Familiar Faces: Alison, Seth and Bert Steele

Niwot Market has long been a staple of the Niwot community. But in recent weeks, with grocery stores and grocery store employees deemed essential during the ongoing Coronavirus crisis, the market has perhaps played an even more critical role in the community's new normal. At its heart, Niwot Market is a family affair. And this can be seen in the way the Steele family has stepped up to protect their employees and support their community in recent weeks-from implementing curbside pickup to installing shields to protect their cashiers. The Left Hand Valley Courier caught up with Bert, Alison, and Seth Steele for a little insight into their work, both past and present, at Niwot Market.

LHVC: How long have you lived in/around Niwot and where are you from originally?

Alison: I have lived in Niwot for the last three years, but a total of 10 years off and on. My mother was born here, and my grandfather farmed 300 acres off Oxford Road 50 years ago. He was the grandson of Clemens Knaus, if you know your Niwot history. I am originally from Fort Collins.

Seth: I was born in Fort Collins. I lived in Niwot about 12 years prior to moving to Longmont with my wife four years ago.

Bert: I have lived here since 2002, and I was born in Fort Collins.

LHVC: How long have you been working at Niwot Market?

Alison: My family owns it so I've been around the business my whole life, and have been working here for 10 years. I was a fifth-grade teacher for a while before I came back to the store.

Seth: I've been at the store since it opened and Steele's Market before that, but moved to Denver for a year in 2005 to work for an organic produce wholesaler.

Bert: I have been working at the Niwot Market for 18 years and started working with my dad at Steele's Market when I was eight.

LHVC: What is your role at Niwot Market?

Alison: I help my father and brother run the store. I do all of the ordering for the grocery, dairy, and frozen department. I do all the finances and payroll. I have many hats I would say, though I can't cut meat.

Seth: I manage the store along with my sister and dad. I am mostly in charge of the deli and meat departments.

Bert: I order and focus on the produce, and I am the watcher of everyone.

LHVC: What is your favorite part about living in/around Niwot?

Alison: I love that I know people's names and that they know mine. The people in Niwot really are kind people. The best thing, especially now, is seeing customers and caring about them as people and knowing they care about you. It is really special-you don't get that everywhere.

Seth: I have always relied on the small town predictability of living and working in Niwot. It is good for my head.

Bert: My favorite part is the friendships that I have made.

LHVC: How does it feel to be deemed an "essential worker" in light of current events?

Alison: It's exhausting and a lot of work, but my family isn't strangers to hard work. It feels like you need to be strong for others and give them a sense of calm and normality. I am thankful though, very thankful.

Seth: At this time, I can't imagine doing my job anywhere else, and I feel very lucky to work with such a supportive team. Niwot is a very compassionate and mindful community too. Every day people show us their appreciation in many ways. I feel grateful for everything and proud for the opportunity to play my part.

Bert: It feels relentless right now, but I am thankful.

LHVC: What is one thing you wish people knew about your job?

Alison: The food industry is always changing-you are always learning about food and the way that people eat. How people ate 20 years ago is different from how they eat today. And how people eat and buy today in this time is much different than even two months ago.

Seth: It's very difficult to sell fresh seafood in a small town. If you can give us 1-2 days notice we can get anything you want. It will be super fresh and the price will be competitive. You can call 303-652-0919 and ask for Seth.

Bert: There is still a lot to learn about the grocery business.

LHVC: When you're not at work, where are we likely to see you around town?

Alison: I am a huge runner and run the trails and farm roads. And I really like 1914 House.

Seth: Jogging on the trails around Niwot has always been my favorite way to get some exercise.

Bert: I like seeing my friends at the Niwot Tavern and talking to people.

LHVC: What would people be surprised to learn about you?

Alison: I am Bert's daughter, and I have an identical twin.

Seth: I met my wife at the grocery store. My dad met my mom at the grocery store. My grandpa met my grandma at the grocery store.

Bert: I am a thoroughbred horse racing fan, and I like to dance.

Niwot Market is now offering delivery service every day except for Sunday. Temporary store hours are 7am-6pm. Delivery is free in Niwot. Tips are appreciated. Call 303-652-0919 or email alison@niwotmarket.com for delivery