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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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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
H
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
I
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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970.462.9712
theordinaryfellow.com
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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
J
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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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.
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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
camelbak.com
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
Full Service Bike Shop
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. :
Enjoy the artistry of a LOCAL SUNDAE!
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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.
studiomwarch.com | 303.910.4557 | @studio_mw
Here comes the sun! Do, Done, Do, Do... We design site specific + resilient homes across the Western Mountain region... Perfect for soaking up longer days in wild places.
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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970.926.3007 cutvail.com
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.” 3572 G ROAD PALISADE, CO 81526 (970) 464-0941 CARBOYWINERY.COM
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
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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
303.999.9999
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