T H E
H U B
O F
A D V E N T U R E
I N
W E S T E R N
C O L O R A D O
HOW TO HYGGE YOUR HOME 18 CAMP BIRD CUSTOM HATS 34 RIVER PERMIT PARTIES 56 THE COST OF REMOTE WORKING 82
WINTER 2021-22 / ISSUE 18
Discover a new backyard.
CO N T what’s up in the west
lifestyle
12 28
BOOK + BEVERAGE Read Island by Nicole Magistro D.I.Y. Hot Chocolate Jars
29
S+B’S INSTAGRAM + PODCAST PICKS
30
STYLE Western Colorado Through the Lens of Edward Kunzelman
Experience Winter On-High in Colorado National Monument
34
MAKER Camp Bird: Custom Hats Made in Telluride
14
Montanya Gets a New Rum Tasting Room
38
16
BLOSSOM How to Make a Winter Wreath
ART GatherHouse Glassblowing Studio + Gallery
40
HOME + GARDEN How to Hygge Your Home
MUSIC “Rock” Music
42
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Special Advertising Section
FOOD The “Hole” Truth About Homemade Bagels
46
DRINK The Roast with the Most
FOOD The Assembly | Eagle
48
WELLNESS + FITNESS Canine Connections: Bridging the Gap Between Communication
8
VOICES OF WESTERN COLORADO Locals Weigh in on Forge
9
WHAT’S UP IN THE WEST Skip’s Farm To Market Expands to New Location in Fruita
10
Alt Space CoWorking Grows to Five Locations Across Western Colorado
12
18 20 22 24
2
34
EAT Holiday Recipes
E N TS adventure
features + events
68
72
51
ADVENTURE Wild Monkey Snacks: Fuel Your Adventures
72
COMMUNITY-SUPPORTED AGRICULTURE CSA Does Winter in Western Colorado
52
SPOKE Gear for the Season
78
PAST, PRESENT + FUTURE Powderhorn Mountain Resort
54
SPOKE Athlete Profile: Leota Sweetman-McPeek
82
56
GRAND OUTDOORS ‘Tis the Season for River Permit Parties
GRAND JUNCTION IS A REMOTE WORKER’S PARADISE But at What Cost?
84
58
FAMILY Don’t Stop When the Temps Drop: A Guide to Venturing Outside with Your Little Ones
EVENTS Winter 2021-22
87
WHO WE ARE Terry Hancock
61
TAKE A HIKE Main Canyon: Coal Canyon Trailhead
64
STAY + PLAY Gravity Haus Winter Park
68
GETAWAY America’s Riviera: Santa Barbara, California
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
3
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
FORGE As another year comes to completion, we are taking extra time to reflect on where we have been and where we are going. The path behind us has carved just as much significance as what lies ahead, but where do we align our focus? While never forgetting all its history, Western Colorado is forging forward. Here at Spoke+Blossom, we are constantly inspired by the stories of our community that give life to every page, season after season. It seems that if we don’t move forward we are just standing still, because turning around gets us nowhere in the same amount of time. Create some space to watch your community this winter; notice the current momentum and how you may or may not contribute to it. In this winter issue we’ve captured stories that remind us of this. We have included a notable amount of coverage on local businesses that are evolving and expanding at every turn; we have spotlighted local artists, musicians, makers and farmers who are bringing more into the world than they are taking. In acknowledging that steady forward movement isn’t always easy, we also have captured how resilience amidst unexpected challenge yields remarkable results. We hope this issue reminds you to forge forward. Even on a trail that is less traveled, let’s try to leave footsteps for others to follow.
Publisher + Co-Owner
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 Relationships Coordinator Laura Mills Contributors Lisa Blake Matt Brooks MacKennea Broyles Zoe Cramer Lindsay DeFrates Nathan Dumlao Lauren Farrauto Alejandra Cifre Gonzalez Curtney Holden Sherri Innis Hyosun Rosy Ko Jenna Kretschman Edward Kunzelman Kristen Lummis Olivia Lyda Maureen McGuire Laura Mills Kimberly Nicoletti Christine Rice Lexi Riech Natale Retzlaff Susan Swimm Jennifer Weintraub Melanie Wiseman Allison Vagnini Vitaliy Zalishchyker Cover Photograph Alison Vagnini
Kim Fuller
facebook.com/ spokeandblossom
Founder Robin Brown
Spoke+Blossom Magazine Jaunt Media Collective 2077 North Frontage Road / 103A Vail, CO 81657 For advertising, contact ads@spokeandblossom.com 815.414.9642 Get in touch! We would love to hear from you. Please send your comments to letters@spokeandblossom.com Copyright © 2021 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written permission. Printed in Colorado.
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FRUITA 119 E. Aspen Ave. Fruita, CO 81521 970-858-3597
skipsfarmtomarket.com
contributors
EDWARD KUNZELMAN Ed found a home in Grand Junction in the 1970s after being transferred from a front range printing business, although the real reason for settling on the Western Slope was skiing. Any place so close to Aspen and Telluride ski areas had to be perfect. Print sales evolved into graphic design which led to photography, which is where he’s focused these days.
JENNA KRETSCHMAN
MAUREEN McGUIRE
Jenna has lived in Grand Junction since she was a child. She works full time in animal welfare and enjoys spending her free time exploring Western Colorado and hanging out with her two adorable cats, Peach and Plum.
Maureen is a lifelong resident of Western Colorado. She has taught for 10 years and strives to make our part of the world a better place for all. Summers are for long hikes early in the morning, tending to the raised vegetable and herb gardens she and husband Ira created and planning fun trips.
COURTNEY HOLDEN Courtney moved to Boulder, Colorado to pursue her dream of hiking, biking, skiing and writing about it. So far, things are working out. In the past four years, she’s transitioned from 100-mile days on her road bike to backpacking with a stuffed rabbit, Tonka truck and toddler in tow. Her husband comes too.
LAUREN FARRAUTO Lauren has always loved the power of the written word. As assistant editor for Spoke+Blossom and CO YOGA + Life and Covered Bridge magazines, her dream of creating her own story is finally a reality. When not curled up with a good book, she can be found adventuring in the Colorado wilderness.
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ZOE CRAMER Zoe grew up in Aspen, Colorado after moving there at a young age where she came to love and be inspired by the outdoors. It’s not uncommon to find her outside, soaking up nature with a journal and pen in hand. If not writing, she’s often hiking with her dogs. She plans to earn a degree from Wesleyan University, majoring in The College of Letters.
voices of western colorado
FORGE We Asked These Western Slope Locals to Weigh in on This Topic Compiled by Lauren Farrauto
PATRIC MATYSIEWSKI
STEPHANIE GRIGGS
EMILY WEST
At the start of the pandemic, Patric transitioned fully to Sauvage Spectrum in Palisade. He and his supportive wife are working every day to secure the American dream in Western Colorado.
Stephanie Griggs is the co-owner of Bookcliff Gardens Nursery and Landscape in Grand Junction.
Emily West is an environmental engineer working for AECOM in Glenwood Springs.
“For Sauvage Spectrum, we had no choice but to forge ahead when the pandemic hit. We were just gaining momentum with wholesale accounts for our new brand when it all came to a halt. Mesa County granted us a fivestar variance program, which allowed us to operate safely within the guidelines. Instead of holding back and cutting labor hours, we decided to move on the best we could — stay on schedule releasing new wines, continue to research and develop new projects and maintain safety protocols to keep our doors open. We ended up partnering with Western Distributing Co. to manage our wholesale accounts in the state, growing our wine club to over 300 members and hitting all of our goals with our new transition plan.”
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“Forge, to me, means to take
“Investor pressure is increasingly
something that already exists
forcing oil and gas companies to
and form and shape it to make
lower greenhouse gas emissions,
a reflection of our own vision.
which for an air quality
It was very exciting to acquire
consultant makes for exciting
an iconic, over 50-year-old
and interesting new projects.
business. We knew we wanted to
However, this fall our two young
create and shape our company
children have contracted five
to reflect our personalities
viruses each in 12 weeks. My
while maintaining the culture
husband and I spend many long
of Bookcliff Gardens. We had
nights rocking sick, feverish
to show respect not only to the
kiddos back to bed only to wake
employees, but also the loyal
up early and work as much as
customers. We formulated a plan
possible before another sick day
to forge our own way, slowly, in
at home begins. The balancing
order to first learn the existing
act of parenting and careers is
business. The next step is to
rewarding and challenging with
continue to be steady in forming
never enough time. The best we
a new Bookcliff Gardens that
can do is be grateful for all that
incorporates both old and new.
we have and forge ahead day
Our greatest joy is watching our
by day.” :
employees forge and grow with us!”
what's up in the west
SKIP’S FARM TO MARKET EXPANDS TO NEW LOCATION IN FRUITA Words by Kim Fuller | Photo courtesy of Skip’s Farm To Market
S
kip Doty has always had a passion for local
at the Grand Junction Farmers Market, The Hog
farms and the food they produce. Doty
and The Hen and other specialty markets — but it
purchased land in Palisade in 2012 and started
may be news that Skip’s store manager Ramona
Early Morning Orchard Farm. He has since grown
Haberkorn is the owner of Bake Sale Bread Co.
a network of market stores and stands to connect
people with local food. The first Skip’s Farm to
space as one side bakery/deli, the other side as
Market opened in 2017 in Old Town Basalt.
our fresh little year-round farmers’ market,”
Coming in summer of 2022, a new Fruita
says Barton. “Ramona has been a huge asset
location of Skip’s Farm to Market will be located
to the Skip’s family, and we all want to see her
at 211 E. Aspen Avenue. Doty purchased the
passion for baking thrive.”
building to expand the small 600-square-foot
space into 3,000 square feet. Coincidentally, the
Barton adds. “There will be a shared commercial
building once housed Brumbaugh’s Groceries
kitchen space, so together we can provide fresh
and Meats in the 1930s.
bread, baked goods, prepared foods, canned
“She and Skip partnered to open the new
“It just makes sense to work together,”
“We are so excited to be expanding to a
food, ice cream, dried fruits, dried mushrooms
larger space, so we can offer the local community
and veggies to all of our stores and stands in
more local and natural foods,” shares general
order to provide more food security to the
manager Dalene Barton.
Western Slope.” :
You may already know about Bake Sale
Bread Co. — the amazing sourdough you find
skipsfarmtomarket.com
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
9
what's up in the west
ALT SPACE COWORKING GROWS TO FIVE LOCATIONS ACROSS WESTERN COLORADO Words by Jenna Kretschman | Photo courtesy of Alt Space
B
our kitchen with horrible WiFi, being shoulder-
to spark connection throughout rural
to-shoulder, dealing with the animals and just
Colorado with their rapidly expanding
being in the house constantly,” Bonnie says.
coworking company, Alt Space.
Brian is a co-founder of Proximity Space,
The company has grown from one location
a software company that powers coworking
to five over the past year. Their first space
spaces globally, and Bonnie is the director of the
opened in October 2020 in Telluride, where the
Telluride Venture Network, where she works
couple lives.
with rural entrepreneurs. When Alt Space’s
“It purely came out of a necessity from the
Telluride location filled up immediately with
pandemic; we just got tired of working out of
remote workers who felt the same way as Bonnie
10
rian and Bonnie Watson are on a mission
and Brian, the Watsons saw an opportunity that
shortage and cater to what they believe is a
they were perfectly positioned for — expansion
change in consumer behavior to self-service.
across the Western Slope.
The goal of Alt Space isn’t just to provide
In May 2021, Alt Space purchased three
high-speed internet and a place to work; it’s
more coworking locations in Ridgway, Montrose
about building community and turning Western
and Grand Junction from Proximity Space, which
Colorado into a regional network.
was looking to sell its brick-and-mortar locations
in order to focus on its software services. Three
builders. We are trying to connect rural resources
months later, Alt Space took over 750 Main
to rural people,” Bonnie explains. “Our spaces
Street, formerly Factory, in Grand Junction as its
serve as nodes in that network as a physical
fifth coworking location on the Western Slope.
meeting space for people from Grand Junction
“By nature, Brian and I are ecosystem
“Having a high-quality place that you can
to Telluride to come together. The bigger idea is
go to work and compartmentalize your life and
to connect remote workers and entrepreneurs
your work has been really important,” Brian
with the tools, resources, people and places that
says. “People need flexibility, and they want to
they really need to thrive.”
be able to travel and work regionally, not just
in one location, so that’s what we’re trying to do
entire region and connect and work together, the
with Alt.”
whole tide of the region is going to rise,” Brian
Alt Space is the first ever fully-automated
adds. “If you’re working remotely or looking to
coworking space. Simply purchase a pass on
get plugged in and involved in Western Colorado,
their website, download the Proximity app and
there’s really no better place than Alt Space.” :
“What we believe is that if we can raise the
enjoy access to all five locations across Western Colorado. The self-service model allows Alt
To learn more about Alt Space,
Space to create stability during the current labor
visit altspacecowork.com.
A PLACE TO GROW Focused business mentoring meets productive workspace
Learn more at www.gjincubator.org
what's up in the west
EXPERIENCE WINTER ON-HIGH IN COLORADO NATIONAL MONUMENT Words by Courtney Holden | Photo courtesy of Grand Junction Adventures
O
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n belay? In ... January?
Colorado National Monument all year round.
Thanks to a new winter climbing
GJ Adventure’s new line-up of half-day and
program available from Grand Junction
day-long guided climbing outings cater to both
Adventures,
beginners and experts alike.
the
essential
back-and-forth
between a rock climber and their faithful
rope-holder will now ring out through
says James Stover, Grand Junction Adventures
“To be clear though, this is not ice climbing,”
business development manager and head climbing guide.
After all, the Western Slope boasts relatively
mild temperatures throughout the winter; ice isn’t in the forecast.
“In the middle of December, it can be
60 degrees on a sunny wall,” Stover says, noting that, with inversion, it’s common for temperatures in the Monument to be 10 or 20 degrees warmer than lower in the Grand Valley. Though if the weather does look iffy, GJ Adventures allows guests to cancel the day before for a full refund or rebook for another day. “Nobody wants to be out there when it’s snowing,” Stover laughs.
GJ Adventures’ beginner-focused trips
typically begin with a 25-minute hike into the climbing site at Monument Slabs, followed by
and easiest form of outdoor rock climbing), and
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the adventure starts. “We also have the ability
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thorough instruction on how to wear a harness, how to safely belay and proper rope usage. Then, the guides set up top ropes (the safest
to lead some more difficult climbs if people are feeling randy and need more of a challenge,” Stover adds.
For more experienced climbers, GJ
Adventures’
advanced
trips
tackle
more
challenging routes up the Monument Slabs, as well as climbs up Liberty Cap and Terra Rado. Independence Monument, however, is off the table given the route is completely shaded. (Read: too cold and slick.)
No matter the ability level, all of GJ
Adventures’ trips follow famed climber Alex Lowe’s adage that “the best climber is the one
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having the most fun.” A big contributor to that fun factor is the ability to see Colorado National Monument at a time of year when it’s less busy, but no less beautiful. In fact, with the dusty reds and oranges of the rock complementing the mellow green of the junipers, all offset by the bright white of snow patches, Stover calls the area a “really magical place to be in the wintertime.”
Belay on. :
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what's up in the west
MONTANYA GETS A NEW RUM TASTING ROOM Words by Lauren Farrauto | Photo courtesy of Montanya Distillers
A
14
ttention all Crested Butte locals. Your
rum” — Old Monk. “It started a love affair with
favorite local rum distillery, Montanya
me and that spirit,” she says.
Rum, is moving locations. But don’t worry, it’s
just two doors up the road.
change, and the rum industry has been better
In 2008, Hoskin decided to make a career
“I’m most excited about driving rum
for it ever since. In fact, Montanya rums have
appreciation,” shares Karen Hoskin, the founder,
won almost every major award in the spirits
owner and CEO of Montanya Distillers.
world, including Craft Distillery of the Year.
Hoskin’s love of rum has stood the test of
And yet, with all this love and focus on rum,
time. She was first exposed to the spirit on a trip
Montanya Distillers in Crested Butte has become
to Goa, India where she tried their “pride and joy
almost more famous for the incredible food they
serve. The wait time to get in for food, which
a simple sit down at the bar, the experience is
was sometimes hours long, drew the focus away
yours to plan. The Montanya team will take care
from tasting the product Hoskin worked so hard
of the rest. Hoskin plans to train her staff to
perfecting.
know more about the company, rum and the rum
“We don’t do anything half-assed. We did
industry to ensure they can inform customers as
too good a job and became really well-known
thoroughly as possible.
for our delicious food,” Hoskin laughs. “But I’m
a rum distiller, not a restaurateur. When people
reveals. “It’s inspired by my travels around the
walk in the door, I want their experience to be
world — my ode to them.”
about Montanya rum.”
With the new location, Hoskin plans to
by Judith Graham, with whom Hoskin has
remove the dining option and focus solely on
collaborated since 2001. Graham’s work was
her passion — the rum. “We’re almost forging
also featured at Montanya’s previous Silverton
a path backwards,” Hoskin admits. But in doing
location.
so, she hopes to create a better, more intimate
experience for customers.
hopes to foster a calm, intimate environment
The distillery will continue to offer one
with exceptional service to develop a higher
to two new cocktails a week, in addition to old
level of rum tasting. “I’m really working hard to
staples like the Maharaja — a local favorite.
develop a rum experience,” she emphasizes.
The distillery will triple in size to
accommodate different tour group sizes. There
The space itself is “gorgeous,” Hoskin
There will also be a 16-piece art instillation
With a maximum capacity of 32, Hoskin
Hoskin aims to open the doors to the new
space on December 15, 2021. :
will be a reservation model for those tours that are customizable for each party. A group of 12 or a group of two, a two-part extensive tour or
montanyarum.com 204 Elk Avenue Crested Butte, CO 81224
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blossom
HOW TO MAKE A WINTER WREATH Words by Lauren Farrauto | Photo courtesy of Susan Swimm
H
16
oliday wreaths are one of my favorite
Swimm,
decorations to put up in the winter. They
merchandising and display, first began her
are so simple, but somehow manage to make
design career at Frasers department store in
a doorway or mantle look extra elegant and
Scotland doing Christmas decorating. Since then,
festive. While most people buy wreaths from
she’s moved to Vail and started her company
the store, being able to hang something that you
Skye Designs in 1993. You’ve likely seen her work
made with your own two hands can unlock even
in various hotels and store fronts in the Vail
more joy.
Village. She also does full flower arrangements
and Christmas decorating.
“You can do whatever you want with a
who
has
a
degree
in
retail
wreath, which I love,” says Susan Swimm, owner
of Skye Designs in Vail Valley.
firm believer that “there are no rules in wreath
As a primarily self-taught decorator, she is a
making.” That said, there are a few guiding
principles that she tends to adhere to.
through the wreath base and cut them to the
proper length to secure properly.
“I would definitely pick a theme or color
If using hydrangeas, thread their stems
scheme,” she says. Swimm tends to gravitate
toward red, green and brown during the holiday
have fun with it! Add in red berries, mistletoe,
season. However, feel free to get creative and
sparkly snowflakes, Christmas ornaments, bells
After the more basic elements are in place,
chose what you want to see in your own wreath.
— anything you want.
Once that’s decided, go ahead and start gathering
materials.
decorated, but you can decorate it however you
You can find most things at a craft store, like
like,” Swimm says. That’s the beauty of making
Joann’s or Michaels. Your local florist shop also
your own wreath; it’s an entirely customizable
will have a lot of useful materials, such as dried
project.
bits for the wreath and silk. If you’re going for
an all-natural wreath, go forage for some goods!
back of the wreath, so it hangs flush with the door
This time of year, places that sell Christmas trees
or wall you’re putting it on. You can buy a wreath
usually have extra branches for you to take.
hanger or simply hammer in a nail to display
Then, you’re ready to get started!
your creation for the whole neighborhood to see.
“I really think the secret to making a good
“I love wreaths when they are heavily
When you’re finished, tie a ribbon on the
No matter what you decide to incorporate
wreath is having a solid foundation,” Swimm
into your wreath, have fun with it! Invite some
shares. Her favorite option is a grapevine wreath
friends over to make their own with you or
due to its simple beauty and stability. You can
bring your kids in for some craft time. This is the
also make your own out of wire or even buy an
perfect time to forge new bonds with loved ones
inexpensive store-made wreath and fix your
as you create something together. :
decorations of choice on top of the sturdy base that has already been created for you.
Once you have your base, gather all the
other greenery you plan on using for the wreath.
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“Keep it natural,” advises Swimm, who gravitates towards evergreen branches for the majority of her wreaths.
Using a glue gun or florist wire, start
assembling the body of your wreath. Grapevine wreath bases are especially good for this part, because you can thread the branches through the wreath itself for an extra strong hold.
If using a glue gun, make sure to leave the
wreath to dry before adding more on top of the evergreen branches and prior to hanging the wreath itself. After it’s dry, build on top of this initial layer — adding in pinecones, red hydrangeas and other accoutrements of your choice.
When adding in extra elements, Swimm says
to remember that your wreath has a top and a bottom, a left and a right. Adding in asymmetry based of this can help create a wreath that’s uniquely yours. “I’d maybe put two hydrangeas off-center at the bottom and one off-center at the top,” she says, spit-balling ideas.
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Solandra sustainable bath and body care products are available at fine Vail Valley Shops and online at...
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home + garden
HOW TO HYGGE YOUR HOME Words by Lauren Farrauto | Photo by Allison Vagnini
hyg·ge
(h(y)o͞oɡə,ˈ ho͝oɡə) noun
A quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being; the Danish art of creating joy and coziness in life’s
is set up to ensure that she is able to enjoy this moment as long as possible. The design of her coffee station creates a space that is intuitive and simplistic.
The key is to reflect on how you and your
everyday moments.
family love to share time and moments. Even
A
lexandra Gove, owner and founder of Hygge
create something special. Taking the time out of
Life in Edwards, Colorado, defines hygge
your busy day to do something you love can help
as a feeling of contentment, happiness, comfort
you slow down, even for just five minutes. Gove
and warmth. One of the best ways to integrate
advises, “Look at your space and add things that
hygge into your life is through the home.
provide comfort, things you value.”
“There’s an art to creating a space that
something as simple as lighting a candle can
While it is certainly easiest, and most
cultivates hygge, but it’s different for everyone’s
obvious, to hygge your home in the winter
needs,” Gove explains. “For me, lighting is really
months when it’s colder and darker, you can
important. Having a fire or dim lighting helps
still add comforting touches year-round. Once
me set the perfect mood.”
it begins to warm up, open the windows to let
Implementing hygge through design is
in fresh air, spend time outside gardening or
simple, just try to pinpoint what gives you that
having dinner, take a picnic to the park. Or,
hygge feeling or inspires joy. Then, add elements
bring nature indoors by adding plants and fresh
that make it easy and accessible to have those
flowers to your décor.
comforting moments. For Gove, that time is in
the morning with a cup of coffee or tea. Her
a place in your home. “It’s less about creating a
morning ritual consists of lighting a candle
style,” Gove concludes. “Hygge is a feeling that
and preparing the perfect cup, and her kitchen
comes from moments.” :
Whatever your decorating style, hygge has
Find more inspiration at hyggelife.com. 18
REALTOR
SPOTLIGHT
Mark Gordon, CRS Serving the Eagle River Valley for over a decade
T
he Eagle River Valley of Colorado, home to Vail and the surrounding communities, is not only a picturesque location complete with glorious mountain backdrops and adventure activities galore. The mountain valley is also home to a devoted community invested in its success, whether economically, culturally or socially. Mark Gordon, Vail local and certified residential specialist (CRS) — the highest credential awarded to residential sales agents, managers and brokers — understands this firsthand. As a devoted community member, Gordon not only works to help buyers and sellers invest in the community, but in promoting the mountain culture that helps define Colorado as an oasis for locals, tourists and part-time homeowners alike. “My involvement in the community translates to me having more knowledge for the clients I work with, both buyers and sellers, which helps them in the process,” Gordon says. “I understand what’s going on in the town — its trends and which direction it’s heading. My knowledge of what’s happening nationally and internationally in real estate and economics also helps me ensure my clients are making the right decisions — something I will always advocate for.”
P A
Like a personal trainer, Gordon is there with his clients every step of the way. He not only helps guide his clients through the world of real estate, but also the community in which they’re looking to call home. Because of this, his interactions go beyond mere transactions. Instead, he gets to know his clients on a personal level as he shares all that the Vail Valley has to offer. When looking for a mountain home, he asks questions like, What base area do you ski out of? What are your favorite dining options here? From there, he says, the search becomes not only efficient, but pleasurable. “I let Vail do the selling,” he says. “I expose people to all that Vail and its community offers.” His contributions to the community are intertwined amongst various local
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organizations spanning many years. Gordon is the 2021/22 president of Colorado RRC, the state chapter of a professional network with over 29,000 real estate professionals, as well as one of the founders of the Vail Economic Advisory Council, a long-time member of the Vail Commission for Special Events, president of his local synagogue and a board member for the Bravo Vail Music Festival. He even served as a Vail Town Council member from 2005 to 2009 where he advocated for housing equity and economic sustainability. Gordon prides himself on being professional and charitable. If you’re looking to plant your own roots in this mountain town mecca, home to not only world-class slopes but a plethora of cultural and social offerings, give him a call at 970.331.5821 or visit vailcoluxuryhomes.com to browse.
holiday gift guide
Special Advertising Section
Aspen Clean Candle Free from phthalates, petroleum, synthetic dyes and harmful fragrance chemicals. Hand-poured small batch soy wax + essential oil blend candles in custom handmade porcelain. Woman-owned and operated in Basalt, Colorado. $49 – 12 oz Soy Candle (75 Hours) $39 – 7 oz Soy Candle (45 Hours) aspencleancandle.com
Wild Monkey Bar The candy bar reimagined — a perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, sweet and salty. The Wild Monkey Bar is handcrafted with the finest quality natural ingredients that are rich in healthy fats, proteins, antioxidants and minerals. A snack with a purpose, The Wild Monkey Bar is perfect for any adventure and lifestyles on the go. Proudly made in Boulder, Colorado. wildmonkeybar.com @wildmonkeybar
Baklava by Linda Share this deliciously unique, homemade baklava! Perfect for friends, family or as a corporate gift. Described by customers as the “best baklava they’ve ever had.” Made in Colorado, Baklava by Linda is the local treat you have been looking for. $15 – 8-piece box $25 – 16-piece box baklavabylinda.com
WILLOW CREEK HERBS AND TEAS Willow Creek is located on Main Street in downtown Grand Junction. The aromas will envelop your senses when you come in to select from over 195 black, green and herbal teas, 225 organic culinary spices including many custom blends and lots of healthful herbs. Also, enjoy the talented local artists’ work including John Anglim, Kani, Wendy Videlock, Red Hawk Pottery and Ashtonn Means, all available at Willow Creek, plus beautiful Native jewelry and art. Pictured here are mugs from Red Hawk Pottery, a local potter, along with Tommy Singer jewelry and amethyst crystals. Also pictured is the Mulling Spices house blend available only at Willow Creek. facebook.com/ WillowCreekHerbsandTeas 970.241.2324 411 Main Street, Grand Junction
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holiday gift guide
Special Advertising Section
Grand Jun Kombucha, Vinaigrettes and Jun Jun Bites Serve up a healthy dose of probiotics this season with a growler of fresh local Grand Jun Kombucha, probiotic salad vinaigrettes and Jun Jun probiotic snack bites. Available now and pre-order for your holiday meals! @grand.jun grandjun.com
Buckel Family Wine A Colorado winter calls for local, refined and fun! This wine is locally produced using grapes from hand-piked vineyards in Colorado. With minimal intervention comes good clean wine. Celebrate with a sparkling wine or pair Buckel to all your holiday meals.
Solandra Candy Cane Soap $16 Signature soaps & skin care products handcrafted in Colorado. Their signature soaps feel silky smooth, loads of lather & Shea butter. Vegan. Retail: The Gilded Spruce, Vail, CO gildedspruce.com Fill & Refill, Edwards, CO fillandrefill.com
buckelfamilywine.com info@buckelfamilywine.com
Online: Solandra solandrallc.com
WE SPEAK TO
WESTERN COLORADO
LEARN MORE ABOUT ADVERTISING AT SPOKEANDBLOSSOM.COM
drink
THE ROAST WITH THE MOST Words + Photo by MacKennea Broyles
F
22
rom blue-can Folgers to full-bodied fruit
be the first progressive, urban coffee in the Vail
flavors, the way we drink coffee has
Valley.” It was worth the leap, with 2021 bringing
advanced dramatically with the early 2000s
Color’s fifth year of business.
bringing rise to what is now known as “third
wave coffee.” The idea is to consider coffee beans
brewing a few bad cups of coffee on the resident
an artisanal ingredient and process them in
espresso machine, Chris Chacos, owner and
ways that highlight flavors of each unique batch
founder of Bonfire Coffee in Glenwood Springs
of beans. Although this was initially popularized
found his way into roasting. “I started with an
by roasters in larger cities, craft coffee is now
eye for mistakes,” Chacos laughs. Now, people
percolating into towns on the Western Slope.
can enjoy Bonfire Coffee by the cup at local
After taking over the family restaurant and
Initially, Charlie Gundlach, founder and
cafes and at home thanks to its presence on the
owner Color Coffee in Eagle, feared he had taken
shelves of many Colorado stores, including select
a little bit of a risk by choosing a small town to
Whole Foods stores.
open up his roastery and coffee shop. However,
he says, “I realized we had the opportunity to
and founder of Cimarron Roasters based in
The initial venture of Eric Palumbo, owner
Montrose, was the purchase of Cimarron Books
home roaster and found that what I was roasting
and Coffee in Ridgway. “I thought, ‘Well, I love
was pretty good because I was buying really
coffee and I can read,’” he jokes. Palumbo’s
good, green coffee,” he says.
transition from the Ridgway shop to Cimarron’s
current location in Sampler Square was a result
with wine tasting, is often an art of practice.
of one of the most critical factors in craft coffee:
With all of these components to consider, can
roasting.
just anyone enjoy a cup of craft coffee?
In fact, roasting is so important that,
Coffee tasting, which shares many aspects
Gundlach points out that, although the
initially, Palumbo endured the brutal highs and
complexities and variants of each cup of well-
lows of Colorado weather for a well-crafted
roasted coffee are “there and important,” one
cuppa, roasting in a small commercial roaster in
shouldn’t be scared away by this. “Talking about
a toolshed. “It was great for two, maybe three,
it is way less important than just enjoying the
months of the year,” Palumbo laughs. “The rest
coffee,” he says. “It should be fun!”
of the time, I was either trying to get as far away
from the roaster as possible because it was so
“When I first started in coffee, there was an
hot, or hug it without burning myself, because it
air of exclusivity, and I adopted that,” he says.
was so cold.”
“Rather than be frustrated, I came to realize that
Palumbo shares a similar perspective.
Third wave coffee, as Gundlach puts it, is
there’s room for everybody. It’s all about style
all about “appreciating the coffee for the beauty
and what you prefer. We want to make people
that it is.” Color elevates this by roasting the
feel comfortable with craft coffee, not drive
beans “light, but not too light. We really believe
them away from it.”
in light and bright coffees that show off the
origin flavors,” Gundlach says.
and even $55 a cup, Hernandez is still a fiend for
caffeine. “The first three cups of the day don’t
“Roasting can mask the true flavors of a
coffee,” adds Chacos. “It should show off those flavors, not overpower them.” Bonfire’s Rigo Hernandez (AKA “Mr. Coffee”) agrees. “The way you roast a coffee should highlight its flavor,” Hernandzez says. “The cooking method should expand those flavors.”
Gundlach also sees a conscious roasting
process as a means of respect and consideration. “It highlights the hard work of these coffeeproducing countries and the labor that happens on the agricultural side of a cup of coffee,” he explains.
As a result, Gundlach often visits farms in
Latin America, cultivating relationships with farmers and maximizing the amount of money that makes it back to the farmer.
Chacos also places a high importance on
sourcing beans. “90% of our coffees are organic, and all of them come from small farms,” he explains. “It makes better coffee and is healthier for the communities that grow the beans.”
The importance of procuring beans was
something that Palumbo discovered early on in his roasting endeavors. “I started roasting in my
Although he’s savored cups of coffee at $32
count,” he assures. :
eat
HOLIDAY RECIPES Words + Photos by Maureen McGuire
24
I
n the early morning winter hours, it is nearly
hot chocolate, so whatever mood you wake up in,
silent. Even in the middle of Grand Junction,
you have a good pairing. Most importantly, if you
there is rarely a sound. It is at this time of day I
have leftovers, they’re easily transformed into
really find the ability to focus on the important
a post-nap snack. Many times, I make a hearty
things and celebrate them. Winter can be bleak
cake. I hope you can find a time this holiday
for many; however, it can also be serene and
season to celebrate in a serene morning moment
joyous.
with someone you love.
In the last few years, my husband and I have
gravitated toward early morning celebrations,
PUMPKIN BREAKFAST CAKE
especially from late fall to early spring. It began
2 cups pumpkin purée 2 eggs ¾ cup sugar 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour 1 ½ cups whole wheat or oat flour 2 tsp baking powder 2 tsp baking soda 1 tsp vanilla 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp each ground clove, allspice, ginger, nutmeg Pinch of ground cardamom Stir-ins: up to 2 cups seeds, nut pieces, dried fruit pieces or chocolate chips
as a wish to share a few moments alone together before getting to work, family gatherings or going to the big activity for the day. It allowed us to focus, even for a few minutes, on the most important thing in our lives with each other. We are lucky enough to usually have the same days off for the holidays, so this ability to celebrate together has become something I treasure.
In forging this new tradition, I have made
some discoveries. First, the food should be made the day before, so there’s no rush to do much work in the morning. Additionally, it should be
1. P reheat oven to 350 degrees.
good with a warm holiday cocktail, tea, coffee or
2. Cream together sugar, pumpkin and eggs.
26
Gradually add dry ingredients (except stirins) until smooth. Batter should easily spread in a baking dish. If not, add up to two Tbsp milk. Using a wooden spoon, add additional fruit or nut pieces. I used chocolate chips, pecans, raisins and dried cherries. 3. Pour into a greased 9x13 or similar size baking dish. 4. Bake for 45 minutes or until cake is slightly firm and only has a few crumbs clinging to a toothpick when tested. 5. Glaze with cream cheese glaze, if desired. CREAM CHEESE GLAZE (OPTIONAL) 4 ounces softened cream cheese 1 Tbsp softened butter 1 tsp vanilla 1 tbsp milk 2-3 cups powder sugar
1. C ream together cream cheese, butter, milk and vanilla. 2. Slowly add powder sugar to desired consistency. 3. Serve drizzled over cake. HOMEMADE HOT CHOCOLATE SERVES TWO
2 Tbsp heavy cream 4 Tbsp milk, plus 1 ½ cups milk, preferably at room temperature 4 ounces chocolate of choice, in chips or pieces Extra thick whipped cream
1. I n a sauce pan heat cream, chocolate and 4 Tbsp milk on very low heat until smooth. 2. A few ounces at a time, whisk in the rest of the milk carefully to keep chocolate as smooth as possible. Heat to simmering. 3. Pour into cups, and serve with a generous pillow of extra thick whipped cream. MULLED APPLE CIDER HOT TODDY SERVES TWO
2 cups apple cider Mulling spices (in a bag) 1 Tbsp honey 3 ounces single malt whiskey Cinnamon sticks for garnish
1. I n a small saucepan, heat cider, mulling spices and honey to simmering. Simmer 10 minutes. Right before serving, add whiskey. 2. Pour into mugs, and garnish with a cinnamon stick. :
book + beverage
Words + Photo by Lauren Farrauto
I
THE BOOK
THE BEVERAGE
READ ISLAND
D.I.Y. HOT CHOCOLATE JARS
f you eagerly revisit this section every issue in search of a new book recommendation to get
your hands on, you probably have a deep-rooted
L
ike the animals in Read Island, gathering to share quality time with friends and family
creates a safe, cozy space for everyone to partake
love of stories. Nicole Magistro’s new book Read
in. Why not add a nice hot chocolate that can be
Island celebrates the power stories have on us
made and enjoyed by the whole family to the
all, even the youngest minds.
mix? In the spirit of the holidays, the beverage
for this issue makes for the perfect family craft
A young girl, a fox and a mouse embark on
an adventure across the sea to Read Island, where their other animal friends await them, storybooks in hand. Children who pick up this book will be in awe of the whimsical nature of Read Island, reflected in Alice Feagan’s illustrations which are reminiscent of classic storybook tales. The adults who read along will be flooded with nostalgia for the time they used to explore new stories and hear about new places.
Never fear, this magic is not lost. For
Magistro proclaims, “the world of stories, safe and true, is always here to welcome you.” So, draw your loved ones close and get lost in a new book.
or a gift for loved ones. To make these sweet + festive hot chocolate jars you will need:
n
A clear jar
n
About a cup of sugar
n
About a cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
n
1 ½ cups of chocolate chips
n
1 cup of marshmallows
n
1 cup of crushed peppermints or candy canes
n
And any other hot chocolate toppings you desire
n
Ribbon or a gift tag, if you’re planning to gift the jar Starting with the first ingredient and working
down
the
list,
add
each
ingredient into the jar in even layers. If you’re a perfectionist like me, you can use a piece of tape to remove any excess powder that sticks to the sides of the jar, providing a more polished look. If you’re giving the jar as a gift, put the lid back on and add the ribbon and gift tag. When you’re ready to make the drink, combine
all
the
ingredients except the toppings in a pot of warm milk and mix until everything is well combined.
Add
your
desired toppings and enjoy! :
28
S+B’S INSTAGRAM + PODCAST PICKS Compiled by Lauren Farrauto
@formulary55
An aesthetically-pleasing Instagram feed highlighting the best in modern home and body care? Yes please. Formulary 55’s Instagram, curated by founder Cordelia Smith, showcases the best of what this Pueblo-based botanical company has to offer.
Outdoor Dream Jobs
Looking for an incredible job in the outdoors industry? Ali Carr and Jenna Celmer, the two women who run the Basecamp Outdoors Community, have you covered. Check in each week for the newest opportunities.
@ascentathletewellness
If you’re on the hunt for a wellness physician to help you improve your performance, look no further than Ascent Athlete Wellness. Based in Grand Junction, this company’s main goal is to make sure you can fully enjoy life’s adventures.
What’sHerName
Calling all history buffs. Join academics Olivia Meikle and Katie Nelson every other Monday to brush up on your knowledge on the “lost” women of our history. This wasn’t taught in your history class, so grab a pen and be ready to take notes.
@hollyandflora
You have to check out this page for the most gorgeous cocktail photos you’ll ever lay your eyes on. Jayme Henderson, co-founder of The Storm Cellar in Hotchkiss, showcases her incredible cocktails and even provides recipes for you to make your own beautiful drinks.
Ologies with Alie Ward
Ever wonder what cucurbitology is? What about nephology? Alie Ward has you covered. Each week, hear from Ward and a specialist about different kinds of -ologies. Be prepared to have your mind blown on a whole range of scientific topics people study — from pumpkins to clouds and beyond.
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
29
style
WESTERN COLORADO THROUGH THE LENS OF
EDWARD KUNZELMAN Words + Photos by Edward Kunzelman
I
t was not long after photography was invented
in the 1830s that fine art painters worried
1935, the demise of black and white photography
photographers would put them out of business.
was widely anticipated. Once again, color
After all, why would someone employ a person
photography was more real, more natural and
to spend long hours making a reproduction of a
more like how a person sees the world than
person or landscape when a camera could do so
black and white. But color film took a while to
in just a few minutes, and largely with greater
gain popularity.
realism and accuracy? Oddly though, by the later
1800s, photographers were using all sorts of
through a well-planned and executed black-
tricks, like using soft focus lenses and scratching
and-white image than I have ever achieved
film negatives in the darkroom, to create prints
with color photography,” Ansel Adams wrote
which emulated the work and style of painters.
in 1967.
Mesa Lakes area of Grand Mesa National Forest
30
When Kodak color film was introduced in
“I can get a far greater sense of ‘color’
When Photoshop and digital photography
through pictures into an explosion of color. But
replaced film and traditional darkrooms, the
much like the painters who will always have a
ability to enhance pictures with simple software
place in the art world, so too will black and white
adjustments turned our view of the world
photographers.
Colorado National Monument as seen from the Tiara Rado area in the Redlands
Connected Lakes State Park in Grand Junction
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
31
Mesa Lakes
The title “Red Rock Country” did not get
But beyond spectacular colors, “The
that label for no good reason. The canyons,
Monument,” as known by locals, is painted with
especially when lit by sunrise or sunset, reflect
an abundance of light and shadows and textures,
brilliant shades of red, yellow and orange, as
which is where black and white photographs
if the rocks were on fire. That is what catches
have timeless appeal. :
most everyone’s eye when visiting our parks and monuments.
Canyon Rim Trail • Colorado National Monument
32
edwardkunzelman.com
Monument View, Colorado National Monument
Mt. Garfield
View of San Juan Mountains from Lizard Head Pass
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
33
maker
CUSTOM HATS MADE IN TELLURIDE
CAMP BIRD Words by Kim Fuller | Photos courtesy of Kim Lake
Y
ou won’t find a fabric store in Telluride,
silk and grosgrain ribbon to strips of bleached
Colorado. Local resident Kim Lake started
bandana, all from her personally curated range
hand-making hats there in early 2021, right in the
34
of materials.
heart of the pandemic. She adorns each unique
headpiece with something distinct, from dyed
“I buy just raw silk, yardage of different kinds of
“Mostly I dye my own fabrics,” she shares.
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
35
silks, and I hand-dye all of it. I use tea, coffee; I
special or something silly, but something that
use Rit dye. I bleach some ribbon and bandanas
has great meaning to the wearer.
just to get different colors.”
will be happy to share with other people,”
Lake says it’s the intricate details of Camp
Bird hats that make them stand out. Each one
explains Lake. “It’s like a conversation piece.”
has a personal gold foil sweat band, branded
with the hat owner’s name and mantra.
and launching the business in January 2021, Lake
“I really try to make each hat different,” says
personally produces about five hats per month
Lake, “and something someone is going to wear
and has a waitlist of over 200 people. Right now,
a lot — who doesn’t wear them and is just part of
it’s all her, her hands, her hats and the inspirations
their personality.”
that come. Fittings usually take about an hour, and
once Lake has taken measurements and chatted
Each hat tells its own story, adds Lake.
Details on the inner band can signify something
36
“I’m trying to make something that someone
After purchasing equipment in October 2020
with each client about their hat, she gets to work.
Most days, she walks into her hat-making
Lake uses all traditional methods to make
space in Telluride, turns up some country music
the hats, with machinery created and used in the
and starts working on hats in three different
early 1900s. In naming Camp Bird, she says she
segments. She usually has about five hats in each
wanted to honor the impressive history of the
segment — banding then blocking then finishing.
San Juan Mountains and its early residents.
When blocking the hat, she takes the felt
“When you read about what the miners did,
body to the machinery, which uses steam and
it’s just so incredible how hardy everybody was
pressure to form the basic, open crown hat shape.
and everything they figured out how to do — it’s
She then cuts the brim to its width before sewing
crazy,” she remarks.
in the sweat band. Lastly, she hand-shapes each
hat without using any pre-made forming tools.
and sewing and textile work. But, she never
knew she wanted to be a milliner.
“I thought I wanted to do a storefront, but
Lake has a background in art — in painting
I’ve realized I really just want to make custom
hats one at a time for people,” Lake shares. “A
directions, and I got curious about how hats
storefront wouldn’t work well for that because
were made, so I started looking into it,” she
there would be a lot of interruption throughout
explains. “I didn’t have a mentor; I didn’t work
the day with people curious, and I wouldn’t get
for anyone. I just figured it out. “
my work done.”
Lake lives at the bottom of Imogene Pass on
to $1,400 on average. Lake is currently not
Tomboy Road in Telluride. Follow the road up
accepting new fittings, so she can catch up
and you’ll head toward Ouray and the Camp Bird
leading into the new year. To get on the waitlist,
mine, the namesake for her budding business.
visit campbirdtelluride.com. :
“It’s just that life takes you in different
Camp Bird custom hats range from $900
WE’RE HIRING!
Architectural Designer / Project Manager w/ 5-10 yrs experience Please email info@studiomwarch.com to schedule a meeting.
studiomwarch.com | @studio_mw | 303-910-4557
Modern design for the Colorado Plateau and Rocky Mountain Region. Based in beautiful Paonia, CO.
art
TRANSFORM MOLTEN GLASS INTO FUNCTIONAL ARTWORK IN A HANDS-ON CLASS
GATHERHOUSE GLASSBLOWING Words by Lisa Blake | Photos courtesy of GatherHouse Glassblowing Studio + Gallery
J
ohn Hudnut quips gentle, but precise,
Hudnut says. “It’s a crazy weird medium that no
intuitive instruction to a family of six in
one knows about except for this little community
his toasty, one-room Frisco studio on a cool fall
of glassblowers spread out around the world.”
afternoon. Clamp, blow, roll, paddle, tweeze, fire
and shape. Each child and parent takes a turn
taking glassblowing as an elective in college.
holding the rod and blowpipe while the others
“It was hot, loud and scary,” he recalls. “The
look on through safety goggles, mesmerized
professor said ‘here’s your shop, present
by the magical, hypnotic process of shaping
something at midterm’ and walked out.”
2,000-degree molten glass.
The artist went on to earn a degree in
The master glassblower welcomes groups
Industrial Design from The University of
into GatherHouse Glassblowing Studio + Gallery
The Arts in Philadelphia and spent the next
for private classes Mondays, Wednesdays and
four years honing his skills as a glass artist
Fridays, customizing the three-hour sessions to
in Greece, Italy and France. He worked as
students’ interests and abilities.
an apprentice for Xavier DeMirbeck in Paris
for two years before returning stateside and
“I struggled for many years to gain this
knowledge, and now I just want to share it,”
38
Hudnut began creating glass in 1990 after
moving to Colorado.
GatherHouse opened in 2004; today Hudnut
hosts numerous apprentices and shares his love of the craft with his community through mentorships and classes. He begins every class by pointing out fire extinguishers and the first aid kit, then explaining hand tools and appliances (furnace, glory hole, marver) and
TAKE A CLASS Glassblowing 101
finally checking students’ safety goggles and
3 hours, $145 per person
closed-toed shoes.
Classes by appointment only.
Call master glassblower John Hudnut
He takes a metal rod and gathers a blob of
molten glass, twisting it into an octopus and melting it back into a blob. Then, he has the
two weeks in advance to book your
students play with the malleable, blazing hot
group’s class and learn glassblowing
ball to see if they’re ready to create. Some classes
basics while you create your very
set up a production line, working together to create holiday ornaments. Other classes focus on
own take-home work of art.
specific techniques and create a larger collective piece, such as a vase or tumbler. Students take home what they create and materials are included in the class fee. Courses are suitable for groups, beginners and children nine years or
GatherHouse Glassblowing Studio + Gallery
older with a parent.
110 Second Ave., Frisco
970.485.2909 | gatherhouse.com
Due to COVID-19 precautions, lessons and
shopping are by appointment only. :
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
39
music
“ROCK” MUSIC Words by MacKennea Broyles | Photo by Kristen Lummis
I
40
t’s a cool fall morning in Grand Junction,
Colorado. The sun has just started to warm
design, making them Native American type
the sandstone walls of the Colorado National
flutes. Dillon emphasizes “type” to stress that,
Monument, highlighting the shimmer of the
although this style of flute was pioneered by the
Wingate embedded within and revealing the
Native Americans, the construction and playing
layers of geological time carved by water and
of the flute itself varies based on factors such as
wind. The shadows shrink away, and the soft,
geographic locations, culture, language group
melodic sound of a flute drifts on the breeze. The
and intended purpose.
source of this woodwind accompaniment? None
other than Greg Dillon playing one of his many
selection of wood, from forests or lumber yards,
handmade flutes.
with a grain pattern that appeals to Dillion. “The
sound varies based on the type of wood,” he
Dillon began crafting these flutes when his
The flutes are identified by a two-chamber
The construction process involves a careful
wife, Jean Dillon, brought a Native American
explains.
type flute home from a trip to Arizona. Dillon,
who was a trumpet player and avid woodworker,
construction. The flutes are made by adhering two
decided he wanted to make one. “Curiosity is
halves, each with their carved chambers, then, a
always coming after me,” Dillon laughs.
tuning process of discovering the base note and
Then, it’s off to his garage woodshop for the
drilling the holes at predetermined intervals. To
finish the design, Dillon carves a fetish for the top
passion project to be shared with many. Although
— a small wooden figurine based on “whatever is
Dillon often plays to the open air, his most
in my mind at the moment.”
diligent audience (by choice or design) is his wife
What started as a challenge has become a
For Dillon, crafting and playing these flutes is
Jean. She displays a flute her husband made for
a way to connect both hobby and history. Dillon
her with an inlay of needlepoint turquoise. “This
grew up in Cortez and witnessed the unavoidable
was my mother’s jewelry,” she explains. “It’s one
collision of cultures at the hands of assimilation.
earring from a set.”
Much of it wasn’t positive.
“The Native American people got screwed,”
greatest moments of joy is hearing strangers say
Dillon says, somberly. “They really did.” However,
he made their day, Jean jumps in. “I tell you that
Dillon also witnessed many instances of the
you made my day all the time!” she exclaims. “Oh
persistence of Native American culture and was
well. I’m old hat, I guess.”
both humbled and inspired by it.
And, when Dillon shares that one of his
Dillon shakes his head in mock dismay. “So
Although the history and heritage of these
am I,” he says. Then, acting as if this is a realization
flutes is ambiguous — likely as a result of the
that has just occurred to him, he adds, “What the
forced removal of the Native American peoples
hell?”
and the subsequent destruction of belongings
— Dillon enjoys bringing to life what history is
seem to disagree. Family members and friends
known through the music and information he
welcome the impromptu concerts, and even
shares while playing on the Colorado National
Jasper — the family dog of Dillion’s daughter,
Monument, a place that was originally home to
Kristen — is enchanted by the flute playing and
Ute peoples.
has been known to come sit at Dillon’s feet with
perked ears, listening to the soothing notes. :
“I come up here to play to the rocks,” Dillon
says. “I just play whatever comes to me, and it reverberates perfectly off the canyon walls. It’s very relaxing.”
It’s also a way for Dillon to remain connected
to the community. “It’s become how I practice being outgoing and friendly,” he says. He plays not only for his own enjoyment, but the joy of others.
Dillon has countless stories of the flute music
inspiring passers-by on the Colorado National Monument to do everything from dance to cry. He always ensures that there’s some history involved in the presentation, and maybe a joke or two.
To grandson Asher Lummis, it’s a hobby
Dillon picked up to fill the space in retirement left by Dillon’s former workaholic lifestyle as an architect. “I think he’s a little restless,” Lummis laughs.
There may be something to this. Jean Dillon
recounts times when he would go to work early in the morning, come home for dinner at around 5 p.m., then go back to work until 3 a.m. Now, Dillon is free to devote his time and energy to less stressful endeavors, like sharing the music and the history of the flutes with all who wish to hear it.
Despite Dillon’s assessment, the critics
food
HYOSUN ROSY KO
THE “HOLE” TRUTH ABOUT HOMEMADE BAGELS Words by Kimberly Nicoletti
O
42
ld-time bagel bakers say that if your jaw
doesn’t feel a little sore after eating a
advertise “fresh baked bagels,” Connie Mazza,
While some shops and restaurants may
bagel, it’s not a real bagel.
owner of Village Bagel in Edwards, warns that
Making traditional bagels from scratch is a
they’re often frozen bagels simply baked in an
multi-day process that involves using only a few
oven, without going through the boiling process.
fresh ingredients, aging the dough, boiling the
bagels, hand-seeding them and then baking them
Mazza jokes.
on wet, burlap-wrapped boards, flipping them
until they reach perfection. As a result, not many
comes to bagels and what you can find out there,”
truly homemade bagel shops exist in Colorado.
explains Scott Cassidy, owner of Backstreet Bagel
“It’s an abbreviated freshly baked bagel,” “There’s a wide range of quality when it
Company in Montrose. “Finding traditional, homemade bagels in the Western United States is kind of unique. We’re doing it authentically — the way they do in the Northeast.”
WHY DO BAGELS HAVE HOLES? Holes in bagels date back hundreds of years to central and Eastern Europe, when piling
THE PROCESS STARTS WITH SIMPLICITY
bagels high on a stick made
In addition to water, traditional bagel bakers
display for street vendors. The
use four main ingredients: flour, yeast, salt and sugar, or in Village Bagel’s case, malt and molasses in place of sugar. Bakers choose unbleached flour with live cultures, as opposed
them easier to transport and hole also promotes even baking of the thick dough, as well as confirmation that it’s baked
to bleached flour, which kills any enzymes and
thoroughly. Some sources also
amino acids in favor of extending shelf life.
assert that bagels symbolized
“Using unbleached flour results in a fresher,
tastier and healthier product,” Cassidy says.
Then, some bakers hand-roll bagels, so
no two look exactly alike. “We try to control for it, but because we’re human, there’s some variation,” Mazza says. “Some have a slightly
the never-ending circle of life and death and protected people from the evil eye; bagels were commonly given to women in labor in the 19th and 20th
larger ring, and sometimes the bagel puffs up so
centuries in Europe, particularly
you hardly see the hole.”
among Jewish people.
Others use machines to roll the dough.
Either way, all are weighed, so puffy, little hole or big, open hole, customers get the same amount of bagel.
Unlike donuts, there is no “bagel hole,” like
a donut hole, to bake; the bakers or machines form rolls of dough into a circular shape.
THEN IT TAKES TIME Aging, or cold proofing, the bagel allows the gluten enzymes in the dough to rise to the surface to ultimately create a nice, crunchy crust when it bakes. Because bagel dough is stiff, aging it for 24 to 72 hours is necessary to obtain the proper crunch, texture and flavor. As the bagels sit in a refrigerator, flavors intermingle.
“It’s like magic,” Mazza says. “That cold
proof is where the bagel comes alive. Without it, you wouldn’t get the proper crunchy crust or flavor.”
A specialty coffee roaster providing coffee for your
AND IT BOILS DOWN TO …
home or business needs.
Boiling bagels after they cold proof is another hallmark of homemade, traditional bagels.
Visit the roastery
Boiling draws out even more of the natural
coffee shop in Montrose
flavors by reactivating the yeast and sugars.
or order online at cimarronroasters.com.
ALEJANDRA CIFRE GONZALEZ
44
Village Bagel bakers treat their water with
with machines, which mechanically sprinkle a
baked baking soda (a complex process used in
sparser amount of seeds on the bagels.
pretzel factories), which alkalizes the water and
adds flavor. They might also add sugar, molasses,
around plain, salt, garlic or “everything” bagels,
malt and/or salt to the water for additional
bakers offer a plethora of different flavors, from
flavor. The boiling process also rehydrates the
cinnamon raisin or onion to chocolate chip or
bagel, adds a shine and helps generate a crunchy
cranberry. Local bakers also craft their own
outside and chewy inside.
specialties.
While traditional flavors tend to revolve
Charcoal bagels have become a cult classic
BAKING IT TO PERFECTION
at Village Bagel, due to the unique color and
The last major step involves baking the bagels
charcoal’s reputation of absorbing toxins within
on burlap soaked in water, which covers wood
the body. Adding charcoal powder results in a
or aluminum baking boards. The wet burlap
jet-black bagel without affecting the flavor and
promotes steaming, providing a soft, chewy
also adds moisture, so they stay fresher longer
bagel on the inside and texture on the outside.
than other homemade bagels.
After the bagels bake on one side, they’re flipped
for an even crunch.
nod to Colorado comes in the form of green chile
Meanwhile, Backstreet Bagel Company’s
and jalapeño cheddar bagels.
AND FLAVORING
Bakers hand-seed bagels, dunking them on both
thrive on making customers happy by providing
sides in a large pan filled to the brim with seeds.
a truly fresh and traditional bagel — something
Then, they press the seeds in. This contrasts
that’s hard to come by west of the Mississippi. :
No matter what the flavor, local bakers
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food
WESTERN COLORADO RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT
THE ASSEMBLY | EAGLE Words by Kim Fuller SHERRI INNIS
E
46
very evening, two walls of large picture
come together over fresh, seasonal, globally-
windows allow soft light to shine into The
inspired food, thoughtfully produced wine and
Assembly. Guests gather at the long bar and high-
hand-crafted cocktails paired with exceptional
top tables adjacent to the kitchen while Caleb
hospitality.”
Mackey stands to expedite food tickets, shuffle
plated dishes and pass them to hands heading
and securing a notable reputation, The Assembly
toward the dining room.
has some room to play. Cocktails like “Take Your
If you ask Eagle County locals, The Assembly
Medicine” are a nod to the classics (a Penicillin, in
stands out as one of the area’s best restaurants.
this case), and even while testing their innovative
This isn’t because it’s the new kid in town
mixology methods, bartenders here successfully
or because some might say Eagle has slim
display an impressive understanding of what
pickings when it comes to culinary gems. It’s
makes a damn good drink.
because Caleb and his wife Jaimie have created
something truly special. The refreshing space,
her refined taste for wine that has inspired a
dynamic menu and carefully curated wine list,
list to raise the eyebrows of any sommelier.
all paired with the happy and helpful staff, is
A full spectrum of regions and varietals are
successfully delighting diners night after night.
represented, from the Loire Valley of France to
the central coast of California.
“We opened The Assembly because we
Now having established this solid foundation
It’s a good thing Jaimie loves Chablis. It’s
wanted to create a gathering place for our
community,” shares Jaimie, “where people can
is a perfect way to start any meal, paired with
Louis de Grenelle Corail Saumur Brut Rosé
CHRISTINE RICE
White Chocolate Cashew Cheesecake
Harvest Salad
Sweet Potato Curry
Chicken Confit
a Colorado Charcuterie board for the table or a
he adds, have provided the support he needs to
Harvest Salad of mixed greens, arugula, roasted
thrive. Utley started as a line cook and quickly
chickpeas, delicate squash, crispy red cabbage,
proved himself into a main chef role.
vanilla-lime vinaigrette and pomegranate
molasses. The menu is small enough to offer
experiences or is a part of it, it’s all about
approachability while still integrating a dynamic
community. If you go, you’ll likely settle in and
range of ethnic styles.
stay for a while, especially if you finish your meal
with the delectable White Chocolate Cashew
Entrees keep it fresh, like the Blackened
For The Assembly and everyone who
Halibut with dirty rice congee, Cajun holy trinity,
Cheesecake.
okra, caramelized shallot and fried parsley.
“We are passionate about creating memories
“It’s kind of cool that we do some of the
and caring for our community above all,” says
classic stuff, but we put our own twist on it,”
Jaimie, “and have built this welcoming, inclusive
shares chef Brandon Utley.
environment to be an extension of our home and
our family.” :
Utley says he was getting burnt out on
cooking before he started at The Assembly, but he’s back to feeling inspired. Caleb and Jaimie,
theassemblyeagle.com
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
47
wellness + fitness
VITALIY ZALISHCHYKER
BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN COMMUNICATION
CANINE CONNECTIONS Words by Laura Mills
M
48
ost people love dogs, but is it really just
trust and bonding. They continue to state that
the “love” of dogs that makes us feel so
interactions with dogs can also decrease cortisol,
connected to them? Or, is it the fact that they
the brain’s primary stress hormone, to improve
fulfill a need that we have difficulty obtaining in
our overall mood and well-being, while reducing
our current environment?
anxiety.
Colorado State University’s ongoing study of
In 2018, News In Health released an article
the human/animal bond has stated numerous
about the power of pets and the health benefits of
times that petting and making eye contact
human/animal interaction. The article discusses
with a dog can lead to increases in oxytocin —
the foundations of mindfulness and how they
a chemical in the brain involved in empathy,
include attention, intention, compassion and
awareness. When analyzing the way animals act,
to be used for means of protection of the
we can see that those are all things they innately
homestead as they once were, and more to
bring to the table.
benefit one’s mental and physical health.
When describing the effects dog therapy
At HopeWest, Western Colorado’s hospice
has on her clients, Sylvia Stribling, director of
and long-term care facility, this rings true. In
Caring Canines Colorado, states, “They become
2019, HopeWest’s then 27 volunteer dog and
more self-confident, less depressed, improve
handler pairs provided 375 hours of volunteer
communication skills, learn to express emotions
service, fulfilling 98 referrals for pet therapy
and become less anxious.” Whether the client
across Mesa, Delta, Montrose, Ouray and Rio
is a student who needs extra attention to reach
Blanco counties. Lisa Orter, senior director of
their goals or is a resident in an elderly care
volunteer services at HopeWest, explained how
facility experiencing joy from a four-legged
dog volunteers help complete their holistic
friend, research and experiences show that dogs
care model.
provide a tangible form of connection and allow
for deeper communication.
age or their condition, have limited verbal
At HopeWest, some residents, due to their
Records of canine therapy in hospitals and
communication, decreasing their ability to be
for therapeutic intervention date back to the
socially connected with those around them,
early 1900s, showing us that the connection
which can be quite isolating. HopeWest’s goal
between healing and our furry companions has
is to not only meet the healthcare needs of
been used clinically for over 100 years. It’s no
residents, but also to fulfill their emotional and
secret that humans and dogs have formed strong
spiritual needs.
relationships
throughout
history;
although,
today’s four-legged companions are less likely
Orter spoke fondly about a specific dog/
resident pair that would simply enjoy a weekly
Looking for a cozy home for winter? Your perfect home awaits. Welcome home.
AnnaRickenbach.com • 970.640.5360 • #AnnaSellsGJ
ice cream together. Arnold the Chihuahua
This not only engages the student and the dog,
allowed a non-verbal resident to create a bond
but provides the student the knowledge and
over something they both loved; the resident
ability to convey their needs while focusing on
may not have been able to have that connection
the tones of their voice. This is such a powerful
if it wasn’t for Arnold’s visits.
way to teach children that their voice is a tool to
access the rest of the world.
Michele Bishop, the mental health specialist
of the Poudre School District, explained that dogs
often bridge the gap in communication between
hearts of many students and staff is Annabelle.
young students, their teachers and peers. Bishop
Annabelle is an energetic dog with a lot of spunk.
has worked directly with the Caring Canines
Due to her temperament, she gave students who
volunteer dog/handler duo Oscar and Katie for
were having a hard time regulating their own
the last six to seven years. Over this time, they
energy an understanding of how to manage
have helped students who are experiencing
their emotions. By observing the tools that were
behavioral issues, those who have dealt with
used to calm Annabelle down, they were able
some kind of trauma in their lives and teachers
to formulate their own tools to do the same for
and students navigating the tough emotions
themselves. Bringing canines into schools gives
around grief.
faculty a way to better understand their students
and helps them thrive not only in an education
Each student has different goals, and the
Another therapy dog who touched the
dog/handler duos work through a variety of
setting, but also on their journey through life.
skills with the students to not only reach those
goals but teach them how that transitions into
is nothing short of remarkable. Whether it is the
the way they interact with others. A student who
humanistic connection or the innate mindfulness
is having a hard time opening up may work on
that dogs possess, it’s consistently clear that dog
how to say commands in a kind but firm way.
therapy is something that needs to continue. :
The connection between canine and human
CARING CANINES FOUNDATION
If you would like to volunteer at HopeWest (hopewestco.org) or donate to the Caring Canines (caringcanines colorado.org) non-profit, check out their websites for more information.
50
adventure
FUEL YOUR ADVENTURE
WILD MONKEY SNACKS Words by Zoe Cramer
A
good candy bar requires the perfect
were junk food like your classic candy bars. It was
balance between crunchy, smooth and
at this point we realized, why doesn’t a healthy
chewy; it has a decent coating of chocolate; and
version of these classic candy bars exist? And so
one bite should have you shoving the rest in your
that was the catalyst to start messing around in
mouth. Wild Monkey Snacks’ mouthwatering
the kitchen.”
bars not only meet, but exceed, this criterion.
The couple never identified as cooks –– it
The Boulder-based company, founded by
was willpower, determination, lots of research,
couple Brooke Oliphant and John Campbell,
trial and error and support from the Boulder
first started selling bars at the Boulder County
community that allowed Wild Monkey Snacks to
Farmers Market in June 2020. There, I had the
be created.
honor of meeting Oliphant’s smile as she sold me
my first Wild Monkey Snack. I felt malnourished
people that healthy food can taste great while
and needed a boost. After my first bite, I couldn’t
persuading people that an outdoor, active and
stop. I returned the weeks following to find their
healthy lifestyle filled with good food is the key to
stand again and again.
happiness.
Wild Monkey Snacks isn’t an ordinary candy
The company’s goals are two-fold: convince
“We feel like we’re the best version of
bar –– it’s the candy bar reimagined. Only whole-
ourselves when we do all those things. We just
food ingredients make up the layers of crunchy
really want to motivate and inspire people to be
granola, creamy cashew butter and a hardened
the best version of themselves as well,” Oliphant
layer of chocolate. Their salty-sweet bars are
expresses.
vegan, dairy-free, soy-free, peanut-free and
gluten-free (though not yet GF certified).
Snacks’ Instagram. Daily stories show Oliphant
This is especially evident on Wild Monkey
“We really wanted to make sure that we
and Campbell getting outside and motivating
made a product that everyone can have, and no
their followers, or “wild monkeys,” to get outside
one felt singled out,” Oliphant shares.
and move.
Oliphant and Campbell hadn’t intended
“We realized with Instagram, we were
to sell their bars. They initially wanted to
enjoying promoting that lifestyle to people almost
create something for themselves. After a long,
more so than we were promoting the bar. If I can
unsuccessful outing, they found they didn’t crave
say one thing every day that convinces one person
any of the hiking snacks they brought and wanted
to go and try to better their life, then I have felt
an alternative.
like I’m winning,” Campbell says.
“We felt there was nothing on the market that
Currently, Wild Monkey Snacks has 11
had super high calories, good fat, good protein and
retailers and also ships on occasion. Find more
that we looked forward to,” Campbell explains.
information at wildmonkeysnacks.com and check
“And most of the things that we looked forward to
out their Instagram @wildmonkeysnacks. :
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
51
spoke
GET OUTSIDE!
GEAR FOR THE SEASON Compiled by S+B Staff
PEARL iZUMi Cyclone Gel Gloves
Ruffwear Dirtbag
When temperatures drop and
Seat Cover
you still want to ride, these
Road trips with
cycling gloves from PEARL
your best furry
iZUMi have a back-of-hand
friend just got
softshell that provides wind
a little more
and water protection. We
comfortable for
tested the Cyclone in a chilly
everyone. This
rainstorm and had warm hands throughout. Four-way stretch makes it easy to maneuver while wearing the gloves, even with their cushy padding. Reflective elements increase visibility in low-light conditions, so you can add safety to your ride early and late in the day. $45 pearlizumi.com
durable and waterproof cover shields your vehicle’s backseat area, and the convertible design allows you to install the cover as a hammock configuration or just as a traditional cover. The non-slip (and machine-washable) fabric keeps dogs stable during the ride, and access to seatbelts stays available to keep human passengers secure, as well. $79.95 ruffwear.com Mountain Hardware Powabunga 32 Pack Whether you’re heading up the ski resort lift or into the backcountry, this durable backpack has ergonomic suspension and a unique pivoting hip belt to handle heavy loads and keep you balanced when you’re skinning uphill or shredding down the mountain. Multiple access points and a swing-around mode make it possible to grab your things without fully taking off the pack.
Picture Expedition Line
$200 mountainhardwear.com
Picture’s entire Expedition Line is now made with BIO-SOURCED polyester. The shell fabric, which is derived from sugarcane waste and blended with recycled PET, reduces carbon emissions by 25% while providing the same level of durability and performance as traditional polyester. Purchase for less environmental impact while staying warm and dry on the slopes. Shown here is the Stone Jacket ($300) and Track Pant ($220). picture-organic-clothing.com 52
Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra Clock miles on packed snow this winter by turning your trail running shoes, hiking shoes and insulated boots into snow grips. These trail crampons have 18 stainless steel spikes and a steel-toe bail, with an elastomer harness around the foot and optional Velcro strap to keep the fit secure. We’ve found these more durable than other brands, and the puncture-proof carry bag makes storing and transporting your spikes safe and convenient. $75 hillsound.com
DÆHLIE Challenge Jacket This softshell jacket repels wind and water, paired with a brushed interior for warmth when you’re out in the elements this winter.
Meier Skis
The front of the jacket is padded with Thermore
Crosscut BC
Ecodown fiber, a 100% recycled fiber with highly
Designed for
effective insulation properties, which stays clump-
backcountry
free after washing. Fleece material lines the neck
travel, go
to provide extra warmth and comfort, and elastic
uphill faster
panels under the arms and in the upper back allow
to earn your
for ideal mobility and ventilation when your running in the
turns with
snow or cross-country skiing. $190
these touring
dahlie.com
skis from Coloradobased brand Meier. The flat-to-rocker profile on these is built
Danner Cloud Cap
to tour more
Keep your feet toasty when
efficiently on
you’re out and about this winter.
the ascent
Durable suede and lightweight
and, then,
textile create sturdiness for
carve through
these boots, paired with 100%
whatever you
waterproof Danner Dry barriers
encounter on
that allow moisture to escape
the ski down.
without letting water in. The
$899
insulation is top-notch to keep
meierskis.com
your feet warm when the temperatures drop, and Vibram Arctic Grip AT compound ensures great traction in icy and
Ignik FireCan Create a campfire wherever you are with this portable fire pit. It’s compact and durable, built to bring the warm glow of a campfire to your backyard, tailgate or campsite. Raised, propane-burning design may be allowed during a burn ban, but always be sure to check with every land manager’s current regulations. $199.95 ignik.com
snowy conditions. $197.95 danner.com PEARL iZUMi Thermal Tight A thermal fleece fabric insulates these tights, Sweet Protection Trooper 2Vi Mips Helmet This strong and light helmet features an advanced integration system of helmet shell, shock absorbing liner and Mips brain protection technology. It’s also supplied with a removable Slalom Chin Guard in powder coated steel. $329.95
while the water-shedding outer layer keeps you dry from splashes and light rain. Wear these for cold weather running or cycling, and while they don’t have a built-in chamois, you can pull them over your favorite pair or just wear them on their own. $125 pearlizumi.com
POC Devour Glacial Save your eyes on the snow by shielding them across the brow and at the sides with these fullcoverage shades from POC. The Devour Glacial sunglasses provide a very large field of view and offer adjustable temples and a nosepiece. $250 na.pocsports.com
sweetprotection.com SPOKE+BLOSSOM
53
spoke
ATHLETE PROFILE
LEOTA SWEETMAN-McPEEK A GRAND 50 YEARS ON SKIS Words by Courtney Holden | Photo courtesy of Leota Sweetman-McPeek
L
54
eota Sweetman-McPeek loves feeling the sunshine on her back in the winter. She
parents were skiers. Neither of my parents were athletes. I don’t know how I became an athlete.”
finds peace in the smoothness of her skis sluicing
across the snow, the quietness of a winter day
enrolled in a youth ski program through the
on a solitary slope. Her greatest joy, however, is
now-closed local sporting goods store, Gene
seeing other people learn to love these things —
Taylors (their Gunnison store is still open), that
and the process of teaching them to appreciate it
offered a ski lesson, lift ticket and bus ride up to
all. Given her passions, working as a ski instructor
the small resort of Mesa Creek (now a go-to spot
was clearly the perfect career choice. So, for the
for tubing on Grand Mesa). A few years later,
71-year-old Grand Junction native who plans
during her first semester as a freshman at Mesa
to give lessons on parallel turns and surviving
Junior College, Sweetman-McPeek took skiing
mogul runs at Powderhorn Ski Resort again this
for her physical education credit. “I developed a
winter, it’s been an incredibly gratifying past 50
passion for it,” she shares. “I absolutely loved it.”
years. “I am a born teacher,” she says of the half-
century she’s spent as a ski instructor. “I missed
ski instructor at Powderhorn the following year
it so badly this last year of isolation.”
at age 19. Her application was accepted, and a
lifelong career began.
Born in 1950, Sweetman-McPeek didn’t
Undeterred by her parents’ disinterest, she
That love motivated her to look into jobs as a
learn to ski until age 12. “My dad thought it was
a dangerous sport,” she laughs. “Neither of my
taught at multiple resorts — Powderhorn,
Over the years, Sweetman-McPeek has
Loveland Ski Area, Purgatory Resort, Sleeping
the top of Grand Mesa to see the whole Grand
Giant in Wyoming and Red Lodge Resort in
Valley,” she says.
Montana — and estimates she’s given more than
3,000 lessons to skiers ages three through 84.
even more people take advantage of Colorado’s
Early in her career, she coached a high school ski
winter playgrounds, especially over on the
team in Cody, Wyoming. Since there wasn’t a ski
Western Slope. Though she acknowledges that
area nearby, much of their “practice time” was
inversion causes the colder months, January in
spent playing soccer in an effort to maintain the
particular, to be gray down at Grand Junction’s
student athletes’ fitness and foot coordination.
elevation of 4,500 feet, she points to the bright
Despite the improv coaching regime, her Cody
upside: there are blue skies up above the gray.
High School team competed — and did well — in
ski races throughout the state.
the clouds,” she explains. “If you ski, you get
Roger Whitehouse ranks among Sweetman-
The veteran ski instructor would love to see
“Grand Mesa is at 10,000 feet. You’re above
more sunny days.”
McPeek’s favorite students. At the time of his
first lesson with her, he was 83 years old. “He
from ski instructing due to the pandemic, she’s
wanted to learn to ski with his grandchildren,”
eager to get back this winter — even though she’s
she remembers, noting his dedication not just
recovering from two total knee replacements. “I
to learning the motions but to perfecting them.
should be back by December 21,” she reported.
“What I admired about him was his commitment
Not that she’s counting the days or anything.
to do it right, not just do it sloppy. He wanted to
The surgery and therapy have been painful, she
be a really good skier.”
admits, but she knows it will be worth it. “I plan
Though Sweetman-McPeek took last year off
When it came to helping her own child
on skiing another 10 or 15 years,” she says. “I
learn how to ski, Sweetman-McPeek broke her
may slow down on the bumps, but I’m still going
personal rule. Typically, she says, she strongly
to be out there playing in the sunshine.” :
advises parents against teaching their own kids, because it causes too much stress for everyone involved. The natural educator, however, couldn’t resist and had her daughter out on planks by age five skiing along behind her.
“I taught her the basics. She just followed
in my footsteps,” Sweetman-McPeek says. Now, when the pair ski together, their similar form and turning techniques are noticeable even to outsiders. “People who watch us comment that we ski the same. We ski in exactly the same rhythm.”
Ultimately though, Sweetman-McPeek hopes
to teach her students lessons beyond how to ski effortlessly through tight trees and to navigate the steeps with a grin not a gasp. She wants them to share her love for the sport and her appreciation for the natural environment that makes it possible. That’s why, every time she coaches a beginner down their first run, she tells them to take three deep breaths and take a look both at what they just accomplished and what they can see from their current vantage point.
“I always have them [take a minute to
appreciate] the beauty of looking out from
grand outdoors
’TIS THE SEASON FOR RIVER PERMIT PARTIES Words + Photo by Lindsay DeFrates
T
56
he days are short, and the mornings cold
and crisp. Sometimes mist rises from the
and Lodore on the Green River, Westwater on
surface of the river as it winds its way west,
the Colorado and the Four Rivers up in Idaho, are
and snow deposits are accumulating in its high-
so adored by boaters that permit systems have
country bank.
been in place for decades. Permit caps limiting
In sheds and garages across Colorado,
the number of launches allowed each day are set
rafting gear has been patched, rolled and packed
by land-managers such as the Forest Service and
away for weeks in favor of winter toys. For many
the Bureau of Land Management based on how
avid boaters, January holds a special place in the
human traffic would impact the fragile, riparian
calendar: permit season.
ecosystem in these pristine, remote canyons.
Then, lotteries are held every winter to assign
That’s right, while winter grips the world
River stretches such as Desolation Canyon
outside, river runners are plotting summer
those coveted permits as fairly as possible.
launch dates and choosing favorite camps with a
few of their closest friends. Then, they toss their
exponentially over the last few years, and what
names into the virtual hat, along with tens of
used to be unlikely has now become next to
thousands of others, and wait to find out if they
impossible. In 2021, for example, applicants for
will win a chance to spend a few days on some of
the Middle Fork of the Salmon River lottery had
the most stunning stretches of rivers in the West.
just a .983% chance of success when over 22,000
people applied for just 205 launch permits.
The odds are not in their favor.
Interest in these rivers has grown
Andy Horn, who has been rafting on the
To apply for a river permit lottery, all you
Colorado River since the early 1990s said,
will need is an account on recreation.gov, a
“I’ve come to consider permit applications as
solid understanding of the put-in, take-out and
merely a time to blindly donate to the managing
overnight campsites available for that stretch,
agencies, or at least the government’s contractor
and a registration fee for each applicant. Keep
that manages the permit systems these days,
in mind that the registration fee is not refunded
out of habit because the success rates obtaining
even if you lose and does not go to the river
permits seem to have dropped down into the
or land management organization, but rather
infinitesimal range.”
is a transaction fee collected by the website
To increase their odds, boaters often form
and returned to the corporation, Booz Allen
“permit parties,” in which all members of the
Hamilton, which holds a national contract to
group apply for the same dates on the same rivers.
offer the service.
Then, if one person wins, the whole group gets
to go. Permit season for the most popular river
a little different and not all are lotteries. Many
stretches across the country begins in December
permits must be picked up 60 days in advance of
and often ends in mid or late February, so most
the desired launch date, but the competition for
of these parties are held sometime in January.
those is just as stiff.
It sounds a bit unfair when one looks at the
The permit process for every river stretch is
So, gather some friends, make some plans
number, but it is very important to remember
and play the river lottery this winter. You’ll be
that the places we love are being protected by
in good company with hundreds of thousands of
those restrictions. Try to imagine 2,000 people
others and might just win the chance to float the
a day floating through Westwater Canyon or
trip of a lifetime. :
launching from the Gates of Lodore, and the need for a permit system becomes crystal clear.
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family
A GUIDE TO VENTURING OUTSIDE WITH YOUR LITTLE ONES
DON’T STOP WHEN THE TEMPS DROP Words by Jennifer Weintraub NATALE RETZLAFF
G
etting out on the trail with a young family
GEAR
during Colorado’s colder months can be
Stay cozy: Make sure your little one stays warm
intimidating. All the extra gear, working around
in a full down bunting or snowsuit. Several
their schedules and motivating yourself to get out
companies, such as Patagonia, North Face and
in the cold is tough, but it’s not impossible. With
Columbia, make good quality pieces. Check
the right gear, planning and patience, there are
the weather outside and layer underneath
plenty of activities from hiking to cross country
accordingly. A lightweight or heavy onesie, socks
skiing that your family can take advantage of
and a beanie will keep them toasty.
this winter.
58
Pack: Find a pack that’s comfortable for both you and your baby. Whether you’re still in a front carrier in those early months, have transitioned to a frame backpack or are using a kids trailer on skis, such as the Burley or the Thule Chariot, there are a lot of options on the market. It’s also helpful to attach a pacifier and/or a toy to your pack so it doesn’t get lost on the trail. Got milk? An insulated thermos is a must have for any cold weather adventure. Whether you are keeping milk warm, need hot water to mix with formula or want a hot chocolate for yourself, a good thermos will keep your beverage to temperature for hours. Blankets: Blankets are lightweight and versatile. A lightweight muslin blanket blocks the wind when draped over a backpack, and a packable down blanket adds extra warmth when wrapped JENNIFER WEINTRAUB
around their little bodies. Bring the heat: Kids stay warmer next to you in a front pack, but if you’ve transitioned to a trailer, a hot water bottle adds extra heat when tucked in the blankets.
Empowering
All the extras: Arm your pack with diapers, wipes, an extra outfit and snacks. Snacks are
YOUNG WOMEN THROUGH MOUNTAIN BIKING
key for you and your kids — bonus points if you bring some to share with your friends.
to create brighter futures & build stronger communities.
PLANNING Set yourself up for success: Before you leave the house, test out your gear to make sure you have all the necessary pieces and everything is accounted for when you load up the car. Start your day off right and change them into a fresh diaper at the trailhead just before you stuff them into a snowsuit and set off on the trail. Scheduling: You know your baby best, so schedule your activity around their nap or awake times. Planning your adventure around what works for their sleep schedules, whether on the trail or at home, will help your day go
EMPOWERED WOMEN EMPOWER WOMEN.
smoothly. With a newborn, walking guaranteed us a nap. As they get older, taking a hike while they’re awake seems to work out better since
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The Cycle Effect is a 501c3 non-profit on the Western Slope, Colorado
CHRIS MILLER
there’s so much stimulation being outside.
PATIENCE
Morning outings are usually best, as most kids
Give yourself some grace. It may not always be
tend to be less cranky and more flexible earlier
perfect. You may not be able to strictly adhere
in the day.
to your schedule. They may break down, have a
blowout or you forget something essential. It’s
Feeding: Bring more than enough food with
okay; we’re all human. You’ll all survive.
you; you can always leave a cooler in the car.
Plan to either feed at the trailhead and/or at
with your day and your family. It may not always
your destination. Or, snack the whole way —
go as planned, but if you can maintain a positive
whatever works for your family.
attitude, being outside is healthy and beneficial
The key to success is to be patient and flexible
to both you and your little ones. Get out there and enjoy! :
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take a hike
COAL CANYON TRAILHEAD
MAIN CANYON Words + Photos by Melanie Wiseman
W
hat family-friendly hike could be more
Wild Horse Area, part of the Bookcliffs range
enjoyable than one shared with wild
extending from Western Colorado to Eastern
horses? With snow in the high country, winter
Utah. Wild horse habitat is the primary
is the perfect time to get out and explore Main
concern in this area specifically designated
Canyon, a highly accessible spur off Coal
for wild horses. Main Canyon is a moderately
Canyon Road.
trafficked trail in the free roaming horse range
Located a few miles east of Mount Garfield,
which encompasses 36,113 acres of rugged
Main Canyon is located in the Little Bookcliffs
canyons and plateaus north of Grand Junction.
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
61
62
Approximately
the
behind the Bookcliffs and the trail is shaded. If
sagebrush parks and pinyon-juniper covered
not prepared, this can turn a warm outing to a
hills home.
chilly one very quickly.
150
wild
horses
call
The hike itself is an out-and-back hike for
all skill levels, following a meandering stream
GETTING THERE
(great for the kids or dogs to play in). Although
From Grand Junction, drive east on I-70 and
the Main Canyon hike is easy, the sandy trail
take the Cameo exit (#45); then drive across the
will slow your pace. No worries, as you’ll want
Colorado River and train tracks, past the Cameo
to take in the dramatic views of the Grand Mesa
Shooting and Education Complex. After just over
and keep your eyes peeled for horse sightings.
two miles, you will come to the end of the well-
The wild horses can blend in with the
maintained dirt road (no 4WD necessary) and
terrain like a Bev Doolittle painting, so bring
park in the lot labeled Coal Canyon Trailhead,
binoculars and stop occasionally to scan the
the same trailhead for Main Canyon.
canyon foothills. Horses travel in small bands
and are on the move. Observe them from a safe
Main Canyon trailhead to the left of the parking
distance. If their behavior changes, then you
area. The trailhead is well marked, where the
are too close.
trail itself leaves the hiker to follow a well-
There is a restroom, and you will see the
The trailhead elevation is 6,018 feet,
trodden path from previous explorers. Getting
slightly higher than the Grand Valley, which
lost isn’t an option, as you are following a nearly
you can use as a guide for weather conditions.
12-mile canyon and creek bed.
The best time of day to hike Main Canyon is
in the morning when the ground is solid and
make a whole day of it! :
Enjoy Main Canyon for a couple hours, or
the sun is out. Early afternoon the sun ducks
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stay + play
WINTER PARK
GRAVITY HAUS Words by Kim Fuller
COURTESY OF GRAVITY HAUS
Y
our next Colorado ski town getaway
its own, once you’ve settled into one Gravity
has gotten even more inviting. With an
Haus the others you’ll visit feel like a home away
impressive vision and efficient growth strategy,
from home.
Gravity Haus is quickly standing out in a few
64
local mountain areas as “a community for the
STAY
modern adventurer.”
Especially unique from its more luxurious sister
We recently rolled into Winter Park to
hotel properties, Gravity Haus Winter Park is
check out the newest Gravity Haus property,
a little more casual as a boutique motel of 38
located right off of Hwy. 40 in the center of
newly renovated guest rooms. Gravity Haus
town. The modern mountain-inspired aesthetic
encourages membership options so guests can
of reclaimed wood and black accents was all
take advantage of discounts and special member
aglow from the main building’s soft lighting as
amenities like the Haus Quiver (gear borrowing)
we arrived at sunset.
and StarterHaus (shared workspace), but you
don’t have to be a member to stay.
After already experiencing both the
“We have created a place where people can
Breckenridge and Vail properties, Gravity Haus
Winter Park already felt familiar. While each
stay, people can work, people can have fitness
location offers unique amenities and a vibe all
and adventures,” shares Rob Davis, general
KIM FULLER
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
65
KIM FULLER
KIM FULLER
manager of Gravity Haus Winter Park. “We
EAT
really work to check all those boxes, which is in
Gravity Haus Winter Park has a much tighter
line with the other properties as well.”
kitchen than the other properties, but the small
menu plays big.
Dogs are allowed at all Gravity Haus
properties, and the park-yourself outside
entrance motel setup of Winter Park made it
cooked from scratch daily,” Davis explains. “We
even more convenient to have our old pup Jack
don’t have a freezer and we don’t have a fryer.”
with us. COURTESY OF GRAVITY HAUS
66
“Everything we do in the kitchen is all
Fresh ingredients and flavors truly come
through in all the breakfast, lunch and dinner offerings. Start with a burrito for breakfast, try a salad for lunch and then the risotto special for dinner. Be sure to start you day with a cup of brew from Unravel Coffee, featuring Gravity Haus’s very own sustainably sourced beans. Head over to the bar for afternoon happy hour and you’ll see some locals bellying up après adventure. Try one of their delicious and homemade batched cocktails like the Alpenglow or a local beer on draft.
PLAY Didn’t bring bikes or skis on your getaway? Gravity Haus members can take advantage of the Haus Quiver at the Winter Park location. Every season, Gravity Haus partners with local and national gear brands to curate a quiver with all the gear you need to experience the outdoors. Learn more at hausquiver.com. Winter
Park
has
premier
access
to
mountain bike trails in the summer and fall, and the nearby Winter Park Resort for skiing and
970.248.9833
ASCENTMEDGJ.COM
snowboarding in the winter and spring. Many backcountry access options are also nearby for those with experience and proper avalanche training.
On our final Winter Park morning this past
fall, we enjoyed a chilly mountain bike ride
EXPLORE W I N TE R with ACES
before check out time and could see the snow starting to build on the nearby resort. Like most mountain towns, Winter Park has something to offer in every season. Gravity Haus is a great home base for all the fun.
Throughout our stay it was ideal to walk
just a few steps from our room to Dryland Fitness. The on-site gym offers group fitness classes, open gym times, outdoor hot tubs and plenty of equipment for Gravity Haus members and hotel guests. Day passes are also available for non-members. Locals lead the classes and you’ll be next to many Winter Park residents in class who have made Dryland Fitness in Winter Park their home gym.
“Community is really important to us,” says
Davis. “We’ve had a lot of great feedback from the community. Locals spend their time here.” : gravityhaus.com
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getaway
KIM FULLER
GET AWAY TO THE AMERICA RIVIERA
SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA Words by Kim Fuller
W
68
hile European coastlines may feel far
STAY
away, the central California haven
New to the hotel scene in Santa Barbara is the
known as the “American Riviera” is now a direct
Kimpton Goodland Hotel. Located in Goleta, just
Southwest flight from Denver. Santa Barbara
a short drive from downtown Santa Barbara,
Airport greets guest with a Mediterranean-
Goodland gave an old property a fresh new
style terminal illustrated with colorful tiles,
look that boasts a beachy aesthetic. Every room
rustic lanterns, modern art and beautiful
has a vintage-style record player with vinyl on
Spanish murals. A visit to Santa Barbara during
loan, and a yoga mat comes with every room
Colorado’s winter season eventuates the contrast
to borrow during your stay. The ground-level
of climates — leave a snow-covered Denver and
rooms surround a pool and several shared fire
arrive to rich sea-kissed air breezing through tall
pits, making it easy to grab a refreshment from
palm trees.
Good Bar and relax on-property.
BEN HERNDON, COURTESY OF VISIT SANTA BARBARA
CARTER HIYAMA, COURTESY OF BCYCLE AND VISIT SANTA BARBARA
BLAKE BRONSTAD, COURTESY OF VISIT SANTA BARBARA
69
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
KIM FULLER
PLAY Bike rentals are also available through Wheel Fun Rentals if you’d rather plan a road bike route or spend your afternoon with a partner on a tandem. Bring a lock and you can ride over to the Gaviota Coast for a kayak through Santa Barbara Adventure Company. The Gaviota Coast is one of the few remaining sections of undeveloped, open coastline in California, and is home to more than 1,500 species of plant and animal life.
Guides provide wetsuits, life jackets and
kayaks before introducing an on-shore kayak lesson before heading to the water. This trip takes paddlers through kelp beds while the guides share information on marine ecology in the area and the Santa Barbara Channel.
For some mindful movement in the
afternoon, Santa Barbara Beach Yoga has openair classes looking out over the ocean. Enjoy the scenery from Cabrillo Pavilion rooftop with the
For those who want to stay within walking
distance of Santa Barbara’s beaches and scenic harbor, Brisas del Mar, Inn At The Beach is a Mediterranean-inspired hotel with welcoming rooms and suites. Complimentary beach cruiser rentals are available so you can pedal your way around town.
sound of the waves lapping along the shore in front of you, and Santa Ynez mountain range as a backdrop.
EAT Santa Barbara County is known for its many farmers’ markets that offer fresh local produce from the area. On Tuesdays from 3 to 7 p.m.,
KIM FULLER
downtown Santa Barbara hosts 50 to 60 certified agricultural producers lined up on both sides of the 600 and 700 blocks of State Street. Opened in 1992, this farmers’ market is a very popular weekly spot for some of Santa Barbara’s finest local chefs and caterers, who can be spotted pulling their wagons up and down the street.
The area’s year-round growing season and
access to sustainable seafood makes for some very memorable culinary experiences. Scarlett Begonia on West Victoria Street serves up a thoughtful and innovative farm-to-table menu. Tuesday is an extra special evening to enjoy dinner at Scarlett Begonia, as they have a “Farmers’ Market Menu” this day only. Chef Jonathan Ramirez shops the farmers’ market, comes back to the restaurant and designs a unique menu of three courses plus a craft cocktail.
For anyone looking to spice up their dinner
with some ethnic flare, Bibi Ji offers a modern
70
KIM FULLER
Barbara’s waterfront has spots like Lucky Penny. This quaint, stand-alone eatery specializes in wood-fire pizza, salads and sandwiches and is in a building that’s covered with 164,456 real copper pennies. Go at lunch to sit in the sun in the restaurant’s inviting courtyard.
DRINK A visit to central California wouldn’t be complete without wine tasting in one of the world’s most diverse wine-growing regions. One of the easiest ways to get to know regional wines is through the tasting rooms of Santa Barbara’s Urban Wine Trail, most of which are located in walkable downtown Santa Barbara. Head down to the Funk Zone to stop by Kunin Wine, a tasting room you visit that is so good (and hospitable) that you end up joining the wine club before you leave. The tasting room pours some of the winery’s twist on traditional Indian cuisine. James Beard
best, including the prized area varietals of Syrah,
award-winning sommelier Rajat Parr has put
Zinfandel and Viognier.
together quite an impressive wine list, along with
tasty by-the-glass house selections that change
wine, but that’s not the only locally produced
daily. Chef KK Bheemarao has created a menu
libation receiving raves. The region’s rapidly
that highlights local seafood with traditional,
proliferating
authentic Indian curries, all alongside a bounty
beer lovers a tasting trail of their own. Visit
of fresh produce harvested from the region and
Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. (which has a
cooked in-house with roasted Indian spices.
new partnership with Flying Embers, a hard
kombucha maker, in 2020) in the Funk Zone to
Head east of State Street to Santa Barbara’s
Funk Zone for even more dynamic dining options. Once a manufacturing hub in the 19th century, the 13-block mixed-use area near Santa
Santa Barbara County may be known for its
craft
breweries
have
given
have a taste. : Learn more and plan your trip from helpful resources at santabarbaraca.com. BLAKE BRONSTAD, COURTESY OF VISIT SANTA BARBARA
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
71
feature
COMMUNITY-SUPPORTED AGRICULTURE
CSA DOES WINTER IN WESTERN COLORADO Words by Jenna Kretschman COURTESY OF ROOTED GYPSY FARMS
W
he n we t h i n k a bou t c om m u nity -
and the planet; you’ll provide direct support
supported agriculture (CSA) in Western
to local farmers, become part of a community,
Colorado, what comes to mind are warm days
eat more healthy vegetables, create less waste,
at local farmers’ markets munching on fresh
reduce your carbon footprint and keep your
summer fruits and vegetables. But this time of
money local.
year, despite snow-covered fields and freezing
temperatures, CSA farms in Western Colorado
colder months than during their busy summer
are keeping busy.
season, the work doesn’t stop. Some farms stay
Community-supported
agriculture
is
a
way for consumers to purchase locally grown,
While most CSAs look quite different in the
busy planning for the next season, while others find ways to keep the food coming year-round.
seasonal food from farmers in their community,
72
typically by becoming a member and purchasing
FIELD TO FORK FARMS
a share of the goods, although each farm operates
In the frozen days of winter, Field to Fork Farm
differently.
owners Jessica and Scott Washkowiak spend
Partnering with a CSA farm for fresh, local
their time tending to fresh produce in their 11
food brings numerous benefits to you, the farm
greenhouses in Palisade, which are kept up to
COURTESY OF FIELD TO FORK
73
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
COURTESY OF FIELD TO FORK
74
a toasty 80 degrees. The Palisade farm is fully
people to be involved; we want them to learn
operational throughout all four seasons thanks
and see how the food is raised and connect with
to their more than 20,000 feet of indoor growing
their food. It’s really important. The only way
space. Throughout the winter, Field to Fork
to do that was to get people here, so we opened
grows a variety of seasonal produce, like lettuce
up the farm store and that gave us a lot more
greens, radishes, turnips, carrots, broccoli,
options for us to serve our community.”
cabbage and potatoes.
To learn more about Field to Fork Farm, visit fieldtofork-farm.com.
“We have potatoes right out of the ground
for the holidays. People really love that,” Jessica says. “The best thing is that there are no weeds or bugs in the winter, and it’s nice to go into the
GREEN JUNCTION FARMSTEAD
greenhouses and thaw out in the wintertime. It’s
Green Junction Farmstead just wrapped up their
quite enjoyable to work inside of them on a cold
seventh season in the Grand Valley growing
winter day.”
produce on their small but mighty farm in
Field to Fork operates a farm stand at the
Clifton. Owned by Dawn Trujillo and Brian
front of their property that’s open to the public.
Adams, Green Junction is a 100-member CSA
For those who want to help support the growth
that distributes food through a 20-week season.
of the farm, Field to Fork offers a prepaid card
They grow produce for their members, local
system called the Farm Card. Customers can
restaurants, farmer’s markets and their own farm
purchase a loaded card to use at the farm stand
stand. This time of year, they spend their time
and receive an additional 10% of funds to spend.
planning for their first mid-February plantings
“People pre-pay for their purchases to
and supporting others in the community.
help support the growth of the farm and our
“My husband does the crop planning; he’s
greenhouses and all of the production that we’ve
just a whiz at spreadsheets,” Trujillo says. “In the
done over the years,” Jessica explains. “We want
winter, we do a lot of crop planning, deciding
COURTESY OF ROOTED GYPSY FARMS
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
75
COURTESY OF ROOTED GYPSY FARMS
76
what grew well and what we want to grow again
greenhouse greens, mushrooms — things that
and see what crop rotations we need to take care
are mostly grown indoors.”
of through the season to make sure the food
produces on time.”
mother-daughter duo Hadassa and Akaycia
Through the colder months, Trujillo
Berger, delivers to about 200 weekly members
works with food justice programs like Nourish
and about 300 monthly members. The farm
Colorado, a nonprofit working to transform food
delivers all across Western Colorado, from Loma
systems to build universal access to healthy,
to Telluride, and sources its products from more
nutritious food in Colorado.
than 60 different family farms, small businesses
and artisans across the region.
“I’ve been able to be part of some grant
Rooted Gypsy, owned by Grand Junction
review teams that help small farmers, Indigenous
farmers, farmers of color and also food deserts
is lower, they particularly offer specialty goods
to help families who don’t have access or
from small businesses, like Bella Balsamic and
haven’t been introduced to good, healthy food,”
The Pressed Olive, a downtown Grand Junction
Trujillo says. “That’s what I like to focus on in the
store that sells imported, premium oils and
wintertime.”
vinegars.
During their off season, Green Junction
During the winter months when food variety
“We source a lot from the valley itself,”
promotes other small businesses in the valley
Akaycia says. “We have our hearts set on
to their members, like Preserving Techniques,
supporting local farms and businesses.” :
a local food preservation business that teaches canning, fermentation and foodcrafting techniques and works closely with the farm.
To learn more about Rooted Gypsy Farms, visit rootedgypsyfarms.com.
“Those type of things we promote to keep
our members and customers involved, so they can continue to get that extra value and learn about food,” Trujillo adds. To learn more about Green Junction Farmstead, visit gjfarmstead.com.
ROOTED GYPSY FARMS Year-round, Rooted Gypsy Farms collects fresh, seasonal food and specialty items from multiple farms and businesses across the Grand Valley and delivers it all straight to the doorsteps of their members.
They also grow their own lettuce, kale,
chard and herbs in an aquaponic greenhouse supported by tilapia fish, which mimics a natural ecosystem. The waste of the fish provides fertilizing nutrients to the plant crop, while the plants purify the water for the fish.
“We have fewer options to choose from in the
Slide into winter with our collection of red wines
Flyer Red Blend - Zinfandel - Cabernet Franc - Pinot Noir - Cinsault
winter, but we just buy from different farmers who farm different things,” Akaycia Berger, Rooted Gypsy Farms general manager, explains. “We have a lot of winter squash, winter greens,
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feature
POWDERHORN MOUNTAIN RESORT
PAST, PRESENT + FUTURE Words by Melanie Wiseman | Photos courtesy of Powderhorn Mountain Resort
W
hether you’re talking about Powderhorn
as the 1982 oil shale bust, Grand Valley residents
Mountain Resort’s past, present or future,
and businesses remained steadfast supporters,
one common thread is woven through all three:
determined to see the ski area succeed and
the core mission to be accessible and affordable
thrive.
for all ages and abilities.
No one understands this better than Ryan
PRESENT
Robinson, Powderhorn’s director of marketing
In the past five years, Powderhorn has seen
and sales. Robinson grew up in the Grand Valley
three record-breaking years in the history of
and learned to ski at Powderhorn — a tradition
the resort, and this fall it had its most successful
he now loves to enjoy with his wife and two sons.
season-pass sale ever.
78
“We’ve had some wonderful owners over the
PAST
years,” says Robinson. “In 2011, Andy Daly and
“Founding families such as the Sisacs and Beverlys
Kent Gart purchased the resort, and it was the
intended from the beginning for Powderhorn
first time ownership focused on the mountain
to be family friendly and provide something for
experience in a full-fledged way.”
everyone,” shares Robinson. “It was not only their
mission back in the 60s, but we continue to see
expansion, lodging and upgrading the quad lift
multiple generations of those families up here as
from a fixed grip quad to a high-speed detachable
an example of what we value.”
quad. The new lift not only enhanced the winter
experience but made a summer season possible,
Skiing on the Grand Mesa began back in the
They immediately invested in snow-making
1930s with a tow rope in the Land’s End area.
because bikes could now be easily transported.
Shortly after WWII, skiing reappeared at Mesa
Creek when the Grand Mesa Ski Club opened
on, Pacific Group Resorts, who had similar
a small slope, now known to locals as “Old
programs out east that Powderhorn adopted. At
Powderhorn” or the “tubing hill.”
the same time, Powderhorn slashed their season
pass prices.
Surveying of the current site on the northern
In 2018, an operating partner was brought
edge of the Grand Mesa began in 1958, and
on December 5, 1966, 1,500 people witnessed
there has been really good synergy for a lot of
Colorado Governor John Love cut the ribbon,
growth in recent years,” explains Robinson. “The
officially opening Powderhorn Ski Area. The ski
original founders had vision and were forward
area had six miles of runs, a double chair lift and
thinking in development and growth on the
a surface lift. In its first ski season, Powderhorn
winter side, but I don’t think they anticipated
hosted 21,000 people.
the summer side and the growth of downhill
mountain biking and so many other things that
Over the next 45 years, lifts were replaced
“With these new owners and partners,
and new ones installed, terrain expanded,
no one could have anticipated.”
lodging and base facilities were built and
upgraded, and ownership changed hands several
2016, Powderhorn truly became a two-season
times. Through the bumps along the way, such
model. Your mountain bike precedes you on the
When the downhill bike park opened in
Flat Top Flyer high-speed detachable quad, and
once you catch up to it, it’s all downhill from
Trail and the new snowmaking pipeline to
there on numerous, multi-level biking trails.
Andersen Reservoir share the same route,
for the most part, to minimize environmental
Popularity of the park has been given a
It’s exciting to note the Rim View Connector
huge world-wide bump in awareness with the
impact.
completion of the 32-mile, expert level Palisade
Plunge bike trail. Destination people coming to
permit from the United States Forest Service, so
ride the Plunge are also using Powderhorn’s bike
it’s not ours,” says Robinson. “We are tasked with
park, lodging and other amenities.
being good stewards of the forest up here, and
it’s important to demonstrate we’re taking good
Brilliantly, Powderhorn has taken advantage
“We operate the resort on a special use
of the opportunity by building the 1.4-mile Rim
care of it.”
View Connector Trail, which allows intermediate
riders a 17-mile, 2,500 vertical option from
complete, it’s the first time in the resort’s history
the Palisade Plunge trailhead. A summer-long
that they have been able to make snow top to
shuttle service helps make this ride a reality.
bottom.
With the new snowmaking infrastructure
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
79
80
“It’s very, very rare and unique that our
Powderhorn touts a large range of events
system is gravity fed, since we are on a mesa
throughout the year and is a picturesque
with water above us,” adds Robinson. “I can’t
location for weddings. From “Gears and Beers”
say I’ve ever heard of another resort that uses
to CMU collegiate ski and bike races to charity
gravity. They do top to bottom snowmaking by
events and live music, winter Olympic games
pumping water up the hill from a base area.”
modified for kids, terrain park events and the
Gravity-fed snowmaking is incredibly energy
most popular event of the year — the New Year’s
efficient when you take out the pumping process.
Eve torchlight parade and fireworks show —
Once snowcat machines move the guns into place,
Powderhorn has something for everyone.
they are automated from a central shop location.
“We like to remind folks the water we use
is going into is third season of the tiny home
for snowmaking doesn’t get used up,” says
project — six units just 50 feet from the base of
Robinson. “We store it for the winter and it
the quad lift. The tiny homes are built in a pod
comes off the hill and feeds the valley just as a
with a central après ski area, fire pit, yard games
rainstorm would.”
and Adirondack chairs.
And, that includes lodging. Powderhorn
“A big fancy hotel is just not us,” states
Robinson. “Tiny homes are a great fit and have done exceptionally well.”
Three years ago, Powderhorn started the
Bob Beverly Free Learn to Ski or Ride Program, including both snowboarding and skiing. If you have never skied before, your first three days of tickets, lessons and rental equipment are totally free. Discounted Rossignal equipment and a $69 pass for the remainder of the season are then available. The second, or sophomore, year a season pass is just $179.
“The idea is that we want to make new
skiers,” explains Robinson. “We know the barriers can be cost and the perception of difficulty, so by eliminating those barriers, we offer a program that is grounded in our mission of affordability and accessibility.” Colorado
Discoverability
has
recently
expanded their main headquarters in Grand Junction into a working space provided by Powderhorn.
“They have been an outstanding volunteer-
Because every day is a reason to celebrate! carlsonvineyards.com
based partner for many years, offering a method of access for a group of folks who we may not otherwise be able to accommodate,” shares Robinson.
Because so much has changed at Powderhorn
over the past five years, the evolution-induced rebranding included a visual change with a new logo. True to Powderhorn’s respect for its history, the powder-horn icon remains central.
FUTURE Future plans include snowmaking laterals, bike trail expansion, the addition of many more tiny homes and other alternative lodging concepts, such as camping platforms and RV hookups, and the ongoing conversation about shoulder seasons.
“Almost as important as what will change
is what won’t change,” says Robinson. “We still have an important mission the founders set: to create a family friendly environment, that is affordable, accessible and beneficial to the Grand Valley.” :
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feature
GRAND JUNCTION IS A REMOTE WORKER’S PARADISE
BUT AT WHAT COST? Words by Lexi Riech LIGHTBULB MEDIA
T
82
he coronavirus has introduced the world
where the cost of living is nowhere near what
to many once-foreign concepts. Who knew
it is on the Front Range, outdoor recreation is
cloth face masks would become a new outlet
at your fingertips and business is booming? (Did
for starving artists? However, there’s one large
you know Grand Junction is projected to be the
trend that has particularly altered the way we
next tech hub of Colorado?)
live and work for what looks like years and
years to come. We’re talking the “work-from-
Labor and Employment (CDLE), the percent of
home” phenomenon.
remote workers is expected to have doubled in
It’s no secret Colorado is a desirable place to
2021 with more than two thirds of employers
live. The omnipresent access to national parks
planning for remote work to be a permanent
and vivacious western culture earns the state
part of their staffing plans.
According to the Colorado Department of
prime spots on many national news outlets’ top
places to call home.
hold, once “small” towns like Grand Junction
As work-from-anywhere continues to take
However, the treasure of living in towns
are becoming hubs of economic, cultural and
along the Western Slope is quickly gaining
social activity as they move away from oil and
traction — whether locals like it or not. According
gas reliance and into a digital economy. Many
to Grand Junction Economic Partnership (GJEP),
are worried this will exacerbate the already
Grand Junction in particular has received an
dire housing crisis consuming the Mountain
influx of remote workers since the pandemic
West and if local businesses will be able to keep
started. Who wouldn’t want to live in a town
up with a dwindling service workforce.
Cilia
Kohn,
GJEP
marketing
and
such as technology and the outdoor industry, in
communications director, says the key to
addition to other sectors.
supporting these towns, Grand Junction
included, is to be employed by companies
team closer together,” Arnold shares. “Our
based in that area who are already invested in
supportive and collaborative culture has been
the local community’s success. In an effort to
the connective tissue holding us together as we
support remote workers and employers without
continue our growth trajectory.”
sacrificing the vitality of Mesa County, GJEP
launched a website dedicated to matching people
government organizations to develop a remote
interested in moving here with local businesses
work certificate program designed to help
offering flex-work opportunities.
workers and employers alike prepare to succeed
“ We
a
website
The CDLE even worked with other
called
in a virtual workplace environment. The two
workremoteco.com to provide links to jobs based
online courses launched last March and each
in the Grand Valley that are hiring remote or
costs $75 to enroll. It appears remote work is
hybrid positions,” Kohn says. “The state has a
here to stay.
website, as well, that lists remote opportunities
throughout Colorado, but we will also offer
present in Colorado; to keep up with the flood of
other resources if you want to be in the Grand
people moving in, many are turning to essential
Valley whether you’re a remote worker or an
programs like those developed by GJEP to
employer.”
ensure community members’ best interests are
launched
“Remote working has brought the Pax8
Launched in November 2021, workremoteco.
The work-from-anywhere trend is ever-
prioritized.
com serves as an information hub with resources
such as available financing programs, relocating
Colorado Hub,” Kohn says. “There’s more of a
assistance and community support resources.
push to view us as a leader in terms of how to
“Grand Junction is set to be the Western
Among the employers on this initiative
support workers, how to get more business in,
is Pax8, a Colorado-based cloud distribution
how to build the economy. We want to continue
startup working with GJEP as part of its latest
to support that and be on the forefront of
hiring push for remote workers. The company’s
wherever the industry leads us … we’re seeing
Rural Empowerment Program works to target
the digital economy really grow, and we see a lot
more diverse talent that previously wouldn’t
of potential in rural communities to support that
have had access to careers in the tech industry.
economy.” :
“Our relationship with GJEP is essential to
Learn more at gjep.org.
our success in Western Colorado. We rely on our relationships with community partners and the entrepreneurial ecosystem,” explains Ashlie Arnold, Rural Empowerment Program
NATHAN DUMLAO
GJEP for connections in the community and
manager. “Pax8 is investing in job creation in two ways. Firstly, by bringing technical and knowledge-based jobs to smaller communities for geographically dispersed talent. Secondly, by increasing the representation of smaller communities in the tech industry by investing in people to develop their skills, build their careers and help their communities grow.”
Arnold says Pax8 will be using GJEP’s new
website to help further their mission to diversify jobs in mountain communities. She says remote working brings opportunities to various fields,
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
83
events
WINTER 2021-22 Compiled by Olivia Lyda | Photo by Matt Brooks
“Fire On The Mountain” from the Telluride Fire Festival
DECEMBER The Polar Express Train Ride
online to see dates and artist announcements. uncovercolorado.com
Durango, CO December 2021
Telluride Fire Festival
Recreate the magical story of a child’s Christmas Eve at the Polar Express Train Ride! The excursion is full of enchanted holiday surprises, all with a beautiful snowy backdrop. durangotrain.com
Vail Snow Days Vail, CO December TBD This free concert series in Ford Park is sure to have you jamming out to great music. Various performers and artists come together to put on incredible live music for the community. Check
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Telluride, CO December 3-5, 2021 The Telluride Fire Festival, inspired by Burning Man, truly brings together fire and ice during the winter season. Celebrate community, fire and art in the mountains and watch inspired artists and their dynamic visual fire performances. Visit their website for COVID-19 guidelines. telluridefirefestival.org
Lighting of Breckenridge & Race of the Santas Breckenridge, CO December 4, 2021
Watch as the streets of downtown Breckenridge light up like a Christmas tree to kick off the holiday season — all while a parade of Santa Clauses crowds the street. The lighting of Breckenridge & Race of the Santas will be sure to put you in the holiday spirit! Times will be posted once the event draws near. gobreck.com
Powabunga Music Festival Vail, CO December 9-12, 2021 Experience an epic mountain music festival weekend at Ford Park. Featured artists include Rufus De Sol, Bob Mosses, Vintage Culture and others. Doors open at 4 p.m. on both festival nights, so make sure to get there early. Continue to check their site for future artist line-up
releases and planned activities for the highly anticipated return of Powabunga. powabungafestival.com
Public Works Dept, and enjoy free hot cocoa and smores around the bonfire. minturn.org
Annual Ullr Fest
The MusicFest Steamboat Springs
Breckenridge, CO December 9-17, 2021 Ullr Fest offers 10 full days dedicated to all fun-loving activities involving snow. What better way to get into the holiday spirit? The festival celebrates the Norwegian god of snow, with traditions such as the Ullr Ball, the Ullr Bonfire, the Ullr Parade, Snow Sculpting, Ullr King and Queen, the Ullympics and the Ullr Dating Game. Check out the long list of activities occurring during the festival online! colorado.com
2021-22 Community Race Series Crested Butte, CO December 2021 - February 2022 Experience these community fun Nordic races throughout the winter season this year. cbnordic.org
JANUARY Christmas Tree Bonfire Minturn, CO January TBD Enjoy the cozy and intimate atmosphere of this small-town event. Residents may leave their undecorated trees at the end of their driveway on designated dates for free pick-up by the Minturn
educational experience for all ice climbing enthusiasts. More information regarding the festival to come. ourayicepark.com
Winterfest Pagosa Springs, CO January 21-23, 2022
Steamboat Springs, CO January 5-12, 2022 The perfect getaway filled with music, relaxation and the beautiful champagne powder of Steamboat Springs lies just at your fingertips with a trip to MusicFest. MusicFest Steamboat Springs has a venue for everyone, with over 200 hours of live performances. Grab your ticket before the event sells out! themusicfest.com
Celebrate with your family and friends at this fun-filled festival! Spectate or participate in events like The Hot Air Balloon Mass Ascensions, Sled Races, Cross Country Ski Clinic, Fat Bike Race, BB Gun Biathlon, the ever-popular Penguin Plunge and much more! pagosachamber.com
Wintersköl
Grand Mesa Summit Challenge Dog Sled Race
Aspen, CO January 13-16, 2022
Cedaredge, CO January 22-23, 2022
Toast to Aspen’s majestic winter with this festival dedicated to the town’s unique lifestyle. The fourday fest features on-mountain activities, film screenings, a winterfest, broomball, fat-biking competitions and other celebratory events. aspenchamber.org
Sign up to race or watch amazing racing dogs compete in this twoday competition. rmsdc.org
Ouray Ice Festival Ouray, CO January 20-23, 2022 Ice climber pros, novices and fans alike can experience the nailbiting competition of the Ouray Ice Festival. The three-day festival includes qualifying rounds, finals and speed rounds along with an
Snowdown Durango Durango, CO January 26-30, 2022 This jam-packed event has everything you could ever ask for. Snowdown Durango showcases more than 100 events packed into this five-day event — everything from the annual Parade of Lights down Main Avenue and adults-only fashion shows to winter sporting contests and beer dunks are on the agenda. durango.com
Independent and local with the power of a team! Refreshing Real Estate in the Grand Valley 970.589.7700 | christireece.com
International Snow Sculpture Competition Breckenridge, CO January 28-30, 2022 This world-renowned snow sculpting competition consists of sixteen teams from around the world that descend on Breckenridge, Colorado to handcarve 20-ton blocks of snow into enormous, intricate works of art. Make sure to visit to view these masterpieces! gobreck.com
Rio Frio Ice Fest Almosa, CO January 28-30, 2022 Enjoy a jam-packed weekend with the Rio Fest 5K on the frozen Rio Grande River. A polar plunge, ice craving, fire & ice bonfire and many more winter fun activities await. Register for the 2022 event now! riofrioice.com
3 Lakes Ice Fishing Contest Granby, CO January 28-30, 2022 Join in on the longest-running ice fishing tournament West of the Mississippi. Sign up for one, two or all three days of fishing on beautiful lakes in the Granby area. All proceeds from this fundraiser benefit Destination Granby. destinationgranby.com
FEBRUARY Montrose Farmers’ Market Montrose, CO February 2022 Pick up the freshest seasonal fruit and vegetables at the year-round Montrose Farmers’ Market! Peruse the local entrepreneurs’ stands and listen to the live performances. Join this event every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. bestfarmersmarkets.org
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Telluride Comedy Festival Telluride, CO February 2022 Laugh to your heart’s content over this fun and undeniably “funny” festival! Watch live performances from both big name and up and coming comedians. Dates TBA for this February’s event. sheridanoperahouse.com
NBS Black Ski Summit 2022 Snowmass, CO February 5-12, 2022 This is a historical summit, because it marks a return to the slopes after the pandemic; it is also the 50th Anniversary of the NBS (National Brotherhood of Skiers). Join and celebrate this amazing event that brings over 1,500 people of color together on the mountain. eventbrite.com
Rocky Mountain Ski Fest Beaver Creek, CO February 8-9, 2022 The Rocky Mountain Ski Fest includes an exclusive concert with headliner Old Dominion and an on-mountain activity, all raising awareness and funds for pediatric cancer. Learn more and reserve tickets online! rockymtnskifest.com
Steamboat Winter Carnival Steamboat Springs, CO February 9-13, 2022 Say goodbye to your cabin-fever during late winter months and take part in the Steamboat Winter Carnival. The event highlights outdoor activities for local youth to participate in, as well as traditional experiences around town, such as the soda pop slalom, snow sculptures and the recognition of Winter Carnival Royalty and Grand Marshals. sswsc.org
Pabst Colorado Pond Hockey Tournament Silverthorne, CO February 18-20, 2022 Get ready to gather your friends for this old-school ice hockey tournament! The Pabst Colorado Pond Hockey Tournament is a great opportunity to play against other motivated teams on a frozen solid pond. coloradopondhockey.com
Banff Mountain Film Festival Breckenridge, CO February 25-26, 2022 Explore the world of mountain sports and make your way to the Banff Mountain Film Festival. Watch the most inspiring and thought-provoking action, environmental and adventure mountain films. The event goes from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. both days, with proceeds supporting BOEC’s programs for adaptive recreation and outdoor education. boec.org
WinterWonderGrass Festival Steamboat Springs, CO February 25-27, 2022 Gather together with friends and family to join this community event. This year, listen and dance to headliner Trampled by Turtles while enjoying beer tastings, food trucks and coffee bars. Reserve your tickets and plan your trip before it sells out! winterwondergrass.com
Queer Climbing Night Eagle, CO February 27, 2022 The last Sunday of every month is a great time to be a part of an inclusive environment at the Eagle Climbing and Fitness Gym! Visit this event from 5 - 7 pm. eagleclimbing.com :
who we are
TERRY HANCOCK Words + Photo by Melanie Wiseman
M
any people are morning people; however,
“I consider myself more of an artist than a
Terry Hancock is not one of them. His
scientist,” notes Hancock. “I’m using scientific
favorite time of day is nighttime — the darker
equipment to look deep into the universe, but
and clearer the better.
when I’m processing my images, it’s more of an
artistic approach.”
As the director of the Grand Mesa
Observatory, this Australia native who now
calls the Grand Valley home feels extremely
NASA, in astronomy magazines and books, in
fortunate to share his astrophotography passion
National Geographic and well-known online
with so many other people.
media. Most recently, of 4,500 submissions,
Hancock’s works have been published by
SPOKE+BLOSSOM
87
his photograph of the California Nebula won
combined six personal telescopes and a 50 x
first place in the Stars and Nebulae category
50 observation pad. The Observatory’s location
at the largest astrophotography competition in
has an excellent night sky quality (based on the
the world: the Royal Museums Greenwich in
Bortle scale) making for outstanding viewing
London.
and photography.
The winning photo was actually 185
decided to sell his data, then make his legacy
hours over five nights. Narrow band filters
community, hands-on astronomy and science
coated with either oxygen, hydrogen or sulfur
educational outreach,” shares Hancock.
created the color for dramatic detail that could
not otherwise be seen.
non-profit status and solid partnerships with
The Grand Mesa Observatory now has
As a child, Hancock used to look at the night
District 51, Colorado Mesa University (CMU) and
sky with a pair of binoculars. At 12, his parents
the Western Colorado Astronomy Club. It also
bought him the book Astronomy by Sir Patrick
now touts a second dome, CMU’s impressive
Moore. At 13, he was gifted his first telescope.
telescope and is being used remotely by the NYC
“Although it was an inexpensive store
University and a division of NASA.
model, I remember the fun I had with it, seeing
the details of the moon, Jupiter and four of its
whether I’ve seen any UFOs and the answer is
moons, and the rings of Saturn for the first
no,” chuckles Hancock. “I always think of that
time,” he grins.
possibility, but it’s not why I spend so much
time looking at night skies.” :
Following school, Hancock worked at a
professional camera shop where he honed his knowledge of the camera, literally inside and out. He became a freelance photographer, then spent years in the commercial sign business.
“Once I started taking photos through
a telescope, that was it. I was hooked,” says Hancock. “I wanted to come to the United States to photograph the northern skies, like the Andromeda Galaxy, which I was fixated on. Objects we see in Australia are really cool too but different, being in the Southern Hemisphere.”
A
self-taught
photographer
and
astronomer, Hancock has been teaching others through online tutorials for the past 11 years. His astrophotography tutorial service operating under downunderobservtory.com reaches students all over the world.
Five years ago, one of his students, 75
year-old Kannah Creek resident John Mansur, had a dream of being able to create his own astrophotography (also known as data) right from his property. Mansur brought Hancock out to have a look and the rest is history.
Hancock
supervised
the
building
of
an observatory dome stocked with their
88
“John’s simple plan mushroomed when he
individual five-minute exposures totaling 11
“The most frequently asked question I get is
SETH ANDERSON
Co-Founder + Manager Loki Clothing Company
YOUR BUSINESS. YOUR ADVENTURE. Colorado’s Grand Valley is at the heart of a new rush. It’s a rush for those who want space, access, and a life free from red-tape and two-hour commutes. Move and grow your business where our work ethic still mirrors the spirit of the men and women who discovered this valley generations ago.
JOIN US IN THE NEW WEST.
GJEP.ORG • 970.245.4332