The Good is Done, the Best is to Come.

As of Monday, June 26th, I no longer work at the Monticello Welcome Center.  My vision of growth and development for, not just Monticello, but of San Juan County simply didn't mesh with the administration's vision.  I was there guiding and advising visitors for over 4 years; it was a good run, but now it's done.


The only mourning I will do is for my beautiful and beloved Doberman, Jenna who passed away that same day.  She was my traveling and adventure companion; we would drive and hike throughout San Juan County's canyons.  Jenna was not just a dog, a family pet; she was my child, my friend; I will miss her everyday...her physical presence that is, but in my heart, mind and soul she will remain forever.






I will continue to travel around the 4 Corners region of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah; not working at a welcome center would not stop that, as I was doing it even before I was working there.  I will continue to photograph, write about, and share with you, my readers; my fellow adventurers, explorers, curiosity seekers, hikers, lovers of nature, landscape and the outdoors.

I encourage everyone to visit San Juan County, Utah and all the beauty and adventure it has to offer. While I do give loads of detailed information, and maps, on my travel blog posts; I encourage you all to visit the Canyon Country Discovery Center, 1117 North Main (Highway 191), Monticello, UT, 84535; (435) 587- 2156; Website: http://www.fourcornersschool.org/  which offers information on, not just Utah, but the entire Colorado Plateau...in other words, the 4 Corners region of AZ, CO, NM and UT.  This is a wonderful place to spend hours of exploring within; interactive exhibits for geology, wildlife, plant life, weather, water and much more.  Perfect for families as the kids will love...LOVE..the bouldering wall.  There are hiking trails on the property, an outdoor playscape, clean restrooms, gift shop including snacks and cold drinks.

The Good is Done, the Better is to Come...never know, you just might see me around, so don't forget to say "Hi!".

Mary Cokenour

Canyon Country Discovery Center Open House Caters to All.

Canyon Country Discovery Center/Four Corners School of Outdoor Education

1117 N Main St

P.O. Box 1029
Monticello, Utah, 84535

Phone:  (435)-587-2156              (800) 525-4456 

 

FAX: (435) 587-2193

Email: fcs@fourcornersschool.org

Website: http://fourcornersschool.org/

 

 

On December 3, 2015, Canyon Country Discovery Center opened its doors to welcome all to a first time look see at this new learning facility.  While the grand opening will not occur until the summer of 2016, curiosity brought in folks from all over San Juan County.  The building is a beautiful design of abode and wood; a wetlands pond in the rear.  Inside, maps of the Colorado Plateau adorn the walls and floors; an exquisite fireplace with Native American décor highlights the meditation area.  The Colorado Plateau Educational Center is round to represent the shape of the Hogan; Native American artifacts encased in the eight pillars.  Ute Flutist, Aldean Lightning Hawk Ketchum, mesmerized adults and children with his playing; enchanted faces looked upon Aldean as he imitated calls of native birds.  Many exhibits were fully operational; a wind tunnel flew paper whirly gigs up and out into the waiting hands of on-lookers.  A multi-colored rock climbing wall supplied ample padding for those losing their grip; many enjoying the bouncing more than the climbing itself.

Maps on Walls and Floors

Wall of Benefactors and Interested Parties

Wind Tunnel

Plant and Wildlife Plates

Ute Flutist and Storyteller, Aldean Lightning Hawk Ketchum

Fireplace in Meditation Area

Activities for Children

Rock Climbing Wall

 

 

The staff of the Four Corners School of Outdoor Education were asked question after question; happily showing off each and every display.  Hard work still goes on inside as each new exhibit is completed.  Landscaping, due to the winter weather, is on hold, but plans to be amazing with walking trails and natural habitats.  This Discovery Center will be a true learning center for young and old alike!

Lyndie Bradshaw, Lavonne Larceval, Tina Corrao, Karen Whipple

 

At the dinner hour, a great sampling of hors-d’oeuvres were served; catered by local restaurant, Peace Tree Juice Café.  Karen Whipple (owner) and her wonderful staff: Lavonne Larceval, Marie Delafuente, Kayli Rogers, Alonzo Begay and Eli Whipple) were on point, from cooking to presentation to service.  Visitors to the Open House oohed and aahed over; Steak, Pork and Chicken Medallions roasted to tender perfection with herbal seasonings; Smoked Trout on sliced baguettes, smoky, creamy and addicting; Delicata Squash baked to tenderness with a savory, spicy rice stuffing; Roasted Corn kicking the palette with Poblano Peppers; Brussel Sprouts with a nutty flavor and sweetened with cranberries; and Savory Roasted Root Vegetables.  Mini-Cheesecakes for dessert; it was so, so difficult to just eat one; the lemon was luscious, but I should have thrown embarrassment to the wind and eaten a decadent chocolate too!

 

 

 

Peace Tree Juice Cafe

516 N Main (Route 191)

Monticello, Utah, 84535

Phone : (435) 587-5063

Website: http://www.peacetreecafe.com

Happy Diners; Bill Boyle, owner of the San Juan Record, stands patiently in line.

Unfortunately I did not get to speak with all the staff, but I wish to thank Lyndie Bradshaw (Marketing Manager) and Tina Corrao (Business Coordinator) for making my husband, myself, and the staff of the Monticello Welcome Center feel so welcomed.  Thank you to everyone involved, with the creation of the Discovery Center, for your dedication to the community, and to bringing education and learning to San Juan County.

 

Mary Cokenour