Greeley, CO April 2026

CREATING AFFORDABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS FOR ALL COLORADANS

For more than 35 years, Energy Outreach Colorado (EOC) has worked to ensure Coloradans can afford the energy they need to stay safe, healthy, and housed. Because when energy is affordable, families and communities are stronger.

1 in 4 Colorado families can’t afford the energy they need, but EOC is working to change that. Last year, we provided bill payment assistance to more than 1,500 Weld County households.

MAKE AN IMPACT TODAY

You can help us reach more of our neighbors in need by: Adding a donation to EOC on your monthly utility bill Making a one-time or recurring gift at energyoutreach.org/donate Encouraging your employer to become a corporate partner And much more!

Together, we can help more families stay safely in their homes.

Thank you to Chevron for donating this space so Energy Outreach Colorado can highlight our impact on the community.

STRUGGLING WITH YOUR ENERGY BILL?

Our Bill Payment Assistance program helps eligible households pay past‑due utility bills so families can stay safely in their homes — families like Johanna, Jayden, and Jersey.

For single mom Johanna, keeping up with essential expenses felt like a constant shuffle. Paying a little here, skipping a little there, hoping nothing urgent would fall through the cracks. When she received a flyer about EOC’s Bill Payment Assistance program, she decided to reach out.

EOC not only assisted with her past-due Xcel Energy bill, but the support arrived just as she was preparing for a move. With one major worry lifted, Johanna could focus on settling into a safe, stable home with her kids.

Learn more about Bill Payment Assistance, see if you qualify, and find out how to apply at energyoutreach.org.

A Letter from the Publisher & Editor

Hi friends,

When we think about investment, it’s easy to focus on numbers—portfolios, markets, long-term returns. But here in Greeley, we’re reminded again and again that the most meaningful investments often look different. They show up in the businesses that choose to grow here, the leaders who pour into this community, and the neighbors who quietly work to make life better for the people around them.

At Greeley Lifestyle, one of our greatest privileges is the chance to continually invest our time in learning the stories behind this community—the people building it, the businesses strengthening it, and the organizations caring for it. The more we listen, the more we’re reminded how deeply rooted pride and purpose run in this corner of Northern Colorado. It’s one of the many reasons we feel so grateful to do this work alongside all of you.

This month, we’re exploring what it truly means to invest, not just financially, but personally and locally.

Real estate expert, Sonja Belfiore, offers a grounded look at the Greeley market and the steady factors continuing to shape our region’s growth. We also hear from Chevron’s Colorado Region Director, Bobby Hulett, as he reflects on his transition into the Weld County community and the responsibility that comes with long-term regional investment. Mary Bengford, owner of American Family Insurance, rounds out the conversation with a thoughtful perspective on protecting what matters most and why insurance can be one of the most practical investments families make. We also explore what it means to build financial confidence here in Greeley, with thoughtful insights from Bank of Colorado on creating a strong foundation for long-term success.

Beyond business and economics, this issue highlights the investments that strengthen the heart of our community. We take a closer look at the impact of the Michael Ray Lee Golf Tournament and the lives it continues to touch. And in partnership with North Range Behavioral Health, we share an important reminder that investing in mental health—and knowing how to access support—is one of the most valuable commitments we can make to ourselves and our families.

As you turn these pages, we hope you see what we see every day: a community that continues to show up, lean in, and invest in what truly matters.

Greeley wouldn’t be Greeley without you.

TARA RASMUSON, PUBLISHER

KENNIDI HOLCOMBE, EDITOR

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Tara Rasmuson | tara.rasmuson@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Kennidi Holcombe | kennidi.holcombe@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Caitlyn Quinn | caitlyn.quinn@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Woven Victory by Olivia Schmitt, Blue Photography by Audrey Roybal, Gary Baines

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

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.

city scene

22: Life Stories' CASA Volunteers of Weld County gather for annual CASA Appreciation Event 23: Player makes a move at 477 Distilling’s Wednesday 6 p.m. all-level chess night 24: Wing Shack owner, Brian Seifried, makes first delivery of sauce bottles to be sold at Greeley Ace Hardware Stores 25: The Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra's annual Wines of Note event brings 200 community members together

26: Laura Jones, Amy Threewitt, Kristi Helzer, Kodie Rosten, & Carolyn Gattis tour Community Outreach Center 27: Greeley Luncheon Optimist Club hosts Bright Futures Director, Lisa Taylor 28: Jason Evenson, Winna Ironkwe, & Kaci Atchison at the Greeley Creative Arts Center

Where preparation becomes progress.

With longer days and signs of growth across the landscape, April reminds us that meaningful progress is built patiently and with care. At Terra Firma, our valuations are rooted in disciplined analysis, sound judgment, and a clear understanding of land and market behavior.

From agricultural holdings to complex right-of-way and infrastructure corridors, we provide clarity that supports confident decisions — season after season.

Here’s to thoughtful work and the season ahead!

It's “Epic” at OCR!

It is officially "Epic" at OCR. Say hello to OCR MyChart, their new electronic medical record system designed to make your care simpler and more connected, wherever you are. With OCR MyChart, you can view test results and visit summaries, message your care team, pay bills, and much more. Existing patients can even schedule appointments. To learn more and create your OCR MyChart account, visit www.OrthoHealth.com, or download the MyChart app today.

2026 WD Farr Gala Honoree W Herrick Garnsey

The Greeley Rotary Club honors W. Herrick Garnsey for his outstanding contributions to the Greeley community during a celebration at the Greeley Country Club. A third-generation leader of Garnsey & Wheeler Ford, Herrick serves on numerous professional and community boards and has received several honors, including charter induction into the Colorado Automotive Hall of Fame. He and his wife of 64 years, Diane, celebrate the recognition alongside family and friends.

At Boomerang Self Storage, we’ve built a brand-new self-storage facility with your life in mind. Whether you’re stashing seasonal gear, storing a business inventory, or parking that RV you love to hit the road in, we’ve got you covered.

We offer a variety of unit sizes to fit everything from boxes to boats – with 13’ wide x 14’ tall doors, outdoor RV/boat parking with wide driveways, convenient RV dump station, onsite manager and a secure facility. Locally owned and operated, our goal is simple: make it easy for you to store what matters and focus on what’s next.

Drive-Up Access — load and unload without hassle

Fenced & Gated with 24/7 Video Security — providing peace of mind

Online Bill Pay & Month-to-Month or Annual Leases — flexibility you’ll appreciate

RV, Boat & Trailer Parking + RV Dump Station — room for big toys

Free Moving Truck for New Self Storage Tenants — we help you get started

For lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth; the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land.

Song of Solomon 2:11-12

Established in 1977 Independent Roofing is a long-standing business in the community, owned and operated by Weld County natives. For nearly 50 years our family has witnessed many changes to business strategies and operations but what has not changed are our core values and mission

GOD | FAMILY | COUNTRY

Specializing in sloped, flat, commercial roofing and metal application.

First Farm Bank Supports Life Stories Child & Family Advocacy

Life Stories Child & Family Advocacy is grateful for the generous support of First Farm Bank, a long-time champion of their mission. First Farm Bank’s commitment helps ensure that vital services remain available to children and families who rely on them every day. Their ongoing partnership strengthens the community and reflects a shared dedication to creating a safer, healthier future. Life Stories deeply appreciates First Farm Bank’s belief in their work and continued investment in local families.

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A Market Growing with Intention

THE RISING VALUE OF REAL ESTATE IN GREELEY

BY

For those watching Greeley’s real estate market closely, the steady rise in home values hasn’t felt dramatic—it’s felt deliberate.

Sonja Belfiore, owner of Belfiore & Co. at eXp Realty, works daily with buyers and sellers across Greeley and Northern Colorado. From her vantage point, the city’s appreciation story isn’t about hype or short-term spikes. It’s about long-term planning finally bearing fruit.

“Greeley’s growth isn’t accidental,” she says. “It’s been thoughtful and long-term.”

Over the past decade, Greeley’s population has grown to more than 110,000 residents, supported by major employment drivers in agriculture, energy, healthcare, education, and manufacturing. The University of Northern Colorado, Banner Health, and other regional employers continue to provide economic stability. But according to Sonja, the real differentiator isn’t just jobs—it’s infrastructure.

The city and county have invested in water acquisition and long-range planning in ways many Front Range communities are now scrambling to replicate. Alongside that foresight is something increasingly rare in Colorado: available land.

“When you pair land with steady population inflow from higher-priced markets,” she explains, “and buyers finding neighborhoods that feel familiar and livable, you create healthy upward pressure on values.”

Unlike neighboring cities where rapid expansion has outpaced roads and services, Greeley’s growth feels manageable. Infrastructure is not yet strained. Expansion has room to be intentional. That stability is something buyers notice immediately.

At the same time, Greeley continues to offer lower price points than many surrounding markets without sacrificing daily conveniences—schools, recreation, dining, and access to major employment corridors. For many relocating buyers, it feels like a balanced alternative: attainable without being underdeveloped.

There is also a misconception that Sonja encounters often.

“One of the most persistent ideas is that Greeley is primarily a low-income market,” she says. “What I see day to day tells a very different story.”

She points to consistent demand for higher-end housing and move-up properties—demand that has sometimes outpaced available product. The buyer pool, she notes, already has depth. As more thoughtfully designed communities enter the market, she expects perception to continue shifting.

“Greeley’s growth isn’t accidental, it’s been thoughtful and long-term.”

“We’re not trying to be the fastest-growing market, we’re building one that lasts.”

What continues to surprise Sonja is not the absence of qualified buyers, but the limited supply of truly elevated housing options. While Greeley is often labeled an “affordable” market, she sees a deeper and more established segment that is frequently overlooked.

“There is absolutely a population here—and continuing to arrive—that is ready for well-designed, custom homes,” she says. “In many ways, the opportunity isn’t just in entry-level housing. It’s in thoughtfully built, higher-end product that reflects where this community is heading.”

For builders and developers watching Northern Colorado closely, the message is quiet but clear: Greeley’s next chapter may be less about catching up and more about building forward.

For current homeowners, rising values don’t automatically mean it’s time to sell. In many cases, appreciation simply creates flexibility.

Some homeowners are using increased equity to renovate or modernize. Others are investing elsewhere or preparing for a future move. Many are choosing to stay, confident that their home remains a strong long-term asset in a stable market.

That stability does not mean sellers can rely on momentum alone. As prices have climbed, buyers are often purchasing closer to the top of their budgets. The result is a more discerning audience.

“The days of listing a home as-is and expecting it to sell itself are largely gone,” Sonja says. “Preparation and realistic pricing matter more than ever.”

Buyers, too, are navigating a different landscape than they were several years ago. Headlines about interest rates and shifting markets can create hesitation, especially for first-time purchasers who fear they may have missed their opportunity.

Sonja encourages a broader perspective.

“Real estate isn’t about timing the market perfectly,” she says. “It’s about timing your life.”

Many homeowners, she explains, begin with a solid home in a strong market, invest in it gradually, build equity, and move up over time. In Greeley, that pathway remains viable because the underlying fundamentals— employment, infrastructure, land, and long-term planning—continue to support sustainable growth.

Understanding those fundamentals requires nuance. Greeley is not a single market but a collection of micro-markets. Two homes separated by only a few blocks can perform differently depending on nearby development, school planning, or infrastructure improvements.

New construction continues to attract buyers drawn to modern layouts and energy efficiency. However, appreciation patterns vary. Early resale homes in brand-new developments may compete with builder incentives, temporarily affecting pace. As neighborhoods mature and inventory tapers, values often strengthen. Meanwhile, established areas with mature landscaping and proximity to downtown or employment centers are seeing renewed interest from buyers prioritizing lifestyle and long-term stability.

Looking ahead, what stands out most to Sonja is not how fast Greeley is growing, but how steadily.

“We’re not trying to be the fastest-growing market,” she says. “We’re building one that lasts.”

When clients ask whether now is the right time to buy or sell, her answer rarely centers on the market alone. Instead, she returns to goals—stability, investment, flexibility, or lifestyle.

In a city expanding with intention, the real value of real estate may not just be measured in appreciation, but in how well it supports the life someone is building within it.

YOUR First FIVE

A Beginner’s Guide to Financial Wellness—With Bank of Colorado

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BLUE PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUDREY ROBAL

In a growing city like Greeley—where families, professionals, and new residents are building their lives—thinking about money often feels both important and intimidating. With a median age in the low 30s, Greeley is home to households balancing careers, home costs, education expenses, and the everyday realities that come with putting down roots. Even so, financial confidence can feel harder to pin down.

This is where the idea of financial wellness becomes meaningful. Not as a buzzword or a passing trend, but as something tangible that takes shape over time. Financial wellness is less about mastering every financial concept and more about building a steady foundation—one that supports flexibility, stability, and future growth.

For many in our community, trusted local institutions like Bank of Colorado help guide that journey, offering practical insight and support for building financial confidence over time.

Rather than focusing on advanced strategies, this guide centers on five essential steps that help establish that foundation. These early decisions shape how money is managed day to day and influence how future investments take form.

1. UNDERSTAND THE FLOW OF MONEY

Every financial foundation begins with awareness. Before savings goals or investment conversations come into focus, it helps to understand how money actually moves each month. Looking beyond a single paycheck to the full rhythm of income and expenses often reveals patterns that aren’t immediately obvious—automatic payments, recurring subscriptions, or everyday spending that quietly adds up.

This awareness creates context. It clarifies which portions of income are already committed and which remain flexible. For many households, reviewing finances alongside local banking guidance adds clarity, helping identify patterns and opportunities that might otherwise be overlooked. When money is understood at this level, decisions feel less reactive and more intentional.

2. CREATE A “LIFE HAPPENS” FUND

Once awareness is in place, stability becomes the next priority. A dependable cash reserve helps absorb the unexpected moments that inevitably arise, from home repairs to medical expenses or changes in income. This fund doesn’t need to be built overnight; even small, consistent contributions help create a sense of control.

What makes this step especially important is its protective role. Having money set aside for the unexpected prevents short-term needs from disrupting long-term plans. It allows progress to continue elsewhere and provides breathing room when life shifts unexpectedly.

3. BUILD CONFIDENCE AROUND CREDIT

With stability comes confidence, and few areas benefit from that confidence more than credit. Credit plays a quiet but influential role in financial wellness, shaping borrowing power, interest rates, and future opportunities. At its core, credit reflects patterns—how consistently obligations are met, how balances are managed, and how long accounts have been maintained.

Conversations with a community bank can help demystify credit, turning it from a source of uncertainty into a tool that supports long-term flexibility. As understanding grows, larger financial decisions begin to feel more predictable rather than intimidating.

4. FOCUS ON ONE MEANINGFUL GOAL

As financial confidence grows, direction becomes essential. Goals tend to accumulate quickly—saving, paying down debt, planning ahead—but progress often slows when everything competes for attention. Focusing on one meaningful priority brings clarity.

A single goal creates a reference point for decision-making and makes progress visible. Local banking guidance can help align that goal with realistic timelines and available resources, creating a plan that feels both achievable and sustainable. That forward movement builds confidence and lays the groundwork for future goals to follow.

5. HAVE A FINANCIAL CONVERSATION WITH A REAL PERSON

Even with strong habits in place, financial clarity rarely develops in isolation. Personal circumstances, timelines, and local realities shape every financial decision, and those nuances benefit from conversation. This is where Bank of Colorado plays a meaningful role. With deep roots in Northern Colorado, the bank emphasizes relationships alongside results, supporting individuals and families as they move through each stage of financial wellness. Visiting a Bank of Colorado branch in Greeley creates space for meaningful dialogue, where goals are discussed in context and next steps feel grounded and realistic.

Financial wellness rarely happens in isolation. Every household’s goals, timelines, and circumstances are different, which is why thoughtful guidance can make such a meaningful difference. The team at Bank of Colorado understands the unique needs of Greeley residents and works alongside individuals and families as they build financial confidence. Through conversations that focus on real-life goals—whether managing everyday finances, planning ahead, or preparing for future investments—their approach is rooted in relationships and local understanding.

In a city shaped by growth and change, financial wellness offers something steady. With a strong foundation and trusted local guidance from Bank of Colorado, progress becomes something built thoughtfully over time—supporting Greeley families every step of the way.

Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of.

Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?

Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.

Markets available nationwide

Learn more at future.citylifestyle.com

Steamway has been serving Northern Colorado for 51 years.

Since the early 1970s, we’ve proudly served our community with professional carpet cleaning — and have since expanded into a full-service remodeling and interior design showroom.

Whether you need expert carpet, tile, granite, or duct cleaning, or you’re ready to refresh your home with new carpet, hardwood, LVP flooring, countertops, or window coverings, we’re here to help.

Visit our 3,000 sq. ft. showroom, where our interior designer with over 30 years of experience can guide you through every step of your project — from inspiration to completion.

Bobby Hulett: Leading with Presence in Weld County

When Bobby Hulett stepped into his role as Colorado Director for Shale & Tight just over six months ago, he brought with him more than experience. He brought continuity.

A petroleum engineer by training and a graduate of Mississippi State University, Hulett has spent more than 33 years with Chevron, the only company he has ever worked for. His career has taken him across the United States and overseas through a series of leadership roles requiring both operational discipline and strategic oversight. Colorado marks his eleventh assignment and one of the most significant.

Today, Chevron is the largest oil and natural gas producer in the state. Hulett oversees a broad scope of responsibility, directly overseeing Colorado operations and regulatory engagements while working collaboratively with leaders across drilling, completions, safety, and asset retirement., Yet the role extends beyond technical leadership. It places him at the intersection of business performance and community presence in a region where energy is both an economic driver and a visible neighbor.

Relocating to Colorado was not a temporary professional move. Hulett and his wife chose to make their home in Northern Colorado, joining an area where many Chevron employees already live and raise their families. With a child at home and his other children building lives of their own, the decision reflected his philosophy to live, work, and play where Chevron’s main Colorado office is located.

“It’s important to live in the community where you work,” Hulett says. “Our families are here. Our kids go to school here. We’re part of the same neighborhoods.”

That perspective shapes how he approaches leadership.

Chevron’s presence in Colorado spans decades, and its employee base across the state now exceeds 800. In Weld County, that footprint carries both opportunity and responsibility. “Community engagement,” Hulett explains, “is not an isolated initiative but a consistent part of operating in the region.”

Dedicated to investing in education, community needs, and workforce readiness, Chevron

partners with organizations such as Success Foundation which serves School District 6 to support STEM programs, robotics teams, and technical and engineering pathways for local students. Additionally, at Aims Community College, scholarship and workforce development initiatives help prepare students for careers in higher education as well as the skilled trades essential to Colorado’s economy. Beyond education, investments also include supporting community needs such as the Boys & Girls Club and the Weld Food Bank, where employees regularly volunteer and often bring their families alongside them.

For Hulett, these efforts reflect a broader philosophy of investment.

“We want to be a long-term partner,” he says. “That means listening, staying engaged, and supporting the priorities of the communities where we operate.”

At the same time, operational excellence remains central to his role. Leading energy production in Colorado requires coordination across technical teams, regulatory environments, and evolving infrastructure. The work demands precision, consistency, and accountability.

Above all, it demands a commitment to safety.

CONTINUED >

Every employee in the field is important, Hulett notes. “For these hours, you’re entrusted with someone’s  husband, wife, son, or daughter,” he says, “on one condition—bring them home safe.”

The statement is direct, but it underscores the culture he aims to reinforce. Production goals and performance metrics matter, yet they never supersede the well-being and safety of the people carrying them out.

As Weld County continues to grow, with new development stretching along Highway 34 and expanding neighborhoods across the region, Chevron’s role evolves alongside it. Economic contributor. Employer. Community partner. Delivering energy responsibly while strengthening the communities that make that work possible is not a competing priority; it is part of the same commitment.

After more than three decades with one organization, Hulett understands that credibility is earned over time. Investment, in his view, is measured not only in performance, but in relationships built steadily, in teams that return home safely, and in communities positioned to thrive for generations.

In Weld County, that long-term perspective is not simply part of the assignment—it defines it.

An Evening of Impact and Elegance.

Join us for a night where your presence becomes possibility—where every moment you share helps inspire confidence, belonging, and hope in the lives of young people across Weld County.

Saturday | April 25, 2026 | 5:30–9:00 PM | DoubleTree in Greeley

The evening features a beautifully prepared dinner, a heartfelt youth story, an engaging live performance, and a silent auction. Plus, we’ll be honoring our 2026 Champions of Youth, Lorri & Ellie Duran.

Come enjoy an unforgettable night of inspiration and celebration.

Sponsorships available and tickets on sale now.

Presented By

SCHMITT

THE

Quiet INVESTMENT

“PROTECTION WORKS BEST WHEN IT’S DONE BEFORE THERE’S STRESS, EMOTION, OR URGENCY INVOLVED.”

When people talk about investing, the conversation usually centers on growth: building wealth, expanding businesses, or purchasing property. Growth is important, but growth without protection can be fragile.

Some of the most meaningful investments aren’t the ones that grow in value, but the ones that safeguard what you’ve worked so hard to build.

Mary Bengford, owner of American Family Insurance, has helped families and business owners think about protection in a different way, not as paperwork or a monthly obligation, but as a steady safeguard for the lives they are building.

“Protection isn’t really about policies or

MARY BENGFORD BUILDS PROTECTION AROUND WHAT MATTERS MOST

paperwork. It’s about people,” Mary says. For her, insurance is deeply personal. It’s about making sure a family can stay in their home after a storm. It’s about helping a business recover from a setback instead of closing its doors. It’s about protecting income, assets, and longterm plans so one unexpected event doesn’t unravel years of effort.

Insurance is often treated as something people purchase and forget. Mary sees it as something that should evolve. Early in life, protection may focus on a first home or a growing family. As businesses expand, conversations shift to liability, employees, and continuity. Later, priorities often turn toward preserving assets and simplifying risk. The coverage that made sense five years ago may not reflect the realities of today.

“My role is to grow alongside my clients,” she explains. As responsibilities grow, your coverage should evolve with them, not fall behind. When approached intentionally, protection becomes part of long-term planning instead of an afterthought.

That intention is especially important when timing is considered. “Protection works best when it’s done before there’s stress, emotion, or urgency involved,” Mary says. Reviewing coverage during calm seasons allows for thoughtful decisions. Waiting until something happens leaves little room for clarity. Preparing ahead of time isn’t assuming the worst; it’s being prepared.

In a community like Greeley, that preparation carries even more weight. Mary doesn’t serve anonymous policy numbers. She serves neighbors she sees at school events, local restaurants, and community gatherings. The responsibility is real. Trust is earned slowly, through consistency and follow-through.

Owning her well-known company allows her to combine the strength, resources, and reputation of American Family Insurance with the personalized service and accountability that comes from local ownership. That balance matters. Clients have access to established tools and support while still working with someone who understands the rhythms of this community.

Protection may not be the most visible part of a financial plan, but it is often the quiet foundation beneath it and one of the most important. Homes, businesses, and futures are built gradually, through years of hard work and commitment. Mary’s work centers on helping ensure they can withstand the moments no one plans for, so progress does not stop when life shifts unexpectedly.

Because sometimes the wisest investment isn’t about what you gain. It’s about what you’re able to keep.

Let’s Invest In Each Other.

AN INVESTMENT IN LEGACY,

BUILT FOR THE FUTURE

HONORING MICHAEL RAY LEE WHILE OPENING DOORS FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

Before his name became associated with a growing local foundation, Michael Ray Lee, known to family and friends as Mike, was the kind of person whose drive and presence left a lasting impression.

A Greeley Central High School graduate, Mike was known for his sharp mind, steady work ethic, and competitive spirit. He discovered golf at just five years old and quickly developed the discipline and natural ability that carried him through a successful junior and collegiate career. Off the course, he was equally focused academically, later earning his engineering degree from the Colorado School of Mines, where he was also recognized as an All-American golfer.

Those closest to Mike remember more than his accomplishments. He was outgoing, focused, and deeply motivated to be the best at whatever he pursued, qualities that continue to shape the work now being done in his name.

Mike passed away in December 2020 at the young age of 28 following complications from COVID-19. In the months that followed, his parents, John and Amy Lee, along with his brother, Joe, faced the difficult question of how to honor a life that had been so full of promise. Their answer became the Michael Ray Lee Foundation, created to ensure Mike’s love of the game would continue creating opportunity for others.

TURNING PASSION INTO PURPOSE

Established by the Lee family, the foundation carries forward Mike’s passion for golf while opening doors for young athletes across Northern Colorado. Its mission is clear: use the game of golf to create a positive impact through junior programs, scholarships, and direct support of school teams.

Since its founding, the foundation has:

• Awarded $50,000 in scholarships to local student athletes

• Invested $36,350 into area high school golf programs

• Provided $57,600 in SNAG (Starting New At Golf) kits to Greeley schools

• Made ongoing contributions to golf programs at the University of Northern Colorado, Colorado School of Mines, and the Colorado Golf Association

• Helped launch the first-ever Greeley middle school golf team in 2025

• $576,000 reinvested directly back into the community

• $350,000 in AARPA (Covid Relief Funds) contributed to the creation of the Mike Lee 9 at Boomerang Links, in partnership with the City of Greeley

SNAG—Starting New At Golf—is a beginner-friendly curriculum designed to introduce young players to the fundamentals of the game in a fun, approachable way. The oversized clubs and colorful equipment help remove the intimidation that can come with traditional instruction, allowing students to build confidence early. Students who first encounter the game through SNAG in their physical education classes can then step onto the Mike Lee 9 and experience those same fundamentals in a real-course setting, creating a natural bridge from classroom to course.

For the foundation and the Lee family, these investments reflect the same qualities Mike embodied—discipline, opportunity, and a belief that hard work should open doors.

THE HEART OF THE MISSION: THE MIKE LEE MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT

While the foundation’s work continues yearround, its signature event—the Mike Lee Memorial Golf Tournament—has become the engine behind its growing impact.

Each summer, golfers, sponsors, and community members gather not only to play, but to invest in the next generation. Proceeds directly support scholarships, youth programming, and school partnerships throughout the region.

What began to honor Mike’s memory has grown into something deeply meaningful for both the foundation

and the broader Greeley golf community. The tournament now brings together longtime players, local businesses, and families who simply want to be part of something that gives back.

Participation continues to grow, expanding the foundation’s reach each year.

Looking ahead, the foundation is working toward its next goal: supporting the development of an indoor/ outdoor golf training facility in Greeley. The space would provide year-round opportunities for young players to sharpen their skills and deepen their connection to the game Mike loved.

A LEGACY THAT CONTINUES TO GROW

Today, the impact of the Michael Ray Lee Foundation can be seen across Greeley—from school gymnasiums using SNAG equipment to student athletes preparing for collegiate competition.

Foundation leaders and supporters say the mission remains both deeply personal and firmly focused on the future. Every scholarship awarded, every young golfer introduced to the sport, and every community partner who steps forward helps ensure Mike’s passion continues to create opportunity for others.

The Mike Lee 9 wouldn’t have been possible without a city that listened carefully and led with empathy. Leaders from the City of Greeley, along with the team at Boomerang Links, approached the Mike Lee 9 with intentional care—from former Mayor John Gates to the golf leadership and course staff. Their attention to detail, from the first-tee plaque to the course markers bearing Mike’s name, reflected a shared commitment to honoring his legacy while creating something meaningful for the community. “The attention to detail was unbelievable,” John Lee said. “They made this about Mike. We couldn’t have asked for a more thoughtful group of people.”

For those moved to be part of the effort, the foundation offers many ways to get involved, from donations and tournament participation to sponsorships and volunteer support. Each contribution helps expand access to the game and strengthen opportunities for young athletes across Northern Colorado.

Because for the Lee family, honoring Michael Ray Lee has never been only about remembrance.

It’s about creating opportunities that continue to open doors for the next generation.

To donate or get involved, visit MichaelRayLee.com

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WOVEN

VICTORY BY OLIVIA SCHMITT

The Greeley Derby Party

GREELEY'S FAVORITE COMMUNITY PARTY

Raise a Glass. Dress Bold. Celebrate Local.

Few traditions capture the spirit of spring quite like the Kentucky Derby, and in Greeley, that festive energy comes to life at one of the community’s most anticipated annual gatherings.

Now in its fourth year, The Greeley Derby Party returns on May 2, 2026, bringing signature style, lively entertainment, and a meaningful local impact to the DoubleTree by Hilton Greeley at Lincoln Park. What began as a stylish afternoon celebration has quickly grown into a can’t-miss social event where guests arrive dressed to impress, fascinators take center stage, and the excitement of Derby Day fills the room.

From the moment doors open at 2 p.m., attendees are invited to step into an atmosphere inspired by the pageantry of Churchill Downs. Guests can expect elevated cocktails, themed bites, and music setting the tone for an afternoon that feels both polished and playful. Throughout the event, interactive Derby-style table games add to the festive energy, while the outdoor cigar lounge offers a relaxed space for conversation and connection.

“Derby Day is the perfect excuse to dress boldly, gather your friends, and enjoy one unforgettable afternoon in Greeley.”

Whether guests come for the fashion, the festivities, or the race itself, the experience strikes a balance between high-energy celebration and the welcoming, local feel the event has become known for.

At its heart, the Derby Party is about more than mint juleps and bold hats. Each year, the event brings people together in support of a greater purpose, reinforcing the strong spirit of generosity that continues to define the Greeley community.

Tickets are $45 per person and include access to the full Derby experience, Kentucky themed buffet, and 2 themed cocktails (Full cash bar available). Guests are encouraged to gather their friends, embrace the tradition of Derby fashion, and arrive ready to celebrate.

Most importantly, a portion of proceeds from The Greeley Derby Party will benefit Safe Families for Children (SFFC) Northern Colorado, continuing the event’s commitment to giving back and investing in the community that makes gatherings like this so special.

Stylish, spirited, and rooted in local impact, The Greeley Derby Party has earned its place as one of Greeley’s favorite spring traditions, and this year’s celebration is poised to be the most memorable yet.

Learn more, purchase tickets, or become a sponsor at: TheGreeleyDerbyParty.com

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REDEFINING INVESTMENT

INTRODUCING THE LATINOS INVESTING IN THE FUTURE TOGETHER (LIFT) FUND

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Investment is often talked about in terms of numbers. Dollars invested. Returns measured. Growth tracked over time. But in Weld County, some of the most meaningful investments have never been financial at all. They have been personal. They have been made by families, neighbors, and community leaders who show up day after day with the belief that this place can be better for those who come next.

Latinos have always been part of that story.

Across Northern Colorado, Latino families have invested deeply in Weld County through their work, their businesses, their culture, and their leadership. They have built companies, raised families, mentored young people, and helped shape the rhythm of daily life. Those contributions are woven into the fabric of the region, even when they are not always named in conversations about long-term influence or leadership.

The Latinos Investing in the Future Together (LIFT) Fund exists to change that.

Established as a Field of Interest Fund at the Weld Community Foundation, LIFT was created to make Latino investment visible and intentional while building on a legacy that has existed for generations. Rather than positioning Latinos as recipients of change, the fund centers them as leaders of it, supporting Latino-led decision-making and long-term community vision.

LIFT focuses its grantmaking on three interconnected priorities: youth success, economic mobility, and community innovation. These are not abstract goals. They reflect lived experience and a deep understanding of what strengthens families and neighborhoods over time. Through mini-grants to local nonprofits, the fund is designed to support organizations already doing meaningful work while helping them leverage additional opportunities and create lasting impact.

The response to the fund has been immediate. A soft launch on social media generated strong engagement, and early contributions followed quickly. That enthusiasm reflects more than interest in a new fund. It reflects pride in seeing Latino leadership recognized and trusted in a tangible way.

For founding committee member Dr. Brenda Campos-Spitze, that pride is rooted in a long tradition of generosity that has always existed within the Latino community, even if it has not always fit traditional models of philanthropy. “Generosity is part of Latino culture,” she says. “Our community is known for selling tamales to fundraise and always offering guests a meal at the table, even if it means going hungry themselves. While giving has come in different shapes and forms, I love the idea of empowering our comunidad to give through a philanthropic fund that both supports nonprofits and highlights our community’s generosity.”

Grounded in Latino-led vision, the LIFT Fund reflects something bigger than any single initiative. When Latinos are empowered to invest in their community, Weld County grows stronger. New ideas take root. Opportunity expands. Leadership becomes more representative of the people who live here and care deeply about this place. This is not about filling a gap or making a statement. It is about recognition, momentum, and belief. Belief in Latino families, Latino leadership, and Latino vision. Because when more voices are trusted to shape what comes next, the future becomes richer for everyone.

BIG NIGHTS BIG SHOWS Big names

Where to go for great art, on and off stage– Greeley, Colorado. Catch big-name performances at the Union Colony Civic Center. Experience the world-class energy of the UNC Greeley Jazz Festival or explore contemporary creativity at Moxi Theater. With big shows, bold talent and unforgettable nights, Greeley’s got it.

This is not a diet. It’s a physician-guided reset of how your body burns fat, builds muscle, and produces energy. At Balance Health, your Metabolic Reset begins with advanced body composition testing (InBody), medical evaluation, and a custom fitness and nutrition plan designed specifically for you. Using real data — skeletal muscle, visceral fat, inflammation risk — we help you make changes that actually last.

APRIL 2026

APRIL 1ST

Landscape Lecture Series: Native

Grass Installation

LINC Library Innovation Center 501 8th Ave, Greeley | 7:00 PM

Ready to rethink your lawn? Local resident Brandon Torrez shares practical tips for selecting and installing native grasses that thrive in Greeley’s climate. This free Landscape Lecture Series session focuses on water-wise, low-maintenance solutions for more sustainable yards. More information at GreeleyCo.gov

APRIL 9TH

Stress Care for the Real World

3600 West 22nd St, Greeley | 9:00 AM

When it comes to self-care, it can be hard to know where to start. North Range Behavioral Health and Lighthouse Mortuary are partnering up to offer a free training to help you learn about managing stress and self-care practices. Participants will identify contributors, what is within control, brainstorm creative self-care tools, and develop a personal action plan. For more information, visit NorthRange.org

APRIL 10TH

3rd Annual Waves of Love Giving Luncheon

Aims Community College, Greeley | 11:00 AM

Gather with community members for a heartfelt afternoon supporting children with developmental delays and disabilities and the families who love them. Enjoy meaningful stories, connection, and the opportunity to make a real difference as WHALE Respite Center continues providing inclusive, specialized respite care for local families.

For more information or to register, visit Zeffy.com/ticketing.

SERVING NORTHERN COLORADO SINCE

CONTINUED

APRIL 11TH

Greeley Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Concert

2101 16th St, Greeley | 2:00 PM

The Greeley Philharmonic Youth Orchestra presents their spring concert! Students from across Weld County come together under the direction of music educators Doran Azari and Chaeli Fischer. For the first time, the orchestra has expanded to included brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments. For more information or to buy tickets, visit GreeleyPhil.org

APRIL 15TH

2026

State of the City Address

UNC Campus Commons | 6:00 PM

Join Mayor Dale Hall for Greeley’s annual State of the City Address, celebrating the community’s 2025 accomplishments and future vision. Held at UNC Campus Commons, the evening features live entertainment, refreshments, and opportunities to connect with city leaders while honoring Greeley’s 140th birthday. Free and open to the public. For more information or to RSVP, visit GreeleyCo.gov.

APRIL 17TH

Red Carpet Rodeo

Island Grove Event Center | 6:00 PM

Step into the spotlight at Red Carpet Rodeo, where Hollywood glam meets Western charm. Inspired by classic John Wayne–era cinema, guests enjoy the red carpet, cocktails, dinner, entertainment, and live and silent auctions. Celebrate Life Stories and the courageous children we serve— your support brings safety, healing, and hope. Tickets on sale now at LifeStoriesWeld.org

APRIL 25TH

Elegant Night

DoubleTree by Hilton, 919 7th St, Greeley | 5:30 PM

Join Boys & Girls Clubs of Weld County for a celebration of resilience, possibility, and the young people uplifted by our community’s generosity. Ellie and Lorri Duran will be honored as the 2026 Champions of Youth. Come hear from Youth of the Year, Jesse G., as he shares how the Club has shaped his confidence and leadership. For more information, visit BGCWeld.org.

APRIL 25TH

Baby Animal Days

Centennial Village Museum, 1475 A St, Greeley | 10:00 AM

Come celebrate Spring at Centennial Village Museum! See baby animals, take a ride on the horse-drawn wagon (weather permitting), visit our mini Farmers' Market, enjoy crafts and demonstrations, and stroll the grounds.

APRIL 25TH

Balanced Movement Yoga to host Buti Movement

Teacher Training experience

1535 8th Ave, Greeley | 8:00 AM

This immersive program blends dynamic movement, primal flow, and intentional breathwork to cultivate confidence, strength, and authentic self-expression. Designed for aspiring instructors and dedicated practitioners alike, the training offers handson learning, community connection, and embodied leadership development. Participants will leave empowered with the tools, certification, and inspiration to confidently guide others through the powerful, music-driven practice of Buti.