GoWest 2 019
Greeley
is one of the top 10 dynamic metros in the country
+
Local brewery guide
Evans
celebrates 150 years
Downtown Greeley
continues to thrive
Welcome to Greeley & Evans
Introducing the New Greeley Country Club . . .
100th Anniversary
ting The Next 100 Years Celebra 1920-2020
. . . your family belongs here
Golf • Fitness • Pool • Tennis • Dining • Social Events
GCC is not just for golfers anymore! Golf and as $1,500 down and $252 per month. Join now and
(970) 353-0528
receive $50 off your monthly dues until our
www.greeleycc.org
Social memberships now available for as little
fitness center opens!
2
GoWest | 2019
table of contents
5 Welcome 6 Why go west 8 Growth & development 10 Downtown Greeley 12 Arts & culture
14 Recreation 18 Events 24 Kids 26 Craft beer 101 30 Final thought
2019 | GoWest
3
WE CHANGE LIVES IN WELD COUNTY BY WORKING TOGETHER.
43,402
IN 2018-19 OF YOUR NEIGHBORS IN WELD COUNTY UTILIZED UNITED WAY OF WELD COUNTY FUNDED PROGRAMS OR SERVICES. HERE ARE JUST A FEW EXAMPLES:
804 CHILDREN AND THEIR FAMILIES received visitations
helping parents understand childhood development, parenting best practices and available community resources to ensure that all Weld County children are valued, healthy and thriving.
825 SCHOLARSHIPS were provided for youth who otherwise
would not be able to be involved in development, recreational and sports activities.
2,914 EMERGENCY FOOD BOXES, with enough food to feed a
family of four for three days, were provided for short-term nutritional assistance to families and individuals during crisis situations.
69 OLDER ADULTS received case management, education,
information and referrals to help them age in place, improve their quality of life and avoid having to go to a higher level of care.
YOUR DONATIONS GO FAR BUT NOT FAR AWAY. WITH YOUR HELP WE CAN CONTINUE OUR IMPORTANT WORK. PLEASE GIVE!
WWW.UNITEDWAY-WELD.ORG TEXT UWWCGIVE TO 41444 970-353-4300 | 814 9th Street, Greeley | 330 Park Avenue, Fort Lupton 4
GoWest | 2019
welcome Publisher Bryce Jacobson Director of Content Louis Amestoy Magazine Editor Lindsay Porter Creative Supervisor Kevin Deganhart Art Direction & Design Amy Mayer Contributors Michael Brian, Anne Delaney, Bobby Fernandez, Tamara Markard, Joe Moylan, Samuel G. Mustari, Joshua Polson, Trevor Reid, Emily Wenger Go West magazine 501 8th Ave., Greeley, CO 80631 (970) 352-0211 www.GreeleyTribune.com For all editorial, advertising and circulation inquiries, call (970) 352-0211. Send editorial-related comments and story ideas to: LPorter@GreeleyTribune.com. For advertising inquiries contact David Thiemann at DThiemann@GreeleyTribune.com. Published once annually, by Greeley Publishing Co., publisher of The Greeley Tribune, #Greality, MyWindsor and Explore Weld County.
Everywhere you look around Greeley and Evans there are signs of great things happening. From a booming economy, to our thriving community events and to our arts movement there’s a reason why this is one of the most dynamic places to call home in the United States. We’re proud of this community and we’re excited to see where we are headed. In this special magazine named Go West, drawing from inspiration of Greeley Tribune founder Horace Greeley’s message to the pioneers, we aim to show the best of what this community has to offer to those who are coming here, and as a reminder to those who have called this area home for years. The good news of this edition is that the economy is surging, arts and cultural programs are on the rise, cherished civic institutions and events are stronger than ever. New businesses, restaurants and attractions have bolstered our quality of life. Today more than 125,000 people call Greeley and Evans home, and more are on the way — attracted by opportunity, great weather and a close proximity to endless outdoors opportunities. From Weld County, it’s an easy drive to the mountains or to Fort Collins and Denver to pursue other cultural activities. At the same, time this area remains a quiet place to call home. The allure has landed the greater Greeley area on numerous best places lists, and it’s really no surprise considering the strides we’ve made to make this community a destination. Just think about some of these great events that we have like Monster Day Greeley, the Greeley Stampede, the Greeley Blues Jam or the countless events the University of Northern Colorado hosts each year. In fact, if you’re coming to the area, you may be surprised to discover that Greeley is home to the oldest philharmonic in the state, and a world-class music program at UNC, where on a given weekend you can hear a jazz concert or a performance by a Baroque ensemble. It’s truly a remarkable community, and we’re excited to see where we’re headed. We hope that you enjoy this Go West publication, and join us here for our events but most importantly to be a part of the great things we will be doing together here.
go west! – Bryce Jacobson, Publisher
on the cover A festive team member of Slaughterhouse Derby Girls roller derby club waves to the crowd in the Greeley Independence Day Parade. Photo by Michael Brian 2019 | GoWest
5
introduction&overview
In survey after survey, the emerging truth about Weld County is that it is one of Colorado’s economic cornerstones and the future looks very robust. Those surveys are also backed up by economic studies that paint a picture of Greeley, Evans and Windsor among the fastest growing places, not just in Colorado but also in the United States. In the last few years the median home price has shot up, wages have steadily increased and local oil and gas extraction has helped transform the state as one of the nation’s top energy producers. A decade ago, Greeley, Evans and Windsor were still fighting through the Great Recession but the region has roared back with unprecedented economic activity. For those who are new to the area, they are arriving in a time of unprecedented economic growth in the region, and for longtime residents the transformation has been stunning. New restaurants, new businesses and new commercial and manufacturing jobs are powering the regional economy, but the foundations have always been strong. 6
GoWest | 2019
Just consider some of the recent findings by outside groups when it comes to the regional economy and lifestyle: • Personal income of Greeley-area residents saw a 4.3% increase from 2016 to 2017; • Greeley jobs grew 5.6% to 106,600 in December 2017 from 100,900 in December 2016, according to seasonally-adjusted data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Greeley ranked sixth in the U.S. for its long-term job growth. From 2012 to 2017, Greeley jobs grew nearly 22% to 106,600 in December 2017 from 87,400 in December 2012. • Weld County was rated the No. 2 county in Colorado for incoming investments based off several criteria: gross domestic product, business growth percentage, new building permits and federal funding. The company assigned a score on a 1-100 scale. Weld was ranked just below Denver for investment activity.
At its core, Weld County remains an energy and agricultural juggernaut and that has also helped fuel education and civic development. The heirs of these enterprises have helped fund the University of Northern Colorado, renowned for its fine arts and teaching programs, and in civic projects from theaters to parks. The regional growth has also spurred a demand for new schools in Greeley and Evans, where the Greeley-Evans District 6 School Board is considering placing a
gigantic bond on the November 2019 ballot to update and replace schools across the district. The estimated cost could be as much as $400 million or more. District officials are calling this an important investment in the future of the school district and the community. A recent survey by the city of Greeley found that student achievement was a top priority among city residents. “What we know today and the shift that I’ve seen over the last decade — particularly the last five
or six years — has been: it isn’t just about a college degree; it’s about workforce readiness and kids having the technical skills and soft skills to also be successful in the workplace,” said District 6 Superintendent Deidre Pilch. “When we have excellent schools, there will be a stronger real estate market, no question about it.” All of these elements have helped contribute to a surging economy and quality of life that’s among the best in the country.
For over 20 years The Greeley Tribune Craft & Gift show series has become a well-established specialty to Greeley shopping and has connected our communities in Northern Colorado with local and creative vendors. Shop for unique gifts or items for yourself or your home; from jewelry to baby blankets, lotions to dips, spices and much much more!
The Greeley Tribune offers four Craft & Gift shows throughout the year:
SPRING
FALL
SUMMER
HOLIDAY
Greeley Mall | April 27-28
Main Park | August 10-11
Island Grove | October 11-13
Northridge High School | December 6-8
2019 | GoWest
7
growth&development
Greeley = dynamic
economy and community on the rise By Bobby Fernandez
Perhaps few have done as much during the past couple decades to evolve Greeley’s perception from mere dusty “cow town” to a burgeoning, diverse economical and cultural powerhouse than Sarah MacQuiddy has. So, when MacQuiddy — Greeley Area Chamber of Commerce president and chief executive officer — hears words like “dynamic” used to describe Greeley on a national scale, there’s only one way for her to react. In June, the Walton Family Foundation released its list of “The Most Dynamic Metropolitans,” ranking the economic performance of metropolitan areas across the country. Greeley came in at eighth. Midland, Texas, was first, followed by San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, California, and Midland, Michigan. MacQuiddy feels an understandable sense of satisfaction
Greeley made the top 10 most dynamic metropolitans in the country
8
GoWest | 2019
seeing Greeley held in such high regard — as Greeley, Weld County and Colorado often are these days on nationwide rankings and via regional and national awards measuring economic performance and cultural development. “When I first saw the list, my heart just smiled,” MacQuiddy said. “Those of us that live here and watched Greeley grow and Greeley become such a phenomenal community, you just say, ‘of course’... It’s just a community that is very accepting, and we have so many drivers for our economy.” The Walton Family’s “dynamic” rankings reward cities that have made much-needed investments in technology, education, entrepreneurship and commercialization. The study strives to show that a knowledge-based economy sparks economic growth in metropolises across the country.
The Walton Family Foundation is a family-led foundation based out of Bentonville, Arkansas, that works to improve K-12 education, protect rivers and oceans and the communities they support and invests in its home region of northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas-Mississippi Delta. These “dynamic” rankings compile statistics from the Census Bureau, Bureau of Economic and Bureau of Labor Statistics to create metrics related to job growth, per capita income, pay growth, employment ratio and gross domestic product of 379 metropolitan areas nationwide. The report lauds the diversity of Greeley’s economy; an economy that no doubt leans heavily on oil and gas but is also well supported by its traditional agricultural and livestock culture and a growing manufacturing and corporate business sector. Greeley stays loyal to its “cow town” roots but has rapidly and
steadily evolved well beyond being a one-trick pony. Greeley and Weld County is a top producer, nationally, of oil and gas but also has money-makers like healthcare giant Banner Health, State Farm Insurance, wind turbine producer Vestas, Leprino Foods’ cheese factory, TeleTech’s financial services support call center and of course, the county’s longtime top employer, beef and pork processor JBS USA. Also making Greeley so “dynamic” is its expanding arts scene and the revitalization of its downtown area. The region’s culture could further foster growth in the form of existing corporate firms and startups, according to the Walton Family’s report. Greeley outranks the likes of the San FranciscoOakland area, Seattle-Tacoma and nearby Fort Collins, another northern Colorado metropolitan area making headway. Other recent nationwide reports have shown Greeley to be a city in which personal income is on the rise — albeit, so is the cost of living — and Weld County as the second best place in the state in which to invest. “So many indicators are really looking favorable, in terms of job growth, population growth, unemployment rates are low,” Benjamin Snow, Greeley’s economic health and housing director, said. “We continue to make these top 10 lists around the country. So, I don’t think the attention or the spotlight is going to leave Greeley any time soon.”
A Familiar Face...
A New Focus! Stephanie Buchholtz DVM
The Cat Doctor | (970)278-0000 thecatdr.net I-25 and Hwy 34 | 4855 Thompson Parkway, Johnstown, CO 80534 2019 | GoWest
9
downtowngreeley Downtown Greeley is a thriving blend of shopping, dining, housing, business and entertainment. It maintains a tribute to Greeley’s history while allowing for modern trends to emerge. From weekend warriors to full-time residents, there is always something new to discover and experience downtown. Quaint shops like Warm Hugs Mixes & Gifts Boutique, Sassy Bagz and Mariposa Plants and Flowers provide tempting distractions for even the most valiant window shoppers. Longtime shops like George’s (Bicycle) Repair Shop, King’s Clocks and Hearne’s Footwear & Clothing anchor downtown with character and outstanding customer service. Businesses downtown provide a wide variety of services — you can get a haircut and get your taxes done or take a dance class and get a massage. It’s easy to make a visit to downtown Greeley more than just a day trip with short-term solutions like DoubleTree by Hilton at
Lincoln Park and the Clarion Hotel and Conference Center — both offering meeting and event space as well as overnight accommodations. Or, stay longer with many of the residential options available surrounding and
10
GoWest | 2019
throughout downtown. And, let’s not forget about the food — from finedining at Greeley Chophouse and Meeker’s A Colorado Kitchen to quick bites a Aunt Helen’s Coffee House and Batter Up Cakes, downtown Greeley restaurants can fill nearly any food craving. Several craft breweries and distilleries also call downtown home, and it’s easy to experience them during special events since downtown Greeley is designated as a Go Cup district. While downtown Greeley is on the east side of town, it truly is the city center with government offices, Greeley Area Chamber of Commerce, Greeley History Museum, Greeley Ice Haus, a senior center, a recreation center, a performing arts center, a radio station and the community newspaper offices.
Friday Fest
Every Friday from June through September enjoy free live music on the 9th Street Plaza in downtown Greeley. Music typically plays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and Greeley’s famously unique “Go Cup” service runs 6-10 p.m. There also are street performers, fire spinners, face painting, balloon artistry, sidewalk chalk and more for the kids. More info: GreeleyDowntown.com.
2019 | GoWest
11
arts&culture
Officially designated a Colorado Creative District in 2014, Greeley’s downtown corridor features art, culture, festivals and lots of dining options, too. From public art including statues, sculptures and murals, to historic landmarks and community parks, a drive or stroll through downtown Greeley will keep your eyes popping. The Creative District is a place that not only showcases amazing arts and culture projects throughout the city, but also signifies a creative identity embodied through businesses, entertainment, cultural heritage and patrons that strives to increase economic impact and provide educational opportunities for a wide variety of creative industries. The arts scene in Greeley is always evolving, and whether you explore the arts and culture opportunities daily or only once, you will come away with a unique discovery experience.
Art galleries
Galleries featuring local and regional artist are spread throughout the city with a variety of permanent and rotating exhibits and interactive experiences. Art lovers are especially encouraged to peruse Greeley’s art offerings at First Friday: A Night of Art, each month as new exhibits open and artists are on site to answer questions and provide demonstrations. 12
GoWest | 2019
Kress Cinema & Lounge
The Kress, 817 8th Ave., is a downtown treasure featuring a two-screen independent movie theatre with dine-in options available from the full-service bar in the lounge. Below street level in The Kress Speakeasy, the menu is limited to boards and small plates and offers an intimate dining experience.
Moxi Theatre
The Moxi Theatre, 802 9th St., is downtown Greeley’s live music venue featuring a wide variety of acts from blues and jazz to techno and R&B. Moxi has a full-service bar for patrons but no dining options.
Union Colony Civic Center
The civic center, 701 10th Ave., brings a collection of performances to Greeley every fall through spring — ranging from musical acts, touring theater productions, comedian and other stage performers. The summer season features local music, dance and theater shows.
University of Northern Colorado
The Greeley arts scene benefits from the local college’s contributions of student, faculty and visiting artist showcases in arts, dance, music and theater. The Campus Commons facility, completed in 2019, features a 600-seat performance hall.
Arts Picnic Community theater
Greeley community theater is thriving with groups like Little Theater of the Rockies, Stampede Theatre Troupe and NoCo Theatrix providing opportunities for actors young and old to have a turn in the spotlight. Each group performs three to four productions annually with most productions running for multiple days.
Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra
One of the oldest philharmonic orchestras in the nation, Greeley Philharmonic is comprised of professional musician from all over Colorado. The orchestra performs six shows annually.
Arts Picnic has grown from 2,000 visitors its first year to welcoming over 20,000. It is now a nationally known event at the end of July accepting over 150 artists’ and crafters’ applications from all over the United States selling everything from pottery and paintings, soap to sculptures and gourmet food to garden art. Some of the best Colorado talent is featured on two stages throughout the weekend while balloon twisters and magicians roam through the park. More info: GreeleyArtsPicnic.com.
CIRCLE BACK TO GREELEY Award-Winning Breweries Fine Culinary Choices Greeley.org t i Art All Around the City s vi Events for Everyone 300 Days of Sunshine
You Just
Gotta Get Here!
®
Visit Greeley | 902 7th Ave | Greeley, CO 80631 | 970-352-3566 2019 | GoWest
13
Colorado is a hotspot for outdoor pursuits and the Greeleyarea is no exception. It may not have any 14ers to tackle, but Greeley’s recreational activities offer something for everyone. With more than 300 acres of public parks, Greeley and Evans’ parks offer everything from picnic shelters and playgrounds to soccer fields and ball diamonds. You can walk, run or bike along two rivers — the Poudre River Trail north of Greeley covers 21-miles with breathtaking scenery while Evan’s Riverside Park along the South Platte River offers trails, playgrounds, basketball and pickleball courts and a sevenacre fishing lake. No two parks in Greeley and Evans are equal, with features ranging from skate parks, disc golf courses, climbing walls, ropes courses and native equipment — not to mention parks and trails systems are another place to view outstanding local artwork. In addition to walking trails, Greeley boasts 85 miles of designated bike lanes. Greeley is home to two public golf courses and one membership course. The Boomerang and Highland Hills 18-hole courses host more than 80 tournaments annually. If you prefer to watch the action, Greeley is home to the semi-professional football team Northern Colorado Nightmare and roller derby Slaughterhouse Derby Girls. Plus, the Colorado Eagles hockey team, Denver Broncos football team and Colorado Rockies baseball team stadiums are just a short commute to cheer for our Colorado teams. 14
GoWest | 2019
Greeley Family FunPlex
Greeley Ice Haus Ice skating might seem like a winter sport, but at the Greeley Ice Haus, 900 8th Ave., you can take lessons or free skate all year long. The Ice Haus offers classes and clubs for youth and adult ice skating, youth and adult ice hockey, curling, broomball. You can also see the University of Northern Colorado Bears Hockey Club matches through the winter. More info: GreeleyRec.com.
Located within Twin Rivers Community Park that boast trails and a sports complex for outdoor recreation, the Family FunPlex, 1501 65th Ave., is a community fitness, recreation and entertainment center. With a multi-court gymnasium, lap pool, indoor waterpark and a wide variety of fitness classes, the center has something to get you moving. It also features a miniature golf course and is available for parties. More info: GreeleyRec.com.
L IV E . WORK . PLAY. LEA RN .
GREELEY HAT WORKS
+
FOOD DELIVERY
Pizza and Chinese may have started home delivery services but demand for convenience continues to boost the growing industry
The Poudre Trail is a 21-mile, paved and well-maintained trail that traverses central Weld County, from Island Grove Regional Park to Colo. 392 in Windsor, where it connects with another paved trail in Larimer County’s River Bluffs Open Space. The trail is open to the public for walking, cycling, running, roller-blading and more. Included along the trail are informational signs that highlight many of the historical sites and educational opportunities to visit along the trail. More info: PoudreTrail.org.
Stay up to date on the latest and greatest in Greeley and Windsor with our popular magazines:
J U LY 2 0 1 9
Quality hats for rodeos and Hollywood
Poudre River Trail
The unique features of Greeley’s Go Cup district
FOOD TRUCKS Mobile food vendors popping up in more places
FOODON THE GO JULY 2019 //
#greality
and
// 1
mywindsor JULY 2019
G UIDIN G YOU THROU GH THE BEST O F WI NDSOR
FOOD on the go
GOAT YOGA
Yogis combine peaceful movement with joyful animal attractions
FOOD DELIVERY Pizza and Chinese may have started home delivery services but demand for convenience continues to boost the growing industry
FOOD TRUCKS Mobile food vendors popping up in more places
+
Don’t miss Thursday nights at Boardwalk Park
#Greality is a magazine dedicated to highlighting the people, places and events that make Greeley what it is; an incredible place to live, work, play and learn.
MyWindsor is a magazine dedicated to guiding you through the best that Windsor has to offer and the people, places and events that make it one of the most unique and satisfying communities in northern Colorado. GreeleyTribune.com/magazines
2019 | GoWest
15
AT GREELEY SUBARU, CHARITABLE GIVING COMES ‘FROM THE HEART’ The dealership supports the community as often as possible, keeping in line with the global Subaru brand’s commitment to giving back By Lauren Glendenning Brought to you by Greeley Subaru
Subaru might be a global brand, but its “Love Promise” is felt locally thanks to Greeley Subaru’s commitment to giving back to local charities and nonprofits. Greeley Subaru’s philanthropic giving includes a wide variety of local organizations that are dedicated to improving the community. “They really walk the talk,” General Manager David Slone said of Greeley Subaru’s ownership. “It’s not just a slogan or an ad — it’s really from the heart.” Slone referenced one recent example of giving back on a smaller scale, which is something Subaru does in addition to sponsoring larger-scale events, that proves the business’s philanthropy is genuine and isn’t just about finding new customers. A local assisted living facility was seeking support for an event to honor mothers and asked Greeley Subaru if they’d be interested in helping. “We brought them all roses,” Slone said. “Not every sponsorship or event we do is a big investment, but we do anything we can because we believe in it.”
16
GoWest | 2019
Sponsored Content
Greeley Subaru charitable giving Greeley Subaru is committed to giving back to the community. Here are some of the causes it has supported in recent years: Greeley Subaru has partnered with local elementary school, Monfort Elementary, to provide their students with a safe trickor-treating experience for three years. Greeley Subaru provides aid during the Ride and Revel race, an annual bike ride in Weld County that supports Senior Resource Services, by setting up and manning service stations, providing vehicles, and setting up and tearing down of the event itself.
Annual giving A large amount of Greeley Subaru’s marketing budget goes toward supporting charitable causes, often in the form of sponsoring events. Slone said sometimes this also results in individual employees donating to specific causes. “It ties our employees back into the community,” Slone said. There are national organizations that Subaru supports that trickles down to the local dealership and community level, such as Meals on Wheels and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). Greeley Subaru has partnered with North Colorado Medical Center in recent years to provide blankets for cancer patients as part of that national LLS relationship, Slone said. And of course there’s the annual support for local youth sports, which Slone said is a popular cause that auto dealerships support.
Sharing the love Slone loves working for owners who are so committed to the community, and he said the Subaru brand’s philanthropic goals just happen to align perfectly with Greeley Subaru’s focus on giving.
“It makes it easy for me as a general manager. I can do just about anything community-oriented and our owners get excited about it,” Slone said. “I’ve worked at places where you don’t have the freedom to do that, where the owners are going to be mad that you spent money on something that wasn’t directly related to bringing in more business. …Our owners, Warren and Julie, really do desire to give back to the community. Their belief is that when we do the right things — serving customers and giving back to the community — sales and profit will naturally follow. Sharing, caring and loving always win out over chasing the almighty dollar.”
Greeley Subaru was the major sponsor for the Greeley Kennel Club All-Breed Show. Subaru Loves Learning, a collaboration with the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Greeley Subaru provides financial support through the Share the Love program for The Greeley Transitional House. Greeley Subaru has partnered with Habitat for Humanity through furniture donations. Greeley Subaru partners each year with the Weld County Humane Society by sponsoring events and hosting pet adoptions.
Subaru’s Love Promise The Subaru Love Promise is the company’s vision to show love and respect to all people at every interaction with Subaru. Together with retailers, Subaru is dedicated to making the world a better place. From Subaru: “We believe in being a positive force in the communities where we live and work, not just with donations from initiatives like the Subaru Share the Love® Event, but with actions that set an example for others to follow. We believe in building lifelong relationships with our customers, earning their trust and exceeding their expectations by providing customer service with integrity and compassion.” 2019 | GoWest
17
events MANY EVENTS TO CHOOSE FROM With a diverse community and 150 years of history to commemorate, there is a festival, performance, exhibit or holiday to celebrate for every taste and interest. Community signature events include Greeley Stampede — a 12-day Western festival including a rodeo series, concerts, carnival and family fun; Friday Fest — a free weekly summer concert series; and Blarney on the Block — a tribute to all things green and Irish, including a St. Patrick’s Day parade. Cultural events range from Greeley’s Multicultural Festival in October to Martin Luther King Jr. programs in January to Cinco de Mayo Festival in May. Plus, don’t miss the wide variety of concerts, theater performances, art shows, comedy nights, trivia nights and food festivals that happen throughout the year.
18
GoWest | 2019
High Plains Chautauqua Aug. 5-8
Aims Community College, Greeley High Plains Chautauqua will celebrate 20 years of bringing history to life, when eight memorable figures — Mark Twain, Eleanor Roosevelt and Marie Curie to name a few — will appear on stage. Chautauqua offers a unique blend of theatre, history, and the humanities under the big tent where audiences meet and engage in conversation with personalities from the past. In addition to nightly performances, daytime programs for adults and family activities are featured. All events are free and open to the public. More info: HighPlainsChautauqua.org.
Monster Day Greeley Aug. 17
Downtown Greeley A family-friendly event to celebrate all things monster — Monster Day features professional monster creations and impersonators with music, demonstrations, costume contest, face painting and lots of photo ops. Most of the event is free. However, there will be an area where patrons can pay to see a few of the more complicated monsters that include animatronics and lights, and other related attractions. More info: MonsterDayGreeley.com.
FIND NEW EMPLOYEES OR YOUR DREAM JOB AT ONE OF
THE GREELEY TRIBUNE’S HIRE EVENTS!
Don’t miss out on the final two HIRE events for 2019 at the Doubletree Downtown Greeley
Doors open at 2:30pm for Veterans and 3:00-5:00pm open to the public 2019 | GoWest
19
Greeley Tribune Home & Garden Show
The Home & Garden Show has brought together landscapers, florists, roofers and the like, to grow a sincere connection to the communities in this region. This is a great opportunity to start those home and garden projects with the help of northern Colorado’s best. The Home & Garden Show happens twice a year — in October at DoubleTree by Hilton at Lincoln Park and in March at Island Grove Regional Park. More info: GreeleyTribune.com/ home-and-garden.
Greeley Lights the Night Parade Nov. 30
Heritage Days Sept. 13-14
Various locations in Evans Normally a one-day event, Evans is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2019 and this year Heritage Days is two days. The event features fireworks over the South Platte River, a 5K race, pancake breakfast and Heritage Day Parade. Various music acts and entertainment will perform Saturday and there are many family-friendly activities including a zip line and outdoor gym. Food trucks and beer garden are available throughout the celebration. More info: EvansColorado.gov.
Downtown Greeley The 24th annual Greeley Lights the Night Parade and downtown lighting ceremony initiates the holiday season. The parade, heads north on 9th Avenue from 15th Street to 7th Street. After the parade, stay at Lincoln park for the lighting ceremony, tasty holiday goodies and visits with Santa. Some parade entries include horses, bands, dance teams and classic cars. More info: GreeelyDowntown.com.
July
Greeley Blues Jam June
Downtown Greeley Two amazing days full of the best blues music. Blues Jam has a family-oriented atmosphere where everyone can expect a wonderful blues experience. Great food and drink, merchandise vendors, ample free parking, plus camping and RV sites available just outside Island Grove Arena. More info: GreeleyBluesJam.com. 20
GoWest | 2019
Greeley Stampede Island Grove Regional Park, Greeley Celebrating western heritage and the northern Colorado community, Greeley Stamped is Colorado’s premier western, summer celebration. Top events include the Greeley Independence Day Parade, the Big Buckle Ball benefiting the Greeley Stampede Foundation and a handful of other promotional events that focus on youth rodeo engagement and entertainment. The Greeley Stampede summer event is a 10-plus day festival leading up to the 4th of July each year including a concert series, a PRCA rodeo series, an American Bullfighting event, a Demolition Derby, large carnival, food, vendors and children’s activities. More info: GreeleyStampede.org.
August
2 Friday Fest, Greeley 2-4 Pets ‘N’ Popsicles, Greeley 3 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley 5-6 Back to School Swim, Greeley 5-8 High Plains Chautauqua, Greeley 6 National Night Out, Evans 9 Friday Fest, Greeley 9-11 Pets ‘N’ Popsicles, Greeley 10 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley 10 Greeley Kids Triathlon, Greeley 10 Moonlight Ride, Greeley 16 Friday Fest, Greeley 17 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley 17 Monster Day Greeley, Greeley 17-19 Greeley Kennel Club All-Breed Dog Show, Greeley 23 Friday Fest, Greeley 24 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley 24 Discovery Bay Doggie Day, Greeley 24 Superhero Skate, Greeley 30 Friday Fest, Greeley 31 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley 31 Family Fest & Bears Bash, Greeley
September
1 Centennial Village final day of the season, Greeley 6 Friday Fest, Greeley 6 First Friday a Night of Art, Greeley 6 Block Party, Greeley 7 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley 12 Boz Scaggs: Out of the Blues Tour, Greeley 13 Full Moon Bike Ride, Greeley 13-14 Heritage Days, Evans 14 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley 14 Potato Day, Greeley 19 Morph Masters: How Disability Made Famous Artists Awesome!, Greeley 21 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley
Come have a great time, interact with businesses in the community, play, shop, and engage at the Greeley Tribune Events. For 37 years, the Greeley Tribune’s Home & Garden Show has brought together landscapers, florists, roofers and the like, to grow a sincere connection to the communities in this region.
HIRE offers comprehensive promotions to reach the unemployed & passive job seekers in Northern Colorado. Dedicated to supporting staffing needs in all industries, positions & backgrounds.
HOME is designed to help buyers chart their path to homeownership with confidence & enthusiasm. By attending, local experts will provide a foundation of information that will help minimize intimidation. Our athletes and coaches do amazing things throughout the year, and they deserve a special night to reward their focus, efforts and accomplishments. Join us in honoring and celebrating the very best in regional prep athletics! For over 20 years, The Greeley Tribune Craft & Gift Show series has become a well-established specialty to Greeley shopping, and has connected our communities with local and creative vendors and gifts for everyone. Join the Greeley Tribune and UNC Athletics for this family event that will provide many activities & games for all ages, with vendors, food, and more! Come engage with the community for a day of fun for families in Weld County. The Taste of Windsor has officially become an annual night out to relax, try new foods, meet friends, enjoy live music, and discover businesses that add to the “flavor” of the Windsor community. Come hear speakers educate and motivate you in your leadership roles. Six leaders will share 10 of their company’s most successful programs and initiatives — both big and small — that can be applied to any business.
Beer festivals
Greeley is home to several craft breweries and there are two beer-centric events to tap into the local beer scene. OktoBREWfest at the end of September offers great beer, brats, games and a free concert in downtown Greeley. Trend-setting WeldWerks Brewing Co. hosts the WeldWerks Invitational Festival in June, bringing dozens of the nation’s best brewers to Greeley for the ultimate tasting.
www.greeleytribune.com/events 2019 | GoWest
21
LOCAL NEWS, WEATHER, HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS Local coverage of Greeley, Evans and Windsor that you won’t find anywhere else
SUBSCRIBE TODAY AND GET YOUR NEWS THE WAY YOU WANT IT
ONLINE
IN PRINT
OR BOTH!
Weld County Fair
Island Grove Regional Park, Greeley Home to many events for both spectators and participants, Weld County Fair held the last week in July has something for everyone. The fair gives the youth and adults of Weld County an opportunity to exhibit their skills in a wide variety of areas including agriculture, livestock, natural resources, engineering, consumer and family, fine arts, horticulture and family living. All events are open to the public. More info: WeldCountyFair.com. 21-22 Civil War Weekend, Greeley 27-28 Greeley’s OktoBREWfest, Greeley 28 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley
October
4 First Friday a Night of Art, Greeley 5 Reduced Shakespeare Company: The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged), Greeley 11 Broadway’s Rock of Ages, Greeley 11-13 Fall Craft & Gift Show, Greeley 12 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley 12-13 Herstory: The Visionary Life of Lydia Ruyle and the Banners of the Divine Feminine, Greeley 18 Jurassic World in Concert: with the Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra, Greeley 18-20 Fall Home & Garden Show, Greeley 19 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley 19 Greeley Multicultural Festival 19-20 Howl-O-Ween Trick or Treat, Greeley 26 Haunted Library, Greeley 26 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley 26-27 Frozen Jr., Greeley
November 1 2 7 16 22 29 30 30 TBD TBD
First Friday a Night of Art, Greeley Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley Melissa Etheridge: The Medicine Show, Greeley Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley Jack Wright: The Songs and Stories of Neil Diamond, Greeley Tree Lighting Ceremony, Evans Holiday Open House, Greeley Lights the Night Parade, Greeley Dia de Los Muertos, Greeley Festival of Trees, Greeley
December 22
www.greeleytribune.com/subscribe GoWest | 2019
1
Elvis, the Way it Was, Greeley
6 6 6-8 7 7 16 21 TBD
First Friday a Night of Art, Greeley Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical, Greeley Holiday Craft & Gift Show, Greeley Homesteader’s Holiday, Greeley Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley USAF Academy Band Holiday Concert: Holly and Ivy, Greeley Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley Festival of Trains, Greeley
We know your kids keep you on the go with school, sports, music, playdates, etc…
January
3 First Friday a Night of Art, Greeley 4 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley 18 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley 28-30 Colorado Farm Show, Greeley TBD MLK Celebration, Greeley TBD Polar Pedal, Greeley
February 1 7 7-9 15
Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley First Friday a Night of Art, Greeley Shrek The Musical, Greeley Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley
March 6 6 7 21
First Friday a Night of Art, Greeley The Music of John Denver with Jim Curry and the Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra, Greeley Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley
April 3 4 18 TBD
First Friday a Night of Art, Greeley Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley Spring Craft & Gift Show, Greeley
May
1 First Friday a Night of Art, Greeley 23 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley 30 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley TBD Kentucky Derby Gala Dinner and Dance, Greeley
June 5 6 13 20 24 27 TBD TBD
July
First Friday a Night of Art, Greeley Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley Bike to Work Day, Greeley and Evans Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley Greeley Stampede, Greeley Family Bike Night, Greeley
3 First Friday a Night of Art, Greeley 4 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley 4 Independence Day Parade, Greeley 11 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley 18 Greeley Farmer’s Market, Greeley 25-26 Arts Picnic, Greeley TBD Greeley Stampede, Greeley TBD Concerts Under the Stars, Greeley
Download the Greeley Tribune app to make sure you don’t miss any important news while you are out and about 2019 | GoWest
23
kids The Greeley and Evans area is a great place to raise a family with a variety of activities and programs for enrichment, entertainment and activity.
Colorado Model Railroad Museum
This model train museum in downtown Greeley attracts visitors from all over America and the world. With over 600 railroad-related artifacts, the operating model railroad has been called “the finest model railroad I’ve ever seen” by the 30year senior editor of Model Railroader magazine, Jim Hediger of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Included in the design are more than 16,000 tiny fir trees, 8,000 deciduous trees, 4,000 aspen trees, and more than 2,500 railroad cars. It took five and a half years and over 30,000 hours of volunteer labor to build. 24
GoWest | 2019
Poudre Learning Center
The Poudre Trail is a 21-mile, paved and well-maintained trail that traverses central Weld County, from Island Grove Regional Park to Colo. 392 in Windsor, where it connects with another paved trail in Larimer County’s River Bluffs Open Space. The trail is open to the public for walking, cycling, running, roller-blading and more. On the west side of Greeley, the Poudre Learning Center educates the public about the ecosystem of the river and inspires environmental stewardship through field experiences and informational programs.
Corn mazes & pumpkin patches
Weld County features many corn mazes and pumpkin patches with fall festivals, kids activities and hayrides to get visitors in the Halloween spirit. The Fritzler Corn Maze is Colorado’s original and premier corn maze offering bushels of farmtastic fun for young and old. Located just seven miles south of Greeley on U.S. 85. Experience the heart of Weld County at the historic Tigges Farm, 12404 Weld Co. Rd. 64 1/2, about three miles north of Greeley. Tigges Farm has been owned by the family since 1936.
Schools
Greeley-Evans School District 6 comprises 33 non-charter and charter schools with a 81.5% graduation rate above the state average. District 6 has 33 career pathways district-wide and in 2018 had 103 students named advanced placement scholars.
in partnership with
Family Fest & Bear’s Bash
Aug. 24 • 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., University of Northern Colorado’s Nottingham Field, 17th Avenue and Reservoir Road Family and kid-friendly activities with games, UNC student-athlete autographs, Klawz appearance, vendors, food and more. From live demonstrations, mini putting green, mini cheer clinic and face painting, Family Fest is a fun and educational day for families of Weld County. The event is a partnership between the Greeley Tribune and University of Northern Colorado. More info: GreeleyTribune. com/FamilyFest.
Libraries
Four of the seven regional libraries for the High Plains Library District are in Greeley and Evans. The district provides weekly classes, programs and events for patrons of all ages. The quantity and quality of the digital services of the library are continually increasing.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Weld County
With after-school and summer programming for school-aged children and youth, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Weld County offer a safe place for kids to learn, play and grow. Programming focuses on academic success, character and leadership development, health and wellness, and fine arts.
Greeley...
A great place to live,
andd pplay!
learn, work
GreeleyCalendar.com 2019 | GoWest
25
craft beer 101 Sours, sustainability and selection: A guide to Greeley breweries By Emily Wenger
It likely won’t surprise you that lots of people in northern Colorado like beer. But what might surprise you is how many options are available here in Greeley and in Windsor. Greeley is listed as the fourth best city in Colorado and 40th in the U.S. for beer drinkers, according to a recent report from Smart Asset. We have a varied collection of breweries all with unique offerings and their own signature styles. Whether you’re looking for sours, a wide selection or beer with a cause, Greeley and Windsor have your back. Here’s a little about what our area breweries offer, in no particular order:
WeldWerks
In 2018, WeldWerks Brewing Co. made the goal of brewing 100 beers. The brewery, which has competed in nationwide contests and draws people from across the U.S. to its beer releases, has 32 faucets in its taproom. Although it doesn’t brew 100 beers every year, its beers are still on a frequent rotation, with only staples like its IPA Juicy Bits consistently available on tap. WeldWerks Brewing Company owner and head brewer Neil Fisher’s advice last year was to not get too attached to any of the new beers, but guests still said they were easily able to find a new favorite whenever they visited. Check it out from noon to 9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, noon to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, or noon to 7 p.m. Sunday at 508 8th Ave., Greeley. For more information, call (970) 4606345 or go to WeldWerksBrewing.com.
Pucker up
If you’re a lover of sours, Wiley Roots usually as several on tap, including its summer “slush” series. The names, like “raspberry limeade,” “blue” and “purple” reflect the sweet and sour flavors. Sometimes the slush beers are poured into a slush machine, so you can enjoy these sours on the brewery’s patio to cool off on a hot summer day. When the slush series isn’t available, the brewery also typically has other sours throughout the year. Check it out from 2-10 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, noon to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 1-8 p.m. Sunday, at 625 3rd St., Unit D, Greeley. For more information, call (970) 5157315 or go to WileyRoots.com. 26
GoWest | 2019
Hop along
As its name suggests, High Hops Brewery in Windsor knows its hops. Part of the reason for that knowledge is clear when you’re sipping a beer on the patio that overlooks the brewery’s hops fields. The family that runs the now three-part business, High Hops Brewery, the Windsor Gardener and The Heart Distillery, comes from a background of both gardening and home-brewing. Pat and Amanda Weakland, the patriarch and matriarch of the family, are longtime gardeners and homebrewers, and their kids inherited different aspects of that knowledge. The hops that grow right next to the brewery are used in the beer, and the herbs that grow in the Windsor Gardener are used for the liquor produced in the family’s distillery. Check it out from noon to 8 p.m. Sunday-Wednesday, and noon to 9 p.m. ThursdaySaturday at 6461 Colo. 392, Windsor. For more information, call (970) 674-2841 or go to HighHopsBrewery.com.
Earthy and sustainable
If you’re looking for a classic, rich ale, an earthy chai flavor or just a brewery that focuses on sustainability, Green Earth Brewery has it all. Scott Pell, part owner of the brewery, was a longtime homebrewer before he opened the space. His flagship ale, the Barbed Wire Black Ale, is smooth and dark. His ales, he said, are traditional English and German style ales, and the brewery’s atmosphere reflects those styles. Pell renovated the space using largely refurbished or reclaimed items, including a bar that used to be in the old Kress building downtown. But the brewery’s primary focus is on sustainability. The products in the beer are from within Colorado, and Pell hopes to eventually find a way to use solar or wind energy when brewing his beer on site. Check it out from 4-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 2-9 p.m. Friday and noon to 9 p.m. Saturday at 725 10th St., Greeley. For more information, call (970) 702-2332 or go to GreenEarthBrewingCo.com.
A Unique Marketplace
GREELEY’S LARGEST MOM & POP DEPARTMENT STORE. • Established 2009 •
Something for everyone! Gifts Books
Furniture
Decor
Culinary Accessories
822 8TH STREET GREELEY, CO 80631 OPEN MON-SAT 9:30 AM TO 5:30 PM 970-351-6222 WWW.LINCOLNPARKEMPORIUM.COM 2019 | GoWest
27
craft beer 101 Don’t be crabby
Crabtree Brewing Company is the oldest brewery in Greeley. It celebrated its 13th anniversary this May. The brewery was at the front of the wave of breweries coming to town, and helped pave the way for other craft breweries by working with the city to change its codes to be more open to breweries in Greeley. If you ask people who frequent the brewery, some favorites include the Dearfield strawberry blonde ale and the Ginger Bee, an ale with honey and ginger. For owner Jeff Crabtree, bottling and shipping his beers to other locations is one of his favorite parts of the business, but he also hopes the brewery can be a destination for people in and visiting Greeley. Check it out from 2-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, noon to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday, at 2961 W. 29th St. For more information, call (970) 356-0516 or go to CrabtreeBrewing.com.
Brewing for a cause
The owner of Rocky Mountain Taphouse, one of Greeley’s newest breweries, says his favorite beer to brew is “the next one.” Instead of the beer style, owner Rick Powers said the brewery focuses more on dedicating beers to people or causes. One of the first beers the taphouse brewed, Colt Brown Ale, was dedicated to Children’s Hospital Colorado, in the name of a friend’s child who died at the hospital and was an organ donor. Although the brewery is Christian-based, Powers said he doesn’t intend to “hit anyone over the head” with religion, and all are welcome. Check it out from 4-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 2-11 p.m. Friday, noon-11 p.m. Saturday and 2-8 p.m. Sunday. For more information, go to RockyMountainTaphouse.com or call (970) 451-5372.
Bites and brews
Brix Taphouse & Brewery in downtown Greeley has the most beers on tap of the breweries in town, but the majority are from other Colorado breweries. The brewery has its own rotating variety as well, which combine with the others to make about 60 beers, ciders and meads on tap at all times. The brewery makes a variety of styles of brews and also offers various appetizers, including bacon wrapped dates, pub pretzels, nachos, wings and a meat and cheese plate. Live music and other events also add to the brewery’s atmosphere. Check it out from 3-10 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 3 p.m. to midnight Friday, 11 a.m. to midnight Saturday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday at 813 8th St., Greeley. For more information, go to BrixBrewTap.com or call (970) 397-6146.
Gluten reduced
Randy and Regan Waddle opened Broken Plow Brewery in 2013. Randy was in his basement brewing some beer and nursing a sore back when he heard the Bob Dylan version of “Everything’s Broken,” and he decided on the name “Broken Plow.” He was a homebrewer for years, and when he and his wife were getting tired of running a farm they opened Broken Plow. All the beers on the brewery’s website are designated as being “gluten reduced,” but it warns those who are extremely sensitive to gluten may want to be cautious. The brewery’s flagships include a Signature Chili Wheat, with locally grown chilies; the Tattyboggler Scottish Ale with notes of caramel and chocolate; the Stone Free Apricot Wheat and Randy’s Pale Ale, which the brewery describes as a good introduction to enjoying hops. Check it out from 2-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 2-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 2-8 p.m. Sunday at 4731 W. 10th St., Greeley. For more information go to BrokenPlowBrewery. com or call (970) 301-4575.
28
GoWest | 2019
ABC CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTERS
Bright School Age Programs ABC’s Community Preschool Programs 19 locations to serve you! H Covering Greeley, Evans, Windsor, Johnstown, Miliken & Ault H Highest Quality-Rated Childcare, Preschool + School Age Programs in Weld County H
Questions? Call (970)-352-2222 ext. 3 For additional information visit www.abccdc.com
2019 | GoWest
29
final thought
take heart
Armando Silva’s “Courage Takes Heart” mural, on 8th Avenue, is one of this year’s Greeley Community Excellence in Design award winners. Silva came to northern Colorado when he was 5 years old from Sombrerete, Zacatecas, Mexico. He became immersed in pop culture in America and found he had a knack for the visual and performing arts. Since then he has become a staple in the artistic community.
30
GoWest | 2019
2019 | GoWest
31
32
GoWest | 2019