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w w w. s t y l e m a g a z i n e c o l o r a d o . c o m w w w. m e d i c a l a n d w e l l n e s s . c o m Publisher Lydia Dody | lydia@stylemedia.com Managing Editor Angeline Grenz angie@stylemedia.com creative director Scott Prosser Senior Designer Lisa Gould digital director Austin Lamb | austin@stylemedia.com Advertising Sales EXECUTIVES Jon Ainslie (970) 219-9226 Lydia Dody (970) 227-6400 David Knight (970) 619-9846 Saundra Skrove (970) 217-9932 Office Manager/About Town Editor Ina Szwec | ina@stylemedia.com Accounting Manager Karla Vigil Circulation manager Trisha Milton Copy editor Corey Radman Contributing Writers Emily Hutto, Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer, Corey Radman, Kay Rios, Carl Simmons, Tracee Sioux, Elissa J. Tivona, Michelle Venus, Emily Warren PhotographerS Marcus Edwards, Don Hajicek Affiliations Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce Greeley Chamber of Commerce 2013 Style Magazines January-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness Magazine and McKee Medical Center & North Colorado Medical Center Medical Directory February-Style March-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness April-Style May-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness June-Style July-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness Magazine and University of Colorado Health Medical Directory August-Style September-Women’s Health & Breast Cancer October-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness November/December-Holiday Style Style Media and Design, Inc. magazines are free monthly publications direct-mailed to homes and businesses in Northern Colorado. Elsewhere, a one year subscription is $25/year and a two year subscription is $45/year. Free magazines are available at more than 275 locations throughout Northern Colorado. For ad rates, subscription information, change of address, or correspondence, contact: Style Media and Design Inc., 211 W. Myrtle St., Suite 200, Fort Collins, Colorado 80521. Phone (970) 2266400, ext. 208. Fax (970) 226-6427. E-Mail: ina@StyleMedia.com ©2013 Style Media and Design Inc. All rights reserved. The entire contents of Style Magazine are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Style Media and Design Inc. is not responsible for unsolicited material. All manuscripts, artwork, and photography must be accompanied by a SASE. The views and opinions of any contributing writers are not necessarily those of Style Media & Design Inc.
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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Just read the article on kidney stones. Carl did a great job putting the text together from our interview. And my picture wasn’t bad either, considering I take horrible pictures! Thank you so much for asking me to contribute to the article (March 2013, Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness, “Avoiding the Agony of Kidney Stones”).
About 13 years ago, I met an 85-year-old man who was wearing small Band-Aids in his ears. He shared with me that they were acupuncture tacks and they actually suppressed his reaction to allergens. I followed his advice and made an appointment with his acupuncturist. Long story short, I have a changed life due to the acupuncture tacks. I now can say I can be around all the things such as cats, mown hay or grass, tree and grass pollens, etc. that would normally trigger a very lengthy and costly adverse reaction. I seldom have sinus infections and no bronchial pneumonia. I just feel like we don’t share with the public the possible benefits of alternative options that are out there and could make a difference. Every time I see a Claritin commercial on the television I wish I had the resources to follow it up with my experience and suggestion to others. So my challenge to you is to interview my acupuncturist or any acupuncturist and share with others the possible benefits and options to allergy treatments and so much more.
Fondly, Nancy Glass
Blessings, Cheryl Jelinek
Share Alternative Options
Fashion Shoot Fun
I receive and enjoy reading Style magazine and was especially interested in your most recent article on Seasonal Allergy Treatments. I have experienced the effects of all types of allergies in my life. I was so acutely affected as a child that my father bought a new farm and built a new house to remove all the negative stimulation from the old environment to make my life and my brother’s life better due to our extreme allergies. We were treated with medications, inhalers, allergy testing and shots. I continued to experience adverse reactions to my environment even as an adult.
Thank you for including me in the Arrowhead photo shoot (in this issue)! I had a really good time. It was so nice to hang out with you and to be part of something so fun!
Appreciation for March Medical & Wellness Magazine
Thank you so much for the great write up in the March 2013 Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness magazine (The 5th Annual Flying Pig 5K Charity Run/Walk). Pam Miller Foothills Gateway
Sincerely, Nikki Onda Editor’s Note: Thank you, Nikki. Not only was Nikki one of our lovely models – she was also the make up artist at the photo shoot! THANK YOUS
Just a note to let you know how much we appreciate our relationship with Style. Our representative, David Knight, is always looking for ways to provide as much value to our advertising as he possibly can. In a time when advertising dollars are tight, it’s great to work with people who work hard for us. Thanks. Missy Eheart Eheart Interior Solutions
we love to hear from readers. send your comments and suggestions to:
Nikki Onda applies Cassie Hau’s makeup for Style’s spring fashion photo shoot.
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angie@stylemedia.com Phone: 970.226.6400, ext.215 Fax: 970.226.6427 www.stylemagazinecolorado.com
Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Style 2013
on the cover On the cover: Kim Jordan, cofounder and CEO of New Belgium Brewing, has become as well known for her progressive business practices as she is for her beer. Read more on page 22. Photo courtesy of New Belgium Brewing.
Style Files: What Style is raving about this month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
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Business Profiles: Eheart Interior Solutions and Tat 2 Undo . . . . . . . . . . . .14 home & garden: Designing Your Outdoor Kitchen . . . . . . . . 56
travel: Copper Mountain Resort: Not Just for Skiing . . . . . 58
28 features
32 april 2013 :: STYLE
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lifestyle: Expanding the Palette . . .
60
eat: good grillin’ . . . . . . . . . .
62
Family FOCUS: Kids Give Back . . . . . . . . . .
64
noco voice: Envirofit Combines Business and Benefit. . . .
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about town
golf
a photo tour of nonprofit events . . . . . . . . 68
NoCo Economy is Warming Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Where to Play This Season . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Employee-Owned Business Model . . . . . . . . . 22
Keeping the Greens Green in a Drought . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Butterfly Kisses
To B or Not to B (Corp)? . . 26
non-golf events draw crowds . . . . . . . . . .
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Spread the Love
Celebrating A New Season of Fashion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Savvy Women Love Golf . .
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Rocky Mountain Raptor Program Celebrates 25 Years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
departments
Water, Water, Everywhere? . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
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from our readers . . . . . . . . 6 Publisher’s Letter . . . . . .10
Gingerbread Home NCMC -Indian Bazaar Simply Red WomenGive Luncheon Empty Bowls Reason to Hope Luncheon MeowgaritaVille Dinner of Champions Sharin’ o’ the Green Wags to Wishes
www.stylemagazinecolorado.com Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Publisher’s Letter
Celebrate Spring This April issue of Style has always included an economic snapshot of our region, and this year the series of interviews with mayors and economic advisors gave us an optimistic overview of job growth, sales tax and building permit statistics. Martin Shields, Director of CSU’s Regional Economics Institute, concurs that
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we have mostly recovered from the Great Recession, but he adds that unemployment has yet to recover to our area’s normal rate. Read this insightful and interesting article to learn about specific economic data broken down by city. Although we aren’t recovered in all areas, the outlook is definitely positive. Every year as the tulips start emerging from their frosty blanket, many are drawn outdoors to a favorite golf course in anticipation of the season. Our region is home to a wide range of beautiful courses, making this sport a popular one in Northern Colorado. Be sure to browse through our annual golf section to learn about what is new for the season at our public and private golf clubs. Learn about the many men’s and women’s programs, along with new products, available this year. Golf courses and clubs also offer many fun non-golf activities for their members and the community. Something new on the golf horizon is a lively women’s group called SWING (Savvy Women in Need of Golf), which is dedicated to making golf a fun and non-intimidating sport for women. I attended their season kickoff, where fun was a top priority. It was an evening with a great group of gals, good food and plenty of cocktails, along with prizes and lots of laughs. This is my kind of golf! At the first sign of spring, I’m always anxious for the new season’s lighter fabrics and sandals, and area stores are tempting us with daily shipments of new merchandise. When planning this issue’s fashion photography we felt the beautiful Arrowhead project was the perfect backdrop for new spring looks. Our beautiful Group Realtors proudly showed off the furnished model home along with their fashions from area boutiques. Thanks to the models for making
the shoot so fun, the shops for providing such great fashions, C&S Workshop for the hairstyling and Nikki Onda for beautiful make-up! Stop by these local stores and mention that you saw their fashions in Style. The minute the days warm up, many of us head outside to garden and enjoy outdoor cooking and entertaining. See a variety of outdoor cooking projects and capture new ideas from some of our landscaping partners. Outdoor living three seasons of the year has become a Colorado standard for many. We’re cautioned to wait until May 15 to plant those colorful annuals, but I always risk it and get my hands in the dirt in April! Although our flowerbeds have a little more leeway, this year our water shortage has resulted in restricted lawn watering schedules for some starting April 1. Read “Water, Water, Everywhere?” for water conservation tips and schedules. Before I close, I want to write a note of thanks to my mom, who is currently in a rehab center in Denver recovering from pneumonia. She recently called me to compliment us on our March Medical & Wellness issue. She stressed, “How important it is for your readers to learn about health topics in an easy to understand yet informative fashion. And, with the information readers learn, they can be proactive about their health and ask informed questions of their healthcare providers.” Thank you, Mom, for your kind words of support. I wish you a speedy recovery! Wishing everyone a happy and healthy spring, lydia@stylemedia.com
Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Style 2013
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Files Elaine Garrett, 28, of Fort Collins, was spotted shopping at Centerra in Loveland. Elaine moved from Memphis two years ago to chase a work opportunity for her husband, but claims she’ll always be a southern girl at heart – no matter where she resides (you certainly can’t miss her thick southern accent!). She looks adorable in her black and white patterned scarf from Urban Outfitters and her beige trench she scored from Banana Republic (this is a springtime must-have). Peeking out from beneath this darling jacket is a vivid fuchsia-toned blouse that just screams spring! Elaine is also wearing Franco Sarto suede t-strap pumps in a nice neutral camel color (closed-toe heels are a perfect shoe choice as we brink on warmer weather). No outfit is complete without its accessories and beyond her marvelous scarf are classic gold Ray Ban aviators (oh yeah, and her large Louis Vuitton purse would complement ANY outfit). This southern girl knows how to dress fabulously in Northern Colorado!
hot trend
My name is Emily Warren. Seeking a creative refuge from the drab business world, I decided to start NoCo Street Style because I’ve always had an intrinsic passion for fashion. I know as well as anybody that we don’t exactly live in a fashion capital (high-style fashion and Northern Colorado go together about as well as 5-inch heels on a gravel road). Looking for those ‘diamonds in the rough,’ this column will offer a way to recognize superior fashion sense along the Front Range and act as a mode to celebrate it. Women and men of Northern Colorado, put on your best (dressed) behavior. You may be the next feature on NoCo Street Style.
coming attractions
Ahmed Jamal, celebrated jazz pianist and composer, is one of Greeley Jazz Festival’s 2013 headliners.
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April 13 – Fort Collins Gear & Bike Swap. Buy, sell or trade your old bikes and gear. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Gearage and Pateros Creek parking lot, 244 N. College. Call (970) 416-6803 for more details.
April 19 & 20 – FoCoMX, a Fort Collins music festival that features 200 artists at 20 venues over two days. Local favorites include Fierce Bad Rabbit and The Holler! Review the lineup at www.focomx.org.
April 18 to 20 – 43rd Annual UNC/Greeley Jazz Festival. The largest event of its kind in the nation, renowned jazz artists and over 275 college, high school and middle school bands come together for a weekend of jazz love. www.arts.unco.edu
April 27 – Strides for Strength 5K & Fun Run. The inaugural race benefits Project SelfSufficiency’s Child Care Assistance Fund and starts at the Chapungu Sculpture Park, located near the Promenade Shops at Centerra. The race finishes with food and local microbrews. What better reasons to run for a good cause? www.ps-s.org
April 19 – Downtown Fort Collins Foodie Walk. This self-guided tour happens every 3rd Friday of the month. Tour spice shops, teashops and more, and celebrate your inner culinarian. www.downtownfortcollins.com
Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
on the
web now
Check out the full story at www.stylemagazinecolorado.com.
Love. It makes the world go ‘round. By Michelle Venus Sometimes it goes around the world, too. Warren and Genny Garst have a very special love story that spans nearly 60 years: 25 of them exploring the globe as they filmed Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom. These nonagenarians call Fort Collins home. And their love is still going – and growing – strong.
great bite
What is in the perfect bite? How about the briny-sweet richness of an Emersum oyster? A little hot sauce and fresh squeezed lemon and you are good to go. This great bite is found at Jax Fish House, who has one of the best happy hours in Fort Collins, in our opinion. From 4 to 6 p.m. daily, you can find their signature Emersum oysters for $1 each. This round was paired with the Odell Brewing Co.’s Emersum Oyster Stout, which they brewed for Jax using 25 pounds of fresh oysters. But they also pair nicely with a refreshing Cucumber Lemon Press cocktail ($4 on happy hour).
Style 2013
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business profile
Eheart’s design team: Emily Stirn, Interior Designer and LEED AP; Missy Eheart, Vice President of Sales; Felicia Klein, Interior Designer
We Heart Eheart Eheart Interior Solutions By Michelle Venus
Thirty-five years ago, Ken Eheart was a one-man show. His business, Eheart Floor Coverings, was installing flooring in homes across Northern Colorado. Today, it encompasses much more than flooring. Renamed Eheart Interior Solutions in 2007, the store is, as Missy Eheart, vice president of sales, states, “... a destination for unique and personalized interior design solutions for every homeowner.”
She adds, “We cater to people who come to us with a book filled with design inspirations, and say, ‘Just do it,’ as well as those who prefer to execute their own projects and purchase the materials from us.” The early ‘80s saw rapid growth for Eheart. Fifteen years into the business Ken purchased the exclusive rights to a Flooring America franchise for the Northern Colorado region. With that smart business move, Eheart Flooring America was able to leverage the economy of scale that the national buying power of more than 2,000 stores offers. Next came an expanded focus. Since 2007, Eheart Interior Solutions has been offering its residential and commercial clientele a full range of design services. Experienced and talented on-staff designers guide clients through the sometimes tough, sometimes confusing choices that go into a remodeling project or new build. Whether it’s coordinating fabrics from more than 20 different custom furniture lines, choosing surfaces for a
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new kitchen or bath, or creating an eco-friendly oasis, the design team provides a single point of contact shopping experience for each customer. “Working with a designer who gets to know you and understands your tastes as well as budget parameters makes the Eheart shopping experience pleasant and helps take some of the stress out of a remodeling project,” says Eheart. “All of our designers are passionate about what they do, and it shows in the end result.” But do-it-yourselfers don’t need to feel intimidated or pressured to use the design and installation services. Unlike showrooms in Denver that are closed to the general public, Eheart Interior Solutions is open to all. “We encourage people to come and browse. If they’re looking for the elements to complete a project, chances are we can source them,” Eheart explains. “We can install anything we sell, or let you arrange installation.” And what are those elements? You choose. Plumbing fixtures? They’ve got them. Cabinetry
and countertops? Yes and yes. Stone and tile? Of course. “Did you know,” asks Eheart, “that a large format tile makes a small room appear more spacious?” Those little tips and tricks shared by Eheart’s designers with their clientele add value that just isn’t often found in big box stores. Just because Eheart has added products and services to their roster, doesn’t mean they’ve strayed far from their original purpose: to provide high quality flooring products and superior installation. In fact, flooring remains a big part of the business, and for good reason. They know what they’re talking about. Their suppliers know that, too. Eheart Interior Solutions is the only Northern Colorado dealer designated a “Stainmaster Showcase Dealer.” But what does that mean to the consumer? “As a Stainmaster Showcase Dealer, we offer the very latest colors and styles,” says Eheart. “We also provide enhanced limited warranties that other retailers who aren’t Showcase Dealers Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Creating Fresh Starts Tat 2 Undo By Tracee Sioux
Mike Scarpulla erases regrets. He can’t reverse time or delete memories, but he can make constant reminders of poor judgment, impulsive nights of folly, the foolishness of youth and ugly art vanish. Scarpulla, a certified laser specialist, opened Tat 2 Undo, a laser tattoo removal business in Dec. 2012 – an ode to fresh starts.
don’t offer. This designation is only given to dealers after an extensive evaluation and it is based on Eheart’s commitment to quality, outstanding customer service and ethical business conduct.” Eheart has also been recognized by Flooring America by being granted their National Service Award in 2004, 2006, 2007 and again in 2008. Only stores in the United States and Canada with exceptionally high ratings in customer satisfaction achieve this honor. In 2005, Eheart was named “Associate of the Year” by the Northern Colorado Home Builder’s Association. “More than anything, we love what we do,” Eheart adds. “Working with someone to help them turn their home into something they can be proud of gives us a tremendous sense of satisfaction. Sometimes it’s hard to leave at the end of the day, we’re having so much fun. But it’s always easy to come back to work the next morning.” Eheart Interior Solutions 4420 South College Ave., Unit A-2 Fort Collins www.eheartdesign.com (970) 669-0288 Style 2013
Scarpulla’s interest in tattoo removal was sparked when his wife, Jenny, was having a tattoo the size of a dime removed. The van manager of VanWorks, Scarpulla was looking for a new profession. He wanted the income potential of being an entrepreneur. The family invested in specialized training, a $100,000 state-of-the art, top-of-the-line laser and set up shop on Horsetooth and College. The Quanta Q-plus T laser is the only brand of three-wavelength laser in the world. It is capable of removing every ink pigment from all skin hues. Tat 2 Undo is the only business in town with full tattoo ink removal capability, Scarpulla says. The laser is quickly passed over the tattoo, taking only minutes. Each visit occurs six to eight weeks apart. It typically takes six to eight visits to completely eliminate a tattoo. There is brief pain during the procedure, comparable to the pain experience when having the tattoo applied initially. “Ink is becoming more permanent than ever,” Scarpulla warns. “They are using a lot of toxic stuff in the ink like aluminum oxide, iron oxide, mercury and heavy metals. Nothing is FDA approved. Thirty percent of people are allergic to red ink; those people have to go to a plastic surgeon to safely remove the tattoo.” With seven tattoos, Scarpulla is no tattoo prohibitionist. However, he is currently in the process of removing a blue panther from his left forearm. One Tat 2 Undo customer had three women’s names inked on his neck and forearms – none of them were the woman he was currently dating. A woman in her 50s had
one jovial night with her now ex-husband four years ago in which they ventured intoxicated to get matching Chevy bow ties on opposing hind cheeks; in hindsight, she doesn’t cherish the memory. “People with tattoos on their necks and hands come in because they can’t get employment,” says Scarpulla. “Certain law enforcement agencies are changing what you can have for visible tattoos. In the Marines and Air Force you can’t have visible tattoos below short sleeved shirts and shorts.” People grow up, too. “People’s character changes over the years. Something they thought was cool when they were 18 and in college, they don’t feel the same about anymore,” says Scarpulla. Cancer patients are also offered complimentary tattoo removal for treatment-related marks at Tat 2 Undo. Scarpulla’s tattoo words of wisdom: find a reputable and experienced tattoo artist (not a buddy with a new tattoo gun he bought on eBay); never, ever etch a lover’s name on skin; don’t choose flash from the shop’s walls, and avoid impulsive and intoxicated decisions that involve a tattoo gun. For those who violate these tattoo commandments, Tat 2 Undo takes walk-in customers, which can be squeezed in on a lunch break. Tat 2 Undo Mike Scarpulla, owner 3675 S. College Ave., Fort Collins www.tat2undo.com (970) 223-5323
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NOCO Economy is
Warming Up By Corey Radman
Downtown Loveland restaurants, like Next Door Food & Drink, are experiencing healthy business in the current economy.
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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
There are many questions to ask when looking at Northern Colorado’s economic health, but probably the biggest one in the community’s collective unconscious remains: Is it over?
B
y most measures, the Great Recession began in late 2007 and ended in June 2009. However its aftereffects continue to touch individual families and businesses even now. The answer to the big question depends on where you live and what you do. As a whole, our experts were “cautiously or very optimistic” that the housing market is back or close to where we all want it. Sales tax revenue jumped enormously across the region, indicating a pent up demand that finally burst the dams last year. Jobs are coming, but unemployment isn’t quite dropping yet. Martin Shields, Director of CSU’s Regional Economics Institute, estimates that Northern Colorado added 6,000 primary jobs in 2012. However, unemployment rates remained stagnant at 5.8 percent because the number of job searchers continued to grow as we added jobs. “So, in a sense yes, we have recovered from the Great Recession,” he explains. “But we still expected the local unemployment rate to be lower than what it is. It will come, but we’re not there yet.” Shields reports that the rate of unemployment held at 5.8 percent for all of 2012 and continues today. “In normal times, we are a little below the national average of 5.8.” We’re aiming for closer to 5 percent, he says. “It just takes time.” In a series of interviews, Northern Colorado mayors and economic advisors filled us in on the town by town economic indicators including unemployment, primary job growth, building permits and sales tax revenue. Broken down by city, here is what they said: Style 2013
Fort Collins Economic Health Director, Josh Birks
The news in Fort Collins is actually very good. According to the city’s Economic Health Director, Josh Birks, “We are back to the historic peak on sales tax revenue and, in Fort Collins, back to historic peaks for employment. So, for sure, we are out of the recession in Fort Collins and beginning to grow.” He adds that building permits exceeded the city’s estimate of 900 new units built by 227 permits, which is a good indicator that people are buying houses and local businesses are expanding. Included in those big jumps are new student housing units popping up in town. Birks says 2012 had a few definite bright spots including Avago’s expansion at their location on Harmony Road. “They are on-shoring jobs by expanding the manufacturing and production space. In 2012, they invested $165 million dollars and when construction is complete they will add 135 primary jobs to the city.” He adds that the mall’s purchase by Alberta Development and Woodward deciding to locate their corporate headquarters in Fort Collins are two other indicators that the Fort Collins economy is full steam ahead. Levelheaded officials are still aware that circumstances can change quickly. Birks reports that they are keeping a watchful eye on business space to ensure that medium-sized businesses have adequate room to expand. “Many of those medium businesses were at capacity before the Great Recession. So now the question is how to continue to support them as they grow, so we don’t lose them.” Other goals for the city include helping industry address a skills gap in the trained work force as industry adapts to changing markets. “Fort Collins production jobs used to be with HP, but those jobs are now at places like Woodward or Advanced Energy, where a different skill set is required. We are working on partnerships with Front Range Community College and CSU, and even some efforts through Larimer County Workforce Center, to help people who are out of work retrain and reposition.”
Windsor Town Manager, Kelly Arnold
Windsor was a bit insulated from the economic downturn because, explains Town Manager Kelly Arnold, tornado insurance settlements funneled cash into town just as things got bad for the rest of the country. “That carried us for the first half of recession. So the impact wasn’t as much for Windsor as maybe the rest of the region.” One big indicator that Windsor is growing quickly is residential construction. Arnold says at the height of the recession there were 1,500 residential lots to build on. “We thought, at the time, that would be five years worth of inventory. That has been reduced by half today.” Last year saw 437 single-family housing permits pulled, up from 244 in 2011. Even with large parcels of land changing hands last year, the housing market is hot in Windsor. It appears that developers have found the sweet spot for pricing. Arnold says pre-recession homes averaged $325,000, but are now closer to $275,000. So, they are seeing many first-time homebuyers and downsizing seniors moving in. Asked if there is danger in serving as a bedroom community for the region, Arnold says that perception is true of only some of the city’s residents. He says that even with commuters, there is a growing base of primary employment in Windsor. Consider Vestas, Front Range Energy and other oil and gas employers, and coming soon, Tolmar Inc. The Fort Collins-based pharmaceutical manufacturer has committed to investing millions to remodel a former Kodak building for a production facility with an opening date in 2014. Those companies, plus the schools and city government, provide a solid base for the local jobs economy. Also, residents still do most of their essential shopping in Windsor, as evidenced by the city’s double-digit sales tax growth. In 2012 there was an 11 percent increase over 2011 sales tax revenues and a major King Soopers remodel. Arnold indicates that Windsor works hard to provide the type of small-town quality of life amenities people expect of a Colorado community, which is why he says their economy really stands on its own. So, the question for Windsor leaders this year and likely the next five years is, how fast do they want to grow and how can they do it sustainably?
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Greeley Mayor, Tom Norton
For the second year running, Greeley’s best economic news has come from oil and gas jobs and the trickle down spending in the city. Mayor Tom Norton notes that the city directly benefits from oil well leases on city property and the indirect spending created by those jobs. The occupancy rates of local hotels are very high. Restaurants are doing well and sales tax revenue was 10 percent higher than the city budgeted for. Norton indicates that both major energy industry employers, Noble Energy and Anadarko, are planning to invest $5 billion each in this region. Norton says, “There’s potential for an awful lot of long term growth. These companies wouldn’t be spending $30 to $40 million dollars to build a building if they weren’t going to stay for a while.” Greeley is no one pony show, however. Primary jobs are diversified across energy, tourism and agriculture, plus the support systems that are required to make those industries hum. Leprino Foods, the mozzarella producer, brought 500 jobs to the city in 2011 and 2012. With that expansion, it’s probable that the pizza you had for lunch had Greeley-made cheese on top. Greeley’s housing market made headlines with the high foreclosure rates in 2009 and 2010. Norton says there have been few new residential building permits, but many remodeling plans submitted for review. His real estate sources indicate that residential re-sale is heating up to pre-recession rates, and the foreclosed houses are starting to be reabsorbed. By Norton’s assessment, Greeley is recovering nicely from the recession. He anticipates that the current big employers in town will draw investment from other energy and agricultural companies. Unemployment numbers for Greeley specifically are difficult to parse out from Weld County as a whole; however, Norton says the city mirrors the country. “The unemployment rate is going down, but yes, there are still unemployed and underemployed in Greeley. We’re not home free by any stretch.”
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Loveland Mayor, Cecil Gutierrez
Loveland hasn’t had a monster primary employer announcement for a while, which is why Mayor Cecil Gutierrez is more conservative in his economic assessment. “We’re seeing some upward trends,” he says. “I’m optimistically cautious that we’re starting to move in that direction. There are more new businesses in Loveland. Downtown has seen an increase in restaurants. American Eagle Distributing is expanding and growing.” But he refrains from declaring the city recovered. Gutierrez hints that the big one everyone is waiting for, Rocky Mountain Center for Innovation and Technology, may have some good news in the next few months. Currently, Cumberland and Western are investing over $2 million in capital improvements to the former Agilent Technologies site to bring the site up to market standards. Beyond the large-scale projects, Gutierrez indicates that most of Loveland saw an increase in sales tax revenue. The one exception was downtown Loveland, which started 2012 in a big hole with a 10 percent deficit and ended the year down only 2 percent. Though, he adds, downtown restaurants are doing quite well. Loveland residential construction is another bright spot, he says. “We have seen an increase in building activity, both residential and commercial.” New permits in 2012 totaled 2,212, up by 342 over 2011. “In my neighborhood, which is a newer part of town, we saw building come to a complete standstill for a few years. Recently, the building activity has picked up quite a bit.” Brinkman Partners also reports that Centerra will be home to a new Bass Pro Shops at I-25 and Highway 34. The store is expected to create 250 jobs and add $1 million annually to Loveland’s sales tax income. Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
It’s a really interesting time right now. Our regional economy is much stronger than the national soft market, yet we enjoy the same really low interest rates as everyone else. Kevin Brinkman, Co-founder and President, Brinkman Partners
LawyersWest
As a Whole
While it’s easy to look at Northern Colorado communities as islands unto themselves, their leaders say collaboration is crucial. The region functions as a national draw because the communities all have their own strengths and specialties. Josh Birks sums it up well. “Northern Colorado is really one large economy. That’s a bit of a paradigm shift for folks because our state structure sets up an environment of competition in retail and sales tax generation. But the private sector won’t build more retail than the economy can support. I think what’s good for the region, in terms of primary job growth, is good for all the communities.” Brinkman Partners co-founder and president, Kevin Brinkman, delivered more good news at a recent meeting. He estimates that investments in regional large-scale projects will hit at least $1.5 billion in the next three years. (Think a possible football stadium, MAX transit and major retail building in Fort Collins and Loveland.) “I think that is more capital improvements than ever experienced in Northern Colorado at one time,” he says. “It’s a really interesting time right now. Our regional economy is much stronger than the national soft market, yet we enjoy the same really low interest rates as everyone else.” Add those new builds together with proposed transportation projects like the Highway 287 coalition, which is just exploring ways to quickly and efficiently transport commuters from Fort Collins south to Longmont. Or consider the connection of Poudre Trail between Fort Collins, Windsor and Greeley. It’s plain to see that in terms of future prosperity, we sink or swim together as a region. And based on 2012 growth, it looks like the water will be fine. Corey Radman is a National Press Women award winner and regular contributor to Style. She can be reached at her website, www.fortcollinswriter.com. Style 2013
Wills, Trusts, Asset Protection, Litigation Guardianships/Conservatorships, Business Law
Marrying a local presence with the experience of a regional law firm allows LawyersWest to meet the high demands of its clientele. Licensed in Colorado, Wyoming, Utah and Nevada Located in Front Range Village (Harmony & Ziegler), Fort Collins For over 20 years, LawyersWest has represented high net worth clients We’re ready to work for you, so call us for a confidential, no-charge consultation
970-797-4966 | LawyersWest.com Colorado Licensed Attorney: Griffin Osmond. Utah Attorney: Michele Chambers. Nevada Licensed Attorneys: Robert C. Graham, Linda M. Graham, Delwyn Webber & Jerimy Kirschner.
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The Employee-Owned Business Model By Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer
The topic of employee-owned businesses has been especially hot in Fort Collins since New Belgium Brewing converted to a 100 percent employee-owned model in January. However, if you aren’t involved in such a program, you may be curious about what it really means. What do the workers at an employeeowned business really own? What rights do they have? What are their responsibilities as employeeowners and how does this type of model really work? 22
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here are a variety of employeeowned business models, but the most common is the ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan). According to the National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO), over 13 million U.S. employees participate in ESOPs, about 9 million hold stock options and around 11 million participate in stock purchase plans. There is some overlap here so the NCEO estimates that 25 million employees in the U.S. participate in broad-based employee ownership programs at thousands of corporations.
The annual Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For report continues to be filled with corporations with employee ownership plans. Forty-four of the 73 for-profit U.S. organizations on the list have some sort of employee ownership plan. (See entire list at nceo.org.) And several local businesses have included this in their models as well. New Belgium Brewing New Belgium Brewing made news this year when the 450-employee company converted to a 100 percent employee-owned model on January 1. New Belgium, however, has always had some sort of employee-ownership available.
Kim Jordan, Co-Founder and CEO, New Belgium Brewing. New Belgium’s tasting room is full of visitors and operated by a dedicated staff.
“From the beginning there was a stock program. Initially about 11 percent was put aside,” says Bryan Simpson, spokesman for New Belgium Brewing. “It wasn’t a federally backed program, it was just something founder, Kim Jordan, really wanted to do.” In 2000, New Belgium converted to a federally backed, tax incentive ESOP model where 42 percent of the company’s shares were distributed to all coworkers who had been there one year. “It was a great way to create an ownership culture where people are thinking like owners,” says Simpson. At the same time, Jordan decided the company should practice open book management, so everyone would know how money was being spent. However, opening the book necessitated teaching employees about financial documents such as profit and loss sheets, so every month there are financial training sessions for all New Belgium employees. Style 2013
“At the end of the day, I think this empowers folks to feel and act like owners. It makes them aware of how their day-to-day activities really affect day-to-day operations and the bottom line,” says Simpson. Jordan and her family sold back their shares into the ESOP to be distributed over the next 25 years to all coworkers. The ownership program at New Belgium has created an environment where employees look at their job at the brewery as a career and the company enjoys a 93 percent retention rate. The culture at New Belgium has become one of empowerment. For example, when employee-owners on the packaging line realized they could eliminate cardboard partitions, saving money and the environment, they presented the idea to a senior management group. “The idea saved a quarter of a million dollars a year. It flew through the committee with flying
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colors,” says Simpson. In addition to CEO Jordan and a board of directors, there is the Compass Group, a cross discipline senior management group. There are also area leaders and individual contributors, and a number of committees are available where employee-owners can get involved. Simpson, who started with New Belgium on the packaging line, joined the philanthropy committee early on in his career. Within the first three months he found himself involved in making what he considered to be high level decisions about granting funds to nonprofits. “I was engaged,” says Simpson. “I’ve never worked in a place where you’re so free to be yourself, but you are also encouraged to be excellent and to contribute at a very high level.” The Group, Inc. The Group, Inc. celebrated their 37th birthday on February 14 and this real estate brokerage has been employee owned since the beginning. “It was the vision of the initial 12 founders. They wanted to own the company instead of working for one owner,” says Eric Thompson, president and partner at The Group. “It was highly unique in the real estate business 37 years ago, and it still is.” The Group has 190 Realtors, 50 staff and over 200 owners. Ownership is acquired through stock purchase and partnership is encouraged from day one. Partners own varying levels of stock, and no one person can own more than 2 percent of the company. Partner is the word preferred by The Group. Business cards and email signatures include title and the word “partner.” Thompson believes their customers benefit from The Group’s employee-owned model because the partners embrace learning and the sharing of ideas. “If someone is having success and doing something great with their customer, it’s likely that this will be shared with others at The Group, and we actually create platforms for that sharing to take place,” says Thompson. “The customer, instead of hiring an individual, has hired the whole team.” At The Group, partners have ownership of three things; specifically, they own a piece of all buildings owned by The Group, a portion of the real estate brokerage business and a part of The Group’s affiliated businesses. Longevity is common at The Group. Susie Ewing, for example, manager of the Mulberry office, was the first receptionist hired by The Group in 1976. Café Vino Attrition and theft are the two biggest problems in the restaurant industry and when Mark Havens arrived at Café Vino in 2009, he wanted to find a way to curb these issues. He knew that worker cooperatives were effective in restaurants in Italy and Spain, and he also knew that places like New Belgium were utilizing successful employee-owned models. Havens established a workers cooperative at Café Vino where restaurant profits are shared with employees. At the end of each quarter the company decides as an employee group how they are going to spend the profits. Currently about 60 percent goes back into the restaurant
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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
and the other 40 percent is divided up among the employees who are part of the cooperative. “I think we’ll go to 50/50 this quarter as projects around the restaurant are completed, but eventually we’d like to be paying 100 percent back to the employees,” says Havens. Employees at Café Vino are part of the cooperative after one year of employment, and everyone is eligible, from front of house to the back. The restaurant currently has 54 employees and 26 are now co-owners. “Instead of chasing employees around trying to get them to do their job, I now have 26 bosses who let me know what we can be doing better. It’s not a true democracy in that ultimately I make the final decision, but I do it based on their input and it’s important that they see their ideas being implemented,” says Havens. The workers’ co-op at Café Vino has proven both beneficial to the staff as well as customers. A sense of ownership has developed among staff members. Customers enjoy the high level of professionalism and they also have a sense of belonging when they recognize the same faces on each visit. “We have employees who have been working here for four years and that’s not normal in the restaurant business,” says Hillary Siebels, ambassador of libations at Café Vino. Havens has managed to attract true professionals to Café Vino; individuals looking for a career in the restaurant business. Many of the waiters at Café Vino are on a first name basis with their customers. The employees also police themselves, watching for those individuals who might be giving freebies to friends, a major loss of revenue at restaurants. “They realize the effect this has on their paycheck and their coworkers’ paychecks,” says Havens. “The supplemental checks at the end of the quarter aren’t making anyone rich,” he adds. “But it’s enough to buy a washer and dryer, or put a down payment on a house or car. We have a lot of staff buying homes, which is rare in this industry.” The employee-owned model may not be the right fit for every type of business, but these three Fort Collins’ based companies are proving that it can work, and work well. The culture of cooperation at New Belgium, The Group and Café Vino are what set them apart and keep customers coming back again and again. Perhaps the biggest lesson learned from the employee-ownership model isn’t rooted in finances, but is based on success beyond the bank account. It’s about establishing a culture of trust, trust between coworkers and trust between employees and their customers. “When you get people thinking along ownership lines, it inspires them to show up to work as their very best self,” says Simpson. “And when you put trust in people it engenders them to be trustworthy.” Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer is a full-time freelance writer and the mayor of HeidiTown.com, the place for Colorado festival and travel information. Style 2013
Leading the Beer Empire An interview with Kim Jordan, Co-Founder and CEO, New Belgium Brewing Kim Jordan took a few minutes out of her busy travel schedule to answer questions about her business and leadership style, and how she likes to end a busy workday. Here’s a little insight into one of our community’s most celebrated business leaders. 1. New Belgium is largely known for their leading edge business practices, especially in regards to sustainability and employee ownership. Were these concepts part of your thinking at New Belgium’s inception – back when you realized you were moving out of the basement and into a thriving business? If not, how did these ideals evolve? In terms of environmental responsibility, yes. With regard to our coworkers, we didn’t have any when we first codified what we would stand for, so it didn’t occur to us! It was, however, consistent with my sense of how we would want to operate as a business so it wasn’t a stretch to add these things to our practice. 2. With a 90+ percent retention rate, and employee management groups, how do you still lead and participate in New Belgium’s growth and decision-making processes? Do you remain very hands on or step back and direct only as necessary? One of the things that we hope to do with employee ownership is to have decisions made at the correct place. I am very involved at the strategic level, and in some areas of the more tactical level, but certainly not the vast majority of things. We believe that if you have a set of values to guide you when making decisions, you have a good framework and structure for doing the same, and you encourage people to be consultative when making decisions, you stand a pretty good chance of having outcomes that are consistent with your vision. I am stepping back more as time goes on – I work with very competent people, but I am still day-to-day involved. 3. Many of your key positions are filled by employees who started with the company many years ago, in much different roles. How has New Belgium’s structure and culture helped to shape these individuals and their career paths? (Sensory Specialist Lauren Salazar comes to mind; she had stared as an admin assistant and now leads this department.) When you figure out that you have people who are extraordinarily competent, as in they have the intellectual aptitude to be very good at thinking through complex issues and they have the desire to be very good at what they do, and they are excited about being successful (or action oriented), you’re crazy if you don’t get out of the way and let them go for it. Lauren is a great example. One of my jobs is to make sure that when I’m thinking about possible strategic opportunities for New Belgium for which one of my coworkers might be a great fit that I figure out ways to help get them in that role. Competent people want to take on new things; I am always trying to spot new opportunities for
them so they don’t get bored. That is true for many of the people who manage other people at New Belgium. We’re an intellectually curious bunch. 4. Your core values have always contained a social and sustainable component. How and when did this develop? Initially it came primarily from my background in social work. Then we attracted like minds, which created a virtuous loop. We had success with interesting socially innovative or progressive ideas so we tried more socially innovative or progressive ideas… We believe that business is an entity that is well suited to try to solve intractable societal issues and lead the way in modeling new ways of thinking and behaving. 5. How do you help other local businesses to pursue similar core values? By speaking about what we do. By meeting with them one-on-one, by sharing information. 6. As you look toward expansion to Asheville, North Carolina, how will you create a similar culture? Our foundation, New Belgium’s Vision, which contains our Purpose, Mission and our Core values and Beliefs, will be great for guiding the development of Asheville. We will also send some particularly culturally strong people from Fort Collins to Asheville (they’ve volunteered). And then, we don’t expect Asheville to be just like Fort Collins. It will have its own vibe, which is okay by us. 7. When travel and daily responsibilities slow, what sort of leisure time activities does the leader of a beer empire enjoy? Gosh, I’ll let you know when they slow. Generally, I like to hike, read, garden, cook and travel. 8. What is your favorite part of the day and why? Well, I like daily ritual. So I like morning, because I get up and make a cappuccino and watch the day start to unfold. And I like the transition time between work and the evening; I like the bike ride home and I like the beer that signals a new part to my day. 9. What are you drinking right now? So many great beers! Rampant and Ranger, for sure. Fat Tire and then beers from my friends in the industry. 10. How do you maintain your enthusiasm? What renews you to start another day/project/venture? I have the best job in the world. And having said that, one does have to renew enthusiasm. The sale to the ESOP [employee stock ownership plan] was and continues to be an interesting example of being excited by a new dynamic that will make the work we do more emotionally rich and intellectually interesting and challenging. I’ve said to my coworkers that in some ways nothing has changed and everything has changed. This opportunity to drive, even more, ownership thinking and results deep into the organization will be really fun while also being a pile of work!
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To B or Not to B? … a question of how to grow colorado business By Elissa J. Tivona
What does it mean to become a B (benefit) corporation, and should Colorado entrepreneurs align with the benefit corporation brand? Many of the brightest stars among Northern Colorado businesses, in addition to state legislators on both sides of the aisle intent on attracting successful start-up ventures to Colorado, are pondering these questions.
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nder existing law, Colorado offers two general corporate classifications for registering a business, based on its purpose. The business corporation pursues profit for the exclusive benefit
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of shareholders while the nonprofit corporation pursues charitable, religious and other social and public goals. Nationwide there has been a growing trend to add a third category to the mix: the benefit corporation, providing a legal framework for business corporations to pursue general or specific public benefits even at the risk of reducing profit to shareholders.
Charisse Bowen, Director of Colorado State University’s Institute for Entrepreneurship, calls this serving a triple bottom line “using conscious business practices to benefit people, the planet and profit.” She observes that social values are “… more second nature for up-and-coming entrepreneurs than for the generations before them.” Their starting assumption is, ‘Well, of course this is how we would operate.’” They just can’t register for this purpose in Colorado… yet. They can, however, promote their identity as a social enterprise – a company openly committed to using the power of business to solve global social and environmental problems – by seeking a B-corp certification from a third party source, modeled after the LEED certification. LEED is widely acknowledged as the accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings, according to the U.S. Green Building Council who established the certification process in 2000. Also in the early 21st century, the nonprofit company B-Lab out of Berwyn, Pennsylvania, took the lead in the social enterprise movement. Co-founders Jay Coen Gilbert and Bart Houlahan consulted with the top performing social and sustainable companies to establish benchmarks for companies seeking B-Corp certification as part of their brand. Businesses must earn at least 80 points out of a possible 200, demonstrating sustainable practices that benefit not only shareholders but employees, people across the supply chain, the local community and consumers. In exchange for this third-party stamp of approval verifying adherence to principles of social responsibility regardless of corporate structure, companies pay an annual fee and sign on to the B-Corp pledge of transparency. While the certification procedure came online only four years ago, the B-Corp website boasts 693 certified companies in 24 countries, including notables like Ben and Jerry’s and Patagonia. To-date over 20 companies in Colorado have sought and received third party certification, including rising star companies like: New Belgium Brewery, pioneer of the burgeoning craft brewing sector; GoLite, superstar in manufacturing high performance apparel and equipment for outdoor athletes; and Namaste Solar, designers and installers of solar electric systems. Growing demand for a social benefit designator has captured the attention of Colorado lawmakers. They reason that creating the benefit corporation as a legal classification will increase impact investment dollars in Colorado. By definition, impact investors specialize in capitalizing companies with measurable social and environmental impact along with their promise of financial return. Twelve other states have enacted this type of legislation and bills are currently being introduced in 14 more. In 2011 and again in 2012, former State senator Bob Bacon (D-Dist 14) and Rep. Tom Massey (R-Poncha Springs) co-sponsored Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
benefit corporation legislation in Colorado. The bill enjoyed rare and widespread bipartisan support, but questions around shareholder consent, dissenter rights and third-party certification led to the demise of SBS-003 in committee during the 2012 special session. Newly elected senator John Kefalas (D-Dist 14) and Representative Pete Lee (D-Dist 18) have reintroduced revised legislation, after seeking input from the Colorado Bar Association to overcome objections to the original bill. In the HB-1138 fact sheet, Kefalas and Lee note, “The [2013] bill includes detailed notification requirements to ensure that those who become shareholders of a benefit corporation are aware of the nature of the corporation – that it will also pursue social or public benefits rather than pure profit maximization.” Advocates for the legislation make the case that creation of this new class of company will entice social entrepreneurs to locate in Colorado, which in turn will attract impact investment. Bowen expresses some skepticism. As former founder and CEO of GenGreen, she says, “I believe in this conceptually and theoretically. It’s very much at the heart of my… ideals. We would want every business to operate this way.” However, in her new role, she has grown more cautious about how many investors will defer profit in return for social gain. She expresses enthusiasm for other legislation that could prove more helpful in a start-up entrepreneurial environment. “The bill in regards to crowd funding for equity, to me is more impactful… and tax incentives for angel investors to make early stage investments into companies.” Still, according to Jenn Vervier, Director of Sustainability at New Belgium Brewery, benefit corporation legislation is a good place to start. “We believe that having the legal framework in Colorado to recognize benefit corps will further brand Colorado as a great place to start a business.” She adds the caveat: providing the bill is structured so companies can’t pick and choose one-off societal or environmental considerations for marketing purposes – referred to as “greenwashing.” Given the steady market success of the craft brewer, New Belgium provides a worthy role model. “At New Belgium we believe that we’ve been successful because we are guided by our Core Value and Beliefs and our Purpose to operate a profitable brewery that makes our love and talent manifest. We attract the best, most enthusiastic employees, we are utterly committed to our mission, we have great strategic alignment and execution, and we love what we do because every day we have the opportunity to make the world a better place.” Now that’s one hard bottom line to beat. Elissa J. Tivona is a writer and international educator living in Fort Collins. Find her online at www.thepeacecorrespondent.com. Style 2013
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celebrating a new season of
FA S H I O N A T
A R R O W H E A D
Photography by Marcus Edwards Photography On location at Arrowhead Model Home Hair design by Lauren Whittenberg, C&S Workshop Make up by Nikki Onda
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Cassie Hau
Professional style with an updated flair. Soft shawl collared stone blazer from BB Dakota, $160, tops feminine cotton lace top by Dylan, $48, stretch tank by Recover, $32, and paired with slim black Jag leggings, $64. Turquoise bead necklace, $20, and add the perfect accents. Cute black canvas wedges by TOMS, $69. Apparel courtesy of CLOZ to Home, Loveland. Footwear courtesy of Maximum Boutique, Centerra.
Nikki Onda
Perfectly layered for a busy day. Soft cotton olive zip front jacket with pockets and tie waist from Sanctuary, $139, layered over a Gentle Fawn mini black floral sleeveless top, $58, and stone long nylon/spandex camisole from Nikibiki, $18. Soft dark denim Bridget jeans by Joe’s, $148. Gold bar necklace, $149, beaded earrings, $58, abalone bracelet, $189 and gold faceted bracelet, $49, complete the look. Courtesy of MkLaren, Fort Collins.
Nikki Onda (left)
Trendy dressing for the young at heart. Flattering black swing cardigan with pocket detail from Zoe, $84, tops a stylish ruched stretch tank by Belldini, $39, and pairs up with colorful floral patterned stretch leggings by Lysse, $74. Handcrafted tangerine beaded wooden buckle belt, $34, beaded bracelet with wooden clasp, $10, and multi-colored beaded necklace, $32, add playful accents. Playful graphite leather Nina sandals by Dansko, $145. Apparel courtesy of Lady Gaia Apparel & Gifts, Fort Collins. Footwear courtesy of Maximum Boutique, Centerra.
Kathy Albertz (right)
Smart dressing with a stylish twist. Snappy red crocheted tunic, $69, layered over a sleeveless white tank dress, $39, both by Yest. Silver accents the look: long charm necklace, $59, beaded charm bracelet, $45, and hoop earrings, $29. Stylish but comfortable red leather Tasha sandals by Dansko, $135. Apparel courtesy of Lady Gaia Apparel & Gifts, Fort Collins. Footwear courtesy of Maximum Boutique, Centerra. Style 2013
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Maegan Duggar
Ready for business and looking great. Soft Tencel chambray shirt by Splendid, $169, is the perfect jacket over a form-fitting stretch oyster lace dress from Velvet, $148. Wide leather braided belt, $99, gold faceted bracelet, $49, waterfall mixed metal earrings, $118, and gold leather bracelet, $19, add the final touch. Courtesy of MkLaren, Fort Collins.
Kathy is a Realtor with The Group, Inc. She is married to Tom and has three children, Dustin, Randy and Marty. She enjoys bike riding, running, traveling and gardening in her spare time. “Everyone was so helpful and it was a great experience. Lydia and Sondy do a great job and Lady Gaia was wonderful.” Maegan is a Realtor for The Group, Inc. She is married to Brent and they have two dogs in the family: Dekon, a yellow lab, and Winnifred, a golden doodle. Her interests outside of real estate include art, painting, design, renovating properties, backbacking, boating, food and wine, and volunteering in her community. “The ladies at MkLaren do a fantastic job selecting outfits and were able to nail down my size and style. Lauren at C&S Workshop did a great job at styling my hair in a way I would wear it daily. I loved the loose curls. And Nikki did a fabulous job with the makeup! “I am honored to have been invited to participate. Sondy and Lydia were wonderful during the process. I had so much fun getting dressed up with the girls and showcasing our outfits at Arrowhead. It was such a blast and Marcus helped us feel like models for the day.” Nikki is a Realtor at The Group, Inc. She is married to Troy and they have two cherished dogs, Charlie and Winston. She enjoys gardening, traveling with her husband, home improvement and interior design in her free time. “The lades at MkLaren were very helpful. Lady Gaia was a unique and fun experience as well. The clothing and jewelry are fantastic. It was good for me to try new things. It was very fun and I loved the venue.” Cassie is a Realtor for The Group, Inc. She is married to Craig. She enjoys volunteering with nonprofit Respite Care, cooking, entertaining, interior decorating and traveling with her husband. “Cloz had great outfits to choose from. My first outfit fit perfectly and the ladies at Cloz were so helpful. Nikki did a great job on our makeup. She made us all look and feel beautiful. Lauren [C&S Workshop] did a wonderful job styling my hair. “It was so much fun modeling with my girlfriends from The Group. We had a blast posing for the camera. Marcus and Lydia were so helpful and made us all laugh while helping us look our best.”
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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
eyeglass
TRENDS Eyeglasses are making a bold statement this spring with colorful or dark frames that do not take a back seat in style. Look for high drama eyeglasses and statement frames that can change your entire look in seconds.
it, $425
Anne et Valentin, Detro
Anne et Valentin, Factor
y Eleven, $450
Oliver Peoples,
Afton, $340
These styles and more are carried at local retailer Advanced Eyecare, 162 S. College Ave., Fort Collins, (970) 498-8388, www.aecfortcollins.com.
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Rocky Mountain Raptor Program Celebrates 25 Years By Emily Hutto
“The numbers of Cooper’s Hawks and Bald Eagles are increasing,” says an excited Judy Scherpelz, executive director of the Rocky Mountain Raptor Program (RMRP). She is talking about raptor populations in the state of Colorado. Her tone turns solemn, though, as she discusses energy development companies in eastern Colorado that present a significant threat to the state’s birds of prey.
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“
nergy development presents a tremendous loss of habitat in a historically outstanding region for raptor populations,” she says. “We could see a decline in Golden Eagles, Ferruginous Hawks, Burrowing Owls...”
The list goes on. To combat a loss of these species, RMRP is partnering with many of these energy companies to reduce their impact on raptors. One example is the development of new mechanisms that prevent birds from perching on power lines, ultimately helping them avoid high voltage trauma or even electrocution. That’s just one part of RMRP’s three-tiered mission. In addition to promoting
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research that supports the longevity of avian wildlife in and around Fort Collins, RMRP also rehabilitates injured raptors and educates the community about their conservation. In 1987, Scherpelz became the executive director of RMRP, transforming the program from a group of Colorado State University veterinarian students who volunteered to help injured birds into a community-based nonprofit organization. She developed a volunteer recruitment and management plan, initiated a community outreach effort to educate school children about local raptors, and implemented fundraising strategies. This year, Scherpelz was endowed the Freedom Flight Award for her unyielding dedication to the raptor program’s objectives. “Each year, RMRP grants one person or entity this award to
recognize distinguished service in the conservation and stewardship of birds of prey,” she says. In Scherpelz’s first year, RMRP’s budget was $10,000, an amount that included her salary. Now in the year of the program’s 25th anniversary, RMRP operates on an annual budget of between $400,000 to $450,000, and about 75 percent of that amount comes from individual donors. With an average donation of only $25 to $100, it’s clear that the program does some serious outreach within the Fort Collins community. “We do about 35 exhibits each year, including the Renaissance Festival, the Boulder Creek Festival and NewWestFest,” says Scherpelz. “We go out into the public with our birds to give people information about how to live more lightly on the planet and be good stewards of wildlife.” Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Equally if not more important, says Scherpelz, is the outreach that RMRP does in schools. “We’ve developed a reputation for the outstanding educational experience that we provide for kids,” she says, adding, “Reaching them when they’re young is critical if we want to help them develop a value system to appreciate wildlife.” For Scherpelz, her young appreciation for wildlife was the result of growing up in Northern Illinois. “Because I was surrounded by so much city, I think I really appreciated the open space; to see a red-tailed hawk flying overhead was an amazing experience for me. At a young age I became very passionate about wildlife, birds in particular.” Fittingly, she went on to get a master’s degree in wildlife biology with a specialty in bird behavior. After several years of fieldwork and research for a number of environmental agencies and firms, she took her current role at the raptor center. Scherpelz is constantly surrounded by equally passionate individuals at RMRP. A volunteer staff of 140 carries out between 35,000 and 40,000 hours of work for the program each year. One of them, Crystal Stratton, shares Scherpelz’s passion for birds. Stratton has been bird watching for 25 years, and raptors, especially American Kestrels, are some of her favorite birds to observe. Eager to see these types of birds up close, she signed up to be a RMRP volunteer. Years later, Stratton drives from Cheyenne, Wyoming, to volunteer at RMRP for at least four hours each week. She cleans cages, preps food, treats injured birds, gives tours of the facility and works as an ambassador at exhibits. “Our work here is truly about collaboration and cooperation. It indeed is a team effort to properly care for and handle these birds,” says Stratton. “My experience here has been a great confidence booster. I have a lot to learn, especially because I do not have any medical or zoological experience. You don’t need to have any background in these disciplines to volunteer,” she adds. The Rocky Mountain Raptor Program is constantly seeking volunteers. Soon they’ll move from their temporary location to the 27-acre plot on Vine Street they have purchased to build a new facility, for which they hope to recruit a fundraising committee. They also rely on volunteers to help them with clerical work such as answering phones, writing grants and keeping the office organized. And of course, they need dedicated individuals to care for the 300 birds that they admit each year. While the training to work with raptors is quite extensive and time-consuming, volunteers like Stratton can attest that it is an incredibly rewarding experience. “It is an honor to have earned the trust of a bird on the fist,” Stratton says. “It is an indescribable feeling to look into its eyes and to see the wild spirit of survival, and the spark of life.” Emily Hutto has an affinity for the outdoors that she cultivates with magazine journalism. The Coloradan took a hiatus on the West Coast before she returned to write about local landscapes, food culture, and any and every kind of fermentation. Style 2013
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The golfing season is back in full swing and the courses are ready to go. Where will you be golfing this week? 37 Where to Play This Season | 42 Keeping the Greens Green in a Drought 44 Non-golf Events Draw Crowds to Golf Courses | 46 Savvy Women Love Golf
Fort Collins Country Club Course
Where to Play This Season FORT COLLINS COUNTRY CLUB 1920 Country Club Road, Fort Collins (970) 482-1336, www.fcgolf.org Course Type: Private Year Built: 1959 Dining: Restaurant Holes: 18 Yards: 7,150 Par: 71 Rating: 73.6 Slope: 137 Course Designer: Henry Hughes Golf Pros: John Hanrahan Director of Golf; Ryan DeHaan Director of Instruction; Jason Shields, Head Golf Professional; and Ryan Duggan, Assistant Golf Professional Green Fees: Weekday green fees $60, weekend green fees $80 Why Golf Here? The mountainous backdrop, densely tree lined fairways and the chance of encountering numerous types of wildlife are certainly at the top of the list of attractions at Fort Collins Country Club (FCCC), but Director of Golf, John Hanrahan, says, “Don’t forget about the course itself. Offering five sets of tees, you have the chance to play the length of course that suits your ability and allows you to have the most fun you can. Our greens are relatively small for size and quick. After you finish your round, you will remember our greens as ‘exciting and challenging’ for sure.” “The greens at Fort Collins Country Club are small and undulating, which will truly test your short game,” adds Hanrahan. “Mike Veile, the course superintendent, does a fantastic job of keeping the greens smooth and at a great speed to really challenge your touch.” What’s New This Year? “For 2013, new programming for men, women, juniors and families is scheduled and ready to go,” says Hanrahan. “We truly offer a full golfing experience to anyone who is looking for it.” New at FCCC for 2013 is the Nike Concept Shop. A section of their Golf Shop is now a wall-to-wall Nike for men and women. Wall displays, fixtures and creative organizing will lend a new feel to the Shop. “Peter Millar and Adidas will be hitting our doors for the first time with some great color and fabrics,” says Hanrahan. And don’t miss the new equipment from Callaway, Nike, Titleist, Ping, Mizuno and Cobra. “You name it, we will have it, and the new advances in clubs and golf balls for 2013 will add to a player’s ability this upcoming season.” An added feature to the 2013 FCCC membership is the new “Play Away” program. Along with the Private Club Network, members now have access to over 450 clubs throughout the U.S. “This is a fantastic way to experience golf outside of your home course for a fraction of the price,” says Hanrahan. What do you recommend for the new golfer? “For the new golfer lessons from a PGA Professional before stepping on the course would definitely be helpful. Understanding the basic fundamentals and etiquette required to play the game is the first step. Secondly, take the time to get fit for your equipment. This will enable you to practice and improve your game with your correct swing from the beginning,” says Hanrahan.
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Harmony Club Golf 4176 Club Drive, Timnath, (970) 482-4653 www.harmonyhomescolorado.com/golf Course Type: Private Year Built: 2007 Dining: Catered/Cabin Club Holes: 18 Yards: 7,331 Par: 72 Rating: 73.4 Slope: 144 Course Designer: James J. Engh Golf Pros: Seve Lind, Director of Golf; Eric Knotts, Head Pro; Stan Fenn, Director of Instruction Green Fees: Guest fees: $69 with a Member Why Golf Here? “Things are fantastic at Harmony,” says owner Byron Collins. Known as one of the most scenic and unique private courses in the state, Harmony provides players a sanctuary. Imagine playing golf where you rarely wait or feel rushed. Harmony’s pristine, uncrowded course is the ultimate in golf luxury. Harmony’s modern link-style layout stimulates golfers’ creativity and intellect. “And the risk-reward holes are just plain fun,” says Collins. It’s a course that captures players’ attention and invites them back for more. The near-perfect course conditions, welcoming staff and down-to-earth atmosphere are all Harmony hallmarks. What’s New This Year? “Our membership’s patience at Harmony has really paid off,” says Collins. The course, having just reached its fifth anniversary, has steadily grown in membership and now entertains over 200 golfing members and 160 sport members. Steady growth has its rewards. “We have now achieved profitability,” says Collins. “We will now move forward on the second phase of amenities, which will include a pavilion building, pools, tennis courts and a recreation facility. Enjoying Harmony is going to take on a whole new level for members.
Highland Meadows Golf Course 6300 Highland Meadows Parkway, Windsor (970) 204-4653, www.highlandmeadowsgolfcourse.com Course Type: Public Year Built: 2004 Dining: Tavern on the Green Holes: 18 Yards: 7,011 Par: 71 Rating: 72.4 Slope: 133 Course Designer: Art Schaupeter Golf Pros: Paul McQuade Green Fees: $34 to $54 (prime season) Why Golf Here? Highland Meadows Golf Course offers green complexes that require accuracy to score well. Many holes offer “risk and reward” features for those that want to attempt the challenging shots. This links style course differs from others in the Northern Colorado area, according to Golf Pro Paul McQuade. Additionally, the course has five teeing grounds per hole, which allows golfers of all abilities the flexibility to play the course at their level and enjoy the game! What’s New This Year? “In 2013 we are bringing new events to our course,” says McQuade. Highland Meadows Golf Course is hosting a USGA Public Links Qualifier in June, and the Golf Channel Amateur Tour is scheduled in July – Highland Meadows is it’s first event outside of the Denver metro area. “We are also creating new in-house events such as our Summer Stableford Event in addition to our four other Highland Meadows Majors.” Highland Meadows is now the home course for the Fossil Ridge High School Girl’s Golf Team and the Fossil Ridge High School Boy’s Golf Team. They are also adding permanent restroom facilities on the course this season. “We are growing our instructional programs by adding additional clinic sessions, expanding club fitting services through our PGA Professional, Brian Lindstrom, and revamping the junior golf program.” Highland Meadows Golf Shop is now a certified retailer for Titleist, Callaway, Mizuno, Ping and TaylorMade.
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Greeley Country Club 4500 10th St., Greeley, (970) 353-2431, www.greeleycc.org Course Type: Private Year Built: 1920 Dining: Restaurant Holes: 18 Yards: 6,547 Par: 70 Rating: 71.7 Slope: 134 Course Designer: Tom Bendelow and Press Maxwell Golf Pros: Greg Heiny, Director of Golf; Josh Toyer, Assistant Pro; Keith Cornett, Assistant Pro Green Fees: For members: $60 weekdays, $80 weekends, $16 per person cart rental Why Golf Here? “The course is always in fantastic condition,” says Greg Heiny, Greeley Country Club director of golf. “The course is not overly long but is still a good challenge for a wide variety of golfers.” Greeley Country Club has long been admired for its old-style course. At 93 years old, the country club is popular for its laid back, family oriented atmosphere and its course is one many enjoy playing for its beautiful, mature trees. What’s New This Year? “We are always excited to start a new season; it is fun to see the weather improve and to see all of the golfers return for another year,” says Heiny. “This year, we are offering a men’s golf association, a Tuesday night men’s league, and both nine and 18 hole women’s golf associations.” Various tournaments are planned for members, such as the annual member guest one- and three-day event, the Gunslinger’s Open, and Ken Anderson’s Spring Trophy. Greeley Country Club carries the latest in 2013 golf fashions and club technology. The club restaurant is committed to changing up the menu for each new season and assorted upgrades have been completed throughout the grounds and facility to prepare for this year.
Fort Collins City Course
City Park Nine 411 S. Bryan Avenue, Fort Collins (970) 221-6650, www.fcgov.com/golf Course Type: Regulation 9 holes Year Built: 1940 Dining: Limited snack bar items Holes: 9 Yards: 3,335 Par: 36 Rating: 69.9 Slope: 123 Course Designer: WPA/Fort Collins Golf Association Golf Pros: Doug Perry Green Fees: Senior: $15 to $17, Junior: $13 Why Golf Here? City Park Nine Golf Course puts a premium on accuracy off the tee and the approach to the greens. The experienced golfer will give up some distance off the tee and focus on keeping the ball in the fairway, giving themselves a better chance of hitting the small greens and setting up more opportunities for birdies. What’s New This Year? “We have built a new rain shelter between the #6 and #7 fairways, and have purchased new ball washers, trash receptacles and benches. We have also removed a couple of cottonwood trees from hole #4, and done extensive trimming of other trees,” according to Golf Pro Doug Perry. Additional playing opportunities for juniors and women are available in 2013. A new league called the “Monday Miss-hits” is being planned for the after work women to play golf in a friendly, non-competitive structure. There will also be a junior play day every Wednesday at noon.
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Fort Collins City Course
SouthRidge Golf Club 5750 South Lemay Ave., Fort Collins, (970) 416-2828 www.golfsouthridge.com Course Type: 18-hole Municipal Year Built: 1984 Dining: Mackenzie’s Pub and Grill Holes: 18 Yards: 6,690 to 4,981 Par: 71 Rating: 71.6 131 from back tees and 68.7 and 122 from red tees Course Designer: Frank Hummell Golf Pros: Head Pro: David McCleave, Assistant Pro: Matt Magley Green Fees: 9 Holes from $15 to $19, 18 holes from $27 to $35. Why Golf Here? SouthRidge is best known for its “laid back, friendly atmosphere,” says Golf Pro David McCleave. “For the most part, golf at SouthRidge is low key and enjoyable; different from the normal, stuffy golf club experience. The golf course is also in great shape year round with lots of character and elevation change as well.” What’s New This Year? SouthRidge is targeting juniors and female players in 2013, not only locally but nationally as PGA Members. McCleave is also excited about the new and improved junior play days, couples league on weekends and the many more activities planned for this year. Within Pro Shop, the new Nike Covert equipment has a serious buzz around it and they have new apparel from Oakley, Nike, Underarmor and Travis Mathew.
Fort Collins City Course
Collindale Golf Course 1441 East Horsetooth Rd., Fort Collins, (970) 221-6651 Golf Shop, (970) 223-4653 Golf Academy, www.collindalegolfacademy.com, www.fcgov.com/golf/collindale.php Course Type: Championship - Park Style Year Built: 1970/1971 Dining: C.B. & Potts Restaurant and Brewery Holes: 18 Holes Yards: 5,800 - 7,200 Par: 71 - 73 Rating: 67 - 73 Slope: 124 - 131 Designer: Frank Hummel Golf Pros: Dale Smigelsky, Director of Golf; Vince Buelk, Director of Instruction; Matt Smith, Apprentice Professional & Certified Custom Club Fitter; Blake Nicholson, Apprentice Professional Green Fees: 9 Holes: $17 to $19, $15 Seniors, 18 Holes: $32 to $35, $27 Seniors, Annual Passes $150 - $550, Premier Card: (New for 2013) Save up to 23%, $150 - $1,000 Why Golf Here? The course is consistently recognized as having some of the best (and fastest) greens in the state, according to Dale Smigelsky, Director of Golf. Collindale is also the home of the local U.S. Open Qualifier and is a perennial favorite for many state amateur events. Experienced golfers love the innate challenge the course provides and genuinely appreciate the overall condition and playability. What’s New This Year? Colorado Avid Golfer recognized Collindale with two awards for 2013, a 2nd Place “CAGGY” award for Best to Walk, and a 2nd Place “CAGGY” for Best Northern Course. For the 2013 season, trees have been trimmed and a few removed to make it more enjoyable for the average player, and a new roller will provide greater consistency of greens. Smigelsky recently won the National award for 2012 PGA Merchandiser of the Year for public courses, recognizing him as one of the best in the industry in how he operates. With the newest apparel and free custom club fitting for the top 11 golf club manufacturers, Collindale golfers have access to the newest equipment, technology and apparel as they are released. This year’s Demo Day is April 21st.
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Keeping the Greens Green in a Drought By Kay Rios
To the non-player, golf courses may seem green for aesthetic purposes, but the golf enthusiast knows better. Quite simply, the condition of the surface affects the game and maintenance takes careful planning and attention to detail.
Each course is different depending on soil and location, says Jim Higgins, superintendent of golf for Fort Collins City Park Nine. “Each course is its own deal. Our greens are ‘pushup’ greens with clay content where Collindale and Southridge have sand greens. They’re more modern.” “We’ve aerated over the years and that helps with percolation so there are healthy roots and the right nutrients. Our greens have more water holding capacity and that affects how we fertilize and what we do differently from other golf courses,” he continues. Jordan McCormick, golf course superintendent for Mariana Butte Golf Course in Loveland says, “In general, our soils are very good. They have good nutrients and water holding capacity for the most part. We do have a couple of holes with river bottom soil so we pay special attention to them.” Aside from considerations for different soil structures, crews work year round to monitor and promote the health of the greens. But each year can bring new challenges and keeping the greens green in a drought season requires even greater planning. “The City of Fort Collins has a drought plan and we adhere to that,” Higgins says. “There are a number of tools we use during drought. For example, there are wetting agents that hold the moisture in the soil rather than have it evaporate or drain off. ” In addition, Higgins says, the irrigation system is designed so each sprinkler on a putting green can be set for shorter multiple
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sessions. “Instead of running 15 minutes, I can program it to run three times for five minutes. That allows water to soak down and percolate rather than puddling or evaporating.” Grass and plant health is important, he says. “We test the soil and we make sure we have healthy roots. Healthy roots have carbohydrates and sugars the plants can use when the weather is hot and dry.” The City’s drought plan has a tiered system that changes the approach depending on the level of available moisture, Higgins says. “The rough will be where we cut back first. The City has already taken steps to lower the evapotranspiration rate. We measure that so we know how much the plant uses and how much we need to replace. In a drought situation, we’ll water at lower than 100 percent of the evapotranspiration and, because of the shorter grass, we can often water lower than 65 to 70 percent. Shorter grass uses less water because less leaf surface doesn’t lose as much water to evapotranspiration.” McCormick says Loveland also has a drought plan in place with tiers. “Based on the severity of the drought, we implement those tiers accordingly. It’s likely this year we’ll implement the first tier right from the start and reduce the amount of water used on the course’s perimeter. That gives us a significant reduction in water use. We’ll maintain a good golfing experience but reduce aesthetics, so there’ll be a reduction in the amount of green around the perimeter.” Both Higgins and McCormick stress that the
most important point is that there are plans in place to address drought. “These are well thought-out plans for water conservation and we’re conservationists by nature,” McCormick says. “All of us have the same management theory about conserving water. There are hazards to overwatering so conservation is in our best interest from a business standpoint as well as an environmental one.” Superintendents are well-educated and use best practices, he says. “There’s a lot we have to understand about the plants and the soil and the climate and the interactions depending on the location. We have to understand the differences and intricacies.” Golf courses benefit the whole community, McCormick says. “Turf grass provides a great filter even for runoff and a lot of golf courses are built in less desirable places like flood plains. It provides a green space and it’s a wildlife habitat.” Higgins vouches for that. “City Park Nine is a certified Audubon sanctuary. We’re one of 39 in the state of Colorado. We’re good stewards of the environment and have best practices in place. Fort Collins is leading the game nationwide as far as being environmentally friendly, having a healthy turf and not endangering the wildlife.” Kay Rios, Ph.D., is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins. She is often out on the golf course trying to figure out the game and has yet to do so.
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Non-golf Events Draw Crowds to Golf Courses By Kay Rios
Northern Colorado features a variety of golf courses and country clubs that not only cater to golfing enthusiasts, they also offer a variety of non-golf activities for their members and, in some cases, the community at large. Here are just a few of the possibilities.
Fort Collins Country Club, located at 1920 Country Club Road, offers golf, dining and a variety of other family activities. “We do a killer Easter brunch with a live petting zoo for the kids and an Easter egg hunt,” says Scott Szymoniak, PGA general manager of the Fort Collins Country Club. “We hit all the major holidays. Every Fourth of July, we have a big party and do our own fireworks display. There’s also a formal Valentine’s Day dinner and dance. We do a pumpkin smashing event after Halloween and Santa always visits us during Christmas for kids and families.” The club is private and all events are for members, he says, but he adds that members can always bring guests. “We try to do things that are extremely relevant to our members. We want to make sure all events and food feature what the members want.” To determine those wants, members (currently at 425) are surveyed. “All of the members have the opportunity to fill out cards when they dine and our website can provide suggestions. Every two to three years, we have an outside company to do an extensive survey of our membership, focusing on every aspect of the club from golf to the tennis to the spa to the clubhouse to dining and events.” “Our goal is to remain extremely relevant to our membership and the only way we can do that is through constant feedback,” Szymoniak says. Eaton Country Club, located at 37661
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Weld County Road in Eaton, boasts that it is Northern Colorado’s Best Kept Secret. Established in 1923, this club offers a full gamut of activities, says Rick Cole, general manager and golf pro. “We’re a little different than most country clubs because we don’t have a pool or tennis court so most of our non-golf activities are centered around the restaurant. We have a beautiful patio and we have special dances out there with live music a couple times a month in the summertime. On Friday nights, we have a special reduced cocktail hour and every third Friday we add music.” Eaton also offers special gourmet dinners, wine tastings, beer tastings and everything from hot dogs to five course meals, Cole says. “We try to be everything to everybody and we can do anything that the customer wants us to do.” The Club encourages new memberships. “We hosted a booth at the Greeley Home and Garden show two weeks ago and made a lot of new contacts and friends. We’re also trying to become more social media active. That’s all important to encourage new membership.” Founded in 1920, the Greeley Country Club is member-owned and located at 4500 West 10th Street. It offers a variety of options for its members, says Amy Fiedler, marketing director. “We have a major holiday event for adults and kids. There’s a Mothers’ Day brunch and Easter egg hunt and a Halloween party. We
also have a gingerbread house building for Christmas, and a huge family celebration for the Fourth of July with our own on-site fireworks. Then, every November, we do a holiday shopping boutique that’s really popular.” One major yearly event is the Snow Ball for the Christmas holiday season. “We also have guest chef cultural dinners which are fun. It can be a tapas night, Greek night or we have a Brazilian night. Our members provide the menu and our chef does all the cooking.” Particular interests outside of golf are also featured. “Our members enjoy card games such as gin, bridge and we have our Bunco Babes. Texas Hold’em tournaments also draw a lot of participants,” Fiedler says. The Club is private so all activities are for members only. “We do encourage members to bring guests to our events like our pool party and western dinner dances. We do quite a bit and we try to make sure it goes well with anything going on in our community – we try not to conflict with the community which is important to our members because they are huge community supporters.” Events are geared to member value and entertainment. “We want to make sure they stay in our neck of the woods. We have events that no one else can do because, for example, we have the facilities to do our elegant ballroom dance for Christmas. We have the kind of events you can’t find anywhere else without leaving Greeley.” Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Pelican Lakes Golf and Country Club features two semi-private courses, Pelican Lakes and Pelican Falls Golf Courses, located in the center of the Water Valley community in Windsor. Stacy Kleve, head golf professional, says many events are open to the public. “It starts with things like an Easter egg hunt for kids in the neighborhood. We will host a boat race on the south side lake in August. We also have a five mile turkey trot in November that’s very well received and a summer solstice run in June,” he says. There are events specific to members only. “This year we’ll have a member kickoff for the pool, a member and guest event for the pool and a finish-the-year at the pool. Our place is used as a venue for a lot of different things and it works well.” Highland Meadows Golf Course, located at 6300 Highland Meadows Parkway in Windsor, provides, aside from an 18 hole championship course, a full-service clubhouse and swimming pool. It also features the Tavern on the Green Grill. Kelsey Rosten, information coordinator, says that while Highland Meadows is not a country club, there are annual pass holders and that gives the course a country club feel without the higher fees. Many activities take place at the facility, she says. “We try not to be exclusive so all of our events are open to anybody.” Highland has recently completed its big red barn where weddings, anniversaries and other celebrations are held. “In the past, we have had movie nights out on our driving range, where the town of Windsor brings out the big inflatable screen and kids come and hang out and watch a movie. We have a Santa’s Barn in December with a breakfast with Santa. We also do a St. Patrick’s Day party in the barn with traditional Irish food, green beer and Irish games. It happens at the end of a tournament but anyone can come to the party. We do a big Easter brunch in the barn as well,” Rosten says. For other non-golf events that Highland hosts, the Tavern on the Green Grill is the focal point. “We do wine dinners and beer dinners once a month. For the wine dinners, we focus on a certain region of wine and our chef pairs dinner with that. For beer dinners, we focus on a certain brewery and sometimes we have a rep from the brewery come in and talk about the beer. Then our chef pairs dinner with that particular brewery. Those are our most popular events. We’ve also had a Friday night surf and turf, Monday night taste of Italy,” she says. “We’re working to put more events on the calendar with more themed dinners or parties that will draw people to the restaurant and are not necessarily related to golf. We have a lot going on and we like to keep our calendar full.” Kay Rios, Ph.D., is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins. She will play golf anywhere, anytime, even in her back yard, much to the dismay of her neighbors. Style 2013
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Pictured with her SWING Sisters, a committee that helps transition newbies to the game: Tiffany Kasick, Jennifer Jennings, Amy Hayden and Judy Gray.
Jennifer Jennings, founder of SWING, addresses a group of women at her annual launch party.
Savvy Women Love Golf By Angeline Grenz
Tina Fey’s sage advice, “Do your thing and don’t care if they like it” might be the needed encouragement to blaze your own trail. Certainly, Jennifer Jennings decided she would do things her own way, only she was gracious enough to invite a few friends along – about 120 new friends to be exact.
It all started with Jennings’ desire to learn the game of golf. Her husband is an avid player and she had always liked the feel of the greens and the sound the club makes as it whacks the ball. But where her husband had skill, Jennings was a newcomer to the game and felt a little intimidated by the feeling that golf is a man’s sport – as the old adage says, “Golf stands for Gentlemen Only, Ladies Forbidden.” She recalls, “I didn’t feel like there was a place for women like me on the course, so I wanted to create an environment where we did belong. I wanted to do it my way.” So the determined hairstylist did what any smart female does – she enlisted her posse of girlfriends and arranged for them to meet her once a week on the greens, promising them a fun afternoon, with no pressure to compete, and a couple of cocktails after the game. Jennings’ determination proved stronger than her friends and after a few failed attempts to meet, someone suggested she post the women-only golf outing on a Meetup.com site to see if she could find other females who wanted to learn. “Within two weeks, I had 50 women who wanted to join me,” she recalls. The premise, according to Jennings, was low-key and lighthearted. She came up with a tagline for her group, “Where it doesn’t matter if you score as long as you are swingin’.” The energetic brunette quickly realized she was on to something. As new members began
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contacting her to join, Jennings decided to turn her enterprise into a business and had the perfect name: SWING or Savvy Women in Need of Golf. She advertises SWING as a “traveling cocktail league for women. We bypass the competition and focus on building relationships while enjoying the game in a relaxed atmosphere.” Already, after just two seasons, Jennings has already been approached by women in multiple states who would like to see her franchise SWING into other communities – though, she says, that is still a ways down the road. To start, Jennings approached several golf courses in Northern Colorado and was surprised at their willingness to come on board and support her group. “I didn’t realize what a warm welcome I would get from the courses.” Many of the courses offered free lessons, free range balls and etiquette classes. During the first season, Jennings offered membership at a flat rate and her roster grew from 50 to 120 by the next season. As popularity grew, she began to revise the membership commitment and formalized the arrangement with the courses. In its second official season, SWING now has three membership levels: $99 for the SWING Socialite, $199 for the SWING Ladies and $299 for the SWING Savvy level. Each level offers access to all SWING golf course events and social events. The upper level memberships also offer perks like discounts at sponsor locations, lessons, a swing analysis, club fittings and more. “This
year we hope to bring in 200 memberships,” she says. SWING offers two events each week. One is a weekly non-competitive evening league and the second is a rotating weekend event, like the themed “Where Mimosas and Mulligans are Standard.” The league plays just nine holes and is open to any skill level. The outdoor league runs from April through October and the indoor league, at GolfTEC Fort Collins, runs from November through March. Participating courses include Highland Meadows, Mariana Butte, Mountain Vista, Ptarmington and Southridge. The benefits of women golfing together not only revolve around socializing; it is also the impact of learning together. “Women learn so differently; we don’t really care if our swing is exactly how it is supposed to be, we just want to hit the damn ball,” she jokes. “First and foremost is for women to just make contact with the ball.” And how is Jennings game today? “I have definitely improved and can hold my own,” she says. “I can play with my husband now and not end up crying!” For more information on SWING, and to try out one of their golfing events, visit the website at www.swinggolfclubs.net.
Angeline Grenz is managing editor of Lydia’s Style Magazine. Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
ACTIVE SENIORS • HEALTH • ACTIVITIES • RECREATION • WELLNESS • SERVICES
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Building & Landscaping Northern Colorado
Special Advertising Section
Take A Seat Seat walls can be a great addition to any outdoor living space, mixing aesthetics and function. At Alpine Gardens, they incorporate “built in” seating adjacent to a patio or deck to increase the usability of the space and lessen he amount of furniture required for the patio. Seat walls sprinkled throughout a landscape design can efficiently increase the amount of people you can have within the space. The use of seat walls can also help tie an area to the architecture of the home or nearby structure. When seat walls also serve as retaining walls, they can help create a more private feel to the space with nearby plantings. According to landscapingnetwork.com, seat walls are the “best way to double the value of a retaining wall.” To create a comfortable seat wall at the edge of your outdoor living space, simply extend the retaining wall 18 inches to two feet above the patio space to create a comfortable seating bench available all year round – especially handy for the off season when the furniture had been stowed away to wait for warmer weather. Alpine Gardens, a Northern Colorado business for over 30 years, frequently works seat walls into their designs, as seen here. Call them today for a design consultation, (970) 226-2296.
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Special Advertising Section
Building & Landscaping Northern Colorado
Large scale project goes off without a hitch with Affordable Roofing After the 2011 hailstorm, Affordable Roofing determined a need in the community: commercial properties and multi-family living communities needed an experienced roofer to work with them and their large loss insurance adjusters. Someone who could understand the scope of the large-scale projects, navigate insurance estimates and complete jobs in a timely, organized manner. Affordable Roofing stepped up to the plate. One of the largest roofing projects they completed was at Fossil Creek Condominiums – a project that consisted of 12 multi-unit buildings, a clubhouse and eight multiple garage units. “During projects of this size, it is especially important to move through the project without disturbing the tenants or disrupting the flow of traffic,” says co-owner Troy Jennings. The project took approximately a month and a half to complete, and involved an orchestrated effort that moved through material drop, tear off of the old roofs, clean up and installation harmoniously, without one area backing up all the processes that followed. One way Affordable Roofing was able to ensure success was to have a project manager on-site during the entire process. “In this case, it was me or one of the other owners,” says Jennings. The team’s attention to detail meant that the project went off without a hitch. In fact, the Homeowners Association at Fossil Creek was so pleased, they wrote Affordable Roofing a glowing recommendation. Your project, no matter how large or small, can experience the same level of quality service and detail. Call Affordable Roofing today to schedule an estimate: (970) 207-0000, www.affordableroofinginc.com.
970.207-0000 www.affordableroofinginc.com
Building & Landscaping Northern Colorado
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SMALL SPACE | BIG IMPACT A room’s small footprint is no reason to skimp on style and excellent design. Interior designer Emily Stirn of Eheart Interior Solutions used these ideas to update this dated master bath and laundry room in Estes Park, Colorado. TRADE IN THE BULK: The bulky tub deck, tiled in pink, took away from the spectacular mountain view. Substituting a deep copper soaking tub and changing the dimension and shape of the window resulted in a room with a view. IN THE DETAILS: Great design shows careful attention to detail. A river rock border around the hammered copper tub, twig inspired cabinetry hardware, and high style faucetry took this master bath to the next level. LAYER IT UP: This vanity features glazing, distressing, and rub through—all in a custom plum brown color—for a one of a kind finish. THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX: Tired of repurposing garbage bins for dirty laundry, these homeowners upgraded their laundry room with new pull out hampers. The concealed storage is as beautiful as it is functional. Call today for customized solutions for your space—small or large!
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970-669-0288 www.eheartdesign.com
Building & Landscaping Northern Colorado
Special Advertising Section
Spring into A New Landscape The onset of spring has most of us turning our attention to our landscapes. After a season of neglect, the first blades of green grass and tulips poking up through the dirt have most of us eager to see our landscape emerge lush and vibrant. But if it is time to give your landscape an overhaul, consider the capable hands of local professionals Lindgren Landscape & Irrigation. To help get you started, Lindgren’s professionals answer some of your most basic questions: how to choose the correct plantings and is hiring a landscape design professional the right choice for you?
David Schmidt, designer with Lindgren Landscape & Irrigation, discusses the importance of hiring the right designer for your project.
Georgia Perry, senior designer with Lindgren Landscape & Irrigation, offers a little help in choosing plants for your exterior by answering some of the most commonly asked questions posed by homeowners and DIY’ers There are so many beautiful plants at the nursery, how do I choose the right one for my house? Georgia: It is very important to do an analysis of the conditions that exist around your home before you head to the garden center and are enticed by the blooming plants. First, how much room do you have for planting? Next, where does the sun and shade fall on the house and for how long out of the day there is sun verses shade (i.e. the west side has very intense afternoon sun; the east side has morning sun and afternoon shade; open areas in the yard may have full sun and be exposed to the wind)? You even need to think about the fence, does it put shade on the first eight feet of your flowerbed adjacent to the fence? Then take a look at the soil. If your soil is anything like mine, it is red and hard as a rock. Some plants like soft fluffy, well-drained soil and our typical Colorado clay does not fit the bill. You may want to have a soil analysis done, if you’re not sure what type of soil you have. These questions and their answers will help to narrow the pool of appropriate planting options. What about color? I love every color; is it a good idea to mix lots of colors together? Georgia: I like to recommend masses or groupings of color, rather than mixing lots of different varieties together, this makes a stronger visual impact. It is also important to think about color throughout the various seasons, including winter interest. It can be tempting to purchase all of the blooming plants that look beautiful at the moment. What about maintenance? I have a busy schedule and want a beautiful landscape, but want to keep the maintenance low. Georgia: For lower maintenance I suggest staging blooming color and foliage/textural interest in the shrub material, and keeping the perennial color close to the front door and right around the back patio, where we can see and enjoy the color, while keeping the maintenance manageable. Don’t forget about evergreens! They require little to no maintenance if an appropriately sized variety is selected. Colorado is brown for four or more fall/winter months, and evergreens give structure and visual interest throughout the winter as well. Any additional thoughts about plants? Georgia: Have fun and experiment. Some plants will work, and some will fail. Plant more of the ones that work, tear out the ones that fail and try something new! Your landscape is a living, changing canvas. joy it!
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970.226-5677 www.lindgrenlandscape.com
Why hire a designer? David: In today’s market, the money one invests into their home and the services they seek are more critical than ever. Hiring the right professional to design your landscape can be the most important investment you make and add upwards of 20 percent to the value of your home. With the help of the Internet today, locating a landscape designer has never been easier. How do you know you have found the right designer for your project? David: As with building a home, there are many pieces to the puzzle. Landscape design is no exception. When choosing the right landscape designer, I would suggest looking for at least three things that will ensure the successful implementation of your project. 1. Hire a company that listens to your needs and pays attention to every detail. Companies that take time to listen to your ideas and patiently provide feedback will offer professional, industry-trained suggestions. This will ensure the implementation of a stunning design. In today’s fast paced environment it really makes a difference to sit down and share your thoughts and ideas with a landscape professional that can interpret your outdoor dreams and make them a reality. Lindren takes the time to get to know you as an individual and will incorporate your unique ideas into the landscape of your dreams. 2. Hire an educated professional. Too often businesses offer design services that are provided by CAD Technicians, not trained landscape professionals. Individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture, or Landscape Horticulture will surpass a CAD technician and be able to provide insight and skill to your design. This simple requirement will ensure a successful design by a designer with technical abilities that will work with your vision. 3. Hire a designer with experience. While searching for a designer, ask about their industry experience and training. You would be surprised at how many landscape companies place interns or technicians at the helm of your design to save a buck. Here at Lindgren, our trained staff hold bachelor’s degrees in the landscape industry. Each designer shares his or her individual experiences in a team environment on every project we do. This type of professionalism, in this type of environment, will flesh out the most appropriate design for your residence. Is there any other advice a homeowner should look for in a designer? David: I have never forgotten two pieces of advice my first supervisor ever gave me: The first was to always focus on people and developing relationships. The second was to establish strong technical skills as a designer to provide the right foundations for professional growth. Our industry caters to the individual and is dependent upon providing services with integrity. The many skills we bring, like our extensive plant knowledge, construction knowledge and ability to design outdoor spaces that function beautifully is our most important asset. A skilled professional will be able to discuss every detail with you and make you feel comfortable in their skill sets right from the start. For more information about landscape design, call Lindgren Landscape & Irrigation at (970) 226-5677 or visit www. lindgrenlandscape.com.
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Building & Landscaping Northern Colorado
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Special Advertising Section
Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Special Advertising Section
Building & Landscaping Northern Colorado
Christensen Residence The Christensen’s older concrete patio was at the end of its life, and had begun to crumble. They called on the landscape designers at Hurr Sprinkler & Landscape to find a creative solution – something that would set their landscape apart from others. Their creative solution? “We incorporated two types of materials (cut flagstone and pavers) to create a unique custom patio. The patio was mortared so that it will last for a very long time and you won’t get the heaving that one can expect in Colorado’s freeze-thaw cycles,” says Graham MacGregor, owner of Hurr. To finish the look, Hurr softened the edges of the hardscape with planting beds and added a tranquil pondless water feature that falls into a rock area. “The benefit of a pondless water feature is no maintenance on the pond area with all the benefit of the soothing sounds of running water,” adds MacGregor. For a custom design for your exterior living space, call the professionals at Hurr Sprinkler & Landscape today at (970) 613-0225.
970.613.0225 www.hurrcolorado.com
Special Advertising Section
Building & Landscaping Northern Colorado
Transform Your Outdoor Spaces Surroundings In Northern Colorado, the outdoors were made for living in virtually year round. If the outdoor spaces at your home need some love to make them more enjoyable, Surroundings, the Store for Outdoor Living, has much to offer. We can help you transform an existing space into something more livable using durable outdoor furniture that reflects your style, complemented by the perfect accents. We can also add anything you want to make your space fit your needs and desires: a water feature, an outdoor kitchen, a fireplace or fire pit, low voltage lighting, and more, depending on how you want to use your outdoor room. If you need to start from scratch, Surroundings can help you do that, too. Our professional patio and deck designers can work with you to plan your outdoor living space from the ground up, working within your desires and your budget. And then we’ll build it for you, from laying the foundation to placing the cushions on the chairs. The bright blue Northern Colorado sky is the limit to what we can help you with, so stop in to Surroundings and let’s talk about the possibilities. Style 2013
250 E. Harmony Road #F-6, Fort Collins
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Water Restrictions by Municipality Fort Collins Response Level One
Water, Water, Everywhere?
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Lawn watering will be allowed two days per week.
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Even residential addresses: Thursday and Sunday.
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Odd residential addresses: Wednesday and Saturday.
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Commercial/businesses, multi-family and HOAs: Tuesday and Friday.
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Use a shut-off nozzle when watering with a hose.
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No watering between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. or on Mondays (even with a permit).
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Car washing: shut-off nozzle and bucket required.
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Impervious surfaces: washing with water not allowed.
By Michelle Venus
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Hot town, summer in the city.
o goes the iconic Lovin’ Spoonful lyrics. Given the existing drought conditions, it could be a long, hot summer. According to the National Drought Mitigation Center, Northern Colorado is currently experiencing moderate drought. Unless the region sees significantly more precipitation, residents can expect mandatory water restrictions implemented this summer. Response Level One restrictions began April 1 for all Fort Collins Water Department customers. The City of Greeley prohibits lawn watering from January 1 to April 30 annually and recommends that residents water only once a week starting in May. The goal is to bring lawns out of dormancy slowly, saving significant amounts of water. Consider this: In the average American home, toilet flushing accounts for 800 gallons of water use per week. Ten minutes in the shower sends 40 gallons down the drain. Running a faucet for five minutes uses as much electricity (for water purification, delivery and treatment) as burning a 60 watt light bulb for 14 hours. Outdoor water use – most of which is used to irrigate turf areas – is responsible for nearly 55 percent of all residential water use in Front Range urban areas. It makes sense to preserve and protect this not-so-abundant natural resource. Here are a few ideas that can be easily incorporated into daily life, saving both water and money. Lucas Mouttet, Water Conservation Coordinator for the City of Fort Collins, recommends
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taking a good hard look at your landscape. “Just cutting back on how many days you water is helpful,” he says. “But you can go a step further by removing some turf areas and replacing them with xeric perennials and shrubs. Instead of planting Blue Grass, you can plant a more native grass like Blue Gramma or Buffalo Grass, or some mixture of those two.” The City allows native grasses to grow to a height of 12 inches versus 6 inches for Blue Grass. Double bonus: less water use and less mowing. Make sure your irrigation system is working properly. If there are dry patches in your lawn, water them with a sprinkler instead of turning on the entire sprinkler system. And never, ever water in the heat of the day. Too much H2O is lost to evaporation. Keep in mind, too, that City restrictions overrule HOA regulations. Inside, there are plenty of conservation opportunities. Install low-flow showerheads, faucets, faucet restrictors or aerators. These inexpensive devices can save upwards of five gallons a minute. A leaky faucet loses 2,700 gallons of water in a year. Fix it. When replacing appliances or fixtures, purchase the most efficient models you can afford. Most manufacturers have low-flow or dual-flush toilets in their product lines. Only run full loads of laundry and dishes. Wash produce in a partially filled sink instead of running the water over them. Keep a pitcher of chilled water in the fridge instead of running the faucet to cool it. Turn off the water when brushing teeth and soaping up hands. Small changes make a big difference.
Loveland and Windsor
No restrictions at time of writing.
Greeley
No restrictions at time of writing, though voluntary adherence to Level One Restrictions is strongly recommended.
Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
home & garden
Designing Your Outdoor Kitchen Our patio spaces are a reflection of our love for the outdoors; these spaces are well used to entertain friends and relax as families. Having an outdoor kitchen area, large or small, is one more avenue to enjoy our many days of sunshine. Here are three outdoor kitchen professionals who share with us luxury kitchens at a variety of price points – and offer up valuable insight on where to splurge and where to save when planning an outdoor kitchen. Alpine Gardens, Surroundings and Lindgren Landscape & Irrigation can create an outdoor space on any budget and their professionals all agree: when you are planning an outdoor kitchen space, working with a design expert is a must.
Photo courtesy of Alpine Gardens
Spending $10,000 - $12,000 The first step in planning an outdoor kitchen is to understand how you are going to use the space, according to Kris Nylander with Alpine Gardens. “What is the proximity to the indoor kitchen?” If the outdoor kitchen and the indoor kitchen are close to each other, then a running sink outdoors may not be necessary – and can save you money on your outdoor kitchen design. Next, says Nylander, is to consider where it is important to spend the bulk of your budget. High ticket items such as the countertops and outdoor grill are the two important choices. “In the last 15 to 20 years, outdoor grills have changed a lot.” He recommends purchasing a professional grill with longer lasting burners and better performance. Outdoor countertops need to be durable and hold up well in a variety of weather conditions. If you purchase something that will need sealed from time to time, Nylander says to make the commitment to upkeep or go for a more durable material. One way to save on your outdoor kitchen is to forego pricey materials such as granite or stone. “Go with less expensive materials that tie into the texture of the house.” Nylander’s tip for getting the most out of your outdoor kitchen: don’t forget the storage space. “People always wish they had put in more storage. For an extra $500, splurge on another set of stainless steel storage doors.” Note: Pricing reflects outdoor kitchens only, not additional landscaping or shade structures.
Photo courtesy of Surroundings
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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Photo courtesy of Lindgren Landscape & Irrigation
Spending $15,000 - $20,000 “Spending $15 to $20K will get you a well outfitted outdoor kitchen and serving area,” says Andy Mill, managing member at Surroundings in Fort Collins. Some of the upgrades you can expect at this price point are granite countertops, an outdoor rated refrigerator, stainless steel storage doors and drawers, a seasonal sink and integrated lighting. Mill cautions homeowners to choose the right outdoor materials: “choose high quality, durable finish materials that won’t warp, rot, fade or crack. And incorporate quality appliances that will last the lifetime of the kitchen. Most of all, work with installers that have experience and with someone who can demonstrate the appliances – not just show you a pretty picture of what is available.” Other considerations include identifying the right location and orientation for your outdoor kitchen, estimating the number of guests you would like to entertain on a normal basis and giving thought to the function and flow of your outdoor kitchen – just as you would an indoor kitchen. Mill warns against trying to fit an outdoor kitchen into an existing space that doesn’t support the overall function of the new space. He suggests consulting a professional who is familiar with outdoor kitchen designs to get the best result for your investment. Mills favorite outdoor kitchen splurge? Rheostat controlled wall and ceiling infrared heaters. “They can extend the use of your outdoor kitchen to year round.”
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Spending $30,000 - $65,000+ High-end outdoor kitchens can cost as much as the indoor version and with an open budget, the bells and whistles abound. From warming drawers to Chicago-style pizza ovens to custom Brazilian granite countertops, the choices are endlessly beautiful and functional, according to Mitch Benshoof and Georgia Perry, landscape designers with Lindgren Landscape. Perry recommends paying as much attention to the infrastructure of your kitchen as you do to the shiny finishing touches. “This is an outdoor kitchen, so I always recommend either masonry or a steel frame with cement board where possible to minimize the risk of moisture penetration and rot over time, which can cause stone and stucco to fail.” Function is paramount, she says. “The kitchen needs to be functional first, then beautiful. Design is key to achieving both. Consider circulation, proximity to the home and your primary uses for the space. The beauty comes in where finishes and appliances are selected to complement the home, personalize the space and create a fluid extension of the interior.” Benshoof adds: “Aside from the client’s overall goals, we as designers want to create a space that is usable all year around. The more you bring homeowners and their guests to the outdoors to cook and serve, the more they begin to enjoy the landscape as a whole.” Perry says her favorite splurge is an outdoor grill with infrared searing. “When this technology first came out, we received a demonstration from our vendors on a LYNX infrared grill; they cooked salmon for us in a matter of six minutes and it was the best salmon I have ever had!”
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travel
Copper Mountain Resort:
Not Just for Skiing By Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer Most Coloradans are familiar with Copper Mountain Resort as a ski destination, but it is ideal for families looking for an easy summer getaway. Just two and a half hours from Fort Collins, everything is within walking distance at Copper, so you can leave your car in the parking garage for the weekend and concentrate on playing.
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During summer months Copper hosts a festival nearly every weekend; from yoga to jazz. My husband and I decided to plan our trip around the Genuine Jazz and Wine Festival that takes place annually on the last weekend of August. We arrived on a Friday afternoon and checked into our room; a studio apartment with a full kitchen, huge bathroom, flat screen television and Murphy bed. After settling in we decided to ride the chairlift before the sun went down. The lift is free with a Summer Activity Pass or with any $10 purchase in Copper Village. At the top we bought a couple beers and admired the views. As the sun dipped in the sky it became chilly so the chairlift operators let us finish our beer while riding back down the mountain. Riding a chairlift and drinking a beer is little piece of Colorado heaven. Later, we landed at Alpinista during happy hour. Lots of Copper Mountain Resort’s restaurants entice diners by offering amazing specials during the summer and Alpinista is no exception. We dined on 50 cent wings, enjoyed $3 beer and met the owner, Peter. He loves to cook and to talk about his food and we made a note to come back sometime for the fondue dinner, a real deal during off-season. We spent the evening listening to pianist Alex Bugnon and guitarist Nick Colionne who played until well after midnight at Genuine Jazz. Colionne is one of the most entertaining showmen I’ve ever had the pleasure of seeing live, and this was our favorite night of the event. On Saturday, after making breakfast in our condo, we decided to utilize our Summer Activity Passes. As we waited for the zipline to open,
we took a leisurely stroll around the village, spying some big trout in the pretty river that cuts through the resort. At 10 a.m. we were ready to experience the zipline across West Lake. This was my first zip line experience and it was a good way to wade into the activity. I loved every second of my two rides, despite my fear of heights. After ziplining, we walked over to the go-kart area, where my husband soundly beat me in race after race. I fear the hosts of Top Gear would be disappointed in my poor go-kart driving skills. Then we checked out a couple Digglers, rugged scooters with a weird name, perfect for cruising between Center and East Village. We scooted down to East Village and had lunch at JJ’s Grill. I recommend the pizza and a seat on the big patio overlooking the Copper Creek Golf Course. On the way back we discovered that Center Village is uphill from East Village, and after the climb we needed a nap. The Summer Activity Pass offers unlimited access to bungee, mini-golf, Diggler rental, chairlift rides, lake activities, bike/equipment haul, climbing wall and go-karts. The zipline is not included, but is just $15 per person for two zips. After our much-needed nap we boarded the chairlift and disembarked on a hike. High altitude hiking can take your breath away, but the views are worth a little shortness of breath and sweat. We spied several fat marmots bathing in the sun and squirrels chattered at us as we made our way through forest and across rock outcroppings. Before heading out on a hike at the top of Copper be sure you know when the last chairlift is heading down the mountain;
Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
otherwise you might be forced to walk all the way back to the Village. The rest of the weekend was a whirlwind of jazz, wine and fun. We tasted a lot of different wine and listened to famous jazz musicians like Ronnie Laws and Stanley Jordan. While in Copper, we also got to tour Woodward, a playground for everyone from pro athletes to kids. The Barn, a 20,000 square foot indoor facility, has artificial Snowflex, foam pits, spring floors, an Olympic fly-bed trampoline, skate bowls, mini ramps and a lot more. You can book various sessions at Woodward, and they have something for every age and every level of talent. Copper Mountain Resort is definitely quieter during summer than in ski season, but if you are looking for a peaceful getaway, perhaps with a festival in the background, this might be the place for your next summer family vacation or weekend getaway. Everything is within easy walking distance, including activities, restaurants and shopping, so it’s an ideal destination for families and family reunions. Check out Copper online at CopperColorado.com.
Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer is a freelance writer and professional blogger at HeidiTown.com, the source for Colorado festival and travel information. Her articles have appeared in IndependentTraveler.com and EnCompass Magazine.
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lifestyle
Kate Dardine, Still Wild
Janice Sugg, Three Crows on an Orange Field
Sushe Felix, Valley Sunrise
Martin Lambuth, American Idle
Expanding the Palette:
The Governor’s Invitational Art Show By Carl Simmons
When people come to this year’s Governor’s Invitational Art Show & Sale at the Loveland Museum/Gallery, they may notice that things are a little different from previous shows.
“We’re making some pretty big changes,” says show director Pam Osborn. “This year, for the first time, we looked at all mediums. We not only looked at paintings and sculptures, but we purposely looked for more modern things as well, in different mediums. This year we’ve got some monotypes, paper art, even a
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woodburning artist. I think that over the years this change will become even more apparent.” Works from more than four dozen artists will be on display. The Governor’s Show, which runs from April 28 through June 2, is celebrating its 22nd year. John Freeman, of Freeman Architects in Loveland,
was there from the first show, and served as show chairman for the past 10 years. “When I first came to town, I became aware of a lot of artists including George Lundeen and Fritz White, who really founded the art scene here,” Freeman says. “They and others realized they needed an art show, and began holding it at Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
George’s house around 1979 and 1980. It really marked Loveland as an art town.” He continues: “The show got too big for George’s house, so then we sold it to the (Loveland and Thompson Valley) Rotary Clubs. At the time we called it the Rotary Sculpture Show, because there was no other art; I still call it that. Jan Pierce, a really talented painter, got involved and ran the show for six years, and 22 years ago renamed it the Governor’s Show.” As well as showcasing works by artists statewide, the Governor’s Show serves as a fundraiser for the Rotary Clubs. “Both clubs do a lot,” adds current show chair Nanci Garnand. “It’s pretty amazing what they do.” Past and current projects the show has supported include academic scholarships, the international Youth Exchange Program, and other student programs; as well as the creation of the amphitheater at North Lake Park and the Loveland Recreational Trail. “The event not only raises funds for the good works that Rotary does, but the artists get paid,” says Garnand. As with past years, the show offers works of art for sale and raffles off pieces. This year, both the number of pieces and the opportunities to purchase tickets has increased. Six pieces, including sculptures and painting, will be raffled this year. In addition, tickets will not only be offered by the Rotary Clubs or at the museum, but at a variety of locations around downtown Loveland. The show is preceded by the gala opening, held at the museum on Saturday, April 27, from 5 to 9 p.m.; a wide variety of works by past and present Governor’s Show artists will be featured. Tickets for the gala are $65 in advance, or $75 at the door. “It’s just a wonderful night,” Garnand says. Another event held the same day is the Art Theater by participating show artist Scott Freeman. “He’ll be creating a brand-new piece of art for us live, to musical accompaniment,” Osborn says. The roughly half-hour-long event begins at 2 p.m. and will be held at Bill Reed Middle School (370 West 4th Street); admission is free to the public. Show admission at the Loveland Museum/ Gallery is $5. However, the museum will be open for free on Mother’s Day (May 12), as well as the final Friday of the show, May 30.
22nd Annual Governor’s Invitational Art Show & Sale Show open to the public Sunday, April 28 through Sunday, June 2, 2013. Gala opening event to be held Saturday, April 27, at the Loveland Museum/Gallery, 5th Street and Lincoln Avenue, Loveland. www.governorsartshow.org For gala tickets or more information: GovernorsArtShow@gmail.com, or (970) 663-0919 Style 2013
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eat Grilled Avocado
GOOD GRILLIN’ We Love Healthy BBQ By ANGELINE GRENZ
For many of us, barbeque season is whenever you don’t have to brush snow off the grill. But there is an excitement when the weather warms up enough that you can lovingly tend your dinner without donning a parka. As the temps warm up this month, Coloradans are ready to grill. Often when we talk barbequing, we think about meat: slathered with sauce and the smoky taste of charcoal. But grill season can offer so much more, primarily the opportunity to add that same smoky appeal to vegetables, heads of lettuce, even fruit. Ta da! Healthy grilling. The benefits of grilling as a cooking method are that you can impart bold flavor without a lot of fat and calories – if you watch your ingredients. Marinating meats is one healthy way to cut down on calories, rather than slathering on the barbeque sauce.
Other delightful grilled options: an entire head of Romaine lettuce that has been lightly brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with salt and pepper. Or veggie kabobs, with your favorite vegetables, drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette dressing. Delicious and healthy! For dessert, try grilled fruits, glazed with melted butter and brown sugar. Brush glaze onto peaches, pineapple, pears or bananas. Grill for 5 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally. Top with cream or Greek yogurt. That’s just the beginning. Local Fort Collins culinary instructor, Linda Hoffman, shares with us two of her grilling favorites. One is her famous Whiskey Marinade and the other a great new way to treat avocados.
1 tbsp. olive oil 1 tbsp. lime juice 2 large ripe avocados, halved, seeded and peeled 1/4 tsp. kosher salt 1/4 cup picante sauce or chopped tomato and jalapeno Shredded cheese Snipped fresh cilantro Salad greens Sour cream (optional) Stir together olive oil and lime juice. Brush avocados with the mixture, and sprinkle the cut sides of the avocado with salt. Grill cut side down on for about 5 minutes until browned. Turn avocado halves and fill them with picante sauce and shredded cheese. Cover and grill 5 minutes more until cheese melts. Remove from grill, sprinkle tops with snipped cilantro. Serve on a bed of salad greens, if desired, or as a side dish to grilled meat or fish.
Jameson’s Irish Whiskey Marinade ¼ cup Jameson’s Irish whiskey ¼ cup cider vinegar 2 tbsp. honey 1 to 2 sprigs fresh thyme 1 tsp. fresh lemon zest 2 tbsp. grapeseed oil Salt and pepper Combine all the ingredients in a small bowl. Place pork tenderloin, steaks, chops or salmon fillets in an unreactive shallow pan, marinate for 30 minutes, and grill, brushing with more marinade up until the last 3 minutes of grill time. Discard any unused marinade, and serve with grilled asparagus and Portabella Mushrooms, sliced after grilling.
Linda Hoffman is the owner of Come Back to the Table, where she teaches classes featuring healthy recipes that call for fresh, local ingredients, and she is now celebrating 10 years in business! Visit her website at www.comebacktothetable.com.
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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
French Country Estate! Equestrian ranch on 35 Acres just north of Fort Collins Exquisite craftsmanship throughout with vaulted beam ceilings and Australian cypress floors. Top of the line granite kitchen features triple ovens, 6 burner Wolf gas range, pot-filler and Subzero refrigerator. Hearth room with fireplace has incredible views of Rocky Mountain National Park and the city lights of Fort Collins. Luxury master suite has fireplace, built in tv, jetted tub and huge walk in closet. Large formal dining room, great room has fireplace and wet bar, executive wood paneled office with french doors; two additional guest suites with private baths. Five car attached garage, barn holds up to 18 stalls. Natural Gas and Northern CO water. Additional permitted well is drilled, secondary building site.
Robin Acromite Your Colorado Broker CRS, CSP, CDPE 4703-A Boardwalk Drive Fort Collins, CO 80525 Cell: (970) 420-8815 Office: (800) 844-7469
www.HotColoradoProperties.com
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family f o cu s
Kids
Give Back
Ask parents what types of people they want their children to grow into, and most will mention kind or loving. We want our children to grow up to be engaged individuals who give to others, who get involved. Knowing what it’s like to get them to unload the dishwasher, you may wonder how? Research from the Corporation for National and Community Service shows that the best way to build interest and engagement in community is to start early. Kids who have had volunteer opportunities in the past are more likely to do it again, more likely to recruit others (especially family), and more likely to graduate from high school. Students who have had service learning projects in middle or high school are 63 percent more likely to pay attention to world events and three times more likely to believe that their efforts effect change in their community. Probably most importantly, children who see their parents volunteer will do so themselves. Clearly, getting involved opens a child’s eyes to the world beyond their front yard and helps shift focus from themselves to others. But how old should they be? Jamie Suess, Volunteer Engagement Coordinator for United Way of Larimer County, says, “Many organizations have a 13 years or older requirement, but some do have jobs for younger children. Check our Volunteer Resource Guide or call a nonprofit and ask.” The United Way’s website, www.uwaylc.org,
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By Corey Radman
has many suggestions for youth service projects as well as the Volunteer Resource Guide with a list of organizations that can use help. Another good resource is www.volunteermatch.org, which matches volunteers with projects and organizations who need help. Narrow your search results to youth. Suess also runs a program called, Service to Go. She can bring a service project to a classroom or youth group, help the children make the project and then deliver it to the agency that needs it. For instance, she worked with one classroom that made fleece scarves for homeless families. Another group made Thinking of You cards for Meals on Wheels clients. Here are a few other youth project ideas from United Way: • Organize a trash pick of neighborhoods, trails, rivers or campgrounds
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Make holiday or birthday cards
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Bring flowers to someone
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Create an event or games for younger children to use/attend
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Write a letter to legislators about an issue that is important to you
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Do arts and crafts with a population of your interest and/or as a fundraiser
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Share your talents with a local hospice or nursing home
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Coordinate a collection drive (diapers, socks, camping gear, books, coins), then distribute the materials
Generally speaking, call first and talk to the directors/owners of the organization you are trying to help to see what they really need and how they would like to receive that help. The population served doesn’t have to be a nonprofit, there are many people who need assistance. Look around your immediate neighborhood and see what needs doing. The research on engaged youth indicates that the most influential part of service is reflection after the volunteering is complete. How did your child feel? What did they observe? What impact did this project make in others’ lives? That process, probably more than any other, helps kids draw connections between what they did and the effect it had. April is National Volunteer Month. Take the opportunity to get involved and see what a difference you and your kids can make.
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Create a scarecrow for a community garden
Corey Radman is a National Press Women award winner and regular contributor to Style. Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
kids • play • fun • health • activities
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DowntownFortCollins.com Downtown Fort Collins is a vibrant historic area of Fort Collins in the city’s central business district and cultural center hosting the majority of festivals, live music, local breweries, theater, and art galleries. The Downtown Business Association, an organization dedicated to promoting downtown and helping it thrive, produces over eighty event days a year, has sold over one million dollars in Downtown Fort Collins gift cards and advocates for downtown and its member businesses. Downtown has a strong history of quality shopping, live entertainment, brew tours, and great local restaurants. Don’t miss patio dining and the summer festival season in Downtown Fort Collins!
CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 5 First Friday featuring Gallery Walk April 6 Winter Market April 19 Fort Collins Foodie Walk April 19 & 20 FoCoMX (Fort Collins Music experiment) May 3 First Friday featuring Gallery Walk May 4 Cinco de Mayo Fort Collins May 5 Colorado Marathon May 17 Fort Collins Foodie Walk May 18 French Nest Open Air Market May 25 & 26 Realities for Children Ride and Rally
Proud Supporters Of Your Downtown Businesses
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DowntownFortCollins.com GIFT CARDS ARE THE PERFECT GIFT! Good at over 125 downtown businesses accept Downtown Gift Cards! Tasty restaurants, unique boutique shopping, live entertainment, art galleries, all in a historic setting! These gift cards available at the Downtown Visitors Center and Cache Bank and Trust or by calling 970-484-6500.
Downtown events happen all year round, but a few big festivals coming up in early in 2013 are: FoCoMX: The Fort Collins Music Experiment this April is a music lovers paradise! Over 200 Northern Colorado bands perform at over 20 venues for one weekend of great music experiences. This music event is produced by the Fort Collins Musicians Association (FoCoMA) is celebrating its 5th year of showcasing our amazing local talent.
The Fort Collins Foodie Walk is a self-guided walk that occurs each month and will feature new presentations, tasting opportunities, and themes each month. Who is a foodie? Foodies are people who simply love food for consumption, study, preparation, and recreation. Foodies wish to learn everything about food, the best and the ordinary, and take in the science, industry, history, and characters surrounding food. Culinary shops in Downtown Fort Collins focus on unique quality ingredients, locally sourced and organic produce in their shops. The Fort Collins Foodie Walk offers a way for people to explore and enjoy the world of food and spices!
MORE INFO AT
DowntownFortCollins.com
Proud Media Supporters Of Your Downtown Businesses northern colorado
MEDICAL W E L L N E S S &
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G I N G E R B R E A D H O M E F O R T H E H O L I D AY S ! December 1 :: Foothills Fashion Mall :: Fort Collins Hundreds of community members came to view 21 teams of up to three people create a custom work of art at this timed gingerbread house building competition. Teams vied for the title of Most Creative, Judge’s Choice or People’s Choice. The inaugural family event raised more than $13,000 for The Center of Family Outreach and their programs offering education, intervention and support for families who are challenged by the adolescent years. Photos courtesy of Andrew Scott and Sue Wagner.
Cindy DeGroot, Carrie Baumgart, Ashlee Baumgart Markley Motors Team
Karen Kehler, Jared Marumoto, Kristi Arnold Soukup Bush & Associates Team
Debbie Basset, Jenny Kaplan, Georgine Osborne Tynan’s Nissan Team Peoples Choice Award
2 0 1 3 N C M C F O U N D AT I O N G A L A - I N D I A N B A Z A A R January 26 :: Embassy Suites Hotel, Spa & Conference Center :: Loveland A record-setting 635 guests enjoyed a full evening at the 24th annual NCMC Foundation Gala. With the backdrop of an Indian bazaar, this black-tie event provided plenty of the sights and sounds of Indian culture including Indian-style cuisine and specialty drinks, traditional and Bollywood dance performances, a traditional sitar player, drummer and Indian vocalist, and much more. The Knights of Swallows (KOS) were presented the 2013 NCMC Foundation Legacy Award for their distinguished service and commitment to improving healthcare in our region. KOS has contributed over $300,000 to the Western States Burn Center at NCMC through their annual golf tournament fundraiser. The evening festivities raised a record $210,000 for the North Colorado Medical Center Cancer Institute. Photos courtesy of Juan Leal.
Gina & Greg Pickerel
Rick & Bonnie Sutton
Curtis & Ryann Crylen, Jim & Cindy Wolach
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Mike & Lori Shoop
Lydia Dody, Nancy Clark
Wayne Smith, Ron Hanson, Jerry Clinkscales 2013 NCMC Foundation Legacy Award Honorees-Knights of Swallows KOS Original Founding Members
Jill & Mike Trotter
Richard Halbert, Janice Ranson
Annie Backer, Jim Reagan, Collin & Sarah Richardson, Laura & Tyler Richardson Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
B U T T E R F LY K I S S E S D A N C E February 1, 2, 3 :: Christ Center Community Church :: Fort Collins Daughters of all ages, some from outside the state, came looking their best to spend quality time with their dads at the 16th annual Butterfly Kisses Dance, sponsored by Encore! Encore! This special “date with dad” event provided an environment of socializing and dancing for the more than 3,000 daughters and their fathers or father figures. Dance tunes like “Cotton Eye Joe,” “Butterfly Kisses” and One Direction’s “What Makes you Beautiful” helped filled the dance floor and to create special memories for all. Proceeds from the event benefit Encore! Encore! and their mission to provide clean family entertainment to the community. Photos courtesy of Expression Photography. Ellie Smith, Andy Smith, Maddy Smith, Molly Smith
Lee Carter, Brenda Dyer
Style 2013
Russell Young, Brianna Young
Keith Schulz, Lillian Schulz
David Lundy, Abby Lundy
Janessa Bryant, Craig Bryant, Jocelyn Bryant, Juliette Bryant
Dan Christen, Kayla Christen
Reza Zadeh, Olivia Zadeh
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S I M P LY R E D February 8 :: Hilton :: Fort Collins Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this popular fundraiser had 325 guests in attendance, with many dressed in red elegance. The event included a delicious dinner, cocktails, a silent auction and the presentation of the Lamplighter Award to Patty and Rayno Seaser for being a ‘light’ in the community with their commitment to youth and education. The evening raised more than $23,000 for TEAM and their educational programs that focus on preventing the use and abuse of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs among our youth, their families and our community. Photos courtesy of Craig Vollmer Photography.
Roger & Susie Sample, Ryan & Cassandra Wedel
Harry Devereaux, Terri & Mark Burke
Tim & Candy Wirt, Connie & John Hanrahan
Standing- John Busby, Nathan Ewert, Jennifer Ewert, Jennifer McLoudrey Seated- Greg Harrell, Jody Harrell, Lisa Beard, David Beard
Patty & Rayno Seaser Lamplighter Award Recipients
Ron Lautzenheiser, Nancy Richardson, Mike Demma, Patty Seaser, Rayno Seaser, Art Bravoso, Johnna Bravoso, Laurie Klith, Brownie McGraw, Bob Powell – all former Lamplighter Award Recipients
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SPREAD THE LOVE February 14 :: The Silver Grille :: Fort Collins “Spread the Love” was this Valentine’s Day theme as nearly 160 guests came together to celebrate relationships, partnerships and survivorship at this 7th annual event. The evening raised more than $45,000 for RamStrength and its mission to help improve the lives of local people affected by cancer and to inspire and empower them to live with, through and beyond cancer. To date RamStrength has helped over 500 families in Northern Colorado since 2007. Photos courtesy of Joe Vasos.
Tim Rickett, Kathleen Henry, Julie Rickett
Pat Lyons, Scott Allen, Scott Manning
Becky Himich, Kelsey Rasmussen, Becky Vasos, Jessie Donaldson, Michelle Boyle
Kelly Koza, Heather Benidt, Debi Schwartz, Vicki Caldwell Style 2013
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WOMENGIVE 7TH ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON February 21 :: Embassy Suites Hotel, Spa & Conference Center :: Loveland Nearly 500 women members and their guests attended this luncheon to celebrate WomenGive and their mission to help single mothers with childcare assistance, enabling them to continue their education and achieve economic self-sufficiency. WomenGive also awarded member Janene Dellenbach with the Philanthropist of the Year Award. Since 2006, WomenGive members have invested more than $875,000 in the program, which has resulted in 319 total childcare scholarships that have helped 129 women and 178 children. Photos courtesy of zebrajellyfish.com.
Paula Edwards, Janene Dellenbach
Amanda Miller, Jennifer McLain, Sonia ImMasche
Allison Hines, Kären Siwek
Kim Winger, Prue Kaley, Debbie McCubbin
EMPTY BOWLS February 21 :: Hilton :: Fort Collins Helping to support hunger relief, this community-based dinner provided more than 600 guests with samples of delicious soups from 20 locally owned restaurants. The evening included an art auction, the presentation of the T.S. Berger Award, and each guest took home a one-of-a-kind, handcrafted pottery bowl created by PSD students and local artists. More than $72,000 was raised for the Food Bank of Larimer County to help hunger relief in Larimer County. Photos courtesy of Rich Crowell.
Dave Lundahl, Tom Weinreich, Kate Weinreich
Mary Wright, Annie Brunsell, Jacqueline Franck, Micky Shafer
Julie Hansen Conn, 2013 T.S. Berger Award Recipient
9 th A N N U A L R E A S O N T O H O P E F U N D R A I S I N G L U N C H E O N March 1 :: The Drake Centre :: Fort Collins Over 270 guests at this event had an opportunity to learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and the work of the Alzheimer’s Association in providing critical support and education. The inspirational event included speakers delivering personal testimonies of caregiving to family members with Alzheimer’s. Nearly $33,000 was raised to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association and help continue to provide free services to NOCO clients and fund research. Photos courtesy of Pentico Photography.
Tammy Calhoon, Emmalie Conner, Michael Pearson
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Linda Mitchell, Paul & Patty Bell
Bob & Tammy Calhoon, Ann Show Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
M E O W G A R I TAV I L L E – W H I S K E R S ‘ N WA G S J U B I L E E 2 0 1 3 March 2 :: Hilton :: Fort Collins A crowd of nearly 300 cat lovers enjoyed a purrrfect evening at this 6th annual event. Guests enjoyed silent and live auctions, the renowned Grand Cats one-of-akind art pieces auction, and live music. The evening festivities netted more than $62,000 to benefit Fort Collins Cat Rescue (FCCR) and Fort Collins Spay/Neuter Clinic (FCSNC). Since opening in June 2006, FCCR has had 5,000 adoptions and FCSNC has performed over 23,000 cat/dog neuters and spays. Photos courtesy of Frank Goss.
Ali Eccleston, Sarah Swanty
Jana Dean, Greg Burns
Mariah McCulley, Brett Geer
Mark Wagner, Jane Sulllivan
Christie Long
2013 NORTHERN COLORADO MS DINNER OF CHAMPIONS March 8 :: Hilton :: Fort Collins More than 325 community members came together to honor two influential leaders at the Colorado-Wyoming Chapter, National Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society’s 19th NOCO Dinner of Champions. The 2013 Hope Award was presented to Connie Hanrahan for her exceptional contributions to philanthropy and volunteerism, and Pam Carlson was presented 2013 MS Champion Award for her courage and commitment in the fight of MS. Pam Carlson was diagnosed with MS in 2002 and has been a top fundraiser in NOCO for the past seven years. Nearly $100,000 was raised to support Chapter programs and the promising research that benefits people in Colorado and Wyoming affected with MS. Photos courtesy of zebrajellyfish.com.
Larry Kendall, Gene Humphries, Pat Kendall Style 2013
Steve Nichols, Connie Hanrahan (2013 Hope Award Recipient), Dennis Houska
Violette & Tom Gorell
Pam Carlson (2013 MS Champion Award Recipient ), Phil Yarrow
Brian & Robbin Flockhart
Alison Hawsey, Linda Clark, Chris Haase
Amanda Keare, Franco Korpics
SueEllen & Travis White
Barb Morgan, Carol Zick
Susan Barstad, Brooke Raymond, Dick Raymond, Kaylin Daniels, Jenny Tauchman
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SHARIN’ O’ THE GREEN March 16 :: Library Park :: Fort Collins A nippy, overcast day greeted nearly 3,000 runners and walkers at this 15th annual Downtown event. Participants, many with baby carriages, strollers or pets, and many sporting green regalia, warmed up quickly as they ran or walked the 5K course. A kids’ fun run kicked off the morning activities and awards were presented to top finishers and teams at the end. More than $50,000 was netted for Partners Mentoring Youth and their programs to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships between positive adult role models and youth facing challenges in their personal, social and academic lives.
The Knudsen Family-Kyler holds Kailani, Laura, Deacon
Scott Slusher, Celeste O’Connor, Jessie Wilburn
Teri Frerichs (Teri O’ Teri), Richard & Robin Schneider
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WA G S T O W I S H E S March 16 :: Marriott :: Fort Collins Long stem roses and a full evening of excitement greeted 140 guests at the first annual Wags to Wishes event. Guests enjoyed live music, a silent auction, an adoptable dog parade, delicious dinner, live entertainment, a spirited live auction and more. The inaugural event resulted in adopting out all dogs in the dog parade and raised $16,000 to benefit Denkai Sanctuary and its mission to promote healthy environments in which people and animals interact and connect through applied, environmental and educational programs to cultivate mental and physical health. Photos courtesy of Tumbleweed Photography.
Connor Hill, Cyndi Schaeffer, Terri Grounds, Karl Schaeffer
Melissa Carroll, Rose Carroll, Lynn Richardson
Jen & Brad Shannon holding Candy Style 2013
Steven C. Wainz holding Dozer
Pam Pierce, Vickie Marlatt
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noco voice
Envirofit Combines Business and Benefit By Elissa J. Tivona
Warm weather signals the return of backyard barbecues – a summer highlight for Ron Bills, CEO and chairman of the board of nonprofit Envirofit in Fort Collins. If you snag an invitation, you might catch a glimpse of Bills grilling burgers on the G-3300, one of the premiere Clean Cookstoves manufactured and marketed by Envirofit.
Though rare in Fort Collins, G-3300s and other similar models in Envirofit’s growing line of Clean Cookstoves, are used daily in over 500,000 homes in some of the most remote regions of India, Africa and South and Central America. The net result for families that use them: the reduction of 65 percent of carbon dioxide, 80 percent of smoke and toxic emissions, and 40 percent of black carbon. Ron Bills couldn’t be prouder of this record. Established as a social enterprise in 2003, Envirofit was founded on a simple premise, “to develop well-engineered technology solutions to improve the human condition on a global scale, with a primary emphasis on applications in the developing world.” The company’s philosophy emphasizes social benefit as a key component of their business model: “No family should have to suffer from the devastating effects of indoor air pollution. Envirofit is committed to producing high quality, rigorously tested, clean energy products. We believe everyone deserves access to products, which are durable, affordable and desirable.” This ambitious vision was originally born at Colorado State University’s Engines and Energy Conversion Laboratory (EECL). Bryan Wilson, founder of EECL and a mechanical engineering professor at CSU, started cook stove research and testing at the university to address the acute global crisis of indoor air pollution (IAP). “According to the World Health Organization, over 3.5 billion people – about half of the world's population – cook their daily meals indoors over cooking fires fueled by biomass (wood, charcoal or animal dung). The resulting indoor
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Top: Envirofit’s Executive Team: Randall Monson, Vice-President of Finance & Chief Financial Officer; Nathan Lorenz, Vice-President of Engineering, Director & Envirofit Co-Founder; Ron Bills, CEO and Chairman of the Board; Tim Bauer, Vice-President of Operations, Director & Envirofit Co-Founder Bottom: An Envirofit Clean Cookstove in use; it can reduce 65 percent of carbon dioxide, 80 percent of smoke and toxic emissions, and 40 percent of black carbon.
air pollution kills 2 million people every year... More than 85 percent of these deaths are women and children under the age of five,” points out Mac McGoldrick, Operations Manager at EECL. With access to an exceptional mix of talent and academic resources, EECL was well suited to tackle a crisis of this magnitude. A team of scientists, engineers and students at CSU and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory set to work redesigning the cook stove’s combustion chamber using a proprietary alloy which vastly improved the stove’s efficiency and reduced toxic emissions. However, the challenge of marketing the scientifically proven solution appeared even more daunting than the initial product development. To achieve any appreciable decline in indoor air pollution, hundreds of millions of primitive stoves on every continent had to be replaced, a tall order for any business. For the visionary group of social entrepreneurs like Wilson and his founding partners, Paul Hudnut, Tim Bauer and Nathan Lorenz at Envirofit, it looked like an opportunity. Enter Ron Bills, former CEO of Segway and experienced manager of worldwide business operations for multiple corporations. Bills joined Envirofit as CEO and Chairman of the Board in January of 2004 and helped the company identify partners to bring an enterprise-based commercial approach to the manufacture and distribution of the stoves. “In 2007, the EECL and Envirofit International partnered with the Shell Foundation and together we agreed that the IAP problem had to be solved through market-thinking and private sector involvement,” reports McGoldrick.
As a result, Envirofit champions a business model that reaches people at the base of the economic pyramid, not only as product consumers but also as business partners in product distribution. Bills points to the company’s program in India as an example of how the model works. “Envirofit’s program in India brings women to the center of the cook stove distribution table. [We] work with multiple women’s organizations including Fullerton India, Friend’s of Women’s World Banking and the Integrated Village Development Project (IVDP) with a network of more than 180,000 women. To date IVDP… has distributed around 10,000 Envirofit cook stoves to its members and is planning for a much bigger program in 2013.” Grassroots outreach through networks of business partners like those in India show real promise for significant reduction of indoor air pollution. According to Envirofit calculations, the impact to-date of converting 500,000 households to the clean technology cook stoves has reduced carbon dioxide emissions by over 6.25 million tons, allowed 2.5 million people to breathe easier and saved almost 16.5 million trees. Ron Bills and colleagues at Envirofit and the EECL are optimistic that numbers like these will inspire other entrepreneurs to follow in their footsteps, rising to serious global challenges with creativity and innovation. Elissa J. Tivona is a writer and international educator living in Fort Collins. Find her online at www.thepeacecorrespondent.com. Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
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