Spoke+Blossom Magazine | Winter 2024-25 | Issue #30

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ARTIST GERRY JENSEN 34 NIGHTSCAPES 58 PEDALS, PASTRIES + PINOT 70 RANCHING FAMILIES 80

WINTER 2024-25 / ISSUE 30

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VIEWS!

• Homes starting at 1800 square foot • 3-car garage minimum / RV garages allowed • Custom design available • RV parking and storage on site • Stucco exteriors with optional stone accents • Architectural 30-year shingles • Nature’s Composite fencing S • Pressurized irrigation to lot • Parks & walking paths S • LOT SALE from $170,000+ Bring your builder

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UNMARKED LOTS: CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

U = Under Contract L = Vacant Lot Available

We look forward to working with you to design and build your new home in Emerald Ridge!

For more information, contact New Horizons Development, Inc.

JANET ELLIOTT GRI, CRS, ABR Broker/Owner

REALTOR®, ABR, CRS, GRI 970-250-0765 N1323D@msn.com Be sure to check out our website: emeraldridgegj.com

C O L O R A D O

D E S I G N E R

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Lifestyle magazines that

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coveredbridgevail.com | spokeandblossom.com | yogalifelive.com | wellmagco.com

MIGHTY GOOD TOFFEE. A MIGHTY GIFT INDEED. Shop now at enstrom.com

CO N T what’s up in the west

lifestyle

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COMMUNITY STYLE From Pollutant to Wellness Sanctuary: Steamboat’s Original Sawdust Incinerator Ultimately Transforms

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MAKER Crystal Clear: Grand Valley Ice Makes High Quality Cocktail Ice for Bars + Restaurants

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BLOSSOM CAVE Helps Winemakers Make the Leap from Amateur to Commercial

ART Gerry Jensen: Painting With a New Perspective

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ART The Poetry of Winter

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HOME + GARDEN Breathe in the Season: Simmer Pot Recipes

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DRINK Charred Lemon + Rosemary Sour

MUSIC Pea Green Saturday Nights: Reviving the Golden Age of Radio in a Tiny Farming Town

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FOOD Local Collaboration Success: Enhancing Agricultural Sustainability in Mesa County

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WELLNESS + FITNESS The Jet Lag Juggle: Tips for Arriving at New Time Zones Feeling Refreshed Instead of Fatigued

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VOICES OF WESTERN COLORADO Locals Weigh in on Continuity WHAT’S UP IN THE WEST • All Day Verdé Wins Gold at 2024 Colorado Governor’s Cup • Demolition Underway at Grand Junction High School

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EAT Winter Cookie Recipes

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EAT Inside Colorado’s Chocolate Makers

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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BOOK + BEVERAGE •A -B-Skis

By Libby Ludlow • Clark & Co’s Distilling Spirits + Hot Cocoa

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INSTAGRAM + PODCAST PICKS

E N TS adventure

features + events

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84

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ADVENTURE Gore Range Gravity Alliance

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BEYOND BOOKS ‘The Library is for Everyone.’

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SPOKE Gear Profile: Bishop Telemark

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SPOKE Gear for the Season

LEGACY OF STEWARDSHIP How Colorado Ranching Families are Shaping Sustainable Agriculture + Wildlife Conservation

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SPOKE Athlete Profile: Gretchen Bleiler, Snowboarder

3 LOCAL VENUES THAT ROCK Keeping Western Colorado’s Music Scene Alive

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GRAND OUTDOORS Western Colorado Landscapes at Night

EVENTS Winter 2024-25

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TAKE A HIKE Devils Garden + Primitive Loop Trail

WHO WE ARE Carolyn Huresky, The Creative Garland Company

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FAMILY Slide Into Winter Fun: The Ultimate Guide to Sledding in Western Colorado

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STAY + PLAY The Ramble Hotel: A Chic Centerpiece of Denver’s RiNo (River North) Neighborhood

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GETAWAY Pedals, Pastries + Pinot: A Bike Tour Through Alsace’s Vineyards and Culinary Delights

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

CONTINUITY As you hold the 30th edition of Spoke+Blossom in your hands, we celebrate not just a milestone but a continuity — a shared journey, unfolding over the years, strengthened by the time and support you’ve given us. By reading, subscribing and engaging, you become a part of what we do.

Your presence and interest give back to S+B, fueling our dedication to bring you meaningful stories and perspectives with each new edition.

We are always grateful.

Each issue of S+B sheds light on how we stay connected, committed and inspired through our ongoing relationships with each other and our communities. Inside #30 here, you’ll find stories that highlight steadfast contributions, from features on local libraries, family ranch roots and impressive music venues in Western Colorado, to details of top sledding hills, winter recipes and what it takes to create the season’s most delicious confections.

As you turn these pages, we hope you find pieces that resonate, stories that remind you of the strength in lasting connections and the beauty in shared histories.

Whether this is your first time reading a fresh issue of S+B or your 30th, your role in our community is valued beyond measure.

We are here because of you, inspired by the conversations you spark and the lives you lead. Thank you for your support and for believing in what Spoke+Blossom represents. Here’s to many more shared stories, miles traveled, moments cherished and magazines made, together.

(+ Pepper and our new baby boy)

Join the Spoke+Blossom Community 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.

Editor-In-Chief Kim Fuller Managing Editor Lexi Reich Assistant Editor Kristen Grace Art Director Kitty Nicholason Community Engagement Laura Mills + Chloe Wasserstrom Partnerships Bobby L’Heureux Contributors Julie Bielenberg Lisa Blake Chris Bonds Roschelle Bulda Carly Finke Kim Fuller Jayme Henderson Courtney Holden Kate Holstein Mitch Korolev Jocelyn Laferriere Kristen Lummis Patric Matysiewski Cat Mayer

Chloe Mayer Maureen McGuire Laura Mills Kitty Nicholason Kimberly Nicoletti Nickolas Paullus Lexi Reich Dominique Taylor Wendy Videlock Chloe Wasserstrom Jennifer Weintraub Melanie Wiseman William Woody

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Publishers of Spoke+Blossom Founders of Jaunt Media Collective

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Cover Photograph Gerry Jensen’s Palette

By Roschelle Bulda

Kim Fuller with Bobby L’Heureux

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Copyright © 2024 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.

> SCRATCH MADE > BREAKFAST > LUNCH > CATERING

This Season With 100+ locally owned retail shops and restaurants located in Downtown Grand Junction, there’s something for everyone on your list this season!

420 Main St, Downtown Grand Junction Cafesolgj.com 970.986.3474

at Ridgway

A beautiful space rich with Western heritage serves as a warm backdrop to some of the Western Slope’s finest dining & special event experiences.

970.626.8801 TheOldFirehouse.com events@theoldfirehouse.com

contributors

NICKOLAS PAULLUS Nickolas has been knee-deep in the food and beverage world for over 20 years. His passion for yummies for the tummy is unbridled. When he’s not cooking, eating or thinking about food, he’s spending time with his family.

He writes for various magazines and published his first novel, Wormwood, in spring of 2024.

LISA BLAKE JAYME HENDERSON

Lisa is a freelance writer in Breckenridge, specializing in dining, outdoors, ski resorts and wellness. She is happiest on her mountain bike or in a raft with her husband, son and pug. Her work has been featured in Aspen Modern Luxury and Purist. Find her at lisablakecreative.com.

Jayme is a writer, photographer and co-owner and winemaker for The Storm Cellar, a vineyard and winery in Hotchkiss. When she’s not creating garden-inspired cocktails, you can find her tending grapevines, searching for the perfect bottle of wine for dinner or spending time outside with her husband, Steve, and her two cats.

MITCH KOROLEV Mitch is a nature photographer and environmental scientist based out of Grand Junction. He seeks to bridge science and art through his engaging imagery of landscapes, wildlife and scientific research. His previous work includes documenting climate change research in the Amazon rainforest.

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KIMBERLY NICOLETTI

WENDY VIDELOCK

Kimberly is an awardwinning freelance journalist, editor and writing coach. She regularly writes about home renovations, but the historic building she wrote about in this issue stands out as the weirdest — and coolest — one she’s ever covered.

Wendy is the poet laureate of Western Colorado. She lives in Palisade. Her poems and essays appear in O Magazine, The New York Times, The Hudson Review and The Best American Poetry. Her books are available wherever books are sold.

Videlock is also a visual artist. Learn more at wendyvidelock.com.

voices of western colorado

CONTINUITY THE UNBROKEN AND CONSISTENT EXISTENCE OR OPERATION OF SOMETHING OVER A PERIOD OF TIME

We Asked These Western Slope Locals to Weigh in on This Topic Compiled by S+B Staff

STEPHANIE GWINN

JULIE BENNETT

L.E. WILLIAMS

Catering Director + Owner of Hillbilly Catering & Events

Founder of Qutori Wines

Local Artist

“Food has always served as a catalyst for community building. Continuity sustains our efforts, holds our memories and encourages growth and meaning that span generations.

When considering continuity, I think of the flow of progress formed from personal links between new experiences and memories of previous ones. Each seemingly unconnected event builds upon the last. The desire to always provide meaning, value and invention while catering special events is what propels us to the next level and keeps our community engaged, inspired and hungry for more.”

“Continuity means to me creating

“Consistent quality time in my

a business and sense of place

studio has been fundamental

here in Paonia for my family and

for me this year. The hours

friends through Qutori Wines,

spent exploring concepts and

LLC and Root and Vine Market.

painting flows by like the river;

Qutori means creativity and

its constant motion rejuvenated

leadership and that is how we see

by the accrual of fresh water.

our role in the Grand Valley. As

These vital confluences of growth

founders of our winery, we are

are accessible only by staying the

inspired by the guests and people

course through flops and fruition.

who live to create great wine and

Although it can be difficult to

share it.”

maintain, I think turning this steady pace into healthy habits is critical to reach full potential. It takes continuous focus, practice and patience. As with my artistic process, our community must devote time and energy to understand its flow and better shape its future. Come meet me by the river. See how time, it flows.”

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what's up in the west

ALL DAY VERDÉ WINS GOLD AT 2024 COLORADO GOVERNOR’S CUP Words by Lexi Reich | Photo courtesy of Patric Matysiewski

I

n exciting news for Colorado wine enthusiasts,

taken a liking to the innovative format and

All Day Verdé from Sauvage Spectrum and

untraditional field blend of our premium estate-

Spoke+Blossom has secured a coveted gold

grown grapes. The 2023 bottling features lesser-

medal at the 2024 Colorado Governor’s Cup. This

known varietals like albariño, grüner veltliner,

prestigious competition, hosted by the Colorado

pinot gris and chenin blanc. Picked early with

Wine Industry Development Board (CWIDB),

lower sugars to combat global warming, this

brings together the state’s top winemakers and

is a true taste of Colorado’s high desert wine

showcases the best of Colorado’s burgeoning

country.”

wine industry.

The competition’s panel of judges hail from across the country and include some of the most

The wine’s unique blend delivers a bright, crisp experience with hints of fizz, white melon, gooseberry and lime blossom.

esteemed experts in the wine world, further

“All Day Verdé’s gold medal victory is a

enhancing the prestige of this award. The

shining example of the exceptional quality

gold medal win established All Day Verdé as a

and innovation coming out of Colorado’s wine

standout in this year’s Colorado Uncorked event

country,” says Bobby L’Heureux, Spoke+Blossom

held on Nov. 1, 2024.

co-owner and direct of partnerships.

“Our second vintage of All Day Verdé has

This eco-conscious wine, priced at $14 per

proven to be a consistent hit in such a short

375mL bottle, is available both at the Sauvage

time,” says Patric Matysiewski, co-founder of

Spectrum tasting rooms in Palisade and Ouray,

Sauvage Spectrum. “We’ve noticed Gen Z has

and online at sauvagespectrum.com. :

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

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what's up in the west

GRAND JUNCTION HIGH SCHOOL

DEMOLITION TIME Words + Photos by Kitty Nicholason

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friend called to tell me that I needed to

photos, but I was surprised to learn it was a

get over to Grand Junction High School,

student. Dylan Rytting, a junior at GJHS, is

as it was being demolished and she knew I’d be

taking what he calls “side-by-side” photos. He is

disappointed if I didn’t get any pictures of it. She

sorry to see the old building go. “It’s my favorite

was right, so I headed over there immediately.

old building in Grand Junction,” he added

I wasn’t surprised to see another person taking

wistfully. :

Dylan Rytting

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

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blossom

CAVE HELPS WINEMAKERS MAKE THE LEAP FROM AMATEUR TO COMMERCIAL Words by Kristen Lummis | Photos courtesy of CAVE

K

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athy Ondrus didn’t like wine. So when

bought me an entire wine making system,”

her husband suggested they visit a Napa

she laughs. Seventeen years later, Ondrus is a

County, California winery, she tagged along, but

highly-decorated amateur winemaker on the

didn’t anticipate trying a drop. “When a woman

cusp of opening a commercial Palisade winery

working at the winery noticed I wasn’t drinking,

with her family.

she took the time to teach me about wine. After

A registered nurse, Ondrus sees many

that, I decided I wanted to make wine. I was

parallels between cardiac nursing and

interested in making a gallon, but my husband

winemaking. “You have to know your chemistry,”

she explains, adding that her professional

Shull believes that CAVE’s amateur

knowledge of buffer capacity, ventilators,

winemaking competition provides a crucial link

bacteria and yeast have helped with winemaking.

between ambitious amateurs and professionals

After learning as much as she could on her own,

at the top of their field. Amateur winemakers

Ondrus turned to CAVE, the nonprofit Colorado

showcase their best wines and receive technical

Association for Viticulture and Enology, to build

feedback from judges to help them improve.

her skills. “I entered competitions to get feedback

In 2023, more than 100 wines from around the

as to right and wrong. Taking classes helped me

country were evaluated.

understand the process,” says Ondrus.

One of the judges, Jenne Baldwin-Eaton,

CAVE is best known for hosting the Colorado

is the former head winemaker for Plum Creek

Mountain Winefest each September. But an

Cellars and the founder of the CMU Tech program.

important part of CAVE’s mission, according to the

Baldwin-Eaton sees two major benefits to the CAVE

association’s executive director Cassidee Shull,

competition. First, she agrees that the judging helps

is to “grow the next generation of winemakers

amateur winemakers build their skills. Second,

and growers.” This includes an annual amateur

amateurs are among the leaders in experimenting

winemaking competition. It also means working

with new grape varieties being planted in

with commercial winemakers and the Colorado

Colorado. “Home winemakers have to be really on

Mesa University (CMU) Tech Viticulture and

top of things,” she explains. “They don’t have the

Enology program in Grand Junction to provide

opportunities or tools like we have as commercial

an annual conference, workshops, college

winemakers. Overall, [the competition] helps build

classes and networking opportunities.

a stronger Colorado wine industry.”

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

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A winemaker who successfully made the

following the CAVE competition. “Entrants get a

leap from amateur to commercial is Juliann

copy of the judges’ notes for their wine and start

Adams, who, with her family, founded Vines79 in

asking us technical questions. The competition

Palisade in 2020. Portuguese by descent, Adams

is building something and I see high motivation

was inspired by her immigrant grandfather who

and desire coming from the amateur sector,”

made wine from backyard vines. Adams shares

he says, noting increased interest in weekend

that she “loved the tradition” and was committed

workshops, alongside higher-education based

to continuing it. At first, she made wine for her

winemaking experiences.

family and friends. Then she began entering

And while competitions and educational

competitions. “I won a lot of medals and got good

opportunities

feedback. When judges are telling you your wine

winemaker’s craft, the ultimate benefit is that

is good, it’s not friends, but peers,” she says.

they are each pushing the industry forward in

“I think the Colorado wine industry is

help

improve

an

individual

their own unique ways.

special,” shares Adams. “It’s smaller and newer,

“I have my own style,” explains Ondrus,

and this brings the winemakers here closer

who in 2018 and 2019 was the first repeat

together.” She credits CAVE with helping her

Grand Champion and Winemaker of the Year in

acquire additional knowledge and education.

the WineMaker Magazine competition. “I don’t

“There’s only so much you can get from what

want to do what everyone else is doing. I do my

you can read versus talking to those actually

own thing.” :

doing it,” she explains.

Ryan Avery Follensbee, the current director

For more information on

of the CMU Tech Viticulture and Enology

CAVE programming and

program agrees, shares that he sees an increase

events, visit winecolorado.org.

in demand for educational programming

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home + garden

SIMMER POT RECIPES FOR WINTER COMFORT

BREATHE IN THE SEASON Words by Laura Mills + Recipes by Jocelyn Laferriere MELODY ZIMMERMAN

A

s the cool weather moves in, many of us feel the calling to turn inward and reach

for soft textures, rich smells and nourishing foods. Humans have long been creating elixirs to boost both immunity and comfort in the more dormant months of the year.

Simmer pots fit into this category perfectly — they warm you from the outside in, cleanse the stagnant air around us and a pleasant sense of comfort. Local herbalist and apothecary owner Jocelyn Laferriere, also known as The Belden Witch, sat down with us to discuss simmer pots, their benefits and recipes for a few different mixes. Keep reading to explore the world of herbalism and tap into comfort this season.

CLEANSING FACIAL STEAM SIMMER POT 1 tsp dried mint 1 tsp dried eucalyptus 1 tsp dried lavender 1 lemon sliced or peels from one lemon Put all ingredients in a small stock pot on the stove over low/medium heat. Fill with water.

Just before it comes to a boil, remove from the stove, place on a kitchen towel or trivet on a table. Create a tent over your head with a small towel, placing your head over the pot to allow the steam to rise up onto your face as you take deep belly breaths. Be sure to close your eyes!

The volatile oils from the herbs will help to clear nasal passages, help with congestion, sore throat and any cold or flu symptoms.

If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, use one to two drops of each essential oil.

WARM SPICE SIMMER POT 1 cup of fresh or dried cranberries 1 orange sliced or peels from one orange 2 cinnamon sticks 2 star anise 1 tsp cloves 2-3 sprigs of fresh pine Add all ingredients to a small sauce pan. Fill with water until ingredients are just about covered.

Simmer on low heat, and keep adding water as necessary. This simmer pot can be used for two to three days. Be sure not to leave unattended on the stove!

A perfect way to use the extra clippings from your holiday tree. Option: add a splash of vanilla extract for an extra warm scent. :

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

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drink

CHARRED LEMON + ROSEMARY SOUR Words + Photo by Jayme Henderson

C

hances are, if you venture outside right now, you’re met with a blast of cold and

crispy air and a scene of wintry, white snow.

While an ice-cold cocktail might not exactly be what you are craving this time of the year, there is something about a citrus-forward cocktail that pairs perfectly with the colder months and reminds us that the warmer season is just around the corner.

Thankfully, there is an abundance of lemons, limes and oranges available throughout the winter season, so I make it a priority to capture their freshness, adding them to drinks and food preparations alike.

For this wintry riff on a classic whiskey sour, I charred the lemons before juicing them, adding warmth and complexity to the vibrant citrus tones. Simply slice lemons in half and give them a quick char on the grill and then juice the fruit. Instead of tossing the rinds, which already contain so much flavor, toss a couple into the rosemary-honey syrup, which further brightens the drink. :

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CHARRED LEMON + ROSEMARY SOUR 2 ounces rye whisky (I used Woody Creek Distillers) 1 ounce charred lemon juice ¾ ounce rosemary-honey syrup (see notes) Crushed ice Rosemary sprig and charred lemon wheel, for garnish

1. Fill a cocktail glass with crushed ice and set aside.

2. In a mixing tin, combine the rye whiskey, charred lemon juice and rosemary-honey syrup.

3. Add ice, shake well and strain into the prepped cocktail glass.

4. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary and a charred lemon wheel.

ROSEMARY-HONEY SYRUP Combine one cup honey with one cup water in a small saucepan. Toss in one of your leftover charred lemon rinds, a sprig of rosemary and a few black peppercorns. Over medium-low heat, bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring to incorporate. Let it slowly and gently bubble for two minutes and then remove from heat, letting it cool to room temperature. Strain and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, keeping it handy for hot toddies or warm pancakes.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

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eat

WINTER RECIPE

COOKIE RECIPES TO SHARE JOY, CULTURE + WARMTH THIS WINTER Words by Maureen McGuire | Photo by Cat Mayer

O

ne of my favorite things in the winter

I hope these cookie recipes from my kitchen

is cookie exchanges. I love cookies as

usher in joy and blessings to your home as we

Christmas or New Year’s Day morning breakfast

move through this season. I hope you get to

with giant, steaming mugs of hot tea or coffee

try cookies and traditions of other cultures as

and a couple pieces of bacon. It’s indulgent and

many of us celebrate the end of one year and

easy. But most of all, it’s an opportunity for me

the beginning of another. I hope cookies bring

to share cultures among friends. I’ve received

smiles, laughter, joyful conversation, time for

Mexican wedding cookies, krumkake, pizzelle,

reflection and a feeling of togetherness for you

macrons, baklava and so many other small

this winter. There is just something about a gift

pastries from friends and coworkers. It seems

of handmade goods to brighten the dark days of

like there is some continuity of cookie-making

winter and make the season sweeter. :

in many cultures from across the nation and globe. In my home, they have come to signal hope and joy for the year to come.

BROWN BUTTER MOLASSES COOKIES 16 COOKIES

¾ cup butter ½ cup white sugar ½ cup molasses 1 egg 1 tsp vanilla 2 cups flour ¼ tsp salt 2 tsp baking powder

1. Brown the butter until it is deep amber, but not burned. Chill in the fridge until solid again.

2. Cream together the butter, sugar and molasses. Add the egg and vanilla.

3. Whisk together remaining dry ingredients and add slowly to butter mixture until combined. Chill dough for two hours.

4. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

5. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.

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6. Divide dough into 16 even balls and crosshatch with a fork to flatten to about ½-inch thick.

7. Bake for about 11-12 minutes.

CHEWY LEMON RICOTTA BARS 12 BARS

½ cup full fat ricotta 3 Tbsp butter ¾ cup sugar 1 egg Zest and juice of one large lemon 2 cups flour 1 tsp baking powder

FROSTING Zest of one large lemon 2 Tbsp lemon juice 3 Tbsp butter About 1 cup powdered sugar A few drops of lemon extract (optional)

1. P reheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. B utter and flour an 8x8-inch pan.

3. C ream together ricotta, egg, butter, lemon zest/juice and sugar until fluffy. Add dry ingredients. Spread into pan evenly.

5. B ake for about 20-25 minutes or until edges are light golden brown. Cool completely.

6. W hile bars are chilling, mix wet frosting ingredients together. Slowly add sugar.

It should be soft but not runny. Frost on cooled bars.

PEACH SPICE ROUNDS 24 COOKIES

¾ cup butter, softened 2 egg yolks 1 tsp vanilla ¾ cup sugar 1 cup almond flour 1 ½ cup flour ¼ tsp baking powder

Pinch of salt 1 tsp cinnamon ½ tsp ground ginger ¼ tsp each of nutmeg and mace Pinch of cardamom 1½ cup peach (or apricot) jam

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Cream together butter, sugar, eggs and vanilla until fluffy.

3. In a second bowl, whisk the rest of the ingredients together until spices are well distributed. With the mixer on low (or by hand), slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture.

4. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper.

5. Chill dough for two hours. Roll into 1-inch balls, about 2-3 inches apart. Indent with your knuckle to make a slight crater. Fill with ¼ tsp jam.

6. Bake for about 13 minutes or until edges are light golden brown.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

21

eat

THE (FOOD) SCIENCE OF ‘SHAREABLE HAPPINESS’

INSIDE COLORADO’S CHOCOLATE MAKERS Words + Photo by Nickolas Paullus

T

here’s nostalgia inherent in chocolate. Our

technology. The machine heats a slurry of sugar

own personal histories with candy hearken

and butter to 400 degrees Fahrenheit before

to simpler times, and yet candy itself is not a

sending the molten candy onto a self-cooling

simple thing.

conveyor, which helps the toffee harden before

Confections are exacting, prone to particularities. “Honestly, confectionery is

“It took over two years of research and

material science,” says Alpen Confections owner

development” before they committed to order

Lin McKay. “Chemistry,” clarifies his partner and

the

husband Mike Shafer.

Doug Simons Sr. Once the tech was in place, the

state-of-the-art

machinery,

says

owner

It is McKay and Shafer’s sensitivities to

computer-controlled frequency drives allowed

scientific minutiae that allows them to succeed in

the company to scale up to volumes unimaginable

the chocolate business. They juggle concepts like

prior to the technological advancement.

“toffee evaporation rates” and “crystallization of

“Take our chocolate depositor for example.

beta-V polymorphs in chocolate” with ease. Their

With 60 cavities on 325 molds, we can make

nature, inherently meticulous and curious, has

nearly 36,000 pieces of shell molded chocolate

allowed them to adapt and refine their process,

an hour,” continues Simons Sr. The technology

which is requisite in Colorado.

is exacting, from the tempering machine that

As with high-altitude baking, confections in

stirs and cools the heated chocolate to 90 degrees

Colorado are subject to different environmental

Fahrenheit in order to properly distribute fat

influences than those at sea level. “Atmospheric

globules throughout, to the impressive “one shot

pressure, boiling point, oxygen and humidity”

machine” that can fill a center and outer layer to

are all impacted by Alpen Confection’s Montrose

a truffle in one go.

location.

This consistency has allowed them to branch

When managing delicate variables,

out into private labeling, as well as supplying

scalability becomes a key safeguard for

larger contracts such as QVC and Costco. This

consistency. Once the recipe or formula is

scalability is hard earned, a result of decades of

perfected, producing larger batches ensures

technological growth.

more uniform results.

Back in Montrose, the duo at Alpen

At Grand Junction institution Enstrom

Confections is butting up against the margins

Candies, after 60-plus years of growth and

of their own scalability as they tackle new

success, consistency at scale is paramount. The

client Clark’s Market throughout the region’s

volumes are boggling, with numbers like 250,000

mountain towns (Aspen, Telluride and others).

pounds of liquid chocolate, 200-pound bags of

With upwards of 400% growth as a result of this

sugar and mountainous blocks of butter.

endeavor, McKay and Shafer are enlisting the

“We run the only continuous conveyor toffee

22

reaching the chocolate enrober.

help of some technological wizardry.

maker in the world,” beams Enstrom owner and

Artificial Intelligence (AI) programs like

vice-president Jim Simons. The name is exactly

ChatGPT are a boon to small companies. With

as it sounds: an impressive feat of science and

their ability to sift through and compile massive

amounts of data, AI can lighten the workload for

McKay and Shafer to focus on their deeper

creatives, allowing them to focus on their craft.

connections to confections.

Alpen Confections has AI assistants working on

There’s an artistry to their bon-bons.

scaling and converting recipes, while also using

“Synesthetic,” as they say — their multi-

the program to sift through dense academic

dimensional chocolates are at once a reflection

literature.

of novel taste and a lens for seeing.

“Just today, for example, we were looking

“We lead with color,” says McKay, as the

into the implications of combining pectin

sheen and hue convey emotion and flavor

with non-hydrous [ingredients],” says Shafer.

simultaneously. Their shapes, reminiscent of

Something so particular is for all intents and

the Uncompahgre Plateau or the Grand Mesa,

purposes “non-searchable” on regular search

vessels of utility and beauty.

engines. ChatGPT, however, acts as a massive filter of information.

“There’s a lot of dissonance in the world right now, and confection allows us to bring together

“We also have [AI] assistants that help with

our love of food and science,” begins McKay, as

delivery and social media. It weighs machine

Shafer concludes, “to make something shareable.

efficiency, compares data points,” and allows

Happiness, I suppose. Shareable happiness.” :

“We run the only continuous conveyor toffee maker in the world,” beams Enstrom owner and vice-president Jim Simons. The name is exactly as it sounds: an impressive feat of science and technology.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

23

holiday gift guide

WesteezCo Ready to take your love for the Grand Valley on an adventure? Shop this collection today at westeezco.com and wear your love for the West Slope loud and proud. Founded in 2023 by local artist Eric Kelly of Never Dull Graphics and Gondola Shop owner Dominique Bastien, Westeez is the place where local inspiration meets vibrant design. @westeezco westeezco.com

WinterLilly The Huttrer Family photos taken in Europe in the early 1930s make WinterLilly ceramics usable art, home decor or tabletop. Microwave and dishwasher friendly, they are a wonderful “slice of mountain life” from a time gone by …

Email aapple@comcast.net to order.

PJ’s Fine Bamboo Rods Treat someone special to an unforgettable six-day class in Pagosa Springs where they can design and handcraft their own bamboo fly rod under the guidance of PJ’s Fine Bamboo master rodsmiths.

Small class sizes and personalized attention result in a unique keepsake an angler will cherish forever. pjsfinebamboo.com

FABULA GIFT SHOP IN MONTROSE Fabula was established in 2012 and is a woman-owned small business in downtown Montrose. Find top-quality and unique kitchen accessories, cookware, home decor, toys and gifts.

Kitchenware brands carried here include Le Creuset, Scanpan, Lodge Cast Iron and Breville. Decorate your table with linens from TAG, Tableau and more.

Find fun and educational toys by Hape, Jellycat, Fat Brain Toys, BRIO and Ravensburger, and just because, make your feet happy by getting some of our Dansko shoes. Voted Best of the Valley for gifts since 2016.

Open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with special Sunday Christmas season hours.

317 East Main St., Montrose 970.765.2274 fabulagifts.com

24

holiday gift guide

ENSTROM CANDIES Enstrom Almond Toffee is just one of the cherished, handcrafted sweets to come from Enstrom Candies’ own candy kitchen. This timeless confection is cooked the old-fashioned way, in copper kettles, with nothing but Grade A butter, pure cane sugar, fresh almonds and rich milk or dark chocolate, then sprinkled with a dusting of crushed almonds for that classic crunch.

Folks have been sweet on Enstrom Candies and their handcrafted Almond Toffee for over 60 years. Still a family business, now in its fourth generation, Enstrom Candies has kept to its roots, even as the selection has grown to include fine chocolates, toffee popcorn and ice creams.

Each batch is still made at the original factory right here in Grand Junction, Colorado.

Come see what makes Enstrom Candies a family tradition at enstrom.com.

“Ranch to Table” Bison from FIRE MTN RANCH Grass fed and finished West Slope Bison. No use of hormones or sub-therapeutic antibiotics, and all meat is USDA inspected, professionally processed and vacuum packaged. firemtnranch.com

Vail Nordic Center Visit the Vail Nordic Center, with 17 kilometers of skate and classic tracks and 10 kilometers of trails for snowshoeing. Lessons and rentals are available. The center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

970.476.8366 vailnordiccenter.com

Wet Dreams River Supply As Grand Junction’s only river and paddle sports specific retailer, Wet Dreams offers a huge inventory of rafts, SUPs, pack rafts, kayaks and accessories. Come get what you need for a day trip, fishing adventure or expedition of a lifetime.

739 3rd Ave., Grand Junction 970.640.0737 wetdreamsriversupply.com

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

25

book + beverage

Words by Chloe Wasserstrom | Photo courtesy of Clark & Co’s Distilling

A

THE BOOK

you see the coast is clear, give a push and start off

A-B-SKIS

BY LIBBY LUDLOW

slow.” Here, and throughout the hardback, Ludlow emphasizes safety and ski etiquette, while Jarvis’ creations dance and texturize the pages.

Ludlow proudly reveals the rhyming in the book makes it on to the slopes. Children often

s a former U.S. Ski Team member, 2006

come back to the ideas they learned on paper

Olympic skier and mother to two young

and sing them on the snow. This helps young

shredders, Libby Ludlow set out to create

ones delight in their turns when their avid

something that had never been done before: craft a

imagination can be distracting.

children’s alphabet book about the splendid world

Cover to cover, A-B-Skis is a charming

of skiing. She joined forces with Nathan Jarvis,

resource, complete with a responsibility code for

Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA)

kids and pro tips. This is a book made by people

certified ski instructor and renowned illustrator,

who truly know skiing, and aid in initiating

to bring the sport off the slopes and into the home.

positive experiences on skis.

The Park City, Utah-based team created a book that not only honors the mountain culture but also helps young readers and rippers understand the sport’s language they will learn on the hill.

“I know how joyful it is to share your passion with children,” Ludlow says. “I hope [parents and

“Our hearts bleed skiing and it comes through in the book,” Ludlow emphasizes.

Check out their other heartwarming winter picture book, Goodnight Chairlift.

THE BEVERAGE

adults] get that bonding experience of sharing

CLARK & CO’S DISTILLING SPIRITS + HOT COCOA

something they love. The book is the medium, so you get to share your love for skiing even when not on the hill.”

Before the book was published in 2019, Ludlow knew she wanted to capture skiing’s spirit, culture and concepts. She shares she made an excel sheet full of all the topics she wanted to cover: safety, gear, outdoor appreciation, falling and frustration expectations, and instructional topics. It did not take long for the retired racer to realize she only had 26 pages to convey this dreamy sport’s importance. And she succeeds. Every word on every page was strategically chosen.

A-B-Skis makes parents’ and coaches’ lives easier with every letter. For example, Ludlow writes, “I is for independence … proving you’re a big kid now, carrying your skis all alone.” This establishes the concept of carrying your own equipment before the kids even step foot on snow.

Or, like other moments throughout the book, if the young ones are already acquainted with the idea, the imagery reinforces the words. Later, Ludlow writes, “U is for uphill, look before you go. When

26

C

ozy up with A-B-Skis and a cup of local, non-

toxic spirits. Chris Schmalz is the co-owner of Clark & Co’s

Distilling in Palisade and reveals their current festive flavors: Enstrom Toffee Bourbon, Sugar Cookie, Gingerbread and Candy Cane. All of these winter spirits are perfectly paired in hot chocolate or coffee. Hold the spirits and caffeine for the little ones. Schmalz recommends the toffee bourbon with old fashioned, topped with a chocolate drizzle.

All of the ingredients are locally sourced.

The spirit base is either corn from Grand Junction or peaches, pears, cherries and plum strips from Schmalz’s farm in Palisade, Orchard River View. There are absolutely no artificial sweeteners or preservatives. These flavors are here to help you savor the winter fun and enhance your holiday cheer. :

INSTAGRAM + PODCAST PICKS Compiled by S+B Staff

5 Good News Stories Podcast

Each episode of 5 Good News Stories delivers five inspiring, feel-good news stories — from acts of kindness to incredible breakthroughs — showing that good things are happening every day. Brighten your week with a dose of positivity!

The Squeeze Podcast

The Squeeze is about mental health, hosted by Taylor Lautner (yes, married to that Taylor Lautner). Drawing from her own experiences as a pandemic nurse, Tay and co-host Taylor dive into honest conversations with celebrity guests and experts, exploring mental wellness, sharing coping tools and reminding listeners they’re not alone.

The Rewatchables Podcast

The Rewatchables is a film podcast from The Ringer, hosted

by Bill Simmons and a rotating panel of Ringer contributors. Each episode dives into movies they just can’t stop watching — from The Hangover to Godfather 2 and beyond. Explore 150+ episodes covering classic films!

CARLY FINKE

@movewithme_books

Move With Me Books integrates mindfulness and movement to deepen comprehension, memory and self-compassion. Founded by Vail Valley-based Rachel Glowacki and Carly Finke, this duo brings their unique strengths to create immersive, multisensory story experiences. Follow along for inclusive, dynamic approaches to making story time active and meaningful for all young learners!

@maxiskitchen

Maxi’s Kitchen offers healthy, easy-to-make recipes. Created by Maxine Sharf, Maxi’s Kitchen is inspired by the dishes she learned from her mom. Follow along for delicious, wholesome recipes that make cooking simple and fun!

@b4bc

Boarding for Breast Cancer is a nonprofit dedicated to breast cancer education and prevention, especially for young people.

Since 1996, B4BC has promoted early detection, the importance of an active lifestyle and provided support for survivors. Through year-round youth-focused events, educational outreach and survivorship programs, it is raising awareness for health and wellness.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

27

community style

STEAMBOAT’S ORIGINAL SAWDUST INCINERATOR ULTIMATELY TRANSFORMS

FROM POLLUTANT TO WELLNESS SANCTUARY Words by Kimberly Nicoletti | Photos courtesy of Love, Yoga

O

28

ne of Steamboat’s iconic — and most

the building piece by piece, reassembling it on

bizarre — buildings was originally a

Yampa and 12th Street, where it still stands.

sawdust incinerator, producing huge billows

“He used the equivalent of chicken wire

of smoke on the outskirts of town in the 1960s

to keep the integrity of the shape, then plastered

and 70s. Now, the cone-shaped building is a

it with gunite,” says Mary Bailes, owner of

sanctuary for body, mind and soul located in the

Love, Yoga.

heart of downtown through Love, Yoga studio.

He installed an old chairlift tower, which

Even before the yoga studio opened last

became an unusual support beam in the center

June, the building acted a community hub in

of the structure and created a hydraulic system

the form of bike shops.

with a ceiling that opens to let hot air escape.

In 1977, Kent Eriksen purchased the

From there, he launched Sore Saddle

cylinder building at an auction for $1. He moved

Cyclery, which ultimately grew into Moots

Bicycles in 1981 — a company currently located

the cracked cement floor to even it out and

on Copper Ridge Drive.

placed black rubber gym tiles over it; knocked

In 2005, Eriksen leased the building to

down a few walls that formerly acted as bike

Orange Peel Bicycle Service, which also shares

repair stations; and built a wall with transom

a storied history of starting in a historic

windows installed over the now-mirrored

residential-turned-commercial space and now

wall, so only half of the studio retains its semi-

exists in a repurposed industrial building,

octagonal shape. Additionally, they removed

known as Steamboat Basecamp, on the west

the staircase to replace it with a ship ladder

end of town.

leading to a meditation room upstairs.

In fall 2023, he sold the building to Collin Kelley, who leased it to Bailes.

They painted the previously orange and lime green walls white and covered the chairlift

“I just felt that special feeling you do about

tower with wood slats to match the original

a building when you go into it,” she says, adding

paneling on the ceiling. Inside, the globe lighting

that owning a yoga studio had always been

is reminiscent of lanterns hanging from a tree,

her dream.

since the interior beams leading to the skylights

But before she could open Love, Yoga, she had to renovate the historic building.

reminded Bailes of a big oak tree. In the lobby, they built a new wall and added cubbies, benches

“It was a greasy old bike shop that needed a

and pink tile at the reception desk. They also

lot of love and a lot of elbow grease,” she says.

choose pink paint for the rusted, but beloved,

She and her partner, Rob Taylor, who owns

chairlifts, which harken back to the bicycle shop

Grove Mountain Construction, grinded down

days and still stand outside the building.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

29

“We brought in some feminine touches to this masculine-feeling space,” she says.

character and create something really special,” she says. :

They retained Eriksen’s wood door, which he fashioned with old freezer hinges, and

Love, Yoga

preserved the wooden bicycle spoke above the

1136 Yampa St.

entrance by adding fresh paint.

Steamboat Springs, CO

“We’ve kept some of the original touches, such as the chairlift swings out front, to keep its

30

loveyogasb.com

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

31

maker

GRAND VALLEY ICE MAKES HIGH QUALITY COCKTAIL ICE FOR BARS + RESTAURANTS

CRYSTAL CLEAR Words by Nickolas Paullus | Photo by Chris Bonds

T

here’s romance to two ounces of whiskey

cocktail ice for local bars and restaurants. Using

poured over a giant cube of ice. It’s

a directional freezer (it freezes from the bottom

absolutely aesthetic: there’s a novelty to a large

up), an engine hoist, ice picks and saw, Bonds

chunk of frozen water in a glass.

makes truly pristine ice. As it freezes, the gas

To Chris Bonds, owner of Grand Valley Ice,

is able to escape through the top of the unit, as

however, there’s more to it than just good looks.

opposed to in a normal freezing scenario where

“I wouldn’t say I’m a water nerd exactly,”

it freezes from all sides, trapping gas as it does.

he says, standing in front of a 350-pound

Once frozen, the 350 block has to temper

block of crystal-clear ice. Though not a self-

first (as do cubes when used in drinks), before he

proclaimed water nerd, he grew up with a

can cut it. Tempering ice allows the temperature

deep appreciation for the resource, thanks to

of a block to rise so that it won’t fracture when

his father’s involvement in the Rural Water

it comes in contact with a warmer drink or tool.

Association. Reflecting on his childhood, he even

Bonds bemoans a time he put a freshly pulled

muses about the dwindling snowfall in northern

behemoth on his work table and watched (and

Mississippi over the course of his lifetime.

heard) the block splinter.

This, paired with living in one of the best municipal water sources in the nation (Grand

32

“It was beautiful, but also heartbreaking,” he says.

Junction recently placed second in North

Once tempered, the ice is cut into 2-inch

America for Best Tasting Water according to the

cubes for rocks glasses or spears for the taller

American Water Works Association), led Bonds to

Collins glass (although he does craft custom

create a startup focused on crafting high-quality

dimensions for some local talent). They are

elegant, but also far more utilitarian in drink-

Business Incubator campus, is tailor-made for

making than regular old ice cubes.

something of his production size. The Incubator

“If you’re drinking a $100 bottle of scotch,

further has facilitated his company’s birth,

you don’t want to ruin that experience,” says

offering classes on finance and bookkeeping.

Bonds.

Bonds also qualified for the Grand Junction

A larger cube of ice melts slower, chilling

Economic Partnership’s Rural Jumpstart grant,

the drink without watering down the spirit. And

furthering cementing his ability to make inroads

with great-tasting water like Junction’s, melting

on a commercial vacuum for the region.

isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Many flavor

“There’s no one doing this on this side of

compounds in spirits are “trapped” by the high-

the Rockies,” he says. “And it’s prohibitive for

proof alcohol, so a little bit of water and minerals

bars and restaurants to do it themselves.” The

can help unlock flavors that were latent in the

homemade process is laborious, and a pain for

spirit (Bonds filters out only the solids, leaving

freezer space. And so, Bonds already has loyal

the mineral profile in tact).

customers throughout Grand Junction.

While Bonds’ Clinebell ice machine (a

The loyalty is well deserved. The cubes (and

company born in Loveland, Colorado) can crank

the titan that birthed them) are beautiful, and

out about 2,400 square 2-inch cubes a week, his

that’s the point.

volume is still on the craft level. As such, when

“As a chef, a bartender, you want people to

Bonds qualified for the incubator program at

take pictures,” says Bonds. Photos allow those

the Grand Junction Business Incubator, it was

separated by distance to get a glimpse of an

absolutely ideal.

experience. Clear ice doesn’t muddy the water,

“$2,500 a month, 8,000 square feet — I don’t

it becomes a focal point unto itself. Crystallic, it

need anything on that scale,” says Bonds. His

draws the eye, and allows the drink around it to

space, a 588-square-foot workshop located at the

shine with the utmost clarity. :

Crawford Row bridges the past and future, offering a seamless blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. Your home here is a part of a continuously evolving community that will thrive for years to come.

MOVE IN STRONG! MAKE AN OFFER BY 12/15/24 AND ENJOY A FREE ONE-YEAR GYM MEMBERSHIP! GARY FRANKLIN

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MERRITE WYATT

970.901.2954

970.260.6947

LOAN OFFICER NMLS #: 1846334

rick.reynolds@fairwaymc.com Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation

®

REALTOR | CRS, CLHMS

mwyatt@brayandco.com Your3ATeam.com

1015 N 7th Street Grand Junction, CO 81501

COPYRIGHT©2024 FLANAGAN STATE BANK, NMLS 408461. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. INFORMATION PROVIDED IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT IN ANY WAY CONSTITUTE AN OFFER FOR EXTENSION OF CREDIT OR COMMITMENT TO LEND. ALL APPLICANTS MUST APPLY FOR A MORTGAGE LOAN WITH A LICENSED/REGISTERED LOAN ORIGINATOR TO DETERMINE QUALIFICATION STATUS. TERMS OF LOANS ARE DEPENDENT ON APPLICANT QUALIFICATIONS. INFORMATION SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. EQUAL HOUSING LENDER. COPYRIGHT©2024 FAIRWAY INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE CORPORATION. NMLS#2289. 4750 S. BILTMORE LANE, MADISON, WI 53718, 1-866-912-4800. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS IS NOT AN OFFER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT. NOT ALL CUSTOMERS WILL QUALIFY. INFORMATION, RATES AND PROGRAMS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO CREDIT AND PROPERTY APPROVAL. OTHER RESTRICTIONS AND LIMITATIONS MAY APPLY. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.

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art

AWARD-WINNING ARTIST GERRY JENSEN

PAINTING WITH A NEW PERSPECTIVE Words + Photos by Roschelle Bulda

T

34

omorrow is not promised. Whether you

a combination of all, the practice of living each

comprehend that statement in an existential

day with vigor and gratefulness can become

or religious sense, the intent of the message rings

second-nature. If in this process you reach a

clear — revel in and appreciate today. When

place where you discover dormant capabilities,

life changes suddenly we’re left to navigate the

it’s possible to perceive and live life anew. Artist

long roads with unforeseen endings, traversing

Gerry Jensen has been down that challenging

through obstacles unplanned. If you’re equipped

road, and rather than willfully follow the route

with or develop the fortitude and resilience

which would stray him from what he loves, he

to make it through with grace and strength,

embraced the struggle and charted a course in

fueled by determination, support and love, or

a familiar yet foreign direction. He now glows

with the humility of someone who embodies the essence of living each day fruitfully, with an equal balance of patience and passion.

Encouraged by his wife Lila, they both picked up paintbrushes in 1996; and although they each continue to paint today, the art quickly became Jensen’s life. He still owns his first painting, which serves as a reminder of when his passion began.

It modestly hangs on the wall near his homestudio easel, adjacent to awards, mementoes, life affirmations and articles documenting his artistic trajectory. Completely self-taught, aided by creative resources and constructive critique from colleagues, Jensen attests that his work is a production of evolution by process of learning. His oil-on-canvas landscape pieces are a reflection of his love of the lands, his view of the natural world, where his goal is to invoke a “sense of awe” in viewers, further stating his aim is to capture the beauty of life and “enable people to feel what he felt in that moment.”

Through his naturalist lens, he painted his way to a successful career which garnered him both respect and accolades in the local art community and was gaining momentum, until it all come to a halt on Jan. 19, 2022.

“I got up to deliver new paintings to a gallery and my arm was getting numb,” Jensen quietly recalls of that morning. “I kept moving on, but then my legs got wobbly.” As his physical abilities quickly began to deteriorate, Jensen and his wife arrived at the ER. He had developed intermittent paralysis on his right side and scans revealed he was experiencing a stroke. He was treated immediately and was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit. A day that began as any other he was accustomed to turned into a month-long stay at St. Mary’s Hospital and a journey overwhelmed by a daunting uncertainty of what his life would become. For the previous 26 years he relied on his inherent, unconscious ability to paint with his right hand and, in the span of merely hours, he lost it. The months and years after his stroke would prove to be an awakening and a cemented declaration of his passion and determination to forge a new path in art and life.

A preeminent explorer and seeker of adventure, Lila admitted to both an admiration,

and, at times, apprehension of Jensen’s zeal and

to him, gently wiping her own. “I could not have

zest. “He’s always been a go-getter,” she lovingly

survived without her,” Jensen says.

expresses. Therefore, it came as no surprise

The day of the stroke and the day he began

when he eventually made his way from his

to paint again were pivotal life moments which

hospital bed, which was outfitted in their living

redirected Jensen’s course. Although it was only

room, down a few steps to his studio where he

a few steps from the bed to the studio, it was a

picked up his paintbrush with his left hand.

testament to how passion can ignite perseverance

“Seeing the studio from my bed was motivation,”

through unimaginable challenge, culminating

Jensen remembers. It was an organic process

in a renewed appreciation of existence and the

and intuitive reaction to continue doing what

beauty of life, love and healing.

brought him and others joy, now with a different perspective and a different hand.

Of his art today, Jensen says he sees a “subtle difference, with looser, smaller and more

For both Jensen and his wife, the experience

abstract strokes.” Unseen is the path he took

has been physically, emotionally and financially

to arrive there and the inspiration each piece

taxing, all in various degrees, coupled with

emanates. :

processing, coping and learning to transition into a new way of living. They credit the unyielding support of their artist community and friends for helping them manage through.

But most importantly, they credit each other.

As we sat together in their living room, Jensen welled up with tears. Lila lovingly looked over

36

Gerry Jensen’s most recent work can be viewed at Craig Gallery in Palisade and at Sage Mountain Gallery in Salida.

Memories that last a lifetime.

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art

THE LANGUAGE OF THE SEASON

THE POETRY OF WINTER Words by Wendy Videlock AARON BURDEN

A

s the solstice approaches, I’ve been

winter actually begins as Earth’s north pole is

reflecting on the past year and my ongoing

tilted farthest away from the sun. It therefore

efforts toward better health, greater patience

also marks the moment our days begin to

and deeper presence.

lengthen.

Today the winter brings to mind

universal way of measuring time, the winter

the nature of the curved line, the many ways

solstice was the naturally occurring start of the

we measure time,

new year.

Before the Gregorian calendar became our

the drawing of a deep breath, the shape of the sail

Civilizations across the globe for thousands

just before

of years have taken great pains to build

another holy exhale. And there, an aperture

monuments which make sure we pay attention

begins, the signature

to these natural markers of reflection, these

reminder the body is a home

opportunities provided us for reflection, renewal

and beginnings

and greater wisdom.

and endings are the same as a nonce form,

These natural wonders transcend sect,

or a summer storm

cult, religion, nationality, race, class and other

or even a season being born— not an erasure but

reductive demographics, reminding us of our

a departure from the norm.

shared experience as sentient creatures on Earth — sometimes simple, sometimes complicated

Perhaps the most famous solstice poem in the

and always walking the path of mystery.

English language is Robert Frost’s Stopping by

Reflecting on my attempts toward deeper

Woods in which the narrator pauses to watch the

presence this past year, I notice it’s been helpful

woods fill up with snow: “My little horse must

to really limit my time spent online consuming

think it queer/To stop without a farmhouse near/

novelty, shallow entertainment and far too much

The darkest evening of the year.”

bad news.

That moment of pausing before turning

38

toward reflection seems to mirror what the sun

I have been counting my regrets:

seems to do at the moment the solstice occurs.

Bacon, Facebook, cigarettes.

But the winter solstice isn’t just a time the

Anger, bluster, laziness.

sun seems to stand still, it’s also the moment

Fearfulness. Indifference.

Lousy lovers. Stupid bets.

Things that shouldn’t be confessed.

From there I recall a different kind of renewal I experienced a few years ago.

I’m still not dead.

It should be said

Twelve days in hospital:

I haven’t finished counting yet.

surgeries and complications various humiliations, mysteries

I actually quit smoking a few years ago and

and weepy conversations, blood-soaked

quickly learned that when one vice is released,

devastations, pain-filled

others are waiting in the wings to step in and

bifurcations — wan and reduced

become suddenly prominent — and similarly

to providence and nerve,

tempting.

I have emerged with these four words: how can I serve ...

Just for today I’m stooped in gluten and steeped

The more difficult the world appears, perhaps

in carbs, swamped in gravy

the greater the imperative toward the creative

and buttered in lard— I’m a slathered-

impulse, toward more empathetic living, toward

in-salt tequila bard

more meaningful service.

whistling past the graveyard.

Just as last year at this time I resolved to walk more readily with Patience, this year I

And obviously I rely an awful lot on humor

ask Wonder to walk beside me, to be one of

to keep me from taking myself too seriously.

my brightly shining teachers, companions and

Surrounding myself with people who are

guiding stars.

similarly drawn to humor goes a long way, too.

You might have noticed that personifying

Auden once said that among the people he liked

the virtues is something poetry loves to do —

he could find no common denominator, but

as do all the arts— as well as all religions and

among those he loved, he could: they all made

spiritual practices.

him laugh.

I recently found myself saying that of all the fruit we grow here in the Grand Valley, the pear

I leave you with a poem about wonder personified — and with my warmest wishes of the season.

has the greatest sense of humor.

WONDER There’s something pleasing

Wide-eyed she’ll find you every time.

in a pear. It sits there,

She will not steal your heart or soul.

leaning and uneven,

She will not say: away from here

plumpish and speckled everywhere. I swear

the sea rocks gently in its bowl,

every pear

the moon’s the ghost of Gilgamesh

is laughing while

floating toward the silver pine,

it’s sitting there. the love you lost is dwelling with Laughing pears notwithstanding, there’s no

the peregrine and goldeneye,

denying the world can be a difficult place and

and by the bye,

keeping our own affirming flame burning can

deep in your chest, a well exists.

sometimes be a real challenge. I’m reminded of Edna St Vincent Millay, who said, “Beauty in all

She is too busy changing form.

things — no, we cannot hope for that; but some

Her hand upon your shoulder lifts.

place set apart for it.”

She will not take your world by storm. :

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

39

music

REVIVING THE GOLDEN AGE OF RADIO IN A TINY FARMING TOWN

PEA GREEN SATURDAY NIGHTS Words by Nickolas Paullus | Photos by William Woody

T

alk to anyone over 60 who grew up in the

Hosted by Dean Rickman and Len Willey,

Montrose/Delta area and you’re likely

affectionately known by their stage name, the

to hear about Pea Green. An unincorporated

Pea Green Brothers, Saturday Nights are an

community west of Olathe, the town was a hoot

homage to the Golden Age of Radio programs.

in its day. Music, dancing and revelry seem to

The multi-talented duo, on their fictitious KPEA

have been a hallmark of the community.

Radio live show, host an evening of bluegrass

And yet if you drive the streets now, you

40

music, comedy and general revelry.

might not imagine anything of the sort. There’s

“It’s a fully scripted affair,” says Rickman. He,

a little store, known for its bi-annual sale called

along with Willey, punctuate two Americana music

Pickin at the Pea, and there’s a community center

acts throughout the evening with equal doses wit

that hosts weddings, wakes and the like.

and talent. Instrumentalists themselves, they make

But on the last Saturday of the month,

sound effects, commentary and generally shoot

January through April, the tiny town of Pea

the breeze like a true radio duo would. Willey with

Green is transformed. Pea Green Saturday Night,

his accordion and Rickman with his guitar, the duo

hosted in the Pea Green Community Center,

curates the event as an homage to the likes of Bob

could accurately be described as a ball, a bash, a

Elliott and Ray Goulding, with maybe a smattering

riot and a romp.

of Prairie Home Companion.

“It’s an oasis of time ... a bit of a church experience,” adds Rickman. It’s for and by the community, including time for socializing and a potluck. Family friendly, the entire event is treated with a reverence in hopes to make the evening safe and welcoming to all. The community chips in and does doors, sets out chairs and tears tickets.

The event has even spilled out into neighboring Delta, where seasonal iterations of the show have showed up at the Egyptian Theater.

The antics persisted, as Willey and Rickman went on a world tour from Pea Green, only to have their tour bus “break down in Delta.”

The event’s home, however, is absolutely the Pea Green Community Center. The show is rooted Dean Rickman and Len Willey onstage at Pea Green.

“We’re turning back the clock,” says Rickman, fully aware of the dual meaning, considering the Brothers are known for their time travel antics. Add a printed playbill, the duo’s dapper outfits, the folksy music and it all being housed in a 100-year-old building, and

in place, the gravity of the tiny town bleeding over into every aspect of the radio show.

“It feels spiritual, like we are conduits for the space,” reflects Rickman. Conduits for Pea Green certainly, but also conduits for 100 years of rural history, for the Golden Age of Radio and for a time when community and entertainment were one and the same thing. :

the atmosphere is undoubtedly nostalgic. The timeless air about the event speaks volumes, both retirees and youngins grinning ear to ear, moaning and laughing at the Brothers in equal measure.

The bands are invited to play contingent on the consideration that they play only original music. Rickman suggests that it adds vibe, that avoiding covers lends to the authenticity of the evening. He says “It really shows the context the band exists in,” allowing the bands to become a part of the event, rather than just performers.

The space holds about 200 people, and the event has garnered quite the loyal following in the 18 years since its inception. They have on occasion had to turn patrons away at the door, but are usually hovering around 170-180 onlookers.

“Pea Green is a farming community, and we schedule Saturday Nights as such,” says Rickman.

When harvest is over, when the true crux of farm life is past for the season, the locals are looking for something close to home to unwind and celebrate, and the Pea Green Brothers supply.

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food COURTESY OF BUSINESS INCUBATOR CENTER

All the local ranchers who donated the cows

ENHANCING AGRICULTURAL SUSTAINABILITY IN MESA COUNTY

LOCAL COLLABORATION SUCCESS Words by Kristen Lummis

S

42

chool kids get hungry. Whether they’re

that buying local beef provides a better quality

running on the playground or burning

product than what we can get outside of Mesa

calories calculating equations, feeding students

County. It supports our local community and

is a big job. Providing healthy, appealing and

local ranchers.”

delicious meals is a top priority for Dan Sharp,

Buying local beef, or other agricultural

director of food and nutrition services for Mesa

products, for an entity as large as the school

County Valley School District 51 (D51).

district isn’t easy. Procurement requirements

So when local rancher Janie VanWinkle

favor large industrial suppliers and purchases.

came to him with a proposal to utilize local beef

Local producers have to prove that they are

in school meals this year, Sharp was intrigued.

providing high quality products. The economics

“It’s a dream we’ve had for several years,”

for both the school district, which has a limited

he explains, noting that D51 currently procures

budget, and the supplier, who has to turn a

all of its milk and apples regionally and that

profit, can be tricky.

expanding local purchasing is a component of the

In the case of D51 buying 7,000 pounds of

Healthy School Meals for All initiative approved

local beef — an initiative humorously known

by Colorado voters in 2022. “The bottom line is

as “Bring a Cow to School” — everything came

COURTESY OF SCHOOL DISTRICT 51

together thanks to a federal grant targeting economic stabilization in Mesa County.

The Economic Recovery Corps (ERC) grant awarded to the Business Incubator Center (BIC) is one of 65 bestowed nationally. Each grant is unique to local economic priorities and in Mesa County, the focus is on agriculture, a sector comprising 40% of the region’s economy, according to BIC CEO Dalida Sassoon Bollig.

With this funding, the BIC established AgriWest and hired local rancher and Western Colorado native, Janie VanWinkle, as a 30-month fellow.

In this role, VanWinkle provides technical assistance while working with local producers

Colt Erickson, a student at Mesa View Elementary, brought his lunch but ditched it for the meatloaf.

to design sustainability measures that can be

producers we need to be able to make a profit,

implemented locally and recreated nationally.

feed people and care for the planet or it won’t be

VanWinkle likes the metaphor of a three-

a sustainable industry,” she says.

legged stool when explaining what success in

A core task for VanWinkle is creating the

agriculture looks like. “You can’t be successful

AgriWest council. The council is open to all

without considering the economics, the social

growers of any size, growing any commodity,

impact and our environment. In other words, as

whether they are beef producers, orchardists, COURTESY OF BUSINESS INCUBATOR CENTER

Pallets of local apples

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

43

Charles Burenheide with FMHS kitchen staff

vintners or farmers. “It’s a grassroots effort open

beef, students also learn about agriculture and

to anyone interested in food sustainability in

sustainability, with ranchers visiting schools to

this region from lavender to livestock,” stresses

talk about their trade.

VanWinkle.

The results so far have been positive.

The council has three objectives. First,

Sharp states that, from the D51 perspective,

creating and sustaining jobs to keep agricultural

the program has “exceeded expectations.”

producers in business. Second, fostering

VanWinkle shares this opinion, adding, “I’m one

cooperation between diverse agricultural

of the beef producers who came to a school to

interests for the benefit of all producers, and

interact with teachers and students. The kids

third, helping the local community support local

thought it was pretty cool to meet someone who

agriculture.

knows about cows.” As for the meatloaf, it too

Bring a Cow to School falls under this third priority. For the current school year, 10 ranchers

exceeded expectations. “The kids loved it. They were gobbling it up,” laughs VanWinkle. :

sold 7,000 pounds of homegrown beef to D51.

This beef is used to make meatloaf from scratch.

Meatloaf will be on the lunch menu throughout the district every five weeks, according to Dan Sharp. In addition to dining on locally-grown

44

For more information on joining the AgriWest council, please email inquiries to frontdesk@gjincubator.org.

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wellness + fitness

TIPS FOR ARRIVING AT NEW TIME ZONES FEELING FRESH INSTEAD OF FATIGUED

THE JET LAG JUGGLE Words by Jennifer Weintraub SUGANTH

T

hat first breath of air in a new city — exotic

On the plane, aim to sleep or at least rest.

and unfamiliar — feels exhilarating. But

While it’s tempting to binge-watch movies,

behind the excitement (yaaaawn) lurks jet lag.

screens radiate blue light that signals your brain

One minute, you’re wide awake and eager to

to stay awake. Instead, O’Meara suggests trying

explore; the next, you’re face-planting into your

something more relaxing — reading, meditating

lunch because your body thinks it’s 3 a.m.

or tackling a Sudoku puzzle.

Ready to show up to your destination feeling

Mimic a mini bedtime routine to get your

refreshed? Here’s how to reset your system and

body ready to wind down: change into comfy

maximize your travels.

clothes, brush your teeth, wash your face or have a cup of tea. Additionally, increase your

WHAT IS JET LAG?

sleep quality by reducing light and noise in an

Our circadian rhythm dictates our sleep and

unfamiliar environment with an eye mask, ear

wake cycles. But when you cross multiple time

plugs or noise-canceling headphones. And even

zones, you’re essentially time traveling, which

if you can’t doze off, closing your eyes and simply

throws off your internal clock, explains Dr.

resting your body will help with the transition.

Melissa O’Meara, internal medicine physician at Colorado Mountain Medical in Vail, Colorado.

Jet lag hits hardest when traveling from east to west because you’re “losing” hours. Imagine

Once you’ve landed, resist the urge to nap, even though a bed is tempting. Instead, push through the day and aim for a solid night’s sleep to reset your system.

trying to squeeze a 30-hour day into a 24-hour window — it’s not ideal. But head west to east?

FUEL UP FOR SUCCESS

That’s a different story. After all, who wouldn’t

Staying hydrated is your first line of defense

relish an extra few hours of sleep?

against jet lag, yet it’s often overlooked. Airplane cabins are pressurized to about 8,000 feet,

46

RESETTING YOUR CIRCADIAN RHYTHM

which makes dehydration more common. Skip

Sleep is your secret weapon for recalibrating

for water so you arrive feeling fresh instead of

your system. “My best advice is to sleep on the

fatigued.

the alcohol and sugary sodas and instead opt

plane,” O’Meara says. That’s easier said than done

The food you eat matters, too. “Plane food is

in a cramped, noisy cabin, but there are ways to

typically loaded with salt, which dehydrates you

trick your body into thinking it’s bedtime.

further. Instead, bring your own snacks,” notes

O’Meara. She regularly reaches for trail mix, protein bars, fresh-cut veggies and hard-boiled eggs for a healthy mix of protein and veggies.

SUPERCHARGE WITH NUTRIENTS Can’t seem to shake that sluggish feeling post-flight? Consider giving your body a nutrient boost. Dr. Angela Pennell, owner of REVed Vitamin Infusions in Grand Junction, recommends intravenous fluids (IVs) as a quick and effective way to deliver fluids, vitamins and minerals. “When you absorb intravenously, it goes directly into your system, rather than having the stomach absorb it,” she says. Clients see immediate results after a 30-minute session.

For flight dehydration, she starts with an electrolyte solution, which equates to drinking 12-15 glasses of water. Additionally, Pennell advises high doses of vitamin C and zinc to boost immunity because people are more prone to getting sick on vacation.

Essential vitamins are often depleted due to changing diets while away from your routine.

Pennell recommends replenishing B vitamins, which can reduce brain fog and restore focus, especially after a long flight. For those looking for an extra edge, glutathione infusions help detoxify and energize cells, increasing your well-being so you can tackle that jam-packed itinerary.

ARRIVE REFRESHED, NOT FRAZZLED Despite your best efforts, jet lag can still sneak up on you. “Give yourself grace,” O’Meara advises. Plan for a low-key first day — explore a quiet café or take a leisurely stroll instead of launching into a whirlwind of activities. Her best advice? “Learn to relax in your new destination by visiting a local spa or indulging in a traditional wellness ritual, like a Turkish bath or an onsen.”

Jet lag doesn’t have to ground your travel

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dreams. With a few adjustments — like strategic sleep, proper hydration and a nutrient boost —

You are worth a beautiful investment—yourself.

you can realign your internal clock and start your adventure on the right foot. The world is too big and beautiful to experience through a haze of exhaustion. :

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adventure

WOMEN EXPLORING, LEARNING, RECREATING + BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS IN SNOWSPORTS

GORE RANGE GRAVITY ALLIANCE Words by Laura Mills | Photos by Carly Finke

O

48

ne cold evening in early January, I suited

told us to pair up after explaining the route and

up and made my way to the base of Vail

general safety practices, my new acquaintance

Mountain for my first Gore Range Gravity

and I looked at each other and nodded in

Alliance (GRGA) uphill meetup. I had been in

agreement that we would stick together for

the Vail Valley for two months and had been on

the tour. As we made our way uphill, we

my ski touring setup once. I was nervous, a little

chatted about what brought us here, where

intimidated, but excited to connect with other

we lived (me in Red Cliff and her in a van with

women who shared similar interests.

her now-husband), our ski experience and

As I struggled to click into my bindings, a

winter objectives. I struggled with my new-to-

short woman in a blue jacket walked up next

me bindings, and she showed patience for my

to me, slapped her skis down and introduced

inexperience. We quickly hit it off.

herself as Nikki. We chatted a bit as the group

As we sat at Vendetta’s with the rest of the

got together and when the GRGA ambassador

group post-tour, chatting over pizza and beer,

Nikki and I planned to meet up the following week for more touring. Little did we know this would become something we would do multiple mornings a week, all winter long, becoming best friends through cold mornings and lots of vert.

The Gore Range Gravity Alliance sprouted from a 2020 Facebook post in Eagle County Classifieds from Amanda Marchiani — GRGA founder — who was looking to get into the backcountry with other women. The large response from this post and the camaraderie Marchiani felt recreating around other strong women is what sparked GRGA, a nonprofit that facilitates meetups and educational events throughout Eagle County (and now into Summit County) for women.

“I just wanted to have a place where any woman who’s interested in outdoor activities can feel like they have a place to belong,” Marchiani explains. “You don’t have to show up at 100% and you’re still going to feel welcome. This is more about connection and less about ‘okay I’m going to come out here and be the fastest

At my first uphill meetup, GRGA ambassador

uphiller.’ Sure, it is a great way to be active, but

May Jackson helped me figure out how to operate

we encourage people to connect.”

my complicated bindings, allowing me to feel

In the winter, GRGA hosts multiple events

independent and operate them moving forward.

per month such as uphill meetups, mapping and

A few months later at a Beaver Creek uphill sesh,

navigation education nights, the occasional hut

I was able to help another woman with the same

trip and their well-known annual events such

confusing bindings understand how to use them

as the Backcountry Ball — Dec. 7, 2024 — and

too. Not only did the kindness and knowledge of

the Beacon Hunt at Meadow Mountain. In the

one person help the other, but the ripple effect

summer there is a mix of mountain biking and

continued.

trail running meetups, too.

It can be hard jumping into new social

All of these events give women the

circles and new activities for anyone. For

opportunity to meet new people, gain skills and,

women, the supportive space created by GRGA

in many cases, share their skills with others.

softens the barriers that often come with starting

“We’ve often thought about what GRGA can

intimidating outdoor hobbies.

give to people when it comes to connection and

Gore Range Gravity Alliance is entering

education, but I also forget that so many people

another winter packed with events that support

really benefit from the opportunity to make an

women exploring, learning and recreating

impact.” Marchiani reflects. “Giving women

together such as a Women’s Level 1 Avalanche

the opportunity to also volunteer and make an

Course with Colorado Adventure Guides taking

impact on their community is important.”

place Jan. 18-20, 2025 in Leadville, Colorado.

Nothing quite compares to sharing

If you’re interested in getting involved or

knowledge of something you love with a fellow

participating in any of the GRGA events, head

human and seeing them build a relationship

to gorerangegravityalliance.com for more

with that activity, too. Learning new things

information. :

can be incredibly intimidating but vastly eyeopening to potential joy.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

49

spoke

GEAR PROFILE

TURNING POINT FOR BISHOP TELEMARK HOW A MEDICAL DEVICE ENGINEER BECAME THE OWNER OF VAIL VALLEY-BASED SKI + BINDING MANUFACTURER Words by Courtney Holden TELE.COLO

D

ave Bombard fell in love with skiing at 45-acre Ward Hill (now Ski Ward), situated

9 miles outside Worcester, Massachusetts, when he was just 5 years old. His downhill prowess progressed over the years — he even skied on a freestyle team — but, except for occasional outings on cross-country skis, he remained loyal to his alpine bindings. That changed in 1996, when Bombard took a few gap years as a ski instructor between finishing a master’s degree in mechanical engineering and starting an engineering job in California. Curious about telemark skiing — that alternate downhill technique where the back foot provides balance while the front foot drives the ski into a turn — he took a lesson. It changed his life.

Now, as the owner and lead product designer of Edwards, Colorado-based Bishop Telemark, his world revolves around that form of turning on two skis. It’s far from the course he thought his career would take, but after a decade in the ski industry, he’s glad his path carved the way it did. “Innovation is my

Dave Bombard, Bishop Telemark’s owner and lead designer

passion,” he says. “I love to telemark ski, but the big reason I got into it was to create a company

And Bombard, who was working as a surgical

that’s doing innovative things in the sport of

instrument product designer outside of San

skiing, based in the Vail Valley and supporting

Francisco at the time, was eager to explore the

employees and the local economy here.”

generous powder stashes surrounding Lake

Bombard admits that his first telemark

50

Tahoe.

lesson wasn’t love at first knee-drop — it

Learning to telemark turn in the inconsistent

was primarily a means to an end. Back in the

conditions out of bounds wasn’t easy. “I had many

early 2000s, before alpine touring equipment

spectacular crashes,” he laughs. “I remember

became readily available, free-heeled telemark

one, they called it the ‘wheel of destruction.’ I

bindings were the primary option for anyone

flipped over multiple times. My ski came up, and

willing to earn their turns in the backcountry.

it smashed me in the nose. I still have the scar.”

TELE.COLO

In 2007, a series of job changes brought him to the Vail Valley, along with his wife and their pup Chedi (the Bishop Telemark Chedi is named after this Bernese mountain dog). That venturefunded, medical device project fizzled out, but Bombard’s love for life in the mountains had been reignited. It was worth piecing together consulting work and start-up projects to stay.

During this time of professional flux, Bombard met Fin Doyle, an expert machinist and owner of snowsports brand Bomber Industries.

Doyle had introduced a telemark ski binding back in the early 2000s, but then discontinued it in 2007. Bombard and Doyle initially worked as partners to revive that telemark binding, but when Doyle decided to exit the partnership to pursue other ventures in 2012, Bombard was faced with a choice: Remain in the medical device industry, where he designed surgical instruments used in sterile operating rooms,

Matt Share, Bishop Telemark’s sales and marketing manager BJORN BAUER

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

51

BJORN BAUER

2025 Bishop Skis

BMF-3 Binding

BMF-R STEALTH Binding

52

or transition out and try his hand at creating

differently than their alpine counterparts. “It

products meant for varying weather conditions

opened up this opportunity,” Bombard says, “to

across highly non-sterile ski fields.

design a ski that was really unique and specific

Bombard took the plunge. His first five years

for telemark.”

at Bishop Telemark were focused primarily on

His innovation came to fruition in the

further refining Doyle’s original Bishop telemark

proprietary Telem-Arc Technology, which

binding. During the fall of 2017, he and a small

optimizes the geometry, flex and construction

team of local engineers fresh out of school

of a ski for the quad-busting dynamics of a free-

designed and launched the next generation of

heel turn. Today, the brand sells as many skis as

telemark bindings: the resort-focused BMF/3 and

it does bindings.

the touring-ready BMF/R. Both bindings come

The telemark segment of the ski industry pie

with what the brand calls its Bomber Lifetime

has always been tiny — it still is — but Bombard

Guarantee, which means they’re covered from

has a bullish outlook on the future. He’s targeting

manufacturer defects for the life of the binding

increased sales for this winter season and has a

when purchased directly from Bishop Telemark

new binding in the hopper. He’s in the process

or an authorized dealer.

of prototyping a new ski. There’s also one

A few years later, at the suggestion of a

undeniable fact that Bombard has in his favor,

friend, Bombard added a ski to the Bishop

he says: Whatever trick you can do on alpine

Telemark lineup. He started with one model in

skis, “if you can do it on telemark skis, it’s harder

two lengths and only produced it in “very limited

— and maybe a little bit cooler.” :

numbers,” Bombard says. Eventually though, he realized the potential for a telemark-specific ski.

bishoptelemark.com

After all, telemark turns are very different from alpine turns, and their bindings attach to a ski

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GET OUTSIDE!

GEAR FOR THE SEASON Compiled by S+B Staff

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Black Diamond Hydra Ice Tool Compatible with a full range of ice climbing

Ombraz Classics Something about ski season makes

accessories — such as

us want to keep it classic. This iconic

picks, hammers, adze,

frame makes these armless sunglasses

head-weights, spikes

the perfect companion for winter

and grip spacers — this

adventures and aprés. Traditional

tool can be customized

sunglasses can break, slip off, cause pressure on your temples and be tough to store. Ombraz’s shades replace the arms with a built-in cord that is durable, secure and comfortable, making these the ideal sunglasses for recreation and travel. $145 ombraz.com

Peak Design Outdoor Sling 7L Peak Design is known for their innovative camera bags and carry accessories. New this season, the Outdoor Sling is available in 7-liter and 2-liter capacity options and features a padded, removable strap with custom clasp and quick-adjust hardware, allowing for seamless transition between cross-body and waist bag configurations.

The 7L model includes external gear loops and is compatible with the Peak Design x-small camera cube, effortlessly transforming into a camera bag. $89.95 peakdesign.com

High Camp Flasks Torch Flask Offered in 6- and 9-ounce sizes, this two-in-one pocket flask features a magnetically attached shot glass that seamlessly integrates into its design. The bottom unscrews for effortless filling, cleaning and adding ice, while doublewalled insulation keeps your beverage at the ideal temperature for up to 24 hours. $99-$109 highcampflasks.com 54

for any mission.

An aluminum head was designed with versatility in mind, so the tool can be used from pure water ice and mixed climbing, to dry-tooling and high peak ascents. $309.95 blackdiamond equipment.com

spoke

MSR Evo Explore Snowshoes with Paradigm Bindings The Explore Series snowshoes from MSR are designed for intermediate to advanced-level snowshoers exploring more technical, variable

Patagonia Descensionist Pack This snowsports pack is engineered for long days or multi-day backcountry trips. It’s thoughtfully designed with intuitive organization and dedicated snowsafety pockets, keeping essentials easily accessible. Its tough exterior withstands harsh weather and rugged terrain, ensuring durability through stormy conditions and unexpected obstacles. $279 patagonia.com

Arc’teryx Kopec Mid GTX Hikers

terrain. The collection is also a

Prepare for winter and

snowshoers who want to grow in

spring adventures with

the sport over time. The Explore

these versatile all-season

Series now features Paradigm

hikers. Built for confident

Bindings with adjustment points

travel on diverse terrain,

and a toe stop for a custom fit (easy

they offer the support and

to maneuver even with gloves on),

comfort needed for both day

along with a stretch mesh and two

hikes and multi-day treks.

front buckles to provide secure grip

Featuring eco-friendly,

on steeper slopes or while side-

PFAS-free GORE-TEX

hilling. The Eco Explore Snowshoes,

protection to keep out water

pictured here, offer reliable traction

and snow, these hikers boast

and comfort for flat and rolling

a durable yet lightweight

terrain. $219.95

mesh upper and a spacious

msrgear.com

great investment for beginner-level

toe box for natural foot movement. The dual-density midsole ensures optimal cushioning and support, while the Vibram Megagrip outsole with a custom lug

Ridge Merino Crowley Compression Merino Wool Tights It’s rare to see “Merino” and “compression” together, but

pattern delivers reliable traction on any surface. $200 arcteryx.com

the Crowley Tights deliver with a Polartec Power Wool fabric. This innovative bicomponent knit combines the benefits of natural and synthetic fibers — soft, odor-resistant, moisturewicking Merino wool on the inside and a durable synthetic exterior. Designed to contour to your body, they regulate blood flow for any winter adventure. Plus, they feature five pockets for all your essentials. $124.95 ridgemerino.com

Ridge Merino Aspect Midnight Merino Wool High Neck Top Designed for active wear, this soft, odor-resistant and breathable piece has a high neck that doubles as a neck gaiter in cold weather.

The long cut of this wool layer ensures it stays in place during intense movement, and the discreet thumbholes keep your sleeves in place but disappear when not in use. $79.95 ridgemerino.com SPOKE+BLOSSOM

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spoke

ATHLETE PROFILE

DISCOVERING GOLD AFTER THE OLYMPICS GRETCHEN BLEILER’S JOURNEY TO SELF Words by Julie Bielenberg | Photo by Kate Holstein

A

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fter 15 years of snowboard tours, media

greater purpose that had always propelled me,

jaunts and public appearances, Gretchen

my livelihood and career, to my marriage and

Bleiler’s self-journey into adulthood hit a cliff

even my perspective on what health was,” she

when she retired from her sport — and she went

says. “Everything I knew to be stable and true

right over it.

in my life was now unstable, changed or just

Based in Aspen, Colorado, Bleiler is an

gone altogether. I was enveloped in a darkness

American snowboarding legend who brought

of injury, grief, depression, confusion, anxiety

home silver at the 2006 Olympics and won

and shock. It was disorienting for a really

gold medals at the 2003, 2005, 2008 and 2010

long time.”

Winter X Games. However, these achievements

Bleiler felt that, in this darkness, she didn’t

came at a price; the most severe and long-

have a place and purpose in the world. “What

lasting effects have been her unseen injuries,

I have learned since then is that those painful

including the back-to-back hits to the head that

feelings that I was experiencing were actually

she sustained mainly at the end of her career.

the signposts assisting me in a direction I had

And, even though Bleiler never felt identified

never been willing to go before — inward,” she

as a professional snowboarder and Olympian,

explains. Bleiler had been avoiding this her

she had no idea, until she retired from the tour,

whole life and it was the underlying drive for

how much of her world was the tour.

her to be one of the best snowboarders in the

“All of the pillars of who I thought I was

world. “There was a desire for me to be someone

began to come crumbling down — from the

who was worthy, valuable and whole because,

community I traveled the world with, learned

ultimately, I didn’t think or feel that I was. I had

and grew up with, to my connection to a

built a life that I thought would bring me that

experience, and I was now realizing it wasn’t ever going to come from outside circumstances, people or things.”

In her dark space, Bleiler was led to an unlikely source, The University of Santa Monica (USM), where she enrolled in a spiritual psychology program. For five years, Bleiler practiced, studied and integrated the teachings into her life. And, through the long, patient

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practice, which Bleiler attacked like an Olympic athlete, she is now able to reverse roles and help others who have also gone off the ‘cliff.’

“I’ve navigated, and continue to navigate, this inner journey within myself. I now also know how to lovingly guide others to become their own best facilitators and peacemakers.

This work, and this journey I’ve been on, though incredibly painful at times, has also become one of the greatest gifts I’ve ever received. Fiveyears-ago-Gretchen never would have believed it,” she shares.

Bleiler relishes in the tools she has learned to help individuals shine light on the dizzying times of life. “That’s the new foundation and

Grand Junction • Palisade • Fruita • Mesa County

touchpoint that has helped me come out of my darkness. And it’s the greatest honor to now share this transformational work with others on their own journey through one-on-one sessions, workshops, retreats and a soon-to-be-launched podcast and accompanying online program.”

Bleiler has just come off of hosting her first spiritual psychology one-day immersive workshop with USM classmate and co-host Nat Sharrat at Buttermilk Mountain Lodge this past August. She was also a guest teacher at summer retreats in Sayulita, Mexico. This coming April, Bleiler is offering her one-week mind, body, spirit wellness retreat, Illume, with co-host and Aspen Shakti owner Jayne Gottlieb in Costa Rica. Bleiler also recently finished recording a podcast with Pathfinder’s executive director and USM grad, Allison Daily, revealing her full story and mental health journey — told for the very first time — that will be launching soon with an accompanying online program.

To learn more about Bleiler and her journey, visit gretchenbleiler.co and follow her on

Your hopes and dreams, they matter.

We want to help you achieve them.

Alpine Bank is here for you.

social media. : alpinebank.com Member FDIC

grand outdoors

WESTERN COLORADO LANDSCAPES AT NIGHT Words + Photos by Mitch Korolev

A

s a recent Western Colorado transplant,

once the sun sets. Night photography offers a

mountains were the only thing on my

new perspective on these landscapes. Stars,

mind during my move from the Midwest. Out

moonlight and even passing cars paint nuanced

with the pancake-flat corn fields and straight

tapestries of light that can be captured in long-

roads, in with the snow-capped peaks and crisp

exposure photographs.

air. An unexpected joy, however, has been the

I have collected a few of my favorite night

dark skies in this region. Stars, often lost to light

photographs from the past few months since

pollution, shine here.

arriving in Western Colorado. I hope they inspire

It’s a shame that the mountains and

you to take a closer look at the sky the next time

mesas are only half-seen, left unappreciated

you find yourself outside during a clear night. :

Grand Junction at Dusk A view of Grand Junction from the top of Mt. Garfield at dusk. I-70 bisects the photograph, dividing the town and the blue-gray sediments in the foreground. Illuminated by the lights in town, a faint haze from wildfires covers the Colorado National Monument in the background.

58

Milky Way Headlamp This photograph was an accident. I had meant to turn my headlamp off before taking the shot, but I was a little late. I switched the headlamp from red to white light midway through the

long-exposure shot, creating an interesting color gradient across the aspen trees in the foreground. The Milky Way floats up above, galactic center on full display. There are several shooting stars tucked away in the sky, too.

Star Trails A high-elevation campsite west of Aspen offers a picturesque view of the nearby mountains and valleys. Above them, the stars curve and stretch as the earth turns. These “star trails” are a composite of multiple photographs of the sky taken in succession and later blended together.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

59

Pink Moon at the Monument Cars traverse a series of switchbacks to reach the top of the Colorado National Monument, illuminating the surrounding landscape with their headlights. The full moon hovers over the horizon, casting

Red Light Trail Another light trail photo at the Colorado National Monument, this one made by a single passing truck whose lights are bright enough to paint the nearby rocks red. The

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a soft pink glow across the rocks. The Monument is at its best in the evening or at night — the chorus of desert insects in the summer and quiet hoofbeats of the bighorn sheep create a lovely atmosphere for reflection and relaxation.

moon hangs high in the sky, casting a silvery light down on the juniper trees and rocks further from the road. A few of the brightest stars speckle the midnight blue sky in between the clouds.

Spruce Trees Milky Way Even simpler landscapes, like this grove of spruce trees, transform under the night sky. A portion of the Milky Way crosses the frame. I got lucky, capturing a shooting star in this frame as well.

WE SPEAK TO

WESTERN COLORADO

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take a hike

DEVILS GARDEN + PRIMITIVE LOOP TRAIL Words + Photos by Melanie Wiseman

W

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ith over 1.5 million visitors each year, it

Downloading this trail on your AllTrails app

may be hard to believe there is still a hike

is a must. Once you get past the well-traveled

within Utah’s Arches National Park where both

Devils Garden section, wayfinding signs and

stunning views and solitude can be found. A

cairns are sparse. Maps of the whole loop trail

few helpful hints and you’re set for an amazing

are available at the visitor center, or taking a

adventure.

picture of the map at the trailhead works great.

I long to repeat Devils Garden and Primitive

Bring plenty of water and food, layers of

Loop Trail, the longest maintained trail in Arches

clothing for comfort as temperatures change

National Park, touting the most arches. If you’re

throughout the day, and a hat and sunscreen

an experienced hiker, I highly recommend doing

due to lack of shade. Most importantly, slow

the whole 7.8-mile moderate to difficult lollipop

down and take your time. It will be worth every

loop, including several side trails, in a clockwise

minute.

direction. Turning around at Landscape or

If you’re hoping for great pictures, begin

Double O Arches are options for shorter out-and-

at sunrise when the angle of the sun through

back hikes.

the arches is the most dramatic and people are

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

63

scarce. Personally, I wouldn’t even consider

GETTING THERE

doing Primitive Loop in the late spring through

Once you enter Arches National Park in Moab,

early fall for obvious reasons — highest

Utah, drive north on the main road 19 miles until

visitation numbers and high temps. Winter is the

it dead ends in a large circular parking lot at the

perfect time with visitation down and frequent,

Devils Garden Trailhead. Facilities are available;

beautiful sunny days.

dogs are not allowed.

The loop is not recommended for hikers with

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a fear of heights or when snow is present. With

THE HIKE

the picturesque snow-covered La Sal Mountains

Devils Garden Trail begins dramatically through

on the horizon, you’ll still feel a wintery touch.

large sandstone fins. At this point the trail is

well-worn. The first downhill spur on the right

360 degrees and not miss the La Sals behind you

leads to Tunnel and Pine Tree Arches. Walking

and the maze of fins on the distant right. The

through Pine Tree Arch gives you a new vantage

end of the fin brings you to Black Arch Overlook

point. Backtrack to the main trail for a grand

and a bit farther to Double O Arch, two arches

view of the prairie and fins to the north.

aligned vertically. Be sure to walk through them

An easy walk continues to Landscape Arch,

for sweeping views.

the longest arch in North America and fifth in

Dark Angel is a .4 mile spur to a 125-foot tall

the world. It is six feet wide at its narrowest, with

solo obelisk rising curiously out of the desert

a 306-foot opening. Fenced off for safety and its

landscape. Retrace your steps to the four-way

fragility, prior to 1991 visitors could walk under

intersection at Double O Arch, and turn left on

the arch. Illustrating dramatic constant changes

to Primitive Loop Trail. Along this section of

in the natural world, a large chunk of sandstone

trail, hikers are scarce, route finding a bit tricky,

detached in 1991 and more pieces fell in 1995.

and a few steep sandstone descents can be

Nearby, Wall Arch collapsed in 2008.

intimidating scrambles. Move slow, sit down and

After Landscape Arch, the terrain is more

use your feet and hands.

varied and challenging. The trail begins to

About a half mile farther up the trail, a

ascend up a fin where you can see Partition Arch,

short spur to the right takes you to the last arch,

two arches side by side. A few minutes later turn

Private Arch. The rest of the loop to the Devils

left at the intersection to get up close to Partition

Garden Trail connector traverses a beautiful

Arch, and Navajo Arch tucked under a fin. Both

desert scape you may have all to yourself.

are extremely photogenic.

Back on the main trail, continue the journey following rock cairns over slick rock, and ascend another large, long sandstone fin. Be sure to look

This is an awesome trail! Bring your sense of adventure and wonder. You will not be disappointed. :

family

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SLEDDING IN WESTERN COLORADO

SLIDE INTO WINTER FUN Words by Melanie Wiseman | Photos courtesy of Danica Bona, Gunnison Crested Butte Tourism

G

rowing up in Wisconsin, what we lacked

Sledding is perhaps the most underrated

in the way of downhill ski areas we made

Colorado winter sport; however, Western

up for with adrenaline-filled sledding — our

Colorado touts numerous sledding playgrounds.

favorite impromptu winter pastime. Wherever

So pull on some warm clothes, put on a smile,

you lived, a sledding hill was nearby. Every

grab a sled and some friends or family and

neighborhood had one — an empty lot or sloping

head to one of the many local sledding hills just

backyard, a park, a golf course, a school athletic

waiting for you!

field, a farm. With every hill came memories of laughter and squeals, spinning and speed, jumps

DURANGO

and bailing, snow-sprayed faces, and yes, the

Buckley Park is probably the most popular

occasional storied crashes.

Durango true sledding hill for locals, located at

Gone are the days of heavy wood toboggans and metal rail sleds. Nowadays, you can find

steep incline.

durable and affordable snow tubes, discs,

Chapman Hill is located very near

saucers and inflatable sleds in various shapes,

downtown Durango. An area off to the side of a

sizes, colors and patterns. Although, speaking

tiny ski area and ice rink is for snow tubing or

from experience, a rain poncho makes a great

sledding.

sled coming down Mount Sopris and a cafeteria

66

1250 Main Ave. It’s a convenient location and

Needham

Elementary

is

one

of

tray, after hours, can fly down Powderhorn

many sledding hills tucked into Durango

Ski Area.

neighborhoods.

Purgatory Ski Area north of Durango has a

VAIL

tubing hill, and just west of downtown Durango,

A short walk past the Eagle Vail Golf Course

tubing is one of the most popular activities on

putting green is a hill up to the clubhouse. This is

the Hesperus Ski Area. Tubes are available for

a big hill with plenty of parking.

rent at both locations.

Singletree Sledding Hill in Edwards is located just up from the golf course. It’s a perfect

MONTROSE

slope with a nice flat area at the bottom. Parking

The Cerro Summit Recreation Area 13 miles

is roadside.

east of Montrose along Highway 50 is 110 acres

West Park in Eagle-Vail has a great hill with

owned and managed by the city of Montrose.

three lips. The lips offer a variety of sledding for

Sledding is one of the winter sports it supports.

different ages.

The area has no facilities or services.

East Haystacker Sledding Hill in Eagle is a nice-sized hill with a long flat area at the bottom.

TELLURIDE Sledding is available on Firecracker Hill, located

GRAND JUNCTION

on the southern side of Telluride Town Park.

The occasional snowfall in the valley can be

Orange cones mark the path to the sledding hill.

short-lived, but locals still enjoy several sledding

Bring your own sled or rent one from the Nordic

locations. Duck Pond Park on Orchard Mesa,

Center.

Lilac Park near First and North and a hidden

CRESTED BUTTE

gem empty lot on Crossroads Boulevard.

On the Cedaredge side of the Grand Mesa,

Pyramid Hill, Crested Butte’s newest sledding

the Ward Creek Reservoir sledding hill is just

hill, is a popular destination. Short but wide, this

south of the Visitor Center along Highway 65.

hill offers plenty of space to spread out. Park

The Old Mesa Ski Hill on the Grand Mesa,

along Pyramid Avenue, between Highway 135

known by locals as Old Powderhorn, is a locals’

and 8th Street. Big Mine Hill next to the Crested

favorite. 10 miles past the town of Mesa on

Butte Nordic Center is small and short. Both

Highway 65 and just past Powderhorn Ski Area

areas are perfect for younger kids.

you can’t miss the parking area, facilities and

Looking for steeper and longer ungroomed

large active sledding area on the right. :

runs? Any of the hills behind the Crested Butte Community School and the Crested Butte Mountain Bike Park are your answer. Park behind the school at the Town Ranch Trailhead.

Snodgrass Trailhead Hill offers the longest and tallest sledding in the area. The hill starts right from the ample parking area. Check out the views!

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS The Howelsen sledding hill is a free community sledding hill in the heart of downtown Steamboat Springs. The hill is groomed periodically and open dawn to dusk. Access via the 5th Street entrance to the Rodeo Arena.

ASPEN The Aspen Recreation Center features great sledding at the Whoa Nelly Sledding Hill. Open dawn to dusk and free. Rentals are available.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

67

stay + play

A CHIC CENTERPIECE OF DENVER’S RINO (RIVER NORTH) NEIGHBORHOOD

THE RAMBLE HOTEL Words by Kim Fuller KIM FULLER

T

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he drive to Denver from Western Colorado

art aficionados, anchored by the nationally

is always more enjoyable when it’s paired

celebrated Death & Co cocktail bar.

with a memorable overnight. The Ramble Hotel

The Ramble effortlessly combines classic

is located in the heart of Denver’s vibrant RiNo

Mile High City charm with a chic, high-energy

(River North) neighborhood, known to be one

vibe that echoes Denver’s urban pulse.

of the most artistic and eclectic pockets of the

Reflecting the sophistication of 17th-century

city. The Ramble stands as a quintessential

French salons, The Ramble’s 50 thoughtfully

destination for foodies, brewery hoppers and

designed guest rooms and suites are a nod

COURTESY OF THE RAMBLE HOTEL

to Madame Rambouillet’s gatherings of arts

Denver’s craft cocktail scene, savoring fun dining

and ideas, blending comfort with a touch of

options or immersing yourself in the thriving arts

Parisian-inspired grandeur. The hotel’s curated

and pop-up scene, The Ramble Hotel provides an

artwork collection by NINE dot ARTS reflects the

unforgettable staycation experience in Denver’s

creativity and vitality of the RiNo neighborhood,

trendiest neighborhood. :

allowing guests to feel part of Denver’s unique The heart of The Ramble is undeniably Death & Co Denver, the hotel’s marquee lobby

KIM FULLER

artistic vibe from the moment they arrive.

bar and a must-visit spot for cocktail lovers. Sip your way through expertly crafted drinks at Death & Co, and don’t miss out on a bite to eat or full meal with your libations. Roasted beets with goat cheese, lemon miso vinaigrette, pepita crunch and blood orange is a bright and fresh dish, paired perfectly alongside the standout and certainly craveable D&C Burger.

Guests at The Ramble enjoy priority reservations at Death & Co — no small feat given its popularity — or, for a more private vibe, opt for room service and savor signature cocktails in the comfort of your room’s plush robe.

When in season, The Garden is a courtyard bar just outside the hotel — an ideal happy hour spot or nightcap retreat.

Denver’s RiNo district is a hotbed of creative energy, and The Ramble offers front-row access to it all. Whether you’re exploring the best of

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

69

getaway

A BIKE TOUR THROUGH ALSACE’S VINEYARDS AND CULINARY DELIGHTS

PEDALS, PASTRIES + PINOT Words + Photos by Dominique Taylor

The author parks her bike with a baguette to take in the views around the ancient winemaking town of Ammerschwihr.

I

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t’s hard to remember a time when I haven’t

Flying into Basel-Mulhouse airport, our first

fantasized about riding a bike through French

stop was a 45-minute drive to Ammerschwihr

vineyards with a baguette in my bike basket,

and Schmitt’s parents’ house for a home-cooked,

sampling delicious wines from a multitude of

four-course Alsatian lunch prepared by his

family wineries ...

mother. Then it was off on the family bikes

This past spring I joined my friend and Vail,

for a sunny afternoon of exploration and wine

Colorado-based pastry chef Sebastian Schmitt

tasting, including a stop at the local bakery for a

and his family on a trip to his hometown

baguette to pop in my bike basket.

of Ammerschwihr and the nearby town of

Riding through this beautiful medieval town

Kaysersberg in the northeastern part of France

and its vineyards, we stopped for sampling at

to make that fantasy come true. Nestled in the

three wineries along the way. Domaine Leon

heart of Alsace — a region renowned for great

Heitzmann proved the favorite of the three.

white wines, including riesling, Gewürztraminer

This small, family-owned-and-operated winery

and pinot gris — these ancient towns date back to

has been producing wines for six generations;

Roman times, steeped in history and overflowing

in 2008, they began making their wine

with food and wine opportunities.

biodynamically. They also have one of the few

female winemakers in the area. A young, friendly

Michelin-star chef Olivier Nasti. Situated in a

and energetic woman, she happily served us free

small, nondescript back alley, this tiny authentic

tastings of her different varietals while chatting

boulangerie with space inside for no more than

with us about her family’s winemaking history,

three customers at a time exceeded expectations,

traditions and inspiration.

even by Schmitt’s high standards. From the

That night we enjoyed a meal with Schmitt’s

pan au chocolate loaf and perfect croissants to

family at his friend’s newly opened bistro, Tariq

the delicate pastries and shelves of beautifully

Ali, in nearby Ribeauville. The husband-and-wife

baked breads, it was a pastry chef’s delight — the

team, from New York and Alsace respectively,

highlight being perfectly baked focaccia bread

offer a minimalist farm-to-table menu where

filled with fresh seasonal asparagus.

the seasonal asparagus paired perfectly with the

Breakfast was followed by a short walk up

locally sourced steak and dauphinoise potatoes.

to the local medieval castle ruins to walk off our

Ammerschwihr, a town of only 1,650 people,

first meal — in preparation for our next meal.

boasts the most winegrowers per capita in

We planned to meet Schmitt’s friends for lunch

France. In spite of this, Schmitt recommended I

at Auberge Obschel, a traditional Alsatian

stay in nearby Kaysersberg. This equally small,

mountain restaurant. The idea is to enjoy one

beautiful and ancient town is a little livelier and

of the many mountain hikes surrounding

tourist orientated, with plenty of quaint local

the restaurant and finish with a well-earned

shops, hotels and eateries, including a two-star

meal. Here you will find a menu with German

Michelin restaurant. I booked a very affordable

specialties like spatzle and sauerkraut

Airbnb apartment for three nights in the center

comingling with French favorites like foie gras

of the town within easy walking distance of

and beef consommé, as well as distinctly Alsatian

everything.

dishes like vol-au-vent, a puff pastry bowl filled

Day two began early with a mission to find

with either chicken or fish. There is a decadent

the best pastries in town. We got the inside

dessert selection and, of course, everything is

scoop on LeVain, the bakery owned by local

enjoyed with plenty of local wine.

The town of Kaysersberg

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

71

With rain forecasted for my final day in the region, we headed to Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, 32 kilometers (about 20 miles) from Kaysersberg. This gigantic 12th century fortress situated 2,483 feet above the Alsatian plains has panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards, the Black Forest, the Vosges Mountains and, on a clear day, the Alps. It was completely restored in the early 20th after being burnt to the ground

IF YOU GO Fly directly from Denver to Frankfurt on United and then Frankfurt to BaselMulhouse on Lufthansa. Rent a car to best explore the surrounding towns and landscapes. While there is not a bicycle rental store in Ammerschwihr, there is in the nearby town of Colmar where they also offer winery bike tours.

Domaine Leon Heitzmann winemaker pours her family’s White Brut Cremant d’Alsace to taste at the boutique winery in Ammerschwihr.

was the more popular time to visit the region as that’s when it is both harvest season and festival season, and the towns are bustling with

in the 17th century and is an incredible example

locals and tourists alike. However, as I watched

of Alsace’s long and often violent French and

the setting sun illuminating the budding leaves

German past.

on the vines on a quiet road, surrounded by

As we drove back to Ammerschwihr that

not much more than food, wine and history,

evening through endless vineyards for a final

I decided I had discovered the perfect place at

meal with Schmitt’s family, the sun finally broke

the perfect time to fulfill much more than my

through the clouds. Schmitt explained that fall

baguette-fueled bucket list fantasy. :

A perfect pastry selection at LeVain Boulangerie in Kaysersberg.

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Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, a 12th century fortress located 32 km from Kaysersberg.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

73

feature

BEYOND BOOKS

‘THE LIBRARY IS FOR EVERYONE.’ Words by Nickolas Paullus NICKOLAS PAULLUS

Video games provide not only a good hangout opportunity, but other benefits like hand-eye coordination and problem solving.

A

cursory glance at the Montrose Public

a Rainbow Storytime, a chance to share stories

Library suggests the archetypal library.

about diverse families.

Computers, DVDs, magazines and books upon

“We want to convey that we live in a

books upon books. Here, and nationwide,

pluralistic society, and as such provide a voice to

however, the role of the public library is

everyone,” says Meiners.

changing, growing, expanding.

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The library strives to provide varied and

Patrons often begin their library-going

supportive resources for their rural patrons. One

experience at a young age, taking full advantage

such initiative is their Safe at Home program.

of a vast collection of picture books in the

Led by librarian James Stetson, the program

children’s section. That, however, only scratches

offers training and guidance for pre-teens, teens

the surface of the services available to kids and

and grandparents on navigating the world of

families at Montrose Public Library.

safe babysitting and home-care.

Head of youth services Tina Meiners

Stetson says that the library tries to stay “in

highlights the many storytimes available. Infant,

[their] lane with resources, but will step outside of

toddler and family storytimes cater to “different

that lane” in order to fill a need in the community.

attention spans and different learning needs,”

Seeing as there was no information and education

allowing for all age groups to feel comfortable in

of the sort in the Montrose, Colorado area, Stetson

the space. Further inclusivity initiatives include

became a site representative and instructor

NICKOLAS PAULLUS

Librarian James Stetson with treasures from “The Library of Things” at Montrose Library.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

75

MESA COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARIES

Mesa County Culture Fest is one of many community centered events curated by the library.

for Safe at Home in order to facilitate a more

as Nintendo Switches to play while at the

nurturing and educated babysitting community.

library. Stetson asserts that the video games

Education, after all, is not only book learning.

are educational by their nature, not only

Much of the current focus and interest at the

promoting “a good hangout opportunity, but

Montrose Library is on the burgeoning Library

other benefits like hand-eye coordination and

of Things. The Library of Things provides a

problem solving. And there are older kids who

veritable treasure trove of items to check out.

take the opportunity to teach the younger kids,”

There are learning tablets, math manipulative

Further north, at the Mesa County Libraries,

Diverse and thorough, with the collection growing

this focus on relationship and community is

monthly, the Library of Things provides tangible

fleshed out in a robust collection of board games.

ways for children and parents to learn and interact.

Lisa Solko, head of collections management,

“Much of this is in support of homeschool

highlights the value of “intergenerational

families,” suggests Meiners. The resources

interaction.”

apportioned to schools allows for a resource-

“In the current world where TV, computer

based basic education, and the Library of Things

and phone screens are omnipresent, board

seeks to level the playing field for homeschool

games provide entertainment that is focused

families. Various modules and devices, such as a

directly on other people sitting around the same

telescope and a Colorado state parks pass, allow

table, which strengthens social safety nets and

families to enrich the educational lives of their

deepens lasting bonds,” she says.

children.

76

nurturing relationships and cooperation.

backpacks, board games and musical instruments.

To further empower this social safety net,

Montrose Public Library also offers

the Mesa County Libraries host a diverse array of

video games in the Library of Things, as well

clubs and groups for a variety of demographics.

MESA COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARIES

These include a kids clubs and teen clubs, along with informative programming like Mesa County oral history meetings and Midday with New Dimensions lectures. Cydney Clink, head of programming, believes this diversity “can help patrons find others who share their enthusiasm for particular subjects, hobbies or pursuits.”

She adds that “our library’s programming is heavily influenced by patron requests and needs, [but] it’s also enriched by the passions and expertise of our staff.” Dungeons and Dragons are spurned forward by engaged teens, and the Books and Tap book club is initiated by a dedicated librarian, she says, while “many of our most successful programs, like Armchair Travel, Second Saturdays at the Collbran Branch Library, and even our Annual Culture Fest, result from collaboration between library staff and patrons, ensuring that we meet the diverse interests and needs of our community.”

Each community is reflective of these diverse needs, and often these needs are most manifest in the underserved members of the community. Those experiencing housing insecurity, a rough home life or other social and economic hurdles often seek out a library as a place of refuge.

Clink shares that Mesa County Libraries seek to “[provide] programming and events that serve as a bridge to resources, knowledge and opportunities for members of our communities who might face barriers accessing such information or resources.” This often takes the form of tangible services and assistance, such as their Legal Resource Fair that offers legal advice and resources from local professionals, a Write a Will workshop, and After-School Snacks and Food Bags offered in partnership with the Food Bank of the Rockies.

Back in Montrose, head of adult services Sarah Rinne expounds on the library’s notion of service to their community. “A library is reflective of the needs of our patrons,” she

Jose Luis Chavez presents on the local Chicano movement at a Mesa County Oral History Meeting.

government services, helping subvert many of the “digital barriers” in modern life.

“The library is for everyone,” she says. “And we do all this in hopes of being better servants to our community.” Better servants to the youth as they engage in robust resources. Better servants to diverse populations, as they engender safe spaces to learn and share. Better servants to those in need as they cultivate empathy and education.

A library is more than just stacks of books. A library is a public resource, open to any and all, which adapts to the world around it: a dynamic place of learning and community.

“The library, the building itself, is the resource,” concludes Rinne. A resource both profound and vast, infinitely so, and yet tangible, knowable. A gift to our communities, worthy of support, the way it, in turn, supports our communities. :

says. She highlights a program called Book a Librarian, where patrons can reserve an hour of

Visit your local public library.

a librarian’s time. The staff will help with tech

montroselibrary.org

support, assisting patrons with new devices,

mesacountylibraries.org

and can offer guidance when applying for

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

77

KITTY NICHOLASON

Mesa County Libraries Central Branch, Downtown Grand Junction

78

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feature

HOW COLORADO RANCHING FAMILIES ARE SHAPING SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE + WILDLIFE CONSERVATION

LEGACY OF STEWARDSHIP Words by Chloe Mayer | Photos by Michael Paul Franklin Photography

C

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olorado has been home to ranching families

mentorship that they seriously considered

for generations. In Paonia, Clark and

bison ranching. The Williamses both grew up

Edwards, ranching families are committed to

on the Western Slope, where they are raising

stewarding their ranches in ways that respect

two sons to whom they hope to pass down the

humans, animals and Colorado’s ecosystems.

ranch. “Family mentoring is the most important

Fire Mountain Ranch, located in Paonia,

history at FMR,” says Kim Williams. “The family

began with Kim and Sam Williams’ desire

connection allows us to give legacy work to

to connect with nature via agriculture. The

our sons.”

Williamses have always been passionate about

Living in Paonia has greatly impacted the

the outdoors, and they wanted the opportunity

Williamses and Fire Mountain Ranch. Paonia

to make a positive impact on the health of their

is tucked away in the North Fork Valley, the

local environment. However, it wasn’t until

largest organic and sustainable growing region

their relatives Dave and Sue Whittlesey offered

in Colorado according to the Valley Organic

Growers Association, and is heavily focused on agriculture.

“Most everyone in the area cares about the environment, specifically the land and water,” says Kim Williams. “Our family is laser-focused on creating the healthiest environment possible, and we couldn’t have done that without living in Paonia.”

The Williamses have always been staunch environmentalists, but ranching has given them and their family a new perspective on the hard work that goes into providing clean food and water. The small, agricultural community remains a strong driving force in their mission of sustainability.

Both Kim and Sam Williams hold deep respect for Colorado’s wildlife and are committed to clean, ethically-sourced meat.

Sam and Kim Williams

According to the National Humanities Center,

by the Donovan family since 1982. Previously,

North American bison nearly became extinct

John and Diana Donovan ran one of Vail’s oldest

in the 1800s due to predation, drought and

landmarks, Donovan’s Copper Bar, which later

other environmental factors. By 1890, bison

became the namesake of the Copper Bar Ranch.

populations dropped from an estimated 30-60

Since then, the Donovans have passed the ranch

million to less than 1,000. Despite this dramatic

down to their daughter Kerry Donovan, and

loss, bison populations have been restored to

her husband Shad Murib. Donovan and Murib

nearly 31,000 in North America, partly thanks

were both raised in Colorado and worked in

to the preservation efforts of conservationists

public service, focusing on protecting public

and ranchers. “When faced with painful loss, it

lands. Since taking over the Copper Bar Ranch,

is comforting to see examples of adaptations and

they have made it their mission to implement

endurance,” says Kim Williams. “We’re learning

environmentally friendly ranching practices

from the bison.”

and prioritize clean, organic beef.

The bison at Fire Mountain Ranch are grass-

The Copper Bar Ranch is located in active

fed and range wild with little to no human

wildlife territory in Edwards, making the ranch

contact. The Williamses are focused on raising

home to elk, mountain lions, coyotes and other

healthy bison without hormones or GMOs to

wildlife. Donovan and Murib prioritize raising

deliver quality meat. To prevent waste, they

their cattle, horses and chickens ethically in a

eliminate feeding lots, warehouses and retail

way that does not interfere with the natural land.

handlers between the ranch and table. In

Having worked in public service for several years,

the future, the Williamses hope to grow Fire

Donovan and Murib are consistent advocates for

Mountain Ranch into a healthy herd of over 200

protecting public lands and keeping Colorado a

American bison grazing in the high valley below

safe place for people and nature to thrive.

the West Elks, with the continued support of the Western Slope community.

By committing to “field-harvesting,” Donovan and Murib ensure their animals are raised in pastures instead of feedlots, where

HOMESTEADING HERITAGE

they can roam freely. This allows the Copper

Another beloved Colorado ranch, The Copper

Bar Ranch to produce organic, grass-fed beef

Bar Ranch, was originally built in the late 1800s

through environmentally friendly ranching

under the Homestead Act and has been owned

practices, according to their website.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

81

RANCH LIFE LEGACY

horses. They have aimed to make The Home

Across the state, near Steamboat Springs, is

Ranch performance horses the most favorable

a Clark staple, The Home Ranch. It is known

choice for world-class equines through countless

for its ideal setting for outdoor recreation and

hours of research, studies and training, assisted

tight-knit community. Steve and Ann Stranahan

by fellow Colorado rancher Gusti Buerger. The

originally built The Home Ranch as a family

McFarlanes have spent years developing a

vacation and outdoor activity resort. It was

program to strengthen horses’ skills like under-

purchased by Scott and Janet McFarlane in 2019,

saddle basics, working with cows and fitness.

both with deep roots in Colorado who aimed to

This helps them become strong, healthy ranch

reinvent the property with deep respect to its

horses who can compete in events such as

historic legacy.

Derbies or use their skills in practical ranch

Janet McFarlane was born in raised in

environments. While the program is still new,

Denver, where she later began her investment

the McFarlanes aim to help train healthy ranch

career. Scott inherited his ties to Colorado and the

horses in a safe, environmentally friendly

ranching business from his father, a prominent

manner that prioritizes Colorado’s abundant

rancher in Elbert County. He and Janet have

wildlife and natural land.

since continued to pass down this legacy to their

In Colorado, approximately 38,900 farms

daughter, Courtney McFarlane, who has been an

and ranches occupy nearly 32 million privately

important figure in the reinvention of The Home

owned

Ranch. Throughout their website, the McFarlanes

Department of Agriculture. “In the end, we

frequently cite the northwest Colorado area as a

realize we’re all in this human experience

prominent influence on their lifestyle.

together,” says Kim Williams. “If the bison brings

While The Home Ranch has long been a

82

acres,

according

to

the

Colorado

people together, we’re proud,” she continues.

Clark staple, Scott and Courtney McFarlane have

Colorado’s abundance of thriving family

focused on expanding the ranch beyond cattle

ranches exemplifies what makes our state so

operations to include training for working ranch

special: commitment to nature and each other. :

The bison at Fire Mountain Ranch are grass-fed and range wild with little to no human contact. In the future, the Williamses hope to grow Fire Mountain Ranch into a healthy herd of over 200 American bison grazing in the high valley below the West Elks, with the continued support of the Western Slope community.

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

83

feature IBARRANCH

KEEPING WESTERN COLORADO’S MUSIC SCENE ALIVE

3 LOCAL VENUES THAT ROCK Words by Lisa Blake

S

ome people fall in love with music at a

VENUE: I Bar Ranch

young age, picking up instruments and

LOCATION: Gunnison

instantaneously feeling their magic. Others

OWNER: Bryan Wickenhauser

develop a slow, steady appreciation for the

84

art, welcoming in soul-altering bass lines and

Endurance

mountain

athlete

Bryan

melodic lyrics over time until music is embedded

Wickenhauser landed in Crested Butte as an

into every corner of their being.

alpine ski coach. Traveling around the world for

However the journey unfolds, once the

athletic events, he started paying close attention

tunes seep in and grab hold, the driving force is

to event management and what went into a

impossible to ignore. This is how stars are born,

successful competition.

bands are formed and — fortunately for Western

In 2004, Wickenhauser and his wife got

Colorado — how iconic venues rise from the dirt.

married at former chuckwagon dinner venue I

We sat down with three Colorado music

Bar Ranch just a few miles outside of Gunnison.

venue pioneers to hear their unique stories of

Other than hosting a few weddings here and

music-fueled dedication and to find out how

there, the western heritage event center that sits

they’re keeping the rural music scene alive.

on a 10-acre converted hay meadow at the base

IBARRANCH

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

85

of W Mountain sat dormant for nearly a decade

VENUE: Shakedown Bar

between 2003 and 2013.

LOCATION: Vail

Drawn to the agricultural roots and down-

FOUNDER: Scott Rednor

home feel of the land, Wickenhauser returned to the property he and his wife cherished,

Scott Rednor remembers the Fender 12-string

revamping the layout and opening I Bar Ranch

acoustic guitar his grandparents bought him.

as a premier rural concert venue in the spring

The 12-year-old Jersey kid would listen to his

of 2013.

mom’s old Grateful Dead and Eric Clapton vinyl,

“I wanted something better for the lower

clumsily moving his fingers across the strings,

end of the Gunnison Valley,” he says. “I wanted

trying to match the chords coming out of the

to see an avenue for live music where I lived.

record player.

And I wanted this for my community.”

I Bar Ranch hosts a lively May to October

mountains — Rednor grew up outside of

concert lineup and around a dozen weddings

Princeton, N.J. with ski patrol parents—brought

each summer. The classic hay barn stage setting

him to Colorado after high school. Twenty-

— around the size of a hockey rink — holds up to

something Rednor launched the band Dear Liza

2,000 concertgoers and draws acts like Wynona

in 1995 in Fort Collins, went on tour, and was

Judd, Charlie Daniels, Michael Franti, Spafford,

picked up by the manager of Blues Traveler. His

Railroad Earth and Yonder Mountain String Band.

band began opening up for them at big festivals

Family-friendly meadow camping adjacent to the

and arenas during their late-90s heyday.

concert venue and a 14-foot-wide bonfire along

Rednor circled the world playing guitar with

with food trucks and a silo and cabin converted

bands like Dave Matthews, Lenny Kravitz and

into walk-up bars round out the scene.

many more for 15 years before landing at the Red

“With our eclectic blend of country, jam

Lion in Vail strumming with Phil Long in 2009.

grass, rock and reggae, I Bar is so classic

Rednor and his then-business-partner opened

Colorado,” Wickenhauser says. “You’ve got the

Shakedown Bar in 2012 in the underground spot

cool mountain air, a hot bonfire, and a chilled

at the top of buzzing Bridge Street. His mission:

beverage in your hand. We provide that really

To raise the level of arts and entertainment in

cool smaller venue that folks want to go back

the Vail Valley. He tapped into his connections in

and tell their friends about.”

Denver and beyond, filling the stage with talent ibarranch.com

SHAKEDOWN BAR

Taylor Scott Band with Neal Evans of Dopapod

86

That craving for big sound and bigger

Scott Rednor and Eric McFadden of Parliament Funkadelic

from bands like JJ Grey & Mofro, Dopapod, Big

VENUE: The TANK Center for Sonic Arts

Gigantic, John Brown’s Body and Coral Creek.

LOCATION: Rangely

Today, the 198-person live music venue

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: James Paul

features cutting-edge sound and lighting systems with full studio recording and streaming

Tucked away in the northwest corner of Colorado

capabilities serving up music seven nights

near the Utah border, there’s a cylindrical

a week.

wonder making acoustic waves. The TANK

“In 12 years, we’ve mastered all of the

Center for Sonic Arts is a seven-story Corten

dreams and visions of how to host our guests and

steel water tank with a bowed floor that lends

give them the ultimate experience,” Rednor says.

to extraordinary acoustical resonance. The live

“We burn incense, we have candles, the lighting,

music venue and recording space in Rio Blanco

the staff that cares — everything matters to

County pushes boundaries, holding sound

create the listener experience.”

between its parabolic floor and soaring concave

You won’t hear a Sweet Caroline singalong

roof like no other venue in the state.

at Shakedown Bar. But you might catch Dean

“In there, you feel the sound on the skin, you

Ween or a member of Dead and Co. playing

feel it in your gut. What people are in awe of is

an impromptu set. That’s the beauty of the

their own ability to hear properly,” says Bruce

experience, Rednor adds, and it’s better than

Odland, TANK founder and board chair. “People

ever at this legendary Vail venue.

feel a genuine awe. They may ascribe it to the

shakedownbarvail.com

TANK, but I ascribe it to the awakening of the ears in a predominantly visual age.”

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

87

Odland discovered the untapped space

In its third season in 2017, The TANK

in 1976. Realizing the hidden treasure’s ear-

hosted recording sessions, artist residencies

caressing gifts, the TANK became a secret

and performances, including sessions by

performance and recording space for a

Rinde Eckert, Jessica Meyer, and the Grammy-

dedicated group of sound artists and musicians.

winning vocal group Roomful of Teeth. Today,

In 2012, the owner considered selling the metal

The TANK brings programming and recording

for scrap and volunteers from all over the

opportunities that no one else in Colorado

country formed Friends of The TANK, initiating

offers and has begun miking in artists remotely,

Kickstarter campaigns to purchase The TANK

delivering a live signal to The TANK and

and its land and tackle a long list of laborious

sending it back out to audiences to hear from

facilitation projects.

anywhere.

The TANK’s first grant, from the Boettcher

“Our founders are all deeply sonic nerds,”

Foundation, purchased a state-of-the-art

says TANK executive director James Paul. “We’ve

recording studio. Rangely’s 2015 Septemberfest

found the right software to transmit that sound

open house drew musicians, performers and

to anywhere. Now you can come to Rangely and

visitors from Rangely, Denver, Utah and beyond.

make your sonic art in The TANK in-person, or

The Western Slope secret was out and The TANK

you can tune in remotely to hear yourself, to

began to see pop-up jam sessions, local school

play, to record or even to perform in its profound

band performances, and, thanks to a pilot

reverb. We’re moving the sounds of The TANK

program by Colorado Creative Industries and

out into the world.” :

the Colorado Office of Economic Development, an impromptu visit from Denver experimental hip-hop band the Flobots.

JAMES PAUL

Harpist Zeena Parkins and drummer Scott Amendola

88

tanksounds.org

JAMES PAUL

SPOKE+BLOSSOM

89

events

WINTER 2024-25 Compiled by Chloe Wasserstrom

DECEMBER The Polar Express Train Ride Durango, CO December 2024January 4, 2025

Embark on a vintage steam train from Durango Depot to meet Santa at the North Pole. Enjoy hot cocoa, a Polar Express reading and a dazzling light show. On the return journey, Santa visits each coach, gifting presents to every passenger.

A magical and spirited holiday adventure! durangotrain.com

Parade of Lights Palisade, CO December 1

Nothing brings in the winter season like Palisade’s historic, old fashioned Christmas Parade of Lights. The event is free, fun and fulfilling for the whole family from 5-6 p.m. palisadecoc.com

Holiday Concert: CMU Choirs and Orchestra Grand Junction, CO December 3

Colorado Mesa University illuminates with holiday spirit as they perform holiday classics and contemporary arrangements at the beautiful Asteria Theatre. tickets.coloradomesa.edu

Lighting of Breckenridge + Race of the Santas Breckenridge, CO December 7

Breckenridge elevates holiday charm with the return of hundreds of Santas dashing down Main Street. Afterward,

90

the town transforms into a winter wonderland with 250,000 dazzling LED lights and joyful holiday events. Enjoy the Holiday Dog Parade, Children’s Moose March, holiday carolers and the countdown to tree lighting with Santa himself. gobreck.com

Summit for Life Aspen, CO December 7

In this thrilling evening race, participants ascend 3,267 vertical feet over 2.5 miles to the top of Aspen Mountain. After a gorgeous and rewarding effort, racers receive a gift bag and top performers receive incredible prizes. Celebrate at the Sundeck Restaurant with dinner by The Little Nell, live music and awards for the fastest racers and fundraisers. summitforlife.org

Snow! A Winter Wonderland Montrose, CO December 7-8

Join as the town of Montrose becomes a blizzard of holiday cheer. The Valley Symphony Association fills the evening with light, love and carols. visitmontrose.com

Chefs Table at Maison Palisade, CO December 9

Indulge in a farm-to-table seven course gourmet meal. The set menu features gourmet, local Colorado fare paired perfectly with local wines curated by chef Nicholas Games. This three-and-a-half-hourlong experience allows you to

savor all the delectable cuisine that our state has to offer. maisonlabellevie.com

Spirit of Christmas Walk Grand Junction, CO December 13

Downtown Grand Junction comes alive as Main Street fills with over 300 entertainers — from barbershop quartets to jazz bands and bluegrass musicians. Enjoy caroling with neighbors, horsedrawn carriage rides and a visit from Santa. Local shops stay open late, offering complimentary hot drinks and treats. visitgrandjunction.com

2024 Masonic Craft Fair Grand Junction, CO December 14

Celebrate the season at the 2024 Masonic Christmas Craft Fair, a festive gathering showcasing Grand Junction’s finest local artisans. Discover unique gifts, jewelry, crafts and delicious eats while enjoying complimentary hot drinks. With over 50 vendors, this free, family-friendly event offers something for everyone from 5:308:30 p.m. masoniccraftfairgj.com

Annie The Musical Grand Junction, CO December 20-22

Annie is a timeless, heartwarming tale. Her story of deserved love and good fortune plays at the Avalon Theatre. The precious production teaches the audience the true meaning of family, right in the midst of the giving season. theatureprojectgj.com

Holiday Balloon Glow

Steamboat Springs, CO December 21 This is an evening of stunning, sensory delight. Four magnificent hot air ballons glow the Mountian Village. Stroll, night ski and indulge in local eateries as you bask in western winter delight. steamboat.com

Hanukkah Mountain Celebration Steamboat Springs, CO December 28

Celebrate Hanukkah with songs, jelly donuts and menorah lighting with the Steamboat Springs Jewish community. All are welcome — locals, visitors, Jewish or not — to share in the Festival of Light! steamboat.com

New Years Eve and Torchlight Parade Powderhorn Mountain Resort, CO December 31

Bring in the new year within Mesa County’s breathtaking landscape.

This joyful celebration also encompasses a Torchlight Parade, where resort employees carry lights as they turn down the hill.

The event ends at 8 p.m., giving you plenty of time to engage in further events on the last day of 2024. powderhorn.com

promote equity, access and diversity in the outdoors. allinicefest.com

Rocky Mountain Ski Fest Beaver Creek, CO January 14-15

JANUARY

The Rocky Mountain Ski Fest and National Pediatric Cancer Foundation join forces to save lives.

Enjoy exclusive concerts by Old Dominion and Edwin McCain at the Vilar Performing Arts Center, plus skiing with celebrities, all to raise funds for better pediatric cancer treatments. rockymtnskifest.com

All In Ice Fest

Ski With a Patroller

Ouray, CO January 5-7

Ouray Ice Park sponsors this three-day ice climbing festival. The mission is to unite climbers, guides and creatives from historically marginalized communities to

Granby, CO January 18

Granby Ranch celebrates safety month with its annual event where kids ages eight to14 ski with certified Ski Patrollers.

Intermediate and advanced young

rippers dive into the exciting world of mountain patrol, learning essential safety skills while exploring the slopes. It’s a thrilling, behind-the-scenes adventure filled with fun and valuable lessons. granbyranch.com

Superhero Scores: Harness Superhuman Musicality Grand Junction, CO January 18-19

Feel like a superhero as the Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra performs pulse-pounding scores from blockbuster films. From classic themes to the latest epics, iconic soundtracks come alive in a thrilling orchestral showcase. gjso.org

Winterfest

Pagosa Springs, CO January 18-19 The Pagosa Springs Area Chamber of Commerce presents Winterfest, a fun-filled weekend for the whole family. Enjoy hot air balloon ascensions, skijoring, sled races, a cross-country ski clinic, a Fat Bike Race, BB gun biathlon, the beloved Penguin Plunge and more. visitpagosasprings.com

International Snow Sculpture Championships Breckenridge, CO January 20-29

X Games Aspen Aspen, CO January 23-25

The X Games will make a thrilling return to Buttermilk Mountain in Aspen Snowmass, where top action sports athletes will showcase their skills in exhilarating ski and snowboard competitions. As always, expect captivating musical performances from globally sensational artists. xgames.com

Rio Frio Ice Festival Almosa, CO January 24-26

The iconic Rio Grande River is home to the renowned Rio Frio 5k: a race ran on the frozen river. Fill you days with steps, a polar plunge, ice carving, a bonfire and more. rioraces.com

Snowdown Durango

Durango, CO January 24-February 2

Teams from around the world hand-carve 25-ton snow blocks into stunning art using only hand tools.

Experience this temporary outdoor gallery in historic downtown Breckenridge. The artisans sculpt their craft January 20-24, and the viewing week is open from January 24-29. gobreck.com

The 46th annual Snowdown is themed “The Board Game Edition: It’s Your Move.” The annual event is a town and state staple, where visitors and locals alike participate in fun and exhilarating winter events and activities. durango.com

Ouray Ice Festival

Ally Loop Nordic Race

For the 30th year, the annual Ouray Ice Festival transforms the ice

The 37th annual Alley Loop marathon invites families to enjoy

Ouray, CO January 23-26

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climbing town into a celebration of the winter sport. By day, join elite athlete-led climbing clinics, explore the Vendor Village and watch mixed climbing in the Scottish Gullies. At night, enjoy climber presentations, films and the legendary Petzl Party in downtown Ouray. ourayicepark.com

FEBURARY Crested Butte, CO February 1

race distances for all, from a kids’ 1k fun race to 42k skate and classic races. Costumes are encouraged! gunnisoncrestedbutte.com

Pond Hockey Classic Grand Lake, CO February 1

Dive into the excitement of pond hockey on Colorado’s largest natural lake, showcasing eight pristine rinks and 60 teams across three dynamic divisions. Join spectators, kids and dogs for a festive atmosphere filled with competition and the chance to win $500 and ultimate bragging rights. gograndlake.com

Winter Carnival

Steamboat Springs, CO February 5-9 For the 111th year, the town of Steamboat illuminates with talented ski racing, jumping, skijoring and captivating parade.

Head to Howelsen Hill for the iconic grand firework showcase and performances. sswsc.org

Ranch To Ranch Trek Granby, CO February 8-9

Embark on an exhilarating ski adventure from Snow Mountain Ranch to Granby Ranch! Choose the 12km thrill or conquer the 24km loop — all while supporting youth cross-country skiing in Grand County. granbyranch.com

Telluride Comedy Festival Telluride, CO February 13-16

Experience non-stop laughter at the 25th annual comedy festival at the historic Sheridan Opera House.

This world-class event, hosted by the Sheridan Arts Foundation, embraces a classic grassroots energy. telluride.com

Skate Race at Granby Ranch Granby, CO February 15

Granby Ranch is excited to join the Grand Nordic Skate Race Series this February! Get ready for a day of competition, community and breathtaking mountain views as cross-country skiers gather for this unforgettable event. skigrandnordic.org

Gothic Mountain Tour Crested Butte, CO February 21

A thrilling backcountry ski race circles the gorgeous Gothic Mountain. Participants can choose between the competitive 23-mile race starting at the Community School or the recreational 17-mile division from Snodgrass Trailhead. gunnisoncrestedbutte.com

Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra: Spectrum of Sound Grand Junction, CO February 21

Explore the “Spectrum of Sound” with local chamber ensembles.

GJSO musicians feature unique groups showcasing a variety of musical periods, styles and instrumentations. Enjoy beloved classics and modern delights at Two Rivers Winery & Chateau. downtowngj.org

Talons Challenge Beaver Creek, CO February 22-23

Tackle the challenge of Beaver Creek’s 14 toughest black and double black runs! Score prizes, patches and a “master of the mountain” trophy for completing both days. Wrap up the adventure at the post-event party in the

village with live music and exciting giveaways. beavercreek.com

WinterWonderGrass Festival Steamboat Springs, CO February 28- March 2

Trampled by Turtles, Kitchen Dwellers, Sam Bush Band, Yonder Mountain String Band and more talented musicians head to the champagne powder capital of Colorado for this highly anticipated music festival. winterwondergrass.com :

who we are

CAROLYN HURESKY EMPHASIZING COLORADO’S NATURAL BEAUTY + OUTDOOR CULTURE Words by Chloe Mayer | Photos courtesy of Carolyn Huresky inspiration from its bustling outdoor culture.

Previously, Colorado inspired her to create polymer clay jewelry and paper shadow box art.

Now, Huresky says Colorado continues to inspire her garland designs with its “breathtaking beauty of the outdoors and the endless opportunities for adventure and recreation that come with it.”

The Creative Garland Company has quickly become a Crested Butte staple that shares the spirit of Colorado with local customers, and is growing throughout our state. Along with elk and columbine garlands, the company has expanded to sell ski town garlands that depict buildings and lampposts unique to ski towns like Breckenridge, Steamboat Springs, Telluride and Vail.

“It’s so rewarding to see the joy on people’s Carolyn Huresky

faces when they realize they’re looking at miniature replicas of the places and things they

F

or over a year, Carolyn Huresky’s Creative Garland Company in Crested Butte, Colorado

has been creating unique garlands inspired by Colorado’s natural beauty and outdoor activities.

“One day, I came across a cute, cartoon-style gondola garland on Pinterest and thought, ‘That’s adorable, but we don’t have gondolas in Crested Butte!’ That’s when the idea for the chairlift garland was born,” says Huresky. She created her original chairlift garlands for the Crested Butte holiday market, and they sold out almost immediately. Realizing how popular they were, Huresky decided to explore the idea of making garlands full-time.

Colorado has always been the inspiration behind Huresky’s creative designs. She has a deep love for hiking, mountain biking and skiing in Colorado’s unique scenery, and draws creative

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love,” Huresky says. After making many new connections at her first trade show this past summer, she hopes to continue expanding to reach customers across the nation.

Huresky says she never would have anticipated that selling chairlift garlands at her local holiday market would lead to the creation of the Creative Garland Company. “I’m so grateful for all my past customers and the opportunities that have helped grow my cute, little idea into a business.” :

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