T H E
H U B
O F
A D V E N T U R E
HOW TO BUILD GARDEN BEDS 16 WESTERN CO WEDDING GUIDE 36 GETAWAY WITH RIM TOURS 56 WORLD OF NATURAL WINE 62
SPRING 2021 / ISSUE 15
I N
W E S T E R N
C O L O R A D O
CO N T lifestyle
what’s up in the west
12
2
8
VOICES OF WESTERN COLORADO Locals Weigh in on Groundwork
9
WHAT’S UP IN THE WEST It’s Almost Time to Take The Plunge: New Landmark Trail to Open to the Public Early This Summer
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WHAT’S UP IN THE WEST Help is Here: Grand Junction Mutual Aid Partners with Multiple Groups to Provide Support During Pandemic
12
WHAT’S UP IN THE WEST The Gondola Shop: Fruita Company Gives New Life to Old Equipment
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BOOK + BEVERAGE Atomic Habits by James Clear Golden Root Turmeric Latte
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S+B’S INSTAGRAM + PODCAST PICKS
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ART The Wellspring Project: Fruita Students Examine Water Use in the West Through an Artistic Lens
30
MAKER Solandra: Have a Spa Day Every Day
32
MUSIC Local Musicians are Re-Tuning Their Work
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BLOSSOM Life Cycle Celebrant Kathi Roy: Customized Ceremonies for Weddings + Other Significant Events
34
FOOD The Hog and The Hen
16
BLOSSOM How to Build Your Own Garden Beds
36
S+B SPECIAL SECTION Wedding Vendors
18
DRINK The Alpine Spritz
38
WELLNESS + FITNESS When it Comes to Genetics, Knowledge is Power
20
EAT The Rise in Homemade Loaves
24
EAT Rocky Mountain Raclette
E N TS adventure
features + events
56
70
40
SPOKE Gear for the Season
58
THE CYCLE EFFECT Teaching Girls Mountain Biking + So Much More
42
SPOKE Gear Profile: RockyMounts
62
NATURAL WINE Fad or For Real?
44
SPOKE Athlete Profile: Christopher Davis
66
46
GRAND OUTDOORS Bighorn Sheep: Colorado’s Best Rock Climber
RESOURCE EXTRACTION ON THE WESTERN SLOPE Laying the Groundwork for Sustainability
70
48
TAKE A HIKE Little Dominguez Canyon
WESTERN COLORADO BUSINESS BOOMS Quality of Life Attracting More Employers + Employees
50
FAMILY Building Mental Health Resiliency for the Whole Family
76
EVENTS Spring 2021
80
WHO WE ARE Q+A with Dr. Michael Neste, Medical Director of the Department of Radiology and Chief of Medical Staff at Family Health West in Fruita
52
STAY + PLAY Glenwood Springs
56
GETAWAY Rim Tours: White Rim Multi-Day Mountain Bike Adventure
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
3
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
GROUNDWORK “If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant.” — Anne Bradstreet In a welcome shift of seasons, we begin to shake off winter’s heavy and weathered boughs to receive the gifts of spring renewal. With the March thaw every year, nature reminds us of the constant possibilities to start fresh. What better time than now to turn over a new leaf or plant a young tree? With many recent challenges behind us and inevitably more challenges to come, the foundation we lay today can help us survive and thrive in the future. Use this period of transformation to dig deeply beneath the surface and enrich the layers of your community and your purpose within it. Now is the time to put in the work — sow the soil, plant new seeds and nurture new growth. As is conveyed in many of the stories we share, solid ground is cultivated from passion rooted in meaningful existence. There is so much inspiration to be found in the resilient people and land of Western Colorado. We hope this issue helps every Spoke+Blossom reader feel more connected to that fact. From articles on traumatic brain injuries and mental health support, to how-tos on building garden beds and baking bread, this issue is here to highlight how good groundwork can help you embrace all of life’s seasons and cycles. Don’t just skim the surface, as the feature well in the back of the book is full of rich journalism on a dynamic range of topics (it begins on page 58). Sharon Sullivan writes on The Cycle Effect, a local nonprofit on a mission to empower young women through mountain biking, while Becca Saulsberry put words and illustrations behind the fascinating world of natural wine. Lexi Reich digs into a follow-up on natural resource extraction on the Western Slope, and Kristen Lummis highlights how many businesses in the area are booming. This is a robust issue full of hope and authenticity — it’s what we know the world needs now. May it bring you strength and inspiration where you and yours need it most.
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.
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This magazine is shareable and recyclable. Please don’t throw it in the trash.
Publisher Jaunt Media Collective Editor-In-Chief Kim Fuller Managing Editor Lexi Reich Assistant Editor Lauren Farrauto Art Director Kitty Nicholason Advertising Bobby L’Heureux Interns Olivia Lyda Claire Kiewatt Contributors Naomi Allen Chloe Besson Jim Cox Devoted and Wild Photography Kaitlin Emig Lauren Farrauto Kim Fuller Dylan Hardy Jayme Henderson Claire Kiewatt Maya Kraushaar Bobby L’Heureux Kristen Lummis Olivia Lyda Megan McMullen Lexi Reich Becca Saulsberry Scott DW Smith Jeffrey Steele Sharon Sullivan Kyle Webb Melanie Wiseman Cover Photograph Cover photo courtesy of Petals of Provence. Photo by Biance McCarty Photography with model Delphine.Style.
Kim Fuller
facebook.com/ spokeandblossom
Founder Robin Brown
Spoke+Blossom Magazine Jaunt Media Collective 2077 North Frontage Road / 103A Vail, CO 81657 For advertising, contact ads@spokeandblossom.com 815.414.9642 Get in touch! We would love to hear from you. Please send your comments to letters@spokeandblossom.com Copyright © 2021 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
OLIVIA LYDA Olivia is an editorial intern for Spoke+Blossom and YOGA + Life magazines. She is a graduating senior at the University of Colorado Boulder. Olivia is passionate about the Colorado lifestyle and works to convey this in her studies and publications.
CLAIRE KIEWATT Claire is an editorial intern for Spoke+Blossom and YOGA + Life magazines and a graduating senior at the University of Colorado Boulder. Claire enjoys working with all things creative and artistic, and spends free time drawing and writing.
SHARON SULLIVAN Sharon is a Grand Junction-based freelance writer and editor. She enjoys finding and telling stories about interesting people and events. When she’s not working, you might find her hiking Western Colorado’s public lands, or, perhaps backpacking in Grand Canyon — the place that brought her out West.
BECCA SAULSBERRY Becca coins herself as an art, design and words nerd and outdoor enthusiast due to her multifaceted creativity and spirit. Becca earned a B.S. from the University of Colorado Boulder. She is a project manager in the tech industry, a freelance designer, illustrator and writer. Catch her in the mountains on afternoon runs or weekend backpacking trips!
JEFFREY STEELE Jeffrey is the drummer and manager of Union Of None as well as a graphic artist and print broker. He has been a professional musician for more than 20 years and has spent 35 years in the design and printing industries.
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LAUREN FARRAUTO A lifelong, avid reader and writer, Lauren has always loved the power of the written word. As assistant editor for Spoke+Blossom and CO YOGA + Life magazines, her dream of creating her own story is finally a reality. When she’s not curled up with a good book, Lauren can be found adventuring in the Colorado wilderness.
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voices of western colorado
GROUNDWORK We Asked These Western Slope Locals to Weigh in on This Topic Compiled by Olivia Lyda
RONDO BUECHELER
ASHLEY CHASSEUR
BARRY LAGA
An outdoor entrepreneur, Rondo is the co-owner of Rapid Creek Cycles and the Powderhorn Mountain Resort ski patrol director.
Ashley is the co-owner and general manager of Pêche Restaurant in Palisade.
Barry is a professor of English and the department head for Languages, Literature and Mass Communication at Colorado Mesa University.
“As a mother of three young
children and owning and
“Groundwork is commitment,
managing a restaurant, every day
sacrifice and preparation.
is a balancing act. Groundwork
Satisfying my financial and
is preparation, blood, sweat and
adventurous needs required
tears. Preparation is what we
planning. My experience as
live by. The work we put in is the
an adventure entrepreneur
foundation that our team here at
taught me that big risks yield
Pêche and myself follow daily. In
big rewards. Commitment, hard
order to create stability, we put
work and passion lead the way
forth the effort. But groundwork
for groundwork to be made.
is also the work that the majority
do not see. It is what makes the
Riding the Mesa, others and
I had big visions that led to The
magic happen and seems to be
Palisade Plunge. Groundwork
effortless.
is forward movement and
innovation in your field. With the
me, I would not be as organized
help from your community and
and grounded as I am today.
a unique perspective an impact
Groundwork means support
can be made for the future
from those important in your life
groundwork to be laid.”
and learning from them. They
If it were not for those behind
allow me the time to mentally prepare for each day or task. Most importantly, if I need help they are all behind me 100%.”
“Groundwork is an on-going recursive process. It suggests the basic and essential work we perform to establish foundation and the growth that follows. In my educational work, groundwork takes the form of examining basic assumptions, investigating premises and interrogating long-held beliefs. Groundwork is what we turn to when trials come our way or we feel lost in the world.
While ignoring groundwork
doesn’t stop us from getting coffee with friends, talking a walk or a ride, groundwork ultimately forms and sustains us. Groundwork suggests a serious and consistent attempt to question what we take for granted and build something new. This work allows us to make sense of our experiences and find meaning and connection in the world.”
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what's up in the west
NEW LANDMARK TRAIL TO OPEN TO THE PUBLIC EARLY THIS SUMMER
IT’S ALMOST TIME TO TAKE THE PLUNGE Words by Kim Fuller | Photo courtesy of COPMOBA
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veryone has been eagerly anticipating the official opening of The Palisade Plunge,
and Spoke+Blossom is happy to report the wait is almost over.
Scott Winans, president of Colorado Plateau
Mountain Bike Trail Association (COPMOBA) and member of the Outdoor Recreation Leadership Council, shared in February 2021 that the trail should be ready to roll mid- to late-June.
For nearly a decade now, COPMOBA has
spearheaded The Palisade Plunge trail project — which takes riders from the top of the Grand Mesa (10,700 feet) to the Town of Palisade (4,700 feet) on a challenging, terrain-shifting and visually stunning single-track trail. Once completed, The Palisade Plunge will be one of only a handful of such trails in the country and is expected to contribute at least $5 million annually to the local economy.
“What’s in front of us project-wise is a little
bit of construction that wasn’t complete by the end of last year,” shared Winans. “So, we’ve got to wait until things are dry enough to get up there and do that work.”
During these four to six weeks of trail work
that will likely begin in April, Winans said the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service will be dialing in administrative details and looking over final search and rescue plans.
Select Colorado media outlets did get
a sneak peek of the trail last fall, including Spoke+Blossom, but Winans said it’s important to remember that the trail has never been officially opened. Now everyone is asked to wait until the trail opens for safe use this summer.
“It did have approved use for a brief period
of time to promote information in the hands of future media outreach,” he said. “General public access has never been available, and complete construction of the project and approval by the federal land agencies is the milestone that fully opens the trail. Any riding that is done on the
trail ahead of time is just a negative impact to that opening.”
It’s important to note that The Palisade
Plunge is an advanced trail with high levels of exposure in areas. For riders with varying abilities, the top portion of the Plunge and trails in and around Powderhorn Mountain Resort will provide ample options for more moderate terrain.
Annual trail closures will run from
December 1 through the end of May, so Plunge lovers will have some time to grow their appetite for the experience year after year.
There are currently three outfitters that
are on track to receive permits for shuttling The Palisade Plunge this year: Palisade Plunge Cycle & Shuttle through Rapid Creek Cycles, Powderhorn Mountain Resort and Pali-Tours.
“This is such a broad community effort,”
Winans said. “So many voices and pots of energy and money have been put into this, and everybody is really invested in getting this thing done and open formally.” : Stay in the loop with project status for The Palisade Plunge on copmoba.org, or call Rapid Creek Cycles at 970.464.9266.
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
9
what's up in the west
GRAND JUNCTION MUTUAL AID PARTNERS WITH MULTIPLE GROUPS TO PROVIDE SUPPORT DURING PANDEMIC
HELP IS HERE Words by Sharon Sullivan | Photo by Maya Kraushaar
S
tephania Vasconez was volunteering last
spring at the Grand Valley Catholic Outreach
seniors and frontline healthcare workers.
soup kitchen when local grocery stores donated
Licensed counselors provide therapy for people
a huge amount of fresh produce; it was more
suffering mental health crises. Additionally,
than what the organization could use or store,
volunteers have sewn thousands of masks for
so Vasconez loaded up her car and brought
essential workers and houseless individuals.
it to the Grand Junction Mutual Aid (GJMA)
GJMA also delivers meals to houseless and other
distribution site.
community members quarantining in area
hotels after a COVID-19 diagnosis.
In March 2020, Grand Junction resident
Volunteers bring care packages to isolated
Jacob Richards posted a “call to action” on
Facebook seeking to form a Mutual Aid group to
health department,” Richards explains.
help those impacted by the pandemic. More than
1,000 people responded.
families receive food assistance each week
during Distribution Day. Some recipients end up
Since then, multiple organizations have
“We work with the shelter and the county Anywhere from 200 to more than 500
joined forces with GJMA to offer goods and
volunteering.
services each Tuesday during Distribution Day
at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the
also mentally, spiritually and with feeling part of
Grand Valley, 536 Ouray Ave.
a kind, welcoming community,” Vasconez says.
“If someone has a good idea to help, we’re on
“We’re helping people not just with food, but
G JMA is o ne o f several Mu tu al Aid
board as a resource,” says 39-year-old Richards.
networks around Colorado, including groups in
Partners include Food Bank of the Rockies, Grand
Carbondale, Delta, the North Fork Valley and the
Valley Peace and Justice, Unity Station Kutz/A
Four Corners region. :
Modern Man’s Barbershop (offering free haircuts) and more. Vasconez founded the nonprofit Mutual Aid Partners (MAP) to help coordinate all the different groups and individuals wanting to help.
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For more information visit facebook.com/groups/gjmutualaid/.
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what's up in the west
FRUITA COMPANY GIVES NEW LIFE TO OLD EQUIPMENT
THE GONDOLA SHOP Words by Lauren Farrauto MOWERYMEDIA
L
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iving in Western Colorado likely means
you’re accustomed to the presence of
she says.
“That part of my business is so much fun,”
gondola cars, but in the past year a surplus of
them have loosened from their wires to find new
to have saved her company in the wake of
homes on solid ground. This is largely due to
COVID-19.
the restorative efforts of people like Dominique
Bastien, owner of the Gondola Shop in Fruita.
confesses. “I lost all my contracts for polishing
“This past year the business really took off,”
and restoration within three days last year and
Bastien shares. “We’ve had inquiries for bars all
had to let go most of my staff. Now, The Gondola
the way in New York.”
Shop makes up about 90% of my business and
I’ve been able to rehire about half the staff.”
Bastien’s success can be partially attributed
In fact, the more creative aspect seems
“It saved my business this year,” she
to her 22-plus years of experience in the industry.
The process to restore a gondola is no
Her first business, Sunshine Polishing, was
small feat. The team buys the 30- to 35-year-old
founded in 1998 where she restored/polished
gondolas and completely disassembles them
equipment for ski resorts. It wasn’t until the
upon arrival. Each part is cleaned, polished and
last three years that she began to dabble in the
painted before the gondola is reassembled to
restoration and transformation of gondola cars.
begin creating the final product.
CHARLES-A LACOURSIERE
help of a local woodworker. That’s right, the team has refurbished an old gondola to be a functioning sauna, which has quickly become one of their most exciting offerings. Three of the saunas they’ve refurbished and sold are now located in hotels in California.
“It takes about 100 hours in basic
restoration,” Bastien explains. “We’re really detail oriented; we want to do things right.”
That dedication is evident in their work. The
Gondola Shop team has completed about 250 restorations and currently have 100 more lined up. Their work ranges from ornamental pieces for inside bars and restaurants to functional outdoor dining cars, some of which can be enjoyed in Telluride. The outdoor dining cars come with nice tables, upholstered seats and personal heaters. They’ve also done work with a dog shelter, providing a home for multiple pets within multilevel compartments in the car.
“I’ve learned a lot these past three years,”
Bastien shares, from upholstery skills to woodwork for their sauna gondolas with the
Bastien has even turned a gondola into a
cute photobooth for weddings or parties. Her creations are available both for purchase and for rental, ensuring you can partake in the fun, even if buying an entire gondola isn’t in your budget.
Bastien still wants to concentrate her business
on restoration for ski resorts (she’s currently working on a project for Breckenridge), but is grateful diversifying her company has allowed her to stay in business. At the end of the day, she’s most appreciative of the team that put in so much hard work and dedication for the company.
“I’m really blessed with a great team. Each
project is really a team effort,” she says. : See more photos or inquire about purchases/rentals at thegondolashop.com.
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blossom
CUSTOMIZED CEREMONIES FOR WEDDINGS + OTHER SIGNIFICANT EVENTS
LIFE CYCLE CELEBRANT KATHI ROY Words by Sharon Sullivan | Photo by Devoted and Wild Photography
E
xcept for the song of birds flying overhead,
reflecting
all was still as morning dawned at a Dead
experiences of the couple getting married.
personalities,
values
and
Horse Point State Park canyon overlook outside
of Moab. Then, officiant Kathi Roy rang the
says Roy. “I tell their love story.”
chime three times: twice for the two individuals
getting married and once to honor their union
Mountain outside of Glenwood Springs to marry
during this September wedding ceremony.
a couple at their favorite hiking area. Last year
As a Life Cycle Celebrant, Roy has married
she also performed ceremonies at Alta Lakes
people on top of mountain passes, in meadows,
outside of Telluride, on top of Engineer Pass
in a town park, in Colorado National Monument
between Lake City and Ouray and for a small
and on the banks of the Colorado River. She
gathering at an indoor venue in Buena Vista.
has officiated ceremonies in backyards, at the
famous Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs and
Colorado’s wine country, Roy travels throughout
on the rooftop of the historic Avalon Theatre in
Colorado’s Western Slope, as well as southeast
downtown Grand Junction.
Utah, to create meaningful rituals and
ceremonies for clients. She calls her business
Every wedding Roy officiates is different
— each one tailored to create a sacred occasion
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the
“I provide a personal, customized ceremony,” In 2020, Roy hiked to the top of Storm King
A resident of Palisade, in the heart of
Wine Country Ceremonies.
Roy, 57, has performed rituals throughout
“I don’t do cookie-cutter or fill-in-the -blank
her life with her own family. Six years ago,
ceremonies. Every ceremony is different,”
she sought formal training with the Celebrant
she adds.
Institute and Foundation, a New Jersey-based
educational nonprofit that certifies people from
one last year in Buena Vista where, after one
around the world to perform and co-create
couple’s wedding, the groom’s parents renewed
customized ceremonies for weddings, funerals
their own vows.
and other major life transitions, including
milestone birthdays, graduations, pet loss rituals
took place at Dead Horse Point State Park,
and baby welcoming ceremonies.
discovered Wine Country Ceremonies online.
They knew they wanted to be married out West,
Roy has helped commemorate a wide variety
Roy also officiates vow renewals, including
The couple from Memphis, whose wedding
of important life events.
and Roy helped them narrow down the location
for their wedding.
For Child and Migrant Services, a nonprofit in
Palisade that provides services for farmworkers
and their families, Roy created a special Mother’s
(who preferred to use her first name only). “Kathi
Day ritual for migrant and immigrant women
asked a lot of questions. She was extremely kind.
whose mothers reside far away.
She had great suggestions; she knew the area.
She was everything we wanted.”
In the town’s Riverbend Park, Roy created a
“We interviewed on the phone,” says Irene
pet-loss ceremony to help a family say good-bye
to their beloved dog who had passed.
already been booked for 2021. :
A woman going through a divorce hired Roy
to create a ceremony that empowered the client to take back her name and energy.
Despite a global pandemic, which led to
many wedding postponements, Roy married 24 couples in 2020. (In a typical year she officiates between 22 to 32 weddings). For some couples eager to tie the knot, “love doesn’t wait,” explains Roy.
Creating a custom wedding ceremony
begins with a personal interview with the couple followed by a questionnaire asking each of them questions to get them thinking about their stories, like “why they fell in love” or “what makes them laugh” and “how they first met.” Roy uses these personal anecdotes when composing a ceremony’s script.
“I find out what they love to do together,
their aspirations for their marriage,” Roy says.
“Sometimes we include passages from
favorite songs.”
As of New Year’s Eve 2020, 10 weddings had
A friend or family member will sometimes
offer a prayer or read a meaningful passage from a particular book. Couples who are blending families will sometimes say vows to the children, as well. Ceremonies can be lighthearted, religious or secular. She’s officiated many weddings where dogs were welcome.
For more information visit winecountryceremonies.net.
blossom
GARDEN BEDS
HOW TO BUILD YOUR OWN Words by Lauren Farrauto | Illustrations by Claire Kiewatt
A
s the ground begins to thaw and blossoms
“My philosophy for having a garden is to
start sprouting, you may find yourself
grow what you love. What do you like to eat?
itching to get your hands dirty in the garden
What flowers do you love? Then do the research
again. If you’ve been nurturing a few potted
and planning,” she says.
herbs for a while and are looking for a sign to commit to a bigger garden, this is it! Garden beds
TOOLS
can be tailored to each person’s needs and make
The in-ground garden beds are a great option for
the best homes for your fruits and veggies. Here
beginners who are just starting out and maybe
is a how-to-guide for in-ground garden beds that
aren’t sure exactly how they want their garden
will ensure your plants are happy and healthy
to be set up. In-ground beds are much easier to
this spring.
build, but do tend to put more strain on the body when actually gardening. These garden beds are
THE BASICS
built on existing ground, which allows roots to
Stephanie Griggs, owner of Bookcliff Gardens in
reach far into the soil without impediments.
Grand Junction, recommends doing some prep
work to start.
beds are about four feet wide by 18 inches tall,
and the length can be determined by materials
“It’s a really great idea to sketch your bed
According to Griggs, “The common size for
out on paper. Then, determine your planting
or dimensions of total garden space.”
zone. Grand Junction is considered a 7a*, but the
valley could also be more 6b**. This will vary
hardware store should have all the lumber
depending on elevation in Colorado. Your local
needed, just remember to ask if it’s treated or not.
nursery can help you
Treated wood will leach chemicals into the soil
with this or research
and contaminate your plants, so be sure to buy
has a minimum average
on the internet,” she
untreated. While not absolutely necessary, your
temperature of 0° to 5° F.
explains.
beds will last longer if they are sanded down
*Z one 7a: This subzone
When purchasing materials, your local
The size of your beds
and coated with a stain, which helps protect the
has a minimum average
are
dependent
wood from the elements it will be exposed to
temperature of -5° to 0°F.
on how many edible
year-round. You’ll also need to purchase screws
goodies you want to
to hold the frame together.
** Z one 6b: This subzone
also
pack in. Seed packets and sprouted plants’ tags
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will indicate how much space each plant needs
ASSEMBLY
to grow successfully. Do some research about the
First, be sure to clean your area properly. Pull
fruits and veggies you’re hoping to plant in order
all the weeds and/or grasses that will be inside
to determine just how big you need the beds to
the frame. Then, dig a shallow trough to form
be. It’s easy to get carried away during this step,
a border. This is where the boards will go to
so Griggs advises to start small, especially for
create the bed (IMAGE 1). It’s easier to manage
first time gardeners.
if you assemble the bed one corner at a time,
Depending on the way you plan to water your beds, you may need to extend pipe work up from
IMAGE 1
underneath the bed — generally for soaker or drip systems. Make sure you buy PVC pipe to extend drainage to the top of the bed, so your plants actually get water to their roots. IMAGE 2
working your way around the entire bed. Using an electric drill, screw the shorter edge board into the longer sideboard (IMAGE 2). Or, for a reinforced, sturdier corner, drill both pieces into a four by four (IMAGE 3) that’s the desired height of the bed. Repeat this step in each of the corners.
IMAGE 3
This completes the bed!
However, as mentioned above, kneeling
down and reaching across the beds to plant, harvest and provided maintenance can take a toll on the body. To combat this, you can stack more boards on top of each other until the beds reach your desired height. Simply repeat the steps above in each corner (IMAGE 4).
IMAGE 4
If your beds are really tall and really long,
you’ll need to reinforce the longest two sides with a piece of wood or rebar (IMAGE 5). This will prevent the wood from warping due to water or expanding from the weight of the soil. Once the beds are finished, fill with soil and get ready to plant! : IMAGE 5
drink
THE ALPINE SPRITZ Words + Photos by Jayme Henderson
It is safe to say that we’ve all tried — or have at least heard about — the bittersweet, orange-hued, Italian classic, Aperol spritz.
THE ALPINE SPRITZ 1 ounce Green Chartreuse 1/4 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice 1/4 ounce simple syrup 3-4 ounces dry sparkling white wine Fresh herbs, for garnish
1. I n a mixing tin, combine the Green Chartreuse, lime juice and simple syrup. 2. A dd ice, shake and strain into a wine glass filled with ample ice. 3. T op with dry sparkling wine. 4. G arnish with sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme. NOTE To maintain this cocktail’s balance, choose a dry (“brut”) sparkling white wine, since the Green Chartreuse already has a little sweetness to it. 18
I
have chosen to welcome spring with an alpine-inspired version that
conjures up the flavors and aromatics
Peachfork ORCHARD & VINEYARD
of this season of new growth. This effervescent cocktail gets both its naturally vibrant, green color and its herbaceous complexity from what many consider to be the single, greatest liqueur in the world, Chartreuse.
Carefully distilled from 130
different herbs and botanicals, the recipe for Chartreuse is one of the most carefully guarded secrets in the spirits world. The Carthusian monks, who reside in the Chartreuse Mountains of southeast France, craft this herbal liqueur, and only two members of the order are permitted to know the secret recipe, originally written in 1605, at any given time. Both a yellow and a green version are crafted and then barrel-aged, and they are favorites of bartenders around the world. Equally delicious on its own, Chartreuse also
281 33 Road / Palisade, CO 81526 970.216.7662 / peachfork.com PHOTO BY LISA “MOOSE” KRAL
brings complexity and depth to mixed drinks, such as my favorite classic cocktail, the Last Word.
This dramatic wine cocktail
reflects the emerging, green colors of the season and is a perfect aperitif for these welcomed, warmer months. :
carlsonvineyards.com
20
eat
THE RISE IN HOMEMADE LOAVES Words by Becca Saulsberry | Photos courtesy of Andre Gruber
T
he best bread is simply flour, water and
Coronavirus thankfully has not strained
salt, yet most of us repeatedly buy this
Marshall’s quarantine-friendly business model.
staple from grocery stores because baking it from
In fact, more people seem to be relying on and
scratch is such a long and laborious process. The
wanting to support local products and businesses
average person did not spend enough time at
during the pandemic, and some even want to
home to babysit their dough all day, that is, until
start baking from home themselves.
COVID-19 quarantines. While investigating the
rise in homemade loaves due to the pandemic,
says. “The more people find themselves in the
I asked one pre-COVID and one COVID-provoked
kitchen getting back to the basics, the greater the
at-home bakery for their stories, how their
appreciation for the end product, and the less
businesses responded to the global crisis and
scary carbs become!”
“I think the bread-baking trend is great,” she
any tips for the rest of us wanting to bake
bread at home. Spoiler alert: a recipe is included
Colorado at Boulder, fell into that bandwagon
Andre Gruber, a senior at the University of
at the end.
of quarantine-domestics, but took it one step
Jax Marshall, the founder of Evergreen’s
further. He not only began making sourdough
micro-bakery Mama and the Fig, once hated
from scratch in the spring of 2020, but he grew
baking. She dreaded the pastry training in
the hobby into another “cottage bakery” called
culinary school. It wasn’t until inheriting the
Ferment Boulder. Gruber admired quality bread
bread program at one of her kitchen jobs that she
since his semester in Copenhagen, but the virus-
realized “there was as much room for creativity
induced lockdown imposed the time needed at
as there was for science and precision.” She now
home to produce it himself.
operates from her home kitchen in what she
calls a “cottage bakery,” feeling free to create
no problem expanding his business quickly and
exactly what she wants.
bringing on a partner, Rafa Infante. The two
“That is what motivates me: a process of
were kind enough to share their original recipe
making bread that leans on the thousands of
below. Gruber notes to any aspiring bakers not
years of knowledge, infused with my own desire
to be intimidated; bread is more forgiving (and
to experiment and break from tradition. I feel
fun) than many think. He says, “the first loaf will
honored that people allow me into their homes
not be perfect, but you’ll learn every time, and it
by way of bread” Marshall shares.
will still be enjoyable and delicious.”
Gruber, convivial and hard-working, had
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
21
HOW TO MAKE A SOURDOUGH LOAF AT HOME RECIPE BY ANDRE GRUBER OF FERMENT BOULDER
Let’s start with a couple different ingredients and tools you will need to get started to make one sourdough loaf: Total Flour: 450 grams Bread Flour: 360 grams Whole Wheat flour: 90 grams Water: 324 grams Starter: 67.5 grams Salt: 9 grams Mixing bowl Kitchen towel Pan or Dutch oven Parchment paper Razor blade In order to bake a sourdough bread, you’ll need to have a mature sourdough starter. If you don’t have one already, you can check out our blog post on fermentboulder.com, or if you’re in Boulder, send us a message and we’re more than happy to provide you with some of our starter.
STEP 1 (IN THE MORNING) We will first need to feed our starter and get it ready to be later incorporated into our dough. It’s important that we only add our starter to the other ingredients once it has reached its peak growth after feeding. Therefore, we will 22
be feeding the starter approximately four hours before we do anything else.
1. F eed your starter at 1:1:1 ratio (one part water, one part flour, one part starter) and don’t forget to leave a little extra for the next day. For this recipe, leave 30 grams of starter in your jar, and add 30 grams of water and 30 grams of flour for a total of 90 grams of starter. 2. M ix well and set in a warm corner of your kitchen for four to five hours or until it has doubled in size.
STEP 2 Approximately three hours after feeding your starter you will want to begin the autolyse phase.
3. W eigh out 360 grams of bread flour and 90 grams of whole wheat flour and mix in a bowl until combined. 4. W eigh out 324 grams of filtered water that is around 85-90 degrees Fahrenheit (warm to the touch). 5. C ombine the water and flour in a bowl. You want to mix it by hand and do so until there are no more dry spots of flour left. 6. L eave the mixture to austolyse for one to two hours until the starter has grown at least double its size.
STEP 3 Now it’s time to mix your starter into the dough and begin bulk fermentation.
7. A dd 67.5 grams of starter to your dough with a wet hand. Begin by dimpling the starter into the dough. 8. C ontinue to incorporate the starter by folding the dough onto itself and mix for four to five minutes. 9. L et rest for 30 minutes.
STEP 4 Now it’s time for the last ingredient to be mixed and begin strengthening the gluten.
10. A dd salt (nine grams), dimple the dough again and mix in the salt evenly. 11. D ump the dough onto the counter and begin the slap and fold process for five to six minutes. The dough should be begin to look really smooth. (reference the video on our blog to learn the slap and fold method). 12. L et rest for 30 minutes.
STEP 5 This next step is where you will develop most of the strength in your dough. You will repeat this step three to four times with 30 minutes in
19. P erform the final shaping as shown in the video online. 20. P lace dough seam side up inside your floured bowl. 21. T hen, cover the bowl and place in the fridge for 14-18 hours at 39 degrees Fahrenheit. Congratulations, you’re all done for today. You’re two-thirds of the way there. Relax and wait until the morning for the next couple of steps before you can enjoy your beautiful loaf.
STEP 8 (THE NEXT MORNING) 22. P reheat your oven to 515 degrees for one and a half hours with your Dutch oven or pan inside. 23. T ake your dough out of the fridge, flip it onto a piece of parchment paper and brush off the excess flour. 24. I f you want to add your own designs to the loaf, score (cut) with a sharp knife or razor blade. You can check out some designs on our blog for inspiration. Once you have scored your loaves it’s time to bake:
25. T ake the Dutch oven out of the oven and place your loaf inside.
between.
26. B ake at 500 degrees for 20 minutes with the lid on.
13. P erform one set of coil folds on your dough as illustrated in the video on our blog.
27. R emove the lid and reduce the oven temperature to 450 degrees for another 20 minutes without the lid.
14. R est 30 minutes and repeat three to four times. 15. O nce you finish the sets, let the dough rest for another two to two-and-a-half hours, until the dough has grown about 30-40%.
STEP 6 It’s now time to pre-shape your loaf.
28. I n order to know if your loaves are done, tap the bottom and you should hear a hollow interior. Let the loaf cool for around an hour, and you are ready to enjoy your first homemade sourdough loaf. :
16. P re-shape your loaf as shown in the video on our blog. 17. L et it rest for 30 minutes. 18. C over a bowl with a kitchen towel and dust with flour.
STEP 7 This is the last step before placing your dough to proof overnight in the fridge. SPOKE+BLOSSOM
23
eat
ROCKY MOUNTAIN RACLETTE Words + Photo by Kim Fuller
K
athryn Matthews brings the essence of
and pickled pearl onions. The melted Raclette
Switzerland close to home with Rocky
cheese is traditionally scraped onto potatoes
Mountain Raclette. As owner and executive chef,
and bread.
Matthews combines the culinary inspiration
she’s found in the Alps with some of the best
Matthews, “because I combine it with the Rocky
ingredients in Colorado.
Mountains.”
You may be thinking cheese (of course),
paired with potatoes, charcuterie, cornichons
24
“Mine is so much different,” explains
Authenticity is at the heart of this unique
culinary experience. Rocky Mountain Raclette is
based in the Vail Valley, and new to the team is French pastry chef Sebastien Schmitt. He is from France, only about 40 minutes from the Swiss border, and has been eating Raclette at home with his family since he was a child.
Matthews has always provided delectable
catering services, from a signature grill dinner to date nights and cocktail parties. In addition to the classic Swiss elements of the meal, Matthews includes a medley of vegetables to grill, as well as proteins like beef tenderloin, elk strip loin, buffalo sausage, shrimp and lobster tail.
The melted Raclette cheese and potatoes are
then combined with the fresh beef tenderloin, elk, seafood and vegetables and served with a variety of dipping options like chimichurri, huckleberry sauce and herb butter to create your own flavor combinations.
It’s a versatile meal with something for
everyone. Those with food allergies can be easily accommodated. Designing your own bites may feel overwhelming at first, but once you dive in it’s all about cultivating great conversation and taking in the flavors of the evening.
New this season, Rocky Mountain Raclette
has introduced a new drop-off delivery option.
“We wanted to create a fun and safe
dining option for tourists and locals alike to do at home during the pandemic,” shares Matthews. “Raclette is interactive and much more memorable than getting food to-go from a restaurant, so we thought it was the perfect time to launch this product as a delivery option.”
Stay at home with your friends and family
and grill all the prepared food with the Raclette equipment provided. Everything is prepped and ready to go, so it makes the process really easy to do.
“The food is always hot and fresh since it is
being grilled yourself,” she adds, “so there are no issues with food getting cold from the delivery process.” : Visit rockymountainraclette.com for pricing options and to learn more.
book + beverage
Words by Lauren Farrauto | Photo by Chloe Besson
THE BOOK
THE BEVERAGE
ATOMIC HABITS
GOLDEN ROOT TURMERIC LATTE
BY JAMES CLEAR
I
f your New Year’s resolutions have begun to fall by the wayside or you’re looking to establish
B
uilding better habits doesn’t have to stop with exercising every day, however. Adding a step
to your mourning routine or self-care rituals, like
better habits within your lifestyle, James Clear’s
a cup of Golden Root tea, is an easy and delicious
Atomic Habits is the springtime read for you. In
way to implement a new, healthy habit.
this quick, self-help guidebook, Clear outlines the
best ways to make new habits and break the old
creates addicting turmeric lattes that are good
ones, ensuring you can effectively create the life
for your body and don’t contain caffeine, so you
Golden Root, a Denver-based company,
dreaming
don’t have to feel bad about adding this treat
of. Whether you’ve been
to your daily ritual. In fact, turmeric contains
looking to eat healthier,
anti-inflammatory agents, which are paired
workout consistently or
with other health-promoting ingredients such as
simply make your bed
black pepper, ginger and cayenne pepper in this
each morning, this book
stellar concoction.
will provide you the
proper steps and tools to
Golden Root to share her love of natural
get there.
ingredients and extend her ritual of self-care
Throughout the book,
to others.
Clear explains the
neuroscience
turmeric latte mix, I noticed that the act of
you’ve
been
behind
Owner and founder Andrea Slinde created
“After I started making and sharing my
habit formation, delving
preparing and drinking
deep into why it’s so easy
Golden Root each day
to stick with our bad habits, and how to reroute
was a grounding act of
these pathways in order to carve new, successful
self-care for myself,” she
systems into your life. He explains that while
writes in her welcome
habits aren’t inherently hard to form, they do
newsletter.
take consistent work. However, making a few
mental changes can make these habits much
Golden Root is truly a
easier to stick with.
moment of indulgent
A
warm
cup
of
Clear reveals four laws that break
self-care that you never
down habit formation for more manageable
have to feel guilty about.
implementation: Make it obvious. Make it
I like to prepare my cup with whole milk to
attractive. Make it easy. Make it satisfying.
make it extra creamy, but all you need to do is
Each
revolves
add a cup of warm water or milk of your choice
around these four laws and provides in-
to a packet of Golden Root’s Tumeric Latte Mix.
depth explanation of what the laws mean and
The result is a warming cup of pure bliss.
examples of how to incorporate each one into
your life. Clear’s direct prose, enticing examples
coffee shops, health centers and boutiques across
and comprehensive toolkit make this a must-
the country, as well as online at goldenroot.co.
read for those looking to make long-lasting
change to their lifestyle.
a cup and start practicing the habits you want to
chapter
of
the
book
Their products can be found in over 150
So, what are you waiting for? Settle in with
cultivate this season. :
26
S+B’S INSTAGRAM + PODCAST PICKS Compiled by Claire Kiewatt
@timbers_trails
@alchemybikes
Meet Timber: the newest team member at Timberline Bank. If there’s a bank mascot competition, he’s taking first place! Follow Timber’s journey, while adding some extra wags and kisses to your feed.
When life feels like an uphill battle, you need a good mountain bike. Alchemy Bikes has you covered with high-end mountain, road, gravel and e-bikes, based right here in Colorado. Check out their bikes in action on their page, and enjoy the view from the top.
Make One Day Happen with Shenna Jean
The Mountainpreneur Podcast
Personal growth is a journey, but let Make One Day Happen podcast be your guide. Host Shenna Jean will inspire you to elevate your consciousness and activate your potential with guests who are breaking records and chasing success in life.
What does it mean to be a “mountainpreneur?” Nick Junker and Bobby L’Heureux are here to answer that question. Tune into The Mountainpreneur Podcast and dive into the lifestyle, challenges and rewards of being an entrepreneur in a mountain town.
@rootedapothecary
In need of some natural healing? Rooted Apothecary has everything you need, whether it’s a new all-natural skincare routine, some aromatherapy or just a hot cup of tea. Aspiring herbalists should browse Rooted Apothecary’s page — or stop into the apothecary in person, with locations in Crested Butte and Gunnison.
Frozen Truth
Bone-chilling mysteries and true crime investigation come together on the Frozen Truth podcast. Join Scott Fuller as he covers a new disappearance each season, taking you with him for every step of the investigation.
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
27
art
PAVIA JUSTINIAN
FRUITA STUDENTS EXAMINE WATER USE IN THE WEST THROUGH AN ARTISTIC LENS
THE WELLSPRING PROJECT Words by Lexi Reich
T
28
he goal of The Wellspring Project is to blend
the Colorado River, where students will learn
artistic expression with environmental
firsthand the importance of maintaining a
advocacy for Fruita Middle School students.
healthy river corridor, protection of endangered
Hosted by the City of Fruita Arts and Culture
fish, mitigation of invasive plant species and
Board, this summer initiative consists of a rafting
hydrology. Managed by the Colorado Canyons
trip, educational intensive and art project. It will
Association, reflection exercises — including
be held in Fruita from June 12 to 18, 2021 and is
journaling, sketching and conversing — will
funded by Arts in Society and Western Colorado
be central to understanding the surrounding
Community Foundation.
landscape and wildlife.
Water is crucial to life in the West and
“This is the first opportunity for them to
beyond. The City of Fruita Arts and Culture Board
connect science to art in a manner that serves
wants students to examine the environmental
to inspire them, while also allowing them to
and social issues surrounding water use through
think of how to turn this project over through
the lens of art and culture. Students will have
the community,” shares Marian Heesaker, City of
the opportunity to learn about water and its
Fruita Arts and Culture Board member.
complexity from multiple stakeholders who
have an interest in its protection.
to the Grand Valley Diversion Dam where the
The week-long program is divided into
Colorado River diverts into a complex canal
three phases. The first two days are devoted to
system. There will be discussion around water
On Monday, June 14, students will venture
COURTESY RIVERSEDGE WEST
trip together. We will see different stages of their journey, telling parallel stories about water and life and how they are intertwined. I am really looking forward to working with the kids, and I hope this project inspires them to continue using their art to speak up and speak out.”
The City of Fruita Arts and Culture Board
believes the youth seek possibility in new ways that adults often do not. In a statement, the board said, “We hope that through this project, they will find an awareness around this issue that will encourage them to be bold and fearless in their approach to it.”
The board emphasizes the importance of
working together with stakeholders engaged in water use in the West. By collaborating creatively and proactively, the hope is that law from a historical perspective. Students will
despite differences, respect and inclusivity will
then visit Avant Vineyards and Farm, learning
be at the forefront as the community tackles
first-hand the challenges they face with changing
this issue. :
weather patterns. Students will also learn about water rights and what decisions the farm makes to produce food for our tables. The day will finish at Ute Water municipality to uncover how water
Registration will be through the Fruita Parks and Recreation website in March. Learn more at fruita.org/acb.
makes its way from the river to our tap.
The next day, participants will head to
Kannah Creek with Eureka! Science Museum to gather water samples and learn about water behavior, health and conservation. The last stop will be with Colorado Fish and Wildlife for a presentation on their endangered fish program.
The final three days will be spent in an art
studio with local artists Jonathan Cooley and Kyle Harvey, who specialize in sculpture, poetry and journaling. Pavia Justinian, a local sculptor and muralist, will also be creating two 75-foot murals along the riverfront trail in Fruita with the students. The goal is for students to create art that represents how they view the issue, with the hopes that the final pieces promote dialogue around water conservation.
DESERT MOUNTAINS
OIL, 48X48
“Many have heard the phrase, ‘Water is life.’
Because water and life are both cyclical, we have a great opportunity to tell these parallel stories,” says Justinian. “I‘d like to get the kids’ input too, but right now I’m thinking the murals will feature local mascots Greta the Dinosaur and Mike the Headless Chicken embarking on a river
BARBARA CHURCHLEY FINE ART IMPRESSIONISTIC OILS AND PASTELS OF THE WESTERN LANDSCAPE barbarachurchley.com Redstone Art Gallery Redstone, Colorado / redstoneart.com
Ago Gallery Ouray, Colorado / agogallery.com
maker
SOLANDRA
HAVE A SPA DAY EVERY DAY Words by Lexi Reich | Photos courtesy of Solandra LLC
E
30
very morning, Cynthia Henzler puts on a
the formula needed tweaking. Through sheer
long-sleeve shirt, apron and goggles, and
perseverance,
batch
after
batch,
Henzler’s
heads downstairs to her workshop in Eagle,
products improved. In fact, her renowned lip
Colorado. She prepares her curing chamber and
butters started because a month into business,
exhaust system for the day’s work ahead. Some
a friend popped into her shop to request a
may call Henzler a mad chemist, others may call
lavender lip product. It took a year to master the
her a soap maker.
formula, but once she did, Henzler had created a
“I always thought I was this crazy soap lady
chemical-free, organic lip butter that soothes the
trying to make these high-quality products,”
toughest of dry skin — and now it’s one of her
Henzler confesses. “But when my soaps leave my
bestsellers.
workshop, I know I’ve done my best.”
shares, explaining the name comes from “Viking
Henzler opened Solandra LLC in December
“Solandra personifies who I am,” Henzler
2017 to offer Colorado-crafted, all-natural
queen,” a nickname her partner had given her.
products that heal dry mountain skin. Solandra
soaps and skincare products are not only
friend’s farm in Kauai, Hawaii (where she lived
environmentally friendly, but socially conscious.
herself for 16 years). She dries and grinds the
Her Aloha Soap contains ginger from a
Her method is self-taught. When Henzler
ginger and adds it to the soap to complement the
presented her very first handcrafted soap at
coconut and cocoa butter properties. Mountain
a family function, her brother said the soap
Forrest Soap is named after her nephew, Forrest.
block was too big; her sister-in-law added that
She sprinkles the top with harvested pine
needles and the sparkly green mineral mica. The Solandra lotion bars are infused with honey from Colorado Mountain Honey.
Not only do her products uphold integrity
towards the environment, but also the community. Giving back is at the heart of her work with 15% of Solandra’s profits being used to donate soaps to those in need.
“I think it’s really important to give back
when you can. Even if just a smile, or whatever it may be,” Henzler says. “Sometimes it just becomes without realizing it, but when you bless others, you get so blessed in return.”
Henzler donates her soaps to Bright Future
Foundation, a nonprofit in Vail Valley dedicated to changing lives affected by domestic violence
Cynthia Henzler
and sexual abuse, and The Salvation Army,
the eco-friendly nature of her products. “Use
through which she gets her products into the
products that are authentic, not ones that try to
hands of Denver’s homeless youth. She also
cover anything up.” :
works with a women’s shelter in Fort Collins and another organization in California that aided firefighters this past summer.
“I’m proud that you can take my products
wherever you go,” she says, adding it’s due to
Available online at SolandraLLC.com and local retail shops: Fill & Refill in Edwards, The Gilded Spruce in Vail, Vail Valley Pharmacy in Edwards and Knapp Harvest in Eagle.
"BUILDING TO THE HIGHEST STANDARDS"
COME TO VISIT & STAY TO PLAY LIKE A LOCAL . L I F E S T Y L E H O M E S I N T H E G R A N D V A L L E Y
VISIT ALTAHOMEBUILDERS.COM FOR MORE DETAILS
music
Drew Fields, Jeff Steele and Peter Rosenthal in the studio preparing for a Union Of None live stream.
LOCAL MUSICIANS ARE RE-TUNING THEIR WORK By Jeffrey Steele | Photo courtesy of Union of None
W
32
hat’s a poor band to do?
banned live music streams later in the year.
That became the pressing question
So, the question remains: what’s a poor band
for an estimated 50 bands in the Grand Valley
to do?
when COVID-19 lockdowns began in early
2020. Festivals, events and shows of all kinds
cover band thriving on live performances,
that feature live music were being postponed,
was bound and determined to find a way
revamped or outright canceled. Local musicians
to continue playing the shows that brought
and performers were left without a critical
not only much needed income, but also the
source of income and no place to play.
satisfaction and fulfillment that can only be
Some bands called it quits while others
achieved on the stage. They performed a few
decided to wait it out and see what would
live streams on Facebook, getting tips here
happen. Others took the time to write and record
and there through PayPal, but felt that it
new music or shoot and edit music videos. Some
wasn’t quite what they were after. There was a
turned to social media sites as an avenue to
notable lack of engagement, and a frustrating
continue performing live shows until Facebook
inability to interact with listeners.
Union Of None (UON), a popular local
One day, a friend mentioned that they
playing a show, loading equipment and heading
were making an extra several hundred dollars
home. This was truly becoming a community
a month using twitch.tv, a streaming platform
where friends, old and new, could gather in a
used primarily by gamers. Essentially, a person
very casual virtual environment, enjoy some
streams themselves playing a video game and
music and connect with like-minded souls. It
people subscribe to the channel for a small fee.
also offered UON the opportunity to be as silly,
There are various other ways to monetize the
creative and ridiculous as they wanted to be
channels as well through advertising, tips and
with people all over the world.
donations.
In short order, the band began streaming
While the twitch user base of roughly 15
twice a week with one night being a practice
million people is mainly geared toward gaming,
session, where viewers can watch the process of
there is a small but vibrant music community as
learning new songs, and the other being a show
well, comprised mostly of individual musicians
night, where songs the band already knows can
or duos performing on-demand covers or
be requested. Not long after that, a third night
original music. However, UON found that there
was added, but instead of playing music, the
was a noticeable lack of full bands streaming on
members of the band just sit and talk about
the platform.
whatever happens to be on their minds, play
It seemed that this might actually be what
silly games or interact with the people in the
they were looking for. Immediate engagement,
chat. On one particular “just chatting” night, a
a simple way to interact with listeners and the
challenge was offered to the band and each one
possibility of actually making a few dollars in
of them ended up shaving off their mustaches
the process, all while being able to continue
live on stream.
performing live shows.
Through all of this, the new online
“It was almost like this was designed
community the band is fostering continues to
specifically for us,” says Drew Fields, the band’s
grow, and with it a completely new and different
guitarist and lead vocalist. “It was exactly what
perspective.
we were looking for.”
“We’ve been lucky to make new long-lasting
Initially, the band dipped a toe in to test the
friends across the globe and create an incredibly
waters by creating a channel and doing several
supportive community around these awesome
two-hour streams using a cell phone to see the
people who not only care about us as musicians,
response. With a little advice from friends and
but as people, and who also care about and
some help from other streamers, the band was
support each other through our streams,” says
soon diving in head-first, investing in a new
Peter Rosenthal, the band’s bass player and
camera and figuring out how to set up other
stream manager.
equipment to get better sound. The response
from the twitch.tv community was nothing short
to live performances at bars, festivals and
of amazing.
other events but are forever grateful for the
opportunity and support borne of a pandemic
Within a month, the band had begun to build a
They eagerly look forward to returning
following and already had some loyal supporters,
lockdown.
one of whom makes a business of refurbishing
And that is something a poor band can do! :
and reselling government computers. Because the laptop the band was using to manage the stream was old and slow, the supporter offered the band a significantly better system at a price that simply couldn’t be refused. So, it was out with the old and in with the new.
Early on the band realized that this was
very different from setting up at a location,
You can find Union Of None live streams at twitch.tv/unionofnone. Streams are live every Wednesday (practice day), Thursday (just chatting day) and Sunday (show day) from 6 to 9 p.m. MST. You can also visit their website at unionofnone.com.
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
33
food
THE HOG AND THE HEN Words by Naomi Allen | Photos by Dylan Hardy
T
34
he Hog and The Hen has a simple mission
statement: Be a market, deli and liquor
the outdoors brought the Halls to the Valley,
Aside from the perfect location of the store,
store that makes your day better. Located in
including mountain biking, dirt biking and
downtown Grand Junction, The Hog and The
winter sports within a few miles. The space is
Hen is a perfect fit with the Grand Valley’s wine,
split into a market and deli and has a separate
produce and culinary communities. Combining
store for selling spirits. Since it opened in 2019,
years of culinary expertise with a constantly
The Hog and The Hen has continued to expand
evolving stock of over 60 cheeses and 45 types
its inventory and grow as a presence in Western
of meat, owners Cooper and Mary Hall offer
Colorado.
education, variety and excellence to the Grand
Valley food scene.
food attainable by infusing staple foods like
Originally from Aspen, the Halls realized
sandwiches and snacks with high quality, unique
they wanted to open a market while helping
products. The staff at The Hog and The Hen exist
Cooper’s family open the Candy Time Shoppe on
to educate shoppers on the newest arrivals, the
Grand Junction’s Main Street. Everything aligned
ideal wine pairing for a type of meat and to bring
for The Hog and The Hen as the candy store
Colorado brands to Grand Junction. Ultimately,
moved to a location down the street, leaving the
the market aims to help customers enjoy the
charming corner store vacant.
experience of purchasing and eating fine foods.
The market’s goal is to make fancy
The speed and ease of picking up a sandwich are juxtaposed with culinary genius. From the Plenty O’ Fish (featuring goldfish crackers and pole-and-line-caught white albacore) to the Barnyard (ham, turkey, roast beef and cheese), the deli’s creative combinations are perfect for any occasion.
The market houses numerous Colorado-
based brands, and new products are constantly coming in based on customer requests or new brand discoveries. Often, Grand Valley produce and wine are included with the market’s seasonal offerings. The expansive selection also includes Colorado companies like Elevation and Il Porilpocellino, both boasting experimental cured meats, and regular sourdough deliveries from Bake Sale Bread Company and Paonia Bread Works. Additional seasonal favorites are a necessity, like this holiday season’s triple cream
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Eagle, CO
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Edwards, CO
VailValleyPharmacy.com
Edwards, CO
KnappHarvest.com GildedSpruce.com
Eagle, CO Vail, CO
brie with black truffle. The Hall’s knowledge shines in their menu pairings and custom charcuterie boards. The market even offers charcuterie consultations to create the perfect match for every customer’s gathering.
Cooper said it best: “People dig it!” The
Hog and The Hen has brought the community together in the shared experience of new food. As first-time business owners, the Halls saw a need in the Valley and filled it perfectly. To them, nothing is more gratifying than picturing a family enjoying a board or educating a customer on a new product. From hearing praise from appreciative customers to sharing their creations at family gatherings, The Hog and The Hen’s mission has undoubtedly succeeded in introducing the community to quality food. :
L O C A L LY S O U R C E D G O O D N E S S LOCAL meat, produce, bread, pasta, milk, cheese, salsas, sauces, jams, kombucha, CBD products, jewelry, art ... and much more. Come enjoy an espresso or a scoop of ice cream and see what we have to offer! 10986 Highway 65 Mesa, CO 970.389.0000 @mesa.bloom.market
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wedding vendors
Special Advertising Section PETALS OF PROVENCE LUXURY FLORAL WEDDING DESIGN: MODERN, ORGANIC DESIGN WITH A FRENCH FLAIR Petals of Provence is the Vail Valley’s premier florist, known for using exquisite botanicals, color and texture to reflect your style and bring your wedding vision to life. For over 20 years, we’ve worked with clients across the globe to create stunning, original floral designs. We have experience in every style and season in a variety of indoor and outdoor venues across the Vail Valley. For us, florals are more than an accent. They are a beautiful opportunity to create an experience that tells a treasured story — your love story. Contact us for a complimentary consultation. Mention Spoke+Blossom and enjoy 5% off your order. “Flowers were perfection. You embraced the concept and executed beautifully. Thank you for adding the final touches to make our wedding perfect.” — A Petals of Provence Bride 970.926.4233 petalsofprovence.com
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POSH SALON AND BOUTIQUE Let Posh handle your big day. Our team of bridal beauty experts are here to make you look and feel just a smidge bit more gorgeous than you already are. The Bridal Team at Posh has been recognized and featured in many bridal magazines and blogs since opening our doors in 2014. Voted Best of the West 2019, and 2020 as well. With hundreds of weddings under our belt, we are prepared to tackle weddings of any style and size. Are you ready to feel like the most stunning version of yourself on the most photographed day of your life? Don’t stress, and let us take it from here. Our mission for your special day is to make you feel like YOU, only a little more relaxed, and even more radiant. Full bridal team available, in-salon or on location, for airbrush makeup, hair, nails and lash services. Travel available to Grand Junction, Delta, Montrose, Ouray, Glenwood, Aspen, Telluride and Denver, Colorado. 970.644.5858 poshsalonandboutique.com/bridal Bridal@Poshsalonandboutique.com 36
wedding vendors
Special Advertising Section
Aubrey Beth Photography Your wedding day should be everything you want it to be, and that includes your wedding photographer. Every couple has a unique love story and it’s humbling to be a part of sharing what makes your day special to you. Epic adventures always welcome!
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Elevation Weddings and Events Elevation Weddings and Events is a wedding planning company that specializes in high altitude weddings, micro weddings and elopements along Colorado’s Western Slope. Owner Krysta Cossitt provides personal attention, expert guidance and local knowledge to bring every detail together seamlessly. elevationweddingsandevents.com
JON BURKE PHOTOGRAPHY / FLOWERS BY 3 LEAF FLORAL
ORCHARD RIVER VIEW WEDDING & EVENT VENUE Orchard River View Wedding & Event Venue is located on the Western Slope of Colorado in beautiful Palisade. Get married inside/outside or hold your reception at the gorgeous, newly built 5,000-square-foot timber-frame wedding barn surrounded by picturesque peach orchards and vineyards located right along the Colorado River. The natural backdrops leave a blank canvas for you to customize your wedding to your unique style. The surrounding mountains, river and orchards make for ideal settings for outdoor ceremonies and stunning photos. The fully heated and cooled venue allows for yearround events in a climate-controlled barn with a spacious bridal suite overlooking the valley, indoor restrooms, caterer’s kitchen and much more. Our grand chandelier is a detail which creates a timeless, one-of-a-kind venue unlike any other in Colorado. orchardriverview.com
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
37
wellness + fitness
WHEN IT COMES TO GENETICS, KNOWLEDGE IS POWER Words by Kristen Lummis
professional in Western Colorado providing highquality genetic counseling, although Community Hospital is in the process of recruiting a new genetic counselor.
Each week, Kanopsic sees about eight
patients. Many of them were referred by their family doctor after noticing a suspicious family history, or after an atypical cancer diagnosis.
A visit with Kanopsic begins with discussion
F
amilies share a lot of things: holiday
and the creation of a multi-generational family
traditions, favorite foods, a passion for a
tree, including the types of cancer various family
specific sports team, and yes, genetics.
members have had and the ages at which these
While we mostly think of genetics in terms
cancers were diagnosed. Kanopsic is a cancer
of predisposing members of a family to a certain
specialist, and while genetic mutations can
hair or eye color — or perhaps in terms of
cause other diseases and issues, she’s looking for
researching genealogy — genetics can also play
the cancer trends and patterns among multiple
a huge role in a family’s predisposition to cancer
family generations that raise red flags.
and other diseases.
In 2015, I learned this firsthand after
may be referred for genetic testing, with the goal
receiving an atypical cancer diagnosis.
of identifying inherited genetic changes before
Immediately, my genetics were called into
cancer develops. If a genetic mutation shows up,
question, and it was at this time that I became
a tailored cancer prevention and screening plan
aware of the importance of genetic counseling.
can be created for each member of the family
If the pedigree looks suspicious, a patient
with the mutation.
BUILDING A FAMILY PEDIGREE
Although a relatively new field, genetic counseling
genetically-based cancers is relatively low, even
is booming. According to Page Kanopsic, a nurse
among families with mutations. Cancer-causing
practitioner with Medical Oncology at St. Mary’s
genetic mutations are autosomal dominant,
Hospital in Grand Junction, genetic counseling
meaning that children have a 50% chance of
and testing is important as a diagnostic and
inheriting the mutated gene.
preventative tool for people with cancer-causing
genetic mutations.
shares that, “It’s not the vast majority of disease.
“The field of genetics is exploding with next
Just 5-10% of all cancers, and 10-15% of breast
generation sequencing,” she explains, adding
cancers, with some studies showing that about
that the demand for genetic counseling is far
10% of the total population carries a harmful
outpacing the availability of genetic counselors.
genetic change.”
Kanopsic, who is trained in Genetic Cancer
Risk Assessment, is currently the only medical
38
Kanopsic stresses that the incidence of
Among the general population Kanopsic
In the case of my family, we have something
called Lynch Syndrome, which occurs in about
one in 300 people worldwide. Lynch Syndrome
Referrals to specialists are often a part of this,
causes a predisposition to colon cancer and
and Kanopsic provides information for family
gynecological cancers, among others.
members, which helps to identify additional atrisk individuals.
WHEN IT’S TIME FOR TESTING Regarding genetic testing, don’t be fooled.
WHY FIND OUT
While some direct-to-consumer tests claim to
When I was diagnosed with cancer and then
provide health information, the testing they
Lynch Syndrome, some within my circle shared
do is not validated for clinical use, nor is it
that they would be reluctant to have genetic
thorough. The outcome can be misclassification
testing. Their thought was that they wouldn’t
of genetic results and significant false positives,
want to know, as it might make the future
of up to 40%. While these tests may be fun for
look scary.
finding out that your family heritage, that’s
their limit.
also a surgeon, pointed out, “Forewarned is
forearmed,” or put another way, knowledge
Instead, medically-valid genetic testing
But as a knowledgeable friend, who is
is done at several specialized laboratories
is power.
throughout the U.S., with samples coming in
from across the world.
of a genetic counselor and sticking to a tailored
screening and prevention plan, people with
Generally, results are returned to Kanopsic
Kanopsic agrees. By following the advice
within three to four weeks.
known genetic risk can remain healthier and
even avoid cancer in some cases.
“After I get the results, we schedule a
consultation,” she explains. “If there is a
mutation, we have a longer conversation about
are aware of their carrier status and understand
“The data is growing,” she says. “People who
specific genetic changes and what we can do for
their risk are more proactive about their health
screening and prevention.”
… In the long run, they do better.” :
spoke
GET OUTSIDE!
GEAR FOR THE SEASON Compiled by S+B Staff
Patagonia Women’s Swiftcurrent Waders Designed for the feminine angler, these midweight waterproof and breathable waders have waist-mounted and easy-to-use suspenders for conversion to waist height, along with an innovative rear-buckle system that provides a drop-seat function for
The Torre Knife by Castillo
quick relief. These waders
This three-and-a-half inch blade has a four-
also feature a waterproof
inch handle and is designed for a variety
pocket, a reach-through
of domestic and rural uses. It comes with
handwarmer pocket and a
a leather pocket sheath and lanyard, and
chest pocket. $499
because wood is a natural material, each
patagonia.com
knife has a unique grain pattern. $119 castilloknives.es
Red Original Short-Sleeve Pro Change Robe River season is here, and the Pro Change Robe enables you to get fully changed in comfort even on the windiest, wettest of days. The waterproof outer shell keeps out the weather while the super soft, moisture wicking fur lining draws moisture away from the body, keeping you warm between paddling sessions. $180 redoriginal.com
Alpine Start With Benefits Daily adventures need fuel. This new plantbased combination from Alpine Start gives coffee and matcha the boost of organic lion’s mane to create mental clarity, organic reishi mushrooms and vitamins A and D for immune support, along with MCTs from coconut to improve focus. Just grab your mug and pour hot water over these dairy-free and vegan mixes to add even more benefits to your morning or mid-day beverages. $22.99 alpinestartfoods.com
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Mountain Hardwear Basin Trek Pant Nothing beats a great outdoor pant, and this new design from Mountain Hardwear not only repels water with a DWR finish, articulated knees, specific seat gusset construction and the nylon stretch cotton material are all details that ensure ample mobility for whatever your outdoor day has
Hydro Flask 5 Liter Down Shift
in store. $80
Hydration Hip Pack
mountainhardwear.com
As the season begins to heat up, hydration is at the top of every athlete’s priority while hiking
WANDRD’s 100% Recycled
and mountain biking. Water
Nylon Camera Straps
stays cold for at least three hours
This whole camera strap system
in the pack’s 1.5-liter reservoir;
recently introduced from WANDRD
plus, stretch bottle pockets are
is sleek with no metal hardware that
included for easy access to even
directly attaches to your camera. The
more fluids on longer journeys.
Sling Strap, picture here, can be carried
Outer and interior quick stash
three different ways – sling, neck or
pockets keep tools, snacks and
shoulder carry, and features custom
other essentials organized, and
quick-connect hardware and smooth
additional features include
adjustment sliders. $54
an easy-to-use bite valve, light
wandrd.com
attachments and reflective details. $99.95 hydroflask.com
Kelty CBD For anyone who loves to play outside and may be familiar
PEARL iZUMi’s Women’s
with some sort of nagging
Interval Cargo Bib Short
pain, Kelty has launched a new
As you ramp up the miles on your bike this
CBD line of creams, salves and sprays. These self-care tools
Vasque Satoru Moc
spring, this women’s-
were made “to help you go
This camp moc
specific big short is ideal
farther, higher, and faster – and
provides comfort
for longer road or gravel
to bounce back more quickly
and versatility with a
rides. The side pockets
when you do,” says Russ
memory foam footbed,
allow for extra storage
Rowell, senior vice president
sock-like knit upper
(without movement
and general manager of Kelty.
and an all-terrain
while pedaling), the
$29.95 - $59.95
outsole. Just slip it on
mesh panels provide
kelty.com
for a spring walk, trip
added ventilation
to the farmers’ market
for hot days and the
or when you’re
plush women’s-specific
lounging around a
ELITE Escape chamois
campsite. $100
provides great comfort
vasque.com
for long hours in the saddle. $165 pearlizumi.com
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
41
spoke
RockyMounts headquarters in Grand Junction.
GEAR PROFILE
ROCKYMOUNTS Words by Bobby L’Heureux | Photos courtesy of RockyMounts
“W
42
hen you absolutely, positively can’t
Colonias River Park in Grand Junction. The focus
ride it there; we’ve got you covered.”
has not wavered. RockyMounts strives to make
This was the ideology Bobby Noyes had when he
solid, well-designed and dependable racks to
created RockyMounts in 1993. It still guides the
give you the peace of mind when you absolutely,
business today.
positively “can’t ride it there.”
After becoming known as the “rack guy” at a
RockyMounts moved into their new location
friend’s bike shop, Noyes saw the need for better
in July 2020 and has been riding a lot of waves
bikes racks with more capability, racks that
since, ranging from insane growth to shipping
could work on both round and square vehicle
and logistics issues during a pandemic.
roof bars. The first racks were sold out of Noyes’
trunk and quickly started gaining traction, laying
manager. “We lost employees and moving a
the groundwork for what has become a leading
company is never easy. But it is all worth it.”
name in the car rack industry.
“It was hard,” shares Joey Early, marketing
Three of the current 14 employees moved
After three moves and a few different
from Boulder to Grand Junction to continue
employee families, the RockyMounts team and
working with the team. Early says the move has
headquarters is now in the Riverfront at Las
connected RockyMounts back to a place where
Bobby Noyes then.
community involvement is easier and supported
business to install racks for their employees,”
rather than expected.
Early explains.
“Being in Boulder for 27 years is hard on a
The finishing touches of the new
company, especially if you are not a tech company.
RockyMounts building at Las Colonias River Park
It is hard to feel like you are gaining roots,” says
are nearly done, including a space designated
Early. “My wife and I just bought a house. We
for the cycling community. This will include
would have never been able to do that in Boulder.
a new showroom space with a bike mechanic
It was still a stretch but in a place like Grand
area, big screen TVs and a bar to watch races
Junction it is more approachable, and it feels like
and host events and clinics. Early says they look
we bought in a place we have a future in.”
forward to supporting local non-profits like The
Cycle Effect in this space.
Being in Grand Junction has brought back
the vision Noyes had that his employees would
always be able to live close enough to ride their
to the community,” Early says. “They are not just
“It gives us a feeling we are able to give back
bikes to work. In fact, the team is encouraged
asking us to do cool shit, they are involved.” :
and rewarded for commuting on their bikes. Each employee’s commute is weighed by distance and time to calculate their points to make the system fair.
At their new location, RockyMounts has
expanded research and development, as well as product diversification. They are now designing and making bike rack for commercial use. They are making it easy for a building or municipalities to add bike racks at any time.
“We are going to have them on hand with
all the hardware to make it easy for a city or Bobby Noyes now. SPOKE+BLOSSOM
43
spoke
ATHLETE PROFILE
CHRISTOPHER DAVIS Words by Kaitlin Emig | Photos courtesy of Leslie Davis
A
44
s an athlete living in the mountains, the
He courageously shares his story with
risk of having a concussion increases, but
Spoke+Blossom to help other people who may
the effects of them remain the same. Some of us
have hit their head one too many times know
can rebound to keep living life normally, while
they are not alone in their struggle and there
others end up with lasting damage. This story is
is a community of support for them. I caught
about an athlete with a traumatic brain injury
up with Davis through his involvement with
(TBI). His name is Christopher Davis, and he
an Eagle Valley Behavioral Health organization
grew up having an active mountain kid life in
called Heads Up for Hope to hear how his life has
Vail, Colorado. Now, 10 years after his series of
changed since having a TBI.
concussions that left him with irreversible brain
damage, he strives to be a spokesman for people
at Battle Mountain High School when, in the
who have a TBI by building more awareness
course of one-and-a-half months, he suffered
to life-altering effects beyond a couple helmet
six concussions. He was in a preseason hockey
collisions.
tournament where between the first and final
At 17 years old, Davis was in his senior year
game in the playoffs he suffered two big hits to
when I potentially had a concussion, but I don’t
his head. He knew something was wrong and
want to be afraid of these memories as they
followed up with doctor visits, which left him
prevent me from living my life now.”
on a three-week resting period. He said his last
game of the preseason was a solid performance
avid skier as a teen. Now his athletic outlet is
and was glad to have this memory of his athletic
hiking since it’s the only low-impact outdoor
career; however, he ended it with another elbow
activity he can currently do. Unfortunately, he
to the head.
has chronic pain in his back, neck and hands
Davis finished high school with the help of
from the trauma of past injuries and overuse.
good teachers who understood and supported
He is getting into cross-country skiing and
him throughout many more doctor visits. Davis
skate skiing and would like to add volleyball to
was not alone in his battle, the Center for Disease
participate in team sports again. He spends his
Control reports a growing number of TBIs in
free time playing music and hopes to get his
Americans since 2006. Effects of a TBI impair
hands good enough to play a gig one day.
memory, movement, sensation (vision and
hearing) or emotional functioning (personality
is outreach to help me in my journey,” he says.
changes and depression). Survivors of a TBI can
“If I’m not talking about my problems then I’m
face effects that last a few days or the rest of their
making them into a reality.” Heads Up for Hope
lives. These issues not only affect individuals
is a community support system that he finds
but also can have lasting effects on families and
valuable to connect with people, make friendships
communities.
and offer advice from sharing stories.
Davis went on to college in Durango, but
Davis played hockey, lacrosse and was an
“One thing that has been really big for me
“There is someone out there who might
without a close support system fell into old
have a horrible experience and feel guilty,” he
habits which inhibited his healing. He openly
says, “but they should know they are not alone
admits to having a history of drug and alcohol
in their struggles.” :
abuse which he battled in college He knew to recover from his symptoms he had to get off, which he did.
“I accept my past and I don’t want to change
it,” he reflects. This acceptance is a part of his constant process of healing. “Instead of finding the root of your issues it’s just being mindful of how you are actually feeling.”
Over the past six years, he’s visited two in-
patient recovery programs in Colorado, specialty doctors of every sort and has medications to assist him in his chronic pain. He credits his therapist as being the most helpful in his healing process. He describes learning about his brain injury as finding gold but always losing it.
“I got a little gold nugget from each
experience and put it in my pocket, but then it might fall out in the wash,” he shares.
“I wish I could reach out to my younger
self and tell him this was a serious injury; the symptoms that you have may feel minor but are really serious,” he says. “I look back on my athletic history, and I can count maybe 30 times
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
45
grand outdoors
COLORADO’S BEST ROCK CLIMBER
THE BIGHORN SHEEP Words by Becca Saulsberry
Megan McMullen caught this glorious friend in an evening glow while driving through the Monument the day after Christmas. She is a winner of S+B’s photo contest.
A
46
lthough the iconic horns of a ram make a
for mountain lions and other species. The state
great logo for Colorado Parks and Wildlife
animal provides amazing, watchable wildlife
(CPW), Colorado declares Bighorn Sheep as our
opportunities and are very popular for hunting,
official animal not for their distinctive silhouette,
which funds their conservation and research.”
but because the species is native to the land and
This interview, combined with information
more of them reside here than in any other state.
from the CPW website, resulted in the following
According to CPW’s 2019 population estimate,
plethora of fun facts and best practices regarding
about 80 herds, some with up to 500 sheep, call
the animal and its habitat.
Colorado home, totaling to almost 7000 furry
residents.
talent at scaling steep rockfaces. Dreher explains
The terrestrial section manager of CPW,
that they have a low center of gravity due to
Brian Dreher, describes the significance of this
relatively short legs and, more consequently,
presence on the local ecosystem, saying, “They
grippy pads on their hooves similar to the
occupy habitat in Colorado that is truly unique
texture of rock-climbing shoes. The females are
with steep, rugged terrain. They are not only an
called ewes and have spike-like horns. Up to
important herbivore, but they can also be prey
10% of the males’, or rams’, 150 to 250 pounds
The first mystery of bighorn sheep is their
of weight comprises their curled horns, which
size of Bighorn herds deters excess members
can take seven or eight years to fully form. Rams
of a flock from straying, coming into contact
will collide horns with each other in battles for
with domestic sheep or goats, getting sick and
dominance of a herd, occasionally resulting in
spreading infections.
brooming — minor damages to their coils.
Maintaining a safe distance from any
The majority of Bighorns in Colorado are the
Bighorns also prevents sheep from spooking
Rocky Mountain species but Desert Bighorns roam
away from the group. The animals can be
about as well. Their environments and breeding
sensitive to disturbances in their surroundings,
seasons differ slightly, but the animals are
particularly during lambing season. In the
otherwise alike. Rocky Mountain Bighorns breed
words of Dreher, “These are species that need
in November and December. Their lambs, usually
space, so a healthy respect for that can certainly
only one per mother, are born in April through
help them coexist with people in Colorado.”
July and can climb as well as the adults after a
single day. The sheep spend their days grazing
protect the animal’s habitats. They typically
and retreating to rest on nearly inaccessible cliffs.
occupy steep, high mountain terrain, deserts and
They can live as long as 15 to 20 years. In the wild,
land dominated by grass, low shrubs, rock cover
ewes typically live to be 10 to 12, rams a bit less as
and areas near open escapes. Dreher expresses
a result of higher mortality rates.
awe at the sheep’s’ ability to live in extreme
environments.
Predators for Bighorns include mountain
Additionally, people should be mindful to
lions, coyotes, eagles and roughly 300 recreational
hunters annually. However, hunting licenses are
realized a good amount of them live above
highly regulated. Dreher emphasizes that only
treeline. They let the wind blow snow off their
three to five percent of the total population of
food and can even live on fourteeners. There
rams is allowed to be harvested. Hunting also
aren’t many places they cannot live, meaning
plays an integral role in the State Population
there’s also a lot of chance for interaction with
Management Plans. Bighorns are especially
bighorns.”
susceptible to viruses, parasites and bacteria
that domestic livestock can carry. Restricting the
admire. :
Kyle Webb captured this sheep watching cars going by and doing some incredible climbing at the west end of the Monument. He is also a winner of S+B’s photo contest.
“As we’ve learned more,” he explains, “we’ve
If you see them, give them space and
Webb also got this shot, especially liking how the curb looks like it turns into Broadway below. And the straw adds a bit of attitude, he says.
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
47
take a hike
LITTLE DOMINGUEZ CANYON Words + Photo by Melanie Wiseman
T
he history-rich Dominguez-Escalante
dead ends for additional parking and the trailhead
National Conservation Area is home to
location. Four-wheel drive is not required.
the Big and Little Dominguez Canyons Trails. Both begin at the same trailhead, yet split after
THE HIKE
several miles where most hikers head up Big
From the lower parking area, go through the
Dominguez, leading those seeking solitude and
green gate, following the trail which parallels
more varied views to take the Little Dominguez
railroad tracks for about a mile. Cross the second
route. Elevation gain is slight and route-finding
bridge (the first is a private property cable
easy — the perfect outing for all ages and their
suspension bridge) over the Gunnison River. The
furry friends.
trail continues along the west side of the river to the mouth of Big Dominguez Canyon, nearly two
48
GETTING THERE
miles from the trailhead.
To reach the trailhead, drive 20 miles south of
Grand Junction or north of Delta on Highway 50.
river, where you will see an old dam on the left,
At mile marker 52, turn right (west) on graveled
pass by a gate post made from old wagon wheel
Bridgeport Road for just over 3 miles to a parking
axle and spy an abandoned corral on the right.
area with facilities on the left. Begin your hike
You are now entering the two fertile valleys of Big
here, or drive a speck further to where the road
and Little Dominquez Canyons, once inhabited by
The trail takes a right turn away from the
the Ute people for hunting the abundant wildlife,
which is ideal, as the trail length and turn-around
relying on the creeks for water, followed by white
point is up to you, making it either a shorter day
settlers who tamed the valley for orchards and
hike or a longer multi-day hike experience.
livestock.
Soon after, you come across a large,
one of the original homesteads built by the Rambo
mushroom-like boulder balancing on a small
family in 1911. This once operational ranch, farm
pedestal hugging the left side of the trail. At this
and orchard transports the hiker back in time. Bill
point, Big Dominquez Canyon Trail veers to the
Rambo retired in 1975 and moved back into his
right and Little Dominguez to the left. Neither
family’s cabin, where he lived until his death in
trail is marked, which adds to the wilderness
2015 at 98. He deeded his land to the BLM in 1988,
experience.
allowing it to be incorporated into the wilderness
Day hikers often turn around 3.5-4 miles out, at
Spring thaws will require crisscross jumping
upon his passing. The little, one-room cabin and
over Little Dominguez Creek numerous times as
skeletal remains of farm equipment dating back to
it meanders through the cottonwood and willow
the 20s and 30s are still on site.
dotted canyon. Wear shoes you expect to get
wet and enjoy the many opportunities to play in
wildflower blooms are a special treat for your
water cascading over the slick rocks. Even though
senses. And keep your eyes peeled for viewings
the creek runs clear, refrain from drinking from
of the many critters who call Little Dominguez
it directly without a filter, or take the chance of a
Canyon their home — desert big horn sheep,
close encounter with giardia.
deer, elk, mountain lions, bears, turkeys, rabbits,
squirrels, lizards, snakes and a variety of birds.
Little Dominguez Canyon trail varies from
Abundant bright spring cactus and
red Chinle to black Precambrian granite gneiss,
to cool looking hoodoos further up the trail.
home to complete silence save for the babbling
Most uniquely, you will find this canyon
Primitive camping is permitted in the canyon,
creek and quaking leaves. :
COLORADO HEMP SOLUTIONS
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family
BUILDING MENTAL HEALTH RESILIENCY FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Words by Kaitlin Emig | Photo by Scott DW Smith/Open Sky Wilderness Therapy
A
50
ccording to the World Health Organization,
for mental health support at least a little helpful.
depression is one of the leading causes
All of this is why opportunities for support, like
of illness and disability among adolescents
Olivia’s Fund, an Eagle Valley Behavioral Health
globally. When mental, social and physical
program, are much-needed resources for young
stressors are not addressed, consequences can
people in our community.
carry into adulthood. Fortunately, more research
and awareness of mental health is on the rise
to anyone who lives or works in Eagle County to
and there are available resources in Western
help pay for mental health and/or substance use
Colorado to help meet the needs of youth and
services. The fund offers up to six sessions per
families.
person per year for anyone who faces a financial
Olivia’s Fund provides financial assistance
A recent study released through The Center
barrier, regardless of insurance or immigration
for Promise at America’s Promise Alliance
status. Once approved, recipients can select a
reflects how youth are affected by the COVID-19
clinician who best meets their needs from a
pandemic, with findings suggesting that students
list of local, highly qualified behavioral health
are experiencing a collective trauma, and that
providers. This program was developed with the
they and their families would benefit from
intention to ensure the community’s behavioral
immediate and ongoing support. 93% of students
health did not become part of a financial equation
interviewed said they found resources offered
that weighed health with financial barriers.
Dana Erpelding, operations director for
families to reach out if your teen is struggling
Eagle Valley Behavioral Health, reports of recent
with substance abuse issues.
legislation passed in Colorado: anyone over
the age of 12 now can seek behavioral health
away, we can always refer you out to resources
services without parental consent. Erpelding
in your community. We always aim to support
acknowledges
our Colorado community in any way we can!”
that
youth
face
significant
“Even if we can’t take your youth in right
financial barriers to seeking behavioral
Gonzalez says.
healthcare.
“During the last year, we have dramatically
organization based in Durango is Open Sky
increased the number of local behavioral health
Wilderness Therapy. Open Sky believes in
providers, enhanced the level (tier) of behavioral
inspiring youth to live in a way that honors
health services available within our community
values and strengthens relationships. Youth can
and assisted 95% of our behavioral health
take part in an immersive outdoor behavior
providers to have telehealth capacity prior to our
therapy by combining experiential education,
first confirmed case of COVID-19,” Erpelding says.
individual and group therapy through a holistic
treatment model, which includes yoga and
Olivia’s Fund providers continue to offer in-
A
well-known
wilderness
t h e ra py
person and teletherapy sessions to its applicants.
mindfulness practices.
The application process is easy, confidential and
available in both English and Spanish on their
director and therapist states, “Wilderness
website eaglevalleybh.org/oliviasfund.
therapy is not only an incredibly effective
In Glenwood Springs, Valley View Hospital
therapeutic modality for youth but also a great
operates the Youth Recovery Center for youth
potential antidote to the risks and impacts of
ages 15-18 with mental health and substance
today’s pandemic environment.”
abuse issues. Their inpatient recovery center
offers individual and group counseling,
are removed from the stressors of the pandemic
recreation opportunities and educational
including isolation, substance use, stressful
support.
family dynamics and risk-taking behavior. “I see
Sebastiaan Zuidweg, Open Sky clinical
Zuidweg explains how students at Open Sky
Diana Gonzalez, clinical supervisor and
students more fully engaged in self-discovery,
recreation director for the Youth Recovery
treatment and the healing journey as a whole
Center, recognizes unique components to their
than I have in other treatment settings,” he says.
program such as equine therapy, pottery classes
and fitness training all at local businesses.
approach, where they offer a wide variety of
opportunities for parents to engage in their own
“We also have trauma specialists who
Open Sky incorporates a family systems
provide EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization
work alongside their child’s personal journey.
and Restructuring Reprocessing) and teach
youth with more notable trauma issues coping
greater gains and maintain those gains after the
skills,” Gonzalez says.
program when their parents actively engage in
the process,” Zuidweg adds.
In addition, the hospital also has an
“In fact, our research shows students make
Integrated Therapies unit which provides
In a time of social isolation and general
youth with acupuncture, therapeutic massage,
uncertainty, these local providers offer advice
aromatherapy, heart math and healing touch as
on how to build mental health resiliency for
part of their program.
the whole family. Experts encourage families to
The Youth Recovery Center continues to
create routine within their home environment
operate their services with increased COVID
which includes time for individual self-care
protocols including face masks, sanitization,
and open communication, allowing space for
COVID vaccines for staff and COVID testing for
each family member to process their emotions
new clients. There is typically a wait list for
and feel validated opens the door to a trusting
youth to participate, but Gonzalez encourages
family circle. :
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
51
KIM FULLER
52
stay + play
GLENWOOD SPRINGS Words by Kim Fuller
I
n any season, Glenwood Springs is an easy
at 526 Pine Street. This historic property was
spot to stop for some fresh mountain air, a
completed in 1893 and designed in the style of
good soak and a memorable overnight stay.
the Villa de Medici in Italy. Fun fact: the same
Few itinerary highlights may be better than an
architects who designed the Hotel Colorado also
outdoor adventure followed by a visit to natural
created the Immigration Station at Ellis Island in
hot springs, especially when most indoor activity
New York.
is closed or modified in the era of COVID-19.
of its roots and feels like a step back in time,
“This is just a great mountain town to get
While the hotel continues to hold onto many
away to and relax,” shares
new owners have given the property new life,
Christian Henny, general manager of Hotel
committing all of the hotel’s profits back into it
Colorado in Glenwood Springs. “If you want to
for renovations until it is back to full grandeur
ski and then soak in the hot springs, go up to
and armed with modern amenities. Henny says
the adventure park and ride the alpine coaster,
over $3 million have already been put back into
there’s so many great things to do here.”
the hotel.
“We are working with the design team right
STAY
now on the next phase being the guest rooms
Viewable from almost anywhere on the east end
and the corridors,” shares Henny. “And then we
of town, the landmark Hotel Colorado is located
have long-term plans of redoing the lobby, the HOTEL PHOTOS COURTESY OF HOTEL COLORADO
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
53
SOAK Speaking of hot springs, in addition to Glenwood Hot Springs Resort as the original and most wellknown public pool in the area, Iron Mountain Hot Springs opened in 2015 alongside the Colorado River, just west of the main Glenwood highway exit.
The land has been a soaking spot since
1886, when it was made into the West Glenwood Health Spa, and then the Wash Allen Bathhouse in 1908, then the Gamba Mineral Springs in 1943 restaurant and the space downstairs where we
and, finally, the Fort Defiance Bathhouse in 1992,
would like to do a speakeasy and a tap room. So,
which was closed in 1996.
we’ve got a lot of great plans.”
This new hot spring features 16 soaking
The hotel’s spacious lobby is an ideal place
pools and a family pool, a bathhouse with locker
to enjoy an evening happy hour by the fireplace
rooms, a retail shop and cafe serving food, local
with a good book or game of chess. Warmer
beer, wine and spirits.
months bring the property’s dining scene outside onto the terrace, so guests can comfortably enjoy
EAT
al fresco meals while overlooking Glenwood’s
As Glenwood Springs redeveloped the downtown
legendary hot springs and downtown riverfront.
riverfront near the railroad station in recent years, many new restaurants have emerged to
54
PLAY
offer a vibrant mix of options.
Plenty of trails are available for hiking and
The Pullman is a favorite of many, located
mountain biking in and around town, not to
on
Seventh
mention rafting and fishing in local rivers. It’s
American comfort food to another level. The
important to note that Glenwood Canyon Bike
eatery currently serves dinner from Tuesday
Path and Hanging Lake trail will remain closed
through Sunday and brunch on the weekends.
until further notice due to safety concerns and
Takeaway and curbside delivery are also
impacts of the 2020 Grizzly Creek Fire, but this
available. The Pullman’s food and drink menus
mountain town is also equipped with some
draw inspiration from seasonal ingredients and
adrenaline-driven attractions that are open and
everything is served with a dash of decadence.
ready for the whole family to enjoy.
Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park features
Curry, located on Cooper Ave. — just around the
a scenic Gondola Ride to the top of Iron Mountain
corner from Glenwood’s “restaurant row.” The
where guests can soak in views, amusement
cozy spot serves cuisine from Nepal and India,
rides, cave tours and more. The Soaring Eagle
full of authentic spices and rich flavor.
Zip Ride is a seated zip line that sends riders
zooming down the mountain.
are required in downtown Glenwood Springs
Spring skiing can be had at Sunlight
and within businesses by the state of Colorado
Mountain Resort, located 12 miles south of
and town ordinance. Restaurants are open
Glenwood Springs. Sunlight is perfect for
with limited indoor-outdoor dining options
beginners and intermediates, but there is also
and takeout. The hot springs and Adventure
diverse expert terrain. The “Ski Swim Stay”
Park are open with capacity restrictions. Read
package at Hotel Colorado includes a stay at the
more COVID-19 Status Updates for Garfield
hotel, Sunlight lift tickets and all-day pool passes
County
to Glenwood Hot Springs Resort.
visitglenwood.com. :
Street,
and
truly
takes
new
Ethnic food lovers will swoon over Masala &
At the time of publication, face coverings
and
the
Roaring
Fork
Valley
at
KIM FULLER
The author’s incredible meal at Masala & Curry SPOKE+BLOSSOM
55
getaway
WHITE RIM TRAIL MULTI-DAY MOUNTAIN BIKE ADVENTURE
RIM TOURS Words by Kim Fuller | Photos courtesy of Rim Tours
E
56
scaping into nature has become a top
In the spring and fall seasons, Rim Tours
priority for more and more people in
offers a lot of trips in Canyonlands National
the past year. Lucky for all of us, expert guide
Park, including the well-known White Rim
companies like Rim Tours out of Moab, Utah have
Trail.
been taking people on big outdoor adventures
for over three decades.
thing for a lot of people,” Peterson shares. “It’s
Co-owner Kirstin Peterson shares how
just a fantastic experience for people because of
Rim Tours, founded in 1985, was the original
the beauty and just getting out there enough to
mountain bike tour company in Moab.
really leave the regular world behind.”
“Rim Tours really pioneered backcountry
“The White Rim Trail is a really bucket list
Deposited 280 million years ago, the
mountain bike trips in the area,” she shares. “For
namesake White Rim sandstone lies 1,200 feet
a very long time all we did was multi-day camp
below the towering cliffs of the island-like
trips, but in more recent years, we’ve developed
plateau above. The trail contours along this
a very strong day tour program out of Moab
hard layer of sedimentary rock with views
because there are so many great trails here now.”
of the magnificent canyons 1,000 feet below
RIM TOURS A minimum of 10 people is required to book a private group trip, otherwise multiple groups go together. Each trip has a maximum capacity of 13 guests. Learn more at rimtours.com. RATES n 4-Day: $975 plus tax per person n Bike Rental: $60-$85 per day n Camp Gear Rental: $65 per person
carved out by the Colorado River to the east and
is a pretty expert rider can still have a lot of
the Green River to the west.
fun with it,” she says. “It’s also so beautiful and
a special experience for a pretty wide range of
In the spring, Rim Tours offers three- and
four-day overnights of White Rim from mid-
abilities.”
March through mid-May. Peterson says the four-
day experience allows for more immersion in
tremendous amount of precautions to deal with
the area.
the new reality that we work with and live in
during COVID-19.
“The four-day is really the one we
Peterson says Rim Tours has implemented a
recommend for folks like a family or people
who aren’t super strong riders,” she adds. “The
people healthy and allowing them the freedom
mileage on that will range from 17 to 28 miles
to explore at their own pace and enjoy it in their
a day, rather than closer to 30 miles a day on
own terms,” she explains. “Because there is so
the three-day trip. It’s truly off-road, so it does
much space out there it really allows people to
take the better part of a day. Shorter days in the
feel a part of the group but maintain the distance
saddle leave time to do some side hikes off of the
that they need to.”
main biking route — there are some really cool
things to see along the way.”
from Rim Tours, and the same goes for camping
equipment. Everything else from food to water
The route is on doubletrack four-wheel-
“We’ve been very successful at keeping
Guests can bring their own bike or rent one
drive roads and fully supported by a truck that
to toilets are included in the adventure.
follows the group. There are moderate climbs
and descents every day, Peterson says, but it’s
behind,” Peterson says. “You don’t see a single
not a route that she would describe as technical
building or any sign of civilization when you’re
or exposed.
out there. All there are are outhouses at the
campsites.” :
“Folks who are new to mountain biking are
“You really are just leaving the world
going to be really challenged, but someone who
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
57
feature
TEACHING GIRLS MOUNTAIN BIKING + SO MUCH MORE
THE CYCLE EFFECT Words by Sharon Sullivan | Photos courtesy of The Cycle Effect
T
58
ina Ooley didn’t think mountain biking was
“I learned what I could do,” she says. “My
for her when she first tried it in her mid-30s.
mountain bike ‘Brother Ride’ had just shown
Her mountain biking husband urged her to take
me I was more than I thought. It’s why I’m so
up the sport and she had a few friends who also
passionate about it now. I work with women all
rode.
the time who wish they’d had something like this
— to help them discover their power.”
“I was intimidated by it,” she recalls. “I
thought it was hard.”
Ooley is the Mesa County manager of The
But after her brother died of brain cancer
Cycle Effect, a nonprofit Brett Donelson founded
at age 37, Ooley needed a way to deal with her
in Eagle County in 2010 to give girls ages 10-
grief — she wanted to do something “crazy,”
18 opportunities to ride and race mountain
something “hard.” So, she signed up for the 2010
bikes. The program is geared toward girls
Whiskey-Off Mountain Bike Race in Prescott,
who otherwise wouldn’t have the resources to
Arizona. Competing with five other women,
participate in the sport, or who would gain from
Ooley placed third in the single-speed category.
the physical, mental and emotional benefits
It changed her life.
of mountain biking. Donelson expanded the
program first to Summit County and then to
access. We’re normalizing outdoor recreation.
Mesa County in 2020 thanks to a Colorado Health
It’s good for their health.”
Foundation grant.
Assistant coach Valeria Herrerra had never
Ooley and her team of six assistant coaches
mountain biked before she was hired by Ooley to
and five volunteers meet with girls twice a week
help mentor the girls. “It’s a new hobby for me; I
at Las Colonias Park in Grand Junction, and twice
love it,” she says.
weekly in Clifton at Central High School or Mount
Garfield Middle School. From February through
team members through her work at the Riverside
early November, girls on the Mesa County team
Educational Center, an after school program for
participate in community service projects, learn
students of low-income families.
mountain biking techniques and go for rides on
school property, the Colorado Riverfront Trail,
Hispanic Americans whose parents don’t speak
the Lunch Loop Trail System and Bike Park or at
English,” Herrerra explains. “They’ve never
the Dos Rios Bike Playground.
experienced this. Tina’s mission is to build a
team with different ethnicities who wouldn’t
As girls arrive to practice, they each pull a
Herrerra is acquainted with many of the
“Many of the girls are first-generation
bike and a detached front wheel from the trailer,
normally have these opportunities.”
attach the quick-release wheel, check the tires
for air, test the brakes and make sure the gears
Effect through a cousin who participated in
are shifting correctly. Then they all gather in a
Summit County’s program. Dobbins says she’s
circle for a “mentorship” talk — little life lessons
motivated to “be the best.” That competitive
they can apply on the trail as well as at school
nature helped spur her
and life in general. Finally, it’s time to ride.
to victory last year when
she won her first race in
The Cycle Effect has been an important
Indica Dobbins, 14, learned about the Cycle
outdoor outlet for adolescent girls cooped up
Eagle.
during a pandemic. Fourteen-year-old Adriana
Ballagh says she didn’t have much to do and was
and clear the tabletop —
looking for something new to take her mind off
a jump with a flat section
stress caused by COVID-19.
of dirt in between the
“I learned a lot throughout the season about
takeoff and the landing
how to ride safely and taking care of ourselves if
— that’s generally my
something happens on the trail,” Ballagh says. “I
goal,” she says. “I’ve been
enjoyed having a group of people to support me.
learning a lot of new
It’s not just biking.”
techniques which makes
it more fun to get out and
The Las Colonias practice location offers
“It’s really fun to try
easy access to the paved riverfront trail, which
ride.”
extends past the Dos Rios Park all the way
to the Lunch Loop trails on Bureau of Land
and flipping over her bike
Management property.
last year while ascending
a
Many of the 2020 participants had never
After losing control
ramp
at
Dos
“There’s something magical about riding with the girls and seeing the wonder in their eyes from seeing something new. That’s my favorite part – to be able to create more access. We’re normalizing outdoor recreation. It’s good for their health.” — Tina Ooley,
Rios,
The Cycle Effect Mesa County Manager
been to the Lunch Loop or ridden a mountain
Dobbins ended up with a
bike before, Ooley says. It wasn’t relevant to
busted lip that required four stitches. Two weeks
them until they were given a bike to use. The
later, after a little encouragement, and despite
Cycle Effect removes obstacles to the sport by
some fear, she rode the ramp again.
providing bikes, helmets and instruction.
“I conquered something I was afraid of — even
now I’m a little scared of it, but I feel better
“There’s something magical about riding
with the girls and seeing the wonder in their eyes
knowing I did it,” Dobbins adds.
from seeing something new,” she says. “That’s
my favorite part — to be able to create more
to the program. Girls are encouraged to perform
Community service is an important element
a recommended 20 hours of community service each year. Roughly eight girls volunteered last year for Food Bank of the Rockies. This year, the Mesa County Cycle Effect team will volunteer time outdoors with COPMOBA (Colorado Plateau Mountain Bike Trail Association), to help maintain area trails.
In 2020, there were 18 bikes shared amongst
37 girls (Ooley and her coaches meet with the Las Colonias group Mondays and Wednesdays, and the Clifton girls Tuesdays and Thursdays). A second van and more bikes will allow the program to serve 70 girls this year. Ooley also hopes to acquire transportation for the Clifton girls to get out more often on single-track trails that are more easily accessible from Grand Junction.
To support the girls’ newfound love of
cycling, The Cycle Effect has a goal of making the bikes available for purchase at the end of each season for a “very affordable price,” says Ooley. The plan is to replace the program with new bikes each year. That wasn’t able to happen in 2020, however, due to a shortage of new bikes
60
available for purchase during the pandemic.
Cost to participate is $200 and
“Bikes are hard to get now,” Ooley says. “This
scholarships are available. For more
year we had to hold onto the bikes.” :
information visit thecycleeffect.org.
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62
feature
NATURAL WINE: FAD OR FOR REAL? Words + Illustrations by Becca Saulsberry
T
he word “natural” is used to describe so
to mitigate that. Advocates believe in minimal
many products these days, it barely holds
intervention — no lab-created yeasts, filtering,
any discernible meaning. “Natural wine” sounds
additives or manipulations that would not
no less opaque, but the vague name belies the
occur otherwise — hence, the term zero/zero, a
delicious revolution it is bringing to the wine
natural winemaker’s goal of nothing added and
world.
nothing taken away.
To understand its definition, one first needs
Ironically, what we consider a niche method
a bit of background on the bubbly booze. After
today was once the norm. According to Eric Benny
soaking up winemaking basics, we can dive into
Bloom, co-owner of natural wine distributor
how this movement is making a splash in the
Benny and Zoid Selections in Denver, manmade
industry, why Coloradans should care and ways
modifications in winemaking sprouted to ease
to participate.
farmers’ worries about losing crops or to satiate
Wine is essentially high-maintenance grape
their desires to increase yields. Alice Feiring,
juice, demanding a decision at each finicky stage
author of Natural Wine for the People, would add
of creation. The grape-grower chooses how to
that new technologies, the increase in pesticide-
raise the fruit (with manmade aids, organically or
use after World War II and winemakers serving
biodynamically), and the winemaker determines,
to the tastes of famous critics all contributed
well, a whole lot more. As phrased by Aldo Sohm, a
to conventional winemaking as well. Bloom,
world-class sommelier and author of Wine Simple,
therefore, argues that natural wine is no fad.
choices include “when and how the grapes are picked (manually or mechanically) and pressed, whether commercial or wild yeast is added to kick off the fermentation, and how long and in what vessel the wine is aged before bottling.” Winemakers can also control the fermentation temperature, allow the juice to have contact with stems and/or lees, dead yeast cells, fine, filter, age, cold-soak and integrate additional sugars and sulfites. In fact, there are over 70 additives the U.S. allows in wines without requiring an ingredients list, some of which are animal byproducts. Who thought fermented grape juice would not always be vegan?
This probably sounds like a lot, because it
is a lot. But one does not have to comprehend all the minutia to draw the bottom line. Conventional winemaking has become way complicated, and natural wine is a philosophy
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
63
He says we are simply “coming full circle,
the indigenous grapes that thrive here, which
getting back to just good, real wine, what wine is
provide less tannins and more acidity, resulting
supposed to be.”
in lighter, tangier beverages. Sparklet, their
If that is the case, why the resurgence now?
signature bubbly, drinks like a hazy, fruity IPA
Patric Matysiewski, winemaker for Sauvage
— a little sour, a little pineapple-y. But the flavor
Spectrum in Palisade, shed some light on the
cannot be controlled. “It takes on a life of its own
trend’s relevancy, emphasizing the generational
because it is a living, breathing thing,” explains
shift in wine consumers. Fewer Baby Boomers
Matysiewski. Their wines may also embody a
and more Millennials and Gen-Zs are purchasing
little bit of funk or a yeasty cloud. It’s all about
wine. Millennials and Gen-Z are stereotyped to value self-care, wellness and sustainability. These consumers “want to know where [their purchases] came from and what’s going into their body,” explains Matysiewski.
Although these observations and theories
generalize, there are proposed benefits of natural wine, such as improving health, building community and titillating taste buds.
Some suffer from sleep issues, skin
redness and headaches after sipping on nonnatural wines, which could
64
This probably
stem from the high alcohol
sounds like a lot,
content, extra sugar, artificial
because it is a lot.
coloring or a rare sulfite
But one does not
allergy. Bloom contrasts
have to comprehend
these traits by describing
all the minutia to
natural wines as lighter and
draw the bottom
more digestible. He notes
line. Conventional
the
winemaking
feeling
has become way
down and feeling refreshed,
complicated, and
energized, and relaxed. Not to
letting nature run its course, letting the grape
natural wine is
mention, natural wines are
express the flavor and keeping an open mind.
a philosophy to
typically sourced from small
mitigate that.
farmers and produced and
spelunk into the mysterious and exciting
difference sleepy,
between weighed-
So, you’re ready to take on the adventure,
distributed locally, meaning
unknown! Unfortunately, there is no official
these bottles likely support family businesses
license for natural wines, but there are clues
and regional economies rather than widespread
you can search for. Organic wines are not
monopolies and corporations. Bloom laconically
always natural and natural wines are not always
summarizes, “It’s better for everyone involved.”
organic, but biodynamic and natural typically
freshly-
go hand-in-hand. Biodynamic Agriculture is a
blossomed winery in Palisade, Sauvage Spectrum,
farming practice one step further than organic.
spawned in 2019 from a partnership with
Not only do the growers avoid pesticides and
Palisade-native grape-grower Kaibab Sauvage,
herbicides, but they also rely on planetary cycles
whose last name informed the business’s title
and animal behaviors within the ecosystem to
and coincidentally translates as “wild” in the
cultivate biodiversity and vitality. Keep an eye
wine world. Their Colorado-grown and -crafted
out for loud and irreverent labels that epitomize
wines, full of high desert terroir, derive from
the natural wine movement’s attitude. You can
For
example,
Matysiewski’s
also look for the importers, producers and shops listed below, recommended by Bloom from Benny and Zoid Selections. Additionally, do not be afraid to ask the clerk of a wine shop what they are most enthused about! That is often how to find the best recommendations. As far as price goes, any bottle $10 or less is probably not good and natural, but there are absolutely delicious natural wines between $15 and $20.
Once you find natural wines, choosing one is
like choosing any other wine. Are you looking for something lighter or heavier, sweeter or drier? As you taste, it can be engaging and enlightening to break down what you’re sensing: what kind of fruits, any floral notes, hints of herbs, minerality, acidity, vibrancy and how full of life it is. At the
NATURAL WINE IMPORTERS
Zev Rovine Selections Selections De La Viña Amuninni Vini Natty Wine Imports Vinotas selections Vom Boden Louis Dressner Selection Massale Jenny & Francois Scuola Di Vino Percy Selections
NATURAL WINE PRODUCERS
Azienda Agricola Cirelli Forlorn Hope Dirty & Rowdy Champagne Fleury Partida Creus Les Tetes
end of the day, Matysiewski believes “the natural wine moment is going to help [winemakers] create cleaner wines,” so enjoy. Let loose, share (or not), don’t take yourself (or wine) so seriously, make a bad toast, dance a little jig and
SHOPS WITH NATURAL WINE IN WESTERN COLORADO BY CITY VAIL Root & Flower Sweet Basil Two Arrows La Tour Vail Fine Wines GRAND JUNCTION 626 on Rood Bin 707 The Winery Restaurant EAGLE Color Roasters The Assembly AVON Vin 48 FRISCO Basecamp Liquors BRECKENRIDGE Mimo Breckenridge Rootstalk Aurum
stay curious. :
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feature
LAYING THE GROUNDWORK FOR SUSTAINABILITY
RESOURCE EXTRACTION ON THE WEST SLOPE Words by Lexi Reich
MASONCUMMINGS/THE WILDERNESS SOCIETY
Needle Rock in the North Fork Valley
T
he West Slope is revered for its diverse
Western Slope Conservation Center. “To open
landscapes and state-of-the-art recreation.
it up to a destructive industry is like spending
Whether you enjoy sampling wine in luscious
down a trust fund.”
vineyards, mountain biking on the Grand Mesa
or eating fresh produce from local farmers, most
its priorities, leaders in Colorado are working to
Coloradoans use and appreciate public land
follow suit. Environmentalist and community
— which makes up a third of the state — on a
members alike are advocating for sustainable
daily basis.
living to be at the forefront of the West Slope’s
social and political culture as we head into the
“Our public lands are given to us in trust,”
says Tanya Henderson, executive director of the
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Just as 2020 forced the nation to reevaluate
heart of 2021.
As a recap, the Bureau of Land Management
organizations, sued the BLM for approving a
(BLM) — whose headquarters moved to Grand
plan that dismisses environmental concerns and
Junction in August 2020 — wants to keep 95%
ignores community input. The claim cited that
of public land in the region open to oil and
government official William Perry Pendley did
gas development. More specifically, it wants
not have authority to approve the Uncompahgre
to open approximately 675,800 acres of BLM-
Field Office RMP in April, as he was illegally
administered public lands and 971,220 acres
holding office.
of federal mineral estate across Montrose,
Gunnison, Ouray, Mesa, Delta and San Miguel
raised legitimate concerns in its protest that
counties.
the final Uncompahgre RMP runs counter to
The North Fork Valley community has been
Colorado’s goals to protect sensitive habitat for
drafting an alternative Resource Management
big game species and other wildlife and reduce
Plan (RMP) since 2013 that better reflects their
greenhouse gas emissions,” Dan Gibbs, executive
interest in protecting the environment. This past
director of the Colorado Department of Natural
January, the state of Colorado, in addition to other
Resources, said in a statement.
“The Department of Natural Resources
Map by Marty Schnure, courtesy of The Wilderness Society
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
67
MASONCUMMINGS/THE WILDERNESS SOCIETY
With potential cross contamination from fossil
This Western Colorado community is coping
fuel development on the horizon, residents are
with a present that looks different from its past.
raising their voice to protect their farmlands, clean
Once a hub for coal mining, the West Slope is
water supply and air quality from pollution.
transitioning into an agritourism region. But, many corporations in the community are advocating for
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ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS VERSUS ECONOMIC INPUT
resource extraction to boost the economy.
Farmers say building a reputation of high quality,
development on public lands in Colorado
organic food takes years to build, but can be
“contributed an estimated $6.9 billion to the
compromised in months with just one spill from oil
economy. Statewide, approximately 30,600 jobs are
and gas leasing.
tied to oil and gas development on BLM-managed
public lands.”
In 2019, the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation
In 2018, the BLM reported oil and gas
Commission spill analysis shows over 55,000 barrels
However, scientists are referring to the West
of material spilled in Colorado.
Slope as a climate change hot spot, because it is
Yet in a study by University of Wyoming
warming at a rate double the national average,
professor Timothy Considine, Colorado was
according to a Washington Post analysis. Water is
projected to lose $700 million annually during the
the crux of the North Fork; the region supplies water
first five years of a drilling ban, if one was to be
to millions of people and droughts are endangering
established.
residents’ livelihoods.
PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
We can sustainably live without a huge reliance
In recent news, President Joe Biden issued a 60-
on extracted oil and gas,” Henderson says.
day pause on new oil and gas leases on federal
lands and waters within his first month of office.
Center is investing time in their Keep the North
While conservationists are praising the order,
Fork Fruitful campaign, a coalition of local
others worry about its economic consequences.
farmers, ranchers, vintners, artisans, small
The Wilderness Society hopes during this
business owners, educators, realtors, wildlife
pause that the federal government will fast-track
enthusiasts and community members who are
the creation of a transition plan for achieving
united in developing sustainable economic
net-zero emissions from public lands by 2030.
opportunities that transition away from
The organization states, “It’s crucial that this
extractive industries.
plan includes a just and equitable transition for
communities that rely on fossil fuel extraction,
clear to continue enjoying Colorado public land,
including investments in training and new job
unity needs to be prioritized at the local, state
creation in renewable energy, conservation and
and national level — and education is key. By
restoration, and other industries.”
laying the groundwork for collaboration, only
then can we rise in support of Colorado’s best
“We are the farm-to-table capital of
Colorado. Having clean air and clean water is
She adds that the Western Slope Conservation
While differing interests are at stake, it’s
interests. :
really important to the economy we have here.
LEXI REICH
The Gunnison River, which activists and farmers fear is being threatened by climate change and fossil fuel development.
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
69
feature
WESTERN COLORADO BUSINESS BOOMS Words by Kristen Lummis | Photos courtesy of Grand Junction Economic Partnership
O
n Monday, January 11, 2021, Grand Junctionbased technology start up ProStar went
public, offering shares on the Venture Exchange of the Toronto Stock Exchange (trading symbol: MAPS). With this, ProStar became the first publicly-traded company in Western Colorado.
A rising force among the fast-growing
Western Slope technology community, ProStar designs and provides precision mapping software for locating underground utilities.
“Every minute of every working day, a utility
line or pipeline is hit during construction,” explains company founder Page Tucker, adding that the cost of just the reported damage is over $30 billion annually.
“When you hit a pipeline on a construction
project, bad things happen. There are huge environmental concerns and the project gets shut down.”
With a background in geographic information
services and data management, Tucker wanted to create a smart way to avoid these damages. In 2008, after selling his first company, he set to work on what would become PointMan®, ProStar’s patented mobile mapping application that captures, records and displays the location of underground utilities.
ProStar launched in 2014 and developed a
North American client base that includes Fortune 500 companies and government agencies. Discussions with companies outside the U.S. are underway and, closer to home, ProStar’s mapping platform is mandated by the Colorado Department of Transportation.
WHY GRAND JUNCTION? Tucker moved to Western Colorado in 2007 to live near his parents, who relocated to Grand Junction in the mid-1980s. Riverfront at Las Colonias Park — Butterfly Lake
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“Anytime you start a new company, there is a
Economic Development and International Trade.
greater than 80% chance that it will fail. I figured
ProStar was also the first company to qualify
I might as well spend some quality time with my
under the Colorado Rural Jump Start program,
parents,” he laughs.
which offers tax relief to new companies and
their employees in designated rural areas.
What he found, however, was tremendous
quality of life and a state and community
willing to support him in his new venture.
Grand Junction Economic Partnership (GJEP),
Robin Brown, executive director of the
While building ProStar, Tucker received two
works closely with Tucker and other companies
development grants from the Colorado Office of
in Mesa County.
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
71
The hydroponics system at Rooted Gypsy Farms.
“To qualify for Rural Jump Start, a business
“Some of the best people I could have recruited
has to do something unique that doesn’t compete
already live here because of the quality of life.”
with other Colorado businesses. The business
must also create a certain number of new jobs
is important to Tucker. “By going public, we get
that pay at or above the average annual wage for
to be a trailblazer for our community and other
our area,” Brown explains.
entrepreneurs who live in the valley or are
Because companies must be unique, many of
looking to relocate here. ProStar demonstrates
them are tech startups. Thus far, 20 Mesa County
that small companies in rural areas can thrive
companies have qualified for Rural Jump Start,
and compete globally.”
The overall economic health of Mesa County
which was renewed by the legislature in 2020.
HIGHER QUALITY OF LIFE
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THE COVID-19 EFFECT While the move to rural areas was underway
ProStar has a record of firsts. In addition to
prior to COVID-19, Brown explains that the
being the first local company to go public and
pandemic has dramatically increased interest in
the first company to qualify for Rural Jump
the Grand Junction area.
Start support, ProStar also set up the first paid
internship program at Colorado Mesa University
people looking for a “nicer” place to live with the
(CMU) with the computer science department.
Colorado lifestyle they desire.
The company also uses a statewide program
called Careerwise to create internships for local
including schools, public safety, air service and
high school students.
parks, has made Grand Junction more viable
“It’s been a natural shift,” she explains, with
Recent local investment in the community,
While some ProStar employees have been
and competitive, while CMU is a natural fit
drawn from the highest levels of corporate
for companies seeking employees skilled in
America, a good number of them began as
computer science and cyber security.
interns and were hired after graduation from
CMU or were already living in the Grand Valley.
explains Brown, noting that the rapid shift to
“Our experience proves that we have
virtual, remote working plays to the strengths
outstanding resources locally,” says Tucker.
of Western Colorado. “Rural areas can create
“We want companies that want to be here,”
Dominic & Felicia Jones, owners of CERTEK
Kate and Bill McDonald, owners of Phoenix Haus
Mike Sneddon, owner of SG Aerospace
A technician with MRP, a bike parts manufacturer
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
73
happier employees who are more productive,
and Washington. In addition to support and
spend less time commuting and more time
encouragement from the town of Fruita and GJEP,
enjoying themselves.
geography played a big part in the company’s
decision to relocate.
As she puts it, “Quality of life is workforce
stabilization.”
the trails,” explains company representative
Nearby, Montrose County is seeing similar
“We were familiar with the area and
forces at work, especially with the pandemic.
Michelle Good, “and Western Colorado is
centrally-located, ideal for shipping to our
“People are looking to relocate to less
metropolitan areas where they can have all the
customers.”
amenities they want, but feel less threatened
by the pressures of the world,” explains Sandy
story, although one also tied directly to bike
Head, executive director of the Montrose
trails and quality of life. Aspen Technology
Economic Development Corporation.
Group is a cloud consulting company
Aspen Technology Group has a different
Geyser Systems makes one-gallon
specializing in call center technology. Before
backpacking showers that are sold at REI.
moving to Grand Junction, managing partner
The company recently moved to Montrose
Charlie Conaway looked at other locations in
after launching from the Gunnison ICELab,
Colorado and the West.
a coworking space and business incubator
operated by Gunnison Crested Butte Economic
major mountain towns and resorts, and overall
Development.
quality of life as major draws.
Montrose is also celebrating the opening
He credits the area’s trails, proximity to
Still, he recognizes that Western Colorado
of the Colorado Outdoor Park, a multi-use, 160-
may not be for everyone. Consequently, his
acre business park adjacent to the Uncompahgre
company focuses on recruiting and finding
River, with new and existing businesses looking
people who already know they want to be here.
to move to the park in 2021, according to Head.
“The people we find are smart, motivated
and ready to grow their experience,” Conaway
BUSINESS IS BOOMING
explains. “They are looking to do outdoor stuff
ProStar and Geyser Systems are far from the
and have a good job.”
only companies thriving in Western Colorado.
Creating the right balance between quality
Known as an outdoor adventure hub, it’s
of life and quality of work is the challenge facing
no surprise that companies like RockyMounts
employers and Western Colorado communities
and QuikRStuff (both bike rack manufacturers),
moving forward.
Kappius Components (bicycle rims, wheels and
tires) and Canfield Bikes call Mesa County home.
to work from the places in which they play, by
all indications, business in Western Colorado is
Canfield Bikes, a direct-to-consumer
performance mountain bike company, relocated
With employees increasingly being able
poised to keep on booming. :
to Fruita in 2019 after stints in Utah, Wyoming
521 Rood Ave Suite A Grand Junction, CO 81501 970.241.1116 stlagj.com
By your side in uncertain times
“We might think we are nurturing our garden, but of course, it’s our garden that is really nurturing us.” - JENNY UGLOW 755 26 Road, Grand Junction
970.242.7766
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events
SPRING 2021 Compiled by Olivia Lyda | Photo by Jim Cox
Edesia 2018
MARCH Music on the Mall Snowmass Village, CO March 4 End your day on the slopes of Snowmass with Music on the Mall. Headlining performances include local Roaring Fork Valley musicians, with Snowmass S’mores on deck for a snack. Enjoy this event every Thursday through April between 3 p.m to 5 p.m. gosnowmass.com
Montrose Farmers Market Montrose, CO March 6 This year-round market just never stops giving, even amidst a pandemic! One of the oldest
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farmers markets in the area, the variety of fresh produce never disappoints. Montrose Farmers Market runs on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. montrosefarmersmarket.weebly. com
S&M2: Metallica and San Francisco Symphony Film Beaver Creek, CO March 14-16 Watch in awe as Metallic and the San Francisco Symphony create new musical depth. Join fans and view the filmed concert at 7 p.m. between Sunday and Tuesday! vilarpac.org
TEDx Grand Junction Grand Junction, CO March 20 See the activists, innovators and creators of the Grand Junction community give engaging lectures on provocative topics. The virtual event starts at 6 p.m. RSVP by email. ted.com
Pink Vail Vail, CO March 26-28 This year marks the 10th and final year of Pink Vail, making joining the event even more important. Register as an individual or join a team to ski together to fight cancer on the slopes. All Pink Vail donations and registration
fees directly benefit those in the Shaw Cancer Center, with all 2020 fundraising efforts rolling into this year’s tally. pinkvail.com
APRIL Aspen Film Shortsfest Aspen, CO April 6-11 Sit back, relax and enjoy highquality cinema. The Aspen Film shortsfest will have you immersed in the art and craft of short movie making. View a panel discussion with special guests from nationwide or engage in a fascinating workshop. The event begins at 9 a.m. on the 6th and concludes at 6 p.m. on the 11th. aspenchamber.org
Taste of Vail Vail, CO April 7-10 Start April off right tasting from some of Vail’s finest restaurants and wineries. The four-day event is a great chance to join the community through fantastic eateries and wine tastings. Unwind with a tasting or visit a seminar. tasteofvail.com
Restaurant Week Grand Junction, CO April 9-18 This downtown Grand Junction signature event highlights independently owned restaurants within the community. With so many ways to get involved, this 10-day event includes dining from coffee houses, fine-dining restaurants and breakfast spots. The public participates by collecting “stamps” during the week in a passport, which can be turned in to Downtown Grand Junction for prize drawings. downtowngj.org
Edesia — Culinary, Wine & Spirits Adventure Palisade, CO April 11 Fine dining and entertainment, what more could you ask for? The Edesia adventure includes chef demos, wine and spirits, live music and a silent auction; proceeds of the event benefit the Marillac Clinic. The event runs from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., or attend the VIP luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. edesiapalisade.com
Planning the perfect bachelorette weekend? Create Memories in Palisade Wine Country
Desert RATS Trail Running Festival Fruita, CO April 16-18 Embark on a weekend of running on world-class trails, ideal for the Coloradoan lifestyle. Friday, join participants for a food truck hangout, followed by Saturday’s trail marathon and 50k. Sunday includes a 10k and half marathon, plus kid’s events for a guaranteed fun workout experience. geminiadventures.com
MAY Walk MS: Grand Junction 2021 Grand Junction, CO May 1 Walk with a team, solo or donate to efforts to raise funds and awareness for Multiple Sclerosis and those affected by the condition. Information regarding the start time and whereabouts of the event is TBD. secure.nationalmssociety.org
Start with Rapid Creek Cycles Wine Country Cruisers, add 9 wineries, one Brewery, a distillery, and your friends!
(970)464-9266
Relay For Life of Colorado Mesa University Grand Junction, CO May 7 Participate in activities and events to support and celebrate cancer survivors and caregivers. Be a team captain or volunteer to be a part of lighting the Luminaria and
Palisade, Colorado rapidcreekcycles.com
Carbondale Dandelion Day
with those curious and interested in fiction, nonfiction, journalism, publishing and more. Listen in on an insightful panel discussion or participate in an informative workshop. crestedbuttearts.org
Carbondale, CO May 8
JUNE
survivor and caregiver recognition. Join the event on Colorado Mesa University’s campus, beginning at 6 p.m. secure.acsevents.org
Step into spring with flowers, live music and local vendors! Dandelion day celebrates this year (socially distant) in Soris Park. Enjoy this green, wastefree Carbondale community celebration, starting at 10 a.m. facebook.com
Mountain Words Literary Festival Crested Butte, CO May 27-30 If you are a fan of discussing, reading and experiencing diverse literature, this is the event for you. The Mountain Words Literary Festival joins assorted authors
Campout for the Cause Buena Vista, CO June 4-6 Campout for the Cause is back again after postponing last year’s event. Located at The Meadows in Buena Vista, yoga classes, live music and community workshops await campers. Information on this year’s headliners is TBD. campoutforthecause.org
Buena Vista Bike Fest
the prettiest ‘metric centuries’ (62 miles) in the state and take in the beautiful views these trails have to offer; options range from 35 miles to a long 97 miles. Make sure to pace yourself, and register for this wonderful ride. bicyclecolorado.org
Wave (Light, Water & Sound) Festival Breckenridge, CO June 2021 Returning in June is the free fourday festival in Blue River Plaza. Admire and witness the breathtaking exhibits, ranging from digital to musical experiences, surrounding the theme of light, water and sound. Revel in the art, an event perfect for the whole family. Specific dates are TBD. gobreck.com
Buena Vista, CO June 5 There is a ride for everyone at the Buena Vista Bike Fest! Bike one of
Slow down and reawaken a connection with the healing power of nature. elderberrysfarm.com text: 720.722.4372 Paonia, CO
2021 WORKSHOPS May 27-31: Herbal Pharmacy Intensive June 17-21: Wild Skills: Nature's Farmacy July 1-5: Nature Cure Self Care Retreat Aug 27-29: Sacred Bee Medicine Weekend Sept 9-13: Calming the Shen: Reset your Nervous System Immersion Oct 7-11: Wise Woman Week
E N D U R A N C E M O U N TA I N B I K E R A C E PHIL’S WORLD, CORTEZ
S AT U R D AY M AY 8 2 0 2 1
7 AM - 7 PM
2021 THEME
VIVA LAS VEGAS
S O LO , D U O , FA M I LY O R T E A M R E G I ST R AT I O N AVA I L A B L E
1 2 H O U R S O F M E S AV E R D E . C O M
who we are
DR. MICHAEL NESTE Compiled by Naomi Allen
D
r. Michael Neste is the medical director of the Department of Radiology and the chief
of medical staff at Family Health West in Fruita. Spoke+Blossom asked him some questions about his role in the Grand Valley community.
Spoke+Blossom: How does your role at Family Health West help you contribute to the community? Dr. Michael Neste: I contribute to the community by running a full-service, state-ofthe-art Imaging Center for the lower Grand Valley, which includes MRI and CT scans, X-rays, ultrasounds and mammography. Because we are a smaller department, we are able to provide a personalized and efficient experience. Many of our patients drive from outside of the area to receive their medical imaging here, due to the ease of navigating the system and the personal touch we provide.
The most rewarding aspect of my job is to
be able to make a personal difference in the patient’s radiology experience. I realize that no one really wants to visit the clinic because it means they have a health concern or medical issue. So, our goal is to make their experience as pleasant as possible. Our technologists are
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Museum. We have donated nearly $200,000 over the past six years. I personally feel that the arts are the key to a well-rounded community.
In Grand Junction, we excel in outdoor
recreation; our business and infrastructure are flourishing. We have a small, amazing core of arts and culture in our community, which helps provide an essential balance in life. These places need community support to exist, and I feel compelled to help ensure the success of these entities. S+B: Being a healthcare worker during a global pandemic requires strong groundwork. What keeps you grounded?
top-notch and go above and beyond the norm to
MN: The pandemic has certainly been a stressor
make the patient feel cared for and important.
on the health care system, but it has made us
I am grateful to be in a setting that allows me
more efficient, focused and nimble. The ability
to spend time with many of our patients and
to adapt and change direction on a daily basis
actually help direct their care.
is not typical in medicine but has now become
the norm. It has also required all different areas
Additionally, my contribution to the
community does not end at the clinic. Annually,
of the medical system to work together as a
I have taken a portion of my salary, and
team. As a result, there will be many positive
with the backing of Family Health West, we
improvements in medical care that come from
donate to local nonprofits that are generally
this pandemic. I stay grounded by enjoying the
focused on the arts, including the Art Center
vast outdoor opportunities that the Grand Valley
of Western Colorado, the Grand Junction
has to offer. I often go biking, hiking, skiing and
Symphony Orchestra, High Desert Opera, The
fishing with my family. Fortunately, these have
Fruita Arts and Culture board and the Dinosaur
not been altered too much by the pandemic. :
S
pring is a season of rebirth, renewal and revitalizing. Revival, Vail Valley’s boutique-style medical day spa, is ready to restore client’s best selves with holistic, science-backed treatments. “We offer a broad range of result-oriented treatments, but our focus is on a spa-like experience,” Jessica Ballentine, owner and licensed medical esthetician, says. “We are a team of knowledgeable providers who have a lot of experience, and also care about our clients’ health and wellbeing.” Ballentine built Revival upon the three pillars of mind, body and beauty. These entities, she says, promote total wellness when working in harmony with one another. When you visit Revival, you are not only receiving a facial or laser therapy session — you’re getting a holistic experience from start to finish. “A lot of my clients say they just want to come in to hang out,” Ballentine shares. “We cater to you. The vibe is mellow and nurturing.” When you walk in, you will be greeted with an aesthetically beautiful space, filled with bohemian, contemporary décor. You will be offered wine or some CBD bubbles, which you can sip with beautiful music humming in the background. The ladies at the front desk are there to cater to your needs that day.
VAIL VALLEY, COLORADO
Re•vi•val: an improvement in the strength or condition of something
Bridal Approved Spring also means wedding bells are in the air. Revival is a must-stop for brides and their bridal party because the spa truly takes care of all the details. “The esthetics industry is so overwhelming,” Ballentine says, which is why she recommends trusting the experts at Revival, who live and breathe skincare and esthetics. “We want our clients to use us as a tool.” All of the products at Revival are science-backed, meaning while they may not be as popular as other mainstream brands, they have data to back their composition and therapeutic benefits. Bottomless searches on the internet for skincare products, no more! During treatments, clients are also offered recommendations around nutrition and daily routines to improve one’s lifestyle. “Your skin is a map and outer reflection of the body,” she says. Offering helpful tips throughout the experience emphasizes the goal behind Revival — to cultivate a community of wellness. Whether you’re interested in finding a new skincare routine, trying out a light therapy treatment or Botox, or simply want to learn more about the various aspects of wellness, the beauty gurus at Revival are there for you. revivalvailvalley.com 970.855.0136 | 175 Main St Unit C-107, Edwards, CO 81632
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KATE & BILL MCDONALD
Phoenix Haus Prefab Passive House Building
PIONEERING CHANGE TOGETHER. Colorado’s Grand Valley is at the heart of a new rush. It’s a rush for those who want to innovate, collaborate, access new heights, and live 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.
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