The Kokopelli Connection

In this episode of the Kokopelli Connection, we sit down with the Grand Junction Sports Commission to talk about the incredible lineup of events happening across the Grand Valley.

From family fun runs like the Peachy 5k, major mountain bikeevents such as Rides and Vibes and their signature event, the Junior College World Series AKA JUCO, the Sports Commission plays a major role in driving activity, tourism, and economic growth in Grand Junction.

We dive into how these events are organized, the impact they have on the local community, and why Grand Junction continues to be a premier destination for athletes, families, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Whether you're a local looking to get involved or someone considering a move to the area, this episode highlights just how active and opportunity rich the Grand Valley really is.

Learn more about the Sports Commission: https://www.grandjunctionsports.org/

Welcome back to the Kokopelli Connection Podcast. Today, we’re joined by Greg Haitz, a candidate for Mesa County Treasurer. We dive into his campaign, his experience leading and managing teams, and his vision for improving how county funds are handled—including strategies aimed at generating stronger returns for taxpayers. If you’re interested in local leadership and the future of Mesa County’s finances, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

See more about Greg and his campaign-https://www.gregfortreasurer.com/

In this episode of the Kokopelli Connection Podcast, we sit down with Grand Valley Youth Cycling to talk about the powerful impact of youth mountain biking in Grand Junction and across the Western Slope.

We discuss how their programs help kids build confidence, leadership skills, and resilience through outdoor recreation — and why access to trails, cycling culture, and youth sports make Grand Junction one of the best places to raise a family in Western Colorado.

Topics include:
• Youth mountain biking programs in Mesa County
• The growth of cycling culture in Grand Junction
• Outdoor recreation and family lifestyle
• Life skills kids learn through mountain biking and racing in Grand Junction

Learn more about Grand Valley Youth Cycling:
https://grandvalleymtb.org/

If you're considering moving to Grand Junction or want to learn more about the lifestyle that drives our real estate market, this episode gives you a local, boots-on-the-ground perspective.

The Downtown Cat is Grand Junction’s newest coffee shop—but it’s not quite what you’d expect. Yes, they serve coffee, pastries, and all your café favorites, but this spot also has cats. A lot of cats! As a unique twist, The Downtown Cat is home to several resident felines you can relax with while enjoying your drink.

In this episode, we talk with owner Tasha about this one-of-a-kind business and her work with pets and pet care throughout the Grand Valley.

https://thedowntowncatcompany.com/

https://www.dogdynastygj.com/

On this episode of the Kokopelli Connection, we spoke with Mesa County School Board Candidate, Vicki Woods. 

Vicki told us about her long career as a teacher, administrator and principal in School District 51 and why she now wants to run for school board.  Vicki discussed problems facing the district, including declining enrollment, behavioral issues in classrooms and how the district needs to build a stronger academic foundation for students. 

Learn more about Vicki Woods and her campaign for schoolboard:

https://www.vickiwoodsd51.com/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578862955541

This fall in Grand Junction the District 51 School Boardelections are taking place for 3 separate seats. 

Today on the Kokopelli Connection, we sit down with Andrea Haitz.  Andrea is the incumbent in District C, running again Mike Rathbone.  Andrea discusses her last four years on the school board and what they have accomplished, as well as the many challenges this board has face.  Andrea tells us what prompted the school closures and why the board decided to close Scenic Elementary, Nisly Elementary, andClifton Elementary.  We also talk about the state of the schools in Mesa Country and what Andrea hopes to achieve ifshe is re-elected. 

Learn more about Andrea and her bid for re-election:

https://www.facebook.com/Andrea4Kids/

https://www.andrea4kids.com/

On this Episode of the Kokopelli Connection, we are joined again by Grand Junction Mayor, Cody Kennedy.

Since Cody's last appearance on the Kokopelli Connection, he has won his bid for re-election and was appointed by the new City Council as Mayor of Grand Junction. 

Cody discusses what the new Grand Junction City Council has been working on, including the status of the 4th and 5th street bike lanes, the closing of the resource center on Ute, and he addresses the budget overage on the new recreation center. 

We also talked about upcoming housing developments in the city and council’s new focus on improving home affordability in the Grand Valley. 

Rach out to Cody @ https://codyforgj.com/ and join him weekly at coffee with Cody.

On today’s episode, we sat down with Malachi Yeager, his wife Angela and Cameron Cunningham to talk about mission trips.   They have traveled the world helping others and following their faith.  They shared stories of experiences and heartwarming encounters that make them appreciate the life they have here in America.  We discussed ways your family can become involved in a mission trip and help those in need. 

Learn more at Reverent Rhythms (https://www.reverentrhythms.com/) and CC Coaching (https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-cunningham-06b215117), or Father of the Fatherless (https://www.taata.org/)

Catchup on all the episode of the Kokopelli Connection

https://thekokopelliconnection.com/

On this episode of the Kokopelli Connection, we sit down with Shayana Heiney from the Housing and Building Association of Western Colorado.

Shayana tells us about what the HBA does for builders and home owners here in the Grand Valley. She also talks about the collaboration between the HBA and D51 called Careers in construction. This program helps high school students get started in the construction industry.

Finally, Shanya spills some details about this year’s Parade of Homes that is happening September 26th to October 5th 2025!

Listen in to find out more!

Check out the HBA for more info https://www.hbawesternco.com/

Ethan Ball, the director of Funny Business (AKA Marketing) atThe Gear Junction tells us about the shop’s history and how a few college friends started one of the more iconic stores in Grand Junction. The founders are all passionate about the rivers of western Colorado and rafting.  The Gear Junction, along with Rivers Edge West, is working every year to keep these waterways clean with the annual river clean up.  You will not believe what kinds of trash is pulled out of the river every year!

Rivers Edge West and the River Cleanup.  https://www.riversedgewest.org/

The Gear Junction. 

https://www.thegearjunction.com/