All Local, All The Time
All Local, All The Time
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Master blues guitarist Sammy Mayfield comes to this week's Rock & Rails stage after playing with a list of major gospel, soul and blues musical legends. During his time as musical director with Solomon Burke, he traveled the world and he's shared the stage with Ike Turner, The Neville Brothers, Charlie Musselwhite, Little Richard and others. In recent years, he's continued to produce work and locals can also hear him on the airwaves every other Saturday with KUVO's All Blues radio show....
It's not every day that a double billing from the Colorado Music Hall of Fame graces the Rock & Rails stage. But that's what audiences will get on Thursday when Chris Daniels and the Kings with Freddi Gowdy performs. Daniels talked to us about his music, his band's history, the time a movie featuring him and his band was shot at Rock & Rails, and how he approaches his performances. Q: So how are you feeling about the upcoming concert? CD: It's one of our favorite concerts of the entire year....
It's a special moment when a local musician can take the stage at Rock & Rails. That's what will happen this Thursday as Tierro Band with Bridget Law headlines. The group is helmed by guitarist, founder and area resident Tierro Lee, who is excited to once again play for friends and neighbors. As an additional treat, he's planning to have his son take the stage with him in a musical debut. Tierro Band has been lauded by a number of industry-leading musicians including Michael Travis of String...
Ron Ivory and his group One on One are a staple of performance venues like Nissi's and Colorado's outdoor community summer concerts. Fans appreciate the blend of Motown, classic soul and old school R&B the musicians offer, and audiences get up out of their seats for covers of classics from The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Al Greene and more. Ron talked to us about how this blend keeps audiences moving while at the same time moves them so that their night becomes something more than what they might...
Mojomama is no stranger to the Rock & Rails stage and each year the award-winning rhythm and blues band is pleased to return. Jessica Rogalski, the band's co-founder and soloist, talked to us about Mojomama, why they appreciate the chance to return each year, standout memories from past performances, and what it's been like to found a band with her husband. . Q: So this isn't your first time performing at Rock & Rails? JR: No. I think this might be the fifth time, fourth or fifth time. Q: So...
This week's Rock & Rails headliner, Atomga, is bringing its signature mix of Afrobeat music infused with jazz, rock, hip hop and funk to Whistlestop Park June 9. The band was co-founded by tenor sax player Frank Roddy and guitarist Casey Hrdlicka who met when they were part of the nonprofit organization, Friends of Red Rocks. Roddy brought a background as a Nashville-based songwriter to the band, while Hrdlicka, who also teaches music classes at Denver's Swallow Hill, brought a performance...
The Memorial Day kickoff to summer calls for a barbeque, friends, and outdoor lounging. To add to your gatherings, local Niwot chefs from La Musette at The Wheel House and Cimmini's restaurants have provided us with recipes from some of their favorite lighter, fresher foods. Both of these take a little prep but they have fresh, bright and interesting flavors anyone would enjoy. If you don't make them for this Memorial Day weekend, keep the recipes nearby for later in the summer when it's too...
There's good news for the staff, administration, students, and families of Niwot High School. The school once again ranked well in the recently released 2022 U.S. News and World Report annual schools survey. NHS placed at the top of all 12 high schools surveyed in the St. Vrain Valley School District (SVVSD), ranked fourth for high schools in combined Boulder and SVVSD boundaries, 36th in Colorado, and 1,174th nationally. The U.S. News survey is widely respected by educators and families each...
For the third time, Bootstrap Brewing Company's Wreak Havoc Imperial Red took home a bronze medal at this year's World Beer Cup in the strong red ale category. Beloved in our area, the south Longmont brewery is owned by Niwot residents Leslie and Steve Kazceus, and was previously located on the back side of Cottonwood Square, at the site that now houses Fritz Family Brewers. When asked about the win, Leslie Kazceus was as excited as she was succinct. "We're so stoked about this," she responded....
This past Sunday, there was another change in a well known Niwot-based business. Mala Bo Fan, owner of Fan's Conoco gas station, sold the popular Cottonwood Square-based fueling stop. It will be the second local filling station for the new owner, Rajbar Dhillon, who also owns Hershey's gas station in Boulder. On her first day of non-ownership, Fan was still at the shop, helping brothers of the new owner to become acclimated to what was there. She showed a familiar exuberance, kindness and high e...
First Sip, a restaurant week-like event for mixologists and other beverage purveyors, is coming to Boulder April 28 to May 1. You may have noticed all of the social media chatter and advertising about it. There are classes, tastings and events that, together, are designed to introduce area residents to new drinks, expand their knowledge of what might be in their glass, expose them to delightful and challenging food-beverage pairings, or all of the above. A Niwot restaurant has fully embraced...
A Niwot pup patiently waiting for its owner at The Old Oak....
The community’s “Small Town Big Heart” fundraising campaign is well underway, and administered by the Community Foundation Boulder County and the statewide organization, Colorado Gives. With this arrangement, an experienced third-party is taking on the work and the responsibility of ensuring that any funds raised benefit individuals and families who are directly impacted by the fire. There is a lot of effort behind this service. Donations are made and tracked through the jointly administered website: coloradogives.org/NiwotSmallTownBigHeartMars...
When the community's "Small Town Big Heart" fundraising campaign to help Marshall fire victims kicked off during Apres Ski Weekend at the end of January, coordinator and NBA Vice-President Deborah Read Fowler expected that it could take through the summer to reach an ultimate goal of $100,000. But thanks to the generosity of area residents, the effort is getting closer much earlier than that. So far, the campaign has raised $62,468, including a single $10,000 contribution from an anonymous...
The COVID-19 testing service at the Boulder County Fairgrounds is in the process of closing. The site ended its vaccine clinic on March 20, and the last day of testing operations are scheduled to be March 31. "We've talked extensively about this as an agency and we've made the choice because the demand for services has dropped substantially," said Boulder County Public Health spokesperson Angela Simental. The Stazio Ballfields site is remaining open for testing at this time. Numbers underscore...
Months after the Marshall Fire, many of those impacted are still coping with what happened. Area students, fundraising through schools and in conjunction with Niwot businesses, have been doing what they can to offer support. Some of the major efforts happening currently are centered around school community groups. At Niwot High School, senior Mercer Stauch, President of National Honor Society and a full IB program candidate, is working with a team of Honor Society members on a classroom coin dri...
Many have seen the boldly printed signs alerting Gunbarrel/Niwot residents about a lost dog named Cinder. The dog escaped his newly minted owners on the same day he was adopted from Longmont Humane Society on Jan. 16. He was most recently seen just off of Oxford Road near an open field on Feb. 24. He's also been seen near 95th Street and Niwot Road. At this point, his adopters have moved on from looking for Cinder and one has even left the area. Experienced canine search and rescuer Wess Staats...
As of Feb. 18, Boulder County Public Health's two public health orders requiring masks in public indoor spaces expired. For the first time in months, no one was forced to wear face coverings inside, although they could if they wanted to. Some do. A careful eye in retail spaces around town indicates this. Many customers waiting in line for coffee in Cottonwood Square's Winot Coffee Company one morning were maskless on one recent morning. At one point, a single masked individual came in. "I'm...
Left Hand Grange is going to be helping the community get to know local growers this season by hosting a series of farm-related mini-talks. The lead two events in the series will be a pair of interactive presentations by Ollin Farmson March 1, and March 11, each from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The talks are free of charge. Ollin Farms' participation in the Grange talks is meaningful to the farm owners, who consider Niwot a core part of their origin story. "It's the 15th growing season for the farm,...
After a strong start during the Après Ski weekend which raised $2,113 for families affected by the Marshall fire, Niwot's benefit events are continuing. A pair of events that combine dining and music are the next set of community fundraisers supporting the Small Town Big Heart Fire Relief Fund. "We've got a Niwot-wide goal of $100,000 and this is a great way to start," said Deb Fowler of DRF Real Estate, who is coordinating the events. Her total included amounts from the first weekend, but didn'...
Though it doesn't seem possible, Niwot's arts scene is about to grow larger. The Niwot Play Company is bringing dance and theater classes to the heart of the community. The organization is run by theater professional and co-owner Lindy Bartruff and her husband Jim. They are excited to be in the area and bring their knowledge and experience to residents of all ages. "We came here December of 2020 to be near my mom and sister," Lindy Bartruff said. "The second we came to Niwot it was an...
Although much of the publicity has died down in the month since the Marshall Fires, Niwot community members are continuing to rally to help victims of the tragedy. Stepping up now is as important as it was before. It may be more important. "The needs of the victims are a lot clearer," said Deborah Reed Fowler of DRF Real Estate whose office has been collecting donations for victims. "We've been talking with Boulder Community Foundation, Boulder County and with victims directly or with friends...
Though many didn't realize it at the time, last June there was a change to one of Niwot's longest-standing businesses. It's Only Natural Gifts, located next to Niwot Real Estate at the intersection of Niwot Road and 2nd Avenue, was sold. Karen Edwards began the business with Niwot resident Vicky Dorvee in 2008 and, in the years since, it has focused on presenting healthy and unique gift giving choices, and has grown dramatically. Diane Strong bought Dorvee's interest in 2017, but this year,...
When the Marshall Fire devastated the communities of Louisville and Superior, Niwot community members were eager to help. In the immediate days after the tragedy, many went above and beyond. For others still wanting to do something positive, there are ongoing opportunities to make a difference. Below is an overview of what's been done already and what opportunities to help are still available. Local businesses offered housing and food Shelter was one of the most immediate needs for residents in...
Veterans in Niwot and elsewhere need a lot of support, including listening, advocacy and concrete resources for healing. A local nonprofit, Qualified Listeners, has been providing these services for the past five years. Now, thanks to a grant from the Community Foundation Boulder County, the organization has more than $3,141 in additional resources to expand their services. "We're delighted to get that grant," said Greg Goettsch, Qualified Listeners founder and executive director. "Its main...
This New Year's Eve will see many celebrating the start of 2022 by staying in with friends. If you're one of those who are planning a Niwot night at home, three of our area's local drink masters have suggestions for holiday cocktails. These drinks will keep things festive and help you celebrate the season. Farow Restaurant's Alcohol-free Cranberry Spritz Niwot's newest restaurant has provided its recipe for a celebratory, beautiful winter cocktail. Lighter and fun, it's a festive way to start...
Last Saturday, Gunbarrel's Beyond the Mountain Brewing Company celebrated its fourth anniversary. The brewery, known for a love of both craft beer and music, had both on site for the event with a pair of performances by Danny Evans and jam band The Jauntee. In honor of the milestone and in keeping with the cooler season, the taproom brewed and served a S'mores Stout as a special release Anniversary Ale. It was smooth, with flavors of chocolate, creamy marshmallow, and graham cracker nuttiness. E...
Families in search of a live Christmas tree have their pick of options, but each December many find themselves at Creekside Nursery's Christmas Tree lot at 95th Street and Niwot Road. "We draw new people every year, but we've also had a lot of repeat customers, some even from out of state." said co-owner and Niwot High graduate Shannon Von Eschen, who spoke between helping shoppers at the end of a busy weekend day. The lot provides a range of both Colorado native varieties as well as those from...
It's December so gingerbread house decorating is easy to find in seasonal magazines and televised baking shows. Constructing them can be difficult and the best ones stand out because of their creator's use of candy, icing and sprinkles. Now the decorating skills of Niwot's community are being put to the test with the return of Niwot's annual Gingerbread House Decorating Contest. Local realtor Deborah Reed Fowler, of DRF Real Estate LLC, Colorado Landmark Realtors, created the contest last year...
The Niwot and Gunbarrel areas have their share of exceptionally talented chefs, some of whom have just opened or expanded restaurants in the past year. Each has expressed appreciation for working out of this community and serving those who live here. As a thank you, they've provided some of their favorite recipes as a gift for readers who might want to try something new for their Thanksgiving meal. Potato Jurasien Pie from Christine Carr of TipTop Pies This recipe is not only decadent and...
When it's time to purchase holiday gifts this year, you can always pull out your keyboard and order gifts from Amazon or purchase something from a chain retailer at the mall. But local stores here have a lot to offer. When you buy from area retailers you'll find gifts you can't get anywhere else in the world, and the money you spend stays in the community, something that's needed by many as they recover from the lingering impacts of the pandemic. Local food restaurants and purveyors Niwot and...
Niwot got a little spooky last Saturday, as costumed revelers of all ages flocked to Cottonwood Square and then filled 2nd Avenue for the town's Annual Great Pumpkin Party. Although nearby Longmont held its own parade at the same time, locals were eager to enjoy the local celebration, and did so with perfect weather. Moderate temperatures and blue skies set the tone with large red, gold and brown leaves still on many of Niwot's enormous trees or crunching underfoot. Beginning at the parking lot...
Remember when Niwot Tavern used to be Flanagan's Pub? Or when Pinnochio's used to be Treppeda's? Or when 1914 House used to be Reverend Taylors? Though some may not realize it, Niwot has always been home to a large number of high-quality, diverse restaurants. Recently, local resident Laura Bloom has started to document the progression of one establishment to another beginning as far back as the 19th century. Bloom is keeping her history on a website, Serving Boulder, which she created in 2010....
Children can bring home an enormous amount of candy after trick or treating on Halloween. Not only can it be more of a load than they can carry easily -- that much candy isn't healthy. Now anyone who is looking to save calories and keep that candy from hanging around for weeks, has an option for putting it to use. Operation Gratitude is Niwot's Halloween Candy give-back program. Extra candy can be dropped off between November 1st and November 6th at the DRF Realtors Office behind the Old Oak Cof...
Though it was the perfect fall day for outdoor sports, the outcome of a pair of games for Niwot High School's Varsity softball team was less enjoyable. The team, which had played increasingly well in the second half of their season, dropped a pair of games in regional play at Diamond Valley Community Park in Windsor. Despite the common outcome, each game couldn't have been played more differently. "I think it was a tale of two games," said Head Coach Bobby Matthews after play had finished. "In...
A windy Saturday didn't dampen Niwot's Oktoberfest spirits. The weather did, however, cause tossed signs, fallen chairs outside of The Wheel House, and fewer people participating in outdoor activities during the Oct. 9 event. "It's been rough," said Eric Bergeson, owner of Wheel Works, The Wheel House, and the food truck La Musette. "Normally, Oktoberfest has a tent. We did our best. This morning at 8:30 a.m. we tried to put a tent out in front of our place and it just obviously wasn't working....
Anyone looking for dining options while at The Wheel House or Whistlestop Park might have noticed there's a new food truck in town. In August, La Musette opened on Murray Street between the entrance to Wheel Works and the Post Office. The truck features cuisine by chef Skyla Olds, who is a partner in the truck with Wheel House and Wheel Works owner Eric Bergeson. Named for a small bag of food that's handed to bike riders during large events like the Tour de France, it serves as the default...
Blood Orange Kolsch, brewed by Crystal Springs Brewing Company in nearby Louisville, took home gold at the recent Great American Beer Festival awards ceremony, held earlier this month in Denver. Often served, and appreciated, during the Rock & Rails concert series, it's the second craft beer with a Niwot connection to take home top prizes in its category. The other medal winner was Bootstrap Brewing's Sticks Pale Ale, another crowd favorite at Rock & Rails. This was the first GABF win and first...
NIwot's Fritz Family Brewers took home their first medal at the North American Beer Awards for their Export Lager, a Dortmunder. "The competition is a fairly large one, held in Idaho Falls every year," Fritz Family Brewing owner Cory Buenning said. "It's been around for about two decades and held in conjunction with a large beer festival that donates proceeds to the nonprofits." Buenning entered the competition with a brew that he's had an extensive history with. "It's a beer I've been brewing...
On Sept. 17, Farow Restaurant (7916 Niwot Rd., Niwot) opened to the public, just a few months after announcing it was taking over the former Lucky Pie space in Cottonwood Square. So far, the community has welcomed the restaurant with nights of full parking lots and crowded dining rooms during both the soft launch and the first opening weekend. "We're feeling good about it," said co-owner Lisa Balcom during Farow's soft opening last week. "The last two days have gone well considering we're all...
Niwot community pride was on display during last weekend's homecoming events. Friday afternoon's bright sun and cool temperatures set the stage for the parade, which returned following a pandemic-induced break. Junior Olivia Lacert was watching with friends from just outside 1914 House. "I'm excited to go to a homecoming game and to have the dance this year," she said. "I love dances. Last year we didn't have a lot of school events, so this is pretty cool. The football game is later and I'm...
Niwot-born Bootstrap Brewing has once again medaled at this year's Great American Beer Festival awards. The brewery received a gold medal for Stick's Pale Ale, a win which placed it among 20 other GABF gold, silver, and bronze medal winners in Colorado. Although the festival portion of this year's event was canceled due to pandemic-related concerns, the awards portion of the ceremony proceeded in person. Brewers, many of whom were already in town for the Craft Brewers Conference, carefully...
A pair of bookstore readings this past weekend supported the mental health of some of Niwot's youngest residents. Both readings were less of a traditional presentation and more hands on, which worked out well for attendees. On Saturday Sept. 11, the Wandering Jellyfish on Second Avenue hosted a reading by Jessica Speer, author of the book "BFF or NRF (Not Really Friends): A Girl's Guide to Happy Friendships" which is available for purchase at the store. The reading started with Speer helping...
On Aug. 30, Boulder County residents learned more about plans for the proposed CO 119 bikeway between Boulder and Longmont through a community meeting sponsored by the county. According to county staff, nearly 40,000 people travel this section of highway daily. Officials stated it is the second most-used transit corridor in the county, and is one of the most dangerous roadways in the region. Data provided by the county indicates there are more car accidents resulting in fatalities and serious...
A lot of people may have gotten healthier over the summer and want to take their fitness to the next level. Or, they still may be struggling to take off their pandemic pounds. One of Cottonwood Square's newest businesses is here to help. RAKD has opened for one-on-one personal training appointments. As owner and head trainer Kevin Guidi said, it's not a traditional open gym membership; it's an individualized fitness studio. Clients can come in and be the only ones in the facility with a...
Who says that the past has to be confined to the pages of a book? Last weekend, history was on a field and in attendees' living memories. After a year-long hiatus due to COVID-19, Longmont's Dougherty Museum held the Yesteryear Farm Show. Judging by the packed parking lot and early morning crowds, the community welcomed the return of the three-day event. Katherine Eskridhe from Broomfield was there with her young daughter Jo. "My dad is friends with the Doughertys who own the museum and we've...
Niwot Boy Scout pack 161 resumed in-person meetings on Monday, Aug. 23 at Whistle Stop Park. The boys, leadership, and parents were pleased to conduct their meetings in real life rather than online. Meetings will continue to take place in person as much as possible, either at Whistle Stop Park or inside at the Left Hand Grange building....
Though Niwot can lay claim to fame as the original home of major craft brewing talent, a different beverage, mead, had its chance to shine during last weekend's Honey Bee Harvest Festival. Bartenders at The Wheel House served it to crowds of customers throughout Saturday afternoon. Drinkers could choose from three mead varieties and eight mead-based cocktails, all featuring offerings from Boulder-based Redstone Meadery. The tasting spectrum for mead samples ranged from lighter to more intense an...
It's been a week since students, teachers, and staff started the new school year. After the pandemic created an unconventional, some would say difficult, year of learning, returning to full-time, in-person classes throughout the district is something that many parents are grateful for. At the same time, the community is not having the same kind of back-to-school experience as in years past. Students are required to re-acclimate to a more conventional social and learning environment after the...
The school community was hopeful that when they returned to school this fall masks would not be required in SVVSD schools. As it turns out, that won't be the case. Following guidance from Boulder County Public Health through Public Health Order 2021-07, the St. Vrain Valley School District (SVVSD) is requiring masking for all students, faculty and staff in grades PK-12 while indoors. The school district did not provide a direct response to the Courier's questions about the decision. Instead,...
