Book + Beverage — Fall 2022
The Book
In the Grand Valley’s arid climate, locals are used to seeing reptiles skittering across desert trails. From the reclusive rattlesnake, to the vibrant turquoise and yellow collared lizard, reptiles are signature figures in Western Colorado’s desert ecosystem. However, it’s far less likely that you’ll see the collard lizard’s larger and much older relative, the crocodile. That being said, if you ever find yourself craving some Colorado crocodile knowledge, local Zach Fitzner has written your next fall read. Tears for Crocodilia: Evolution, Ecology, and the Disappearance of One of the World’s Most Ancient Animals, is a celebration of the large reptile and the land it lives on.
From the Everglades to Nepal to Egypt to our very own Fruita, Fitzner shares the story of how crocodiles went from prehistoric predators to modern, endangered wildlife. Maybe you already consider yourself something of a crocodile expert? Have no fear, Tears for Crocodilia is still worth your while. Fitzner delves beyond the specific realm of reptilia and into issues of wildlife conservation, ethics and how humans can coexist with other creatures. The variety in topics, plus dozens of images, illustrations and infographs creates a simultaneously enlightening and entertaining read.
While crocodiles may seem like foreign creatures, my favorite part of this book is that it has deep roots in our very own Western Colorado. Fitzner studied biology at Colorado Mesa University and currently works at Gaston Design in Fruita, where he is working on reconstructing the remains of a 70 million-year-old crocodile. Interested in learning more about crocodilia? You can find Fitzner’s book at various locations, including Out West Books, Grand Valley Books and the Grand Junction Public Library.
The Beverage
Copeka Coffee is the place to go if you’re craving more than “just coffee.” From curated lattes to tea to spirits, Copeka has it all — including the perfect drink to accompany a coffeeshop reading of Tears for Crocodilia.
Copeka's Beetlejuice Matcha. Photo by August Pomrenke.
The Beetlejuice Matcha — your choice of milk, matcha powder and the essential golden syrup — has a bright green hue that reflects the home of our scaly friends. The grassy, mildly nutty flavor of the matcha is perfectly infused with cardamom and turmeric and balanced by the milk base. I recommend oat milk for its creaminess.
Copeka has more than just drinks, however. They have a repertoire of toasts, boasting toppings such as seasonal fruit, house made cheese and sundried tomatoes, among others. I personally recommend the Cheap Trick, which is without a doubt the best avocado toast I’ve ever had. If you’re not in the mood for toast, Copeka offers other scrumptious options, including hazelnut cardamom granola, lemon berry chia parfait and vegan biscuits and gravy.
Of course, food and drink are only the first part of a coffeeshop experience. Both the indoor and outdoor seating areas are colorful, eclectic and are the perfect spots to enjoy your tasty treats. For a holistic Tears for Crocodilia + Beetlejuice Matcha experience, I recommend picking up your latte to go and drinking it as you hike to the top of Devil’s Kitchen trail, keeping an eye out for reptile friends on the way.
Originally published in the Fall 2022 issue of Spoke+Blossom.