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Holiday Celebrations E D U C ATI O N

BO O K RECO M M EN DATIO NS

D E C E M B E R 2 02 3

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December 2023 PUBLISHER

Scott Fairbanks | scott.fairbanks@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Big and Small, It's Time to Celebrate Seasons Greetings and Happy Holidays from the team here at GJ Lifestyle. It's such an honor to be part of the giving, the goodness, and the spirit of fun that embodies Holiday Season in Mesa County. Over the past year, what have been your personal victories and successes in business? We'd love to hear about unique ways you plan to enjoy those wins with friends, family and co-workers through the Holiday Season and how you will ring in a New Year, in memorable ways. As the year draws to a close, we often find reasons to be thankful, to dream about what will be achieved in the coming year and to celebrate the good of the year that's in its winding up scenes. For GJ Lifestyle, some of those "celebrate" things include: reaching a benchmark of over three years - delivering a new monthly issue to over 55,000 local readers EVERY month (This issue is number 40.), numerous community projects, organizations and businesses, where the goodness and giving spirit always inspire us and the community at large, useful tips for home and for recreation, delicious recipes and so much more - always with an emphasis on the good we achieve together as a community, when working together for noble causes. This final issue for the year holds fun ideas for holiday time and best wishes for holiday cheer from our team of about two dozen contributing writers, photographers and graphics experts. We all wish our community and each individual household the merriest of Holiday Seasons. We also want to express our gratitude to those who have been and remain our community partners; supporting the stories, the contributions made by local non-profits and education, through their marketing efforts inside these pages and on the citylifestyle.com/grandjunction website business directory. Thank you, sincerely for all the good you do. To all our local readers: May your Holiday days, nights and New Year be truly memorable, merry and bright and may the New Year's adventures and achievements be fulfilling beyond your wildest dreams! SCOT T FAIRBANKS, PUBLISHER @GRANDJUNCTIONLIFEST YLE

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/GR ANDJUNCTION |

PUBLICATION DIR ECTOR

Sarah Jensen | sarah.jensen@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Faith Rodriguez, Cleo Olmstead CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER

Aaron Marston

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 Grand Junction Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Grand Junction area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Grand Junction Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to

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DECEMBER 2023

inside the issue The Holidays & Giving Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

10 Book Recommendations

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Gift Guide EDU CAT I O N

Open House LI FE + C U LT U R E

Must See LO CA L S ERV I C ES

Locals Only A RTS + C U LT U R E

Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E

Our Town LI FE + C U LT U R E

Giving Back LI FE + C U LT U R E

Hosting Tips FO O D + B EV ER AG E

Events

Holiday Edition!

14 Toys for Tots in Grand Junction Spreading Joy and Generosity

16 Holiday Celebrations Across the Grand Valley

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Aaron Marston 6

HAPPY HOLIDAYS from Thomas Hunn Jewelers!

Holiday Pricing & Generous Discounts on In-Stock Jewelry

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DECEMBER 2023

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

7 5

1: White Cane Walk on Main organized by the Young Visionaries at the Center for Independence 2: Booths and information for businesses on accessability 3: Young Visionaries of the Center for Independence 4: The Center for Independence partnered with the Orchard Mesa Lion’s Club 5: Live entertainment at the White Cane Walk

C I T Y SC E N E

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14 12

8: Train conductors at Cross Orchard’s Fall Day on the Farm 9: Apple pressing for cider at Cross Orchard’s Fall Day on the Farm 10: Mesa Fiber Arts Guild at Cross Orchard’s Fall Day on the Farm 11-14: Toy Run with Teddy Morse’s Grand Junction Harley-Davidson & Powersports

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BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS Holiday Edition!

You A re Spe c ia l

A Ch r ist m a s Memor y

Ch r ist m a s O ra nge s

Max Lucado

Richard Paul Evans

Linda Bethers

This has been a holiday family

The “King of Christmas fiction”

Christmas Oranges tells a story

favorite for decades. In You Are Special, Punchinello finds someone who does not let other’s judgment stick to her. He looks for a way to be more like her. There are two more books in the series, You Are Mine and Best of All. This series is enjoyable for all ages.

brings his own story brings his story to light in A Christmas Memory. Set in 1967, this book is about Richard learning the true meaning of Christmas amidst turmoil and uncertainty in his life. After his brother dies in the war and his dad loses his job, Richard and his family move from California to Utah. Richard’s parents then make the decision to separate. He meets Mr. Foster who helps him in a time of need. Their friendship grows and Mr. Foster shares his wisdom and love of reading with the young boy. He helps him see the power of love and forgiveness.

about an orphanage and about knowing the true meaning of Christmas. Children will love the beautiful pictures. We always had oranges afterward to make it extra sweet!

G IF T GU ID E | ED U CATION

L a st Ch r ist m a s i n Pa r is

Ch r ist m a s Ja rs

L et ters f rom Fat her Ch r ist m a s

Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb

Jason F. Wright

J. R. R. Tolkien

This book earned 4.15 stars on

Every Christmas Eve, a jar filled

Goodreads. As stated there, Last Christmas in Paris is “An unforgettably romantic novel that spans four Christmases (1914-1918), [that] explores the ruins of war, the strength of love, and the enduring hope of the Christmas season.”

with money appears on the doorstep of a family in need. Journalist Hope Jensen learns about it and investigates these jars. Where did they come from? Who left them? And why?

Every

year,

Tolkien’s

children

received a letter detailing Santa’s adventures in the North Pole. Tolkien compiled these letters for all to enjoy! Learn what happened when the reindeer got loose and scattered presents, or when a polar bear climbed up and fell on their dining room table!

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Grand Valley Interfaith Net work TOGETHER IN SERVICE

Emergency Shelter Programs

O PE N H OU SE | L IFE + CULTURE

Faith is a universal foundation for belief systems. Nearly everyone has a belief in something or someone. We share a need to commune with others and share these beliefs. Recently, we have seen turmoil in the world. There are tragedies, deaths and wars because people do not want to listen, love, and understand one another. The Grand Valley Interfaith Network seeks to change that by increasing understanding of other people’s belief systems and working together to reach shared goals. This organization stands for peace and understanding. Their motto is to “speak truth with love and kindness.” The

members hold to joy, service, compassion, and look to each other and their faiths to receive the help they need. They look for ways to serve those in the Grand Valley year-round. GVIN (pronounced “given”) is currently searching for ways to assist various populations in our community, including the homeless and houseless. They run frequent food drives, partnering up with participating congregations in the area. They educate on rights and the legislation that protects those rights, and share resource guides to give direction and hope to individuals who need it.

The Grand Valley Interfaith Network seeks to change that by increasing understanding of other people’s belief systems and working together to reach shared goals.

Every year during the week of Thanksgiving, the Grand Valley Interfaith Network holds a ThanksGVIN interfaith service to share in a holiday and reach out to the community. Members are invited to share thoughts on the chosen theme, which was “Learning & Loving” this year. The members meet once a month to discuss service projects, upcoming events, and read their Covenant of Cooperation. One section of their Covenant states that they commit to “express sincere appreciation for each other as we recognize our human fallibility, acknowledging each other’s, and our own, strengths and weaknesses, while maintaining a sense of humor as we live through both difficult and joyous times together.” For more information, visit www.GrandValleyInterfaithNetwork.org or Email GrandValleyInterfaithNetwork@gmail.com

ARTICLE BY GJ LIFESTYLE EDITORIAL STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY KELLENE MORTENSEN FROM IMAGES IN GVIN ARCHIVES.

Ground Breaking for LDS Temple

Past ThanksGIVN program

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TOYS FOR TOTS IN GRAND JUNCTION

ARTICLE BY FAITH RODRIGUEZ

SPREADING JOY AND GENEROSITY

M UST SE E | LOCA L SERV I CE S

The holiday season is a time for joy, giving and creating lasting memories. Here in Grand Junction, the spirit of giving is embodied in the annual Toys for Tots campaign. This heartwarming initiative has been making a difference in the lives of children and families in the community for many years. Toys for Tots is a nationwide charitable program that collects and distributes toys to less fortunate children during the holiday season. Grand Junction is a city that embraces the true meaning of community, and its participation in Toys for Tots is a testament to this spirit. The local chapter of Toys for Tots is a well-organized and dedicated group of volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure that no child in their community goes without a gift during the holidays. They partner with local businesses, schools, and individuals to gather new, unwrapped toys, which are then distributed to children in need. One of the key elements of the local Toys for Tots campaign is its strong connection to the local community. The volunteers are residents who

understand the unique needs and challenges faced by families in the area. This personal touch helps ensure that the toys collected are not only appropriate but also cherished by the children who receive them. The Toys for Tots program kicks off during the late fall, and there are various ways for the community to get involved. Donation boxes can be found in numerous businesses and public locations throughout the city, making it convenient for individuals to contribute to the cause. Many schools also participate, encouraging students to bring in toys to help their less fortunate peers. Local businesses play a significant role in the success of the campaign. They not only provide space for donation boxes but often organize toy drives among their employees and customers. Some businesses even offer special incentives to those who donate, fostering a sense of community and giving back during the holiday season. In addition to collecting toys, the Grand Junction Toys for Tots chapter organizes fundraising events to help cover operational costs and expand their reach. These events often include toy drives, charity runs, and community gatherings. By working together, the community can maximize the impact of this wonderful initiative. The distribution of the collected toys is a heartfelt and crucial part of the Toys for Tots program. Each year, volunteers gather to sort, pack, and prepare the toys for delivery to local organizations, shelters, and families in need. These acts of kindness ensure that every child has the opportunity to experience the magic and joy of the holiday season, regardless of their circumstances. The impact of Toys for Tots in our community extends far beyond the children who receive the

Toys for Tots storage for year-round donations

gifts. It also brings the community together in a meaningful way, promoting a sense of togetherness and goodwill. The knowledge that their contributions are making a difference in the lives of local children serves as a powerful reminder of the power of generosity. In conclusion, Toys for Tots embodies the true spirit of the holiday season. The dedication and selflessness of the volunteers, the support of local businesses, and the generosity of the community as a whole make this program a shining example of the good that can be achieved when people come together for a common cause. The smiles on the faces of the children who receive these gifts are a testament to the enduring impact of Toys for Tots, and the warm and giving spirit of the wonderful community. To learn more and to get involved visit mesacounty-co.toysfortots.org.

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Holiday Celebrations Across the Grand Valley

ARTICLE BY CLEO OLMSTEAD

There are many fun and enjoyable holiday events for everyone to enjoy. Here are some top picks from around the valley. Email us with your favorite holiday events.

HANUKKAH PARTY

Hosted by Church of Grace, this annual Hanukkah event includes a Mexican-themed potluck, with the church providing tamales. Bring your own candles and Menorah. The event takes place December 7th at 6pm.

OLDE FASHIONED CHRISTMAS MARKETPLACE

A beloved way to kick off the Christmas season, the Olde Fashioned Christmas Marketplace is a Palisade favorite. The Winter Village & Marketplace is hosted in the Old Palisade High School Gym. The event features arts and crafts, dining and family activities.

LOCA LS ON LY | A RTS + CULTURE

ART AND CHOCOLATE WALK

Enjoy Grand Junction's downtown holiday charm during this guided walking tour taking place on December 8th. Two tour options are offered: an Art on the Corner Tour or a History Tour. The first 100 participants receive a commemorative mug filled with Enstrom's hot chocolate to enjoy.

FRUITA HOLIDAY ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR

The City of Fruita will once again host its annual Arts & Crafts Fair on Saturday, December 9 from 10 am to 3pm. Located at the Fruita Community Center there will be a variety of vendors.

ELF THE MUSICAL

Put on by The Theatre Project, this show will take place December 15-17 at Grand Junction High School. This lively musical production is sure to put you in the holiday spirit.

CONTINUED >

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CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD

Come hear the Grand Junction Centennial Band celebrate Christmas Around the World. This free concert will take place on December 17th at 3pm in the CMU Ballroom.

POLAR EXPRESS A family fun holiday tradition, the Durango train transforms each holiday season into the Polar Express. Climb aboard and step into a story. While traveling via train enjoy the beloved picture book reading and hot cocoa. At the end of the line enjoy a musical light show and the first gift of Christmas. During the return trip, Santa visits each coach and hears Christmas wishes.

JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM

Located at 1280 20 Rd, this nondenominational live nativity is in its 5th year. It will run from Dec 15-17, 5:30-8:30pm. The event includes a hayride, music, live actors and animals. There will be cookies and cocoa for all as well as crafts, a petting zoo and a story tent for the children. There is no charge but donations are welcome.

LOCA LS ON LY | A RTS + CULTURE

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Easy Holiday Party Treats Need some quick and easy treats to wow your guests (or yourself )? We've rounded up some of our easiest and most delicious snacks!

Nuts and Bolts I N G R E D IE N T S • • • • • • •

1 box Crispix 1 box Corn Chex 1 box Rice Chex 1 bag Pretzel sticks (16 oz) 1 bag Pretzel knots (16 oz) 1/2 box Original Cheerios Mixed nuts, around 10 oz (or more to taste-publisher’s preference is to double the nuts) Sauce: • 1/2 cup butter • 1 T favorite seasoning salt (we like McCormick) • 1 t Worcestershire sauce • Spicy Optional: 2 T Chipotle Tabasco • Ranch Flavor: Use ranch dry mix instead of Seasoning Salt

DIRECTIONS Mix the non-sauce ingredients together Melt butter, then mix seasonings into it Coat the dry mix thoroughly with the sauce Once coated, place in a 200 degree oven for 20 minute intervals, mixing in between until the sauce is dry (usually around 1 hour total). Serve warm or at room temperature Pro tip: Put the mix in the oven just as your first guest arrives. Everyone will be craving a taste by the time it’s ready!

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Cranberry Drink INGREDIENTS • 2 Liters Ginger Ale • 2 Liters Lemon-Lime Soda • 10-14 oz Cranberry Juice (Cocktail or Unsweetened) • Optional- Berry Sherbet

DIRECTIONS Mix the drinks, then add sherbet if desired.

Apple Dip INGREDIENTS • • • • •

¾ c white sugar ½ c brown sugar 8 oz cream cheese, softened 1 t vanilla Crushed Skor or Heath candy bars

DIRECTIONS Mix all the ingredients well Soak the sliced apples in pineapple juice for extra flavor and to avoid browning Pro tips: If you bring this to a party, take it in a container you don’t care about. You will be lucky if you ever see it again! Also, make sure to set some “leftovers” aside before you go!

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Art Guttersen. The Guttersen family ranch welcomes energy production, as long as they abide by a few good neighbor rules.

AGRICULTURE AND ENERGY PRODUCTION COEXIST AT COLORADO RANCH ARTICLE PROVIDED PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEORGE ROSALES

O UR TOWN | L IFE + CU LTURE

On Art Guttersen’s 35,000-acre Colorado ranch are cows, horses, chickens—and active oil and gas operations. Wellheads, tankless facilities and drilling rigs are strategically placed throughout his property, against the backdrop of green fields and distant, snowcapped Rocky Mountain peaks. As his cows grazed nearby, Guttersen reflected on how energy development spared his multigenerational farm from being sold to developers. “Chevron saved my ranch,” he said.

WHY IT MATTERS Agriculture and energy production are essential industries. Guttersen wants his ranch to serve as an example of how these sectors can work together to meet growing demands for both. “Our ranch is better today with wells on it,” he said. “It’s no longer just a ranch. It has become a major producer for the economy.”

A GOOD NEIGHBOR Those visiting Guttersen’s ranch must abide by a series of rules: no smoking, littering or exceeding the 21 mph speed limit. Likewise, Chevron has its own policies to help protect the environment. One way is by restoring the fields to their original condition after work in a certain area has concluded. “Reclaiming the land helps protect the environment by taking the human element out of it and giving a habitat back to native species,” said Victoria Eliason, asset retirement superintendent. “Being part of that process, where you’re seeing an area transition from an oil and gas producing site back to its native state, is really rewarding.”

ALL IN THE FAMILY The ranch has been in the Guttersen family for 85 years, although Art was the first to raise a family there. In recent decades, he went from watching his children help around the farm to seeing his grandchildren learn to do the same.

CONTINUED >

Cowboys round up cattle on the ranch with oil and gas equipment pictured in the distance.

Guttersen said his ranchland near Greeley, Colorado, likely would have been sold and rezoned for housing if mineral rights hadn’t helped subsidize his income.

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Victoria Eliason, asset retirement superintendent.

MORE ON THAT Guttersen has been leasing his land to energy producers since the 1970s. Chevron gained exclusive rights to develop oil and natural gas from Guttersen Ranch through a comprehensive plan that was approved by the state in 2018. Chevron helped develop the ranch by building powerlines, roadways and waterlines. Chevron also worked to retire older equipment for newer, centralized infrastructure that helps protect the environment. This approach allowed Chevron to strategically combine facility locations, using highline power and other innovative processes to reduce surface footprint by more than 95% and emissions by more than 90%. His son Parker, now a married dad of three, continues to help out on the ranch, occasionally with a little backup from his own young children. Guttersen said the line of succession that’s forming never would have been possible without Chevron. “Ranching is a tough way to make a living,” he said. “Chevron came in and helped us maintain the lifestyle that we’re accustomed to, not only today but for future generations as well. We know their interests are the same as ours, which is to promote the best for our family, the environment and the state of Colorado.”

O UR TOWN | L IFE + CU LTURE

“Ever ybody wants to be a par t of something good, and this is definitely something good.” -Victor ia Eliason, asset retirement super intendent

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The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign

2023 26

G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

“

This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

The annual City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is in its 4th year. Last holiday season we gave away over $300,000 to help 116 individuals and families in need, but we need your help to make it happen again this year. With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. Perhaps you know of a single parent struggling to provide for their family, an elderly person who has experienced loss, someone enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need, even if no one else does. “We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them during this holiday season.” “We believe God has blessed our company with continued success, so we in turn want to be a blessing to others,” Matthew Perry, President of City Lifestyle adds. City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep giving on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is truly rewarding and it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster a culture of generosity.”

Scan Code to

Nominate Nominations accepted Nov. 27 – Dec. 10, 2023

Follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram for reminders! To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. All nominations and recipients will be kept confidential. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/GRA N DJ UN C T I O N

Holiday Entertaining Boards The holidays are here and entertaining is in full swing. If you are looking for the perfect appetizer to easily feed a crowd these simple and beautiful boards are sure to please.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

H OST IN G T IP S | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Holiday Wreath Charcuterie Board • • • • •

Fig Jelly Honey Variety of Cheeses Salami or meat of choice Olives (provide a variety)

• Walnuts, Pecans, Pistachios and any favorite nut • Grapes, berries, persimmon • Crackers

Place the jars of sauces and olives on the board first. Next place the cheeses on opposing sides. Add meats and fruits next. Layer in crackers, nuts and seeds and fill in any spots with extra nuts. Use fresh Rosemary or fresh greenery to add wreath accent in the center of the charcuterie board. Garnish with fresh cranberries. CONTINUED >

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Sweet Treat Cocoa Board • • • • • • • • •

A variety of fresh berries or desired fruit Marshmallows Hot Cocoa Mix Chocolate Covered Pretzels Chocolate Covered Cherries Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers Chocolate Covered Biscotti Hot Cocoa Bomb Holiday Cookie Cutter

H OST IN G T IP S | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Place your favorite holiday cookie cutter on the board first. Fill the cookie cutter with mini marshmallows. Next, layer the large items first. Begin with the chocolate covered Biscotti and build around that using berries. Pile the berries high. Next add a variety of chocolate covered treats on opposite sides of each other between the mounds of berries. Be sure to add touches of berries around the edges. If space allows, place hot cocoa on board. Otherwise, set bowl full of hot cocoa mix and any additional hot cocoa fixings adjacent to the board.

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DECEMBER 2023

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

D EC E M BE R 2 N D

Parade of Lights

DOW N TOWN G RAN D J UN CTION | 5 :0 0 P M The Parade of Lights is the biggest parade of the year with over 100 floats!

D EC E M BE R 2 N D

Olde Fashioned Christmas

DOW N TOWN PALISADE | 10:00 A M Join us for some Christmas cheer at the Gingerbread Contest and Showcase at the Palisade Community Center, the Olde Town Marketplace at The Old Palisade High School Gym, and the Soup Challenge in the downtown plaza. Enjoy complimentary carriage rides from Clark Family Orchards to each of our Olde Fashioned Christmas stops, and enjoy the day reminiscing about magical childhood holidays and making new memories!

SAT U RDAYS AND S UN DAYS D E C E M BE R 9TH - 30TH

35th annual Christmas Train Show

D EC E M BE R 9 T H

Santa Cause 1K/5K Run

CROS S ORCHARDS HISTORIC S I T E , 30 37 F R OA D | 1 0 :0 0 A M Explore the rich railroad history of the Grand Valley. You can view the model trains both indoors and outdoors, tour our historic trains and ride the ride-on-train. Be sure to stop by our Bridal Suite to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and Christmas cookies.

LAS COLON IAS AMPHITHEATE R | 1 0 :0 0 A M Run a 5K and help fund inclusive playground equipment! Register early to get your choice of Santa suit or race tee. Children under 11 have a 1K run. 5K Pre-Registration- $30 1K Pre-Registration- $20 Same-day registration will be $10 more.

D EC E M BE R 9 T H

22nd Annual Candy Cane Hunt

LIN COLN PARK BARN | 10:00 A M Crafts, snacks, and entertainment will start at 10. The "Candy Cane Hunt" will begin at exactly 11 a.m.

D EC E M BE R 9 T H

Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair

FRUITA COMMUN ITY CEN TER | 1 0 :0 0 A M The Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair will feature local vendors selling their holiday-themed art, food and more! The event will be held at the Community Center, so come get into the holiday spirit.

EVE N TS

Handmade Soaps Local Raw Honey D E C E M BE R 9 T H

Fruita Parade of Lights

DOWNTOWN FR UITA | 5:30 PM The Parade of Lights will feature floats and Fruita organizations marching through the downtown area.

Lotions & Potions Home Decor & Accents Coffee Bar Clothing & More...

D E C E M BE R 1 3T H

NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet!

AVALO N TH E ATER | 7:00 PM Doors open at 6 PM The beloved family tradition is back: NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet!

970.640.6796 hartmannfarmhouse.com 2251 Broadway Ave Grand Junction, CO 81507

D E C E M BE R 1 3T H

Cookies and Claus

FRU ITA CO M MUN ITY CEN TER | 6 : 0 0 PM Bring kids down to the Fruita Community Center to have cookies and hot chocolate with Santa Claus! Kids will also be able to write and give letters to Santa. The event is for kids 0-10 years old and there is a $5 registration fee.

D E C E M BE R 1 5T H - 17 TH

Elf, the Musical

G RAND JU NCTION HIG H S CH O O L | 7 : 0 0 PM Grand Junction High School is putting on Elf, the Musical. December 15 at 7pm December 16 at 2pm and 7pm December 17 at 7pm CONTINUED >

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EVENTS CONTINUED

DECEMBER 16TH - 23 R D

CWPAC's The Nutcracker

KOOLER IS DIFFERENT.

R O B I NS O N T H E AT E R Grand Junction based professional ballet company, Colorado West Performing Arts, offers you the chance to bring your family and friends to the holiday tradition of The Nutcracker.

AND IT’S WORTH MENTIONING. Our technicians are certified professionals who love their jobs and are excited to earn your business. We offer you choices and ranges that fit your budgets to get you the outcomes you need. We’re the Highest 5-Star Rated Company on the Western Slope!

DECEMBER 17TH

Christmas Around the World

C O LO R A DO ME SA ME YE R B A L L R O O M | 3:0 0 P M The Grand Junction Centennial Band presents Christmas Around the World. Free admission!

GAR AGE DOOR REPAIR • CUSTOM GAR AGE DOORS SMART GAR AGE OPENERS

BOOK WITH US TODAY KOOLERGAR AGEDOORS.COM 970.660.3456 GRAND JUNCTION, CO 81502 34

EVE N TS

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Happy Holidays from VCA Tiara Rado Animal Hospital

vcahospitals.com/tiara-rado 2245 3/4 Broadway · Grand Junction, CO 81507

Scan the QR code to visit our website where you can order online, view our menu and more!

Visit Smokin’ Oak Pizza in Grand Junction! We hand chop our vegetables throughout the day, roast our meats in the wood-ﬁred oven, make our own sauces in-house and, of course, make our own dough. We’re so fresh, we don’t even have freezers in our restaurants.

(970) 243-8255 2478 Hwy 6 And 50 Grand Junction, CO 81505

Attention to detail like no other. We’re dedicated to helping families design a personal, memorable final tribute that celebrates a special life.

CALLAHAN-EDFAST MORTUARY & CREMATORY Grand Junction

970-243-2450

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GRAND JUNCTION SHOWROOM COMING JANUARY 2024 Give your home a gift for the holidays. New windows & doors by Pella

Windows & Doors Pella Windows & Doors of Grand Junction Complimentary Design Consultation with Local Experts Call 970.779.6197 to Schedule Today