Greeley, CO July 2023

THE SUMMER ISSUE

HEALTH + WELLNESS

10 FAMILY FRIENDLY NORTHERN COLORADO HIKES

IRONCLAD AND THE YODER FAMILY SHAPING HOW WE WORK AND PLAY

FOOD + BEVERAGE

GREELEY PATIO TOUR

IMPROVE YOUR SOLAR PANELS’ EFFICIENCY BY 30%

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Mention Greeley Lifestyle

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VALID THROUGH AUGUST

“A&A SOLAR WASH ALWAYS GOES ABOVE & BEYOND EXPECTATIONS.

They make sure their clients are educated in best practices & are overall kind & trustworthy people. Great company. They did a fantastic job, thanks for cleaning our solar panels!” - tim m

The Summer Issue

I hope this letter finds you laying by the pool or lake and soaking in some much-needed vitamin D.

As the days grow longer and the weather gets warmer, I find myself eagerly anticipating the arrival of summer. There's just something about this season that brings about a sense of excitement, adventure and nostalgia.

With this being one of our first summers to get out and enjoy our community, I have loved learning about all of the local businesses and great experiences Greeley has to offer. After working on this month's issue, I already have our summer itinerary to enjoy with friends and family.

The pages in our Summer Fun issue will help you make the most of this season in Greeley.  And even if summer doesn't mean three months of summer vacation anymore (because we're, you know, adults), we can still look forward to an adventure by crossing things off our ultimate summer bucket list (check the table of contents for ours!) and curling up with a new favorite beach read. (P.S. Teachers, you deserve this much-needed break!)

Just like this season has a way of bringing people together, we hope the pages inside this month’s issue will enrich and enliven your experience of Greeley this summer!

July 2023

PUBLISHER

Tara Rasmuson | tara.rasmuson@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Caitlyn Olson | caitlyn.olson@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Emily Montgomery | emily.montgomery@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Emily O'Brien

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily Montgomery, Celena Cisco, Susan McKenzie, Aaron Fongers, Sydney Breakfield, Macy Kovarik

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Tiara Rose Photography, Santora Photo Co., Taryn Ashlee Photography, Shel Francis Creative

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

Proverbs 3:5-6

A full mouth implant rehabilitation is utilized to restore the natural beauty of your teeth when your teeth are beyond repair. All cases are restored in provisional restorations prior to completing the case to ensure ideal esthetics, speech, and function. Once all these requirements are met, the case can be finalized with a full arch implant prosthesis that will give you the ultimate in beauty and function. All full mouth reconstruction cases begin with an hour consultation with Dr. Thompson and our amazing team to help you achieve the results you desire.

UNPARALLELED PERSONAL SERVICE

We add a personal touch to the Real Estate experience.

Family-owned & operated since 1903, we treat our clients & coworkers like family. Experience our expert guidance through the home buying and selling process with a skilled negotiator that’s on YOUR side. We have local neighborhood and school districts knowledge to find the right home for your family.

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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Tag your Instagram photos with @greeleylifestyle

LET’S BREW SOMETHING NEW

Whether you meet up at our eclectic coffee shops or our seven celebrated microbreweries, Greeley is always brewing up mouthwatering experiences perfect for connecting with friends. Get your foodie fix at 28 food trucks and 200 restaurants or raise a glass at one of our three unique distilleries. Let’s explore what’s on the menu for fun today.

more thrills

Summer is for fun in the sun, splashing in the waves, and sipping in the shade. Find it all at Gaylord Rockies world-class resort water park.

GaylordRockies.com

more connection

more delight

Zac’s Legacy Hillbilly Hoedown

Tickets are now on sale for Zac’s Legacy’s Hillbilly Hoedown.  This event benefits Zac’s Legacy Childhood Cancer Fund to alleviate non-medical financial burdens Colorado families face while their child is battling cancer.  The organization positively impacts families of cancer-stricken children by paying bills such as utilities, rent, food, gas, etc.  Join them Saturday, September 16th, 5pm, Moose Lodge, 3456 11th Ave, Evans.  Food provided by Cracker Barrel, music, games, and fun! Zacslegacy.org for tickets, $40 each.

Aunt Helen’s Introducing “Wine’d Down”

It’s time to check out Downtown Greeley’s hottest attraction! From the owners of Aunt Helen’s Coffee House comes Aunt Helen’s Wine’d Down!! Located in the same space as the coffee house, Wine’d Down will feature a host of great wines, cocktails, tap beers and tapas. Come try the signature flights of wines, mimosas and bruschetta in a relaxing lounge atmosphere! Wine’d Down will operate from 4-8 pm W-F, Sat. 11-8 and Sun. 8-2.

Scan

Home Listing by Sonja with Sears Real Estate

JUST LISTED and first time on the market! 20.71 acres with picturesque views for sale in Fort Morgan. Raise your animals on district water and never want for space for your semi, RV, boat, tractor, specialty cars; really, you name it. Encircled by your private 3-hole golf course, this extremely well-built custom home is one you don’t want to miss. Listed for $1,475,000. Call Sonja at 970-3307700 for your private showing today!

WCCU Supported Weld Food Bank in Beat Hunger Competition

In June, Weld Community Credit Union participated in the Compete to Beat Hunger competition with Weld Food Bank. It’s a competition between companies that supports Weld Food Bank in a unique way. A favorite activity is building a canned food sculpture that is displayed at the Stampede. Although this is a competition, the true winner is Weld Food Bank as it raises muchneeded donations, volunteer hours and awareness for its amazing organization.

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The Newest Member of Visit Greeley Team

Please help welcome Logan Widick, group sales manager, as the newest member of the Visit Greeley team! He is a recent graduate from the University of Northern Colorado.

As the group sales manager, he will be an integral player in demonstrating the abundance that Greeley has to offer. Logan will be responsible for overseeing Greeley as an up-and-coming destination hub in the events, meetings, conventions and sports industry, stimulating the local economy through tourism development.

West Ridge Academy Congratulates Class of 2023 8th Graders!

The entire school community has contributed to the success of the WRA 8th graders. Their accomplishments are a testament to the quality education they received at WRA.

As these warriors crossover to the high school of their choice, they carry with them the values and lessons they have learned at WRA. They are resilient, determined and ready to make a positive impact on the world around them.

They are Warriors, and their future is bright!

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Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Greeley

local experiences

Don’t let the summer season get away from you before school and cooler temperatures return. Grab your crew and tackle our bucket list recommendations to check off before one of our favorite seasons comes to an end.

Our Picks for Your Summer Bucket List

DOWNTOWN GREELEY: FridayFest– Live music, kid’s activities and Go Cup district. Sponsored by the DDA, this weekly event never disappoints. 9th Steet Plaza, Greeley, CO

CITY OF GREELEY: Neighborhood Nights– Various City Parks. Friday night family-friendly movie in the park. Sponsored by the city of Greeley. Bring plenty of snacks and a blanket! 1300 A St Greeley, CO

CANDLELIGHT DINNER PLAYHOUSE: Dancing with the Weld County Stars–Cheer on your favorite local “star” in this fundraiser for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Weld County. July 19. 4747 Marketplace Drive Johnstown, CO

POUDRE RIVER RANCH NATURAL AREA: Poudre Trail- Get outside! Walk, run or bike this beautiful, paved trail. Pack a picnic, bring lots of water and make a day of it! N. 71st Avenue, Greeley, CO

LINCOLN PARK: Greeley Arts Picnic– Come stroll through this annual event filled with crafts, food,kids’ activities and live music. Make sure to bring water and sunscreen. July 28-30. 800 Tenth Ave, Greeley, CO

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR Ryan

Ryan has called Greeley home since he started at UNC in 1995. He currently works for ALLO Fiber, managing and maintaining events and sponsorships in various Colorado markets. Ryan is a passionate advocate of local small businesses, earning Ambassador of the Year from the Greeley Chamber and sitting on various boards in the community. He and his wife, Jennifer, have entered the “empty nest” stage of life, after raising four amazing kids.

Roth

The best places and things to do in our area.

A Balanced Colorado Lifestyle

BALANCE HEALTH SHARES 10 COLORADO HIKES FOR NOVICE HIKERS

Balance Health has a mission to aid in disease prevention through physician-directed and scientifically proven training methods. They focus their attention on adults looking to function better in their daily activities and feel less pain while doing so, but also find great joy in working with children and teaching them how to take care of themselves. The whole basis is to work on keeping people healthy and preventative care so they do not have to deal with chronic diseases later in life.

The clinic was founded by Dr. Frank Morgan in 2014, after a career in public healthcare that left him dissatisfied with the level of care he could provide due to time constraints. Balance Health is the fulfillment of a long-held dream for Dr. Morgan and represents his vision towards providing the highest quality medical service. He and his Family Nurse Practitioner, Jennifer Wenning, focus on an integrative approach to medicine, incorporating overall wellness tactics with traditional medicine in a more timely manner.

“People would be waiting for months to see us in the big system…” Jennifer recollected, “...at Balance Health, people can usually see us in the same day or day after and we have a good team in place to quickly take care of things.”

“Part of our practice is to get people comfortable with exercise,” Jennifer said, commenting on how mental health has become a more mainstream topic since the pandemic hit and how exercise can positively impact that.

“Nature is one of my biggest recommendations when talking to patients about mental health. Take advantage of what Colorado has to offer.”

Jennifer has been personally enjoying the benefits of Colorado through hiking with her husband and two kids. “Balance Health is a 24-hour on-call clinic so we always have connectivity with our patients. When I’m not on call and I have the opportunity, it’s nice to get outside and disconnect and be away from technology.” With so many opportunities for great hikes nearby, Jennifer helped us narrow it down to the top 10 in Northern Colorado. Most of them are easily accessible and can be done with kids as well.

GREELEY

• Poudre River Trail

• Signature Bluffs Natural Area

ESTES PARK

• Nymph Lake Trail

• Twin Sisters - A little steep for the kids

• Crosier Mountain Rainbow Trailhead (Drake) - There are trees the whole way and it is a great hike for when it’s really hot down here

LOVELAND

• Devil’s Backbone - Very easy with kids but little shade - bring a lot of water with you

• Mehaffey Park - Not really a hike, but it’s great for families! There’s a lot to do, and it’s close when you need a change of scenery

OTHERS

• Ceran St. Vrain (Ward) - A favorite for kids and has a pretty little stream

• Greyrock Summit Trail (Laporte)Has a lot of trees and is very shaded

• Horsetooth Reservoir (Fort Collins)

With all of these being fairly easy hikes, they would be great options for novice hikers.

“If you are new to hiking, don’t forget to have good, supportive shoes, sunscreen and a few snacks and water,” she suggested. “Take a little backpack that can hold everything you need, and remember that it’s not how fast you can get to the top.”

Whatever type of activities you decide to do this summer, Balance Health is

here to support your wellness journey. They are taking new patients that range from individuals to families and also work with businesses to give discounted rates to employees and family members. With a subscription-based model, this primary care business is a very affordable option to receive individualized healthcare for the whole family.

“People would be waiting for months to see us in the big system...at Balance Health, people can usually see us in the same day or day after.”

Be Well. Be Beautiful. Just Be.

“This is an extraordinary wellness spa. It’s a mini vacation every visit.”

—S.M.

“Wonderful atmosphere and amazing people! A great place to relax! The best of the best.”

—J. L.

“Kelley is just THE BEST! She’s incredibly knowledgeable about skin, treatments, products, and overall wellness. Plus, she’s just a great human!”

—J. S.

“This stellar West Greeley skin care/spa is totally devoted to overall tranquility and wellness.”

—C. T.

Creativity Through Custom

Ironclad and the Yoder Family are Shaping Colorado’s Work and Play

Blue Collar workers of Weld County are a rich part of the history and current operations of Northern Colorado. So, when jobs need to get done, these companies and their employees need dependability and durability from their vehicles—whether it be for work or for play. If your job requires hauling large loads, transporting equipment to and from the job site, or other specialized needs—what happens when your typical “off-the-lot” work truck doesn’t live up to what’s needed for your work? Luckily for us, the Yoder Family of Companies (YFC) has asked themselves this question and has come to understand that some jobs go beyond the functionality of your everyday work truck. So with Ironclad Fabrication, it’s understood that there are a variety of different needs for a variety of jobs, and they’re always looking for the opportunity

to demonstrate creativity and dependability with every project.

“We are not your typical, boring fabrication shop,” shares Jon Hoerner, founder of Ironclad Fabrication. “We’re always asking ourselves what fun and exciting things we can create next, all for the sole purpose of serving our customer’s needs at the highest level possible.”

Ironclad Fabrication has slowly been establishing itself as the premier company for all fleet, truck and recreational customization in Northern Colorado, but that wasn’t always the case. Ironclad was born out of the Yoder Family of Companies, when Jon Hoerner, then a technician at Truck City in Greeley, overheard a customer in need of a special flatbed for their work truck. Jon, a native Greeley resident with an auto body degree from Aims Community College,

decided to use some of his welding expertise and skills to build the specific product they were looking for. Upon highly positive reviews at the project’s completion and functionality, Ironclad was born. Now operating out of their own building on 1st Avenue across from Truck City, Jon continues to cast a vision for Ironclad’s future through creativity and commitment to serve the community with custom designs—even though right now, it’s just him at the shop.

“When it comes to the fabrication business, there really isn’t a ‘permanent groove’ per say,” Jon states. “We have to continue to change with the times, with the goal of growing bigger, better, and continuing to expand our creative palette to incorporate new projects and designs.”

Ironclad’s work encompasses a wide variety of needs for Northern Colorado

A WORLD THAT’S CUSTOM, IT’S BEEN FUN TO BE THE

BUILDERS.” -CHASE YODER

residents, including individual truck customizations; fleet customizations; trailers, and some unique projects—including a smoker that was used in a recent company giveaway and some custom furniture. As a part of the Yoder Family of Companies, Ironclad works in close proximity with customers to deliver high-quality truck customizations and fleet customizations for a variety of work needs.

If a YFC company sells a truck or a fleet off of their lot, Ironclad can customize it for a company’s needs in a variety of ways, all for the individual needs of the customer. Custom trucks will also be put on display on truck lots, demonstrating to customers the special care and design taken to customize the trucks. For the Yoder Family of Companies, Ironclad hasn’t only been a smart investment in their communities’ needs—it has also been a joy to be a part of the artistry and process of the industry.

“Jon has been an incredible part of the team, and it is amazing to watch him work on these customizations for a wide variety of customers,” shares Chase Yoder, Yoder Family COO and member of the company’s founding family. “Not only does he bring the technical skill to his builds, but he brings a level of artistry and creativity that blows us away—from the prototypes he

models to the finished projects we get to give to our customers.”

Recently, Ironclad has been diving further past the world of work and into the world of play with the construction and customization of overland trailers. These trailers serve a wide variety of recreational needs for anyone who’s interested in road travel and are perfect for the summer season in Colorado. The opportunities to work on these trailers are unique for Ironclad because there isn’t a specific “model” to build an overland trailer, which allows for a lot of customization and creativity.

“There has been a lot of interest in overland trailers lately, which has served us well,” Chase shares. “There truly is no one way to set up an overland trailer—everyone has their own opinion based on how they’ll use it, so it allows us to take our customization abilities as far as the customer wants us to go. In a world that’s custom, it’s been fun to be the custom builders.”

Whatever the need—whether for work or play—Ironclad Fabrication and the Yoder Family of companies continue to hold their community and its needs in the highest regard and view it as a great privilege to produce high-quality, need-providing equipment to residents of Northern Colorado for years to come.

“IN

CUSTOM

Greeley Patio Tour

Some of Greeley’s Best Outdoor Spaces for Food and Drink

Summertime means you get to soak up the sun while enjoying your favorite drink or meal. Greeley offers a variety of options for how to spend your summer days and nights. Here are some of the best outdoor patios where you can take in everything this summer has to offer.

MARGIE’S JAVA JOINT

Offering a spacious yet secluded patio filled with beautiful greenery, Margie’s outdoor patio is the best place for catching up with an old friend or reading your favorite book. You will find yourself beating the summer heat with one of their refreshing iced coffees or teas.

LA PETITE FRENCH BAKERY

This hidden gem of a patio is coupled with the delicious smells of French pastries. With only a few tables and chairs, the selective seating makes this patio perfect for creating a special afternoon date.

THE RIO

Located in the hub of Greeley, this beautifully lit patio is best experienced after dusk. This huge patio provides a great view of all the festivities and businesses offered downtown. Grab your friends and head downtown to enjoy delicious food and drinks.

CAZADORES MEXICAN GRILL AND CANTINA

If you are looking for beautiful waterfront views while you enjoy your meal, look no further. Cazadores offers a spacious patio right next to a pond and in view of Sanborn Lake.

LUNA’S TACOS AND TEQUILA

A unique rooftop patio makes an outdoor experience at Luna’s a must this summer. Not only can this nicely shaded patio be enjoyed during the day, but the lights make the patio popular on those cooler summer evenings.

THE COFFEE BAR AT CHARLEY & CO. MARKET

This patio is great for any day-to-day coffee meeting you have on your summer schedule. Offering a variety of seating and table options, you can find the perfect outdoor spot to enjoy any of The Coffee Bar’s signature drinks.

OUT OF THE BLUE & AFTER HOURS

Whether you are enjoying brunch with your family or drinks with your friends, the outdoor space offered by these two family-owned businesses is great to enjoy the summer weather. You don’t want to miss out on the cute photo opportunities you can have on the patio.

THE G.O.A.T. SPORTS BAR

The summertime patio offered by the G.O.A.T. allows you to both enjoy the outdoor weather while catching the latest baseball game. Whether you want to grab a drink at their outdoor bar or sit down and enjoy a meal, this patio offers a variety of seating options to fit whatever you are looking for.

Stradivarius

“Go West, Young Man”

A Tour of Greeley’s Museums

Before founding Greeley in 1870, Nathan Cook Meeker had the idea of building a “utopian farming community” with “like-minded” people. He visited the Colorado Territory on his way to a reporting assignment, and upon returning to New York decided he wanted to settle his colony in the west. After touring Utah, Wyoming, and Colorado, Meeker then decided Greeley, originally established as the Union Colony, would be the perfect place.

That was just the beginning of a very controversial history and each Greeley museum holds different pieces of how it became the city it is today.

Meeker Home Museum

The Meeker home became Greeley’s first museum in 1929. Meeker lived in this home with his wife, Arvilla, their daughters Mary, Rozene, and Josephine, and their son, Ralph. The home features original décor that makes it feel like it is frozen in time.

The Meeker Home Museum tells the story of Nathan and his family; however, museum staff are working to also broaden the story to include the native tribes and their history after Greeley’s settlement including the 1878 Meeker incident on the White River Indian Agency.

Centennial Village Museum

The Centennial Village is a parallel universe into historic Greeley with over 35 historical buildings, costumed interpreters, heritage farm animals and 8-acres of beautifully landscaped grounds.

The Centennial Village Museum represents the hard work that it took to make Greeley into the special community it is today. The exhibits honor the diverse cultures, traditions and challenges faced by northeastern Colorado’s pioneers whose dwellings tell the story of perseverance, industry and settlement. The Swedish-American Stuga, the German-Russian Shanty and the Spanish Colony House are among other important historical homes located in the museum.

Greeley History Museum

The Greeley History Museum’s main exhibit is “Utopia: Adaptation on the Plains,” which presents the formation of the Union Colony, the area’s agricultural heritage, water usage and growth over time and features some of Northern Colorado’s most famous residents like “Rattlesnake” Kate Slaughterback and Greeley’s Founder Nathan Cook Meeker.

“ReFashioned: Giving Objects a Second Life” is a temporary exhibit that celebrates the creative reuse of items, as well as the ingenuity of past Weld County residents. The exhibit is open to the public until July 15, 2023. A special exhibit to honor Chicana activist Dolores Huerta called “Revolution in the Fields” will open to the public September to December 2023.

“Viewfinder: Through the Lens of Time” is another temporary exhibit that is open until January 7, 2024 and shows the development of cameras. The exhibit shows the early innovations of cameras and how that inspired their current adaptation.

Finally, the Greeley History Museum has an exhibit dedicated to the Greeley Tribune titled “Reporting from Greeley.” This exhibit includes historic photos, stereotype mats and turn-ofthe-century printing equipment including an 1899 Chandler and Price treadle press. The building that houses the Greeley History Museum was originally built in 1929 for the Greeley Tribune. Greeley History Museum also includes the Hazel E. Johnson research center, where the public can access thousands of books, letters, and photos from Greeley’s historical records.

White Plumb-Farm Learning Center

The White-Plumb Farm Learning Center is the embodiment of Greeley today. The landscape honor’s Greeley’s roots as a tree claim of both old standing trees and newly planted ones. WhitePlumb Farm Learning Center further honors new growth through a partnership with the Colorado State University Agricultural Extension agricultural extension to plant the 1.5 acre field for educational purposes. Still standing is the potato cellar which pays homage to Greeley’s deep agricultural heritage as a leading potato producer. And of course, there is nothing that symbolizes a farm more than a little red barn. While the White-Plumb Farm is still transitioning to a public attraction, it is refreshing to stroll around the grounds and connect with the western way of life and nature.

DEARFIELD, CO: A TRIP TO THE PAST

SWITCH UP YOUR SUMMER PLANS WITH A TRIP TO HISTORIC DEARFIELD

Dearfield, Colorado, is a historic African-American settlement town located 30 miles outside of Greeley. It was founded in 1910 by Oliver Toussaint Jackson, who envisioned it as a prosperous farming community for African-Americans. Although it would take the homesteaders almost ten years before they experienced their first successful crop harvest, Dearfield experienced a significant agricultural boom. The town itself expanded, seeing an increase in businesses and the establishment of trades.

At its peak in the 1920s, Dearfield had around 300 residents and was a thriving agricultural community, producing crops such as wheat, corn, and sugar beets.

However, the town was hit hard by the Great Depression and a severe drought in the 1930s, which led to the decline of the community. By 1940, only 12 people remained in Dearfield. Visitors to Dearfield can explore an important part of Colorado's history. While walking through the town, visitors can visit the three remaining sites: a gas station, a diner and Oliver Toussaint Jackson's home. It wasn't until 1995, that the National Register of Historic Places listed the settlement as a historic landmark. When you visit Dearfield, be sure to read the monument plaque outside the diner. Not only does the plaque note that Dearfield is a preserved site, but visitors can also read the town's history firsthand, which adds even more significance to the site.

While taking a trip to a historic site may not be at the top of the to-do list for summer, visiting historical sites is an important way to learn about and understand our shared past. By experiencing these places firsthand, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us. By preserving and promoting these sites, we can help to ensure that they continue to inspire and educate people for years to come.

Although there are no tours at Dearfield, visitors interested in learning more about the historical significance of the settlement can visit the Black American West Museum and Heritage Center in Denver and the Greeley History Museum.

Not Our First Rodeo

For more than three decades, the northern Colorado community has supported the mission and work of the American Cancer Society through The Cattle Baron’s Ball. An event hosted annually, the ball has raised over 10 million dollars to help fund lifesaving research right here in Colorado. The vision of the American Cancer Society is simple yet monumentous—to end cancer as we know it for everyone. Since 1946, it has invested more than five billion dollars in cancer research to help advance treatments and improve the quality of life of cancer patients.

A generational tradition for a considerable number of the families involved, the attendees become active in the event by serving on committees and boards that help organize and coordinate all the moving parts. Like most members in the AG community, being involved with or attending the event is something that they have always participated in, but for the Drake family, this specific event has evolved and become a part of a much bigger picture with a deeper meaning and purpose.

“One step at a time” is a saying we have all heard applied to multiple situations

throughout our lives, but the significance of these words varies greatly depending upon the individual. For some, it is about reaching goals, and for others, it's about pushing yourself physically or mentally. But for the Drake family, it has become a conscious choice they apply to their lives daily, a way of living differently. It's the decision to choose faith over fear and to see things through a lens of positivity.

In 2015, Clay Drake was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, an incurable blood cancer, which altered his course and family’s life forever.

“Everything changes when you hear the word cancer. Almost like someone pulls the plug on the treadmill of your life and you go flying off. Life becomes a blur of not knowing and uncertainty,” shares Clay’s wife, Raechel. With having to face undergoing multiple treatments to combat the aggressiveness of his cancer, which would keep him in and out of the hospital for 6-month periods, Clay and Raechel’s outlook and way of thinking were challenged. They both recall specific moments when they realized that the prayers surrounding them were all that was holding them up and the only thing left to do was to give it to God. At that moment, when the doctors were at a loss, their faith stepped in, and Raechel declared a determination to fight. Through that declaration of strength, doctors got on board and decided to approach Clay’s treatments differently.

Throughout this journey and during his treatment, the Drake family realized cancer may have taken them off the treadmill of life,

but it also grounded them and brought them closer to one another, closer to God and has shown them a light inside the darkness. Seeing the world through another lens, they have witnessed God’s presence in their life on numerous scales. It has brought people into their lives who have been a part of their story in ways they never knew. They are now able to help guide future cancer treatments and research by Clay having the honor to serve on boards for The American Cancer Society as a patient advocate, and they have seen how all the smaller things become moments that are part of a much larger picture.

“It more than saved my life; it changed me and it changed us. I think for the better as strange as that may seem. I wouldn’t think the way I think if it wasn’t for cancer. I wouldn’t be as grateful to God, I wouldn’t be as grateful to my kids, my wife, my friends, my community, I'd still be on the treadmill of life,” Clay says. He shows us that no matter what your fight is, you must embrace it. You must choose to embrace your current struggle, despite how big or small, and let go of the fear so that you don’t become paralyzed by it. It doesn’t matter what your fight is, choosing a positive attitude and faith is the only way to get through it, by far.

At some point in his treatment, Clay learned that one of the drugs used to treat his cancer, Darzalex, was funded by The American Cancer Society in its initial trial and is now a mainstay in the treatment of that type of cancer. This

“It more than saved my life; (cancer) changed me and it changed us. I think for the better as strange as that may seem... I wouldn’t be as grateful to God, I wouldn’t be as grateful to my kids, my wife, my friends, my community, I’d still be on the treadmill of life.”

particular drug is a game-changer for patients because it is not chemotherapy, it is immunotherapy. This means it does not kill everything but is targeted to focus on the elimination of just the bad or cancerous cells.

This discovery brought everything full circle for the Drake family bringing to light their involvement in this specific event for so many years, being a part of a bigger story weaved into their lives on a deeper level. Understanding all too well what this donation offers, the power of it and how it changes lives on a far greater

scale than most are aware of, the Drake’s have a passion and a motivation for their involvement in this event fueled by the backbone of their testament and the heart of their story.

The theme of this year’s benefit, “Not Our First Rodeo,” is centered around the culmination of all the small synchronicities witnessed in their life because of this fight. It is more than just The Cattle Baron’s Ball for them, this is the depth of their story and the meaning of their journey here, 31 years later, as chairs of this event.

It is because of all the people in this community that continue to contribute, the drugs he had access to because of the American Cancer Society, the doctors and nurses that cared for him, and the facilities he was at that altered the course of his life. It is all the connections we too often don’t understand until they are brought full circle, that are directly a part of our story and our lives.

“That’s how the world is, and sometimes we touch other people’s pictures and sometimes we don’t, but we are all part of the big picture oddly enough," Clay says. "I think that’s how I look at the way God works too, is that he sees that big picture and we don’t see that big picture, we are just part of it and that detail he sees is too much for us to comprehend but in the end, the image it all creates is really what is beautiful.”

That bigger picture and this year’s Cattle Baron’s Ball are a nod to a greater purpose and choosing faith over fear, no matter what obstacles you face on your journey.

The American Cancer Society is working to finish the fight against every cancer in every community. Your donations help to do the most for people with cancer today and work tirelessly to find cures to end the disease tomorrow. Your donation helps move everyone one step closer to a world free from the pain and suffering of cancer.

This year's event will be held on September 23rd.

Please visit CBBNoCo.com to donate, purchase tickets to this special fundraising event, or bid on silent auction items!

IF YOU ARE READING THIS...SO IS YOUR BEST CLIENT.

NEW MENU ITEMS

FRIDAY

Summer Bucket List

Welcome, summer! As a hyper-local publication, we thrive on helping our readers make connections with the cities they live in, the businesses that make up their communities and the inspiring individuals making a positive mark. Are you ready for your most adventurous, fun summer? Here are summer bucket list ideas for you to accomplish this year. We hope you’ll explore a new neighborhood, spend a lazy Saturday afternoon at a new winery or taste the flavors at a local ice cream shop. Let us know what you discover and enjoy! We’d love to hear.

Summer is finally here. Take advantage of the season with our Adult Summer Bucket List. Check off these activities as you complete them with your family and friends and congratulate yourself on a Summer well-spent!

EXPLORE A NEW AREA OF YOUR CITY

JULY 6TH

Roots of Fire Special Screening Event

THE KRESS CINEMA AND LOUNGE 817 EIGHTH AVE

GREELEY, CO 80631 | 6:30 PM

Greeley Native, Abby Berendt Lavoi and her husband, Jeremy, are showcasing their award-winning film “Roots of Fire” for a special screening event featuring an exclusive Q&A with the filmmakers.

JULY 11TH-13TH

Lone Valley School Day Camp

CENTENNIAL VILLAGE

MUSEUM | 9:00 AM

Campers will step back in time and experience daily life (and learning) with activities like crafts, handwriting lessons, chores and playground fun. Watch a blacksmith at work, explore fiber arts and experience first-hand days in an old schoolhouse. Wrap up camp with a picnic lunch where parents can come see how much their campers have learned! Visit GreeleyMuseums. com for information.

JULY 17TH

Greeley Area Chamber’s Prairie Dog Classic Golf Tournament

GREELEY COUNTRY CLUB | 7:00 AM

Get ready to tee off and experience the thrill of the 2023 Greeley Area Chamber's Prairie Dog Classic, a premier annual event! Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just starting your golfing journey, the Prairie Dog Classic is the perfect event to showcase your skills and forge lasting connections. Visit Business.GreeleyChamber.com/Events/ Details/Prairie-Dog-Classic-GolfTtournament-18863 for information.

JULY 20TH-24TH

Balloon Art by Merry Makers: Big Balloon Build

AIMS WELCOME CENTER

BALLROOM, 4901 WEST 20TH STREET | 9:00 AM

The Big Balloon Build is a magical immersive wonderland of balloons, designed by Allison Dunning with Merry Makers and Stuart Davies with the Big Balloon Build® and created by over 75 balloon artists from around the world. The balloons and inflation equipment are donated by Gemar Balloons and Premium Balloon Accessories. Proceeds will benefit Life Stories Child & Family Advocacy.

JULY 22ND, 28TH, 29TH

Weld County FairCentennial Village Museum

CENTENNIAL VILLAGE

MUSEUM | 10:00 AM

Centennial Village Museum preserves and interprets American Western heritage in the Colorado high plains region over the last 150 years. Experience the Weld County western frontier as you tour some of the county’s oldest structures and visit the heritage farm animals. $4/person for ages 3+. Children 2 and under are free. Visit WeldCountyFair.com for information about the Weld County Fair.

JULY 29TH

Arts Picnic

LINCOLN PARK | 9:00 AM

July in Greeley means Arts Picnic season hosted in historic Lincoln Park. This year's event will offer more than 175 arts and crafts booths. Browse items ranging from woodwork and pottery to jewelry and paintings for sale. Enjoy live entertainment, food booths, a kids' craft area and a beer garden. Visit  GreeleyGov.com/Activities/ Arts-Picnic for information.

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The Chamber’s Most Frequently Asked Questions

Why Your Business Needs to Join

WHAT IS A CHAMBER OF COMMERCE? A Chamber of Commerce is a business organization that represents and promotes the interests of businesses in a specific city or region. It serves as a collective voice for the business community, advocating for favorable business conditions, fostering economic growth and providing support and resources to its members. The Greeley Area Chamber of Commerce often organizes networking events, educational programs and community initiatives to connect businesses and enhance the local business environment.

WHY SHOULD I JOIN THE GREELEY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE? Joining the Greeley Area Chamber of Commerce can bring numerous benefits to your business. As a member, you gain access to a powerful network of local businesses and professionals, opening up opportunities for networking, collaboration and business referrals, which can lead to new partnerships, customers and increased revenue.

Moreover, the chamber offers various resources and support services to help your business thrive. From marketing assistance to business development programs, the Greeley

Area Chamber of Commerce provides valuable tools and knowledge to help you succeed. You’ll also gain visibility and credibility in the community by being associated with a trusted business organization.

CAN I AFFORD TO JOIN? If your business needs to market itself and grow, you CANNOT afford NOT to join. This is the perfect time to invest in your future. The Greeley Area Chamber of Commerce offers membership options that are designed to suit businesses of all sizes and budgets. Membership dues are based on the size and type of your business, ensuring that joining is accessible to most businesses, from startups to established companies.

Considering the benefits and opportunities that come with membership, the investment can often pay for itself. The resources, networking events and promotional opportunities offered by the chamber can generate leads, increase brand exposure and ultimately contribute to the growth and success of your business.

To learn more about joining the Greeley Area Chamber of Commerce, please visit GreeleyChamber.com/Membership.

“I have really seen how the Greeley Area Chamber of Commerce has helped me grow my business in the community and it’s been huge.”

2023 Arena Event Schedule

DEAR TERRAIN, I’M READY TO ROCK.