The Health and Wellness Issue F O O D + B E V E R AG E
DRY JANUARY M O CK TAIL AN D M O RE
JA N UA RY 2 02 4
WE UNDERSTAND THAT YOUR HOME IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT SPACES IN YOUR LIFE.
You need someone who knows all of the details and challenges that go into crafting the perfect mountain home. Our experienced team is dedicated to making the design process as stress-free as possible for our clients. From the initial consultation to the final touches, it is all done for you. Our goal here at Mountain Luxe Interiors is to design that “perfectfor-you” mountain home and fill the spaces with gorgeous and inspiring furnishings and decor so once you’re ready to relax and retreat, your home is ready and waiting for you.
design@mountainluxeinteriors.com 970-880-4648 mountainluxeinteriors.com @mountainluxeinteriors
WHY YOU NEED A
TRUE EXPERT
IN TODAY'S HOUSING MARKET The housing market continues to shift and change, and in a fast-moving landscape like we’re in right now, it’s more important than ever to have a trusted real estate agent on your side. Whether you’re buying your first home or selling once again, it’s mission critical to work with an expert who can guide you through each unique step of the process. The reality is, not all agents operate the same way. To truly make a powerful and confident decision as you buy or sell a home, you need a real estate expert who uses their knowledge of what’s really happening with home prices, housing supply, industry projections, and more to give you the best possible advice. Someone who can provide clarity and trust like that is essential to your success.
THE RIGHT AGENT CAN ASSIST YOU IN FIGURING OUT WHAT’S GOING ON AT THE NATIONAL LEVEL AND IN YOUR LOCAL AREA. They can debunk headlines using data you can trust. Experts have in-depth knowledge of the industry and can provide context, so you know how current trends compare to the normal ebbs and flows in the housing market, historical data, and more. After all, making a move is a potentially life-changing milestone. It should be something you feel ready for and excited about. And that’s where a trusted expert comes in.
BOTTOM LINE If you want sound advice and trusted information about our local housing market, let’s connect. The information above is taken from an article by Keeping Current Matters. The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Keeping Current Matters, Inc. does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein.
BHHSCO.COM (970) 403-3289
LIFESTYLE LETTER
Lifestyle Letter
January 2024 PUBLISHER
Branden (Brandy) Murray branden.murray@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R
Rachel Rosenthal | rachel.rosenthal@citylifestyle.com
Welcome to the Health and Wellness Issue! For many of us, the New Year is the chance to reset with new horizons and goals to pursue. For others, it can remind them of adversities faced in the past year, with an expectation that this year will be different. We approached our January issue by exploring ways to make lasting, realistic, and long-term improvements that can positively impact your physical, emotional, and mental health. While many of us are not always successful at reaching goals set in the New Year, consistently using the tools available to achieve these goals can go a long way. When it comes to anything in life - business, finance, food, home, and personal health – it’s not what you do some days that move the needle - it’s what you do MOST days. For better or worse! Having a beautiful steak dinner with a few cocktails and creme brulee every night isn’t best for your health, but doing so occasionally might be fine! So, plan the vacation AND work to establish more regular rest in your work week. Join a fitness community or gym AND enjoy that dessert you’ve wanted to try at Taste. Remember, it’s not what you do some days, it’s what you do most days that will lead to a more peaceful, filling, and fabulous year. Here’s to you! We’re rooting for you.
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jennifer Mason, Cindy Schmidt, Erika Castillo, Carly Van Hof Thomson STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R
Brandon Mathis
Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
B R A N D E N ( B R A N D Y ) M U R R AY, P U B L I S H E R @DURANGOCITYLIFESTYLE
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Durango City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Durango area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle
Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/DURANGO
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Durango City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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inside the issue JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S
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Featured
14 18 24 28 6
From Humdrum to Humdinger The Healing Power of Resonant Sounds
Sunrise to Sunset
Daily Habits for Healthy Relationships
28 On the Cover
Departments
Brandon Mathis captured our cover image with help from the team at Zia Cantina. Try making a Pink Pom mocktail yourself using the recipe inside.
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Lifestyle Letter
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City Scene
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Business Monthly
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Expert Help LOCAL SERVICES
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Healthy Lifestyle LIFE + CULTURE
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Pet Care EDUCATION
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Happy Hour FOOD + BEVERAGE
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Mental Wellbeing HEALTH + WELLNESS
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Open House REAL ESTATE
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Events
Pretty in Pink
Elevate Dry January with a Delicious Mocktail
Mental Health in Ski Towns
Making a Difference Speaker Series Raises Awareness with Bode Miller
Photography: Brandon Mathis
Healthy Living with Embracing Beauty TOGETHER WE WILL CREATE A PERSONALIZED JOURNEY JUST FOR YOU CUSTOMIZED FACIALS MERRY BERRY FACIAL BY CIRCADIA HYDRODERMABRASION FACIALS CRYODERM FACIALS HALOTHERAPY Helps with Sinusitis, Allergies & Asthma MIGUN MASSAGE BED INFRARED HEAT WITH JADE ROLLERS
Helps with circulation and Alignment .
970-946-4888 777 Main Avenue Durango, Colorado
MobileFacialsGlowToGoDurango.com
V@glow_to_go_durango • BGlow To Go Durango
JANUARY 2024
city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
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@LAPLATACOUNTYHUMANESOCIETY
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@NATURES_OASIS_DURANGO @ADAPTIVESPORTSASSOCIATION
5 @DURANGOHOTSPRINGS
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@SANJUANSYMPHONY
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@DURANGOSUSTAINABLEGOODS
@RYAN_DURANGOHARLEYDAVIDSON
1: Bayfield High School NAHS students decked the halls/windows at Nature’s Oasis. 2: St. Columba students raised funds this fall for shelter pets. 3: Family soaks at Durango Hot Springs are a wonderful winter activity! 4: Young musicians with SJS Youth Orchestras participated in their annual fall performance. 5: ASA volunteers, in their red jackets, help provide recreational experiences for those with disabilities. 6: Shoppers who bring a bag instead of using store bags, get an A+ in sustainability practices! 7: One lucky customer got to ride off on their 2023 CVO street glide.
Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ D U R A N G O C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E
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C I T Y SC E N E
Affordable Original Art and Custom Hand built Framing From Reclaimed Wood.
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JANUARY 2024
understands the unique beauty and heritage that make Southwest Colorado so exceptional - which helps us guide our clients through their real estate endeavors with confidence. In the years since we opened, thousands have trusted us to help them make a successful purchase or sale!
business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S
Mathis Mountain Photography Mathis Mountain Media provides affordable, creative solutions in photography, videography, and design for small businesses to capture their core values and intrigue prospective clients and customers. Brandon Mathis has lived in the region for three decades, gaining inspiration from the geography and culture of the Four Corners. He provides small businesses with marketing assets to elevate their presence in print. Contact him today at mathismountainmedia.com.
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743 Main Avenue, Durango | 970.624.0444 legacypropertieswestsir.com © 2023 SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY® IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK AND USED WITH PERMISSION. EACH SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED, EXCEPT THOSE OPERATED BY SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY, INC. ALL OFFERINGS ARE SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES INCLUDING PRICE OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.
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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ DURANGO
30 Town Plaza, Durango, CO Call or Text: (970) 247-1655
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Durango Hot Springs Make a resolution for a positive change in health and wellness. Right in our neighborhood, one of nature’s greatest gifts invites you to heal, relax, and take time for self-care. Unlike any other, the water at Durango Hot Springs contains 32 healthful minerals. While soaking, your body absorbs these minerals, which circulate to provide pain relief and other benefits. Here, you can escape daily life, rejuvenate with spa treatments, or gather and socialize.
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WWW.WAGONWHEELLIQUORS.COM JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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EVERYTHING IS ENERGY. YOUR FREQUENCY MATTERS! GET TUNED! STAY TUNED! LIVE ALIGNED! • Reduces stress and stress related symptoms • Promotes deep sleep, recovery and relaxation • Enhances focus, concentration, and clarity • Aligns Body-Mind-Spirit • Optimizes Learning, Living and Performance
Potent Point | 3 or 6 (30 min) Session Packages Integrate | 3 (60 min) Session Packages
Caren Truske, Owner carentruske.com | 614.406.3612 125 East 32nd St., Durango, CO
Let us help you create a space that you can thrive in! Full design studio specializing in non toxic finishes, including paints, stains, sealers, plasters, and more. handcraftedhouse.com | 970.247.0421 | 1323 East 2nd Ave. Durango 12
FROM HUMDRUM TO HUMDINGER
THE HEALING POWER OF RESONANT SOUNDS ARTICLE BY JENNIFER MASON
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EXP E RT H E LP | LO CAL SE RVICE S
Clippity-clop, clippity-clop. Rumbledeebump! That is the sound of an 18th-century doctor’s prescription for insomnia. Depression, migraines, tremors, and sensory loss could all be ameliorated with a bumpy carriage ride. A century later, the fauteuil de poste (vibrating chair) usurped the carriage. What had not changed was the strange correlation between resonant vibrations and healing responses triggered in the body. Today, vibroacoustic therapy (VAT) or resonance therapy are variations on this treatment. Over 50 years of data show that some form of hum unleashes a cascade of wellness benefits in a person’s mind, body, and spirit. Durango plays host to two unique forms of VAT. Caren Truske, owner of Aligned Living, uses a variety of tuning forks to transmit resonant sound frequencies either directly into or around the body. Mona and Calley Hoffman, the mother and daughter duo behind the Harmonic Earth Sanctuary, bathe individuals in light and sound frequencies from inside an acoustic sound chamber. “Sound is powerful, powerful medicine,” Truske says. “We all sing. We all use songs to lift us up or bring us down.” “[T]he music and the lights—the frequencies and vibrations can penetrate deeply at the cellular level,” Calley explains. “They get into those tissues where you hold trauma and old stuff that’s sometimes related to an illness that won’t go away. It can help move things and shake it up.” CONTINUED >
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“Sound is powerful, powerful medicine. We all sing. We all use songs to lift us up or bring us down.” THE LATEST BUZZ
Teeemmm. Lummmm. Hoommmm. The tuning forks sing when tapped. Truske dangles the forks over the client, stretched prone on the padded table. She looks equal parts orchestral conductor and puppeteer. She explains how the atomic building blocks of all things are composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons, which are continuously emitting vibrations. The various tissues, organs, and bones of the body will each have their own frequency. The resonant waves of the tuning forks coordinate all those tiny hums—much as a choirmaster unifies the many voices of a choir. At Harmonic Earth Sanctuary, the Hoffmans guide a client into a gleaming white oval the size of a space capsule. This trademarked Harmonic Egg is among the newest innovations in resonance therapy. Its shell is not smooth; rather, it is faceted like a diamond. “It’s a dodecahedron,” Mona states, noting how the shape maximizes acoustics. The client reclines in a cozy seat as the capsule fills with music and colored light. The music selection includes a wide variety of tones and textures, spanning flutes or drumming, resonant strings, nature sounds, or chanted mantras. The experience is bespoke, with colors and music determined by a person’s unique needs.
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EXP E RT H E LP | LO CAL SE RVICE S
Whether it’s the bumpy carriage, an acoustic chamber, or a tuning fork, resonant vibrations penetrate and jostle the body’s cells, causing stimulation. Stimulation triggers an uptick in circulation and blood flow, which the nervous system interprets as a stress response. To quell the stress, the body releases nitric oxide (NO) for a calming effect. This undulation from stress to serenity triggers bio-electro-chemical reactions all involved in healing. For instance, the boosted circulation sweeps away cellular waste while the nitric oxide ushers in protective antioxidants. Nerves stimulated by VAT function better, resulting in improved mobility. Boosted brain wave activity, cell and bone growth, and dissolved blood clots—all these outcomes have been observed with VAT treatments, suggesting that vibrations interact both powerfully and beneficially with the body. “The Egg, I find, is very supportive in helping your body come out of flight or fight into a relaxed nervous system,” Calley Hoffman attests. Truske notes, “Life feels like we’re trying to hold a dozen beach balls below the surface of a pool. If we could only let go and relax, then we could just swim.” For many people, a non-invasive and drug-free wellness modality likely sounds like music to the ears. At the beginning of a new year, VAT may be the best way to start (and end) 2024 on a high note.
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JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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SUNRISE
TO SUNSET Daily Habits for Healthy Relationships ARTICLE BY CINDY SCHMIDT
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H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | L IF E + CU LT U RE
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1 Building stronger relationships requires consistent effort and dedicated time to each other. Here are six daily habits or rituals that can contribute to strengthening your bond with your partner: These habits build a strong foundation of communication, connection, and appreciation in your relationship. Adjust them to suit your lifestyle and preferences, ensuring they become natural parts of your daily routine.
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1. E X PR ESSING GR AT I T U DE Share something you appreciate about your partner, acknowledging their efforts and contributions. What you put your focus on is what you will create more of in your life and your relationship.
2 . LOV I NG-K I N DN E SS M E DI TAT ION T O GE T H E R
3. JOUR NA LING A ND SEL F-R EF L EC T ION: ( J U NGI A N SH A DOW WOR K )
Practice loving-kindness meditation as a couple, extending positive thoughts and wishes to yourselves and each other. This meditation fosters compassion and empathy, helping you better understand each other’s struggles.
Using prompts based on Shadow Work or accessing our unconscious mind can help you and your partner explore personal and relationship challenges. Sharing your insights can promote understanding and acceptance. CONTINUED >
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5 . E V E N I NG R I T UA L S
Establish evening rituals like cooking dinner together or winding down with a cup of tea. Avoid distractions like phones or work during these rituals to focus on each other. Your attention is the greatest gift you can give your partner.
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4 . S I L E N T N A T U R E WA L K S
6. COU PLES R ET R E AT O R G E T AWA Y
Taking silent walks in nature beautifully blends mindfulness and the principles of Shinrin-Yoku (forest bathing), creating a connection with our environment and each other. It gives us space to allow emotions and sensations we may otherwise neglect to arise and be acknowledged.
Plan occasional couple retreats or getaways or engage in workshops and activities that promote self-discovery, healing, and mutual understanding. Use the time away to focus on your relationship and individual growth.
H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | L IF E + CU LT U RE
Cindy Schmidt is a Master Jungarian Life Coach and Certified Spiritual Teacher. Learn more about her work at wildnewway.com
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Focused on You
Eye CONSULTANTS sweyeconsultants.com 970.828.2200
Put your eyes in the hands of the best doctors Southwest Eye Consultants has the only dedicated, full-time, medical and surgical retina specialists serving the Durango, Cortez, Farmington, and Pagosa areas. Our team of doctors are not only amazingly skilled surgeons and experts in the multi-specialties we provide, but we actually “see” you. We care about your vision, and are focused on your overall quality of life.
Moss Fenberg, MD
Sara Haug, MD, PhD
Scott Allen, MD
Grant Gebhard, MD
Cameron L. Clarke, MD
DURANGO • CORTEZ FARMINGTON, NM
Kiley Berry, OD
DATE NIGHT IN THE CITY
With three amazing bars and restaurants, The Strater Hotel is Durango’s most unique venue. Whether it’s a romantic dinner date at The Mahogany Grille, a double date with hand-crafted cocktails and appetizers at The Office Spiritorium, or bellying up to the bar for drinks and live music with friends at The Diamond Belle Saloon — The iconic Strater Hotel is your perfect match!
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ARTICLE BY ERIKA CASTILLO - HAPPY WAGS
Healthy Pets, Happy Home OUR MOST RECOMMENDED PET HEALTH PRODUCTS FOR WINTER
1 . Mu s he r ’s S ec ret Keeping your pets’ paws and noses moisturized during the winter is essential. This product prevents painful splits and cracks.
2. Ruff we ar bootie s + Kurgo First Aid K it Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean your outdoor adventures are over. For pet parents planning for the winter, the best way to keep their fur babies protected in the cold is to be prepared and carry a first aid kit. Plus, booties prevent paws from getting snow stuck in between their pads.
3. C os equin S upple me nts Joint function is essential at any stage of a pet’s life, especially for adult pets. These supplements help with joint function, especially during colder months.
4. Da B i rd Feath er Tea s er Play is essential for felines to keep them physically and mentally healthy.
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P E T CA R E | EDUCATI O N
5. Virbac Enzy matic Toothpaste + Tooth b rus h Keeping up with your pets’ dental health will have long-term benefits. If you can, brush your pets’ teeth once daily. Adding toothpaste to silicone toys is a great way to keep your pet’s teeth clean if they refuse brushing.
Home & Lifestyle Coffee & Treats Mocktails & Elixirs 1259 Main Ave | 970.903.3241 durangosustainablegoods.com
Look Your Best for the Season!
SAVE $100 PER $500 PURCHASE ON ANY FACIAL AESTHETIC TREATMENT(S) FOR DECEMBER & JANUARY.*
Providing full facial aesthetics to improve confidence in your appearance; utilizing PDO threads, Botox/Daxxify, dermal fillers, and much more. 970.247.2677 DURANGOLASERDENTISTRY.COM 72 SUTTLE STREET, STE. H DURANGO, CO 81303 *Cannot be combined with other offers
Happy New Year from our Furry Family to Yours! We love creating a positive environment for your pet to thrive in, giving you peace of mind while you are away. We are experienced in caring for pets of all sizes and for those with medical needs.
By Appointment Only happywags.pet | 970.501.5171
V happywagspetservice
OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: OVERNIGHT STAYS | DROP-IN SITTING | DOG WALKING JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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H AP PY H OU R | FO O D + BE VE RAGE
ELEVATE DRY JA NUA RY WITH A DELICIOUS MOCKTA IL
Pretty in Pink Upstairs from Zia Taqueria’s location in the North Main District is Zia Cantina, a cozy lounge, bar, and event space. Following in the Taqueria’s footsteps, the Cantina features scratch-made cocktails & mocktails with fresh, local, seasonal flair. Patrons of the Cantina are invited to relax with great food and a beverage that looks and feels
P IN K P O M IN G R E D I E N T S • 1.5 oz (3 TBSP) Pomegranate juice • 1 oz (2 TBSP) coconut milk or crème • .5 oz (1 TBSP) vanilla syrup (regular or sugar-free) • Ginger beer
like a special treat. If you prefer a non-alcoholic beverage, our mocktails are designed to look and feel like classic cocktails without the alcohol. With bright, festive colors and irresistible flavor, mocktails are anything but boring. Try making a Pink Pom for yourself, and come to the Cantina for even more luscious libations.
PROCESS Measure out pomegranate juice, coconut milk or crème, and vanilla syrup in a shake cup. Shake with ice. Pour into a 12oz cup. Top with ginger beer. Garnish with a sugared rim and a rosemary sprig, if desired.
Zia Cantina is open from 3-8 pm this winter, with extended hours once patio season begins.
“With bright, festive colors and tantalizing flavor, mocktails are anything but boring.” ARTICLE BY CARLY VAN HOF THOMSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDON MATHIS
JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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Art by Becca PERSONALISED PET PORTRAITS
Cherish the unique personality and charm of your pet with one of a kind artwork and celebrate the joy they bring to your life. Browse my online art portfolio, and decide if an art piece speaks to you. We can also collaborate on a commissioned piece that reflects your style and preferences.
www.ArtByBecca.com | 970.317.1114
Crafted Elegance for Every Space Our homes are a reflection of our unique style and personality. That’s why we offer a curated collection of semi-custom built cabinetry that combines timeless elegance with practical functionality. Each project includes a 3D Drawing to better visualize your future space; 10% off orders until Jan 30th (savings up to $1k); Ask us about our special promotions for designers and builders.
Discover the Perfect Blend of Style & Function By Appointment Only durangocabinetco.com 970.903.5931 Vdurangocabinetco | BDurango-Cabinet-Co
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Donate ◼ Join ◼ Volunteer
Still Growing Still Amazing Still Free
DurangoBotanicGardens.org
wearable art
COOL
AND THINGS All items created with original paintings by Tad Smith
NEW
Sweatshirts Zip Up Hoodies Pullover Hoodies www.TADSMITH.art
JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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Me n t a l He a l t h i n S k i Tow n s MAKING A DIFFERENCE SPEAKER SERIES RAISES AWARENESS WITH BODE MILLER
ARTICLE BY RACHEL ROSENTHAL
“People want to be stoked,” Miller said in an interview with The Durango Herald. “ … They don’t want to be the Debbie downer, they want to be the upper.”
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M EN TA L WE LLB E IN G | H E ALT H + WE LLN E SS
"The Paradise Paradox" explores the juxtaposing realities of ski towns, from their free-loving and fun image to the mental health crisis impacting residents.
Rocky Mountain ski towns are known worldwide for their pristine, snowy slopes, laid-back vibe, and plethora of microbreweries. People flock to the region annually to partake in various activities spanning all four seasons, from mountain biking to whitewater rafting to downhill skiing. It is a mecca that draws in many looking for adventure and beauty, but many may not realize that the region is also well known for a much darker reason. The mental health crisis is impacting mountain towns at a startling rate. According to the Colorado School of Public Health, destination cities like Aspen and Telluride experience mental health emergencies at a rate two to three times higher than the national average. Recognizing a dire need to shed light on the subject, advocates, mental health professionals, and nonprofits are working tirelessly to combat this crisis from the frontlines and provide potentially lifesaving support to community members in need. The Community Foundation serving Southwest Colorado hosted legendary downhill racing champion Bode Miller in a four-part speaking series in Durango and Pagosa last October, where the athlete turned mental health advocate shared his film The Paradise Paradox, and participated in Q and A discussions with the community. In partnership with Emmy Awardwinning impact sports filmmaker Brett Rapkin, the film delves into the mental health crisis impacting ski towns and the innovative solutions communities are developing to curb it. Based on feedback from previous Making a Difference Speaker Series events, the Community Foundation added discussion panels with local mental health professionals to dig deep and prompt important conversations, and possible actions to help support our regional mental health needs. The Community Foundation also curated a list of the many resources discussed during those meaningful discussions.
"The discussion panels were a beautiful way to bring like-minded individuals and professionals to the table to facilitate compassionate discussions around the mental health needs in our community. Everyone was there to share and learn from one another, and a web of connections was created to nurture further collaboration on this important issue," said Briggen Wrinkle, Executive Director of the Community Foundation serving Southwest Colorado. As a result of these conversations, $15,000 in grants from the Foundation’s La Plata County Fund went to three organizations on the frontlines, helping community members navigate mental health challenges with compassion. The Hive, In the Weeds, and the Grief Center of Southwest Colorado will use their $5,000 grants to support the community through programming and initiatives that target mental health improvements for youth, hospitality workers, and grieving individuals. Through raising awareness and compassion, the film and area nonprofits aim to create sustainable community programs that support those in crisis. If you are interested in supporting these organizations, monetary donations are always welcome and go a long way in helping them reach their goals. A mental health resource guide is available on the Community Foundation’s website. In addition, smallgroup showings of The Paradise Paradox are available for free, and details are available on the same website. The La Plata County Fund continues to accept donations at swcommunityfoundation.org. Click the ‘donate’ button and select the La Plata County Fund to help sustain future grants for local nonprofits. As a community facilitator, the Community Foundation serving Southwest Colorado works to increase sustainability and success for nonprofits while maximizing effective grantmaking for philanthropists to make Southwest Colorado a better place to live.
“The discussion panels were a beautiful way to bring like-minded individuals and professionals to the table to facilitate compassionate discussions around mental health needs in our community.” JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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WHERE YOUR PETS ARE OUR GUESTS
We are a professional animal care facility providing individualized care to pets in Durango and its surrounding areas. Pets will enjoy affection and care from well-trained kennel technicians as well as supervised social time in our spacious dog yards and cat enrichment room.
We have the pleasure of introducing our new cat enrichment room! Your kitties will now get an hour of play per day in our kitty lounge. Complete with enrichment toys, an obstacle course, and department of agriculture cleanliness standards in mind; your feline fur baby will enjoy individualized one on one staff time.
willowtreedurango.com | 970.259.0018 | wtkennels@outlook.com | 6510 County Road 203
Durango Arts Repertory Theatre
Presents:
2 0 2 4 Theatre Season Pass
Murder, Mystery & Mayhem
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It Doesn’t Matter How, Just Get Here
Known as Durango’s relaxed wedding venue, River Bend Ranch offers breathtaking views, elegant lawns and numerous amenities in a beautiful indoor/outdoor reception space. Venue tours available by appointment. River Bend Ranch | 970.335.887 7 | RiverBendRanchDurango.com
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RED BRIDGE RANCH OFFERS A SOUTHWEST COLOR ADO LIFEST YLE AND U N PA R A LLELED B E AUT Y
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Red Bridge Ranch is a luxurious country estate experience. Represented by the Kniffin Team at Legacy Properties West Sotheby’s International Realty, the estate sold in November 2023. Featured in Luxe Interior Design in 2019, the home received praise for its ability to merge outdoor and indoor living. Its proximity to outdoor activities and onsite amenities makes it the perfect sanctuary for those who embrace an active lifestyle. The estate gets its name from the red bridge you must cross when you enter the ranch, and a tree-lined drive opens up to the sprawling estate. Giant cottonwoods crown the property, which has an abundance of running water, numerous ponds, fencing, and an exercise area with stunning property views. The main living quarters include 7,745 square feet with a fifth bedroom en-suite and a main-level luxurious primary suite. The fifth bedroom is accessed with a separate staircase and consists of a one-bedroom apartment (1,158 sq ft) with a full kitchen and washer/ dryer hook-up. The home’s exterior features are just as luxurious as the interior, providing the ultimate outdoor lifestyle. There are tennis/pickleball/basketball courts, a viewing deck with a bocce ball court, and you can fish on Cook Creek. There are four pastures and 35 acres for equestrian purposes, a horse barn with tremendous detail, including in-floor radiant heat, four stalls, and plumbing for water. Red Bridge Ranch sits in the heart of the Animas Valley, approximately 20 minutes from Purgatory Ski Resort, 9 minutes to Dalton Ranch Golf Course, and close to many other outdoor activities. It is a perfect balance of elegance and excitement.
GET INSPIRED E AT & D R I N K SHOP LOCAL YOU R D IGITAL D ESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING
JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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JANUARY 2024
events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S D EC E M BE R 3 1 ST
New Year’s Eve Performances at the Strater Hotel The Strater Hotel | 6:00 PM For those wanting to celebrate New Year’s but be home in their jammies before the ball drops, this party is for you. The Blue Moon Ramblers and Joes Racheff will be performing music from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. to help jazz you up for the New Year with live tunes in a beautiful setting. Bring friends and enjoy the fun. JA NUA RY 1 3T H
Durango Wedding Expo La Plata County Fairgrounds | 12:00 PM Time to start planning your wedding? There is no better time than January 13th at the 23rd annual Durango Wedding Expo, where you will find multiple vendors to make your day special. Vendors include DJs, photographers, wedding planners, caterers, event venues and more, and take home a bag of swag. JA NUA RY 2 2 N D – M A R CH 4TH
Intimacy in Relationships – 6-week Online Course This 6-week experiential learning opportunity is completely private and confidential. Intimacy Participants receive a coaching community online membership, live Q&A laser coaching, and interactive activities with tools and resources (handouts, visualizations, meditations, and more) to put what you learn into action and help you on your journey to stronger intimacy and relationships. Registration: cindy@wildnewway.com or call (970) 985-2416 JA NUA RY 2 6T H – F E B RUARY 4TH
Snowdown Durango January 26th kicks off the 45th annual Snowdown Durango with a theme of “Peace, Love and Snowdown.” Go to snowdowndurango.org for the schedule of events. Don’t forget to attend the Snowdown Light Parade on Friday, February 2nd at 6:00 p.m.
Step Into Your Power FEEL TRULY HEARD, SEEN AND EMPOWERED CREATE HEALTHY BOUNDARIES DISCOVER THE SECRETS TO LASTING LOVE IGNITE PASSION AND CONNECTION
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