Spoke+Blossom Magazine | Spring 2022 | Issue #19

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DESERT BLOOMS 14 HOT SPRINGS ARE IN SEASON 46 SPRING HARMONY IN PAONIA 64 HATS OFF TO FEMALE CHEFS 70

SPRING 2022 / ISSUE 19

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The Glorious Fig | Grand Junction’s Newest Boutique Event Venue Celebrates A Successful First Year Words by Purposeful Co | Photos by Time Flies Photography

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rand Junction’s newest boutique event venue, The Glorious Fig, recently celebrated its one-year anniversary since opening its full-service space for curated dinners, private events and micro weddings.

“This has been a lot of work but we are thrilled to share this

beautiful space with friends, family and the community,”

states The Fig’s co-founder

Gary Dietmeyer. “The support from everyone this past year has been awesome.”

The Fig’s founders, Deb and Gary Dietmeyer, acquired the property located near Main Street known today as The Glorious Fig in 2017. Over the past few years, they have worked tirelessly to transform the building and its premises to what it is today. In 2021, they opened their doors to guests for intimate events.

Deb reflects: “My heart behind this dream was to create a

beautiful space for friends

and family to gather while interacting with the chef

and mixologist, where celebrations are held, where cooking classes can be taught and where

memories steeped in laughter are made. I wanted to create an experience completely

centered around the heart of home, the kitchen.”

The Glorious Fig is made up of three individual, classic spaces, which can be used separate of one another or reserved in-whole based upon your vision and event needs.

The back homestead offers 1260 square feet of boutique, classic entertaining space.

Boasting of a dining room seated immediately off a state-of-the-art, yet beautiful show kitchen, it is the perfect space to host an intimate event,

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From The Gathering Hall through the patio to the original, boutique event space, The Glorious Fig can entertain parties up to 135 and offers an all-inclusive experience for its guests to “eat, drink, and be glorious.”

The Glorious Fig is a tribute to the heart of home and the intimacy and sense of belonging it brings through gathering. By offering classic, hand-crafted food and drink, and recreating the hospitality and comfort of home, guests are invited to let their guard down and enjoy flavors and food they won’t soon forget among friends and family they love.

enjoy our private curated dinners, or take a cooking class.

The cocktail and coffee bar greet guests as they enter. Effortlessly executed and meticulously designed, every detail is thought of in this gorgeous entry. It is the perfect space to enjoy a classic drink before dinner or a cup of espresso at the end of your meal.

The Gathering Hall, which serves as the venue’s dance floor or banquet dining room, pays tribute to its turn-of-the-century architecture with 12-feet tall ceilings, oak flooring, and original brick walls. It incorporates modern elements as well, including six modern chandeliers on dimmers, air conditioning and wireless internet.

The Gathering Hall and The Fig’s entertaining spaces are connected by the 960-square-foot patio covered in a shade pergola — which includes “misters” for hot summer days and features stained glass etched with the venue’s name. The patio is the essential spot to mix and mingle with a chilled beer or a specialty craft cocktail in hand enjoying small bites. During Colorado’s colder months, heaters and cozy blankets are close at hand coupled with warm drinks, inviting guests to linger and connect.

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To learn more or reserve your experience at The Glorious Fig, visit our website at thegloriousfig.com or follow us on IG @thegloriousfig. Eat, Drink, and Be Glorious.

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CO N T what’s up in the west

lifestyle

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VOICES OF WESTERN COLORADO Locals Weigh in on Discover

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WHAT’S UP IN THE WEST Historic Minturn Saloon Stays Local with New Owners Elevate Kids Fun Run Inaugural Fundraising Event

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WHAT’S UP IN THE WEST The Ordinary Fellow Winery + Tasting Room

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BLOSSOM Desert Blooms

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HOME + GARDEN A New Way to Go Green

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HOME + GARDEN Let Spring In: Refresh Your Home for the Season

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WEDDINGS Special Advertising Section

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DRINK Spring in Your Step

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EAT Fresh Spring Recipes

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BOOK + BEVERAGE The Guide by Peter Heller Tabernash Sour

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S+B’S INSTAGRAM + PODCAST PICKS

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STYLE Desert Dog Pressing On

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MAKER Local Candle Companies

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ART Cori Ward

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MUSIC Zolopht: Finding a Way Forward

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MUSIC Stunning Keepsake Awards

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FOOD Sundae’s Sweet Success

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WELLNESS + FITNESS Take a Soak: Western Colorado is Hot Springs Country

E N TS adventure

features + events

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ADVENTURE Soar Above Your Own Backyard: Hot Air Ballooning in Western Colorado

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HATS OFF TO FEMALE CHEFS IN WESTERN COLORADO These Women Are Bringing Home the Bacon

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SPOKE Gear Profile: Steamboat’s Town Hall

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ROICE-HURST HUMANE SOCIETY More Than a Shelter

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SPOKE Gear for the Season

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SPOKE Athlete Profile: Karen Hoskin

FROM NATURAL HISTORY TO MUDSLIDES How Glenwood Canyon Became a Modern Traffic Way Over the Past 100 Years

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GRAND OUTDOORS Under a Pristine, Star-Filled Sky

EVENTS Spring 2022

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FAMILY Hiking Etiquette for Kids Today

WHO WE ARE Doug Simons of Enstrom Candies

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TAKE A HIKE Rifle Arch Trail

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STAY + PLAY Paonia: Spring Harmony

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STAY + PLAY Silverthorne, Colorado

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GETAWAY Rockies to the Red Rocks: Ride the Rails with the Rocky Mountaineer

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

DISCOVER Every issue of Spoke+Blossom invites readers to discover. And now, especially after two years of unknowns and extremes, this new year and spring season invites the space for newfound excitement and curiosity. If you’ve forgotten how there’s always something in your world worth learning about, finding or unearthing, we’re here to remind you.

On a Colorado National Monument hike, for instance, S+B contributor Melanie Wiseman counted 36 desert bloom species.

Read more about some on page 14, and don’t forget to always stop and smell the flowers.

Spring means fresh and bright recipes, and we’re delighted to have Jayme Henderson (of The Storm Cellar winery and @hollyandflora) gracing our pages again with a stunning seasonal cocktail. The refresh is real in this issue, with tips on reinvigorating your home, along with an article featuring Colorado candle companies that keep it lit.

We are constantly inspired by the artists and the makers who continue to shine light on creativity throughout Western Colorado. In this issue, photographer Cassie Fortman captured a striking visual essay of Desert Dog Press, while local music aficionado shares the most recent evolution of Zolopht, a longtime Grand Valley band. We’re especially proud of the nod we give to female chefs in the feature section of this issue — hats off to all of you!

And when it comes to discovering the grand outdoors of our incredible region, there is everywhere to begin and everywhere to go. Writer Kaitlin Emig took extra care in profiling Glenwood Canyon and its history, paired with some incredible visuals from back in the day.

So yes, there’s always something to discover. Thank you for coming along on the journey with us!

Kim Fuller

Join the Spoke+Blossom Community Instagram @spokeandblossom

twitter.com/ spokeandblossom

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 Judy Shay Relationships Coordinator Laura Mills Contributors Townsend Bessent Lisa Blake MacKennea Broyles Kaitlin Emig Bruno Emmanuelle Lauren Farrauto Cassie Fortman Jayme Henderson Heidi Howard Jenna Kretschman Micah Ling Kristen Lummis Olivia Lyda Jordan Martindell Cat Mayer Doug McCaw Melinda McCaw Maureen McGuire Laura Mills Kimberly Nicoletti Jeremy Poland Lexi Reich Jeffrey Steele Sharon Sullivan Melanie Wiseman @lil.jules Cover Photograph Kim Fuller

Publisher + Co-Owner

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 © 2022 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

CASSIE FORTMAN Cassie, of {Sassy Creative}, is a designer and photographer from Cedaredge, Colorado. She has been crafting moments in her classic photojournalistic style for 15 years. Her company creates visual designs for businesses looking to tell their story with authenticity and timelessness.

Follow @sassycreative.co and oink @ hennythehog.

MICAH LING Micah is a freelance writer based in Salida, Colorado.

Find more of her work at micahelizabethling.com.

KIMBERLY NICOLETTI Kimberly is an award-winning freelance journalist, editor and writing coach. She has taught yoga, Nia, Zumba and tai chi throughout Summit County, Colorado and earned a master’s degree in Somatic Psychology and Dance Therapy from Naropa University. She loves the simple things in life, like stargazing and eating ice cream.

KAITLIN EMIG Kaitlin seeks adventure through mindful travel and outdoor pursuits. She never clicked her heels to return home to Kansas and has lived in western North America and overseas for the past 10 years. Residing in the Vail Valley, she is an outdoor educator, yogi and writer. Follow her adventures on IG @sunflower_lion and mywildwomandiary.com.

LEXI REICH

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S+B MANAGING EDITOR

JORDAN MARTINDELL

Lexi’s love for the mountains led her to plant roots in Denver, Colorado. You’ll often find her waking up with the sun and burying herself in a computer, glasses on. Outside of writing and editing, she likes to read, hike and lead yoga classes. lexireich.com

After growing up in California and years of East Coast city living, Jordan moved to Boulder, Colorado where she discovered a natural connection to the Rocky Mountain lifestyle. She blends her love of aesthetics and the outdoors, documenting adventures that are delicious, comfortable, exciting and sometimes unexpected.

voices of western colorado

DISCOVER We Asked These Western Slope Locals to Weigh in on This Topic Compiled by Lauren Farrauto

KRYSTA COSSITT

TIMBER

NICOLE RUIZ

Krysta is the owner of Elevation Weddings and Events, a wedding and event planning company that services Western Colorado.

Timber is the mascot of local small business Timberline Bank, a Member FDIC, Equal Housing lender.

Nicole is the co-owner of Alta Home Builders with her husband, Carlos, and a realtor and assistant broker at Robinson and Co. Realty.

“This past year I have been

“Discover: to find someone

discovering just how much I can

unexpectedly during the course

take on both professionally and

of a search. That is how I

personally. It’s amazing how full

found my home here in Grand

our plates can become but the

Junction. The co-owners of

question is, ‘Is it sustainable?’

Timberline Bank wanted to build

The wedding industry along

a business that focused on our

Colorado’s Western Slope

local community. Throughout

is seeing a huge boom — a

the planning process for

welcomed scenario especially

the headquarters, the team

after the uncertainty COVID

discovered that the best way to

presented two years ago and

do this was to add something

continues to present. Last year

unexpected. Over the last year,

I took on more weddings than

I have discovered so much joy

I ever had before. I discovered

and met many new people! One

that I could handle it, but I

of my favorite activities is to

also discovered that it wasn’t a

greet guests at the Timberline

sustainable business model, nor

Community Coffee Bar. If you

was it good for my personal life.

haven’t met me yet, stop by

This discovery has shifted the

during my Paw-ffice hours:

way I work and play, resulting in

Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. –

a more positive experience with

12 p.m. Bring the whole pack!”

clients, family and friends.”

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“A hidden blessing of the past two years is that a simplified schedule has allowed for more time together in the outdoors as a family. We have discovered that hanging out at our rural home and bottle-feeding goats is just as valuable as overscheduling our boys in demanding extracurriculars. We are learning to live in the present, to enjoy a mountain bike ride together in the desert or a simple hike through the sandstone. So much in our culture is a means to an end, but we are trying to enjoy the ride as an end itself, focusing on the present.” :

The Incubator Intensive Program

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himself, Long provides the perfect balance of enthusiasm and caution when working with the Incubator Intensive clients.

Offering more than 35,000 square feet of mixed-use space including light manufacturing, production and office space, spread over the 46-acre campus, the Incubator Intensive Program provides the foundation and literal room to grow. Leased spaces can be modified to accommodate the needs of a new business, whether this is power upgrades or taking down walls. Additionally, businesses are sharing the campus with 25 to 30 other businesses in various stages of growth, offering the supportive network that is lacking when working alone.

“There is a strong sense of community on our campus,” Mercier shares. “Businesses grow together here and that makes all the difference. Our businesses range from custom wood working to dog training to kombucha brewing. It is the diversity in the type of businesses onsite that creates the energetic atmosphere needed for entrepreneurs to thrive.”

The Incubator Intensive Program is located at the Business Incubator Center, a nonprofit organization that has invested in the long-term success of Mesa County businesses for more than a quarter century. In 2020, it created or retained 198 jobs and had $2.27 million in funding to put towards the development of local small businesses. There are six other programs available at the Business Incubator Center, some of which include the Grand Junction Small Business Development Center, the Business Loan Fund of Mesa County and the Mesa County Enterprise Zone, providing clients with direct access to additional resources such as capital, tax incentives and ongoing training.

T’S NO SECRET that Grand Junction is a hub of economic development, but starting a small business is not an easy feat. It can often be a lonely and isolating experience. The Incubator Intensive Program was established for just this reason — to guide entrepreneurs through the often confusing and overwhelming journey of business ownership.

The Incubator Intensive Program is a three-to-five-year residency program that helps accelerate the successful launch and development of start-ups and earlystage companies through a structured curriculum of weekly consulting, financial reviews and specific strategic planning in all areas of business development.

According to Laura Mercier, director of the Incubator Intensive Program, 90% of businesses that graduate the program are still in business 10 years later.

“Our role is to help establish a solid foundation for these businesses to ensure longevity. The program covers everything from financial management and business planning to branding, marketing and sales,” Mercier says. “We meet each business where they are; some require assistance identifying operational inefficiencies while others need guidance in basic HR practices. Every business arrives with its own enormous potential and its own challenges.”

The Incubator Intensive Program hosts an onsite Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR), Jonathan Long. At the age of 20, Long started, operated and grew his own business into a multi-million-dollar company which he ran for over 15 years.

His entrepreneurial mindset makes him an expert in business consulting. He meets with Incubator Intensive Program clients on a weekly basis to provide business guidance and accountability. The EIR serves as both business consultant and entrepreneurial therapist. Having been through the extreme highs and lows

Seeds Trust Julia Coffey & Alisha Wenger, Owners

Confluence Woodcraft Dave Grossman, Owner

JT Cranes Jeff Thornton, Owner

Grand Jun Fermentation Sarah Wood, Owner

“

Being a part of this program is like extending your team with C-Suite experience.

Jonathan (Long) and Laura (Mercier) bring experience from diverse professional backgrounds — something we highly value as we grow our business.”

— Sarah Wood, founder, Grand Jun Fermentation

2591 LEGACY WAY GRAND JUNCTION, CO 81503

970.243.5242 / gjincubator.org P A

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what's up in the west

HISTORIC MINTURN SALOON STAYS LOCAL WITH NEW OWNERS Words by S+B Staff | Photo by Townsend Bessent

the intention of preserving the iconic restaurant and letting Connie and Anthony operate the dayto-day at the restaurant.

The Mazzas started Village Bagel in 2016 out of their home and grew it into the busy bagel bakery it is today in Edwards.

“Like so many locals and visitors, our group can’t imagine this community without the Saloon,” shares Connie Mazza. “It’s such a nostalgic place for so many people, and when given the opportunity to keep it running, it struck an emotional chord. We love restaurants that celebrate the way things used to be and that aren’t afraid to remain old fashioned in a world that’s always changing.”

The building was built in 1901 and has been owned by only four different families in the last 120 years. The new group is committed to keeping the Saloon rooted in tradition and the spirit of the Eagle County community.

“We have the best memories at the Saloon sitting around the wood-burning fire with friends and family members, some who are no longer with us,” Mazza shares. “And let’s not forget all the knee-deep powder turns that took us right to a pitcher of Saloon margaritas after the Minturn Mile. Inside the walls of the Saloon lives a history book of happy memories, funny Anthony & Connie Mazza, Andy Kaufman, Steve Campbell

moments and questionable activities.”

As 35-year-owners Andy Kaufman and Steve Campbell said when they bought the place from

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usband and wife culinary duo and longtime Eagle County locals, Anthony and Connie

Mazza, are the new primary owners of the Minturn Saloon. They acquired the restaurant in December of 2021 with a small group of investors from New York and Denver that have close and longstanding ties to the area and the Saloon. This group of investors bought the real estate with

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Bob Cherry in 1986, the new owners will “not only preserve it but make it better.”

“That’s the whole purpose,” shares Kaufman on the Minturn Saloon’s ownership transition.

“It’s time to pass the baton to someone with the energy it takes to keep things vital and fresh.” minturnsaloon.com

The Mazzas have been operating the Minturn Saloon “as is” through the winter, and

while making it durable so it continues to thrive,” says Mazza.

then closing for a while once the ski season

The new owners want to celebrate the

ends for enhancements to the kitchen, bar and

history of the Saloon, but get creative with food

bathrooms.

and drinks inspired by western saloon fare when

“There are so many elements to the

they reopen after improvements. Chef Anthony’s

restaurant that are iconic and steeped in

preliminary menu ideas are ever-changing

craftsmanship, so it will be a delicate balance

at the moment, but he’s committed to quality

refurbishing the historic bar and restaurant

ingredients and deliciousness in every bite. :

ELEVATE KIDS FUN RUN INAUGURAL FUNDRAISING EVENT IS APRIL 10 Words by S+B Staff | Photo courtesy of Doug & Melinda McCaw

Academy, a Christ-centered school our daughter attends.”

In the spirit of movement for a purpose, the McCaws have planned another fundraiser this spring. The inaugural Elevate Kids Fun Run is scheduled for Sunday, April 10.

Proceeds from this event will also go to Kids Aid and Intermountain Adventist Academy.

McCaw says this will give the community an opportunity to participate on a personal basis toward the fundraising.

The run will offer distances for people of all levels, including walkers, families with children and serious runners who are out for the win. The course will include 2.5K, 5K and 10K distances.

Doug & Melinda McCaw

The event will be professionally timed using a

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bib tag system, with awards given to the winners

impressive effort was a fundraiser to help two

awareness of the needs of children in our

n July 2020, Melinda and Doug McCaw completed the entire 490-mile Colorado Trail

as a fast-pack trail run in just 18 days. The local non-profits in Grand Junction.

“Our

adventure

was

made

into

the

documentary movie Chasing the Sky,” shares

and photographs captured at the event.

“It’s about the kids,” adds McCaw. “Our community made us realize that our personal achievements

could

ultimately

result

in

benefitting children.” :

Melinda McCaw, “which was seen in local theaters by hundreds of people. The proceeds went to Kids Aid, whose primary focus is supplying food to hungry kids, and Intermountain Adventist

Registration is open now at elevatekids.org/fun-run/.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

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what's up in the west

NOT-SO-ORDINARY WAREHOUSE NOW HOME TO WINERY + TASTING ROOM IN PALISADE

THE ORDINARY FELLOW Words by S+B Staff KIM FULLER

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n 2019, winemaker Ben Parsons moved back to Colorado’s Western Slope to focus on his

passion project, The Ordinary Fellow Winery.

“Parsons had found the old United Fruit Growers Co-Op warehouse abandoned in the center of Palisade and decided it was the ideal location for his new venture,” shares Amelia Perea, hospitality director at The Ordinary Fellow.

The warehouse is one of Palisade’s original peach packing sheds. During the early 20th century, local farmers loaded peaches from the warehouse onto trains heading to Denver. It’s situated next to the railroad tracks in what is now Palisade’s entertainment district.

In 2020, Parsons set about renovating the historic site and transforming it into what is now The Ordinary Fellow Winery and Tasting Room.

COURTESY OF THE ORDINARY FELLOW

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“Four wines are currently available,” Perea reveals. “A 100% Colorado riesling from our own vineyard in Cortez, Colorado, as well as an albariño, a rosé and a red blend that Ben makes in Washington State. This spring we will debut our sparkling rosé from Washington.

“In late spring/early summer,” adds Perea, “our first Colorado chardonnay and pinot noir will be released from our estate vineyard, and we also have a Colorado cabernet sauvignon on the horizon.”

Stop by the tasting room this spring. While they sip, guests can enjoy some local eats from LeSnack, a food truck stationed on The Ordinary Fellow patio.

“We will continue our monthly Wine & History talks in collaboration with the Palisade Historical Society,” explains Perea. “We will have a monthly market inside the winery where local vendors can sell their work on the first Saturday of each month. We plan on having music, DJs and acoustic bands on a weekly basis.”

Other plans on the horizon include monthly wine pairing dinners at the winery featuring chefs from restaurants all over the state, along with Paint & Sip events and evening movie screenings on the open-air patio. :

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blossom

DESERT BLOOMS Words + Photos by Melanie Wiseman

Orange Globe Mallow

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rowing up in the lush, green hills of

often the first to appear, here is a quick glance

Wisconsin, I didn’t appreciate the Western

at five favorite beauties I’ve savored along hikes

Slope’s desert scape at first glance. I’ve long since done a complete 180 and now long for

The Four-Nerve Daisy, of the genus

adventures among the rich palette of sandstone

Tetraneuris, is a species of the sunflower family.

crags, slots and canyons, and annually crave the

Common names include Angelita Daisy, Perky

huge variety of late spring blooms.

Sue, Butte Marigold, Stemless Gold Flower and

On one Colorado National Monument hike,

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and byways.

Bitterweed.

I counted a record 36 desert bloom species.

Tetraneuris means four-nerved and refers to

Although our unique landscape is home to flora

the four veins in the petal or ray flower. Flower

in the thousands, and the Indian Paintbrush is

heads range from eight to 14 rays (petals), stand

four to 16 inches high and have dense, hairy

cup is most abundant in shady areas. It is known

basal lance-shaped leaves, as well as hairy stems

by several common names including Kingcup

and bracts supporting the flower head.

Cactus and Mohave Mound Cactus.

They like dry, rocky, sandy hillsides and mesas, from the plains to foothills.

Orange Globe Mallow is part of the Sphaeralcea genus of flowering plants with

The Penstemon, with roughly 250 species,

approximately 50 species including annuals,

is the largest genus of flowering plants endemic

perennials and shrubs. The Orange Globe

to North America. They have partly tube-shaped

Mallow loves full sun and is a welcome sight

opposing leaves and two-lipped flowers.

when the heat drives most other flowers out

Their most distinctive feature is the

of bloom.

prominent staminode. In most flowers, the

Its long wands of orange flowers resemble

inconspicuous staminode is in the inner whorls

miniature hollyhocks. A deep-rooted wildflower

of the flower. However, the Penstemon’s is

native to the Western United States, Orange

longer and extremely hairy, giving the general

Globe Mallow is not the least bit picky about its

appearance of an open mouth with a fuzzy

soil and thrives in heavy clay.

protruding tongue. Thus, the inspiration for the common name — Beardtongue.

Frequently found in the open desert, the Penstemon comes in a variety of colors and can

Other commonly known names are False Mallows, Desert Globe Mallows or Apricot Mallow. Flowers range in the orange to red sphere.

range from four inches to several yards in height.

Wild Iris is one of my truest treasures.

Claret Cup Cactus is simply stunning. Its

Found on the Uncompahgre Plateau and LaSalle

showy flowers have bright scarlet red to orange-

Mountain foothills in late spring, fields of Wild

red petals. The tips of the petals are rounded and

Iris can take your breath away. Where there’s

stiff, strong enough for hummingbirds to perch

one, there are hundreds or thousands. Blooming

on for pollinations. Hummingbirds are attracted

early in the season in wet or marshy areas, this

to the large amount of nectar and brightly

showy wildflower is frequently missed.

colored blooms. Claret Cup fruits are green to yellow green, pink or red, juicy and spiny.

Native to the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico, Echinocereus triglochidiatus

Wild Iris have a slender stem, sword-shaped leaves and large, delicate lilac to purple petals that fold over. They often have white striations on the petals and faint bits of yellow, as well.

is a species of hedgehog cactus. Residing in a

Alternate names for Wild Iris in the iris

variety of habitats from low desert to rocky

missouriensis family include Western Blue Flag,

slopes, scrub and mountain woodland, the claret

Flag Lily, Liver Lily and Water Flag. :

Claret Cup Cactus

Wild Iris

Four-Nerve Daisy

Purple Penstemon

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

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home + garden

A NEW WAY TO GO GREEN Words by MacKennea Broyles | Photo courtesy of New Way Refillery

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ust off of North Avenue and 10th Street in

that with a business she thought Grand Junction

Grand Junction, the airy and sunny New

needed. “I wanted to do something that wasn’t

Way Refillery is open for business. Filled with

repetitive or competitive and that aligned with

jumbo-sized pumps of everything from lotion to

my values,” she explains. She saw a video for a

laundry detergent, this little store and its owner,

refillery in California and a lightbulb went off.

Kate Bennett, aim to make a big impact on the

“Initially, we didn’t know whether the

way Western Colorado residents view reusing

community was ready, so we started with a

household goods.

mobile service — a van — and we saw such high

What’s a refillery? Much like the name

demand that we opened a storefront,” Bennett

implies, the idea of a refillery is for people to

says. It was a huge hit. “We had some people

purchase common household goods, such as

joke with us saying, ‘you’re late!’” Bennett

laundry detergent, shampoo and dish soap, and

laughs.

reduce waste from single-use plastic containers

In addition to the welcome she’s felt from

by bringing their own to fill with the product

her customers, Bennett feels the hospitality

they need. Although stores like this have popped

from the business side, as well. “I love the

up all over the Front Range, Bennett decided that

city support,” she shares. “I love how [Grand

this was something Grand Junction needed, too.

Junction] popularizes the small businesses, the

Bennett, a former teacher, looked at what she considered her strengths and combined

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growing art community, the farmer’s market …

I’m really excited for Grand Junction.”

For Bennett, reusing and refilling is just

However, this is no easy task for a one-

one component of building a more sustainable

woman show. “It’s the biggest part of my job

world. “I think it’s about the bigger picture. It’s

right now,” she admits, and cites her quest for the

about understanding your personal impact and

perfect toothpaste tablets as a recent example.

responsibility and also the world’s situation and

“We went through a lot of samples,” she laughs.

the root of the problem,” she adds. “It’s one way

But, even when the search seemed futile,

to unite like-minded people in common efforts to

Bennett wasn’t willing to make any compromises.

bring the change we need.”

“I was so frustrated that the quality wasn’t on

Stepping into the world of resource reuse

par with what I wanted. None of them were an

doesn’t have to be intimidating or expensive.

adequate substitute for toothpaste,” she recalls.

Bennett recalls what a few of the cleverest

Finally, her persistence paid off, and Bennett

containers people have brought in to fill with

found a small Canadian company that made

a product they need: “I’ve had people bring in

exactly what she wanted. “I was so impressed

clean ketchup or mustard squirt bottles to use

with the quality,” she says. “Now they’re one of

for shampoo and conditioner, yogurt containers

my favorite products I keep in the store.”

for lotion, and I once had someone bring in tiny

Although, Bennett points out, the result of

mason jars to sample things; I thought that was

such a rigorous testing and researching process

brilliant!”

means it’s impossible to pick just one preferred

It was actually an attempt to refill a plastic soap refill pouch that led Bennett to introduce

product. “They’re all my favorite,” she laughs.

“They’re all the best.” :

another option for sustainable refills in her store. Those without suitable containers can make a deposit on a glass jar and have the

Learn more at

amount refunded once it is brought back.

newwayrefillery.com.

Bennett believes that no container is too crazy, and reusing in any way is beneficial.

“That’s the whole point,” she laughs, “to reuse what you have and give it new life!”

Sustainability also means considering what

Where you work matters!

you will be most likely to stick with. The idea of switching everything to a refillable all at once seems daunting, and may not even be the best practice.

“Start small,” Bennett advises. “Pick an area of your life or an area of your house that is easy or you see as most wasteful.” She recommends going product by product, using up what you already have, then refilling when it’s empty. “Don’t feel like you have to do everything at once,” she says.

Bennett designed the entire business around simplicity and peace of mind. Her goal is to do all of the research in order to source the best products, so that her customers don’t have to.

“People should feel confident knowing they’re buying products that are ethically made from companies that treat their employees well and whose values align with theirs. It’s not just a green leaf on the package,” she believes.

We're looking for new agents. Give us a call!

home + garden

REFRESH YOUR HOME FOR THE SEASON

LET SPRING IN Words by Laura Mills

A

s we shed our cozy knits, replace rich colors

LIGHT

and flavors with light and fresh textures,

As the winter months move away, our days

we come to realize the seasons are changing

have more light— let’s celebrate it! Matthews

once again. With the arrival of spring comes the

emphasizes the importance of letting natural

traditional idea of spring cleaning — but where

light into your home. We often overlook the

do we start? Vacuum the floors, dust the window

simplicity of cleaning the windows and washing

sills, put away the clunky winter boots and

away the previous season’s dust and dirt. When

sweep the remaining salt and sand tracked in

it comes to the lighting within your home, make

from winter adventures. What can we do that’s

sure your bulbs have a warm color temperature

out of the norm to make our space feel crisp,

to keep you comfortable, relaxed and looking

bright and brand new?

your best. Yes, overhead lighting has a functional

The layout and presentation of a home plays a big part in the energy that the space carries. With the help of Danielle Bradley, owner

purpose, but it is important to offset it with accent lamps throughout your home.

of furniture restoration and property design

COLOR

company Soulful Collections, and Carey “Mattie”

Bradley makes a great point about using neutral

Matthews, marketing manager at Christi Reece

palettes with a combination of two patterns

Real Estate Group, we have put together a

when refreshing your space. By pulling two

variety of tips to refresh your home going into

colors from those patterns it will connect and

the warmer months. And as so many of us have

flow beautifully within a space, creating a

adopted a work-from-home lifestyle, we made

coordinated room. Following up with lighter

sure to get their thoughts on the best way to

fabrics and rugs can help you visually expand

spruce up that home workspace to keep you

your space without going to the hassle of actually

motivated and on-task in this new season.

having to knock down a wall. She helps us further with a great example of this: wallpaper,

FLOW

a design piece that has returned in popularity

To allow for a natural flow in the home, consider

in the last several years. Select a wallpaper that

rearranging furniture by focusing on a central

interests you, pulling two colors from the pattern

point, whether that’s a wall, fireplace or art

as accents in your space from elements such as

installation. Bradley recommends facing sofas

pillows, accent rugs or throws.

and chairs parallel to your focal point to allow for more room to relax and your company to

CREATE

move through the space freely.

It is no secret that working from home is the reality for many of us, as is the importance of

18

enjoying that WFH space that Matthews helped

The importance of plants came up a few

us refine. She says that painting your workspace

times in our conversations. Undoubtedly, adding

a distinct color can make it feel more intentional

greenery to a space truly does add life to it.

and separate from the rest of your home. Adding

“By bringing the outdoors in, we get a sense of

little accents, such as candles or matching desk

organic presence and connection with nature,”

accessories, can also make it more inviting for

says Bradley. We may not all be lucky with a

creativity in your work. If your workspace is a

green thumb, but thankfully fake plants are

common area, consider a visual divider, such

looking more and more real every day.

as a bookcase or a plant wall. Keeping your

What

is

more

energetic

than

music?

workspace organized so that at the end of

Matthews reminds us of the power that music

your day you aren’t continually looking at and

has to transform a space. Having music on

stressing about that stack of papers, is key.

while you cook, play, work and hang out can instantly lift your spirits. Some suggestions to

ENERGY

create a relaxed, but fun vibe are jazz masters

Energy is something that both Matthews and

like John Coltrane, Chet Baker, Sarah Vaughan

Bradley focused on when expanding on their

and Thelonious Monk (to name just a few), or go

expertise. Bradley reminds us that our space

for more contemporary classics with The Piano

reflects our energy and mood; you want your

Guys, Two Cellos or Pink Martini.

space to feel comfortable and serene. Allow

With your arsenal of helpful tips and tricks

your space to hold heartfelt possessions and not

from our design gurus you now have all the tools

just “things” you purchase. Work these into the

in your toolbox to set up your space beautifully

design of your home to make it truly feel like

for the new season. :

part of you.

weddings

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20

weddings

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R

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SPOKE+BLOSSOM

21

drink

SPRING IN YOUR STEP Words + Photo by Jayme Henderson

G

in and cucumbers are a classic springtime combination. Juicy, fresh, herbaceous

and bright. Add snap peas, mint and basil to the mix, and you’ve got a multi-layered, refreshing cocktail that is begging to be batched and debuted at your next warm-weather soirée.

These herbs and vegetables are staples in my backyard “cocktail garden,” so this particular drink makes an appearance almost weekly over the spring and summer months.

It’s also a perfect pairing with fresh, seasonally inspired salads, vegetable dishes and sushi.

Want to give this a non-alcoholic makeover?

Swap out the gin for Seedlip’s Garden 108.

It’s an herbaceous, alcohol-free spirit made with peas, hops and springtime herbs, which is fitting for this cocktail. Don’t worry about DRAM’s black bitters — it’s already free of alcohol. :

22

SPRING IN YOUR STEP 4 cucumber slices, sliced 1/4 inch thick 1 sprig mint 2 ounces snap pea-infused gin 1/2 ounce basil syrup 3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice 2-3 dashes DRAM black bitters (or substitute a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper) pinch of sea salt cucumber slice, for garnish

Year-Round Farmers’ Market & Specialty Grocery Store A GROCERY SHOPPING EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER

1. I n a mixing tin, muddle the cucumber and mint until well-juiced.

2. Add a handful of ice, along with the pea-infused gin, basil syrup, lemon juice and bitters.

3. Shake well and double-strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

4. Garnish with a cucumber slice and a pinch of sea salt.

SNAP PEA-INFUSED GIN Combine 1/2 cup coarsely chopped snap peas with 1 cup gin in a mason jar. Cover and shake well. After letting the mixture infuse for two to three hours, strain through a finemesh strainer and store in an airtight container either in the fridge or at room temperature.

BASIL SYRUP Combine 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar in a saucepan.

Over low heat, stir until the liquid reaches a slight simmer and the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat, add a handful of basil leaves and strain once the mixture reaches room temperature.

Store in the fridge for up to two weeks.

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eat

FRESH SPRING RECIPES Words by Maureen McGuire | Photos by Cat Mayer

O

ne of my favorite things about spring is

life, but also in all aspects. Especially after the

the addition of more fresh ingredients —

bleak winters of the pandemic, perhaps our

fresh spinach, fresh eggs from my mother-in-

tables should reflect the hopefulness of spring.

law’s hens, berries. Every five or so years, we get

Spring holds the stirrings of the exuberance

apricots locally. Last year, I was lucky enough to

of life in all of its upcoming phases as we pass

put up about 15 pints of apricots, and my thyme

through the year.

bush came back. This year, I believe I see the little leaf buds beginning to bloom once again.

It is a reminder that life truly is a cycle: the promise of new beginnings, not just in epicurean

24

I hope that your spring table brings a sense of rejuvenation, hope and excitement for the days up ahead. :

SPRING SPINACH SALAD SERVES 6

1 pound baby spinach ½ pound strawberries 3 green onions ½ cup almonds 2 Tbsp Extra virgin olive oil 2 Tbsp high-quality balsamic vinegar 1 tsp Dijon mustard

1. F or the dressing, mix the oil, vinegar and mustard, then shake.

2. Add thinly-sliced strawberries to the dressing and muddle them with a fork.

1. L ayer asparagus and prosciutto in pie crust.

3. Let sit at least 30 minutes.

2. Beat eggs with cream and pour over filling; sprinkle with salt and pepper.

4. Toss the rest of ingredients and serve cold.

3. Bake at 325 degrees for one hour.

4. Top with hollandaise or a cheesy béchamel.

ASPARAGUS AND PROSCIUTTO QUICHE APRICOT BELLINI

SERVES 6

SERVES 6

1 parbaked pie crust ½ pound asparagus 6 oz small pieces prosciutto 8-10 eggs ½ cup heavy cream Salt and pepper to taste

1 bottle dry champagne or sparking white wine 6-8 ripe apricots, puréed

1. M ix in a pitcher.

2. Serve with a strawberry for garnish.

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26

:

book + beverage

Words by Lauren Farrauto | Photo by Bobby L’Heureux

THE BOOK

THE BEVERAGE

THE GUIDE

TABERNASH SOUR

BY PETER HELLER

I

magine you are acting as a fishing guide at an exclusive, remote resort in the Colorado

pairing than the author of our book pick

and Colorado local himself, Peter Heller? For the

wilderness. You spend your days fishing by the

ultimate reading experience, whip up this quick

river, guiding guests towards the best spots for

and easy cocktail — the Tabernash Sour.

the best catches, and retire to your own cozy

“Created by my dear friend Andy Arnold,

river

a former doc at the base of Winter Park ski

bank. Then, late one

resort, the Tabernash Sour contains Ancient Age

night out with a client

bourbon and Hansen’s grapefruit juice on ice,”

while

Heller shares.

cabin

near

the

enjoying

each

other’s company and

This regionally renowned drink, formerly

mountain

served at The Tavern restaurant in Tabernash,

air, an ear-splitting

is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Just

scream

add an ounce of bourbon to a jelly jar glass filled

the

fresh

echoes

off

the towering trees

with ice and top with Hansen’s to taste.

“No garnish, but always accompanied by an

around you… did

hour of great storytelling. Andy was a former ski

the scream come

trooper who loved a great story,” Heller recalls of

from?

his friend, who sadly passed away a few years ago.

Where

Perhaps

there’s something

In the spirit of the Tabernash Sour, pick up

a bit fishy about

The Guide for what will surely feel like an hour

the Kingfisher Lodge, other

of great storytelling, even if it takes you a bit

than the name and the trout in the river, of

longer to savor the enticing descriptions of the

course. Eager to find out what happens next?

Colorado wilderness and the final dregs of your

Pick up Peter Heller’s The Guide to find out.

cocktail pairing. :

The story reintroduces Jack, the main character in one of Heller’s other novels, The River. But don’t worry if you haven’t embarked on that journey yet. Heller’s accessible prose ensures readers are enthralled and informed from page one.

Sitting at just over 250 pages, The Guide offers the audience, and its characters, little to no respite from the break-neck pace, twists and turns. Lock yourself in some undisturbed remote location this spring break to enjoy this gripping tale in peace. But don’t let your imagination get the best of you if you find yourself in the forest alone late one night …

28

W

ho better to choose a beverage for this

S+B’S INSTAGRAM + PODCAST PICKS Compiled by Lexi Reich

@halfbakedharvest

Indulge and be inspired by Summit County local Tieghan Gerard’s impressive display of hand-crafted recipes.

See everything from chocolate chunk banana bread mug cake to a creamy balsamic mushroom chicken marsala dish.

The #ColoradoLife Travel Podcast

This podcast is for Colorado natives and newcomers alike who want to explore the beautiful state as a local.

Husband and wife duo Ryan and Carrie share their favorite travel and adventure stories in an easily digestible format.

@meow_wolf

Meow Wolf’s newest art installation, Convergence Station, is now seeing visitors, or “quantum travelers,” at its Denver location. Enjoy the immersive art experience from afar with the brand’s various multimedia elements consuming the page.

Colorado Matters Podcast

Tune into Colorado Public Radio’s daily interview show to hear about the state’s people, issues and ideas. Each episode is about 50 minutes and ranges from pandemic news to heartwarming stories from locals.

@amityvil

Amity Rockwell is a professional racing cyclist currently dominating the national gravel biking scene. You may see some of your favorite spots in the Rocky Mountains on her page as she visits Colorado often for riding and racing.

With(In)

Created in collaboration with the DU Prison Arts Initiative and the Colorado Department of Corrections, this award-winning podcast is committed to shifting the conversation surrounding who is in prison. Each episode features an enlightening conversation with an incarcerated person.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

29

style

COLORADO MESA UNIVERSITY PARTNER

DESERT DOG PRESSING ON Words by Cassie Fortman | Photos courtesy of Desert Dog Press

Devan Knapp proofs color and registration on a #4 Vandercook proof press.

D

30

esert Dog Press is a community print

Modlin Print Shop in Indiana in the early

shop and rare production gem located

1940s and so the press shop environment felt

in downtown Grand Junction. They are a part

deeply engaging and meaningful. Letterpress,

of Colorado Mesa University and their goal

printmaking, screen printing and book arts are

is to share the magic of printmaking with

their specialty. DDP has multiple letterpress

all ages within our community. As an essay

machines with wood and metal type available,

photographer, I was in the first letterpress

a beautiful etching press and soon a four-color

class offered through CMU in the spring of 2020

t-shirt press. DDP offers workshops throughout

and I fell in love with the tactile nature of the

the year as well as open studio hours for artists

experience. My great, great grandfather owned

to use the space for their own projects. :

Devan Knapp and Eli Hall run Desert Dog Press housed behind 437co, — Colorado Mesa University’s art gallery. They worked for many years acquiring the presses and equipment needed to open Desert Dog Press to the Grand Junction community.

Registering the paper before the print run.

Typesetting gothic wood type, created in the early 1900s.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

31

maker

LOCAL CANDLE COMPANIES LIGHT THE WAY TO A CLEANER FUTURE Words by Lauren Farrauto ASPEN CLEAN CANDLE

M

any people like to light candles to invite

Alpine Bee candles are made from all-natural

warmth and coziness into their homes.

ingredients, including local beeswax, essential

But, how many of us are really aware of what

oils, phthalate-free fragrance oils, coconut oil,

we’re burning? It turns out there may be some

cotton wicks and recycled/recyclable containers.

unwelcome guests lurking within our candles’

I had the opportunity to test these candles and

hidden ingredients list. However, there are clean

am happy to report that the luxurious smells

options available right in our own backyard.

waft through the room without being over-

The next time your wick burns low, check out

powering, and it didn’t give me a headache. The

these three local candle companies that you

wax also burns quite slowly, ensuring you get

can trust to be crafted with the utmost care and

the most out of your purchase. My favorite scent

thoughtfulness.

so far is the Black Currant.

Perhaps

32

most

importantly,

Alpine

Bee

ALPINE BEE CANDLES

Candles supports our local bee ecosystems

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, CO

through donation and education. “We donate 5%

Kristen Pappas and her husband Greg decided

of sales to organizations like PACE (Pollinator

to start making their own candles about six

Awareness Through Conservation & Education),

years ago when she realized she was getting

which is an awesome program through the

headaches from the candles they had been

Denver Butterfly Pavilion. We have also donated

burning. “I researched what ingredients are

to local organizations and beekeepers teaching

in typical candles and promptly threw away

kids how to protect pollinator populations and

what we were burning. I didn’t want the kids

beekeeping,” shares Pappas.

breathing things like petroleum, bleach and

Customers can find Alpine Bee in various

carcinogenic chemicals,” Pappas recalls. Unable

retailers in Steamboat Springs and beyond; its in-

to find a safe alternative, the family began to

store options branch as far out as Park City, Utah.

make their own.

Email their team at contact@alpinebeecandles.

com for a full list of retailers. You can also buy

glass containers are made from at least 50%

directly from the website where they offer free

recycled materials, which can be repurposed at

shipping: alpinebeecandles.com.

home or recycled through their program for a discount on your next purchase.

ASPEN CLEAN CANDLE

Pearl Street Lights’ candles are made from

BASALT, CO

100% soy wax with no additives, preservatives,

Three years ago, owner of Aspen Clean Candle,

phytates or dyes. Soy wax burns cleaner and

Jill Kosdrosky, retired from corporate America

longer than traditional paraffin wax for a non-

to start a candle company out of her home

toxic experience. They also use their exclusive

base, an idea that had been in the back of her

Illumaduo wicks, which “enhance your experience

mind for a while. Her research uncovered some

by adding a nice crackling sound reminiscent of a

pretty startling facts: most soy candles are made

wooden fireplace,” Humphrey says.

with toxic fragrances, which can contribute to

The Giveback Line of their candles is a

headaches, allergies and other health problems.

partnership between three local nonprofits:

“People deserve a clean candle,” Kosdrosky

Dress for Success Denver, Judi’s House and

believes. “It’s been stupidly hard (to create one)

Colorado Circles for Change. Each organization

but fantastic.”

had a personal hand in creating their candle —

She uses 100% American soy wax with zero

from fragrance to naming. 20% of the profits

additives. The scents are derived from essential

from these candles goes directly back to the

oils or safe synthetic oils. “Some essential

respective organizations.

oils can’t be burnt, because they create toxic

Pearl

Street

Lights

has

several

retail

byproducts. For example, citrus will create

partners, which you can find on its website. Or,

formaldehyde when burnt,” Kosdrosky explains.

order online with free shipping on orders over

Her main goal is to educate the consumer, so she

$50: pearlstreetlights.com.

prints the ingredients list on her label. People are different and have different allergies and/or needs; they should be able to confidently choose what best suits them, she says.

Kosdrosky is also committed to developing relationships. Inside every order you will find a handwritten note from her, thanking you for your purchase. Additionally, Kosdrosky enjoys giving back to her community and donates one dollar off of every purchase to help U.S. veterans.

You can find Aspen Clean Candle on Instagram at @aspencleancandle and buy the candles online at aspencleancandle.com.

PEARL STREET LIGHTS BOULDER, CO

Kerry Humphrey’s journey began back in 2014 when she started rescuing empty beer bottles from the trash to repurpose them into something more. “After those first few attempts, I found it so inspiring that something that was going to end up in the trash was able to be transformed into something beautiful, useful and full of light,” Humphrey recalls. Nowadays, their colorful

Because every day is a reason to celebrate! carlsonvineyards.com

art

ARTIST TO DISCOVER

CORI WARD Words by Lisa Blake | Photos by Jeremy Poland

34

S

elf-taught Grand Junction painter Cori Ward sees the world through bright, bold colors.

Ward, 31, spent college summers as a raft and backpacking guide in the San Juan and Sangre De Cristo mountain ranges. She has traveled the world working with nonprofits and faith-based organizations.

“My experiences exposed me to elements that I had no control over and a beauty that couldn’t be tamed,” she says.

Ward’s artwork — created with acrylics, black Sharpies and canvas, swathed in red rock and cerulean sky glory — reminds us of how breathtaking Colorado truly is.

Here, we take a beat to discover Cori Ward.

Spoke+Blossom: What inspired you to start painting?

Cori Ward: As a single female who works in education and has spent time working with different nonprofits, finances have always been tight. I started painting to see if I could create another source of income. The term “starving artist” unfortunately seems to have some legitimacy, but I was so overwhelmed by the support of my community that I’ve continued to pursue it.

S+B: How would you describe your work to someone who has never seen it?

CW: Bright; bright and bold. A celebration of color. To me, the sharp edges, outlines and shapes are reality. Life has never been smooth and unbroken; it’s been a collaboration of other peoples’ stories and experiences.

S V E D T

H O P I S I T N J O Y O W N O W N

S+B: What is the piece you are proudest of?

CW: My Hanging Lake piece. I started this giant piece during the beginning of COVID. It was a challenging piece for me to navigate because of the water involved. But, I’ve fallen in love with it. It hasn’t sold yet. In the meantime, it’s hanging in my house.

S+B: What do you want to be known for?

CW: At the end of the day, I don’t want people to think about me. I want people to be inspired

Spas, gift stores, art galleries, coffee shops, restaurants, breweries, toys, and more - there’s something for everyone!

something foundational and wild, to be proud of where they live.

S+B: Any tips for aspiring painters?

CW: Know when to rest and take a break.

Creating comes in seasons, and not every season can have the same dedication and focus as others.

SHE WON! Cori Ward won the 2022 Colorado Winefest Art Contest. Her “Palisade Paradise” piece will be featured on the wine totes, t-shirts, posters, brochures and across Colorado Mountain Winefest marketing.

S+B: What’s next for you?

CW: I would love to enter my work into a larger art festival. It feels beyond intimidating at this point, but I would love to build up to one.

I’ve entered my most recent painting into the Palisade Wine Fest Art Competition. I’m proud of what I created and, win or lose, I love these events that our valley hosts. I want to continue to support local Grand Valley artists as best as I can. : See more of Cori’s artwork at coriwardartwork.com.

36

AMANDA CONRADS

to go back outside, to anchor themselves in

music

FINDING A WAY FORWARD

ZOLOPHT Words by Jeffrey Steele | Photo by @lil.jules

A

38

fter more than 10 years together, you learn

At the beginning of 2021, Zolopht fans were

a lot about yourself and who you are as a

shocked by an announcement that founding

group. That is certainly the case for Zolopht, a

member and frontman Zac Grant was leaving

local band that has dominated the music scene

the band for personal reasons. At the same time,

in the Grand Valley for years.

trumpet player Daniel Ohlson also moved on to

Zoë-Ulani Ray, a longtime fan of the band,

pursue his career goals. For fans of the band,

says, “The first time I saw Zolopht was at Beer

the immediate question was, “Is this the end of

Fest at Edgewater Brewery. I turned to my mom

Zolopht?”

halfway through their set and said, ‘These guys

Within the band there was a flurry of phone

are awesome! I want to be friends with them.’”

calls. Discussions were had and decisions were

Originally known as Zolopht and the

made. Zolopht would continue as a five-piece

Destroyers, a reggae/rock/funk band, Zolopht

band featuring the remaining members Cam

has made its mark with three studio albums

Vilar on guitar and lead vocals, Geoff Mueck

and several national tours. Ranging from six

on bass, Jared Schmidt on drums and backing

to nine members, they have played in venues

vocals, Greg Indivero on percussion and Ian

from coast to coast.

McGowan on violin.

From the outset, each member of the band

the show the way they wanted with no pressure

knew that things would have to change. They

and the opportunity to get feedback from the

would have to shed the preconceived notions

audience. This was Zolopht, but a new Zolopht.

of what they should or should not be. Violin

“It feels like reconnecting with old friends that

player McGowan would have to become more

you haven’t talked to in a long time,” Ray said.

central to the music, carrying a larger role

Through all of this, each member of the

as rhythm player, while Vilar would have to

band has discovered that, both individually and

adjust his style to cover both rhythm and lead

as a group, they are able to mold themselves

on guitar. Schmidt would have to extend his

to any situation, any setting, any change. That,

backup vocals. All members would have to take

more than anything, is where the band finds its

on new responsibilities related to booking and

footing.

promotion of the band.

“Some of my most cherished experiences

Each member has embraced their new

on this planet have been with these guys. Even

roles and responsibilities. Within a month, the

if we had to hang up our hats tomorrow, I will

band was back in the rehearsal space, writing

always be eternally grateful for what these

new music, revamping older songs and making

guys have given me. It has been more than 10

plans to move forward. They soon discovered

years, and we are still discovering what we are

that the friendship and camaraderie that had

capable of,” Mueck shares. :

bound them together for so long became the touchstone for things to come.

The

new

music

that

Zolopht albums are available to is

emerging

is

stream on Spotify, Ph Balanced,

somewhat heavier than previous efforts, while

Flexor and Fishbowl.

still retaining a definitive Zolopht feel. Each

zolophtmusic.com

song is a collaborative effort. A member brings in a lyric or a riff and then all the members of the band work through it together to create a finished piece.

In the past, the band would write new music and play it at shows as sort of a gauge to determine what worked and what didn’t work. The end result was that when an album was released, the product was polished and professional but ultimately didn’t really hold any surprises for the audience.

This time is different. While new music is being played at shows along with older Zolopht standards, the music that will be recorded is being held close to the vest. No one outside the band is privy to these songs.

Inspired Shelter for the Spirited Wanderer

“It’s really difficult to keep it to yourself,” says Indivero. “You get together and practice these songs, and you have it running around in your head and you want to share it. I lay there at night and think, we (the band) are the only people on Earth thinking about this music right now.”

The band’s first show back was at the Blood Brother’s Fundraiser on June 13, 2021. Being a relatively casual setting, the band was able to do

campv.com 970.369.9520 Naturita, CO

music

COLORADO ARTIST USES NATURAL MATERIALS

STUNNING KEEPSAKE AWARDS Words by Sharon Sullivan | Photos courtesy of John Haertling

E

ach year musical groups who play at Red

Wonder are among the hundreds of musicians

Rocks Park and Amphitheatre get to take

who have received a “Piece of the Rock” award

home a little piece of Colorado as a “thank you” memento for their performance.

With a degree in design from California

John Haertling, founder of Haertling Awards,

State University, Haertling returned to his native

created 1,128 artistic award pieces in 2021, 28 of

Boulder, Colorado in 1984 where he began making

which were for Red Rocks.

art — one a large flowing piece titled “Continuous

The venue and concert promoters give each band a “Piece of the Rock” award — art pieces

Form” commissioned by the city of Boulder. It stands on the corner of Arapahoe and 30th.

made from flagstone, similar to what surrounds

The Boulder Chamber of Commerce then

the amphitheatre. The rock Haertling uses does

asked Haertling to create an award for an

not come from the renowned venue, however —

entrepreneur event it was hosting, which

it’s against park rules to collect stone from the

began a career of making unique awards for

Denver-owned property. Instead, he gathers the

corporations,

flagstone from nearby areas along Colorado’s

various land agencies.

Front Range.

40

over the years.

nonprofit

organizations

and

When eight world leaders, including U.S.

“It’s an important commemorative piece,”

President Bill Clinton, met for the Summit of the

Haertling says. “Red Rocks was the last existing

Eight meeting in Denver in 1997, Haertling made

amphitheater that the Beatles performed in.”

each one a special Colorado gift.

Jimmy Buffett, Stevie Nicks, Willie Nelson,

“I discovered John Haertling and saw that

The Grateful Dead, Nathaniel Rateliff and Stevie

he made awards with Colorado materials,”

HEIDI HOWARD PHOTOGRAPHY

recalls Karen Gerwitz, who, as Chief of Protocol for Colorado Gov. Roy Romer that year, hired Haertling to do the work.

“I researched the eight leaders and learned that two were mineral collectors. So, I found someone to donate the mineral rhodochrosite from a mine in Alma,” Haertling adds. The rare stone appears in the centerpiece of each award, which also includes marble, flagstone and brass.

Haertling, 62, also works with glass, crystal, slate, granite and fused glass. He often uses reclaimed cedar for the base. “It’s the combination

John Haertling

of materials that’s unique,” he notes.

As current president of the World Trade

“He’s really thoughtful and creative when

Center in Denver, Gerwitz continues to work

incorporating Colorado components,” says Sara

with Haertling when she needs awards for

Doll, State Historical Fund Outreach Grants

various functions. “He’s my go-to person; he is so

Specialist.

artistic,” she says.

Another ongoing client is History Colorado,

For example, for the historical preservation officer award, Haertling used limestone and

who recognizes several historical projects each

sandstone

year in honor of Colorado’s first Historical

historic buildings in Colorado. For the state

Preservation Officer, Stephen H. Hart. Haertling

archaeologist award, he sourced beetle kill

has been creating awards for the History

wood, and for the Governor’s Award, Haertling

Colorado honorees since 2011.

incorporated pieces of gold from sheets that

—

common

materials

used

in

were removed from the State Capitol dome

his work; that’s why we selected him. He makes

while the building was undergoing repairs and

such amazing awards.” The (CSLB) awards

renovation.

resemble the Flatirons that make up a portion of

Clients also include the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Colorado Parks Service, Colorado State Parks Trails Symposium,

“The other factor in selecting John is that he’s a local creator here in Colorado,” she adds.

Colorado Youth Corps, Native American Rights

For several years Haertling created awards

Fund, Vail Resorts, Winter Park Resort, Aspen

for the U.S. Olympic Committee to give out for its

Celebrity Downhill and the Colorado State Land

Sportsman of the Year, Sportswoman of the Year

Board (CSLB) — a state agency that distributes

and Team of the Year awards.

money to public schools from funds raised by

Haertling moved his company 20 years

leasing land to various entities. The CSLB honors

ago from Boulder to the Colorado Technology

four of its lease-holders each year for their land

Business Park in Louisville, where he employs

stewardship.

four people, and has an office, shop and

“[The awards] are stunning and unique,” says

Kristin

Kemp,

CSLB

outreach

and

communications officer. “We were familiar with

Jimmy Buffet received his award in 2016.

42

the Boulder foothills, she explains.

showroom. : haertlingawards.com.

food

SUNDAE’S SWEET SUCCESS Words by Kimberly Nicoletti | Photos courtesy of Sundae

Churro Delight Sundae

K

ent Beidel launched Loaded Joe’s around

you have every emotional range. With ice cream,

2004 to cultivate a sense of community in

there’s this deep nostalgic memory. People eat

the Vail Valley, and although the coffee shop/bar/

ice cream on dates, with family, when they’re

restaurant served its purpose, he has found a

drowning their sorrows. In general, people

larger community through his artisan ice cream

are looking for and participating in a positive

store, Sundae.

experience.”

“Ice cream appeals to 98% of the population, whereas coffee and alcohol don’t quite have

In fact, Beidel believes he’s really in the business of “sharing joy, one scoop at a time.”

that broad reach. Sundae gives us a greater

He credits his success — opening two stores

opportunity to connect with the community,”

(formerly Marble Slab) in Vail and Edwards in

Beidel says, adding how Sundae donates ice

September 2016, then expanding to Glenwood

cream to nonprofits for fundraisers, and its

Springs and Snowmass in summer of 2020 and

Smart Scoops program encourages kids to read

Basalt in November 2021 — to his employees.

to complete punch cards, which earn them free ice cream.

“We have a fantastic leadership team, with several pastry chefs leading the culture that

After 13 years of running Loaded Joe’s,

is about the positive experience and the high

which he “loved dearly,” Beidel decided to

quality. It’s a collaborative effort, and joy is part

trade the long hours (7 a.m. to 2 a.m.) for more

of the training. We hire specific people who are

reasonable hours (11 a.m. to 10 p.m. max) and a

naturals at serving,” he says. “We allow people to

continuously fun-loving atmosphere.

be the best versions of themselves.”

“Ice cream is generally a happy business,”

He’s been fortunate to retain his talented

he shares. “In the restaurant and bar industry,

team when other businesses are struggling.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

43

Blackberry Lavender, which involves grinding fresh lavender leaves and cooking them with blackberries.

However, due to Sundae’s rapid growth, he still

with the community. It’s a bright, welcoming

has a few store manager positions to fill. He also

place to be, and our products and customer

hires a lot of high school students.

service reflect that.”

“They don’t have experience, but we choose to embrace that — to slow down and take the

ARTISAN ICE CREAM

time to mentor them,” he says, adding that he

Beidel, a self-described entrepreneur, saw a

hopes to foster their future success by instilling

niche to fill in the form of handmade, small-

a solid work ethic. “We succeed because of our

batch, premium ice cream. While industries like

extraordinary community: our employees,

craft coffee, whiskey and farm-to-table food are

customers and partners.”

common, he says artisan ice cream has a lot of

“Sundae is a place of joy,” adds Beidel’s

44

untapped potential.

executive assistant, Molly LaBrecque. “It’s

“I wanted a high-quality concept with made-

somewhere you can walk in and feel a connection

from-scratch ice cream without the artificial

colors, preservatives and junk that commonly

candied hazelnuts — all made from scratch.

goes into it,” he says. “Plus, there are so many

One of Sundae’s pastry chefs created the lemon

fun, cool things you can do with ice cream.”

strawberry cheesecake sundae by adding lemon

LaBrecque and her team develop both

curd, graham cracker crumble and strawberries

innovative recipes, like the popular salted

alongside the strawberry and cheesecake ice

cookies and cream, as well as classics, like

cream. But, perhaps the biggest indicator of the

vanilla, chocolate and strawberry.

quality comes out in the strawberry ice cream.

“We spend a lot of time dabbling with

“It tastes like you’re eating a fresh strawberry

different ingredients — jams or swirls or

wrapped in cream, and there’s nothing else you

sprinklings or blends,” LaBrecque says. “We’re

can distinguish,” LaBrecque says.

very transparent about what we put in our

Sundae also understands that kids want

products, and we want it to be as real and

rainbow sprinkles and gummy bears and even

approachable as possible. We want people to

adults might want Oreos, so they do compromise

be able to read and understand what is in there

when it comes to adding a few prepacked goodies

and why. There’s a lot of thought and a lot of care

into customized mixes (like Marble Slab did).

that goes into the process, and that can be felt

But, otherwise, all sauces, extras and, of course,

through the ice cream.”

ice cream, are made on-site. Sundae offers three

For example, the perennial summer favorite

to four vegan and sorbet options daily and 18-22

— blackberry lavender — involves grinding

flavors on any given day. Beidel acts as the chef

fresh

them

taste tester, and his standards are high. His main

with blackberries. Curated sundaes like the

lavender

leaves

and

cooking

question: “Am I going to be wowed? Because, we

banana split showcase culinary components of

want to blow your mind with our ice cream.” :

cherry compote, chocolate hazelnut sauce and

wellness + fitness

WESTERN COLORADO IS HOT SPRINGS COUNTRY

TAKE A SOAK Words by Lexi Reich | Photo courtesy of The Springs Resort

I

46

f you’ve ever dipped your toes in a natural hot

“When rain falls on mountain peaks near

spring, you know how deeply soothing and

the state’s geothermal regions, it seeps beneath

healing the water is. It’s no wonder why Native

the surface through porous rock, enabling it to

Americans have considered hot springs to be a

percolate deep underground. On its downward

sacred entity for thousands of years. Thankfully,

journey through the rock, it picks up a variety of

the West Slope has an impressive amount of

materials — everything from calcium to sulfur.

these mineral-filled pools — and they’re open to

As it moves deeper and is increasingly under

visitors year-round.

pressure, the water becomes hotter as it travels

Simply put, a hot spring is produced by the

ever closer to the earth’s mantle. Eventually,

emergence of geothermal heated groundwater

it encounters a large crack or thrust fault.

onto the earth’s surface. As Glenwood Hot

The heated water travels along the fault line,

Springs Resort explains:

eventually reaching the surface.”

Hot springs range from hot to scalding and have a distinctive “egg-like” odor.

According to SCL Health, a nonprofit

it measured a depth of 1,002 feet, but locals say it could run much deeper (the plumb line ran out before it hit the bottom).

healthcare organization in Colorado and Montana,

“We feel so fortunate to have this

the steamy and sulfur-smelling water is a staple in

extraordinary natural resource, the Mother

spas, resorts and campgrounds around the world

Spring, that feeds all of our 25 geothermal

for good reason. The high amount of silica in the

soaking pools,” says Sharon Holtz, director of

water naturally moisturizes and detoxes the skin,

resort wellness operations at The Springs Resort.

while sulfur helps persisting skin conditions like

“Our guests receive the benefits of the water

psoriasis, acne and eczema. Soaking also boosts

helping to reduce muscle tension and pain,

hydrostatic pressure around the body, resulting

reduce inflammation in the body, boost blood

in healthy circulation that keeps hearts ticking

circulation and promote a balanced immune

and vital organs working well. Ailments such

response. It also eases anxiety and helps boosts a

as joint pain, arthritis and fibromyalgia can be

more positive outlook.”

mitigated in the water, as well.

The Springs Resort has won numerous

Medical professionals have even coined

awards for its over two dozen soaking tubs

the term “balneotherapy” as the treatment of

kissing the San Juan River and boasting superior

disease by bathing in thermal mineral waters. A

mineral benefits. But, Holtz believes it’s not just

study published in the U.S. National Library of

the water that makes guests feel so good; it’s the

Medicine suggests that hot-water bathers have

surrounding community.

good subjective health and happiness in general.

“After this time of so much isolation during

The Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop lists

the pandemic, it’s important to note that hot

Steamboat Springs, Glenwood Springs, Pagosa

spring pools also have a way of fostering profound

Springs and Chaffee County as the best spots to

connections not just with the nature that surrounds

embark on a geothermal pilgrimage.

them, but with the other people who are also

The Springs Resort in Pagosa Springs,

enjoying the benefits of water,” she adds.

which Ute Indians named as “healing waters,”

If you’re looking to get in a soak of your own

is home to the Guinness Book of World Records

this spring, check out this list of Colorado hot

deepest geothermal hot spring aquifer. In 2011,

springs to visit. :

COLORADO HOT SPRINGS Dunton Hot Springs Dolores duntondestinations.com

Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort Nathrop mtprinceton.com

Glenwood Hot Springs Resort Glenwood Springs hotspringspool.com

Orvis Hot Springs Ridgway orvishotsprings.com

Hot Sulphur Springs Hot Sulphur Springs hotsulphursprings.com

Ouray Hot Springs Ouray ourayhotsprings.com

Iron Mountain Hot Springs Glenwood Springs ironmountainhotsprings.com

Strawberry Park Hot Springs Steamboat Springs strawberryhotsprings.com

Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa Moffat joyfuljourneyhotsprings.com

The Springs Resort Pagosa Springs pagosahotsprings.com

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

47

adventure

ABOVE IT ALL BALLOON CO. INC.

HOT AIR BALLOONING IN WESTERN COLORADO

SOAR ABOVE YOUR OWN BACKYARD Words by Lauren Farrauto

W

aking up at five in the morning to venture

functions before flight — we were loaded into

out into chilly high altitudes doesn’t

the basket with a small group of adventurers.

always sound like the most appealing adventure,

Standing in the basket, a bit anxious and a lot

but trust me, it’s worth it this time. Getting to

excited, we were suddenly floating. In shock

travel through the air in a hot air balloon was

and awe, I watched the crew on the ground

one of the most astonishing experiences of my

slowly get smaller. The rising sun blazed across

young life. My best friend invited me to the Napa

the valley in glorious, golden rays as we drifted

Valley — near where we grew up — to celebrate

above the world below. Nestled underneath the

her 16th birthday.

warmth of the fire that kept the balloon afloat

We woke before the sun had peaked above the hills that surround the vineyard-filled valley

and accompanied by my best friend, I never wanted to come down.

and drove out to our destination, still wiping the

While each experience in the air is different

sleep from our eyes. After sitting through a brief

(different crew, different amenities, different

safety lecture, we stepped out into a wide-open

location), I can guarantee that any hot air balloon

field where multiple hot air balloons lay dormant

adventure is well worth it for the one-of-a-kind

on the grass. While they certainly look impressive

views. If you’re interested in experiencing the

from the sky, hot air balloons are massive up-

thrills and wonder for yourself, check out these

close; some have the capability to carry 12 people.

two amazing options in Western Colorado.

I stood in awe of the foreign contraptions as they

48

came to life, their colorful canvases billowing

ABOVE IT ALL BALLOON CO. INC.

as they filled with hot air from what looked like

In 1996, Bruce and Pam Wood moved back to the

flamethrowers attached to each basket.

Roaring Fork Valley to start both a family and

Once all the balloons had floated idly for a

their business, Above It All Balloon Co. Inc. Bruce

bit while attached to the ground — testing crucial

Wood, who learned how to fly in the Snowmass

LAUREN FARRAUTO

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

49

WILD WEST BALLOON ADVENTURES

Valley in the early 90s, is the main pilot. The

say it is the flight of a lifetime, but like many of

couple enjoyed traveling around to different

our guests, once you have experienced it, you

balloon festivals and flying as a hobby prior to

will want to do it again!” she says.

starting their now-booming business.

“We offer hot air balloon flights year-round

information at the ready: how many passengers

out of Snowmass Village, but we are busiest in

are in your group, how much each person weighs,

the summer. We began with one main pilot, and

a contact number while in town and credit card

then two, and eventually we needed three pilots

information to guarantee the flight. Above It All

each summer,” reveals Pam Wood.

Balloon Co. Inc. offers both shared and private

The team flies at sunrise, carrying passengers up to the Elk Mountain Range and providing

50

Before booking, be sure to have the following

flights and do not allow children under the age of six.

spectacular views of the Colorado Rockies. Each

To book, visit the website aboveitallballoon.

flight lasts about an hour and concludes with a

com, email aboveitallballoon@gmail.com or call

champagne toast and some snacks. “We often

970.963.6148.

WILD WEST BALLOON ADVENTURES This Steamboat company was started in 1998 by local Ian Cox. By the mid-2000s, Cox was teaching current co-owner Bud Whitehead how to fly the balloons, which led to Whitehead and his wife taking over in 2018. “Our goal with Wild West Balloon Adventures is to ensure that every guest has the experience of a lifetime with us,” shares Stacia Whitehead, co-owner and marketing director.

Wild West launches next to the Yampa River, providing guests a special view of the surrounding mountains and valley below once in the air. You may even see some elk, deer, moose or even a bear on your journey. They also offer complimentary photos, so you can focus on the sights while the team capture your jaw dropping on camera.

“One of our main goals is to offer quality over quantity,” Stacia Whitehead emphasizes.

“We limit our flights to two flights a day in the summer and one in the winter to enable us to spend more time getting to know our guests. We take pride in personally meeting and genuinely caring about all our passengers and have made many great friends through our balloon flights.”

As their sole pilot, Bud has flown well over 1,000 hours, so customers can be sure they’re getting the best experience in terms of quality and safety.

To book with Wild West Balloon Adventures, visit their website at wildwestballooning.com or call them directly at 970.879.9191. : ABOVE IT ALL BALLOON CO. INC.

spoke

GEAR PROFILE

PULL UP A CHAIR WITH STEAMBOAT’S TOWN HALL Words by Jordan Martindell | Photo courtesy of Town Hall

W

hen VF Corp acquired Smartwool and relocated its headquarters

from Steamboat Springs to Denver,

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP Each of the founders intimately

it lost some serious talent. But,

understand the urgent need to

what remained in Steamboat were

do things differently to help

two

passionate,

secure a healthy planet for

community-

their children’s future. For

driven, incredibly competent

example,

outdoor professionals ready

recycled

Robin Hall and Jay ( To w n

materials.

Their

biggest hurdle is sourcing

H a l l ’s

sustainable and good quality

current CEO and COO)

Velcro

partnered with industry expert

and

zippers,

but

their ambitious goal is to be

Joe Solomon (current VP) and

100% recycled by 2023. Not only is

started canoodling on what they could do with their diverse pool of talents, while

sustainability important in their product process,

also creating jobs in Steamboat. After months of

but the factories they work with are WRAP

dreaming big, challenging current processes and

certified, and developing respectful relationships

asking big questions, they landed on intimately

with their manufacturing partners is paramount.

supporting their local community, giving the

They also embrace sustainability in other ways,

planet a more hopeful future and serving an

like offering local bike delivery in Steamboat

often-overlooked demographic: kids. And, with

(when possible), eliminating poly-bag packaging

all of that, Town Hall Outdoor Co. was born.

and using dead-stock materials off their cutting

The name “Town Hall” is not a happy accident.

A town hall is the heartbeat of a community

52

current

ski jacket is made of 95%

to do something different.

Lambert

their

room floors.

— where people gather to enjoy each other’s

COMMUNITY

company, ask hard questions and demand change

Because one of Town Hall’s missions is to keep

for their immediate experience. This vision seeps

jobs in the founder’s treasured small mountain

into every aspect of this new company’s vision,

town, Steamboat has become part of the brand’s

and the founders want the brand to be known as

identity. The company is committed to hiring

the jolly, inclusive, approachable neighbor, not

locals for all contract positions and intends to add

the elite, inaccessible, “cool” guy in the room.

five full-time employees in the next three years.

The pillars of Town Hall are environmental

Slow, sustainable growth is important to ensure

stewardship, community, quality and trust. Every

the integrity of the brand is protected. Ultimately,

step of creating the business has been intentional:

Town Hall wants the brand to give back to the

from research and development, identifying

community — the community that inspired the

respectful partnerships for manufacturing and

brand. While there aren’t any plans for a brick

creating a sense of community.

and mortar store yet, a kid’s coffee shop/retail

shop/community gathering place is possible in

profits are donated to various organizations each

the future.

year. This year, their philanthropic efforts are focused on supporting immigrants’ navigation,

QUALITY

integration and education through Integrated

Town Hall is serving a fast-growing customer

Community and helping children in Steamboat’s

(children), so heirloom pieces are at the heart

local Boys and Girls Club.

of their lines. “Vetting the product is number one,” says Hall. “We are wholly focused on kids,

FOUNDER’S SUPER POWERS

researching with kids and working with kids.”

When Hall isn’t whipping up a batch of

And, with a combined six kids under the

gingerbread cookies, she is busy keeping others

age of 13, the founders use this resource in

motivated through enthusiastic positivity and epic

every aspect of the business. From color, fit and

fun. She is also exceptionally skilled at juggling a

features, kids are at the heart of the company’s

million things at once (what mom isn’t?!)

decision making. Their big dream is to bring manufacturing to Northwestern Colorado.

Lambert is about as even-keeled as they come. With a steady (and inventive) mind, he is the ultimate connector who ensures Town Hall’s

TRUST

relationships are respectful, honest, transparent

To earn trust in the community, Town Hall is

and rewarding. And, according to Hall, he is the

committed to making the outdoors accessible to

most amazing dad.

everyone. Town Hall wants to get all kids outside.

Solomon is a kid in the candy store of life.

Whether they’re simply playing in their backyard,

His epic vision, business acumen and ability to

biking around the neighborhood or going

challenge the way people typically do things is

hiking in the surrounding areas, the owners are

admirable. And, while he might be in charge of

committed to taking elitism out of the outdoors.

“the boring stuff,” he also makes it incredibly fun

To help with this initiative, 3% of the company’s

— a feat in and of itself! :

Ready to SPRING into a new home?

Call your team of trusted real estate advisors at 970.260.8362

Experience. Service. Commitment.

spoke

GET OUTSIDE!

GEAR FOR THE SEASON Compiled by S+B Staff

ORCA Walker Tote As the weather heats up, you’ll need an easy-to-carry cooler for outdoor gatherings, road trip adventures and more. This insulated tote can be a river companion too, featuring a waterproof zipper and water-resistant front pocket Outdoor Vitals NovaPro Jacket Weighing in at only 14.5 ounces, this lightweight

for your phone, keys and other essentials. $199.99 orcacoolers.com

down jacket uses insulation that combines 850 Fill Power HyperDry down with a small percentage of synthetic LoftTek. Known as DownLT insulation, it’s much more stable than typical down, and will stay lofted even when soaked. The fabric is neither bonded nor stitched, but

Ibex Travel Henley Long Sleeve Available for men and women, this 100% merino wool shirt will be a must-wear in every season. The natural fabric is super soft to the touch while boasting the moisturewicking, odor-resistant and thermoregulating

woven into place, increasing

properties of wool. It’s

warmth, water resistance and

also wrinkle resistant and

durability. $249.95 outdoorvitals.com

lightweight, so you can pack it down during travel and wear it for days without washing. $135 ibex.com

54

Camelbak Podium Flow 4 Belt Waist Pack For quick minimalist rides, this waist pack is comfortable on the low back while still offering a cargo capacity of four liters and holds a 21-ounce water bottle.

Zippered pockets keep essentials secure, and an Giro Helios Spherical Helmet

integrated tool pouch

Road cyclists, gravel

keeps everything

enthusiasts and adventure

organized and within

riders will all appreciate the

easy reach. $55

design and performance of

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this helmet. The ventilation and antimicrobial padding stand up to sweaty sessions,

Outdoor Research Moab Sun Hat

while spherical technology

Spring is desert time, and sun

allows the helmet’s outer

protection is a top priority. You can snap

liner to rotate around the

the brim up when you’re on the go or

inner liner during a crash

keep the brim down to fend off the day’s

for ultimate head protection.

harshest rays. $45

$250

outdoorresearch.com

giro.com

Arcteryx AR-395A Harness Designed for climbers in the realms of sport, alpine, ice and granite, this harness is versatile enough for any type of ascent.

The design disperses pressure, and adjustable leg loops create comfort and freedom of movement when you EREM Xerocole Desert Hiking Boot The Xerocole (Zee-Ra-

need it most. $159 arcteryx.com

Kohl) is ideal for hiking in destinations like Moab, Utah and Sedona, Arizona. The boot is comfortable and breathable while providing proper protection on the trail. The footwear company is committed to leaving a positive impact on the earth with its sustainability practices, as well as giving back to the land the product is created to explore. $169.99 eremlife.com

Ruffwear Roamer Bungee Dog Leash Keep your pup close even when you’re both on the move. This stretch-webbing running dog leash can be hand-held or worn around the waist for a dynamic hands-free leash experience. $39.95 ruffwear.com

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

55

spoke

ATHLETE PROFILE

KAREN HOSKIN: RUNNING + RUM Words by Micah Ling | Photos courtesy of Mantanya Distillers

I

t started on a beach. When Montanya Rum

the Focus on Female Founders Venture Fund at

founder Karen Hoskin was 21, she had her

Constellation Brands. “We’ve got women doing

first taste of rum, and that started a 30-year

everything from driving the forklift to bottling

obsession. She had just finished living with a

and serving,” Hoskin shares.

Hindu family in Goa, India, where she had been following strict guidelines with no alcohol. But,

LIFE IN THE MOUNTAINS

a bartender on a beach in Goa introduced her

Keeping with the history of the high-elevation

to Old Monk, an aged Indian dark rum. From

spirit, Crested Butte sits at nearly 9,000 feet. To

there, she set out to learn everything there was

most, it’s an outdoor playground, and that’s true

to know about rum and its history as a high-

for Hoskin, too. When she’s not making rum

elevation spirit.

or running the business, she’s playing in the

Today, Montanya Distillers ships rum to

56

mountains.

44 states and seven countries. But, it wasn’t

“In the summer and fall, I mainly hike and

a straightforward climb to the top. In an

trail run, and I love to camp in my tiny teardrop

industry that’s dominated by men, Hoskin was

camper even just a few miles from the house if

questioned and not taken seriously many times.

work is busy,” Hoskin says.

For that reason, it’s important for Hoskin to

In the winter, it’s all about backcountry and

employ women. In 2019, Montanya became

skate skiing. “One of my favorite backcountry

the first distillery to receive investment from

tours is an early skin up the flank of Red Lady

Peak (also called Mt. Emmons) and a descent

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Bike Sales & Rentals

Backcountry Hut Trips

through the trees along Red Coon Glades or Red Lady Glades in some new powder. Not so much at dawn, more like a reasonable 10 a.m.”

For someone who works and plays so hard, Hoskin isn’t afraid to relax. She’s an avid reader and loves to hang out with her two sons, who are 21 and 23.

ALWAYS RUM SEASON All of Montanya Rum is certified gluten-free, using water from a snowmelt-fed aquifer that runs below the bottling facility. They use sugarcane grown in Louisiana “by families we know personally and love greatly,” Hoskin adds.

And, who are paid fairly.

By far the cocktail Montanya sells the most is the Maharaja, made with their Oro rum, housemade chai spice, simple syrup, lime, fresh ginger and cardamom — just the right amount of heat and sweet.

While rum sometimes has a reputation as a tropical spirit, Hoskin assures visitors that it very much belongs in the mountains. And,

150 S. Park Sq • 970-858-3917 • backcountrybiker.com 24-Hour Bike Rentals

whether it’s trail running, mountain biking or ski season, Montanya pairs well with any postmountain adventure. :

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grand outdoors

UNDER A PRISTINE, STAR-FILLED SKY Words by Kimberly Nicoletti | Photo courtesy of Top of the Pines VALENTINE SZWARC

An astrophoto taken June 22, 2020 shows Jupiter and Saturn touching the pine trees at Top of the Pines.

S

itting under a clear night sky instills a deep,

sky park. It is the sixth IDA-certified dark sky

mystical sense of wonder; it engages the

park in Southwestern Colorado and the 10th in

imagination like no other natural phenomenon.

the state. Located near the IDA-certified dark

For eons, humans have been humbled by the

sky communities of Ridgway and Norwood,

vast stretches of the universe, forging a personal

TOP offers a stunning place to learn, explore

connection with its larger dimension through

and cross-country ski or hike in the San Juan

stories and myths. But, modern nightlife and

Mountains by day and experience the awe of a

distractions have removed us from the age-

truly pristine star-filled sky at night.

old tradition of stargazing, which is why the

Colorado,

is so essential.

measurements. Visitors can easily see the Milky

IDA

58

TOP’s dark sky is among the darkest in

International Dark-Sky Association’s (IDA) work founded

the

International

according

to

its

sky

brightness

Dark

Way year-round, though summer (through

Sky Places program in 2001 to encourage

September) is the best time for viewing, since its

communities, parks and other regions to

brightest core emerges a few hours after summer

preserve dark sites through responsible lighting

sunsets. From late August through winter, the

and public education. In November 2021,

Milky Way’s sister galaxy, the Andromeda galaxy,

IDA certified Top of the Pines (TOP), a 175-

is visible through binoculars, which highlight

acre wilderness recreation area at the foot of

a fuzzy oval. TOP’s open meadow offers great

Sneffels Range in Southwest Colorado, as a dark

views of meteor showers, from the Perseids

MORE in August to the Geminids in December. Best

• Learn more about TOP: topofthepines.org

viewings occur on cloudless, moonless nights.

•L earn more about protecting our dark sky: darksky.org

“Viewing the nightscape from a pristine dark location like TOP is a magical experience of unparalleled beauty and awe that the Ute Native Americans and early pioneers of this area had as a part of their lives,” according to IDA’s website.

THE IMPORTANCE OF DARK SKIES

• TOP is about six miles from Ridgway. For stargazing events (late spring through late fall), visit RidgwayColorado.com • Get started with these astronomy apps: Starwalk, Google Sky Map, Exoplanet, Skyview, Skeye Astronomy, Nightly Star Charts

Dark skies don’t just connect us to a more expansive realm; they’re also important to our health. Artificial light, particularly blue light

which included stringent criteria for interior

(including LED and compact fluorescents) can

and exterior light management, public outreach

disrupt circadian rhythms, which regulate

regarding dark sky education and support

sleep. It also suppresses melatonin, which helps

letters from quality organizations like county

boost the immune system and regulate sleep,

commissioners, Black Canyon Astronomical

cholesterol and the thyroid, pancreas, ovaries,

Society and neighboring towns.

testes and adrenal glands.

Dark sky parks like TOP are subject to more

“Light pollution is another form of pollution,

rigorous criteria than communities, like Ridgway.

but only in the last few decades has it been

They must present specific dark sky brightness

recognized as an issue,” explains Valentine Szwarc,

measurements averaged over a year or more and

a member of TOP’s board of directors and co-chair

include astrophotographs showing light domes

of the ROCC’s Dark Sky Committee who led TOP’s

from nearby towns. Once certified, IDA requires

dark-sky designation application process.

annual documentation of how TOPS continues to

Artificial light also disrupts the ecosystem,

protect the dark sky through lighting ordinance

from wildlife to plants. It can draw baby sea

compliance, at least four major outreach activities

turtles away from the ocean, make migrating

and sky brightness monitoring.

birds wander off course, alter nocturnal animals’ cycles, diminish cover for prey and significantly

THE WOW FACTOR

reduce insects (including bees), which species

Cashion refers to the most common reaction

rely on for food and plants rely on for pollination.

people have when they view a dark sky as “the

“Near cities, cloudy skies are now hundreds,

wow factor.”

or even thousands of times brighter than they

“People are just awed at all of the stars and

were 200 years ago,” states research scientist

the meteors,” Szwarc says. “As they become more

Christopher Kyba. “We are only beginning

aware of the dark sky, they make more trips and

to learn what a drastic effect this has had on

bring their cameras, binoculars or telescopes.

nocturnal ecology.”

But, you don’t need a lot of fancy equipment.

That’s one of the advantages of TOP; you can just

AND, UNFORTUNATELY, IT’S GETTING WORSE

use binoculars to see (clusters of stars like the

“The dark sky is a rapidly-escaping resource,”

pretty spectacular.”

Pleiades). And, the gaseous nebula in Orion is

says Bryan Cashion, president of the Black

“TOP is an exceptional educational and

Canyon Astronomical Society. “Not many places

recreational asset to Ouray County and its

in developed countries have dark skies, so it’s

surrounding areas,” he shares, adding that it

important to maintain that asset.”

hosts events, schools and other organizations.

That’s why Szwarc and his team spent two

“It’s an excellent location for astrophotography

years applying for the dark sky designation.

and simply appreciating the starry night sky in

They filled out about 75 pages of paperwork,

Southwestern Colorado.” :

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

59

family

FOR A BETTER EXPERIENCE IN THE FUTURE

HIKING ETIQUETTE FOR KIDS TODAY Words by Melanie Wiseman JUILANE LIEBERMANN

T

here is no better way to encourage the

John Muir Trail and the Continental Divide Trail,

development of a life-long relationship with

to name just a few. Like Atwood, the simplicity of

the great outdoors than by teaching children to

the mantra “Take only photographs, leave only

be good hiking stewards. It may be common

footprints” that he learned in his youth has stuck

sense, but we are nature’s guests. We have a

with him his entire life.

unique opportunity to teach kids the joys of hiking, as well as the etiquette.

Educator, Grand Valley Audubon Society

mankind’s actions,” Spydell believes. “Wilderness

president and avid hiker Cary Atwood shares,

areas need to be respected by leaving them as is,

“As with any activity you learn and use for a

letting nature wave her own paintbrush.”

lifetime, such as rules of the road for driving a

On the Appalachian Trail through-hike

car, hiking etiquette is about consideration of

experience, Spydell shared with his son the

others who use the trail after you. Leave the trail,

importance of clean water for survival and

plants and animals as wild and beautiful as you

practices to protect wilderness water sources as

found them. Take only memories and pictures;

paramount lessons.

leave only footprints.”

First and foremost, be a good role model.

It’s natural for children to be impulsive and

However explicit instructions may be, modeling

excited while hiking, which may not lead to the

good trail etiquette is a great way to teach.

best decisions. Every sport, including hiking, has

Children often do what they see others do.

rules to teach children appropriate behavior just as you would in any other situation.

60

“To see the beauty nature has created, we must see it without the damaging touch of

Hiking is a sport of passion and love of nature.

Make it fun and not just about rules; identify

Local hiking expert Steven Spydell has criss-

plants, animal tracks and scat. Encourage them

crossed the country hiking the Colorado Trail,

to stop and take in the sights, sounds and smells

of a scene. They will naturally become more

6. Take a picture, not a souvenir. This is a

mindful and respectful of their surroundings

tough one. Trails provide a wide range of

today, and leaders in passing on trail etiquette

interesting plants, critters and rocks that

to future generations. Although trail etiquette

capture the attention of all hikers. Within a

is synonymous with common courtesy, it isn’t

U.S. National Park, collecting anything is a

always common sense among the masses. Here

no-no. Outside national parks, teach children

are some important hiking etiquette rules to

to be respectful about what finds its way into

teach children.

their pockets.

1. Stay on the trail. Staying on the trail teaches

7. Follow pet rules for the trail. Keeping

respect to fragile ecosystems. Leaving the

your dog under command or leash control is

trail can also create confusing alternate

respectful to other hikers. Even if your dog is

trails for other hikers. Single track equates

a “friendly dog,” not everyone is comfortable

to single file.

around dogs. Pack out their poop and do not let them bother the wildlife.

2. Enjoy nature as you find it. Avoid the temptation to whack plants with a stick, but

8. Respect trail right-of-way etiquette.

instead touch plants gently. Watch the busy

Downhill hikers yield to uphill hikers.

activity of an ant hill verses kicking it. Be

Technically, mountain bikers are to yield to

respectful of animals, keep your distance, talk

hikers, but common sense should come into

in a “hiking voice” and do not feed animals,

play if it’s easier for the hiker to step off the

as this could make them sick.

trail. Hikers should move safely out of the way of horses and their riders.

3. Leave no trace. It can be common practice, but a bad idea, to toss apple cores, banana

9. Smile and greet other hikers. Connecting

peels and other biodegradable goods into the

with like-minded hikers on the trail provides

woods. Decomposition can take months, and

a sense of community.

you could be introducing non-native seeds to the environment or feeding animals foods

10. If other etiquette questions pop up and

that aren’t good for them. Best practice is

you’re wondering, “Should I let my kids do

garbage in, garbage out, even if this means

this?” a simple suggestion would be to ask

packing out trash you find on the trail —

yourself, “If everyone did this, what would

leave the trail better than you found it!

happen?” :

Cairns are human made piles of rocks to help guide you on the trail. The general rule is to not topple or add to them. Respect ruins and

JENNA STENSLAND

4. Don’t knock over cairns or climb on ruins.

their history. If everyone climbed on ruins, we would not have any left to visit.

5. Potty away from the trail. The one time it’s okay to leave the trail is to go to the bathroom! Go at least 200 feet away from the trail or water source to do your business.

Dig a hole for poop and pack out used toilet paper.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

61

take a hike

RIFLE ARCH TRAIL Words + Photo by Melanie Wiseman

R

62

ifle Arch Trail is a little-known hidden gem

Be sure to take time for breaks along the

— easily accessible, family friendly and dog

way to turn around and look back on where you

friendly. At just 1.5 miles each direction to the

came from to be rewarded with stunning views.

unique arch destination, this moderate trail is

The ultimate reward at the end, however, is the

great for hikers of all ages and abilities.

unexpected Rifle Arch itself.

Although a great year-round hike, late spring

As a first-time hiker to the arch, I wasn’t sure

is the perfect time to enjoy the freshness of new

of its location. From a distance, the trail leads

green grasses and cactus blooms. Rifle Arch

to a massive, lengthy, craggy, sandstone wall of

Trail varies between double and singletrack,

cliffs where I expected to see the faces of Mt.

traversing a wash, open sage brush meadows

Rushmore rather than an arch. I continued to be

and denser, shady areas of aromatic juniper and

baffled but kept my eye on an unusual comma or

pinion. Between flats and gentle uphill slopes,

crescent shape shadow half way up the massive

the elevation gain is just under 900 feet. Allow

wall. Ultimately, the shadow was the creation of

two to three hours round trip.

this unusual arch.

A bench sits at the base of the wall where you can rest and look uphill to the arch. Because of its unique location, the arch can still be difficult to see at this point. If you’re up for the challenge, the last tenth of a mile is a rocky scramble up a fairly random, steep trail. As you climb, the arch becomes more prominent.

Once you reach the arch, take time to enjoy

GETTING THERE •F rom Grand Junction, take the West Rifle exit #87, to bypass downtown Rifle.

•A fter 2.7 miles turn left (north) on Hwy 13 toward Meeker.

•S tay on Hwy 13 where you will see a prominent parking lot on the right (east) side of the road at mile marker 7.

the slickrock amphitheater behind it and the breathtaking, arch-framed views of the Colorado River

Valley

and

mesas

beyond.

Change

locations and angles while within the arch and

With the addition of many new mountain

look skyward to enjoy the great variety of artistic

biking trails from the same starting point, the

rock formations the arch can reveal.

parking area has been enlarged and a restroom

If you take the hike in the summer months,

added to the dual-purpose trailhead. There is an

it can be extremely hot, so hikers should carry

excellent trail map at the trailhead illustrating

plenty of water. Appropriate footwear is also a

hiking verses biking trails. There are a few

must as the trail, especially the last climb to the

occasions where the bike trail crosses the hiking

arch, because it is very rocky.

trail, but the same trail is never shared.

A bonus for those living in the Grand

Having both types of trails from the same

Junction to Eagle area is the ease it can be done:

trailhead really serves as an advantage for

a half-day, spur-of-the-moment outing. The land

a family or group with mixed interests. Just

is managed by the Bureau of Land Management

remember to close the gate between the parking

and there are no fees.

lot and trailhead behind you! :

stay + play

PAONIA

SPRING HARMONY Words by Lisa Blake | Photo by Kim Fuller

C

olorado’s bountiful North Fork Valley is home to copious small towns with big

hearts. A palpable harmony flows between the folks who love and nurture the land and the

A Must-Visit: Zenzen Organics 12498 3790 Rd., Paonia 970.260.0552 zenzenhemp.com

prosperous orchards, vineyards and ranches

Create your own full spectrum CBD tinctures at

sprinkling the landscape.

Zenzen Organics. It’s a North Fork Valley oasis,

Situated on a sprawling section of rich Western

with Cindie Sorensen’s organic hemp creations

Slope soil is bucolic Paonia. A visit to this tiny

worthy of an afternoon linger. Chat up Sorensen

town’s farm-to-table restaurants, wineries and

about healing potions, chocolates and salves to

community hubs is a special experience. Come

treat everything from stress and anxiety to sleep

discover the state’s largest concentration of

and inflammation. Choose from chai to Mai Thai

organic and sustainable growers, be nourished

and build, taste and swirl your way to inner

and inspired, unplug and reset.

harmony through custom, ingestible CBD oils.

Zenzen has recently started offering glamping,

64

campsites and bunkhouse stays along with two

tasting room. This is a great place to stock up

stages of live music for a full-on experiential

on local provisions, including some divine West

destination.

Slope wine made from The Storm Cellar just down the road. Post up this spring (they’re open

Sip + Shop: Black Bridge Winery

April through November) for an evening on the

15836 Black Bridge Rd., Paonia

shaded patio. Swing out over lush fields on the

970.527.6838

rope swing, sample all the famed ciders, dig into

orchardvalleyfarms.com

some smoky barbecue and catch a live bluegrass

Follow the rural roads just outside of Paonia,

band on the small stage. It’s a quintessential

cross the black bridge over the Gunnison River

Colorado good time.

and stroll this legendary 80-acre farm market and winery. Part of the West Elks American

Meet the Locals: Old River Trading Post

Viticultural Area, Black Bridge Winery creates

15495 Black Bridge Rd., Paonia

small-batch chardonnay, riesling, merlot and

970.527.4740

more. Visit the tasting room and wine cave

tradingpostpaonia.com

and then peruse onsite Orchard Valley Farms

Rub elbows with area farmers, musicians and

and Market for fresh-picked fruits and veggies,

holistic community leaders at this wholesale

locally raised beef and artisan goodies like top-

natural foods market and gathering spot. Bring

selling, 18-year balsamic vinegars and infused

your own bags and jars and stock up on fruit,

olive oils. Build a sweet picnic of gourmet cheese,

leather, grains, freshly plucked vegetables and

jerky, chutneys, local honey and pickles to take

rustic homemade breads. On Sundays, join the

down by the river with a glass of pinot.

community mid-day meal (for a small donation fee) and feast on organic dishes sourced from

Eat from the Earth:

nearby fields and ranches. :

Paonia Restaurant Hopping Farm fresh, organic and free range come standard in Paonia. Get your fill of the area’s creative culinary prowess at these fabulous restaurants. Grab coffee and a serious farmhouse breakfast at Yolk River. Stop by The Bakery at Small Potatoes Farm for from-the-oven, German farmer’s bread, naan with garlic butter and the tastiest pumpkin scones. Enjoy a pineapple and chili ale or a juicy IPA at Paonia United Brewing Co., a small local brewery. Feeling famished? The Flying Fork Café takes pride in its Neapolitanstyle pizza, locally sourced salads and veggieloaded housemade pasta dishes. Don’t miss the famous pad Thai from the 1-2 Thai food truck and the cherry pie at Root and Vine Market.

Pick, Dance + Drink Cider: Big B’s Delicious Orchards 39126 CO-133, Hotchkiss 970.527.1110 bigbs.com Big B’s is a regional staple with its you-pick cherry and apple orchard and lively hard cider

EMPOWERED WOMEN EMPOWER WOMEN. Get involved thecycleeffect.org @thecycleeffect

Western Slope, Colorado SPOKE+BLOSSOM

65

stay + play

SILVERTHORNE, COLORADO Words by Lexi Reich | Photo courtesy of the Town of Silverthorne/Shane Morris

North Pond Park

L

ocated at the crossroads of CO-9, CO-6 and I-70,

from 18 upcycled shipping containers. It’s on

Silverthorne is a Summit County mountain

track to become the first Colorado-based lodging

town that offers more than alpine scenery — it

company to attain B Corporation certification for

is a place where art and culture meet adventure.

its sustainable performance.

This spring, a weekend in Silverthorne

The

innovative

social

lodging

concept

presents an opportunity to reconnect with the

consists of hostel-style dorm rooms, micro

outdoors, your heart and your belly. While

rooms, traditional hotel rooms and private

temperatures are sure to be chilly, the budding

suites. The property features amenities open to

season is the second busiest for tourism behind

all, like community lounges, a hot tub, coworking

summer, filled with plenty of activities to do.

space and communal kitchen. A-Bar, the onsite bar serving everything from local beers to

66

STAY

kombuchas and wines, is soon to be accompanied

It’s no secret that traditional accommodations

by Graze & Torreys, which promises to focus on

near Colorado’s world-class ski resorts are

locally sourced and organic food.

expensive. Rob and Lynne Baer recently opened

“We want The Pad to be a home base and

The Pad, a boutique hotel with hostel-style

a launching pad for both visitors and locals to

rooms, to welcome the bougie to budget travel.

create new adventures and shared experiences,”

Sitting along the banks of the Blue River, The

Lynne Baer says.

Pad has a high-end mountain modern design,

Bunk rooms start at $50 a night, while

but what’s even more impressive is it’s made

private suites run $350 a night. It’s an enticing

value, especially if you’re looking to spend

outdoor adventures, but its team invests in

most of your time off property exploring the

the community it’s a part of. Their avalanche

surrounding area.

education program provides safety information essential for the backcountry. If you’re looking

EAT

for a knowledgeable and fun guide to help you

Just a short walk from The Pad across Blue

venture into fresh powder, this one-stop-shop

River Parkway is Silverthorne’s first food hall,

has it all. A private two-hour snowshoe tour

Bluebird Market. The trendy concept adds to

starts at $100.

the mountain town’s growing culinary scene,

You can also take a simple stroll along the

consisting of 12 food stalls reserved for local or

Blue River Trail, which runs 3.5 miles from

chef-owned eateries. The retail pop-up spaces

Silverthorne Elementary School and North

present a unique opportunity for small business

Pond Park through downtown and climbs about

owners with its lower start-up costs and shorter

250 feet to the Dillon Dam. The trail connects

lease commitments, making it a staple in the

with the Summit County Recreational Pathway

downtown community.

System to Dillon, Keystone, Breckenridge, Copper

Enjoy fried chicken at Lucky Bird, a home-

and Frisco.

grown burger at The Mighty Burger, handcrafted

For the arts lover, or if your legs are beat

pies at Tilford’s Wood Fired Pizza, tacos at Baja

after a day in the snow, the Lake Dillon Theatre

Chimayó or a veggie bowl at Hook & Harvest,

Company has year-round performances in

among others.

addition to showcasing a rotating art exhibit by

Make sure to stop by newly-opened Eclectic

local creatives.

Bar & Grill to tickle your taste buds. The local

Silverthorne is located about 178 miles

hotspot serves up well-made cocktails and

from Grand Junction and about 68 miles from

fresh twists on daily fare. If you go, try the

Denver. :

Summit Mushroom Burger, complete with goat cheese, wild mushrooms, spicy pepper jelly, roasted garlic aioli and micro arugula. Add fried fingerlings and get ready for an explosion in your mouth. The restaurant is vegan-friendly, offering substitutions like the Impossible Burger.

The next morning, head to House of Vibes for a quirky coffee shop experience. It’s a small

RENT IT FROM US!

hidden gem where you can pick up your classic cup of joe or something more adventurous like a honey oat milk latte. The shop specializes in homemade biscuits that you can pair with fillings like pulled bacon, egg and cheddar or vegan chorizo and avocado.

PLAY Silverthorne is a true mountain playground.

If you plan anything from this travel guide, be sure to book an adventure like a guided

OUTDOOR / EQUIPMENT / PARTY

snowshoeing or Nordic skiing tour (or rock climbing and rafting in the warmer months) with Colorado Adventure Guides. The professional backcountry outfitter and guide service not only takes locals and tourists alike on memorable

692 Hwy 50 / Delta, CO / 970.874.5213 mesarentalsdelta.com

getaway

RIDE THE RAILS WITH THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER

ROCKIES TO THE RED ROCKS Words by S+B Staff | Photos courtesy of The Rocky Mountaineer

A

68

ll aboard! There’s a new way to go west

and Jasper in Western Canada, and now this

from Denver.

fourth route travels between Denver and Moab.

In 2021, Rocky Mountaineer launched

While we haven’t yet been on this journey,

its Rockies to the Red Rocks route, a two-day

we had to share what we’ve learned about

journey between Denver, Colorado and Moab,

the experience. Spacious glass-domed train

Utah, with an overnight stay in Glenwood

coaches showcase stunning scenery, and the

Springs, Colorado.

journey is paired with friendly service, a social

Rocky Mountaineer offers luxury train

atmosphere and top-notch cuisine. The meals

journeys that showcase some of the most

on Rockies to Red Rocks are prepared using

spectacular scenery in North America. Three

locally sourced products inspired by Western

of the rail routes connect Vancouver to the

Colorado. Culinary service is complemented by

Canadian Rockies towns of Banff, Lake Louise

a selection of local wines, beers and spirits.

Learn more at rockymountaineer.com.

The train travels 30 miles-per-hour on

Rocky Mountaineer works with local tour

average. Rockies to the Red Rocks is seasonal,

operators and travel experts to curate custom

running the months of August to October. With

vacation packages that feature tours, activities

travel only occurring during the day, guests

and extended stays in the destinations, so guests

don’t miss a moment of the ever-changing

can experience even more of the journey. :

landscapes.

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feature

HATS OFF TO FEMALE CHEFS IN WESTERN COLORADO Words by Kimberly Nicoletti | Photos courtesy of the Chefs

Emily Oyer

A

n old proverb quips that a women’s place

seven. She finished law school but discovered she

is in the kitchen, but most professional

“really found pleasure in baking and creating.”

chefs are men. Still, there are plenty of females

So, she decided to integrate her French pastry

cooking up a storm in restaurants, bakeries and

heritage into American culture. She follows

catering services throughout the nation. Here

French traditions like low sugar and no food

are just a few in Western Colorado who bring

coloring while making her tarts, eclairs and other

home the bacon — and fry it up in a pan.

pastries — just a little larger for Americans. She began baking three years ago as a hobby, selling

70

FRENCH PASTRIES

pastries at local shops. About six months ago,

Growing up, all Clémentine Bouton wanted was

she started posting on Instagram, and now her

to get away from her family-owned restaurants

followers line up every Sunday morning at The

in France, which she had worked at since age

Cirque Boutique in Paonia to savor her sweets.

“That’s where living in a small town can be

“It’s important to me to make raw, healthy

beautiful. It’s all word of mouth,” she says. She

snacks mainstream and more affordable,” she

joined Lea Petmezas (below), who needed help

says. “I think health is finally coming around and

keeping up with orders and catering, and the

people are starting to care.”

pair now offer weekly community dinners.

Citizen Raw’s organic, vegan, gluten-free

“My family’s business taught me that if you

crackers, crispy onions and apple slices are made

choose to go into the food business, you have to

from fresh vegetables, herbs, seeds and nuts

go in 100%,” she says. “My dad was a chef, and

prepared at temperatures under 120 degrees to

I’ve kept his memory alive by going into baking.

preserve live enzymes. She sells her guilt-free

He gave me the creativity; he was one of the

snacks online and at 13 regional stores. Her

first in France to do fish with chocolate. I try to

dad had owned three restaurants, so the food

mix flavors that might not work in the mind,

industry was “in her blood.”

like pastries with local goat cheese, or tequila or

“I have no formal education. I have an

salted caramel with miso and chocolate. I love to

instinct and know-how that came through my

create and just go a little crazy.”

dad to me,” she adds.

GUILT-FREE SNACKING + CATERING

attracted this single mom raising four kids. There,

Petmezas launched Citizen Raw in Los Angeles 10

Community Kitchen. That led to Thursday night

years ago; she worked with actors and television

dinners where she and Bouton serve about 65

producers, noticing the need for healthier

people a week with menus ranging from Greek,

snacks on sets. At the time, she was a bit of a

Indian and Lebanese to American and French.

Eight years ago, the small town of Paonia

pioneer, especially when it came to selling raw and sprouted snacks at a decent price.

she started offering soups and salads at Edesia

“We

definitely

h ave

a

ver y,

ver y

strong following,” she says. “It just fills me up

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Lauren McElroy

Stephanie Reece

Lea Petmezas

Camille Shoemaker

72

to see a whole community of people coming

how she wanted to be a pastry chef. The essay

together.”

earned her a student internship in Johnson and

She’ll be losing the space in March, but she

Wales University’s pastry program in Denver

trusts things will develop. “I get really quiet and

where she made Oreo truffles, wearing a chef’s

something magic always happens,” she shares.

coat and hat. She returned to the university as

“Something will appear. The community is so

an adult to earn her Bachelor’s in baking and

behind us.”

pastry arts and food service management, then moved to New York City to get her Master’s in

GRAB N’ GO + CATERING

food studies. There, she learned how women

Lauren McElroy has been passionate about

were the first brewers.

cooking her whole life. “Ever since I was a little

She returned to Colorado to be a professional

girl growing up, I would raid the pantry and come

brewer, but after two years, her love for both

up with different concoctions that I would test out

farming and food called her back. About three

on my little brother — some good, some, not so

years ago, she became a private chef and head

much,” she recalls, adding that her grandma gave

baker for Mountain Dweller Coffee Roasters

her hints about what might blend well.

in Frisco.

But, McElroy took a circuitous route to

“Being a pastry chef really brings me the

becoming a chef. She initially studied business

most passion,” she shares. “I love that I never

marketing at Colorado State University

stop learning in pastry; there are so many ways

and marketed insurance, real estate and

to grow. You never hit a stagnant point.”

pharmaceuticals but eventually decided she didn’t like “being worked to death.” So, she

FROM PASTRIES TO CHEF

earned a degree in culinary arts and worked as a

In her early 20s, Stephanie Reece met a mentor

pantry chef, hot line cook and caterer, until she

in Houston who encouraged her to build an

moved back to her “happy place,” Vail, where she

experience for people through food, which is

met a personal chef who taught her the ropes.

exactly what she wanted to do.

Since 2018, she has been serving fresh

She began as a pastry chef at Bistro Italiano,

food and seasonal ingredients cooked from the

where owner Brunella Gualerzi — another

heart at Lauren’s Kitchen in Edwards. She loves

spectacular female chef — “gave me the wings to

accommodating dietary restrictions, and her

get out there and see what I could do.”

grab-and-go concept, which was unique to the

Reece’s midnight shifts spilled into the early

area when she opened, has become immensely

morning, so she took the opportunity to ask the

popular since the pandemic.

prep cooks questions about cooking.

CHEF, FARMER, BREWER

but the guys taught her. “There’s more respect

It all started in fifth grade, when Colorado

for pastry chefs in the kitchen, because you can

native Camille Shoemaker wrote an essay about

create things that line cooks can’t. Being a pastry

“I didn’t even cook well at home,” she admits,

Clementine Bouton

chef requires a Type A personality. You really

okay. “I try to be very present, and that’s a hard

have to follow recipes, or you jack it all up.”

thing to do — to turn work off and be all mom

Her high-achieving nature has served her

and all wife. I’m segmenting my life a lot.”

well. She now creates intimately curated three-

74

to six-course menus for private dining parties

CATERING WITH A TWIST

through Glorious Fig in Grand Junction. She

Emily Oyer considers herself an “everything

balances being a mom and a chef with help from

chef.” Anything her catering clients want,

her supportive husband.

she creates. For example, she makes a twice-

“Glorious Fig’s scheduled events help me

cooked chicken, first searing the drumsticks,

manage my time at home,” she says, explaining

then removing the meat, blending it with

how she’s more intentional about cooking when

corn, potatoes, cheddar cheese and corn flour,

she’s home, in addition to helping her kids with

then molding the mix around the bone and

homework and making sure they’re emotionally

frying it.

BEING A WOMAN IN A MALE-DOMINATED BIZ

“My goal is to make the person’s vision come to life,” she says. “One of my favorite things to see is the pure joy on people’s faces when they

Female chefs have had all kinds of experiences making their way into professional kitchens, from feeling ignored and blocked to being helped and supported. Here are just a few remarks on the subject:

try the food I create.”

Lauren McElroy “Honestly, it never bothered me; yes, mainly guys teaching me and leading, but it never was an issue to climb the ladder and advance.

Thankfully, by the time I was in the business, men were generally more accepting of females in the industry.”

she began incorporating cannabis into her

Camille Shoemaker “As a brewer, I worked unpaid a lot. I dated a brewer and wouldn’t get acknowledged. The industry is thankfully changing, but we still have to do a lot (in terms of proving ourselves).”

Stephanie Reece “I felt more supported by the men. Maybe because I started in the pastry world; it’s easier to be a cook after being a pastry chef. There’s a mutual respect between the two.”

Lea Petmezas “I’ve always just worked for myself. No male chef ever belittled me. There was some arrogance, and sure, if I were in LA there would be (issues), but it’s never been an impediment.

In fact, it’s been an empowerment. That’s what’s really lucky about the North Fork Valley: they’re just really open to good food. (Respect) is based on what you serve.”

As a banquet chef in Virginia, she catered a lot of specialties for weddings, and now she caters in Aspen for both big-name celebrities and people who splurge only once a year. Last summer, catered parties, dosing or micro-dosing people individually

with

cannabis-infused

finishing

oils. She also uses terrapin flavors, like citrus, to complement dishes like salmon. She explains all of the culinary flavors to guests, and how getting high can heighten a dining experience.

“It enhances the food you’re eating, makes you more creative and kinder,” she believes, adding that it’s helped her with depression, anxiety and ADHD. Her nontraditional approach has led Food Network to feature her. She also won Chopped 420’s second episode.

“With or without infusions,” she says, “I can create any food your mind is craving.” :

GRAND OPENING 4.24.22

YOUR WINE ADVENTURE AWAITS.

Clémentine Bouton “The French culinary world is very masculine.

It’s very complicated and there’s a stigma that women should be home in the kitchen cooking and not at work. I’m sure it’s changing, but it’s still very male-driven. I fit more into American culture. They’re very openminded, and they take you in without a preconceived notion of who you could be or who you should be. It’s a beautiful thing.”

Emily Oyer “I feel like I have to try harder than men. I’ve felt gaslighted … I’ve learned from men what not to do.”

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feature

ROICE-HURST HUMANE SOCIETY

MORE THAN A SHELTER Words by Jenna Kretschman | Photos courtesy of Roice-Hurst Humane Society

W

hen Thomas stood at Roice-Hurst Humane

family. It’s always better for a pet to stay with the

Society’s doorstep with his two beloved

people who love them.”

Chihuahuas, Maisy and Maggie, after receiving

As the coordinator of Roice-Hurst’s Animal

an eviction notice, he planned to surrender them

Resource Center, Schlauger’s job is to help

to the shelter. As a college student without a full-

navigate challenges that threaten the human-

time income, finding affordable, pet-friendly

animal bond by connecting pet owners to

housing quickly seemed like an impossible feat.

resources that allow them to keep their pets.

Faced with no other option, Thomas was in tears

By providing pet food and supplies, pet

as he prepared to say a gut-wrenching goodbye

vaccines, spay/neuter surgeries, pet behavior

to the dogs he’d shared many years of love and

counseling and more, Roice-Hurst’s priority is to

companionship with.

make the shelter a last resort for pets.

Thomas was approached by April Schlauger, Roice-Hurst Humane Society’s Animal Resource

program

Center Coordinator, who offered a solution

volunteers caring for these animals, the truth

through Roice-Hurst’s innovative crisis boarding

is that an animal shelter is simply not the best

program, giving Thomas, Maisy and Maggie

environment for any pet,” adds Roice-Hurst

a chance to preserve their bond. Roice-Hurst

Humane Society CEO Anna Stout. “By providing

would provide boarding for the dogs for up to

these safety-net programs, we’re preventing a

a month while Thomas continued his search for

pet and pet owner from having to go through

pet-friendly housing for himself and his dogs.

the trauma of separation, while the shelter can

A month later, Thomas picked up Maisy and Maggie from boarding, and they moved into

76

“Despite having a robust enrichment and

compassionate

staff

and

be reserved for the pets in our community who truly have no other place to go.”

the pet-friendly apartment that Thomas was

In an effort to keep pets with their people,

able to secure during their time in Roice-Hurst’s

Roice-Hurst recently collaborated with

boarding program.

HomewardBound of the Grand Valley, a human

“He was just so grateful that he didn’t have

homeless shelter, to provide temporary shelter

to give up his animals,” Schlauger says. “Pets are

for people experiencing homelessness with their

Anna Stout, Roice-Hurst Humane Society CEO, and Greg Moore, HomewardBound of the Grand Valley Executive Director, with RHHS dog Ginger.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

77

BRUNO EMMANUELLE

pets through the Homeward Hounds project.

The role that human social work plays in

Funded by PetSmart Charities, the Abram and

keeping pets happy, safe and healthy isn’t new to

Ray Kaplan Foundation, and other local funders,

Roice-Hurst. In conjunction with human health

10 pet-friendly, climate-controlled Pallet shelters

services, the organization has deployed their

are located at HomewardBound’s facility.

mobile veterinary clinic into high-need areas of

Because HomewardBound, like most homeless shelters, isn’t able to accommodate

the community to provide pet vaccinations and spay/neuter.

non-service animals inside their building, the

“When we bring our free or low-cost pet

Homeward Hounds program allows individuals

services to human service clinics, our partners

to sleep securely and privately in dignified

often see an increase in participants accessing

housing alongside their pet.

social services or medical care for themselves,”

“No other homeless shelter in the country

Stout says. “People truly want to take good care

accommodates people sleeping in the same room

of their pets, and if we can help people become

as their pets,” Stout shares. “We hope that as we

healthier in the process, that’s fantastic. There is

develop this program, it can be used as a model

an undeniable link between human health and

in other collaborations across the world.”

pet health.”

Aimee Gilbreath, the president of PetSmart

Having a pet around provides numerous

Charities, traveled to Grand Junction from

health benefits; it lowers stress and blood

Arizona to spend the night in one of the shelters

pressure, encourages movement and exercise,

alongside a shelter dog named Sweet Pea at the

and releases feel-good endorphins. Plus, the

project’s unveiling event in December.

responsibility of feeding, socializing and

“The bond between pets and people is

otherwise caring for a pet can enhance mental

incredible, and the research continues to come

health by giving purpose to one’s life and

out to support how great pets are for our physical,

providing unconditional companionship.

mental and emotional wellbeing, especially in

“We believe that everyone who wants a pet

times of crisis,” Gilbreath shared at the event.

should be able to have a pet that’s right for them,”

“Why wouldn’t we fund opportunities like this

Stout adds. “We are here to help people be the

that are collaborative and forward-thinking that

best pet owners they can be, not only so they can

make sure that families — including the four-

reap the benefits of having that connection with

legged members — stay together?”

an animal, but so the animal gets a loving family

Individuals using Homeward Hounds have

as well.” :

access to a free, on-site pet pantry stocked by Roice-Hurst, as well as free pet vaccinations and

To learn more about Roice-Hurst

other types of human and pet services from both

Humane Society’s safety-net

organizations.

programs, adopt a pet or get involved, visit RHhumanesociety.org.

78

feature

HOW GLENWOOD CANYON BECAME A MODERN TRAFFIC WAY OVER THE PAST 100 YEARS

FROM NATURAL HISTORY TO MUDSLIDES Words by Kaitlin Emig | Photos courtesy of Glenwood Canyon Historical Society, Schutte Collection

D

riving west along I-70 towards Glenwood

the Rockies for thousands of vehicles a day. This

Canyon, an ancient crater lurks at the base

human traffic way continues to evolve as nature

of the Flattops Wilderness. Signs of the past are

constantly demonstrates who really holds power.

found in the red dirt as are giant igneous boulders

Over billions of years, the rising and falling

of the Dotsero Crater. Volcanic vents from the

of ancient seabeds created the dynamic walls of

last uplift of plates have released hot mineral

what we see today as Glenwood Canyon. These

water into the Colorado River for thousands of

limestone rock layers are made up of skeletons

years. These natural wonders led to a discovery

of single celled creatures forming the book cliffs

of spectacular rock formations lining the canyon

noted along the eastern section of the canyon.

walls of what was once hidden. Now, as a result of

modern

innovation

and

First, the Ancestral Rockies pushed their

determination,

way upwards making the backbone of a new

Glenwood Canyon acts as a gateway to and from

continent. Jim Nelson writes in his book

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

79

history which makes Glenwood Canyon,” writes Nelson.

There is no evidence of Paleo-Indians entering this area until the Ute tribe — who controlled much of Colorado and Utah for hundreds of years. The Ute tribe came to the healing springs, which they called “Yampah” meaning “big medicine,” for centuries and utilized

the

Flattops

Wilderness

Area

for

hunting grounds. Travel through the canyon was treacherous and, habitation was kept to the fertile valley to the west.

Bill Knight, the executive director of the Glenwood

Springs

Historical

Society

and

Frontier Museum, describes early settlement as an exclusive place sought out by the resilient. He says, “Though Glenwood Springs was an ideal location for settlement near hot springs and at the confluence of the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers, it was not easy to get here. The Colorado River flowed through steep canyons to the east and west blocking access. To the south and southeast, rugged Rocky Mountains had to be crossed by foot, mule or horse. So, when miners from Leadville began exploring the area, they came over Independence Pass and settled along the Roaring Fork River in the Aspen area first.”

Gold and silver brought explorers further west during the later 1800s. Prior mountain men, solitary trappers and adventurers existed with little impact, similar to their native neighbors, Glenwood Springs: A Quick History that huge swamps filled with primitive plants, bizarre amphibians and giant dragonflies came next.

“The coal seams that underlay many of the mountains to the south and west of Glenwood Canyon are the result of those ancient swamps,” says Nelson.

Next, the present-day Rocky Mountains thrust into the air and collected deep deposits of snow and ice that warmed with weather and seasonal changes into water cascading downwards, removing loose material to form a canyon. Exposing layers of rock — everything from igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic to Precambrian — formed a 2,000-foot gorge. “It took the Colorado River most of the last 60 million years to cut through the billion or so years of

80

and might’ve visited the Yampah Springs.

Richard Sopris was the first recorded non-Native to use the healing waters after falling ill in the present-day Roaring Fork Valley. With more white settlers encroaching on the tribal land, the White River band of Utes signed a treaty in 1849 “agreeing to remain at peace and to recognize the jurisdiction of the United States,” Nelson reports. “In return, they were to retain possession of Western Colorado ‘forever.’”

Thirty years later, an altercation with government Indian agent Nathan Meeker, who insisted on transforming the Utes into farmers, led to a deadly massacre and then the unfortunate removal of the Ute tribes to a reservation in Utah.

An Indian agent is an official representative of the U.S. federal government to American Indian

tribes on reservations. “The Utes had resisted the intrusion of other peoples since long before recorded history. However, they could not forever resist the relentless advance of progress, in the form of the white man,” Nelson continues.

With the native tribe gone, the only resident of the Roaring Fork Valley, James M. Landis who claimed squatter’s right to 160 acres a year prior, occupied the present-day Glenwood Springs, until his mother became the first white woman to arrive in 1881. The course of history changed when Isaac Cooper, a semi-disabled Civil War veteran, came to the area around the same time. Originally seeking the healing waters, he purchased Landris’ homestead for $1,500 with the goal of establishing a healing resort. In 1885, with the arrival of Cooper’s wife Sarah, the name of the small town changed to Glenwood Springs.

As silver began to pour from Aspen, lucrative money began to make its way down the valley in the form of the Devereux brothers, who, with the help of a group of British investors, purchased the Yampah Springs and 10 acres of adjacent land from Cooper for $125,000. Their goal was to build the world’s largest hot springs pool, which was completed in 1890.

“It was the railroad that provided access necessary for sustained settlement in Glenwood Springs,”

explains

Knight.

Two

railroad

companies competed to be the first to reach Glenwood Springs both awaiting coal, silver and future resort passengers. “The Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad overcame the

Taylor Road, 1906

Colorado River’s Glenwood Canyon to the east

Development in Glenwood Canyon wasn’t

and the Colorado Midland Railroad came to town

done, and as white settlers continued to prove

after first tunneling through the Continental

that engineering and might can win over

Divide into Aspen,” Knight adds. In 1887, it had

nature, they set upon capturing the mightiest

taken two years of work in the canyon and over

of the forces rushing through canyon: the river.

$2 million in investment to blast through the

Then known as the Grand River, the mighty

ancient canyon walls leading to the new “Resort

Colorado linked fresh snowmelt all the way to

City of the West.”

the Gulf of Mexico. Hydroelectric dams proved

It wasn’t long after the railroad’s completion

a dependable source of power in a time when

that a road was planned along the north side

more electricity was being brought to cities

of the river. Taylor State Highway, named after

and coal extraction demonstrated significant

the State Senator who proposed the wagon road

difficulties to both the land and the miners.

from Denver to Grand Junction, was completed

The Shoshone Hydroelectric Complex took four

in 1902 and cost $60,000, “half of which was

years to complete — finally finished in 1910 —

spent on the canyon east of Glenwood Springs,”

and pumped 1,250 cubic feet of water per second

notes Nelson.

through its innovative tunnel design.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

81

During this time a construction camp was established in the canyon for over 1,000 men

displayed in the rock walls.

and their families who served the road and dam.

In 2020, a wildfire erupted in Grizzly Creek

Named Shoshone, the establishment housed a

canyon which left lasting scars on the vegetation.

post office, company store, commissary, hospital,

The Grizzly Creek fire burned 32,631 acres of

apartments, warehouses, offices, a train depot

forest and closed I-70 for 13 days. Knight remarks

and school for the workmen’s children.

on how we learned that Mother Nature still rules

By the late 1930s, funding for an improved

in the canyon. He states, “Without vegetation to

Highway 40 linking Kansas to Utah meant big

hold the soil and rocks in place, all it took was

improvements for the “Canyon of the Grand.”

a heavy summer rainstorm in 2021 to wipe

The road was widened to 29 feet across,

out a section of I-70 and halt traffic for almost

including 25 feet of pavement and two feet of

two weeks.”

gravel shoulder on either side. In addition, many

Knight believes the town has adapted well

turnouts and picnic and parking areas provided

to all the road closures and reconstruction.

a more scenic byway. “However,” Nelson writes,

“Mountain people are tough and adjust to yearly

“its 57 curves, many of them blind, contributed

disruptions in their daily lives, such as driving

to (rising) mountain accident rates.”

in winter weather, wildfires and mudslides,”

After World War II, paved highways and

82

tour of thousands of years of natural history

believes Knight.

more automobiles crept across America.

Reflecting on how only a couple hundred

President Eisenhower helped establish

years of human interaction with this canyon has

interstates for improved transportation, and

changed the landscape dramatically, Glenwood

yet the last section of I-70 through Glenwood

Springs still wouldn’t be the place it is today

Canyon seemed like an impossible feat. Locals

without the lifestyle to support the vision first

saw the scars left on the canyon from a turn of

planned by the founding members. Outdoor

the century railroad and the narrow two-lane

adventure like skiing, biking and boating all

road and urged lawmakers to push the interstate

attribute to Glenwood’s growth — along with the

either over the Flattops or through Cottonwood

accessibility through the canyon.

Pass. Both alternative options posed even more

“Today’s active population chooses to live in a

environmental problems — an extended road

beautiful place that provides a quality of life that

moving to 10,000 feet in elevation or another

suits them. The question for people already here

mountain pass with steep grades and winding

is when is enough enough? We are faced with

turns. A citizen’s advisory committee was

a difficult conundrum. We are a tourist town.

established to assist the highway department in

People are invited to come visit. Some decide

providing feedback to their planning. Concepts

they want to live here. How many more people

modeled off Italian road-building techniques

can exist in a small, constrained valley without

surfaced,

preservation

sacrificing that quality of life and exceeding the

became an utmost concern for expanding to a

carrying capacity of the land? Having lived here

four-lane interstate. Restoration practices, state

for 38 years I am concerned,” Knight confesses.

and

environmental

of the art tunnel technology and access to scenic

As we’ve seen in a mere 150 years, once

areas like Hanging Lake were all included in the

people create opportunities for advancement of

construction, which took 12 years to complete.

modern civilization, a wake of environmental

The “Crowning Jewel of the Interstate

destruction ripples in the existing landscape. Only

System” was completed in 1992 and cost $500

through collective efforts like in the development

million. Accessibility for recreation including

of I-70 can we adopt better practices to co-exist.

fishing,

along

Although, Mother Nature still demonstrates her

the 8-foot-wide bike path made this project

boating,

hiking

and

biking

power, so is this enough? Are we both the cause

something for the whole family to discover.

and effect of these environmental issues which

With the marvelous canyon backdrop, vehicle

affect our progress as an advanced civilization?

passengers experienced a fast paced, twisting

:

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

83

events

SPRING 2022 Compiled by Olivia Lyda

MARCH Leadville Ski Joring and Crystal Carnival Weekend Leadville, CO March 4-6

A winter wonderland packed weekend is just around the corner for you and your family and friends. Watch ski joring (where skiers go off jumps and rides while being rope-towed by a horse), or participate in the Nordic events, paint biathlon and more. leadvilletwinlakes.com

Women’s Fat Biking Adventures Leadville, CO March 5

Explore the legendary high country of Leadville, Colorado along paths and trails through the historic mining district with panoramic views of some of the state’s tallest peaks, all on a fat-tire bike. Sign up online now to experience an epic Saturday. Fee includes fat bike rental, instruction, packing list and a digital photo album of the day. eventbrite.com

Audi Power of Four Mountaineering Race Snowmass, CO March 5

24 miles and 10,000 vertical feet of climbs — do you think you can handle it? The Audi Power of Four Mountaineering Race will push you to your limit with races in teams of two across all four area mountains, making for an intense day of mountaineering. Participants must

84

register in advance and secure a spot for the race. aspensnowmass.com

Brew and Flow Yoga Golden, CO March 6, 13, 20 + 27

Yoga and a drink on a Sunday afternoon? No better way to beat the Sunday scaries! Over Yonder Brewing Co. offers a mid-morning yoga flow every Sunday followed by a brew: be that kombucha or a beer. Sign up online. eventbrite.com

Subaru Winterfest

Copper Mountain, CO March 11-13 Enjoy a mountain and adventure centric weekend at Copper. This one-of-a-kind music and mountain lifestyle tour invites everyone to bask in their love of winter and adventure. Come partake in live music, Subaru swag, the latest in adventure gear, free snacks and beverages, activities for your pup and amazing daily giveaways. coppermountain.com

Frozen Dead Guy Days Nederland, CO March 18-20

Experience an eclectic and unique festival celebrating a cryogenically frozen man, Grandpa Benzo. The unique festival includes live music shows and icy events including coffin racing, polar plunging, frozen t-shirt contests, frozen turkey bowling and more. Learn more about this unique event and purchase tickets online. frozendeadguydays.com

Nordic Town Series Vail, CO March 19

If you love Nordic skiing, but crave a competitive experience, this event is perfect for you. Join the Nordic Town Series’ last event to race either a 3K, 5K or 20K on a lovely Sunday morning. Location TBD; further details online. vailtownseries.com

The Steadman Clinic Vail Cup Vail, CO March 26

Sign your kids up for this Vail Valley community race. The Steadman Clinic Vail Cup series consists of four races for kids, with March 26 being the final giant slalom. Check online for more information and to register for the event. vailcup.com

The Soul Ski

Breckenridge, CO March 31- April 3 Experience a party-filled weekend like no other in the beautiful mountains of Breckenridge. The Soul Ski includes their signature events including We Got Next Comedy Series, Nightly Theme Parties, late-night pajama parties, after-hours parties, bonfires, hottubbing and more. Get your tickets, with included accommodations, now. eventbrite.com

APRIL Bigfoot Days

Estes Park, CO April 1-2 If you enjoy the conspiracy theories on the legend of Bigfoot, this event is right up your alley. Bigfoot days revolve around uncovering more secrets of the giant Sasquatch with celebrity guests, a giant BBQ and more. estesparkeventscomplex.com

Aspen Shortsfest Aspen, CO April 1-10

Watch unique short films at this Oscar®-qualifying film festival. The Aspen Shortfest has an array of exciting attractions for film lovers, with the opportunity to participate in public screenings, panels, workshops and other festivities that spotlight the art and craft of short moviemaking. aspenfilm.org

Steamboat Springalicious Festival Steamboat Springs, CO April 1-10

The Steamboat Ski Area celebrates the close of the winter season with a festival that includes vendors, free concerts and a boatload of spring festivities. Check back online for the full list of scheduled events. steamboatchamber.com

Bud Light Rocks the Boat Steamboat Springs, CO April 2 + 9

The first two Saturdays in April will be filled with free live music in Steamboat Springs. Bud Light Rocks the Boat concert series has a variety of music genres with something for everyone. Check out their online schedule of performances! steamboat.com

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NASTAR National Championships at Snowmass Snowmass, CO April 4-9

The NASTAR National Championships will be held at Aspen Snowmass this year to make for an exciting viewing of highlevel competition slalom races. aspensnowmass.com

Taste of Vail Vail, CO April 6-9

Get a taste of every culinary and beverage experience Vail has to offer. The Taste of Vail’s annual signature events and tastings will blow you away — such as the Mountain Top Tasting, Debut of Rosé and many more. Sign up for one, or all, of these amazing tasting events and indulge in the finer things. tasteofvail.com

KITTY NICHOLASON

Beer Bound 5K

Desert Gravel Co2uT

Run in a low-pressure environment and get a complimentary brew for finishing your race. The Beer Bound 5k at Rock Cut brewery is a good opportunity for anyone who is looking for a casual race. eventbrite.com

Bike in the ‘no man’s land’ between Colorado and Utah’s border. The Desert Gravel Co2uT race goes from Fruita to the Colorado-Utah border in unique territory not often explored. With multiple options, ranging from a 30-mile to 125-mile race, there’s something for everyone to bike. Register online now. desertgravel.com

Estes Park, CO April 9

Taste of Spring Delta, CO April 9

Taste of Spring is one of Western Colorado’s premier food and beverage tasting events, featuring food, wine, beer, spirits, music and more! All on one night from 5-8 p.m., make sure to get your tickets in advance. eventbrite.com

5Point Film Festival Carbondale, CO April 21-24

Come together for a fun-filled community festival that celebrates Colorado’s shared love for the outdoors. The 15th annual 5Point festival brings four days days of outdoor films, live art, rich conversation and dynamic performances. Check online for schedule updates.

5pointfilm.org 86

Fruita, CO April 23

Durango Bluegrass Meltdown Durango, CO April 23, 24 + 25

Every April, the Durango Bluegrass Meltdown breaks up the long winter with incredible bluegrass music, a barn dance and other celebrations for visitors. With a line-up stacked with all of your favorite bluegrass bands and artists, there’s no stopping you from dancing your way through this 3-day event. durangomeltdown.com

Sip Into Spring: A Celebration of Colorado Wine Palisade, CO April 30

A highly curated collaboration of premier Colorado wineries, coming

together in the Vinelands area of Palisade, at the Orchard River View outdoor event center. facebook.com/sipintospring/

MAY Cañon City Music and Blossom Festival Cañon City, CO May 4-8

Listen to riveting live band performances. The Cañon City Music and Blossom Festival is the largest community run school music competition in the state, with other fun activities TBA surrounding the event. Learn more online. ccblossomfestival.com

Fruita Fat Tire Festival Fruita, CO May 6-8

Experience a celebration of fat biking and cycling culture. The 25th anniversary of the Fruita Fat Tire Festival has events for everyone — live music, guided tours and so much more. Register online now. fruitafattirefestival.com

Estes Park Rotary Duck Race Festival

Grand Old West Days Craig, CO May 26-30

Estes Park, CO May 7

This unique festival revolves around giving back to the community in the form of adopting a “duck” and donating to the charity of your choice. The “duck” is a rubber duck that races against others down the river. Learn more about this one-of-a-kind event online. epduckrace.org

Wild Horse Gravel

Embrace the wild, wild west at the western themed festival on Memorial Day weekend.

Experience multiple events such as: Cowboy Shooting Action, Iron Man Ranch Bronco Riding, Brown’s Amusement Carnival, Adventure Zone Kid’s Bounce House Extravaganza, Parrothead’s Beer Garden, live music and so much more. grandoldwestdays.com

Mountainfilm

De Beque, CO May 14

Wild Horse Gravel showcases the unique high-desert landscape of Colorado’s Western Slope. Cyclists will be treated to a country cookout, campfire, cabins, camping — or glamping — and the best local music. Sign up for the 90-mile or 45-mile race. events.outsideonline.com

Blues, Brews & BBQ Festival Beaver Creek, CO May 22- 24

Indulge in a food-filled event, perfect for welcoming the summer months. The Blues, Brews & BBQ Festival includes street vendors with fantastic BBQ bites and brews, with live music throughout the event. It’s free to the public, so make sure you check it out. beavercreek.com

Telluride, CO May 26-30

Movie buffs in Western Colorado, come see non-fiction films with the beautiful Telluride mountains as your backdrop.

Held every Memorial Day weekend, Mountainfilm is a documentary film festival that showcases nonfiction stories about environmental, cultural, climbing, political and social justice issues. mountainfilm.org

Boulder Creek Festival Boulder, CO May 28-30

CKS Paddlefest 2022 Buena Vista, CO May 28-30

This Memorial Day weekend, take your family and friends to this outdoor festival. The CKS Paddlefest has a mission to give back to the whitewater and recreation community. Participate in whitewater rafting and kayaking competitions, listen to live music and explore camping options.

Event schedule TBA. ckspaddlefest.com

Iron Horse Bicycle Classic Durango, CO May 28-30

Battle it out on an intense course made for cyclists to push themselves with 50 miles, 5,700 foot elevation gain and crossing over two 10,000 foot passes, or sign up for a casual road race with friends and family. The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic has options for every cyclist of every level, beginner or expert. ironhorsebicycleclassic.com

The 33rd Annual Boulder Creek Festival is back this upcoming Memorial Day weekend. Kick off the summer with live music, delicious eats, drinks, family fun, art and more. More information about this festival, including performance schedule,

TIVAL SEASON

2022 FES

the Creekside Beer Fest and participating vendors will be announced at a later date. bouldercreekfest.com

15

PAGOSA FOLK N’”|’ th Annual BLUEGRASS June 10-12, 2022 Jr. & Adult Jam Camps June 7-9 Pagosa Springs, CO FOUR CORNERS 26th Annual FOLK FESTIVAL September 2-4, 2022 Pagosa Springs, CO Tickets & info: ksutpresents.org

who we are

ENSTROM CANDIES: A RECIPE FOR SWEET SUCCESS

DOUG SIMONS Words by MacKennea Broyles | Photo courtesy of Enstrom Candies

I

n what may be its sweetest achievement yet, Grand Junction can now say it is home to a

Candy Hall of Fame-er. Doug Simons of Enstrom Candies is a recent inductee.

The nomination came as a surprise to Simons, who recently celebrated his 43rd Christmas at Enstrom’s. “You go on about your business, and

you

do

your

thing and then to be recognized with this?

It’s really humbling to be honored by your peers in the industry,” Simons reflects.

S o, h ow do es a bite-size

toffee

business grow into a

confectionery

champion?

With

perseverance, ingenuity and the help of a few friends.

Simons explains that the real challenge of going from local storefronts to the bulk aisles of Costco lay at the crux of the science of toffee and a commitment to tradition.

“Our almond toffee is very special. It’s what brought us to the dance,” Simons says. “I had a vision of a system that would allow us to mold it into different sizes, but I wasn’t willing to compromise on the recipe.”

Simons explains that toffee, being largely butterfat, is highly susceptible to oxidation.

“And oxidized fat,” Simons points out, “is rancid fat.” Like a banana left unpeeled, the edges of the toffee slabs not enrobed in chocolate must be kept cold and away from as much oxygen as possible, making this form of the carefully crafted confection difficult to transport.

88

Enter: Toffee Petites. A friend introduced Simons to a company that specialized in confectionery engineering, and after a few tough years fueled by Simons’ determination, the tiny toffee squares snuggled tightly in a casing of chocolate appeared. It was the ideal treat to stock shelves everywhere.

This led to a “sudden boom that ignited a lot of growth for our company,” says Simons, “but there was no compromise on quality.” Quite literally, it was the recipe for success.

When the toffee became portable, so did Simons. QVC, the in-home shopping channel, wanted the distinctive treat in its “In the Kitchen With David” segment, and Simons recalls a time when he would fly from Colorado to Pennsylvania just to be on air for 15 minutes. Now, thanks to the revolutions of remote work, Simons is able to take his setup with him and appear via Skype.

Despite being a jet-setting hall-of-famer, Simons is always one to recognize his roots.

Longtime

donors

to

many

community

organizations and nonprofits, the impact of Enstrom’s philanthropy on the Grand Junction community is in no way petite.

“Starting as a small business in Grand Junction has taught us how to be communityminded,” Simons shares. “We realize that our business sells globally but lives locally, and we have an obligation to share this success with our community.”

Another key ingredient in the recipe for success has been a not-so-secret ingredient: family. Enstrom’s is making its way into its fourth generation of family ownership. Simons recently announced that his two sons, Douglas Jr. and Jim, will be continuing the toffee tradition. Simons, however, has no intention of retiring just yet.

“For us,” Simons says, “it’s not work; it’s the other place we live.” :

RECALL NOTICE In April 2021, Black Diamond recalled avalanche beacons after it was found that certain transceivers switched modes unexpectedly, preventing the users’ device from emitting a signal when caught in an avalanche.

The recall includes the following Black Diamond PIEPS sold between 2013-2020:

• DSP Pro • DSP Pro Ice • DSP Sport Avalanche

IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW USES OR HAS USED A RECALLED BEACON, CONTACT

PREMIER PERSONAL INJURY TRIAL ATTORNEYS

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