FOOD & DRINK
CULTURE
Buffalo remodel brings new life to revered restaurant Page 4
ARTS
Recreational marijuana sales reach one-year mark Page 8
MUSIC
Area stitchers find inspiration, distraction-free work place Page 13
Volunteers allow High Street Concerts to book top talent Page 17
SILVER PLUME • GEORGETOWN • EMPIRE • IDAHO SPRINGS • CENTRAL CITY • BLACK HAWK • GOLDEN GATE • ROLLINSVILLE • COAL CREEK • NEDERLAND • GOLD HILL • WARD • JAMESTOWN • ALLENSPARK • LYONS • ESTES PARK
MMAC
January 2015 • FREE
Mountain Music, Arts & Culture
monthly
mmacmonthly.com
Experience
Coffee
at altitude
The independent coffee shops and roasters at altitude in the Peak to Peak and Clear Creek Valley regions of Colorado offer a wide range of ways to enjoy numerous styles of coffee in unique settings and in interesting ways, including your favorite. Page 16 The Train Cars Coffee & Yogurt Company/Photo by Jeffrey V. Smith
Historic Places Georgetown-Silver Plume Historic District
!
Location: Off I-70 at Silver Plume and Georgetown, includes the entire commercial and residential areas of both communities, as well as the railroad grade connecting them. Date Listed: National Register & National Historic Landmark, Nov. 13, 1966
1884 Silver Plume Depot Location: 825 Railroad Ave., Silver Plume, CO Date Listed: National Register, May 6, 1971
Lebanon and Everett Mine Tunnels Location: Adjacent to I-70, northeast of Silver Plume Date Listed: National Register, Oct. 7, 1971
Silver Plume sites highlight mining, transportation PEAK TO PEAK Colorado’s rich history is being preserved through the efforts of locally- and nationally-designated historic places. Each month this year, the MMAC Monthly takes a region-by-region look at the many properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places in the mountain communities in Clear Creek, Gilpin, Boulder and Larimer counties. The passage of the National Historic Preservation Act in 1966 established the National Register and the process for adding properties to it. For a property to be eligible, it
must meet at least one of four main criteria involving architectural styles, association with various aspects of social history and commerce, ownership and design/construction. Silver Plume, in western Clear Creek County, is included in its entirety on the register as part of the Georgetown/Silver Plume National Historic District. It is also home to the 1884 Silver Plume Depot and nearby Lebanon and Everett mines. Before a larger strike in Leadville in 1878, the Silver Plume and Georgetown Mining Continued on page 12
Silver Plume Depot, part of the Georgetown Loop Railroad, as it looks today
TAKE NOTE – supporting our community
Volume 8, Issue 1 • January 2015
Paper continues to connect, showcase high-country towns PEAK TO PEAK It’s a new year and winter has definitely arrived. Here at the MMAC Monthly we would like to express our sincere appreciation for our advertisers, readers and other supporters. Thanks to all of you, we are able to continue to highlight for another year the food, arts, music and events from the mountain towns of Clear Creek, Gilpin, Boulder and Larimer counties from Georgetown and Silver Plume to Estes Park. As always, we encourage everyone to
make use of the paper’s free calendar listings and editorial content. We will gladly help you highlight your event, performance, activity... whatever. If it’s happening in or is from our coverage area, we would love to hear from you. All story ideas are always welcome all year long. Of course, we also appreciate anyone who wants to take advantage of our very competitive advertising rates and wide distribution to the residents of and visitors traveling through the Peak to Peak and Clear
MMAC Mountain Music, Arts & Culture
Creek Valley regions. Our advertisers allow the publication to be freely distributed throughout our coverage area connecting the high-country and keeping you informed about all mountain-based events and activities and highlighting mountain culture, interesting people and unique area businesses. The staff at the MMAC Monthly encourages our readers to get out and enjoy the high-country winter season whether that means heading to the region’s many ski areas and snowshoeing in the backcountry or heading indoors to the variety of events held in more warm confines. As the January cover story suggests, take some time to get out and discover a local coffee shop. Not only will you discover there are some great tasting coffee treats in our mountain towns, you just might connect with a neighbor you didn’t know who is also seeking to warm up from the cold.
Addiction Recovery Groups Sunday Gilpin County H.A.L.T. – St. Paul’s Church, Central City, 2 p.m. Fall River Group AA Meeting – 701 Elm, Estes Park, noon Monday Clear Creek Road Runners – United Church of Idaho Springs, 2 p.m. Al-Anon Families – Allenspark Fire Department, 5 p.m. Early Worms Group AA Meeting – St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal,
monthly
PUBLISHER Wideawake Media, Inc.
EDITORS MANAGING EDITOR: Jeffrey V. Smith
MMACeditor@gmail.com EDITOR/COPY EDITOR:
Jennifer Pund
MMACmonthly@gmail.com
WRITERS/ STAFF WRITER/PHOTO: PHOTO Jennifer Pund STAFF WRITER/PHOTO: Jeffrey V. Smith
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:
George Watson
PRODUCTION DESIGN: Jeffrey V. Smith ADVERTISING AD SALES: Jennifer Pund MMACadsales@gmail.com AD DESIGN: Jeffrey V. Smith CIRCULATION Jennifer Pund Jeffrey V. Smith DEADLINES AD SPACE: 20th of each month FREE LISTINGS: 20th of each month EDITORIAL CONTENT: 20th of each month
Estes Park, 7 a.m.
Wideawake Media, Inc. P.O. Box 99, Rollinsville, CO 80474 OFFICE: (720) 443-8606 | CELL: (720) 560-6249 www.MMACmonthly.com MMACeditor@gmail.com MMACmonthly@gmail.com MMACadsales@gmail.com
Estes Park, 7 a.m.
Wideawake, Colorado was a small mining district and townsite in Gilpin County located near the head of Missouri Gulch on the southwestern side of Fairburn Mountain. By 1867 it was a well-established camp with a population of several hundred.
Fall River Group AA Meeting – 701 Elm, Estes Park, noon St. Vrain Group AA Meeting – IOOF Hall, Lyons, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday AA Meeting – St. Rita’s Catholic Church, Nederland 5:30 & 7 p.m. Clear Creek Road Runners 2 – Georgetown Community Center, 7 p.m. St. Vrain Group AA Meeting – IOOF Hall, Lyons, 7:30 p.m. AA Meeting – Golden Gate Grange Community Center, 2 p.m. Early Worms Group AA Meeting – St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal, Fall River Group AA Meeting – 701 Elm, Estes Park, noon & 7 p.m. Wednesday Gilpin County H.A.L.T. – St. Paul’s Church, Central City, 2 p.m. Morning Group AA Meeting – Nederland Veterinary Hospital (Back Office), 8 a.m.
Canyon Group AA Meeting – Coal Creek Canyon United Power Offices., 7:30 p.m.
Open AA Meeting – Allenspark Fire Station, 5 p.m. Early Worms Group AA Meeting – St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal, Estes Park, 7 a.m.
Fall River Group AA Meeting – 701 Elm, Estes Park, 7 p.m. Thursday Morning Group AA Meeting – Nederland Veterinary Hospital (Back Office), 8 a.m.
Clear Creek Road Runners – United Church of Idaho Springs, 2 p.m. Early Worms Group AA Meeting – St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal, Estes Park, 7 a.m.
AA Meeting, New Horizons Group NA Meeting – 701 Elm, Estes Park, noon & 7 p.m.
Friday Free at Last Group NA Meeting – Harmony Foundation of Estes Park, 7:30 p.m.
Clear Creek Road Runners – United Church of Idaho Springs, 2 p.m. Wild Basin Book Study – New Covenant Church, Allenspark, 6:30 p.m. AA Meeting – St. Rita’s Catholic Church, Nederland, 7 p.m. Early Worms Group AA Meeting – St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal,
Corrections: We regret any mistakes, typos or otherwise incorrect information that makes it into the paper. If you find a mistake, please let us know so we can be sure not to make it again. All information contained in MMAC Monthly is subject to change without notice. The MMAC Monthly is printed on paper made from up to 100 percent recycled, postconsumer waste and processed chlorinefree using soy-based inks and cold-set presses with very low Volatile Organic Compound emissions and high bio-renewable resources. Renewable, thermal, process-less printing plates made from aluminum and 100 percent recycled after use, are also used.
Estes Park, 7 a.m.
Fall River Group AA Meeting – 701 Elm, Estes Park, noon & 7 p.m. Saturday Early Worms Group AA Meeting – St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal, Estes Park, 7 a.m.
Call Boulder 24-hour AA Answering Service at 303-682-8032 for assistance any time of day. Visit www.bouldercountyaa.org, www.daccaa. org or www.northcoloradoaa.org for information in Boulder, Denver and Northern Colorado regions or visit www.aa.org; www.na.org or www.oa.org to find other regional meetings and resources. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 800-522-4700 where trained counselors can provide treatment options in Colorado.
Page 2
MMAC monthly
| JANUARY 2015
©2015 Wideawake Media, Inc. No portion may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher.
MOUNTAIN MIX – the best of all the rest
January 1
Golden Gate First Day Hike
Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers a First Day Hike along the Horseshoe Trail, Jan. 1, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The moderate 3.6-mile roundtrip hike is a gradual uphill climb that winds through aspen groves and ends at a beautiful meadow. The hike will be led by volunteer Dr. John Moyer, who will share stories about the history and wildlife in the area. If time allows, participants will hike to Frazer Meadow Barn and discuss its fascinating history. The hike ends with hot chocolate, cider and cookies at the Visitor Center. There is no age restriction, but park staff asks that you consider the distance, difficulty and temperature to determine if it is appropriate for your children. Children in backpack carriers are permitted. Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on a 6-foot leash, as always. This hike may prove strenuous if there is enough snowfall, so come prepared. Participants will meet at the Visitor Center and should bring snowshoes and poles, ice cleats/YakTrax, snacks, sunscreen and clothing appropriate for the day. The hike is free but a valid day pass or annual pass is required on all participant vehicles. Golden Gate Canyon Visitor Center is located at 92 Crawford Gulch Road. Contact the Visitor Center at 303-582-3707 for more information.
Central City Bus Service Changes
Starting January 1, Central City’s complimentary bus shuttle service will be adjusting its times and stops. The shuttle runs seven days a week: Sunday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to midnight and Friday and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. The shuttle runs 30 minute loops starting at Johnny Z’s in Central City on the hour and half hour. The shuttle then stops at Century/Bonanaza/Dostal Alley, Easy Street and Reserve Casino in Central City. It then goes to Red Dolly, Saratoga, Canyon Casino, Golden Gates, Isle of Capri, Monarch, Lady Luck Casino, Mardi Gras Casino, Ameristar and the Lodge Casino in Black Hawk. Finally, the shuttle picks up at the gazebo in Black Hawk across from The Z Casino at 27-minutes after the hour before heading back up to Johnny Z’s in Central City. For more information contact 303-682-1407.
January 14 & 31
Ski With a Ranger at Loveland Ski Area
Join Forest Service rangers at the Loveland Ski Area for free snow ranger presentations, Jan. 14 and 31. Topics include winter ecology, local history and partnerships. The events are suitable for all ages and recommended for those 8 years and older. It is also recommended those attending be intermediate or better skiers or snowboarders. Meet inside the Ptarmigan Roost Warming Hut at the top of Chair 2 at either 10:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. for a run with the Snow Ranger (plan to get there 15 minutes early). The Ski With a Ranger Program takes place twice a month until the end of the season. Other Ski With a Ranger dates include Feb. 11 and 28, March 11 and 28th and April 8 and 25. Make plans to join in and learn more about the world in which we live. Visit www.skiloveland.com or www.fs.usda.gov/news/arp to learn more.
January 16
Avalanche Awareness & Outdoor Safety
The Rocky Mountain Conservancy’s Avalanche Awareness & Outdoor Safety in Wintertime course, Jan.16 from 12:30-4:30 p.m., will be an overview of the avalanche phenomenon with a goal of participants being able to identify how, when, where and why avalanches are likely to occur in Rocky Mountain National Park. After a study of avalanches in the classroom with instructor Eli Helmuth, participants will travel to Hidden Valley for a two-hour hike to study the snowpack and terrain aspects of avalanches and review the basics of avalanche rescue techniques. Visit rmconservancy.org for more information.
January 16-18
The Aspen Lodge’s Wu Dang Master Chen is launching the 2015 education calendar with a Feng Shui Seminar, Jan. 16-18. Feng Shui is an ancient tradition that provides guidance for human beings to live in harmony with the laws of nature. At a very young age, Master Chen was chosen to learn the ancient wisdom of Wu dang Tai Chi, QiGong, meditation and healing arts. He came to America to teach and promote these healing practices that can improve the quality of life. According to The Aspen Lodge “For those who have experienced the incredible healing powers of Master Chen’s teaching , you know this is an opportunity you should not miss.” Master Chen is a 14th generation Wu Dang Zhang Sanfeng lineage holder and is a 25th generation Long Men Daoist Priest. He is a renowned Tai Chi Master and Healer as well as the Author of “The Master Within: Passion for Life.” Feng Shui can influence every aspect of life; love, family, success, relationships, career, joy, happiness, quality of health and spiritual growth. The Aspen Lodge Resort and Spa is located at 6120 Highway 7, near Estes Park. Register at www.wudangtao. com or call 970-586-8133.
January 24
Winter Ecology: A Snowshoeing Trek for Kids & Families
Discover the serene beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park in the wintertime on this four-hour Rocky Mountain Conservancy snowshoe hike, Jan. 24, with instructor Olson Fellow. This fun and educational program will lead participants through snowcovered pine, spruce, and fir trees to learn how plants and animals survive winter using their unique adaptations and keen survival skills. Also, learn more about the properties of snow and how it can help the inhabitants of an area survive the long winter months. Visit rmconservancy.org for more information.
Estes Park launches new website created by town staff ESTES PARK The Town of Estes Park has launched a new website at www.estes. org after nine months of advance preparation. The new site was constructed by Town staff and is hosted free-ofcharge within the Colorado.gov web portal, managed by the Statewide Internet Portal Authority. The new www. estes.org features a dynamic homepage, user-friendly format and simple navigation to help users access Town government information. “The structure was developed based on feedback we received through a public user survey, as well as best practices for government
website accessibility,” Public Information Officer Kate Rusch said. “We believe our customers will find it to be a comprehensive, user-friendly resource for Town information.” The website includes a top menu with direct links to services, including the “I Want To…” option with direct links to the most commonly needed services identified by users. The site also features live feeds of the town’s Twitter and Facebook pages, home page links to major town projects, multi-language Google translation, Google site search, and automatic backup systems to prevent interruptions to service.
Participating in the Colorado.gov portal with SIPA is a cost-saving and efficiency measure allowing the town to save at least $12,000 in website development costs this year, plus other associated costs. The savings allows funds to be allocated to other services. For more information on the Town website, please contact Public Information Officer and webmaster Kate Rusch at 970-577-3701 or krusch@ estes.org. To receive Town news in your email inbox, please visit www.estes.org. More Town news is available at www.facebook.com/ townofestesparkco and www.twitter. com/townofestespark.
January 25
2nd Annual Stagecoach Classic Point-to-Point Race and Tour
Whether you are a serious Nordic skier or racer, an old-school tourist or anywhere in between, the Stagecoach Classic is a unique chance to experience a trek from Devil’s Thumb Ranch, through the old Idlewild Ski Area, to Hideaway Park in Winter Park. The second annual event takes place, Jan. 24. In the past, the Idlewild trail system connected to Devil’s Thumb Ranch, connecting Tabernash, Fraser, and Winter Park, and is still remembered by skiers as one of the best Nordic areas in Colorado. This is a rare chance to ski the beautiful, “off the map” course. Plus, it’s an exclusive opportunity as this will be the only time this winter that this trail system will be connected and groomed for skier access. A portion of the race and tour proceeds will go towards the Trout Unlimited campaign to protect and preserve the endangered Fraser River. This is a classic-only ski event. Post-race events will include a BBQ, beer garden and live music in Hideaway Park. Devil’s Thumb Ranch in located at 3530 County Road 83, Tabernash. Visit www.devilsthumbranch.com for additional information.
Winter Heritage Day at Walker Ranch Homestead
Pioneer settlers had a lot to do preparing for and surviving Colorado’s long winters. Learn about typical winter chores, Jan. 25 form 1-3 p.m., when you explore the Walker Ranch Homestead for free. You’ll see a working demonstration in the blacksmith shop and smell food being prepared on the woodstove. Be prepared for cold, windy weather and to walk in snow. Contact Sheryl Kippen, 303-776-8848 or skippen@bouldercounty.org or visit www.bouldercounty.org for more information.
January 26
Pioneers of the Peaks: Local Climbers Who Made History –’Zoomin’ With Zumie’
The Estes Park Museum’s Pioneers of the Peaks: Local Climbers Who Made History series kicks off with “Zoomin’ With Zumie,” Jan. 26 at 7 p.m. This presentation—which is a tie-in with the Museum’s “Climb On!” exhibition celebrating the 100th anniversary of Rocky Mountain National Park—highlights the life and climbs of Clerin “Zumie” Zumwalt. It will be illustrated with a slideshow and talk by his friends Drs. Tom Hornbein and Jim Detterline. Zumwalt was a well-known Longs Peak climbing guide of the 1930s. For several decades, a small group of men and women made history exploring and ascending the summits surrounding the Estes Valley. This hardy group paved the way for others to pursue the challenges of our alluring landscapes. The Estes Park Museum and Estes Valley Library gathered their inspiring stories and January-June, a monthly series will feature special guests from among the 18 local climbers and mountaineers who were interviewed for the Estes Valley Mountaineering Oral History Project. These monthly talks will be held at the Estes Park Museum. Visit www.estes.org for more information.
Listing an arts, food, entertainment or other event and activity in the MMAC Monthly calendars is absolutely FREE! E-mail your information by the 20th to be included in the next monthly issue. All story ideas will also be considered. Send to: MMACeditor@gmail.com
JANUARY 2015
|
MMAC monthly
Page 3
FOOD & DRINK CALENDAR
January 1 • Allenspark Community Cupboard Food Bank – Old Gallery (AP)
January 2 • Wine Tasting: Oak Grove Wines – Peak Wine & Spirits (NED)
• Random Act of Culture: Japanese Tea Ceremony – Estes Valley Library (EP)
• Seafood Buffet – Other Side Restaurant (EP) January 3 • The Way of Tea: History and Tradition of the Japanese Tea Ceremony – Estes Valley Library (EP) January 5 • Lovin’ Cup Community Kitchen – Deli @ 8236’ (NED) January 6 • Rotary Club of Estes Park First Tuesday Lunch – Dunraven Inn (EP)
January 8 • Thursday Food Pantry Distribution – Nederland Community Center (NED)
•N utrition Program w/Nutritionist Dr. Jette Hogenmiller – Idaho Springs Library (IS) January 9 • Funkwerks Brewing Tasting – Peak Wine & Spirits (NED) January 10 • Wine Tasting – Mid-County Liquor (RV) January 16 • Wine Tasting: Shiraz/ Petite Syrah – Peak Wine & Spirits (NED)
• Mexican Buffet – Other Side Restaurant (EP) • “ODD” Dinner – Two Brother’s Deli/One Door Down (IS) January 17 • B eer Tasting – Peak Wine & Spirits (NED) • “ODD” Dinner – Two Brother’s Deli/One Door Down (IS) January 18 • Vegan “Linner” Potluck – Estes Valley Library (EP) January 19 • L ovin’ Cup Community Kitchen – Deli @ 8236’ (NED) January 20 •H ome Brewers Social – Pizza Bar 66 (LY) January 22 • S ki Lunch – Loveland Ski Area (GT) January 23 • Wine Tasting: Riojo/Cote du Rhones – Peak Wine & Spirits (NED)
• Arugula Wine Dinner: Tour de France – Salto Coffee Works (NED)
January 24 • I talian Dinner and Entrée Challenge – CCCIA Community Center (CCC)
• B eer Tasting – Mid-County Liquor (RV) • Five-Course Beer Makers Dinner – Arapahoe Basin Ski Area (GT)
January 30 • Wine Tasting: Italian Reds – Peak Wine & Spirits (NED)
WEEKLY FOOD
Sunday • Service Industry Sunday – Stage Stop (RV) • Champagne Brunch – Other Side Restaurant (EP) • Brunch & Bloody Mary Bar – Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (LY)
Continued on page 7
Page 4
MMAC monthly
FOOD & DRINK – restaurants, cafés, bars, breweries and more Buffalo remodel brings new life to revered restaurant
Menu and staff standards will also be upgraded. “A lot of things in By Jeffrey V. Smith this building have been grand-fathered over the years,” Ebert said. IDAHO SPRINGS ne of state’s most popular eateries for decades, Idaho “Everything will be brought up to current code.” Springs’ Buffalo Restaurant & Bar, is in the midst of a “The main part of the restaurant will keep its feel,” Ebert excomplete renovation and redesign. If all goes as planned, plained. “It will still be the Buffalo restaurant.” The menu, howwhen it reopens in late May it will be like you remember, only ever, is going to shrink. They will still offer their famous buffalo burgers, but the food will evolve completely different—the same from previous options. IngrediBuffalo, and more. ents will be all fresh products, The restaurant, known for its nothing frozen. There are plans to buffalo and as one of Colorado’s fill the kitchen with state-of-themost authentic Western dining art equipment that can do some establishments, closed in mid“amazing” things. “I’m excited October, auctioned off part of its to see how the kitchen evolves, unique and extensive collection and how its been evolving,” Ebof antique signs and other items ert said. “It will make things a lot and begin the demolition process easier on the staff.” With just a of the four, century-old buildings few more staff, the manager exthat make up the business. This plained they will be able to put is the first time in decades anyout 40 percent more product than thing major has been done to the what they currently do. A new place. “I’ve worked here for 20 computer P.O.S. system and betyears, and all they’ve done in 20 years is throw some paint on the Auction of antique items at Buffalo Restaurant in October, 2014. ter kitchen design will also help Photo by Jeffrey V. Smith make things more efficient. walls,” Manager Dan Ebert said. In addition to the Buffalo everyone remembers, the west“It’s time for us to do something here.” When everything is complete, there will be two distinctly dif- ern portion of the business will be turned into the West Bound ferent parts to the restaurant. In the main dining area, everything & Down Brewery. “We’re going to have two different angles will look and feel similar to how it always has, while another side going on,” Ebert said. “On this side of the wall, for someone will have a modern pub feel and include a 15-barrel brewery. Each who doesn’t know, they will think it’s a completely different will have separate signage and be distinctive from the outside, but restaurant. It will have different name, it will have a different come together on the inside. They will share a kitchen and staff. Continued on page 7
O
Italian Challenge ‘perfect’ winter-time gathering COAL CREEK CANYON Are you always asked for your lasagna recipe? Do you make a mighty meatball? Is your Tiramisu irresistible? Enter your best Italian-inspired dish into the Coal Creek Canyon Improvement Association’s third annual Italian Entrée Challenge/Cook-Off and Pasta Dinner, Jan. 24. Bring a favorite meat dish, pasta dish or dessert to the CCCIA Hall to be tasted and judged with gift card prizes being awarded to the top three. The dinner runs from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and is open to the pubic. A pasta meal with salad, bread, dessert, and soft drinks provided for only $5 for
| JANUARY 2015
children, $6 for members and $7 for nonmembers. Guests are welcome to BYOB. Cooks entering a food item into the challenge receive free admission to the event. In an effort to do something different, the CCCIA decided an Italian Food Challenge would be perfect after the holidays and when winter is really settling in. “We wanted to do a ‘theme dinner’ and fundraiser that was different from our other events, CCCIA Vice President Tom Mulvany said. “We really hope to see lots of great Italian food creations on the 24th.” The dinner is one of a series of monthly Continued on page 6
Last year’s CCCIA Italian Entrée Challenge winners were thrilled to get their awards.
Fast food options grow in Clear Creek
234, it’s easy to quickly grab delicious food DOWNIEVILLE Mountain residents and visitors can now and get right back on the road. Whether make a “run for the border,” in Clear Creek you want to stop by and fuel up with Taco County thanks to a new, modern Taco Bell Bell’s new breakfast items on your way to in Downieville. Travelers on Interstate 70 the slopes, take a break from traffic on your can easily take Exit 234 and grab a Chalu- way home or work in an energetic, fun, enpa Supreme, Nachos Bellgrande or a Sau- vironment, you have a new option.” sage Flatbread Melt. The exit also features The Taco Bell has also created several new jobs in the county. If you enjoy a Breeze Ski Rental and Starbucks. people and pro On Dec. 18, viding friendly 2014, Alvarado accurate service Concepts opened to customers and the Taco Bell afteammates then ter extensive renapply in person at ovations to a forthe Downieville mer Burger King Taco Bell. Key building that has responsibilities been vacant for include greetseveral years. Being and thanking ing long-time rescustomers, taking idents of Denver and ringing up orand avid skiers, The former Burger King property in Downieville Taco Bell. ders at the counter the Alvarado’s are has been transformed into a modern Photo by Jeffrey V. Smith or drive-thru and excited to open a handling payments. Other duties include restaurant in Colorado’s Ski Country. The restaurant is only the third in the food and beverage assembling and making country to feature a new design with sure orders are correct while maintaining a wooden tables, pluming-like supports clean and safe environment. with spigot handles and a special, localized mural on the outside. “The décor seems fitting of the commu- For more information, or to apply for a nity, “Amy Shepek, marketing director for job in person, stop by Taco Bell at 1073 Palo Alto, Inc., said. “Being right off Exit County Rd 308 at I-70 Exit 234.
FOOD & DRINK
Beer dinner features five courses KEYSTONE Arapahoe Basin’s annual Moonlight Dinner Series highlights cuisine from mountain regions of the world, all specially sourced and prepared for these legendary dining experiences. Executive Chef Christopher Rybak brings years of culinary experience and a passion for innovation to the Moonlight Dinner Series at Black Mountain Lodge. This month, a Five-Course BeerMakers Dinner with Odell Brewing Company is offered on Jan. 24. Join the crew from Odell and Arapahoe Basin for a five-course menu paired with a special beer to go with each course. The dinner takes place in the 6th Alley Bar & Grill in the base area, so there’s no need to
ride the lift. Spaces are limited and tickets are $55 plus tax and gratuity. A cash bar is available for additional pours. All other Moonlight Dinner events this season are sold out except for a Randonee Dinner, May 2. The Second Randonee Dinner of the season features foods of Central America. Unlike other nights, the event is not liftserved. Guests may skin or snowshoe up to Black Mountain Lodge and ski or hike down afterward in the moonlight. Dinner is $69, plus tax, for adults.
Arapahoe Basin Ski Area is located at 28194 U.S. Hwy. 6. Visit arapahoe basin.com or call 888-ARAPAHOE for more information.
Salto hosts ‘Tour de France’ wine dinner NEDERLAND Arugula Bar and Restorante and Salto Coffee Works in Nederland, Jan. 23, present a ‘Tour de France’ Wine Dinner. The evening includes a “wonderful, wintery” five-course meal paired with an assortment of traditional French wines. By smelling, sipping and savoring each wine, then using French culinary tradition for guidance, Arugula’s Chef Alec
JANUARY 2015
|
has created a “sumptuous and enticing” January meal. Sommelier William Davis of Wilson Daniels Fine Wine Imports will share his vast knowledge of wine. The dinner beings at 6:30 p.m. and is $74.95 per person with tax and tip included. Contact Salto Coffee Works, 112 E. 2nd St., for tickets or call 303-258-3537. Visit saltocoffeeworks.com for a complete menu and more information.
MMAC monthly
Page 5
FOOD & DRINK
‘Warm-up’ at whiskey celebration ESTES PARK The Whiskey Warm-Up is a true celebration of the tradition of warming up from the inside out. Dress warm to sip on selections of Colorado whiskeys from a variety of local distilleries next to the heat of one of the fire pits at outdoor Riverside Plaza, Feb. 7. Browse local cigar shops selling special handmade stogies and enjoy the sounds of live music from Chain Station. Learn more about the styles, tastes and smells of whiskey from a local distillery’s knowledgeable educators who will present “snapshot” seminars throughout the event. Tickets to the Whiskey Warm-Up include a souvenir glass, unlimited whiskey tastings, seminars and live entertainment. Local establishments will also offer additional whiskey-paired menus and whiskey cocktails all weekend. The event is part of the Estes Park
Winter Warm-Up Weekend, Feb. 6-8, featuring family activities downtown around the ice rink. Start off the weekend, Feb. 6, with dinner specials and live music throughout the village, then enjoy family activities, Feb. 7-8, near the Riverwalk location of the Ice Skating Rink. Children and adults can enjoy a face painter, pony rides, a s’mores bar, sandy candy, photo cutouts and more. The Winter Warm-Up Art Walk also takes place throughout downtown. The Estes Park Ice Rink is located on the southeast corner of Elkhorn Avenue and Riverside Drive. Family activities and the art walk are free. Ice Skating is $2 and skate rental is $2. Tickets to the Whiskey Warm-Up are $45 or $80 for a pair. Visit www.visitestespark.com for more information.
FOOD & DRINK CALENDAR • S unday Buffet – Peaceful Valley Ranch (AP) • Brunch – Sweet Basilico (EP) • Brunch Buffet w/Amanda Valley – Waterfront Grille @ Estes Park Resort (EP)
Monday • Charity Night – Lucha Cantina (GT) • Pastor’s Pantry Food Distribution – Whispering Pines Church (CCC)
• Dinner Special – First Street Pub (NED) Tuesday • Taco Tuesday – Mothers Saloon (GT) • Burger Madness – Cables Pub & Grill (EP) Wednesday • Burger Madness – Sundance Café (NED) • Whiskey Wednesday – Pizza Bar 66 (LY) • Pastor’s Pantry Food Distribution – Whispering Pines Church (CCC)
• • • •
Thursday Ski Lunch – Temporary Clear Creek Recreation Center (IS) Breakfast for Dinner – Sundance Café (NED) Gyro Thursdays – Troia’s Café & Marketplace (GT) Open Mic Potluck w/Taylor Radio – Spirit Hounds Distillery (LY)
Friday • F riday Night Supper – Coal Creek Coffee (CCC) • Senior’s Tea Time – ClubNed Café (NED)
Page 6
MMAC monthly
Continued from page 4
• C hef’s Specials – Stage Stop (RV) • Pastor’s Pantry Food Distribution – Whispering Pines
Low alcohol ale added to line-up
LONGMONT Oskar Blues, founded in Lyons in 1997, recently released the initial batch of its new PINNER Throwback IPA and added the ale to its year-round lineup of beers in 12-ounce cans and on draft. PINNER was released first in Oskar Blues’ home states of Colorado and North Carolina in mid-December and will join the brewery’s mixed-pack in February for national distribution. Coming in at 4.9 percent ABV and 35 IBUs, the “primo dry-hopped brew will be easy to throw back.” PINNER will be the lowest year-round ABV beer to come out of Oskar Blues’ brewhouses. “Many things contribute to flavor in beer, and with Pinner it’s a focus on hops and malt—with a considerable nod to the hops,” Oskar Blues Colorado head brewer Tim Matthews said. “With the lower ABV, layers of flavor build on one another—with one sip citrus, the next sip pineapple, next sip papaya, next sip passion fruit, next sip toasted bread—and then on to the next pint.” Visit oskarblues.com to learn more or find distribution information.
Church (CCC)
• B urger Madness – Lyons Dairy Bar (LY) • Chef’s Special – Cables Pub & Grill (EP) Saturday • Food Pantry – Nederland Community Center (NED) • Chef’s Specials – Stage Stop (RV) AP = Allenspark BH = Black Hawk CC = Central City CCC= Coal Creek Canyon EM = Empire EP = Estes Park GGC = Golden Gate Canyon GH = Gold Hill GT = Georgetown IS = Idaho Springs
JT = Jamestown LV = Loveland LY = Lyons NED = Nederland RV = Rollinsville SA = Salina SP = Silver Plume SC = Summit County WD = Ward WP = Winter Park
Submit restaurant, bar and foodrelated events for free listing in the Food & Drink Calendar to: MMACeditor@gmail.com All listings/dates subject to change. Contact venues to confirm events.
Italian Challenge includes pasta dinner, cook-off Continued from page 4
themed fundraisers held at the CCCIA Hall. Pancakes will be served for a Valentines Breakfast, Feb. 14, and a St. Patrick’s Day Corned Beef Dinner takes place on March 13. Start getting your chili perfected for the Chili Challenge/ Cook-Off, April 25, and bring mom for pancakes for a Mother’s Day Pancake Breakfast, May 9. The CCCIA was established in 1947 and the original hall built in 1950. It plays host to many community events and gatherings including Sunday church services, Cub Scout meetings and arts and crafts shows. The hall can be rented for weddings, birthday parties, company meetings and private parties. Easter parties and a Fourth of July festival are among its many special events. The CCCIA Hall is located at 31528 Hwy 72 in Coal Creek Canyon. For additional information or to volunteer to help, contact Tom Mulvany at 303642-7121 or visit www.coalcreek.com/ cccia/CCCIA_Site/CCCIA_Home. html. Also see the CCCIA Facebook page for more details. For information about hall rentals, contact Hall Manager Suzy Schemel at 303-642-7300.
| JANUARY 2015
Lyons distiller introduces new, small-batch spirit
LYONS Spirit Hound Distillers in Lyons recently celebrated the release of a new spirit, along with a few other successes, when it debuted its small-batch Colorado Sambuca in December. The small, Lyons-based distiller has also expanded its marketplace in Colorado and Atlanta and the company’s spirits have brought home medals from spirits competitions three times in 2014. Distiller Craig Engelhorn can now boast a silver medal for Spirit Hound’s White Whisky, a silver medal for the Gin and a gold and silver medal for Richardo’s Decaf Coffee Liqueur. Traditionally an Italian anise-flavored liqueur, Sambuca may be white, red, or black (deep blue) in color. Spirit Hound Distillers’ Colorado Sambuca is quite red, or a “beautiful burgundy hue.” The name is a nod to the origin, Colorado, and for the color red, known as Colorado in some versions of Spanish. Spirit Hounds Sambuca is infused with a “gargantuan” amount of wild-grown elderberries. The addition of whole organic anise stars gives their version of the classic liqueur a licorice character one would expect from a world-class Sambuca. They spared no expense on the “finest botanicals used at their optimum quantity to create a world-class product.” Bottled around 90 proof, Colorado Sambuca makes a fine digestif, perfect after a fine meal. Italian tradition suggests serving it neat in a snifter with three espresso beans representing the Holy Trinity. Spirit Hound Distillers suggests its Sambuca may be enjoyed “however you like.” If bottles remain available, they can be found at Spirit Hound’s Tasting Room where you can also learn about their distillation process and get free tastes. In addition, the tasting room offers an unique cocktails and live music in the “tree house.” Spirit Hound’s Tasting Room is located at 4196 Ute Highway/Colo. 66. Visit spirithounds.com or call 303-823-5696 for more information.
FOOD & DRINK Popular restaurant gets complete renovation, brewery addition to handle up to 1,400 meals on a busy feel to it.” He said it will be more of a day. He also explained the overall envimodern design with different lighting and ronment will be better for employees and menu. “There will be two different feels customers. “We’ll actually have heat that of the restaurants, two different types of is designed to heat a restaurant,” he said. service,” he said. “It’s more of a come-in- Some of the renovations include tearand-grab-a-beer and hang out with friends ing down the wall where the antique bar place.” Patrons will order food from the was located and turning the bar 90-debartender and food runners will deliver it. grees to face the front door, which will be The idea is to brew six to eight beers, relocated as well. “We’re going to build but still carry domestics because of the di- on to that bar, match it and increase the versity of the clientele we have here,” Eb- seating capacity by 7-8 people,” Ebert ert said. “The clientele we see up here is a said. They will also add 8-10 new booths little different from what a restaurant sees “that are comfortable, and easy to keep in LoDo where there are 100,000 people clean.” The lighting will be upgraded, too. in couple-mile radius. We don’t have that. They will be doing some work on the People that walk in here are from Texas, exterior that will return the building to more of the Nebraska, historic look and Idaho on the Miner Springs and Street side. Georgetown The pub will and Hawaii feature slidand Poland. ing garage We need to doors that make sure we will open up still are able the place in to serve them warm weathand get them er to let “the in the door. outside in.” We want it to A rooftop be inviting, deck has also and still have been incorpothat feeling it rated into the used to.” The brew- Renovations at the Buffalo in Idaho Springs are “extensive.” pub side and is expected to ing system is all American made and comes from Or- be completed and ready for use by 2016. egon. It will be only the third of its kind The idea is to prepare the building now, and just drop the deck on top when the in Colorado. According to Ebert, the renovations to time comes. the restaurant are extensive, including a “One of the things I’m most excited about new kitchen design with all new equipment, is Dan’s office,” Ebert said. Instead of bea new HVAC system, new bathrooms and ing tucked away in the back, the manager plumbing, new booths and chairs and more. will now have windows that faces the line, They are tearing out the old bathrooms, fire- the dining room and the back door where he says 95 percent of a restaurant’s probplace and office. “We’re designing a kitchen that will be lems occur in those areas. “It will make geared toward the volume we see in Ida- things really efficient I’m really excited ho Springs. Ideally, the volume we’ll see about that,” he said. grow in Idaho Springs down the road.” The need to renovate the Buffalo has been The manager—who says he didn’t sleep growing for years. More and more people well for years worrying about a fire start- are coming to town to take advantage of ing in the more than 40-year-old stove the area’s attractions and most need to get hood—expects the new kitchen to be able out in an hour. Many places in town, inContinued from page 4
cluding the Buffalo can have a 30 minute the opportunity to make literally $50-70,000 wait for a table on busy nights. “We could a year in tips. I really see $200 a day being have served an extra 200 meals, if we had the norm. I have people do it now. I already the capacity,” Ebert explaied. “That 200 give my kitchen staff more than normal and meals translates into almost $4000 of lost almost anyone else in the county and I will continue to do revenue. If that because I you can get have very litpeople in and tle turn over in out quicker, my kitchen.” it works betBefore the ter. That’s project bepart of why gan, Ebert were doing and the resthis, to have taurant’s four that quick investors, ran service. into a bit of The patgood luck. terns of busiDespite the ness in Idaho age of the Springs have buildings, no also changed The Buffalo’s old kitchen has been completely gutted. asbestos was in recent years. Restaurants in the town used to do found in more than 88 test holes. “So, we about half of their business before 5 p.m. were really excited about that, too.” he and half after in the 90s. Copper Mountain, said. “We do expect to see some interKeystone and Winter Park weren’t devel- esting things when we start demoing the oped like they are now. “When you got done kitchen since [previous owner] Art didn’t put a lot of money skiing, there weren’t into things and we 20 restaurants to didn’t put a lot of choose from and money into things.” much of the cur“It will be great rent lodging didn’t when its done,” used to be there. Ebert said. “I keep Now, 60-70 percent telling [the invesof business can octors], if they do it cur before 5 p.m. right, it will work. “Some times of the If they don’t, year we will literally they’re in trouble. do 80 percent before I’m excited to in5 p.m.,” Ebert said. Workers remove the Buffalo’s antique bar. volved in this place When the doors reopen, the manager explained the restau- and what the future looks like. If they rant will have a different policy, dress code do 70 percent of what their plan is, this and expectations for its staff. “It will be a place will be very impressive. I’m excitdifferent environment here when we open,” ed about what it will be.” he said. “I’m going to demand a different level of professionalism of the staff. Ideally we find ourselves in the situation that people The Buffalo Restaurant & Bar is located at want to work here because it’s a great place 1617 Miner Street in Idaho Springs. Keep to work. There will be opportunities for ad- up with renovations on the Buffalo Restauvancement, where there hasn’t been any be- rant Facebook page or visit www.buffalo fore. A server or food runner here will have restaurant.com for more information.
JANUARY 2015
|
MMAC monthly
Page 7
Mountain EVENTS CALENDAR
January 1 • Golden Gate First Day Hike – Golden Gate Canyon State Park (BH)
• O utdoor Divas Demo Day – Loveland Ski Area (GT) • E mbodying Our Intentions: New Years Dance w/ Melissa Michaels and Friends – StarHouse (GH) • New Years Day Yoga – Yoga Room (IS) • The Environmental Group – Coal Creek Canyon Community Center (CCC)
• A nimals in Winter, Ranger-led Program, Read with a Ranger! – Beaver Meadows Visitor Center (EP) January 2 • Santa’s North Pole Adventure Train – Georgetown Loop Railroad (GT)
• S nowshoe Ecology Walk, Ranger-led Program – Rocky Mountain National Park (EP)
January 2-4 • Santa’s North Pole Adventure Train Ride – Georgetown Loop Railroad (GT)
• I ce Maze and Ice Games – Ski Granby Ranch (GC) January 3 • ON3P Skis Demo Day – Loveland Ski Area (GT) • D isco Skate Night – Winter Park Resort (GC) • S anta’s North Pole Adventure Train – Georgetown Loop Railroad (GT)
January 4 • Santa’s North Pole Adventure Train – Georgetown Loop Railroad (GT)
• F ull Moon Hike – Rocky Mountain National Park (EP) January 4-6 • Winter Park Open Adaptive Ski Race – Winter Park Resort (GC)
January 5 • Yoga with Justine – Salina Schoolhouse (GH) • C CMRD Moonlight Snowshoe Hike – Silverdale (GT) • L yons Board of Trustees Meeting – Lyons Town Hall (LY)
January 6 • Spanish Group – John Tomay Memorial Library (GT) • D ynafit Rise & Shine Rando Series (3 of 4) – Arapahoe Basin Ski Area (SC)
•N ederland Board of Trustees – Nederland Community Center (NED)
• Introduction to Essential Oils: Free Oil Share Event – Riverpointe Spa (EP)
January 7
• Euchre Night – Very Nice Brewing (NED) • Estes Valley Model Railroaders Meeting – Estes Valley Library (EP)
January 8 • 95.7’s Ski Hooky Party – Loveland Ski Area • R otary Club of Estes Park Club Board Meeting – National Park Theater (EP)
• E stes Park Equestrian Club, Estes Park Genealogical Society – Estes Valley Library (EP) • G ame Night – Estes Park Museum (EP) January 9 • HS Race Labelle – Eldora Mountain Resort (NED) • G olden Gate Grange Meeting – Golden Gate Grange
Community Center (GCC) • G ame Night – Idaho Springs Library (IS) • I ce Racing: Fun Day Practice – Georgetown Lake (GT)
Continued on page 11
Page 8
MMAC monthly
MOUNTAIN CULTURE – high-country living and activities Recreational marijuana sales reach one-year mark
Nederland, the only Boulder County mountain commuBy Jeffrey V. Smith nity with recreational sales, had two stores close in the past 12 FRONT RANGE o far, the legalization of recreational marijuana in Colorado months, while a third, The Canary’s Song, was among the first in seems to be working. The start of January marks the one-year the county to get all of its recreational licenses and has since emanniversary of legal sales in the state, and while many feared braced adult sales. Club Ned, one of the world’s first marijuana the worse—and still do—short-term statistics seem to indicate an smoking rooms, also opened in the small town. Three Gilpin County locations—Central City’s Green Grass Alincrease in tourism, jobs and property values along with a reduction in crime and little indication adult or youth use has increased. ternative and The Annies as well as Alternative Medical Supply in While this is likely coincidence, it does show many of the pre- an unincorporated location in mid-county—were ready to sell pot on the first day of legal sales. All are dicted negative effects of ending the still going strong. Another recreationprohibition of pot have not materialal business, 1859, is set to open in ized. Tax dollars, however, have. Black Hawk, while a couple is work The first state to legalize pot ing to establish a marijuana smoking brought in $43 million in revenue lounge and movie theater in the counin the first nine months of 2014 ty by April 20. Rocky Mountain Orand overall sales have increased in ganics south of Black Hawk remains all but one month. Several mounmedical-only as will a new recently tain communities in Clear Creek, licensed dispensary in Central City. Gilpin and Boulder counties, and Clear Creek County has recreational the counties themselves, have emsales in most of its communities. The braced the situation and are also Kine Mine, The Spring and Mountain benefiting from increased tax rev- Most mountain dispensaries added recreational Medicinals sell it in Idaho Springs enue, and few negatives. marijuana sales during the first year of legalization. while Serene Wellness in Empire, Much has changed within the industry as well as locally in the past year. Lyons, for example, Sergeant Green Leaf in Georgetown and a newly opened locatook a wait-and-see approach and approved the town’s first rec- tion of The Green Solution in Silver Plume offer rec sales, too. reational licenses near the end of 2014. The Bud Depot remod- The Highway and Mind Body Spirit—in the unincorporated eled its store, while The Headquarters moved to a new location Downieville area—also sell recreational marijuana. A stand-alone at the eastern edge of town in order to add recreational sales. grow operation was recently approved by county officials. Lyons Finest remains a medical only facility. Continued on page 10
S
Celebrate season during Winter Festival weekend ESTES PARK Celebrate the winter season in Estes Park at the Estes Park Winter Festival, Jan. 1718. Be amazed by skiers and snowboarders demonstrating their skills on indoor trampolines, demo snowshoes, taste awardwinning chili, and sip a variety of beers and wines at the Estes Park Winter Festival at the new Estes Park Events Complex. The Winter Festival is back bigger than ever. Sample local Colorado wine and beer from over 30 different drink booths and enjoy the music of talented, local bands while sampling chili all weekend. Rocky Mountain National Park will be at the festival sharing their expert knowledge on outdoor winter adventures, equipment demos, offer-
| JANUARY 2015
ing winter safety tips and fun information about the park. Gear up for the season by browsing the vendor area. The event also includes a red chili cook-off on Saturday and a green and white chili cook-off on Sunday. Next door to the main Winter Festival is the fun and interactive Kid’s Festival. Enjoy face painting, s’mores, trackless train rides and interacting with “Frozen” ice sculptures or try a snowboard simulator. The Estes Park Events Complex is located at 1209 Manford Ave. Contact Rhonda Mickelson at rmickelson@acacamps.org by Jan. 12. to volunteer. Visit www.visit estespark.com to learn more.
The Estes Park Winter Festival returns, Jan. 17-18, after taking a year off.
Photo by Jeffrey V. Smith
Model railroaders present displays
enjoy the “Kids Layout” where they can ESTES PARK With 16,000 square feet of train layouts actually operate model trains themselves. in all scales and gauges, expert modeling, In addition to the numerous layouts, clinics and kid’s interactive layouts and the event features railroad and railroadactivities, there is something for everyone related vendors. at the 18th Annual Rails in the RockRails in the Rockies takes place at ies Model Railroad the Estes Park ConShow in Estes Park, ference Center at Feb. 14-15. Rocky Mountain Organized by the Park Inn located at Estes Valley Model Hwy. 7 and Hwy. 36 Railroaders, these from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. working exhibits on Saturday and 9 include models of Children enjoy the “Kids Layout” at the a.m.-4 p.m. on Suntrains from many re- annual Rails in the Rockies in Estes Park. day. Admission is $5 gions of the United States as well as selected models of Brit- while children 12 and under are free. For ish railroads, all of which have been craft- more information contact info@railsined in detail by dedicated model railroad- therockies.org or visit www.estesvalley ers from all over Colorado. Children will modelrailroaders.org.
Mountain culture
Learn to ski, snowboard in January FRONT RANGE January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month across the United States. It is a designated time when venues in 34 states have special “learn to” programs for those who want to learn how to ski or snowboard. Along the Front Range and in Summit County resorts including Arapahoe Basin, Loveland Ski Area, Ski Granby Ranch, Breakenridge, Keystone and Copper are all participating. Visit the websites of the individual resorts to find their January instruction and rental specials. Skiing and snowboarding are lifetime sports. Starting out with lessons is a smart move. Current skiers and snow-
boarders can increase their expertise with advanced lessons and brush up on “best practices.” No one wants to ski or snowboard alone. If you are a current skier or snowboarder or a newbie yourself, help friends and family members sign up for beginner lessons from a pro. Be an “Ambassador of Snow Sports” by taking the “Bring a Friend Challenge.” It rewards those who help newcomers take beginner lessons. More information is available at www. skiandsnowboardmonth.org and at participating resorts.
Frost Giant races support local youth ESTES PARK The 36th Annual Frost Giant 5K and 10K Winter Race—which goes past the historic MacGregor Ranch and includes views of the snow-covered Continental Divide—takes place, Jan. 25, in Estes Park. The race is held each year in honor of Chip Salaun who helped organize the first race in 1978 when the Estes Alpine Runners needed a winter run to “epitomize the challenges and rewards” of running trails year round. The course isn’t easy and the weather is traditionally cold, windy and snowy, which he felt was a perfect test of runners. The world-class triathlete, mountaineer, author and environmentalist devised the name, drew the original logo, laid out the course, pulled the trigger on the first start, and was the catalyst behind the success of the mountain run. In April 1985, Salaun vanished in the snow and ice of Mt. Cook in New Zealand. Organizers say, “if the wind should blow, it will be his spirit challenging us, then pushing us to another adventure with nature and ourselves.” Proceeds from the races go to the Estes Valley Youth Activity Assistance Fund
which provides scholarships for youngsters to participate in Estes Valley Recreation and Park District programs The Frost Giant races begin and finish in the paver area in front of the municipal building. The 5K starts at 11 a.m. at the municipal building and goes north on MacGregor, crossing Hwy 34 Bypass, and continuing to the main entrance to MacGregor Ranch. The racers do a loop in the northeast meadow of the ranch and then return to the municipal building via MacGregor Avenue. The 10K race begins at noon at the start/ finish line in front of the municipal building and takes a left on Park Lane. Racers run up Virginia Drive to Big Horn, cross Hwy. 34 Bypass and proceed on Big Horn to MacGregor Avenue as they head to MacGregor Ranch. The runners do a loop at the ranch, cross MacGregor and head into the southeast meadow to do another loop. The runners exit the ranch and proceed south on MacGregor back to the municipal building. Visit www.visitestespark.com or call 970586-8191 for more information.
JANUARY 2015
|
MMAC monthly
Page 9
MOUNTAIN CULTURE
Central City business offers benefits of oxygen, aromas By Jennifer Pund CENTRAL CITY When Gene Brown first visited Central City with his son, it took his breath away, literally. He fell in love with the town, but had a hard time breathing walking the steep streets. He felt that if he had issues, others probably did, too. Working with local partners, Brown now helps others eliminate symptoms of altitude sickness, hangovers and stress with at the Mother Lode Oxygen Bar. Three years after his first visit, Brown made the move to Central City from Kansas Gene Brown manages City, but he was the new Mother Lode again hit with Oxygen Bar on Eureka the symptoms of Street in Central City. altitude sickness. “I was really sick when I first moved here in August,” he said. Suffering from nausea and other altitude-related symptoms, he found solace with oxygen. “I found an oxygen bar in Brecken-
Page 10
MMAC monthly
ridge and went there and it immediately cured me,” Brown said. Now, he enjoys using the therapy for relaxation and helping others find relief. Brown, a retired marketing professor, first heard of the therapy from students who were required to research current events in marketing. “It started from a student and I just read up on it. I learned a lot more from my students than I probably taught them,” he said. Since opening in early December, Brown reports that about half his customers have been in for altitude sickness and the other half have found benefits for relaxation or to lessen the symptoms from a hangover. “It’s really good for guys like me who are used to the altitude, but like a drink or two. We have a hangover special 10 a.m. to noon everyday,” he said. The Central City Oxygen Wake-Up includes coffee, hot chocolate or juice and a pastry along with a
30-minute session with a choice of aroma for $10. The all-natural, organic aromas vary from cherry and gardenia to cinnamon and vanilla. Orange and wintergreen are also available. If you need something on the go, they carry Boost Oxygen canisters for only $15. Brown was attracted to the building at 109 Eureka St. due to its proximity to the Opera House, Teller House, Visitor Center and Ermel’s Emporium Thrift Shop, plus it had a living area upstairs. Being in downtown Central City, Brown has met many locals and has found support in the thrift shop and the Visitor Center. “I have made it a point to meet the volunteers and they have been telling visitors about us,” he said. “It’s been really good for referrals.” In support of other local businesses, Mother Lode displays the work of local artist, and owner of Mountain Goat Gallery, Mary Bell. Brown frequents local establishments and claims the local ghosts don’t bother him. “I walk all over downtown, I just love it here. And the ghosts don’t disturb me, I think they’re too afraid.” Mother Lode Oxygen Bar will soon be sharing space with Eureka Supply Company, the latest medical marijuana dispensary approved in Central City. Although a partition is in, a limited access room created and licenses approved, the dispensary won’t be open for business until about mid-January. “We wanted to open on New Years Day, but we will be a few weeks after that, being realistic,” Brown said. Issues with the point-of-sale system and the lag time for signing up with the state and receiving product has created the delay. “Once we get the P.O.S. system in place, we can’t order any product until we are tied into the state’s inventory system. It will then take about a week to get us hooked up.” With an intention of being heavily involved in the community, Brown has talked to Chuck Spencer, owner of Central City KOA, about a take-back program. Spencer has noticed with legalization there has been an increase of marijuana items left on his counter or thrown in the trash by out-of-state patrons. In an effort to keep the substance out of kid’s hands, the two will develop a system for proper disposal. “ We have yet to work out the details, but we have to dispose of it legally. Obviously, you can’t resell it and you can’t offer refunds,” Brown said. The Mother Lode Oxygen Bar is open seven days a week, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and will eventually be the waiting room for Eureka Supply Company, providing oxygen needs for visitors and a relaxing way to spend your time waiting to make a purchase. Mother Lode Oxygen bar is located at 109 Eureka Street in Central City. For more information call 303-325-5392 or visit www.mloxygen.com or find them on Facebook.
| JANUARY 2015
Few problems with legalization Continued from page 8
Estes Park continues to ban all marijuana sales, including medical while Larimer County has approved few licenses in unincorporated areas and none in the mountains. Most changes last year came in the form of packaging, which was an inconvenience for owners, and the testing and regulation of edible pot products following a few unfortunate situations that may, or may not, have involved someone eating large quantities of marijuana-infused food. Issues have also arisen from law enforcement agencies in neighboring states—who have been accused of profiling Colorado cars—and claim they are seeing an influx of Colorado pot. Oklahoma and Nebraska have even sued the state, hoping the U.S. Supreme Court will rule that legalized marijuana is unconstitutional. Changes at the federal level in the past year, however, indicate an increasing acceptance of marijuana. “I have not had many negative experiences this year,” Brandon Cowhey, owner of Green Grass Alternative in Central City, said. “We have experienced many types of people, but all have a positive attitude. We see the life-long smoker who loves looking at our 20+ strains, to the person who has never smoked in their life and just has questions.” The owner said he could “go on and on” about good experiences, but the best, he said, is the first-time customer who is “just amazed that they can chose from such an array of products and it’s legal to buy.” According to Don Boring, owner of recreational stores The Annies in Central City and The Spring in Idaho Springs, legal sales have been a “boom” for the mountain stores. “Annies was the first license issued in the United States, and the publicity has given [it] a huge boost with out-of-town customers,” he explained. The Spring is a popular stop for skiers traveling on Interstate 70 and white water rafters in the summer. The Canary’s Song in Nederland saw a “significant increase in business” since adding recreational marijuana, according to manager Katie Tayloe. “Recreational sales have been good for us,” she said. As marijuana sales enter into the second year of legalization in Colorado, there will be an increasing amount of information to gauge the success of the new, budding industry. In the meantime, those who have embraced the new laws will continue to set the world standard for marijuana-based businesses and retail customer service. “As a whole, the industry is changing very fast,” Cowhey said. “I don’t know what to expect for 2015, and beyond, but all I can tell you is we are ready for the ride and will always have top notch products and exceptional customer service.” Cowhey, who grows 100 percent of his product to maintain consistency, likes that the state mandates testing for potency and contaminates. “That way the consumer Continued on page 23
Mountain culture
Spend summer living, working, learning on Colorado’s public lands ESTES PARK Since 2003, Rocky Mountain Conservancy—Conservation Corps has offered youth ages 18-25 with the opportunity to perform conservation work alongside the National Park Service and USDA Forest Service in Rocky Mountain National Park and the Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forests. Over the course of the season, participants gain valuable on-thejob experience working with federal land
management agencies, learning about the natural and cultural history of Northern Colorado and spending the summer working outside with a crew of peers. The season is eleven weeks and during their time with the Conservation Corps, members receive living stipends, housing, and two college credits. Crew members are also provided boots, work clothing, and gear for the season. If interested in learning more about
Mountain Events Calendar January 10 • C liff Bar Sample Day – Eldora Mountain Resort (NED) • VANS King of the Grommets, Rocky Mountain Qualifiers Freestyle Mogul Competition – Winter Park Resort (GC)
• G ame Night – CCCIA Community Center (CCC) • Yoga Room Women’s Winter Wellness One Day Retreat – Dancing Aspen Ranch (IS) • I ce Racing: Studs & Cheaters – Georgetown Lake (GT) • Allenspark Area Club – Peaceful Valley Ranch (AP) January 10-11 • HAM Operator Training w/George Weber – Salina Schoolhouse (GH)
January 10-12 • Surefoot Ski Cup Alpine Ski Racing – Winter Park Resort (GC) January 11 • B ent Gate Mountaineering Demo Day – Loveland Ski Area (GT)
• C oal Creek Sky Watchers – CCCIA Community Center (CCC) • I ce Racing: Bare Rubber – Georgetown Lake (GT) January 12 • Yoga with Justine – Salina Schoolhouse (GH) • J amestown Board of Trustees – Town Hall (JT) • E stes Park Garden Club, Adult Computer Class – Estes Valley Library (EP)
January 13 • G olden Gate Grange Meeting – Golden Gate Grange Community Center (GCC)
• G eorgetown Board of Selectmen Meeting – Georgetown Town Hall (GT)
• D aughter/Mother/Friend Book Club: Little Women – Estes Valley Library (EP)
January 14 • R adon and Indoor Air Quality Class – Gilpin County Public Health Office (BH)
• S now Ranger Event – Loveland Ski Area (GT) • Wednesday Night Races Under The Lights – Echo Mountain (IS)
• E stes Park Women’s Club: 100 years of RMNP by Nick Molle – Other Side Restaurant (EP) • L iving with Chronic Disease – Estes Valley Library (EP) January 15 • A nand Restorative Booster – Yoga Room (IS) • P inball Tournament – Lyons Classic Pinball (LY) • Trail Trekkers Mini Adventure Series – Estes Valley Library (EP)
January 16 • D evil Gate History Talks: Early 20th Century Georgetown through Photographs w/Christine Bradley – Georgetown Community Center (GT) • 3 -D Printing Extravaganza – Idaho Springs Library (IS) • A valanche Awareness & Outdoor Safety in Wintertime – Rocky Mountain Conservancy (EP) January 16-18 • Feng Shui Weekend – Aspen Lodge Resort (EP) January 17 • B izarre Bizarre Burlesque – Stage Stop (RV) • O N3P Skis Demo Day – Loveland Ski Area (GT) • I yengar Yoga Yoga Workshop – Yoga Room (IS) • B oulder Nordic Sport Free Demo Day – Eldora Mountain Resort (NED)
•N SAA Skier Safety Village – Arapahoe Basin Ski Area (SC) •H igh Country Winter Ecology – Mud Lake Open Space (NED) • C ommunity Dance Night – CCCIA Community Center (CCC) • Jeremy Jones’ “Higher” film – Estes Park Mountain Shop (EP)
natural resource work, pursuing a career or degree in the conservation or environmental field, or simply spending a summer working and living in Northern Colorado’s beautiful public lands, then this is the opportunity for you. Visit www.rmconservancy.org and follow the “Learn With Us” tab to learn more about the program and how to apply. Call (970)586-3262 or e-mail geoff.elliot@ rmconservancy.org with questions.
Continued from page 8
January 17-18 • USCSA College Club Ski Racing – Winter Park Resort (WP) • E stes Park Winter Festival – Estes Park Events Complex (EP) January 18 •N SAA Skier Safety Village – Arapahoe Basin Ski Area (SC) • R ocky Mountain National Park Birthday Celebration – Estes Park Events Complex (EP)
January 19 • Yoga with Justine – Salina Schoolhouse (GH) • F ree Entrance Day – Rocky Mountain National Park (EP) January 20 • D ynafit Rise & Shine Rando Series (4 of 4) – Arapahoe Basin Ski Area (SC)
• S panish Group – John Tomay Memorial Library (GT) •N ederland Board of Trustees – Nederland Community Center (NED)
• L yons Board of Trustees Meeting – Lyons Town Hall (LY) January 21 • C abin Fever Festival – Gilpin Community Center (BH) • E uchre Night – Very Nice Brewing (NED) •N ederland Downtown Development Authority Board Meeting – Nederland Community Center (NED) • L iving with Chronic Disease, Estes Park Internet Computer Users Group – Estes Valley Library (EP) January 22 • Trail Trekkers Mini Adventure Series – Estes Valley Library (EP)
January 22-23 • Gilson Snowboards Demo Day – Loveland Ski Area (GT) February 23 • Pioneers of the Peaks: Local Climbers Who Made History w/Steve Komito – Estes Park Museum (EP) January 24 • I ce Racing: Studs & Cheaters – Georgetown Lake (GT) • Rocky Mountain Freestyle – Arapahoe Basin Ski Area (SC) • 7 5th Anniversary Gala – Sunspot @ Winter Park Resort (GC) • E stes Valley Astronomical Society Meeting – Estes Park Memorial Observatory (EP)
• I ntroduction to Essential Oils: Free Oil Share Event – Riverpointe Spa (EP)
• C entennial Speaker Series: Jim Pickering – Beaver Meadows Visitor Center Auditorium (EP)
• Winter Ecology: A Snowshoeing Trek for Kids & Families – Rocky Mountain Conservancy (EP) January 25 • R ocky Mountain Freestyle-Devo – Arapahoe Basin Ski
• P ickleball, Mountain Movers, After-School Soccer, Motion/Zumba – Nederland Community Center (NED) • C hild Watch, Nia, Aquacize, Adult Strengthen Stretch & Balance, Swim Lessons, Vinyasa Yoga, Swim Team, Volleyball League, Guts & Glutes, Give Me A Break –
(NED)
• Wednesday Night Races Under The Lights – Echo Mountain (IS)
• L iving with Chronic Disease – Estes Valley Library (EP) January 29 • Yoga with Justine – Salina Schoolhouse (GH) • Trail Trekkers Mini Adventure Series – Estes Valley
Gilpin Community Center (BH)
• O pen Gym Adult Basketball – Estes Park Middle School
Library (EP)
• S nowshoe Ecology Walk, Ranger-led Program – Beaver
January 31-February 1 • Bolle 4SL Race Age Class Race, Rocky Mountain Freestyle Mogul Competition – Winter Park Resort (GC)
• C ommunity Helping Hands – Club Ned (NED) • S enior Exercise Class – Allenspark Fire Department (AP) • B ingo – American Legion Post 119 (EP) • K ids & Adult Tai Chi, Mountain Movers, Basketball –
– Beaver Meadows Visitor Center Auditorium (EP)
WEEKLY EVENTS
Sunday •M aster Chen Sermon on Daoism, Community Tai Chi, Qigong Instruction – Aspen Lodge (EP) • S unday Community Yoga – Shoshoni Yoga Retreat (RV) • S nowshoe Ecology Walk Ranger-led Program, Wild in Winter Ranger-led Program – Beaver Meadows Visitor Center (EP)
Monday • Monday Night Trivia – Pizza Bar 66 (LY) • G reat Courses Art Lecture Series: Museum Masterpieces – Estes Park Senior Center (EP) • I nstitute of Noetic Sciences – Estes Valley Library (EP) • A dult Pickleball – Estes Park Middle School Gym (EP) • P oker Tournament – West Winds Tavern (IS) • P re-School Soccer, Pickleball, Kids Tai Chi, AfterSchool Soccer – Nederland Community Center (NED) •H atha Yoga, Aquacize, Yoga Dance, Swim Lessons, Swim Team, Bootcamp – Gilpin Community Center (BH) • G entle Yoga w/Joelle, Yoga w/Abby – CCCIA Community Center (CCC) • Yoga – Golden Gate Grange Community Center (GCC) •M atter of Balance – Walt Self Community Building (LY) • Yoga w/Peggy – Old Gallery (AP)
• A dult Tai Chi, Basketball, After-School Soccer –
•M aking Catapults – Estes Valley Library (EP) January 28 • Nighthawks Race Series No. 1 Nordic – Eldora Mountain Resort
School Gym (EP)
Nederland Community Center (NED)
• Q uick & Tone, Aquacize, Tae Kwon Do – Gilpin Community Center (BH)
• Tai Chi Class, Yoga w/Omayra – CCCIA Community Center (CCC) • Yoga – Old Gallery (AP) •H ot Jammin’ Yoga – Yoga Room (IS) Wednesday • Broomball – Werlin Park (GT) • Trivia Night – Longz Mountain Grill (EP) • P ool League – Lonigans (EP) • G ame Night – Club Ned Café (NED) • C hess Club – Nederland Community Library (NED) •M indful Meditation – Coal Creek Canyon: 303-642-0428 (CCC)
JANUARY 2015
Thursday • Local’s Night – Chipper’s Lanes Estes Park (EP) • F ree Pool – Lonigans (EP) • R otary Club of Estes Park Meeting – National Park Village Theater (EP)
Nederland Community Center (NED)
• B ootcamp, Child Watch, Hatha Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, Aquacize, Give Me A Break, Tae Kwon Do – Gilpin Community Center (BH)
• Yoga w/Omayra – CCCIA Community Center (CCC) • Thursday Locals Night – Shoshoni Yoga Retreat (RV) • E mpowerment Yoga, Flood Trauma Therapy, Yoga for Conditioning – Lyons Yoga & Wellness (LY) Friday • C ardio Sculpt, Pre-School Soccer, After-School Soccer – Nederland Community Center (NED)
• A quacize, Adult Strengthen Stretch & Balance – Gilpin Community Center (BH)
• F riday Afternoon Club – Club Ned Café (NED) • I nstitute of Noetic Science – Estes Valley Library (EP) • Yoga w/Cariann – CCCIA Community Center (CCC) • P arent & Tot Yoga – Shoshoni Yoga Retreat (RV) Saturday • Community Clothing Closet, Pickleball – Nederland Community Center (NED)
Meadows Visitor Center (EP)
Center (CCC)
• I ce Racing: Bare Rubber – Georgetown Lake (GT) • F rost Giant 5K/10K Winter Race – Estes Park (EP) January 25-27 • FIS U Races Labelle – Eldora Mountain Resort (NED) January 26 • S ilver Plume Town Board – Town Hall (SP) • J amestown Board of Trustees – Town Hall (JT) • P ioneers of the Peaks: Local Climbers Who Made History w/Drs. Tom Hornbein and Jim Detterline –
Meadows Visitor Center (EP)
• S nowshoe Ecology Walk, Ranger-led Program – Beaver
Area (SC)
• R oy Cohen Fitness Workshop: Strength Training For Prep-Athletes – Nederland Community Center • Winter Heritage Day – Walker Ranch Homestead (CCC) • Travelogue: China w/Larry Moore – CCCIA Community
Gym (EP)
January 30 • Adult Computer Class – Estes Valley Library (EP) January 31 • USSA Age Class SL – Eldora Mountain Resort (NED) • S now Ranger Event – Loveland Ski Area (GT) • C entennial Saturday Night: The Wonder of Wildflowers
Tuesday • Texas Hold’em Poker Series Showdown – Wheel Bar (EP) • P ool Tournament – Mother’s Saloon (GT) • Trivia – 1860 Tavern (EM) • B ingo – American Legion Post 119 (EP) • Tech Tuesday – Nederland Community Library (NED) • A dult Co-Rec Volleyball League – Estes Park Middle
Estes Park Museum (EP)
A Conservation Corp crew completes a backcountry patrol in Byers Peak Wilderness.
|
• B ootcamp, Kinder Kix – Gilpin Community Center (BH) • A nimals in Winter, Ranger-led Program – Beaver Meadows Visitor Center (EP)
AP = Allenspark BH = Black Hawk CC = Central City CCC= Coal Creek Canyon EM = Empire EP = Estes Park GC = Grand County GGC = Golden Gate Canyon GH = Gold Hill GT = Georgetown IS = Idaho Springs
JT = Jamestown LV = Loveland LY = Lyons NED = Nederland RV = Rollinsville SA = Salina SP = Silver Plume SC = Summit County WD = Ward WP = Winter Park
Submit mountain events and activities for free listing in the Mountain Events Calendar to: MMACeditor@gmail.com All listings/dates subject to change. Contact venues to confirm events.
MMAC monthly
Page 11
MOUNTAIN CULTURE
Hotel holds hedge maze competition
Kysar’s Place
ASE Certified Master Technician • Gas & Diesel Engine Performance • Welding • Restoration/Customs
Foreign & Domestic Auto Repair 208 Jankowski Drive • Mid-Gilpin County • 303-582-3566
ESTES PARK The historic Stanley Hotel is holding a public competition to design a 61,500-square-foot hedge maze inspired by Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining” fi lm. The contest will attract designers—amateur and professional—from around the world who will have an opportunity to put their work and name on permanent display at the iconic Stanley Hotel which draws hundreds of thousands of visitors a year. The Maze will serve as an homage to the fi lm, which was itself inspired by author Stephen King’s experience at The Stanley Hotel. It also will commemorate the 20 year anniversary of the current ownership of the hotel. “There are few hotels in the world that share a history and story as unique as that of the Stanley Hotel,” John W. Cullen, owner of the property, said. “I am thrilled to share this special moment in my life and the hotel’s history. We have built this place together over the years and I’m excited to invite everyone to be a part of its legacy through this special design contest.” In true Colorado spirit, the hedge maze will be comprised of 1,600 to 2,000 Alpine
Currant hedge bushes and will be a prominent feature on the hotel’s front lawn. The ribbon-cutting for the maze will take place on the opening night of the 3rd annual Stanley Film Festival on April 30. The winning design will be chosen by a special panel of Estes Park residents, Stanley Hotel employees and fi lm festival staff. The contest winner will have their name placed on a recognition placard in the center of the maze. The deadline for submissions is Jan. 31. Designs are restricted to the use of hedge and path only and should begin and end at the points indicated by arrows in the template. Designs must be submitted in PDF or EPS format by midnight on Jan. 31 to stanley maze@stanleyhotel.com. All submissions should include full name, street and e-mail addresses and a phone number. For more information on the contest, contact History and Architecture Manager Jeremy Spates at jspates@stanley hotel.com or 970-577-4106. Visit www. stanleyhotel.com/themaze to download a template and see all design rules.
Lodge rebrands with Magnuson NEDERLAND Magnuson Hotels recently announced the complete re-branding of the 23-room Magnuson Hotel Nederland, formerly the Best Western Lodge at Nederland. The hotel will upgrade its local, regional, and national market to attract travelers via an affi liation with Magnuson Hotels’ 2,000 properties. “We are proud to welcome Pamela Boeve and her entire staff, and are fully committed to increasing their visibility and reservations,” Thomas Magnuson, CEO of Magnuson Worldwide, said. The Magnuson Hotel Nederland will receive complete global brand representation and will expand its consumer awareness through Magnuson Hotels’ contemporary brand and its massive hotel reservation network including 650,000 GDS travel agents and over 2,000 internet booking channels. Magnuson Hotels operates as the world”s largest independent hotel group and is the fastest growing hotel brand in history, adding more new hotels in the last decade than eight of the top 10 chains combined. Magnuson Hotel Nederland is located at 55 Lakeview Drive in Nederland. Call 303-258-9463 or visit www.lodgeatned.com and www. magnusonhotels.com to learn more.
West Clear Creek historic places include mine, depot Continued from page 1 District was the most important silver camps in Colorado. The initial boom period dates from the discovery of gold by George and David Griffi th in 1859. The Georgetown portion of the district includes a variety of substantial lateVictorian buildings while Silver Plume developed as the work center where the ore, as well as the wealth, was mined. The surviving buildings in Silver Plume tend to be simple wood-frame structures. The reconstructed Georgetown Loop Railroad is also located in the district. In Silver Plume, the restored 1884 Silver Plume Depot offers a free slide show and exhibits on the history of the railroad, as well as steam engines and cars on view in the adjacent railyard. The depot served as the western terminus of the Colorado Central Railroad route from Denver to the Clear Creek mining region. Located at the upper end of the famous Georgetown Loop, the depot originally served miners and their families, then an increasing number of tourists who came to admire the engineering and scenic qualities of the loop passage. The Colorado & Southern Page 12
MMAC monthly
| JANUARY 2015
The Silver Plume Depot—part of a collection of buildings abandoned by Colorado & Southern Railroad—as it looked in 1941 prior to restoration and historic protection.
Photo courtesy of Denver Public Library/Western History Collection
Railway abandoned the loop and the depot in 1939, but both again operate as part of History Colorado’s Georgetown Loop Historic Mining & Railroad Park interpretive complex. The Lebanon Tunnel, which can be toured as part of the hour-long train ride on the Georgetown Loop was driven into Republican Mountain by the Lebanon Mining company in 1870. The Everett Tunnel’s origin is unknown, but the mine was in operation through the mid-1880s. If you take the hour-long
train ride, there’s an opportunity to stop and tour the Lebanon Mine with a guide who will explain the history of the area and mining techniques once used there. The town of Silver Plume, located at Interstate 70 Exit 226, has a very rich history that can be explored further at the George Rowe Museum, which is in the town’s original school house, driving the historic streets or hiking on the 7:30 Mine Trail, which provides a view of the Silver Plume valley and the historic town at its base.
Mountain ARTS CALENDAR
January 1 • Stitchers Get Together – Gilpin Community Center (BH) January 1-3 • Celebrating the Season: 12th Annual Holiday Art Exhibition – Cultural Arts Council of Estes Park (EP) January 1-October 4 • Climb On! An Exhibit – Estes Park Museum (EP) January 2-3 • “Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies” Film – Nederland Backdoor Theater (NED)
January 3 • Four Mile Film Society – Salina Schoolhouse (GH) • Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies Auditions: South Pacific – TBA (EP) January 5 • Meet Me @ The Museum – Estes Park Museum January 5-March 2 • “Portrait of Colorado” Exhibit – Gilpin Arts Showcase Gallery @ Visitor Center (CC)
January 6 • Quirky Quilters – Nederland Community Center (NED) January 7 • Wine & Words – Happy Trails Café (NED) January 8 • Estes Valley Quilt Guild – Estes Valley Library (EP) January 9-February 15 • “Artists’ Party” Exhibit – Art Center of Estes Park (EP) January 10 • “Portrait of Colorado” Artist Reception – Gilpin Arts Showcase Gallery @ Visitor Center (CC)
January 11 • Estes Park Music Festival: Fred and Audrey Peterbark – Stanley Hotel Concert Hall (EP) • Block of the Month Class – Stitchin’ Den (EP) January 12 • Sticks & Strings – Stitchin’ Den (EP) January 15 • Book Group – John Tomay Memorial Library (IS) • Stitchers Get Together – Gilpin Community Center (BH) January 16-18 • Art at the Center Submission Period – Nederland Community Center (NED)
• • • •
January 17 NedKnits – Nederland Community Center (NED) Four Mile Film Society – Salina Schoolhouse (GH) Art-4-Art Art Cards – Lyons Depot Library (LY) Peak to Peak Chamber Music Concert No. 5 – Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church (EP)
• Rocky Mountain National Park’s Centennial Film Release – Beaver Meadows Visitor Center Auditorium (EP) January 18 • Book Signing: Jane Wodening – Blue Owl Books (NED) • Estes Park Music Festival: Kruger, Bunin, Puerini – Stanley Hotel Concert Hall (EP) January 19 • Book Group – Idaho Springs Library (IS) January 20 • Free Movie Night – Stage Stop (RV) January 22 • Art at the Center Opening Reception – Nederland Community Center
Continued on page 14
MOUNTAIN ARTS – galleries, artists and crafts people Stitchers find friendship, distraction-free work place
walking distance of her house. Harrison explained she had adBy Jennifer Pund mired a house in her neighborhood for years, but can now enjoy GILPIN COUNTY he regulars at the Gilpin Stitchers Get Together are a reliable it from the inside after meeting its owner at a Gilpin Stitchers bunch. At 8:30 a.m. on the first and third—and sometimes Get Together. fifth—Thursday of every month, a group of, organized, pro- The meetings start about 8:30 a.m. to coincide with the “Give ductive and dedicated women can be seen quilting, knitting and Me A Break” child care program at the recreation center and constitching at the Gilpin County Recreation Center. Member of the tinues much of the day. Anyone is welcome to come whenever they can make it. Gilpin Stitchers’ Get Together—cel Kasey Harmsen has been attending ebrating its two-year anniversary this the group since its first meeting. She month—are known to meet regardless joined after speaking with Andrews of weather and work well into the day, and Harrison at the Holiday Market most of the time completing entire projand thought it sounded like a good fit. ects in one session, unless the conversa“I have a 4-year-old and the rec center tion is too good. provides child care, so it’s really con In 2012, Peggy Andrews and Linvenient for us,” Harmsen said. “And, da Harrison noticed many folks stopI get a lot more done here then I can ping to check out their booth of quilts at home.” and other works at the Gilpin County Over the last 12 months, sewing about Holiday Market. “Linda and I started a block a month, Harmsen has been asthinking we could get a group togethsembling an Underground Railroader and see if anybody was interested Gilpin Stitchers at a Gilpin Community themed quilt with 12 different symbols in doing this rather than driving down Center Get-Together Photo by Jeffrey V. Smith in each block that held meaning to the into town,”Andrews said. The two running slaves. As she completes her last block, she says that the printed up and handed out flyers to test the waters. “We just started telling people we wanted to start a group and group has given her the dedicated time to work on the project. “I seeing if anyone wanted to join us,” Andrews said. Upon approval try to finish a block each time, but sometimes we talk too much from the Gilpin Recreation Center, the crafters began meeting in and I don’t get it all done, but I try.” The group helps each other with using tools, applying techthe All Purpose Room and people started showing up. “A lot of us are retired or have just moved up here, so it’s a niques, giving advice and has a show-and-tell time when somegood way to get people together and even meet our neighbors,” one wants to present something new. Continued on page 14 Andrews said of meeting a group member who lives within
T
Author’s latest ties together lifetime of observations By Jeffrey V. Smith NEDERLAND Jane Wodening has led a fascinating life, to say the least. Thankfully, she’s written some of it down. Hear the author speak and sign her work at Blue Owl Books in Nederland, Jan. 18. Wodening’s latest release, “The Lady Orangutan and Other Stories,” is a collection of her “more solid work,” both unpublished and from her early books, that she decided to assemble as a kind of “train of thought through a lifetime.” It is the first of four manuscripts she had on the shelf and became determined to publish when she recognized she was turning 80. “I realized that
if I didn’t get these made into books, they would probably never be made into books,” she writes in the book’s preface. “One has to do things, or they won’t happen.” The book was published with the help of Nederland residents Janette and Julian Taylor and their Sockwood Press publishing company. The book’s title comes from a story of an orangutan who helped her realize there were still things she needed to tell people. “Although they seemed obvious to me, others didn’t find them so,” she said. At first, the collection seems like a number of unconnected stories of an individual’s observations and interactions Continued on page 15
JANUARY 2015
|
Jane Wodening and her latest book.
Photo by Jeffrey V. Smith
MMAC monthly
Page 13
MOUNTAIN ARTS
Stitchers Get-Togethers provide inspiration, distraction-free work place Continued from page 13
Although the meeting used to end at noon, most women find themselves staying all day as long as the room is open. “It gives me time to get my projects done,” Andrews said. “I bring them here and I work all day and I can get something accomplished that I don’t do at home because we don’t have anybody bothering us. There’s no phones, no husbands. We can just work.” The recreation center staff have even had to shut the doors to the All Purpose Room, more than once, during a Gilpin Stitchers meeting because they can get loud having fun and enjoying themselves. “We have wild parties,” Harmsen joked of the second anniversary celebration in January. Members take turns bringing in refreshments of drinks and snacks and use their own coffee maker to make coffee as long as people are stitching. Each member brings
their personal sewing machine, fabric and when she was pregnant with my husband,” items needed for specific projects, but other Pat Schnering said. “She made the blocks items are offered as shared materials. The and now I am putting it all together since group pooled their money to purchase a new she never got the chance to finish it.” ironing board and iron to be used at the Get- The Gilpin Stitchers usually work on Togethers. They also have a cutting station individual projects but occasionally work with rotary cutters and mats with rulers of together to create a quilt or complete a special project. Belita Persichini considers varying sizes for any measuring need. The women find the friendship and in- herself the newest member and is working with Andrews teraction benand Harrison eficial as well as to complete a productive. “It’s military-themed just a lot of fun, quilt as a really uplifting Wounded Warand I get more rior project to projects done... be presented as sometimes. But a surprise to an mostly it’s the honored veteran camaraderie and from the comgetting out of the munity. “Peggy house and knowcut all the mateing you now the rial for the quilt, only one out Members of the Gilpin Stitchers group and now we are there, is why I gather at the Gilpin Recreation Center Photo by Jeffrey V. Smith getting started like to attend on the sewing,” Persichini said. “We will each meeting,” Harrison said. Gail Lewis has also come to the group’s present it to him when we are done.” meetings since the first gathering and says The group has also made a few projshe is hooked. “I’ve been coming since ects all together including a thread catcher they started. I don’t come every time, but I they all completed in one meeting and the really enjoy coming when I can,” she said. group will all make a supply bag in the Working on a old quilt that needed some new year. mending, Lewis finds attending the group Melinda Clemmer explained it’s inspiris an opportunity to concentrate on hand ing to see what others are working on. “It requilting with little distractions from home. ally makes you want to make another quilt, The meetings provide other members or start a new project when you see sometime to do some hand quilting as well. “I am one else doing a neat pattern,” she said. working on a quilt my mother-in-law started
ARTS Calendar
WEEKLY ARTS
Monday •N AS Movie Matinee – Backdoor Theater (NED) • International Folk Dancing – Nederland Community Center (NED)
• S titch ‘n Rippers Quilters – New Covenant Church (EP) • Swing Dancing Lessons – Appenzell Inn (EP) • Sip & Paint – Murphy’s Resort (EP) Tuesday • Warped Weavers – Kelley House (AP) • Mountain Players Theater Group, Planet Motion Dance – Nederland Community Center (NED) • Tuesday Evening Arts for Adults – Wild Bear Mountain Ecology Center Eco-Arts Lounge (NED)
• T rail Ridge Quilters – Long’s Peak Room, EP Medical Center (EP) • Sit & Knit – Stitchin’ Den (EP) Wednesday • Art Group – Old Gallery (AP) • Nederland Seniors Art & Painting – Location: 303-258• G ive Me A Break – Gilpin County Community Center (BH) • Drop In Artists – Eco-Arts Lounge @ Wild Bear (NED)
Page 14
MMAC monthly
| JANUARY 2015
The Stitcher’s Get-Together takes place on the first, third and sometimes fifth Thursday of the month at the Gilpin Community Center, 2960 Dory Hill Road, Black Hawk. Contact Peggy Andrews at 303-582-2015 and mountainguilts@aol.com or Linda Harrison at 303-582-5314 and VHarr50722@ aol.com for more information.
Continued from page 13
• Estes Valley Area Weavers Guild – Estes Valley Library January 25 • Poetry Night – Blue Owl Books • Estes Park Music Festival: Lamont Saxophone Quartet – Stanley Hotel Concert Hall January 26 • Sticks & Strings – Stitchin’ Den January 29 • Stitcher’s Get-Together – Gilpin Community Center January 30 • Ender’s Game Book Club & Movie – Estes Valley Library (EP)
9392 (NED)
The group always welcomes all levels— including beginners—and is always looking for new members. They encourage anyone interested in quilting, sewing, knitting, crocheting or any type of needle point and needle work to stop by the Gilpin County Recreation Center and hang out for a meeting. It’s a perfect atmosphere to learn something new, finish those UFOs (unfinished objects) that all crafters have stashed away, or share your knowledge while getting to know more area stitchers. “It’s really come a long way and it’s been good to meet a lot of people,” said Andrews. This group of ladies are dedicated to their work and community time. Come rain or shine—or blizzard—the women are known to show up in all conditions. “If we can drive, we will be here,” Andrews said. In the 24 months they have been meeting, only once was Andrews the only member to make it in. During a bad storm last year, Andrews was worried no one make it, but the whole group showed up. “I know we surprise them a lot here, when we all come in on a bad weather day,” Andrews said, “but we’re stitchers, we don’t give up.”
• NAS Watercolor Painting – Nederland Community Presbyterian Church (NED)
• Sip & Paint – Murphy’s Resort (EP) Thursday • Beginning Kitting – Stitchin’ Den (EP) Friday •M ovie – Backdoor Theater (NED) • Movie Night – Lyons Photography Art Center (LY) • Sip & Paint – Murphy’s Resort (EP) • Free Friday Projects – Stitchin’ Den (EP) Saturday • Movie – Backdoor Theater (NED) • Movie Night – Lyons Photography Art Center (LY) • Sip & Paint – Murphy’s Resort (EP) AP = Allenspark BH = Black Hawk CC = Central City CCC= Coal Creek Canyon EM = Empire EP = Estes Park GGC = Golden Gate Canyon GH = Gold Hill GT = Georgetown IS = Idaho Springs
JT = Jamestown LV = Loveland LY = Lyons NED = Nederland RV = Rollinsville SA = Salina SP = Silver Plume SC = Summit County WD = Ward WP = Winter Park
Submit any mountain arts-related events for free listing in the Arts Calendar to: MMACeditor@gmail.com All listings/dates subject to change. Contact venues to confirm events.
Wodening writes to understand Continued from page 1
with nature, but the unique stories and writing style come together to reveal the nature of the observer. Some stories will bring a tear to the eye, while others— especially anyone familiar with mountain life—will cause spontaneous laughter or perhaps even provide a new way to think about a common problem. All, however, provide some sort of insight into how or why the world works the way it does. Wodening’s childhood was spent in a “prudish” Chicago suburb before her family moved to Fraser, Colorado when she was 11 years old. The change was upsetting and caused her to make better friends with dogs than humans. “They seemed to understand me better than people did,” she said. She eventually ended up in high school in Boulder and attended college before dropping out and heading to New York City. Not long after, she married avantgarde film artist Stan Brakhage and traveled the country for a few years before settling in Lump Gulch in Gilpin County. She lived in the gulch with her husband for 23 years, with five children and a yard full of animals. After 30 years of marriage she was on her own again so she sold her house and animals and drove across the U.S. for three years. She finally came to rest in a tiny, home-made cabin with no amenities in Fourth of July Canyon above Nederland where she lived alone at 10,000 feet for almost a decade. Her only neighbors, she said, “were birds and bears.” During this time she published seven books of short stories while deepening her connection to nature and animals—which after numerous “special encounters,” she knows are sentient beings. She’s living in Denver now, but continues to write and publish books—several of which are in the works.
“I have always just been writing whatever came to me, and then seeing what I wrote and seeing what I was think,” Wodening told the MMAC Monthly. “It was almost like I was observing myself observing things. I’ve always written what I’ve observed and what I could interpret, what I learned from what I saw. I always want to understand.” Many of the author’s books, including “The Lady Orangutan and Other Stories,” “Living Up There,” her memoir of living in Fourth of July Canyon, and “Lump Gulch Tales” contain places and people many Gilpin County and Nederland locals will find familiar. Her observations of the local wildlife and nature as well as her anecdotes about mountain living will ring true for any high-county resident and provide enough universal insight to enlighten anyone to the true nature of the universe, even if just a little. Now that “The Lady Orangutan and Other Stories,” has been released, the author intends to do several book signings and talks about what she has learned about writing. Wodening explained she recently found an interesting piece George Orwell wrote called, “Why I Write.” In it, he points out four motives for writing. The first is for ego, to say, here I am. “That isn’t a bad thing, she said, “it has complexities to make it meaningful.” Next is the motive of beauty. Wodening said this is “to capture the beauty of something and to make a beautiful thing with words. The third motive for writing—the one Wodening thinks she’s most interested in—is to find out what happened, to get it straight, find out what exactly happened at this moment.” The fourth motive is to change the world. “A lot of people write to change the world,” she said.” Look for Wodening’s Books at various online retailers and local outlets like Blue Owl Books, 176 Hwy. 119, in Nederland.
Mountain ARTS
Community Center exhibit opens NEDERLAND Art at the Center presents its Winter Show at an Opening Reception, Jan. 22, from 5-7 p.m., at the Nederland Community Center. Live music, wine, appetizers and selected artwork will be featured. The exhibit includes all type of artwork and mediums. The artwork will hang on the center’s walls until spring. Three times a year, the Community Center Foundation Board and the volunteer Art Committee host a new Art at the Center show focusing on local artists. A panel selects the pieces that will be dis-
JANUARY 2015
|
played for the next show. Submissions for the Winter Show will be accepted, Jan. 16, 3-5 p.m., and Jan. 18, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Art at the Center is the realization of a long-term vision for the Nederland Community Center to highlight and support the town as an emerging artisan center. Visit www.nederlandcommunitycenter. org/artatthecenter.html for more information. Contact Tracy Brewer, chair of the Art Committee, by e-mail at yourartatthecenter@gmail.com or call 303-258-7980.
MMAC monthly
Page 15
COVER STORY – highlighting mountain culture
High-altitude coffee served, roasted, enjoyed in unique locations
means you really have to watch out about By Jennifer Pund not burning your coffee.” Graves started FRONT RANGE njoying coffee at altitude can pose with a one-pound roaster to serve his drivesome challenges, but always yields through customers in Golden Gate Canyon great rewards. Traveling around the and has grown to a couple larger roasters to Peak to Peak and Interstate 70 corridor supply The Train Cars as well as many resprovides amply opportunities to warm up taurants, cafés and markets in Boulder and Front Range mounwith a coffee in any tain towns. town or around any Stop in The Train bend in the road. Cars or B&F MounDedication of time, tain Market in Nedand experience are erland and Taggart’s what is needed to Gas in mid-Gilpin roast the perfect County to grab some batch of beans or beans to brew at brew a tasty cup of home. Alfalfa’s and coffee at altitude. Back Country Pizza Jeremy Allenare outlets in Boulder sworth, owner of Mountain Mocha The newly remodeled Kind Coffee in Estes or you can stop in The Alpine Restaurant, and Untitled Coffee Park has plenty of comfortable spaces. Georgetown Market Roasters in Black Hawk said his customers are often surprised or Bierstadt Books and Beans in Georgeby the whole process of roasting. “When town when heading to the Western Slope. our customers see the bags of green [coffee] Megan Riley, owner of Stage Stop Marbeans and they see our roaster, they start ket in Rollinsville also serves The Coffee Roaster coffee. She said she really likes to asking all kinds of questions,” he said. Most people are usually surprised how educate the casual coffee drinker and feels quickly a batch can be roasted. “It only takes great coffee doesn’t have to be hard or about 10 or 15 minutes, depending on the complicated, but it should come with laybean, and what we are going for in terms ers that can be tasted. Known for her pourof profile,” Allensworth said. He finds that over coffee drinks, she believes, “great cofroasting at altitude is a little different than fee should make one’s eyes roll back.” lower elevations. “The thinner air leads to a Inkwell & Brew in Estes Park caters quicker roast development at a lower tem- to folks, like owners Kevin and Anastaperature. This obviously requires attention cia Galloway, who have an appreciation for finely-crafted and care.” goods made in an The thin air unhurried manner. also allows for a In that spirit, their smoother roast slow bar offers a curve and a better cold-brewed cofroast Allensworth fee to the coffee explained. He and enthusiast where his wife, Tiffani each cup is made Hartz, roast cofat the “gloriously fee multiple times inefficient rate of a week in their a drip per second” shop so customers receive the fresh- There is no need to get out of your car at Summit to better extract the coffee’s flavor. est coffee pos- View Coffee in Estes Park. They also offer a sible. “If you’re enjoying a cup of coffee that we roasted, variety of coffee drinks and feature smallit’s no more than two-weeks-old.” Hartz batches of unique beans for pour-overs. Salto Coffee Works in Nederland now said. “That’s the way we like it.” The owner of The Coffee Roaster and has a permanent place for a roaster they’ve The Train Cars Coffee & Yogurt Shop in had since before they opened in 2012. “I’m Nederland, Jim Graves, believes if you super excited about it,” Owner Karina properly “hone in on the process,” you Luscher said. Thanks to a successful fundcan get a better roast at a higher altitude. raising effort to vent it, they are now able to He explained that proper attention and roast on site and offer fresh-roasted beans. roasting in small batches allows for more Kat Coffield, owner of Cake in Georgecontrol over the process. “Every batch of town, received a new espresso machine beans is different. It’s just something you for her birthday in late December. “I can have to play with on an individual basis,” hardly believe it myself,” she said. Feelhe said. Roasting varies greatly depending ing that creating an espresso or coffee on a combination of factors like variety of drink for a customer is a very personal experience, she is most excited about filling bean, type of roaster, and the altitude. “I have found that due to the higher al- the need for espresso in town while maktitude and less oxygen, it seems as though ing customers happy. you get a darker roast with altitude, which “We all have preferences. Some like de-
E
Page 16
MMAC monthly
| JANUARY 2015
caf, some like half-caf, some like ‘no-fun’ sales of this blend, Kind was able to donate lattes—with no caffeine and sugar free— over $10,000 to the community. “Kind has while others are partial to the cappuccino. grown into a community space requiring It will be fun getting to know what my cus- expanding the store twice to accommodate more comfortable seating, Hamrick said. tomers enjoy,” Coffield said. Anthony DeSousa knows what his cus- “And the heart of Kind is our employees.” tomers like: a double drive-through and the There are many other great locallyChicken Fried Latte at SummitView Coffee owned places to come in from the cold and in Estes Park. Since DeSousa first moved to try a unique brew or discover a new blend town eight years ago, it bothered him that at altitude. The New Moon Bakery and you had to park in a small lot, fight for a Blue Owl Books in Nederland, Coal Creek Coffee in Coal street space or park Creek Canyon, blocks away to Main Street Coffee reach a coffee shop. in Idaho Springs, “I wondered Cholua Bros. Cofwhy there wasn’t a fee Store in Black drive-through here, Hawk, Tapestry it didn’t make any Coffee House in sense that there Allenspark, The wasn’t one, so I Stone Cup in Lybuilt one,” he said. ons and Coffee on DeSousa feels exthe Rocks in Estes tensive research Mountain Mocha Cafe, home of the Untitled Park all offer a wide and development Coffee Roasters, is a perfect non-casino gathvariety of tasty cofleads to the best ering spot in Black Hawk. fee drinks. Spirit products, so he immersed himself in learning all he could Hound Distillers in Lyons even turns it into about coffee. Everything they have, or serve, its award-winning 40-proof Richardo’s is either locally-sourced or locally-made. He Coffee Liqueur. There are, of course, some says going the extra mile for quality is worth corporately-owned options in the high country, too, but you’ve tried them already. every penny. The same commitment goes into SummitView’s drink names. Most reference an aniINDEPENDENT MOUNTAIN mal, like Rutting Elk, Chipmunk Bandit and COFFEE SHOPS Stealthy Bobcat. DeSousa once had a fabulous drink and needed a name. While tossing Barking Dog Cafe 431 Main St., Lyons • 303-823-9600 ideas out to friends, he asked, “what’s the Bierstadt Bks & Beans stuff they eat in the mid-west, chicken fried 612 6th St., Georgetown • 303-569-5036 steak? How about a Chicken Fried Latte?” Blue Owl Books When the room exploded with laughter, the 176 Hwy. 119, Nederland • 303-258-3695 name was born. The popular drink is actuCake ally peanut butter and chocolate flavored. 710 6th St., Georgetown • 303-569-5043 Both SummitView and the Barking Dog Choula Bros. Mining Co. Café in Lyons use roasted beans from Silver 470 Gregory St., Black Hawk • 800-931-2758 Canyon in Boulder. “Coffee has intrigued Coal Creek Coffee 30509 Hwy 72 (Coal Creek Canyon) • 303-642-1900 me for some 15 years before my decision to Coffee on the Rocks pursue it professionally,” Gene Kay Silver 510 Moraine Ave., Estes Park • 970-586-5181 Canyon’s founder and roastmaster said. Happy Trails Café The owners of Happy Trails Café in 98 Hwy. 119, Nederland • 303-258-3435 Nederland, Casey Kalista and Nick MorInk, Well & Brew gan, love coffee, too. Kalista has worked 150 E. Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park • 970-342-1297 with coffee for about a decade and loves its Kind Coffee social aspect. “I love the interactions I have 470 E. Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park • 970-586-5206 with people, and I just really like the enviMain Street Coffee 1510 Miner St., Idaho Springs • 303-567-2788 ronment,” she said. “No matter how hard Mountain Mocha I tried, I just kept coming back to coffee, so 135 Clear Creek St., Black Hawk • 303-582-2011 I learned more about the culture, the differNew Moon Bakery & Cafe ences between American coffee, European 1 West First St., Nederland • 303-258-3569 coffee, French and Czech coffee.” She’s Salto Coffee Works now excited to have her own shop. 112 E Second St., Nederland • 303-258-3537 Like many of the locally-owned cofStone Cup Café/Rise & Shine Bistro fee shops, Kind Coffee of Estes Park is 442 High St., Lyons • 303-823-2345 involved in their local community. After Stage Stop Market 41 Main St., Rollinsville • 303-258-0649 the flood in 2012, Kind was closed for Summit View Drive-Thru Coffee three months to rebuild the store “from the 865 Moraine Ave, Estes Park • 970-586-1959 floor boards up.” With a summer’s worth Tapestry Coffee of inventory on hand, owner Amy Ham6 Ski Road, Allenspark • 303-747-2838 rick and her employees created Flood Mud The Train Cars Coffee & Yogurt Co. Coffee to sell online with the intention to 101 S. Hwy. 119, Nederland • 303-258-2455 help get through the devastation. Through
!
MOUNTAIN MUSIC – sounds from the high country
Mountain MUSIC CALENDAR
January 2 • Captain Quirk and the Cosmic Rangers – Pioneer • • • • •
Inn (NED)
J im Stahlhut –Troia’s Cafe (GT) Mike Coats – Jamestown Mercantile (JT) Karaoke – Pizza Bar 66 (LY) Kelly Mickwee Band – Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (LY) Colin Kelly – Rock Inn (EP) January 2-4 • Murder By Death – Stanley Hotel (EP) January 3 • The Whale Tales – Pioneer Inn (NED) • Full Frequency Modulators – Jamestown Mercantile (JT) • Gary & Claudia –Troia’s Cafe (GT) • David Booker – Alpine Restaurant & Bar (GT) • Dan Treanor’s Afrosippi Band w/Erica Brown – Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (LY)
• Jay Stott – Rock Inn (EP) January 4 • Tacos ‘n’ Tunes: David Matters of Gipsy Moon – Blue Owl Books (NED)
• Kort & Beth McCumber, Willberger – Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (LY)
• Jon Pickett – Rock Inn (EP) January 7 • Greek Glendi – Salina Schoolhouse (GH) • KC Groves Duo – Gold Hill Store (GH) January 8 • Open Mic – Very Nice Brewing (NED) • Them Raggedy Bones – Jamestown Mercantile (JT) • Open Stage w/Eben Grace – Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (LY) January 9 • King Sage – Pioneer Inn (NED) • Funky Tonk Heroes – Very Nice Brewing (NED) • Jim Stahlhut –Troia’s Cafe (GT) • Alan Fullerton – Jamestown Mercantile (JT) • Wild Road Band – Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (LY) • Keith Synnestvedt – Alpine Restaurant and Bar
Continued on page 23
Volunteers allow High Street Concerts to book top talent
friends—including Sirotniak—to help out with a show featuring By Jeffrey V. Smith her musical friends Matt Flinner, Greg Garrison, Ross Martin and LYONS hanks to a dedicated group of music-loving volunteers, Darol Anger. “It was great seeing everyone up close and personal truly intimate performances from some of the world’s top in a small setting where you could hear every note, she said. “From acoustic talent take place in Lyons for several months dur- then on, I was part of the volunteer crew. It was fun for me being winter. The town is familiar with local concerts from world- cause, as a mandolin player, I got to know my musical heroes.” class performers thanks to the annual RockyGrass and Folks Fes- Sirotniak—a physical therapist, business owner and former professional bike racer—is still a tival events, but shows produced by volunteer despite taking on much High Street Concerts at Rogers Hall more responsibility. “I book the are different. With only 100 seats bands, do the marketing, update our and “fabulous” sound, everyone can website, ticket sales, organize the enjoy an intimate experience with volunteers and emcee the shows. It’s top acoustic artists. also a lot of time, but it’s so worth it The volunteer-run, non-profit when we have a sold-out show with concert series was founded in July world-class music; it’s magical.” 2003 with a mission to present naWithin a year, Lyons resident Britional and local acoustic and Amerian Eyster “did the lion’s share of the cana acts in an intimate community groundwork, and became the direcsetting. It was a natural fit. Executor of High Street Concerts,” accordtive Director Annie Sirotniak exing to Sirotniak. He got a website plained, High Street Concerts was Rogers Hall in Lyons hosts the intimate performances up, organized a group mailing list started in July 2003 by Lyons resi- of High Street Concerts. and established processes. “When I dents KC Groves, Sam Tallent, proprietor of the Stone Cup Café, and Mike Whipp. The trio “got moved to Lyons from Boulder in 2007, Brian had moved on to full the ball running” at the Old Stone Church with a show featuring time work at Planet Bluegrass and asked me to take over as direcMollie O’Brien. “Lyons is a tightly knit community filled with tor. I’d been a volunteer since the beginning, and started emceeing accomplished musicians and lovers of acoustic music,” she said. the shows in our second year, and so it was a good fit.” “We’re home to the world-class music festivals held at Planet High Street Concerts books mostly bluegrass music with Bluegrass. I think there’s something about our setting—the red occasional old-time, Celtic and Americana acts. “We like to share cliffs and the river—that inspires music, art, creativity and soul.” the love and have bands rather than solo artists, as we currently A few weeks later during RockyGrass, Groves rallied her Continued on page 22
T
JANUARY 2015
|
MMAC monthly
Page 17
MOUNTAIN MUSIC
All-female band has ‘powerful’ sound JAMESTOWN The Sweet Lillies play what they call a “high-energy, powerful Americana sound” in a “Colorado style.” The band derives its progressive, jamgrass sound from the original and “compelling” songwriting of Becca Bisque and Julie Gussaroff along with the “stunning” lead vo- The Sweet Lillies cals of Alexandra Schwan. Catch the act, Jan. 10 at 8 p.m., at the Jamestown Mercantile. The band’s driving guitar, upright bass, and melodic viola, together with three-part female harmony give the act a “unique and beautiful quality all it’s own.” Its sound is gripping and progressive but is also ener-
getic enough to get listeners up on their feet dancing. These ladies come together to “weave a musical story that is forceful, haunting and beautiful.” The Sweet Lillies have enjoyed sharing the stage with Kyle Hollingsworth, Tyler Grant, Jeff Scroggins, Rob Eaton, Jake Wolf, Ian Anderson, ChadZilla, Chris Sheldon, Zebulon Bowles, Joe Lessard and others. The Jamestown Mercantile is located at 108 Main Street. Visit www.sweetlillies. com or www.jamestownmercantile.com to learn more.
Band known for ‘sonic exploration’ NEDERLAND Intergalactic Radio, a four-piece band formed in the foothills of Boulder County, classifies its “super-danceable” music as “rocktronic-tripfunk.” Check it out for yourself when the band plays Whistler’s Café, Jan. 17. On any given night, the band will “fire up its musical Intergalactic Radio warp drive and meld elements of rock, jazz, electronic, trip-hop, reggae, and funk all into one grooving sonic exploration.” Between band members’ extended improvisational jams, “heady” vocal samples, and driving grooves Intergalactic
Page 18
MMAC monthly
Radio leaves listeners “spinning with joy somewhere deep in the cosmos.” Members, who formed the act in the middle of 2013, include Justin Bilancieri, Kyle Hale, Matt Shultz, Sean Conlin. They believe Intergalactic Radio is ready to “explode onto the scene and leave interstellar stardust in its wake.” Watch for the band’s shows all over Colorado. Whislter’s Café is located at 121 North Jefferson St. in Nederland. Visit inter galacticradio.com to learn more.
| JANUARY 2015
Lickskillet Studios brings top acoustic talent to Gold Hill for winter series GOLD HILL Lickskillet Studios, owned by local musican Kort McCumber and his artist wife Amy Fortunato, is once again presenting a monthly concert series for the community of Gold Hill “during the long, cold nights of winter.” The events are hosted in the intimate setting of the Gold Hill General Store and curated for lovers of acoustic music. KC Groves Duo – January 7 A multi-faceted musician, spirited band leader and inspiring mentor, Lyons-based KC is an accomplished instrumentalist, vocalist and songwriter who has been at the heart of many celebrated projects. As the creative center and bandleader of Uncle Earl for over a decade, she helped bring old time KC Groves music to a wider audience. She is the winner of the Detroit Music Award for Best Bluegrass Artist and regularly performs with Jeff Scroggins and Colorado. Tommy and Saundra O’Sullivan – February 11 Irish music is coming to Gold Hill all the way from County Kerry, Ireland.Tommy O’Sullivan is acclaimed as “one of the great contemporary folk voices of Ireland.” and a “stellar guitarist.” Saundra O’Sullivan is from Houston with Native American roots. She has now become a wel- Tommy & Saundra comed addition to O’Sullivan the vibrant local music scene in Dingle, Ireland, where the couple live. Cosy Sheridan –March 4 Cosy Sheridan has been called “one of the era’s finest and most thoughtful singer-songwriters.” She first caught the attention of national folk audiences in 1992 when she won both the Kerrville Folk Festival’s NewFolk Award and The Telluride Cozy Sheridan Bluegrass Festival Troubadour Contest, then released her critically-acclaimed debut CD “Quietly Led” on Waterbug Records. Don Conoscenti –March 18 Once a die-hard rocker, Don Conoscenti is now a respected acoustic musician and acclaimed songwriter. His live performances are a soulful fusion of styles blended
from his experience playing rock, jazz, blues, folk, funk and country. His primary love, however, is the “landscape of storytelling.” His recordings have been in the top 20 albums played Don Conescenti by folk and acoustic DJ’s worldwide. He’s performed in many of the top venues and festivals in the U.S including Rocky Mountain Folks Fest in Lyons. Matt Turk – April 1 A seasoned recording artist, multi-instrumentalist, eternal idealist and compassionate peace loving realist, Hastings-onHudson, New Yorkbased Matt Turk is a veteran performer who has engaged audiences around the world, both as a rocking bandleader and an acoustic Matt Turk folk troubadour. He has shared the stage with Pete Seeger and opened for Judy Collins, The Doobie Brothers, Fiona Apple, The Grateful Dead’s Mickey Hart and more. Greg Schochet & Katie Glassman – April 29 According to local musician Danny Shafer, “Wherever there is a mandolin, a country guitar and people hearing music from Colorado, you are hearing the influence of Greg Schochet. A gentleman, a teacher and the finest picker I’ve ever known.” Combine that with Katie Glassman’s extraordinary talent on fiddle, and we’ve got a great night of music! Inspired by old-time Texas music, Katie began playing by ear, and was soon winning numerous Katie Glassman & honors throughout Greg Shocket the West. 2013 was Katie’s biggest year yet for competing, as she took top honors in two of the country’s most prestigious contests: Walnut Valley in Winfield, Kansas and Rockygrass in Lyons. Doors open at 6:30 p.m and music begins at 7 p.m. for all concerts. Admission is $10 and space is very limited. It is recommended to email kortmccumber@gmail.com in advance to reserve general admission seats. The only way to confirm seats, however, is to pay in advance at the Gold Hill General Store, in person or by calling 303-443-7724. There is a $2 service fee for credit card payments. Visit lickskilletstudios.com or find them on Facebook for more information.
Mountain MUSIC
Big band swing returns to Stage Stop ROLLINSVILLE William and the Romantics, a 20-piece swing band from Lakewood, is bringing back the “timeless” sound of big band swing—and the nostalgia and romance that go with it—in the hayloft at the Stage Stop in Rollinsville, Jan. 24 at 8 p.m. Debuting in 2010, the band’s music pays tribute to the classic sounds of Louis Prima, Glenn Miller and the Andrews Sisters in addition to the updated stylings of Michael Buble, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and Royal Crown Revue. William and the Romantics has been seen throughout the Front Range “rekindling the fun
Felonious Smith acoustic blues band performs, Jan. 25, at Oskar Blues Grill & Brew in Lyons.
Trio revives last century’s blues styles LYONS Felonius Smith has delighted audiences at festivals and nightspots on the Front Range for more than five years, sharing the stage with Richie Havens, Koko Taylor and David Bromberg. See the act’s headlining show, Jan. 25, at Oskar Blues Grill & Brew in Lyons. Drawing his inspiration from the songs and styles of artists like Tampa Red and Fred McDowell, Felonius Smith’s slide guitar and snappy finger-picking style “transports one back some 80 years, relaxing on a river bank in southern Mississippi.” Jeff “Felonius” Smith’s music—showcasing last century’s acoustic Piedmont blues, country blues, Delta, ragtime, gospel and folk—has been described as “about as down home as they come.” With his standout finger-picking style and slide guitar expertise, Smith makes his music “seem as easy as a lazy afternoon on the front porch of an old Smoky Mountain retreat.” The band also recently released a new album, “Before That Rooster Crows,” featuring Smith and his band mates Nic Clark and Scott Johnson bringing together the traditions and diverse styles of early, preWorld War II blues. Many of the songs on “Before That Rooster Crows” were recorded to sound exactly like the Felonius Smith Trio performs them live. Others called for a larger acoustic-blues-band treatment with help from some guest musicians. The recording features Smith’s smooth bottleneck and lap-style National slide guitar work and lead vocals along with Clark’s expressive harmonica playing and Johnson’s warm upright bass. Johnson switches to sousaphone on two tracks, which invokes the vibe of a jug band. Clark, who plays harmonica, is known as a “young and gifted Front Range phenom.” He plays with the skill of a “master three
times his age, and his expressive tone and melodic sense are unequalled,” and Johnson, whose warm yet percussive approach to his upright bass, provides the perfect back beat for the band’s Americana blues sound. According to the band, the album features the “growling drone of Scott’s bowed bass on ‘Spoonful’; Felonius’ ripping lap steel and the infectious drums and sousaphone groove on ‘Delivery Man’; fabulous three-part vocal harmony on ‘Blind Willie Medley’; and in the ‘All New Dupree’s Diamond Blues’, Felonius completely reworks a Grateful Dead story line into an original, reflective folk-blues ballad. The new album was recorded and mixed in Colorado by Butch Hause and mastered by multiple Grammy-winner David Glasser. Visit www.feloniussmith.com to learn more about the band or pruchase an album. Visit oskarblues.com or call 303-823-6685 for more information about the show.
and romance of those halcyon days.” Last time William and the Romantics visited Rollinsville, the band brought along 17 swing-dancing couples that added to the atmosphere and fun vibe. The band has released two EPs, “The Decibel Gardens Sessions” and “Was It Blue?” Both can be streamed for free on its website. Visit www.williamandtheromantics.com to check out the band’s music and tour dates or visit stagestoprollinsville.com for more information about the performance.
Classic rock dance band created ESTES PARK Members of a long-time Estes Parkbase band have joined forces with a pair of musical brothers to create Mountain Town Rockers, a classic rock dance band “capable of creating high quality performances of a large variety of classic Mountain Town Rockers rock favorites.” The band plays a weekly gig in the Waterfront Grill at Estes Park Resort for Thursday Night Ladies Night. A trio version of the act also performs every Saturday through the winter season in the tavern at Mary’s Lake Lodge in Estes Park. The act came together when Estes Park’s Dennis-Tobias Band came to an end. Former members Kevin Dennis and James Moellers have now joined forces with Darrell and Gary Osburn of The Osburn Brothers Band to form the Mountain Town Rockers. The four very experienced performers create a “very fun and very professional musical unit.” With expert musicianship and four-part vocal harmonies, the band creates a high-ener-
JANUARY 2015
|
gy, rockin’ sound and draw from a wide selection of songs and styles. The trio version of the band is “a bit mellower” and can play in smaller spaces. The Mountain Town Trio features Dennis, Kim Smith and Moellers. Gary and his brother Darrell have completed five world tours and been on TV as members of The Osburn Brothers Band. Visit mountaintownrockers.com to learn more or visit www.theestesparkresort.com or maryslakelodge.com for information about the band’s weekly shows.
MMAC monthly
Page 19
FIND MMAC MONTHLY–
SILVER PLUME: Green Solutions GEORGETOWN: Alpine Restaurant • Troia’s Café & Marketplace • Railroad Art by Scotty • Bierstadt Books & Beans • CAKE • Clear Creek County Offices • Colorado Mountain Art Gallery • Sergeant Green Leaf • Mountain Buzz Café & Pizzeria • Georgetown Liquors • John Tomay Memorial Library • Euro Grill • Luncha Grand Cantina • Ed’s 1859 Café • Mother’s Saloon • Blue Sky Café • Happy Cooker • Georgetown Visitor Center EMPIRE: Lewis Sweet Shop • Original Hard Rock Café • Tomato Groceries & Supplies • 1860 Tavern • Glenbrook Gallery • Empire Dairy King • Jenny’s of Empire • Annies Gold • Serene Wellness • Visitor Center DUMONT: Mind, Body, Spirit Wellness Center • The Highway Dispensary • Charlie’s Place IDAHO SPRINGS: Mountain Tool & Feed • Vaporlicious • Hilldaddy’s Wildfire Restaurant • Mountain Moonshine Liquor • Kine Mine • Luxury Laundromat • Clear Creek Liquor • Visitor’s Center • Majestic Gallery • Buffalo Restaurant • Gold Mine Smoke Shop • Westwinds Tavern • Smoking Yards • Kind Mountain Collective • Idaho Springs Library • Beau Jos • Tommyknocker Brewery • KYGT The Goat • Idaho Springs Treasures • Flipper McGills • Two Brothers Deli • Main Street Coffee • Main Street Restaurant • Sawtooth Gallery • Mountain Gems Jewelry • The Spring Dispensary • The Soap Shop • Picci’s Pizza • Clear Creek Recreation Center • Mountain Medicinal Wellness • Ever-Green Herbals RUSSELL GULCH: Wabi Pottery BLACK HAWK: Mountain Mocha CENTRAL CITY: Visitor’s Center • Annie Oaklie’s Grocery & Liquor Store • Mother Lode Oxygen Bar • Mountain Goat Gallery • Green Grass Dispensary • Charlie’s • The Annie’s Dispensary • Dostal Alley Brewery & Casino MID-GILPIN: Gilpin County Library • Underground Liquors • Taggarts Gas • Alternative Medical Supply • Base Camp Campground/Pickle Liquor • Gilpin Recreation Center ROLLINSVILLE: Rollinsville Country Store • Stage Stop • Medicine Springs Pharmacy • String Bean Café • Roy’s Last Shot • Mid-County Liquor • Stage Stop Market PINECLIFFE: Post Office WONDERVU: Wondervu Café & Gift Shop • Eldora Lodge COAL CREEK CANYON: Kwik-Mart/Sinclair • Coal Creek Coffee • CCCIA Community Hall NEDERLAND: Sundance Café • Back Country Pizza • Crafted in Colorado • Happy Trails • Nederland Feed & Supply • Nederland Community Center • Dot’s Diner On the Mountain • Blue Owl Books & Boutique • Nederland Laundry • Glass Werx • Canary Song • Dam Liquor • Pioneer Inn • The Thai Restaurant • Ace Hardware • Black Forest Inn • Lodge at Nederland • First Street Pub & Grill • Deli at 8236’ • Wild Mountain Smokehouse • Mountain Man Outdoor • Mountain People’s Co-op • Grow in Peace • Granite Creek Eye Care • Nederland Library • Peak Wine & Spirits • Kathmandu Restaurant • The Train Cars Coffee & Yogurt • New Moon Bakery • Kwik-Mart Gas • Visitor Center • Whistler’s Café • Very Nice Brewing Company ELDORA: Goldminer Inn • Eldora Mountain Resort GOLD HILL: Gold Hill Inn • Gold Hill Store & Café WARD: Millsite Inn • Glass Tipi Gallery • Ward General Store • Post Office PEACEFUL VALLEY: Peaceful Valley Ranch JAMESTOWN: Jamestown Mercantile LYONS: Oscar Blues • Pizza Bar 66 • Stone Cup • Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ • The Bud Depot • Barking Dog Café • Lyons Fork • St. Vrain Market • Lyons Finest • Redstone Liquor • Helping Hands Herbal • Lyons Laundromat • Lyons Classic Pinball • Lyons Soda Fountain & Bakery • Spirit Hound Distillers • The Headquarters • Lyons Chamber of Commerce • Button Rock Bakery RIVERSIDE: Raymond Store ALLENSPARK: The Old Gallery • Tapestry Of Life • Meadow Mountain Café • Eagle Plume’s Trading Post • Post Office PINEWOOD SPRINGS: Colorado Cherry Company ESTES PARK: Patterson Glassworks Studio • Old Church Shoppes • Elkhorn Lodge • The Other Side • Cheesy Lee’s Pizza • Local’s Grill • Highland Music Center • Sgt. Pepper’s Music • Lonigan’s Saloon • Raven’s Roast • Poppy’s Pizza & Grill • Estes Park Pie Show • Bob & Tony’s Pizza • Aspen Lodge • Rambo’s Longhorn Liquor • Country Market • Rocky Mountain Opry • Cables Pub & Grill • Antonio’s Real New York Pizza • Stanley Hotel • Nicky’s Steakhouse • Rock Inn • Spur Liquor • The Wheel Bar • Estes Park Brewery • Rocky Mountain Discount Liquor • Big Horn Restaurant • Cultural Arts Council of Estes Park • The Grubsteak • MacDonald’s Books • Ed’s Cantina • Kind Coffee • Mountain Dew Liquor • Chipper Lanes • Coffee on the Rocks • Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ • Inkwell & Brew BOULDER: Boulder Theater • Pearl Street Mall... and more.
MOUNTAIN MUSIC
Band plays early Dead, country jams
front and center at the Fillmore or Avalon.” NEDERLAND Colorado’s King Sage channels the Fox “locks down the beat and keeps the energy of the late-60s and early-70s era feet moving all night long.” If he had the Grateful Dead along with the country jam mustache, band members say you’d “swear” sounds of the New Riders of the Purple it was Bill Kreutzmann on the drums. Carman is said to “roll the toms” like Sage and Kingfish. The act performs, Jan. 9 at 9 p.m., at the Pioneer Inn in Nederland. Mickey Heart when he’s not “providing the Band members include Nick Hutchin- transcendental rhythms of percussion.” Band memson, John Gobers say Todd rens, Sean can “howl like Richmond, Pigpen tosses Steve Fox, accusations Will Carman, of pocket Nate Todd, and pool while he Beth Grieser. leans on the Hutchinson Hammond can captivate a to charge the room with his room with cli“Californiamactic jams.” country voFinally, Gricals,” veteran eser provides strumming and King Sage plays the Pioneer Inn in Nederland, Jan. 9 vocal harmo“Bobby-esque licks” on his guitar known as “Old Blue.” nies and shows off the dance moves of a According to band members, Gorens’ quintessential hippie chick.” guitar “strings are far from rusty and in need The band also performs at Quixotes of a dusting, but he still makes them shine True Blue in Denver, Jan. 7 and Jan. 16. every night as he leads the crowd through a melodic space adventure not to be missed.” Richmond provides the backbone of the Additional information can be found onband’s sound with an “early-era, short-scale line at pioneerinnnederland.net and www. thump that will have you convinced that you reverbnation.com/kingsage or find the have been transported through time to stand band on Facebook,
MMAC monthly
Highway Lines
Mountain Standard Time Jan. 14: Barkley Ballroom, Frisco Jan. 16: Ullr’s Tavern, Winter Park Feb. 12: Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins Feb. 13: Bluebird Theatre, Denver Feb. 14: Fox Theatre, Boulder
F
ollowing a summer in the newlybuilt MST Studios, Nederlandbased Mountain Standard Time—known for its “Rocky Mountain FreeGrass” sound—crafted a collection of fan-favorites and entirely new material into their latest album, “Highway Lines.” For the first time, band members took on the role of producer and engineer, as they constructed each track entirely themselves. From set-up in the studio, to recording, to engineering and mixing, the band has prepared a new album that is “truly personal and organic.” “We wanted to create a group of songs that would resonate well with a wide audience and also leave space for interpretation in live performance,” Nick Dunbar said. “These are some of the tunes we hope people will be singing with us and sharing with family and friends—the first set of many to come.” The band created its own mobile studio to record the album after rasing funds on Kickstarter. Rather than get money to pay for a limited amount of studio time, band members decided it was smarter to build their own studio and take their time crafting the tunes and well as capture high quality recordings of live performances. The project produced $18,801 in 30 days. While the entire band—including Dunbar on mandolin, Ryan Ebarb on piano, Otis Lande on bass, Zack Scott on drums and Stanton Sutton on guitar—produced and mixed the music, it was engineered by Ebarb and mastered by David Glasser at Airshow Mastering in Boulder. “Highway Lines” is available free as a high-quality download at www. mstband.com. Additional tour dates, music and other information can also be found online. TRACKS 1) PS 2) Speckley Boy 3) Eat My Shorts 4) Highway Lines 5) Simple Summer Night
To include your business in our distribution locations, call 720-443-8606 or e-mail MMACmonthly@gmail.com Page 20
NOTEWORTHY
| JANUARY 2015
6 Think Again 7 Dog Down 8 Darkness 9 Over You
MOUNTAIN MUSIC
Lyons acoustic concert series features intimate venue Continued from page 17
put on four to six shows a year,” Sirotniak said. “We love bluegrass and that’s what our audience has come to expect. We strive to bring nationally touring artists as they come through Colorado, and we also feature the best regional bands.” Other than the sound engineer and poster artist, everyone is a volunteer. Volunteers bake goods to sell, and come early to set up the stage and venue then stay late to break down and clean up. “We’re a tight knit family, and our volunteers all commit to doing most shows
each season,” Sirotniak explained. “There’s a ton of work that goes into putting on a show, and after all our costs are netted out—venue and sound rental, food, program and poster printing—we give the rest to the artists. We volunteer our time so that we can be generous with our support to the artists. As a performing musician myself, I know that artists appreciate this.” All High Street Concerts shows are held in Rogers Hall, which is fairly small. There is seating for about 100 people, and most shows sell out. “The sound is fabulous,” Sirotniak said, “in large part because we have a listening audience and folks don’t chatter during the shows. It’s different than going to a bar seeing a band, where you might hear three conversations going on while trying to listen to the music. Some of our high school volunteers actually started a sound company—Red Wolf Sound—from their experience volunteering at High Street Concerts.” Since the events sell out, it’s obvious live music fans appreciate the concerts, but the town and its businesses do too. Lyons sponsors include The Stone Cup, Oskar Blues Grill & Brew and Pizza Bar 66. Cash and product sponsorship from Airshow Mastering and Swingfingers Recording Studio also help keep the series going. Sirotniak is “looking forward to ev-
ery concert” this season. The first show features Take Down The Door, an Irish traditional band featuring husband and wife team of Eric Thorin on bass and Jessie Burns on fiddle, with Lyons resident Beth Gadbaw on vocals and drum. Jon Sousa and Adam Agee, a powerful duo, are also part of the band. “I’m thrilled that we’ll hear the sweet sounds of Monica Whittington and Eric Wiggs opening the show as Honeytree,” she added. On Valentine’s Day, two “amazing” Western swing bands—Katie Glassman & Snapshot and Swingchicks—are featured. In March, HSC welcomes JUNO Award-winning artist Jayme Stone and the Lomax Project, which focuses on songs collected by folklorist and field recording pioneer Alan Lomax. The season finale features former Lyons resident Danny Shafer and Finnders & Youngberg. Rogers Hall is located at the intersection of 4th and High streets in Lyons. Tickets to HSC performances go on sale a month before each show at the Stone Cup and online at www.highstreetconcerts.com. Doors open at 7 p.m. and music starts at 8 p.m. for all shows. Seating is general admission. It is recommended you arrive at least 30 minutes before show time for the best seating. For more info email Info@HighStreetConcerts.com or call 303-823-6433.
Take Down the Door
‘Foot-stomping’ Celtic band ready for an Irish party
LYONS The Irish once were known to take the doors off the hinges when it was time for a party. Now inspiring the modern Celtic world to do the same is Take Down the Door, a new band with members from Lyons and Boulder. The “premium grade Irish music” group performs, Jan. 10, at Rogers Hall as the first of High Street Concerts’ 12th season of shows. The band’s foot-stomping, heart-stopping, wide-open sound reflects the band’s name and home towns. Fiddler Jessie Burns toured for six years and recorded three number-one world albums with Celtic supergroup Gaelic Storm. Adam Agee and Jon Sousa have been called “sincere and from the heart.” Described by Irish Music Magazine as “exceptional,” singer Beth Leachman Gadbaw made her mark with traditional group Siucra. Bassist Eric Thorin currently tours with the Matt Flinner Trio, Mollie O’Brien and Jeff Austin Band. With stellar musicianship from all its mebers, Take Down the Door plays a variety of dance tunes and Irish songs. With an impressively high-energy traditional sound that is guaranteed to make you want to join in the fun, Take Down the Door is ready to get the party started. Honeytree, a soulful collaboration between Monocle Band’s Monica Whittington and Eric Wiggs, opens the show. Visit www.takedownthedoor.com or www. highstreetconcerts.com to learn more.
Page 22
MMAC monthly
| JANUARY 2015
Mountain MUSIC Colorado acts provide Winter Festival soundtrack ESTES PARK Celebrate the winter season in Estes Park at the Estes Park Winter Festival, Jan. 17-18. Each days features a talented pair of Colorado bands in addition to a beer and wine tasting, chili tasting and competition and outdoorrelated demos and vendors at the new Estes Park Events Complex. On Saturday, Jan. 17: Estes Park, James & the Devil and Whitewa- Whiteter Ramble per- water Ramble form. (above) and D e n v e r - The Burbased James & roughs (right) The Devil perform their own brand of music, best described as Rocky Mountain fiddle rock. While merging acoustic rock, fiddle, modern pop, rap, and dance, the act has logged over 100,000 touring miles with
a “proclivity to consistently perform unforgettable genre-bending shows.” Described as “high-octane Rocky Mountain dance grass,” Whitewater Ramble uses a simple recipe to craft its sound: start with bluegrass instrumentation, add drums, and finish with a boundary-less approach to grassing-up everything from disco house grooves to roots to Americana. The quintet combines the musical elements of mandolin, fiddle, acoustic guitar, upright bass, drums and vocals to explore the musical boundaries of multiple genres and to fuel their own mixture of original music and innovative cover song interpretations. On Sunday, Jan. 18, The Burroughs and Panda & People perform at the Estes
Mountain MUSIC Calendar • Neal Whitlock – Rock Inn (EP) January 10 • Gasoline Lollipops – Stage Stop (RV) • Them Raggedy Bones – Pioneer Inn (NED) • Strangebyrds – Corona Bar @ Eldora Mountain Resort (NED) • Andrew Wynne – Alpine Restaurant & Bar (GT) • Jack Yoder –Troia’s Cafe (GT) • The Sweet Lilies – Jamestown Mercantile (JT) • Jeremy Steding Band – Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (LY) • Take Down The Door, Honeytree – Rogers Hall (LY) January 11 • The Semophores – Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (LY) • Jon Pickett – Rock Inn (EP) January 13 • Open Mic – Coffee on the Rocks (EP) January 14 • Cowboy Brad – Prospect Park Living Center January 15 • Karaoke – Stage Stop (RV) • Celtic Session hosted by The Gael – Very Nice Brewing (NED)
• Chris Sheldon and Friends – Jamestown Mercantile (JT) January 16 • Rob Nance and the Lost Souls – Pioneer Inn (NED) • Live Music – Jamestown Mercantile (JT) • Bittersweet –Troia’s Cafe (GT) • Karaoke – Pizza Bar 66 (LY) • Lionel Young Band – Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (LY) • ReIntarnation – Rock Inn (EP) • The Commoners, McTeggart Irish Stepdancers – Estes Park Events Complex (EP)
January 17 ooleye – Pioneer Inn (NED) W Intergalactic Radio – Whistler’s Café (NED) Fid & Friends – Alpine Restaurant & Bar (GT) Gary & Claudia –Troia’s Cafe (GT) Big Medicine Gang – Jamestown Mercantile (JT) Fauxgrass – Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (LY) Billy Shaddox – Rock Inn (EP) Estes Park Winter Festival w/James & the Devil, Whitewater Ramble – Estes Park Events Complex January 18 • K.C. Groves & Greg Blake – Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (LY)
• • • • • • • •
Park Winter Festival. Born in the summer of 2013, the Burroughs are a band of musicians from Northern Colorado dedicated to making “groovy music that is easy to dance to.” With musical roots hailing back to old-school soul and funk bands, The Burroughs aim to create an environment with powerful horn section licks and a tight rhythmic section. Specializing in cover songs and originals influenced by musicians such as Stevie Wonder, Bill Withers, Etta James, and Otis Redding and modern musicians like Justin Timberlake and John Legend, The Burroughs are always a fun act to catch. Pandas & People is a three-piece alternative folk band rooted in Northern Colorado. Held together by lead vocalist and bassist Joshua Scheer, guitarist Johnny Day and pianist Megan Huffman, Pandas & People began as a side project in a basement in Greeley in 2013. The act offers a traditional folk sound with an underlying hint of alternative rock.
Continued from page 10
can be confident with what they are buying from us,” he said. “When you buy from the black market, you can likely get it cheaper, but you don’t know if it has mold or is full of heavy metals.” Boring, whose stores are part of the larger Strainwise network, agrees that consumer trust comes first. “I feel the customer wants the confidence that they are buying safe, pure and healthy products consistently every time they enter a [marijuana] store,” he said. “We are making a huge investment in our production facilities and store expansion to meet that goal and compliance with the laws… is also a high priority.” If you are new to Colorado’s marijuana industry and consuming legal pot, be sure to educate yourself about things like potency and the local laws, which include not driving while high and smoking in public places including hotels or music venues. Whether you’ve smoked for years or are simply curious— and you’re over 21—go ahead and stop in one of the many mountain-based marijuana retailers to see what it’s all about—it’s totally legal.
The Estes Park Events Complex is located 1125 Rooftop Way. Visit www.visit estespark.com for more information.
Continued from page 17
•N eal Whitlock – Rock Inn (EP) • Estes Park Winter Festival w/The Burroughs, Pandas & People – Estes Park Events Complex (EP) January 22 •M iles Perry – Very Nice Brewing (NED) • Idlewhile – Jamestown Mercantile (JT) January 23 • The Angle – Pioneer Inn (NED) • D avid Matters & Andrew Conley of Gipsy Moon – Very Nice Brewing (NED)
• J im Stahlhut –Troia’s Cafe (GT) • Cosmic Mesa – Jamestown Mercantile (JT) • Mollie O’Brien Band, Lucy Moore – Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (LY)
• Cadillac Grip – Rock Inn (EP) January 24 • William & the Romantics – Stage Stop (RV) • Idlewhile – Pioneer Inn (NED) • Americana Highway – Corona Bar @ Eldora Resort (NED) • Contraband – Jamestown Mercantile (JT) • Roger Ball –Troia’s Cafe (GT) • Gary & Claudia – Alpine Restaurant & Bar (GT) • Interstate Stash Express – Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (LY) • D avid Potter – Rock Inn (EP) January 25 • Tiffany Christopher – Loveland Ski Area • Felonius Smith – Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (LY) • Jon Pickett – Rock Inn (EP) January 29 • K araoke – Stage Stop (RV) • Doug Brightwood – Very Nice Brewing (NED) • Reggae on the Mountain – Pioneer Inn (NED) • Ky Burt and Justin Thompson featuring Gabrielle Louise from Dames – Jamestown Mercantile (JT) January 30 • B arrel House String Band – Stage Stop (RV) • Jesse Holt and the Cult – Pioneer Inn (NED) • Jack Yoder – Alpine Restaurant and Bar • Anthony Ruptak and Luke Redfield – Jamestown Mercantile (JT)
Rec sales, taxes continue to grow
• G ary & Claudia –Troia’s Cafe (GT) • The Delta Sonics – Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (LY) • Just Jill – Rock Inn (EP)
January 31 • George Nelson Band: 19th Century Night – Pioneer
• K araoke – 1860 Tavern (EM) • Open Mic: Taylor Radio + Potluck – Spirit Hound
• • • • •
• S cott Von – The View @ Historic Crags Lodge (EP) • Vic Anderson – Coffee on the Rocks (EP) • Ladies Night w/Mountain Town Rockers – Estes Park
Inn (NED)
Distillery (LY)
R estless Heart – Reserve Casino (CC) Jim Stahlhut –Troia’s Cafe (GT) Karaoke – Jamestown Mercantile (JT) Ethyl & The Regulars – Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (LY) Sean Flynn –Rock Inn (EP)
Resort (EP)
• • • • •
WEEKY MUSIC
Sunday Open Bluegrass Pick – Salto Coffee Works (NED) Fred’s Got the Blues – First Street Pub (NED) Grumpy Jam – Alpine Restaurant & Bar (GT) Branden Sipes – The View @ Historic Crags Lodge (EP) Cowboy Sing-along Program – Bond Park (EP) Brunch w/Amanda Valley – Estes Park Resort (EP) Monday • Karaoke – Whistler’s Café (NED) • Open Jovie (Open Mic Jimtown Style) – Jamestown • • • • • •
• • • • • •
Mercantile (JT)
• Cowboy Sing-along Program – Bond Park (EP) Tuesday • Open Mic – Pioneer Inn (NED) • “A Night at the Goat” Open Mic – KYGT Radio 102.7FM (IS) • Bluegrass Pick – Oskar Blues (LY) • James Davis – Twin Owls Steakhouse (EP) • Billy Shaddox – The View @ Historic Crags (EP) • Cowboy Sing-along Program – Bond Park (EP) Wednesday • Blues Jam – Pioneer Inn (NED) • Vinyl Night – Very Nice Brewing (NED) • Karaoke – West Winds Tavern (IS) • Live Music – Lady Luck Casino (BH) • Open Bluegrass Pick – Jamestown Mercantile (JT) • Open Mic Night – Outlaw Saloon (LY) • Jerry Barlow – The View @ Historic Crags (EP) • Brown Bag Lunch Jam – Highland Music (EP) • Open Mic w/Justin Faye – Lonigans (EP) • James Davis – Twin Owls Steakhouse (EP) Thursday • Bluegrass Pick – First Street Pub (NED) • Open Jam Night – Whistler’s Café (NED)
JANUARY 2015
|
Friday S teve Smersh – Mountain Strong Restaurant (EP) Ray Young – Nicky’s Restaurant (EP) Bob Smallwood – Coffee On The Rocks (EP) James Davis – Twin Owls Steakhouse (EP) Karaoke (Theme Night) – Lonigans Saloon (EP) Saturday Open Mic Night – Tapestry Coffee House (AP) Live Music w/Bear – ClubNed Karaoke (Prize Night) – Lonigans Saloon (EP) Ray Young – Nicky’s Restaurant (EP) Vic Anderson – Coffee On The Rocks (EP) Mountain Town Trio – Mary’s Lake Lodge
AP = Allenspark BH = Black Hawk CC = Central City CCC= Coal Creek Canyon EM = Empire EP = Estes Park GGC = Golden Gate Canyon GH = Gold Hill GT = Georgetown IS = Idaho Springs
JT = Jamestown LV = Loveland LY = Lyons NED = Nederland RV = Rollinsville SA = Salina SP = Silver Plume SC = Summit County WD = Ward WP = Winter Park
Submit music-related events for free listing in the Mountain Music Calendar to: MMACeditor@gmail.com All listings/dates subject to change. Contact venues to confirm events.
MMAC monthly
Page 23