We are now in the full swing of summer vacation. And indeed the word vacation doesn’t exactly conjure the same meaning as it did when we were twelve. For example, if  we were  living our best lives, we’d read a book a week and spend hours by the pool, before closing out the day with a stop at dairy queen and Blockbuster for a John Hughes flick. 

But alas, life right now runs at a different speed. 

And, really, we couldn’t imagine it any other way. We feel lucky to have the opportunity to bring you stories about art, culture, your neighbors and, of course, the folks who are truly making a difference each day.  

This month we feature the stunning art of Noelle Phares. We are 100% certain the world of Environmental Science is feeling a loss with her decision to take on art full time. But once you see her work, you will agree, she made the right choice. 

Our veteran writer, Matt Salis, gives us a glimpse of one of Colorado’s largest non-profits, We Don’t Waste. Their support for the community and the environment by reclaiming and redistributing quality food to those in need, is truly inspirational. 

Founded by Arlan Preblud in 2009, he made the obvious connection between hunger and food waste, and devised a solution. We should all be so lucky as to have the gumption and passion to put a plan into action for the betterment of our community.

Finally, we give you a peek inside the new Barre Forte Wash Park, located in one of the new spaces to have opened inside the old Trevino Mortuary. Nothing haunting about it. So if you want wake up your old bones and truly strengthen your core, which we all know is the key to longevity, then pay them a visit. 

Dig a little deeper and you will meet a new neighbor, gain knowledge of the happenings around town and, as always, we have a new playlist for your summer entertaining needs. If we had to guess, we’d say #5 becomes your new favorite.

We appreciate your continued support and encourage you to reach out with stories you would love to share!

Your neighbors, Sam and Shaleen DeStefano