2014-06 Lydia's Style Magazine by Style Media & Design, Inc.

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Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

Style 2014

THE VOICE OF NORTHERN COLORADO FOR

30 YEARS.

s t y le me d ia a n d d es i g n , i n c .

| 970.226.6400 |

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 / BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Austin Lamb | austin@stylemedia.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVES Jon Ainslie (970) 219-9226 Lydia Dody (970) 227-6400 Tanya Horn (970) 980-7936 David Knight (970) 619-9846 Elaine Ryan (970) 541-4915 OFFICE MANAGER/ABOUT TOWN EDITOR Ina Szwec | ina@stylemedia.com ACCOUNTING MANAGER Karla Vigil CIRCULATION MANAGER Trisha Milton COPY EDITOR Corey Radman PHOTOGRAPHER Marcus Edwards Photography CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Malini Bartels, Kyle Eustice, Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer, Corey Radman, Kay Rios, Brad Shannon, Michelle Venus AFFILIATIONS Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce Greeley Chamber of Commerce Loveland Chamber of Commerce 2014 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-Style June-Style July-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness August-Style September-Women’s Health & Breast Cancer October-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness November-Holiday Style December-Best Of & Winter Activities 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 nearly 300 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 ©2014 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.

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Style 2014

the article, and some people even commented that until they read about us, they weren’t aware of our business. Thank you,

our ad and hope families choose to utilize our service and take back their yard. Thanks again, Rob Harris, Owner, The Mosquito Authority

Carol Hass, Office Manager Siena Wood Floors THANK YOUS

I want to express my appreciation for the wonderful feature of sharing with our community the rehabilitation services that are available to the citizens of Northern Colorado. NCRH exemplifies a commitment to quality of rehabilitation services by being rated in the top 2 percent in the nation. Our four full time Physical Medicine physicians provide 24/7 care specializing in rehabilitation. Having a warm water therapy pool and a 6,000 sq. ft. gym assist our patients in their rehabilitation outcomes. It is very rewarding to partner with our patients and families so that over 85 percent of our patients go back home. Thank you, again, for partnering with NCRH to tell our story to our community of Northern Colorado. Sharon R. Scheller, Ed.D. Area Chief Executive Officer Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital Northern Colorado Long Term Acute Hospital Thank you for the Business Profile on Siena Wood Floors in the April issue of Style Magazine. We have had calls and comments on both the article and on our ads. Everyone really liked

What a thrill to receive my Style this month! Angie you did a wonderful job [article: “Furry Portraits for Four-Legged Loved Ones,” May 2014, Lydia’s Style Magazine] and the ad looks very nice and has a whimsical attitude. Thank you. Great issue. Pat Saunders-White, Loveland We wanted you to know how very happy we were with our ad in the May issue of Style and the article on “Mosquito Danger.” This informed your readers of the threat these insects carry of West Nile and other mosquito transmitted diseases. The Mosquito Authority can help homeowners eliminate mosquitoes from their yard so that they can enjoy outdoor living without having to use torches, candles, zappers or repellent. We start with a chemical-free enzyme to break up the mosquito lifecycle, then we use a very mild EPA-approved solution to eradicate and repel adult mosquitoes up to three weeks. We have received numerous calls since the ad ran in the May issue and each one signed up for our Repel Plus Program. We are very happy with the results we have obtained from

UP-TO-DATE

I wanted to pass along how much I have enjoyed reading Style Magazine through the years. As a published author of many books myself, I especially enjoy the articles. In addition, you might find it interesting that over the years I have mailed your Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness issues to my son-in-law while he has been in school. Most recently he had a cardiology fellowship in Kansas City, followed by a fellowship in interventional cardiology. I credit the magazine in keeping him up-to-date and interested in the vibrant medical community in Northern Colorado. In fact, I’m excited to report that he will soon be moving here to take the position of Interventional Cardiologist for Banner Health. Keep up the good work and thank you for sending the magazines! Carol Rehme, Loveland WE LOVE TO HEAR FROM READERS. SEND YOUR COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS TO:

angie@stylemedia.com Phone: 970.226.6400, ext.215 Fax: 970.226.6427 www.stylemagazinecolorado.com

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Style 2014

on the cover Explore the dream home of local homebuilder Jay Brannen and his wife, Melissa, and see what features they couldn’t live without. Cover photo by Warren Diggles.

NOCO STYLE: TRAVEL IN STYLE . . . . . . . . . . . 30 HOME & GARDEN: PERGOLAS SPRUCE UP YOUR YARD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

HOME & GARDEN: GET THE DIRT ON COMPOST . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 GREAT OUTDOORS: HOT STUFF: PADDLEBOARD YOGA IS IN SEASON . . . . . . . . 66 EAT: WELCOME TO FRESH . . . . . . . 70 EAT: OUT OF THE BOX: ENJOY SUMMER WINES . . . . .73 NOCO LIFE: WATER, WATER, EVERYWHERE? . . . . . . . . . . .

22 features

MAX: THE OUTCOME OF EARLY DECISIONS . . . . . . . . . . . 22 BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY IGNITES BUZZ IN NOCO MARKET . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 NEW 2015 MODELS . . . . . . . . . 32 ART ABOUNDS IN NOCO . . . .

58 JUNE 2014 :: STYLE

50 departments

FROM OUR READERS . . . . . . . 10 PUBLISHER’S LETTER . . . . . .14 STYLE FILES: WHAT STYLE IS RAVING ABOUT THIS MONTH . . . . . . . .16

INTIMATE LUXURY – THE BRANNEN HOUSE . . . . . . 42

BUSINESS PROFILE: BEST RENTAL & BEST EVENT RENTALS . . . . . . . 18

DREAM ABODE – THE BLANK'S HOME . . . . . . . . 50

BUSINESS PROFILE: LIEBL LANDSCAPE . . . . . . . . . . 20

TRAVEL: A “GROWN UP” DAY IN GOLDEN . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76

about town

A PHOTO TOUR OF NONPROFIT EVENTS . . . . . . . . 80 Stone Soup Black Tie Bingo The Taste Masks Gala Celebrating Community Heroes Kitchen Kaper Taste of Loveland Realities for Children Awards Perennial Lunch BBB Torch Awards National Day of Prayer Kentucky Derby Gala Down and Derby Party MAX Grand Opening

WWW.STYLEMAGAZINECOLORADO.COM Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Style 2014

Publisher’s Letter

Enjoy Your Summer The summer season always ushers in a spike in construction activity; it seems like everywhere you look there is an apartment complex underway, a commercial building going up or road repair slowing traffic. This bustling activity is one sign that Northern Colorado is blessed with a vibrant economy. Real estate activity is brisk with the availability of housing shrinking in popular price points. However, custom builders are busy in the luxury home category. And as we looked around, Harmony Club is an upscale neighborhood bustling with new construction. We have chosen to feature two exquisite custom homes in

Harmony Club, built by premier local custom builders. Jay Brannen and wife Melissa have been building upscale luxury homes for 16 years. While building nearly 90 homes in those years, they were able to collect ideas that they have incorporated into their personal home. It is a unique home with great attention to detail and a spacious feeling with 10-foot ceilings adding to the openness. The home is elegant in shades of gray, and the Brannens planned main floor living in order to age in place. Take a peak and read more about the Brannens’ home in “Intimate Luxury.” Our second featured custom home was a team effort with Forest Glaser, president of Tree Line Builders, at the helm. Again, this is a very unique home with a focus on using reclaimed materials, incorporating solar and providing state-of-the-art home management technology. The homeowners also planned their custom home for aging in place. Read about the Blank family’s home in “Dream Abode,” and view the special features of this home. The summer months are also the perfect time to update your landscaping. In Colorado, we can enjoy outdoor living three seasons of the year and pergolas are a creative way to add shade and a focal point to your outdoor living space. Read “Pergolas Can Spruce Up Your Yard” for ideas for your outdoor enjoyment. This summer, I am in the midst of having my 20-year-old landscape updated by Kris Nylander’s team at Alpine Gardens. The 7-foot evergreen trees I originally planted are now 40 feet high and consuming the yard! They have outgrown their rock beds so those areas are being expanded. I’ve always loved

getting my hands in the dirt so planting colorful annuals is something I enjoy. The problem now is all the shade those enormous trees cause me. Speaking of the yard, and specifically of yard waste, brings to my mind the concept of composting. Composting today goes beyond residential, and is being actively done by some area restaurants. I found it amazing that the Embassy Suites in Loveland composted approximately 176.4 tons of kitchen and dining room food waste in 2013. Be sure to read ”Get the Dirt On Composting” to learn what you can do to minimize what goes into our landfill. Summer is also the time we all like to get outdoors and enjoy our beautiful area. Paddleboarding has become all the rage and really looks like fun. But doing yoga on your paddleboard? You have to be kidding! I guess not, since it is hot new workout at Horsetooth Reservoir. Be sure to read and take a look at the photos in “Hot Stuff: Paddleboard Yoga is in Season.” If driving a new car is on your mind this summer, take a look at some of the new car bodies for 2015 in this issue. Last year I traded my 2007 for a new Buick Enclave and just love my new car! It has all the room I need for magazines yet drives like a luxury car. We have lots of fun articles in this summer issue. Read about the new MAX, about art in our area and much, much more in the pages of this magazine. Enjoy the summer and be sure to take a ride on the MAX! lydia@stylemedia.com

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Advertorial

STONE MAKES A STATEMENT Stone can be used in many ways in your landscape. In Colorado we use a lot of sandstone because of its local availability as well as its cohesion with much of the architecture in the area. It can be used for walls, patios, pathways, accent boulders and water features. One of the most popular uses for stone is for backyard patios. There are various styles that can be used, depending on the look and function intended for the space. Costs can range from $10 per sq. ft. up to $40 per sq. ft. for labor and materials, depending on material chosen and method of installation. Call Alpine Gardens today and explore all the options: (970) 226-2296 or visit www.alpinelandscaping.com.

970.226.2296 alpinelandscaping.com

Style Style 2014 2013

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Files don't miss Summer in Northern Colorado is simply the best state of being we can imagine. But to make it even lovelier, here are some summer events that need to find their way on your To Do list:

The Mishawaka

The Taste of Fort Collins – June 13-15, Downtown Fort Collins. Though there are food vendors and drink vendors, the real draw to The Taste of Fort Collins ends up being the headliners every year. This year is no exception. Saturday’s headliner is Collective Soul and Sunday’s is American Authors but the bands tucked in between are some true local favorites, too. New this year is a Friday night kick off with The Epilogues playing at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 a day or 3-day discounted passes and VIP passes are available online. Hint: if you want to get a good spot for one of the headliners, stake out your place on the lawn early and expect to stand – bands always play to a full house. Get the full schedule at www.TasteofFortCollins.com. Summer Bike to Work Day – June 25, Fort Collins. Bike to work day, which offers morning and afternoon treat stations all over Fort Collins, is part of Fort Collins’ Bike to Work month. Even for those who don’t typically bike to work, it is a fun way to enjoy community camaraderie while embracing twowheeled transportation. Get a map of stops and events at www.fcgov.com/bicycling/bikemonth.php. 25th Annual Colorado Brewer’s Festival – June 28 & 29, Downtown Fort Collins from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. This year the festival is open to the public, with wristbands available to purchase for sampling beer. Look for early bird specials at www. DowntownFortCollins.com. Greeley Stampede – June 26 to July 6, Greeley. The Greeley Stampede is just part of Greeley’s roots, plain and simple. Parades, carnivals, rodeos, art shows and a demolition derby – you name it and you will likely find it at the Stampede, complete with the requisite turkey leg. Plan your day, www.greeleystampede.org.

The Greeley Stampede

Concerts at The Mish – June 15, 21 and 22, July 3, 11, 18, 19, 20, 31 and beyond, Poudre Canyon. Nothing like great music in a fantastic outdoor setting. These concerts do sell out – so go online and make your pick, www.mishawaka.com. Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Palmer’s new ownership team: Sue Charles, Susan Stockwell, Patsy Deines, Spiro Palmer, Michele Adams, Lisa Stadele

business news Palmer Flowers Adds Employees to Ownership Structure Ask any multi-generational local business what contributes to their success and you will likely hear this key to longevity: building strong relationships. Almost four colorful decades of owning and operating Palmer Flowers has taught Spiro Palmer much, and he well understands the value of strong relationships. An example of this would be his relationships with floral vendors across the country that can be traced back to Palmer Flowers very beginning in 1976. He and his staff have maintained these relationships throughout 38 years—that means Palmer can count on receiving the absolute best quality and service from his suppliers. Relationships are also the cornerstone to building his business with a core of engaged and dedicated employees, who at the start of this year also became part owners of Palmer Flowers. As of January 1, 2014, Palmer sold 45 percent of the ownership to five employees: Michele Adams, Sue Charles, Patsy Deines, Lisa Stadele and Susan Stockwell. Altogether, these women have been with Palmer for over 90 years, and have been in the floral business cumulatively for well over a century. “This was actually a long term plan of ours, to sell the business to our employees,” says Spiro of himself and wife, Angela. They will retain 55 percent of the company for the time being; he is still very active in the business development side and Angela runs the only state-accredited floral design school in Colorado. The new partners will maintain their individual areas of focus but meet together Style 2014

to direct the future of the business. “I feel this will be an exciting chapter in the history of Palmer Flowers,” says Adams, who has been employed with Palmer for more than 30 years and who currently serves as general manager and buyer. “Having Spiro at the helm and all the partners bringing special strengths will help carry our floral business into the future.” Deines oversees the fresh flower department, Charles manages Paul Wood Florist (owned by Palmer Flowers), Stadele manages accounting and Stockwell heads weddings and events. The future of Palmer is also centered on relationships. The florist is in the process of creating the Northern Colorado Floral Association with other local florists. “The vision is that through unification and cooperation, florists can help the industry by sharing and implementing good ideas that help the industry as a whole,” says Palmer. Education also plays an important part in Palmer’s future. They are in the process of partnering with Colorado State University, Front Range Community College and the Palmer School of Floral Design to create high standards for the industry. Finally, Palmer sees expansion in their future. They are set to expand their presence in Northern Colorado by acquiring or opening new locations over the next two years. Part of their vision includes smaller stores that focus on fresh, quality floral arrangements – based on “fast service, unique designs, affordable prices and great selection,” says Palmer. Building relationships, it seems, will continue to take Palmer Flowers confidently into the future.

Buyer Beware Palmer would also like to see the public become better educated on the benefit of working directly with local florists, no matter where you are ordering from or sending flowers to. In recent years, with the ease of Internet ordering and 800 numbers, it is easy to use a third party company to send your loved one flowers from another state. However, with service fees and delivery fees removed by the middleman, the actual florist on the other end of the transaction is left with a much smaller budget to create your memorable arrangement. Palmer breaks it down this way: you may be ordering an $80 bouquet, but by the time the fees are removed the local florist on the other end is left with roughly around $55 to create the arrangement. He emphasizes the best bang for your buck is made by directly calling or ordering on the website of a local florist in the area that you plan to have flowers delivered. Also, he cautions, when you are looking in the yellow pages, beware the toll-free numbers or websites that look like they are linked to local florists. Many of them go to the middleman, and, unless you ask, you may not even be aware that your phone call or Internet search has landed at an ordering service, not the local florist you intended.

business profile

The Best Rental family: son Aaron Nebelsick, daughter Tricia Steinbock and father and founder Ron Nebelsick.

Best Rental Provides Best Options By Kay Rios

The highest quality in products and service is promised in the name. And that promise is guaranteed by the business philosophy behind Best Rental and Best Event Rentals. “First of all, I like helping people,” says owner Ron Nebelsick. “And, second, I always try to treat people the way I’d want to be treated. It has to be fair both for the customer and for the business. Always. In general, we’re here to help people accomplish what they want to do.” Both the equipment and event rentals are owned and run by Best Rental but operate separately in terms of space, phones, hours of operation and what they offer. On the equipment side, there’s a broad array of options for both contractors and homeowners. That includes chippers, chainsaws, compressors, floor equipment, generators, lift equipment and whatever is needed for lawn and garden projects. A multitude of options also exist on the event side including tents, canopies, tables and chairs, food and beverage, linens and concession rentals. Best Rental has been serving Northern Colorado since 1982. Before that, the Nebelsicks were living in Denver where he worked in building maintenance, landscaping and sprinkler

installation. The rental business was a natural career path for Nebelsick. “I grew up on a farm in South Dakota and was handy with equipment. I always wanted the right equipment for the job. But Dad would grab something from one piece of equipment and put it on another and that frustrated me.” While working in building maintenance, he was still challenged to find the right equipment for the job and was using several rental stores. “I started to wonder what would be like to run a rental store. Then I called Time Rental and asked them how does someone get into the business? They had a division that helped people get started.” “Then we had to decide where to open it,” he continues. His wife, Pat, liked Fort Collins and that was the beginning. “We took out a loan, bought supplies and equipment, and started in Fort Collins in the recession. Not a good time,” he remembers. “We struggled for five years but then things got better.” Still, it was six years

before he hired the first full-time employee and could actually take a week’s vacation. The first store opened on South College, where the current indoor flea markets sit. After four years, Nebelsick moved the business to Drake and Taft. “Growth was going on in the west side of Fort Collins, so that worked well,” he says. Moving became part of Best Rental’s life and, in the early 90s, the business relocated to South Mason, to the back side of Foothills Vacuum. Nebelsick expanded and added in the party equipment. “Life was good and I was happy,” he says. “Then the City came along and said, ‘We’re building Mason Street Corridor.’ So they bought some of the land and we were again displaced.” A realtor suggested a building on Riverside but Nebelsick was hesitant. “I didn’t want to go north but the building had been built for a rental business. It was divine direction,” he says. “I’m a very religious man and I spend a lot of time in church and praying. God said, Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

‘Make the move.’” With investors, they were able to buy the building and, in February 2010, moved to Riverside. “Now I lease from moi,” he says with a smile. It proved to be a wise decision. “The next month, business was better. There were more contractors and builders, easy access from I-25.” He also found the area provided a lot of do-it-yourselfers. “It turned out better than I expected.” Both the equipment and party rental were operated under one roof. However, the party business kept growing and when the building next door became vacant, Nebelsick took the leap. In May 2012 he separated the two businesses, expanding the party rentals. “It was too crowded for both in one building and the equipment staff didn’t like renting tents and the tent gals didn’t like renting trenchers. It made it a lot easier,” he says. It’s a family business, he says. “All of our five children, Fred, Trisha, Carrie, Aaron, Amanda, mom Pat and several grandkids have worked here.” In fact, son Aaron started during high school, continued through college and now manages the equipment side. Daughter Tricia Steinbock helped grow the party side and now runs Best Event Rentals. “It’s our next generation succession plan,” he says. Nebelsick credits the success of both stores to two things. First, he says, “I’ve been blessed with employees that are tremendous.” Second, the business has enjoyed great community support. In return, Best Rental and the Nebelsicks not only provide a good product, they give back to the community. The Nebelsicks are involved on a personal level. They have traveled to Mexico, Guatemala, Sri Lanka and Haiti to help communities recover from tsunamis and earthquakes. In addition, they sponsor students in Haiti so they can receive an education. Giving also happens through the business. Best Rental supports the Alpha Center, the Open Door Mission, Relay for Life, March of Dimes and Harvest Farms. “We’ve hired two people from Harvest Farms and they are great employees,” he says. There have been ups and downs, he admits. “During the difficult times, I relied on my faith in God and the work ethic I learned from my father and grandfather. I thought, ‘If I can go five to seven years, I know I can make it.’ It would have been easier to quit but my grandparents struggled for years before they made it. I decided if they could do it, I could do it." Best Rental, Inc. and Best Event Rentals are located at 1540 and 1550 Riverside Avenue in Fort Collins. For equipment rentals, call (970) 282-0700. For party rentals, call (970) 267-6500. For a list of what’s available, go to www.bestrentalinc.com. Kay Rios is a freelance writer in Fort Collins. Style 2014

business profile

Liebl Landscape owner, Ryan Liebl, is passionate about creating sustainable landscape designs that wow.

A Bright Landscape for the Future By Malini Bartels

The natural beauty of our state is indisputable and the climate, for the most part, is nothing to complain about. For those in the landscape design and construction business, however, Colorado’s weather conditions present challenges that must be understood by designers to ensure that the landscapes they create can adapt and survive. Ryan Liebl knows exactly how to keep clients happy in our ever-changing Colorado atmosphere. Founded in 1999 and based in Loveland, Liebl Landscape formulates landscapes that embrace Colorado’s unique environment in a sustainable and lasting way. Ryan Liebl is a Landscape Architecture graduate from Colorado State University with 20 years of experience. He was raised on the philosophy to always put customers first. His family business focuses on residential landscape design and construction with some light commercial installation. “We monitor each project from development to construction,” states Liebl. “We follow-up with clients even years later to see how things are progressing.” Extreme dedication and care pays off

in the long run when it comes to building landscapes. Liebl Landscape’s success in this competitive market is no mistake; they love what they do and care for their community. “We have a lot of repeat business,” says Loveland-born Liebl. “It shows that we take really good care of our customers. We do it right the first time and have a quality product through and through.” The company’s biggest successes are their referrals. They establish a strong relationship with their clients and that is priceless, says Liebl. Water efficient irrigation systems are a specialty with Liebl Landscape’s high quality design and installation. With the utilization of water saving technology and high quality nozzles, the company can produce an economically efficient and environmentally

practical way of creating custom landscapes in our arid Colorado climate. But it’s not just water features that they can make happen for the conservative and globally conscious. The more affordable and efficient installation of LED light features offers low voltage landscape lighting without compromising beauty and ingenuity. Liebl can custom design everything from large-scale outdoor escapes to small-scale patio work and modular pavers. Skilled in projects that differ in size and complexity, they can facilitate with regular bed-style plantings and educate their clients about long-term maintenance and growth. And then there’s xeriscape, the prevalent buzzword in the industry. It’s not just about placing rock and a couple of shrubs in an area, explained Liebl. “It’s about featuring indigenous plants that can help make the landscape attractive with low maintenance,” explains Liebl. “We can help change the existing landscape to reduce the amount of grass and help save on water —and reduce having to mow.” Community involvement and support is a necessity for the folks at Liebl Landscape. As a member of the ALCC (Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado), every year the company participates in a “day of service” project which usually falls around Earth Day. This year, they went to a Fort Collins residence where the owner, an avid gardener, suffered a stroke and lost the mobility needed to upkeep his landscaping. A crew from Liebl came in and built walkways, raised beds and trimmed all the overgrown foliage. “It feels good to help someone in need with your talents,” says Liebl. “It’s really satisfying that we can do that for them.” Liebl also donates his time and talent with an annual fundraiser to help mothers that cannot afford prenatal care through McKee Medical Center’s Annual Classic Bike Tour. He and his coworkers find time to plant trees for schools in the area. The team at Liebl Landscape realizes how important it is to invest in the future with sustainable practices and quality work. Understanding how a helping hand in the community can benefit everyone involved is something that they also appreciate. Liebl’s team obtains a true sense of satisfaction from providing help in the community by providing services. Designing landscapes that reflect and appreciate Colorado’s unique environment is their specialty; keeping people happy is their passion. More information about Liebl Landscape is found on the web at: www.liebllandscape.com.

Malini Bartels is a freelance writer, chef, mother, radio host and actress living the good life in Fort Collins. Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

The comforts of home and the feeling of family.

Experiencing the changes in a loved one who has Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease or a related Dementia can be difficult. Finding a place for your loved one to call home shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be.

Contact: Shirley Saucedo 720-448-9922 for a tour. w w w. a s h l e y c a r e s . c o m

Style 2014

THE OUTCOME OF EARLY DECISIONS By Michelle Venus

MAX Rapid Bus Transit is here. On May 10, Fort Collins' bus rapid transit system rolled out to hundreds of curious and enthusiastic riders anxious to give it a try. Decades of planning and two years of construction culminated in celebrations at each stop along the 5-mile Mason Corridor route. "We, as a downtown organization, are extremely excited about MAX," says Michael Short, executive director of the Downtown Fort Collins Business Association. "It will forever eliminate the perception of there being one side of the tracks or another side of the tracks within our entire Fort Collins community. Hey—we love the MAX!" Dr. Tony Frank, CSU's president concurs: "We've been a big fan of the project since its beginning. The easements and improvements within the campus fit perfectly with our long-term transportation plan to promote alternative transportation. The investments and partnerships we've made with the City allow our entire student population, faculty and staff to ride the Transfort system for free. That helps both the City and the University." Andy Glaser, a client of Project Self-Sufficiency,

was among the riders on the very first MAX bus. She boarded with her children Galen and Reya and their father, James Morsbach. Glaser is looking forward to the promises of MAX's efficiency. She's accustomed to mass transit systems in Oregon and plans to make use of the north-south route, though has concerns that the east-west routes may prove challenging. "We're going to use a combination of bike and bus," she says. Long-time bus rider Howard Calhoun, sporting his bike helmet, was another one of the lucky riders to score a ticket for the first ride. He came with his bike and stowed it at the back of the bus. "You can get downtown a lot quicker now," he predicts. "You can get to your favorite restaurants easier." Michael Marr, volunteer coordinator and case manager aid with Disabled Resource Services, was also on board the first MAX bus. His wheelchair was firmly in place in one of the designated spaces. "I ride the bus everyday," he states. "This is a big deal for me." But the story really starts about 20 years ago. That's when, according to former City Councilwoman Gina Janett, Fort Collins officials took a

hard look at the then-sleepy town's long term future and entered into discussions that directed growth and ultimately resulted in projects like MAX. "This was in the early ‘90s," remembers Janett. "The City Council went on a retreat in 1993 and land planning and growth were at the top of the list. We looked at how Fort Collins was growing —even then—and made the decision, well really, came up with the vision to restrict growth so we would become a city, rather than sprawling all over the place. We moved toward high-density land use and multi-modal transportation corridors. It was a very thoughtful, conscientious decision to preserve the character of Fort Collins." Then mayor Ann Azari was quoted as saying, "I'm an urban person; I like cities. It was apparent... we could be a northern suburb of Denver or the leading city in Northern Colorado." Regulations called for prescribed architectural standards and shifting from four single-family homes per acre to seven. The growth mandate passed by a 4-3 vote: far from unanimous, and continues to be contentious even today. Fast forward to 2014. The MAX line is a direct Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

MAX Rapid Transit opened to the public on May 10 and will offer free rides until August 23.

result of those early conversations. Initially, explains Janett, it was to be a no-car zone, allowing only busses, trains, bicycles and pedestrians. Subsequent City Councils reworked the original concept to what is in place today: a multi-modal transportation hub, connecting north, south and CSU with a zippy alternative to automobiles, as well as a transit-enabled economic driver for the corridor that stretches from Downtown to south of Harmony. "MAX is at the beginning of a series of improvements that modernize and make transit more user-friendly here in Fort Collins," says Kurt Ravenschlag, general manager of Transfort and Dial-A-Ride. Along with the new busses that have been seen on the streets during their practice runs for the past few months, Transfort is in the process of improving frequencies system-wide, increasing hours of operation and adding technologies such as Google Trip planning tools, free Wi-Fi and informational panels at each MAX stop that provide real-time bus arrival information. The entire Transfort system was rebranded in the bright green that reflects the modern, energy Style 2014

efficient vehicles. "This is a leap forward for us as a transit system," Ravenschlag states. The MAX experience extends beyond its riders. The entire line is an Art in Public Places project that impacts pedestrians and cyclists as well. Each stop has uniquely designed windscreens, benches and light poles that reflect the surrounding neighborhoods. Denver artist Robert Tulley met with UniverCity Connections during the planning phase and the parameters were developed: integrate art to make MAX an exciting and engaging experience. Tulley spent three years developing and executing the concept. "The art provides visual cues to MAX riders," he says. "People aren't always able to see the signage at the bus stops, but the art provides visual cues about where they are and nearby landmarks and businesses." The Drake Road stop, near the CSU veterinary teaching hospital, shows a cow and a dog running through the grass. Swallows swoop and soar at the Swallow Road station. Tulley enlisted sound artist Jim Green to incorporate sound elements to the installations. "The sounds are unexpectedâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;they create a playful

escape in the environment. People are surprised; they stop and look around, and they laugh," says Green of the brook that babbles and the birdcalls singing out to passersby. The City requested that the sounds be nature-oriented, but Green expanded the soundscape to include aural tickles like the didgeridoo, woodwind instruments and the percussive foot sounds of a drill team. MAX is free to all riders through August 23, with arrivals every 10 minutes during peak periods and every half hour on weekends and in the evenings. The service runs from Monday through Saturday, 5 a.m. to midnight. Tickets are required to board and can be purchased at kiosks at each stop. The 12 stops are anchored by the South Transit Station (4915 Fossil Blvd.) and the North Transit Station (250 North Mason St.). Loaner bikes, provided by the Fort Collins Bike Library, are available at the north station. Now that MAX is a permanent fixture on Mason Street â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ride on. Michelle Venus is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins.

TRANSIT CENTER

MAX STATION

PARKING

DOWNTOWN STATIONS (MOUNTAIN, OLIVE, MULBERRY) LAUREL STATION

SWALLOW STATION

UNIVERSITY STATION

HORSETOOTH STATION

PROSPECT STATION

TROUTMAN STATION

SPRING CREEK STATION

HARMONY STATION

DRAKE STATION

1 Horsetooth Station

Boomer Music Company 3761 S. Mason Street Fort Collins, CO 80525 970-223-2424

2 Mountain Station

Slyce Pizza Co. 163 West Mountain Ave. Fort Collins, CO 80524 608-347-3413

3 Laurel Station

Magnolia Moon 608 S Mason St. Fort Collins, CO 80524 361-522-8171

4 Troutman Station

1933 Brewing Company 4025 South Mason Street, Suite C Fort Collins, CO 80525 970-377-4107

fcgov.com/max

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fcgov.com/max

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Rocky Mountain Office manager Amy Olson and Broker John McCoy.

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY Ignites Buzz in NoCo Market By Kay Rios

“When people are making the decision of the magnitude of buying a house, it’s the biggest decision a great many families will ever make. They want to know who they’re working with and we think that the Berkshire Hathaway name will be reassuring to many of those people.” – Warren Buffett, Berkshire Hathaway Inc. Chairman and CEO It’s no surprise that Berkshire Hathaway, a name synonymous with quality, has ignited new excitement and buzz in the Northern Colorado real estate market. In a very short amount of time, the company has attracted top agents, built a solid record of success and established itself in the region. “We were inspired by Berkshire Hathaway’s vision and what it stands for: trust, integrity, stability and longevity,” says John McCoy, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Rocky Mountain REALTORS. According to McCoy, the company brought with it a long-standing reputation and worldrenowned name. “It’s a new brand in real estate and that is part of the excitement. We have caught the interest of top agents across the state.” According to the Forbes Global 2012 ranking based on a mix of sales, profit, assets

and market value, Berkshire Hathaway is the eighth-leading public company in the world. Fortune’s 2013 ranking describes Berkshire Hathaway as being one of the world’s most admired companies and, in 2012, among the world’s most profitable companies. In addition to being ranked in the 2013 Harris Interactive Relationship Quotient survey as one of the highest companies for vision and leadership, Berkshire Hathaway recently received the 2014 Harris Poll EquiTrend Real Estate Agency Brand of the Year. Berkshire Hathaway opened its Fort Collins office last year, and in January, McCoy opened a second office at 3665 JFK Parkway. Both the new office and the original office at 2700 South College are thriving. “We’ve grown dramatically since the first of the year,” says McCoy. “But it’s not about quantity, it’s about quality. Our new agents have years of experience and

are widely recognized as the best of the best.” Many of the new agents at Berkshire Hathaway are not at all new to the business. They have spent decades building their business, client base and expertise. “After 26 years, I made the decision to join a new brokerage for one simple reason: my clients deserve the best,” says Shirley Watson, a long-standing local agent with a top-producing record in Northern Colorado. Watson made the move to Berkshire Hathaway in January. “With its well-known name and status, I know Berkshire Hathaway can provide unmatched internet and marketing exposure for all of my listings,” continues Watson. “The culture of the office is very service-oriented and has much more of a boutique feel, providing personalized service. That was the real attraction for me. I knew my clients would receive the platinum service they deserve.” Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Catherine Rogers

Christine Cooper

Jenny McGraw

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Kim Irwin

Kris Laine

Shirley Watson

Watson is just one of many agents that have made the move to Bershire Hathaway. Last month Catherine Rogers joined the team. Rogers, who recently achieved significant sales awards in not only new construction but re-sale as well, states, “Berkshire Hathaway is exactly the right fit for me and my clients. In addition to the service oriented environment, there is great team support and that translates into more resources for clients.” ”It’s not just a new office that has ignited excitement and buzz; it’s everything Berkshire Hathaway has to offer,” says Sue Coburn, also new to Berkshire Hathaway. “Within this very active and competitive market, it is imperative that both buyers and sellers have access to the very best tools and resources available today.” When speaking with several other agents

that have joined the Berkshire Hathaway team within the last few months, agent Kim Irwin states, “In my opinion, any person or organization that aligns itself with Warren Buffet, aligns itself with success. I wanted to be part of that.” With that success in mind, Kris Laine adds, “When deciding to get back into the real estate business, I wanted to join a firm with a brand that stood out. Berkshire Hathaway is a topnotch firm with not only an excellent reputation, but a solid team already in place.” Agents Jenny McGraw and Christine Cooper add, “Most important to us is the leadership starting with McCoy all the way up to the Berkshire Board of Directors.” And lastly, agent Tim Gannon says “Berkshire Hathaway provides a concrete business structure, innovative technologies and an extraordinary network of people.”

When talking about the overall market in Northern Colorado, McCoy says it is now booming. He recalls the Rigden Farm complex just southeast of the King Soopers on Timberline and Drake as an example. “I purchased it from the bank in 2007 when it was foreclosed. These are mostly attached townhomes priced from the $230s to $260s. It was slow for so long, it was painful.” According to McCoy, things started to turn around the last half of 2012, “In just the last 12 months, we’ve really seen prices moving and had great buyer interest. The 70 homes in Rigden are all presently under contract or sold.” The commercial arena is improving as well. “We have seen an increase in the number of calls on vacant spaces,” continued McCoy. “We have also been helping relocate oil and gas companies into eastern Larimer and Weld Counties.” Construction possibilities are improving rapidly, he adds. “The foreclosure market fueled options for some of the buyers’ needs but those are no longer available. We are now seeing opportunities for new construction with very positive outcomes for both buyers and sellers, thus creating a very vibrant and healthy market.” Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Rocky Mountain REALTORS is helping buyers or sellers in all price ranges, McCoy stresses. The bottom line, McCoy says, is trust. “If you are working with someone at Berkshire Hathaway, you can trust that you will find honesty and integrity. We have been here for years and we will be here for years to come.” For additional information, visit www.bhhsrmr.com or call (970) 999-8801.

Sue Coburn

Tim Gannon Kay Rios is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins.

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Work with one of our Colorado Realtors South College | Loveland | Greeley | www.bhhsrmr.com

Lindsay Arnett

970-692-2022 | S. College

Barb Etherton

970-690-9279 | S. College

Dick Majors

970-690-9372 | S.College

Robin Nash

970-689-6188 | S.College

Stefanie Graybeal

970-576-5418 | S. College

Shelby Majors

970-690-9372 | S. College

Will Richardson

970-402-8125 | S.College

Dawn Stein

970-371-0882 | Greeley

Fran Burns

970-396-1516 | Greeley

Erick Hazen

970-581-1730 | Loveland

Jay McCoy

970-443-1042 | S. College

Gayle Schink

970-215-4771 | S.College

Jack Trethewey

970-217-1027 | Loveland

Jennifer Cuningham

970-646-1921 | S. College

Pat Jaehn

970-396-0964 | Greeley

John McCoy

970-231-8499 | S. College

Cheryl Schmitt

970-646-2395 | Loveland

John Warnock

970-690-3088 | Loveland

Jessica Jimenez

970-231-1753 | Greeley

Millie Mitchell

970-391-8356 | S. College

Tom Smith

970-227-0340 | S. College

noco style

Travel in Style Time for your summer vacation?

A bold print will get you noticed and warm summer colors will take you from day to night. 1. Elegant art designs translated into a comfortable and colorful shift dress by artist Gozde. 'QS in Blue 3' by ATELIER 5. $99 | 2. The KARLITA Jacket from the YEST Vintage Collection, a distressed dark jade with seam detailing and front and side zipper pockets. $79 | 3. Maria's Ecuadorian handmade necklace, carved from a Tagua tree nut. $49 | 4. Mayan design woven cuff from ROOST. Available in antique silver or brass. $29 – Outfit and accessories available at Lady Gaia Apperal & Gifts.

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NEW MODELS RULE IN 2015

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We’re born to assist. Find an agent today!

1. 2015 Cadillac Escalade The level of design, craftsmanship and detail is unrivaled. With jeweled LED lighting, large accommodating doors, 8,300 maximum towing capacity, available adaptive cruise control and blue ray, the Escalade is where luxury meets utility. The 2015 Escalade is the quietest Escalade ever. With doors fitted with triple seal technology, acoustic front glass, magnetic ride control and Bose Active Noise Cancellation, the interior is a quiet and serene sanctuary. Dellenbach Motors 125 W Swallow Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 226-2438 www.dellenbach.com

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• Rotarian • Regis University - Cum Laude • Over 28 years in insurance • Northern Colorado resident • Habitat for Humanity Volunteer

• University of Northern Colorado Graduate • Colorado Native • Greeley’s only female State Farm agent • 12 yrs insurance industry experience

BRAD BISCHOFF

RONNY BUSH

• Chamber of Commerce Past President • Community Foundation Past President • Foothills Rotary Past President • Proudly serving State Farm customers for over 20 years

• 24/7 car insurance rate quotes • Colorado Native • State Farm agent since 1980 • Sertoma Club Member

DARYL ALEXANDER

DAVE LAWSER

• Toll Free Number: 1-888-548-2196 • Colorado State University, Technical Journalism • IIA General Insurance

• State Farm Agent since 1975 • Overland Sertoma Club of Fort Collins • Cystic Fibrosis Foundation • Legion of Honor/Bronze Tablet Qualifier

(970) 223-9400 www.bradbischoff.com

(970) 493-2196 www.agentdaryl.com

3. 2015 Buick LaCrosse The OnStar 4G LTE system is big news. The LaCrosse will have Buick AppShop, which is available at the IntelliLink touchscreen. This luxury sedan has very stylish LED accent lighting, premium materials and distinctive design in the cabin. As for the safety, there’s no need to underline that the 2015 Buick LaCrosse belongs to the top of the market. Markley Motors, Inc. 3325 S College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 223-1234 www.markleymotors.com

5. 2015 Audi S5 The architecture of this upcoming model will be made of more lightweight metals, like steel and aluminium, and therefore, it will enhance its performances and fuel economy. Looking from outside, this sports utility vehicle will obtain a revised grille with more chrome details than before. Ed Carroll Motor Company 3003 S College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 226-3000 www.edcarrollmotorco.com

MELISSA MCDONALD

(970) 663-7880 www.sharonyounie.com

2. 2015 Toyota Camry So what do you do when you have the best-selling car in the industry for 12 straight years? You find ways to make it even better. That's exactly what Toyota did with the introduction of the new 2015 Camry, which made its worldwide debut in May at the 2014 New York International Auto Show. Pedersen Toyota 4455 S College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 223-3100 www.pedersentoyota.com

4. 2015 Tesla Model X Sport Utility Model X is designed from the ground up to blend the best of an SUV with the benefits of a minivan, as only an electric car can. Model X comes standard with Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive. The second motor enables more than all-weather, allroad capabilities: it increases torque and traction in everyday conditions. Tesla Park Meadows 8405 Park Meadows Center Drive, Suite 1175 Lone Tree, CO 80124 (303) 792-3450 www.teslamotors.com/parkmeadows

SHARON YOUNIE

(970) 515-5678 www.melissajmcdonald.com

(970) 484-3993 www.ronnybush.com

(970) 226-1306 www.davelawser.com

DOUG BALDWIN CLU CHFC CASL

After the Storm – Recovery

• Retirement Planning & Financial Services • State Farm Agency Experience since 2005 • With a focus on Relocations with Auto and Home Insurance

The period following a natural disaster can be disorienting and dangerous. Below are a few tips that may help relieve some of the uncertainty and help you stay safe, secure your property, and begin the claims process in the aftermath of a major event.

(970) 663-3684 www.dougbaldwininsurance.com

• Use your emergency water or boil tap water before drinking until you are told the water supply is safe. Food that came in contact with water may be contaminated and should be discarded. • Visually inspect your home for structural damage and take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. For example, board up holes with plywood and cover leaks with plastic sheeting. SCOTT HORVATH (970) 686-6161 www.scotthorvath.com

NAPOLEON GIBSON (970) 226-1200 www.agentnap.com

DAVID DILLEY (970) 484-9700 www.dilleyinsurance.com

MARINDA SIMPSON (970) 223-7800 www.marindasimpson.com

• If a major disaster was declared for your area, federal housing assistance may be available. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) administers post-disaster housing programs. Otherwise, organizations such as the American Red Cross may offer help. • Your insurer will require you to document any damage to your property and provide receipts for recovery-related expenses. Be sure to save all receipts for home repairs, vehicle towing and repairs, temporary housing, meals, and other living expenses. Also, photograph and list all damaged, spoiled, or contaminated items, including quantity, description, and age.

CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY AGENTS OR VISIT WWW.STATEFARM.COM

The Center for Fine Arts Photography, Fort Collins

Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

Art Abounds in NoCo By Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer

Northern Colorado is an inspirational place. Just ask the many writers, musicians and artists who have made it their home, and you don’t have to go far to find artistic meccas around the area. You can find art across the region; bronze statues in parks and on sidewalks and original paintings and photography in coffee shops and bars. There are also a multitude of galleries offering art in every medium and at every price.

Fourth Street Gallery, Loveland

Downtown Loveland filled with art Loveland has long been known as an artistic community. Bronze artists have been flocking to the town since the 1970s, when local foundries fired sculptures from around the country. While bronze is still a staple of Loveland’s art community, a new breed of artists have made the town home, and have brought with them their own brand of creativity. Fourth Street Gallery is a relatively new venue in downtown where artists can apply to exhibit their art for free. The City of Loveland owns the building and has future plans for developing it into a square, museum expansion or perhaps even a hotel, but in the meantime it was sitting empty. The City decided to support the arts community by turning the space in the front of the Style 2014

building into a gallery in the fall of 2012. Artists apply for use of the gallery, free of charge, for three-month periods. Currently the gallery has committed artists through next spring. Since 2012, the space has featured a variety of art mediums including bronze sculpture, stone sculpture, oils, acrylics and water color paintings, custom jewelry and photography. “It is a first-come first-serve application process, so it’s been amazing how much variety we’ve had,” says Marcie Erion, business development specialist with the City of Loveland. “And every artist here has had sales, which is wonderful.” Erion believes it is an exciting time for Loveland’s art scene. There’s a vibrant group of well-organized artists in town who have caught the attention of

a younger audience. “We now have a whole spectrum of art here,” says Erion. “We’ve maintained the legacy of sculpture and have added all these new components. Plus, the economic impact of the arts in this community has become very apparent.” Rae Anne M. Garrett is currently showing her work at the Fourth Street Gallery through the end of June. She has combined her passion of birding and photography to shoot the awe-inspiring natural world. Garrett invited artist and owner of Loveland’s Independence Gallery to join her in the space. Other galleries thrive downtown and display a vast diversity of works by local artists; artists like Kerri Ertman, who shows at Lincoln Gallery. “I decided to get more serious about my art when my husband and I moved here from the

Top: The Showcase Art Center, Greeley. Center: The Glass Umbrella, Fort Collins. Bottom: Mama Said Sew, Fort Collins.

metro area,” says Ertman. “When I first started in Loveland, the art scene was overflowing with landscape oil paintings. I painted mustaches on bugs and skeletons. I clearly stood out, I shook things up a bit, but I also took the time to learn some things from these artists.” Ertman is one of many young artists in Loveland who have pushed themselves to become involved with other creative endeavors such as sculpting snow, sculpting junk and performance and installation art. Greeley embraces art Colette Pitcher has been in involved in the Greeley art scene for many years. Her gallery, The Showcase Art Center, celebrated 20 years this May. Pitcher is the author of Water Color

for Dummies and Acrylic Painting for Dummies, and her passion for the arts is palpable. Pitcher’s Art Center, located halfway between downtown and the university, is more than just a gallery. There are several piano studios, a classroom, a custom frame shop and an art supply store. There’s also office space for LivingWatercolor.com, an online watercolor class. “There’s always something going on here,” says Pitcher. “In May we did a workshop with the Rocky Mountain Raptor Program. They brought live owls and people were encouraged to do owl art. We’ll display that art in October at an Owl Show. We’re always cooking up stuff like that.” Pitcher played a role in getting Greeley’s First Friday Art Walk off the ground, and today it’s a popular time to visit downtown’s galleries and

businesses that display local art, such as Syntax Distillery and Patrick’s Pub. “As part of the Greeley Creative District, I’ve realized that it’s important to partner with people in order to promote everyone,” says Pitcher. Greeley’s Creative District represents the city’s highest concentration of micro-businesses, performance venues, cultural outlets, galleries, museums, entertainment and mixed residential development. Murals adorn many of the walls of Greeley’s historic buildings, bringing to life every corner of downtown. “I’ve always been a promoter of the arts, but in the past I’ve felt like the voice in the wilderness. Now, the state has recognized that the arts are an economic driver and a community attraction. It’s such a joy to finally get that Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

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message across. The city is behind it, the state is behind it, the county is behind it—there’s just so much going on—it’s such an exciting time to be an artist,” says Pitcher. Art grows in an Old Town Fort Collins’ building The building at the corner of North College and Willow Street is busting at the seams with arty activity. There’s a collection of businesses there that dabble in everything from children’s art to fine art, and it is even the home of the administrative offices of OpenStage Theatre Company. Kelly Gallagher-Abbott bought the building in February, and houses her computerized, robotic quilting systems company, Jukebox Quilts, above Mama Says Sew, a business that also moved into the building in February. Mama Says Sew is more than just a place to buy patterns and fabric, it’s a place to learn. There are simple classes on sewing throw pillows and much more advanced courses available. Next door it’s Ideas Happen Here, a children’s art workshop offering art classes and art parties for kids of all ages. Around the corner, The Glass Umbrella features three Fort Collins glass artists who can often be found working in their small but brightly lit studio. Mary Barron of Adagio Art Glass shares the space with Karen Cannon, who does canine, feline and equine paintings, as well as glass art, and Anna Meier Davis of Walking Crow Studio. “The artists in Fort Collins are wonderful. I love the arts scene here. There are great artists tucked away in all different corners of town,” says Barron. “Here in this building we are surrounded by artists. I feel like I’m sitting in the

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Jukebox Quilts, Fort Collins

hub of what’s going on.” The largest space in the building is filled by The Center for Fine Arts Photography, a renowned organization known throughout the photography world. Their Facebook page has nearly 37,000 likes, just one indicator of their global popularity. There are three galleries in The Center with the Main Gallery featuring the juried show. There is a variety of themed juried shows throughout the year. Photographers send in their work and the juror chooses 50 photos from the 2,000 to 3,000 images that come in from around the world. “We have a reputation,” says Hamidah Glasgow, curator and executive director of The Center for Fine Arts Photography. “It’s a reputation that the artists who get into the juried show—their careers take off right after that. With some, it is directly related to being here and with others I can’t say it’s directly related, but it happens a lot.” The two, smaller galleries at The Center display the work of invited artists. The Center for Fine Art Photography, celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, hosts frequent workshops, stays open late every first Friday during art walk, and often hosts artist meet and greets during these events. The popular Black & White show is currently in the Main Gallery.

Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer is a freelance writer and longtime Colorado resident. She is also the founder of HeidiTown.com, the place for entertaining stories about Colorado festivals and travel. Style 2014

Intimate Luxury – The Brannen House By Michelle Venus /Photos by Warren Diggles

Jay and Melissa Brannen, owners of Brannen Homes, have been building luxury homes for families all over Northern Colorado. A year ago they moved into a house they built for themselves and their two teenaged sons, Jared and Luke—and they couldn't be happier.

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

The house is perched at the edge of the golf course at Harmony Club in Timnath. Their views roll across the greens and Timnath Reservoir, finally resting on snow capped mountains to the west. "It's exactly what we wanted," says Melissa. "Not too big, very cozy and with a master suite on the main floor." After building nearly 90 homes over the past 16 years, they've had a lot of time to think about what makes a home perfect. For the Brannens, it's a big and functional kitchen filled with natural light. "The kitchen really is where everybody spends their time," states Jay. "We decided not have a formal dining room, which is how floor plans are trending these days." Tucked into a nook off the kitchen is the dining area. A big granite-topped island is a focal point.

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Thermador appliances are featured throughout: matching column refrigerator and freezer, gas cooktop, warming drawer, microwave in satin-finished stainless steel. Custom-made cabinets in alder are rich and warm in tone and complement the basket-weave tile in the backsplash. The room says, "Have a seat. Let's visit." The kitchen feels even bigger than it actually is because it, the living room and dining area flow seamlessly into each other, creating an open, warm and inviting environment. Tenfoot ceilingsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;"That's standard in all of the homes we build," says Jayâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;add to the airiness of the space. A two-sided fireplace separates the living room from the entrance foyer, doing double duty as a privacy screen and cozymaker. The walls are tinted a subtle gray. "Gray is the new beige," explains Melissa.

"I love using gray as long as there's warmth, so it doesn't feel too cold." Jon Rentfrow, the architect the Brannens tapped to design their home, gives Melissa's interior design talents a nod. "Melissa is very clear about what she wants," he says. "She is the one who came up with the idea to put a fireplace right at the entryâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;I've never seen that before." He goes on to describe Melissa's style as "...elegant and tasteful, with a Colorado feel." Down the hall is the master suite. "We wanted to make it feel like your favorite hotel," says Jay. Tastefully decorated with Melissa's touch, the suite offers a luxurious respite. Large windows overlook the golf course and flood the bedroom with sunlight. The room itself isn't that large. It measures 16 by 18 feet. "We didn't want a huge bedroom with a sitting area," Melissa explains, and indeed current trends are moving away from overly large master suites. "But we did want the bathroom to be big." The master bath is spacious, spa-like and sigh-evoking; exactly what the Brannens were looking for. There is a soaking tub and a glassed-in shower with two showerheads, one of them a rain shower head, perfect for a hot soaking shower after a long day. There are his-and-her sinks and the same rich, warm alder cabinetry. The walk-in closet next door has windows that provide natural light and fresh air. At the other end of the house is a guest suite and laundry room. The Brannens chose to design their home so they could age in place and live on one floor if that becomes necessary. More and more, people are looking at their homes with this idea in mind. Downstairs, on the lower level, are the boys' rooms. The stairs open onto a large family room sporting pool and foosball tables, a large-screen television and a custom-made bar. "This is where the boys can hang out with their friends," says Melissa. She points to a second laundry room that the boys use.

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On either side of the family room are the boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bedrooms. Even though they are on the lower level, the property is graded so that light streams through the windows, brightening all the rooms just as much as the upper level. Jared and Luke each have their own bathrooms, right off their bedrooms. But best of all, are their own personal man caves, entered through little doors in the back of their walk-in closets. Outfitted with televisions and comfy furniture, it's the perfect place to hang with friends and chill. "We promised them man caves," says Melissa. "At first, Jared and Luke weren't very happy about moving out of our old neighborhood. They had a lot of friends there and not so many here. The man caves helped with that transition." Even though friends are not quite so nearby, they find their way to the Brannen home and the man caves. It's all worked out. Life is good in the Brannen home.

Jay and Melissa Brannen. Photo courtesy of Marcus Edwards Photography.

Michelle Venus is a freelance writer living and working in Fort Collins. She recently fulfilled a long time dream of becoming a licensed Real Estate Broker. She can be reached at michelle@michellevenus.com.

Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

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Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

Dream Abode – The Blank's Home By Kay Rios

Out of extraordinary teamwork came the realization of a dream. That dream is manifested in the Harmony Club home of Brad and Melissa Blank.

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

It began with a vision for a home that embraced the needs of an active family, allowed for aging in place and incorporated the aesthetics reflecting the personalities of its residents. The end result accomplished all of that and more in 5,200 square feet of careful thought and planning. “The planning was extensive,” says Forest Glaser, president of Tree Line Builders. “The house was designed and laid out on the lot for solar gain in the winter and solar shading in the summer. It also looks to the future by planning for handicap accessibility. An entry closet on the main floor lines up with a basement closet that’s prepped for an elevator.” Interior choices also demonstrate the care and planning put into the project. “The floors

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are reclaimed tobacco pine, the master bath has backlit glass counter tops with LED lights, and the mud room and main entry have Purington Pavers that Melissa imported from her hometown in Illinois.” Glaser says. Another impressive feature is the incorporation of the NanaWall, an operable glass wall that opens up the back area of the house and offers an incorporation of the kitchen, dining room and the outside patio for an expanded outdoor experience. The walkout basement provides a connection to the outside with an additional patio, a fire pit, a hot tub and a view of the surrounding area. “We were able to maximize solar use with two solar panels that heat all of our potable water,” Brad says. “And there are a lot of

other pieces that came as we went through the process.” The master bath features a zero entry shower, meaning there’s no curb and it’s completely wheelchair accessible. The floor has a slight slope to the back wall where a flush linear drain collects water. It also provides a steam component – Melissa’s request. The upstairs laundry room (which also sits in the master bath) incorporates a pureWash oxidation system. “We don’t use any laundry detergent and it uses all cold water. Sean introduced it to us,” Brad says. “The house is also equipped with radiant heat.” The entire home has fully automated systems controlled by a wall-mounted touchscreen or mobile device including radiant heat, forced air-cooling,

lighting, the sound system, security system, garage doors and fireplaces. Glaser says the design came from the Blanks’ ideas and extensive work on the part of Sean Tomlinson, owner of Tomlinson Designs. It began with the Blanks searching for ideas that helped build their vision. “We had owned the property for over two years before we decided to break ground so we had a lot of time to bring the styles together,” Brad says. “When we’d go to Summit County or Steamboat to ski, we’d drive around and look at houses to get ideas,” says Melissa, whose background is in merchandising and fashion design. “And I’d drop $50 or more on design magazines and tear out pages of

things I liked. I had an accordion file with a lot of things ripped out of those magazines. We wanted to use materials that were either recycled or reused, so we looked into companies that do reclamation.” The gathering of those ideas took about a year, she says. Then the time was right. The first step was to find someone who could put all those ideas on paper. They already knew Tomlinson through his work as their son’s assistant soccer coach. “He’s a home designer and interior designer so we met with him and did a conceptual design.” The Blanks had put a year into the ideas and then worked with Tomlinson for about six months on the actual design. “Sean sat Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

PERSONAL TREATMENT GUARANTEED.

116 North College Ave., Suite 12 Fort Collins, CO 80524 | 970.493.9127 | treelinebuilt.com Style 2014

on the lot, looked at the angle and the views and determined the positioning of the house so it could incorporate as much solar energy as possible,” Brad says. There were a number of “must-haves” for the Blanks. “Sean knew we wanted to incorporate reusing and reclaiming so he included that,” Melissa says. “The goal was to make sure the structure of the house had long term sustainability. And I knew I didn’t want a standard roof line. We also wanted different media both inside and outside of the house. Sean took every idea I had and put it on paper. It was jaw dropping for me.” The next step was to find a builder. “We interviewed four builders,” Melissa says. “As soon as I met Forest, it was done.” “Forest is extremely personable, extremely timely and detail-oriented,” Brad says. “He took the lead and always knew what was going on.” The Blanks also praise superintendent Clif Dimon’s work. “Forest is able to surround himself with quality people,” Melissa says. “He respects them and they respect him.” Although she was on site a good amount of the time, she took a trip to the Holy Land and says, “I knew between Forest and Sean, I didn’t have to worry.” It was a team effort, Brad says. “Melissa, Forest and Sean made a great team.” Tomlinson agrees. “Working with the Blanks was great. They were wonderful clients. You don’t always get to work with clients like that. It’s pretty unique. Melissa had great ideas and it was fun to work with her through the design and then fill the house with her ideas and what I could do to bring them together.” Work with Forest and Tree Line also proved advantageous, he says. “It was the best collaborative effort with designer, contractor and owner I’ve had since I’ve moved to Colorado in 2004. Forest did a great job of understanding Brad and Melissa’s needs and made sure the drawings and design intent were met as well. That’s sometimes a difficult battle but he and Clif made sure what was drawn happened. If there were hiccups along the way, they made sure the desires of the clients were put first.” The mutual admiration doesn’t stop there. “We listen to how the clients want to live and their needs and wants for the home. And our main focus is on quality and craftsmanship. We don’t always take every project that comes our way if it’s not a good fit,” says Glaser. This was a very good fit, he says. “We had great ideas from Brad and Melissa and she had a huge hand in the interior design. Working with Sean was easy and it was a very collaborative effort from design through the house being finished. Also Clif incorporated high quality vendors and craftsmen. It took the house to that next level of quality.” The Blank’s design and build team: Builder and owner of Tree Line Homes, Forest Glaser; owner of Tomlinson Designs, Sean Tomlinson; and Tree Line Homes Superintendent Clif Dimon.

Kay Rios is a freelance writer and regular contributor to Lydia’s Style Magazine. Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

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home & garden

Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

pergolas

Can Spruce Up Your Yard

By Michelle Venus

Picture this: it's New Years' Eve 2011 and you're working because you are Peggy Lyle, the assistant director of the Downtown Fort Collins Business Association, and it's your job to make sure First Night goes off without a hitch. Except, there's a hitch. You get a call from your husband telling you one of the 70-foot tall blue spruces that stand sentinel at the front of the property has just been uprooted by a severe microburst; lifted out of the ground like a huge umbrella, and is now lying atop the neighbor's house. "Yep," says Peggy. "Chris (McCullough), my husband, called me on my cell phone and said, 'Do you want the bad news or the worse news?'" At first, after hearing the report, Peggy thought Chris was joking when he gave her the update. But no, he was serious. Luckily, the tree didn't gain enough momentum as it fell to seriously damage the neighbor's house; it just lay down on top of it. A house just a block away wasn't so lucky, though. Another tree, upended by the same strong winds, crashed through the roof of the house and destroyed its entire second floor. "We felt kind of lucky that our spruce tree didn't cause that kind of damage," Lyle remembers. "Some of the limbs pierced the soffit of their (the neighbor's) roof and the tree knocked the house off-kilter a bit. They couldn't lock their front door until it was removed. That was it." That leaves the problem of what to do with a tree that Peggy and Chris nurtured for the 10 years they lived in their house. "We loved that tree," says Peggy. "Of course, we were devastated, and I wanted to just stand it back up." But that wasn't going to work. So they put their heads together and tried to come up with some way to honor the spruce; to repurpose it in such a way that they could continue to enjoy it, even if it was in some other form. One of the ideas was to have the tree milled into a butcher block that they could use as counter tops in their kitchen. Peggy and Chris were ready to renovate their tiny Old Town Style 2014

bungalow, but it would have taken two years or more for the wood to dry properly and they didn't want to wait that long. The next step was to talk to Adrian Jones, friend and owner of Frameworks Timber. After some discussion, they decided to build a pergola out of the wood and erect it right where the tree once stood. Once the tree was lifted off the neighbor's house with cranes, Jones and his crew milled it into usable components and crafted them into a custom-designed pergola, supplemented with beetle-kill and redwood elements, using timber framing construction methods. Timber framing is an ancient building technique that joins heavy, load-bearing timbers with mortise and tenon joints that are then fastened with wooden pegs. In a true timber framed structure, there are no nails. "This is solid," explains Jones. "It will stand for a long, long time." In fact, there are centuries-old timber frame buildings still standing in different parts of the world. The pergola was constructed in Frameworks Timber's facility, then deconstructed and reassembled on-site at Casa Lyle-McCullough. Peggy and Chris had laid a base of flag stones, with one large stone smack dab in the center, where the old tree once stood. The pergola was erected above the stone base and soon grape vines and hops plants were circling the uprights. Now the pergola is an anchor in their landscape scheme, and a place where Peggy and Chris relax after a long day at work or working in the garden. Tivoli lights sparkle while they barbecue and enjoy good times with guests. Because it's so close to the front of the property, they often engage in spontaneous conversations with passersby. Peggy and Chris' pergola is lovely way to remember a dear old friend.

Peggy Lyle and husband Chris McCullough enjoy a glass of wine under their pergola in 2012 (left). The pergola, crafted by Frameworks Timber, was constructed out of a 70-foot-tall blue spruce (pergola detail and the tree above) that fell during the winter of 2011.

pergolas Options Abound

Several local companies specialize in custom pergolas designed to fit your outdoor space. Top row: Hurr Sprinkler & Landscape, Esh Construction. Middle: Alpine Gardens, Lindgren Landscape. Bottom: Frameworks Timber.

Pergola Ins and Outs Georgia Perry, senior landscape designer at Lindgren Landscape, weighs in about pergolas. "Pergolas are a great application in a landscape," she says. "So many houses in Northern Colorado are oriented south and west to capture the mountain views, but that leaves a patio that bakes in the afternoon sun. Without some shading mechanism, the patio becomes unusable. It's just too hot." Pergolas provide just the right amount of shade without blocking light to the interior of the home like a permanent roof structure or shade sails might. Add lighting, ceiling fans and patio heaters, and a pergola becomes a three-season outdoor room that can be enjoyed well into the evening hours. "A pergola is a good investment in your property," says Perry. "More clients are requesting them, and they all love the end result." John Esh, owner of Esh Construction, enjoys the aesthetic value a pergola can add to your home. “It’s about craftsmanship; I really enjoy taking a stack of raw lumber and turning it into something beautiful for someone’s project. Coloradans are outdoor people, and I love being able to help my customers enjoy their outdoor living spaces. Each pergola project poses unique challenges as we strive to bring aesthetics and functionality together, but the end result is always rewarding.” Esh reminds readers, any pergola within the city limits that exceeds 120 square feet in size or that is attached to a home requires a building permit. Michelle Venus is a freelance writer living and working in Fort Collins. She recently fulfilled a long time dream of becoming a licensed Real Estate Broker. She can be reached and michelle@ michellevenus.com.

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home & garden

GET THE DIRT ON

By Corey Radman

The view from the edge of a trash cliff at the Larimer County Landfill raises many questions. Why does so much of this stuff land here? There are grass clippings, wood fencing, something unidentifiable but food-like... The amount of stuff that gets thrown in the landfill boggles the mind. And the kicker is, two thirds of this stuff is compostable, according to the U.S. Composting Council. Yard waste, lumber, paper and food scraps all spill from trash bags that were collected, transported and dumped in the landfill instead of a compost pile.

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Steve Palmer, sous chef at Rocky River Bar and Grille located inside the Loveland Embassy Suites, stands outside the restaurant’s garden. Rocky River composted an estimated 176 tons of food waste in 2013. The landfill is a finite resource. Current projections from Larimer County estimate that it will serve the needs of Larimer County residents until 2031 when the landfill will be as full as is allowed by law, after which it will close. Factor in rapid population growth, and it's possible that day will come faster than anticipated. Gallegos Sanitation Inc. (GSI) Sustainability Coordinator, Becca Walkinshaw, says in Larimer County 40 percent of all organic material is taken out with the trash. She says, “Residential recycling is very well established in most of Northern Colorado—in large part because it's free for residential users. Commercially, businesses are getting there, though the extra cost for businesses also has to be factored in.” Walkinshaw says the next frontier in waste diversion is definitely compost. GSI offers multiple composting programs for both their residential and business customers. Walkinshaw points to the yard waste program as the biggest opportunity for customers to ease the burden on the landfill while also doing something good for the environment. Yard waste is just that: a separate container for grass clippings, branches, leaves—even produce scraps. “Only 10 percent of our current residential customers utilize the seven-month program,” says the sustainability expert. “That doesn't mean they aren't doing their own backyard composting, but we see real opportunity to grow this program.” In the last five years, the GSI yard waste program participation has jumped by 80 percent, which reinforces her impression that the company is offering the services that people want. Residential compostables collected by GSI currently go to a local dairy to be used for feed and soil enhancement. “That's the full circle we envision,” she says. For commercial clients, the composting concepts are the same, though the regulations are a bit different. Post-consumer waste can't go directly to another business because of possible contaminants. The EPA requires that this type of compost be processed by a licensed facility

to ensure pathogen destruction. Currently, the only regional composting facility able to meet this need is A1 Organics headquartered in Eaton, Colorado. A1's multiple facilities process biosolids like food waste, yard waste, clean wood waste and animal manure. They convert it to mulch and compost, which is sold to the landscaping industry. A1 regularly contracts with restaurants, schools and grocery stores in Denver and along the Front Range to collect their compostable food waste. According to their website (www.a1organics.com), their programs help the environment in many ways. “Food waste sent to a waste water treatment facility via garbage disposals results in increased water usage, increased biological and chemical-oxygen demand. Using up the available oxygen in water creates situations that will not support aquatic life.” Plus, food waste sitting in the landfill generates far more methane gas than it would were it composted. Big Al's Burgers and Dogs in Fort Collins has used A1 since the restaurant's opening. According to Director of Operations for the parent company, Alan Jantzen, “It just makes sense. So much of our waste can be turned into quality material if you have a great third party provider like A1 Organics.” A visit to the restaurant demonstrates their commitment to sustainability. All but one item used in the restaurant can be composted. Jantzen says he is encouraged by how committed his clients and staff are to composting. “It's always great for me to see how our staff enjoy helping educate people about composting.” He adds that since these front-line employees are younger, they already live these concepts. “It's us older folks who can learn from them,” he says. From a business perspective, Jantzen's decision to have A1 pick up the restaurant's compostable waste isn't hard. “We don't save any money, but that's not the mission. It's more about trying to do the right thing. The cost was a tradeoff. We

either pay for more trash service or more for compost service.” He reports that the restaurant pays about $200 per month for composting. This approach is not confined to small businesses. Embassy Suites in Loveland composted an estimated 176.4 tons of kitchen and dining room food waste in 2013. That's 352,800 pounds of waste diverted from the landfill and sent, instead, to A1 Organics. Embassy's Chief Engineer, Scott McKelvey, says, “I would challenge business owners who say it's too expensive to do this. If you do your homework and get involved with the right people, it's not as financially restrictive as you might think at first glance.” He adds, “You're going to pay to haul the waste one way or another, why not put it in the right place where it can do some good?” Embassy Suites uses their own compost to enhance the soil in their on-site kitchen garden – true full-circle composting. McKelvey adds, “Small businesses could even do this themselves in their backyards and donate the compost to employees.” And for that matter, so can homeowners. The basic elements of a good compost bin or pile include alternating layers of wet and dry materials. Common wet elements are table scraps (not including meat or bones), wilted produce, tea bags, etc. Use straw, old leaves, newspaper, or sawdust pellets for the dry material. Then, stir in a nitrogen-rich ingredient to activate decomposition like green manure. You can buy nitrogen additives from the nursery. Or human urine works too, just don't tell the dinner guests when they're enjoying the tomatoes. More do-it-yourself composting resources are available at the City of Fort Collins website, www. fcgov.com. Or see their compost demonstration site at the Gardens on Spring Creek. Corey Radman writes and composts in Fort Collins. Contact her at www.fortcollinswriter.com. Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Advertorial

THE MCKEE PROJECT The McKee project allowed us to use our high-end residential expertise in a commercial application. We installed seat walls, patios, landscape lighting and statues as hardscapes and then softened the edges with plantings. The installation created an area for patients of the hospital to get away and enjoy the beautiful Colorado outdoors. This install was similar to many residential installs that we have created for homeowners in the past and it was nice to create something similar at a hospital that will be enjoyed by many.

970.613.0225 hurrcolorado.com

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great outdoors

Holly Johnson leads a group in stand up paddleboard yoga at Horsetooth Reservoir.

Hot Stuff: Paddleboard Yoga is in Season By Kyle Eustice

Chances are you’ve passed by Horsetooth Reservoir and witnessed people balancing on a surfboard-like object while using paddles for movement. Known as stand up paddleboard, it’s one of the fastest growing surface water sports in the last few years, not only in Northern Colorado, but everywhere. Stand up paddleboard yoga, or S.U.P. yoga, is one modification of the sport that has exploded in popularity. With the sun on your face and sound of the water lapping against the edge of your board, it’s a fun way to get in terrific shape and balance your chi at the same time. 66

Fort Collins resident and owner of BlissFull Balance, Holly Johnson, saw its potential on a trip to the Cayman Islands. She knew it was something she needed to try. As a personal trainer, many of her clients’ biggest complaints involved balance and stability. With S.U.P. yoga, she realized it activates muscles throughout the entire body, toning all of those problem areas. “A lot of people don’t activate all their stabilizing muscles, especially in their legs because of the shoes people are wearing,” Johnson explains. “S.U.P. yoga really helps to wake up all of your stabilizing muscles, not only in your core, but in your legs and your arms, especially when you do things like plank position. It’s waking up all those muscles, so you get that sleek body." “It’s not even growing as fast in Colorado as I’ve seen in other place,” she continues. “I went to Austin, Texas, last summer and when you looked down at the river, you could barely see spots of the water because there were so many paddleboards out there. Last year, it really hit hard and I imagine this year is going to be super busy. People are branching out. More people are interested in fitness and finding ways to be healthy. And yes, yoga has grown a ton, but now people are trying to find ways to get out in nature and make it fun. It’s nice

because Horsetooth has the whole campground, too. So while people are getting a vacation, rather than just sitting and fishing or going on a boat, now you have the option of getting a fitness activity in.” A paddleboard is essentially like a giant surfboard with balance and stability built into it, but unlike a surfboard, the stand up paddleboard is a bit broader and longer so it’s more stable. “It does still challenge your balance, but you have a paddle so you don’t have worry about riding waves out with your arms,” she says. “You can do yoga on it because it’s kind of like a giant yoga mat that floats on water. You can pretty much fit a yoga mat over the top of it if you wanted.” As a nutritional coach, Johnson doesn’t focus too much on calories in and calories out. In fact, she’s never really done the research to figure out exactly how many calories you can burn in a single 90-minute class. According to paddleboardbliss.com, you can burn up to 1,400 calories if you’re working hard. However, Johnson believes it’s all relative. “Even with yoga, you get out what you put into it,” she says. “You can go to a yoga class and actually be faking it and not engaging your body. I had this intern last summer, bless her heart and I love her, but she’s super flexible so Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

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she could mimic all of the yoga poses and she thought it was easy, but she was not really engaging and working the muscles, which is a huge component in calorie burning. “That’s the good thing about the stand up paddleboard and why I love it,” she adds. “After teaching yoga for so long, I would give cues in class and people would fake it. But when you’re out on water, you have to be doing it otherwise you’re going to fall off. You definitely burn more in a stand up paddleboard class than a regular mat class.” For those intimidated by the sport, it may be of some comfort to know you don’t have to wear a skimpy bikini or Speedo trunks to participate. Johnson and most of her students usually wear board shorts and a tank top, which allows for ultimate flexibility. All ages and fitness levels are welcome. The season kicks off in June and BlissFull Balance offers a full class schedule. The optimal times for the classes are between sunrise and 9:30 a.m. and prior to sunset on the weekends. Due to heavy boat traffic at Horsetooth Reservoir, a life vest and emergency whistle are required on the board at all times, although you’re not required to wear it during the actual class. Johnson teaches only the paddleboard/yoga combination, but there’s still plenty of paddling to do.

“You don’t have to have any paddleboard experience,” she says. “We paddle over to where we’re going to have class, which I gauge by the level of the water. So you get paddle time and yoga time. “You do want to be comfortable with swimming,” she adds. “If not, life vests are provided. So if anyone is fearful of falling in, they can wear a life vest. We have the classes in a close enough space where the anchor can touch the bottom. The rope is 12 ft. long. You’re not too close to the shore where if you fall off you hit the bottom, but you’re close enough where you’re going to be fine. The board is not that hard to get back on. Checking out a class is kind of the best way to learn about it. Don’t be intimidated.” To find out more about Johnson’s classes, visit www.blissfullbalance.com.

Kyle Eustice recently relocated to Fort Collins from her hometown of Omaha, Nebraska. After spending four years living in Santa Fe, New Mexico, she couldn’t wait to get back to the mountain region. She is a regular contributor to Thrasher Skateboarding Magazine, Wax Poetics, Ghettoblaster and many others. Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

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eat

Michael Baute and Meghan Williams, owners of Spring Kite Farms, were the guest chefs for Jax Fish House’s Farmer in the Kitchen series in 2013.

Welcome to Fresh By Malini Bartels

At a time when restaurants are looking to cut corners and purchase in bulk, a select few are relentless about procuring ingredients from local purveyors in order to secure freshness, quality and a taste that is an uncompromising reflection of our great regional farming and ranching community. The Northern Front Range is being recognized as a hotbed for seasonal vegetables, grass-fed meats, artisan foods and handmade cheese. Chris Clark and Chris Cole of Rocky River Bar and Grille are using this to their advantage. As the Director of Food and Beverage and the Executive Chef, respectively, the two Chris’s have taken what could have fallen into the cookiecutter pattern of large chain hotel restaurants and are, instead, tapping into the community for creativity and freshness. Located in the Loveland Embassy Suites, the Rocky River Bar and Grille even procures local fish in our land-locked state. Sourcing trout from Berthoud’s E&J Fish Farm is just one of the ways local foods are being brought into this “diamond in the rough restaurant.” “We think our guests and the public in general are more knowledgeable about how food is processed and they want to know where their food is coming from,” explains Clark. “We live in an agricultural area and it is very important to be true to our roots. It’s nice to be able to visit the

purveyors and farms and see where the food is grown and how it’s processed.” “Hyper-local is the key word as of late,” chimes in Chef Cole. “You have more of a sense of passion with your product when you take time to care for your food.” “There’s nothing more local than our chef’s garden,” says Clark. “Throughout the summer, weekly and daily specials are grown from the garden; even the cocktails use cucumbers and mint from garden. We follow the seasonality of the produce.” On the menu this coming season is a Fat Tire Shrimp, with shrimp cocktail poached in Fat Tire Belgian Ale as well as BBQ chicken wings using Denver’s own Leopold’s peach whiskey in the sauce. “Our goal is to wow our guests by giving them a dining option they wouldn’t have expected; specialty cocktails, artful presentation and locally sourced dishes. We’re one of the best kept secrets in the area,” boasts Chef Cole.

Chef de Cuisine at Jax Fish House in Fort Collins, Ricky Meyers, is successfully locally sourcing 90 percent of his kitchen at peak summer season. “The movement is big and if you know what you’re doing, people will follow you,” states Meyers. “You want to support your community and utilize what’s close to you and what’s in season. It’s about bringing people together.” Jax is dedicated to helping local farms showcase what they do best and in the process, garnering more CSA members for the farm. “Showcasing a farm doesn’t just help the farm,” says Meyers. “They bring their great food for us to work with and we bring them members. You keep money within the community.” In August of this year, Jax Fish House will feature a Farmer in the Kitchen series. Every Wednesday night, a local farmer will come in and help prepare and serve a three-course meal made with their products. It’s a wonderful opportunity to share recipes, meet the person who grew or raised your food and develop oneness with your Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

community. Reservations are recommended and discounts are offered for CSA members of the featured farm. “Our hope is that eventually all food will be back to non-genetic-modification,” says Meyers. “It’s better for the community, better for the economy and for the environment without having to outsource.” Fort Collins’ newest spot to boast local fare and fun is The Colorado Room, located at 642 South College Avenue. Owners Danny Shea and Justin Serr grew up in Colorado and have over 15 years of experience in the restaurant industry. In fact, they love Fort Collins so much; they commute from Denver every single day to operate their dream restaurant exactly the way they want it to be—as local as possible. “There are many benefits as a business owner when it comes to sourcing local,” says Shea. “The money spent goes right back into the community and we've been able to build great relationships all around. The locals notice and they appreciate it and support us because of it. Because of all the support, we've been able to help give back. Last month we donated $700 worth of school supplies to the special education department at Lincoln Middle School. Warm fuzzy feelings—priceless, and it all stems from sourcing local!” Shea and Serr created the concept of The Colorado Room by combining all their favorite features of restaurants, pubs and hangouts into one truly friendly local experience from start to finish. They even took poutine, a Canadian dish, and turned it into a local favorite with melted cheese curds from Cozy Cow Diary along with house-made mushroom gravy using Hazel Dell mushrooms. “Customers can definitely taste the quality and freshness,” insists Serr. “Locally sourced food goes right back into the community, not only through consumption but when you buy locally you help pay for the farmers’ direct expenses versus a large corporation's year-end bonus for over-compensated C-suite executives. It's a cycle really; the money we spend here is more likely to stay here.” A few blocks away at the rousingly popular Restaurant 415, Chef/Owner Amelia Mouton is producing unique dishes to wow local grads and their friends and family. Always striving to attain local foods whenever possible, she truly believes in the community aspect of locally sourced food. “There is nothing like having that connection with the farmers, seeing the farms, and then cooking up fresh ingredients,” mentions Mouton. “I think that it creates an energy that the customers feel. They may not even think about it, but they can feel and taste the freshness of the ingredients.” Regularly obtaining fresh produce from Spring Kite Farm and Quatrix-Aquaponics, and having a good relationship with LoCo Foods and other local distributors, makes it easy for Restaurant 415 to benefit from what our community has to offer. “Sourcing locally provides us with a lot of smiling happy farmers’ faces, a connection to our food, a connection to our community, cheaper prices and beautiful produce,” says Mouton. “We are grateful to be a part of the local movement!” Style 2014

Area Restaurants Making Efforts in the Local Movement •

Canyon Street Chop House, Fort Collins

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Jax Fish House, Fort Collins

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Tasty Harmony, Fort Collins

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Café Vino, Fort Collins

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Lucille’s Creole Café, Fort Collins

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Restaurant 415, Fort Collins

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The Colorado Room, Fort Collins

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Gravity 1020, Fort Collins

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The Kitchen (coming soon), Fort Collins

7 benefits of eating local foods Eating locally grown foods has many benefits for the consumer, grower and the community. – Posted on April 13, 2013 by Rita Klavinski, Michigan State University Extension •

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Next Door Food and Beverage, Loveland

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Rocky River Bar and Grille, Loveland

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Chimney Park Bistro, Windsor

Locally grown food is full of flavor. When grown locally, the crops are picked at their peak of ripeness versus being harvested early in order to be shipped and distributed to your local retail store. Many times produce at local markets has been picked within 24 hours of your purchase. Eating local food is eating seasonally. Even though we wish strawberries were grown year round—the best time to eat them is when they can be purchased directly from a local grower. They are full of flavor and taste better than the ones available in the winter that have traveled thousands of miles and were picked before they were ripe. Local food has more nutrients. Local food has a shorter time between harvest and your table, and it is less likely that the nutrient value has decreased. Food imported from far-away states and countries is often older, has traveled and sits in distribution centers before it gets to your store.

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Local food supports the local economy. The money that is spent with local farmers and growers all stays close to home and is reinvested with businesses and services in your community.

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Local food benefits the environment. By purchasing locally grown foods you help maintain farmland and green and/ or open space in your community.

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Local foods promote a safer food supply. The more steps there are between you and your food’s source the more chances there are for contamination. Food grown in distant locations has the potential for food safety issues at harvesting, washing, shipping and distribution.

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Local growers can tell you how the food was grown. You can ask what practices they use to raise and harvest the crops. When you know where your food comes from and who grew it, you know a lot more about that food.

Malini Bartels is a freelance writer, chef, mother, radio host and actress living the good life in Fort Collins.

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Out of the Box: Enjoy Summer Wines

Ah. Summer is finally here and it is time for sitting poolside soaking up the sun, boating, backyard barbeques and—box wines. Today's box wines are an excellent value and quality. They are packaged in both 3 liter and 500 ml. sizes, making it convenient for either a poolside serving or for a large group at a barbeque.

Bota Box provides multiple sizes and varieties of wines and two of our favorites at RJ’s are the red blend Redvolution and the Pinot Grigio. Redvolution is a red blend with lush flavors of dark fruits, spice and vanilla, this full-bodied wine finishes smooth and fruit-focused. It pairs excellently with pastas and pizza. If you are looking for a wine with a clean, crisp finish then the pinot grigio is for you. This medium-bodied wine has flavors of a ripe peach and nectarine that pairs nicely with a fresh salad, fish and even sushi. Another fine box wine for summer is Cara Mia Pinot Noir from northern Italy. This mediumbodied wine has a perfectly balanced flavor of luscious fruits that finishes with a smooth satin texture. This is our favorite because it can be served slightly chilled (55 degrees) and goes well with anything from grilled pork to burgers or steak. If you can’t get past the box then you may want to try a nice Vino Verde from Portugal, Style 2014

one that we enjoy is from Casal Garcia. It is wonderfully crisp with a lemon-lime citrus flavor that creates the sense that it is a sparkling wine. While it pairs well with many fresh cold dishes, it is also delightful just drinking a glass, unwinding on the front porch. If you break out that smoker and spicy barbeque sauce then a Malbec from Argentina will offer a nice balance to the meal. We cannot forget about Sauvignon Blanc, a clean crisp citrusy wine that can have a soft grapefruit-y finish, like Kono from New Zealand or Joel Gott from California, or finishes with a bold flavor, like Matua Valley from New Zealand. Try these summer-friendly wine varieties today and make the most of the season.

– Josh Landi, Russ Bullamore and Tom Landi, RJ’s Wine, Liquor & Spirits, 4321 Corbett Dr., Fort Collins, (970) 204-6792, www.rjswineandspirits.com

noco life

Water, Water, Everywhere? By Brad Shannon

Colorado is growing, and is expected to double in population by 2050. This is placing a bigger demand on a limited supply of water. After last September’s flood, commonly described as “Biblical,” and a winter that produced an above-average snowpack, local water levels are generally described as good in Northern Colorado. That has brought some relief after recent years marked by drought and wildfires.

Carter Lake had filled and Horsetooth Reservoir was being filled in mid-May. Local water storage was 30 percent above normal on April 1, after being 30 to 40 percent above normal at the end of 2013. Colorado’s snowpack was 30 to 40 percent above normal in mid-May. That means that, as the saying goes, “we have water to use, but none to waste.” That’s the summary Mike DiTullio of the Fort CollinsLoveland Water District provides, while describing last fall’s floodwater as a “mixed blessing” —and not just because of the property damage and loss of life. “The rains helped fill reservoirs, and it

saturated the ground in the high country,” he notes. “That means the runoff won’t soak into the ground, and that water will find its way into the river basins. From there, it heads to Nebraska because we don’t have any place to store it. People don’t understand that every drop of water in the state is owned by someone, and if you don’t take the opportunity to store what you own, it goes downstream to someone else.” Full reservoirs this spring hold the promise of Northern Colorado residents having the water needed for drinking, recreating and agricultural use; but a number of local water

organizations were not able to capture all the water they hoped to because of both routine and flood-related repair projects that limited some storage options. When considering just how important water is to Colorado and the western U.S., it’s important to note that in mid-May, the Colorado River reached the ocean for the first time since 1993. Water from this river, which has its source at La Poudre Pass where the Continental Divide separates Larimer and Grand counties, has not regularly flowed to the sea for 50 years. Despite the fact that the Colorado River starts in our backyard, the complex world of Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

water law sees most of its water flow south and west to users in Nevada and California who have senior rights to use it. Brian Werner of Northern Water notes that the floodwaters, while not of the highest quality, allowed some local reservoirs to be topped off. “We don’t like flooding, but it was a huge boost to local storage. We did not take much into Horsetooth Reservoir and Carter Lake since that is used for recreation and drinking.” He continues, “We’d rather it not be on the heels of flood damage, but it looks like we’ll have a good water year. The farmers will be happy, and there should be plenty of water to go around.” Werner predicts that, just as skiers have been happy with the snow season, rafters and kayakers will be happy this spring and early summer, especially after years of low flows like 2012 and years of ash-laden runoff following wildfires. “It has continued to snow, as the storm over Mother’s Day showed, and it has not warmed up dramatically, which is always good.” The concern, he notes, is when temperatures spike to 90 degrees or warmer and stay there a week. “The melting and runoff is never a smooth line, but we’d like it to be slow and steady, and not all come down at once.” Having enough water can change relatively quickly, however. The three wettest years in a row in Northern Colorado were 2009, 2010 and 2011. Then 2012 arrived and depleted most of the region’s reservoir storage in just a

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year. Werner echoes DiTullio’s frustration over the need to have more storage to get through the dry times. “We see a lot of water flow downstream, and we have nowhere to put it. More storage could carry us through the next drought. We need to be prepared.” The supply of water is only as good as the latest weather pattern. For example, the Greeley-Loveland Irrigation Company took advantage of September’s flood to fill Lake Loveland, reports Ron Brinkman, general manager. Then a combination of ongoing cold temperatures in the high country, which slowed the rate that snow melted, and sustained high winds for four days, which dried out the soil, led the company to drain a noticeable amount of water from the lake. That enabled local farmers to save seed already in the ground because they had no other water to use. That, combined with construction projects, has their lakes in “decent shape,” according to Brinkman. “Definitely better than a year ago, and slightly better than average.” While it appears that most locals will get the water they need this year, water industry experts and legislators are looking ahead. Governor Hickenlooper issued an executive order to a variety of organizations statewide to create a state water plan on a fast track. After working the better part of a decade on laying the foundation, an initial draft is due by the end of July, and a final version is due next spring.

Our state’s growing population also led to recent discussion, now tabled, by the state legislature to consider limiting the size of lawns in new developments. The state did pass new regulations phasing out the sale of water fixtures that don’t meet federal “WaterSense” guidelines. The proposed lawn limits would have been the first statewide regulations in the nation. The move to sell more efficient faucets, showerheads and toilets are expected to save as much as 13 billion gallons by 2050. Sean Cronin of the St. Vrain and Left Hand Water Conservancy District, notes that the “buy and dry” approach – purchasing water rights from agriculture users, using the water to supply homeowners with drinking water, and letting the land go fallow, won’t work anymore. “We have interconnected agriculture, environmental, recreational and municipal economies. We need to balance the growing demand for water to maintain the rural quality of life, preserve the environment, provide recreational uses and provide a good urban and suburban quality of life. We need to preserve everything people say they love about Colorado, and do that for the next generation.”

Brad Shannon is a freelance writer based in Loveland.

travel

A “Grown Up” Day in Golden By Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer

Looking for an excuse to leave the kids at home and play, grown up style? If you’re longing for a little art, theater and a cocktail or two, look no further than Golden, Colorado. The town manages to feel far away from civilization, but its close proximity to Denver means that it’s a highly desirable place to live, and Golden has attracted a nice collection of fine dining establishments, art galleries and even a new speakeasy.

While family activities abound, with attractions such as the Colorado Railroad Museum and the Clear Creek History Park, this is also a place to experience art and culture. Public art can be found all over Golden, and we started our day with an art walking tour. Established in July 1999, the Golden Public Art Partnership’s mission is to ensure the distribution, in public areas, of visible outdoor art that celebrates the community’s heritage and environment. We started with the Sleeping Bear sculpture outside the town’s Visitor’s Center at 10th and Washington. You can pop into the center and grab a map of all 30 of the town’s bronze sculptures. We took off down the path along Clear Creek, admiring gigantic bronze butterflies, huge cutthroat trout and life-size deer. We walked as far as the Clear Creek White Water Park, where we watched kayakers playing in the currents just beyond a statue entitled The Kayak Racer. It was April, and the trees and undergrowth along Clear Creek were just beginning to turn a shimmery green. Chilled from a stiff spring breeze, we popped into one of Golden’s many coffee shops for a warm up. After a bit of shopping at various outdoor clothing stores and antique shops, we lunched at

the Windy Saddle Café. The cafe buzzed with a cheerful, small town ambiance. Families ordered cookies and hot chocolate, while a group of belly dancers chatted happily over their lunch, still wearing their jeweled third eyes in the middle of their foreheads. I ordered the Kickin’ Chicken, while my husband, Ryan, ordered the Reuben. We could have ordered beer or wine to go with our meal, but we were saving those calories for later. Our sandwiches, just $7, were deliciously satisfying. The Windy Saddle Café has a number of vegan and gluten free options, including an array of gluten free desserts. Our next stop was the Foothills Art Center. I’ve visited this gallery a number of times and it’s worth the steady uphill climb to the top of Washington Avenue. Foothills Art Center focuses on fine craft and alternative media. "Splinter! Colorado Wood Today" was on exhibit during our April visit. June 7 through August 17, however, it’s "Toulouse-Lautrec and La Vie Modern: Paris 1880-1910." We sat down with curator and educational programs director, Marianne Lorenz, to learn more about the upcoming show that will feature Toulouse-Lautrec’s poster art, plus 94 other artists reflecting the values, ideas, style Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Left: The bar at Golden Moon Speak. Photo courtesy of Golden Moon Distillery. Right: Golden’s Saturday Farmers Market. Photo courtesy of Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer. and zeitgeist of 18th Century France. “This show fits our focus,” says Lorenz. “It speaks to alternative media, plus Toulouse-Lautrec was a huge figure in art and we want to expose our audience to that. We’re truly honored that it’s coming here. This is the only venue for this exhibit in the Rocky Mountain region.” There will be educational programs, lectures and film nights in association with the exhibit. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and $5 for youths/students. Children under 10 are free. Private tours with a docent can be arranged in advance for an additional $5. After this artistic stop, we made our way back to the heart of downtown. In the middle of the 1100 block of Washington Avenue we discovered a door marked by a simple wooden sign displaying a smiling moon. We opened the door and found ourselves in the world’s smallest hallway. We traveled through the narrow space, up some stairs, down some stairs and around a corner and then through the door and into the Golden Moon Speakeasy, serving up spirits made by the Golden Moon Distillery. The interior design of the speakeasy is a modern twist on an old story; a huge antique bar fills up one end of the room, while colorful, modern art graces the dark wood walls. The large

absinthe fountain with four spouts immediately caught our eye. The business of making cocktails is taken very seriously at the Golden Moon Speakeasy, and there’s no such thing as simply throwing a drink together here. Karly carefully crafted my Old Fashion, and Ryan’s absinthe cocktail, with the care of an artisan. It was the best Old Fashion I have ever had. Golden Moon Distillery, located just a few blocks from the speakeasy, makes eight different types of craft spirits. Not widely available at liquor stores yet, their products can be found at events around the area such as the Golden Music Festival on June 13-15. Warmed by our drinks, we shopped a little more and then hit Indulge Wine Bar & Bistro for a pre-show dinner. We had tickets to “The Road to Mecca” at the Miner’s Alley Playhouse, just across the street. The happy hour at Indulge is popular with locals and the place was packed with folks enjoying the drink and appetizer specials. The Bistro fare includes everything from steak to handmade pasta. There are also burgers and flatbread pizzas, so you don’t have to go super fancy or expensive. We went high end with steak and carbonara pasta that did not disappoint. Bellies full, we crossed the street to Miner’s

Alley Playhouse where we were treated with one of the best community theater productions we have ever seen. If this is any indicator of the caliber of plays produced here, I can’t wait to go back. I love the intimacy of watching theater in a jewel box sized venue, and this particular production of “The Road to Mecca” proves why community theater is an important part of the fabric of our towns. Miner’s Alley Playhouse brings "The Fantasticks" to the stage May through June. Golden is a year-round destination for those looking for arts, culture, adventure or simply a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Start planning your visit at VisitGolden.com today. Writer’s note: Heading down on a Saturday? Start your visit at the Golden Farmers Market, opening on June 7, 2014. We visited this fantastic market last summer, and if I lived nearby, I’d go every Saturday, and I can think of no better endorsement than that.

Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer is a freelance writer and longtime Colorado resident. She’s also the founder of HeidiTown.com, the place for entertaining stories about Colorado festivals and travel.

Left: Clear Creek White Water Park. Right: View from the Clear Creek bike path. Photos courtesy of Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer. Style 2014

CALENDAR OF EVENTS June 6, 13, 20, 27 July 4 Ben & Jerry’s FAC Concert Series Live music in Old Town Square to kick off each weekend! 7:00-9:00pm Presented by Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shoppe. FREE June 3, 10, 17, 24 July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 August 5 Noontime Notes Concert Series An intimate concert series where you can appreciate jazz, rock-n-roll, folk music and other genres while eating your lunch. Located in Oak Street Plaza in Downtown Fort Collins - Tuesdays. 11:30am-1:00pm FREE June 5, 12, 19, 26 July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 August 7 Bohemian Nights presents Thursday Night Live Old Town Square concerts showcasing Colorado music! 7:00-9:00pm Presented by Bohemian Nights, LLC. FREE June 27-29 The Colorado Brewers’ Festival The 25th Annual Colorado Brewers’ Festival will host over 50 Colorado breweries serving over 100 Colorado beers! People can experience the festival and tasting beer from across the state, have opportunities to talk to the brewers, and be in historic Downtown Fort Collins. Entry into the festival grounds is free this year, and the public can buy beer sampling packages online or at the gate The silver anniversary beer festival boasting over 80 of the best Colorado brews. The best Colorado beers are matched with the best bands during this two-day celebration. $20 special full glass tasting package online only /$20 at the gate, and the All Brewers’ Eve premier beer tasting event on Friday night! FESTIVAL HOURS 11:00am-5:00pm Sat & Sun –/ Civic Center Park Area July 11, 18, 25 August 1, 8 Downtown Summer Sessions Concert Series Old Town Square concerts showcasing Colorado bands, local craft beers and great summer fun! 7:00-10:30pm Presented by The Downtown Fort Collins Business Association. FREE GIFT CARDS MAKE PERFECT GIFTS! Over 160 downtown businesses accept Downtown Gift Cards! Tasty restaurants, unique shopping, live entertainment, art galleries, all in a historic setting! These gift cards are available at the Downtown Visitors Center or online at 970-484-6500 www.DowntownFortCollins.com.

Outside the Glass By James Yearling

Welcome to the next frontier of beer. In Fort Collins, beer inspires us to dream big and grow outside of our comfort zone but to always remember what’s brewing here at home. It reminds us to be proud and to work harder, but to always follow our folly and find time to play just as hard (with recyclable can in hand, of course). Simply put, beer and life in the Choice City pair together perfectly, with downtown Fort Collins serving up the best of both. A short twenty-five years after the first microbrewery was established in Fort Collins, local brews now flow naturally into the landscape, while “beer” and “celebration” have almost become synonymous. Local beer is everywhere: poured at community concerts and events, served in fine dining establishments, included in art gallery walks, donated at fundraisers, honored through brew festivals and hosted on guest taps at local watering holes. Fourteen breweries are vested members of the Fort Collins community, as the “Napa Valley of Craft Beer” quickly approaches official beer-centric status. Paved bike paths connect breweries and the popularity of six-packs has been surpassed by that of take-home growlers – the equivalent of “farmer’s market fresh”, straight from the brewery taps to your table. Downtown Fort Collins serves as an incubator for artistic expression and ideas, and our beer helps to band us together in support of local music, art, food and most anything that is soulful, artisan, locallysourced, or hand-crafted. Even the beer itself is revered as “liquid-art,” with carefullysourced ingredients, thoughtful preparation and an affinity for reinventing the ordinary.

Some breweries even double as live music and performance venues, and most regularly showcase local art and photography. Through awards and industry acclaim, Fort Collins beer is putting us on the map. Each local brew shipped out the door highlights the area as a desirable place to live and work, ripe with entrepreneurial opportunity – a breeding grounds for innovation and a place where the radical collaboration of ideas has proven to be both economically and environmentally sustainable. Fort Collins beer inspires us to grow and thrive, and exemplifies how to do it the right way by sourcing locally, re-using and recycling, and supporting organizations that benefit the community. In Downtown Fort Collins, a glass of beer is a hand-held reminder of who we are and what we love.

This year, the Colorado Brewers Festival celebrates its 25th edition on Saturday, June 28th and Sunday, June 29th, hosted in downtown Fort Collins’ Civic Center area. The festival will present over 100 Colorado craft beers from 50+ Colorado breweries, paired with Colorado-centric vendors, festival-style attractions – think mechanical bull rides under a blue sky – and will also feature some of the state’s finest musicians performing on two stages. And best of all, admission is free! Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

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STONE SOUP 2014 April 5 :: UNC Ballroom :: Greeley Stone Soup 2014 helped to raise awareness and funds to combat hunger in Weld County at the 12th annual signature event for Weld Food Bank. Guests dined, bid on auction items and watched a moving video speaking to Senior Feeding Programs. The generous support of these community partners helped to raise $182,500, the equivalent of 1,095,000 meals for the hungry, in one night. Photos courtesy of Lidiak Photography.

US Congressman Cory Gardner, Jamie Gardner

Chalice Springfield, Tessa Kaufman

Carol & Keith Thompson

Chalice Springfield, Joe Newhart

Scott & Erika Westfall

Chesley Hall, Casey McConnell

Rachelle & Eric Morehead

BLACK TIE BINGO April 12 :: The Rio Agave Room :: Fort Collins Five games of lively bingo, delicious eats and a chance of winning prizes provided nearly 175 guests with a great night of fun at the 11th annual Black Tie Bingo. The event raised nearly $27,000 to benefit the local and international projects of the Rotary After Work Club of Fort Collins as well as IDEA WILD. Photos courtesy of Don Hajieck Photography.

Ron Baker

Gracie Flowers, Alex Humphreys, Nicolas Rodriguez, Ivy Connelly, Wally Van Sickle, Joni T. Van Sickle, Chloe Abbott-Phillips, Sami Slenker, Sami Elliott, Victoria Arias

Tim & Flo Holt

Julie Phares, Rawnda Pierce

Ben Abbey, Christina Marie Paul

Bonnie Titley, Gail McKenzie Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

T H E TA S T E April 17 :: Hilton :: Fort Collins Delicious food and great entertainment were the cornerstones at this popular event. More than 50 participating local restaurants, wineries and breweries provided creative and savory foods and delicious beverage samples for the 750 guests in attendance. Mark Slonkier and Friends performed as event goers mingled and bid on silent auction items. The Toast of the Taste Awards, as voted by guests, went to d’Vine Bistro, Boot Grill and Ace Gillett’s as the top three winners, while judges awarded the Copper Spoon Award to the Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant, Mainline and Ace Gillett’s for their creativity, presentation and taste. The event raised $90,000 and will benefit the Food Bank for Larimer County and their hunger-relief programs. Photos courtesy of Two C’s Photography.

Jennifer Jakovich, Kari Chapman A-B Cruiser Bike Drawing Volunteers

Dena Snyder, Howard Brigham, April Brigham d’Vine - Toast of the TASTE - 1st Place winner

Amy Hoback, Brandee Eide Style 2014

Tiffany Hammand, Jake Hallauer

Vanessa Fenley, Lindsey Cosper, Shanna Devine, Sara Marahawicz

Joseph Akmakjian, Sylvia Akmakjian

Jen & Chris Crutchfield, Janelle & Mik Stults

Michelle Trumble, Dave Namesnik

Dave Young, Karen Young, Stephanie Davis, Justin Davis

Tanis Roeder, James Malone, Angie Malone

Jaime & Bobby Cawthron

Misty Eddy, O’Linda Magsamen

Jo Burger, Mary Timby, Sarah Harding

MASKS GALA & AUCTION April 19: Embassy Suites :: Loveland Ten exquisite masks, created by local personalities, were auctioned off in an evening of exciting bidding at the 10th anniversary Masks Gala event. Nearly 200 guests raised their paddles and bid on their favorites to help raise more than $27,000 for Fort Collins Museum of Art (FCMOA). The month-long Masks event raised nearly $130,000 to benefit FCMOA’s mission to engage the community in cultural experiences that promote an awareness and appreciation of the visual arts. Photos courtesy of Zebrajellyfish.com.

Paul Matthews, Tim & Nicole Rasbach

Paula & Dave Edwards Paula Edwards -2014 Honorary Chair

Jason Tacha, Bill West, Rick Sutton

Marla Trumper, Pierce Trumper, McKenzie Nash, Addysen Trumper, Cameron Clark, Rocci Trumper

Gary & Carol Ann Hixon

Gail Bratz, Gwen Hatchette, Bill West, Charlie Hatchette

C E L E B R AT I N G C O M M U N I T Y H E R O E S April 23 :: Hilton :: Fort Collins Five awards were presented to individuals and organizations that, through acts of heroism and service, touched the lives of many. The 2nd annual event presented by the American Red Cross Northern Colorado Chapter recognized these “everyday heroes” for saving lives, saving property and providing service. Proceeds from the event benefit the American Red Cross, this year celebrating 100 years of service in Colorado.

Stu Haskell, Erik Wyatt, Erin Mounsey

Brad Kreikemeier, Sheriff Justin Smith, Capt. John Manago, Nick Christensen

Kevin Klau, Zane Strange, Mike Walker

Erin Mounsey, Janet Werst, Bryce Kopperud

Erin Mounsey, Eva Sue Littleton

Col. Kevin Kick, Bryan Graff, Capt. Darin Overstreet Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

KITCHEN KAPER HOME TOUR April 24 & 25 :: Five Homes :: Fort Collins This self-guided home tour presented 325 attendees a chance to view inside beautiful and unique homes. Each home on tour featured creative use of space, texture, color and lighting. Some blended old with new, some offered great vistas and all were filled with mementos of family, travel and the ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; passions. Sponsored by the Fort Collins Service League, this 35th annual event, spanning two days, helped to raise $40,000 for Foothills Gateway and their programs to empower and support people with cognitive disabilities and their families.

Frans Westenbrink, Petra van Wingerden

Jane Nevrivy, Susan Froseth, Jeannine Eckles

Phyl Tegtman, Mary Yocum

Sue & Dennis Disario

Karel Applebee, Monica Burck

Nancy Baker

Polly & Gary Reardon

Jane Sullivan holding Phoebe, Deborah Booker holding Izzy

Terri Burke, Rosalie Sinnett, Marie Livingston

Allison Weber, Cynthia Davis

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April 24 :: Rocky Mountain Center for Innovation :: Loveland A first class evening awaited 800 guests at the Taste of Loveland. Guests enjoyed the fine wine and beer paired with delectable samplings of appetizers and desserts from 70 of Northern Coloradoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s restaurants and beverage distributors. Proceeds from this Foothills Service League event will benefit both the Foothills Gateway and their programs to serve the developmentally disabled in Larimer County, and the Namaqua Center, whose programs serve abused and neglected children in Colorado.

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Sandra Heine, Carol Ward, Ben Connell, Arlene Connell

Sharon Neisen, Hayley Schanafelt, Chuck Layman, David Schanafelt

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Jim Chance Horsetooth | 377-6022

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Linda Hopkins Horsetooth | 377-6004

Keith Huntsman | 377-4941 Harmony 84

Nicole Huntsman Harmony | 402-0221

Cary Irvin Centerra | 290-7698

Kim Knight Centerra | 227-6093

Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine | 679-1545 Centerra

Cindy Kurtz

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Elaine C. Minor Horsetooth | 215-9236

Jim Murray Horsetooth| 377-4909

Dave Muth Harmony | 481-5963

Carl Nelson Harmony | 377-4914

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Patti Phillips Mulberry | 419-2334

Joey Porter Harmony | 481-4814

Barbara Schneider Harmony | 377-4932

Bob Skillman Centerra | 679-1632

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Don Svitak Harmony | 215-1571

Matt Thompson

Dave Trujillo Centerra | 679-1550

Karla VanDenBerg Centerra | 405-8530

Robert Walkowicz Harmony | 377-4945

Bill West Horsetooth | 690-050585

Style 2014 | 443-9910 Harmony

Miki Roth Centerra | 679-1568

R E A L I T I E S F O R C H I L D R E N AWA R D S G A L A April 26 :: Hilton :: Fort Collins Five special young children, survivors of child abuse, were honored and awards were presented to child protection workers, volunteers, foster parents and law enforcement heroes for their fight against child abuse in Larimer County at this 17th annual event. ‘Triumph against all odds,’ the ongoing theme of the evening, heightened emotions as featured speaker Dave Sanderson, survivor and last passenger off U.S. Airways Flight 1549 (“The Miracle on the Hudson”), spoke on the inner strength it took to make it through that day, and how teamwork, leadership and state management can help overcome any obstacle. Photos courtesy of Craig Vollmer Photography.

Kim & Lou Ann Yee, Jennifer & Randy DeMario, Pastor Cindy Frost Beyond Business award winners for 10 years of service with RFC

Kazim Tercan, Fort Collins Mayor Karen Weitkunat, Jennifer Kocurek, Horieh Eftekharian, Dianne Ake, Anne Lee Tuana Hair Design - Business Member of the Year

Standing: Ian Senesac, Matt Shoup, Craig Secher Seated: Danielle Briggs, Emily Shoup, Molly Secher

Jennifer Varner, Maria & Jerry Hannam The Hannam’s - Foster Parents of the Year

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RESPITE CARE PERENNIAL LUNCHEON April 29 :: Embassy Suites :: Loveland Nearly 460 community members attended Respite Care’s inspiring Perennial Luncheon. Guests had an opportunity to hear lifechanging stories from three program parents, meet some Respite Care families and learn more about Respite Care’s enrichment programs and activities. The event raised a net total of $349,500 to enable Respite Care to continue lighting the way for families with special needs children in Larimer County and to provide short-term respite care to these families. Photos courtesy of Libby Newell Photography.

Aaron Eide, Jeramie Holt, Terry McNeal, Jared Goodman, Tara Palmer, Russell Baker

Angie Purdy, Herman Lopez, Stacey Jensen

Kelly Radcliff, Mike Radcliff, LeAnn Massey

Clint Jasperson, Jesse Laner, Amy Laner, Joe Nugent, Karen Kloss, Matt Brunk, Jess Brunk

You name it...

We Make it Easy! Graduations Weddings Children’s Parties Church Events Fund Raisers

Anniversaries Company Events Linens, fountains, games, and more. Tents and everything else that goes under it!

1550 Riverside • Fort Collins • 970-267-6500

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B B B T O R C H AWA R D S April 30 :: Lincoln Center :: Fort Collins Four businesses from Northern Colorado and Wyoming were honored and presented the prestigious BBB Torch Award for Ethics at this 16th annual event presented by the BBB Center for Character Ethics. The program recognizes businesses that promote the six TRUST principles of EthicalEnterprising as outlined by the BBB Center for Character Ethics. These six principles are: Transformation at the Top, Reinforce and Build, Unite the Team, Steer Performance, Treasure People and !Enthusiastically Reinvest!

Debi & Don Bade

Matt Monica, Raj Manickson, Julie Stoxen

Dennis & Charlene Humphrey

Tracy Wilson, Dan Bleak

Charley & Laurel Deringer, Myles Johnson

Royal Lovell, Dan Dennie

Photos courtesy of Tres Photography.

Amanda Helfer, Pam Tauman

Joe Haralson, Brett Kuwitzy, Tad Borrett, Hannah Button, Debi Bade

Dylan Vallino, Jeramie Holt, Sue Wagner, Cody Fullmer, Christian Bordewick

N AT I O N A L D AY O F P R AY E R May 1 :: Hilton :: Fort Collins In observance of a resolution signed by President Truman in 1952 declaring a National Day of Prayer, more than 100 local leaders and community members attended the 13th annual Fort Collins National Day of Prayer Breakfast and 63rd Observance of the National Day of Prayer. A cross-section of attendees included business leaders, pastors, military personnel and government officials, with many of these community members leading the breakfast attendees into a concert of prayer.

Golnar Babazadeh, Shaun Shahmardian, Essi & Mahin Shahmardian

Reverend Johnny Square, Myrilla Carson, Betsy Hoff

Donna Donaldson, Melissa Venable

Lt. Robert Cook, Sgt. Jim Anderson, Lt. Mike Brooks, Sgt. Mike Rairdon Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

KENTUCKY DERBY GALA May 2 :: The Barn at Lilly’s Pond :: Greeley More than 250 guests, many dressed with fanciful hats, attended this 5th annual Run for the Roses event held in a beautifully transformed barn. Guests, in addition to sipping mint juleps and cheering on their favorite horse, enjoyed live music, silent and live auctions and an outstanding hat parade for the ladies and gents. More than $34,000 was raised to benefit Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra and Weld Food Bank and their individual programs. Photos courtesy of Doug Campbell.

Bill Pfund

Patricia Streeter, Kathleen Korin

Pyper McCloud, Nonie Sheel

Heather Hagelberger, Luc Workman, Dori & Greg Workman

Kandice Peterson, Lea Faulkner

Tammi Hiatt-Monaco, Rhoda Marcus, Paleri Mann, Ella Rae Weed, Linda Winter

D O W N A N D D E R B Y PA R T Y May 2 :: The Island at Water Valley :: Windsor The celebration of the Kentucky Derby was in full swing at the Island at Water Valley during the 5th annual Northern Colorado (NOCO) Active 20/30 Down & Derby Party. The sold-out crowd of who’s who, many in big stylish hats, sipped on mint juleps, enjoyed Southern fare and mingled before the 140th running of the Kentucky Derby. The event included a Best Hat contest, 14 large screen TV’s for horserace viewing, a raffle drawing for a trip to Louisville to see the 2015 Kentucky Derby live and more. The event raised more than $75,000 for the NOCO Active 20/30 Foundation, which supports area child-based charities.

Shane Brown, Tory Brown, Neda Farbod, Billy Campbell

Melea O’Dell, Matthew Timmons, Nikki Ogden, Carrie Maguire, Meghan Butler

Photos courtesy of Sage Marketing Group.

Jessica Curtis, Tara Palmer, Aki Palmer, Colleen Cosner

Veronica Brunk, Jessica Brunk Style 2014

Shauna & Todd Sledge

Shawn Barris, Lacey Stevens

Kelly Larson, Julie Harris, Stacey Dixon, Terri Harper

Todd Harding, Scott Ehrlich, Jared Goodman

GRAND OPENING OF MAX May 10 :: MAX Stations :: Fort Collins MAX, the highly anticipated, eagerly awaited and largest public works project in Fort Collinsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; history, took its maiden voyage with hundreds of city, state and federal officials as well as families and community members at its Grand Opening event. The celebration continued along the route under perfect weather conditions as each MAX station hosted a variety of festivities for the whole family.

Leaann & Steve Devlin, Jeannie Ortega

David Roy, Former Mayor Doug Hutchinson, Mayor Karen Weitkunat, Darin Atteberry

Amanda & Geoff Olmstead

Jenny Harding, Tony Frank

Nancy Wiehagen, Garry Steen

Michael & Kamma Burns holding Kaian, Bob Christensen

Kim Casares

Terri Blackmore, Kathy Gilliland

Zachary Kuretz, Lynn Darbie, Jackson Kuretz

Nicole & Greg Steed Holding Violet with sons Jake Steed and Gavin Steed Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

Style 2014

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