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W E S T E R N
C O L O R A D O
FALL COCKTAIL RECIPE 16 TIPS TO REDUCE STRESS 42 GETAWAY TO GREATER ZION 62 MTN BIKE SAN JUAN HUTS 64 FALL 2020 / ISSUE 13
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CO N T lifestyle
what’s up in the west
NATE RYAN
9
2
8
VOICES OF WESTERN COLORADO Locals Weigh in on Unity
9
WHAT’S UP IN THE WEST Fenceline Cider & Wine Expands its Reach
34 24
BOOK + BEVERAGE Solar Storms by Linda Hogan Cusa Chai Tea
26
OUR FAVORITE INSTAGRAMS
10
WHAT’S UP IN THE WEST Grand Junction Parade of Homes
28
STYLE Shop Small for Big Rewards
12
BLOSSOM Wacky Apple: Healthy + Fun Snacks from Hotchkiss
30
MAKER Christopher Dungey Gives Cellos Their Voice
14
HOME + GARDEN Fill & Refill, Edwards
34
MUSIC Moab Music Festival
16
DRINK Fall Fruit Old Fashioned
38
FOOD The Community Market
18
EAT Fall Recipes: Adaptations from Favorite Cookbooks
42
22
EAT Palisade Pies
WELLNESS + FITNESS Stress + The Pandemic: Tips For More Ease During Challenging Times
E N TS adventure
features + events
62
71 64
SPOKE Gear for the Season
RIDE ON San Juan Hut Systems Supports Mountain Bike Adventures
68
51
SPOKE Gear Profile: PEARL iZUMi
TRANSFORMING LIVES Crested Butte’s Adaptive Sports Center
71
54
SPOKE Athlete Profile: Melissa Lowe
RIGHT AND WRONG Grand Valley Activists Combat Racism in the Wake of George Floyd’s Murder
56
FAMILY Riverside Educational Center
74
THE FORAGE SISTERS Catering Seasonal Farm Dinners for Colorado
58
TAKE A HIKE Lost Lake: Three Lakes Loop Trail
78
EVENTS: FALL 2020
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60
STAY + PLAY Snowmass + Aspen, CO
WHO WE ARE Q+A with Jeff Snook and Jody Corey Spoke and Vine Motel, Palisade
62
GETAWAY Greater Zion, UT
45
GRAND OUTDOORS Finding Clarity Downriver
48
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
3
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
UNITY A universal truth brought to light over the past six months is that we cannot predict the future. While battling a global pandemic, we’re seeing widespread protests against systemic racism, small business crises everywhere, fires raging across the west and bordering our towns, not to mention intense experiences of loss, anxiety and fear for countless individuals. For many, life may get harder before this collective upheaval settles down. One thing is certain — if we want to see our communities and world move in a positive direction in the coming months, years and decades, we have to work together. “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” In writing those words, Helen Keller, amidst her disabilities, shared insight that has continued to inspire generations. We’ve all had a few disabling experiences in the past several months, and whether theses impacts are short term or long term for you, as we each start to move forward, one day at a time, may we all support and inspire each other along the way. Spoke+Blossom is here with you. We believe that quality storytelling is one way we can continue to have a positive impact on western Colorado and beyond. This issue shares health tips from Dr. Richard Fulton for relieving stress in these challenging times, an article on a local food bank serving their community right, ideas for safe and fun adventures, delicious fall recipes and so much more. Read these pages and get to know more about the amazing people and places behind such a special part of the world. We all need to be a little bigger than ourselves right now; know that your actions make a difference and remember that we can be even better when we come together.
Publisher + Co-Owner
Join the Spoke+Blossom Community Instagram @spokeandblossom
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Keep in touch with us between issues! Check out our website, spokeandblossom.com, for updates and events, and follow us on social media. Scan this QR code with your smart phone to be taken directly to our website.
4
Publishers Kim Fuller + Bobby L’Heureux Editor-In-Chief Kim Fuller Editorial Manager Lexi Reich Art Director Kitty Nicholason Staff Photographer Cat Mayer Advertising Bobby L’Heureux Interns Naomi Allen Lauren Farrauto Brooke Welsh Michelle Yuma Contributors Raymond Adams Naomi Allen Keenan Alexander Emily Ayers Lisa Blake Richard Bowditch AJ Carrillo Alex Chan EJ Dilley Lauren Farrauto Jeff Fierberg Jayme Henderson Kristin Holbrook James Kaiser Elizabeth Leslie Kristen Lummis Chloe Mayer Cat Mayer Kimberly Nicoletti Tobias Rademacher Nate Ryan Jeff Steele Sharon Sullivan Tamara Susa Jose Valsecia Jill Waugh Brooke Welsh Melanie Wiseman Michelle Yuma Cover Photograph Jayme Henderson
Kim Fuller
facebook.com/ spokeandblossom
Founder Robin Brown
This magazine is shareable and recyclable. Please don’t throw it in the trash.
Spoke+Blossom Magazine Jaunt Media Collective 2077 North Frontage Road / 103A Vail, CO 81657 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.
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contributors
LISA BLAKE Lisa is a freelance writer living in Breckenridge, specializing in dining, outdoors, ski resorts and wellness. She is happiest on her mountain bike, yoga mat or in a raft with her husband, son and pug. Her work has been featured in Aspen Modern Luxury, Purist, 5280. com and GoBreck.com. Find her at lisablakecreative.com.
EMILY AYERS Emily is a transplant from California with a passion for storytelling. She enjoys writing about food, culture and people. If she’s not out exploring local restaurants and shops, you can find her in the digital marketing world helping small businesses tell their story.
KRISTIN HOLBROOK Kristin is a sporty and fashionable full-time resident of Telluride, Colorado, running Two Skirts boutique and a household of two sons and a husband. A New Jersey girl, she graduated from the University of Virginia with a B.A. in English Literature and Art History.
MICHELLE YUMA Michelle has always loved music and continues to do anything involving that element. She has recently graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder with a major in Journalism. She spent the summer of 2019 working backstage at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, getting as close to music as possible.
CHLOE MAYER Chloe is a homeschooling 8th grader who loves baking sweets, reading mythology and being outdoors. She lives in Grand Junction with her two brothers and parents, and is very excited to start traveling again after quarantine!
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BROOKE WELSH The power of words and pictures has always been an important aspect in Brooke’s life. Her current position as an intern for YOGA + Life® Magazines and Spoke+Blossom allows her to grow as an aspiring journalist along with combining her two passions: writing and photography.
RESIDENTIAL DESIGN + INTERIORS + SITE PLANNING 124 Grand Ave, PAONIA, COLO | 135 Pocketville Rd, VIRGIN, UTAH @studio_mw www.studiomwarch.com (303) 910 4557 “Fun... Organic... and Real”
MODERN WESTERN DESIGN
Idaho Springs, CO
Boulder Town, UT
Zion National Park, UT
Molly Wheelock, Principal
voices of western colorado
UNITY We Asked These Western Slope Locals to Weigh in on This Topic. Compiled by Brooke Welsh
ANNA STOUT
KATHI ROY
JOHN HUMPHRIES
City Council Member, executive director at Roice-Hurst Humane Society, founder and president of Foundation for Cultural Exchange
Wine Country Ceremonies
Owner of Lizard Head Cycling Guides
“To me, unity is a word for joining
“Unity in the 21st-century is
together as a whole, often with a
more important than ever. To
common purpose. It is the opposite
me, unity is a shared vision of
of being divided. We unite when
environmental sustainability
we pray, go to concerts or root
and caring for one another. In
for our favorite team. Recently,
the big picture, our time together
we have witnessed unity in our
on this planet is both short and
community when people protest
challenging. Our legacy will be
injustice. Fortunately, as a life
the love we offer one another and
cycle celebrant, I get to witness
the environment we leave for our
unity in the ceremonies I co-
children. At this point in time,
create. In a marriage ceremony,
the planet’s warming climate and
the unity candle unites not only
associated drought, pestilence
the couple, but two or more
and infestations are humbling
families as friends, as well. We
the world. Working towards a
experience unity at a celebration
brighter future will require both
of life when we collectively listen
a unity of vision and patience.”
“Unity, to me, is an understanding of our shared interdependence. The idea that when one of us suffers, we all suffer and if one of us succeeds, we all succeed. I have seen it on multiple levels as the pandemic has taken place and as issues of race have really come to the surface. Just within our organization, realizing that the only way we are going to stay safe and continue to be able to serve animals, pet owners and the community, is if we are looking out for each other.”
to stories, share a moment of silence and commune with fellow grievers. Harmony, goodwill and love abound when we gather together in unity. “
8
what's up in the west
FENCELINE CIDER & WINE EXPANDS ITS REACH Words by Michelle Yuma | Photo courtesy of Fenceline Cider & Wine
P
assing by a landscape full of lush orchards might seem like beautiful scenery, but for
Neal Wight, co-founder of Fenceline Cider & Wine, those beautiful orchards are something so much more than that.
“I grew up in a vineyard, so I’ve always
been around agriculture my entire life,” Wight shares. He explains how his upbringing helped guide him to a career revolving around local agriculture. “It’s been a part of my existence, so it’s kind of second nature to me.”
Fenceline creates beautifully crafted
local ciders and wines. Their ciders are Wight’s passion, using up all the beautiful amenities the apples from the orchards have to offer. It all started from realizing the diminished appreciation for these trees.
“I mean, a big part of it was the underutilized
apple orchards in Montezuma County and La Plata County,” Wight explains. “There’s a long history of apple cultivation in the county and people kind of stopped taking care of their trees so a lot of those fall to the ground.”
taken a huge hit during COVID-19. Wight explains
how the initial closing and shutdowns took a toll
According to Wight, that’s how Fenceline is
unique compared to mass cideries and makers.
on local morale.
They care about the local origins of the apples
and how important it is from the beginning. Also,
surrounding Fenceline and those loving their
maintaining a focus on local produce sets this
beverages, the company is coming up with new
company apart. “I would say about 90 percent of
ways to stay connected to their customers. They
our fruit comes from the Colorado Plateau, the
are launching a whole club dedicated to ciders
four-corners area,” he shares.
and cider-lovers.
Some exciting news is these delicious drinks
Because of this huge impact on the people
“There’s perks with discounts of other
are now available in more areas, expanding
purchases, and once we can start doing more
their tasty creativity beyond just southwestern
events, we can have parties,” Wight shares.
Colorado. Wight says a couple of liquor stores
“It’s just a way we can serve people right now,
in Flagstaff and Prescott, Arizona will now be
locally and outside of the area that want to taste
carrying Fenceline products as well.
our ciders.”
Not only is Fenceline committed to bringing
Fenceline is open in Mancos, Colorado. The
the orchards back to life to produce amazing
inside isn’t open to the public as of yet, but the
drinks, but the community takes a huge part of
patio remains open for now.
the company.
me happy to see everybody hanging out,”
“Definitely it’s the community that we serve,”
Wight says. A community that has unfortunately
“Now that we’re back open, it really makes
Wight says. :
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
9
what's up in the west
OCTOBER 2-4 + 9-11
GRAND JUNCTION PARADE OF HOMES Words by Kim Fuller | Photos courtesy of J. Howell Custom Home Builder
T
10
he Grand Junction Parade of Homes is a
Because of COVID-19, the Parade of Homes
long-standing tradition in the Grand Valley
committee made a strategic decision to offer
brought to you by the Western Colorado Home
both in-person and virtual tickets for people to
Builders Association (HBA).
experience the unique and gorgeous homes on
T hro ug h t h e P a ra de of H om e s , HBA
display during this year’s parade. These two
showcases builders and tradesmen in the region
options will allow people to participate in a way
who are able to introduce new building and
that feels safest and most comfortable for them.
design trends. It’s a great opportunity for those
looking to build or remodel to meet builders,
collaborated with Fixture Studio to debut a
walk through floor plans and see different
design/build project that was truly design-
design and architecture styles on display.
led from start to finish. They had the honor
In 2019, J. Howell Custom Home Builder
of winning each award in the 500,000 to 1 million-dollar home category, including the sought-after People’s Choice Award.
This home was a different style than
much of what is currently built in Grand Junction, with nods to Scandinavian modern and mid-century styles. With clean lines and a sophisticated aesthetic, it stood out as a modern home and the risk of trying something new paid off.
“People in the Grand Valley are ready
to embrace modern, more progressive architecture and design elements,” shares Justin Howell of J. Howell Custom Home Builder. Howell serves as a board member for HBA and volunteers on the Parade of Homes Committee, which is responsible for organizing the parade each year.
For example, the designer on the project
used a large feather chandelier in the office; she also incorporated a black accent wall in the master bedroom, which became the focal point and made the bedside gold pendants stand out.
Fixture Studio also worked side-by-side
with the landscape architect to ensure that even the plants used reflected the home’s style and created flow throughout the entire property. This project was a showcase of what is possible when all pieces of the homebuilding process come together in a thoughtful and congruent plan.
Although J. Howell Custom Home
Builder is not building in this year ’s parade, Howell says he will be cheering on his fellow builders, who are building under very difficult circumstances with COVID supply chain disruptions. J. Howell will also be giving away tickets in support of the event. To enter, follow @j.howell_ builder on Instagram. The giveaway will go live on September 15 and one lucky participant will win two tickets for the 2020 Parade of Homes.
October 2-4 and 9-11, 23 homes will be
open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays. Tickets can be purchased online at gjparade.com. :
blossom
HEALTHY + FUN SNACKS FROM HOTCHKISS
WACKY APPLE Words by Melanie Wiseman | Photo courtesy of Wacky Apple
A
“fun and fruity party in your mouth,” a “wow
store. Their goal became to provide education,
for your senses.” The Tuft family of Hotchkiss
in addition to expanding the limited choice of
uses these words to describe their delicious Wacky
healthy snacks, while appealing to kids.
Apple products. They believe “eating should be
more than just enjoyable, it should be silly and
Sarah Tuft, marketing director. “Food has a story
scrumptious, fun and fantastic!”
— it’s not just something set in front of you.”
Edward Tuft began growing organic apple
The Tufts came up with a fun, engaging
varieties in the 1970s, but they were a tough
name and packaging to grab people’s attention.
sell. Although his personal belief in organic
produce — “food for your children and your
years,” shares Edward. “I’m an old apple farmer
children’s children” — was at the core of his
with a crazy idea.
mission, the market for organic produce was
nearly nonexistent at the time. He found himself
employees are kept busy pressing apples into
swimming upstream against the old school
organic applesauce, fruit juice and dried flat
mentality that food is just food, and you don’t
fruit snacks in Wacky Apple’s 25,000 square foot
need to understand the agriculture piece.
manufacturing center. Their goal is to always
source locally, in addition to the apples their
Although challenging at first, the interest
“Folks have been calling me ‘Wacky’ for 20
Thirty year-round and additional seasonal
in pesticide-free produce eventually took off
farm produces.
and Tuft went from his farm’s original 40 acres
to 250 acres today, growing apple varieties like
school districts in northeastern Colorado, Whole
Honeycrisp, Gala and Fuji.
Foods, King Soopers, Natural Grocers and several
Wacky Apple supplies healthy snacks for six
Eleven years ago, Tuft’s daughter, Chloe,
small independent stores. The “prettiest” apples
came home with a sugary snack from school and
are sold as fresh packs, and seconds become one
said, “You guys can make something better than
of their three pressed products. Any leftovers
this!” The dream and mission for expanding into
are made into compost for next year.
another market for their organic apples was born.
is zero waste,” adds Sarah. “The amount of food
The Tufts found that children didn’t know
where food comes from, other than the grocery
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“There’s a whole world behind food,” explains
“Our business is pretty special because there
people waste is terrible.”
The Tufts found their niche in northeastern
No sugar or artificial ingredients are ever added.
Colorado school districts, who already had the
Products are all certified organic and Kosher,
organic food mindset, and look forward to it
vegan, non-GMO, BPA free, gluten free, corn free,
catching on in other districts. Every teacher in
soy free, nut free and dairy free.
a school that buys their products receives an
educational video showing how their fun apple
“applesauce with attitude” — is available in
foods are made.
Golden, Apricot, Cinnamon, Wild Berry and
Wacky Apple applesauce — described as
“There was a huge shift in mentality for
Mango. Fruit juices come in Apple, Fruit Punch,
the staff who purchased the school’s food, from
Grape, Wild Berry and Apple Grape; “Create a
just heating up something frozen to now buying
celebration in your mouth!” Apple, Wild Berry
directly from farms,” Sarah claims. “It wasn’t
and Apple Cinnamon dried flat fruit is the perfect
long before parents started calling and asking
snack when you want to have a fresh apple, but
how they were getting their kids to eat fruit.”
don’t have a lot of space, as it fits easily in your
pocket, backpack, purse or lunch box.
The Tuft’s vision is to provide delicious,
healthy and fun snacks while educating children
Each year Wacky Apple works diligently
and families about making healthy eating
with Food Bank of the Rockies. They recently
choices. Plus, what child can resist packaging
donated 73,920 servings to help feed children
with characters’ shining, happy, dancing eyes
affected by Covid’s school restrictions.
and smiles inviting you to give them a try? The
packaging also steers you to the Wacky Apple
kids,” says Edward.
website’s “Fun Zone,” for interactive games,
“I am on a mission to bring healthy food to Mission accomplished. :
recipes and activities for the whole family.
Their products use only organic sun-ripe
apples, adding just the best organic ingredients.
9754 3100 Road / Hotchkiss, CO 970.872.4479 / wackyapple.com
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Vines, Berries, Grapes & Evergreens & Expert Advice &
Locally Owned Since 1968
&
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Gifts, Garden Art & More!
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970.242.7766
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home + garden
EDWARDS, COLORADO
FILL & REFILL Words by Lauren Farrauto | Photos by EJ Dilley
A
14
llison Burgund’s sustainability story began
at a very young age. Her father was an
she explains. Every bottle and product needs
“You save energy by using local products,”
attorney for an environmental protection
to come from somewhere. Using local products
agency, and she has aunts, uncles and most of
saves gas, production cost and supports the
her family invested in this line of work in some
community. Burgund says one of her vendors,
way, shape or form.
Solandra, uses locally-sourced ingredients to
Her renewed vigor began when she visited a
craft her hand soaps. “It gives you a wonderful,
recycling plant with her second-grade daughter
silky feel and is all natural — a win all the way
for a school trip. At the facility, guides explained
around,” she adds.
that China was not buying the recycling the
plant produced, so the trash was compacted
initially seemed as though small businesses that
and stored there. Burgund then realized that
required high contact, like Fill & Refill, would
recycling had become a business before it was
not make it.
a way to save the planet. When she returned
home, she started a one-month trash audit of her
good, but I was definitely concerned,” Burgund
family, during which she saved every piece of
shares. She was worried about her business,
trash her family of four generated. The results
but also for the increase in shipping materials
shocked her and were the final push she needed
and other disposable goods that resulted from
to open her business in an effort to give back to
quarantine. Fortunately, the store was able to
the earth and her community.
reopen June 1 and actually saw a consistent
When COVID-19 hit the United States, it
“We closed in March and April for the greater
In 2019, Burgund launched Fill & Refill in
uptake in new clients. Burgund believes that
Edwards, Colorado. The business identifies itself
because people were forced to stay inside, they
as “an unpackaged store dedicated to reducing
saw what they were consuming — and the waste
single waste plastics” by providing “refillable,
those products generated — constantly. “People
eco-conscious, sustainable, bath, body and home
come in and say thank you,” she explains,
products.” They sell hand soap, laundry soap,
proving that many in the community are looking
shampoo and conditioner, dish washer soap,
for more sustainable options.
cleaning products, lotions and DIY ingredients,
such as argon oil and rosehip seed oil, to name a
limited hours due to the pandemic: Monday
few. All of Burgund’s products are sourced from
through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., as of
local vendors.
reopening. Burgund asks that customers clean
The store has also adjusted by opening on
Skin Care & Wellness
Grand Junction, Colorado 970.250.7583 SuiteOneSkinCare.com Allison Burgund in her Edwards shop
their containers before coming in to refill, and
than 100 years until they have to find another
then use the alcohol-based disinfectant outside
place for trash,” she explains. The less you can
the store before entering. If possible, she will
contribute to landfills, the better. Other easy
refill the bottles herself, but, if not, the pumps
ways to start are with their natural deodorant,
will be disinfected after each use. Due to the
sold in a compostable cardboard tube, or
increase in demand, the company has placed
the reusable napkins that replace wasteful
small refill stations across Edwards for those
paper towels.
unable to come into the store and has created
a partnership with local company All the Good
five bottles a month. That equates to over 50 a
Things, which completes deliveries to customers’
year per person,” Burgund says. She encourages
homes. Burgund is also planning to expand into
customers to pick their top five most used
a bigger store come August to accommodate
products and swap them out. For most people
high demand.
that’s hand soap, dish soap, shampoo, conditioner
“You have the opportunity to possibly save
Converting to a sustainable lifestyle may
and lotion. Reusing the old bottles and refilling
seem daunting, but Burgund says that it just
them with locally-made, natural products is one
takes getting your feet wet to start. “My number
of the surest ways to limit your waste.
one recommendation? Start with your laundry
detergent,” she says. “Those containers are
she says.
made well; you don’t need a new one, just
new product.”
create places where small acts can happen
more often. :
In fact, Burgund prefers that people bring in
their own containers, rather than purchase one of her reusable glass bottles. “Landfills have less
“Small acts, repeat often — that’s my motto,” Hopefully, more people like Burgund can
210 Edwards Village Blvd / A110 970.331.3444 / fillandrefill.com SPOKE+BLOSSOM
15
drink
FALL FRUIT OLD FASHIONED Words + Photo by Jayme Henderson
I
find myself doing a lot more
and fruit juice, preferably freshly
nesting as fall approaches.
juiced. Warm and stir the mixture
Picking ripe apples from our tree,
over medium-low heat, adding
enjoying the peach jam I made a few
your choice of complementary
weeks back and finding my favorite
spices. Remove from heat after
kind of pear for a crisp — these
reaching a low simmer and let cool,
activities ground me, especially
straining the solids afterwards. For
during these uncertain times.
the cocktail recipe featured here, I
made pear-ginger, apple-star anise
A classic Old Fashioned is
so casually delicious, and it only
and peach-cardamom syrups.
requires three ingredients: whiskey,
simple syrup and bitters. I enjoy
unique flavor profile to the cocktail
swapping the basic simple syrup
and can be used in various other
for various fruit syrups, enhanced
recipes. For added depth, try out
with fall baking spices, to create
different aromatic bitters, like
complex, cozy riffs on the cocktail.
toasted pecan, spiced orange or
black walnut. :
For the spiced fruit syrups,
Each of these syrups brings a
simply combine equal parts sugar
FALL FRUIT OLD FASHIONED 2 ounces whiskey 1/2 ounce spiced fruit syrup 3 dashes aromatic bitters Dehydrated slices of fruit, for garnish
1. I n a mixing glass, combine the whiskey, spiced fruit syrup and aromatic bitters. 2. A dd ice and stir until mixture is chilled. 3. S train into a cocktail glass and serve over a large ice cube. 4. G arnish with dehydrated fall fruit.
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SPOKE+BLOSSOM
17
eat
FALL RECIPES Words by Chloe Mayer | Photos by Cat Mayer
I
like to make these favorite recipes with my family when the weather gets cold. They are
simple, straightforward and delicious! These recipes use common ingredients that we usually have in our pantry, so we can make them anytime. These recipes are from some favorite cookbooks, which are mentioned with the recipes. I hope you enjoy!
BLACK BEAN SOUP SERVES 6
This recipe comes from a beautiful book called What’s Cooking at 10 Garden Street by illustrator Felicita Sala. We adapt the recipe to be vegetarian for my brother Oliver by using vegetarian “bacon” and vegetable stock. Either way, it’s delicious! 4 strips of bacon, chopped 1 red onion, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced 2 garlic cloves, pressed 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp dried oregano 1 Tbsp tomato paste 3 cans black beans 2 1/4 cups stock or bean cooking liquid Juice of 2 limes 2 chopped spring onions
1. H eat a stockpot over medium heat, add some olive oil and fry the bacon for two minutes, until brown.
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2. A dd onion and bell pepper and cook on gentle heat for five minutes.
4. A dd the beans and stock. Season with salt to taste. Simmer for a half hour, stirring occasionally.
3. d d the garlic, cumin, oregano and tomato paste. Stir and cook another minute.
5. A dd lime juice at the end and serve with spring onions or cilantro.
CREAMY CHEDDAR GRITS SERVES 6
This recipe comes from Ina Garten’s book Back to Basics. We love Ina’s cheerful personality, which comes through in her recipes. We make these grits often; they are my dad’s favorite. 2 tsp kosher salt 1 cup fine quick-cooking grits or polenta (not instant) 1 1/4 cups milk 2 Tbsp unsalted butter 1 1/2 cups (4 ounces) aged medium cheddar or smoked cheese 1/2 cup chopped scallions (white and green parts) 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper Grated cheddar and chopped scallions for garnish
1. B ring 4 cups of water to a boil in a heavy 4-quart saucepan. Add the salt, then slowly add the grits in a thin, steady stream, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. 2. R educe the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally until grits thicken, about five to seven minutes. 3. A dd the milk and butter to the grits and stir. The mixture will seem thin, but it will thicken as it cooks. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. 4. C over the pot, reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally for 45 minutes, until very smooth and creamy. 5. O ff the heat, stir in the cheddar, scallions and pepper. 6. S eason to taste and serve hot with a sprinkle of grated cheese and scallions.
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
19
SWEET POTATO SNICKERDOODLE COOKIES MAKES 2 DOZEN COOKIES
This recipe is adapted from Martha Stewart’s recipe for Pumpkin Snickerdoodles from her book Cookie Perfection. I use canned sweet potato puree instead of pumpkin, because I often make sweet potato pie for my brother Elliot. It works great! 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp cream of tartar 1/2 tsp coarse salt Pinch of nutmeg 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted and cooled 1 cup maple syrup or granulated sugar 1/2 cup canned sweet potato puree 1 large egg, room temperature 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/3 cup sanding sugar (or granulated sugar) 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground allspice
1. P reheat oven to 375 degrees. 2. I n a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, salt and nutmeg. 3. I n a large bowl, whisk together granulated syrup or sugar, butter and sweet potato until smooth. 4. A dd the egg and vanilla and whisk to combine, about two minutes. 5. I n a small bowl, whisk together sanding sugar, cinnamon and allspice. 6. U sing a small ice cream scoop or tablespoon, scoop spoonfuls of dough onto parchment-lined baking
20
sheets, spacing each about 3 inches apart. Using the bottom of a glass, flatten balls to just under 1/2-inch thick. Sprinkle with sugar and spice mixture. 7. B ake cookies, rotating sheets halfway through, until light golden and firm to touch, 10-12 minutes. 8. L et cool five minutes on sheets, then transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely. (Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.) :
“Every man, woman, and child should have the opportunity to realize his/her full potential. Opportunities don’t just happen- you create them. The Cycle Effect levels the playing field by providing opportunity to those historically deprived of an equal chance to succeed.” -TCE Board Member
To learn more, visit: www.thecycleeffect.org
The most reliable airport in North America for our on-time performance for two years running.
eat
SERVING UP FABULOUS SLICES + A WHOLE LOT OF LOVE
PALISADE PIES Words + Photos by Melanie Wiseman
F
22
or over 20 years, I have ridden my bike past
sourced from locally-grown fruit. She cranked
what appeared to be an abandoned pie shop
out 500 pies for last year’s Peachfest and recently
on Palisade’s East Orchard Mesa. Beginning the
shipped 1,000 pies to Fort Collins.
summer of 2018, I noticed a new sign touting
ice cream as well as pies, outdoor seating and
keep up,” explains Hix. “I had no idea people ate
a parking lot lined with cars. Something was
so many pies!”
definitely going on in there, and I was curious to
find out exactly what.
among the myriad of peach, berry, cheesecake,
Anita Hix, owner of Anita’s Pantry & Produce,
chocolate, cream, latticed and crumble pies
and her partner, John D’Avella, bought Palisade
available, one pie stands alone. The size of a
Pies and dusted it off to create a thriving business
football and weighing nearly five pounds, their
and community hub. When asked about her
caramel apple pie is by far the best seller.
pie-making background and successful business
plan, Hix simply laughed.
a grocery store,” adds Hix. “I have little bitty
old ladies come in here and tell me Kelly makes
“I get up and if I’m alive, I get busy,” jokes
“It’s frustrating sometimes because we can’t
Although there are many customer favorites
“I taught her to fill those pies up — this isn’t
Hix. “That’s my business plan.”
pies just like their mothers used to, and they
themselves are probably 80.”
And busy they are. Hix hired her daughter,
Kelly Tancer, and gave her an old pie cookbook and
let her loose in the expansive kitchen. At one time,
Palisade, wineries, fruit growers and tourists for
Tancer was teased that she could burn water. She
driving Palisade Pies’ recent accomplishments.
has proven them wrong with leaps and bounds.
Sounds like a whole lot of “humble pie” being
served.
Tancer has tweaked the dough recipe from
Hix gives a lot of credit to the Town of
six ingredients down to just three, and creates a
D’Avella and Hix get their inspiration and
variety of 50 delicious, hand-made pies each day,
motivation by opening up their kitchen to
others, creating a unique community center by investing in people.
“We’re all about giving people opportunity
and confidence,” says Hix. “It is so fulfilling to see other people achieve their dreams.”
Tancer was given a new lease on life when
they hired her with no experience two years ago. Twice a week, a Fruita woman uses their kitchen to make bread. A young man in the Western Colorado Community College culinary program, who works for them as an intern, is now exploding with ideas. A 90-year-old neighbor comes in and makes cheesecakes, and they sell her eggs at cost. D’Avella hopes local Hispanic women will use their kitchen to make tamales.
“It’s the only place you can come get a cup
of coffee and a slice of fresh pie or whatever else is being made in the kitchen that day,” D’Avella explains. “It’s all about community and doing the right thing. Every dollar we make goes right back into the shop.”
The word is out. Palisade Pies dishes out a
Mayberry-like community feel, and guarantees a fresh mouthful of Colorado in every bite! :
Protein for the Soul Meat, Prepared Foods, Seafood, Provisions cutvail.com 970.926.3007
#105
Open year round Palisade Pies 3415 C-1/2 Road Palisade, CO 970.549.0347
Happy Hour Daily 3:30 - 5:30 $1.50 oysters, $6 wines, $4 beers, 20% off cheese boards Award-Winning Patio - Live Music Private Event Space drunkengoatco.com 970.926.1393
56 Edwards Village Blvd, Edwards, CO 81632
#104
book + beverage
Words by Lauren Farrauto + Kim Fuller | Photo by Kim Fuller
THE BOOK
SOLAR STORMS
A
BY LINDA HOGAN
s much of the country became newly aware of the deep, systemic racism in the United
States this past spring, many people clamored for reading material to educate themselves on the topic. While non-fiction may seem intimidating, a work of fiction can provide much needed intrigue, while still being informative. Enter Solar Storms by Linda Hogan — a moving story about a young Native girl
American
trying
navigate
her heritage and the natural world.
In Solar Storms,
17-year-old
Angela
THE BEVERAGE
returns to her family’s ancestral home on the border of Minnesota and Canada to find a
hydroelectric
dam
We were inspired to pair Hogan’s book
with a Colorado beverage, and as Cusa Tea has
project called BEEVCO
a delicious chai that comes right out of Boulder,
invading her homeland
we didn’t have to taste any further. Cusa is also
of Adam’s Rib. The dam
unique as their organic teas are instant, so you
will leave sacred lands
simply open the tea stick and pour your flavor
flooded and abandoned, so Angela must fight
choice in an empty mug. Add hot water, watch
to save a home she had just begun to reconnect
and smell as the tea instantly dissolves.
with. This impactful journey will surely leave
readers feeling informed and aware of the
natural companion for your next yoga class
negative impact of western expansion on native
or outdoor adventure,” shares Lexi Reich,
land that continues to this day.
Spoke+Blossom editorial manager. “Portable,
easy to use and purely delicious.”
Hogan, a Colorado native and descendent
“This instant caffeine fix is the perfect all-
from a historical Chickasaw family on her
father’s side, crafts a beautiful, poetic story of
which allows it to be instant while free of
community, family and belonging. She attended
chemicals, additives, fillers or excess sugars
and taught at the University of Colorado
The tea can also be served iced if you’re looking
Boulder, where she became the second minority
for something a little more chill. Also, coffee
woman to become a full professor. Her work is
drinkers take note: Cusa recently released the
noted to be a form of literary activism, in which
world’s first cold-brew instant coffee and we
she combines personal experiences and her
can’t get enough. cusatea.com :
education with her stories. She is currently the Chickasaw Nation’s Writer in Residence. 24
N
CUSA CHAI TEA othing says fall like a delightful warm drink.
Cusa calls it their “cold steep technology”
Buckel Family Wine
Sustainable Building Materials HANDMADE IN WESTERN COLORADO
Tile | Pavers | Brick Homeowners | Designers | Builders
Our wine selection is a rung above! New releases this fall include 2018 Zinfandel, 2019 Cinsault, 2019 Cabernet Franc
VISIT US:
Gunnison Valley Colorado 1018 Highway 135 Gunnison, CO ORDER ONLINE:
buckelfamilywine.com
deltabrick.com SERVING THE MOUNTAIN WEST
OUR FAVORITE INSTAGRAM PAGES Compiled by Lauren Farrauto
@westernslopesup
Visiting the North Fork Valley? Find some time to explore the local waterways with Western Slope SUP. They offer stand up paddleboard river tours, flat water lessons and whitewater rafting. Bring your own board or check out the rental options on their page.
@arielleshipe
Yogi and lover of all things nature, Arielle Shipe chronicles her adventures all over the state on her account. She hopes to impart her love of health and wellness to all those that visit her page. From yoga, to hikes, to climbing, any outdoor lover would be impressed.
26
@cmucycling
Calling all cycling fans! CMU’s team page features epic shots of the national champions hard at work, as well as features on some of their cyclists, who are eager to get back on the road and compete together. Go Mavericks!
@mesa.bloom.market
Serving up the finest local goods on the Western Slope, Mesa Bloom Market partners with local farmers, vendors and artisans to bring their customers the best products possible. Whether you’re looking for produce, meat, dairy or arts and crafts, they’ve got you covered.
@capturetheaction
Based in the Vail Valley, capturing the perfect action shot is this account’s specialty. On this page, you can find beautiful storytelling through professionally-taken photographs. Heart and artistic talent combine to present some truly breathtaking images.
@sanjuanskyway
If road trips and scenic byways have been calling your name, check out San Juan Skyway. This account highlights the gorgeous landscapes along its 236-mile loop drive. Your perfect starting place for enticing experiences in southwest Colorado.
welcome HOME Crafting Homes, Building Community
JHowellBuilder.com 970 712 1721 Justin@JHowellBuilder.com
Dave Bagg GraniteFallsGJ.com 970 234 2222 DPBagg@gmail.com
Merrite Wyatt 970 260 6947 MWyatt@brayandco.com MLS # 20202648
“
“
A home isn’t just a house. It’s a place where relationships are built and community can grow and thrive— a sanctuary that not only protects those you love most but also reflects your unique identity. - Justin Howell, J. Howell Custom Home Builder, Grand Junction, CO
style
“WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER”
SHOP SMALL FOR BIG REWARDS Words by Kristin Holbrook | Photo courtesy of Two Skirts
T
28
oday, I went to the local bookstore to
our customers. I encouraged my social media
purchase the summer reading literature
followers to “get-dressed” for dinner at least
for my kids. When asked, “Why not go to the
once a week, both for personal self-esteem and
library?” I replied, “To support local business.”
a chance to win Two Skirts credit. I highlighted
It’s something that has been important to me for
local restaurants that were open for take-out
years, and even more so now.
and focused on designers who produced small
I live in a small town and co-own a small
collections, were sustainable, designed in the
business. I feel lucky every day that locals,
U.S. and were overall nice people. I believe that
second home-owners and tourists have made
what goes around comes around.
shopping at Two Skirts a tradition for almost 20
years. And, I never felt more grateful for that
Telluride businesses and residents were doing
support than over the past few months during
their part to give back to this community and
COVID-19.
make a difference. From donating hand-made
It turns out that generosity spreads. Many
When the ski areas and businesses were
masks and provisions to the Food Bank, to
forced to close in March, I decided to get creative
providing lunch for school children in need and
and give people a reason to shop and a cause to
delivering meals to the elderly, to teaching free
support. I created a fundraiser for the Telluride
yoga classes on Instagram to get people moving
Medical Center COVID-19 Response Fund by
and in touch with one another, almost everyone
donating 10 percent of my Telluride sweater
was coming out for the good of the small town
sales. I was overwhelmed by the response from
— all the while maintaining “safer at home”
followers near and far who purchased sweaters
protocol and waiting out the storm.
and made donation matches. We raised 10,000
dollars, kept things moving at Two Skirts and
shops and restaurants opening their doors and
dressed women around the country. Supporters
returning to a “new normal.” But, the future
realized we had to come together to make a
is still uncertain, and it will take a continued
difference or we might not survive the viral
conscious effort to keep small towns thriving.
storm.
Awareness needs to spread that spending
We started to see the light in June with
“We are all in this together” became the
locally generates sales tax revenues for roads,
rally cry across the nation and locally. To me,
drinking water and open space. Eating and
this meant promoting and uniting with other
buying supplies locally cuts down on the
small folks. I focused my social media on the
carbon footprint created by shipping, from the
independents that I carry at Two Skirts, and
packaging to the transportation fuel. There is
vice versa. Designer friends and I would not
an education process that needs to continue to
only fundraise for bigger causes, but work
circulate in the minds of consumers about how
together to generate giveaways and contests for
to make meaningful purchases.
I believe there is a small-town circle of life —
a healthy flow between the generous spenders and the hard workers and back around. When we keep our efforts local the result is a community
Kristin Holbrook created a fundraiser for the Telluride Medical Center COVID-19 Response Fund by donating 10 percent of Two Skirts’ Telluride sweater sales. They raised 10,000 dollars .
that can maintain a real sense of home for oldtimers, part-timers, full-timers and one-timers. Everyone wants to live in a town with a healthy and vibrant main street, and it takes a united town to keep that pulse beating.
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
29
maker
CHRISTOPHER DUNGEY GIVES CELLOS THEIR VOICE Words + Photos by Melanie Wiseman
W
30
ith fastidious craftsmanship, award-
Over 400 hours go into creating each cello
winning Christopher Dungey has been
with meticulous detail, perfecting the critical
creating custom-made cellos for 40 years. He
feature a cellist is looking for — the cello’s
follows the history and traditions established
“voice.” As every cellist has a unique voice, so
hundreds of years ago by great makers such as
does every cello.
Montagnana, Goffriller and Stradivarius.
“They made very viable instruments that
piece of wood has its own working properties
haven’t been tinkered with much over time,”
and characteristics that, once assembled, will
Dungey says. “I’m trying to replicate what they
dictate what that instrument’s voice will sound
did — their approach, what they were thinking,
like,” explains Dungey.
why they sculpted it this way or picked the
wood they did.”
and international professional principal cellists,
“From maple to spruce and ebony, each
Dungey’s customers range from national
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
31
32
semi-professional advanced conservatory
decision is made, I look at the wood combination
students and very advanced, keen amateur
I should use to achieve the voice they requested.”
cellists.
After many months, completion comes to fruition,
“I have to pinch myself when I hear them
Then, the hundreds of precision steps begin.
play,” adds Dungey.
and Dungey arranges to meet the client in person.
Following the completion of the downtown
Whether it’s the players’ location, Dungey’s
Grand Junction Avalon Theatre’s renovation in
shaded, backyard, Grand Junction workshop
2013, Dungey sat in the audience of its inaugural
or somewhere in between, he has a strong
concert brimming with pride. On stage was
preference to exchange the cello in person, rather
internationally renowned cellist Lynn Harrell
than through shipping. Although clients have
playing a cello Dungey made.
seven days to return their custom-made cello, all
122 cellos have stayed in their forever homes.
Complete collaboration and communication
between Dungey and players at every part of the
process secures a mutual respect and seamless
player does not end here. There’s follow-up,
fit between the player and instrument. Dungey
reconnecting, fine-tuning and adjustments.
consults with each client before the creative
process begins to form a picture of the future
then letting you run wild,” says Dungey. “I want
cello and instrument expectations. All cellos are
to maintain a relationship with you and your
specially made to fit a specific person.
instrument to ensure that you’re happy for years
to come.”
“Part of creating a custom cello is ensuring
The relationship between Dungey and the
“I’m not interested in just making a cello and
it’s the right size for the player and fits them
One simple truth has followed Dungey
ergonomically,” Dungey explains. “Once that
throughout his career. Every cello he has ever
made carries wood from a select few trees he cut
understand how a cello is supposed to sound,
down with his own two hands, illustrating his
how it’s supposed to be played and how to put
attention to detail.
all the parts together to make a top flight, clean
sounding instrument.”
His own professional playing background
also gives Dungey an uncommon understanding
of the unique relationship between player and
his education and has attended the Oberlin
instrument. Music was the center of his life
Acoustics Workshop for almost two decades to
growing up in Medford, Oregon. He graduated
enrich his technological understanding. He plays
from the University of Oregon with a degree in
bass in the Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra
Bass Performance.
and is moving forward on his personal quest of
building a custom bass for himself.
A couple trips to a string instrument repair
Dungey travels around the world to continue
shop in Seattle changed the course of his career.
He was fascinated by what he saw and was
steep until you grasp the complexity and love
already comfortable working with his hands in
that goes into each cello — and is far cheaper
his dad’s workshop. Dungey attended England’s
by comparison to Stradivarius cellos starting at
prestigious Newark School of Violin Making and
$10 million.
transitioned into making cellos after repairing
and restoring instruments in London, then
what they are really passionate about,” Dungey
Los Angeles.
claims. “I have the best job in the world and have
no intention of stopping.” :
“After school, I found my training and
A $50,000-$60,000 price tag may sound
“Fewer than five percent of people are doing
background as a player had brought me full circle,” adds Dungey. “I have customers who come to me specifically, because they know I
dungeycello.com
Grand Junction, CO
Taking reservations for future homes! 970.589.7700 | lowellvillage.com
music
AUGUST 31 - SEPTEMBER 14, 2020
MOAB MUSIC FESTIVAL Words by S+B Staff
RICHARD BOWDITCH
F
or 28 years, the Moab Music Festival has created a place where concertgoers can find
a unique and memorable experience. Amidst a fabled town brimming with charming shops and restaurants, awe-inspiring National Parks and some of America’s best hiking, biking and jeep trails, the festival has always offered eagerlyanticipated concerts and events that bring “music in concert with the landscape.” For a full event list and tickets, call 435.259.7003 or visit moabmusicfest.org.
34
With chamber music at the heart of the
With the safety of audiences and artists as
festival, programs will take place between
the top priority, they considered the options
August 31 through September 14 this year,
and ultimately felt that the wide-open spaces of
including a wide range of genres from classical
red rock country would be the perfect “stage”
and jazz to Latin and American Roots.
for its concerts. Having presented many events
Though there was uncertainty about the
outdoors during the past three decades, festival
season as festivals across the U.S. cancelled
organizers decided to move even more concerts
concerts, the board, staff and co-directors Leslie
into Moab’s wide-open spaces. They thought
Tomkins and Michael Barrett reimagined the
people needed a respite and joy, and were itching
season for the times in which we live.
for live music again. RICHARD BOWDITCH
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
35
So, with social distancing, mask wearing,
Much of the challenge also involves making
many handwashing stations and other protocols
the performers feel as comfortable as possible,
in place, they proceeded with the festival’s
since they will spend many hours rehearsing in
programming and are again bringing world-
Moab, requiring large spaces, special air circulating
class artists to southeast Utah.
systems and multiple contingency plans.
While the 2020 series will be outdoors-
Festivalgoers will be treated to grotto, ranch
only and pared down, without intermissions or
and Red Cliffs Lodge concerts, as well as the
pre- and post-concert receptions, organizers say
always-popular music hikes. The festival is also
the musical experience for the audience will be
joining the worldwide celebration of Beethoven’s
the same.
250th birthday, exploring his varied interests in works both famous and rare. :
ELIZABETH LESLIE PHOTOGRAPHY
36
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October 8-11, 2020 | $495 More Info + Registration: moab-2020-inyourelement.eventbrite.com
food
THE COMMUNITY MARKET Improving Access to Healthy Food in the Eagle River Valley Words by Lauren Farrauto | Photos by Jose Valsecia
A
s the coronavirus continues to ravage the
pillars: healthy people, strong communities and
United States, unemployment and poverty
sustainability.
surges as well. For Eagle County, food insecurity
has been a perpetual issue. The Community
privilege,” she says, sharing how marginalized
Market is the county’s food bank solution and
communities in the country are at a significantly
hunger relief program rolled into one. This third
higher risk for health issues. Liken and her team
year of operation has proven to be their most
believe that a lot of that stems from the food they
challenging, but also their most rewarding.
can access.
“There is such a high need in Eagle County
“It’s more than just how much money you
due to our dependence on the service industry,”
have; it extends throughout the community,”
explains market manager and chef Kelly Liken.
Liken explains. “We are trying to create more
“Seasonal food service employees are food
equity in our food system and be a leader in our
insecure.”
community with our practices.”
To combat the community’s shared
hardship, Liken built the market on three key
38
“Access to healthful food is a right, not a
The Community Market aims to improve
access to their healthful foods from a place of
Market manager and chef Kelly Liken
dignity and respect. They run two brick-and-
hopes the sense of normalcy they try to create
mortar markets and five mobile markets in
helps pay respect to the community.
order to reach as much of the county as possible.
Customers can pick and choose which foods they
1,000 people per week. By March that number
want to bring home, just like a normal grocery
had grown to 4,000 people per week. Even now,
store. Liken believes that people shouldn’t be told
it has only dropped to 3,200.
what food or how much of it their family needs,
so they don’t hand out pre-packed produce. She
really stepped up,” says Liken.
In February of 2020, the market served about
“It was all hands on deck, but this community
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
39
The biggest concern was how this can be
their haul. Over the years, Liken estimates they
done safely. The team implemented new rules
have rescued 10 to 12 thousand pounds from
and regulations on how both customers and
the landfill.
volunteers could stay safe. They also raised a lot
of money, support and volunteers, emphasizing
focus, the market also works with local farmers.
the importance of their strong community pillar.
“Our most successful and robust partnership in
To continue their sustainable, community
Even further, Liken and her team
the North Fork Valley — the one I’m proudest
continuously support their community by
of — is with Austin Family Farm,” Liken shares.
obtaining their food from local grocery stores.
They drop off their goods, as well as those from
They have created strong partnerships with
nearby farms on their way to a farmer’s market.
stores in order to bring the best foods possible to
The Community Market sells both perfect and
their customers.
“ugly” produce for about a dollar per pound.
“40 percent of all food ends up in the
“We want it to be a win-win for everyone,”
landfill,” Liken says. “We wanted to address food
Liken adds. It’s evident her efforts have led to
waste while feeding people.”
positive change, as The Community Market in
They are partnered with every grocery
the Eagle River Valley continues to thrive even
store in Eagle County, over a dozen in total, with
during hard times. Their foundational pillars
whom they schedule pick-ups and collect from
have clearly all come together to create a
the different departments. Their goal is to get to
wonderfully united community. :
the store before the garbage collector does, so
40
they can save food that has past its best-by date,
Visit their website to learn more
but is still completely edible. The team sorts
about the market and how to
through and composts what they need to, which
volunteer or donate at eaglevalleycf.
typically ends up being less than 10 percent of
org/the-community-market/.
experience + adventure guide
Special Advertising Section Moab 2020 Yoga & Adventure Weekend In Your Element hosts its 7th annual Moab retreat! Thursday afternoon through Sunday morning, October 8-11, 2020. Spread your toes, take a deep breath in, and get ready for the most empowering adventure of the fall season. Join In Your Element for good times around the fire at Moab’s Goose Island campsite. Navajo Sandstone cliffs and the Colorado River provide the backdrop for morning and evening yoga and meditation practices. Enjoy gourmet camping cuisine for breakfast and dinner, and free time during the day to explore Moab’s world-renowned trails, rocks, rivers, rejuvenating spas and unique and funky downtown — just four miles from your tent. Exploring Earth, Fire, Water and Air through daily practices and inquiry will leave you in your element. $495 moab-2020-inyourelement.eventbrite.com
Colorado Backcountry Biker This unique business is based in Fruita and began offering three- and four-day mountain biking trips on the Uncompahgre Plateau in 2006. Since then, thousands have enjoyed, and have been challenged by, the backcountry adventure. Although the trip is self-guided, the crew from CBB will move your gear from hut to hut and drop off a cooler with great food to grill and cold beer to drink after your ride. The huts are completely outfitted so you need to carry only what you need for a day trip. coloradobiketrips.com In 2013, CBB the Bike Shop was born. It is now a cornerstone of the famous Fruita biking community and sits in the middle of the downtown square in the historic Park Hotel. The CBB Bike Shop is a full service shop with top-notch mechanics and passionate bike professionals who will enhance your Fruita experience. If you need a road, gravel or mountain bike to rent or buy, or your rig is in need of repair or you forgot some gear CBB is the place to be — and the friendly atmosphere will make you feel right at home. backcountrybiker.com SPOKE+BLOSSOM
41
wellness + fitness
STRESS + THE PANDEMIC
TIPS FOR MORE EASE DURING CHALLENGING TIMES Words by Lexi Reich
TOBIAS RADEMACHER
S
42
tress kills. The World Health Organization
determined that stress was the most
medicine was the perfect vehicle to impact the
“Science was fascinating to me as a child and
prominent health epidemic of the century a few
lives of others directly by contributing to their
years back. Dr. Richard Fulton, Grand Junction
health and well-being,” Fulton shares.
local since 1975, agrees. He says stress is having
invisible impact during this current pandemic.
stressed and relaxed at the same time, so relaxing
After decades of researching the effects of stress
is a good means to combat stress.
on the body and how to combat it, he believes it’s
more important now than ever before to share
activating one’s parasympathetic (relax, recover,
his findings.
restore) nervous system that is necessary to
He discovered that it is impossible to be
Relaxation that combats stress does so by
balance the sympathetic (fight or flight) nervous
immune systems with simple, time-efficient and
system, according to Fulton.
convenient lifestyle changes.
“The unknowns and uncertainties of the
All it takes is a bit of motivation. “Healthy
pandemic are certainly stress-provoking. Working
routines are the keys to a more enjoyable life. We
remotely, social isolation, homeschooling kids,
are wired and programmed to thrive better with
staying safe and the political chaos are all
routines, and we are more effective, productive
additional stressors that have not been present
and gratified by doing so,” he says.
in a normal year. Many of these are beyond our
control, which is also stress provoking,” he says.
period in history is an ideal time to take that step
“We need to identify those items we can control,
onto the path to being better than their former
direct our focus and attention to those, and
selves, to improve their overall health and to
accept those we cannot control or change.”
enjoy life more by doing so,” he exclaims.
Fulton stresses how temporary this all is,
“My hope is that people realize that this
Sitting in a mountain forest next to a stream
and that the pandemic will be over at some point.
with no external sounds other than the water,
“We need to recognize that it will be with us for
the birds and the forest, embracing gratitude —
a protracted period and be proactive about those
that’s Fulton’s favorite way to relax.
items under our control in the meantime,” he
emphasizes.
promote everyday wellness through a device
He says the first priority is to stay safe and
that physically releases stress from users’ bodies
utilize all of the widely-circulated preventive
in under a minute. He calls the one-minute
measures as best as possible, including wearing
physiological maneuver “yoga for the brain”
masks, as is now mandated by law in Colorado.
and believes it has the potential to address the
The second priority should be bolstering our
stress epidemic.
Fulton founded MyRelaxer in 2019 to
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The device is small and portable, and can
Thus, Dr. Fulton infused “The Four Pillars of
be used at any time of day. Users place the tip
Wellbeing” into his stress-fighting curriculum,
of the MyRelaxer on top of the lower front teeth
and found that a combination of the device and
and gently press downward to stretch their jaw
the wellness protocol leads to positive outcomes.
muscles. The idea is to hold and breathe for one
minute to let the stress-release magic unfold.
adequate sleep, attitude/gratitude, moving
The device engages one’s parasympathetic
frequently and eating to feel better. He says these
nervous system (similar to yoga), provides a
foundational components need to be addressed
relaxing stretch to the jaw muscles where a
before tackling specific stressors in our lives.
lot of tension is carried, and disengages one
And, optimally, they need to be attended to in a
momentarily from the stressors of the moment.
convenient manner.
While the device is a great way to relieve
Fulton shares important lifestyle changes
stress in the moment, improving one’s resilience
inspired by the four pillars in his 21-day
to stress long-term greatly improves one’s
Feel Better series. Visit myrelaxer.com to
immune
learn more. :
system
and
sense
Tips for a Positive Attitude BY DR. RICHARD FULTON So, how do you implement positive attitude and gratitude into your life easily and in a time-efficient
of
well-being.
attitudes. Repeat: Our behavior
changes our attitude.
Record three to four things you are
grateful for in a notebook prior to
At first, it may feel a bit
One proven, fail-safe method:
delusional to respond that positively,
turning out the lights. Make this a
especially when stresses keep piling
habit, and even flip back through
up and the specter of a migraine or
your lists when feeling anxious
other attack looms. However, since
or stressed. Research shows that
there is no downside to this delusion,
those who record gratitude in a
embrace it. Get into the simple
journal for two to three weeks are
habit of responding “Fantastic” or
25 percent happier. That is huge
“Wonderful” and you will migrate
for a minute or two a day. This
towards a positive attitude and all of
works! And studies show you will
the positive benefits it has, including
sleep better too!
reducing the stress that is probably
contributing to your anxiety, stressed
pencil, put both by your bed,
out feeling, headache or stress-
record every evening before
related facial pain.
lights out.
Get the notebook, get a
Even more powerful: Think of
n Practice gratitude. We’ve turned
one person you are grateful for and
gratitude and thanksgiving into
list three to four reasons you are
a national holiday, but gratitude
grateful for that specific person in
your smile bright:
is something we should practice
your life.
more than once a year. “The quality
n When someone asks how
of being thankful, or readiness
“Thank You,” at any opportunity
to show appreciation for and to
you may have whether it be to the
return the kindness,” is a trait that
grocery store clerk, to a waiter, to
should penetrate every single day.
your spouse, to your peers and to
Research shows that an attitude
your boss. Again, make it a habit
of gratitude will improve our
and you’ll make it a fabric of
psychological, physical and
your being.
manner without spending any money? Simple. Here are some tips to help you keep your chin up and
you are, simply answer in a positive upbeat mode. Instead of responding, “Okay” or even “Good,” go ahead just blurt out, “Fantastic.” Our actions influence our thoughts and feelings and our behavior actually changes our
44
The four basic foundational pillars are
social health.
Another method: Always say
grand outdoors
FINDING CLARITY DOWNRIVER Words by Lisa Blake | Photos by James Kaiser courtesy of OARS
T
here’s something special about a riverside
been the OARS Whitewater Rafting guides
sunrise coffee call. Stirring in our sleeping
cranking out three gourmet feasts a day. Being
bags on the sandy shores of the Colorado River
catered to in the wild — and devouring ribeye,
on a late-season whitewater rafting trip. Rising
smashed garlic potatoes, chopped salad and
with the sun and the hawks. Sipping on liquid
open-fire Dutch oven brownie pie from camp
gold made from beans roasted back where we
chairs — is a distinctive treat.
launched in Moab, Utah, a town booming with fall
mountain bikers, rock climbers and groups like
bonding that unfolded across three rafts amongst
us, thirsting for one last river trip before winter
our mish-mash group of 13. Getting to know the
forces flows to slow and rafts to be shelved.
family from New Orleans, the father-son duo
The best part about this five-day October trip
from San Francisco, the young, adventure-thirsty
may have been the zero cell service in isolated
Ohio couple, and the knowledgeable guides who
Canyonlands National Park. Or, the luxury of
lead us on day hikes to hidden petroglyphs was
having all decisions made for us. It could have
unforgettable.
The definitive standout, however, was the
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
45
46
Connecting on rivers and over campfires is
Summer rolled around, pandemic became
timeless. The collective joy and appreciation for
the norm, and we marveled at clever tactics and
clean air, flowing water and sunbaked skin is
professional pivots in the outdoor world. People
somehow heightened, and strangers become fast
emerged from their homes pale and squinting,
friends swapping stories and happily helping
swooping up paddleboards, tents and river
each other load and unload gear.
gear faster than outfitters could stock supplies.
Rafting companies came to the adventure table
And then, Coronavirus floated onto the
scene.
with revamped and impressive policies built to
keep guests safe and healthy.
Spring 2020 was a quarantined blur of
home schooling, hand sanitizer and a ski season
cut much too short. As whitewater junkies, my
hitched along with last fall — is an outfitter
California-based OARS — the company I
husband and I naturally fled to the water with
that runs guided adventures all over the world.
our 5-year-old son as soon as snowmelt hit its
COVID-19 has them screening guests and guides
stride. That first unmasked float in late April felt
before trips, instituting masks and gloves,
like pure freedom. We rafted six feet from other
limiting boats to individual families and pulling
boats, flashed knowing smiles to other families,
in SUPs and inflatable kayaks when groups of
gratefully unplugged from the latest virus case
one or two sign up for overnight trips. They’re
counts and political chaos that had dominated
increasing hand washing and sanitization on
the previous six weeks.
the river, taking daily temperature checks and
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really going all out to make these trips safe and
Transport vehicles are cleaned and sanitized
accessible.
after every use, trip sizes have been minimized
“We assume that because there is risk
and digital forms have replaced paper ones. Up
of contracting the virus during activities like
to two households can jump in a boat together in
visiting the grocery store, getting fuel, eating
groups no larger than 10.
out at a restaurant or getting a haircut, there
will be a portion of the population that will be
put rafting right up there with camping as a
completely comfortable with, and longing for, an
premier social distancing must-do. It’s a way to
outdoor adventure where fresh air is abundant
tap clarity during muddied messy times and a
and physical distance can be maintained in most
true disconnect from reality and technology —
circumstances,” OARS officials announced in its
something we could all benefit from.
June mitigation plan.
The outfitter assigns guests their own paddles
from Utah calmer, more in touch with nature
and personal gear and has nixed high fives and
and as a better mother, wife and friend. A
handshakes. Guests are now asked to bring their
time-out from the world was everything. I want
own sanitizer and a clean face covering for each
others to have that — to let go of the anxiety
day on the river. For safety, masks aren’t worn
and fear that COVID has put into place and
on boats — the suffocation risk is too high if they
experience a secluded stretch of the wild West
swim or face coverings get wet.
exclusively reached by boat. No service, no
screens. Just pure floating zen six feet apart and
In Fruita, Rimrock Adventures is following
CDC guidelines with the ultimate goal of helping
These swift, admirable measures have
I remember that feeling, returning home
closer than ever to your fellow river tribe. :
people get out into nature and experience guided recreation, while feeling safe and taken care of.
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
47
spoke
GET OUTSIDE!
GEAR FOR THE SEASON Compiled by S+B Staff
Mystery Ranch Market Head to your favorite farm stand this fall with this backpack to tote bag design from Mystery Ranch. The design is simple without lacking essential features, including an interior zippered pocket, interior bottle pocket sleeve and a spacious exterior zippered pocket. $69 mysteryranch.com
Voormi Access NXT Vest Thermal wool technology and a durable water repellent works here to take off the chill and create the perfect fall layer for hiking, biking, climbing and more. Mesh side panels work to keep you dry and comfortable while moving. Once temperatures dip and snow starts to fall, wear this vest while cross-country skiing or as a mid-layer in EcoVessel Transit
the backcountry. $149
This classic portable mug from
voormi.com
a Colorado company features insulated stainless steel and excellent temperature regulation in a sleek design. It’s ideal for sitting around the campfire on a fall weekend trip or for your daily commute cup of joe. The multi-position open/close slider lid and ergonomic handle makes it comfortable and easy to use. $24.95 ecovessel.com
Zeal See Grass Sunglasses Check out these sustainable sunglasses from this Colorado-based company in two styles, Aspen and Divide. Zeal Optics recently launched the See Grass collection, created from natural grasses and recycled plastic bottles, featuring Zeal Optics’ plant-based polarized lenses. $169 zealoptics.com
48
Dakine Hot Laps 5L Bike Waist Pack You don’t need a full backpack when you’re just heading out to Grand Danner Logger 917 GTX
Junction’s Lunch Loops for a quick
The classic look of these boots is as
ride. We love this five-liter lumbar
pronounced as their versatility. The Logger
pack from Dakine, which features a
917 are adventure-inspired while also
two-liter lumbar hydration reservoir
standing out in an urban setting. They
and plenty of storage for your phone,
have a GORE-TEX waterproof liner while
tools, snacks and light layers. $75
maintaining their lightweight comfort and
dakine.com
smart style elements. $230 danner.com
Sweet Protection Arbitrator MIPS Helmet Snowmass Bike Park (see page 60) will be a great place for this helmet. It’s convertible to full-face,
Feetures Elite Mini Crew Socks
so the chin bar removes
Get a custom-like fit plus dense
when you want to ride the trail up, then set up
cushioning for your feet when
your full-face mode to bomb down. In addition
you’re hiking, trail running or
to its durability and versatility, this helmet is
cycling. These socks feature
both lightweight and highly ventilated. $299.95
targeted compression and
sweetprotection.com
comfort where you need it the most. $17.99 feetures.com
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
49
Hydro Flask Timberline Collection The fall season inspired this limited-edition collection, reminiscing on cozy flannels, crisp afternoons in the woods and evenings around the fire. Choose from Kryptonite Incite X6 Bike Lights We like the single-button design on this model, which also offers a top-facing sensor on the front light that adjusts the light’s mode automatically based on the surrounding conditions. The Incite X6 uses a double lens technology that creates precise light distribution with a clear cut-off, so you are not blinding other cyclists or motorists. The X6 has a maximum run time of 30 hours between charges, seven different modes and a max lux of 60. $74.95
two bottle size options – the 2-ounce standard mouth and 32-ounce wide mouth – available in four seasonally inspired colors: Bonfire, Snowshoe, Woodstove and Treeline. Each features a custom lid and bottle boot for extra grip. 21-ounce $42.95; 32-ounce $54.95 hydroflask.com
kryptonitelock.com
Rumpl FeatherLite Blanket New to the Rumpl lineup this season is the lightest blanket they’ve ever made. It’s the
Mountain Hardware
same size as the Original Puffy Blanket at less
PACLITE Plus
than half the weight. Goose down and ripstop
Go lighter with this jacket
polyester join forces for an incredibly durable
made for wet conditions. It
blanket that feels light-as-a-feather, keeping
features a compact material
comfort a priority
that is more minimalist,
for backpacking
while still offering top
and road trips
durability and waterproof
when space is
technology. One zippered
limited. $399
chest pocket and two
rumpl.com
harness-compatible hand pockets with stretch-mesh interior makes it easy to keep your phone, money, keys and other essentials dry when you’re in the elements. $300 mountainhardwear.com
50
spoke
GEAR PROFILE
PEARL iZUMi Words by Lexi Reich | Photos courtesy of iZUMi
C
ory Hibbard is the category designer for
influence, both culturally and structurally, from
BikeStyle at PEARL iZUMi. A Western Slope
its Japanese heritage.
native, she grew up in Ridgway, Colorado, and attributes her experiences in and around the
What does sustainability
San Juan mountains as the main influence for
mean to PEARL iZUMi?
becoming an active/outdoor apparel designer.
At PEARL iZUMi, we see how sustainability can
Hibbard describes her work as “adventure-
take on many different forms that ultimately
powered design,” where she blends learnings
create an overall force for good. To us, that
from all the activities Colorado has to offer with
means focusing on where we can make the
her love for style, flawless functionality and
most impactful difference through our business
sustainability. Spoke+Blossom asked Hibbard
practices,
about PEARL iZUMi’s mission on sustainability:
Our social purpose is built from these three
products
and
advocacy
efforts.
pillars and is the guiding force for good behind What is PEARL iZUMi’s mission?
everything we do. I think this multi-focused
PEARL iZUMi was founded on two things: the
approach to sustainability lays the runway for
love of cycling and, more importantly, love for
so much more participation within the company
future generations. The brand originated more
and really utilizes everyone’s area of expertise
than 60 years ago in Japan, when the founder
and brainpower.
created a special jersey out of technical fabric for his son, an aspiring bike racer. Since then,
What goes on inside the office?
the company has been progressing the design
Everything. On a typical day, the office is buzzing
and manufacture of performance apparel and
with life, and it is easy to observe because of
footwear for cyclists of all levels.
the way the building encourages collaboration.
PEARL iZUMi believes that how we live
The open concept promotes the flow of ideas
today shapes how future generations ride, and
between departments and creates an exciting
is committed to using their business practices,
environment to work in. The best way I can
products and community advocacy to create
summarize what goes on inside the office is
a positive impact through cycling. PEARL
to look at a product’s life — from ideation all
iZUMi’s world headquarters are located in the
the way through to when the consumer wears it
Colorado Front Range, where it embraces strong
on a ride.
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
51
The shell of the product idea is brought to
website. There is so much more that goes into
the table by the merchandising team and a brief
the daily operations, including our accounting
is then given to the design team. Simultaneously,
team, customer service team and our made-to-
the materials team works early on and closely
order team, to name a few.
with the designers to begin fabric and trim
52
ideation and sourcing. The designers use their
Your women’s line is developed entirely
seasonal design language, trend research and
by women. Why is that a rarity in today’s
design principles to ideate (either by hand or
industry? What does it mean to be a
straight into CAD) sketches for the new product.
female engineer at PEARL iZUMi?
Initial concepts are presented, tweaked and
Yes, it is! Everything from the design, the
often prototyped in-house before being polished
development, the early prototyping and the
into full technical sketches and handed off to the
material sourcing was done by a badass team of
development team.
women inside HQ. It is awesome to see the ideas,
The developers work closely with the
tough decisions and intelligence of an all-women
factory to generate prototypes and work with
team going into the product for a traditionally
live models to conduct fittings. The sourcing and
male-heavy sport. I say traditionally because I
operations teams determine which factory will
think the landscape has changed now to where
be best for the product to be manufactured in
so many more women are getting out on their
and coordinate shipping calendars and logistics.
bikes and tearing it up.
Soon, the sales team is brought in to see the new
product and they educate the sales rep team
leading with trust. Trust in my own abilities and
about the product, as well as present the new
ideas — that they are relevant, well thought out,
product to buyers.
and ultimately will provide an awesome riding
Being a female designer for me means
Marketing coordinates the photoshoots,
experience. Trust in my coworkers and team
video shoots, press and social media content
— that they will see the vision and support one
around the product, and the go-to-market team
another in order to bring all of our best ideas to
makes sure information about the product is up
life. It is challenging, never boring, and, at the
and that the product can be purchased on our
end of the day, always rewarding. :
SPOKE+BLOSSOM’S FAVORITE PEARL iZUMi FALL 2020 PICKS
Vesta Studio Shoe For your indoor days, these shoes transition well from a studio cycling session to abs in the gym to a postworkout coffee stop. $125
Summit Insulated Shirt Be a little more versatile throughout the fall season with this men’s snap front shirt that is insulated, while also offering moisture transfer for sweaty efforts. Stretch fabric elbow patches and front pockets add style as well as durability. $165
Scape Coveralls Bike for fun or commute in style with these women’s coveralls made with organic cotton and durable nylon. Five pockets offer plenty of options for storage on-the-move, and a durable water repellent (DWR) finish helps to prevent stains and keeps you dry if you ride through autumn puddles. $150
AmFIB Tight As temperatures drop, the tight that does the trick is the AmFIB softshell. Key areas are protected from the elements — the front of the leg, the seat and the Achilles tendons, while permanent water-repellent technology sheds precipitation Interval Jersey
to keep you warmer and dryer.
Stay high-
Pull them over your favorite
performance as the
chamois and wear them for a
seasons transition
range of other cold weather
with this fitted and
activities. $130
AmFIB Lite Glove Keep your hands cozy but not too hot while you’re riding with these insulated gloves. Perfect for late fall riding and on warmer winter days, these gloves offer wind protection and don’t detract from your dexterity. $55
lightweight jersey. It lines up nicely under a top layer against chilly morning air, and once the sun and temperature rises, its breathability is ideal for keeping you cool. $93.75 - $125
Elevate Shorts Technology is at the forefront of design with these men’s mountain bike shorts. The tailored fit is ideal with lightweight four-way stretch, a BOA dial for instant fit
For more information go to pearlizumi.com
adjustments, a premium liner and pure comfort chamois. $175
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
53
spoke
ATHLETE PROFILE
JUMPING FROM GREAT HEIGHTS WITH
MELISSA LOWE Words by Brooke Welsh | Photo by Raymond Adams
M
elissa Lowe began soaring through the
he got out, my uncle and my dad started sport-
sky when she was a little girl and has not
parachute jumping, and then I started when I
stopped since. A third-generation skydiver and
was old enough,” Lowe says.
a 23-time world record holder, Lowe is based in
Montrose, Colorado, and uses her platform to
defined by Lowe is five years old. She started
speak on greater issues going on in the world today.
off tandem skydiving, which includes another,
usually more experienced, diver. Once she was
Skydiving is not an average sport taken up
by many kids. Lowe grew up in a family that
16 years old, Lowe embarked on solo jumps.
thought of jumping out of the sky as we think of
kicking a soccer ball.
wind tunnels, indoor skydiving has grown in
popularity over the past 10 years. Kids as young
“My grandfather started in World War II as
an 82nd airborne paratrooper and then when
54
In case you were wondering, “old enough”
With modern technology and advanced
as three years old can even jump, too.
“There are a lot of different avenues you can
of us will jump streamers and we’ll fly out
go within the sport; there are a lot of different
parachutes together, so it looks really amazing,”
disciplines,” explains Lowe.
she adds.
There is the traditional belly-to-earth jump,
Highlight is a skydiving team composed of
also known as formation skydiving. Vertical
11 women, who collectively have made close
flying, Lowe explains, is when a diver’s head
to 200,000 jumps. Each one of them has their
is either upwards or downwards facing to the
own unique set of skills and are all passionate
earth. And, there is also canopy jumping, which
about the sport. The women on the team
focuses on parachute skills.
have been traveling across the country doing
demonstration jumps, in which they dive to
When Lowe trains for her solo jumps, she
focuses mainly on free fall jumps, but when
represent a variety of different movements.
she isn’t training for solo jumps she is working
with a team of other talented skydivers called
the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment,
Highlight.
which is the women’s right to vote.”
“We are a brand-new team. We are less than
Lowe says, “This year, we are celebrating
While many things have been slowed down
a year old, and we were brought together as an
by COVID-19, Melissa and her team have been
evolution of the Women’s Skydiving Network,”
able to keep doing what they love to do most.
Lowe says.
They are continuing to train, while maintaining
regulated safety precautions and performing as
Lowe explains women in skydiving are
underrepresented in the sport, and the Women’s
many demonstration jumps as possible.
Skydiving Network helps support groups like
Highlight.
brave, bold lives,” Lowe says. :
“We will get together and we choreograph
a show, so we’ll jump together and maybe two
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“Our mission is to inspire women to live
family
RIVERSIDE EDUCATIONAL CENTER
PROVIDING STUDENTS A “SECOND” OUTDOOR FAMILY Words by Kristen Lummis | Photos by Jill Waugh
W
hen Edgar Corona began attending the
reflecting from his position as a REC youth
Riverside Educational Center (REC) after-
leader, a role he took on in high school.
school program in fifth grade, he figured he’d
work on homework, have a snack and hang out
patience, persistence and enjoying little things
with friends.
like admiring the view.”
“I
didn’t
know
REC
did
outdoor
programming,” he explains, adding that until
OUTDOORS + EDUCATION
he went rafting with REC before sixth grade,
The benefits of outdoor education, for individuals
his outdoor experience was limited to hunting,
and groups of kids, are well-known and largely
fishing and biking.
indisputable.
Now a student at Colorado Mesa University
“The outdoors is such a good vessel for
(CMU), Corona credits his adventures with REC
budding teens,” explains Jack Curry, who is both
for broadening his horizons.
REC’s outdoor program coordinator and middle
school coordinator. “It helps teens learn to
“My experiences with REC — rafting, rock
climbing and camping — sparked a fire for the
challenge themselves and build confidence.”
outdoors in me,” he shares, admitting to thoughts
of working as a summer river guide when he’s
consequences. If you don’t zip your tent, you
not busy with pre-med homework.
have consequences. If you don’t pack enough
water, there are consequences. The outdoors
“Much of what we do at REC, but especially
rafting, is very team-based,” he continues,
56
“There are so many life skills we learn:
“The outdoors also provides immediate
teaches cause and effect and responsibility.”
Greg Weckenbrock, the director of the
Mesa County Valley School District’s Outdoor Wilderness Lab (OWL) agrees, sharing that “meaningful experiences in the outdoors create physical and mental benefits that help us grow as people.”
Now in its seventh year, OWL has expanded
from Bookcliff Middle School to a campus in Gateway, with the ability to provide every sixth grader in the school district a two-and-a-half-day camp.
Like REC with its Youth Leader Program,
Weckenbrock believes in utilizing older students as mentors. In his case, students who complete an outdoor leadership development class at Central
new Dos Rios Bike Park has been a highlight for
High School can be hired as camp counselors in
students. It’s also a free activity that allows Curry
Gateway.
the opportunity to roll out the student-use bike fleet he has been building since 2019.
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS In addition to linking together older and younger
A SECOND FAMILY
students, REC finds that community partnerships
For middle school students who have been out
are critical to outdoor education success.
of school and missing friends since mid-March,
For REC, partners such as the Colorado
the ability to meet up once a week at the bike
West Land Trust, Colorado Canyons Association,
park and the nearby Las Colonias waterpark has
Museum of the West, Rivers Edge West, the
made this very odd summer more familiar.
Community Alliance for Education and Hunger
Relief and Grand Junction Parks and Recreation
attending, explains that he goes to REC
have created opportunities for everything from
programming “because it gets you outside and
river rafting to sustainable farming, from native
it’s a fun way to exercise.”
plant restoration to backpacking.
“It was important to identify partners who
camping and rafting the siblings have enjoyed
were already doing these outdoor activities,” says
in previous years, Daniel’s sisters Angle and
Joy Hudak, REC’s executive director. “We didn’t
Caitlynn agree that REC is like a “second family”
want to reinvent other efforts and expertise.”
to them.
Additional
partners
include
individual
Daniel, one of triplets who has been
In addition to shouting out the rock climbing,
“I have learned that REC is always there and
donors, the City of Grand Junction (via a
they will listen to you when you need someone
Community Development Block Grant) and the
to talk to,” Caitlynn elaborates.
Grand Junction Lions Club, all of whom have
funded REC’s acquisition of eight used buses to
leader who is now at CMU, credits REC with
transport students on outdoor adventures.
introducing her to new outdoor activities. “REC
is the reason these are my favorite things to do
One of REC’s newest partners is The Cycle
Like Corona, Rosa Rodriguez, a REC youth
Effect, a nonprofit focused on empowering girls
now,” she says.
and young women through mountain biking.
Based in Eagle, The Cycle Effect expanded to
than just creating an affinity for rafting and
Mesa County in early 2020 and REC students
camping.
signed up to ride.
This summer, with many of REC’s outdoor
serenity,” she shares. “And every time I think of
plans curtailed due to social distancing, meeting
that phrase, I think of rafting. Feeling at home in
up with The Cycle Effect to ride and explore the
the outdoors gives me a sense of freedom.” :
For Rodriguez, the benefits have been more
“I have always had this thing about sweet
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
57
take a hike
LOST LAKE
THREE LAKES LOOP TRAIL Words + Photos by Melanie Wiseman
H
58
igh in the lush Gunnison National Forest
vehicles, through romantic valleys, towering
lies a hidden treasure famous for its fall
peaks and alpine terrain.
foliage and magnificent views of the West Elk
Mountains. Three Lakes Loop Trail, commonly
of 33-mile-long Kebler Pass (County Road 12),
known simply as Lost Lake Trail, is nestled in
an intersection and signage direct travelers
what is purportedly one of the world’s largest
two miles to the Lost Lake Campground. Use
aspen groves. The aspen colony has been tested
the large parking area to the right of the
and found to grow from a single root system, and
campground where there are restrooms, water,
therefore is a single living organism.
and the west end trailhead. The trail begins at
The Three Lakes Loop Trail hiker is the
9,600-foot elevation, is well marked, has a good
beneficiary of this natural phenomenon, with
tread way and an average eight percent slope.
shimmering orange and gold views around
The trail is now yours. It can be done in 1.5
every bend. This stunning trail is well worth the
hours, or preferably at a leisurely pace allowing
trip to its remote location.
for countless photo opportunities and “wow”
moments.
Traveling to the trail is nearly as enchanting
At the midway point from either direction
as the trail itself. Enjoy poking around Crested
Starting at the west end trailhead will lead
Butte or Paonia — mountain towns with their
you in the popular counter clockwise direction
own unique personalities that bookend your
of this 3.5-mile moderate loop. Aspen start to
trip up Kebler Pass. Part of the West Elk Loop
appear as you hike the gentle ascent to Lost
National Scenic Byway, the pass is a windy, well
Lake, the first of the three scenic lakes you’ll
maintained dirt road with easy grades for all
encounter. There are plenty of spots to enjoy the
lake view or hike the trail around Lost Lake to add a mile to your adventure.
Just after Lost Lake you’ll hear a mighty
roar and take a short detour to a picturesque waterfall. Back on the main trail, enjoy a grand vista of Ruby Range peaks and Marcellina Mountain. Continue on as you wind through the quaking aspen to an intersection descending to serene Dollar Lake — the perfect spot to relax and have a picnic lunch. There’s just something about Dollar Lake, its rugged backdrop and meditative atmosphere, which makes it difficult for hikers to tear themselves away.
Hike back up the Dollar Lake spur and turn
right at the main trail intersection switch backing through the aspen forest, giving you glimpses of Lost Lake Slough, the largest of the three lakes. The trail eventually turns into a road down the middle of Lost Lake Campground, leading you back to the parking area.
The Three Lakes Loop area is popular for
its many outdoor experience options. Free dispersed camping is easy to find, in addition to the campground. Wet your fishing line at any of the three lakes to catch rainbow and brook trout. Between wildlife viewing, wildflower meadows, rugged mountain peaks, aspen, fir
and spruce forests, this is a photographer’s
June through October. For premiere fall colors,
Three Lakes Loop Trail can be enjoyed
paradise. Horses and dogs are allowed on
late September/early October is the prime time
the trail, but no motorized vehicles in this
to immerse yourself in this magical Western
peaceful setting.
Colorado setting. :
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
59
stay + play
TAMARA SUSA, COURTESY OF SNOWMASS TOURISM
SNOWMASS + ASPEN, CO Words by Kim Fuller
N
60
ever has a road trip seemed more appealing
Mountain Biking Association. More than 300
than the year of 2020. While being fully
miles of high quality single-track is available
mindful of COVID precautions, a visit to one
from Aspen and Snowmass to Basalt, Carbondale
slice of Colorado may be just what you need to
and Glenwood Springs.
unwind this fall. As neighboring mountain oases,
Snowmass and Aspen are probably two of the
Bike Park. An expansion this summer brought
most ideal destinations you can choose to visit
the park to over 25 miles of bike terrain across
this season for plenty of fresh air and adventure.
14 trails, containing a mix of beginner to expert
flow and hybrid trails — definitely ride French
Many restaurants in both locations were
Be sure to spend some time on the Snowmass
open for distanced outdoor and indoor dining
Press at least once.
at the time of publication (see sidebar for our
favorites) and hopefully will be through the fall
Blake Trail, which starts just a short drive from
months, and you can get even more space out on
Snowmass Village and offers loads of choose-
all the hiking, trail running and mountain biking
your-own-distance options. Yogis can get excited
trails that wind throughout the whole valley.
too, as longtime local teacher Aaron King is
This past January, the Roaring Fork Valley
opening a new yoga studio in the Snowmass Base
was designated as the first IMBA Gold-Level
Village. Visit kingyoga.net for more information
Ride Center in Colorado by the International
and class schedules.
Hikers and trail runners will love the Tom
For art lovers, a self-guided tour around
has six galleries with rotating exhibits and offers
Anderson Ranch Arts Center is a nice post-lunch
free admission.
or pre-dinner outdoor activity. While many events
have been canceled or postponed this year, in
it’s easy to visit, but it’s hard to leave. Soak it all
mid-September the Snowmass Balloon Festival
in before the snow falls, and then you’ll just have
celebrates its 45th anniversary and guests will be
to go back for winter fun.
able to watch the balloons from afar.
As always with both Snowmass and Aspen,
Keep your space and still experience the
Many joys await whenever you visit Aspen;
best access to Aspen at The Gant, situated in a
fall is an especially nice time, because the air is
tucked away corner of town. It’s just two-and-a-
crisp and fewer visitors are in town. Visit the
half blocks from the center of it all, but guests
stunning Maroon Bells or drive up Independence
still have the privacy and conveniences of home
Pass before the roads close for winter.
while staying in a luxury condominium. Parking,
Hikers will enjoy Ute Trail for something
pool and hot tub access are all included in your
steep with views as a reward, and mountain
say, with access to tennis courts available as
bikers can relish in miles of single-track that hug
well, along with service from the complimentary
Smuggler Mountain.
Gant car to take you wherever you need to go
Try not to leave town without a visit to the
in town. Access many trails on bike or on foot
Aspen Art Museum. Designed by Shigeru Ban,
without ever having to move your car, and
who was the recipient of the 2014 Pritzker
try Pepperjack’s Café for breakfast or aprés-
Architecture Prize, the contemporary museum
adventure cocktail. : THE GANT
WHERE TO GRAB-AND-GO
WHERE TO STAY
WHERE TO STAY
SNOWMASS • Fuel Cafe • Open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. • 45 Village Run Circle, Snowmass Village •9 70.923.0091
SNOWMASS • Crestwood Condominiums • 400 Wood Road, Snowmass Village • 970.923.2450 • thecrestwood.com
ASPEN • The Gant • 610 S West End St, Aspen • 800.549.0530 • gantaspen.com
Settle into a fully-furnished condominium at The Crestwood, located just steps from Snowmass Mountain as well as Snowmass Base Village. Parking is included in your stay, along with access to three hot tubs and an outdoor heated pool.
Enjoy all the privacy and conveniences of home in a luxury condominium. Parking, pool and hot tub access are all included.
ASPEN • Local Coffee House • Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. • 614 East Cooper Avenue, Aspen • localcoffeeaspen.com •9 70.710.7855
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
61
getaway
ALEX-CHAN-LAZALU-PHOTOGRAPHY
GREATER ZION, UTAH Words by Kim Fuller
O
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ne way to find some space for yourself this
in the area and helps visitors access outdoor
fall is a road trip to the southwest corner
recreation in St. George.
of Utah. Red rocks and unique desert vegetation
provide a vibrant backdrop of the region known
over the course of a half day to full day or
as Greater Zion — 2,400 square miles that span
multiple days,” shares Goss. “We love to help
across the community of St. George and up
people have an expanded sense of what they’re
through the awe-inspiring Zion National Park.
capable of.”
Start your trip in St. George with a stay at
“We can offer a variety of different activities
Connect with Paragon Adventures before
The Advenire, a new and beautiful hotel in the
you arrive in St. George so you can hit the ground
heart of historic downtown. Modern design
running on day one.
meets small-town hospitality with this stunning
property, and the onsite restaurant Wood. Ash.
Ash. Rye., head out with Goss or another guide
Rye. adds to The Advenire’s high level of quality
from Paragon for a day of mountain biking, rock
and overall charm.
climbing or zip lining. Paragon can provide gear
Once you fuel up with breakfast at Wood.
St. George is known for its sunny weather
if needed, and if you want to really use their
and access to a variety of outdoor pursuits. Todd
knowledge and expertise, ask about some of
Goss owns and operates Paragon Adventures
their more remote experiences.
GREATER ZION CONVENTION & TOURISM OFFICE
“I’m going to take you somewhere and
you’re not going to see another human being all day,” says Goss. “People don’t get that anymore.”
Quench your thirst after a full day of sweat
and sunshine at Station 2 Bar by Zion Brewery, located across the street from The Advenire. For dinner, walk over to George’s Corner and take in some nostalgia from historic images hanging throughout the restaurant and be sure to try the fried chicken.
ROAD TO ZION Continue your travels the next day with a few hours in Snow Canyon State Park. Many of the hikes are relatively short and you could do a
views of Zion National Park’s entrance and
few in one morning, including Scout Cave and
surroundings, along with full amenities and
Jenny’s Canyon. Grab a light breakfast and
dining options.
beverage before heading to the park at Feel Love
Coffee, a short drive from The Advenire.
Terrace Road is a 40-minute drive from Springdale
For a more remote-style stay, Lazalu on Kolob
Be sure to work up an appetite on your
on the western edge of the park. Lazalu was an
morning adventures, so you can drive to
artist retreat for 20 years and now welcomes
Kayenta Art Village and sit outside for salmon
guests. Reserving the property is ideal for retreats,
tacos and a specialty lemonade at Xetava Garden
adventurers, backpackers, canyoneers and small
Café. Meander through art studios and shops
destination weddings. There are only two rental
after your meal before you hit the road toward
houses on the property with a total number of up
Springdale.
to eight guests — Zion Guest House sleeps up to
COURTESY OF THE ADVENIR
six and the Adobe Suite sleeps two.
Be sure to grab your park pass at a visitor’s
center when you arrive in the area lateafternoon, that way you can get going bright and early the next morning. Get a map and plan a hike in the Kolob Terrace entrance of Zion National Park (Hop Valley Trail and Wildcat Canyon Trail are good options) before you head back through Springdale and into the more popular Zion Canyon in the afternoon.
As another adventurous option, many local
outfitters offer guided canyoneering in the area, which provides a special perspective on the
If you need an afternoon pick-me-up on
breathtaking geography of the Zion.
your drive, stop at River Rock Roasting Company
Your drive back home can be filled with
in La Verkin for a coffee overlooking awesome
many other adventures, all the way up through
canyon views on the back patio.
Bryce Canyon National Park if you choose
As with most towns bordering National
to make a detour. What’s readily apparent
Parks, Springdale is bustling with shops,
throughout travels in the Greater Zion area is
restaurants and visitors. Stay at Cable Mountain
that one visit is never enough to see it all, and
Lodge to be right in the mix, while still having
that’s why we’re lucky that it’s only a day’s
a spacious hotel room or suite with excellent
drive away. :
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
63
feature
KEENAN ALEXANDER
SAN JUAN HUT SYSTEMS SUPPORTS MOUNTAIN BIKE ADVENTURES
RIDE ON Words by Bobby L’Heureux + Kim Fuller
W
64
e had just over two miles to go when
official and southern Colorado was already
passing hikers shared some words of
feeling hot and dry. Most of this first ride is up
inspiration: “You are almost to the cabin.” They
a dirt road — 18 miles to Bolam Hut from the
thought we were trying to make it to Graysill
base of Purgatory Ski Resort at an elevation of
Mine historic site, just a quarter of a mile up the
8,793 feet. The blazing sun and Father’s Day
road. Even so, those words of encouragement
traffic made for a hot, dusty and pretty grueling
were exactly what we needed to keep pushing
ride. Halfway through and after about 1,500
just a little farther.
feet of gain, the smooth dirt road shifts to a
It was June 21, 2020 and day one of our San
true mountain doubletrack with a rocky climb
Juan Hut Systems’ Durango to Moab multi-day
for the remaining 2,000-plus feet up to get to
mountain bike trip. Summer had just become
Bolam Hut.
About 20 minutes after we passed those
food cabinet doors, paired with fresh vegetables,
hikers near Graysill Mine we reached Celebration
fruits, butter, bacon, eggs and herbs in the cooler.
Lake, and we knew we were finally close. After
Use the hut cookbook provided and anyone can
a necessary dose of snacks and hydration we
be a gourmet chef in the backcountry.
pushed the final leg up to Bolam Pass, pausing
to take in the great views of Lizard Head and
huts, available for cooking, drinking, filling
Wilson Peaks before pedaling over to Bolam Hut
hydration bladders and mixing with electrolytes
at 11,420 feet.
(also in the food cabinet).
Each hut is equipped with food, water, lights,
Plenty of water is also ready in jugs at the
After fueling and preparing ourselves for the
a propane cook stove and all the cookware and
next day with a delicious chicken curry dinner,
utensils you need. We brought our own sleeping
we tended to the bikes. There is a bike stand
bags this trip to adhere to precautions taken by
and tool kit at each hut making maintenance a
San Juan Hut System during COVID-19.
breeze. We checked on all of our components,
Much to our surprise and delight, the beers
cleaned and lubed our chains with just enough
and other beverages were frosty in the cooler
time for a walk to catch the breathtaking sunset
waiting for our arrival. We cracked a cold one
on top of Bolam Pass.
and relaxed around the picnic table before
starting dinner prep.
when you’re out there. This San Juan Hut
There is a list on San Juan Hut Systems’
Systems experience is one-of-a kind — every day
website about the provisions you can expect.
you pack up what’s essential for a day ride, yet
We can confirm the abundance of dynamic and
everything at the huts makes it so you can be in
delicious snacks and non-perishables behind the
the wilderness for a week with all you need.
It’s all pretty special, and it feels that way
KEENAN ALEXANDER
Wedding Bell hut with the La Sal Mountains to the west SPOKE+BLOSSOM
65
KEENAN ALEXANDER
“ADVENTURE, HARDSHIP AND ACCOMPLISHMENT” Joe Ryan is the founder of San Juan Hut Systems. He was skiing with a friend in the Canadian Rockies in the 1980s when they came up with the idea to start a system of yurts in the San Juans. Sadly, Joe’s friend was killed in an avalanche not long after. Joe continued the dream and started a winter ski hut system in the San Juans in 1987.
Originally, he was required to remove the
huts from the National Forest every summer. By the late 1980s, when mountain biking was emerging, Joe had the idea to use huts for mountain biking and the hut-to-hut mountain bike trips were born in the Telluride to Moab route. Several decades later, the Durango to Moab route was established in even more remote terrain.
“These trips are unique because they are
self-guided and people really have to rely on themselves while traveling through remote terrain,” shares Kelly Ryan, co-owner and
general manager of San Juan Hut Systems. “We
bikes seemed to create the most rewarding days.
provide them with enough information and
Even with all the shelter, water and provisions
support to have a spectacular experience, but
ready for you when you arrive at a new hut each
they really have their own authentic adventure.”
day, hours of pedaling up and down mountain
Kelly, Joe’s daughter, explains how, for many
terrain is exhausting. But like all great adventures,
people, these trips are experiences of a lifetime
once you’ve made it to your destination you realize
that they’ll never forget.
how much the effort pays off.
“There are not too many times in our lives
For us, the most challenging moments on the
Feelings of accomplishment swell when you
these days where we truly have to be self-
stretch out your dirt-caked legs and sip a cold beer
reliant,” she says. “Adventure, hardship and
after six hours in the saddle, and contentment
accomplishment shared with friends and family in
comes while watching the sun go down over a
some of the West’s most spectacular environments
range of tall peaks from a seat amidst alpine
forge lifelong memories and bonds.”
wildflowers. For every ounce of “adventure,
KIM FULLER
hardship and accomplishment” attained during this unique experience, additional reminders of life-affirming gratitude and satisfaction emerge by the mile.
PLAN YOUR TRIP The San Juan Huts’ Durango to Moab route consists of a six-night, seven-day bike ride, traversing from Durango through the alpine peaks of the San Juans to Moab’s Canyon Country and desert slickrock. The Telluride to Moab route is also a seven-day bike ride. There is also a fournight, five-day ride following the same route, but stops short of the La Sal mountains and the
66
descent into Moab. According to San Juan Huts
The newest route for San Juan Hut Systems
Systems, the Telluride to Moab Route is a bit
is called the Tour of the Canyons and runs in May
easier than its sister route and spends a bit more
and October. At 250
time in the mountainous terrain.
dollars per rider it’s a
Both options follow 215 miles of secondary dirt
two-night, three-day
roads with alternate singletrack options available
gravel and blacktop
for some sections. We particularly enjoyed the
grinder from Grand
Goat Creek singletrack trail alternate on day three
Junction to Moab.
heading from Black Mesa Hut to Dry Creek Basin
“This
Hut. It adds some mileage and vertical and was
different
rugged and overgrown in areas, yet this option
other routes in that
offers great flow on tacky dirt and an absolutely
it is primarily a
memorable addition to the dirt road miles.
road ride and has
route from
is our
San Juan Hut Systems Mountain Bike Hut Trip Pricing 6 NIGHT / 7 DAY Bike Package: $895 per person GROUP DISCOUNT 8/6: Eight riders for the price of six – $5,370 total or $671 per person 4 NIGHT / 5 DAY Bike Package: $795 per person GROUP DISCOUNT 8/6: Eight riders for the price of six – $4,770 total or $596.25 per person
Once you book your trip, San Juan Hut Systems
significant sections of
has a two-part route packet that is provided to
remote pavement,”
individual riders and group leaders. This includes
shares Ryan. “It is also
a Bikers’ Bible loaded with information and
a shorter trip at two nights, three days. It winds
packing lists, a daily standard route description,
its way from Grand Junction to Moab through
alternate route overview, GPS tracks and elevation
the remote west end of Canyon Country, and
profiles all sent over email, as well as links to online
riders spend much of their time alongside
liability waivers. The second half of that packet is
desert rivers and creeks looking up at red
sent via mail and contains the key to unlock the
sandstone cliffs.” Learn more and book your
huts and a set of maps marking the daily standard
trip at sanjuanhuts.com. :
route and the alternate singletracks.
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
67
feature
CRESTED BUTTE’S ADAPTIVE SPORTS CENTER
TRANSFORMING LIVES Empowering People Through New Experiences Words By Kimberly Nicoletti | Photo courtesy of Adaptive Sports Center Crested Butte
L
Challenged Ski Program. That year, they
trapped in a room where you can’t see over,
provided ski equipment and lessons to 33 people
under, around or through the walls. He lost his
with disabilities. The following year, President
eyesight in 1997 in a hunting accident when a
Jimmy Carter and his wife, who spent a lot of
friend shot him in a dense forest. Two months
time in Crested Butte fishing, gave the nonprofit
after losing his sight, he was lying on his couch
seed money to expand the program, now called
in Indiana, fighting back tears and wondering
the Adaptive Sports Center (ASC). These days,
how he could be a single dad to his three young
ASC offers adaptive activities ranging from
daughters. The former Navy Petty Officer was
skiing and snowboarding to mountain biking,
scared to even mow the lawn, until his 5-year-
ice climbing and kayaking for nearly 800
old daughter Taylor said, “I’ll help ya.”
individuals annually.
68
onnie Bedwell describes blindness as being
Her innocent offer was just the beginning
of Bedwell’s appreciation of what an enormous
NEW SUMMITS
difference a little assistance and compassion
In 2012, Bedwell was one of those individuals.
can make.
He entered Ride the Rockies with ASC, which
In 1987, a small group of Crested Butte locals
provided support, including a pilot who
recognized how far lending a hand could go
happened to be an Armed Forces national
when they founded the Crested Butte Physically
champion rider.
“Just one of his legs was bigger than my
ASC has built a reputation for its adaptive
waist,” Bedwell says, recalling how, as they
sports experts. Of its 22 winter instructors
reached 72 mph, the pilot told Bedwell to wave
and seven administrators, most are certified
to a passing car, then said, “You outta see the
therapeutic recreation specialists or hold degrees
look on their faces.”
in outdoor education, psychology, sociology,
That five-day, 442-mile ride didn’t just
physiology or adaptive physical education, in
top out at various summits; it led Bedwell to
addition to certifications from professional
participate in other ASC programs like rock
organizations governing skiing, river guiding,
climbing, mountaineering and skiing, which
ropes courses, wilderness experiences and more.
ultimately forged such a close relationship with
ASC relies on about 130 volunteers and six interns
the organization that he co-founded — the Blind
to assist with its approximately 1,100 participants
Adaptive Skiing Heroes (BASH) program. This
and 16,000 hours of programming annually.
winter will be his fifth year teaching skiing to
veterans who are visually impaired. He also co-
Front Range and Breckenridge are larger and
created a summer program for people who are
deliver more instruction days, ASC affords
blind to canoe, climb and tandem cycle, and now
longer stays — an average of five days, versus
he and the ASC team are talking about starting a
one to three — due to its more remote location.
program for kids who are blind.
This allows participants to bond with both peers
“I’ve seen people go from not wanting to
and instructors. The longer programs extend
leave their homes to thriving,” Bedwell says.
well beyond sports lessons; they involve group
“One mother said to me, ‘I don’t know what, who
dinners, trips to town and lodging.
or how you did it, but what you’ve done for my
son is just huge.’ I said, ‘I didn’t make a difference
situation as yours is a huge resource. We see a lot
in his life. I was just blessed to be a part of it.’”
of returns,” Read says. “The main thing we hear
While adaptive organizations along the
“Meeting six or nine or 12 people in a similar
is, ‘It’s like coming back to family.’”
PEAK EXPERIENCES
In a 2015-16 ASC survey, 100 percent of
believe in you, and they believe in us,” Bedwell
participants reported the highest possible
adds. “They are so good at what they do. There
satisfaction level with ASC’s programs. ASC
are other programs out there that are as good, but
states that its participants have experienced
I guarantee there’s nobody that’s better, and that’s
immediate benefits, including better sleep,
why I consistently go back to them. Not only do
new skill development and a sense of
they put a door through these walls, but they lead
empowerment.
us to a life that we thought no longer existed.”
“It’s just so powerful to simply have someone
A 2009 Brigham Young University clinical
study found that adaptive sports improves
ADAPTIVE OPPORTUNITIES
overall health, quality of life, self-confidence,
ASC operates out of the new Kelsey Wright
activity levels and satisfaction with life. Chris
Building, which opened in July 2019 at the base
Read, ASC program director, says Colorado
of Crested Butte Mountain Resort. The building
is a hotbed for adaptive programs. The first,
provides more space for lockers, state-of-the-
National Sports Center for the Disabled, began in
art adaptive equipment, physical therapy, client
1970 with ski instruction at Winter Park Resort.
housing, classrooms, meeting areas, assessment
Read says all adaptive professionals collaborate
spaces and administrative offices. Outdoors, ASC
and trade notes about equipment, teaching
has permit access to miles of wilderness, hiking
techniques and more, but that each program has
and biking trails, like Lake Irwin, Blue Mesa
its unique personality and culture.
Reservoir, the Gunnison River and Hartman
Rocks Recreation Area.
“We’re a fun group of people who are very
knowledgeable and very skilled, and we practice
In addition to all of ASC’s adaptive sports
what we preach,” Read explains.
instruction, Ride the Rockies support and the
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
69
Adaptive Mountain Biking World Championships;
OPENING DOORS
it offers specialty camps for families, teenage burn
“We’re ultimately on a health and wellbeing
survivors, veterans and women. Three-day family
human services mission to encourage people to
camps engage siblings and even provide a date
get out whether they’re disabled or not,” he says.
night for parents. The Roger Pepper Adventure
“We open doors for people, and hopefully they
Camp teaches young burn survivors new life skills
find their way and stop in to say, ‘Hi, we don’t
and self-confidence; Allison Massari established
need your services anymore.’ Others need us
“Being blind has truly afforded me the opportunity to experience the best part of humanity, and the (ASC) community is just that. It’s made me realize that I’ve lost my eyesight, but I didn’t lose my vision.” — Lonnie Bedwell
longer, or for life, and that’s okay too.”
amazing feats. While he has kayaked some of the most challenging whitewater in the world, climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, summited several of North America’s highest mountains and Mt. Aconcagua (the highest peak in the Southern
it in 1999 and named it after a selfless onlooker,
hemisphere), he is best known for making the
Pepper, who rescued her from a fiery auto accident.
first descent of the Colorado River through the
Operation Rise and Conquer provides adventures
Grand Canyon blind. In 2013, a team of veterans
for military personnel and first responders with
with disabilities guided him down by voice.
a disability. Ladies’ summer and winter camps
He wrote 226, a book about his Grand Canyon
encourage girls and adult women with physical
adventure, is a motivational speaker and has
and orthopedic disabilities to try new activities
appeared on “The Today Show” and “The Steve
and incorporate more self-care into their routines.
Harvey Show.”
“When I think of the word ‘adapt,’ (ASC)
“Being blind has truly afforded me the
truly embodies that,” Bedwell explains. “They
opportunity to experience the best part of
find a way to make it work.”
humanity, and the (ASC) community is just that,”
ASC also provides a Community Kids Program,
Bedwell says. “It’s made my life humbling and
in partnership with the Gunnison Watershed
surreal and just amazing. It’s made me realize
School District. The program allows kids and their
that I’ve lost my eyesight, but I didn’t lose my
families to get to know each other well.
vision. I truly believe that I see more now than
“The kids do better in classes and friendship
I did before I lost my sight. There’s no greater
improves every January when the program
feeling than to give to others, and (ASC) helped
starts,” Read adds. “It builds local bonds.”
me to do that.”
Bedwell believes people have two choices in
ADAPTING TO THE PANDEMIC
life: to live in fear and pity and go nowhere, or to
Of course, COVID-19 has impacted ASC’s
actively live.
programs.
“We’re offering a handful of activities, with
he says. “When your feet hit the floor, it’s up
tight restrictions,” Read says. “Count is not the
to you whether it’s going to be a good day. So,
goal. Wellbeing and health are the goals.”
what’s it going to be? If you think you can, then
you probably can.”
ASC works closely with state and county
“I just want people to live life and enjoy it,”
health departments, as well as physicians. It
adheres to a minimum 10-foot distance between
sidelines” to volunteer or donate to ASC.
people, along with mask wearing, sanitizing and
symptom screening. It also has cancelled main
people’s
fundraising events. However, the restrictions
or donating, you will make a difference in
have resulted in more families traveling to ASC
somebody’s life.” :
together, which Read sees as a “huge benefit” and an opportunity to strengthen family units.
70
Participants like Bedwell go on to accomplish
He also encourages people “sitting on the “You cannot deny the impact of this on lives,”
he
says.
“By
volunteering
feature
RIGHT AND WRONG Grand Valley Activists Combat Racism in the Wake of George Floyd’s Murder Words by Sharon Sullivan | Photos by Jeff Steele
A
s a biracial child growing up in Denver
HOPEFULLY, THE TIDE IS TURNING
and in western Colorado — where one
The May 25, 2020 killing of an unarmed black
side of her family resided for six generations —
man by a white Minneapolis police officer
Shannon Robinson remembers a group of adults
galvanized the nation — including western
screaming at her while she was riding the school
Colorado. Captured on video, the killing shows
bus in a small Western Slope town. She says she
the police officer, with his hands nonchalantly
quit taking the bus after an unknown woman
in his pockets, kneeling on George Floyd’s neck
came onto the bus and cut off her braids.
for eight minutes and 46 seconds while Floyd
repeatedly cries, “I can’t breathe.”
While with her grandparents, Robinson
remembers strangers coming up to her in the
grocery store and rubbing their hands across
have called for racial justice and an end to
her afro for “good luck.” Mostly, she says she just
the senseless, ongoing killings of Black men
stayed home, because it was safer.
and women. Breonna Taylor, Elijah McClain,
Although those incidents happened in the
Ahmaud Arbery, Trayvon Martin, Tamir Rice,
1970s, the 52-year-old Grand Junction resident
Michael Brown, Eric Garner, Philando Castile,
continues to experience racist hostility. A
Rayshard Brooks, and on and on.
motorist threw a full can of pop at her and yelled
Since then, large protests around the world
with her daughter a few years ago. Earlier this
FROM CANDLELIGHT VIGIL TO RAW
summer, while picking up a to-go order at a
Five days after Floyd’s killing, longtime social
downtown restaurant, she overheard a group
justice activists Jacob Richards and Laurel
of men at a nearby table call her a derogatory
Carpenter called for a May 30 candlelight vigil
name, questioning what she was doing there.
on the steps of the Wayne N. Aspinall Federal
the n-word while she was crossing the street
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
71
Building and U.S. Courthouse in Grand Junction
address racial injustice her “shield crew.”
to honor Floyd and highlight how the city is a
part of the systemic national problem. Five-
care about us,” she says. “Other folks are coming
hundred-sixty people attended — an astounding
out, putting their lives on the line.
number for Grand Junction, given how quickly
the event came together, explains Carpenter.
itself differently from the “Black Lives Matter”
Toward the end of the vigil, Jay Freeman took
slogan, which he says has become divisive
the stage asking bluntly for a sustained effort —
in some circles. “It’s not just a Black (rights)
not just a one-time show of solidarity – to combat
movement; It’s about all racial injustice,” Clark
racism locally.
explains.
72
“I have this group of people who love us and
Clark says RAW purposely chose to “brand”
Immediately after the event, Black
community members like Freeman and Anthony
TEACH-INS
Clark joined vigil collaborators, including
Clark moved from Denver to Grand Junction
Western Colorado Alliance, Black Citizens and
in 2012 to attend classes and play football at
Friends, and Grand Junction Mutual Aid, to form
Colorado Mesa University. He said that first year
Right & Wrong, RAW — Grand Junction’s first
he got into a dozen fights with other students who
grassroots, direct-action, anti-racist organization.
taunted him with the n-word. “At the time I didn’t
The fledgling RAW immediately began holding
have the composure,” to deal with it differently,
days-long events, including marches, teach-ins
he says. “Racism is alive and well here.”
and meetings with people in power — like Grand
Junction police chief Doug Shoemaker and Mesa
however. Comments posted on local newspaper
County Valley School District 51 superintendent
and television’s Facebook pages in response to
Diana Sirko.
media coverage of the spring protests show a lack
Some residents apparently don’t see it,
The sustained activism that emerged in
of empathy for what Black community members
Grand Junction is something Carpenter says
experience. In June, a woman posted, “racism
she has never seen before in her 20 years as
does not exist here,” while another female stated,
an activist. “The numbers are stunning — 300
“let’s not create an issue where there is none.”
people at the city council meeting; people of
Incredibly, another person questioned whether
color filled the auditorium,” she recalls. “There
the Floyd killing actually happened, stating that
were 590 people at the march and teach-in on
it was “more likely a staged execution by the
June 7. There’s been concrete change.”
Deep State.”
Encouraged by the outpouring of support in
Local counter-protesters have threatened
Grand Junction for justice and equality, Robinson
to “crack some skulls,” and to come “locked
says this is the first time she has been able to be
and loaded” to RAW events. There have been
“unapologetically Black” in the Grand Valley.
individuals who have driven their vehicles
She calls the local activists who are peacefully
toward the marchers and threatened to run
protesting and meeting with public officials to
them over, Carpenter adds. There have been at
least 50 vehicle-ramming incidents since protests
Following a July 6, “violin vigil,” RAW
erupted nationwide in late May, according to a
activists met with Gov. Jared Polis in Grand
July 4 National Public Radio report.
Junction, demanding justice for McClain, the
Following Grand Junction’s May candlelight
23-year-old Black man who was killed while
vigil, a number of events have taken place on
Aurora police restrained him with a chokehold
the CMU campus, at Lincoln Park, at the city
— a practice that has since been banned.
police department, etc., to provide education
McClain was walking in his neighborhood and
regarding the city’s racial history. Teach-ins have
had committed no crime. The autistic young
included knowing your rights if detained by law
man was known for playing his violin for kittens
enforcement, how to be an ongoing ally to people
at an animal shelter.
of color and how to stay committed to the cause, in
other words, “keeping up the energy” — because
in June, RAW demanded an apology from CMU
this is a fight that will take a while, says Clark.
President Tim Foster who suspended three college
At a Grand Junction City Council meeting
A “Vote for Black Lives” event included voter
football players a few seasons ago, after they
registrations and presentations about mass
kneeled during the national anthem as a protest
incarcerations, voter suppression issues, the
against police brutality in the United States, similar
importance of voting and how the racial caste
to former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick.
system known as Jim Crow is still alive today.
Foster has since called each suspended player
individually and apologized, Clark says.
On June 18, 800 people attended a Juneteenth
celebration at Lincoln Park, where attendees
perused a Black history pop-up museum created by
a 15-member task force to fight injustice in the
RAW. Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery
Grand Valley. The task force was successful at
in the United States, when Union soldiers came to
drafting a mission statement and framework for
Texas to announce that slaves were now free.
subcommittees at its first meeting on June 30.
The group also asked the city to establish
Thirty years ago, Grand Junction resident
RESULTS
David Combs established Black Citizens and
Members of RAW have met with school
Friends of Mesa County, in part, to organize a
superintendent Sirko and her assistant Brian
Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration each year. He
Hill to demand changes in the schools. Clark
likens Floyd’s killing to a full can of pop being
says they have agreed to improve the African-
shaken up, opened and then exploding. “That’s
American history curriculum and to appoint
what has happened here,” he explains.
a Black instructor or other person of color to
teach the subject. The district has also agreed to
where people spoke up about their experiences
form a task force that includes a parent, student
in the valley,” Combs says. “Those comments had
and school counselor to work on combatting
been negated for so long. A lot of people were
institutional racism in the schools.
uncomfortable — city council members and
spectators.”
And, it’s not just Black students who are
“I was at the June 3 city council meeting
affected by racism at schools. Hispanic students
endure shouts of “Go back to Mexico,” and
Carpenter keeps coming back to the word
“Build the wall” from other students, says a
“stunning” to describe what’s happening in
middle-school staff person who didn’t want to
Grand Junction; she cites the high numbers that
be identified.
have turned out to protest, the sustained activism
and the changes that are starting to occur.
RAW members have met with a receptive
As a veteran activist, and mother of three,
Chief Shoemaker to ask for bias training within
the police department. Before the meeting,
significant,” she adds. “What we’re doing can
protesters laid down on the concrete in the
happen in more places.” :
parking lot for eight minutes and 46 seconds, face down with hands behind their back — Floyd’s position when he was killed.
“I think what is happening here is nationally
For more information visit facebook. com/pg/rightandwronggj/
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
73
AJ CARRILLO
Nicole Carrillo (L) and Mirasol Gomez watch over the trout planks on the grill.
74
feature
CATERING SEASONAL FARM DINNERS FOR COLORADO
THE FORAGE SISTERS Words by Emily Ayers
F
or Mirasol Gomez and Nicole Carrillo,
curating an exceptional field-to-table dining
experience,” explains Gomez. “[We want] to help
“For us, eating is a full, sensory, learning
experience starts with one thing: intentionality.
people make that connection in a primal way.
From the land where the food is grown to the
This happens through our food: how it’s cooked
farmers who tend to it, each ingredient chosen
and the story of how it was grown and the people
by the Forage Sisters has a story and a purpose.
who grew it.”
The duo creates whole events from weddings
Bonded through a love of cooking and
and private parties to farm dinners in the greater
gathering people around food, Gomez and
Rocky Mountain west and beyond by creating
Carrillo met in 2014 and formed an instant
delicious menus guided by the seasons. As the
friendship. Their kin-like bond made the creation
days get colder and brisk, they love to stand
of Forage Sisters in 2018 a seamless endeavor.
by the cook-fire all day. One of their favorite
creations is their fall asado (South American-
skills on the Western Slope and Mirasol was on
style barbecue) menu.
the Front Range developing her hospitality and
“I was developing my farming and catering
“Maybe an heirloom corn arepa with roasted
chef skills,” says Carrillo. “As friends, we talked
green chiles and a soft, fresh, local cheese with a
for years about starting a business together and
drizzle of our favorite herb chimichurri,” says
when Mirasol moved over to the Western Slope,
Gomez. “We love big salad courses, which, this
the rest is history. We had already thought of
time of year, would be made with sweet autumn
ourselves as ‘soul sisters,’ but in our business, we
greens, caramelized shaved fennel and roasted
want to make sure people who eat with us feel
winter squash with fresh mint, pickled onions,
like they are eating at a family table.”
chevre (goat’s cheese), toasted pumpkin seeds
and drizzled with peach vinaigrette.”
wanted to focus on bringing people together
in community, as well as cultivating wellness
As a middle course, they would serve
Gomez is a California native who knew she
handmade beet gnocchi with brown sage butter,
through food.
local pork sausage, raisins and wilted farm
greens.
food industry,” she adds, “[But through dealing
“For the main dish we would do one of
with] my own health problems, I began to move
our friend’s pasture-raised slow-roasted lamb
towards a career of holistic cooking that later led
(asador), a red chile chimichurri over carrot
me to culinary school, hospitality and catering.”
puree, smashed on the chapa with garlic and
herb potatoes,” says Carrillo. “For dessert, we
found on both sides of her family. They owned
would make alfajores (an Argentinian cookie)
restaurants, loved food and loved to eat. At age
with dulce de leche and a grilled fruit of pears,
14, she moved to Colorado with her family from
peaches, some other stone fruit, or whatever we
Rochester, New York.
can get our hands on.”
“I didn’t always plan on having a career in the
For Carrillo, a deep love for food was
“I learned [about cooking] from my Italian
Connecting people to the origins of their
grandmother at an early age,” says Carrillo.
food through the flavors and experiences they
“Then I took over most of the cooking for my big,
create is the mission for the Forage Sisters.
extended family before I was even a teenager.
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
75
JEFF FIERBERG
I fell into professional catering while living in
fresh food from down the road. It tastes good,
New York City and then continued it with my
feels good and you learn the story of who took
husband, AJ, after college.”
care of it from soil to seed to harvest.”
Gomez and Carrillo also draw inspiration
That is why knowing that their work is
from their Italian and Argentinian backgrounds
adding to the betterment of the land and people
to bring earthen, simplistic food styles to Colorado.
is so important to Gomez and Carrillo.
“The beautiful thing we’ve found in our
“It is hard to remember the simple things
different backgrounds is [actually] a common
that bring us together,” Gomez explains. “Ancient
ground,” says Gomez. “A true connection to
human traditions: food, fire, growing and family
fresh, seasonal food, cooked in a homey and
— these are important for us to highlight and
rustic way using simple methods and ingredient-
to honor, especially in a disconnected world.
forward recipes.”
Food is what we all need — it has always been
“Both Italian and Argentinian cultures have
something that gathered people, so we honor
a strong spirit of family and hospitality,” adds
our age-old traditions of getting together and
Carrillo. “We love fire cooking — a technique
gathering around food.”
Mirasol has learned from her father, as well as ‘deep scratch’ recipes from both of our families.”
But, the two say they do not feel bound by
CONNECTION THROUGH UNCERTAINTY
Italian or Argentinian food, instead, they take
Despite the strain that the pandemic put on
a playful approach to ingredients and flavor
typical events, gatherings and celebrations,
choices from all regions of the world.
the Forage Sisters have continued to think innovatively about how to continue bringing
BUILDING CONNECTIONS AND SUPPORTING SUSTAINABILITY
farm-to-table experiences to Coloradans.
The Forage Sisters also strive to elevate the “good-
with friends to do socially-distanced farm
food-culture” of the Western Slope food shed.
dinners,” says Carrillo. “For example, we have
“We want people to realize that, ‘hey, your
been partnering with Storm Cellar vineyard to
neighbors grew this food!’” explains Carrillo.
do ‘open-air’ restaurant experiences. This gives
“It’s fresh, delicious and it’s grown by great
us the opportunity to share in a community
people who do their best to take care of the land,
experience while staying safe. We have even
water and all of our natural resources. We want
purchased matching masks with an embroidered
to share their stories and lift them up.”
beet on it for us and all of our staff to wear. We
In 2016 when Carrillo and her husband
are trying to roll with the punches and to make
bought land in Hotchkiss and started the Deer
each new move in a way that is considerate of
Tree Farm and Agroforest, it served as the
our staff and clients and authentic to us.”
perfect foundation for the Forage Sisters. Carrillo
grew to know her neighbors, learned who was
things to go back to normal, they are looking
growing what and how they were growing it.
forward to the creative process of making it
work each and every step along the way. :
“These connections made it super exciting
“We have gotten creative by partnering
Although they don’t know when to expect
and easy for us to support local producers,” says Carrillo. “For us, it doesn’t get much better than
76
To learn more, visit foragesisters.com.
JEFF FIERBERG
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
77
events
FALL 2020 Compiled by Michelle Yuma
SEPTEMBER Moab Music Festival Moab, Utah August 31-September 14 This two-week-long festival offers a variety of classical and jazz music production with the beautiful scenery of the Moab valleys. moabmusicfest.org
Snowmass Balloon Festival Snowmass Village, Colorado September 11 This festival will be a drive-in style event displaying a visually pleasing liftoff of hot air balloons. Guests can watch from their cars or can view the event from hiking or biking trails surrounding. gosnowmass.com
Mt. Crested Butte Chili and Beer Festival Crested Butte, Colorado September 12
Durango, Colorado September 19-20 A two-day event featuring various arts and crafts exhibits. Awards are given to those who stand-out and COVID-19 guidelines apply. durangoarts.org
Durango, Colorado October 3 A great Durango festival that includes craft beer, good music, great German food and so much more. durango.org
OHV Color Tour Buena Vista, Colorado September 22-26
Carbondale, Colorado October 3
All types of Off Highway Vehicles come to experience rugged terrain, fall colors and other historical sites. The riders can experience a self-guided tour through the backcountry. buenavistacolorado.org
Parade details include prizes, fun floats, themes and celebration. The floats are judged on originality, crowd-appeal and their workmanship. carbondale.com
Rhapsody in Light
Grand Junction, Colorado October 3
Ouray, Colorado September 27- October 2
All fans of beer and chili welcome! This event allows guests to kick off the fall season with music, craft beer, and locally made chili. gunnisoncrestedbutte.com
Grand Junction Wine Week
OCTOBER
A great introduction into the wineries offered in the Grand Valley. Surrounded by wine and views, it’s perfect for wine lovers. visitgrandjunction.com
Oktoberfest!
Potato Day Parade & Celebration
These workshops help and elevate artists’ abilities into a vision of creativity and color. Experience various new techniques and the camaraderie of other photography enthusiasts. rhapsodyinlight.com
Grand Junction, Colorado September 13-20
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Durango Autumn Arts Festival
Downtown Art Festival Grand Junction, Colorado October 2-4 Art displays on Main Street will run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The street is lined with local artists and have live performances. visitgrandjunction.com
West Slope Beer Fest All guests 21+ are welcome to enjoy this beer fest to try samples of craft beer from the Western Slope from their guest breweries. kannahcreekbrewingco.com
“The Blacksmith” Opera Mancos, Colorado October 9-11 This opera contains songs and dialogue in English. It will be performed in hopes with audience entertainment and sing-a-longs. mancoscreativedistrict.com
Firkin Fest West Ridgway, Colorado October 21 Western Colorado presents a Cask Ale Festival where local breweries tap special casks of ale made in traditional ways. firkinfestwest.ticketleap.com
AUTUMN MEADOW
OIL, 10X30
BARBARA CHURCHLEY FINE ART Represented by Redstone Art Gallery Redstone, Colorado / redstoneart.com
IMPRESSIONISTIC OILS AND PASTELS OF THE WESTERN LANDSCAPE barbarachurchley.com
NOVEMBER
Ago Gallery Ouray, Colorado / agogallery.com
Moab Celtic Festival, Scots on the Rocks
People can choose to run a marathon, be on a relay team or run a half marathon. rimrockrun.grandjunctionsports.org
Moab, Utah November 6-8
Polar Express Train Ride
Detailed history of the Scottish and Celtic cultures will come to life in Moab with food, activities, contests and much more. discovermoab.com
Polar Plunge Rio Blanco County, Colorado November 7 The Special Olympics Colorado Polar Plunge is supporting a great cause by getting your feet wet and very cold! rangelychamber.com
Rim Rock Run Fruita, Colorado November 7
Durango, Colorado November 15-January 2 Passengers on this train ride can enjoy a nice cup of hot chocolate and a treat served by your personal chefs while Santa will also make a visit to each car! durango.org
Aloha Shaka Cross Series Carbondale, Colorado November 26 At Roaring Fork High School in Carbondale, Colorado, all are encouraged to come out and improve and grow your cycling skills. carbondale.com
DECEMBER Downtown Parade of Lights Grand Junction, Colorado December 5 Twinkle lights will guide those into the holiday spirit as they light up Main Street for a spectacular holiday feel! visitgrandjunction.com
Old Fashioned Christmas Palisade, Colorado December 5 Fun holiday events to really get guests in the spirit of the season! There’s lodging, shopping, wineries and holiday cheer. visitpalisade.com
Three different options listed for those who want to stay active! SPOKE+BLOSSOM
79
who we are
Q+A WITH
JEFF SNOOK AND JODY COREY OWNERS OF SPOKE AND VINE MOTEL, PALISADE Interview by Naomi Allen | Photo courtesy of Jeff Snook and Jody Corey
J
eff Snook and Jody Corey recently moved to Palisade to fully renovate an old motel and
open Spoke and Vine. Their hospitality paired with all the thoughtful touches on the fresh motel property make it a really special place to stay. Here’s some more from the couple on what makes the Grand Valley home. What inspired you to open Spoke and Vine? We have lived in Steamboat for almost 20 years and have been visiting Fruita during the spring
little details that we felt were important when
and the fall to extend our mountain biking
traveling. We tend to travel with too much gear
season. Jody came to Palisade on a girls’ wine
and always bring our dogs along. We look for
weekend and stayed at the old motel that is now
motel-style properties where you can park right
Spoke and Vine and realized it has the bones
outside your door. We like to have quick access
for a cool motel. However, it wasn’t until that
to our gear without feeling the need to lug it
following spring that we came back as a couple
inside. We like a bathroom that is bright, clean
to do a Gran Fondo out of Palisade. That weekend
and new. Our dogs never understood elevators
we got to see the beauty of Palisade and got a
and long interior hallways. We wanted to have
glimpse into what a fun place Palisade is.
a hybrid experience where guests can ask us for
any advice or recommendations yet have their
Our backgrounds are in hospitality, property
management and design, so it wasn’t that much of a stretch. We have never had the opportunity of creating a lodging property from the ground up, and it was exciting for us to create a place that embodies how we like to travel. We felt there is a market for travelers who are looking for a luxury experience with top notch customer service in the form of motel accommodations.
What drew you to the Grand Valley and its community? And, how did you choose Spoke and Vine’s location? We love the variety of outdoor recreation, quality of the wineries and restaurants, and the natural beauty of the area. Palisade is a special town in Mesa County. We Palisade’s agriculture–
What was the process of renovating
the fruit, vegetables, and wine cannot be beat!
Spoke and Vine like, and what was
Palisade has a small town feel, yet it’s a vibrant
your inspiration?
community. In a short time, we have been able
The renovation had its highs and lows. Luckily,
to connect with a bunch of cool locals, many of
when Jeff was at his low, Jody was on a high
whom are business owners as well. As for the
and vice versa! The motel was built in 1955 and
actual location, the motel is in the perfect spot.
needed a lot of love. The place was completely
Most of our guests leave their cars parked for
gutted and we replaced almost everything
their entire stay as the motel is centrally located
except the exterior, doors, windows and roof.
to all the area’s main attractions. :
We have taken many road trips and we added
80
own space to enjoy their quiet time.
spokeandvinemotel.com
NOAH SEARS
VP of Business Development Mountain Racing Products
YOUR BUSINESS. YOUR ADVENTURE. Colorado’s Grand Valley is at the heart of a new rush. It’s a rush for those who want space, access, and a life free from red-tape and two-hour commutes. Move and grow your business where our work ethic still mirrors the spirit of the men and women who settled this valley generations ago.
JOIN US IN THE NEW WEST.
GJEP.ORG • 970.245.4332