broadly appealing sport,

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

9

what's up in the west

MONUMENTAL BEER WORKS Words + Photo by Hannah Odneal

L to R: Peter & Lindsey Campbell, Laura & Brian Fischer, Megan & Nick Westfall.

T

10

hree Grand Valley couples, whose friendship

fruit and honey when they brew commercially

began in the Bookcliff Home Brew Club,

for the public. They’ve also designated a spot on

partnered up to add a sixth craft brewery to the

their property for local food trucks to serve their

Grand Valley.

guests and will make community engagement

an

Receiving warm welcomes and priceless

ongoing

priority

through

efforts

like

advice from fellow brewers and distillers in the

spearheading collaboration brews and hosting

community, Laura and Brian Fischer, Megan and

gear swaps.

Nick Westfall and Lindsey and Peter Campbell

are excited to contribute to the local beer culture

endearing nickname, “the living room of Fruita,”

in their brewery’s unique way.

Monumental Beer Works wants to be “the living

Inspired by Copper Club Brewing Company’s

Monumental Beer Works will brew on a two-

room of Grand Junction” — a comfortable,

barrel system. For perspective, their operation is

family- and dog-friendly place to swap tales

one-tenth the size of Palisade Brewing Company.

from the trails; a place locals are proud to share

“It allows us the license, the freedom, to be really,

with their family and friends when they visit.

really expressive creatively,” says Brian Fischer.

“It’s not just about beer, it’s about sharing in

“We can experiment and take risks on beers that

adventures,” says Laura Fischer.

other breweries might not be able to, because

our capital outlay is not going to be as much to

while two outdoor spaces (one family friendly

brew pilot batches, test them out on the market

and one 21+) will have additional seating, yard

and see how they go.”

games and live music.

“We’re all very outdoor-oriented people,

The bar and tasting room will seat 89 people,

All six partners have worked together,

and there’s no better place to be than Grand

remodeling and landscaping their property

Junction if you want to live an outdoor lifestyle,”

(which used to be a scuba shop) with utilization

says Peter Campbell, a Grand Valley native.

of repurposed materials as a high priority. Four

He’ll serve as a full-time brewer and handle

of the six founding partners will keep their day

procurement. “Lifting the entire community is a

jobs, but all will continue to brew together,

big part of what we’re going for here.”

work together and enjoy the atmosphere they’ve

created once it is open to the public.

The partners meet regularly on weekends

to work on home brew recipes, including local

ingredients whenever possible. They’ll continue

Hwy 6 & 50 in Grand Junction and is scheduled to

Monumental Beer Works is located at 2575 US

to utilize things like Fruita Hop Works hops,

have the beer flowing and the food trucks serving

Enstrom Toffee, coffee from BestSlope and Kiln,

this March. Follow on Facebook + Instagram for

lavender from A Pinch of Lavender and local

details and updates. @monumentalbeerworks :

THE PALISADE LIVERY SALOON: FAVORITE OLD-TIME BAR GETS A CLASSIC MAKEOVER Words by Carrington Schaeffer | Photo by Kaylan Robinson

F

or more than half a century, the Palisade

Livery Saloon (or “the Livery” for short)

the Livery, much has stayed the same. Kaitey

Though some things have changed at

has offered locals and tourists a sanctuary

Brammer is the Livery bar manager and

where anybody can leave their worries at the

employee of six years and says the changes

door, put their boots up, have a beer and relax.

she has seen have all been positive. The Livery

However, over the years, the building has

name, the staff, the prices and the pool tables

suffered the natural wear-and-tear of countless

(the only ones in Palisade) have stayed the same.

drinks enjoyed, a myriad of pool games played

In addition, the

and thousands of patrons served. When the

Livery now offers

business and building came up for sale in 2019,

karaoke

Justin Meador looked past its worn surfaces to its

Friday night, free

inner potential.

pool on Sundays,

every

The Palisade Livery Saloon is open Sunday-Wednesday, 11 a.m. to midnight, and Thursday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

“I wanted to honor the history of the

complimentary

113-year-old building by restoring it back to that

popcorn during all

old-school, Western saloon feel,” says Meador.

hours and plans to offer live music every other

weekend starting mid-April.

After purchasing the building at 215 S Main

St., he partnered with local interior design firm

Fixture Studio to transform the space into more

now,” explains Brammer. “I’m happy the bar

“It has a clean, homey, open, airy feeling

of an upscale, classic, Wild West saloon. They

was put into such good hands. It really is a staple

removed the drop ceiling to reveal the original

of Palisade.”

tin ceiling, but made sure to leave the historical

touches that give the place character, including

to be a place where all feel welcome. “Our main

the 50-year-old shotgun holes that still dot the

demographic is anyone — real people just like

tin. In keeping with the style of the original

us. So many locals have been coming here for

wooden bar that still graces the place, Meador

over 30 years, and then there are tourists who

and Fixture Studio added stately, wall-to-wall

wander in while passing through Palisade. I

wooden paneling that draws the eye up and

want to cater to all of them. Anyone can come,

lends a spacious warmth to the saloon. Donated

relax and enjoy themselves.”

antique rifles adorn the back of the bar, and a

large moose head — originally shot by one of the

the Livery will be hosting a night of live music,

bartender’s grandmothers — presides over all

giveaways and drink specials on Saturday,

proceedings from his perch over the front door.

March 28 starting at 3 p.m. :

Most importantly, Meador wants the Livery

To celebrate their official grand opening,

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

11

what's in season

FOUR SEASONS OF COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AGRICULTURE

FIELD TO FORK FARM Words by Naomi Allen ARTEM BELIAIKIN

F

winter salad share including a mix of spinach,

a variety of organic, quality foods for the

French radish, Japanese salad turnips, onions,

community. They skip using heavy machinery

garlic, beets, carrots, apples, Swiss chard, kale,

on their farms and opt for a biological soil

kohlrabi, rose radicchio, potatoes and spicy

system, where soil health is adapted for specific

microgreens. Winter produce is grown in their

plants. They utilize the most space and resource-

15,000 square feet of greenhouses. The types of

efficient methods to grow their produce. Field

produce grown are selected based on what will

to Fork prides itself on its productivity and

leave the smallest possible carbon footprint and

quality, as well as its dedication to providing the

be the most resource efficient.

community with bountiful produce.

Located in Palisade, Colorado, the farm

collaboration between local farms to benefit

offers Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)

the community. In April, the farm is hosting

subscriptions that deliver packages of fresh

a workshop for local growers on owning and

produce to local consumers. CSAs are a way for

operating a farm. The workshop features the

farms to pay for business and production costs.

author of the best-selling book The Market

CSA members pay at the beginning of the growing

Gardener, Jean Martin Fortier. Fortier focuses on

season and receive weekly shares of produce

educating growers on how to own a profitable,

from the farm throughout the season. Field to

productive and ecological farm. He is the

Fork offers traditional 30- to 40-week seasonal

co-founder of Les Jardins de la Grelinette, a

subscriptions that include home delivery during

Quebec farm known for its productivity and

the summer months, as well as a four-week fall

cost efficiency, as well as the Ferme des Quatre-

extension. They also offer a “punch card” style

Temps, which focuses on permaculture growing

membership where members can choose their

techniques

week’s produce at the farm. Memberships can

Fortier will be hosting two workshops at the

be supplemented with eggs, flowers and fresh

farm in April. It provides a great opportunity for

Maison La Belle Vie French bread. Field to Fork

small farmers to connect with local agricultural

also sells its produce at the Grand Junction

leaders and businesses.

Natural Grocers and regional farmer’s markets

in the summer.

and farming methods, CSA memberships and

the workshop visit fieldtofork-farm.com, or their

Field to Fork Farm provides the only four-

season CSA in Mesa County, and starting in January of 2020, the farm introduced a new 12

MARTIN ADAMS

AARON BURDEN

ield to Fork Farm is committed to growing

Field to Fork also recognizes the benefit in

and

holistically-raised

livestock.

To learn more about the farm’s produce

Instagram @fieldtofork.farm. :

REAP AN EARLY HARVEST BY STARTING SEEDS INDOORS Words by Sharon Sullivan | Photo by Stephanie Griggs

G

et a jump on gardening this year by starting seeds indoors for a wider selection of plants

from which to choose, greater control over the quality of your plants and an earlier harvest.

Transplanting your own seeds starts in the garden after the last spring freeze, which is also less expensive than purchasing young plants at a nursery — but only if healthy seedlings emerge, so you don’t end up buying both seeds and plant starts.

“Timing is everything,” claims gardening

expert and former Bookcliff Gardens owner Dennis Hill. “While it’s not too soon to plan your garden, starting seeds too early will result in large, gangly, plants that won’t transplant well. A rule of thumb,” Hill continues, “is to count back six

water heater all provide the necessary heat for

weeks from when you want to put plants in the

germination.

ground.” (Check local frost dates). For example, if

you expect to transplant tomatoes outside in mid-

still crave warmth, but will also need light at

May, start your seeds indoors in early April.

this point. Hill recommends investing in grow

Once those seedlings start to emerge, they’ll

Cold-hardy plants such as broccoli, cabbage

lights for gardeners serious about starting seeds

and cauliflower can be direct-seeded outdoors

indoors. The lights need to be close to the plants

in early February. Alternatively, start those

— 6 to 12 inches away. “They’re cheap, small,

cold-weather crops even earlier inside, like mid-

compact and work great,” Hill says.

January, for transplanting outside in March.

Hill recommends using a seedling mix to

a garden center in Clifton that specializes in

germinate seeds as opposed to soil from your

native plants, grows herbs and veggies for her

garden. Regular potting soil will do, although

personal use. “If you want an heirloom tomato

a special seedling mix is preferred for a more

you probably want to start it yourself,” she

uniform and designed germination. Starting

advises. While you can find heirloom varieties

seeds in individual cups will prevent fungus

in some seed catalogs, Stecher collects her own

from spreading if one develops. You can buy

seeds from prior harvests.

new containers or recycle your plastic cups

from last year after they’ve been sterilized.

you’ll need to “harden off” the young plants to

Wash and bleach them with one part bleach to

prepare them for the outdoor climate. Seven to

nine parts water; rinse with plain water, then

10 days before transplanting, set the seedlings

air dry.

outdoors in a partly shaded area protected

To determine how deep to plant a seed, read

from wind for a few hours each day. Gradually

the directions on your seed packet, or plant seeds

increase exposure to full sun and wind each

two-thirds deeper than the diameter of the seed.

day. Be sure and keep the plants’ soil moist at

Water your seeds lightly, though thoroughly,

all times during this period! Ideally, transplant

with tepid water.

on an overcast day or early in the morning to

Stacey Stecher, co-owner of Chelsea Nursery,

When your seedlings are ready to transplant,

Your seeds don’t need light during this

protect the seedling from the harsh sun. Soak

stage, but they do require warmth. On top of the

the soil around the plant, and spread with a light

refrigerator, in the laundry room or near the

layer of mulch. Happy gardening! :

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

13

14

blossom

Weddings CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK | MOAB, UTAH

BRIANNA COTE + JASON FIELDS OCTOBER 5, 2019 Photos by Emily Klarer

B

rianna Cote and Jason Fields wanted a

go we know we will go again. For us, we visited

celebration where they could actually spend

the Grandview Point Overlook several years

some good quality time with those attending.

previous to our wedding. Its enchantment

“Small right away is what we knew we

remained years later. When we first started

wanted,” shares Brianna. “Nature has been

deciding where to get married, there was no

such a big part of our heart and home. In

question when Canyonlands was mentioned.

Canyonlands, you can’t help but feel something

We both just knew. As if Canyonlands can be

more immediately. You feel something more

even more amazing, it is the memory of our

than yourself. That’s what a wedding is all about,

family now.” :

becoming more than yourself. Being able to share that sentiment so keenly with our closest

Hair: Lindsey Vaccaro

family was exactly how we wanted our day to

Catering: Moab Catering

happen. In regards to the choice of Canyonlands,

Dress: Casablanca Bridal from

we had been there before.”

“The Moab area is, simply put, intoxicating.

Maci Marie Bridal in Louisville, Colorado Favors for Guests: National Park passes

It feels like home,” Jason adds. “Each time we

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

15

blossom

Weddings PINEY RIVER RANCH | VAIL, COLORADO

KIM FULLER + BOBBY L’HEUREUX SEPTEMBER 19, 2019 Photos by Kaylan Robinson

L

ate September in the Colorado high country can be rain or shine, even snow, but Kim and Bobby were set on getting married

outside in the fall. The day turned out to be beautiful, with only a slight breeze and gold starting to envelop the aspen trees. It was truly a magical wedding in the mountains. :

Planner: Becca Gould, Veils of Vail

Invitations: Zola.com

Photography: Kaylan Robinson

Ceremony Music: Bridget Law & Tierro Lee

Videography: Capture The Action Video Productions

Officiants: Tom & Elizabeth Lutes

Wedding Dress: The Dressing Room,

Rentals: Event Rents; Hygge Life

Santa Fe, New Mexico

16

Favors: Etsy.com

Hair + Makeup: Kacee Picot

Catering: Piney River Ranch

Florals: Skye Designs

Wedding Cake: Mountain Flour

Table Art: Sandy Ferguson Fuller

Reception Entertainment: The Turntable Revue

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

17

wedding vendors

FIREFLY ENTERTAINMENT + THE PHOTO LAB BAR A dynamic team provides expert service to enhance your wedding experience on your special day. With years of experience, Firefly Entertainment ensures your event flows smoothly, providing emcee and DJ services, and dayof coordination. With a wireless microphone setup, a booming sound system, uplighting and lights for the dance floor, they have you covered. The Photo Lab Bar provides a photo booth experience for your wedding. Couple the beautiful backdrops with a collection of props and you have a recipe for fun! The Photo Lab Bartender will help you customize your event, so your guests walk away with a lasting keepsake!

Serving from Grand Junction to Montrose, Glenwood Springs and Western Colorado, Firefly Entertainment will travel for your special day. fireflyentertainmentgj.com thephotolabbar.com.

970.210.8866

EMILY KLARER PHOTOGRAPHY Emily photographs couples in the wild deserts of Utah, the Mountain West, and all over the world.

She believes that “perfection is boring and that love is everything.” She wants to document your love because having something like what you and your person get to experience — all the heart eyes and long kisses and arguments and staying up too late and crying your eyes out — these are not small things. These moments have weight, and it will all go by too fast if we don’t take a moment to be intentional, to pause.

“I want to take a little time to slow it all down, soak it all in, and remember the why,” shares Emily. “If you want photos that truly represent you and your love, message me.” emilyklarer.com emilyklarerphotography@gmail.com Instagram @emilyklarerphotography

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INTERIOR: COURTNEY JACOBS PHOTOGRAPHY | EXTERIOR: AMANDA HAIGH- FOREST PICTURE COMPANY

wedding vendors

ORCHARD RIVER VIEW WEDDING & EVENT VENUE Located in beautiful Palisade. Get married and hold your reception at the gorgeous, newly built, timber-frame wedding barn surrounded by peach orchards and vineyards, right along the Colorado River. The natural backdrops leave a blank canvas for you to customize your wedding to your unique style. The surrounding mountains, river and orchards make for ideal settings for outdoor ceremonies and stunning photos. The fully heated and cooled venue allows for yearround events. Includes a spacious bridal suite overlooking the valley, indoor restrooms, caterer’s kitchen and much more. The grand chandelier is a detail which creates a timeless, one-of-a-kind venue unlike any other. orchardriverview.com

AMY’S COURTYARD

AT MAISON LA BELLE VIE WINERY

Amy’s Courtyard offers a spectacular venue for any of life’s special events and is located at Maison la Belle Vie Winery in Palisade — a picturesque property that combines the dramatic vistas of Mt. Garfield with the lush allure of surrounding wine vineyards. The elegance of the venue is defined by a beautiful pond, elegant gazebo, rustic barn, lavish yard and the temperate Palisade climate. Whatever you envision for your event, a lavish day full of celebration or a quaint romantic gathering, an upscale wine dinner or a casual family BBQ, Amy’s Courtyard at Maison la Belle Vie Winery can help make it a reality. This venue focuses on quality, elevated service and specializes in catered events. If you’re looking for ambiance, amazing food and wine from the onsite vineyard, Amy’s Courtyard is the perfect place to experience your special day.

Amyscourtyard.com 3575 G Road, Palisade, CO 970.464.4959

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

19

KELSEY HOISINGTON PHOTOGRAPHY

wedding vendors

ABSOLUTE PRESTIGE SERVICE AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL Book your wine tours, prom, executive transport, holiday party or special occasion with Absolute Prestige Limo today!

Book The Venue So there’s a venue? Absolute Prestige now has a huge ranch-style venue with a barn and a breathtaking view for all event types.

Situated on in scenic Loma, Colorado, Absolute Prestige Ranch features striking 360-degree views, multiple ceremony sites, covered reception area, grassy lawns perfect for tented dinners or events under the stars and a rolling amphitheater.

Coupled with their one-of-a-kind horsedrawn carriage services, world-class luxury limousine and bus services, Absolute Prestige Ranch is the perfect backdrop to your next one-of-a-kind event. Call today for pricing and booking information at 970.858.8500. aplimo.com / info@aplimo.com

wedding vendors

JILL HOUSER PHOTOGRAPHY

Piney River Ranch Set on the edge of Piney Lake, and nestled at the foot of the majestic Gore Range, Piney River Ranch is one of Colorado’s premiere wedding destinations. Located just 12 miles north of Vail Village, surrounded by thousands of acres of back country wilderness within the White River National Forest. pineyriverranch.com

Cooley Designs Cooley Designs is a custom design jewelry shop and gallery with 90 percent of all work being designed made by John Cooley himself. If you’re thinking of popping the big question, visit Cooley Designs for something unique, handmade and original. For info, contact John at 970.250.3137 and visit @cooleydesigns on Facebook and Instagram.

Cross Orchards Historic Site $1500 A 24-acre historic orchard, boasting many ceremony sites, and an open air historic barn for your reception.

Cross Orchards is the perfect venue for you to make your wedding your own event.

Contact dyanez@westcomuseum. org for more information.

Colorado grapes.

Natural wines.

Drink local.

Buckel Family Wine Tasting Room Afternoon Delight Bakery “Here at Afternoon Delight Bakery, I take pride in each and every cake I make as it is never ‘just a cake,’ but a work of art and a delicious memory from the best day of your life!” ~Ashley Buerger Owner. Operator. Cake designer.

970.984.6306 afternoondelightbakery.ashley @gmail.com afternoondelightbakery.com

1018 Highway 135 / Unit B Gunnison, CO

info@buckelfamilywine.com buckelfamilywine.com

LIVE FULLY. EAT WELL. DRINK GOOD WINE.

drink

ROSÉ, TWO WAYS Words + Photo by Jayme Henderson

I

t’s officially rosé season. Now

NOTE

is the time when winemakers

For the hibiscus-infused gin,

release their fresh, newly bottled

combine 4-6 ounces of gin with a

pink wines, and lovers of rosé race

bag of hibiscus tea. Let steep for at

to stock their fridges and cellars.

least an hour, letting the gin soak

Rosé is delicious on its own. It’s a

up the bright, pink color. Strain

versatile pairing option, which can

off the solids and store on your

stand up to bolder dishes on hot

liquor shelf.

days. It is also a compelling cocktail

component that matches perfectly

out the Lillet Rosé; however, if

alongside the season’s floral,

you’re unable to find the pink

citrusy and herbaceous flavors.

version, Lillet Blanc will

substitute just fine.

Here are two of my favorite,

rosé-centric

cocktails

that

Don’t be tempted to leave

are

refreshing and complex in flavor.

ROSÉ HIBISCUS SPRITZ

If you like a slightly bitter flavor

1 1/2 ounces vodka or gin 2 ounces dry rosé wine 1/4 ounce hibiscus syrup (see note) splash of seltzer rosemary, for garnish

profile, go with the Pinkies Raised.

It incorporates one of my favorite seasonal mixers, Lillet Rosé, a pleasantly bitter, berry-forward, wine-based French aperitif. For a refreshing riff on a spritz, opt for the Rosé Hibiscus Spritz. Both recipes provide a creative twist for your next bottle of pink wine and are easily batch-able for a crowd.

PINKIES RAISED 2 ounces dry rosé wine 1 ounce hibiscus-infused gin (see note) 1/2 ounce Lillet Rosé 1/4 ounce lemon juice 1/2 ounce simple syrup dried hibiscus flowers, for garnish

1. In a mixing tin, combine the vodka or gin, rosé wine and hibiscus syrup.

2. Add ice and shake well.

3. Strain into a cocktail glass over a large ice cube and finish with a splash of seltzer, to taste.

4. Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary.

NOTE For the hibiscus syrup, combine equal parts sugar and water, stir together and bring to a low boil on the stove top. Remove from

1. I n a mixing tin, combine the rosé wine, hibiscus-infused gin, Lillet Rosé, lemon juice and simple syrup.

2. A dd ice and shake well.

3. S train into a coupe glass and garnish with a few pieces of dried hibiscus flowers.

22

heat and add a bag of hibiscus tea, letting the tea steep, until the syrup returns to room temperature. Strain and store in the refrigerator up to two weeks. :

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home + garden

SPRING ENERGY RESET Words by Lisa Blake | Photo by Kayla Maurais

W

e all spring clean under our beds, around our baseboards and into the deepest

depths of our refrigerators. But, what about the energy that fills our homes?

Spring is a time of renewal. It’s a time to

reboot your inner frequency by clearing out your external spaces. We tapped expert Lorrie Webb Grillo of Thriving Spaces Feng Shui for clever ways to spring clean your home’s energy.

Webb Grillo graduated from California’s

Western School of Feng Shui, launching her Denver-based company in 2009. As a consultant and

practitioner,

she

works

with

clients

nationwide via Skype and in-home visits teaching the principles of Feng Shui, which brings peace and harmony into living spaces.

Rid your abode of negative juju with Webb

Grillo’s spatial detoxing tips.

First, know that, according to Feng Shui,

If you have a scent that you love, make your

During

own spray bottle with an essential oil, like lavender,

springtime, we see the earth coming back to

peppermint or lemon. Spray it in the corners. Play

life, and we feel connected with this awakening.

music or ring a bell to wake up a space.

Space clearing provides a wonderful way to

reconnect with and feel closer to our planet,

Grillo says. “If it feels overwhelming, do it one

especially in Colorado, where we have been so

room or drawer at a time. Clean out your spice

closed up all winter.

drawer and throw out old ones; alphabetize

them. You’ll feel the positive energy.”

everything

24

Sage is used in space clearing and is helpful to clear out bacteria, other odors associated with parties or lots of people, and is considered a healing scent.

is

alive

with

energy.

Start by opening windows and calling in

“Go beyond superficial cleaning,” Webb

air movement any way you can. Webb Grillo

recommends cleaning your floors and dusting

ceremonies, she incorporates the Feng Shui Five

the corners to remove negative and stale energy.

Elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water.

Burning sage or palo santo will cleanse the air of

Balancing the different elements in a room can

lingering winter cold and flu germs.

help clear old or negative energies and help

harmonize the home.

Because the front door is where energy

During space-clearing and house-blessing

enters your home, clean that door; wash it;

The results? Clients have told Webb Grillo

clean the glass; put a new spring wreath on the

they feel lighter, released and less stressed. This

door; sweep the porch or the steps. There may

spring and summer, call on Feng Shui, and pros

be areas of the home that haven’t been looked

like Webb Grillo, to embrace the new season,

at or opened up in a while. Clap in the corners.

connect with the energy of your space and relish

It awakens a space. “It changes a home right

in an environment that supports and expresses

away,” Webb Grillo says.

who you truly are. thrivingspaces.com :

PURIFYING WITH PLANTS Words by Lisa Blake

C

lean breathing means a clearer mind and

master air-sterilizers and crave medium to high

better sleep. Tap into nature’s healing

light and high moisture.

channels by bringing air-filtering houseplants into your living space.

Chinese Evergreen

NASA’s famous 1989 Clean Air Study calls

An excellent beginner plant,

out known carcinogens in the air we breathe —

this sturdy tropical beauty

pollutants that include benzene, formaldehyde

cleanses formaldehyde and

and trichloroethylene found in carpets and

benzene found in detergents

furniture. They recommend an air-purifying

and cosmetics and does well in low to medium

plant placed every 100 square feet to cleanse

light and humid conditions — perfect for

home and work spaces of airborne toxins, dusts

bathrooms.

and germs.

Bamboo Palm

A closer look at these toxins reveals some

scary, negative health effects: benzene can cause

Tall and exotic, bamboo

drowsiness, dizziness, headaches and confusion,

palms (also called reed palms)

while formaldehyde irritates the nose, mouth

can reach heights of five to

and

menacing,

seven feet. The purifying

trichloroethylene can spur headaches, nausea

throat.

Perhaps

the

most

plant pumps moisture into the air and requires

and vomiting.

medium light and moist soil. Palms can be

Fortunately, relief is accessible with an easy

susceptible to spider mites. Fight them off with

trip to your local greenhouse or garden center.

a spray bottle of biodegradable liquid soap

The NASA study named several no-fuss plants

and water.

that naturally filter out the nasty stuff and easily grow indoors. Using popular houseplants to

Snake Plant

convert carbon dioxide and toxins into fresh

The laid-back snake plant —

oxygen — it’s a good housekeeping no-brainer.

sometimes called mother-in-

Here, president of Mountain Greenery

law tongue — absorbs toxins

Plantscapes Inc. in Basalt, Jillian Kops, helps us

through its vibrant, sword-

choose the right purifying potted plants.

like leaves. It thrives with very little water and low light and is insect resistant, making

Philodendron

for a wonderful low-maintenance apartment

This dark green heart-

roommate. :

leafed plant is easygoing and virtually pest free.

Philodendrons have low light

Call on Mountain Greenery in Basalt for plants

and low water requirements, but can be toxic to

sourced from their garden boutique, along with

pets and small children, if eaten.

indoor and outdoor gardening services. The family-owned Roaring Fork Valley nursery prides

Peace Lily Beautiful white calla-like blooms stretch on tall green

itself on a wealth of healthy annuals, perennials, shrubs, trees and exotics. Find them at 185 Southside Drive, Basalt, or mtngreenplants.com.

stems in this decorators’ favorite. Peace lilies are

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

25

eat

SPRINGTIME EATS Words by Oliver Mayer | Images by Cat Mayer

CORN, AVOCADO AND TOMATO SALAD MAKES 4-6 SERVINGS

This salad is tasty, colorful and zesty. You can ask a parent or older sibling to help you chop the ingredients if you’re too little to use a knife safely.

SALAD 2 cups cooked or frozen corn, thawed 1 diced avocado 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved 1/2 cup finely diced red onion VINAIGRETTE 2 Tbsp olive oil 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice 1/2 tsp lime zest 1/4 cup chopped cilantro 1/4 tsp salt 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper

C

ooking for others feels good. It makes me happy and proud when they like my dishes.

I look through my family’s cookbooks or library books to find new recipes. After I choose one, I make a shopping list. I have to use math to figure out how much food to buy. Then, my parents take me to the store to choose all the ingredients.

I like the self-checkout at the store — it’s fun!

In the springtime, I like to bike and hike with

my family. When we get home, we drink fizzy water from our Sodastream. If you don’t have a Sodastream, you can buy Pellegrino or Perrier.

We add slices of limes and lemons, mint leaves, frozen fruit or cucumbers. It’s a refreshing and healthy alternative to soda. After we’ve quenched our thirst, we are ready to eat!

This is a favorite warm weather meal that

kids of all ages can make. My family loves it!

26

1. C ombine the salad ingredients in a large bowl.

2. I n a smaller bowl, whisk together the vinaigrette.

3. S tir vinaigrette into the vegetables and serve.

1. Put your choice of ingredients on the tortillas. Be sure to top with a squeeze of lime juice, salt and pepper and hot sauce.

2. Roll up the tortilla and secure it with toothpicks. Grill for about 3 minutes on low heat, and turn them halfway through grilling time. They are ready when the tortillas are lightly browned and the cheese has melted.

FRUIT & CREAM CHEESE POPSICLES MAKES 8 POPSICLES

These are a healthy treat made with fruit.

Popsicles are one of my favorite things to eat on warm days.

1 cup of frozen cherries, raspberries, strawberries or bananas 1 tsp vanilla extract 4 ounces cream cheese 1 cup milk 2 Tbsp honey or pure maple syrup

1. Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender.

2. Pour the mixture into an ice pop mold, and freeze for at least six hours.

3. Un-mold and serve. :

GRILLED AVOCADO & TOMATO TAQUITOS MAKES 8 TAQUITOS

I like eating Mexican food, because, to eat it, we sit together as a family and choose our own ingredients. My parents help me warm these taquitos on the grill or in a hot pan until the cheese is melted. They are delicious! These are vegetarian, but you can add shredded meat or pinto beans seasoned with cumin if you need more protein.

8 small flour tortillas 2 avocados, cut into thick slices 1 small red onion, sliced thinly 2 tomatoes, preferably different colors, sliced thinly 4 1/2 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 lime, cut into wedges 2/3 cup coarsely chopped cilantro Flaked sea salt and coarsely ground black pepper Hot sauce if desired (we like Dad’s Chipotle Jalapeño Sauce from Pear Blossom Farms)

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

27

eat

FRENCH FLAVOR IN GRAND JUNCTION

LULU CRÊPE + KILN COFFEE BAR Words by Naomi Allen | Photo by Cassandra May Fortman

E

liza Grégoire has been eating her grandmother

co-owners of Kiln Coffee Bar, and, eventually,

Lulu’s crêpes since she was a child. Growing

proposed a partnership where she would be able

up in a French-speaking household with French

to make and sell crêpes at the coffee bar.

parents established her love for French culture

and food. This love translated into a passion for

businesses and artists, with the goal of using

delicious crêpes. At 18 years old, Grégoire founded

collaboration to better the community’s businesses.

LULU Crêpe with three guiding principles: simple,

organic and quality.

to us. We try to filter our business decisions

LULU Crêpe’s simplistic, classic menu features

through this lens. Although having LULU Crêpe

five crêpes: sugar, Nutella, peanut butter, jam and

in our shop may lower pastry sales, it does have

honey, and six toppings: bananas, strawberries,

the possibility of connecting us with a new

chocolate chips, almonds, walnuts and cinnamon.

demographic of people. It also communicates to

All ingredients are organic, and the crêpe recipe

the community that we are not solely focused on

is the same one Grégoire grew up eating.

ourselves. We are focused on what we can offer

“My favorite thing about starting LULU

our community with our product and space,”

Crêpe is to share a piece of my culture with

explains David Foster. “Eliza is a phenomenal

others. Seeing people smile when eating the

person and creates a quite tasty product to share.

crêpes makes me so happy and it feels really

By choosing to identify with each other, it only

rewarding,” she says.

strengthens the value of both of our brands.”

Now 19, Grégoire moved to the Grand Valley

“Community connection is of major value

On October 1, 2019, LULU Crêpe set up

to be a part of the CMU cycling team and fell in

its mobile stand in Kiln Coffee Bar for the first

love with the West. This includes local coffee

time. Since then, LULU Crêpe has returned every

establishment Kiln Coffee Bar in downtown Grand

Tuesday, Thursday and Friday morning to sell

Junction. “I really appreciated their attention to

crêpes to Kiln customers. LULU Crêpe is also

detail and their engagement with the community.”

available for event catering. More Information

After originally applying for a job, Grégoire built

at lulucrepe.com. :

a relationship with David and Jonathan Foster,

28

Kiln frequently collaborates with local

book + beverage

Words by Rose Marie Binger | Photo by Justin Jolley

take enjoyment in, or at least see the necessity of, what comes into our lives. In the spring, it’s so nice to shed the winter layers and enjoy whatever the rest of the year brings, whether it be good or bad. Pictured is my own well-loved copy of the book; stop by Lithic to enjoy and love one of your own.

THE BEVERAGE

HIGHLANDS DISTILLERY BLOODY MARY

T

ucked away in Grand Junction, Colorado, is a little place of bliss called Highlands Distillery.

Located at 782 24 Road, this diamond in the rough offers handcrafted spirits that will be sure to leave you impressed. The cocktails look marvelous and trendy, but they also taste magnificent. The laidback atmosphere pairs well with their easy drinking concoctions that will be sure to make you a regular.

Luckily the menu rotates seasonally, so new favorites

THE BOOK

AMOR FATI

P

BY JACK MUELLER

are always assured.

With the rebirth of patio season, this venue will

be a great place to explore. They offer outdoor seating,

atio seating isn’t just for cocktails; a good book is

cornhole, live music and Trivia Thursdays. The real

also a great addition to an afternoon of lounging.

magic however, happens every Sunday from 2 to

A book of poetry, specifically, is quite fantastic for a

8 p.m. — the Bloody Mary bar. Might I suggest that

lovely spring siesta in the sun. Lithic Press in Fruita

you check this out as soon as possible? A giant jug of

offers a great variety of local published authors. They

homemade mix and vodka awaits! The homemade

host regular readings and are a great part of the

mix is wonderous, but the best part is the bar of

community. One such book of poetry that is profoundly

goodies that you get to put in yourself. My absolute

epic is Amor Fati by the late Jack Mueller. Beautifully

favorite part is getting to choose what and how much

published by Lithic Press in 2013, this gem offers an

goes into your Bloody Mary. Do you like olives? They

array of different poetry that will make anyone smile.

have four different kinds. They have a ton of pickled

Within its pages is a variety of poems that vary in

items just waiting for you: pickles, olives, asparagus,

length and depth.

okra, beans, baby corn and artichoke hearts. Don’t

This book of poetry has called to me throughout

forget to add cheese, a slider and some little meat

my years of owning it, and I am never left dissatisfied.

bites too! To top it off, you have to grab the traditional

Jack Mueller was a favorite among locals and is still

celery for mixing, and, maybe, get a little adventurous

widely celebrated today. Lithic Press hosts the Jack

with some hot sauce. There are several of those, as

Mueller Festival each fall to honor the artist and

well. The staff is friendly; the atmosphere is great; the

genius that he was. When reading his poetry, it’s easy

drinks are superb. Highlands Distillery is definitely a

to see why he had such an amazing impact. Amor Fati

must visit. :

translates to “Love of Fate.” It means that we must

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

29

maker

PLANT MAGIC AT UPROOTED APOTHECARY & SPA Words by Lexi Reich | Photos by Lydia Stern

H

30

erbalism struck Briana Wiles, 34, at a

clocking in over seven years at five different

young age. Her mom enjoyed using natural

schools. She studied the art of massaging and

remedies: whiskey, honey and lemon for coughs;

Reiki in Mariposa, California, botany at Western

garlic cloves and olive oil for ear aches. Her

Colorado University and Rolfing (a form of

Italian grandfather picked fruits from trees

bodywork) in Boulder, among others.

and taught her to recognize edible plants in

the woods. Wiles was intrigued by alternative

lives in Gunnison, Colorado, with her husband

healing and learning more about the body.

and two young children, Salix and Jewelia Pearl.

Wiles started selling her herbal creations —

“Plants were always appealing to me,” Wiles

Originally from Detroit, Michigan, Wiles

says. “And, I like doing things outside the box.”

like “Cottonwood Bliss Butter” — at farmers

Ethnobotany is the study of plants through

markets in Crested Butte and Gunnison in 2011.

time, place and culture. Wiles delved into this

She opened her boutique herb shop, UpRooted

anthropological study of herbs and greenery

Apothecary and Spa, formerly Rooted Apothecary,

in various colleges throughout the country,

in 2016. She opened her second store in Crested

Butte in November 2018. You may have seen her

“I did all the photography work in there,

products at Alpine Botanicals in Nederland or at

which was a big part of it,” says Wiles. “A lot of

the Adventure Hub in Buena Vista.

guide books are pretty heavy on the photo end

UpRooted Apothecary stores are adorned

where you have these thumbnail pictures and

with walls of teas, essential oils, CBD products

drawings. I wanted to go out there and get the

and Wiles’ organic and wild-crafted skincare line.

photos myself, so I could show exactly what I

There is also a treatment room in each shop —

wanted to show.”

designed and built by Wiles’ husband — offering

massages, herbal consultations, esthetician

Intensive” two-week course this summer

services and more. Most products are created

in collaboration with Thomas Elpel and Kat

at the Gunnison location, with teas also being

MacKinnon, who are top instructors in botany,

blended at the Crested Butte shop. Employees

wild food foraging and herbal medicine. Wiles

help at both locations.

says it’s created for novice and experienced

Wiles is offering a “Botany and Foraging

Their ingredients are mainly sourced from

botanists and foragers alike. The adventure

local farmers in the Roaring and North Fork

starts in Gunnison and runs from July 26 to

Valleys and Front Range area. To align with

August 8, costing $750 if you secure your spot

Wiles’ leave-no-trace philosophy, herbs are

before July 1.

sourced a little bit at a time from each place to

create variety and promote sustainability.

connection of tending to nature’s garden: “You

Wiles believes in fostering the intimate

Wiles has written two books on using wild

get back this foundational piece we’re all missing

plants for health and wellness: Mountain States

as modern Americans. We all have the skills to

Foraging and Mountain States Medicinal Plants,

do all this stuff; we just don’t take the time to

sold at both stores and featuring photography

really learn about it,” she explains. :

by Wiles herself.

Wiles’ Skincare Routine Emerald Lake Face Oil Cleanser A non-sudsy oil cleaner that doesn’t dry out the skin.

Apply on a moist face and gently remove with a hot wash cloth.

Hyaluronic Acid Serum Apply while face is still slightly damp to bring moisture into the skin with Grindelia and Populus.

Rose Hemp CBD Face Glow Wiles uses this new product in combination with the hyaluronic serum as her moisturizer for the day.

W-Under Eye Gloss Wiles gently dabs this CBD eye serum under her eyes.

Blue Dream CBD Night Cream Wiles says this new product smells amazing and works as a nice night layer for corrective issues. It softens the skin and is infused with Blue Tansy and Neroli essential oils.

510 Elk Avenue / #6 | Crested Butte, CO 126 N Main St. | Gunnison, CO Uprootedapothecary.com

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

31

art

COOLEY DESIGNS Words by Hector Salas + Kim Fuller | Photos courtesy of Cooley Designs

J

ohn Cooley is from New York, and he says it was his background there and time spent in

Denver that helped him build confidence and skills in his art.

“The years I spent in Denver was an apprentice

period for me, learning and honing my skills,” says Cooley. “The big cities offer the high energy and diversity a smaller community can’t offer.

You have to be confident in your skills both at the bench and with the public.”

32

Implementing classically-trained abstraction into his work was the next level. How many times can you draw or paint a peach tree — or even a tree — before you start to change it from its reality?

“For me it was a natural progression, and

jewelry design fits the mold,” Cooley explains.

“Metal is totally different from pencils and paint — all those classes in math science and chemistry come in to play.

Steep Canyon Rangers H The California Honeydrops H The Brother’s Comatose H Lindsay Lou H Dead Horses H Old Salt Union H Rapidgrass Twisted Pine H Bowregard H Pick & Howl H Liver Down the River

Riverbend Park H June 12-14 H palisademusic.com

Working with Cooley is simple — contact him,

stop in and sit together to talk about what you want.

“I show you my work and you tell me what

you’re looking for,” he says. “I can sketch something for you or take your design and give it my own flair. When you come to see me, you already know my work or you were referred to me.”

For Cooley, the process of making this art is a

way of life, and it allows him and his clients to look at things differently.

“Everything could be translated in to a piece of

jewelry, a painting or a sculpture.” :

Cooley Designs is an abstract art and jewelry design studio featuring gold and silver designs, as well as twodimensional blended pieces. Contact John Cooley at jcstudios58@outlook.com.

Participating Restaurants + Prize Information

music

MUSIC, YOGA + COMMUNITY IN BUENA VISTA | MAY 2020

CAMPOUT FOR THE CAUSE Words by Kim Fuller | Photos courtesy of Campout for the Cause

34

I

t’s almost that time of year again — warmer

events were created and orchestrated based

summer days filled with camping, adventure,

on community and bringing people together to

movement, music, friends and fun.

spread their own positivity within the circle, and

“It’s all about community,” says Scotty

then take that back into the communities they

Stoughton, founder of the WinterWonderGrass

are coming from.”

music festivals and Campout for the Cause, coming

up Friday, May 29 through Sunday, May 31.

its 12th year as spring blossoms into summer in

Buena Vista, Colorado.

“ Yo u ’ v e

heard

me

speak

about

Campout for the Cause will be celebrating

WinterWonderGrass and it’s the same with

“We finally found our right home,”

Campout,” shares Stoughton. “All of these

Stoughton says. “It’s an amazing property — 200

acres, beneath a couple of 14,000-foot peaks,

and the camping is along the shaded banks of

bonfire jams or just to take your shoes off and

Cottonwood Creek.”

run in the grass.

Campout brings together artists, yogis and a

Come for the music, conversation, yoga,

“Campout and WinterWonderGrass are

crew who are raising the bar in terms of what a

celebrations of life and love and community and

community can offer.

all things that people cherish,” Stoughton adds.

our

“We want you to always leave feeling better than

audience, preserving and highlighting our

“We

focus

deeply

on

inspiring

when you arrived, that’s our deepest initiative.

natural surroundings and inspiring thoughtful

No matter what we do, we want to make you feel

conversation and play,” Stoughton says.

empowered to go back into your communities

The 2020 music lineup includes The

feeling really nourished, really inspired, really

California Honeydrops, Bridget Law, Grant

full of passion and know that we are building

Farm, Mama Magnolia, Tierro Band, Bonfire

this community together.”

Dub, Picking on the Dead and many more.

Visit campoutforthecause.org for tickets and

to learn more. :

Yoga and wellness classes also fill the

schedule at Campout, including SUP yoga, aerial yoga, multiple yoga mat disciplines, stretching and strengthening.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

35

food

SLOW FOOD CULTURE

GHOST ROCK FARM Words by Lauren Farrauto | Photo courtesy of Ghost Rock Farm

36

N

estled next to the Colorado River lies Ghost

producer called Bruny Island Cheese for over six

Rock Farm, the 11-acre peach farm named

years. Their time in Australia helped cultivate

after the surrounding mesas that glow at night.

their love for “the magic of turning milk and

When experienced dairy farmers Tess Peterson

cream into these wonderful aged or fermented

and Halsey Swetzoff bought the farm in 2018,

foods that have lots of history and tradition,”

they sought to stay committed to the peach farm

discloses Peterson.

and the surrounding land in Palisade, while still

recognizing their decade-long experience and

producing animals, due to its sprawling peach

hard work in the artisan dairy industry. One of

orchards and forest that run up to the Colorado

the selling points of the farm for Swetzoff was

River, making dairy farming a potential

that “the hidden food movement on the Western

challenge. To combat this, the farmers source

Slope felt like it was lacking artisan cheese and

their dairy from local co-ops that employ

dairy products.” Thus, Ghost Rock Farm specialty

organic, pasture-feeding practices. They believe

dairy products was born.

that good cheese and butter starts with quality

cream, so it was crucial for them to partner with

Prior to Ghost Rock Farm, the pair worked

The peach farm itself is unsuited for dairy-

in a variety of places in order to hone their craft,

dairy co-ops that met their standards.

including Wisconsin, Vermont, Italy and even

Tasmania, where they owned an artisan cheese

specialty stores and restaurants throughout the

Ghost Rock Farm’s products can be found in

West Slope, like Blaine’s Farm Store in Clifton,

that doesn’t replace time and tradition with

Rooted Gypsy in Grand Junction and other local

innovation and technology,” Peterson explains.

establishments. The duo also currently attends

one farmers market in Palisade, with the hope

the cultures and creating a product everyone

of attending another sometime this year. While

can appreciate and enjoy,” Swetzoff elaborates.

at the Palisade Farmers Market, both owners are

Because the cultured butter is a living food, it

told by customers that the butter samples taste

can be left on the counter over the course of a

like “real” butter. Those familiar with the taste of

week, where the flavor can change over time as

homemade churned butter should recognize the

the culture evolves.

taste of cultured butter as being similar.

While the team of two love all of their

to put a small commercial processing room and

products from concept to execution, the cultured

commercial kitchen on the farm, allowing them

butter holds a special place in their hearts. In

to explore more production ideas, while still

order to create this dense, rich masterpiece,

utilizing their local assets. Possibly, in the future,

the cream is exposed to live bacteria culture

the farm may even be open for customers to buy

for 48 hours and then churned. While this

cheese, dairy and baked goods straight out of the

may sound perfectly normal, mass-produced

oven. This early on, the business owners are just

butter is not cultured and left to sit for so long,

looking forward to what the year has in store.

a process Peterson describes as a “Slow Food

Ultimately, Swetzoff believes, “there’s not one

fundamental.”

‘right’ way to make cheese or butter, but there

“We often joke that if we had a stick and a

are certainly ways you can make it more special

bucket and there was a dairy-producing animal

— and all you have to do is taste something to

close by, we’d still be making cheese. In our

know the difference most of the time.”

case, now we feel committed to making food

“I love experimenting with the nuances of

As their business expands, the duo hopes

Learn more at ghostrockfarm.com. :

Send flowers from Bookcliff Gardens!

“If I had a flower for every time I thought of you, I could walk in my garden forever.”

755 26 Rd / Grand Junction, CO 81506 / 970-242-7766 / bookcliffgardens.com

— ALFRED LORD TENNYSON

food column

CHEF + OWNER OF BIN 707 FOODBAR, TACOPARTY AND DINNERPARTY

Q+A WITH JOSH NIERNBERG Compiled by Kim Fuller | Photos by Kaylan Robinson

J

OSH NIERNBERG

healthier the soil, the less chemical intervention

is

fourt h -

is required for the crop. Finally, the less chemical

Coloradan

intervention required for the crop, the more

living with his wife,

efficient a crop can grow — ultimately requiring

two sons and their dog

less water. This is true in all agriculture;

in Grand Junction. As a

vegetables, grapes for wine, grain for distilling,

chef and restauranteur,

brewing and culinary uses, cannabis, etc. This

Niernberg says his focus

premise has motivated us to work towards

is on exploring Colorado

implementing restaurant composting on a scale

a

generation

cuisine through the use

large enough to help support the farms we

of local and regional ingredients and techniques.

work with. Mesa County doesn’t currently have

Here’s more on Niernberg and how honoring

a community-supported composting program

the earth is consistently integrated into his life

set up at a scale large enough for restaurant

and work.

partners — we hope to help find some solutions

How does your work as a chef, restaurant owner and entrepreneur give you the opportunity to love your planet?

We created Bin 707 Foodbar in 2010 with the intention of showcasing local and regionallysourced ingredients. We saw the opportunity to tighten the distribution channels, lower the carbon emissions and support sustainable agriculture here in Colorado’s Grand Valley for the benefit of all of us in the community. I believe the ingredients which grow here allow us the opportunity to make food that is unique to here. Promoting and perpetuating that model creates a far more sustainable food system than glamorizing imported and rare products as has been the norm for so long.

How does the earth provide inspiration and/ or motivation for you in your endeavors?

The better the ingredients we have to work with, the better our food tastes. The more we take care of the soil, the better the ingredients. The

38

for this in the coming year.

What are your favorite plants or plant-based ingredients to cook with and why?

I like to showcase lesser known and unique ingredients available to us here in the western slope. Elephant heart plums are my favorite, blue corn from Durango to make nixtamal for our tortillas at Tacoparty, Longhorn Sumac and all of the incredible flowers we get to play with from Sweet Pea’s Garden and Sage Creations in Palisade, all of the incredible peppers that grow so well here, green chiles which then can be dried to make locally grown pasilla, ancho and guajillos. Using vinus vineferia (wine grapes) to make verjus and in place of citrus, apple cider vinegar from Hotchkiss apples to make fruit gastriques, which we also use on our menus in place of citrus.

If we had a flavor profile in western

Colorado, I would like to imagine its sage, juniper and guajillo.

Trying to do what is best for our local economy

and environment becomes a greater challenge daily. It is a labor of love, a mission to provide a sense of place and create something special and unique to western Colorado, because ultimately, the proximity to incredible ingredients, the quality of life and access to outdoor recreation is greater here than anywhere else I’m familiar with!

What is next for you and your work?

To continue to focus on community-supported composting programs on a commercial level; to potentially partner with the cannabis industry to help create some closed loop cycles of using restart compost to increase soil biodiversity for hemp farms; encourage hemp farms to use cover crops such as rye which can be harvested and used for culinary and distilling purposes here in the Grand Valley. This is kind of a modified zerofoodprint.com program which I’m focused on. We also have another concept or two in the works which I’m excited to launch when the What do you appreciate right now in the restaurant industry and what frustrates you the most?

I appreciate an emphasis to procure better quality products from more sustainable sources. I appreciate technology enabling chefs to stay more dynamic and informed than ever before to not only allow us to work with better ingredients, but to allow us to work together in sourcing and distributing ingredients from lesser-known and rural regions. Ultimately that creates better product, better value and lower carbon emissions.

I’m frustrated by the challenges faced daily

as a restaurant operator in western Colorado.

Fighting for relevance in a community that traditionally hasn’t supported culinary artistry while competing with chains on pricing. Paying and providing above-state-average wages and implementing policy that prevents our staff from working traditional long restaurant hours in a community with a 20 percent lower than state average household income — and doing so in an economy that exports 99 percent of our hospitality workforce to the Front Range, all while watching our prime cost rise annually.

time is right! Hopefully within the next 12 to 24 months. :

wellness + fitness

FUN + COLLABORATIVE FITNESS Words by Kimberly Nicoletti | Photos by Andy Bowen, Above Alpine Photography

L

et’s face it: Fitness isn’t always fun. Some

weaves students’ playlists and moves into his

days, it’s a challenge to trudge to the gym or a

ever-evolving routines, he also incorporates

studio. But, when classes are paired with freshly

friendly competition through partner and group

made crepes, beer, crafts or when exercising is

challenges.

more like socializing, it’s a lot easier to suit up.

“It’s not so much about the exercise we’re

Successful fitness instructors recognize that

doing as it is about doing it together,” Lindley

accountability, community and extra incentives

says. “We have engineered human interaction

keep people engaged and coming back for more.

out of our lives. People aren’t touching each

Throughout Colorado, studios are enticing

other, looking each other in the eyes, asking

participants with yoga and beer pairings, barre

‘how are you doing?’”

classes combined with floral arranging, brunch

or trunk shows and well-rounded hours that

both the instructor and participants ask where

combine high-intensity training with partnered

they were. Students pair up with every person

or group challenges.

in class; partners may try to beat one another

When regulars don’t show up at Endorphin,

on bikes, or a group of up to five might work

40

BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS

together to complete a task. During kettle bell

Chris Lindley, owner of Endorphin in Eagle,

drills, one person swings and the other catches.

motivates people through partnerships and

Participants complete planks facing one another

packing in a whole lot of cardio and strength

while one partner’s left hand slaps the other’s

training into his hour-long spin and circuit

right hand. They also work together by holding

classes.

one end of a rubber tube and squatting together.

“If you do the same thing over and over,

“The theme is always shared experience

your body stops changing and, eventually,

while they’re suffering,” Lindley says, a bit

you get bored with it,” Lindley says. “We keep

tongue-and-cheek. “It’s a tribal mentality. As they

progressing them.”

come in, they’re forced to make friends. After

But, there is more to Endorphin’s success

a few minutes with everyone in class, you’re

than adding new physical tasks. He not only

bound to find someone you resonate with. Every

day we see members exchanging numbers or

into an approachable activity for any human.

going to coffee.”

Each participant is unique, and that’s what we

Both Endorphin and Barrelosophy in Grand

love about this gathering. You don’t have to be

Junction deliberately keep their classes small to

a yoga expert, an athlete or a health nut — just

encourage interaction.

be you.”

“Community is the most important thing at

Participants keep returning to beer yoga

our studio,” says Barrelosophy owner Brittany

because it is welcoming, uplifting and unique,

Bowen. “With a maximum of 10 people, it

she says.

opens up the opportunity for people to create

relationships, not just with the instructors, but

of the participants as they pack up after a class,”

with the other people. A small space is the ticket.

she adds. “A lot of them head up to the pub for

Sitting three feet away from someone creates

food and drinks afterward, so they can get to

talking and laughter.”

know each other better. The after-class hang

session is just as beneficial as the flow session.”

In fact, participants show up 10 to 15

“It is great to see the peaceful, content smiles

minutes early at Barrelosophy just to socialize.

Barrelosophy backs its “stronger together”

Meanwhile, at Endorphin, members have posted

philosophy with weekly spring and summer

4x4 notecards with their written 2020 resolutions

“barre and brunch” classes, catered with organic

to support each other.

food by Taproot, in Barrelosophy’s garden. At

“We all have that accountability, that we

least once a month during fall and winter, Bowen

want to do it together,” Lindley says. “We all

partners with local companies to combine barre

want to succeed.”

classes with trunk shows, spinning class with floral arrangement or wreath-making classes

PAIRING FITNESS AND FUN

and crepe lunches. The larger events, like crepes

In Crested Butte, weekly yoga classes take place

and crafts, last up to two-and-a-half hours.

in the music venue below Public House’s saloon.

At 5:30 p.m., yogis and beer lovers alike roll out

aspect of it,” Bowen says. “We’re creating

their mats and grab a brew from the bar. The

relationships outside of working out.”

robust sound system and television screens

provide an upbeat, funky-fresh flow session

media often overshadow personal interaction,

where participants can drink beer from Irwin

encouraging community in fitness classes helps

Brewing Company throughout class.

people stay energized.

“It really improves the experience by

“The events really wrap up the community

In a day and age where texts and social

“From what I’ve seen,” Lindley remarks,

entertaining all of your senses,” says instructor

“it’s very rare that people will stick with fitness

Blair Jaros. “The community around beer is fun,

if they’re not doing it with someone else. Doing

supportive and encouraging, while at the same

it together is the only way we’re going to keep

time very competitive [with] thousands of craft

moving.” :

breweries. Beer yoga channels this beer culture

spoke

GET OUTSIDE!

GEAR FOR THE SEASON Compiled by Kim Fuller

Rudy Project Propulse Weighing just 26 grams, these featherlight sunglasses don’t move around when you run. They stay stable with proprietary Hi-Grip integrated temple tips and also feature large vents on both front frames, on the temples and on the bottom of each lens to prevent fogging. $124.99 to $174.99 Sherpa Adventure

rudyproject.com

Gear Asha Tank + Sapna Printed Leggings

Light & Motion Taz

The Asha Tank is super-soft,

1200 Black Raven

stretchy and features a splash of

As the days begin

pattern on the back, inspired by

to get longer this

the local woven textiles of Nepal.

spring, light up the

The tank is made from breathable,

road or bike path

antimicrobial, wicking and

with this wide

stainfighting fabric. The Sapna Printed Legging is also made of wicking fabric and has a wide waistband with a hidden pocket for stashing your keys or cash.

Asha Tank $39.95; Sapna Printed Leggings $64.95 sherpaadventuregear.com

and powerful NiteDog LED Rechargeable

beam. This light

Dog Collar + Leash

has a max output

Be visible from dusk ‘til dawn with this

of 1200 lumens

rechargeable and highly visible light-

and runs on high

up dog collar and leash. Both pieces are

for 90 minutes.

weather resistant so you can use them

$129.99

any time of year.

lightandmotion.

Dog Collar $24.99; Leash $29.99

com

niteize.com 42

Thule RoundTrip Bike Duffel

Sweet Protection

(AT LEFT) Bring your bike gear wherever you go

Strutter Helmet

with this purpose-built duffel for the dedicated

Originally designed in 1997, this

cyclist. A smart organization system makes

is still the most recognized helmet

it easy to have your technical layers, helmet,

in paddlesports. The Strutter is lightweight

shoes, sunglasses and every other accessory

and offers low-volume protection for

ready to roll from one ride to the next. $119.95

downriver stand-up paddleboarding,

thule.com

rafting and kayaking. $199.95 sweetprotection.com

Pearl iZumi Rove Barrier Jacket + Rove Pant The Rove Barrier Jacket is casual for bike commuting but still has performance in mind. A two-way zipper allows for easy ventilation and the hood can be snapped off for a streamlined look. An organic cotton and nylon blend creates durability and stretch in the Rove Pant, which is perfect for errand running or riding home from work. A durable treatment adds water resistance, while the gusseted crotch repositions irritating seams found in any typical jean.

Rove Barrier Jacket: $150; Rove Pant: $115 pearlizumi.com

Salomon VAYA MID GTX This women’s specific hiking boot has higher ankle support for extra stability. The soft collar and flexible yet sturdy technology allows for

Hydro Flask

adaptation to every

Ultralight Titanium

specific female’s feet. $160 salomon.com

Go super light Swiftwick FLITE XT Socks These socks have a strong elastic that wraps your ankle and heel for targeted support and extra protection for your ankles. They are breathable and will keep your feet dry during spring outdoor adventures.

with this vacuuminsulated bottle from Hydro Flask.

With a titanium body, titanium cap and titanium rivets securing the carry strap, it weighs only 7.8 ounces. $100 hydroflask.com

$23.99 swiftwick.com

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

43

spoke

GEAR PROFILE

MAYFLY OUTDOORS Words by Bobby L’Heureux | Photo courtesy of Mayfly Outdoors

I

f you have ever stepped foot into a fly-fishing

so the company can ensure their brands will

shop, you have more than likely been in the

always take care of their customers.

presence of two of the industry’s most popular

and trusted brands: Abel Reels and Ross Reels.

always been there with the performance of our

These are two subsidiaries of Montrose-based

products being second to none and our team has

Mayfly Outdoors. With their recent expansion to

an incredibly high work ethic,” says Patterson.

a 41,000-square-foot facility on the Uncompahgre

River inside the Colorado Outdoors Project,

how they do their own anodizing for products.

Mayfly Outdoors is looking forward to being even

Anodizing is an electrochemical process that

more connected to its community and beyond.

converts the metal surface to a decorative, durable

Another unique aspect of proaction is

“Abel and Ross Reels are heralded in the

corrosion-resistant, anodic oxide finish. They kept

industry. With Ross Reels staring in the 70s and

the anodizing factory in California and there are

Abel in the 80s, they have always enjoyed a good

still 20 full-time employees at the facility. Abel has

reputation,” says Jeff Patterson, director of sales

a custom anodizing program so you can make

for Abel Reels, Ross Reels and Ariflo.

your next reel totally personal to your taste.

Reels from both brands are made entirely in

the United States and in their Mayfly factories,

44

“Our brand loyalty and reputation has

When Mayfly Outdoors combined the two

powerhouse brands into one factory in western

Colorado, they quickly outgrew the space. “Abel

“Other manufacturers come, and it becomes

crashed the existing Ross factory,” says Patterson.

a mini trade show,” he adds.

Faced with where to build a new factory, the team

quickly decided they wanted to stay in Montrose

under Mayfly Outdoors. Airflo is a fly line

and continue to grow with a place they love.

company from Europe that has enjoyed the same

Airflo is one of the most recent subsidiaries

“Aside from additional opportunities for

reputation internationally as Abel and Ross

the job market in western Colorado, we have a

Reels have in the U.S. Keeping the original team

handful of employees who have been with the

on in Europe will maintain the quality users

company for 15 to 20 years. We have skilled

have come to expect from Airflo.

employees and that shows in our products,”

says Patterson.

our U.S. abilities and their international abilities.

“We are very excited to combine forces with

In March of 2019, they opened the doors to

It is going to help both brands. We owe it to

their new space. It is a state-of-the-art facility with

everyone in the industry to go about this in the

plenty of room to create an amazing experience

right way,” says Patterson.

for anyone who visits. They have kids events on

the onsite pond, and with the river restoration in

to have not only a great line-up of products,

progress they are creating a two-mile catch and

but to always have something innovative and

release section open to the public.

new. Whether it is a new model or an accessory,

Mayfly Outdoors feels it is key to always provide

“It is the whole small town aspect we enjoy,”

It is very important for Mayfly Outdoors

Patterson says.

something fresh for the consumer. Both brands

have something new planned for August 2020.

With a Montrose Pavilion partnership,

Mayfly also helped bring the Fly-Fishing Film Tour to town. They hope to draw in locals and visitors from out of town.

Learn more at mayflyoutdoors.com. :

spoke

TEAM PROFILE

THE 9-BALL WATERMEN CAPTAIN JOHN MARK SEELIG + THE U.S. MEN’S WHITEWATER RAFTING TEAM

Words by Lexi Reich | Photos by Robbie Prechtl

T

46

he U.S. Men’s Whitewater Raft Team,

Canyon for 38 hours … that’s a pretty big bonding

based in Vail, Colorado, is comprised of six

moment.”

men: Robbie Prechtl, Jeremiah Williams, Matt

37 hours and 55 minutes to be exact.

Norfleet, Kurt Kincel and John Mark Seelig, the

This past January, the team and three

team’s captain.

experienced raft guides embarked on a mission

The team has been in the valley for over 16

to row 277 miles down the Grand Canyon in less

years, and the current lineup of men has been

than 34 hours, attempting to break the world

together for almost eight, forming their clan

record set by kayaker Ben Orkin in 2016.

in 2013.

“We’ve grown incredibly close over the

viewpoints in the boat. These guides have been

years. We’re just like brothers; we fight like

down the canyon more than 150 times,” he says

brothers; we work with each other like brothers;

of the three long-time guides that helped take

we’re there for each other through multiple life

over some positions.

stresses and struggles,” shares Seelig. “And, you

know, suffering with other people in the Grand

team had attempted to break the same record.

“It’s always nice having some other eyes and

Three years earlier on January 13, 2017, the

Their pace put them two hours ahead of schedule,

look beyond raft team championships and races

but they were met with a broken raft at Lava Falls,

across the world, and, instead, trying other

one of the world’s most notorious whitewater

endeavors and challenges that are on the water

rapids. It took four hours in the dark to repair

— from outrigger canoe paddling, Grand Canyon

the damages. Their journey was featured in the

speed runs, kayaking and paddle boarding.”

documentary The Time Travelers.

But, January 9, 2020 was a different attempt.

run, Seelig was asked what was next for the raft

Just an hour after the Grand Canyon speed

“We knew breaking the record was going to

team. Right now, they’re going to catch their

be harder this time,” says Seelig, explaining how

breath and have a team meeting to go over their

there are many things in this sport that are out of

future goals — maybe a race in Chile next year

the team’s control. During their first attempt in

on the Futaleufu River or a long distance kayak

2017, the river was close to 19,000 cubic feet per

experience.

second (cfs), referring to the volume and speed

of water flow. This time it was 10,000 cfs.

training in Seelig and his wife’s gym, GOAT,

located

Seelig says the team knew about four days

And, until then, you can find the team in

Edwards.

The

strength

and

before the attempt that the likelihood to break

conditioning facility is designed for professional

the record was not in the cards, but they didn’t

athletes and recreational folks alike.

realize how low the river was until they were

actually in it.

almost have a personal training type experience,

“The gym provides a space where people can

“We’d been training and still wanted to have

but in a group setting,” explains Seelig. “With

the experience, and we just went for it,” says

that group setting, people are inspired by each

Seelig. “We didn’t let up; we’re not those kind of

other, and they push each other. It builds a

people — it’s the most positive peer pressure. We

fantastic community.” :

all went hard for 38 hours.”

“There’s this moment where you don’t want

to let anyone else down. You think, ‘I need to do this with these guys,’” he adds.

Temperatures were in the 20s, and their

toes were getting splashed the whole time. They said it was the coldest they’ve ever been. Despite Norfleet suffering from frostbite on his toes, the team and their revamped boat design completed the mission, not in record-breaking time, but together, as a team.

“We didn’t want to just walk away with ‘oh

that happened,’” explains Seelig. “We wanted to raise money for a cause we believed in.”

The U.S. Men’s Whitewater Raft Team

raised $13,000 for Grand Canyon Youth, an organization that gets kids on the river and exposed to ecological and environmental issues pertaining to the needs of the Grand Canyon and other national parks.

The team, which officially changed its name

to 9-Ball Watermen in 2017, participates in not only international rafting races, but also in feats such as the one in the Grand Canyon.

“USA National Rafting Team doesn’t tell

the whole story,” Seelig shares. “We wanted to

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

47

grand outdoors

CHILDREN + THE OUTDOORS Words by Abram Herman | Photos courtesy Friends of Youth and Nature

A

t 8 years old I was slogging my way up the

air. It’s a way to stay fit, and even more than that,

trail behind my parents, tired and grumpy. I

it’s an important part of maintaining happiness

hate hiking, I thought. Why would anyone want to

and mental health. But what impact does an

walk uphill for hours for no good reason? I could

early introduction to the outdoors have on who

be watching TV right now. Finally we reached the

a child will become as an adult? How are they

top. Out came the food we’d packed, and as we

affected physically, mentally, emotionally and

sat on a peaceful summit admiring the view and

even morally? As it turns out, we can directly

enjoying our hard-earned lunch, I realized how

connect childhood exposure to outdoor activities

much better it all tasted because of the work

with long-term outcomes.

we’d just put in. Maybe this “hiking” thing wasn’t

48

so bad after all.

PHYSICAL FITNESS

Many Colorado residents enjoy hiking,

It’s no secret that children are frequently

mountain biking, skiing and other activities that

neglecting more physical, outdoor forms of

get them outside and breathing hard in the fresh

play in favor of the digital world — reducing

kids’ screen time is often a major struggle for

Though it’s more difficult to show a

parents in the modern age. Computers, mobile

correlation between time spent in the outdoors

devices and video games are passive forms of

during childhood and an individual’s likelihood

entertainment, and they don’t call for physical

to become a good environmental steward, it has

coordination, strength, endurance or any of the

been shown that the amount of time spent in the

other attributes necessary for a healthy body.

outdoors has a direct correlation with a child’s

Outdoor play, on the other hand, promotes

feelings of connection with nature. According to

all of these things and is a natural method of

2011 research at the University of Massachusetts

encouraging physical activity in young people.

Amhurst, this sense of connection with the

A 2015 meta-analysis published in the

natural world then has a direct influence on

International Journal of Environmental Research

behaviors related to environmental stewardship

and Public Health regarding the effects of time

in children such as “conserving water, turning out

spent outdoors on children found that “outdoor

lights, recycling, talking about the environment

time is positively related to physical activity

and picking up litter.” The more time we can

and negatively related to sedentary behavior in

get future generations to spend in the outdoors,

children aged 3 to 12 years.” The more outdoor

the greater sense of connection they’ll feel with

time children have, the more physical activity

nature, and the more likely they will be to work

they take part in and, conversely, the less

at environmental stewardship and preservation.

sedentary behavior they display.

So the next time you take your kids outside,

know that you’re not only directly contributing

EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING

to their physical and mental well-being —

Many people spend time in the outdoors because

you’re also helping to raise a generation that

it brings them a sense of happiness and well-

will value our natural environment and ensure

being. The natural environment is certainly

the preservation of outdoor spaces for years

more conducive to good mental health than the

to come. :

bustling and overwhelming stimuli of the city. If adults who have grown accustomed to the ways of the modern world still need to get away to nature every now and then to stay happy, surely children must benefit from these quieter natural spaces as well.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, a 2018 study in

Preventive Medicine showed that the more time children spend in nature and the greater sense of connection they personally feel with nature, the less likely they are to experience psychosomatic symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, headache, stomach ache, backache and other physical afflictions. The benefits start with as little as 30 minutes of outdoor activity per week.

STEWARDSHIP Physical emotional

activity,

cognitive

well-being

—

these

development, things

are

relatively easy to quantify in research. But what about something like an individual’s moral drive to preserve our natural areas, or their innate desire to be good stewards of the land? Can we quantify these outcomes?

CELEBRATING OUR 1-YEAR ANNIVERSARY AS MESA COUNTY'S FINEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY 970.589.7700 | christireece.com

family

FAMILY BACKPACKING 101 Words by Kristen Lummis | Photo by Hayden Hogoboom

A

sk Heather Hogoboom about family

n

backpacking and her voice fills with

can hike with a day pack and carry their own

enthusiasm.

“Of all the things we do together, our annual

S tart with day hikes. Make sure your kids water.

n

P lan for success. Keep your first family

backpacking trip is what we look forward

adventure short and enjoyable. “Our first

to the most,” shares Hogoboom, who began

trip was just three miles in,” says Hogoboom,

backpacking with her husband Pat when their

adding that the elevation gain wasn’t extreme.

sons were between the ages of 12 and 18.

Hogoboom, a Grand Junction native who

“We wanted them to enjoy it and go again.” n

I nvolve kids in planning. Kids can read trail

now makes Summit County her mountain

reviews, help apply for any necessary permits

basecamp, has backpacking experience dating

and assemble gear, including fun things like

to her first years out of college. But when her

cameras, binoculars, cards and dice games.

children were little, the focus was more on car

They can also choose (and carry) their favorite

camping.

“As the boys got older, we realized that

backpacking foods. n

P ack smart. Hogoboom and her family take two

backpacking would be a great way for us to do

Jet Boil stoves for six people. Other necessities

something together and to create a new family

include two water filters (in case one has issues)

tradition,” she explains.

and clothing layers: extra socks, a waterproof

Family tradition is what drew another mom,

hooded jacket, base layers and a fleece or

Ann Leonard of Grand Junction, to backpacking.

puffy. “Otherwise, just go very simple,” she

Leonard has been backpacking since she was

advises. For guidance on packing, Hogoboom

6 years old. When her daughter, Zia, turned 6,

suggests searching online to learn how to pack

Leonard and her husband Ryan decided she was

a backpack. “It makes a difference.”

ready to follow in the family’s footsteps.

n

F ollow the 50-10 rule. Leonard swears by

For her first trip, the Leonards journeyed to

the hiking strategy her parents used with her.

Ice Lake and Island Lake near Silverton. “This

“Basically, it’s hike for 50 minutes, stop for 10,”

area was the spot of many of my childhood

she explains. Because her kids know a break

backpacking trips, so it was special to take her

is always coming, it helps keep other stops to

back there, especially since my dad and brother

a minimum.

joined us,” explains Leonard.

n

S nacks and games. Snacks are a must, as are

Today, the Leonards are a backpacking

trail games. Leonard shares that she has great

family of four, with 5-year-old son Koen

luck with story-telling, I-Spy, alphabet games

joining in.

and “I’m thinking of” games. As she puts it, “Distraction helps!”

KEYS TO SUCCESS

n

L eave no trace. Disconnect, enjoy the peace

Whether you are backpacking with young

and quiet, the laughter and the memories

children or teenagers, Hogoboom and Leonard

you’ll build together. But, always respect

share these keys to success.

the wilderness and follow “Leave No Trace” principles.

50

EASE AND MEMORIES

While it may seem surprising, Hogoboom is

with the most important people in my world,”

convinced that backpacking is much easier than

explains Leonard.

car camping.

“The logistics are so much easier,” she

better conversations and forces her children

laughs. “Car camping takes a lot of time loading

to play with one another. “They are always

and unloading. Backpacking takes more prep

better friends when we return from a trip,”

time, but then we just put on our packs and go.”

Leonard adds.

Once in camp, Hogoboom explains that each

“I love sharing something that I love so much

The lack of modern distractions leads to

For Hogoboom, family backpacking has

member of the family has a job to do. Maybe one

bonded the brothers and their parents together

son looks for level places for tents, while others

through pristine bluebird days and torrential,

set up the cooking area, filter water or hang

mud-filled slogs.

hammocks. Then, when everything is in order,

“we kick back and enjoy our weekend.”

end result always makes it worth it,” she reflects.

Leonard

and

Hogoboom

agree

that

“We get through the little travails and the Similar to many aspects of life, family

uninterrupted family time in the wilderness

backpacking may challenge you and your family,

is one of the most important benefits of

but it will also help you grow together.

backpacking.

Enjoy! :

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

51

52

take a hike

RABBIT VALLEY

MCDONALD CREEK CANYON Words + Photos by Melanie Wiseman

W

est of Grand Junction and just shy of

area on a west-facing cliff about 15 feet up,

the Utah border lies Rabbit Valley and

prior to the stream bed to canyon transition.

McDonald Creek Canyon — an extraordinarily

After another 1/4 mile the canyon narrows and

scenic, historic and protected trail. Located in

takes a sandstone-sculptured drop-off carved

the McInnis Canyons National Conservation

by years of creek runoff. Follow the cairns for a

area, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

short slickrock bypass, bringing you back to the

designated the canyon and land in proximity

stream bed and a view of the next two panels —

to it as the McDonald Creek Cultural Resource

one on either side of the canyon. The last panel is

Management Area, in order to protect both

high on the wall of a large

the fragile, prehistoric archaeological sites and

alcove 1/4 mile before the

the canyon which was home to the resourceful

Colorado River. It’s helpful

Fremont Indians.

to bring binoculars to

rom Grand Junction, travel F west on I-70 and take the Rabbit Valley Exit #2. n Turn left and go south over the interstate, continuing on the dirt road. n Go right at the first turn and left at all other junctions. n The trail head parking lot and facilities are located 2.5 miles from the interstate directly across from a sizable rock formation that looks similar to a large gumdrop. n

The BLM wants visitors, today and in the

see the detailed art —

future, to experience McDonald Creek Canyon just

attempting to climb up

as the Native Americans did. For this reason, only

to them could damage

foot traffic is allowed and hikers are encouraged

yourself as well as the art.

to walk in the stream bed as much as possible

to prevent the development of trails. Dogs are

summer are the perfect

welcome, camping and campfires are not.

times to enjoy this free,

This easy trail can vary in length between

f a m i l y - f r i e n d l y h i ke ,

3 to 4 miles depending on your choice of hiking

when a multitude of cacti

the main route to the Colorado River only or

and

including side canyon scrambles. Four panels of

display

rock art (three pictographs and one petroglyph)

McDonald Creek Canyon can be enjoyed year-

can be seen between the trail head and the

round, but avoiding the summer heat and taking

mouth of the canyon.

plenty of water is advised. Higher clearance

vehicles are recommended but 4WD is not

The first rock art panel is approximately

1/4 mile down the stream bed from the parking

Late spring and early

desert

wildflowers

their

splendor.

required. :

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

53

stay + play

AVON, COLORADO

COHABIT PODTEL Words by Bobby L’Heureux | Photos courtesy of Cohabit Podtel

W

54

hen you think of staying in Vail or Beaver

they found staying in the bunk rooms was a little

Creek, affordable is not the first thing that

too connected to the other travelers. They often

comes to mind. Bret and Carryn Burton set out to

opted for the private room so they could get the

change that with the Cohabit Podtel. After many

best of both worlds. When coming up with the

years spent in the Vail Valley working in the

concept for Cohabit Podtel they took all of their

restaurant and hotel industries, Bret and Carryn

travel likes and dislikes to nail it down.

have been in real estate for some time now. For

the past few years they have been kicking around

hostel-style lodging to our community, but with

the concept that had become Cohabit Podtel, and

a solution for private sleeping quarters. After

finally their dream has become a reality.

months of trial and error, we settled on the

“We began brainstorming ideas to bring

“We love to travel and have stayed in dozens

pod concept and Cohabit Podtel was born,”

of hostels all around the world. We always

Carryn shares. “We knew the Vail Valley needed

choose hostels over hotels because it is a better

affordable accommodation and we wanted

experience and we enjoy meeting and socializing

to take our knowledge and experience from

with other travelers,” Bret says. At the same time,

decades in the hotel and hospitality industry

and combine it with our passion for travel and

you gear, you are only a few steps away from

customer service.”

everything you need to get outside and play.

Cohabit Podtel is the first of its kind in a

There is a spacious lounge with sweeping

mountain town. They are trying to break the mold

mountain views and a fireplace in the lobby

of traditional lodging to bring guests a unique

that provides a perfect place to mingle with like-

and affordable alternative to the high-priced

minded travelers. Cohabit Podtel boasts seven

resort accommodations that currently exist. They

private shower suites and communal restrooms,

created the same relaxed, social feel of a hostel

as well as a coffee bar and work nook. There

with the privacy of a boutique hotel. There is

are plans to acquire a liquor license in the near

only one private room at the Cohabit Podtel. The

future.

rest are custom built, private sleep pods. The

Burtons worked closely with HMR Construction

WiFi. They have state-of-the-art door locks that

out of Edwards and Tiny Home Connection out of

allow guests 24-hour mobile access. Guests are

Denver to complete the concept.

able to check in with their smart phones when

If you are like many adventurers when you

arriving before or after hours. Their location

travel, all you really need is place to rest your

in the heart of Avon provides access to several

head and store your gear. Each sleep pod can

restaurants, shops and amenities all in walking

accommodate two guests in their own private

distance. There is access to the skier shuttle or

space, thoughtfully appointed with charging

in-town bus just outside the establishment.

outlets, reading lights, luxury linens and mobile

smart locks. The sleep pods are noise insulated

outdoors in the summer or winter, spend your

with eco-friendly recycled denim and are well

time and money doing the things you love —

ventilated to ensure maximum guest comfort.

we will take care of the rest,” says Carryn. “Our

brand embodies the spirit of Colorado and the

The goal of the Cohabit Podtel is to cater to

There is free onsite parking and high-speed

“Whether you are enjoying the great

those who value adventure over luxury. “We

promotion of outdoor recreation.”

strive to bring travelers, outdoor enthusiasts

and adventure seekers together to enjoy our

concept throughout Colorado, primarily in ski

community’s world-class activities,” Bret says.

towns. They want to be recognized and trusted

Cohabit

by anyone visiting their establishment and our

Podtel

offers

minimalist

accommodations and strives for exceptional guest service, along with all the amenities you need for your next adventure. With a fullon locker room as well as locking storage for

The Burtons have a goal to expand the

beautiful state. :

For more information go to

cohabitpodhotel.com

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

55

COURTESY FENCELINE CIDER

getaway

MANCOS, COLORADO

WHERE ART MEETS AGRICULTURE Words by Katherine Peach | Photos courtesy of Steve Fassbinder, Mancos Creative District

P

lenty of time outdoors feeds a certain type of

Sam Perry and Neil Wight use heirloom varietals

creativity. Mancos offers this type of creative

dating back 100 years. The name is a nod to the

inspiration by the pound thanks to its unique

region’s many wild apple trees growing as a

intersection of growers, makers, ranchers and

result of birds dropping seeds while sitting on

outdoor recreation opportunities. This small

fence lines.

community, previously overshadowed by larger

neighbors, is worth a weekend stay for anyone

have varieties no one is working with,” says Sam

looking to explore arts, adventure and a growing

Perry, Fenceline co-founder. “We have varieties

food scene in the Southwest.

that have been propagated by the birds. They are

“Southwest Colorado is unique because we

essentially mutts.”

56

FRIDAY: MANCO’S CIDER TRADITION

The first stop is Fenceline Cider’s riverside

apples from trees forgotten and unused on their

taproom. The family-friendly gathering space

property. Now selling nationwide, visitors will

is fostering a sense of community with live

find 10 rotating ciders and wine on tap. Don’t

music, food trucks, an outdoor patio and drinks

miss the Pollinator, a rose-inspired cider, ideal

over a board game. Stimulating the Southwest’s

for sipping on a warm day, and Fenceline’s

forgotten apple industry, Fenceline founders

signature Seedling, a modern American cider.

Reviving this forgotten economic driver,

the founders convinced local ranchers to sell

Sourcing from nearby growers speaks to the town’s larger heritage of perseverance and determination.

“Mancos is the type of place and type of

people who believe it can be done,” says Sara Syverson, a local artist and producer.

Syverson shares how Mancos benefits from

collaboration between farmers and artists as a result of a “can-do” attitude within the community. Whether sourcing unused apples or finding land for outdoor theatrical installations, such as her one-time production of the Purple Fox Conundrum last fall, putting creative ideas into action can be as simple as thinking outside the box about the wealth of natural resources found in the area.

A mover and connector, Syverson calls

the intersection of agriculture and arts a gift to Mancos. There is still a space here for art.

Check out local art and events at the taproom, such as the Raven Narratives, a Moth-style event presenting live true stories at the taproom.

downtown blocks of galleries, businesses and several buildings from the late 1800s to 1900s.

Historic walking tour maps are available at the kiosk on the corner of Main and Grand Avenues or from the Chamber of Commerce. The maps direct visitors to 18 locations, including the restored Bauer House built by the town founder in 1890.

Head to the former Mancos Times-Tribune

building on Grand Avenue, now the Mancos Common Press. The restored letterpress design and print studio doubles as a museum, with equipment and newspaper archives dating back almost 140 years. Printing workshops are also taught onsite by a local artist through the nonprofit Mancos School of the West.

Downtown is also host to several artists

cooperatives:

Artisans

of

Mancos,

jewelry. Visitors can easily spend the day visiting boutiques, so fuel up at Absolute Bakery & Café on Main Street.

After risking being condemned, Mancos

Opera House was rehabilitated as a theatre and arts hub by efforts spearheaded by residents Philip and Linda Walters. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the ground floor served as a drug store and butcher shop, while the second floor of the opera house provided a place picture theater in the county and a ballroom.

The Mancos Creative District spans several

of rare Native American rugs, pottery and

for cultural pursuits, including the first motion-

SATURDAY: WALK THROUGH HISTORY

Kilgore American Indian Art houses a collection

Raven

House Gallery and The Painted Turtle Studio, a community center featuring art for sale and a studio where visitors of all ages can make ceramic artworks. For authentic western items,

Mancos 101 n

n

n

n

n

ancos is about a 4-hour drive south of Grand Junction, M and is located between Dolores and Durango.

LODGING Willowtail Springs visitors can enjoy private lakeside cabins, including the Bungalow, with space for up to four people. Opening for the season in May, Echo Basin offers rustic A-frames, larger cabins and an RV park on its forested grounds. Each are located six miles from downtown Mancos.

BREAKFAST + LUNCH Operating as a family-owned business since 2007, Absolute Bakery & Café sources local ingredients and bakes bread in-house for lunch and breakfast. Grab take-away at Fahrenheit Coffee Roasters and Zuma Natural Foods — sandwiches, soup and natural grocer options.

The historic building is scheduled to open

to the public for the presentation of “The Blacksmith,” a comedic opera composed in 1762. Speaking to the region, the May 2 and 3 performances integrate folk songs and audience participation. Even without seeing an opera, it’s worth a look inside the place where two ranchers took a leap of faith in 1910 to build a community space in a small western town.

SUNDAY: SEEK OUTDOOR ADVENTURE For the final day, choose your own adventure (depending on the weather) in the desert. While night skiing at the mom-and-pop Hesperus Ski Area closes in early March, sister mountain,

DINNER Visitors will find elevated dining and art at Olio, featuring a weekly menu based on local available ingredients and a new local artist on the walls every other month. Mancos Brewing Company has rotating craft beers brewed onsite and a small menu using ingredients sourced from local farmers. Ideal for a nightcap, the Columbine Bar is a down-home bar on Grand Avenue, established in 1910.

Purgatory Resort, near Durango, allows for

EXTEND YOUR STAY Nearby archeological sites and world-class bike trails attract outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike to the region. Plan ahead for your visit to Mesa Verde National Park, as certain sites are accessible only through ranger-guided tours, including the Cliff Palace, which opens for the season April 12.

the country. Local outfitters can provide gear and

daytime skiing from its 11,000-foot summit through mid-April.

Alternatively, starting in late April, decent

snowpack

and

warm

temperatures

opportunities for a scenic float down the Dolores River, one of the longest-flowing river canyons in guidance. For the self-led option, use one of the ultra-light inflatable Alpaka Rafts handcrafted and sold in downtown Mancos. The brand also released the two-person Oryx, a packraft canoe ideal for McPhee Reservoir’s flatwater. :

58

equal

Element inspired yoga classes Gourmet camping cuisine Weekend of riverside camping Guided meditation Group adventure hike Time to relax and explore

MOAB 2020 YOGA + ADVENTURE RETREAT MOVEMENT | NATURE | COMMUNITY

May 15-18 | $495 More Info + Registration: moab-2020-inyourelement.eventbrite.com

- OUTDOORS HIKING AND MOUNTAINEERING FIT OFFERS AN OBJECTIVE AND MEASURABLE APPROACH TO PRESCRIBING INDIVIDUALIZED, SPORT-SPECIFIC EXERCISE PROGRAMS FOR EACH ATHLETE. THE POSITIVE EFFECTS OF RESISTANCE TRAINING ON MOUNTAINEERING PERFORMANCE THROUGH ENHANCED HIKING ECONOMY ARE WELL ESTABLISHED.

We begin by focusing on the stability and strength of core muscles followed by functional and mountaineering-specific exercises. Using this method unleashes power and minimizing the risk of injury.

ARE YOU FIT ENOUGH FOR COLORADO?

WWW.FITGRANDJUNCITON.COM

feature

Mark Waltermire in front of his farm

CONFRONTATION IN COLORADO’S FARM-TO-TABLE CAPITAL Words + Photos by Lexi Reich

M

60

ark Waltermire has been tending goats and

But now a move by the current administration

chickens at his farm, Thistle Whistle, in the

has folks up in arms, as they fear potential cross-

lush North Fork Valley for 15 years. He grows

contamination from fossil fuel development.

180 varieties of heirloom tomatoes and plans to

Known as the agricultural hub of Colorado, the

expand his diverse vegetable orchard to offer even

North Fork Valley communities of Crawford,

more options to Coloradans interested in eating

Hotchkiss and Paonia blame the Bureau of Land

better quality food. It’s a lifestyle shared with many

Management’s (BLM) proposed Uncompahgre

people in the state’s farm-to-table capital.

Field Office Resource Management Plan for

For years, scores of organic farmers in the

threatening their livelihoods and reputations.

valley have organized to protect their natural

The community is raising its voice to protect

resources, including the critically important

their farmlands, clean water supply and air

North Fork of the Gunnison River, from oil

quality from pollution.

and gas development. Together the community

developed the North Fork Alternative Plan. Born

U.S. District Judge Lewis Babcock agreed with

in 2013, the plan suggested reducing the amount

conservation groups in Paonia that the federal

of public lands available for fracking, and that

government’s proposed oil and gas drilling

drilling wells should be at least a half-mile from

plans, which would’ve drilled 175 gas wells

the municipal water supply, among other things.

in the valley, fell short in studying the indirect

It has been an uphill battle. Last March,

impacts of oil and gas production on the people and the land.

Three months later, last June, the BLM

announced a revised plan, known as Alternative E. It promises $2.5 billion in total economic output to the region, supporting up to 950 jobs over the next 20 years. How? By opening 95 percent of public lands in the North Fork to oil and gas development.

Eric Carlson, executive director of West

Slope Colorado Oil and Gas Association, which represents the region’s oil and gas companies, explains that the new proposed Resource Management Plan has undergone processes analyzing the environmental impacts of resource extraction in great detail. He says the public can comment, interact and intervene upon it as much as they want to.

But that doesn’t mean the government will

accommodate, according to Waltermire and others.

Most importantly, Alternative E ignored the

community-developed North Fork Alternative

Brent Helleckson of Stone Cottage Cellars gazes at his winery. He has water rights that date back to 1884, and is fearful contamination from fossil fuel development will threaten not only his grapes, but the ambiance of the valley as a tourist destination.

Plan, which was scheduled to be approved

or denied last October, but a decision has yet

argue there are environmental and economic

to be made.

concerns from proposed oil and gas drilling;

mainly, the threat of oil spills.

“I was surprised at the extent of how it didn’t

Many community members and activists

reflect our interests,” said Waltermire. “I go back

and forth between being angry and feeling a

two-way mountain road with no shoulder, and a

little helpless at my ability to influence it.”

lot of rockslides and fragile soil. You can hear the

buzz of cars from Thistle Whistle.

While milking his goat Lucy, Waltermire

The North Fork is along Highway 133, a slim

said farming has been a part of his family for

generations. “It allows me to live a life that

accident and contaminate water as oil spills

It’s not unlikely for a truck to get in an

feels like I have the opportunity to be more

downstream. The chemicals could go into

responsible about my lifestyle choices. Growing

irrigation ditches the farms and wineries of the

my own food, providing food for others and

North Fork depend on. These pollutants would

integrating education into that makes me feel

also affect the Colorado River Basin states.

like I’m less a part of the problem and, perhaps,

offering a solution,” he said, standing up with his

to have that kind of overwhelming truck traffic.

basin full of milk. “Come on, Lucy!”

Those trucks are not carrying peaches, but

The people and the economy of the valley

fracking sand and chemicals and all sorts of

are closely connected with the region’s natural

things we don’t want spilled into our river,”

resources. Once shaped by coal mining, the rural

Waltermire said.

valley has moved towards a more sustainable

and diverse economy, with agriculture being a

beyond measurable contamination — it’s the

major player, especially within the last decade,

reputation that’s soiled, he adds.

according to the Center for American Progress, a

nonpartisan policy institute.

somebody to make a four-and-a-half-hour,

“It’s really inappropriate for the highway

The consequence of the spills extends

“It’s already difficult enough to convince

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

61

“I don’t get bored of this work. I get to work outside. I get a variety of physical and intellectual challenges. Philosophically, I feel like it allows me to live a life that feels like I have the opportunity to be more responsible about my lifestyle choices.

Growing my own food, providing food for others and integrating education into that makes me feel like I’m less apart of the problem and perhaps offering a solution,” says Mark Waltermire, owner of Thistle Whistle farm in Hotchkiss, Colorado.

62

five-hour drive from the Front Range to come

development from July says, “Our public lands

over here and enjoy themselves in this area,”

and waters are supposed to be managed in the

said Brent Helleckson, 60, owner of Stone

public interest and should play a leading role in

Cottage Cellars in Paonia, a family-run winery.

our fight against climate change. But under this

“If I have to get them to come through an oil and

administration, management decisions are only

gas field in order to do that, it makes it much

accelerating the climate crisis.”

more difficult.”

We are already seeing the impacts of climate

Helleckson has water rights on his property

change: models are predicting a hotter and

that date back to 1884, and he resists leasing

drier future, a big challenge for farmers to cope

to the oil and gas industry. He says land close

with where there are even more limited water

to nearby irrigation ditches, like Terror Creek

supplies, says Patrick Dooling, executive director

Ditch, are being explored for leasing. “It seems

of the Western Slope Conservation Center.

very foolish,” he said.

Adding the environmental concerns of oil and

gas drilling is disturbing to the North Fork and

Rich Rudin of Terror Creek Ditch declined

to comment.

across the West.

Jim Ramey of The Wilderness Society

“It really decreases our opportunities

says many restaurants along the Front Range

to market ourselves as this organic, natural,

advertise that their ingredients are from North

agricultural area,” said Dooling, gazing at the

Fork Valley farms. He believes one oil spill

Paonia River.

could contaminate the reputation of Colorado

agriculture.

water-intensive, supposedly using millions of

A report by The Wilderness Society on

gallons of water, and, once used, is often polluted

the current administration and fossil fuel

and not able to be recycled for other purposes,

Fossil fuel development is known to be

or is pushed deep into aquifers, making it

increased air pollution and water contamination.

unavailable in our lifetime or our children’s,

In Wyoming, data from the Wyoming Oil and Gas

according to Dooling.

Conservation Commission revealed an average

of nearly two spills per day in 2018.

Emily Ibach, state affairs director at the

Colorado Farm Bureau, disagrees: “Largely, we

don’t see many issues with water after it is used

make sure that if oil and gas activity occurs, folks

for oil and gas production. There are limited

are protected from these potential problems, and

uses for that water, but sometimes farmers are

they didn’t do that,” said Waltermire. “The two

able to utilize it or it will be filtered and released

private companies that have the leases above us

into the rivers to be used by downstream users.”

in our watershed are playing economic games

In fact, she says the oil and gas industry supports

that I don’t get.”

the agriculture industry, providing monetary

incentives to farmers and ranchers who lease

of Alternative E, the BLM wrote they considered

their land and water rights to the industry.

community input in formulating the new plan,

In 2017, state data shows oil and gas spills

which they say responds to “local community

increased in Colorado, with reports of chemicals

needs, while aligning with administration

flowing directly into waterways. However, the

priorities, like public lands access, sustainable

Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission

energy development, economic growth and

spill analysis shows spills decreased in 2018. Yet,

conservation stewardship.”

of all spills reported in 2018, 410 were within a

half mile of a water well.

of the diverse landscapes of lush greenery, rocky

desert land and mountain ranges that compose

Dooling explains that by looking at other

oil and gas producing basins across the world,

“If we’re going to allow leasing, we have to

In a press release with the announcement

It appears only time will tell what is to come

the Nork Fork Valley. :

development, overall, typically comes with

Patrick Dooling, executive director of the West Slope Conservation Center, looks at the Paonia River, which he is worried about from increased resource extraction taking place in the valley.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

63

feature

ROICE-HURST HUMANE SOCIETY

IT’S KITTEN SEASON Words + Photos by Jenna Kretschman

W

64

ith the warmer weather and longer days

socialized to be placed up for adoption. These

of springtime comes kitten season —

kittens are placed into the care of loving foster

the time between March and November when

homes for a month or two until they become

thousands of kittens are born on the streets, in

larger, healthier and friendlier, so they can find

bushes and under porches all over the Grand

their forever families.

Valley. Roice-Hurst Humane Society and their

network of foster families are gearing up for this

Hurst Humane Society, began fostering kittens

year’s barrage of tiny felines.

many years ago when she discovered litters of

This time of year, unsterilized community

orphaned newborn kittens while trapping and

cats, which are stray or feral cats that live in

neutering community cats. Every few hours for

outdoor colonies and have not been spayed or

the first several weeks of life, orphaned newborn

neutered, begin their breeding season. One

kittens must be bottle-fed, stimulated to urinate

female cat can have up to three litters of kittens

and defecate, kept warm and clean and closely

per year, each with an average of five kittens per

monitored. Since her first litter of foster kittens,

litter, and those kittens can begin reproducing

Tuffin has opened her heart and home to 227

when they reach about 4 months of age. At that

foster animals, specializing in bottle-fed kittens

rate, community cat populations can skyrocket

and special-needs cases.

without intervention.

According to the Humane Society of the

fostering abandoned animals, and I just felt that

United States, up to 80 percent of all kittens born

it was something that I could offer up and be

each year are born outdoors to community cats.

able to help the little critters,” Tuffin says.

Kittens born outdoors face grim threats of disease,

harsh conditions and orphaning. Sadly, they often

kittens was Emmie, a blind kitten with a fluffy,

don’t survive without the help of humans.

dilute, tortoiseshell coat. In June of 2019,

But, when it rains cats and kittens, dozens

Emmie was found outdoors and brought into

of local foster families are waiting to catch them.

Roice-Hurst Humane Society at 4 weeks old

Kittens found outside are brought in droves

with a scrawny frame, intestinal parasites and

to animal shelters, like Roice-Hurst Humane

a gruesome upper respiratory infection that

Society, and many are too young, sick or under-

damaged her eyeballs beyond repair.

Sue Tuffin, a foster volunteer at Roice-

“I knew there was a tremendous need for

One of Tuffin’s most memorable foster

“I went to the shelter with my litter of other

community cat pregnancies in the first place.

fosters for their shots, and, while I was there,

Roice-Hurst Humane Society launched the Grand

the story came up of this little blind kitten. She

Valley Cat Project in August 2019, which combats

was very tiny and fragile and stressed. I had just

cat overpopulation by providing barrier-free

recently lost a blind cat who had been with me

access to spay/neuter surgeries and trap-neuter-

for 23 years, so I said, ‘I think I can help this little

return (TNR) practices. The project focuses its

blind kitty gain some confidence and learn how

efforts in the 81501 ZIP code for now but plans

to navigate in her world. Let me take her home.’

to expand to other ZIP codes in the future.

So, she came home with me,” Tuffin says.

“We are trapping, neutering, vaccinating and

After several months in foster care, Emmie

ear-tipping community cats and then returning

flourished into a healthy, vivacious kitten with a

them to their outdoor homes, so they can no

massive personality and ear tufts to match. When

longer reproduce. With this project, we are also

her damaged eyes had to be surgically removed,

providing spay/neuter surgeries to owned cats in

the vet tech who assisted with the surgery fell in

the 81501 area,” says Mila Revelle, outreach and

love with Emmie and decided to adopt her.

field coordinator for the Grand Valley Cat Project.

“She got a wonderful home. She was just an

Ear-tipping is a simple procedure to remove

exceptionally sweet kitten and a beautiful cat,”

the tip of the cat’s left ear, performed under

says Tuffin.

anesthesia during a spay or neuter surgery. This

is how trappers identify whether or not a cat has

Unfortunately, there are more kittens that

require foster care than there are foster homes,

already been through a TNR program.

and kitten season is an overwhelming strain for

every shelter in the valley. In 2019, Roice-Hurst

Our kitten seasons are pretty brutal. The kittens

Humane Society placed 414 animals into foster

take a lot of our foster home availability; they

“There is a huge need for this TNR program.

homes, 354 of which were cats and kittens.

Orphaned kittens are not the only animals that require foster care. Nursing or pregnant cats and their babies, under-socialized kittens, weaned kittens, older cats and even dogs and puppies are all cared for by foster volunteers.

Foster volunteers range from retirees to working people to college students; a wide range of time commitments and fostering opportunities exist.

Roice-Hurst Humane Society provides foster

volunteers with all the required supplies and veterinary care needed to save kittens, including food, litter, formula, blankets, bottles and more.

Saving lives is at no cost to volunteers — all they need is a dedicated space at home (such as a spare bedroom or bathroom), some extra time

Emmie, a blind kitten, was found outdoors as a sick 4-week-old and flourished in foster care with Sue Tuffin.

and plenty of love to give to animals in need.

take a lot of our supplies, a lot of the shelter

staff’s time. It’s a really draining time of the

“You do know you make a difference,

because a lot of these little guys absolutely would

year,” Revelle says.

not have a chance at life. And who doesn’t love

unconditional love? You become their mom. They

the project was able to sterilize 373 cats. Revelle

know your voice; they look for you; they follow

encourages anyone who is feeding outdoor cats

you. It’s a wonderful experience,” says Tuffin.

to make sure the cats are spayed or neutered,

While fostering makes a tremendous

and, if they aren’t able to do that, then ask for

difference in the lives of Mesa County’s tiniest

help from a local TNR organization like the Cat

felines, the best way to save kittens is to prevent

Project or Grand Valley Pets Alive. :

In its first five months of operations in 2019,

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

65

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feature

CALLING GRAND JUNCTION HOME FOR NEARLY 50 YEARS

LEITNER POMA OF AMERICA Words by Kristen Lummis

I

f you’ve ridden chairlifts in North America

during the past half-century, chances are many

transported on ski area chairlifts, gondolas and

of these lifts had their origin in Grand Junction.

trams, with forms of urban transportation as a

Since the early 1980s, Leitner-Poma of

small but growing business component.

In North America, most of these people are

America, then known simply as Poma, has been

headquartered in Western Colorado.

and operates the Roosevelt Island Tramway in

New York City and an automated people mover

“When Poma was looking to expand in North

On the transport side, Leitner-Poma installed

America in 1980, the Grand Junction airport was

at Miami International Airport.

a ski industry hub with flights coming in and

buses going out to many of the Colorado resorts,”

there are at least 12 North American cities

explains Daren Cole, president of Leitner-Poma.

proposing urban ropeway systems. Among these

“Easy access to Interstate 70 and the railroad,

are Albany, New York and Vancouver, British

along with the climate, were also determining

Columbia, according to Peter Landsman, the

factors,” he says, adding that until 2007 when

publisher of LiftBlog.com.

Leitner-Poma moved to its current facility, much

of the manufacturing was done outdoors.

focus for Leitner-Poma in the United States,”

And while contracts have yet to be awarded,

“Urban transportation is becoming a huge

Rick Spear, who preceded Cole as Leitner-

says Cole, explaining that the cost of an urban

Poma president and has worked for the

gondola is a small fraction of the cost of adding

company since 1978, agrees that the city’s

buses, bridges or subways to a city.

central location, between numerous Colorado

and Utah ski resorts, was important, as was a

component. “50 buses use 50 motors. With a

proposal at that time to build a gondola system

ropeway, one motor is all they need,” says Cole.

in nearby Parachute to access Exxon’s oil shale

work site.

the company’s bottom line, with Leitner-Poma

Energy savings is another important

Still, ski resort chairlifts remain essential to

And while Exxon’s plan never came to

building an average of six to 10 new lifts each

fruition, the concept of using ropeways to move

year and providing service on existing lifts

people to and from work has growing resonance

from Grand Junction and three additional North

for Leitner-Poma today.

American offices.

WE MOVE PEOPLE

NO TWO LIFTS ARE ALIKE

The banner at the top of the Leitner-Poma website

In 2007, Leitner-Poma built a 90,000-square-

boldly proclaims, “We Move People.” And move

foot facility on 15 acres near the Grand Junction

people, they do.

Regional Airport. The move, with assistance

Leitner-Poma of America is within Italy’s

from the Grand Junction Economic Partnership,

High Technologies Industry Group (HTI) and is a

resulted in an increase in employees and indoor

sister company to Leitner A.G. in Italy and Poma

manufacturing capacity.

S.A. in France. Together, these three companies

transport approximately 8,000,000 people per

American employees, with 159 in Grand

hour, worldwide.

Junction, the majority of whom are engineers

Currently, Leitner-Poma has 201 North

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

69

and skilled tradespeople involved in design and

are completely specific to, and designed for, the

manufacturing.

North American market.”

A challenge for these employees, and one

The flexibility to provide each resort with

that keeps their jobs endlessly interesting, is that

exactly the lift they want has garnered Leitner-

every new lift starts from scratch.

Poma with tremendous loyalty, especially in

“No two lifts in the world are exactly the

Colorado where 100 percent of the operating

same,” explains Scott Bierman, who works in

chairlifts at Aspen Snowmass, Breckenridge,

business development. “Every lift is built on

Crested Butte and Powderhorn are from the

unique topography and dependent upon the

Leitner-Poma family.

layout of the resort. None of this is ever the

same,” he says, adding that building a lift or

2020, Arapahoe Basin will join the club.

With two Leitner-Poma lifts on order for

ropeway is like putting together a giant puzzle.

For a new lift, the process begins with

surveying and engineering. Leitner-Poma

AN EXPANDING FAMILY OF COMPANIES In 2016, Leitner-Poma of America acquired Skytrac, a fixed-grip chairlift manufacturer.

Fixed-grip lifts operate at a constant speed, rather than slowing down for loading and unloading like high-speed detachable lifts.

Skytrac remains based in Salt Lake City

and serves an important niche company as ski resorts replace aging infrastructure.

“We are very fortunate to call Grand Junction and the Western Slope home.

The location is a key factor, but more so the community support and local work force are an integral part of our success.”

— Daren Cole, president of Leitner-Poma.

According to Michael Lane with the National

Ski Areas Association, 80 percent of fixed-grip lifts in North America have been installed since 1970. And while resorts are diligent in repairing and upgrading existing chairlift stock, at some point, replacement becomes the most viable option.

In

addition

to

Leitner-Poma,

HTI’s

engineers — civil, electrical and mechanical —

investment in Grand Junction includes a North

design everything from towers and foundations,

American office for Leitwind, a gearless wind

to lift stations, terminals and bull wheels,

turbine manufacturer, along with sales and

along with the electrical brains that control lift

service offices for Prinoth and Demaclenko.

operations.

Snow groomer manufacturer Prinoth has

While some components come from Europe

had a consistent, lengthy sales and service

— notably Swiss rope and Italian grips and

presence in Grand Junction, while Demaclenko,

chairs — 80 percent of each lift is designed and

which produces snowmaking equipment, is just

manufactured in Grand Junction.

getting established in North America under the

leadership of Rick Spear.

“This is what sets us apart,” says Cole,

noting that most of what is built in Colorado is handcrafted from raw steel by skilled machinists

LOCAL IMPACT

and welders.

In 2017, the overall revenue for HTI Group topped

70

“Leitner-

1 billion Euros, or about 1.1 billion U.S. dollars,

Poma creates a customized product that meets

LiftBlog’s

Landsman

agrees.

with Leitner-Poma of America representing over

the needs of North American ski areas of all

50 million dollars in annual sales.

different sizes. Whereas a Doppelmayr lift in

North America is exactly what you’d see in

is crucial, given the company’s size and

Austria, Leitner-Poma’s terminals and towers

manufacturing capability.

The economic impact in the Grand Valley

“I can’t think of anyone else in town who

manufactures products on this scale,” says Sarah Lanci, assistant professor of mechanical engineering at Colorado Mesa University.

“The equipment necessary to build and install chairlifts is huge. Helicopters are needed!”

Each fall, Lanci takes her students to tour

Leitner-Poma’s facilities.

In addition to showing students specific

components of the manufacturing process, Lanci believes the tours underscore the relevance between their classes and an engineering career.

“Visiting Leitner-Poma gives our students an

idea of what they can pursue and aspire to in the future,” explains Lanci. “It adds relevance to our course work and inspires them. CMU is fortunate to have Leitner-Poma here.”

As for Cole, he fully concurs.

“We are very fortunate to call Grand Junction

and the Western Slope home. The location is a key factor, but more so the community support and local work force are an integral part of our success,” he says. “We are proud to be a part of this community.” :

Use Code SPOKEBLOSSOM for 15% off your next order

Cooking in the backyard to the backwoods in seconds.

feature

COLORADO HEMP SOLUTIONS

2020 FARMERS SUMMIT Words by Hannah Odneal | Photos courtesy of Colorado Hemp Solutions

W

hile the overzealous and inexperienced

of their partners are fourth and fifth generation

speed in and fail fast, Tanner Willis &

family farms. Collectively, they met their 2019

Wacey Clarke continue to lead a group of old

harvest goals in terms of volume, but the list of

school, Western Slope farmers into “The Green

challenges to overcome in future seasons is long.

Rush” of industrial hemp farming at a sensible

Willis

and sustainable pace.

communication

Willis and Clarke partnered in exploration

throughout the year, and, in the winter months,

of the hemp industry after they had each seen

they gather them all to reflect on the previous

CBD improve quality of life for people and pets

season and plan for the next. Clarke opened

they cared about. They founded Colorado Hemp

the 2020 Colorado Hemp Solutions Farmers

Solutions in 2016. Knowing that the purest

Summit in January saying, “We’ve developed

extracts provide the maximum health benefit,

relationships with people that give us a clear

they naturally agreed that quality control from

path to having a place in the hemp industry,

seed to salve had to be their company’s guiding

for as long as there is a hemp industry. I know

and

Clarke with

are the

in

constant

other

farmers

principle.

With Willis’s cannabis industry expertise

“I know it’s hard for farmers to tell everybody

in growing, breeding and product development and Clarke’s agribusiness and farming expertise,

their super secrets, but if we all understand

they had a hard time finding an “industrial hemp

that we can spend just as much time talking

consultant” with a knowledge base exceeding their own.

about our failures as we can our successes,

“That’s where the ‘solutions’ part of our

then maybe we can have a humble attitude and

name came from. We had to be, and find, our own solutions. It’s been a constant trial and error,”

come together to compare specific notes.”

Willis says. “As the years went on, we grew into

— Wacey Clarke

this nice, big network of farmers and breeders who can talk freely amongst each other, and we

72

have a lot of things happening now that we just

it’s hard for farmers to tell everybody their

dreamed about in year one.”

super secrets, but if we all understand that we

Seeing the enormous potential for success,

can spend just as much time talking about our

they started looking for the right partners to

failures as we can our successes, then maybe we

grow with — people already accustomed to and

can have a humble attitude and come together to

equipped for a farming lifestyle, who know their

compare specific notes.”

land and weather patterns like the back of their

hand, and still keep meticulous farm records;

— first, on how to best battle their most obvious

people who are adventurous enough to find (and

adversaries (pollination and THC). Next, how

share) their own solutions when necessary. Many

each farmer’s prior experience, independent

Many specific notes were compared, indeed

Wacey Clarke in the Colorado Hemp Solutions greenhouse.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

73

research and advice from CHS shaped their method, and the results. Variables in things like plant genetics, soil preparation, field layout, planting method, weed and pest management, nutrient delivery and use of heavy equipment occurred in many different combinations across plots spread out over the Grand Valley and eastern Utah.

“Genetics is the name of the game. We’re not

gonna make a racehorse out of a mule,” jokes Brian Gold of Pinae Greenhouses, Inc. in Ogden, Utah. “The tomato and corn guys are getting it

Wacey Clarke, Founding Partner of Colorado Hemp Solutions

figured out, but they’ve got 50 years of breeding

commodity futures exchange, and the federal

there.” Gold, who breeds plants for Colorado

government hasn’t been clear about the “what”

Hemp Solutions, emphasized more than once

or the “when” in terms of updated regulations.

that the nurture of the plant is equally, if not

more important, even with strains well-suited

high input farming when the market price is

to the soil and climate. “Everybody thinks it’s a

unclear. We’re not looking for giant expansion,

weed, but it’s tricky to grow! You have to be a

just better execution,” Clarke said to the group.

good farmer.”

The data collected and shared between the

one of cautious optimism, but ultimately, trust

26 partner farms will be analyzed and organized

in the leadership. “We’ve known Wacey since

“In the meantime, it’s hard to rationalize

The overall tone at the Farmers Summit was

he was a kid. He was on football and wrestling teams with my kids and my nephews,” says Joe Bernal. “So, the groundwork is already laid to be a part of a community. The trust factor is there and the latitude to be frank and open is also there, which makes it comfortable.” Bernal attended the summit with his son and nephew, representing the fourth and fifth generations of Bernal Farms in Loma, Colorado. This was their first year growing hemp and they dedicated 40 Tanner Willis, Founding Partner of Colorado Hemp Solutions

of their family’s 950 acres to it.

“We don’t use traditional methods for

row crops. With any crop you have to be able

74

into a master schedule for the 2020 season.

to evolve and constantly be looking for new

Timing, in various stages of the process, is crucial

ways to improve. Hemp is just another avenue

to keeping product compliant with regulations,

for us to learn and grow,” says Bryce Atchley,

and therefore valuable. The data will also guide

representing the fifth generation of Atchley

wise investments in equipment, infrastructure,

Farms in Delta. “We’re stepping out of our shell

nutrients and labor.

a bit here. Farmers don’t usually share their

Often less predictable, and more nerve-

secrets. I mean, you don’t want to cut your own

wracking, than the wild fluctuations in the

throat. But Wacey has a plan, and we believe in

Western Slope’s weather are the economic,

Wacey. If everybody can work together, we can

regulatory and political climates surrounding

get more accomplished. I’m sitting in a room full

this controversial industry. Clarke predicts

of successful growers, and it’s good to bounce

hemp is still a decade away from trading on a

these ideas off of each other.” :

events

GET OUT THERE!

IT’S COLORADO ... THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING GOING ON MARCH

TEDx Grand Junction

Downtown Restaurant Week

Grand Junction, CO March 7

March 6-15 Grand Junction, CO Whether you’re feeling like breakfast, lunch, dinner, a drink or have a case of the late-night cravings, many restaurants will be participating this year to bring you the best culinary taste of Grand Junction when you need it the most. Get your passport stamped at every eatery you visit, and you might qualify to win a prize at the end of the week! downtowngj.org/restaurant-week

Listen to the visionaries of the community give insightful and engaging lectures about thoughtprovoking topics. The Avalon Theatre will host 16 sessions starting at 9 a.m. tedxgj.com

Ullr Nights Snowmass Village, CO March 13 Honor the Norse God of Snow in a night of winter festivities. From

snowshoe tours to sledding to snowbiking, Elk Camp hosts a true wintertime extravaganza. The wonderland opens at 5 p.m. and runs until 9 p.m. Reservations are recommended. gosnowmass.com

The Brewery Comedy Tour Grand Junction, CO March 12 Have a laugh at Edgewater Brewery as over a dozen comics from New York and Los Angeles stop by and perform.

These aren’t your run-of-the-mill jokesters from down the street — these

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comics have performed at festivals and TV! The jokes start at 7 p.m. kannahcreekbrewingco.com

ArtWalk on Broadway Eagle, CO March 13 Stop by Eagle and enjoy the businesses open for the monthly Art Walk! Live music and local artists will be hosted for your enjoyment. Shops will have sales, so make sure to snag a deal while you’re there! The walk starts at 5 p.m. eagleoutside.com

Montrose Farmers Market Montrose, CO March 14 The Montrose Farmers Market is one of the oldest on the Western Slope. It’s a year-round market that just never stops giving. The locally grown products cycle through the year, so there must be something for everybody. All Montrose Farmers Markets run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. montrosefarmersmarket.com

Pepper Entertainment Presents: KANSAS Grand Junction, CO March 15 Revel in nostalgia as KANSAS comes to town. The legendary band performs music that has propelled them through decades of dominance on the Billboard charts. As part of their anniversary tour, KANSAS is sure to rock the Western Slope. Doors open at 6 p.m. avalontheatregj.com

Artists of Crested Butte Art Walk Crested Butte, CO March 20 Take a stroll and see what the artists of Crested Butte have to offer! Visit the 11 galleries and get inspired! The event is from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. artistsofcrestedbutte.org/events/ art-walk

76

Pink Vail Vail, CO March 28 Ski for a cause as you enjoy live music and a community of over 3,000 strong that has come together to fight cancer on the slopes. Absolutely all the Pink Vail donations and registration fees directly benefit those in the Shaw Cancer Center. You don’t even have to ski to participate! pinkvail.com

Western Slope Beer Fest Grand Junction, CO March 28 Sample craft beer from breweries that pepper the Western Slope. It’s the 8th annual festival and this one is surely not about to disappoint. A portion of all proceeds go to RiversEdge West, an organization dedicated to restoring the riparian lands throughout the western America. kannahcreekbrewingco.com

APRIL Taste of Vail Vail, CO April 1-4 Don’t be a fool. Start April off right at a high-quality food festival. The four-day event hosts over 5,000 people as they eat and drink their way through Vail’s finest restaurants and wineries. Enjoy the view or visit a seminar. Don’t forget the lamb sauce! The American Lamb Cook-Off also lets you sample lamb dishes from the kitchens of the finest chefs around. tasteofvail.com

Steamboat Springalicious Festival Steamboat, CO April 1-12 Enjoy two whole weeks of free concerts, wacky events and welcoming spring! Watch homemade cardboard vehicles hurdle downhill or root for skiers to make it across the pond

during the Splashdown Pond Skimming Championship. There’s something for everybody on the resort. Did we mention free concerts? steamboat.com/things-to-do/events/ springalicious

Flaushink Festival Crested Butte, CO April 3, 5, 6 + 7 Flush out winter and welcome spring in the 51st year of the event. The oldest festival in Crested Butte includes a coronation ball, a polka and a parade.

End the festivities with a ski to Flauschink Hill. An odd event if there ever was one but darn it it’s tradition!

The festival starts at noon. gunnisoncrestedbutte.com

CMU Performing Arts Presents: The Wolves Grand Junction, CO April 9-18 CMU’s experimental theatre puts on a show about the American Dream. It’s about persistence, drive and existential problems that plague us all day in and day out. It’s about girl’s indoor soccer?

Catch it on consecutive weekends at 7:30 p.m. or a matinee at 2 p.m. coloradomesa.universitytickets. com

Spring Back to Vail Vail, CO April 11-14 Be there as Vail blossoms back to life as spring approaches. Free concerts at Ford Park and late season specials are available. Don’t forget the World Pond Skimming Championship happens here too! Participants launch themselves from a jump and attempt to make it to the other side of the pond where glory lies. vail.com

Palisade International Honeybee Festival Palisade, CO April 17-18 Advocate for the honeybee population by coming down to an international event. Vendors from around the community come together to celebrate

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Welcome home.

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the little bees that make the town so fruitful. Before you ask, yes, there will be a spelling bee! palisadehoneybeefest.org

Durango Bluegrass Meltdown Durango, CO April 17-19 Hang loose over a few nights of bluegrass music that will sure to make you do a jig. Share your music or listen to other musicians play in concert settings for all to hear. Multiple venues will be open to host all the talent that is sure to come. durango.com

5Point Adventure Film Festival Carbondale, CO April 22-26 Spend five days at the 5Point Adventure Film Festival as you watch some impactful stories on the big screen that teach us about the boundaries that we have often pushed through to transform ourselves and the world around us. Come celebrate the outdoors and ourselves by hearing the stories the filmmakers will tell.

5pointfilm.org

Grand Junction Renaissance Faire Grand Junction, CO April 25-26 Be transported to the medieval ages where knights dueled and magic was casted. This enchanted place will only be around for two days so be sure to stop by and see what treasures you find within. The lutes are tuned starting at 10 a.m. on both days. myfairsandfestivals.com/548601grand-junction-renaissance-fairegrand-junction-colorado-april-2020. html

Pints and Pools Craft Beer Festival Pagosa Springs, CO April 25 Choose from 23 soaking pools at The Springs Resort and Spa. These hot

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springs will be your friends as you enjoy a full bar and beer tastings. Over 50 types of beers will be available alongside two food trucks to keep you fed. Beer tastings begin at 3 p.m. visitpagosasprings.com

MAY Walk MS: Grand Junction 2020 Grand Junction, CO May 2 Walk for a good cause in Canyon View park. Register online for a one-mile or three-mile route in efforts to raise funds and awareness for Multiple Sclerosis and those affected by the condition. The walk begins at 9:30 a.m. secure.nationalmssociety.org

Grand Junction Rockestra Grand Junction, CO May 2 Rock out at this unique musical experience that finds itself echoing the sound of Journey, Bon Jovi and Def Leppard. If that didn’t sell you, proceeds from the ticket sales goes to a scholarship fund for CMU’s Music Department. The music starts at 7:30 p.m. at Robinson Theatre. coloradomesa.edu/arts/music/ rockestra

Brews & Cruise Festival Palisade, CO May 4 Make your way down “Brew Way” in downtown Palisade as you drink craft beer and enjoy local appetizers from participating restaurants. Live music is planned, and friends are to be made at this cute festival. If that’s not interesting enough for you, then perhaps buy a VIP tent and enjoy craft beer not available around these parts. palisadebrewscruise.com

Wave (Light, Water & Sound) Festival Breckenridge, CO May 28-May 31 Find wonder in this four-day festival in Blue River Plaza. This festival features art that center around the theme of light, water and sound. Experience what should be a mesmerizing show that will please your eyes and ears.

Did we mention that it’s free? You can’t beat that. gobreck.com/event/wave-lightwater-sound

Mike the Headless Chicken Festival Fruita, CO May 29-30 Celebrate the persistent life of Mike, the headless chicken. This festival sees everything from a 5k run to a car show. Enter a peep eating contest or play disc golf! Of course, you can’t miss the poultry show inside! Take home a t-shirt from one of the vendors and roam around while the live music plays. miketheheadlesschicken.org

Campout for the Cause Buena Vista, CO May 29-May 31 Bonfire Entertainment presents the 12th annual Campout for the Cause at The Meadows in Buena Vista. Featuring headliners that include The California Honeydrops, along with yoga classes and community workshops. campoutforthecause.org

Grand Junction Off-Road & Downtown Music Festival Grand Junction, CO May 29-31 Join Grand Junction for three days of free music across different stages. As the music plays, take a walk down the Grand Junction Horizon Sunrise Beer and Wine Garden that occupies four blocks of Main Street. As the festival enters its eighth year in existence, it is sure to be the most ambitious and enjoyable one yet. downtowngj.org/signature-events/ music-festival :

who we are

LORI + TROY RAPER Interview by Naomi Allen | Photo courtesy of Lori + Troy Raper

L

ori and Troy Raper are teachers at Palisade

Lori: As an art teacher I

High School and experts at collaborating with

am always collaborating

their community. We took some time to learn

on different levels. I

more about the various ways they stay connected.

encourage my students to

work

together

on

Spoke+Blossom: What are the activities

projects. I give feedback

you both do in the community?

to each of them on

Lori: We are both involved with Grand Valley Yoga

their individual work.

Fest, whose proceeds go to suicide prevention and

I

awareness in the valley. This is important to me

other teachers to help

because it brings together two of my passions.

students be successful. I

I have practiced and taught yoga for over 20

collaborate with members of the community to

years. Suicide has affected me personally and I

provide opportunities that my students would

am passionate about finding ways to help those

not normally get, like learning to raku fire with

who are struggling. I am a ceramic artist with

Terry Shepherd or participating in the Alturusa

a studio in my home. I donate several pieces a

Art Fair or super rad art shows.

also

work

with

year to causes that I am passionate about. I teach photography for Colorado Christian University’s

S+B: Lori, how is collaboration important

online college, and love having students from

in the art community, especially

around the world learn a skill that will stay with

in the Grand Valley?

them for the rest of their lives.

Lori: Art can be a very social endeavor and

Troy is the principal bass in the Grand

it is especially true in ceramics. Local artists

Junction Symphony Orchestra. He is one of the

gather to load and fire kilns and participate

founding organizers of the Grand Valley Honor

in workshops. My students paint Christmas

Orchestra. Troy was the production manager

windows. We participate in fundraisers and

and one of the bass players for the Crested Butte

auctions to support important causes. For music

Music Festival for 20 years. Troy also coaches the

they put on district music festivals, community

E-sports team at Palisade High School.

theatre performances, honor groups and other performing groups. The arts are inherently

S+B: In what way is collaboration

collaborative endeavors.

most applicable to you?

Troy: As an orchestra teacher, I work with

S+B: Troy, how is collaboration

fellow

important for a successful orchestra?

music

sectional

coaches

and

college teachers to improve musical output —

Troy: Collaboration in all music (except solo

an example would be the department-wide

pieces) involves communicating in a variety of

musical performance of The Music Man. For this

ways to reach a singular goal as an ensemble.

musical to come together it was necessary for

Failure to collaborate would mean that there

the choir teacher, theater teacher, band director

is no performance. You are collaborating by

and orchestra teacher — as well as the shop

listening to the entire group in order to make

teacher — to collaborate to produce a successful

adjustments to pitch, style and artistry. :

performance.

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