The Loco Pulse is back with another packed episode of NoCo news, events, and community highlights! Hosts *Curt Bear* of LoCo Think Tank (https://locothinktank.com/) and the LoCo Experience Podcast (https://www.thelocoexperience.com/) and *Kelsi Harris* of This is NoCo (https://www.instagram.com/thisisco.noco/) and Discover NoCo Magazine (https://www.instagram.com/discovernoco/) keep their finger on the pulse of Northern Colorado.
On the Move (Sponsored by Miles Beyond Running)
* The *Weld Your Metal Running Festival* is coming up May 30th–31st — don't miss it!
* Miles Beyond Running (https://gomilesbeyond.com/) is also hosting a free Lululemon goal-setting session at *Luna's Tacos in Windsor* to send off ultrarunner *Mandy Mullen* as she prepares for the *Cocodona 250.*
* Wing Shack (https://wingshackwings.com/) is opening a brand-new Fort Collins location this summer
Community Gathering (Sponsored by Ginger and Baker)
* Handmade Market NoCo (https://handmademarketnoco.com/) is bringing its *Mother's Day Market* to the rooftop of Ginger and Baker (https://gingerandbaker.com/) on *May 2nd* — a perfect spot to find local handcrafted gifts or bring Mom along.
* It's *Colorado Pint Day!* The Colorado Brewers Guild (https://coloradobeer.org/) is hosting this beloved annual tradition at independent breweries statewide. Grab a limited-edition pint glass for just $3 and support your local craft brewery. Check the Colorado Brewers Guild website (https://coloradobeer.org/colorado-pint-day/) for a full list of participating locations.
NoCo Beat
* *Old Crow Medicine Show* is playing Mishawaka Amphitheatre (https://www.themishawaka.com/) on *May 15th*
* It's *First Friday Artwalk* in Fort Collins, and the *Masks Exhibit* at the Fort Collins Museum of Art (https://www.fcmoa.org/) is a must-see in its 22nd year. Discover NOCO graphic designer *Ashley Grizzle* has her first mask in the exhibit this year! Also check out her tea towels at 432 Design (https://www.instagram.com/432design.co/)
Community Supporting Community (Sponsored by Breeze Thru Car Wash)
* *Steve Phillips* of the GeekCast Radio Network (https://geekcastradio.com/) has been volunteering with the *Boys and Girls Club,* teaching kids the art of podcasting. Catch his feature on Episode 266 of the LoCo Experience Podcast (https://www.thelocoexperience.com/)
* The *NoCo Unifies Down and Derby Party* is happening on *May 2nd* at the *Grain House in Windsor,* benefiting the *Weld County Boys and Girls Club,* *Be the Gift,* and the *Debut Children's Theater.* Expect live burro racing, Kentucky Derby excitement.
* The Fort Collins *Breakfast Rotary Club* is hosting the *Field of Honor* at Spring Canyon Park over Memorial Day weekend. Visit FC Breakfast Rotary (https://www.fcbreakfastrotary.org/) to learn more.
Business News
* Only 52 seats left for the *Unstoppable Business Conference* on *May 6th* at Embassy Suites! Organized by the *Larimer County Small Business Development Center,* this is your chance to connect with subject matter experts across marketing, HR, hiring, and more.
* LoCo Think Tank (https://locothinktank.com/) just got hooked up with branded name tags from *Sport About* — a great, affordable branding tip for small businesses heading to events.
NoCo Eats
* Kelsi tried the "Girl Dinner" box at Sexy Sammies (https://www.sexysammies.com/) — the fan-favorite NoCo chicken tender spot with locations in Johnstown, Greeley, and hiding inside the Lory Student Center in Fort Collins.
* Curt shares his legendary *Cilantro Lime Coleslaw* recipe — the no-mayo, fan-requested signature side from his food truck days. Key ingredient: a splash of *Crazy Ginger Hot Sauce,* available at Matador Mexican Grill (http://matadorgrill.com/)
Community Shout-Out
* *Bear Fest* at the *University of Northern Colorado (UNC)* is happening *May 1st* — open to the public all day! Student maker market, live concerts, and evening festivities at the 9th Street Plaza. A perfect way for students