Donate directly to Hispanic Women of Weld County Community Foundation
Stronger Together
There’s something special about the women of Greeley—and if you’ve been part of this community for any amount of time, you’ve felt it.
Over the past five years of publishing this magazine, I’ve had the honor of meeting and featuring so many incredible women. Business owners, leaders, creatives, mothers, mentors—each one bringing something unique to the table. And yet, what stands out most isn’t just what they’ve built individually… it’s how they show up for each other.
In a world that often tells women to compete, Greeley does the opposite.
Here, women collaborate. They refer business. They cheer each other on. They show up to events, share opportunities, and genuinely want to see one another succeed. It’s not about one woman rising—it’s about all of us rising together. And that’s what makes this community so powerful.
This issue is a celebration of that spirit.
Inside, you’ll find a collection of inspiring women who are leading, building, and making an impact right here in our community. Some you may know, others you’re about to—but every single one represents the strength, generosity, and heart that defines Greeley.
To the women featured in this issue—and to the many more who continue to lift others up behind the scenes—thank you. You are the reason this community feels the way it does.
I’m incredibly grateful to be surrounded by you, to tell your stories, and to witness firsthand what happens when women choose connection over competition. Because in Greeley, when one woman grows… we all do.
Addie Knott Photography by Addie Knott, Joe Brayan Films by Joe Brayan, Skillman Photography, Rich Caldwell, SJ Photography, First Due Photography by Kelsey Pratt
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
Did you know your child’s breathing and tongue posture can impact their smile, sleep, behavior, and facial growth? Myofunctional therapy—a simple, effective way to help kids build healthy oral habits that support proper growth and development.
Signs Your Child May Benefit:
Mouth Breathing
Thumb Or Finger Sucking
Tongue Thrust
Crowded Or Shifting Teeth
Speech Concerns
Behavior Concerns
Problems With Digestion
Allergies And Asthma
Snoring Or Restless Sleep
Why It Matters:
Healthy Muscle
Function Helps Guide: Proper Jaw Growth
Straighter Teeth
Better Breathing & Sleep
Early treatment can prepare kids for orthodontics and help achieve better results.
Start Early. Grow Healthy. Smile Confidently. Call today to schedule a
What to Expect:
Sessions Are Fun, Interactive, And Tailored To Your Child! Therapy Includes: Simple Daily Exercises
Nasal Breathing Training
Tongue Posture Correction
Habit Elimination Strategies
Most exercises take just a few minutes a day—but the results can last a lifetime.
inside the issue
The Cadillac CT5 blends dynamic performance with refined luxury in every detail. With bold styling, intuitive technology, and a driver-focused interior, it delivers a confident, responsive ride that stands apart. This is modern Cadillac—elevated, sophisticated, and unmistakably powerful.
Experience Cadillac at Ghent Cadillac in Greeley.
GHENT CADILLAC
Every woman’s life looks different. Her coverage should too.
Life doesn’t follow one path—and neither should your coverage. From growing families to new ventures, Melissa McDonald helps women across Northern Colorado protect what matters most, with guidance that’s thoughtful, personal, and built to evolve.
Coverage that grows with you. Let’s review your coverage this season.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-3: My Sister’s Closet event, hosted by Daymakers Gifts, offers a thoughtful approach to prom, where donated, gently worn dresses find new life and local girls discover the perfect look 3: Daymakers Owner, Amanda Owens & Fair Royalty Addison Tellez, Dakota Bernard, & Tessa Goodvin 4. City of Greeley employees volunteer at Habitat for Humanity’s Women’s Build 5: Centennial Hospitality Group is honored as Community Partner of the Year at Sava Summit 6: Northridge High School students complete 4-week leadership series through BMS Foundation 7: Frontier Academy students enjoy Candlelight Dinner Theatre performance of 'Hello, Dolly'
Quality Work Speaks For Itself
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.
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.
business monthly
A
ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Pellegrini Cucina at Home
Pellegrini Cucina Italiana has introduced Pellegrini Cucina at Home, a new offering that brings the restaurant’s authentic Italian classics into customers’ homes. Select favorites are now available frozen, allowing guests to enjoy them whenever it’s convenient. Customers can preorder ahead or stop by the Italian Market for easy entertaining. Current offerings include house-made Lasagna and Pellegrini’s signature Tiramisu, prepared in their kitchen and ready to serve at yours. Orders can be placed online: pellegrini-cucina-italiana.square.site
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Sol Escapes Travel Adds New "Escape Artists"
Sol Escapes Travel is pleased to welcome Cathie Prazma and Kristi McCune as dedicated travel advisors. Cathie and Kristi bring exceptional organizational skills, professionalism, and a shared passion for creating personalized, unforgettable journeys. Their client-focused approach emphasizes thoughtful planning, attention to detail, and meaningful connections that transform vacations into seamless, memorable experiences. Both are committed to helping travelers explore the world with confidence and ease. Find the Sol Escapes Team at SolEscapesTravel.com
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Factor IV is Now Offering Peptide-Based Protocols
Factor IV is now offering peptide-based protocols to support recovery and vitality. Services include NAD+ for cellular energy, GHK-Cu for skin and tissue support, and peptides like BPC-157 and TB-500, often associated with healing and inflammation balance. They also provide tirzepatide in a microdose, commonly used in metabolic health and weight management programs. Each plan is personalized, emphasizing safety, education, and evidence-informed approaches to optimize overall health and performance. More information at FactorIVHydration.com.
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Photography by Woven Victory
Photography by Olivia Schmitt
Outdoor Pools and Splash Parks Open
Get ready for a splashing good time as the summer season launches this month. Outdoor Pools: Centennial Pool, 2315 Reservoir Road, Discovery Bay Waterpark, 715 E. 24th Street, Splash Parks Island Grove Splash Park, 302 N. 14th Avenue, Sunrise Splash Park, 325 12th Street, Hours: Monday-Sunday, 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Open weather permitting. Visit GreeleyRec.com for details.
NEW: SOAR Next Level Volleyball Performance
The SOAR Next Level Volleyball Performance Program launches this summer, offering athletes targeted training in strength, power, speed, agility, and endurance. The program also emphasizes vertical jump development, court quickness, hand-eye coordination, and injury prevention. Designed for dedicated volleyball players aiming to elevate their performance, it is led by Coach Kayla, a former athlete with firsthand experience in advancing players to higher levels of competition. More information at SoarAthlete.com
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Krista Plate, Jenna McCarty, Rhonda Solis, Melanie Woolman, and Lidia Varela
WOMEN SHAPING GREELEY
Leadership takes many forms. In Greeley, it shows up through the women featured here—each bringing her own perspective, path, and impact to the community. From business and education to connection and service, their stories offer a closer look at the work behind the influence, along with a few of the local places that keep them grounded, inspired, and connected to Greeley.
Krista Plate, Jenna McCarty, Rhonda Solis, Melanie Woolman, and Lidia Varela
Jenna McCarty
Certified General Appraiser | Founder & Principal, Terra Firma Appraisal and Consulting, LLC
Jenna McCarty works in a space most people don’t think about until they need it—and when they do, the stakes are often significant. As a Certified General Appraiser and the founder of Terra Firma Appraisal and Consulting, she specializes in agricultural land, water rights, and complex property valuations across Colorado and Wyoming, including projects related to infrastructure and public works. It’s work that requires both technical expertise and a clear understanding of how land functions in real life, not just on paper.
Her days rarely follow a single pattern. Some begin behind a desk, analyzing land use patterns and market data. Others take her into the field, walking properties, meeting with landowners, and gaining a firsthand understanding of the land she’s evaluating. Many of these assignments are tied to infrastructure projects— transmission lines, utilities, and public works—where understanding both the land and the project’s realworld impact is critical. That balance between analysis and on-the-ground insight defines her approach—one that is both precise and practical.
Much of the work Jenna takes on involves more than numbers. Agricultural properties often carry generational history, personal investment, and long-term impact for the families who own them. Whether navigating a partial acquisition, infrastructure project, or land transition, her role is to bring clarity to situations where financial decisions are deeply tied to identity and legacy. “These assignments often carry emotional and generational significance,” she explains, “and my role is to bring clarity and balance to those situations.”
Greeley was a natural fit for that kind of work. Drawn to its agricultural roots and its balance of growth and tradition, Jenna found a community where land continues to hold meaning beyond its value as an asset. Through consistency, reliability, and a commitment to doing the work well, she has built a reputation rooted in trust—something that carries weight in an industry where credibility is everything.
That foundation became even more meaningful when she made the decision to launch her own firm.
Building Terra Firma Appraisal and Consulting from the ground up marked a shift from simply doing the work to taking full ownership of it. Every project now reflects her name and her standards, requiring both confidence and discipline.
Today, her work often sits at the intersection of growth and preservation. As development continues across Northern Colorado and into Wyoming, more projects are touching agricultural land and rural communities. Jenna plays a critical role in helping ensure those transitions are handled thoughtfully. “My work often sits in the middle,” she says, “helping ensure landowners are thoughtfully represented while also supporting responsible progress.” In many cases, that means working alongside infrastructure expansion—where land, engineering, and longterm regional needs all intersect.
Outside of work, her life reflects a similar balance. Time with her son, a love for the outdoors, and travel all provide perspective. As her firm continues to grow, she remains focused on building strong relationships and taking on work that requires both precision and trust.
For those navigating complex land decisions, her work offers something essential: clarity in moments where it matters most.
HER GREELEY
Weeknight Dinner: Lucky Fins (lobster-stuffed avocado + dirty martini)
Lunch Spot: Sushi One or The Cow (half Reuben)
Favorite Walk: Poudre River Trail—
Signature Bluffs
Hidden Gem: The deep end at the FunPlex Go-To Event: Friday Fest in Downtown Greeley
Krista Plate
Owner, Ark Medical Aesthetics | Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C)
Krista Plate, FNP-C, has built her career around helping people feel confident in their own skin. As the owner of Ark Medical Aesthetics, she brings more than two decades of medical experience into a practice that blends clinical expertise with a personalized, thoughtful approach to care.
Her path to Greeley began at the University of Northern Colorado, where she came to study nursing. What started as a place to earn a degree quickly became home. Over time,
she built both her career and her family here, creating lasting connections within the community.
Before opening her own practice, Krista spent 20 years in the medical field, developing a strong foundation in patient care. That experience now shapes her approach at Ark Medical Aesthetics, where she focuses on treatments that enhance natural beauty while prioritizing safety and long-term results.
Central to her work is trust. She takes time with each patient, ensuring they feel informed and confident in their decisions. “I want my patients to feel confident and informed in every decision they make,” she says. The goal is not just a result, but a relationship—built through consistency, transparency, and care.
Opening her own practice marked a significant step. It allowed her to create an environment aligned with her values and the experience she wanted patients to have. “I wanted to build something that truly reflected the level of care and connection I believe in,” she shares. Today, much of her growth comes through word of mouth, reflecting the trust she has built within the community.
As a local business owner, Krista sees her work as part of something larger. Supporting other small businesses and contributing to Greeley’s growth remains important, as does creating a welcoming space where people feel comfortable and cared for.
Outside of work, her life centers on her two daughters and a love for the outdoors. Whether horseback riding, hiking, or spending time at her family’s ranch, those experiences continue to shape both her perspective and her approach to life.
Looking ahead, she remains focused on growing her practice while maintaining the same level of care and connection that brought her here.
HER GREELEY
Coffee Spot: Coco’s Cafe
Special Occasion Dinner: Pellegrini Cucina Italiana
Recharge Spot: Hola Wellness
Local Shop: Jael Joyeux Permanent Jewelry
Favorite Tradition: The Greeley Stampede
Rhonda Solis
Aims Community College Board of Trustees Member
Rhonda Solis has spent decades contributing to the Greeley community through leadership, service, and a deep commitment to opportunity. From local school boards to statewide roles and now her position on the Aims Community College Board of Trustees, her work reflects a consistent focus on strengthening the future of the region.
A lifelong Greeley resident, Rhonda attended District 6 schools and graduated from Greeley West High School. She built her career working in small business while raising her family, becoming increasingly involved in the community along the way.
Her leadership includes eight years on the District 6 school board and two years representing
Congressional District 8 on the State Board of Education. Today, her work continues through Aims, where she supports initiatives that expand access to education and workforce opportunities.
For Rhonda, education has always been central to her efforts. “Education and the right to vote have been the two great equalizers in this nation,” she says, “and I continue to fight for both.” Her work reflects a long-standing commitment to ensuring access and supporting future generations.
Her connection to Colorado runs deep. Her family’s history in the region dates back to before statehood, and that legacy continues through her own contributions. She was the first Latina to represent Congressional District 8 on the State Board of Education and is among the few Latinas elected to statewide positions in recent decades. At Aims, she and fellow trustee Marcy Mieczkowski made history as the first Latinas elected to the board, which is now the first all-female board in the college’s history.
Throughout her work, Rhonda has remained focused on ensuring that the voices shaping the community reflect its full history and diversity. “It’s important to remember the wealth of this community that has been created by Latinos, immigrants, and refugees,” she says.
Outside of her leadership roles, her life centers on family. She speaks with pride about her children and values the time spent with loved ones. Recently, she also welcomed a rescue dog, Penelope, into her home— an experience that reflects the same patience and care she brings to her work.
Rhonda remains actively involved. Through her role at Aims and continued community engagement, she continues to support initiatives that strengthen education, access, and opportunity across the region.
Her approach to leadership has remained consistent: show up, do the work, and create space for others to succeed.
Community Favorite: Hispanic Women of Weld County Breakfast
Lidia Varela
Event Coordinator, High Country Beverage & Crown Distributors | Founder, Draft Pony & LIFT Foundation
Connection has always been at the center of Lidia Varela’s work. Across her role with High Country Beverage and Crown Distributors, as well as the ventures she has built on her own, she focuses on bringing people together in ways that create lasting impact throughout Greeley and the surrounding region.
Her day-to-day work spans community engagement, sponsorships, and event coordination across Colorado and Kansas.
From supporting nonprofit fundraisers to building partnerships with national and local organizations, her role is rooted in relationships—creating opportunities for collaboration and helping ideas come to life in meaningful ways.
That approach is shaped by her deep ties to Northern Colorado. Born in Greeley and raised along the Front Range, Lidia has remained closely connected to the community that helped shape her. Her continued involvement, including her work supporting and advocating within her communities, reflects both pride in where she comes from and a commitment to contributing to its future.
Over time, that commitment has expanded beyond her professional role. Draft Pony, a mobile draft beverage service, was created to bring people together in a different way—through shared experiences at events, celebrations, and gatherings. It reflects her understanding that some of the most meaningful moments happen when people have the space to connect.
She has also founded the LIFT Foundation, a nonprofit focused on supporting underserved children through education, mentorship, and community resources. The mission is centered on helping young people build confidence, stay engaged in school, and create opportunities that support their long-term success.
Together, these efforts reflect a consistent focus: creating spaces where people feel supported, included, and connected. “At the heart of it all, my goal is simple— building relationships and creating opportunities that strengthen the communities we serve,” Lidia says.
Outside of her work, family remains at the heart and foundation of everything. As one of six siblings, she grew up surrounded by a strong sense of togetherness—something she continues to prioritize today with her children and grandson. Time with family and close friends provides balance, grounding her in the relationships that inspire much of what she does.
Her involvement across the community extends through leadership roles with organizations including the American Red Cross, the American Cancer Society, Colorado Youth Outdoors, the Latino Chamber of Commerce, the Women’s Fund of Weld County, and the Women’s Chamber of Commerce, along with ongoing work supporting additional nonprofit efforts.
As she looks ahead, Lidia remains focused on continued growth—both within the organizations she represents and through the work she is building. With strong momentum behind her, her approach remains consistent: strengthening relationships and creating opportunities that bring people together. It’s also something she hopes the next generation carries forward.
“Leadership is the ability to inspire others, create space for their voices, and help them become more than they thought possible. Lead, live, and give back,” she says. “If my journey inspires someone to step into their purpose and use their voice boldly, that’s a legacy I’m proud of.”
HER GREELEY
Coffee Spot: Margie’s Java Joint
Patio Hangout: WeldWerks Brewing Co.
Sweet Treat: Insomnia Cookies
Local Event: Greeley Arts Picnic
Take Visitors: Poudre River Trail & local parks
Melanie Woolman
Chief Executive Officer, United Way of Weld County
In a community built on connection, generosity, and growth, leaders like Melanie Woolman are helping shape what comes next. As CEO of United Way of Weld County, Melanie brings both heart and strategy to her role—proving that impactful leadership isn’t about perfection, but about purpose.
Melanie’s journey to Greeley began with a single year of service through AmeriCorps VISTA. What was meant to be temporary quickly became permanent. “I was hired as a full-time staff member after that year and have been here ever since,”
she shares. Since then, she’s built not only a career, but a life—meeting her husband, raising two young children, and becoming deeply rooted in a community she now helps guide.
At just 30 years old, Melanie stepped into the CEO role—an opportunity she describes as both humbling and significant. Her leadership style blends forward-thinking strategy with a deep respect for the people doing the work on the ground. “My best days are when I can connect strategy and real work to people who are generous and want to support it,” she says. That intersection, she believes, is where real change happens.
Under her leadership, United Way has undergone a meaningful evolution. One of her proudest accomplishments was leading the organization through its first formal, community-driven strategic plan. This effort repositioned United Way as more than a service provider—it’s now a convener, bringing together voices, resources, and ideas to tackle Weld County’s most pressing challenges.
This shift reflects Melanie’s broader vision: a community that works collaboratively, avoids duplication of efforts, and uses resources wisely. “We’re helping guide community vision, mobilize funding, and build public will,” she explains. It’s a model that prioritizes connection over competition—and one that’s especially important in a growing region like Greeley.
But beyond strategy and structure, Melanie is deeply passionate about inspiring others—especially the next generation. She’s committed to helping people discover ways to give, whether through time, talent, or resources. And as a young female leader, she’s acutely aware of the example she sets.
“I’ve made my fair share of mistakes,” she admits. “But that doesn’t mean I should give up. In fact, I think the opposite is true.” Her message is powerful: women don’t have to be perfect to lead. Growth, resilience, and self-belief matter far more.
Outside of work, Melanie finds her greatest joy in motherhood. Her two young children are her grounding force and daily inspiration. Even in the chaos of toddler life, she finds moments that refuel her purpose and remind her why this work matters.
For the women of Greeley, Melanie’s story is both relatable and aspirational. She’s proof that leadership doesn’t require having all the answers—it requires showing up, learning along the way, and staying committed to something bigger than yourself.
And it’s a mindset she carries with her daily, inspired by a quote from Colette Werden: “It’s okay if you fall down and lose your spark. Just make sure that when you get back up, you rise as the whole d*mn fire.”
HER GREELEY
Coffee Spot: Margie’s Java Joint
Weeknight Dinner: Chili Thai in Evans
Sweet Treat: Insomnia Cookies
Hidden Gem: LINC Library
Local Event: Greeley Arts Picnic
Miss Rodeo Colorado
As the 2026 Miss Rodeo Colorado, Lindsey Fancher-Rule carries a title that is often misunderstood at first glance—polished, poised, and too easily reduced to pageantry. In reality, the crown represents something far more layered. For Lindsey, it reflects a lifetime rooted in agriculture, a responsibility she has worked toward for years, and a role she now carries with both purpose and perspective.
Raised on her family’s ranch in Loveland, Lindsey grew up immersed in the Western way of life, helping raise horses, beef cattle, and bucking bulls while spending her early years behind the chutes at rodeos alongside her family. That foundation shaped both her experience and her voice, grounding her in the realities of an industry she now represents. When she was crowned Miss Rodeo Colorado 2026 at the Greeley Stampede, it marked the realization of a lifelong goal grounded in heritage and hard work.
But the title she carries today demands far more than tradition.
It requires a working knowledge of agriculture, horsemanship, veterinary science, policy, and public engagement, all brought to life through a year spent traveling the state as both a representative and an advocate. The work is not symbolic. It is deeply connected to a moment that matters.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Agriculture, long the backbone of Colorado, now sits in a complex position. Nearly 39,000 farms and ranches operate across the state, yet fewer than 2% of residents are directly involved in producing the food that sustains the other 98%. That disconnect shapes how agriculture is understood and supported, often influencing decisions far removed from the communities most affected.
For Lindsey, that gap is personal. It drives her platform, “Why We Ride,” which encourages others to reconnect with the purpose behind rodeo and agriculture and find their place within it. As she moves between classrooms, community events, and rodeos across Colorado, her role becomes one of translation, making a way of life that many no longer experience firsthand visible, approachable, and relevant again.
The Advocate Behind the Crown
Photographer: Rich Caldwell
That work is especially important as pressures on agriculture continue to mount. Water rights remain one of the state’s most complex challenges, farmland continues to give way to development, and policy decisions are often shaped far from the communities they most directly affect. The result is a widening rural-urban divide.
Lindsey steps into that space not as a spokesperson from a distance, but as someone who has lived it.
Often, the most powerful way she connects those worlds is through rodeo itself.
While many see it as entertainment, rodeo is a living demonstration of the skills still used on working ranches today. Each event reflects a real task, from safely handling livestock to training horses for daily work, creating a rare point of intersection where urban and rural Colorado share the same experience.
Events like the Greeley Stampede and the Loveland Rodeo extend that impact further, especially through youth livestock programs and 4-H exhibitions that introduce the next generation to agriculture in a tangible way. For Lindsey, these are opportunities to create connection, spark curiosity, and begin closing a gap that continues to widen.
Her year will culminate on one of the largest stages in the sport, the Miss Rodeo America pageant alongside the National Finals Rodeo, but the significance of her role is found in everything leading up to it—miles traveled, conversations started, and perspectives slowly shifting.
At its core, Lindsey’s work is about advocating for the future of an industry she has known her entire life and ensuring that it remains visible and understood.
Photographer: Skillman Photography
Lindsey Fancher-Rule herding cattle
THE COURAGE TO ASK
Dixie Daly Shares Her Secrets to Success
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADDIE KNOTT
It started with a simple ask—and it changed everything. Two moments stand out. One led to stepping onto a baseball field in full uniform at Colorado Rockies Fantasy Camp. Another led to participating in a local “Dancing
with the Stars” fundraiser. Both began the same way, with a question asked out loud. Each opened the door to something that had once felt out of reach, and together, they shaped a mindset that continues to guide Dixie Daly today.
“If you don’t ask, the answer is already no. But when you do ask, anything becomes possible.”
That belief has become more than a phrase. It is the foundation of how she moves through both business and life.
Dixie Daly is the founder of the Tickled Pink Collection, a community-driven brand featuring collaborations such as Tickled Pink Beer, Tickled Pink Cotton Candy–flavored vodka, pink chocolate, Pink Dragonfly Cider, Pink Sunrise Coffee, and more. Each product is created in partnership with local businesses, designed not only to bring something new to market, but to create connection along the way.
She is also the creator of multiple greeting card lines and the author of five books. Her work has earned recognition from BizWest, Colorado Women of Influence, and
eWomen Network, among others, and she is known as an award-winning poet. While the accomplishments are notable, they are not the defining element of her story. What stands out most is the approach behind them.
For Dixie, asking is not simply about receiving something. It is about initiating something. A conversation. A collaboration. A next step that would not exist otherwise. It requires stepping outside of comfort, often before certainty is guaranteed, and trusting that something meaningful can take shape on the other side of the question.
There have been moments when that willingness carried deeper significance. Times when stepping forward meant choosing growth during seasons that felt uncertain, and allowing something new to emerge in the process. In those moments, the act of asking became less about outcome and more about rediscovery.
That same mindset carried into her work as a creator.
A single question—What do you want?—brought an idea back to life, one that had been written down years earlier but never acted on. This time, she chose to follow through.
“If you don’t ask, the answer is already no. But when you do ask, anything becomes possible.”
What began as one ask evolved into something larger, growing into a business, a creative outlet, and a platform for collaboration. Today, the Tickled Pink Collection reflects that journey, expanding through partnerships that support local businesses and bring people together.
Her process begins with clarity. Understanding what she is working toward, both personally and professionally, and then taking action. Conversations are started. Opportunities are explored. Connections are made. And when the answer is no, she moves forward. As she puts it, “Next.” The response simply signals that something else may be waiting.
Over time, that repetition becomes its own rhythm. Asking becomes less intimidating, more familiar. Each conversation builds on the last, creating a sense of momentum that carries forward naturally. Confidence,
in that sense, is not something required to begin. It develops through the act itself.
None of it happens in isolation.
Relationships are at the center of everything she builds. Approaching others with kindness, listening with intention, and leading with a sense of care creates a foundation that allows ideas to develop naturally.
At its core, the work reflects something simple. Connection. Creativity. Community.
Not built all at once, but through a series of moments—questions asked, conversations started, and the willingness to keep showing up.
For Dixie Daly, asking is no longer a single action. It is part of how she lives.
And more often than not, the difference is not found in the opportunity itself, but in the decision to speak before certainty is guaranteed.
That is where everything begins.
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.
In a field where details matter and stakes are high, clarity is everything.
At Terra Firma Appraisal and Consulting, we provide valuation insight rooted in disciplined analysis, sound judgment, and a deep understanding of land and market behavior.
Because confidence in a decision begins with confidence in the work behind it.
ACCESS BEGINS WITH UNDERSTANDING
A CLOSER LOOK AT HOW NORTH RANGE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SIMPLIFIES THE PATH TO CARE
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
For many people, the hardest part of getting help is knowing where to start.
Dana Johnson, LPC, LAC, Clinical Network Director at North Range Behavioral Health, says access should never feel like another barrier. “Our goal is to make the first step feel manageable,” she explains. “Reaching out already takes courage. The process shouldn’t add stress.”
Here’s what that looks like in practice:
WHAT HAPPENS FIRST?
It starts with a call to the Hope Team—a single, welcoming entry point into care. From there, an intake appointment is scheduled, often within a week.
The intake isn’t a formal test. It’s a conversation:
• What’s bringing you in?
• What kind of support are you hoping for?
• What does your schedule look like?
• Would you like to use insurance?
Appointments are available in person or via telehealth, offering flexibility for busy families and rural communities across Northern Colorado.
WHAT IF YOU’RE NOT SURE WHAT YOU NEED?
That’s common.
Many people reach out without knowing exactly what type of service fits their situation. The Hope and Access teams help walk through options, explain services clearly, and coordinate next steps so individuals aren’t left navigating the system alone.
“Access means guidance,” Dana says. “You don’t have to have it all figured out before you call.”
WHAT ABOUT THE FEAR OF BEING JUDGED?
One of the most common concerns is vulnerability. Opening up about stress, anxiety, or life transitions can feel uncomfortable. North Range prioritizes a pace that feels steady and respectful. No rushing. No labeling. Only space to begin.
In a growing region like Weld County, early connection to care can prevent challenges from escalating. In that way, access becomes an investment—not only in personal wellbeing, but in families and the broader community.
Support isn’t reserved for crisis. Sometimes it’s simply about navigating change with clarity.
DANA JOHNSON, LPC, LAC
To learn more or get started, call 970.347.2120 or visit NorthRange.org.
Not pictured- Tamra Heindselman, Sarah Abeyta Smith & Anne White
A GREELEY SUMMER,
Styled
Inspired by Greeley’s signature events and everyday moments, these curated looks are designed to move with your summer— effortless, elevated, and ready for anything from live music to laidback afternoons. Shop the full collection at Charley & Co Market, available in limited quantities.
Drifwoo Silk Twilly Scarfneck, The Nu Vintage - Dusty Sky Crochet Knit Top, luivy - Pintuck Wide Leg Pants Black, Crowned Free Unity Bracelet, Panache Black & Cream Diamond Tote
Day at the Park with Kids
Mama Ball Cap, Sewn & SeenOriginal Polka Dot Set, Harper Collins - Hold my Hand, Howards Birdie Stud Bud Earrings, Blue Planet Black Polarized Sun Glasses
The Greeley Stampede
The Greeley Blues Jam
These outfits can be found at Charley & Co Market, located at 2310 W 17th St, Greeley.
The Nu Vintage - Melody Canyon Jacket, Panache - Support Live Music
Hana - Distressed Fabric Band
Feather Cowgirl Fedora, Dolly
Estelle Martini Cowgirl, Sweet
Jen - Flowy Tiered Skirt, Blue Planet - Blue Sun Glasses, Josslyn
Charm Bracelet - Western Boot
HerStory in Motion
AN
EVENING WHERE STORIES ARE HEARD, HELD, & HONORED
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOE BRAYAN FILMS BY JOE BRAYAN
Participants in HerStory 2026 at the Artists’ Reception at Fiesta Mansion Event Center
Teri Karjala saw the art Robin Eicher made for her
Felisha Bustos, Founder
In a city that continues to evolve in quiet and meaningful ways, HerStory has emerged not as something Greeley was missing, but as something it was ready to receive.
Founded by Felisha Bustos, the annual event invites women into a space that feels both unfamiliar and deeply needed. It is not built on performance or perfection, but on presence. On listening. On the simple, often overlooked act of honoring another person’s life without interruption, without advice, without the need to respond.
The idea began with something small. A conversation in a kitchen. A reflection on quilting bees and generations of women gathering to share stories. That image stayed with Felisha long after the moment passed, resurfacing again and again until it became something she could no longer ignore. What followed was not a grand launch, but a single post. Within an hour, a community had already begun to form.
From there, HerStory took shape in a way that feels both structured and deeply personal. Participants step into dual roles— serving as both listener and muse within a layered exchange. One woman shares her story while another listens, then that listener becomes the muse for someone else. The result is not a simple one-to-one pairing, but a web of connection that carries each story forward. From there, each participant creates a piece of art in honor of the woman whose story she was entrusted to hold.
The work is not about technical skill. Many arrive convinced they are not creative at all. That belief rarely lasts.
What happens instead is something quieter and more transformative. Trust begins to take root. Intuition takes the lead. And somewhere between uncertainty and completion, something shifts. Women who once hesitated to call themselves artists begin to see their own capacity differently—not just on canvas, but in their lives.
On the night of the event, those individual stories come together in a collective display. Dozens of pieces—each one layered with memory, interpretation, and care—fill the room. The effect is immediate. Color, texture, and meaning create a visual landscape that is both striking and deeply human. But beyond the art, it is the energy in the room that lingers.
There are conversations unfolding in corners. Long hugs that feel like recognition. Laughter, tears, and quiet moments of reflection woven between performances and movement. It is not a networking event, though connections are formed. It is not a workshop, though growth is evident. It is something more difficult to define, and perhaps more important because of it.
Each year, patterns begin to surface within the artwork itself. This past gathering carried a clear throughline—stories of resilience, of strength shaped through challenge, of lives rebuilt and reimagined. There is a shared language in those pieces, even among women who have never crossed paths before. An unspoken acknowledgment: I see you. I understand more than you think.
For Felisha, the evolution of HerStory has been as personal as it has been communal. What began as an idea rooted in curiosity has grown into something that reshaped her own understanding of connection. At one point, standing in front of a crowd, she recognized a truth that reframed everything—that the distance she
In a room filled with stories, connection begins quietly—through listening, through presence, and through the simple act of seeing someone fully, without interruption, assumption, or the need to respond.
once felt from other women was not one-sided. Healing, she realized, would require more than creating space. It would require stepping into it fully, with humility and intention.
That perspective now shapes the culture of HerStory. It is not about fixing one another. It is about holding space. It is about choosing curiosity over judgment, openness over assumption, and connection over comparison.
The impact does not end when the evening does. Friendships continue. Businesses are supported. In some cases, entirely new paths begin. Women leave not only with the memory of what they experienced, but with a renewed sense of what they are capable of creating—both within themselves and in the world around them.
HerStory continues to expand beyond a single night, growing into smaller gatherings, deeper conversations, and new ways of fostering connection throughout the year. Yet at its core, the intention remains unchanged.
To listen.
To honor.
To create space for stories to be seen and felt.
And perhaps most importantly, to remind every woman who walks through the door that her story—no matter how ordinary it may seem—is worthy of being held with care.
In a culture that often encourages quick responses and louder voices, HerStory offers something quieter, and far more enduring: the power of simply listening.
DELIGHT MOM WITH HOMEMADE BELGIAN WAFFLES
ARTICLE BY MATTHEW SOUSA
Mother’s Day is the perfect occasion to treat Mom to a special homemade breakfast, and nothing says “I love you” like a plate of warm, fluffy Belgian waffles. These waffles are crispy on the outside, light and airy on the inside, and perfect for a delicious morning celebration.
CLASSIC BELGIAN WAFFLE RECIPE
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 eggs, separated
• 1¾ cups milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks, then mix in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
4. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter.
5. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it. Pour in enough batter to cover the surface and cook until golden brown and crisp.
Serving Suggestions:
Top the waffles with fresh berries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of maple syrup or chocolate sauce. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or fresh orange juice for a perfect Mother’s Day surprise.
This simple yet elegant breakfast is a heartfelt way to show Mom just how much she means to you. Happy Mother’s Day!
BREAKFAST Mother’s Day
ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
BECKY HILLYARD
From Side Hustle to Style Empire
The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”
She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s , she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.
Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?
A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.
Becky in Splendid x @CellaJaneBlog Spring 2026 Collection
Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?
A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.
Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?
A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.
Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?
A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.
Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?
A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.
This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”
Student Night at Greeley Climbing Collective invites students and teachers to climb for just $9. Held every Friday from 5:00 to 9:00 PM, this weekly event offers an affordable way to stay active and connect with others. Rental gear not included.
MAY 1ST
Ladies Night Event at Blush Studios
Blush Studios, 1023 39th Ave, Suite D & E, Greeley | 6:00 PM
Join Blush Studios Ladies Night Event and enjoy a delightful evening filled with shopping, beauty, music, special treats, and exclusive offers. Bring your friends and make it a night to remember.
MAY 2ND
Ray Esola Memorial Sporting Clay Shoot
16126 Co Road 96, Nunn | 9:00 AM
The 3rd Annual Ray Esola Memorial Sporting Clay Tournament, presented by the Greeley Stampede and Independent Roofing, supports the Stampede Foundation. Proceeds will fund a scholarship in memory of Ray Esola, honoring his lasting impact on the community. More information and registration can be found at GreeleyStampede.org/Clayshoot
Norma Perez
MAY 3RD
Cinco De Mayo
Downtown Greeley, 9th St, Greeley | 12:00 PM
Celebrate culture and community at Downtown Greeley’s Cinco de Mayo Celebration. Enjoy live music, traditional and modern dance, a car show with classic and lowrider vehicles, and local food and craft vendors. Sip GoCup specials, browse artisan goods, and experience the vibrant energy of Mexican and Chicano heritage at this family-friendly event.
MAY 3RD
Hadestown
Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave, Greeley | 7:00 PM
Welcome to Hadestown, where a song can change your fate. Winner of eight 2019 Tony® Awards including Best Musical and the 2020 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Theater Album, this acclaimed new show intertwines two mythic tales. Hadestown is a haunting and hopeful theatrical experience that grabs you and never lets go. More information and tickets at GreeleyCo.gov/UCStars.
MAY 4TH - 9TH
Warm Hugs Mother’s Day Gift Sale!
809 10th St, Greeley | 10:00 AM
Mother’s Day is May 10th. It is time to spoil your Mom. Shop local at Warm Hugs May 4-9th and receive a Bonus GIFT CARD.
Mention you saw Warm Hugs in Greeley Lifestyle for an additional FREE GIFT for you. Warm Hugs loves Greeley Lifestyle readers.
Spend $50, get a $10 gift card. Spend $100, get a $20 gift card. Spend $200, get a $50 gift card.
America the Beautiful, Made in Colorado
O beautiful for spacious skies, For amber waves of grain, For purple mountain majesties
Above the fruited plain! America! America!
God shed his grace on thee
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!
Those words were born in Colorado. And so were we.
Here’s to 150 years of Colorado the Beautiful, the state we call home.
Self-care extends beyond occasional indulgences; it is rooted in daily habits that support overall mental health. In this session, North Range Behavioral Health shares practical self-care and stress management techniques designed to promote, protect, and maintain physical and emotional well-being. Registration is preferred. More NorthRange.org.
Darkness to Light Training
8310 Colorado Blvd, Suite 800, Firestone | 4:30 PM
Join Life Stories for a Darkness to Light training at the new South County location. This three-hour, evidence-based session equips adults to prevent, recognize, and respond to child abuse. Led by Life Stories staff, it is ideal for those working with children and offers practical skills, awareness, and tools to help protect youth in the community. Register at LifeStoriesWeld.org/Events
Join North Range Behavioral Health for a 60-minute exploration of meditation. This guided session features two meditation experiences while introducing practical tools for daily life. Attendees will learn what meditation is, address common myths and misconceptions, and gain helpful tips to support a consistent and effective practice. More information at NorthRange.org.
MAY 10TH
Pellegrini Cucina Italiana: Mother's Day Weekend
Pellegrini Cucina Italiana, 2400 17th St, Greeley | 11:00 AM
Pellegrini will be open for lunch on Saturday, May 9th for UNC graduation, starting at 11:00 a.m. They will also be open for Mother's Day Lunch, 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Come and enjoy a very special menu to celebrate Mom. Reservations recommended. Call 970.515.5332.
May is Mental Health Month, a timely opportunity to reset the nervous system. This collaborative session explores simple techniques to reduce stress, improve clarity, and restore balance. Attendees will learn how to calm physical tension and respond more effectively to everyday stressors. Led by North Range Behavioral Health, this free 90-minute workshop is open to the public. More information at NorthRange.org
MAY 13TH
Frontier House 15th
Annual Breakfast
DoubleTree by Hilton at Lincoln Park, 919 7th Street, Greeley | 7:30 AM
Mark calendars for a morning of inspirational stories highlighting how Frontier House transforms the lives of individuals living with mental illness. The event brings together community members, supporters, and program participants to share real experiences, celebrate recovery, and highlight the impact of connection, purpose, and support in building meaningful, independent lives. More information at FrontierHouse.org
Storage Made Easy.
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
CONTINUED
MAY 15TH
Tusk: The Classic Tribute to Fleetwood Mac
Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave, Greeley | 7:30 PM
Playing the hits and deep cuts spanning the career of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame group Fleetwood Mac, Tusk has been crisscrossing the country since 2008 as The Classic Fleetwood Mac Tribute. Tusk brings Fleetwood Mac’s music to life and delivers the authentic sound, harmony and chemistry that made Fleetwood Mac one of the greatest bands of all time. More information and tickets at GreeleyCo.gov/UCStars
MAY 17TH
Charley & Co Hosts Paint Party
Charley & Co Market, 2310 W 17th St, Greeley | 1:30 PM
Join Charley & Co for the monthly paint party. This would make a great gift for Mom. Materials and instructions are always included, and participants always go home with a completed, ready to hang painting. Call to register 970.702.2726.
MAY 17TH
Flow & Grow - Yoga + Plants
Alkynes of Vines, 916 9th Ave, Greeley | 10:00 AM
Enjoy a grounding yoga flow followed by a hands-on planting experience in collaboration with Alkynes of Vines, hosted by Balanced Movement. Move, breathe, and reconnect—then pot your own plant to take home. A perfect blend of mindfulness, creativity, and community. No experience needed. Register at BalancedMovementYoga.com/Workshops.
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