Breckenridge Magazine - Issue 5 2022/23

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BRECKENRIDGE

ISSUE 5 2022/23
WHAT IS YOUR PROBLEM?? WIND SLABS STORM SLABS LOOSE DRY LOOSE WET WET SLABS PERSISENT SLABS DEEP PERSISTENT SLABS CORNICE GLIDE CHECK THE CURRENT AVALANCHE CONDITIONS BEFORE HEADING INTO THE BACKCOUNTRY
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b e n c h w e a l t h . c o m Build your bench, leave your legacy Wealth Management Investment Strategy Retirement Planning Business Succession & Transfer Planning Estate Planning Fee-Based Financial Planning Trust Services Education Funding Silverthorne | Breckenridge | Aspen | Frisco | Denver Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) (life and disability Insurance annuities and life insurance wi long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries, including Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (investment brokerage services), a registered investm adviser broker-dealer and member of FINRA and SIPC and Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company® (NMWMC) (investment advisory and trust service federal savings bank NM and its subsidiaries are in Milwaukee, WI Steven M Moats uses BenchWealth as a marketing name for doing business as a representative of Northwestern Mutual BenchWealth is not a registered investmen adviser, broker-dealer, insurance agency or federal savings bank Steven M Moats is an Insurance Agent of NM Investment brokerage services provided as a Registe Representative of NMIS Investment advisory services provided as an Advisor of NMWMC C M Y CM MY CY CMY K

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This winter has started off nicely with snow, snow and more snow! Every year is different. More often than not it is a bit boney until close to Christmas. This year mother nature has blessed us with some lovely accumulations and it appears that it will continue right into the New Year and through the season.

All of us have been getting out and having fun in the white stuff. Our contributors Leigh and Carl were out the door and touring in October. They have been getting at it every day since. This is what our local community looks forward to and it’s not just the kids. There are plenty of long-time locals who are still out there getting at it. If you read last winter’s issue you would have learned about our ski areas founder’s, Trygve and Sigurd. Entering their ninth decade, they are still getting outside skiing and hiking.

Our feature article, Grands and Groms, is about some of Breckenridge’s amazing athletes; the young and upcoming athletes and other folks living their best lives, still getting at it on their ski’s, bikes and sneakers as they enter into their golden years. Old is not a term that I would use for any of them.

This publication is for both local residents as well as visitors. We provide area news and insights. We always highlight an Entrepreneur and great, Breck Made products. Nestled into these pages you will find articles on our restaurants, the art and music scene, recipes, activity ideas, thoughts on our community and tips to help keep it the wonderful place we call home.

If you are visiting, WELCOME! We are so glad you are here to experience the things we love. If you live here I hope you enjoy the stories our contributors have crafted. These folks know the area and the people who live here. They have great ideas to help make this magazine unique. Enjoy!

P.S. - Yes, that is me in High School. I have loved skiing for a very long time ; )

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publisher’s greeting
www brokencompassbrewing com
There’s
nothing better than
enjoying award-winning beers
with
friends. Come out for all our events, including trivia nights Tuesdays and Wednesdays, One Off releases every Wednesday, Comedy Nights and Monday Night Potlucks! Catch live music, including El Paso Lasso live at our Main Street Taproom the first Friday of every month, all winter long. See our full event schedule at www.brokencompassbrewing.com.
Get Lost with us!
CONTRIBUTORS KINGDOM NOTES FOX PHOTO ESSAY BRECK MADE NON-PROFIT NOOK BRECK ETIQUETTE ENTREPRENEURS SHOP FEATURE: GRANDS & GROMS ART HOMES & REALTY SOCIALLY SEEN DINE LOCAL COOK LOCAL THE SCOUT NEXT DOOR NEIGHBORS CALENDAR LAST LIFT 12 14 18 22 24 26 28 30 33 44 46 52 56 60 66 68 70 72 Cover Image: Breckenridge Foxes by: Elaine Collins 33 18 30 46 56 Contents 8 ISSUE 5 2022/23 | mountaintownbreckenridge.com
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published by MTN Town Media Productions publisher Holly Battista-Resignolo communications Gaynia Battista contributors Shauna Farnell, Liam Doran, Leigh Girvin, Carl Scofield, Alexandria Nicole, Robyn Nicoli, Holly Resignolo, Elaine Collins, Pepper Hamilton, Dori Welch advertising sales Noelle Resignolo visionaries Liam Doran, Carl Scofield, Elaine Collins, Chris Brower, Xavier Fane, Holly Resignolo design John Kernaghan cover image Breckenridge Fox - Elaine Collins method behind the means Publications Printers get more Please visit us at MountainTownBreckenridge.com to subscribe to our publication released two times per year. promote you Contact our corporate office or request a Media Kit: Email: MTNTownMagazine@gmail.com Office Phone: 970 485 0269 features If you would like us to consider you or your business for a feature, please contact us at 970 485 0269 or email us at mtntownmagazine@gmail.com 2022 MTN Town Magazine. All rights reserved. No portion may be duplicated, in whole or in part, without the written consent of its publishers. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. The publisher assumes no responsibility for accuracy of information or omissions from the material provided. MTN Town Magazine cannot be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services rendered by the advertisers published in this magazine. STAY IN TOUCH WITH BRECKENRIDGE ALL YEAR LONG BY SUBSCRIBING: 10 ISSUE 5 2022/23 | mountaintownbreckenridge.com NEVER MISS AN ISSUE!

LIAM DORAN

Liam is a full-time professional photographer specializing in action sports, landscape, wildlife, and travel. He shoots commercial and editorial assignments around the world but is always happy to be home in Breckenridge with his friends and family. Follow Liam’s adventures at @ liam_doran_outdoors

ALEXANDRIA NICOLE

Alexandria Nicole lives in Breckenridge, with her family, and operates Majestic Mountain Tile & Stone and her Property Management Company, Unforgettable Vacations LLC, while devoting time as the Founding Chairwoman of The Social Equity Advisory Commission and acting Facilitator of Colorado-based Solidarity Talks.

ROBYN NICOLI

Robyn lives at 9,600 feet elevation here in Breckenridge with her tasting team (aka husband David and teenage son Jacob). She is the chief recipe developer, photographer, writer, and burnt pan-washer for Butter and Air. Cooking is her creative outlet, and any skills she has developed come not from culinary school but from a lifetime of finding yummy-looking things in newspapers, magazines, restaurants, and the internet, and being curious enough to try making them at elevation in her home. butterandair.com`.

JOHN KERNAGHAN

Born in New York, raised in Pennsylvania, but always finding his home in the mountains, John came to Breckenridge in 2019 to chase his passion for snowboarding. John is now a freelance graphic designer and our Design Director. When the snow isn’t flying John can be found rock climbing on one of the many epic crags around Summit county or skateboarding at the Breckenridge Skatepark. You can follow his design work at jdk3design.com.

ELAINE COLLINS

Elaine is a part time professional photographer who enjoys takeing and share photos of beautiful Breckenridge, Summit County, and the world. She loves our community, the events, people and wildlife. We always see her around town and out on the trails.

Contributors 12 ISSUE 5 2022/23 | mountaintownbreckenridge.com

DORI WELCH

Dori was born and raised in Breckenridge, where she continues to create a life treasuring the outdoors with her family. A nurse since 2005, she works in various areas of the local hospital. As a champion of health, Dori has also branched into Board Certified Nurse Coaching to support people in their inherent wellness. Dori has a lifelong passion for writing within a variety of content and enjoys being a part of the Breckenridge mountain community.

CARL SCOFIELD

Carl Scofield lives in Breckenridge, CO where for over twenty-five years he has created a successful career as a full-time freelance photographer. His work has been published both nationally and internationally in many books and magazines including Ski, Skiing, Powder, Outside, Sunset, and many others. Balancing work and a lifestyle that allows him to enjoy his passion for living, travel, art, and adventure have been some of his greatest talents. carlscofield.com

SHAUNA FARNELL

A Colorado native, Shauna Farnell loves every self-powered means of mountain exploration. She launched her journalism career at the Summit Daily Newspaper in 2000 and after traveling the world as a media correspondent for the International Ski Federation, plus a few years in New York City and Denver, is thrilled to be back in Breckenridge full time.

ELLEN HOLLINSHEAD

A fixture in Breckenridge since 1985, Ellen along with her husband, local character, and town councilman Jeffrey Bergeron have found a way to spend almost every day on skis during the winter, which she defines as generously as possible. “I usually start skiing the minute the snow flies, about the start of October, and I’ll ski six days a week through mid-April.”

LEIGH GIRVIN

Leigh Girvin moved to Breckenridge with her family in the early 1970s when the streets were dirt and the rock piles left by dredge boat mining towered over town. As a child, she attended Breckenridge Elementary and graduated from Summit High School. Seeing dramatic changes over the decades, Leigh dedicated her adulthood to the protection of trails and open space, and later to historical preservation. Leigh’s particular interest is in Breckenridge’s modern history, from the economic decline of the early20th Century through resurgence as a ski town.

mountaintownbreckenridge.com | ISSUE 5 2022/23 13

B LIKE BRECKENRIDGE Winning Awards

Each year, Green Destinations, an internationally recognized nonprofit organization that supports sustainable destination development, collects stories of good practices from destinations around the world. These inspiring stories are evaluated and compiled into the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories list, sharing a catalog of best practices from destination management organizations on a global scale. Breckenridge’s B Like Breckenridge initiative, a responsible stewardship campaign aimed at informing and inspiring travelers as well as residents, was chosen as a Top 100 Story, recognizing the unique sustainable development challenges the community has faced.

The B Like Breckenridge information and marketing campaign addresses the challenges of educating guests on how to act with intention as it relates to the community, nature, and each other. The initiative is designed to educate visitors as well as community members, and invite them to ‘embrace the spirit’, while inspiring long-term stewardship for the community, the environment, and the natural world. The all-encompassing campaign shares tips around a variety of values-based topics, from reducing single-use plastics with refillable water bottles, encouraging visitors and residents to practice patience and kindness, educating trail users on the Care for Colorado Leave No Trace Principles and sharing best practices for respecting wildlife. The story “B Like Breckenridge” and the entire 2022 Top 100 list is available on the Green Destinations website.

“Breckenridge has always been at the forefront of environmental stewardship,” said Lucy Kay, Breckenridge Tourism Office CEO. “We are working diligently to help maintain harmony of quality of place for visitors and quality of life for residents. This is a very rapidly evolving dynamic and we are committed to providing the best experience for everyone involved. B Like Breckenridge is the most current extension of that commitment.”

In 2019, Breckenridge developed a Destination Management Plan, identifying a 10-year roadmap that supports long-term viability of the local economy, maintaining the community’s

authentic character, protecting the environment and improving the overall destination experience for both visitors and residents. By 2021, the travel industry had changed dramatically. While international travel was largely restricted, domestic visitors were rediscovering the outdoors, putting an increased pressure on nature-based experiences and destinations with ample access to the great outdoors. The Breckenridge Tourism Office developed the B Like Breckenridge responsible stewardship campaign in response to the increased interest in natural places and community concern around protecting the Breckenridgeexperience for future generations to enjoy.

Establishing Breckenridge at the leading edge of mountain environmental stewardship and sustainablepractices is an all-encompassing objective that speaks to this outdoor-centered community. Breckenridge has demonstrated a commitment to sustainability through an ever-evolving series of initiatives, including the SustainableBreck plan developed in 2011 and updated in 2022, the town’s Destination Management Plan, and the Mountain IDEAL certification awarded in 2021, which recognizes community collaborations and efforts to seek a balance between growth in sustainability.

In addition, at the annual Colorado Governor’s Tourism Conference, the Breckenridge Tourism Office won the Outstanding Sustainable Tourism Initiative Award for the B Like Breckenridge stewardship campaign. This award recognizes programs that promote responsible and sustainable tourism practices that reduce the impact on natural resources in Colorado.

“Breckenridge is pushing the envelope when it comes to sustainability,” said Jessica Burley, Sustainability Manager for the Town of Breckenridge. “From our forward-facing guest engagement to our aggressive community goals for carbon neutrality, we recognize it’s going to take all of us to get there. B Like Breckenridge is a vitally important component to our overall strategy. We hope the message resonates with our visitors and that they take pieces of it with them when they return home.”

www.townofbreckenridge.com

Kingdom Notes 14 ISSUE 5 2022/23 | mountaintownbreckenridge.com

Rips’ Ride Grand Opening

On Friday, Nov. 11, during Breckenridge Ski Resorts opening week celebrations the grand opening of the newly upgraded Rip’s Ride chairlift n Peak 8 was celebrated with a ceremonial ribbon cutting and first chair. 8 pairs of Oakley goggles were up for grabs for those who got first chair, as well as those lapping the lift within the first two hours of operation. Formerly a fixed-grip double chair, the new high-speed quad now provides skiers and riders with faster access to Peak 8’s primary beginner terrain, allowing more time spent on the snow, as well as easier and more convenient access to Peak 9. The chairlift was upgraded over the summer and fall in preparation for the upcoming winter season. Parts of the former Rip’s Ride chair were upcycled

and reused on the resort’s 6-Chair, an effort that helps towards goals of zero waste, while 85 of the former chairs were auctioned off to benefit the local community. The Rip’s Ride chair auction raised more than $100,000 in total, with $50,000 going to the Summit County Rescue Group, and the remainder of the proceeds being split between the Summit Foundation and the Epic Promise Foundation.

Congratulations to everyone, even you reading this right now. h elift is a great help to all skiers and riders regardless of their ability.

www.breckenridge.com

Snowstang Breckenridge

Heading to the city or coming up to Breckenridge? Let Snowstang do the driving for you! Snowstang runs every Saturday and Sunday from December 17 to May 7 (except December 25), with additional trips on MLK Jr. Day and President’s Day. Leave the Breckenridge Transit Center at 4pm and arrive in Denver’s Union Station by 6:30pm. Coming from Denver, LeaveDenver’s Union Station at 6am and arrive in Breckenridge by 8am.

www.ridebustang.com/snowstang-mountain-service/schedules/ breckenridge-schedule

The Speakeasy Theater is now The Eclipse Theater

This past fall Breck Film took over the Speakeasy Theater lease and renamed it The Eclipse Theater as a homage to our town’s first movie theater once located on Main Street in the early 1900’s. The Eclipse Theater reopened as the new permanent home of Breck Film for screenings and events as well as current blockbuster, indie, classic, foreign, and outdoor films year-

round. The 155-person theater has also improved on their offering with soda, popcorn, snacks and locally produced beverages from Broken Compass Brewing and Carboy Winery. The theater is currently open Wednesday-Monday, CLOSED on Tuesday. Check their website to see the lineup and head to 103 S. Harris Street, Breckenridge.

www.breckfilm.org/the-eclipse

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Building Hope Summit County + FIRC Prepare for their new HomeThe Sol Center at Alta Verde

Building Hope Summit County is a community-wide resource creating a more coordinated, effective and responsive mental health system promoting emotional health and improved access to care for everyone in Summit County while reducing mental health stigmas.

FIRC, the Family and Intercultural Resource Center works to strengthen local families through education and financial resources. Their belief is strong sustainable families are the key to a strong and healthy community.The organization provides housing, health and wellness, food and clothing as well as parenting support to anyone in our community who needs it.

Both of these organizations have been operating out of five different buildings in multiple towns. The Family & Intercultural Resource Center still plans to have a food market in Silverthorne to serve that side of the county, but the Breckenridge hub near a bus stop will help many clients who may have overlapping needs.

A new building for these essential organizations is coming to fruition in the new Alta Verde affordable rental housing project situated at the north end of Breckenridge. The new Sol Center at Alta Verde will be a 18,150-square-foot building containing office space for both nonprofits. The space will also house FIRC’s community food market and thrift store, as well as a meeting space for local partners.

What is the timeframe for the construction of the Sol Center at Alta Verde and what is the total cost?

The ground lease has been finalized with the Town of Breckenridge. We are on track to obtain final approval of building plans and all required building permits. Groundbreaking is expected in the Spring of 2023.

What is the total cost of this effort?

The total cost of this effort is approximately $11.9 million. This effort would not be possible without the generous in-kind donation of land and infrastructure from the Town of Breckenridge and in-kind services from Rockridge Building Company, Allen Guerra Architects, Jack Wolfe, Realtor, and Interiors by Design.

How will you meet your fundraising goal?

Fundraising efforts are underway and $3.8 million of in-kind donations have been received to date. Fundraising efforts include generous in-kind donations, individual cash donations, corporate gifts, special events, grant requests, and the sale of existing buildings.

How do the missions of Building Hope and FIRC align?

Building Hope, a Summit Foundation initiative, was housed at FIRC from 2017 to 2018 at which point it became an independent non-profit. FIRC and Building Hope continue to partner through shared funding streams, coordination of services, and collaboration toward a common goal of improved community mental health. Both entities have a clear understanding that food and housing insecurities have a huge influence on mental health and wellbeing. The ability to offer their services in conjunction improves client outcomes.

Sharing space at the Sol Center at Alta Verde will strengthen programming, improve efficiency, and provide a better allaround experience for clients, while promoting stability and improving systems for our overall community. Together, FIRC and Building Hope will increase coordination, collaboratively

problem-solve, streamline processes to address gaps in services, and share insights around emerging community needs.

How will the Sol Center at Alta Verde promote community collaboration?

FIRC and Building Hope will invite community partners into the space and offer their services. As trusted community organizations, clients will feel safe and welcome when they access services. By partnering with agencies and nonprofits at our facilities, we will increase access to other key resources, such as child health screenings, dental care, and therapy, just to name a few.

What services or resources will be offered at the Sol Center at Alta Verde?

FIRC and Building Hope strengthen the workforce through access to food, economic, and medical assistance, housing advocacy and education, as well as parenting and mental health support. There will be a free food market and thrift store in the building. While Building Hope will occasionally host social connection events at the Sol Center at Alta Verde, they will continue to be offered throughout the county. Additionally, open space within the building will be designated for therapists to offer their services when that best serves the client.

What else will happen on that parcel of town-owned land?

The Sol Center at Alta Verde site is adjacent to the Alta Verde Workforce Housing Project. This housing project will include over 250 new rental units with a portion of the units having income caps ranging between 50 to 100% AMI.

Will there be access to a Food Market on the Northside of the county?

Yes, FIRC is partnering with the Town of Silverthorne to find a space for a Food Market on the county’s north side. The building housing the current Dillon Food Market will be sold.

www.buildinghopesummit.org www.summitfirc.org

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Colorado Mountain College Corner

Answering Needs

Imagine attending college in Breckenridge, where it’s possible to ski and ride during the winter in an awe-inspiring mountain setting and earn a degree or certificate from dozens of academic programs. Welcome to Colorado Mountain College’s Breckenridge campus.

In mid-January, spring semester begins at CMC Breck. Located just off Highway 9, the Breckenridge campus offers students a choice of over 45 academic programs including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees and certificates. Fitting of Breckenridge’s snow-filled terrain, avalanche education and rescue classes teach the necessities of winter recreation and travel.

The CMC Culinary Institute is known as the alma mater of top chefs – Matt Vawter of Breckenridge’s highly rated Rootstalk earned his degree here – so it’s no surprise the campus’s extremely popular non-credit community cooking classes focus on a wide range of international cooking techniques. Classes fill up fast.

CMC’s Breckenridge campus is one of 11 mountain town campuses that make up Colorado Mountain College’s vast 12,000-square-mile network. In addition to Breckenridge and a nearby location in Dillon, the college has campuses in Steamboat Springs, Vail Valley at Edwards, Leadville, Salida, Aspen, Carbondale, Spring Valley at Glenwood Springs, Glenwood Springs and Rifle.

During 2023, two construction projects will finish up by the summer at the campus. First is an addition for the college’s growing nursing and wilderness emergency services programs. CMC Breckenridge is joining campuses in Steamboat Springs and Spring Valley in building nursing simulation labs, which replicate a hospital setting and utilize state-of-the-art mannequins that replicate actual medical conditions nursing students will encounter in real situations. And backcountry guides, ski patrol and search and rescue professionals can learn emergency procedures in a hands-on setting.

Secondly, the Breckenridge campus, along with CMC campuses in Steamboat Springs, Vail Valley and Spring Valley is constructing what the college calls “attainable” housing for its students. With the high cost of housing a critical concern nationwide and significantly in Colorado’s mountain areas, the college is building four apartment-style buildings. Breckenridge’s 38 units of studio and two-bedrooms will join existing student housing and ease some of the financial challenges for students. Want to know more? Go to www.coloradomtn.edu.

THE SCHLEGEL & HART REAL ESTATE TEAM JIM SCHLEGEL & MICHELE HART 970.389.3582 | 970.376.7799 micheleandjim@slifersummit.com JimSchlegel.com | MicheleHartRealEstate.com
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Foxes of Breckenridge

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Wildlife in Breckenridge is profuse. Creatures big and small also make their homes here. You will see Moose, Racoons, Hawks and Eagles, Ravens, Chipmunks, Deer and Elk, and other furry friends

One of our cutest residents is the Fox. They are not shy and are often seen cruising our neighborhoods to search for their next door or teasing a dog stuck inside.

Elaine Collins has been photographing her neighborhood foxes for a long time. We thought you might enjoy some of her images captured last winter here in town.

Elaine and all of us here at Mountain Town Breckenridge would like to ask people to stop feeding the foxes, it is not good for them. Our Wildlife is best observed with binoculars or long-range photos lenses.

Breck Made

Ambika Herbals

Get skin savvy with these specially formulated face and body slaves, butter and oils.The small herbal apothecary is owned by Erica Ragusa, a certified herbalist, licensed massage therapist, & yoga instructor. She formulates and manufactures each product in-house using local and sustainably sourced natural ingredients. Broad Spectrum Hemp Extracts, Virgin Organic Oils, Regionally Grown Herbs all crafted under a waxing moon for extra special to enhance its cosmic energy.

Located on the Breck Create campus: 125 Ridge Street Alley Breckenridge, CO

www.ambikaherbals.com

Breck Coffee Roasters

The freshest roast around can be purchased at the World’s Highest Coffee Roaster, Breck Coffee Roasters. Not only is not it a great place to grab a cup of Joe and a bite to eat, Breck Coffee Roasters has their high altitude beans roasted and ready for you to take home. Enjoy the essence of Breckenrodge in every cup of coffee.

Check out their collaboration with the Breckenridge Distillery. Breck Coffee Roasters specialty coffee beans, sustainably sourced from Peru are carefully selected for a creamy, chocolatey, nutty flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the Breck Distillery’s Rum barrels. To achieve optimum flavor, the beans are aged in Rum barrels for one week before we finish by roasting them here, high in the Colorado Rockies.

118 South Ridge Street #7 Breckenridge, Colorado 80424 970.453.3938

www.breckenridgecoffeeroasters.com

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Glade Optics

Curt Nichols of Breckenridge is building premium ski goggles, helmets, and sunglasses from their headquarters in Breckenridge, Colorado. Curt built Glade to shift the outdoor industry status-quo and return to a time when mountain businesses were built, and run, by mountain people (like us). With a reasonable price tag you will find high quality and durability wrapped up in many stylish selections to keep your eyes and head protected.

Find them online www.shopglade.com

The Frosted Flamingo

The Frosted Flamingo is a mobile art studio that offers a variety of unique DIY craft projects. Order kits online to be delivered to your home, or attend one of their many public events, and make a project with the guidance of the Frosted Flamingo’s creative staff! Hosting a private event? They will come to you with projects ideas for everyone; from corporate groups, wedding or bachelorette parties, baby showers, birthday parties or community programs. Weather dependent, they can operate inside or outside.

Getting married? The Bridal Bird is a branch of The Frosted Flamingo, specializing in weddings, and work closely with customers to produce exceptional events and beautiful, handcrafted products.

www. frostedflamingo.com

mountaintownbreckenridge.com | ISSUE 5 2022/23 23

The Summit Foundation - A Q&A with Executive Director Jeanne Bistranin

Q: What is the name and mission of your nonprofit?

A: The Summit Foundation is the local community foundation serving Summit County and our neighboring communities. Our mission is: We enrich and improve the lives of the people and communities we serve.

What is the Inspiration behind your nonprofit?

The Summit Foundation was founded almost 40 years ago to provide overall support for the community and our local residents, and to ensure that there is a long-term effort to support the community for generations to come.

How is your nonprofit primarily funded and what are your greatest needs?

Our revenue comes from several sources: the VIP ski medallions provided to the Foundation by our local ski areas (A-Basin, Copper Mountain, Breckenridge, and Keystone) and purchased by generous donors, direct donations from almost 4,000 people, and special event revenue.

The greatest needs in our community are around our high cost of living and helping working families who are the backbone of our community and the tourism economy.

What is the difference or advantage of supporting a community foundation vs. direct support of the local nonprofits in the area?

We encourage people to do both! By supporting The Summit Foundation, you support a wide variety of causes (human services, mental health, youth, education, arts, environment, and more), as well as college and post-secondary scholarships for local students, and critical community issues. The Summit Foundation has a real pulse on the community needs, and you can be assured that your donation to the Foundation will go to support the entire community. If you are interested in a specific issue, we encourage you to donate directly to a local nonprofit for that issue. We are always happy to help people with information regarding their philanthropy and community support.

What types of fundraisers and programs does The Summit Foundation Run?

The Summit Foundation provides grants to over 90 local nonprofits, offers significant college and post-secondary scholarships to deserving local students, and leads Special Initiative projects to

help tackle tough community issues.

In addition to providing grants to our community partners, we also offer technical assistance for them such as access to Executive Volunteers who are experts in their field and are willing to provide free assistance in areas such as strategic planning, marketing, executive coaching, financials, or other resources.

The Summit Foundation also brings smart people together to tackle tough community issues. We have been successful with Special Initiative projects around issues such as community-wide mental health access and affordability, financial and academic resources for first generation college students, and long-term housing for locals.

We are currently leading a community effort addressing the short- and long-term gaps in afterschool care for working families to make sure that children can have affordable and easy access to high quality afterschool academic and enrichment programs, especially for parents who are working and don’t have the flexibility to leave their job during the day.

The Summit Foundation also hosts over 70 Donor Advised Funds for families and businesses who want to make a local impact through their philanthropy, with the Foundation providing information on local needs and other philanthropic advice for donors. The Foundation also has over 25 Scholarship Funds for those who want to provide scholarships and assistance for promising local students to help them reach their dreams.

What is one best kept secret or fun fact about your nonprofit that not everyone knows?

Last year we sold over 11,000 rubber duckies during our Great Rubber Duck Race fundraiser over Labor Day weekend! The duckies raced their way down the Blue River to the finish line in Breckenridge where they were collected, and prizes donated by local businesses were given to the winners. The duckies are now in a secret place where they are busy training for next year’s race.

Can you share one or two stories of individuals whose lives have been changed because of your organization?

We have many stories of scholarship recipients whose lives have been changed through our support. One such story is of a young teen who left an unstable family situation in the Midwest who were addicted to methamphetamine. She came to Summit County to live with her aunt,

but unfortunately that did not work out well either. The high school teen ended up homeless and sleeping on a friend’s couch while working and going to high school. She was determined to make a life for herself, working the night shift at Wendy’s to save money for college and going to high school during the day. With her hard work, determination, and financial support from The Summit Foundation and a generous donor, she went to college in Colorado, graduated with honors, and is now a nurse.

Another story is a woman who was a dentist in Mexico but had to flee her home for safety reasons. In the United States, she is required to go to dental school again. She was accepted to dental school in Colorado through a very competitive process but still had to find a way to pay for the very expensive education. Through the assistance of The Summit Foundation and several generous donors, she is now able to attend school and is on track for graduation. She plans on being a bilingual dentist in Summit County once her US education is complete.

Can you tell us one short-term goal AND one long-term goal that your nonprofit has for the next year?

A big goal for The Summit Foundation is preserving the long-standing tradition and key community value of giving back and caring for each other. As new people move into the community, we have an effort to reach out to them and encourage them to “Give Like a Local.” We connect them with volunteer opportunities, help them to get involved with a cause that matches their interests, and make sure they know of community events and efforts so they can attend and become active. We also give them a bottle of “Soul of the Summit” wine that Carboy Winery made for the Foundation to welcome people to the community, a Summit County twist on the old Welcome Wagon theme.

The Summit Foundation has long supported scholarships for promising local students, and that support continues to grow thanks to our generous donors. In the near future, we are looking at ways that we can elevate post-secondary Career Tech options such as welding, construction management, electrician and other trades. This effort will be in conjunction with the high school to help fill the shortages of workers while offering an honorable and well-paying career for students who prefer a hands-on approach to education. www.summitfoundation.org

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Non-Profit
mountaintownbreckenridge.com | ISSUE 5 2022/23 25 TO SPEAK WITH A MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL 24/7 CALL 911 AND REQUEST THE SUMMIT COUNTY SHERIFF S OFFICE SMART TEAM CONTACT A THERAPIST TALK TO A SUPPORTIVE PEER OR TEXT 970 989 9634 FOR EMERGENCY MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS NEED HELP NAVIGATING MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES? I NEED MEDICATION FOR MENTAL HEALTH VIS T HTTPS://WWW SUMMITFIRC ORG /EN/HEALTH-WELLNESS/ 970 262 3888 VIS T BUILD NGHOPESUMM T ORG / FIND A THERAP ST SUMM T COMMUNITY CARE CLIN C 970 668 4040 MIND SPRINGS HEALTH 970 668 3478 CALL COLORADO CRISIS FOR NON-EMERGENCY SERVICES 1 844 493 8255/ TEXT "TALK" to 38255 GET HELP NOW 970.485.6271 option 2 (SYSTEM-WIDE MENTAL ASSESSMENT RESPONSE TEAM) WWW BU LD NGHOPESUMMIT ORG YOU ARE NOT ALONE CONNECTION RESOURCES At Grand Elk Golf Community

Empathy Works For Our Busy Town

I first cross country skied in the mid-eighties when knee high gaiters and wooden skis were cool. The husband started ten years earlier and brags about the good old days when he would Nordic ski from his cabin in Blue River and glide on soft trails down to Breckenridge – a route that today is mostly trophy homes. I feel so lucky to have lived in my ski town when even on weekends you could easily find fresh powder turns or soft nordic tracks in perfect condition. Dog poop bag dispensers had not been invented. We said hello to everyone on the trail. No one backcountry skied other than on Bald Mountain. Midweek at the ski area was empty, probably because social media didn’t exist. Those were our glory days, before iPhones and the internet, full parking lots and tracked out slopes.

Our beautiful town has gotten crowded. “Breckenridge isn’t like it used to be.” A comment I read often and in response it brings out my defensive side: “Yep, it has changed but it is still an amazing place to live and ski. I love it here.” Of course, like so many other tourist towns it has grown, and too many people, especially on our winter trails, has changed the experience.

What’s saved me from becoming another grumpy old curmudgeon is something my friendly Better Half has taught me: Empathy - the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. These days, whenever those negative thoughts enter my head, I try to put myself into the shoes of someone else and try to understand why.

Let’s start with the dog poop bags on our nordic trails. A few minutes from home is the B and B ski trail which is also popular with dog owners, and so skiing by the occasional discarded poop bag does get a little old. But then I try to put myself in the shoes (or ski boots) of the failed poop baggers. And when you try to be empathetic and think that if someone actually goes to the trouble to scoop the stinky poop into a plastic bag, I doubt their intentions are to leave it there. Why bother putting it into a bag? I think they just forgot to pick it up on their way back down. And I try to remind myself, that for every one I saw, ten others did pick theirs up and dispose of it in the handy garbage cans the Town of Breckenridge has so graciously provided.

Probably my most challenging issue that has found some relief due to my ‘new found’ empathy, is when folks walk (or bike or snowshoe) on soft ski tracks, especially on a wide trail where there is enough room to make a separate track. This never used to be a problem, but there are more people here now. For Nordic skiing, deep footprints or a fat bike’s rut on a ski track diminishes the experience since your skis can’t get a grip, and it makes that wonderful feeling of gliding much more

elusive. But when you try to understand why non-skiers do this, it is most likely that they just don’t even know it’s a problem. I had one snowshoer say he was helping me out! (So sweet.)

Plenty of other examples where empathy has worked – People who listen to music without their headphones? Could it be someone with a hearing problem or who doesn’t plan on seeing others out on the trails. People who don’t say hello or make eye contact on the trails like we locals do? It is more an element of shyness than snobbery. People who hike up the center of an untouched powder slope which you wanted to ski down? They may not realize or think that someone might want to ski there. It’s taken me years to learn that it doesn’t do any good to get angry. Instead, I try, sometimes unsuccessfully, to focus on forgiveness and empathy. I think we all need to walk a mile in each other’s shoes...snowshoes...ski boots... bike shoes...snowboard boots...and try to be respectful of others. Let’s do this!

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mountaintownbreckenridge.com | ISSUE 5 2022/23 Scott & Anne Lindblom Luxury and Mountain Property Specialists Scott M. Lindblom C: 970-485-4065 E: scott.lindblom@cbmp.com Anne V. Lindblom C: 608-345-2734 E: anne.lindblom@cbmp.com LindblomGroupe.com LIVE THE MOUNTAIN LIFE

Meet the Former Firefighter Behind the Ever Growing RMU

Growing up in Castle Rock, Mike Waesche originally moved to Summit County to be a firefighter... and to ski.

“I saw it as a great way to continue that ski dream, two days on, four days off,” says Waesche, who worked for Summit Fire from 2007 to 2015.

Then he and a few buddies started building their own skis. They tinkered in a garage, taking their prototypes out on the hill to self-test.

“We weren’t trying to be a ski company,” Waesche says. “We were just building skis in a garage that was slightly underground. We didn’t even have a name.”

As it turned out, they knew what they were doing. It didn’t take long to make a name for themselves. Somebody dubbed the operation RMU – Rocky Mountain Underground. Word spread. Waesche opened his garage and warehouse space in 2009.

“We built 30 pairs of skis our first year. That’s not a company by any means. It’s wild to think about how tiny it was,” he says.

As its name and reputation grew, RMU opened its shop on Main Street in 2011. By 2016, the shop was selling skis, backpacks and apparel. It also doubled as a bar, featuring live music on select days. In 2020, RMU opened a second location in Whistler, B.C. and last year, another in Truckee, Calif.

“Even from the garage days, it was always this great culture we were creating, the community piece around ski building,” Waesche says. “It was always a group of friends drinking beer, making skis, trying things out.”

Stop by RMU any afternoon and you’ll find the place jam-packed inside and out with people and

dogs. The company now makes 2,000 skis a year, sold at REI and distributed throughout the world.

Breck’s RMU is in the process of growing, too. It will expand to three floors, the downstairs operating as the bar, the second floor as a tune shop for boards in the winter and bikes in the summer. There will also be a rooftop patio. The new RMU is scheduled to open this February.

Looking back, Waesche never envisioned his garage tinkering would transform into a small, cross-border ski shop empire. But again. It’s not about the skis.

“Skis and products are a piece of it, but the most important part of the company is the culture side,” he says. “Mountain culture is something we need to protect. Breck does such a good job with the Ullr Parade, other events celebrating ski and mountain culture. We are doing our best to maintain that culture, too.”

Although Waesche splits his time between RMU’s three locations and is raising a young daughter (Remy Ray, going on 2 years old), he makes a point to personally appreciate and practice mountain culture every time he’s home in Breck.

“A day starts with an early morning tour, going for a quick ski with the dog up Baldy or Boreas. Then back in the office, work til 1 or so and try to sneak out for another ski on the resort,” he says. “Then I love cruising to the shop, grabbing an apres beer, hanging out, listening to live music. That’s a typical day. A great day.”

114 S Main Street Breckenridge, CO www.mtnculture.com/pages/rmu-breckenridge

The ski company and social haunt is all about celebrating mountain culture.
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Breckenridge Outfitters is an Orvis endorsed full service fly fishing pro shop and outfitter located in beautiful downtown Breckenridge Colorado. We offer numerous guide trip options 365 days a year. Whether you are a world class angler or just wanting to learn, we offer a wonderful experience and is a great activity for the entire family.

101 N.Main Street #B Breckenridge, CO 970-453-4135 wwwbreckenridgeoutfitters.com

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MTNAXE.com Massage Facials Body Treatments Tanning Waxing Tinting Laser Hair Removal Injectables HydraFacial Spa Packages Retail Products 224 South Main Street Breckenridge, CO 80424 970-453-7676 Open 7 Days a Week www.bluesagespa.com Two Words Me Time

When most people think of Breckenridge, CO they think of world-class skiing, snowboarding, amazing hiking and biking trails, but all of these activities only scratch the surface of the wonder that is Breckenridge. Breckenridge is a small mountain town that only spans the length of 7 miles with 5,024 residents, but contains the larger than life affinity for delicious foods, slow roasted artisanal coffee beans, and chic boutiques.

When walking the streets of Breckenridge, day or night, you are guaranteed to be captivated by the beautiful panoramic mountain views, no matter the season, but when you take a moment from looking up, you’ll come to appreciate what the street level has to offer too. What you’ll end up finding is something for everyone to enjoy, from tasty treats to fabulous fashions.

We all love that feeling of just taking our mind off things and experiencing that gratifying moment of immediately taking home that perfect new piece to be added to our wardrobe. The joy of finally finding that flat rimmed hat in the color you’ve been looking for or that jacket that perfectly matches your shoes is such a wonderful aspect of the shopping experience.

If you’re a woman that loves fashion-forward, on trend clothes, and footwear the perfect place to find what you want is Beloved on Main Street. When walking into Beloved you’ll instantly notice the spacious open floor plan, with large windows, that allows the natural lighting to showcase the apparel’s quality. In addition to Beloved’s gorgeous clothes, and lovely store aesthetic, the gracious owner, Mindy, and staff manage to enhance their already amazing shopping experience with their hospitable treatment of all who visit. Make sure to pop in and shop at Beloved, located at 115 S Main St, Breckenridge, CO 80424.

For the men, that are fans of affordable and functional mountain apparel Shirts & Ernie’s is the place for you. With abundant

options for comfortable hoodies, cleverly humorous graphic tees, and headwear they also pride themselves in obtaining their products ethically. There promise to customers being “We have partnered with manufacturers that practice fair labor standards and a focus on sustainability throughout out supply chain. From loom to sale, we are global citizens. That’s our commitment!” Truly a place every Dad will enjoy at 311 S Main St, Breckenridge, CO 80424.

Lastly, but certainly not least, we have the Bluebird Kids Clothing Co. known as the family owned and operated, onestop destination for kids’ clothing, outerwear, and accessories. At this adorable boutique you’ll find your apparel needs met for a wide range of children sizes, catering to ages from 3 months to 16 years old. This nicely laid out space, features name brand apparel such as Burton and Roxy, with a few cool bonus trinkets like mineral science kits. This conveniently located shop is only a few steps from an ice cream and cookie shop that proves to be the makings for a wonderful shopping experience with the kiddos. To check out Bluebird Kids Clothing Co. go to 132 S Main St, Breckenridge, CO 80424.

So when you’re enjoying beautiful Breckenridge for all of the outdoor wonder, make sure to appreciate the indoor wonders as well.

www.shopbreck.com

TAKE THE SHOPPING TRAIL RIGHT DOWN MAIN STREET AND UP TO RIDGE STREET
Shopping 30 ISSUE 5 2022/23 | mountaintownbreckenridge.com
mountaintownbreckenridge.com | ISSUE 5 2022/23 31 PARADISE Has an Address! MTN METRO REAL ESTATE KATHY CHRISTINA BROKER/OWNER 970-389-1321 www.mtnmetro.com 411 S. Main Street, Breckenridge
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mountaintownbreckenridge.com | ISSUE 3 2021/22 33

Working hard for a mountain top view, Nikki LaRochelle is still in awe of every Breck sunrise

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Hours before the chairlifts start turning, Nikki LaRochelle has already done a few laps. If she’s training for a competition, there’s a chance she’s climbed and descended 10,000 vertical feet before most people have had breakfast. The 38-yearold Breckenridge local never thought that uphill racing would be her forte, but she’s won numerous ski competitions in which gravity was, for the most part, not on her side.

“In the ski mountaineering world, I’d say my weakest link is the climbing,” she says. “I think I’m better at all the other parts of it – the transitions, the downhill. Those are more my strong suit. But certainly, speaking to my former self, I have made a great deal of improvement in my climbing.”

Growing up in Grand Junction, LaRochelle made regular ski trips to Breckenridge with her parents. Her father, town planner Bob Arcieri, moved to Breckenridge in 1970 and along with architect Jon Gunson, played a major role in designing Main Street and the landscapes around town. Although he and his wife, Deb Finley, moved back to Grand Junction in 1982 before having their son and daughter, they continued visiting Breck. LaRochelle, who moved to Seattle for a couple of years after graduating from Colorado State University with a degree in graphic design and art history, always viewed Breckenridge as her happy place. She moved here full time in 2008.

Although she played soccer in high school and advanced her skiing skills to the point that she could do a back flip and a series of other tricks in the terrain park, LaRochelle didn’t realize her true athletic potential until she moved to Breckenridge. However, when it came to cardiovascular endeavors, she claims the learning curve was a slow burn.

“Brad, my now husband, introduced me to mountain biking, Nordic skiing, ski touring,” she says. “I think I have some athletic ability, but those things took me so long to get good at. I remember being at the base of Carter Park on a mountain bike, not understanding gearing or cadence. I remember thinking it was physically impossible to bike up Carter Park. It felt so unattainable. When I started out doing the trail races, it was like, who are these people?”

Ask any local who competes in endurance sports and they will tell you that LaRochelle is now, without a doubt, one of “those people.”

She started competing in ski mountaineering races (skimo, as it is popularly known) in 2012 and joined the US National Team in 2017. She won the grueling Power of Four skimo race in Aspen two years in a row (2018 and 2019), competed internationally and most recently, notched the Grand Traverse Triple Crown title, winning the co-ed team category of the skimo race from Aspen to Crested Butte last April with her husband (they were fourth overall) and won the crown with top results in the event’s mountain bike and trail running races last September. She’s also competed in a handful of 100- and 50-mile trail running races, landing on the podium in the High Lonesome 100, a rugged race in the Sawatch Mountains that gains 23,500 feet of elevation.

“In the biggest picture, I was not a gifted athlete. I never was,” LaRochelle says. “It’s by sheer will and hard work that I’ve made any progress whatsoever, which I hope is inspiring to people. Any accomplishments I’ve achieved have just come from work and dedication and not gifted ability.”

Most people would argue that LaRochelle has plenty of gifted abilities and not just in the realm of physical endurance. A mother of two girls (Teagan, 1, and Penny, 7), LaRochelle is a talented graphic artist who has designed posters and signs for high-profile clients, including the Town of Breckenridge. Those amusing cartoon signs you see out on the singletrack (“slow your roll,” “nobody cares about your Strava,” etc.) are her handiwork. She’s also on the Breckenridge Open Space and Trail committee, teaches the Breck Ski Patrol winter conditioning class every fall and coaches endurance athletes.

With skimo scheduled to make its inaugural Olympic appearance in the 2026 Games, LaRochelle hopes for the chance to coach an aspiring high school athlete to the big stage.

“That would be the ultimate dream,” she says.

Like many community members, she’s concerned that Breck is becoming too expensive for locals. Still, the skimo champ never goes a day without feeling a deep sense of gratitude for where she lives.

“I just hope it’s still livable for these kids who grow up here and want to stay here,” she says. “It is an incredible place. Every time I see the sunrise or the sunset, I’m like, what? I live here.”

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Rick “Pup” Ascher is even more colorful than his Glide Shop

Most long-time locals relish the short summers here at 9,600 feet. Rick Ascher can’t wait until the snow flies.

The 61-year-old known as “Pup” is the owner of Pup’s Glide Shop, the historic, pinkpainted, Christmas light-adorned cabin in the middle of town.

For the 43 years Ascher has lived in Breckenridge, the long winter never gets old. In fact, every summer he starts counting down the days until it rolls around again.

“Right after the summer solstice in June, I call my friends and say, the days are getting short-er. Winter is com-ing,” Ascher sings. “If you ask me, summers here are too long. Bring on the snow.”

Growing up in Minnesota and racing on his high school ski team, Ascher started watching downhill skiing on TV. That’s when his Rocky Mountain powder visions began.

“When I was in 9th grade, I wrote a paper about what I wanted to do with my life,” he recalls. “I said I wanted to own a ski shop.”

He moved to Breckenridge with friends in 1979 at age 18, working in former sports shops (Norway Haus and Maverick). He met his wife, Annie Evans, as a teenager. She launched the Main Street accessory hub Joy of Sox 37 years ago. Ascher, after servicing skis for decades, purchased the Glide Shop in 2004.

“I really enjoy it, the craftsmanship of doing this,” Ascher says. “My dad was a craftsman with a woodshop who had all kinds of different tools. I learned a lot of my craftsmanship from my father. And my humor from my mother.”

When the first storm hits in October, you’ll find Ascher at the Glide Shop, fiercely and meticulously tuning skis and boards and mounting bindings. Surrounding the work area inside the one-room cabin, every inch is covered with relics, including a corner of the ceiling he calls “the dead man’s wall,” containing old skis of friends passed.

“Every ski has a story,” he says.

Ascher’s home, a couple of blocks away on Harris St., dates back to 1885. It is similarly adorned with heirlooms, including the horned crowns from when he and his wife were named Ullr king and queen and a box containing every ski pass the family has ever owned. The couple’s son and daughter are in their 20s and have moved to other ski towns – Levi to Bozeman, Montana and Geneva to Bellingham, Wash., near Mt. Baker.

Follow Ascher through town for 15 minutes on an off-season afternoon and you’ll hear nothing but jokes and insider banter with every fellow local he encounters.

“He just loves his sense of community and being part of something,” his wife says. “He’s all about keeping that old school vibe going.”

In addition to Ullr King, Ascher was also named Town Fool at Breck’s millennium celebration. He played hockey and coached his son’s Mini Mite team for 15 years.

He’s organized local golf tournaments, judged the legendary (now gone) Bump Buffet telemark competition and has notched a handful of gravity-defying feats. He was once photographed jumping over the road (and his own VW bus) on skis at the top Loveland Pass. He also rocketed down the length of the pass on a skateboard, hitting a high speed of 57 mph. On a recent trip back to Minnesota to visit his mom, he skied his childhood slope (Buck Hill) in the morning and made it home to Breck to nab the last T-Bar that same day. No matter the time of year, when he ends a phone call or parts ways with someone, he always says, “ski ya.”

“Never stop,” he says. “Get it every chance you get, because you’re never going to get it back.”

He still clocks around 100 ski days a year, starting at Arapahoe Basin as soon as it opens in the fall. Even on his busiest tuning days in mid-winter, he tries to escape for one full lap at Breck.

“I can make it door-to-door, roundtrip from town to the top of Imperial and back in 34 minutes,” he says. “It’s great for when I need a mental health break. It takes the edge off.”

Of course, putting edges on is something he also relishes.

“We try to take care of people so they can get on the hill the next day. It’s important to me because I know it’s important to them,” he says. “It really pleases them. Then they’re friends for life.”

Make no mistake, Ascher has a lot of friends.

“Yeah,” he admits. “I’m kind of a people person.”

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“I decided I’d rather be a skier,” Crazy John “CJ” Mueller reminisced about the path that brought him to Breckenridge in 1970. The “fastest man on skis,” Mueller recently shared his personal ski history. From a Front Range kid who left college, to recreational racer, Olympian and Hall of Famer, Mueller reigns as one of Breckenridge’s most decorated athletes.

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After a year at Colorado School of Mines, Mueller decided to be a ski bum. The first mountain town he found a job was in Breckenridge. In exchange for helping in the kitchen, the Hi Tor Lodge gave him a room, meals, access to an employee ski pass and $50 a week.

The lodge sponsored an employee ski race team, the Hi Tor Loons. Mueller joined the employee races and got to know “everyone.” That first winter he earned his nickname when a fellow teammate christened him “Crazy John” because he was always going off jumps. “Anywhere we could jump, we caught some air,” Mueller added. In summers Mueller and friends hiked local peaks to ski.

To become a better skier, Mueller started amateur racing. He found a knack for speed and excelled at downhill. To train, he and his buddies would wait until the end of the ski day and chase each other down 4 O’Clock Run to town. “I learned how to ride a flat ski and get in an aerodynamic position,” Mueller explained.

“We’d ski all day, skip lunch, tuck to town at closing, tune our skis, then go out dancing at night,” Mueller recalled of his early days as a Breckenridge ski bum.

And while he loved live music and the nightlife scene, he wasn’t a partier. “I learned that alcohol did not enhance athletic performance.”

In a place like Breckenridge that might be called a drinking town with a skiing problem, Mueller remained abstemious. He became famous for downing his Blue River cocktails, shots of the “Blue” or a Chilly Willy: water shaken with ice and strained into a fancy glass.

Mueller began to excel at regional downhill races. After breaking his back at an event in Aspen in 1977, he learned to relax and have fun. Not expecting to win after recovering from his injury, Mueller’s new attitude propelled his ski career. “I started winning.”

In the 1979-80 season, he qualified for U.S. Nationals and the Olympic-pre-qualifier at Lake Placid. But an unattended broken wrist ended that dream.

In the drought year of 1980-81, Mueller ventured to the snow-covered Alps of France. Friends there were trying the new speed skiing course at Les Arcs and invited him along. After exceeding 100 mph his first run, they encouraged him to pursue the sport. “You’re really good at this,” they said.

The next season, Mueller began following the speed skiing race circuit. After a few years of solid results, everything finally came together in 1987 when he was the first skier to exceed 130 mph. Soon after, the announcement came that speed skiing would be an Olympic demonstration event for 1992 in Albertville.

Mueller worked closely with the U.S. Ski Association to help align with the International Ski Federation (FIS).

In 1990, Mueller won the first and only FIS speed skiing event in the U.S., and went on to be runner-up for the overall championship, losing the title in the final race of the

season by one one-thousandth of a second. By 1991, “I remained the fastest guy in the U.S. I knew I was going to the Olympics.”

Training meant finding speed within the confines of a ski area. “The Breckenridge Ski Area was great. They let me go up early and test skis and waxes and train.”

Forerunning U.S. and World Cup downhill races was another way to achieve max-legal-speed at the area. “I wasn’t the fastest guy but I could find the line.”

For the Olympics, Mueller “felt pretty dialed in.” His times qualified him to race the final day. His first of two runs put him in third place. The final run, a bump in the course threw him and he finished in 10th.

Thirty years later, fondly remembering his Olympic experience, Mueller remained focused on the fun. “I was the oldest guy on the team (40). I got to meet the Vice President and go to the White House.”

Mueller’s top speed on skis was over 137 miles per hour. He was the first skier ever to go over 130 mph. And he held, for brief moments, the world record in speed skiing three times, only to be eclipsed by a subsequent racer in the final result.

What is it like to ski that fast? MTB asked: “I became so focused on just being there, turning off my brain... it did seem to slow down time,” he explained. “The mental focus was the coolest thing I took away from speed skiing, just emptying your mind of conscious thoughts.”

Mueller retired in 1993, and “got married, had a daughter, got divorced, raised my daughter full time, and still was able to be a ski bum. I worked in the summer, skied in the winter, took care of her. I just continued to embrace the ski bum life.”

In 2014, the Colorado Ski & Snowboard Hall of Fame inducted Mueller into their ranks of the ski elite. And this year, Mueller will enter the prestigious U.S. Ski Hall of Fame at a ceremony in March 2023.

“I was really good at being a ski bum but the Ski Hall of Fame isn’t really interested in ski bums. I was able to find a little niche. I had a few great results and was able to get in because of that.”

In addition to speed skiing accomplishments, Mueller’s other contributions include race forerunner, glide wax expert for Swix, and ambassador for the sport as a representative to the International Ski Federation (FIS).

As a local celebrity, he has also served as Town Fool, Mardi Gras Rex and Ullr King, and led the Ridge Street Rowdies and Noah and the Arcs. Looking back on over five decades in Breckenridge, Mueller reiterated the fun. “I was a very lucky guy.” With someone like CJ representing your town, Breckenridge has been very lucky too.

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The Cospoliches insist they’re just a blip on the radar among Breckenridge’s bounty of badasses.

Anyone familiar with their competitive repertoires might disagree. For instance, not many locals can say they have so much as attempted the grueling Leadville 100 trail running race. Helen Cospolich has won it as well as numerous other lung-busting ultrarunning events over the last two decades.

Then there’s Jeff Cospolich, champion of a variety of two-wheel pursuits and Summit High School mountain bike coach. At age 50, he continues to land on cyclocross and mountain bike podiums.

Their teenage daughter’s athletic path has taken yet a different direction. Snowboarding is the 17-year-old’s happy place. Since childhood, she has worked her way up the ranks in competitive slopestyle. The girl can grind the rails, throw backside spins and frontside 540s.

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“Growing up with my mom, she made me try a bunch of things – ice skating, violin, Nordic skiing, cross country, soccer – most of the things I didn’t like. That set me up better for snowboarding,” Alina says. “Snowboarding is fun, but it’s also a great community.”

Typical Vacation

This past summer, Helen and Alina took a trip to Saas-Fee, Switzerland, where Alina participated in a snowboarding camp and her mom spent the days gaining altitude on the local trails at a running pace.

“I would pick a mountain I could see from our apartment and figure out the best way to get there via trail,” Helen says. “I’d go for four or five hours every day.”

While difficult to imagine for some, for Helen, running upward for hours and thousands of vertical feet instills a unique brand of serenity.

“I like the time to think,” she says. “I like to not have a goal and really explore and see where I am. Especially traveling, it’s the best way to see any new place.”

A Boulder native, Helen, 45, moved to Breckenridge in 1999 after graduating from the University of Virginia, where she competed as a Division 1 rower. Working at the Town of Breckenridge for 19 years, as Town Clerk for the last 10, she started here as a ski instructor. Jeff, who grew up and went to school in New Orleans, moved to Breck in the ‘90s “to be a ski bum for one winter” and found work in property management. The two met in 2000 working part-time jobs at Breckenridge Brewery.

The Early Days

“She was hostess, I was a food runner,” Jeff says. “I remember going to spy on her one day when she was teaching a lesson. I stopped by the Village and saw her teaching French fries and pizza wedges to the little guys. I thought she was pretty cool.”

The two married in 2002 and continued happily pursuing their respective hobbies, Helen earning a Nike sponsorship and joining the U.S. Mountain Running Team and Jeff landing on mountain bike and cyclocross podiums every year. They began juggling an infant into their athletic routines when Alina was born and later, Alina’s own competi -

tion schedule.

“The funny thing is, because of all of our experiences as a family, we’ve normalized any kind of extreme sport,” Helen says. “From the time Alina was little, she was going to Dew Tour at Breck, meeting all the pro athletes. When she was an infant, literally 2 months old, I hiked up the halfpipe with her. Then Jeff has had so much success in biking. Knowing this world of sport has been such a natural part our lives.”

Alina graduates from Summit High School in December and plans to compete in a few more North American circuit slopestyle competitions before going off to college. Meanwhile, Jeff and Helen continue to contribute, in more than just genetics, to the next generation of badasses.

Playing It Forward

“Coaching is the least I can do, given how great cycling and bike racing has been to me,” Jeff says. “Being able to travel and meet people has been super fun. Seeing these kids grow up and make friendships, it’s very rewarding. It’s full circle. People who have lived here as long as I have should give back.”

While not a coach, Helen also imparts wisdom to the up-and-coming generation.

“Some of the girls at these races call me ‘mom’ now,” Helen says. “I like being the woman in my 40s racing against these girls in their 20s. I try to help them when they go through bad patches or just need tips or support. I get so much joy running with these young women who have so much energy and excitement for the sport.”

You’ll find all three Cospoliches hammering their hearts out in their respective sports this winter.

“We’re just a face in the crowd,” Jeff says. “Summit County is a humbling place to live and grow up. It’s awesome. You push yourself that much harder.”

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Lili Zygulski loves snow. As a youth Nordic athlete, that couldn’t be more perfect. “I grew up in a hockey family,” Lili explained, “I’m the Nordic skier.” Lili learned to cross country ski at age 5, and now as a junior at Summit High School, she looks forward to the next stages of her racing career.

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Lili’s first time on cross country skis was during a family trip to Devil’s Thumb Ranch. Lili completed her inaugural 10K ski outing “with a smile on her face,” mother Juli Rathke remembered. “I loved doing it,” Lili recalled.

When Lili was 8 years old, she joined Summit Nordic Ski Club (SNSC) as a “prep” level skier. “I always loved the snow, as long as I could remember,” Lili reminisced. “I’m lucky to have grown up in Breckenridge where we have snow. I love the sports you’re able to do in the winter.”

Coming from a winter-sports loving family, Lili found her niche as a Nordic skier. She races for both the Summit High School Tigers and SNSC Nordic (now Team Summit). Lili manages the increased training demands by keeping an eye on the long game. The past two seasons, Lili made States. This year’s goals are to make States as well as Junior Nationals for Rocky Mountain Nordic. Last year, as a sophomore, Lili missed JNs by just one seat.

One of Lili’s favorite things about Nordic is the community. “There’s never a dull moment with my team. And I never would have met Jessie Diggins if I wasn’t in Nordic.” Meeting role model Olympic gold-medalist Jessie Diggins at a roller-ski competition

last fall was a top life experience.

To train for the Nordic racing season, Lili roller skis in the summer to help her with technique and speed. And she joined the Summit Tigers Mountain Bike team two years ago and made States both years.

Mountain bike racing “helps me get ready for Nordic,” Lili explained. The disciplines offer similar racing experiences: “Everyone goes at once and you try to get the highest place you can.”

Spring finds Lili in a team environment in high school lacrosse. At Summit High, Lili is on the Academic Athlete program allowing her to train two mornings a week in addition to team time. Her training regimen includes dryland, weight training, mental health, flexibility, and nutritional coaching.

Looking forward, Lili would like to Nordic race in college. “This year, I’d like to have a good season for that reason.” Breckenridge will be rooting for her!

Photo: Xavier Fane

Winter 2023 Breckenridge Arts District

The Breckenridge Arts District is a vibrant epicenter of creativity generated by a collection of studios, galleries, performance spaces, historic landmarks, public art, restaurants, cafes, and other creative businesses that animate the heart of downtown Breckenridge. Learn more at breckcreate.org.

CLASSES + WORKSHOPS

The district’s core attraction is a multi-facility arts campus that hosts a variety of educational and experiential enrichment activities for locals and visitors alike. Join us this winter for a class or workshop such as Beginner Glassblowing, Metalsmithing, Glass Blown Beads + Jewelry and more. Register now at breckcreate.org.

EXHIBITION

Jovan

C. Speller: We Are Seers

Jan 26 – April 9, 2022 | Old Masonic

LIVE@RIVERWALK CENTER

Buy tickets now for the Winter 2023 Live@Riverwalk event series at breckcreate.org/riverwalk, including tickets for DanceAspen on Friday, March 24th.

Join Dance Aspen for a thrilling evening of dance with innovative choreography, unmatched athleticism and emotional artistry. A fresh voice and champion for new choreography in the dance world, Dance Aspen makes their Riverwalk Center debut after appearing at the 2022 Vail Dance Festival. Founded in 2021 by members of the former Aspen Santa Fe Ballet company, the company features professional dancers from the Roaring Fork Valley and across the country. This performance is a mix of classical and contemporary ballet, and includes new work by world-renowned choreographers, Yin Yue and Penny Saunders. Dance Aspen’s artists will work with local youth in a series of workshops, masterclasses and educational events in the days leading up to the performance.

Hall | Free

We Are Seers is a solo exhibition featuring work by Jovan C. Speller. It includes “Sounds for Survival,” an immersive installation that interprets the unmarked burial site of Speller’s enslaved ancestors in rural North Carolina, and “Conduction,” a portrait series that weaves together past and potential narratives by layering different media and images.

The title of the exhibition refers to Black histories of land use and extensive connections to land. Speller’s work draws power from this connection, not only making it visible but also positioning Black subjects as healers equipped to repair and prevent harm by remembering the past and revisioning the future.

Stop into Old Masonic Hall at 136 S. Main St. in downtown Breckenridge to view free art exhibitions + get more info on all things Breck Create. www..breckcreate.com

Live@Riverwalk Center Winter 2023 Schedule

Watchhouse - Thu Feb 2 | Reserved Seating $45 - $55

The Lone Bellow - Sat Feb 4 | General Admission $25

Brett Dennan + John Craigie - Fri Feb 10 | Reserved Seating $30 - $40

Second City - Sat Feb 18 | Reserved Seating $30 - $40

Pat Green - Thu March 16 | General Admission $40

Ani DiFranco - Sat Mar 18 | $50 - $60 Reserved Seating

Dance Aspen - Fri Mar 24 | $45 - $55 Reserved Seating, Children 12 & Under $20

Get all the details about the 2023 season at www.breckcreate.org

Art
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Scene
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The Le Mayen

Jeremy Fischer has been building homes since he founded Ivan Stanley Fine Home Builders in 1997. When he says, “I’ve never seen anything like this before,” he knows what he’s talking about.

Over the last year, Fischer and his crew have become intimate with “Le Mayen”, a Swiss-designed 7,595 square-foot, six-bedroom. six-bath masterpiece home located on the last available site in Timber Trail, a ski-in/ ski-out luxury subdivision in the Peak 8 area of Breckenridge. “If you compare this to conventional American construction, it almost makes what we do look like second rate,” Fischer says. “There is nothing else like it.” Most of the materials, from the centuries-old reclaimed wood and Norwegian natural stone slates to the handcrafted fixtures and handmade forged hardware were imported from the Swiss Alps.

While eight-figure homes are commonplace in neighboring mountain town communities like Vail, Aspen and Telluride, Le Mayen will command a record-breaking listing price for Breckenridge at $18,999,000. “Every room is a 10 out of 10,” says Michele Hart, Broker Associate for Slifer Smith & Frampton, the leading independent real estate brokerage firm in Summit County and exclusive real estate partner on the project. “This house is going to blow everything else away.” Hart, who is the co-listing agent with Jim Schlegel, traveled to Verbier to visit Chalissima’s warehouse and to better understand the inspiration for the house. “I wanted to see it from the source – this rare Swiss craftsmanship. It’s incredible,” she says.

The showcase home was conceptualized and designed by the Swiss group Chalissima, 60 architects and designers and over 100 carpenters and technicians with over 60 years of luxury construction experience in Switzerland and have been growing in Colorado and other US locations since 2016. Chalissima has curated an

A Swiss Designed Masterpiece incorporates luxury and exquisite finishes in a slopeside modern day chalet.

assortment of rare reclaimed wood unlike anything in the world, with an inventory of more than 5 million board feet stored in a 120,000-square-foot warehouse in Switzerland. “Our specialization is alpine design in the purest tradition with some modern and creative adaptations,” says Bertrand Vaudan, Chalissima CEO.

Vaudan says this house is inspired by the traditional Swiss Alpine mayen, the chalet style mountain cabins that date back almost 300 years, some of which still exist or are dismantled and harvested for wood. A far cry from a cozy cabin, this modern interpretation includes a large spa with an ornate Turkish steam room, game room, wine cellar, and three levels of outdoor living. “We integrate modern and contemporary design details and features influenced by the various European design styles that are slightly different, and perhaps richer than the American design style,” Vaudan says.

The home features intricate handcrafted detailing reminiscent of the Swiss Alps, from the Norwegian natural stone roof tiles and elaborate hand carved wood detailing to the hand-painted stenciled walls in the bedroom suites. Reclaimed hardwood is generously used on walls and floors, with vaulted ceilings flanked by heavy timber support beams, timber framing unlike anything Fischer has seen before.

The framing alone is wonderfully substantial. The walls are 8 inches thick and each of the common studs is literally timber. As we were putting the finishes in and the core started to disappear, I felt remorse that a buyer won’t be able to see it, but when you walk through the house you can feel it. It’s so quiet, and dense, and substantial,” Fischer says. “When the brokerage community confronts me to substantiate the value, I tell them they don’t even know what they’re selling because there’s no other house like it.”

Beneath all the old-world charm and style is top-ofthe line modern technology and lighting. “The Swiss mountain modern style is so chic and so traditional, but it’s over-the-top modern in others,” says Jim Schlegel, Broker Associate, SSF. “Even something as simple as the canned lights are $800 a piece.”

On top of the value of the house is the location. “What’s special about Timber Trail is they have a private shuttle and access to all the amenities at One Ski Hill Place. It makes you feel like part of the resort

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area. It’s luxury resort homeownership at its finest,” Schlegel says.

The house was recently completed and is stunning inside and out. It is currently listed as a spec house. “It is risky. We want it to be a showcase,” Vaudan says. “The price seems high, but the quality, authenticity and the typicity of this house make it unique, a real standout in the market.”

The one room that exemplifies the uniqueness of the house is the hammam, a Turkish-style steam room in the spa. “We build plenty of steam showers, but this is more like a spa you’d find in a resort. There’s a shower, sauna, steam room, bathroom, and lounge, but what’s really special is there’s a plastered ceiling we painted black and fiber optic LED lights that make it look like a night sky.”

This exquisite chalet showcases a modern interpretation of traditional Swiss alpine architecture and design. It is a masterpiece of light and space, wood and stone and the authentic feeling a mountain dwelling should bring to our mind and body - simple, exquisite luxury.

Learn more about this property by watching this video: https://vailreels.wistia.com/medias/i3r0tze1su www.hartschlegel.summitcountyrealestate.com

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Homes & Realty

The quintessential mountain cabin is back and cozier than ever. Unruh Development, LLC is crafting exceptional, quality homes through innovation while building these dwellings in the right location. These spacious and stylish structures are the perfect basecamps for the adventurous and offer an affordable price tag.

Colby Unruh’s company’s continuous pursuit of quality has led to the production of new homes that are built to withstand a mountain environment. He employs licensed architects to design these homes and structural engineers to ensure they can stand up to the region’s harsh environment.

The development of each home begins on the building site. Soil tests are conducted with a geological engineer to be sure the structure’s foundation will stand up to time and the elements as well as design septic systems if needed. Once the excavation is completed a 5.5” engineered concrete slab is poured on grade for a solid foundation. The best framing materials available are then purchased from local lumber yards and sawmills.

Construction Details are as follows:

• Walls are 2x6 construction with R-19 fiberglass insulation and Zip Board Sheathing. Spray foam insulation is available for an additional cost.

• Ceiling has Douglas Fir sawed/milled beams, R-30 spray foam insulation, and OSB sheathing.

• Plumbing pipes are PEX-style tubing.

• Two heating options: Rinnai propane furnace model EX22CTWP in the great room with Envi 220V electric wall heaters in the bedrooms or an optional radiant heating system for an additional cost.

Unruh Development, LLC engineered wall panels are built in an interior, climate-controlled environment. Building inside allows Unruh’s team to avoid weather delays and ensures our staff and raw materials are not subjected to harsh, adverse weather conditions on the job site. Unruh knows a warm, happy staff, working away from the elements leads to a better quality home build.

This craftsmanship is combined with exceptional finish work and features:

• Solid pine wood trim and interior doors

• Tongue & groove solid pine vaulted ceiling

• Recessed lights in vaulted ceiling

• Stainless steel appliances

• Durable, fire resistant metal roof

• Fiberglass formed tub and shower

• Granite countertops

• Tile backsplash

• Luxury vinyl flooring on main floor

• Neutral, gray, or brown loft carpeting

• Patios

A smaller build doesn’t mean you have to skimp on beautiful finishes. A reasonable price tag also makes these homes ideal for small families, couples young and old, adventurers and retirees. For further information call Scott at +1 970.485.4065 or head to:

www.lindblomgroupe.com:

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Breckenridge Craft Spirits Festival

Breckenridge Food & Wine Festival

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Breckenridge Ski Area

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Opening Day 2022 mountaintownbreckenridge.com | ISSUE 5 2022/23 55 HIGH COUNTRY LODGE EVENTS . WEDDINGS . RETREATS . GROUP VACATIONS The High Country Lodge is a spacious, four-season mountain retreat surrounded by 13 acres in Breckenridge, Colorado with commanding views of the Continental Divide. Our specialty services cater to Reunions, Weddings, Executive Retreats, and Group Vacations. The lodge has 12 bedrooms, 4 living areas, a game room and can accommodate up to 24 guests. We can offer a full concierge experience that can include on-site catering, area shuttle service, grocery delivery, and assistance in planning for a stress-free escape. WWW.AHIGHCOUNTRYLODGE.COM Mention this Ad for a Free Case of Wine with your Stay www.AHighCountryLodge.com

Dine Local

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Photo: Breckenridge Distillery

Peak 9 - The Apres Ski Hot Spot ’

After a day of shredding, ripping, turning and legs a’burning head to Peak 9. From the top you can ski and ride your way down to some of the town’s best Apres and Happy Hour spots.

Copper Top Bar & Restaurant ^ >

As you approach the Beaver Run SuperChair be prepared to turn in. Head up the stairs to the Copper Top Bar & Restaurant. Come in with a group big or small. Here you can enjoy Apres all day! The Copper Top has one of the best mountainside decks in Breckenridge with views all the way to the top of the mountain. You can people watch all day and look out for your friends while enjoying their Signature Bloody Marys (with bacon and ALL of the fixings), as well as signature Mules in copper mugs, of course!

Hours: DAILY from 11am-5pm www.beaverrun.com

The Maggie >

After some fun at the Copper Top Bar & Restaurant slide down to The Maggie, just below the QuickSilver SuperChair. You can start your day with breakfast options from The Waffle Shop and finish there as well with signature appetizers, weekly specials and a full service bar. This is a classic spot to find a lively après scene, complete with music to end your ski day.

Hours: Waffle Shop at The Maggie 7:30am-3:30pm The Maggie 9am-3:30pm The Maggie Bar 10am-5:30pm www,breckenirdge.com

Sauce on the Maggie > Sauce on the Maggie is the perfect spot to grab Happy Hour and Carb Load for your next day out. Located steps away from the QuickSilver SuperChair in the Village at Breckenridge. Their Happy Hour features 25% off 10 è pizzas, $8 small plates, $6 house glasses of wine, $1 off specialty cocktails, $1 off all premium draught beer and $6 well drinks. Enjoy beautiful, elevated views of Maggie Pond while spending time with your friends and family.

Hours: M - W 4pm - 9pm, Th 3 - 9pm, F - Sat 11am - 10pm, Sun 3 - 9pm www.sauceonthemaggie.com

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Cabin Juice Elevated Eatery >

A few steps further down from the QuickSilver SuperChair is Gravity Haus and their fantastic restaurant Cabin Juice. Pop on by in your ski boots after a day on the mountain and belly up to the Cabin Juice Elevated Eatery solid wood bar top for a hand crafted cocktail from Breckenride’s most talented bartenders. This spot has the perfect vibe for Apres with a plush area to sit a reminiscence about the day. There is a perfect small plate menu to compliment your cocktails. Their Apres drink menu offers $1 OFF ALL DRAFT BEERS and a $20 SHOT SKI SPECIAL.

Hours: 3 - 5pm Daily www.cabinjuice.com

As you come down to the bottom of the QuickSilver SuperChair turn right and head over to Main Street Station. There you will find Quandary Grille, Bold Restaurant & Bar as well as the Continental Divide Winery. >

Quandary Grille Tequila Bar >

Breck’s newest Tequila Bar sits right next to the Maggie Pond and offers panoramic views of Peak 9 and Peak 10. Their bar is filled to the ceiling with delicious tequila offerings as well as classic cocktails, beer and wine offerings. Apres specials include 25% off most apps, $1 off draft beer, $8 Casa Margs, $1 off signature cocktails, $6 Glasses of House Wines, $1 Off All other By the Glass Wines and $6 Premium Wells. The restaurant has large TV’s so you can catch your favorite game too.

Happy Hour: 3 - 5pm www.quandarytequilabistro.com

BoLD Restaurant & Bar >

The family owned BoLD Restaurant and Bar serves a classic American breakfast and brunch, a Mediterranean-inspired lunch and dinner. Happy Hour starts early and offers $4 all Craft Drafts, $5 House Wines, $4 off all Signature Cocktails, $4 off all Appetizers and $14 Bold Burgers, Sandwiches and Wraps (2 – 4 p.m. daily). Happy Hour: 2 – 6 p.m. daily www.boldbreck.com

Continental Divide Winery >

Continental Divide Winery produces all of their wines in a state-of-the-art winemaking facility in Fairplay. Their relaxing, Breckenridge tasting room offers Wines by the Glass or you can enjoy one of their tasting experience selections.

Hours: Breckenridge Tasting Room: Sunday - Thursday: 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm Friday: 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm Saturday: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Open Daily except Christmas Day www.breckwinery.com

MiCasa Cantina & Restaurant >

If you’re hankering for some Mexican food, beer and drinks then head straight across Park Avenue to Micasa Mexican Cantina & Restaurant. They are a locals favorite for Apres all year long. Their Happy Hour Tacos and Quesadillas are a deal at $5 for three tacos or $8 for cheesy Quesadillas with chicken and or vegetables.Drink specials include Pabst Pints $2.50 & Pitchers for $8, Tecate Cans $3.00, Modelo Especial $3.00, Casa Margarita $7.00, $1 off Specialty Margaritas and $1 off Well Cocktails.

Hours: 3 - 6pm www.micasabreck.com

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breckenridge dining mountaintownbreckenridge.com | ISSUE 5 2022/23 59 Wedding Cakes & European Pastries 100 N MAIN STREET . BRECKENRIDGE. (970) 453-4473 Breakfast, Lunch, Baked Goods, Beer, Wine & Lavazza Coffee La Cima Mall 520 S Main Street Breckenridge www.sanchotaco.com Full Service Grocery with Great Selection of Wine & Liquor, Fresh Produce, Deli Meats, Made To Order Sandwiches, Hot Prepared Foods, Juice & Smoothie Bar Open Every Day 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. GROCERY: 970-453-2398 LIQUOR: 970-453-6085 311 S. RIDGE STREET BRECKENRIDGE BRECKENRIDGEMARKET.COM YOUR ONE STOP SHOP

Melt In Your Mouth High Altitude Peppermint Bark Brownies

Recipes for High Altitude Cooks and Everyone Else INGREDIENTS

I’ve been playing with brownie recipes lately, seeking a deeply chocolatey, slightly chewier alternative to my classic High Altitude Brownies. There is such a thing as a brownie mood, you see, and we must have choices. After achieving the flavor and texture I wanted – rich and silky with a slight chew and a shiny, crackly crust – I decided to dress them up for the holidays with one of my favorite holiday flavor combinations (see also: Dark Chocolate Peppermint Shortbread Cookies). And, whoa. I’m fairly certain I’ll be making these High Altitude Peppermint Bark Brownies on repeat this season.

That’s mostly because they’re not only decadently delicious and festive, but super easy. No mixer or fancy equipment required; in fact, they’re made in a single bowl with a whisk and a rubber spatula. Where you should maybe consider getting fancy is in your choice of chocolate (three types!), because leveling up makes a difference here. Get the best cocoa powder, dark chocolate, and peppermint bark you can find.

Peppermint bark tends to split into minty white and dark chocolate shards when you chop it, which is just fine by me because I think it’s delight -

ful to get little bites of each. Unlike peppermint extract, which can be overwhelmingly toothpaste-y, the bark adds a perfectly delicate, vanilla-tinged minty flavor to the brownies.

I used Ghirardelli milk chocolate peppermint bark squares in this batch (tip: 15 squares = 6 oz). Dark chocolate peppermint bark is equally amazing. Make sure you grease and line your pan very well, because these will stick otherwise. Cut your parchment several inches longer than usual to ensure you’ll have extra to hang over all four sides of your pan. This, trust me, is key to getting them out of the pan later.

I also like to sprinkle a little crushed peppermint on top for a wee bit of festive flair, and to give folks a hint about what’s inside.

Make sure you bake these fully, until your cake tester comes out clean. I’ve taken batches out a bit too early, and they’re still delicious, but more on the fudgy side. The essential thing – and the very worst part of this recipe – is letting the brownies cool for a really long time. Hours! I know. I’m sorry. You might forgive me once you try them, though.

Can you even? I hope you love them as much as I do.

• 1/3 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder, such as Droste*

• 1/2 cup plus 2 TB boiling water

• 1/3 cup finely chopped bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate*

• 4 TB unsalted butter, melted

• 1/2 cup plus 2 TB neutral-tasting oil, such as avocado or canola

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9 ˮx 13 ˮ pan with butter or cooking spray and line with parchment paper, making sure there is overhang on all 4 sides to assist with removing the brownies. Butter the parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cocoa and boiling water until smooth. Add the chopped bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate and mix until melted. Stir in the melted butter and oil until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are incorporated.

Add eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla and whisk until thoroughly combined, then stir in the sugar.

Add flour and salt and stir into the chocolate mixture until thoroughly incorporated. Stir in chopped peppermint bark.

Pour/scrape batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. If desired, sprinkle crushed peppermint candy on top.

Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes or until a tooth -

• 3 large eggs plus one egg yolk, at room temperature

• 2 tsp vanilla extract (not imitation)

• 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• 6 oz chopped peppermint bark

• Crushed peppermint, for garnishing (optional)

pick or cake tester comes out clean. Underbaking will result in fudgier brownies.

Remove pan from oven and transfer to a baking rack to cool for 1-2 hours. Don’t be tempted to cut the brownies earlier; the long cooling period is essential to a crumble-free texture and a firm bite. Make sure you bake these fully, until your cake tester comes out clean. I’ve taken batches out a bit too early, and they’re still delicious, but more on the fudgy side. The essential thing – and the very worst part of this recipe – is letting the brownies cool for a really long time. Hours! I know. I’m sorry. You might forgive me once you try them, though.

Once cool, lift the brownies from the pan using the parchment overhang (this is more easily done with two people if you have an extra set of hands around). If there is any residual warmth, allow the brownies to continue to rest until completely cool.

Using a sharp knife, cut the brownies into your 24 two-inch brownies portions.YUM!

www.butterandair.com

Cook Local

So Many Ways to Enjoy the Breckenridge Distillery

DINNER AT THE BRECKENRIDGE DISTILLERY

Executive Chef Robbie Reyes brings sophistication with playfulness to the BDR menu. BDR offers a contemporary steakhouse atmosphere with an upscale mountain dining experience. Their family-style menu features a 45 ounce Wet Aged Tomahawk Ribeye, Bourbon Butter Poached Maine Lobster Tail, or a Community of Pumpkins dish to name a few. As always, the menu revolves around local produce, comfort foods with a twist and shareable dishes meant to encourage interaction and conviviality. Make a Reservation. Dinner service Wed-Sun starting at 2 p.m – 9 p.m, **Restaurant is closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

SUNDAY DISTILLERY TOURS

Every Sunday, guests are taken on a behind-the scenes tour of the Breckenridge Distillery’s production facility. This abbreviated tour starts by tasting their award-winning Breckenridge Vodka and Breckenridge Gin in their original production facility. Their expert guides will take guests on a 30 min tour and finish up the experience with a tasting of their Breckenridge Bourbon Whiskey. Tours are $35/person, reservation only and include a signature Glen Carin tasting glass. Learn more about the Breckenridge Distillery’s experiences

AFTER HOURS TOURS

Breckenridge Distillery offers guests a VIP experience during their After Hours Tours. Use your senses to experience the inner workings of how these hand-crafted spirits go from grain to bottle while learning about the history of whiskey and how the distillery was founded. Guests also have the opportunity to try spirits that have yet to be released to the public. Tours begin at 6:15 p.m. by reservation only.

COCKTAILS

If it’s edible, chances are Liquid Chef Billie Keithley has made a cocktail out of it. And that’s one of the reasons she loves working for the Distillery so much “They never put a cap on my creativity,” Keithley said. “I’m thinking about cocktails all the time — my inspiration comes from everywhere.” Because of the Distillery’s special

liquor license, Keithley can’t go out and buy spirits and cordials elsewhere, so she creates them herself. Products like amaros, bitters, vermouth and liqueurs are all made in-house. “Which means we can put our own twists on them,” she said.

Keithley and Bar Manager Griffin Bovich are creating schnapps, shrubs, syrups and juices, among other fresh products, for every specialty cocktail. Popular menu staples include the Obi Wan Old Fashioned, made with Breckenridge Port Cask Whiskey.

THE FOUNDERS LAB Nerd out with our distillers and become a master blender for a few magical hours. Breckenridge Distillery’s distillers are experts in nosing, flavor categorization and pairing substrates together to create a whole that far exceeds the expected sum of its parts. Guests will be taught to break down aggregate flavors while building a whiskey blend complete with mouth feel and finish. You will hand bottle your creation and complete the experience with a customized label.

If you just want to taste our spirits, book a High-end Flight where you can taste through some of the Distillery’s most sought after spirits and other spirits that not yet been released to the public (when available). Now open, reservations required..

HAPPY HOUR

After getting your turns in on the mountain, head to the Breckenridge Distillery for a newly-extended Happy Hour available as soon as the restaurant opens. Enjoy crafted cocktail deals, small bites, and more! Make a Reservation. Happy Hour is served Wed-Sun 2 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

**closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

TASTINGS

The Breckenridge Distillery offers one of the most highly awarded craft bourbons on the market and you can try it for free. Guests are offered two complimentary samples from a limited menu and have the option to upgrade their tasting to try their high end spirits. A great way to explore their award-winning line of hooch. Tastings are available at the Main Street Tasting Room or the Breckenridge

Distillery on Airport Road. They are on a first come, first serve basis starting daily at 11 a.m.

PRIVATE DINNERS IN DARK ARTS SOCIETY

This intimate dining experience in the Distillery’s exclusive whiskey club is an experience like none other. Parties of up to 12 people can reserve the Dark Arts Society private room featuring old barn wood, leather couches, and a view of the bottling production area of the Distillery. This exclusive, private dining area comes with a personal wait staff and can be used for families, micro-conferences, executive meetings or small parties.

MAIN STREET TASTING ROOM IN DOWNTOWN BRECKENRIDGE

In the heart of downtown Breckenridge, get a taste of not only the Distillery’s spirits but also a taste of what the Breckenridge Distillery is all about. Enjoy complimentary tastings, upgraded tastings, Cask Finished Whiskey flights and coming soon, a 15-year Barrel-aged Manhattan. Visit the Main Street Tasting Room at 137 S. Main St. in the Blue River Plaza. Open daily at 11 a.m.

ENJOY OUR REDESIGNED PATIO

Come back this summer grab a bite, grab a cocktail, challenge your buddies to a friendly game of bags, and take in the sights and sounds of the working production facility, as well as live music.

FREE SHUTTLE RIDES

There’s no need to drink and drive when you can drink and ride. The Breckenridge Distillery wants its guests to drink responsibly, which is why it offers a free shuttle for customers with pick-ups and drop-offs anywhere within town limits. The shuttle fits up to 14 people all you have to do is call the Distillery at (970) 445 8613 to book your ride.

Locations: MAIN STREET TASTING ROOM 137 S Main Street, Breckenridge, CO

DISTILLERY & RESTAURANT 1925 Airport Road, Breckenridge, CO www.breckenridgedistillery.com

Rootstalk

Rootstalk is a modern American restaurant founded on the idea of coming home. Chef Matt Vawter was born and raised in Summit County and spent the formative years of his culinary career in Keystone and Breckenridge. After spending a period of time away from Breckenridge, Chef Matt returned to his hometown determined to open a restaurant of his own and help grow the culinary landscape in Summit County.

The name Rootstalk refers to rhizomes which are all connected via a complex underground root system. The name was inspired by the large stands of Aspen trees surrounding the community of Breckenridge. From old dormant roots, Rootstalk was opened in December of 2020 in a historic home on North Main Street in Breckenridge. The restaurant seeks to provide “Elevated, Everyday Dining” to the local community as well as out of town visitors. The cuisine is ingredient focused, technique driven and deeply committed to quality at all levels. From 7 course tasting menus paired with wine to simply having a quick snack and beverage at the bar. There is truly something for everyone on the menu. Our hospitality model is team oriented and based on the idea of welcoming someone into your home. The two dining areas of the restaurant are beautiful juxtapositions of each other. Upstairs is bright, elegant, and airy with views of main street offered by bay windows in the front. The Root Cellar downstairs offers a more intimate dining experience with a Chef’s Counter available for those who love to be part of the action. Cocktails are created with intention and given the same level of care as the food on the plate. The wine program is focused on small scale quality producers from across the globe from the classic to more esoteric modern styles.

Radicato

Rooted in Italian cuisine Radicato offers a family style dining experience in a beautiful setting on the Riverwalk in Breckenridge. Radicato is inspired by old world traditions and showcases techniques like handmade pastas. Sharing food, drink, and conversation with friends and family is at the heart of the dining experience at Radicato. Chef’s Matt Vawter and Cameron Baker have designed a menu that is meant to be explored and experienced collectively as a table. There is something truly special about passing plates around a table and being able to share in the same food as the person seated next to you. The menu includes vegetable and seafood focused starter plates, a wide selection of handmade pastas, and large plates from our grill. Our wine program focuses on Italy and the United States with something for every palate.

Located in the heart of Breckenridge on the Riverwalk the views from the dining room and patios are idicillic. The late day sun bathes the dining room with wonderful light and enhances the elegant setting. It is a welcoming environment for parties large and small. Focused, friendly, and genuine hospitality is provided by an experienced professional service team. Radicato aims to whisk you away to Italy while you are located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

137 South Main Street. Breckenridge CO www.radicatobreck.com

207 N Main Street Breckenridge, Colorado, 80424 www.rootstalkbreck.com.

64 ISSUE 5 2022/23 | mountaintownbreckenridge.com Main Street Of The Rockies
A charming mountain town. With its own tubing hill, beginner ski-ride hill, Nordic center & sleigh rides. TownofFrisco.com

Hearthstone Restaurant

A locals’ favorite since 1989, we invite you to spend an evening in our beautiful, Victorian-era home, while you take in breathtaking views of the Ten Mile Range. Executive Chef Michael Halpin takes pride in creating a menu highlighting the very best of Colorado. Locally farmed, seasonal products, including meats, fish, artisan cheeses and fresh produce, take the stage as our culinary team expertly prepares each dish with a commitment to the highest quality. Enjoy a craft cocktail and one of our enticing small plates during Happy Hour from 4-6 daily, then follow with a dinner of Colorado Lamb, Blackberry Elk, and wine from our Wine Spectator award-winning cellar. Come experience the legendary hospitality that has earned us a reputation as one of Breckenridge’s best restaurants!

130 South Ridge Street P.O. Box 1613 Breckenridge, Colorado 970.453.1148 www.hearthstonebreck.com

Spencers Steaks & Spirits

Say Cheers to the Spirit of Celebrating at Spencers Steaks & Spirits.: Take a step back in time at the restaurant named for George Spencer, the founder of the town of Breckenridge, with classic cocktails and old-fashioned Western hospitality. Spencer’s is The place to gather with a large group to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a group dinner.

This is THE PLACE for groups large and small to gather and enjoy delicious breakfasts, lunch, apres, and dinners.

Breakfast classics include Benedicts and huge Omelets. Sit down for lunch and enjoy sandwiches, soups, salads, and more. The dinner menu is filled with exceptional steaks, fish, burgers and meats, along with a wide variety of entrees. Everyone in your group will find something to love, even the kids.

Breakfast | 7 am - 10:30 am

Lunch | 11 am - 2 pm

Apres-Ski | 3-5 pm DAILY Dinner | 5-9 pm

Beaver Run Resort

620 Village Road

Breckenridge 970-453-6000

www.beaverrun.com/dining/spencers

Adventuring Around Breckenridge

Fat Biking

Bundle up and get ready to ramp up your heart rate, because pedaling on the snow with one of these big but surprising lightweight bikes brings a surge of adrenaline all its own. It’s no secret that Breckenridge is home to some of the world’s best bike trails and there’s no reason why snowpack should keep anyone from exploring on two wheels year-round. Several ski and bike shops in town rent fat bikes, including Alpine Sports, Avalanche Sports and Ridden., the latter of which also offers guided fat bike tours. The best option for your first foray into fat biking is Gold Run Nordic Center, which rents fat bikes starting at $15 per hour and offers a variety of beautiful trails to explore. The groomed bike path between Breckenridge and Frisco is also a great option for newbies. Be sure to wear a helmet (a ski helmet works great) wherever you ride and be mindful of staying on designated fat bike routes, as the trails are also shared with Nordic skiers and snowshoers.

www.breckenridgerecreation.com/rates/locations/gold-run-nordic-center

Dog Sledding

The experience of zipping across a winter wonderland pulled by a team of Siberian Huskies can only be described as otherworldly. Good Times Adventures offers six-mile tours through the striking, snow-covered expanses of the Swan River Valley. Guests get a chance to ride in the dogsled as well as actually run the dogs (the part where you get to yell, “Mush!”). What do you wear for this sort of thing, you’re wondering? Think Eskimo. Tours are $140 per person and must be booked in advance.

www.goodtimesadventures.com

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Breckenridge Vipers Hockey

Our hometown Breckenridge Vipers return to the Stephen C. West Ice Arena for the 2022/23 season! Get your tickets in advance, head in and grab a drink and some snacks at the Con cession stand and enjoy some great semi-professional hockey games. For more info: www.breckvipers.com

mountaintownbreckenridge.com | ISSUE 5 2022/23 67 FLY FISHING
and
and
Bringing People & Trout Together Since 1985 FLY
Summit County’s oldest full-service fly shop and guide service. For the very best in public and private water guided fly fishing. RIVERS & LAKES: Antero, Arkansas, Blue, Colorado, Dillon, Eagle, Eleven Mile, Montgomery, South Platte, Spinney, Swan, Ten Mile, Williams Fork Exclusive Private Ranches • Half & Full Day Wade Colorado & Eagle River Float • Lake Float Fly Fishing Lesson • Winter Fly Fishing 970-453-HOOK 311 South Main Street, Breckenridge, CO 80424 info@mountainangler.com • www.MountainAngler.com Bringing People & Trout Together Since 1985 6 6 5 4
Summit County’s oldest full-service fly shop
guide service. For the very best in public
private water guided fly fishing.
FISHING

Meet Our Nextdoor Neighbor Fairplay, Colorado

Don’t tell the other towns, but Fairplay could be Breckenridge’s favorite neighbor. We love the calm vibe, the funky charm of new and old, the massive mountains surrounding their wide-open valley, and activity options different from Breckenridge. Come explore Fairplay, our near and dear neighbor just over the pass.

Breckenridge and Fairplay share a similar origination history. Both were founded in 1859 in the early gold rush era. The discovery of gold in Fairplay’s branch of the South Platte River quickly established the community as a mining destination. The founders wished to offer the opportunity for fair play, in contrast to the greed and claim-grabbing of other early mining camps.

Historic buildings in both towns reflect the Victorian-era aesthetic emulated by miners and their wives who pined for their homes “back East.” Breckenridge’s churches look a lot like Fairplay’s, and that’s no coincidence. The towns also share the influence of Father John L. Dyer, snow-shoe itinerant preacher who brought the Methodist gospel to the high mountain mining camps. Unlike the prospectors who came for only for wealth, Dyer came to create communities.

Thanks to efforts of men like Dyer,

Breckenridge and Fairplay endured as many nearby ghost towns faded away. Today each town serves as the seat of government for their respective counties and anchors for surrounding residents.

The separation created by the towering Continental Divide hasn’t dampened the towns’ fondness for each other over the years. Breckenridge and Fairplay historically cooperated on religious teachings, educational opportunities, and law enforcement. Most recently, a 40-year-old cold case was solved when the murderer of two women abducted in Breckenridge was found guilty by a Fairplay jury.

Today the towns still enjoy close relationships on housing, transportation, and most importantly, people. Many of Breckenridge’s workers live in the more-affordable Fairplay vicinity.

Fairplay honors its history with one of the best frontier museums in the state:

South Park City. Because it’s only open during summer months, plan a return trip to see the accurate representation of a Colorado mining community from the 1860-1900 period. Over forty buildings represent every type of service needed on the frontier, from mercantile to blacksmith, dentist office to laundry, railroads, saloons and gambling halls.

Start explorations on historic Front Street, just one block over from Highway 9 yet a hundred years away. Your attention may be grabbed by the towering “Hotel” sign hovering above the street. It marks the vintage Hand Hotel, claimed to be haunted.

Must-visit shops along Front Street include Eagle Rock Ranch Mercantile offering handsome home-goods and decor along with their local beef raised with conservation in mind. And Coyote Creek Arts representing local artisans.

More fun retail establishments are

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found on Main Street. Get casual duds at the Salt Licking Goat Clothing Company with the South Park cartoon characters’ standee out front.

Unique to Fairplay is the Rocky Mountain Cigar Company with cigars, a golf simulator, and sipping room providing tastes from many of Colorado’s distilleries. Or try fly fishing with owner Scott Gardner, a certified guide.

Fairplay is famous for fly fishing on the many miles of creeks and streams that feed into the South Platte. Public water access abounds, but the best fishing can be found on private ranches. A guide can take you to the prolific spots. Start with outfitters based in Breckenridge: Mountain Angler and Breckenridge Outfitters.

Outdoor activities entice folks from Breckenridge and beyond to enjoy in Fairplay what they can’t do at home. Ice climbers flock to the fields on Mt. Lincoln just on the other side of Hoosier Pass. The famed Decalibron loop draws hearty

mountain climbers to summit four peaks over 14,000’ in one challenging day. And there are thousands of snow-covered acres for backcountry and cross-country skiing as well as snowmobiling.

Fly-fishing and horseback riding may be considered summer activities, but not in Fairplay. Check out American Safari Ranch’s seasonal riding offerings. Guides take guests to open fishing waters yearround.

For a refreshment break after all that excitement, Fairplay offers so many options.

A concentration of restaurants can be found on Front Street. Try popular Italian dishes at Millonzi’s, pub food at McCall’s Park Bar, eclectic choices with a gourmet twist at Salado Restaurant, the old-timey feel of the Platte River Saloon, or sweet treats at Silver Spoon Creamery.

For quick coffee and sandwiches, head to Main Street and the Java Moose. At the Highway 285 intersection, sample local fa -

vorite Dorothy’s Tamales and KB Kakery. New offering Ottos brings a following from their food cart in Alma.

Craft liquor and beer elevates the Fairplay scene. South Park Brewing Company’s beers include campfire favorite Smores Stout to accompany their popular food menu. The Snitching Lady Distillery on Front Street touts their 100-year-old family recipe and award-winning whiskey, Bourbon, and brandies.

New to Fairplay yet familiar to Breckenridge locals is Highside Brewing. Longtime brewers at their Frisco location, Highside brings a wide variety of beers to Fairplay.

While it may be only 45 minutes away, a visit to Fairplay feels like a different world, just perfect for a day trip exploration from Breckenridge. Please tell them their neighbor’s magazine, Mountain Town Breckenridge sent you.

www.fairplayco.us

mountaintownbreckenridge.com | ISSUE 5 2022/23 69

DECEMBER

December 16, 2022

Breckenridge Distillery Winter Listening Series, Breckenridge

This is an intimate acoustic artist showcase that will take place in the Founders Lab at the Breckenridge Distillery. Limited seating and cover charge at the door. Door opens at 6pm. Charcuterie board included with entry and cocktails available for purchase. For more info: www.breckenridgedistillery.com/events-calendar/

December 21, 2022

Breck Ski Patrol & Mountain Safety Season Kickoff Party

Head to Broken Compass OG Brewery and Taproom off of Airport Road , 6-9 PM, for Beer Specials & Giveaways. For more information: www. brokencompassbrewing.com/events

December 30, 2022

Breckenridge Distillery Winter Listening Series, Breckenridge

This is an intimate acoustic artist showcase that will take place in the Founders Lab at the Breckenridge Distillery. Limited seating and cover charge at the door. Door opens at 6pm. Charcuterie board included with entry and cocktails available for purchase. For more info: www.breckenridgedistillery.com/events-calendar/

December 31, 2022

Broken Compass New Year’s Eve Bash, Breckenridge

Celebrate the New Year at the Broken Compass OG Brewery & Taproom, 10 PM-1 AM, Featuring Blue River Grass and their annual Keg Drop. For more information: www.brokencompassbrewing.com/events

December 31, 2022

New Year’s Eve Torchlight & Glowworm Parade

The Breckenridge Ski & Snowboard School will be hosting their annual Torchlight Parage on Peak 9 at 6 PM, with a luminary procession from the top of Peak 9 down to the base. In addition, prior to the Torchlight Parade, kids are invited to participate in the Glow Worm Parade if they are able to ski/ride a green run on their own. For kids interested in participating, meet at the Beaver Run Ski School before 5 PM to join the parade and get a glow stick. The Glow Worm Parade takes place off the Camelback Platter at the base of Peak 9.

January

December 1, 2022 – January 8, 2023

BreckCreate Classes and Workshops, Breckenridge

BreckCreate offers a selection of fine art, craft, and design classes that serve beginners to advanced students. Participants can register in advance or drop in; class capacity is limited. Prices include materials. All BreckCreate members receive 25 percent off class registration. Registration for all classes + workshops is available now at www.breckcreate.org.

January 6, 13, 20 and 27, 2023

Breck Community First Tracks, Breckenridge Ski Resort

Community first tracks: There’s no better morning than a first tracks morning! Every Friday in January, we are inviting our Breck Community near and far to set their alarms an hour early and make that TGIF-feeling a little sweeter with First Tracks. Starting at 7:30 AM on Friday Jan. 6, 13, 20 and 27, we are inviting our Breck community to join us for laps on Peak 9 via the Quicksliver SuperChair to the Mercury SuperChair an hour before the public. Take a couple laps on the Mercury SuperChair then be sure to stop by The Overlook Restaurant between 8-8:30am where the first 100 guests will get a FREE breakfast

burrito! High Five to fresh lines and untouched groomers -- or maybe even untouched powder if Ullr is feeling generous. Please note: Our Breck Community is not defined by geography but rather, a state of mind. So, we invite those members of our community near and far to take advantage of early turns every Friday in January.

First Tracks Details Jan. 6, 13, 20 and 27 Must load the Quicksilver SuperChair between 7:30-7:45 am for access to first tracks off the Mercury SuperChair. FREE breakfast burritos at the Overlook between 8-8:30 am (while supplies last) www.breckenridge.com

January 14, 2023

Second Saturday, Breckenridge

January 14-15, 2023

Breck DJ Cat, Breckenridge Ski Resort

The Breck Rockstar DJ Cat (a snowcat that transforms into a real live DJ booth), will take to the slopes to bring the energy and good beats to the base of Peak 8 on select dates this winter season. Looking for more musical vibes all season-long? Check out the resort’s new Spotify account and Five Peaks playlists! www.breckenridge.com

January 21 – April 9, 2023

We Are Seers Exhibition, Breckenridge Old Masonic Hall Opening reception and artist talk Saturday, January 21 at 6 p.m. We Are Seers is a FREE, solo exhibition featuring work by Jovan C. Speller. It includes “Sounds for Survival,” an immersive installation that interprets the unmarked burial site of Speller’s enslaved ancestors in rural North Carolina, and “Conduction,” a portrait series that weaves together past and potential narratives. www. breckcreate.org/exhibitions/jovan-c-speller

January 23 – February 1, 2023

International Snow Sculptures, Breckenridge’s International Snow Sculpture Championships presented by Toyota is a world renowned snow sculpting competition where teams from around the world descend on Breckenridge, Colorado to hand-carve 20-ton blocks of snow into enormous, intricate works of art. Artists are only allowed to use hand tools, creativity and inspiration to bring their ideas to life. No power tools allowed! Teams sculpt countless hours across five days (totaling around 94 hours), resulting in a temporary outdoor art gallery in historic downtown Breckenridge!

Carving Week: January 23-27, 2023

Viewing Week: January 27-February 1, 2023

The sculpture viewing area will be closed at 7:00pm on February 1st. For more information head to the website: www. gobreck.com/event/international-snow-sculpture-championships

FEBRUARY

February 2, 2023

Live@Riverwalk Center, Breckenridge Watchhouse – Thu Feb 2 | $45 – $55 Reserved Seating www. breckcreate.org/riverwalk/

February 2 - 5, 2023

Toyota Takeover, Breckenridge Ski Resort Join us for a fun weekend with events across our mountain brought to you by Toyota Feb. 2-5. From a waffle hut on Peak 6, a Toyota Lounge at the Vista Haus on Peak 8, and a special Apres series at The Maggie on Peak 9 you will not want to miss out! Stay tuned for more details. www.breckenridge.com

Calendar of
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Events

February 4, 2023

Live@Riverwalk Center, Breckenridge

The Lone Bellow – Sat Feb 4 | $25 General Admission www. breckcreate.org/riverwalk/

February 10, 2023

Live@Riverwalk Center, Breckenridge

Brett Dennan + John Craigie – Fri Feb 10 | $30 – $40 Reserved Seating www.breckcreate.org/riverwalk/

February 11, 2023

Second Saturday, Breckenridge

February 15, 2023

Helly Hansen Big Mountain Challenge, Breckenridge Ski Resort

This IFSA sanctioned event highlights some of Breck’s most extreme high alpine terrain – the Six Senses on Peak 6. This area of Peak 6 features steep lines, tight chutes, and big cliff drops, and the events will test some of the best big mountain Freeskiers in the country as they compete for points in the IFSA series. www.breckenridge.com

February 18-19, 2023

Breck DJ Cat, Breckenridge Ski Resort

The Breck Rockstar DJ Cat (a snowcat that transforms into a real live DJ booth), will take to the slopes to bring the energy and good beats to the base of Peak 8 on select dates this winter season. Looking for more musical vibes all season-long? Check out the resort’s new Spotify account and Five Peaks playlists! www.breckenridge.com

February 18, 2023

Live@Riverwalk Center, Breckenridge

Second City – Sat Feb 18 | $30 – $40 Reserved Seating www. breckcreate.org/riverwalk/

MARCH

March 3, 2023

Party For The Planet, Village at Breckenridge

Mark your calendar for Friday, March 3rd for the biggest celebration of the year, Planet for the Planet. We invite you to celebrate with local brews, live music, delicious food, an award ceremony, and a huge silent auction with all proceeds supporting local conservation. Tickets will go on sale in January. www.highcountryconservation.org

March 11, 2023

Second Saturday, Breckenridge

March 11, 2023

Breck DJ Cat, Breckenridge Ski Resort

The Breck Rockstar DJ Cat (a snowcat that transforms into a real live DJ booth), will take to the slopes to bring the energy and good beats to the base of Peak 8 on select dates this winter season. Looking for more musical vibes all season-long? Check out the resort’s new Spotify account and Five Peaks playlists! www.breckenridge.com

March 16, 2023

Live@Riverwalk Center, Breckenridge

Pat Green – Thu Mar 16 | $45 – $55 Reserved Seating www. breckcreate.org/riverwalk/

March 17 , 2023

Helly Hansen Big Mountain Challenge, Breckenridge Ski Resort

This IFSA sanctioned event highlights some of Breck’s most extreme high alpine terrain – the Six Senses on Peak 6. This area of

Peak 6 features steep lines, tight chutes, and big cliff drops, and the events will test some of the best big mountain Freeskiers in the country as they compete for points in the IFSA series. www.breckenridge.com

March 18, 2023

Live@Riverwalk Center, Breckenridge Ani DiFranco – Sat Mar 18 | $50 – $60 Reserved Seating www. breckcreate.org/riverwalk/

March 24, 2022

Live@Riverwalk Center, Breckenridge DanceAspen – Fri Mar 24 | $45 – $55 Reserved Seating, Children 12 & Under $20 www.breckcreate.org/riverwalk/

APRIL

April 7, 2023

Helly Hansen Big Mountain Challenge, Breckenridge Ski Resort

This IFSA sanctioned event highlights some of Breck’s most extreme high alpine terrain – the Six Senses on Peak 6. This area of Peak 6 features steep lines, tight chutes, and big cliff drops, and the events will test some of the best big mountain Freeskiers in the country as they compete for points in the IFSA series.

www.breckenridge.com

April 29, 2023

Splash Into Spring Pond Skim, Breckenridge Ski Resort

Dive on into warmer weather and late spring operations with Breck’s Splash Into Spring Pond Skim! Get ready to sink or skim in this annual spring tradition where costumes are strongly encouraged, and all are welcome – pond skimming truly is both a participant and spectator sport! Breck’s Splash into Spring Pond Skim takes place at the base of Peak 8 and is the official launch into late season operations. Breck is the premier spring skiing destination, offering plenty of good vibes and high fives in the high alpine with plans to operate into May as long as the snow lasts.

www.breckenridge.com

MAY May

2023

Breckenridge Ski Resort

Closing date tba...look forward to spring skiing before the seasons finale. www.breckenridge.com

For More Events Head to Our Events Calendar

mountaintownbreckenridge.com | ISSUE 5 2022/23 71

With the majesty of snow-covered Imperial Peak and Horseshoe Bowl looming over a holiday-lit, historic downtown, Breckenridge is arguably at its most striking in winter. Breck’s stunning beauty is likely the first characteristic newcomers love about it before they embark on their unforgettable lineup of good times here – skiing, apres-ing, strolling Main Street, laughing with friends and family.

As much as there is to obviously love about Breckenridge, there’s even more that’s not immediately apparent. The people and personalities of this town are truly what make it great.

There are the business owners and local athletes – a few of whom are featured on the previous pages – each providing this community with a unique stroke of color and energy. There’s those you’ve probably heard or read about before: Breckenridge Resort co-founder Trygve Berge, who turned 90 last winter and who still makes perfect S-turns down the slopes he helped mastermind. There’s Doc PJ, who, in addition to spending long working hours helping people feel better, donates a huge part of his free time and income to providing healthcare to less privileged populations in far corners of the world. There’s Mayor Eric Mamula, who you’re likely to see living his own best life pedaling singletrack and a whole team of town council members who, when not handing out free mugs on the first day of the ski season, MCing the Ullr Parade or volunteering at other events, can be found adventuring in Breck’s backcountry.

Most especially, there’s the hard-working employees at local restaurants, bars, shops and grocery stores, many of whom have more than one job and live with multiple roommates in order to live in this amazing place and play their part in making our community tick.

Even for those of us who have been here a while, the glorious panorama of the Ten Mile Range over town never ceases to stop us in our tracks. Every single day it instills a sense of deep gratitude for where we live.

As for newcomers to Breck, welcome. We hope your stay is magical.

During your visit, here are a few tips to keep in mind. Hopefully they will make your stay better as well as allow you to help keep this place great.

Not-too-obvious tips and things to know about Breck: Roads are slick. Drive slowly around town and give plenty of space between you and the car in front of you.

Pay attention to stop signs. Not every intersection is a fourway stop.

Smile, be kind and patient during busy times at shops and restaurants.

Celebrate, have a great time, but be respectful of neighbors. Dispose of trash properly. Leaving trash outside your rental, hotel or dumpster not only makes a lot of unpleasant work for someone else, but also attracts and compromises wildlife.

Please recycle. Containers for recycling paper, cardboard, aluminum and plastic bottles can be found in most buildings and locations. There’s also a recycling center on Airport Road. Glass can be recycled there as well as at drop boxes at Carter Park Pavilion, in front of the library or near the baseball fields.

Carry a refillable bottle and skip the plastic. We have the most amazing water up here available to drink and refill everywhere.

Until we see you again friends... We hope you love this place as much as we do!
The glorious panorama of the Ten Mile Range over town never ceases to stop us in our tracks.
LAST LIFT
72 ISSUE 5 2022/23 | mountaintownbreckenridge.com

Design, form and function describe this luxurious custombuilt home. With views throughout, this contemporary masterpiece is a true work of art highlighting clean lines and crisp architecture.

Stacy Shelden 970.389.6811 sshelden@slifersummit.com

25 Tip Top Trail | Keystone

Savor the Rocky Mtn. lifestyle through the innovations of this striking custom residence. Featuring elegant top-floor master suites, a great room with vaulted ceilings and formal dining room for the entertainer at heart.

5 7 5,656 $4,695,000

Tracy Schwartz 970.485.9456 tschwartz@slifersummit.com

317 Timber Trail Rd | Breckenridge 28 North Rd | Breckenridge

Make Timber Trail home with this skiin, ski-out residence. Thoughtfully designed Allen-Guerra Architecture home with an open layout and views from every angle. Ski home on your private skiway to complete your perfect day on the slopes.

5 5.5 5,135 $9,750,000

5 6.5 5,340 $8,200,000 SOLD SOLD

Joanna Hopkins 970.471.4945 jhopkins@slifersummit.com

This aspen-encircled home, steps from the Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, features an open floor plan, impressive stone finishes, vaulted ceilings, and expansive windows offering mountain and golf course views.

4 3.5 2,385 $2,100,000

Brenda Hugo 970.485.4486 bhugo@slifersummit.com

A Natural Fit in Summit County Real Estate.

Tranquility, comfort, exquisite residences and world-class recreation make this unique mountain town a natural fit for so many. Your broker should feel the same way—seamlessly meeting your expectations through any real estate transaction.

Whether selling your current property or making Summit County home for the first time, get started with a Slifer Smith & Frampton broker today.

36 Rounds Rd | Breckenridge 970.668.1550 | SummitCountyRealEstate.com

Rooted in Colorado real estate since 1962, and always locally owned.

BRECKENRIDGE For the love of EMBRACE THE SPIRIT

Breckenridge is a truly special place. And all of us who call it home have to continue doing our part to preserve and protect it. Our small-town charm. Our wildlife. And the nature that surrounds us. Together, we’re on a mission to ensure everything we love about Breckenridge remains for us to enjoy now and into the future.

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