MOUNTAIN PARENT – Winter 2021-22 by MOUNTAIN PEARL Magazine

MOUNTAINPARENT R O A R I N G

F O R K

VA L L E Y,

WINTER

C O L O R A D O

1625 + 2 PRINCE CREEK ROAD | CARBONDALE

748 SOUTH GALENA AVENUE 2-D | ASPEN

461 ORIGINAL ROAD | BASALT

1625 + 2 PRINCE CREEK ROAD

Lydia McIntyre | 970.309.5256

748 SOUTH GALENA AVENUE 2-D

Harrison Sachs & Jacquelyn Carr 970.948.5042 | 970.948.2490

461 ORIGINAL ROAD

Joanie Haggerty & Scott Wirkler 970.618.2730 | 970.319.2412 1

17 STIRRUP CIRCLE | SNOWMASS

17 STIRRUP CIRCLE

Erik Cavarra | 970.618.9733

MOUNTAINPARENT

Winter

HERE FOR THE ADVENTURE OF YOUR LIFE.

FEATURES

WINTER 2021-22 I S S U E

MAKE PLANS

DECEMBER JANUARY FEBRUARY 51 45

LOCALLY SOURCED

GUIDE TO HOLIDAY GIVING Let us introduce you to family-owned

WINTER FAMILY ROADTRIP

HIGHLAND BOWL WITH LORI SPENCE

Public restrooms, puke, snot, blood, barf – parenting is not for the faint of heart. Our kids expose us to lots of germs, and experts say this is good. We asked parents and our WELLNESS PARTNERS for strategies when facing gross situations with kids.

TRAIL MAP

Head out on the road with SARAH & JEFF BAY in search of Colorado’s Mom & Pop ski areas. Gear up for the vanlife with shopping suggestions from the Ute Mountaineer’s MAILE SPUNG.

AN EPIC FIRST

The first mother on the Highlands Ski Patrol was recently named Director of the program she has served for 30+ winters. (photo: Jeremy Swanson)

whose retail selection is thoughtful, functional and consciously-crafted. From gear to clothing, toys and art,

WELLNESS

PHOTO: Highlands Ski Patrol Director, Lori Spence Find more info about locally-owned Obermeyer Kids’ skiwear, found at Sunlight Ski & Bike (photo: Tamara Susa)

MOUNTAINPARENT HERE FOR THE ADVENTURE OF YOUR LIFE.

Winter

2021-22

DEPARTMENTS 9

IN SEASON

OUT WITHOUT THE KIDS

JULIE TALENFELD of Aspen in Action gives ideas for making the most of your next “Hall Pass.”

DIY

ICE LANTERNS

We asked JILL SCHER & JAN SCHUBERT to show us how to make glowing frozen art from water and household items.

HOT

Toddies

HELPING HANDS

KIDS FOR COLORADO GIVES Q& A with CINDY MATTHEWS of the Community First Foundation about Colorado’s biggest annual day of charitable giving.

COOL

Mixers

GOOD SPORTS UPHILL SKIING

ACDS Outdoor Ed teacher COLLETTE NEWELL brings us on a wintertime adventure.

‘TIS THE SEASON. Recipes for all ages. Only online.

illustrations: EL ANA ROYER Lilybart

MAKE PLANS

Meet our people. Let us introduce what’s happening here, there & everywhere in-between. (Tamara Susa)

UP NEXT!

Spring

MP’S ANNUAL SUMMER CAMP PLANNER A guide to summertime programming for working parents and their children. Day camps, ongoing classes, and sleepaway camps. MOTHER’S DAY MOMPRENEUERS Nominate inspiring working moms Submit online by: January 15, 2022.

MOUNTAINPARENT.COM

JOIN OUR TEAM. ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE We are looking for a friendly, motivated, local professional to join the MP family. Work mostly Commission-based compensation with a solid client base and good growth potential. While oriented spirit. To submit a résumé, please email: Publisher@MountainParent.com

Dear READERS,

COVER ARTISTS

ELANA & LILY ROYER

holiday and winter season, is that your dark parenting moments are followed in haste by your radiant

Lauren Suhrbier Publisher

Here Comes My Girl on KDNK this morning took me to 1979, placing me Elton, Willie, Jimmy, Johnny, the rest – they’re helping me right now. They help me imagine Dad’s hands on can carry me simultaneously from Catherine’s

theater, where people show up at public hearings to defend the stars from light pollution. Back then, I didn’t grok the trade-off. My Dad for the ski-family lifestyle. When Rich’s mother passed in September, he

founders of LILYBART, an Aspen greeting card and paper-art line created to raise awareness of Cystic Fibrosis.

COVER STORY

“X-GAMES & EX-GAMES” All of my kiddos wanted to try in the mountains, desperately so. However, papa bear, Mr. Royer, felt adamant that they learn the skills of skiing before trying on what he called, “a different concept.” However, our youngest, William, was equally adamant. He found a board and boots at a second-hand shop, strapped his Go-Pro onto his helmet, and took the bus to Snowmass. He came home that evening with a new appreciation for this sport, humbly appreciating his friends’ and the pros’ prowess on ONE board. A different concept, indeed! Back to skiing, William has mastered his jumps, loves cruising powder, and enjoys access to the back of the mountains where he does what he does best on TWO boards. … Elana Royer

SAY HELLO MOUNTAINPARENT.COM PUBLISHER

this place instead of that one. This choice, as painful as it is in this moment, is also what makes me (both literally and professionally) a mountain parent.

LAUREN SUHRBIER Lauren@MountainParent.com

EDITOR & DESIGNER

KATHRYN CAMP Kathryn@MountainParent.com encourages – ski the Bowl with your kids as a rite of passage. When you’re a mountain parent, you too

Kathryn Camp Editor

WE OUGHT TO MENTION …

The opinions and views expressed by contributors to MOUNTAIN PARENT are not necessarily those of the Publisher. Mountain Parent is registered with the State of Colorado. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without permission is prohibited.

With GRATITUDE JEFF BAY

SARAH BAY

CINDY MATTHEWS

COLLETTE NEWELL

JILL SCHER & JAN SCHUBERT

MAILE SPUNG

JULIE TALENFELD

MICHELLE TSOU

she started in 1989.

also co-founded Camp AspenSnowmass with her colleague Sue Way. Michelle then moved to Aspen Highlands to develop the Aspen Ski Company’s kids programming, where she continues to work as program coordinator. Meanwhile, she is also the Talent Acquisition Coordinator for the Ski and Snowboard Schools of AspenSnowmass. When she is not at work, Michelle loves to travel, ride bikes, cook, hike, and, of course, ski with her son Christopher.

Before meeting Sarah, Jeff was lost looking for a fellow adventurer. Enter Sarah, and the world was suddenly

Collette discovered the Roaring Fork Valley as a Summer Naturalist at ACES, then continued for two more years as an educator at Rock in marketing, public relations, Bottom Ranch. She joined But, take advantage of the media relations (PIO), and the faculty at Aspen Country time they have is what they place is in the camper, parked emergency services. She do: camping, hiking, biking, anywhere other than outside has worked for Jefferson where she taught Spanish and backpacking, skiing, and her own home. When not out County Public Library, Regis science before transitioning traveling the beautiful state University, West Metro Fire to the school’s Outdoor of Colorado. Fun fact: this operates Eight Straight Sleep, Rescue, and Denver Health. Education department. current ten-year residency a sleep consulting business, She holds a BS in Journalism Collette loves yoga, cooking, in the Roaring Fork Valley and Mass Communication is Jeff’s third time living down the path of teaching their from UC Boulder, and a MA lands is not only part of her and working in Aspen. He little ones the joys of happy and in Communication from profession but a love that she operates four hotels: The healthy sleep. UC Denver. She enjoys shares with her students as Hotel Aspen and The Molly camping, hiking, and wildlife well as her husband and their Gibson Lodge in Aspen, photography with her family, one-year-old son. along with The Hotel Ketchum which includes her lovable and the Tamarack Lodge in Wheaten dog. Ketchum, Idaho.

Before meeting Jeff, Sarah was boring more of an indoors girl. But, marrying Mr. Adventure himself ignited a passion for the outdoors that has only increased with every

Maile grew up in Aspen at the family business, the Ute Twin sisters, best friends, Mountaineer, with her own and accomplished artists, Jill Scher and Jan Schubert personal guide (her dad Bob) who taught her to ski, collaborated last winter to make a beautiful array of ice climb, bike, hike, and love the lanterns for CA’s Valentines’ mountains. After college, she followed her outdoor passions “Light the Night” event. and worked as a mountain We were so enchanted by their display that we asked them to share their process, summers, while ski patrolling in Aspen every winter. She now stays busy running column. When they are both the Ute and Neptune Mountaineering in Boulder, who designs clothing, hats, along with sitting on the ACES shawls, wall-hangings, and Board and the Grassroots sculptures with hand-dyed Outdoor Alliance Board. wool and silk. Jan’s medium When not at work, Maile and her husband Carson, (a Ski Patroller at Snowmass) enjoy transforms into original “product testing” with their candle designs with layers of color and delicate details two children, Tanner (3) and Wade (1). inspired by nature.

Cindy joined Community First Foundation in February 2020 as marketing and communications manager –

Julie started Aspen in Action with a vision of creating community connections, sharing resources, insights, and tips – a go-to for residents and visitors alike. We invited her to share her favorite things to do when one is presented with an evening without kids. When she is not out enjoying Aspen’s winter wonderland with her husband and two children, Julie focuses on charitable causes, such as the Holocaust Museum in Dania Beach and the Jewish Federation of Broward County, Florida. She is the founder and president of BoardroomPR, a South

Michelle started the preschool programs for Aspen Ski Co. 34 years ago. She ran the Big Burn

KEN PLETCHER

PROOFREADER

I N S E A SO N

Time Out

WITHOUT THE KIDS

We love our children. But sometimes, we can all use a little break. To plan our next night out, MP asked for ideas from J U L I E TA L E N F E L D

creator of Aspen in Action.

One night I was walking home after a fun time with my husband in Aspen. We had spent the day exploring Aspen Highlands and taking in the beautiful winter wonderland. We then had a delicious traveled through the snow back home from our eventful day, I stopped to look around at my surroundings. I noticed that I was in complete awe of the breathtaking views that surrounded me. The clear, sparkling stars above, and the fresh, winter snow – it was magical in this tranquil, charming haven. I’ve been visiting Colorado since I was a teenager, always enchanted by the changing seasons, the mountain towns with a plethora of activities – restaurants, music, art, athleticism, culture. I later started traveling here with my children, and then eventually became an Aspen resident. With each new stage in life, I discovered even more to experience. This is why I started the Aspen in Action Facebook and Instagram groups – so I can share all the reasons why this place feels like heaven to me. Whether you’re wishing for a romantic night out, a fun time with your best friends, or an all-day adventure, here are some places to check out around the Roaring Fork Valley. PHOTO: Zack Maraziti /ACRA

ASPEN MOUNTAIN

ASPEN HIGHLANDS

SNOWMASS SKI AREA BUTTERMILK SKI AREA

SNOWMASS VILLAGE

ASPEN 82

2 82 82

BASALT

WOODY CREEK 10 1. KEMO SABE ASPEN 217 South Galena Street, Aspen When COVID protocols required Kemo Sabe to place a rope across the door to limit the number of patrons who can enter, the store’s longtime manager and new owner Wendy Kunkle experienced an epiphany. “This was a Godsend. It forced us to slow down, take our time, and give every single person the service they need,” she says. Now the rope remains, though restrictions have lifted. Business is booming, and the team has grown from eight clerks on the this makes for a great date night? Well, let me tell you. Now, you can have a private shopping experience with one-on-one help designing your own hat, boots, or belt buckle. While you select everything – from choosing your rabbit or beaver fur felt cowboy hat, designing your brim size and shape, and picking your color – your partner can sit down with a cocktail mixed from the private bar at Kemo Sabe. They can choose a custom brand for your hat and put together your silk or diamond-studded headband, while your date sips top-shelf whiskey. No guy or gal has ever complained about this approach to shopping. The experience is a date night in itself. But of course, you’ll head to dinner afterward. Because. It’s date night, after all.

2. J BAR AT HOTEL JEROME 330 East Main Street, Aspen Next stop – J Bar at Hotel Jerome – an absolute must because of the history and charm of this landmark hotel. Grab a specialty cocktail from the bar and sit back while you unwind for a cozy,

4. “SMALL WONDERS” ART SHOW Aspen Chapel Gallery 77 Meadowood Drive, Aspen Plan a daytime holiday shopping date with your friends, and then return to this art show with your “roommate” to select one-of-a-kind

dinner at Prospect. Try the Oxtail Foie Gras Dumplings or the Spit Roasted Poulet Rouge Chicken. Save room for the iconic Duke and Duchess dessert. Known as one of the more popular spots in the city, Hotel Jerome has an elegant environment – no matter what time of day you’re there. In the morning, you can drop by for an espresso at Felix Roasting Co. Or meet at friend for afternoon tea. Be sure to try the Notorious RBG, a house made bagel with blueberry-sage cream cheese, fresh berries, cinnamon, and mint. If you’re looking for a quiet bar experience, head through the timelessly gorgeous lobby to the original saloon, where you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time.

photography, paintings in acrylic and oil,

3. BELLY UP ASPEN 450 South Galena Street, Aspen A late night at this live music venue is sure to be memorable – whether you’re out with your partner or your best friends, or all of the above. Great performers come into town and love the intimacy of the small stage. I’m looking forward to their December line-up, which includes The Dead South, Zhu, and The Chainsmokers. Act fast. Tickets always sell out quickly.

works from 32 local artists. Twenty percent program, which provides food and gifts to 250 struggling families in this community. The title of the show refers to a 12” x 12”or-smaller artwork requirement. However, the 14th annual show also has a well-earned reputation for smaller pricetags from artists whose largescale pieces often fetch a pretty penny. The 5. PINECREEK COOKHOUSE 11399 Castle Creek Road, Aspen I cannot imagine a more romantic time than taking the horse-drawn carriage ride to and from Pinecreek Cook House. The bells on the horses’ harnesses, the warm woolen blankets, the stars, the sense of adventure you feel heading up the mountain valley – these details create a winter wonderland. It only gets better when you arrive at the cozy, yet glamorous cabin. Plan meal, party favors, and a champagne toast to complete the evening.

(C2 photography/ACRA)

MOUNT SOPRIS SUNLIGHT MOUNTAIN RESORT

MARBLE REDSTONE 9

WILLITS

EL JEBEL

I-70

CARBONDALE 82

133

GLENWOOD SPRINGS

6. ANDERSON RANCH 5263 Owl Creek Road Snowmass Village Head here for the current exhibits, to meet artists in residence, or to tour the studios. It’s worth planning a date just to see this unique Colorado arts campus. The buildings’ rustic, yet modern, details speak of the facility’s ranching past. Every space feels alive with creativity. While you’re there, be sure to stop at The ArtWorks Store. They currently feature works by Jeremy Adamson; furniture by Sam Maloof; and a book by Enrique Martinez Celaya’s On Art and Mindfulness: Notes from Anderson Ranch children’s books and art kits, as well as toys and games. 7. HEATHER’S SAVORY PIES AND TAPAS 166 Midland Avenue, Basalt Head here for the ultimate comfort food. Their menu features the best chicken pot pie I’ve ever had. Tip – order it right when you sit down, because it takes time for them to cook it fresh in the kitchen. We also love looking at their refrigerated dessert case with at least a dozen homemade dessert pies and cakes. My favorites are the banana cream and the apple – great for taking home after dinner and having a midnight snack after a night out. Heather’s also has live music on many weekends.

8. MARBLE DISTILLING THE DISTILLERY INN 150 Main Street, Carbondale Here’s an itinerary for an incredible winter staycation. Avoid driving late night on icy roads by booking a room at the Distillery Inn, where you’ll experience impeccable hospitality in a net-zero boutique hotel. They deliver their “cocktails with a conscience” to your room. Or you can visit their gorgeous tasting room or sit beside the outdoor ready to stroll down Carbondale’s lively Main Street to shop, bar hop, and dine at one of a dozen locally-owned restaurants within a short walk. Be sure to stop at Main Street Gallery & Framer for original works by local artists. Then cross Main Street and walk half a block to the Launchpad’s “Deck the Walls” Holiday event, a month-long pop-up shop. They feature a fun, charming collection of artisanal goods, including handmade cards and gifts, jewelry, soaps, and ceramics – all great holiday gifts. In the morning, head to The Village Smithy and request organic eggs cooked any way you like. 9. REDSTONE INN 82 Redstone Boulevard, Redstone From the moment you step inside the lobby, you’ll be charmed by this cozy, old-world lodge. Order a quiet nook attracts backcountry skiers looking to aprés after a day at Coal Basin or in Marble. It also attracts visitors from around the world who come to the small town in the high mountains simply to enjoy an escape from cell service. For dinner, choose between the casual pub or the formal dining room. Either way, start with the baked brie, a timeless classic drizzled with local honey.

10. GLENWOOD HOT SPRINGS 401 North River Street, Glenwood Springs This place is hardly a secret. Surely, you’ve heard about Glenwood’s historic “hot spot.” However, in terms of a night out without the kids – sometimes, the babysitter just doesn’t come through. It happens. Make the best of it. Here’s where you can bring the kids and still get your time out. Night swimming will feel like an epic adventure as the steam rises from the warm waters. Peace will literally surround you. Take turns trading off with your partner. They can swim with the kiddos while you get your spa treatment. Then, vice-versa. The mineral waters alone will transform your skin, and leave you glowing, feeling fabulous inside and out. Afterwards, you can cross the pedestrian bridge over the Colorado River into downtown for shopping at unique, locally owned spots. Elizabeth Dean Boutique, which feature cute clothes and accessories and unique home decor. Other great retailers include Toad & Co. and Treadz, family. When it’s time for dinner, you cannot go wrong. The new Bethel Plaza under the bridge is bricked-in and strung with bright lights. This allows you to wander between both sides of Look around. Take your pick of eclectic dining Thai, Indian, and old-school Italian. MAP ILLUSTRATION: Kathryn Camp

DIY

How to play with

FIRE & ICE This season of longer nights begs us to bring our light out into the darkness. We asked Carbondale artists

JILL SCHER & JAN SCHUBERT

to show us how to make festive and easy ice lanterns.

Almost any type of container works for a vessel. 2 two-gallon buckets. The fourth lantern was made using a balloon. Empty yogurt containers also work water-tight Chinese restaurant take-out box. as creating interesting illuminations and shadows You don’t need to wait until a cold snap to get tissue paper hearts onto the exterior and sprayed 3

because you cannot always depend on nighttime

a little water mist onto them to help them stay.

temperatures being cold enough to rely solely on it.

This lantern was among a dozen or so pieces we

It takes around 12 hours until the ice wall is at least 1

made for the Carbondale Arts “Light the Night”

inch thick.

event last winter on Valentines’ Weekend. For the

When your lantern’s ice wall reaches your desired

and cranberries in the water before freezing. The third lantern utilized gold stars for a birthday

a hole in the top of the lantern to access the cavity and pour out the remaining water. If your lantern 4

submerge it in a large pot of warm water to loosen it.

You don’t have to settle to settle down. MONICA VIALL Monica.Viall@TheAgencyRE.com 970.319.1119 REAL ESTATE WITH THEAGENCYRE.COM

H E LPI N G H A N DS

‘TIS BETTER

to Give Q&A

C I N DY M AT T H E W S

of the people behind

EXPLORE WINTER

with Aspen Center for Environmental Studies

How can kids and parents join in one of the largest single days of giving in the nation?

Q. KATHRYN CAMP:

HOW DID COLORADO GIVES DAY GET STARTED?

A. CINDY MATHEWS {CM}: going to be an important part of fundraising in the future. A lot of people we knew we could make a big difference. We set a 1 million dollar goal. First

grow every year since. We raised $50 million in 2020.

For the most up to date information about our programs, please visit

aspennature.org

Q. AND THEN CAME COVID.

HOW HAS COLORADO GIVES DAY MET THIS MOMENT?

A. programming providers that must now operate with greatly reduced events. Fundraising galas have all but disappeared.

or call 970.927.6760

people turn to ColoradoGives to support their communities.

12 14

“

You’re never to young (or old!) to learn about kindness and giving. Giving has lifelong impacts on wellbeing and happiness that extend far beyond the playground. What better way to create change than to raise a

C I N DY M AT T H E W S Community First Foundation

Q. WHAT AGE IS BEST FOR KIDS TO START GIVING? A. like sharing. Talk with them about how communities keep us thriving

to honor someone they love or encourage their networks to support a

Q. PLEASE TELL US ABOUT KIDS FOR COLORADO GIVES. A. We all want to raise good humans. Kids for Colorado Gives was

designed to offer fun ways for parents to engage with their children while teaching about philanthropy. We developed the Giving Activity Kit with a teacher to offer real learning objectives tucked into fun activities. For

games to help families learn about the terms related to philanthropy.

DAY:

Dec 7, 2021 2020 Stats: 50 million in 24 hours.

THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF ORGANIZATIONS ENGAGED WITH COLORADO GIVES DAY. HOW DOES ONE MAKE A CHOICE?

more fun activities in the Kids Giving Kit.

$102 $17,000

Q. THE $ ACTUALLY COMES FROM MOM AND DAD, RIGHT? A. Kids get their own money to “spend” when friends and family give

2,874

them to make their own choices. When children learn that they can make a

Number of donors:

It’s important to note that the person buying the giving card gets a tax receipt others.

Q. WHAT MAKES COLORADO GIVES DAY DIFFERENT? A. Colorado Gives Day is different from the other 364 days of the year

because every donation made on (or scheduled on) this day gets an extra

83,000

coloradogives.org 15

GOO D S P O R T S

GettingSkin IN THE GAME Backcountry Alpine Touring. it’s about exploring the outdoors.

COLLETTE NEWELL

under the weight of the pillowy piles. I am breathing deep against the

squeaks of my infant son who is nestled on my chest. He is snuggled up

how to weave together my pre-child life passions with my young son.

evolution of self. WHY I LOVE IT of skiing down. And you can access places in winter that you wouldn’t be able to easily venture to on foot. winter. skin track.

I met my closest friends on the

PHOTO: Part of Aspen Country Day School’s 5th Grade Outdoor Ed curriculum is map reading and learning how to choose safe, low-angle routes. Here, the class heads from the 10th Mountain Huts’ Vance Cabin up towards Taylor Peak to eat lunch and then practice building winter shelters. Photo credit: ACDS

DOUBLE CHECK The popularity of skinning in the past few years has triggered an check the latest rules. GETTING OUT THERE

GETTING STARTED

out into the backcountry. Take one or two of the accredited avalanche classes offered locally. Then go with others who are experienced and

WHAT TO BRING The most important thing to bring when getting started is a friend.

certain you understand how to operate each piece of gear before

layers. You will be warm since your heart rate is elevated. But at

SHARING MY LOVE OF THIS SPORT I co-direct the outdoor education program at Aspen Country Day outdoor education journey. The students skin during physical to huts for their winter outdoor ed experience.

WHERE TO GO

science. You can ask any student and they will all agree on the fact that to uphill skiing. It allows you to become familiar with your

skinning in my students. They may learn that while skinning does take

whatever you’re

dreaming of. The Roaring Fork Valley Co-op is here all season to handle whatever you’re dreaming of this winter. We have the clothes, gear, tools, and toys you want for all year round, whether you’re working on the ranch, going on a road trip, or just hanging out with family.

0760 0760 HWY HWY 133 133 Carbondale, Carbondale, CO CO

970-963-2220 970-963-2220

www.roaringforkcoop.com www.roaringforkcoop.com

Not only that, we’re the valley’s source for bulk fuel and propane, to keep you warm while you’re wishing.

IMMERSE YOURSELF

has shaped the snow. Becoming aware of all these things and treading lightly and recognizing the power of our snowpack. I look forward to when my son will be self-powered and we will be winter.

PHOTO: Cabin. The students and teachers carry packs with their personal gear for two nights. The author is leading the group. Another teacher with two other teachers interspersed among the students. Everyone travels radios/walkie talkies to communicate between each other. Teachers also pull group gear in pulks (sleds) attached to their waists.

Aspen Medical Care has three pediatricians eager to care for your child in either our Aspen or Basalt office.

your neighbor, your doctor Staff Anne Goyette, MD Charlene Guggenheim, MD Jenny Connery,MD Claudia Nelson, MD Mary Harris, MD Bryan Gieszl, MD Haley Hoffman, DO Shari Kiehnbaum, PA-C Jade R. Golden, PA-C Tracie Walterscheid, PA-C

We offer both in person and video visits utilizing telehealth technology.

A S P E N M E D I C A L CA R E, P.C.

Progressive Medicine · Old-Fashioned Care Obermeyer Place, 101 Founders Pl, Suite 109, Aspen, 920-0104 204 Basalt Center Circle, Basalt, 927-3141 www.aspenmedicalcare.com

T W N OW

All in person visits follow the strictest COVID-19 protocols to ensure the safety of everyone in the office — patients, staff and providers.

S A LT

Not currently accepting new Medicare patients.

Gabriella Sutro Low Pressure, High Integrity

where

PROBLEM SOLVER meets

Gabriella Sutro has 30 years of experience in the Carbondale real estate market and a wealth of knowledge of the mid-valley market. She cares more about her clients than notching another sale. They rely on her to tell them the straight story, and Gabriella’s organization and dedication make her an excellent negotiator at closing time.

Gabriella Sutro Broker Associate 970.379.3880 gsutro@masonmorse.com

cbmasonmorse.com

TRAILS & TRAVEL

Winter Family Road Trip

S A R A H B AY Here's the beginning of our epic. We are sitting cozy on the couch at the end of a long day in October 2020. It’s becoming cooler during the mornings and evenings especially, but we still like to have the sliding glass door open as we know winter is just around the corner. “Riddle me this,” Jeff says, which is husband-speak for, “I have a crazy idea that I’m going to throw at you, so hang tight.” He hands me his phone with a photo of a camper. “What on earth do we need that for? We already have a camper.” And, we did. A 34campgrounds. This thing he held in front of my face was teeny. “I know, I know. This is a crazy idea. But, what if we bought this (did I mention teeny?!) camper and used it to tour around the smaller ski resorts in Colorado?" he started. "What if we made this camper our own portable warming hut combined with a little hotel on wheels so we’d be fully self-contained? We wouldn’t have to go into the lodges, and we wouldn’t have to stay at a hotel.” Well, I’ll be. The man had a plan. And, a good one at that. We planned it out over several serious conversations about skiing. (If you don’t have serious family conversations about skiing, you might not be true Coloradoans). We couldn't believe we were actually discussing stepping away from the Four Mountains. We love the variety of terrain and countless favorite runs. And we have loyally purchased a ski pass every year since 2010. But, with an uncertain future, as it pertained to the global pandemic, we thought it prudent to avoid the With our Sunlight Mountain season passes, we get two days at many other partner slew of incredible little mountains). Some of them are big dreams: Kiroro Resort in Japan or Masella Ski Resort in the Spanish Pyrenees. Our little camper couldn’t quite get to those ones, and we’d have to make a bigger trip of it. But, there are many mountains at are also off-the-beaten-pathers that we had never heard of, such as: Red River, NM; Snow Valley, CA; Cherry Peak, UT; Yagoo Valley, ME. We decided to stay slightly closer to home. We drove to Grand Junction and picked up our adorable camper. We signed our the "Mom-and-Pops," as we grew to call them; the smaller, hardly-known Colorado ski resorts peppered among the behemoths. PHOTOS: Our tour took us over quiet mountain passes, and through valleys surrounded by majestic mountains. As they say, the journey isn't just about getting there, it's about all you see along the way. Here, we'll share our discoveries at a handful of Colorado Mom-and-Pops: SUNLIGHT MOUNTAIN RESORT LOVELAND SKI AREA POWDERHORN SKI COOPER MONARCH WOLF CREEK

I-70

4 6

2 3

3 8 4

6 6

10 7

12 18

7 11

MOUNTAINPARENT PARENT 17

TRAILS & TRAVEL

16 8 13 6 9

6 8 15 8

NEW MEXICO

TRAILS & TRAVEL

Winter Family Road Trip

& HOW LONG ‘TIL WE GET THERE?

See if you can follow your route. Can you spot Mount Sopris? Where is the Continental Divide? Do you see Ruedi Reservior?

New Enrollment for Fall

MOM & POP SKI RESORTS

Opens January st

SUNLIGHT MOUNTAIN

LOVELAND

POWDERHORN

MONARCH

SKI COOPER

WOLF CREEK

HWY 50

McClure Pass

HWY 160

Wolf Creek Pass

Tennessee Pass

HWY 550

Red Mountain Pass

ROADS & HIGHWAYS 1

HWY 82

CR 117

HWY 133

HWY 24

HWY 91 Leadville to I-70

HWY 92

to Black Canyon Gorge

HWY 285

HWY 65

Grand Mesa Scenic Byway

Winter closure

“Four Mile Road”

the “Gunbarrel”

Parent Child Toddlers Pre K Kindergarten Forest Kindergarten Grades st th Apply at waldorfschoolrf com

Black Canyon Scenic Byway

Discover the Di erence

CITIES & TOWNS 1

GLENWOOD SPRINGS

GUNNISON

CARBONDALE

DEL NORTE

BASALT

PAGOSA SPRINGS

ASPEN

DURANGO

VAIL

SILVERTON

MINTURN

OURAY

FRISCO

MONTROSE

LEADVILLE

DELTA

BUENA VISTA

PAONIA

SALIDA

GRAND JUNCTION

PONCHA SPRINGS

PALISADE

Map illustration KATHRYN CAMP

PHOTO: Sunlight's East Ridge is home to a dozen double-black diamonds. The Heathen, one of the steepest runs in Colorado, sustains a

TRAILS & TRAVEL

Winter Family Road Trip

& J E F F B AY

SUNLIGHT MOUNTAIN RESORT 1 Our home mountain for the season. To put it simply, Sunlight is a blast. seventy-two trails of fun skiing, free parking, and a fantastic ski school. In addition, the uphill-friendly attitude made for some fun (read: hard!) uphill treks while the kiddo skied to her little heart’s desire. If choosing to veer off the beaten paths, there are some fantastic nordic and snow-shoeing trails at the base of the mountain that gave us no area, giving us peace of mind when struggling to keep up with our little skier. The Ute Trail stretches from top to bottom, over 2 miles of gently rolling terrain which often begged, “Again. Again.” LOVELAND SKI AREA 2 A solo trip after dropping off our daughter at Grandma’s during winter break. Loveland is lovingly known as the fun, family-friendly Front Range ski area. With 1,800 acres spread over two mountains, a huge, free parking area that welcomes van-lifers, affordable food, and a casual attitude, along with the most snow of any Front Range or Summit County ski area.

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POWDERHORN MOUNTAIN RESORT 3 Two separate trips, combined with a cross-country ski clinic on the offers 1,600 acres of varied terrain, free parking, great kids programs, and easy access from the warmer (and mostly snow-free!) Grand Junction area. Just down the road on the breathtaking Grand well-maintained Nordic skiing areas, managed by the Grand Mesa Nordic Council. We love the dog loop at the County Line trail area, but there are hundreds of kilometers of groomed trails between the heated bathrooms and electric hookups. It's a great base camp for food, if you can’t quite tell.) We love two farm-to-table spots, Bin 707 Taco Party. SKI COOPER 4 This is where learning history becomes fun. Originally developed during WWII as a training ground for ski troopers at nearby Camp Hale, Cooper has become one of Colorado's last locally-owned and operated resorts. Located high on Tennessee Pass (about 40 miles from I-70 at Vail / Minturn) with abundant snow, this little area skis well beyond what its 480 acres belie. Camp at River Dance RV park in Gypsum. With snowcat skiing on Chicago Ridge, you’ll access 2,600 acres of additional terrain. This to ski it up at this cozy little mountain. Once you’ve torn up the hills, nearby in an idyllic backcountry setting. Access is less than one mile and can be reached by snowshoe or cross country skiing. Equipment is available for a modest fee, and reservations are highly recommended.

PHOTOS: Check out the Ute at Sunlight Mountain. ½ mile hoot winding over roller-coaster-like hills and ending, just like all runs, at the base area. (left: Josh Allison; above: Todd Patrick)

5 MONARCH MOUNTAIN A rugged high-alpine gem that should not be missed. Located

parking at the base area, which is up the hill from Mount Princeton Hot Springs, where you can soak your sore muscles after a fun day on the slopes. We stayed at Salida / Mt. Shavano KOA Journey. Temps reached below zero, and we woke up to 8 inches of fresh powder on the camper, but we stayed warm and dry. WOLF CREEK SKI AREA 6 This place is a legend. Need I say more? They claim “The Most Snow in Colorado'' and they mean it. Like over 400 annual inches mean it. (In fact, as of late October 2021, Wolf Creek was already open to its skiing-obsessed visitors) Huge, gladed runs in the most spectacular untracked powder, and the best green chile cheeseburgers outside Pagosa Springs for hot springs and great eats in a fun town. On second thought, don’t go here, it's terrible… Tell your friends the same!

GLAMPING IN THE PARKING LOT S A R A H B AY

Travel with your camper or RV “winterized.” (As in, empty your drinking, gray, and black water tanks to avoid broken pipes from freezing.) Instead of using your "indoor plumbing," pack water jugs snow to the public bathroom, you can pour a little bit of water and RV antifreeze into your camper's potty. Always keep your propane tanks full, and know your battery limitations. Unless you are plugged in, you won’t be able to run your 2-way fridge without compromising your propane supply, but you can put a couple of ice packs in it to keep things cold. Without a lot of special throughout the day. But we stayed at RV parks with electric hookups and used electric space heaters to keep warm. This also allowed us to

electricity were all we really needed. Many Colorado RV parks (and a few state parks) stay open all winter, with bathrooms and showers. Most will not offer running water or sewer at the site, but do have (often heated) restrooms. microwave, so our standard fare includes soups, stews, chili, eggs, pancakes, and of course, coffee. For us, no roadtrip would be complete without our two dogs - yellow lab, Cooper, and sweet mutt, Sandwich. We kept a small electric space electric pedestal at night. During the days, our dogs rode along with us and had lots of adventures. We kept water bowls inside the vehicle so they didn't freeze. We checked in on them a few times during the day, taking breaks from skiing to eat lunch (or, shhhhhh, take a nap). This allowed us to open the window between the camper and truck to warm up the cab. We also have winter dog coats that zip on easily if needed and lots of old blankets to snuggle up in. Dry food won’t freeze, nor will rawhides or Beggin Strips. What did I learn from our winter? (1) My husband is often right. Especially when it comes to adventure. Please don’t tell him I said so. (2) Our little camper wasn’t that small after all. (3) Our daughter has an off the beaten path. If you need us this winter, look beyond the Valley

TRAILS & TRAVEL

Your home-away-from-home is 100 steps from the lift.

MAILE SPUNG Ute Mountaineer

AEROPRESS GO I love my morning coffee ritual, especially when camping... but the mess that comes with a French press, pour-over, or percolator is so frustrating when working with minimal water and a mug. This easy-to-use coffee press makes a cup in less than a coffee I’ve had on the road. It's so delicious that my dad uses it every morning for his daily cup. And my favorite part? You pop a small puck of grounds into the compost, wipe the end of the grounds in your dishwater or grit in your coffee. Ahhhhh.

RUMPL STASH MAT Have you ever tried to get the whole family ready and out the door at the same time? Of course you have. It’s a maddening part of the daily routine. Now imagine trying to do the same in 10 square feet with kids and ski gear. Yikes! Rumpl wants to solve this problem with their weatherproof, durable, and cozy blankets. Just throw down the waterproof Stash Mat outside your camper door and you have instantly added a mudroom. If it's really chilly while getting those boots and helmets on, Rumpl has plenty of warm puffy blankets to choose from, with fun colors for the whole family. They even have "beer blankets" in case you need to use that new mudroom as an adult hangout once the kids are asleep.

MADSHUS SNOWPUP 85 NORDIC SKIS quads crave a day off the slopes. Some days the snow and weather conditions are less than ideal for downhill skiing. And some days we beautiful meadow for a cup of hot chocolate. For my family, a day of Nordic skiing is the perfect off-day activity. It gets us out burning some energy, seeing new mountain perspectives, and slowing down to have time together. Gathering all the gear for another snow

parents love that the skis will grow with them for years to come.

BIOLITE FIREPIT+ perfect tool to stretch your time outside before getting cozy smokeless (and tear-free) marshmallow roasting haven. All with the rest of the trip. It also functions as a grill for delicious meals with minimal clean up. (Also shown on page 29.)

Anytime you head out on the road with your family, you’re bound to make memories. Picking the right equipment that enhances those trips, but keeps the focus on family time, always makes the effort to get out there worth it." MAILE SPUNG

Ute Mountaineer

MORRISON OUTDOORS BIG MO SLEEPING BAG There are so many items I use as a parent that make me say “man, I wish I had thought of that!” and the Morrison Outdoors sleeping bag sleeping bag with arms so your little one doesn't end up wiggling out of their bag and crying in the middle of the night from getting cold. There are 20 and 40 degree options so you can tailor the warmth to the trip you are doing. And, because it mimics the sleep-sacks they are used to, our little ones love getting zipped in and cozy. Who doesn’t love a well-rested and happy camper? (Elise Giordano)

GSI OUTDOORS – OUTSIDE INSIDE GAMES Although you will inevitably be tired after chasing your kids around the slopes, somehow they will dig deep in the pit of endless energy and want to play with you when you all return to the camper. Luckily, there are "Outside Inside" games for all different age groups to for the rowdier evenings, or snuggle up in the camper with a game of Chess (hello Queen's Gambit!) to slow things classic games into travel-friendly (even backpacking) sizes. My favorite is crushing my husband in a game to connect whether on the road or at home. I guess I should let him win one of these days.

ADVENTURE MEDICAL KITS – MOUNTAIN BACKPACKER Fun is always my kids’ number one goal while on a road trip, but as a parent, it seems my main focus is safety. Adventure Medical Kits’ Mountain Backpacker is compact enough to take anywhere, but has all of the things you need for bumps and bruises along the way. It even includes a guide to Wilderness Medicine that you can reference when you are in over your head. If you are and illnesses, the company's Family First Aid Kit has a “Caring for Children in the Outdoors'' guide to help you sort through medication dosage information and injury care. (Just don’t forget to restock the band-aids you use when you get home!)

GARMIN INREACH MINI your phone to make communication with family or emergency personnel simple and reliable. Even when I am not planning on heading into the backcountry, I still bring my InReach because of the unreliable cell phone service in Colorado’s mountains. With this item, you’ve got service anywhere on the road or ski slopes, or actually anywhere in the world. The InReach requires a paid subscription with annual and monthly plans available, there’s even an option to suspend your monthly plan for periods of time that you won’t be traveling or adventuring.

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PHOTO: M AT T P O W E R

AN EPIC FIRST

THE BOWL

LORI SPENCE

K AT H RY N C A M P

Starting this Fall...

Youth Fare

Introducing a lower fare for our valley’s youth... Coming this Fall - kids, ages 6 through 18 will be able to travel one-way on any of RFTA’s regional commuter buses for only $1! CHILDREN FIVE AND UNDER STILL RIDE FOR FREE! Keep your wallet stocked with a RFTA stored value card (which provides approximately a 26% discount), for even more of a discount on the $1 Youth Fare.

www.rfta.com 34

Please continue to wear your mask while on board buses and at bus stations.

We asked Lori to talk with us about how she plans to step into the Director’s role, and about raising her sons Tanner and Tyler on the ski hill. And of course, for her patrol-mama perspective on how to returned from an off-season road-biking tour across Croatia with her husband Kimball Spence, and then, typical of the generous spirit that the Highlands Patrol is renowned for, Lori shared her Long before opening day, the Highlands Patrol starts boot-packing late autumn, as early-season snow accumulates, teams of patrollers line up to the top, as the rest of us do. They hike up the interior of for weeks, to break up snow layers to help mitigate avalanches and retain the snow in position, preparing the steep, wide-open slope for skiers and snowboarders. It’s said to be brutal work, sketchy at times, and glorious – being outside at sunrise, outside all day long, feeling completely part of the team, part of the mountain. Spence did this for years, patrolling throughout two pregnancies, babyhood, teething, and on up, through all of those older-kid challenges that keep parents awake at night. Now, this favorite part of pre-season is not on the list of suggested activities for Spence’s two new knees. “It was worth every step of trail running and boot and ski packing,” she says. “I need to balance out the administrative work. Work hard. Play hard.” There is hiring to do. Training. Planning. Part of the patrol crew spends pre-season burning wood and brush that the summer trails crew amassed while cutting runs, cleaning up fallen trees, and making new ski lines – which cannot start until there’s snow on the ground. Another part of the patrol crew is covering Golden Horn while AVSC athletes train. COVID requires another layer of consideration as her team sets up the mountain. So there is a lot happening at once. After the loves the most about her job, “all of it,” she answers without a pause. being out there doing it.” Lori began patrolling at Snowbowl Ski Resort while attending college at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff. “I totally loved skiing and planned all of my classes around it, so I became kind of a patrol groupie,” she says. This is when she fell for Kim Spence, a fellow patroller. Later, while he attended med school, the two stayed connected, dating long-distance while she started her career on the patrol at Aspen Highlands.

PHOTOS: (left) Every day on Highlands Patrol is different, but most days begin with a team meeting at PHQ, on deck at Loge Peak, overlooking the Bowl. (Oliver Sutro) (above) The Spence family has welcomed three patrol dogs into their household, including Meka shown here. under the snow. They later have become beloved members of the family. Tanner and Tyler Spence with friends at the top of the Bowl in 2004.

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They married in 1989 and built a life here in the Valley, where Lori’s sister and parents had already migrated, and where Kimball joined the team of doctors at Roaring Fork Family Practice. Their two sons, Tanner and Tyler, were born in 1996 and 1998, part of the Highlands Patrol family from the very beginning. “I would ski up to help bring injured skiers down the mountain, and they’d look at me, at my baby belly, and ask if I could really manage The boys were both born during the summers, so Lori enjoyed four Highlands Patrol, she pumped in the bathroom at the old Patrol HQ at Cloud Nine so she could continue nursing her sons through their “I’ve always felt incredibly supported by Ski Co. as a full-time working mother,” Spence said, sharing that her longtime boss, friend, and mentor Mac Smith, former Director of Highlands Patrol, was “supersupportive of everything we mothers needed. He always said that family is most the important thing. If patroller’s kids got sick, he made it work for them to stay home. If there was a family emergency, in those early years, I was able to continue the career I love.” A patroller’s early workday means leaving Carbondale at 6:30 AM. “My husband handled everything in the morning. Getting the boys up and dressed. Making their breakfast. Driving them to daycare or school,” she says, describing their team effort. “I got everything organized the night before and left lots and lots of notes around the house about who needed to be where when. And I had a lot of support from my parents and sister who owned and operated Charcuterie in Aspen at that time.” At age two, Tanner joined ski school at Highlands, which operated Snowpuppies for younger children back then. Tyler would later the ski-wee lift,” she says. “And eventually following my sons into those tight tree runs they make for the kids, with little rollers and jumps, exploring places on the mountain that I had never seen from that perspective.”

PHOTOS:

When planning to head to the Bowl, consider getting a carrying strap designed to make it easier to manage skis or a snowboard on your back. Dress for extreme conditions at the top, and bring extra water and food. (Jeremy Swanson) Tyler, Kim, Tanner and Lori Spence on Christmas Day. Skiing the Bowl together has been their annual holiday tradition since the boys were young.

“

You’ve taken the time to ski slowly, with one-run days, waiting, encouraging them all along the way. And when they’re finally able to do it, you get to see their joy in something you love.” LORI SPENCE Aspen Highlands Patrol Director

“Those were the best years,” Lori says. When Tanner and Tyler could keep up with patrollers, they swizzled down bump runs. “The guys taught my sons how to do heli’s, telling them silly jokes, and making it super fun for them,” she says, adding that this kind of connection is one of the many legacies of Aspen Highlands Ski Patrol. “It’s a sense of community that extends from the people who ski Highlands every single day to others who are newly discovering the Highlands Ski Patrol approach, an ethos Mac Smith brought to the whole ski area, one that Spence helped carry forward when she became Smith’s Assistant Director four years before he moved into semi-retirement. “My kids got to know the cast of characters, laughing, joking, seeing patrollers as approachable, friendly, here for them, here to keep everyone safe. And also a whole lot of fun,” Spence says. “This is be able to raise their families here, for their kids to grow up this way.”

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4 Rivers Biennial Eventually, when the timing felt right, Spence brought her sons other,” she said. “They’d heard about it all their lives, so they were eager. We knew they could handle the long hike up and the steep, sustained downhill. We kept reminding them during the hike that there would be Snickers at the top. We encouraged them: ’Hey! it a big party.” close to the ground, ripping down Ozone.” Spence cautions parents about taking kids to the top on big snow days. “The hike gets crowded and people get agro.” It’s best to take kids up there when conditions are good. When the snow is “winter carvable,” with mild temps and mild wind. Get an early start when everyone in the group feels fresh. “Talk ahead of time about the proper etiquette for hiking. As long as you are moving let others pass.” kids need to play in a puddle in the parking lot, having just as much fun,” she says. “It’s all about having a good time. Sometimes we need to remind ourselves to slow down and enjoy the moment with our kids. Soon they will leave you in the dust while hiking and skiing.” because our kids teach us how to love it differently. First, you’ve gotten them out on skis, all the way through ski school. You’ve taken the time to ski slowly, with one-run days, waiting,

PHOTO:

An Aspen Snowmass ski instructor brings his class up the bowl. Turn the page for an overview of a skills checklist created by Michelle Tsou, Aspen Highlands Kids Programming Coordinator. This can help you decide if you and your child are ready, not only for the long, sustained hike – but also, and more critically, in terms of safety – ready for the steep, technically challenging downhill. Parents might also consider engaging in a lesson this rite of passage. Anyone who has ever watched their child respond magically to someone other than Mom or Dad in certain situations, will agree that professional guidance can provide a great framework for success on this adventure. (Jeremy Swanson)

Juried Show

Art show of valley wide artists from Aspen to Rifle Feb 16 – April 2, 2022 Non-profit Partner: Harvest for Hunger

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able to do it, you get to see their joy in something you love.”

Are YOU & YOUR CHILD ready to take on

honestly assess your and your child's readiness for this rite of passage.

SKILLS CHECKLIST

Here is an overview of questions asked by instructors when evaluating the appropriateness

MICHELLE TSOU

Aspen Highlands Kids Program Coordinator Talent Acquisition Coordinator: Aspen Snowmass Ski and Snowboard Schools

COGNITIVE SKILLS D O T H E Y K N O W A B O U T. . .

1. Hydration, altitude, blood sugar, 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Explore the past with Aspen Historical Society:

DECADE BY DECADE: ASPEN REVEALED EXHIBIT MUSEUMS & GHOST TOWNS (KIDS GET IN FREE!) GUIDED TOURS • PROGRAMS • EVENTS PUBLIC ARCHIVES ACCESS The Durrance family in front of their home circa 1950 Aspen Historical Society, Durrance Collection AHS_Moutain Parent winter 2021.indd 1

aspenhistory.org | 970.925.3721 @historyaspen 11/5/2021 9:07:37 AM

AFFECTIVE SKILLS DO THE Y H AV E OR NE E D ...

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

PHYSIOLOGICAL SKILLS HOW WELL DO THEY SKI? CAN THEY ...

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

7. First practice these maneuvers on Hot Spot, Sodbuster, Lower Y’s, or Hyde Park.

PHOTO:

“I recommend checking in at Patrol HQ at the top of the Loge Peak chair to get up-to-date knowledge on conditions from Ski Patrol,” suggests Highlands Ski and Snowboard School Manager, Ryan Watts. “This is something we encourage our pros to do with their guests regularly. We’re always happy to help you assess your readiness, and make sure families are aware of the serious nature of the terrain in Highland Bowl. Just stop by the Ski and Snowboard School and we can help you out.” (Jeremy Swanson)

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WELLNESS

THEY’RE YECCHY, HAPPILY SQUALID, FETID,FOUL, AND EVEN, AT TIMES, LOUSY. But we love them.

Our children place us in germy situations, and experts say this is a good thing. We asked our people in the WELLNESS world to share their strategies for encountering some of life’s grodier parenting moments.

DON’T TOUCH THAT! DR. MARY HARRIS

Aspen Medical Care

The concern in porta-potties, or really anywhere your kid touches, is “Can my kid get COVID (or another disease) after touching this surface?” The answer is yes, but it is much, much harder to get the coronavirus from a surface than from the air. If your child’s hand touches a surface. AND that surface has viable Sars-CoV-2 on it. AND your kid puts that hand in or on his eyes, nose, or mouth. THEN there is a reasonable risk of acquiring COVID-19 from that surface. In other words, a lot of things need to go wrong in order to get COVID from any surface. Hand washing is key. If you can manage to get hand sanitizer on your kid’s hands or wash their hands between touching surfaces and putting those hands on their face, you’ve done your job as a parent. And don’t forget - most portapotties are places where outdoor activities are happening. As a pediatrician, I’d much rather your kid attend an outside activity with a porta-potty than an indoor activity with an immaculately sanitized bathroom.

POTTY TALK

SHANA LIGHT

MSN, APN, NP-C Family Nurse Practitioner Valley View Hospital’s Roaring Fork Family Practice

As a family nurse practitioner, the mother of a 5-year-old whose digestive system seems to kick into high gear every time he sees a portapotty, and a long-distance trail runner, I’ve spent more time thinking about how to safely use a porta-potty than I’d like to admit. They are small, stinky, and offer horrifying views of other people’s excrement, but are they safe? The main way people spread SARS-CoV-2 is through exposure to respiratory droplets people to be infected through contact with contaminated surfaces, the risk is low. The parts of your own body that are most likely to spread infection are your hands. Good handwashing is important to protect yourself and others. Help kids develop the life-long habit of never touching their faces until after they’ve washed or sanitized their hands. If you have a toddler, you should also discourage them from putting their face or mouth directly on anything inside the porta-potty (Yuk!). There are often handwashing stations alongside the line of porta-potties these days, but if soap and water are not available, hand sanitizer will do. Use a big squirt of hand sanitizer and rub it all over your hands for just as long as you would wash them (20 seconds), roughly the amount of time it takes to sing the chorus of “Jolene” by Dolly Parton. If possible, leave your phone and other personal items outside of the porta-potty. Even if SARSCoV-2 isn’t on the surfaces, there could be lots of other germs. So are we worried about the air in the porta-potty? When a person with COVID-19 has been indoors, the virus can remain suspended in the air for minutes to hours. Wearing masks consistently and correctly can reduce this risk considerably. A mask might protect you from the smell in there too. Luckily, there is pretty good ventilation inside the porta-potty, which improves airflow and decreases the spread of infection. Furthermore, because porta-potties don’t flush, they might even be slightly safer than regular public bathrooms. Flushing creates aerosol from the water in the bowl that spreads bacteria and viruses. The chemicals in the blue stuff used in the porta-potty help too by killing germs. It is unclear to me why these colorful, plastic structures are so appealing to my kid, but whenever he sees one, his eyes light up and he inevitably whispers, “Mom, I gotta go to the bathroom.”

HAPPY BARFDAY

DR. DAN GALK A , MD Pediatrician Valley View Hospital’s’ Pediatric Partners, Glenwood Springs, Silt, and Willits The last year has made me think a lot about some of the things I just accepted as “whatever.” One of those areas is birthday parties and how gross they actually are. In no other place would we put a three-year-old in front of our food, light then eat it. Now with that being said, I love everything about birthday parties; the socialization, the friendships that I see my kids making, the adult comraderies that are formed, and the fun and creative activities that people do. started earlier this year, impacting more kids already, and circulating more severe illness, it might be time to rethink the way that we do some things. First, it’s time to ditch putting a million candles on a large sheet cake. Cupcakes are a great way to enjoy cake without spreading germs to the whole party. Another option to keep kids healthy is to get rid of the bowl of snacks. Kids are terrible about running, playing, wiping, and picking their nose, then snot behind them for the next, unsuspecting kid; eliminating this option helps eliminate the spread of germs. Instead, try paper cups and have the kids decorate and use them as their serving dishes. These are just a couple suggestions to try and keep kids (and adults) healthy. I promise you that no matter what you not to get mad at the host. Don’t bring kids with a fever. And masking is always an option, too.

RESILIENCY

DR . AMY GALL AGHER Psychologist Mindsprings Health Raising children during the time of COVID certainly demanded unchartered resiliency from parents. I suggest that it also spurred a new growth of resiliency in our kids. We bring along our newfound resiliency with us into post-COVID times. Continue to develop your child’s mental and emotional resilience by considering these strategies for well-being. Two “game changers” come to mind: gratitude and kindness. Practice the following gratitude activities with your children. Engaging in this concept can boost happiness levels, build resiliency, and create a sense of positivity for those around you. While we often think of gratitude during the holidays, there are plenty of activities to cultivate gratitude throughout the year. Have each family member say something that they are grateful for during mealtime. Plant a “gratitude garden.” Using permanent markers, write or draw something you are grateful for on a palm-sized rock. Add to your gratitude garden throughout the year. Start a gratitude journal and write down 3-5 things you are grateful for each day. Think about a time when someone did something unexpectedly kind for you. Most likely, you felt a little boost of happiness. With your family, you can brainstorm ways you can start. Maybe it’s as simple as smiling or holding the door for someone. Consider leaving water or snacks for delivery drivers. As they say, “random acts of kindness” can change the world. This winter, what if we try spreading kindness, instead of germs.

L ocally Sourced Guide to Giving Holiday 2021

PAR TNERED CONTENT

illustrations: E L ANA ROY E R Lilybart product photography: K AT H RY N C A M P

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Magnets make building these mod houses child’s play. Sustainable, solid wood. $35-$50

Toys & Games

Every child’s wishlist – from a balancing whale to pull toys, plus hand-carved creatures, blocks, cars, board games, dolls, play silks, and puzzles. $10 - $50

Babai Table & Stools Tea time meets playtime with this solid-wood set sized just right for ages 2-6 $60- table – $40- stools

‘ ‘ Playdough Analu

Earth-friendly playdough scented with essential oils $16

Petit Maman Dinnerware

Form + function in wooden trays hand-carved in whimsical shapes. $18

Grand Opening at Winterfaire – details on page 52. Little Acorn Shop will be open during school hours through December 17 and ongoing in 2022.

The ArtWorks Store Andy Warhol Campbell’s Soup Puzzle Pop-art for ages 5+ $17.99

Jen G Recycled Journals Quirky journals made of reused and found prints, papers, bags, fabrics, and odd materials $15

Snowmass Village (970) 923-3181 andersonranch.org

Curated works, art supplies, books, gifts, jewelry, toys, clothing, and houseware items made by visiting and local artists.

Illumidrop Art Kit

Create and display your own all aspiring artists ages 12+ $175

Ann Vores Knitted Animals other cheerful critters handmade by Snowmass Village artist Ann Vores. $25 - $45

Colorado Mountain Honey

Made by bees in Carbondale, Glenwood Springs, and our surrounding mountains. $4.50 – $7

Carhartt Jackets

Parent-child matching coats made with Carhartt’s iconic longlasting washed duck fabric. $117 and $70

Bogs Winter Boots

Indestructible and waterproof, rated for warmth at subzero temps, with styles for both boys and girls. $74.99

Red Ryder BB Gun that’s been a classic for more than 90 years. $38.90

0760 Highway 133 Carbondale (970) 963-2220 roaringforkcoop.com

gas, diesel, and propane, to feed and animal health supplies, pet food, hardware, and clothing.

Paper Art

121 Maple Lane, Aspen (970) 518-0403 Instagram @Lilybart4life

2022 Calendar

Created in collaboration with

Created from original illustrations, upcycled magazines, and recycled paper stock, layered with graphics and whimsical text. Designed in Aspen. Printed in the U.S. Eco-friendly, biodegradable packaging.

featuring Lilybart cover artwork and literary quotes. $36

!"#$ 9803

Made in the USA FSI paper Biodegradable * Eco-friendly sleeves

Lilybart Journals

Merry Merry!

Perfect for the note-taker, list-maker, doodler, and Hardcover, 150 pages, premium lined paper. $24

Happy Holidays

Made in the USA FSI paper Biodegradable * Eco-friendly sleeves

!"#$ 9686

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If your holiday projects aren’t going as planned, you can always shop

L ocally .

Seasons Greetings

Holiday Cards

Inspired by animals, nature, and the mountains. 5”x 7” printed on FSC paper with matching envelopes. Customization available. $6

A learning moment with American Sign Language instructor Katrina Toews during the Movement and ASL class for toddlers with caregivers at The Launchpad in Carbondale. Kristen Wolff and Alisha Jones with Aspen Windwalkers Equine Therapy. The "Wranglers & Rhinestones" “keeping butts in the saddles, boots on the ground, and feed bags full.” While Dance Initiative teacher Johier Begay shows his class a few Breakdancing moves at Glenwood Springs Elementary School, one student cannot wait to jump into dance. DI brings this programming to GSES completely takes over P.E. for 9 weeks, providing dance to kids in grades K-8. In January, the program expands to CCS; in February, to CMS. Ross Montessori School students joined the fun at Carbondale's Annual Potato Day parade, handing out spuds they harvested from the campus garden. Usually, RMS donates its organic produce to LiftUp. The Roaring Fork High School Rams boys varsity soccer team won the State Championship against Jefferson Academy on November 12. This is the

“You can take music lessons just like you can take baseball or soccer lessons. In Rock and Roll Academy, you get to play in the game.” Chris Harrison, RRARF Head Facilitator

WINTER ROCK CONCERT SUNDAY, JANUARY 16, 3:00 PM @ LOVE ROCKS STUDIO IN WILLITS OR LIVESTREAM ON GRASSROOTS TV Join us for a family-friendly concert performed by our rocking local students.

SPRING 2022 PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPENS DECEMBER 15 PROGRAM BEGINS JANUARY 31, 2022 @ LOVE ROCKS STUDIO IN WILLITS In-person / Grades 4 - 12 One day per week for 90 minutes. This is a play-based program in a positive and dynamic social atmosphere. No musical experience necessary. Instruments provided.

Chris Harrison (970) 379 - 9685 rockandrollroaringfork.com

M A K E PL A N S

December

January

DEC

JAN

10:30 - 11:30 AM HOTEL JEROME, ASPEN

ASPEN

TEDDY BEAR STORY HOUR Celebrate the holiday season at a special Teddy Bear Story Hour in “Santa’s Workshop” at the Hotel Jerome. Roaring Fork Valley storytellers will share classic tales from around the world, and kids are encouraged to bring their teddy bears or stuffed animals for this beloved holiday tradition. All ages are welcome. Offered by the Aspen Historical Society. Free: advanced registration required.

WINTERSKOL Aspen's annual "Toast to Winter" is a family celebration that includes ice sculptures, a torchlit ski parade down the face of Ajax, and the crowning of the local King and Queen of Winter. Members of the community are encouraged to submit nominations by December 30. Who community involvement and goodwill? Who has embraced life in our mountain town? Parents, here is a fun way for you and your child to consider teachers, librarians, friends, and neighbors who inspire you. Write a short paragraph describing why your nominee should be crowned.

MEET OUR PEOPLE

February

JAN

FEB

DANCE INITIATIVE ARTIST IN RESIDENCE

THE LAUNCHPAD, CARBONDALE A week-long community offering to share the work of DI's professional dance resident, Nicole con Arx. Nicole is well versed in contemporary, immersive, OffBroadway dance. She and her company will create a new work with playful narration and ambiguous characters who seem to appear and disappear with dynamic physicality to hint at what is seen and not seen. Classes, discussions, and performances will culminate in Carbondale's "Love is a Dance" First Friday on Feb 4; followed by a show at TACAW on Feb.5.

51 51

DEC

SANTA'S BIG RED SACK

THE ARTS CAMPUS AT WILLITS (TACAW) 8:00 - 9:30 PM; DOORS OPEN AT 7:00 PM Parents, get ready to let go of everything you hold dear about the holidays — and have it all come back twisted, hilarious, and glittering with lights. Santa’s Big Red Sack is non-stop sketch comedy, with music and technology bursting at the seams. It is irreverently witty with unforgettable characters. Your belly will turn to jelly. Your heart will dance. You’ll never experience the holidays the same way again.

DEC

WALDORF SCHOOL ON THE ROARING FORK THURSDAY, DEC 2: 5:00 – 8:00 PM SATURDAY, DEC 4: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

THE POWERS ART CENTER, CARBONDALE TUESDAY – FRIDAY: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM LAST SATURDAY/ MONTH: 11:00 AM 3:00 PM

WINTERFAIRE

Plan an adult-only night out on Thursday evening to attend the grand opening of the Little Acorn Shop, a festive holiday market with live music, Waldorf-inspired items, and local, handmade gifts. Masks are required at this indoor venue. (Find Little Acorn gift Bring the whole family on Saturday to the annual WSRF Winter festival. Winterfaire is re-imagined this year and fully outdoors, so dress warmly to enjoy a frosty day on the school's beautiful campus. Family crafts, food, and music. Plus shopping for all ages at the school's Little Acorn Shop.

When John Powers joined the Aspen Institute, he invited Andy Warhol to present his work there as part of the Aspen Center for Contemporary Art, an artists-in-residence program. Warhol became a frequent visitor to Colorado, enjoying the lively scene in Aspen and dinners in Carbondale with John and Kimiko Powers. This exhibit will highlight the unique relationship between the artist and the collector, representing Warhol’s classic works on paper as well as various unique pieces not previously shown at the Powers Art Center. The show will run through October 2022.

After-School Art

22 Sides & $13M in Sales for 2021 LD

ONGOING

WARHOL IN COLORADO

Having lived in the Roaring Fork Valley for 20 years, I know the area and have a pulse on the market. Call me today to get your home sold or if you are wanting help purchasing your next dream home.

WINTER 2022 Charles Andrade ~ Artist

Maria Wimmer

Luxury Property Specialist 970.274.0647 | maria@masonmorse.com www.mariawimmerhomes.com

Specializing in children’s murals and

LAZURE

Custom Wall Designs Ensouling your world with color

52 58

cbmasonmorse.com

www.lazure.com

970.309.5559

Learn more & sign up:

THECREATIVEFLOWSTUDIO.COM

DEC

GRAB & GO HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS AND TEENS

BASALT REGIONAL LIBRARY 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Holiday craft kits – with activities that can be scaled up or down depending on age. Spanish and English instructions. December 4: Holiday Ornament Bird Feeders December 11: Japanese Side-Sewn Books December 18: Beeswax Rolled Candles

Aspen RECREATION DEPARTMENT FITNESS CLASSES

There are a variety of Fitness Classes at the Red Brick Recreation and Aspen Recreation Center. Classes include BodyPump, Yoga, Spin, and HI2T. Reservations required.

PICKLEBALL

Stop by for some drop-in pickleball every weekend. Saturdays 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Aspen Elementary School Gym Drop-in Fee: $10

SWIMMING LESSONS

The ARC offers private and group swim lessons. Lessons are taught according to the American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim Program

POOL AMENITIES

AquaClimb - Try the new climbing wall in the pool. Children must be able to pass a swim test to use the climbing wall. Saturdays, 12:00 - 3:30 PM Kids can also enjoy the Lazy River, water slide, and family swim area.

PHOTO: Save the date for December 10, opening day of Sunlight Mountain Resort; and December 11, opening day of Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk. Both Snowmass Ski Area and Ajax open in November.

0861 MAROON CREEK ROAD, ASPEN (970) 544-4100 ASPENRECREATION.COM

CLIMBING TOWER

The Climbing Tower at the ARC is open Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. See the website for details. Climb the 32-foot climbing tower and ring the bell at the top.

PUBLIC SKATE

The Lewis Ice Arena at the ARC offers public skate – for kids and adults, from beginner to advanced skaters. See website for times. Rental skates are $3/day. Helmets strongly recommended.

SPRING YOUTH BASKETBALL

This program introduces the fundamentals of basketball environment.

PLAYHOUSE AT THE RED BRICK

The Playhouse at the Red Brick Gym is back. Fridays, 9:30 - 10:45 AM All participants must make a reservation to attend, as space is limited to 15 participants. $10 per child.

5359

DEC

CARBONDALE CLAY CENTER 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM TUES – SAT; CLOSED SUN AND MON.

LIONS PARK, BASALT 4:00 - 6:00 PM

KIDS-ONLY HOLIDAY SALE

holiday presents that they purchase with their own money. CCC artists and members donate a variety of pottery items, from plates and bowls, to vases, serving pieces, and ornaments – to be priced under $10. Send your kids in any time during business hours to shop the special section. Early shopping is encouraged, because the selection will sell out.

MERRY ON MIDLAND

A beloved annual family celebration. Watch the downtown Basalt Christmas tree come to life with holiday lights. The evening will include a visit from the North Pole – so, kids, bring your wish lists for Santa. You'll also enjoy s’mores, horsedrawn hay rides, carolers, chili, cookies, hot chocolate, and cider – all courtesy of the Basalt Lions Club. Visit The ArtBase to decorate an ornament. Retailers will stay open late with gift specials and treats.

Snowmass RECREATION DEPARTMENT SNOWMASS KIDS DAY CAMPS

Kids camps occur during Holiday and Spring breaks. Spots are limited, so register early. Activities include arts & crafts, climbing, gym and outdoor games, as well as swimming every day. These activities will all take place on site at the recreation center, utilizing its great amenities. 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Ages 5-10 $50 / day

60 54

MEMBERSHIPS AND PASSES

You don’t have to live in Snowmass Village to enjoy the facility. Options include youth and adult one-time daily visits, monthly, yearly, and 20-visit punch cards.

FREE OUTDOOR ICE RINK

The outdoor skating rink at the Snowmass Village Recreation Center will be open to the public, free, seven days a week throughout the winter – as soon as the ice freezes. Stay informed on the opening date through social media.

YOUTH BASKETBALL

2835 BRUSH CREEK ROAD, SNOWMASS VILLAGE (970) 922-2240 SNOWMASSRECREATION.COM

Winter youth basketball will continue in the New Year. Stay tuned to their website and social media for more information. This program will be one day per week and will focus on the fundamentals, rules, and skills of basketball. Ages 6-8

PRIVATE SWIMMING LESSONS

The Recreation Center offers yearround swim lessons for all ages and levels. Don’t let the weather deter you, the salt-water pools are heated and open all winter. If you are interested in signing up your children, or perhaps even yourself, catalog on the website.

DEC

HANDEL'S MESSIAH

WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION

An annual holiday tradition, among many that we missed last year due to COVID. This year, the performance of Handel's Messiah will also feature the world premiere of Gerald Cohen’s newly composed pieces for the concert.

Gather outdoors in the Peace Garden at True Nature. Festivities will begin with a short, welcoming ceremony. Enjoy a puppet show and walk through the spectacularly lit Peace Garden. The boutique will be open late, so you can shop consciously-selected household items, leather journals, jewelry, yoga clothing, essential oils, and books. Find warming and delicious holiday treats in the Center's organic cafe. The evening will culminate in a collaborative performance by Dance Initiative and CoMotion Dance Company.

ASPEN CHORAL SOCIETY 7:00 - 8:30 PM DEC 10: WHEELER OPERA HOUSE, ASPEN DEC 11: GRACE CHURCH, BASALT DEC 12: FIRST UNITED METHODIST, GWS

TRUE NATURE HEALING ARTS 6:00 PM

PHOTO:

Carbondale RECREATION DEPARTMENT YOUTH DODGEBALL

Keep your kids active after school by joining Dodgeball Derivatives. Explore many different ways to play the game of Dodgeball. Have your kids played Artillery, Standing? Wednesdays December 1, 8, 15 2:30 – 3:30 PM Ages 8-12

LETTERS TO SANTA

If you have been a good little boy or girl, let Santa know what you would like for Christmas. Write a letter or draw a picture and address it to Santa at the North Pole. Drop it off at Santa’s Mailbox at the Carbondale Recreation Center from December 1 - 20. Make sure to sign your name and address so Santa can write back.

ART FUN WITH LETEY

Carbondale Parks and Rec will be providing some ART FUN for kiddos. This program will be held inside the Carbondale Recreation and Community Center in the Activity Room. Please register only if your child can attend all classes in the session and can arrive on time. It is disruptive to a small art class if a child is late. Wednesdays December 1, 8, 15 2:00 – 4:00 PM Ages 7-12

567 COLORADO AVENUE, CARBONDALE (970) 510-1290 CARBONDALEREC.COM

TURKEY TROT

Thanksgiving Day Thursday, November 25 9:00 AM - Registration 9:30 AM - Race starts

LIGHT UP CARBONDALE FIRST FRIDAY

Friday, December 3 4:00 PM Downtown Carbondale Carolers, Santa parade, elf sitings, hot cocoa, and holiday cheer throughout Main Street.

5561

DEC

21 FEB 18 RETRO SKI FILMS JAN

ACES WINTER SOLSTICE HALLAM LAKE, ASPEN 4:00 - 7:00 PM

Celebrate the longest night of the year with Aspen Center for Environmental Studies. Hallam Lake. View an ice menagerie. Make a sustainable kids' craft. Find eco holiday gifts in the Isa Catto Studio pop-up shop. This is a free community event, but advance registration is required. Please be sure to dress warmly for playing in the snow. Bring your own mug for warming up with hot cocoa.

LIMELIGHT HOTEL, ASPEN THE COLLECTIVE, SNOWMASS VILLAGE 5:30 PM TUESDAYS, 1/11+2/15: ASPEN FRIDAYS, 1/21+ 2/18: SNOWMASS Aprés while you learn about the early days of skiing in the Valley. The Aspen Historical showcasing skiing’s illustrious past in the Aspen/Snowmass area. Spanning several decades, the visual histories bring retro skiing to life on the big screen.

Garfield County LIBRARIES WINTER READING CHALLENGE

Track your winter reading to earn great prizes and enjoy exciting events at your local library. Adults, teens, and children can register to County Library. Jan. 3 - Feb. 25

STORYTIMES

EXPANDING LIBRARY HOURS

WINTER CONCERT SERIES

New Castle Wednesdays, 10:30 AM

Starting on January 3, look for extended evening hours twice a week. Look forward to spring 2022, when all branches will open on Sundays.

NOCHE DE LOTERÍA

Glenwood Springs Tuesdays, 10:30 AM

Silt and Parachute Thursdays, 10:30 AM Thursdays, 10:30 AM En Español - Todos los Viernes 1:30 PM, New Castle

56 60

CARBONDALE, GLENWOOD SPRINGS, NEW CASTLE, SILT, RIFLE AND PARACHUTE (970) 625-4270 GCPLD.ORG

All 6 branches are now open Monday - Saturday at 10:00 AM.

ADULT LAPTOP CHECKOUT

Adults can now borrow a laptop and hotspot. They are now Library Branches. Patrons can check them out for up to 3 weeks.

Enjoy guitar soloists, Celtic music, and local choirs all winter long. Check the website or Facebook for dates, locations and times.

Cada primer y tercer jueves del mes 5:30 PM, New Castle Cada segundo y cuarto miercoles

JAN

FEB

JAN

"6 x 17" ART SHOW

ROCK & ROLL ACADEMY WINTER CONCERT

THE ASPEN CHAPEL GALLERY 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM MONDAY – FRIDAY

LOVE ROCKS STUDIO, WILLITS 3:00 PM

Artwork from area high school students is up for “adoption” at the Aspen Chapel Gallery. The show supports art departments at six local high schools with 17 works of art from each school. While the artwork is not technically for sale, pieces can be adopted for $25, raising funds for local arts education.

Rock & Roll Academy's youngest band right now is a co-ed group of fourth-graders working on going up through high school, are busy mastering the electric guitar, bass guitar, keyboards, drum set, and, of course, their vocal talents. One thing that makes RRARF different than other approaches to teaching music is that kids need no experience to start. They learn the art of rock-androll through a personal connection to songs they love. While concert space is limited to parentsonly due to COVID, anyone can live-stream this

JAN

AUDUBON SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE

The Roaring Fork Audubon society offers an opportunity for local youth to attend one of three 5-day sleep-away Birding Camps offered in June and July. The group's wish is to inspire the "Future of Conservation" by providing an entirely free experience for budding local birders. The overnight programs take place near Rocky Mountain National Park and offer traditional sleep-away camp activities along with a rigorous, but fun, naturalist focus. Ages 12-18.

Pitkin County LIBRARY 12 DAYS OF ASPEN

From December 20-31, the Pitkin County Library is hosting holiday crafts and activities in partnership with the Aspen Chamber Resort Association and other participating ACRA member organizations.

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME

Preschool story time happens every Wednesday in the Dunaway Community Room. Join in for stories, songs, and more. Wednesdays 11:00 - 11:30 AM

TODDLER STORY TIME

Join in every Wednesday morning in the Dunaway Community Room for lap-sit story time, featuring songs and movements to share with your child. Wednesdays 10:00 - 10:30 AM

120 NORTH MILL STREET, ASPEN (970) 429-1900 PITCOLIB.ORG

ASPEN SCIENCE CENTER'S FAMILY STEM

Hands-on STEM education fun for school-aged children and families. Every second Wednesday 3:30 - 4:30 PM

AFTER-SCHOOL WEDNESDAYS

A time to create and relax with a new activity every week. Crafts, science fun, and other projects for school-aged children every Wednesday. 3:30 - 4:30 PM

STORYWALK ASPEN

The bilingual StoryWalk® " Te Amo/I Love You" celebrates the love between a parent and child, told through rhymes by a host of animal characters. StoryWalk® is a fun, educational activity that places a children’s story (a deconstructed book, page by page) along a popular walking route in the community. Located on the Hunter Creek Trail off the Rio Grande Trail by ACES.

LAZURE CUSTOM WALL DESIGNS (970) 309-5559

Clients worldwide hire Charles Andrade for custom children's murals and decorative painting. Lazure technique, murals, faux painting services, commissioned

LET US INTRODUCE

HOMELIFE

(970) 379-3880 In Gella's 30-year career selling real estate for CBMM, she has earned countless friends and a trusted reputation, because she deeply understands the needs of buyers and sellers.

MAKE PLANS Here is our new print + digital forum for bringing our people together.

ALPINE BANK

We're here to entertain you, inform you, inspire you, and connect you with our people, your people.

We're all here together.

homebuyers purchasing a condo in Basalt, no transaction is too large or small for Maria.

(970) 925-8400

Sunbur plus de service your ca Winter size. Ge repair, o

specialized in the brokerage of premium residential property, commercial real estate, yachts, and aircraft. As a leading global service company, it currently operates in over 900 locations in more than 30 countries.

families of our community.

And yours.

(970) 274-0647 From listing 100-acre ranches

ENGEL VOLKERS

Our readers. And you, our advertisers, the people who invest in MP with a sincere wish to connect, engage, and serve the

role in this conversation.

MARIA WIMMER COLDWELL BANKER MASON MORSE

(800) 551-6098 Keep your money in a bank that reinvests in the community. Alpine Bank supports events, the arts, animal shelters, sports, with a particular focus on children and education.

Our people are you.

We're grateful for our

GABRIELLA SUTRO COLDWELL BANKER MASON MORSE

COREY CROCKER SLIFER, SMITH & FRAMPTON

MONICA VIALL THE AGENCY

(970) 445-7259 In addition to persistence and instincts, Corey has a deep understanding of the midValley housing market. Her loyal connections enable her

(970) 319-1119 Monica launched her real estate career in 2005, managing a

properties with success.

and seasoned investors.

with over $1 billion in sales and facilitating countless transactions.

CORNERSTONE HOME LENDING

(970) 704-6440

Cornerstone offers full-service mortgage banking. They carry a variety of mortgage options and home loan programs, along with competitive pricing from a wide range of national investors.

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illustrations: EL ANA ROYER Lilybart

ASPEN CHAPEL GALLERY

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SHOP LOCAL

MAKE PLANS. SUNLIGHT SKI & BIKE

(970) 945-9425 Short on kids winter gear? Sunlight Ski & Bike carries one of the best selections of youth and adult outdoor clothes and gear. Check it out for youth sized snow pants, skis, helmets, goggles, and everything else needed to play hard.

CARBONDALE CHAMBER

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(970) 963-1890 The Chamber not only helps local businesses thrive, it also hosts the year's most popular community events. Make plans to attend First Friday: Dec. 4 – Light Up Carbondale Jan. 7 – Family Skate Night Feb. 4 – Love is a Movement

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a action aria.

ROARING FORK VALLEY CO OP

SUNBURST CAR CARE

(970) 963-8800 Sunburst provides a car wash, plus detailing, quick lube, tire services, and packages to keep your car clean inside and out. Winter tires for every make and size. Get a seasonal changeover, repair, or rotation.

(970) 963-2220 One-stop-shopping for almost everything. From hunting supplies to stocking stuffers. Plus snow boots and clothing by Levi's, Ariat, and Carhartt for kids and adults. Ranch feed, pet food, propane, and gasoline.

LILYBART

(970) 518-0403 Mother-daughter creative team, Elana and Lily Royer launched this beloved line of paper art products to raise awareness of CF. Greeting cards, journals, calendars, stationery, wrapping paper, gift tags, notepads, and custom orders.

estate a

and actions.

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(970) 925-7184 A locals "secret" for 30+ years in the lower level of Aspen Chapel. This season, shop at the "Small Wonders" holiday show, featuring 32 Roaring Fork Valley artis Holiday Baskets Program.

ROARING FORK TRANSIT AUTHORITY

RJ PADDYWACKS

Here's how it works. Look by category to learn more about our people. Find sales, performances, and programming. Look for services. Find family businesses, schools, camps, and kids enrichment. In every seasonal print edition, you can learn something new about each of our partners. Save a date. See a snapshot.

Get to know your neighbors. More photos. More stories. Our advertisers can share an unlimited number of activities. They can introduce their team.

(970) 963-1700

(970) 925-8484 Kids 5 and under ride free and RFTA is now offering a new

supplies you need for cats, dogs,

ride for ages 6 -18. RFTA serves more than 100 stops between Aspen to Silt. Hop on the bus!

beloved pets. Highest quality pet food, ranch feed, treats, toys, brushes, collars, leads, beds, CBD supplements, and a dog washing station. Free Valleywide delivery.

They can simply

say Hello.

MOUNTAIN PARENT.COM

ASPEN RECREATION DEPARTMENT

CREATIVE FLOW STUDIO

(970) 963-5546 Small group classes and camps After-School for ages 7+. Classes are theme-based and seasonal, sparking imagination to create everything from pirate ships to fairies.

(970) 544-4100 The Aspen Rec Center (ARC) and the Red Brick Center offer incomparable amenities. Enjoy the leisure or lap pools, climbing wall, skating rink, or sledding hill. New this year, the AquaClimb wall.

ASPEN MUSIC FESTIVAL & SCHOOL

ACTIVITIES

CHALLENGE ASPEN

(970) 923-0578 Custom adaptive sports

(970) 925-9042 Year-round educational music programming in Roaring Fork Valley schools, plus After-School lessons, parent-child classes, and performances. Inspiring and training the next generation of classical music enthusiasts.

individual needs. Activities range from Winter skiing and snowboarding to Summer

ANDERSON RANCH

ASPEN SANTA FE BALLET

(970) 923-3181 Youth workshops and camps range from traditional artistic disciplines to technology, animation, robotics, and video. This winter, be sure to visit the Ranch's gift shop, The ArtWorks Store, for your holiday shopping.

CROWN MOUNTAIN PARK

(970) 963-6030 Check out the Valley's newest outdoor ice rink. The facility, all ice time, skills coaching, hockey equipment, and gear are provided at no cost to the community by hockey enthusiast Sheldon Wolitski.

(970) 925-7175 Ballet for children in Aspen, Carbondale, and Glenwood Springs. Plus 20 years fostering cultural diversity through the free and all-inclusive children’s Folklorico Dance Programs.

ASPEN HISTORICAL SOCIETY

DANCE INITIATIVE

(970) 544-4130 Located inside the Aspen Recreation Center. Offering free drop-in After-School and Winter Break programming for students in grade 4 and up. Nurturing environment, fun activities, and creative projects.

ASPEN CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES

(970) 925-5756 ACES offers Winter Break camps, working ranch tours at Rock Bottom Ranch, and adult naturalist classes. Look for upcoming birding classes at Hallam Lake – fun for parents, as well as older children .

The JA provide hours o youth m discipli develo suppor

(970) 510-1290 Two ice rinks: the Gus Darien Arena on Catherine Store Rd., and in downtown Carbondale at the 4th Street Plaza. Rent skates for kids and adults at the Carbondale Rec Center.

ASPEN YOUTH CENTER

(970) 963-0139 Kids experience hands-on learning about radio broadcasting while hosting shows on KDNK Carbondale Community Access Radio.

JAZZ

CARBONDALE RECREATION DEPARTMENT

(970) 925-3721 Explore the fascinating history of Aspen and its surrounding ranches and silver mines. Plus two ghost towns, two museums, guided tours, public archives, and special events for all ages.

ANDY ZANCA YOUTH EMPOWERMENT

A state climbin Sign up club / t party, f a privat Dad, an

(415) 200-7008 In-school creative dance for youth in grades K-8. Plus After-School programming. DI also commissions local choreographers, hosts a residence program, and offers workshops in all dance genres.

CARBONDALE CLAY CENTER

GARFI

(970) 963-2529 Offering hand-building and wheel-throwing classes for kids. Plus parent-child maker spaces, adult-only nighttime classes, and free community events. Visit the Artstream Gallery for one-of-a-kind gifts of functional art, open year-round.

Six com betwee Carbon progra parentenrichm ask abo and mu illustrations: EL ANA ROYER Lilybart

UDIO

PITKIN COUNTY LIBRARY (970) 429-1900

14 of our MONKEY HOUSE

YOUTH ZONE

(970) 340-4988

NONPROFIT PARTNERS

(970) 945-9300

December 7, 2021

ROCK AND ROLL ACADEMY

PARK

(970) 379-9685

WHEELER OPERA HOUSE

JAZZ ASPEN SNOWMASS

(970) 920-5770

(970) 920-4996

SNOWMASS PARKS & REC

(970) 922-2240

GARFIELD COUNTY LIBRARY (970) 945-5958

1. Andy Zanca Youth Empowerment Program 2. Ascendigo Autism Services 3. Aspen Center for Environmental Studies 4. Aspen Historical Society 5. Aspen Valley Hospital Foundation 6. Aspen Youth Center 7. Carbondale Arts 8. Carbondale Clay Center 9. Challenge Aspen; Challenge America 10. Habitat for Humanity; Roaring Fork 11. Valley View Hospital Foundation 12. Waldorf School on the Roaring Fork 13. Windwalkers Equine Assisted Therapy 14. Youth Zone

THEATRE ASPEN (970) 925-9313

page s: YER

ASCENDIGO AUTISM SERVICES

TRAILHEAD CLINICS

(970) 404-8700 A new membership-based, family medical clinic. As low as $99/month. Comprehensive care, providing families with everything from wellchild exams to chronic care, preventative support, and urgent care services.

(970) 927-3143 Nationally recognized program designed to help individuals with autism reach their full potential. Year-round adventure camps, winter ski school, life enrichment, and outreach programs for all ages.

ALL KIDS DENTAL

SCHOOLS

RED HILL ANIMAL HOSPITAL

(970) 928-9500 Pediatric dental + orthodontic specialists with locations in Glenwood Springs, Aspen, Rifle, and Eagle. They have tips and tricks for working with even the youngest patients, making kids feel comfortable in the dental chair.

ASPEN COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

(970) 704-0403 Seeing feline and canine patients, the practice offers an in-house lab and operating room. In addition to being a full-suite veterinary practice, Red Hill provides a boarding facility, grooming, and daycare.

ASPEN MEDICAL CARE

(970) 925-1909 Founded in 1969, the school drew inspiration from the Aspen Idea — the philosophy that true balance comes from cultivating mind, body, and spirit in a place of natural beauty and inspiration.

(970) 945-2583 The Western Slope’s largest provider of behavioral health services, with trained counselors for children and teens who face substance abuse, mental health, or behavioral challenges.

(970) 544-1250 A walk-in facility that is owned, operated and billed as an outpatient department of Aspen Valley Hospital. Open evenings and weekends, and walk-ins are welcome.

WALDORF SCHOOL ROARING FORK

(970) 945-6535 Roaring Fork Family Practice, Pediatric Partners , and Silt Family Practice. Serving infants to elderly, utilizing an extensive network of expert caregivers and specialists.

MINDSPRINGS HEALTH

AFTER HOURS MEDICAL CARE

ASPEN VALLEY HOSPITAL PRIMARY CARE

(970) 963-1960 Waldorf students learn to become compassionate, engaged, global citizens who trust and know themselves at the deepest levels. Call to plan a visit to the 13-acre eco-sustainable riverfront campus.

VALLEY VIEW HOSPITAL PRIMARY CARE

(970) 920-0104 Four full-time family physicians, including three pediatricians and a physician's assistant who provide full-spectrum medical care for every age, from newborns to grandparents.

WELLNESS

WINDWALKERS

(970) 963-2909 Equine-assisted therapy for youth and adults, offering independence and freedom in an environment conscious of challenges. From autismspectrum to ADHD in children; PTSD and addiction in adults.

(970) 279-4111 Comprehensive internal, family, and pediatric medicine services for adults, children, and infants. Focusing on health and wellness, disease management, and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses.

CARBONDALE FAMILY DENTAL

970) 963-1616 Cutting-edge laser technology work. Serving the whole family, beginning with infant care through adults, with preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry.

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CONVENIENT LOCATIONS ACROSS COLORADO

ASPEN VALLEY PRIMARY CARE ASPEN VALLEY HOSPITAL

We’ve got BIG news for the LITTLEST members of our COMMUNITY! Aspen Valley Primary Care is proud to welcome pediatrician Dr. Rahul Shah to our practice. Dr. Shah provides compassionate and friendly care for infants, children and adolescents in Aspen and Basalt. Your family’s wellbeing is at the heart of our comprehensive internal, family and pediatric medicine services. We focus on treating the whole child integrating behavioral health services, nutritional consults and more so that your child receives the right care at the right time. That’s something we can all celebrate!

Schedule your visit today, call 970.279.4111. Virtual visits are available. Se habla español.

More ways Aspen Valley Hospital cares for your whole family

ASPEN BIRTH CENTER

EAR, NOSE & THROAT CARE

REHABILITATION SERVICES

Offering in-person and virtual appointments.

Traumatic brain injury & concussion care; physical, occupational & speech therapy for adults & kids.

970.544.1460

970.544.1177

Dr. Heather Murphy & Where Families are Born Dr. Thomas Fissenden Schedule a pre-admission navigation or class today.

970.544.1130

aspenhospital.org |

AspenValleyHospital

AFTER-HOURS MEDICAL CARE Open evenings & weekends for urgent medical needs. Walk-ins welcome! Mon – Fri, 3 – 11 pm Sat & Sun, 8 am – 5 pm

970.544.1250