Go Play!

2013

your guide to the grand valley

adventure

bound?

Local rafting outfitter

celebrates 50 years!

Drink wine!

Hit the trails!

Enjoy the Monument!

2013

inside

Go Play! Editor Caitlin Row

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Grand Mesa Unaweep Colorado National Monument Hiking Golfing

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Contributing Writers Tracy Dvorak, Caitlin Row, Sharon Sullivan, Evan Linko ADVERTISING SALES Linda Findley, Tamara Morris

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Designer Malisa Samsel PUBLISHED YEARLY BY

Downtown Grand 22 Junction GJ Rockies Wine Country Festivals Muesums

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145 N. Fourth St. Grand Junction, CO 81501 970-243-2200 editor@gjfreepress.com www.gjfreepress.com

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Colorado Mountain News Media 200 Lindbergh Drive P.O. Box 1500 Gypsum, CO 81637

MORE ABOUT THE GRAND VALLEY caitlin row | free press

Views near Grand Junction’s Redlands Golf Course with the Grand Mesa in the background.

Grand Junction

A great place to live, work, play & stay Located less than 30 miles

from the Utah border (at the point where the Colorado and Gunnison rivers meet), Grand Junction is nestled snuggly in a valley between daunting rock formations, unique mountain ranges and the Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flat-top mountain.

Grand Junction’s highdesert climate also provides for a wide array of recreation activities — fishing, hiking, cycling, climbing, plus downhill and Nordic skiing on the Grand Mesa during the winter. For those globetrotting mountain bikers, it additionally serves as a main access point to world-class single track throughout the

Grand Valley and the region.

Want to plan your trip around a family friendly event? Grand Junction hosts a variety — from the 2013 Junior College World Series (JUCO) scheduled for May 25 through June 1, to the inaugural Off-Road Endurance Mountain Bike Event and Concert (Aug. 30 through Sept.

1), there’s truly something for every interest. If you love baseball, don’t miss the Colorado Rockies’ Pioneer League Team, the Grand Junction

Folks often refer to this area as the Grand Valley, in that we are bordered by natural attractions such as the Grand Mesa to the east, Book Cliffs to the north, and the Colorado National Monument to the south/southwest.

Grand Junction, which includes Clifton, Orchard Mesa and Redlands, is at the center of it all with approximately 58,700 residents; it’s the most populous area of the valley.

Spreading out from GJ is the city of Fruita to the west and the town of Palisade to the east.

Don’t forget our other small neighbors in Mesa County: DeBeque, Gateway, Collbran, Loma, Mack, Mesa and Whitewater.

continued on page 4

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and to shop. In fact, it has become quite the retirement community due to its mild desert climate, great health care options, and senior services. It also hosts Colorado Mesa University, a growing regional school with thousands of students currently enrolled.

Rockies. Games are held at Suplizio Field throughout the summer.

Take in Grand Junction’s cultural hub by walking historic Main Street. Filled with tasty restaurants and local shops, the downtown area also hosts weekly summer farmers market, the Art & Jazz Festival in early May, Fourth of July festivities, the Veterans Day Parade, car shows, Oktoberfest and Art on the Corner.

For more information on what Grand Junction has to offer, visit: • Grand Junction Visitor and Convention Bureau Visitgrandjunction.com, 970-244-1480.

Need to cool off? Take your kids to the outdoor fountain for some splashing in their swimsuits.

As the center of retail, cultural and entertainment activity for folks throughout western Colorado and eastern Utah, Grand Junction is the largest city between Denver and Salt Lake City. It’s where people come for health care, to fly out of a regional airport,

• Grand Junction Chamber of Commercegjchamber.org, 970-242-3214. caitlin row | free press Corky Coyote, the GJ Rockies mascot, poses with Zoe Koehler at a home game in 2012.

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There’s plenTy To do aT John Mcconnell MaTh & science cenTer of WesTern colorado

Admission: $4 per person or $12 for family.

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And No Payments For 3 Months!

Not a Western Rockies member? No Problem!

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This learning center is packed with hands-on exhibits and activities dealing with science and math concepts. This is a place for kids of all ages to explore science and math: to touch, turn, look, listen, feel, pull, adjust, try out, and question.

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*Annual Percentage Rate. Rates subject to change. Western Rockies Federal Credit union uses risk based pricing. The rate you pay depends upon your credit history, the amount of financing and term requested, and age of collateral where applicable.

The Grand Mesa The highest flat-topped mountain The Grand Mesa is one of the bestkept secrets of the valley, and local recreation expert Seth Anderson wants to share it!

Its beauty astounds him and “everybody should get up there,” he said.

Anderson, who owns Grand Junction’s own adventure clothing line — Loki Outerwear (Lokiusa. com), grew up recreating on the Grand Mesa and loves every inch of it.

“It was formed by Basalt Flows and is held aloft by protecting its underlying sedimentary layers,” Anderson said. “The Grand Mesa is an oasis in the sky.

The native Ute Indians referred to it as Emerald Top, as it so rarely if ever incurs wildfire on its top.

It was also called Thiguanot, meaning the connection between the spirit world above and the living land below”.

The Grand Mesa is also a giant — its elevation measures 11,332 feet tall.

“The signature flat top and steep-edge topography seen from the Grand Junction area is crowned by the protruding turrets of the Mesa's western edge,” Anderson added.

The Grand Mesa is additionally home to national forest land and some 300 lakes, where locals love to fish.

above: gjvcb | courtesy: Aspens

on the Grand Mesa, showing vibrant autumn colors. left: seth anderson, loki | courtesy A picnic on the crest of Grand Mesa's Crag Crest.

For more information about the Grand Mesa, check out www. visitgrandjunction.com.

Cross-country skiing during the winter months is another not-to-miss activity.

During Colorado’s early winter season (2012-13), Anderson noted that all crosscountry ski races scheduled in the state were moved to trails on the Grand Mesa.

“It was the only place in

the state with enough snow,” he said Other fun activities on the Mesa include hiking and camping.

Don’t miss: Crag Crest Trail: “It’s a 10-plus mile loop hike, or you can do it out and back from the west and east trail head,” Anderson said.

Mesa Lakes: “There’s a lodge and campgrounds,”

Anderson said, “and a small fee to recreate there. The best trail there is Lost Lake Trail.

It’s stunning.”

Twin Lake Campgrounds: “It’s my favorite campground,” he said.

According to Anderson, there are also “flowing mountain bike trails” and “dreams for a huge mountain-bike and hiking trail descending from the Mesa's lofty edge to the valley bottom.”

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Welcome W TF to Fruita w elc ome to

Founded in 1882, Fruita has forever been a good ol’ western farming community and still is. But these days, agriculture just scratches the surface of what the community has to offer.

Situated at the foot of the breathtaking Colorado National Monument, Fruita, simply put, is booming.

It’s the fastest growing community in Mesa County, and per capita it’s one of the fastest growing communities in the state of Colorado.

Why? It’s a mountain-bike destination like no other.

Boasting some of the best singletrack riding in the nation, cyclists come from all over the world to ride the trails surrounding Fruita.

The annual Fruita Fat Tire Festival also placed this small town on the map; held in April, it’s a weekend event hosted by the Over the Edge Sports bike shop.

This festival is best known for demos, expos, music and beer. Its 2014 dates are April 24-27.

Other Fruita events include the Mike the Headless Chicken Festival (May 17-18, 2013), which is based on a legendary chicken named Mike who

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literally lived for 18 months without a head. There’s also Dinosaur Days (Sept.

6-7, 2013) held at Dinosaur Journey in Fruita, a celebration of our bounty of dinosaur fossils that have been found throughout the area. And Fruita is also home to the largest festival in Mesa County, the Fruita Fall Festival (Sept.

27-29, 2013).

For those interested in horseback riding, rafting or rodeo action, check into Rimrock Rodeo (927 Hwy. 340).

Or visit Highline State Park or Fruita State Park for scenic camping, boating, hiking, fishing and biking.

Need to take a break?

Fruita Community Center, located at 324 N. Coulson St., welcomes visitors to the area. The state-of-theart center boasts a branch library, a fitness gym, basketball courts, exercise classes, indoor and outdoor swimming, an indoor track, a senior center and more.

fru

i ta

For more information on what Fruita has to offer, call the Fruita Chamber of Commerce at 970-858-3894 or visit www.fruitachamber. org. Or call the Colorado Welcome Center in Fruita at 970-858-9335.

fruita tourism | courtesy Fruita’s Farmers’ Market offers fresh-grown food and local art. free press file photo

top: Locals dress up for

Fruita’s Mike the Headless Chicken Festival, an annual tradition featuring Mike, the chicken who lived without a head. fruita tourism | courtesy

right: Top-tier mountain

bike trails found throughout Fruita are not for the faint hearted.

Saturdays June 29 thru September 21 8:30a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Entertainment Line-Up July 6 -

Peggy Malone

July 13 -

Will Whalen

July 27 -

Cat Tail Pony

July 20 August 3 -

Flat Top Reed Remember When

August 10 - Straight Curves August 17 - Ric Gaines

August 24 - Desert Moon August 31 - No Outlet Sept. 7 -

Russ Chapman

Sept. 21 -

Peggy Malone

Sept 14. -

James Williams & Friends

Regional Produce Farm-Raised Meats & Eggs Quality Handmade Crafts Regional Baked Goods Unique Local Brands For more information, contact the Fruita Chamber 858-3894

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Palisade:

It’s never out of season Coined “The Peach Capital” as well as “Colorado Wine Country,” Palisade is known for good wine and luscious, juicy peaches. And lavender is slated to be the next cash crop of this valley.

In addition to growing fantastic produce, the folks of Palisade like to celebrate it.

They host two of the biggest Grand Valley events each year — the Palisade Peach Festival (Aug. 15-18, 2013) and Colorado Mountain Winefest (Sept. 19-22, 2013). Both events attract thousands of people who stay and play throughout the region.

Palisade is also home to some other fun gatherings — the Palisade Bike Festival (June 8), the Palisade Bluegrass & Roots Festival (June 14-16), the Colorado Lavender Festival (July 12-14), the Palisade PedalPaddle-Pedal Race (Aug. 19), and Tour de Vineyards (Sept. 21).

Want to support small business in this thriving agricultural community?

Then you’re in luck! You’ll find quaint restaurants and cafes, award-winning wineries and unique art galleries. Don’t miss Peach Street Distillers, too!

Palisade is additionally located along the Colorado

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Fruit & Wine Byway, a stretch of road recognized for its “beautiful orchards, lavender gardens, world-class vineyards, premium wineries and freshfarm market fruit stands,” the official byway map said.

For more information on what Palisade has to offer, check out the Palisade Chamber of Commerce website at www.palisadecoc.com or call 970-464-7458.

You may pick up this map, highlighting three routes for cyclists and automobiles, at the Palisade Chamber of Commerce (319 Main St.).

The map may also be found at area wineries, various fruit growers, and many local businesses.

gjvcb | courtesy

above: Scenes from a peach

orchard in Palisade with Mount Garfield in the background. top: Yum! Palisade is known for its sweet and juicy peaches across the nation.

Unaweep Literally in our backyard, Unaweep Canyon is the perfect spot for an exploratory day trip, or a stop on the way to Gateway. It features breathtaking desert scenery, a higher elevation (so, it’s typically cooler than Grand Junction in the summer) and limited traffic flow.

According to author KC Baum in the local guide book — Grand Junction Rock: Rock Climbs of Unaweep Canyon, “Unaweep is a Ute Indian name that translates into ‘canyon with two mouths’ and is located approximately 22 miles south of Grand Junction.”

Don't be surprised if you see caravans of college students studying rocks near the road.

This spectacular canyon area boasts a landscape

interesting to both scholars and scientists because of its geological formations and unique fossils.

Whether you're there to rock climb, hike or simply take in the sights, you can do it from Grand Junction as a day trip and be home by dinner. If you're into it, check out local rock climbing guides for a variety of routes in the area.

Don't forget to pack lots of water. It's dry up there!

"Red-rock canyons and sandstone bluffs hold geological and paleontological resources spanning 600 million years, as well as many cultural and historic sites,” the Bureau of Land Management website said.

“Ute Tribes today consider these pinyon-juniper covered lands an important connection to their ancestral past.”

If you have the time, hop on Colorado's Unaweep Tabeguache Scenic Byway. The Colorado Department of Transportation says you can drive it in three hours.

The 133-mile-long byway is made up of Highways 141 and 145, and you can even take it as an extended drive on the way to Telluride or Ouray. caitlin row | free press

A view overlooking Unaweep Canyon.

S A I DE L A P SAVOR OUR SEASONS

Year ‘round and seasonal

Agri-tours

June 1

Antique Motorcycle Rally

June 14-16

Palisade Bluegrass & Roots Festival

June 16-Sept 22

Palisade Sunday Farmers Market

July 4

4th of July Parade

July 12-14

Colorado Lavender Festival

Orchard, winery, lavender, alpaca, distillery, brewery, recreational tours & guided tours

45th Annual Palisade Peach Festival

August 15-18

Heard it Through the Grapevine Concert: Remus Tucker Band

September 19-22

Colorado Mountain Winefest

October 25

Palisade Trick or Treat Street Carnival

November 30

Blue Pig Chocolate Walk

December 6-7

Olde Fashioned Christmas

the heart of colorado’s fruit & wine country

palisadecoc.com

iNfO: PAliSADe CHAmBeR Of COmmeRCe 970.464.7458

Names Palisade Colorado a TOP 10 Best Wine Destination in the U.S.

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Gateway Canyons

Resort

hear it through the grapevine

2013 summer concert series SEASON LINEUP

Frank Bregar Orchestra Krystyn Hartman .

Western Colorado Sat., July 6 Red, White and Blues Jazz Orchestra Sat., July 13 Quemando Sat., July 20 Stray Grass Sat., July 27 John Adams - John Denver-Tribute Sat., August 3 Hazel Miller Sat., August 10 Boys of Summer - Eagles-Tribute Sat., August 15 Remus Tucker Band with

Sat., June 29

Driving along Colorado's historic byway 141 through Unaweep Canyon, the arid yet awe-inspiring landscape gives little hint of what's to come an hour southwest of Grand Junction. After miles of cattle land, an occasional house and plenty of sheer rock cliffs, Gateway Canyons Resort seemingly pops up from nowhere, an adobe mecca for pleasure seekers complete with fine dining, its own movie theater, an extensive auto museum, horseback riding, a spa, yoga, guided adventure trips and a helicopter.

With a variety of activities meant to satisfy anyone's idea of fun, luxury and relaxation, Gateway is a hidden gem with the capacity to fulfill many tastes.

Program subject to change.

On the lawn - Bring a chair!

Season tickets now available!

Fine-dining options run rampant if you visit Gateway's signature restaurant, The Entrada.

(Here's a tip: Try the venison and the lamb sausage!)

There are also tasty dining options at the Paradox Grill, where a delicious, full breakfast is additionally served.

IF YOU GO …

WHERE: Gateway Canyons Resort, 43200 Hwy. 141 COST: $$$$ TRAVEL TIP: Reserve a Signature room with its own private, outdoor hot tub DIRECTIONS FROM GJ: Take Hwy. 50 out of town and then a right onto Hwy. 141 South.

Follow Hwy. 141 South 44 miles through Unaweep Canyon. The drive time is about an hour. You can't miss it!

FOR MORE INFO: www.gatewaycanyons. com, 970-931-2458

Enjoy the following perks: • 20% discount off the at the door price • 10% discount on wine purchases • One free glass of wine at each concert • Early entry for the choicest seating • Entry into end-of-season drawing for a free case of wine • Tickets are transferrable

Call 970.464.5867 or 800.COGROWN for more information

Ticket Outlets: Grande River Vineyards, Fisher’s Liquor Barn, Roper Music Dinner offered or bring a picnic! Wine, soda and water available.

NO OUTSIDE BEVERAGES.

Gates Open at 6:30 Show Starts at 7:30 (rain or shine) Kids 12 & under admitted free. All concerts are located just off I-70 at exit 42 787 N. Elberta Ave. u Palisade, Colorado

granderiverwines.com

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Follow us on Facebook

gateway canyons resort | courtesy

Visit Gateway Canyons Resort for horseback riding, swimming, fine dining and more!

Looking back on the history of Colorado Mesa University, two words aptly describe the institution: growth and maturation.

Founded in 1925 as a junior college, CMU has propelled forward, the result of unwavering dedication to teaching and learning.

Today, enrollment exceeds 9,400 students and the school offers more than 90 undergraduate programs of study along with graduate programs in business administration, education, and nursing. Campus expansion to accommodate an ever-growing student body has resulted in state-

courtesy photo

Colorado Mesa University A guide for prospective students of-the-art learning facilities, including new residential halls and classrooms, which keep the institution on the cutting edge.

With all that has changed in the institution’s 88-year history, one thing has always

remained: the dedication to providing the highest quality education in a studentcentered environment.

Top 5 places on CMU’s campus you don’t want to miss

clubs, intramural sports, and the cultural diversity board. It’s everything that makes student life run.”

According to Cheyenne Paningsoro, a CMU student ambassador who conducts guided tours, she has lots of favorite spots on campus.

Here’s her Top 5 stops for CMU prospective student tour groups.

1. Student Life Offices Found on the 2nd Floor of University Center, it’s the “place to go to get involved,” Paningsoro said. “It’s where you’ll find the

To learn more about the university, visit www.coloradomesa.edu.

2. Third Floor of the Fine Arts Building “On the third floor, there are Mac computer labs that have the latest and greatest,” Paningsoro said. “Technologies are updated every summer.

There’s also a filming studio shared with Rocky Mountain PBS.” 3. The Outdoor Program “It’s not a club, and any faculty, students

FAST FACTS Enrollment: 9,482 Male-to-female ratio: 4:5 Student-to-faculty ratio: 22:1 Financial aid awarded: $72.3 million Athletics: 22 NCAA Division II teams

and alumni can participate,” Paningsoro said. “It’s outdoor, adventure education. You can rent gear if you want to go backpacking. It’s also a place you can sign up to take international and local trips. You can get student deals to go sky diving, for example.”

4. Monfort Family Human Performance Lab “This stateof-the-art facility has the best technology,” Paningsoro said.

“The lab provides services to community members, athletes and students, etc.”

School Colors: Maroon and white Mascot: The Maverick Academic calendar: Fall (August-December) and Spring (January-May) semesters; compressed Summer and January terms

There, wellness, physiological, and body composition testing is conducted, and it’s used as an educational component for exercise-science and kinesiology majors.

5. El Pomar Natatorium Found at CMU’s rec center, the pool “is huge!” Paningsoro said. “There are four diving boards and hundreds of configurations. It has a state-of-the-art timing system for races, and it’s available to students and the public.”

Plus, it just looks fun, she added.

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GRAND VALLEY MOUNTAIN BIKING: Take a trip with Desert Rat Tours

By Caitlin Row The Grand Valley's world-class singletrack trails are a major tourism draw, yet most visiting cyclists need some helpful tips. Enter Desert Rat Tours — a local, family-run business offering individualized mountain-bike trips for groups throughout Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade.

David and Sarah Withers, a couple known for their mountain-bike expertise and bounty of local trail knowledge, began offering custom bike adventures through their business — Desert Rat Tours — three years ago. They currently run trips around western Colorado and Moab, Utah, for both national and international visitors from beginner to expert levels.

“Tours are customized to what people want,” David said.

“Most tour companies have

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set itineraries. We're more à la carte.”

“We ask (our customers) what kind of riding they want to do — rocks, bumps, ledges or swoopy singletrack. A lot of riders really want scenery and beauty as part of their trip, or they've heard of a specific trail they'd like to ride,” Sarah added.

Requests like those are always accommodated, both Withers said.

Trip itineraries aren't set in stone once the journey starts, either. Rather it's a fluid plan that can change at the whim of the customer. And Desert Rat Tours has permission to guide trips throughout BLM lands in the valley without limitations.

“We are the only guiding company with a permit for all the mountain-bike trails in the Grand Valley,” Sarah said.

“Other companies may have one or two of the areas, but not all.”

That's good news for Desert Rat customers, because all commercial trips conducted on public lands must have a permit issued by the land management agency in charge.

“We have a special recreation permit through the Grand Junction BLM Field Office and the Moab BLM Field Office,” Sarah said. “The requirements to get a permit include a minimum insurance coverage, first-aid medical training, and a commitment to uphold standards for tours (participant numbers, travel regulation standards, etc.).”

WHAT DO BIKE TOURS ENTAIL? According to the Withers, they lay the ground work for Desert Rat tour groups — from renting bikes and organizing all necessary transportation to recommending hotels and supplying gourmet trail-side meals. What they provide is

more than a simple guided tour of the area; it's personal, fun and each trip caters to a group's unique wants and needs. Add-ons, like skills clinics, are also available, and tour guides carry all necessary tools and equipment to fix a bike on the go.

“We send them home with quality photography shot by a professional,” David said.

Other attractions, like winery tours, may be added to Desert Rat group itineraries.

Plus, both Withers are certified wilderness first responders, fully skilled to help anyone in trouble on the trails.

“We're there to take care of them, no matter what happens,” David said.

Tour lengths can vary, too.

Sarah said some clients prefer half-days (3-4 hours), while others want to ride hard for six. And tours can last upwards of a week.

“People call about riding

The Withers love mountain biking so much, they ride together every week of the year. Plus, both are active with trail building and resource protection throughout the valley. Their tour company also works with COPMOBA Colorado Canyons Chapter, a group of Grand Valley cyclists, to support local trails.

“Desert Rat Tours uses leave no trace and sustainable practices to protect the quality and integrity of the trails,” its website said.

in Fruita, and then we also take them to Grand Junction and Palisade,” David said, who also noted that high-level trails are located all over the valley (not just in Fruita, which is known around the world as a top-tier biking destination).

Desert Rat Tours operate April through October, weather permitting. Customers should call in advance to reserve a trip, especially if they have a month or weekend in mind.

“It's great for tourists to come out and ride with people who love the trails,” David said. “It's more than just a business for us.”

Want to know more? Visit www.desertrattours.com for trip information and pricing. Call 970-261-8101 or 970-260-4842, or email info@desertrattours.com.

Sa

A LOVE FOR MOUNTAIN BIKING!

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ay D e

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SALES • SERVICE PARTS • ACCESSORIES Mon - Sat 9aM - 6 pM • 970.243.0807 10th & north • Grand Junction

www.thebikeshopgj.com

Road & Trail Maps available

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PLAY HARD!

lee lau | courtesy

top: Sarah and David Withers, owners of Desert Rat Tours, offer

guided mountain-bike trips throughout the Grand Valley. This photo was taken on Mack Ridge at the Kokopelli Loops area.

Bike Tune up Special

Serving The grand valley For over 40 yearS

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2822 North Ave | MoNdAy-FridAy 9-6 | SAturdAy 9-5 | 242-9285 www.boArdANdbuckle.coM

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Go biking!

Grand Valley boasts trails and roads for all cyclists Explore the best singletrack and road rides Colorado has to offer! There’s something for every type of biker in the Grand Valley.

For mountain bikers: Explore Fruita’s 18 Road, the Kokopelli Trail off Exit 15, Lunch Loops near the Colorado National Monument, and Palisade’s Horse Mountain and Palisade Rim Trail. Stop by any local bike shop and they’ll help you find your way.

courtesy photo

Participants in the 2012 Tour of the Moon Cycling Classic in the Colorado National Monument.

For road riders:

stephen kurtenbach | courtesy Mountain-bike trails in Fruita attract folks from around the world.

Now, the Tour of Test your will and ride the Moon Cycling over the Colorado National Classic follows a similar Monument on the scenic Rim route through the monument.

Rock Drive. It’s a lung buster In its second year, this epic climbing up to Rim Rock cycling event is scheduled with rolling hills along the for Oct. 5, 2013, and it’s top. This is probably one of “considered one of the premier the most popular routes for recreational road rides in the intermediate and advanced Western United States,” the riders, and it’s one of the most Grand Junction Visitor & beautiful. Back in the 1980s, Convention Bureau’s (GJVCB) this very same route was part website said. Visit www. of the Coors Classic bike race; tourofthemoon.com for more it was called the “Tour of the information.

Moon” stage.

There's also a water station for cyclists at For cruisers: the CNM's Visitor's We recommend the Riverfront Trail, a paved, wide walkway Center. along the Colorado River from Clifton to the Redlands.

Already in town? Don’t forget to pick up the Free Press 2013 Cycling Guide. It has insider information, trail maps and more! The 2013 Cycling Guide may be picked up at the Free Press office on 145 N. 4th St. (right off Grand Junction’s historic Main Street), the Colorado Welcoming Center at Fruita (340 Colorado 340), and at local bike shops across the valley. Or find it at the GJVCB Visitors Center at 740 Horizon Dr.

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Go to Colorado National Monument!

The best-hidden gem of the West

Upon first hearing about the Colorado National Monument, many visitors to the area believe it’s a grand statue or man-made landmark. Rather, it’s a magnificent natural wonder located on Federal lands. Think Grand Canyontype views, only on a smaller scale. And the park is open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day.

Located between Fruita and Grand Junction, off I-70 and Colorado 340, the Colorado National Monument is 20,000 acres of red sandstone rocks, pinyon pines, towering monoliths and incredible views. The area is additionally a playground for cyclists, hikers, climbers, backpackers and large tour groups.

Don’t miss: • The 23-mile Rim Rock Drive; stop at overlooks like “Cold Shivers Point” and the Visitor’s Center.

• Hike up to the base of Independence Monument, or gaze at it from afar. Or, if you’re so inclined, climb it!

Lots of people do with the proper rock-climbing gear.

Pack a snack and head up in the morning.

• The park has 45 miles of hiking trails — from short hikes of .23 miles to the twistyturny, up-and-down 1.75-mile Serpent’s Trail. There’s also longer backcountry hikes up to 8.5 miles.

• There are 80 campsites in several campgrounds. The park regularly has guided walks and “porch talks” throughout the year.

• Dogs are allowed in some of the campgrounds if kept

on a leash, but they are not allowed on any of the hiking trails.

• Watch for yellow-headed collared lizards or the plateaustriped whiptail, especially during late morning or late afternoon hours; they are often seen sunning themselves on the warm rocks.

• Don’t forget — always bring a hat, sunscreen (for summer) and plenty of water!

Want to learn more? The Visitor's Center and bookstore is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the summer, with shorter winter hours. It's closed only on Christmas Day. Admission into the park is $10 per vehicle, and $5 for hikers, bicyclists, and motorcycle riders. Admission is good for seven days. An annual pass only costs $25.

For more information,

call the Colorado National Monument at 970-858-3617 or visit www.nps.gov/colm. tracy dvorak | free press

above: Hikers on the way to

Independence Monument in the Colorado National Monument. gjvcb | courtesy

top: Views in the Colorado

National Monument.

tracy dvorak | free press

left: You may encounter lizards

like this one on any hike in the Colorado National Monument.

source: www.nps.gov/colm

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Go Hiking!

The trails never end in Mesa County Mesa County has lots of land. Plus, most of it’s public and it’s ours for the hiking.

First off, you can head up Grand Mesa, the largest mesa in the world. It’s 500 square miles, and it features hundreds of trails snaking through the forests and around the area’s many lakes.

Then, head down to the desert for some fun in the sun.

Don’t miss the Colora-

do National Monument. It’s the Grand Valley’s

most fantastic natural wonder, but the trails don’t stop there.

Rattlesnake Arches Trail is one of the valley’s

best-kept secrets. Located within the Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness area, it features 11 arches (six major ones), and it’s the second largest concentration of arches courtesy photo in the United States.

No, this isn’t a picture from Moab.

Mesa County has its own collection of If you want a shorter but arches, known as Rattlesnake Arches. still rigorous hike, check out tracy dvorak | free press the heart-pumping trail at right: You’re almost there.

That mound-like formation is Liberty Cap. It’s part of what gives Liberty Cap its a network of trails, which name on the Monument. includes Ute Canyon Trail and Corkscrew Trail. This jaunt town and climb Mount will surely give you a taste Garfield, but get ready of what Grand Valley hiking for some serious elevation aspires to be. gain and rock scrambling.

And should you desire a litWe promise the views will tle more difficulty, head across be well worth it.

Pop into the Grand Junction Visitor’s Center for hiking directions. It’s located at 740 Horizon Dr. 16

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Mica Mine in Grand Junction sure to add sparkle to your day This local hike is family friendly and easy on the eyes

By Caitlin Row

gjvcb | courtesy Mount Garfield in Grand Junction

caitlin row | free press A hiker on the Mica Mine Trail in Grand Junction.

Want a little sparkle in your life? Why not hike Grand Junction's Mica Mine trail. With its unique, glittery look and easy pace, this trail is sure to be a hit for hikers of all levels.

Located in the Bangs Canyon area on BLM land in Grand Junction, the Mica Mine hike is both beautiful as well as easily accessible.

The round-trip distance to the mine is a little under three miles, plus there are stream crossings and the remnants of an abandoned mica mining area to be explored. Hike a little further past the mine (which is on the left) and you'll eventually hit a waterfall.

Look for crushed-up quartz and flecks of mica, both on the trail and in the rock walls lining the path. When the sun hits it just right, it twinkles like diamonds.

According to the Bureau of Land Management, “the Bangs Canyon Special Recreation Management Area lies immediately southwest of Grand Junction and encompasses a stunning landscape of high-desert canyons and plateaus overlooking the Grand Valley and Grand Mesa.”

BLM Directions: “From the intersection of First Street and Grand Avenue in Grand Junction, travel west on Grand Avenue (Highway 340) for approximately one mile and turn left on Monument Road. Turn left again on D Road. D Road becomes Rosevale Road. Turn right onto Little Park Road. Travel approximately three miles on Little Park Road until you reach the Little Park Trailhead.

Travel an additional two and half miles to reach the Bangs Canyon Trailhead.”

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Go golfing!

There are five pristine courses to choose when visiting the Grand Valley Springtime in the valley means the grass is greening, temperatures are pleasant, plus flowers are blooming in the desert.

It also marks the start of Mesa County's substantial golf season, an exciting time for both locals and visitors to the area.

The best part is, you can play almost year-round due to the area’s temperate climate!

Here's the local listing: • The Golf Club at Redlands Mesa 2299 W. Ridges Blvd., Grand Junction 970-263-9270, www.redlandsmesa.com Type: Public, 18 holes, par 72 Green fees: Mesa County residents: 18 holes, $77 including cart; 9 holes, $50 including cart; Visitors: 18 holes, $105 including cart; 9 holes, $61 including cart Tee times: Seven days in advance, from 7 a.m.

Dress Code: Traditional golf attire, collared shirt Designer: Jim Engh Tee boxes: Blue - slope: 133, rating: 69.9, ydg: 6486; White - slope: 121, rating: 66.4, ydg: 5821; Red - slope: 115, rating: 69.0, ydg: 4916; Black - slope: 137, rating: 72.1, ydg: 7,007 Practice: Driving range, putting green, PGA pros, clinics Amenities: Red Canyon Grille restaurant, pro shop, beverage cart Misc. info: Desert/mountain style course, target golf.

Beautiful scenery. Front 9 on top of plateau, see the whole valley. Back 9 dips into a canyon, rock walls.

It’s ranked 88th in the U.S.

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for public courses, and in 2013 Golf Magazine ranked it the best public course in Colorado.

Directions: Take I-70 to Redlands Parkway. Go south for 5.5 miles to Broadway.

Turn east on Broadway and go 1.5 miles to Ridges Boulevard. Turn south and drive 1 mile.

• Tiara Rado Golf Course 2057 South Broadway, Grand Junction 970-254-3830, www.golfgrandjunction.net courtesy photo

Type: Public, 18 holes, par 71 Green fees: Weekday: 18 holes, $34; 9 holes, $18; cart additional $8-$13 per person Tee times: Seven days in advance, from 7 a.m.

Dress Code: Shirt and shoes required.

Designer: Tom Kolacny Tee boxes: Blue - slope: 129, rating: 73.7, yards: 6235; White - slope: 127, rating: 71.9, yards: 5850; Yellow - slope: 112, rating: 67.2, yards: 4856 Practice: Driving range, putting, chipping and pitching greens, fairway bunker Amenities: Restaurant, pro shop, beverage cart Misc. info: “The Rock” plays along the base of the Colorado National Monument’s red cliffs.

Lush from tee to green, the

Scenic views from Grand Junction’s Tiara Rado Golf Course.

architecture of this course will make you use every club in your bag. Between shots, enjoy the gorgeous Western Colorado scenery and wildlife. A member of the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary program, Tiara Rado is home to quail, pheasants, owls, herons, deer, rabbits, foxes and all three species of bluebirds in the United States.

Directions: Take I-70 to exit 28 (24 Road exit) and turn south.

Go about 9 miles.

•Lincoln Park Golf Course 800 Mantlo Circle, Grand Junction 970-242-6394, www.golfgrandjunction.net

Type: Public, 9 holes, par 36 Green fees: 18 holes, $25; 9 holes, $15; cart additional $8-$13 per person Tee times: Seven days in advance, from 9 a.m. (earlier in the summer) Dress Code: Shirt and shoes required.

Designer: Unknown Tee boxes: Yellow - slope: 123, rating: 71.6, ydg: 5844; Red slope: 118, rating: 68.0, ydg: 6258; Blue - slope 120, rating 69.0, yards 6622 Practice: Driving range, chipping and putting greens

and Colorado National Monument. It’s a walkable course with tough greens.

Directions: Take I-70 to exit 37 (Clifton exit). Turn left at 32 Road and then west on Highway 6 & 50. Turn north at 29 Road. Go two blocks and the course is on the right.

• Bookcliff Country Club 2730 G Rd., Grand Junction 970-242-9053, www.bookcliffcc.com

Amenities: Snack bar, pro shop Misc. info: Lincoln Park Golf Course is a 9-hole, 72-par public golf course conveniently located in the central city and is easy to walk. Flat, small greens, fun course to play.

Directions: I-70 to Horizon Drive exit, south to 12th Street to Gunnison Avenue, turn left, and the course comes up on your left.

• Chipeta Golf Course 222 29 Rd., Grand Junction 970-245-7177, www.chipetagolf.com Type: Public, 18 holes, par 59 Green fees: Weekday: 18 holes, $22; 9 holes, $15; cart

additional $8-13 per person.

Weekend: 18 holes, $27; 9 holes, $17; cart additional $8-13 per person Tee times: Seven days in advance, from 8 a.m. (earlier in the summer) Dress Code: Shirt and shoes required Designer: Wilson Group Tee boxes: Black - slope: 88, rating: 58.6, ydg: 3835; Yellow - slope: 85, rating, 57.6, ydg: 3395 Practice: Driving range, chipping area, putting green, teaching pro Amenities: Beverage, snack bar, full bar Misc. info: Course has beautiful views of the Grand Mesa, the Book Cliffs

Type: Private, 18 holes, par 71 – must be accompanied by a member Green fees: 18 holes, $46 without cart & $60 with cart; 9 holes, $23 without cart & $32 with cart Tee times: One week advance, from 9 a.m. (earlier in the summer) Dress Code: Appropriate golf attire, shirt must have a collar Designer: Dick Phelps Tee boxes: Blue - slope: 120, rating: 70.3, ydg: 6632; White - slope: 114, rating: 68.2, ydg: 6231; Gold - slope: 116, rating: 69.4, ydg: 5370; Red - slope: 120, rating: 71.4, ydg: 5752 Practice: Driving range, chipping area, practice bunker, teaching pro Amenities: Pro shop, full bar, beverage cart, snack bar, restaurant Misc. info: A nice, fairly long and wide-open course with lots of trees, fast greens.

You’ll need to come in with a member to play.

Directions: Take I-70 to the Horizon Drive exit south.

Turn right after the Pizza

Hut (about 1/2 mile). Take an immediate right to the course.

• Adobe Creek National Golf Course 876 18 1/2 Road, Fruita 970-858-0521, www.adobecreekgolf.com Type: Public, 27 holes, par 109 - 3, 9-hole courses Green fees: Weekday: 18 holes, $31; 9 holes, $17; cart additional $9-14; Weekend: 18 holes, $35; 9 holes, $20; cart additional $9-14 Tee times: Five days in advance, from 9 a.m. (earlier in the summer) Dress Code: Shirts, spikeless shoes required Designer: Ned Wilson (Monument & Mesa); Paul Graebner (Desert) Tee boxes: Combinations for 18 holes: Mesa/Monument - slope: 119, rating: 71.4; Desert/ Monument - slope: 119, rating: 71.2; Desert/Mesa slope: 121, rating: 70.2 Practice: Driving range, unlighted, practice greens Amenities: Full bar, beverage cart, snack bar Misc. info: This links-style course is located at the beautiful Colorado National Monument, just a mile from the Colorado River. It’s spread over 420 acres with no housing around, almost like a preserve. Natural settings.

Directions: Take I-70 to exit 19 (Fruita exit, about 10 miles west of Grand Junction). Go left to Frontage road. Turn left and go about 1 mile.

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WANT TO GO RAFTING?

Are you Adventure Bound?

Adventure Bound River Expeditions 2392 H Rd., Grand Junction 970-245-5428 Adventureboundusa.com

Local outfitter celebrates 50 years of business in 2013

Rimrock Adventures 927 Hwy. 340, Fruita 970-858-9555 Rradventures.com

By Caitlin Row

NEED GEAR? Whitewater West 418 S. 7th St., Grand Junction 970-241-0441 courtesy photo | Adventure Bound rafters at Tiger Wall in the Dinosaur National Monument on the Yampa River in Colorado.

With snowpack up and river conditions healthier

than recent years, Grand Junction’s Adventure Bound (a commercial raft-trip organizer) has lots to celebrate. This year also marks a big birthday — 50 years in business, and 2013 trips are already underway.

“We’re in a pattern of getting regular spring moisture,” said owner/operator Tom Kleinschnitz. “That’s a wonderful thing. It’s nice to see water out there.”

Adventure Bound currently offers whitewater rafting throughout Colorado and Utah on the Green River, the Colorado River and the Yampa River. This season, rafting tours will run regularly from the end of April through Sep-

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tember weather permitting, with charter trips into the fall.

Plus, Kleinschnitz provides inflatable kayaks as part of Adventure Bound’s offerings.

“We’re known for inflatable kayaks,” he said. “It’s different than passive raft trips. It’s fun to paddle, and it adds an element of participation.”

According to lead raft guide Darin Hunt, showing people the region and “filling their minds with the history” of the area is also a significant part of every guided adventure.

“Commercial rafting trips are a fantastic way for a novice to experience the river,” he noted, “and a (good) way to get away and leave the technological world behind. ... There are lots of people living in the valley that haven’t been down the river. I think everyone should

have it on their bucket list.”

A BIRTHDAY DEAL!

To honor five decades of river trips in 2013, Adventure Bound is offering a special deal for its Ruby Canyon trip: $50 off all rates.

A LIL’ HISTORY

Adventure Bound has grown significantly over the years, but its mission to expose folks to the natural beauty of the area has stayed the same.

According to Kleinschnitz, it was founded in 1963 by Keith Counts, an educator on Colorado’s Front Range, who began “doing trips for youth groups and kids at risk.”

“At its conception, Adventure Bound had just a couple

of military surplus rafts and authorization to run in Dinosaur National Monument on the Yampa and Green Rivers,” the company website said. “Since then, our business has grown to keep up with the increasing popularity of outdoor recreation. Today we have a wide variety of rafts and dozens of inflatable kayaks in our fleet. We offer trips in five different locations throughout the Colorado Plateau. Our trips include Yampa Canyon and Lodore Canyon in Dinosaur National Monument, Desolation Canyon on the Green River, as well as, Cataract Canyon and Ruby Canyon, both on the Colorado River.”

Kleinschnitz, also an avid rafter, began working for the company as a guide in 1971.

Adirondack Artistry

www.AdirondackArtistry.com | (970) 243-7101

at Powderhorn!

Powderhorn Mountain Resort means great snow, great views and a

great time at a small, but topnotch ski area.

This little resort (located on the edge of Grand Mesa) boasts some of the best lift-gazing you’re going to find. And at a base elevation of 8,200 feet, the resort also offers 600 groomed acres, three terrain parks and five lifts. The average annual snowfall is 250 inches. It also has a fun tubing area.

To make Powderhorn a year-round destination, the resort recently created six miles of new mountainbike trails, and an 18-hole disc golf course. Visit www.powderhorn.com for more information.

You constantly hear the phrase, BUY LOCAL....

Our high quality Adirondack style outdoor patio furniture is hand crafted in Glade Park, Colorado. We build our furniture with 100% Western Red Cedar, (furniture grade, 1” thick, kiln dried and sustainably harvested wood). We use all stainless steel hardware and offer a variety of chairs, gliders, rockers, tables and footrests. Adirondack Artistry furniture is ergonomic and extremely comfortable. Choose from standard, luxury, love seat or children’s sizes. Pets love our children’s furniture, too!

Since you no doubt appreciate the great outdoors as much as we do; whether it involves family, friends or quiet alone time... embrace a vision of Adirondack Artistry pieces in your yard.

Please visit our website for locations to purchase our furniture.

Thanks for buying local!

from top: powderhorn | courtesy

Powderhorn offers lessons for kids wanting to master both skiing and snowboarding. | Make fresh turns at Powderhorn Mountain Resort.

Known to be both uncrowded and affordable, it also offers that homegrown, local feel folks grow to love. courtesy photo

powderhorn | courtesy Pond skimming fun at the end of Powderhorn’s 2012-13 season.

FREE SHIPPING

970.241.5326 2536 RIMROCK coloradowest.maxmuscle.com

Fuels Gels RecoveRy

Go Skiing

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Enjoy Downtown Grand Junction

It’s the heart and soul of the city Nestled in the heart of the Grand Valley,

downtown Grand Junction is home to many charming, locally owned retail stores, music venues, hotels, restaurants, galleries and services. We invite you to stroll along the tree-lined streets — complete with outdoor sculptures, fountains and historic buildings — and browse among your favorite shops.

The historic downtown area also plays host to a variety of community events, such as the Fourth of July Parade,

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caitlin row | free press

During the summer months in Grand Junction, Main Street’s kids fountain is always bustling with activity.

weekly Farmers’ Markets, the Christmas Light Parade and many more.

Not long ago, a major reconstruction and renovation of Grand Junction’s downtown area wrapped up and added three play areas for kids, more public benches, an improved landscape, shaded public shelters, and sidewalk restaurant seating. courtesy photo

So, what are you waiting for?

Come down and take a stroll!

TAKE AN ART WALK

An art lover’s paradise The Grand Valley hosts numerous galleries, local artists Paintings, prints, photography, you name it — the Grand

Valley’s thriving art community shouldn’t be missed!

Downtown Grand Junction is truly an art lover's Mecca, with more than a half-dozen galleries in an eight-block radius.

Anchored by The Art Center in Grand Junction, galleries flower throughout Palisade and Fruita, too. Local artists additionally display their work in coffee shops, restaurants and retail stores. Explore and you won’t be disappointed.

• One place worth checking out is the funky, earthy interior of the Working Artists' Studio & Gallery (520 Main St. in Grand Junction). True to its name, you’ll likely find artists hard at work. Or, if you're there just to browse, there are plenty of original, one-of-a-kind pieces to view (or even purchase).

GRAND VALLEY’S ART LISTING GRAND JUNCTION:

• Located on Seventh Street, Western Colorado Center for the Arts (otherwise known as The Art Center), houses a permanent collection of fine art from local, regional, and national artists. There’s also a large temporary exhibit space used to feature a rotating group of artists from around the world.

• Perhaps the most popular — and certainly the most visible — art installation in Grand Junction can be found on the sidewalks of the downtown district.

Called “Art on the Corner,” the program was founded in 1984 by local sculptor Dave Davis.

Now more than 100 pieces — many of which evoke a particular aspect of Grand Junction history and Frame Depot 529 Bogart Lane 970-245-6999 www.framedepotgj.com

The Art Center 1803 N. Seventh St. 970-243-7337 www.gjartcenter.org

KAFM Radio Room Gallery 1310 Ute Ave. 970-241-8801 www.kafmradio.org

Working Artists' Gallery 520 Main St. 970-256-9952

The Kurtzman/Lintott Gallery 412 Main St. 970-245-7949 www.facebook.com/ kurtzmanlintottgallery

Western Colorado Botanical Gardens 641 Struthers Ave. 970-245-3288 www.wcbotanic.org

Oakley Gallery 602 Main St. 972-314-5271 www.oakleygallery.net

free press file photo

culture — dot Grand Junction’s downtown streets. Many sculptures are part of a permanent collection, while other pieces are rotated on a yearly basis.

Several benches and other seating areas were additionally installed as part of the program. caitlin row | free press

Outdoor sculpture peppers downtown Grand Junction.

Find your favorite installation!

Planet Earth & the Four Directions Gallery 524 Colorado Ave. 970-256-9630 www.facebook.com/pages/ Planet-Earth-and-the-4Directions-Gallery Raw Canvas Working Artist Gallery 507 Main St. 970-985-9649 www.therawcanvas.net

PALISADE:

The Blue Pig Gallery 101 W. Third St. 970-464-4819 www.thebluepiggallery.com

Both Grand Junction and Fruita galleries host art walks each month.

Other small businesses participate, too, like restaurants and breweries for instance.

• Grand Junction First Friday Art Walk The Grand Junction First Friday Art Walk takes place the first Friday evening (around 6 p.m.) of every month, rain or shine, and it starts from The Art Center. There you’ll pick up a list of participating galleries. If you’d rather just wander around Grand Junction’s Main Street, most small businesses on Main Street stay open later than normal to accommodate a roving crowd. There are food and drink samples at most participating locations.

• Fruita Fourth Friday Art Walk Similar to Grand Junction’s gallery walk, the Fruita Fourth Friday Art Walk (which happens monthly every fourth Friday) is seeing great growth in participation since kicking off in January 2013. Galleries, restaurants and breweries all put on special events to welcome an artsy crowd, and music by local artists are often scheduled.

Twisted Brick Studios 128 E. Third St. 970-260-1836

FRUITA:

Rose Hue Gallery 212 East Aspen Ave. 970-858-1216 www.facebook.com/ RoseHueGallery Rye Gallery 201 E. Aspen Ave, 435-724-7387 www.fruitapulp.com The Vintage Common 116 N. Mulberry St. (951) 741-6113 www.thevintagecommon.com

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Toys for the Fun of It 519 Main Street, GJ | 970-248-3511

Open Mon - Sat 10 am til 6 pm | Sun 11am til 3pm Farmer’s Market Thursdays til 9pm

It wouldn’t be a trip downtown without stopping in at Toys for the Fun of It, Grand Junction’s favorite

Have Fun - Sell Toys!

Inspiring creative imagination through play by selling quality toys to kids of all ages-

toysforthefunofit.com

“Fun Stop”. The toy guys are always prepared to help you have fun and to assist you in choosing the perfect age appropriate gift for everyone on your shopping list. We have a unique offering of travel toys and we gladly offer free gift wrapping for birthday presents. Farmer’s Market nights we have a free activity from 5-8 pm in the store. Come play with us!

Toys for the Fun of It opened in 1995 and still having fun.

We sell toys to kids of all ages, from infant to adults.

One word? FUN! We have the best selection of quality toys in an upbeat, fun environment. People tell us every day that we are their favorite place to shop. best sellers:

Perplexus 3-D mazes, inflatable Rody horse, Doinkit Darts, Thomas wooden railway, Playmobil, Calico Critters, and mountains of cheap thrills.

Our staff is knowledgeable, friendly, helpful & fun loving.

ambience:

controlled chaos, upbeat, friendly, FUN We are passionate about selling high quality toys that foster creativity and social interaction, that are both fun and educational. We like to play outside when we aren’t working in the store. It’s always best to do business in a place that you love to be. motto:

Have Fun - Sell Toys

Alida’s Fruits

419 Main St. | 241-2091 and 3402 C 1/2 Road | (970) 434-8769 www.alidasfruits.com Named after Farmer Bob’s wife, AlidA’S FRuitS is a family-owned and operated business and has been since 1990. the business is known for its succulent Palisade peaches and locally made fruit products such as jams, salsas, syrups, dried fruit, dried fruit dipped in chocolate and more. the downtown location is a must stop for travelers looking for souvenirs of Western Colorado. Alida’s jams and salsa remain best-sellers.

All of their products are Colorado-made and or grown. the store even has the ability to ship fresh Palisade peaches to anywhere in the continental united States — a gift-idea worth remembering.

AlidA’S has two locations: downtown Grand Junction at 419 Main Street; and East Orchard Mesa at 3402 C ½ Road.

Girlfriends

316 Main Street, GJ | (970) 242-3234 STORE HOURS: Mon-Sat 10am-5:30pm

Girlfriends is a one-of-a-kind boutique on downtown Main Street offering a variety of casual clothing, elegant home décor and unique gift items, which they’ll gladly gift-wrap for free.

The store was opened in 2003, but many longtime residents remember it being called The Linen Shelf, which Catherine Burkey opened in 1976. It’s been through a couple of owners, and now rests with Jennie Mason who purchased Girlfriends in 2010.

The store carries brands that can’t be found anywhere else in the Grand Valley including, but not limited to Jag, Nic and Zoe clothing, Curio Sweaters, Merrell Clothing, Nomadic Traders Clothing, Wanna Buy a Watch Earrings, and Handcrafted in Colorado copper necklaces & earrings. Thymes bath products, Crabtree and Evelyn bath products, Nambe and Switchflops and local artwork from Yvette Campbell “My passion that relates to my business is I love beautiful, unique, inspirational, and affordable merchandise that you are not going to find at any box store,” said owner Jennie.

Girlfriends’ retail displays are beautiful, inviting and fun. It’s definitely a place you want to take your girlfriends to.

“I love coming to work each day. I love seeing the beautiful merchandise and most of all I love the customers. I love helping them pick out that special wedding gift, a gift for the best friends birthday or that great outfit to wear to a special event,” Jennie added.

And you won’t find pushy sales people at Girlfriends, only a friendly, knowledgeable sales staff.

I have an awesome sales staff. They are friendly, personal, helpful and honest. The staff will be very in honest with you when trying on clothes. We are not trying to make a sale. We want you to leave feeling great about your purchase.

Page-Parsons

444 Main Street, PO Box 1706 , GJ | (970) 242-3420 Established in 1895, Page-Parsons Jewelers is located in the beautiful downtown merchant district of Grand Junction, Colorado.

Page-Parsons is your full service, family owned, local Jeweler. We are proud to offer the following products and services: * Diamonds and Colored Stones * Engagement Rings, Wedding Sets and Bands * Anniversary Jewelry * Pandora * Earrings, Necklaces, Pendants, Bracelets, and Anklets * Fine Fashion Jewelry is Sterling and 18K * Men’s Jewelry * Ring Sizing, Jewelry Cleaning, Repair, and Custom Fabrication * Watch Sales and Battery Replacement * Clock Sales * Professional Appraisals

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A cultural attraction under renovation

Grand Junction’s Avalon Theatre builds new look alongside a diverse legacy

By Evan Linko

What is a cornerstone?

For a building, the cornerstone is the first brick laid. It is the stone to which all others are laid in reference.

For a community and its local culture, a cornerstone also exists. In Grand Junction, the Avalon Theatre has been a cornerstone of arts and entertainment for 90 years.

And the theater is currently celebrating a culturally diverse legacy, as plans for substantial renovations and improvements solidify.

“It’s time to bring the theater into the 21st century,” said Robin Brown, the development director of the aptly titled Avalon Cornerstone Project, which is overseeing the upcoming renovation and related fundraising efforts.

Once funds for building contracts have been met, phase one of the renovations will begin. The theater’s doors

To see the full renovation plans of the Cornerstone Project or to donate funds for the effort, visit www.avalontheatrefoundation.org. will likely close after summer 2013 to begin construction on numerous scheduled improvements, which will take about a year or more to complete.

courtesy photo

A THEATER TO BE PROUD OF In the interest of sustaining the aspirations of the original theater company, the renovations also exemplify its goals by modernizing the facility to accommodate a wider variety of performances.

PLANNED RENOVATIONS Aside from expanded concessions and amenities, an addition will house a new “multipurpose room” with lights, sound and retractable seating. A portion of the expansion will have a glass exterior, exposing a main staircase that will appear to “float” to outside passersby, according to the theatre foundation’s website.

The main auditorium will get new seating, receive some acoustic improvements and get new, digital technology for concerts and cinema. Repairs and modernizations will also be made to the facility’s roof, heating, air conditioning and plumbing.

Phase 2 will likely include an expansion across the alley behind the theater, nearly doubling the size of the stage and allotting space for a catering kitchen and dressing rooms. The inside facilities will be improved with fullhouse audio, and the outward appearance of the theater will continue to evolve with the construction of a rooftop terrace.

What was originally a vaudeville and orchestral theater on the corner of 7th and Main Streets has seen shows across all theatric mediums since opera singer Lucy Gates played on opening night, January 5, 1923.

Uniquely Yours 443 Main Street | 970-241-5527

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Batter up!

GJ Rockies and JUCO Baseball, beer, and big fun await with the second season of the Grand Junction Rockies minor league baseball team in 2013. This season’s first home game is set for June 20.

According to the GJ Rockies website: “The (2013) schedule features 38 home games, including a three game series against defending Pioneer League Champion Missoula Osprey, August 21-23. The Rockies will play 76 games in 81 days, with five off days.”

Home field for this Pioneer League team is the newly renovated Sam Suplizio Field at Lincoln Park, where every seat is a good seat and games can change at the drop of a ball. Plus, there are lots of great food options, cold drinks, kids fun and apparel. Watch for Corky Coyote, the team’s mascot!

In 2012, the GJ Rockies (an affiliate of the Colorado Rockies), relocated from Casper, Wyo., where they were known as the Ghosts.

Single-game tickets in Grand Junction range from $7-10.

All games start at 7:05 p.m., except for Sunday games starting at 4:05 p.m. The home game on Sunday, Sept.

1, starts at 6:30 p.m. because of fireworks. For season pass and any other information, call 970-255-7625 or visit www.gjrockies.com. gj rockies | courtesy Members of the GJ Rockies Pioneer League in 2012.

JUCO — Baseball as it should be

It’s just a bunch of young college students with big dreams who play their hearts out. And this year’s Alpine Bank Junior College World Series is set for May 25 through June 1, 2013, at Grand Junction’s Suplizio Field.

Why go? Each year, it brings the 10 best junior college baseball teams in the nation to town for eight days of

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competition at Lincoln Park’s 10,000-seat Suplizio Field. Only one team emerges as national champion, and over the course of the tournament more than 120,000 folks will file through the stadium to catch a game or two or 10. The tournament has also been part of the Grand Junction sports landscape for 54 of the 55 annual tournaments since the National Junior College Athletic Association sanctioned it in 1958.

For more information about JUCO, visit www.jucogj.org. courtesy photo

2013 calendar of events GRAND JUNCTION ROCKIES

HOME GAME SCHEDULE All games start at 7:05 p.m., except for Sunday games starting at 4:05 p.m. The home game on Sunday, Sept. 1, starts at 6:30 p.m. because of fireworks.

2013 GJ Rockies Home Schedule Thursday, June 20, vs. Ogden (7:05 p.m.)

Friday, June 21, vs. Ogden (7:05 p.m.)

Friday, June 28, vs. Orem (7:05 p.m.)

Saturday, June 29, vs. Orem (7:05 p.m.)

Sunday, June 30, vs. Orem (4:05 p.m.)

Monday, July 1, vs. Orem (7:05 p.m.)

Tuesday, July 2, vs. Ogden (7:05 p.m.)

Tuesday, July 9, vs. Billings (7:05 p.m.)

Wednesday, July 10, vs. Billings (7:05 p.m.)

Thursday, July 11, vs. Billings (7:05 p.m.)

Friday, July 12, vs. Billings (7:05 p.m.)

Saturday, July 13, vs. Great Falls (7:05 p.m.)

Sunday, July 14, vs. Great Falls (4:05 p.m.)

Monday, July 15, vs. Great Falls (7:05 p.m.)

Thursday, July 25, vs. ldaho Falls (7:05 p.m.)

Friday, July 26, vs. ldaho Falls (7:05 p.m.)

Saturday, July 27, vs. ldaho Falls (7:05 p.m.)

Sunday, July 28, vs. ldaho Falls (4:05 p.m.)

Sunday, Aug 4, vs. Orem (4:05 p.m.)

Monday, Aug 5, vs. Orem (7:05 p.m.)

Tuesday, Aug 6, vs. Orem (7:05 p.m.)

Wednesday, Aug 7, vs. Orem (7:05 p.m.)

Thursday, Aug 8, vs. ldaho Falls (7:05 p.m.)

Friday, Aug 9, vs. ldaho Falls (7:05 p.m.)

downtown farmers Market Thursday, 5-8:30pm June 13 - September 19

Independence day Parade July 4

epic rides GJ off-road August 30 - September 1

fuoco Motor co. downtown car show September 28

spooktacular October 26

Wells fargo tree lighting November 15

30th annual Parade of lights December 7

Downtown Grand Junction Farmers Market sponsored by Bellco Credit Union and High Noon Solar. 30th Annual Parade of Lights sponsored by Sorter Construction, the Downtown Partnership, and the Credit Union of Colorado. Independence Day Parade sponsored by the Credit Union of Colorado

Shopping, patio, dining, nightlife, festivals, outdoor sculpture, fountains and more...it all happens here!

B U Y G I F T C E RT I F I C AT E S O N L I N E downtown.org • 970.245.9697

Saturday, Aug 10, vs. ldaho Falls (7:05 p.m.)

Sunday, Aug 11, vs. ldaho Falls (4:05 p.m.)

Wednesday, Aug 21, vs. Missoula (7:05 p.m.)

Thursday, Aug 22, vs. Missoula (7:05 p.m.)

Friday, Aug 23, vs. Missoula (7:05 p.m.)

Saturday, Aug 24, vs. Helena (7:05 p.m.)

Sunday, Aug 25, vs. Helena (4:05 p.m.)

Monday, Aug 26, vs. Helena (7:05 p.m.)

Tuesday, Aug 27, vs. Helena (7:05 p.m.)

Sunday, Sept 1, vs. Ogden (6:30 p.m.)

Monday, Sept 2, vs. Ogden (7:05 p.m.)

Tuesday Sept 3, vs. Ogden (7:05 p.m.)

Wednesday Sept 4, vs. Ogden (7:05 p.m.)

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Drink up Colorado’s Wine Country!

It’s a relative newcomer to the global wine market, but Mesa

County — the birthplace of the state’s first vineyards — is seeing formidable growth in the world of wineries.

Since the late 19th century, when settlers first recognized the fruit-growing potential of the region, wine has played a role in the economic development of the Grand Valley.

The area boasts numerous wineries, many of which enjoy the distinction of producing award-winning vintages, and Palisade hosts the Colorado Mountain WineFest (Sept.

19-22, 2013) every year during the harvest.

Most of the vineyards are centrally located in Palisade and have tasting rooms open to the public. And with the addition of Wine Country Inn (Coloradowinecountryinn. com), guests can stay in a charming hotel among the vines with easy access to most of the valley’s wineries.

Maison La Belle Vie Winery 3575 G Rd. 970-464-4959 www.maisonlabellevie.com Meadery of the Rockies 3701 G Rd. 970-464-7899 www.meaderyoftherockies.com Mesa Park Vineyards 3321 C Rd. 970-434-4191 www.mesaparkvineyards.com

AREA WINERIES WITH TASTING ROOMS PALISADE

Canyon Wind Cellars 3907 North River Rd. 970-464-0888 www.canyonwindcellars.com Carlson Vineyards 461 35 Rd. 970-464-5554 www.carlsonvineyards.com

Avant Vineyards 3480 E Road 970-216-9908

CLIFTON

Colterris Wines @ Theresa's Vineyards 3548 E ½ Rd. 970-464-1150 www.colterris.com

GRAND JUNCTION

Grande River Vineyards 787 Elberta Ave. 970-464-5867 www.granderiverwines.com

G O P L A Y ! 2 013

Varaison Vineyards 405 W. First St. 970-464-4928 www.varaisonvineyards.com

Graystone Winery 3352 F Rd. 970-434-8610 www.graystonewine.com

Garfield Estates Vineyard 3572 G Rd. 970-464-0941 www.garfieldestates.com

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St. Kathryn Cellars 785 Elberta Ave. 970-464-9288 www.st-kathryn-cellars.com

Colorado Cellars Winery 3553 E Rd. 970-464-7921 www.coloradocellars.com

DeBeque Canyon Winery 144 Kluge Ave., Building 3 970-464-0550 www.debequecanyonwinery.com

courtesy photos

Plum Creek Cellars 3708 G Rd. 970-464-7586 www.plumcreekwinery.com

Gubbini Winery 3697 F Rd. 970-270-7185 www.facebook.com/gubbini. winery

Two Rivers Winery and Chateau 2087 Broadway 970-255-1471 www.tworiverswinery.com Desert Sun Vineyards 3230 B 1/2 Rd. 970-434-9851 www.desertsunvineyards.com Whitewater Hill Vineyards & Winery 220 32 Rd. 970-434-6868 www.whitewaterhill.com

WHITEWATER

Reeder Mesa Winery 7799 Reeder Mesa Rd. 970-242-7468 www.reedermesawines.com

Enjoy craft brews and spirits!

The Western Slope of Colorado isn’t just known for its wine.

The Grand Valley also has its share of craft breweries and distilleries for locals and visitors to thoroughly enjoy.

New this spring is Kannah Creek Brewing Company’s recently constructed tasting room and brewing/bottling facility by the Colorado River in Grand Junction.

Called Edgewater Tap & Grill, it opened in early May and, along with craft brews, it serves burgers,

brats, hot dogs and more!

“Once we are up and running, we will also be giving tours of the brewery,” said Kannah Creek spokeswoman Katlin Lubeley.

Brewery tours will likely start in fall.

Kannah Creek’s original location is still on 12th Street.

Peach Street Distillers in Palisade also expanded its tasting room last summer with a 33-footlong copper bar and a large outdoor patio.

What began as a

small project between Rory Donovan, and Ska Brewing co-founders Dave Thibodeau and Bill Graham, has grown into an award-winning local distillery producing vodkas, bourbon, gin, brandies and grappas.

“We really take pride in using local ingredients in our spirits,” tasting room manager Rachel Clark said in a recent Free Press article. “It's all small batch. It all goes with a lot of love. We have a great crew. We're like family.”

MESA COUNTY BREWERIES & SPIRITS PALISADE

Palisade Brewery 200 Peach Ave. 970-464-1462 palisadebrewery.com Peach Street Distillers 144 S. Kluge Ave. 970-434-1128 peachstreetdistillers.com

Kannah Creek Brewing Company 1960 N. 12th St. 970-263-0111 kannahcreekbrewing.com

Kannah Creek Brewing Company’s Edgewater Tap & Grill 905 Struthers Ave. 970-243-3659 kannahcreekbrewing.com

JF Strothman Distillery 2862 North Ave. 970-241-2010

GRAND JUNCTION

FRUITA

Rockslide Brewpub 401 Main St. 970-245-2111 rockslidebrewpub.com

Suds Brothers Brewery 127 E Aspen Ave. 970-858-9400

Ale House Brewery & Pub 2531 N. 12th St. 970-242-7253

Copper Club Brewing Company 233 E. Aspen Ave. 970-858-4700 kettleshomebrew.com

sudsbrothersbrewery.com

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Enjoy Grand Valley produce at its best

By Sharon Sullivan One of the best things about living in the Grand Valley is the fresh, locally grown food.

A wide array of fruits and vegetables, harvested the same day, can be found at any of the Palisade, Grand Junction and Fruita farmers markets held throughout the summer and fall. Jams, jellies, salsas and other products made from the bounty are also sold at the outdoor venues.

Visitors get a flavor of the community when they visit the bustling farmers markets, where vendors offer samples of their peaches, cherries and melons, and the area’s notable artists sell their wares — including paintings, jewelry, homemade soaps and more.

The festive atmosphere is often enhanced by the live music being performed on the street by local musicians.

IN GRAND JUNCTION The Grand Junction Downtown Farmers Market Festival, held in the 700-300 block of Main Street, attracts an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 people each Thursday night throughout the season.

Last year’s market featured more than 20 different farmers selling flowers, fruits and vegetables, as well as fish and grass-fed beef.

It’s also a great way to spend a summer evening; grab a

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snack or light dinner from one of the many prepared food vendors on the premises.

Consider homemade green chili for example, savory or fruit crepe made to order, or freshly popped kettle corn.

Throughout the evening, in different blocks of Main Street you’ll find live music, amazing juggling and other performance art.

The Grand Junction market starts June 13 and runs through Sept. 19, from 5-8:30 p.m.

IN PALISADE Palisade’s famous peaches don’t have to travel far to get to the Palisade Farmers Market, held in town at Third and Main Streets. Palisade’s market is held Sundays, from

10 a.m. to 2 p.m., June 16 through Sept. 22.

Typically, you’ll find a halfdozen or so produce vendors, several food booths, and a wide array of arts and crafts for sale. There’s also live music and other entertainment going on throughout the morning and afternoon.

IN FRUITA Take a moment to look up at the astounding red sandstone cliffs to the south of town when you visit Fruita’s Farmers Market, located on the shady lawn of the Fruita Civic Center, 325 E. Aspen Ave. Like the other farmers markets in the valley, you’ll find abundant produce, artwork and live

entertainment. The market starts up June 29 and goes through Sept. 21. It’s held Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

SPRIGS & SPROUTS If you’re heading west to Grand Junction from Palisade, be sure to stop at Sprigs and Sprouts of Western Colorado, 3669 G Road (Hwy 6 next to Palisade High School.)

The delightful owners, Ruth Elkins and Linda Bailey, decided to become farmers a couple years ago and have done an outstanding job of growing lavender using a closed-loop irrigation system to conserve water in our arid climate.

They also grow a variety of herbs and vegetables,

Rob Kurtzman Photography

courtesy photo

specializing in heirloom types that are sold in their country store, along with several lavender products such as soaps, candles, salves and more. (Sometimes customers harvest the veggies along with the owners, right off the vine.)

The shop also carries pottery by local artists, jams, jellies, salsas, honey and locally roasted coffee.

Store hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays, noon to 6 p.m. Tours can be scheduled by calling 970-234-1261 or 970-464-1214. To e-mail: sprigsandsprouts@gmail.com.

TALBOTT FARMS Five generations of the Talbott family have been

growing Palisade’s famous peaches since the 1920s.

Grown at an altitude of about 5,000 feet, Palisade’s warm days, cool nights and protection from the nearby canyon winds is the secret to its peaches having the best flavor, said fourth-generation peach farmer Harry Talbott.

Talbott Farms sells most of its peaches wholesale around the country, but locals buy peaches at its store at the top of the hill on 38 Road (next to the Talbott’s packing shed).

The store is open from midJuly to the end of December, and it also carries pears, apples, locally raised honey and jams and jellies.

Talbott Farms can be reached at 970-464-5943.

Landscape Photography • Photography Instruction Gift Certificates

Kurtzman Lintott Gallery 412 Main Street • Grand Junction, CO • 970-245-7949 • robkurtzman.com

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enjoy grand valley festivals! palisade winefest The aromas. The flavors.

All the colors, too! Variety makes wine unique and oh-so alive. And to celebrate Colorado Wine Country and its many facets, the 22nd annual Colorado Mountain Winefest in Palisade will run Sept. 19-22, 2013, with tastings, interactive seminars, live music, and the ever-popular grape stomp.

“It's our biggest fundraiser we do every year,” Colorado Association for Viticulture & Enology (CAVE) Executive Director Cassidee Shull said.

In 2012, 50 wineries poured unlimited sips at the main Saturday event, with music, seminars and entrance to the park being part of general admission. Plus, more than 5,000 Winefest participants took part in some aspect of Winefest last year; it’s one of the biggest summer tourist attractions to the valley!

General admission tickets to the main event Saturday, Sept. 21, cost $45, with VIP admission coming in at $190.

Learn more and purchase tickets at www.coloradowinefest.com and 970-464-0111 or 800-704-3667

gjvcb | courtesy A peach-eating contest at the annual Palisade Peach Fest.

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cave & colorado winefest | courtesy

courtesy photo

An artist performs at a recent Palisade Bluegrass & Roots Festival.

cave & colorado winefest | courtesy stephen kurtenbach | courtesy Views from a recent Fruita Fat Tire Festival, kicking off mountain-bike season in downtown Fruita every spring.

Country Jam To say the annual Country Jam in Mack is a big event doesn’t do it justice.

Each June, outside of the tiny town of Mack in Mesa County, an open field transforms into a city. Every year this event grows, and with that growth comes bigger name performers.

Set for June 20-23, 2013, this year’s Country Jam is ready to rock with Montgomery Gentry, Kid Rock and Rascal Flatts.

If you like country music or you like to party or both, you belong at Country Jam. Visit www.countryjam.com for more information or to buy tickets.

Rock Jam A couple months after Country Jam comes the biggest rock festival in western Colorado and eastern Utah — Rock Jam. Also located in Mack, this year’s event is set for Aug. 23-24, 2013.

Bands that have performed in year’s past include: Kid Rock, Alice Cooper, Foreigner, Dokken, Quiet Riot, KISS, Motley Crue, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Poison, Def Leppard and more.

Call 800-7800-JAM to purchase tickets or visit www.rockjam.com.

Fruita Fat Tire Festival Fruita hasn't always been a mountain-bike destination.

Once a sleepy farming community in western Colorado, it's grown into a top-tier recreation hotspot over the last 18 years. And the Fruita Fat Tire Festival has had a lot to

do with its metamorphosis.

Set for April 24-27, 2014, the Fruita Fat Tire Festival happens every spring, and around here it’s known as the unofficial start to mountain-biking season.

This free, downtown Fruita event is "a great industry festival," organizer Mike Heaston said. Activities include live music, vendors, beer, skills camps, demo opportunities, and on-hand bike experts are available throughout the festival. Then the "18 Hours of Fruita" bike race kicks off the following weekend.

For more information and a complete calendar of events, visit www.fruitamountainbike.com.

in the Vines

Let us pamper you with laid back ambiance in the middle of working vineyards, complimentary afternoon wine tasting and deluxe breakfast, swimming pool and jacuzzi spa, signature cocktails and small bites in the Tapestry Lounge or upscale dining in Caroline’s, plus cloud soft beds to coax you into body and soul-soothing, deep slumber.

Call today to reserve your getaway.

970.464.5777

777 Grande River Drive Palisade, Exit 42 www.coloradowinecountryinn.com

Other notable Grand Valley events include:

We Ship Fresh Peaches

Shrine Circus: May 24-25, 2013 970-243-3094

Your Western Colorado Gift & Souvenir Headquarters

Palisade Bluegrass & Roots Festival: June 14-16, 2013 www.palisademusic.com

• Gifts for all ages • Souvenirs for the traveler

Mesa County Fair: July 16-20, 2013 www.mesacountyfair.com Olathe Sweet Corn Festival: Aug. 3, 2013 www.olathesweetcornfest.com

• Premium Jams, Syrups, Salsas and beans for the gourmet chef in your family Local Products are Our Specialty

Palisade Peach Festival: August 15-18, 2013 www.palisadepeachfest.com GJ’s Off-Road Endurance Mtn. Bike Event & Free Community Concert: August 30 through Sept.1, 2013 www.epicrides.com Fruita Fall Festival: September 27-29, 2013 www.fruitafallfestival.com

DoWntoWn oPEn SUnDAY 10-4

New location Downtown 419 Main Street 3402 C 1/2 Rd., Palisade (East Orchard Mesa) 970.241.2091 • 970.434.8769

We ship! www.alidasfruits.com y o u r g u i d e t o t h e g r a n d va l l e y

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Non life-threatening illnesses and conditions

DOCS X-Ray & Lab on Site

ON CALL

Appointments When Your Open every afternOOn, Doctor Isn’t Available!

Appointments evenIng When anD YourWeekenDs Doctor Non life-threatening illnesses Isn’t Available and conditions X-Ray & Lab on Site

Call for an Appointment Nonevery life-threatening open afternoon, illnesses and and conditions evening weekends

Call for an Appointment X-Ray & Lab on Site 3150 N. 12th Street • Grand Junction, CO

970-255-1576 3150 N. 12th Street • Grand Junction, CO

Open every afternOOn, a division of

Primary Care evenIng Partners, P.C.

anD WeekenDs

Call for an Appointment

3150 N. 12th Street • Grand Junction, CO

a division of

Primary Care Partners, P.C.

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G O P L A Y ! 2 013

courtesy photo

Enjoy the symphony!

Grand Junction Symphony entering its 36th season In 1978, a group of local musicians made a longtime dream a reality with

the founding of the Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra. The original group of musicians and board members were volunteers and possessed energy, passion and vision. Their plans eventually led to the hiring of current Music Director, Maestro Kirk Gustafson in 1987.

The GJSO has since grown into one of the leading cultural organizations on the Western Slope. The Symphony performs eight subscription concerts per year, a free outdoor concert every summer, a Children's Concert and an annual Symphony Gala. The organization continues its strong commitment to music education programming through the Young Artist Competition, Concerts in the Classroom, the Crystal Baton, the Discovery Program and

the Instrument Petting Zoo. The 2013 Evening Under the Stars concert is set for Sunday, Aug. 18.

The GJSO is supported by the Grand Junction Symphony Guild, the Grand Junction Symphony Foundation and the Grand Junction Rockestra. GJSO also supports several complementary groups as part of their organization, including the Grand Valley Children's Choir, Talking Rhythms, the Western Colorado Chorale and the Western Colorado Jazz Orchestra.

Visit www.gjsymphony. org for event and ticket information. You can also find the Grand Junction Symphony on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Museums of the Grand Valley

Great places to spend some time Love history, geology and paleontology?

Then the Museum of Western Colorado (located in downtown Grand Junction on Ute Avenue) is an excellent and comprehensive resource.

The museum’s interactive exhibits — including a full-size uranium mine and an extensive firearms collection — will both inform and entertain Grand Valley visitors. Other displays showcase exquisite examples of southwestern pottery and Native American art, including rock art from the Ute and Fremont tribes.

Dinosaur Journey in Fruita is another great way to entertain your kids. Situated right in the heart of dinosaurfossil country, the museum describes the history of life in western Colorado and surrounding areas with real fossils, cast skeletons and robotic reconstructions of dinosaurs. The hands-on, interactive museum includes paleontology displays, a working laboratory where dinosaur bones are prepared for display, a collections room, a simulated earthquake ride and more!

Cross Orchards Living History Farm in Grand Junction is a great way to experience life as a Grand

GRAND VALLEY MUSEUMS

For pricing and daily schedules, call or visit museum websites.

Allen Unique Autos 2285 River Road, Grand Junction 970-263-7410, Allenuniqueautos.com Cross Orchards History Museum 3073 F Road, Grand Junction 970-434-9814, Museumofwesternco.com Museum of Western Colorado & Loyd Files Research Library 462 Ute Ave., Grand Junction 970-242-0971, Museumofwesternco.com Western Colorado Botanical Gardens & Butterfly House 641 Struthers Ave. Grand Junction 970-245-3288, Wcbotanic.org Dinosaur Journey 550 Jurassic Court, Fruita 970-858-7282, Museumofwesternco.com Gateway Auto Museum 43224 Hwy. 141, Gateway Gatewayautomuseum.com

museum of the west | courtesy Dinosaur Journey features dino and other ancient fossils at its museum in Fruita.

Valley pioneer. Stroll around the beautiful grounds and check out its historic buildings. The large barn/ packing shed and bunkhouse are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Who knows, maybe you’ll be lucky enough to eat a cookie baked from the bunkhouse woodstove!

Mesa County is also home to not one, but two, impressive auto museums. The newly opened Allen Unique Autos holds one of the world’s finest private automobile collections.

More than 80 vehicles are on display, including a 1958 Austin-Healy, a 1957 Biarritz Convertible, a 1956 Messerschmitt, a 2007 Rolls-Royce Phantom, and many more.

Then there’s the Gateway

Auto Museum, showcasing 40+ vehicles privately owned

by John Hendricks, founder of the Discovery Channel.

His most precious piece has to be the $3-million 1954 Oldsmobile F-88 Concept Car. Another family favorite destination is the Western Colorado Botanical Gardens & Butterfly House. Located on a 15-acre site along the Riverfront Trail in Grand Junction, the gardens are home to an herb garden, a cactus garden, an orchid display, a community garden, a heritage garden, a children’s secret garden and a Japanese garden. The butterfly house (which will re-open this summer after a short hiatus) takes you to a tropical space filled with plants and butterflies.

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ANNUAL EVENTS

IN THE GRAND VALLEY - 2013 FEBRUARY 11 | Home Loan "Taste of the

Grand Valley” Two Rivers Convention Center, 159 Main St., GJ The fun and ever-popular food festival featuring local restaurants, hotels, catering companies, food products, and grocers. Exhibitors will provide samples of their food and/or beverage from their booth.

Proceeds benefit United Way of Mesa County.

Info: www.unitedwaymesacounty.org

15 | Grand Junction Lions Club

Carnival & Parade Two Rivers Convention Center, 159 Main St., GJ Parade down Main Street at 1 p.m.

Carnival starts at 5 p.m. at Two Rivers.

Info: www.gjlions.com

22 | Energy Forum & Expo

Two Rivers Convention Center, 159 Main St., GJ A stimulating, educational

conference on the energy industry – today, tomorrow and in the future.

Free admission to the public.

Info: 970-216-8657, 970-433-0384, www.energyexpoco.com

march 1-3 | Home Improvement & Remodeling Expo Sponsored by the Home Builders Association of Northwestern Colorado.

Info: 970-245-0253, info@gjhba.org, www.gjhba.org APRIL 4 | RV Show

Mesa County Fairgrounds, 2785 U.S. Highway 50 Free admission to the public. Booths seminars, displays of RVs. Info: 970-255-7100

11-14 | Peach Blossom Art Show

10 a.m.-6 p.m., Palisade Veterans Memorial Building, 120 E. Eighth St. Info: 970-255-1553,

sUstaInaBle agrIcUltUre

Learn the necessary skills to manage a profitable, environmentally-sound small farm or agricultural business.

www.palisadeartlovers.org

11-13 | Festival for Creative

Pianists 7:30 p.m., Moss Performing Arts Center, 1231 N. 12th St., GJ Young pianists from the GJ area and beyond compete.

Info: 970-248-1604, www.pianofestival.org

13 | Viva El Vino

Hosted by the Junior Service League Two Rivers Convention Center, 159 Main St., GJ Sommeliers will be on hand to serve local and regional wines. Also expect food and a silent auction.

Proceeds are given back to various Grand Valley nonprofits.

Info/tickets: 970-243-7790

20 | Southwest Arborfest & Earth Day Celebration 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Lincoln Park, corner of 12th and North Avenue.

Featuring arts and crafts, live music, food, chili cook-off, microbrew beer tasting, and more.

Fun for all ages.

Info: 970-254-FUNN

26 | Environmental Film Festival

Avalon Theatre, 645 Main St., GJ Hosted by Western Colorado Congress, the two-hour Wild & Scenic Environmental Film Festival here in Grand Junction provides inspiring and educational films that aim to increase environmental interest and motivate people to go out and make a difference in our community and around the world.

Cost: $10 Info: www.wccongress.org

25-28 | 18th annual Fruita Fat

Tire Festival Kick-off the mountain bike season with this fest. Expo, beer garden, rides, parties, Clunker Crit and more.

Info: 303-635-2815, 970-858-7220

may 3-4 | 9th annual 18 Hours of Fruita bike race

InnovatIve programs for a changIng world.

At WCCC we’re constantly innovating, changing and adapting to meet the crucial job needs in Colorado.

We’ve added new programs like water quality management, sustainable agriculture, public safety diving, medical office assistant and medical lab technician programs to name a few. And as the world’s work environment continues to shift, so will we. So if you’re looking for a contemporary community college that can put you on the path to a brighter future, call us. 970-255-2600 | wccc.coloradomesa.edu

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G O P L A Y ! 2 013 5-13-13 WCCC49 - GJ Free Press Go Play Ad

Highline State Park. Race starts at midnight Friday and finishes Saturday evening, followed by a party.

Info: 970-858-7220, www.emgcolorado.com

10-12 | Downtown Art & Jazz

Festival Downtown Grand Junction Main Street Live jazz music, art and jewelry vendors, food vendors and more.

Info: 970-245-9697, 970-256-4133, www.downtowngj.org

18-19 | Artspace Open Studios

Spring Tour Visit artists and see works in progress across the valley. Food, tools and techniques in a wide variety of art settings.

Maps available at www.artspacecolorado.org

17-18 | 15th annual Mike the

24-25 | 67th annual Shrine Circus

Mesa County Fairgrounds 2785 US Highway 50, Grand Junction Info: 970-255-7100

26-June 1 | Alpine Bank Junior

College Baseball World Series Suplizio Field, Lincoln Park, GJ Thousands come out for a week’s worth of action-packed baseball. A community tradition in Mesa County for many decades.

Info: www.jucogj.org, 970-245-9166

june 7-Aug. 30 | “Movies Under

the Stars” Held every Friday evening in the summer on Glade Park.

Grill opens at 6 p.m., movie starts at dusk.

“Movies Under the Stars” is the major fundraiser for the Glade Park Volunteer Fire Department.

Hundreds load up their families and drive up from Grand Junction to cool off and eat at the grill (only open during the movie) and watch a family movie under stars that are bright and plentiful. For locals it

is a place to visit with neighbors, and show support for the Fire Department by volunteering to flip burgers and brats at the grill and concession stand.

14-15 | Grand Junction

Relay For Life Long Family Park, 3117 F Road Info: 970-434-3256

8 | Highline Hustle

Sprint Triathlon Highline Lake State Park in Loma 500-meter swim in Highline Lake, 16-mile bike road race and 3-mile trail run.

Info/register: 970-254-FUNN

13-Sept. 19 | Downtown

Farmers Market, Main Street in Grand Junction 5-8:30 p.m. every Thursday in the summer Several blocks of local produce, food, arts and crafts, demonstration, musical entertainment and more.

Info: 970-245-9697, www.downtowngj.org

14-16 | Palisade Bluegrass &

Roots Music Festival Runs 5 p.m. Friday to 5 p.m. Sunday Featuring Justin Townes Earle, The Devil Makes Three, Pokey LaFarge & more.

Palisade Riverbend Park, 451 Pendleton Info: 970-464-5602, www.palisademusic.com

20-23 | Country Jam 2013 Four days of the best performers in country music today. This year’s line-up includes: Rascal Flatts, Kid Rock, Pistol Annies, Gary Allan, Montgomery Gentry and more.

For complete lineup, tickets and camping reservations, visit www.countryjamgjco.countryjam. com or call 800-7800-JAM july 4 | Independence Day Parade Downtown Main Street, GJ

4 | Fireworks Spectacular Lincoln Park Info: 970-254-FUNN.

13 | 3rd annual Colorado Lavender

Festival 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Palisade Memorial Park Hosted by the Lavender Association of W. Colorado. Farm tours, festival in the park and more.

Info: www.coloradolavender.org

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Headless Chicken Festival, 4-10 p.m. Fri. & 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Sat. in downtown Fruita Eating contests, chicken recipe contest, car show, great music and "chicken dance" contest, more chicken, the 5K “run like a headless chicken”, chicken games which includes "chicken bingo", "Mike's" market (probably the only place

in the world you can get chicken noodle soap).

Info: 970-858-0360, www.miketheheadlesschicken.org

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16-20 | 126th annual Mesa

23-24 | Rock Jam 2013 For complete lineup, tickets and camping reservations, visit www.rockjam.com or call 800-7800-JAM.

County Fair 11 a.m.-10 p.m. (closes at 11 p.m.

Fri & Sat; and 4 p.m. Sun.) Mesa County Fairgrounds 2785 Highway 50, Grand Junction Carnival rides, 4-H/FFA animal exhibits and shows, local arts and crafts displays, live music, dancing contests, and much, much more.

Info: 970-256-1528, www.mesacountyfair.com

24-25 | 22nd annual Grand Valley

30-Sept. 1 | GJ Off-Road

Endurance Mountain Bike Event & Free Community Concert Events all weekend happen between the Lunch Loops trail area and downtown GJ. Info: http://www.epicrides.com/ index.php?contentCat=9

(March of Dimes benefit) 9 a.m., 745 23 Road

Garden Tour W. Colo. Botanical Gardens, 655 Struthers Ave. Tour runs from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and takes you through spectacularly designed gardens and landscapes at private homes throughout the valley.

Info: www.wcbotanic.org, 970-245-3288

august

25 | 24th annual Tour of the Valley

6-7 | Dinosaur Days Dinosaur Journey, 550 Jurassic Court, Fruita Free and fun for families + the “Feast of Skulls” 5K Walk/Run.

26-30 | 12th annual Western Colorado Senior Games The games are for participants 50 years of age and older, and include competitive events such as swimming, track and field, bowling, biking, horseshoes, line dancing, pool, Texas Hold ‘Em, Cribbage, Pinochle, 3-mile walk/run, pool, swimming and more.

Info/registration: 970-254-FUNN

7 | Filthy 5K and Filthy Kid Races

20 | Mudd Volleyball Tournament

15-18 | Palisade Peach Festival

9 a.m.-10 p.m., Palisade Riverbend Park Four days of fun-filled, entertaining events. With more than 100 food, art and craft vendors, great live musical entertainment, a fantastic children’s area, various culinary activities, numerous special events, and of course…peaches.

Info: 970-464-7458, www.palisadepeachfest.com

30-, 50-, 75- and 100-mile ride to benefit local charities. Starts and ends at DoubleTree Hotel. $45/ adults, $20/children 14 & under.

We believe in play.

31-Sept. 1 | Western Colorado

Classic Auto Event 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Canyon View Park Hundreds of classic cars on display.

Fundraiser for Hilltop.

september

8 a.m., Matchett Park, GJ Obstacle course through 5K of dirt and mud.

Register: 970-254-3866

13-14 | Colorado Pork and Hops State Championship BBQ Cook-Off Lincoln Park, GJ Live music by headliner Joe Diffie, carnival and a 2-day BBQ contest.

Info: www.porknhops.com or 970-242-7788

13-14 | 8th annual Two Rivers Chautauqua Cross Orchards, 3073 F Road Two days of performances by skilled chautauquans. Great event for family. Admission: $7.50-$15.

13-15 | 38th annual Colorado Pro Rodeo Finals Grandstand at the Mesa County Fairgrounds, 2785 US Hwy 50, GJ Tickets: $12/adults, $9/ages 7-17, ages 6 and under free Info: www.coloradoprorodeo.com

19-22 | 22nd annual Colorado Mountain Winefest Palisade Riverbend Park Thousands of wine lovers make the annual pilgrimage to Palisade to sample a growing array of Colorado wines and participate in hands-on workshops, wine and food pairing events, grape stomp, winery tours winemaker competitions and dinners.

Info: 970-464-0111, www.coloradowinefest.com 21 | Tour of the Vineyards Start & finish at Peach Bowl Park, Palisade 25-mile ride through the vineyards Info: www.tourdevineyards.com

We believe it’s more fun to play than to watch.

To be on the field, not off.

We believe in dirty uniforms, sweaty brows and sore muscles.

We believe in grass stains, taped ankles, and big ol’ victory celebrations. coloradomesa.edu/future

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TBA | Parade of Homes

$10 per ticket for a self-guided tour of the area’s finest newly built homes.

Ticket and info: hbanwco.com

27-29 | 99th annual Fruita Fall Festival in downtown Fruita The weekend is filled with events including a youth pet and talent show, carnival rides, live music, a parade, the famous bed race, a baking and canning contest and Art in the Park.

Info: 970-858-3894, www.fruitafallfestival.com

27-30 | AKC Dog Show

8 a.m.-5 p.m., MC Fairgrounds, 2785 Hwy. 50 Info: 970-255-7100

28 | Fuoco Motors Downtown

Car Show Main Street is closed for hundreds of modern and antique vehicles on display to the public. Attend the show to enjoy a full schedule of activities, entertainment and demonstrations.

Info:www.downtowngj.org, 970-245-9697

october 5 | Tour of the Moon Cycling

Classic Choose from 41-mile or 62-miler.

Start and finish at Two Rivers Convention Center. Cyclists get to ride over the Colorado National Monument. Afterwards, enjoy big healthy lunch, cycling expo, music and more.

Info: www.tourofthemoon.com

5 | Oktoberfest in Downtown GJ

Fun, family, one-day event in October offering live entertainment, German sing-a-longs, a Hansel and Gretel contest for children, evening street dance, and great food such as bratwurst, sauerkraut, German pastries, and cold beer.

Info: www.kiwanis-gj.org

TBA | Artspace Open Studios Fall Tour Sat: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun.: noon-5 p.m.

Visit artists and see works in progress across the valley. Food, tools and techniques in a wide variety of art settings.

Maps available at www.artspacecolorado.org

26 | Downtown Spooktacular 3:30-5 p.m., free

Downtown Main Street – pumpkin decorating, cookie decorating and a costume parade.

Info/register: www.gjturkeytrot.org

november

7 | Downtown Parade of Lights &

1-2 | GJ Cowboy Poetry Gathering

Whitman Education Center, 248 S. Fourth St. The region’s best cowboy poets will gather for daytime and evening performances.

Info: 970-242-0971

TBA | Rim Rock Marathon

A tough and scenic run through the beautiful Colorado National Monument.

Info: www.rimrockrun.org

december Winter Festival 5 p.m., free Line-up along parade route First to 11th streets This annual December parade features floats, music, holiday fun and events, and thousands of sparkling holiday lights.

Info: www.downtowngj.org, 970-245-9697

TBA | Fruita Hometown

15 | Downtown Tree Lighting 5-6 p.m.

Wells Fargo, corner of Fourth and Main streets Santa will make an appearance in front of Wells Fargo Bank to kickoff holiday shopping. Photos with Santa.

28 | 5K Turkey Trot

Meet Thanksgiving morning at Connected Lakes for a scenic, flat run/walk. Dogs are welcome. Come on out and earn your Thanksgiving calories.

Funds raised benefit the Firefighters Union

Christmas and Parade of Lights Special events, downtown shopping and more.

Info: www.fruitachamber.org

TBA | Palisade Olde Fashioned

Christmas Children’s activities, Victorian home tours, gingerbread house contest, hay wagon rides, soup challenge, firefighters chili cook-off, Santa Claus and cast of characters, and of course, a Christmas parade.

Info: www.palisadecoc.com/ christmas, 970-464-7458

Grand Valley

Urgent Care (970) 256-6345

A service provided by:

1060 Orchard Ave., Suite N • Grand Junction 81501 Conveniently located across from the Colorado Mesa University Tennis Courts Have a sick child, a laceration, sore throat, fever or a cough that needs attention?

For acute care for minor injuries or illnesses Grand Valley Urgent Care offers urgent family practice care.

Hours: Services: Monday-Saturday 8am – 8pm • Diagnosis & treatment of illnesses Sunday Noon – 4pm • Injury treatment • Diagnostic laboratory and radiology services

Stuff Happens

GVUC is there when it does. y o u r g u i d e t o t h e g r a n d va l l e y

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Whatever your passion.

Let the doctors at RMOA help you have a great summer.

Rocky Mountain Orthopaedic Associates: The most comprehensive orthopaedic group between Denver and Salt Lake City.

627 25 1/2 Road, Grand Junction 970.242.3535 • 1.800.856.9640 www.rmodocs.com Grand Junction • Fruita • Delta