A City That Gives . . . Grand Junction

The poem was painted on a black cylinder in front of our favorite outdoor pizza place, Pablo's. The line that sticks is . . .

"a city that gives room for codgers with

canes . . .''

Bob might decide to miss the next train out of Grand Junction!

Downtown Grand Junction gives a lot more than room for all of us. Main Street is bordered by wide sidewalks, leaving a narrow strip for the street. Walking is definitely encouraged. Although, benches are plentiful surrounded by flowers and sculptures. As we strolled the few blocks of 'downtown' we found twelve outdoor cafes, three bike shops, hip clothing stores, an artist coop, bookstore - enough town for anyone.

The special room that the Grand Junction citizens give to its artists is what we will remember. Every few yards an original sculpture is displayed to touch, photograph, and delight in while walking, doing business, or just hanging out. The artists donate their works and are for sale to the public. Over the years more than a million dollars of art has been sold. New works are displayed every year. Most of the artists are local or based in the West. The citizens vote for one piece to be purchased by the town and is on permanent display for all to enjoy.

Grand Junction is the first stop on our trip and we have voted it #1, so far. Any place that makes room for codgers and artists is a place to visit again.