Durango, CO February 2026

A Community in Focus TH E LO CAL LOV E ISSU E F E B R UA RY 2 02 6

320 Wilson Gulch Drive, Durango

A Better Auto Repair Experience We started Ace AutoFix with one goal: create the best auto repair experience possible.

That means a clean, modern shop, a team that takes time to listen and understand your problem, and the technical expertise to fix it right the first time. We don't just aim to meet customer expectations; we pride ourselves on exceeding them. We service all years, makes, and models. Next time your car needs work, come experience the Ace AutoFix difference.

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970.317.2009 | www.aceautofix.com

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When you arrive, it should feel ready.

When you’re away, it should feel handled.

Elevation Home Management Luxury home oversight, vendor coordination, & project management

Owning a second home should feel like relief when you arrive, not a list of things that didn’t get done while you were gone.

Most of the people we work with didn’t start out looking for a new home manager. They started with small frustrations.

Missed visits. Vendors who weren’t followed up with. Projects that stalled. Someone who said they’d be there—and wasn’t.

Most of our clients didn’t know this level of service existed.

Missed visits. Stalled projects. Work that wasn’t followed through.

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If something needs to be repaired, improved, or handled, you don’t have to track down three different people or wonder who is responsible.

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We work with luxury secondhome owners who are away for weeks or months at a time and want confidence that their home is being looked after with consistency, discretion, and care.

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NICOLE BYRUM

Founder, Elevation Home Management

Scan to learn more about our approach and availability.

LIFESTYLE LETTER

February Love

February 2026 PUBLISHER

Branden (Brandy) Murray branden.murray@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

James Leonard | james.leonard@citylifestyle.com

February can often feel like the doldrums of the year. With the excitement of the holidays a distant memory and spring still a ways off, it can be hard to find meaning and momentum. The truth is, February is one of the most quietly exciting times of the year. With love in the air and the first subtle hints of spring beginning to surface, it offers a perfect opportunity to focus on what is happening in our local community.

As each day grows a little brighter, February becomes a final chance to pause and hold our inward breath of winter before the seasons shift.

Luckily, it is also the shortest month of the year, gently ushering us closer to spring.

This month, we shine a local spotlight on Durango’s finest, highlighting businesses and individuals who continue to shape our community with creativity, care, and dedication. We also check in with homegrown Durango actors, following their journeys and successes as they navigate adulthood and pursue their passions beyond our mountain town.

Here’s to a meaningful and inspired February.

JAMES LEONARD, EDITOR @DURANGOCITYLIFESTYLE

P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Denise Leslie | denise.leslie@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jennifer Mason | jennifer.mason@citylifestyle.com Kalista Peña | kalista.pena11@gmail.com C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Andy Wingerd, Andy High, Divine Windy Boy SU Drum, Rebecca Sloan, Kara Cavalca, Shaun Stanley

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

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.

inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 6 | LOV E LO CA L

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18

Featured

14 18

22 28 6

Yankin’ Yer Chain

How 2nd Ave Sports Defied Logic and Dodged Bad Luck on Path to Peak Success

22 On the Cover

Departments

A surreal winter night over Durango as the Aurora Borealis ripples above Chapman Hill

4

Lifestyle Letter

8

City Scene

10

Business Monthly

14

Get Active SPORTS + RECREATION

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Education Corner EDUCATION

22

Back Stage ENTERTAINMENT

Colorado Timberline Academy: Where Education Meets the Wild

A private boarding school blending quality academics and outdoor recreation Photography: Rhyler Overend

The Play’s the Thing

How Durango’s Young Talents Go from Small Town to Big Time

A Life Framed by Community

Jack Turner’s journey from ski culture to visual storytelling

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Inspired By ARTS + CULTURE

32

Events

PI

NUC

HE

NO

INDIGENOUS

ARTIST MARKET & JURIED SHOW SEPTEMBER 5th • 6th • 7th at the Sky Ute Casino Resort

SCAN TO JOIN

You’re One Connection Away From Business Growth.

You’re great at what you do—but growth happens when the right people know your name.

At PWN’s Monthly Networking Event, you’ll build beneficial connections, gain referrals, and open doors to new possibilities.

PRESENTED BY THE

SOUTHERN UTE

CULTURAL CENTER & MUSEUM

REGISTRATION OPEN APPLY ONLINE OR IN-PERSON AT THE MUSEUM

WWW.SOUTHERNUTEMUSEUM.ORG

PWN 2nd Thursdays Women’s Networking info@pwndurango.org • pwndurango.org FEB R UARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O

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FEBRUARY 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

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2

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COURTESY OF DURANGO HERALD

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COURTESY OF STUDIO & GALLERY

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COURTESY OF MUSIC IN THE MOUNTAINS

1: Studio & Gallery and the Bizarre Bazaar artists in downtown Durango 2: Congratulations to the “Durango Herald’s” Best of Durango winners 2025! 3: Durango Chamber of Commerce welcomes Sunward Federal Credit Union 4: KSUT Executive Director Tami Graham is in Washington DC with Aspen and Colorado Public Radio representatives 5: Gals spend a night on the town at Wild Horse Saloon 6: Ben Nighthorse and family. RIP, our dear creative friend 7: Music in the Mountains staff and volunteers celebrate season 2025!

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

True Grit. True Style.

In the West, a hat or a pair of boots isn’t just something you wear—it’s a reflection of who you are. Brim & Boot is more than a boutique—it’s a celebration of the timeless spirit of the American West. We’re curating the finest cowboy hats and boots from legendary Artisans— some crafting since 1875—each piece made to be worn, lived in, and passed down.

Every hat has a story. Every boot has a journey.

From ranchers to travelers, artists to adventurers — everyone who walks through our doors becomes part of the Brim & Boot story.

Rooted in authenticity and true Western style.

Open Now at 1019 Main Avenue, Durango, CO www.brimandboot.com ~ (970) 508-0091

Durango, Meet Your Local Roofing Experts Complete Care for Your Home Or Business

NEW PATIENT SPECIAL

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A NATURAL MEDICAL TREATMENT A RESEARCHED AND DOCUMENTED TREATMENT FOR: Neurological disorders/injuries • Immune system disorders Metabolic imbalances • Vascular diseases/injuries Longevity & Wellness • Athletic performance/injuries • Altitude sickness See our research page on our website for more

Call for your free consultation today.

970.880.4799 | mountainhyperbarics.com

Programs for veterans available at no cost or deeply discounted.

For the past two years, Kihle Roofing has been honored to serve Durango homeowners with dependable roofing and siding services designed for Colorado living. After relocating to Durango, Clay Winter quickly became part of the community and now leads our local efforts with pride, professionalism, and a commitment to helping neighbors protect their homes.

WE PROVIDE:  Free roof inspections  Free, no-pressure estimates  A local, highly trained team

Clay Winter

Let's Start Your Project Today.

970.422.7272 | kihleroofing.com FEB R UARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O

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FEBRUARY 2026

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Guild House Games: Play, Connection, Community In downtown Durango, Guild House Games is a gathering spot centered on shared play. Owned by Danny Perez, the store offers board games, card games, puzzles, and hobby supplies, but its main attraction is the community it nurtures. Through game nights, tournaments, and open tables, Guild House Games brings people of all ages together to connect, unwind, and enjoy time together— one game at a time—welcoming newcomers, longtime players, families, friends, and curious first-time visitors.

Photography Courtesy of Southwest Small Business Development Center

La Bonne Patisserie, Sweetly Local La Bonne Patisserie in Durango combines European pastry traditions with the flavors of Southwest Colorado. Owned by Kate Naumann, the bakery offers a seasonal menu crafted with local farms and regional ingredients. From classic croissants to the signature Southwest Morning Bun, La Bonne is recognized for careful craftsmanship, creative flavor pairings, and a warm commitment to nourishing the community—one carefully made pastry at a time, highlighting artistry, place, and collaboration with local producers daily.

ALTITUDE PAINT AND STAIN

Transform your space with timeless elegance The spaces you live and work in should be more than just roomsthey should be an extension of who you are, reflecting your tastes, style, and aspirations.

Elevating homes, creating masterpieces!

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970.553.0627 | altitudepaintllc.com Durango and surrounding areas

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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 C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / D U R A N G O

Pickleball with Laura Lynne Pickleball with Laura Lynne offers coaching that blends skill-building with encouragement and fun. Led by Laura Lynne, a PPR-certified coach with a background in fitness and sport psychology, sessions are tailored for beginners through competitive players. Private lessons, group play, and clinics focus on confidence, strategy, and movement—on and off the court. Visit pickleballwithlauralynne. com to explore upcoming clinics, lessons, and coaching opportunities.

Photography Courtesy of Dalton Ranch

Take Charge of Your Life!

Schedule a Complimentary Clarity Session and Learn to Create the Life You Love Fearlessly.

Know Your Worth ~ Live Your Truth.

WINTER DAYCARE

C A L L

T O D A Y

T O

B O O K !

Headed up to the mountain? Let your dog play too!

Book today to get your dog outdoor play time, indoor enrichment, friends, and cuddles while you shred the mountain.

www.willowtreedurango.com willowtreedurango@gmail.com 970-259-0018

Cindy Schmidt Master Jungian Life Coach

970.985.2416 | Wildnewway.com FEB R UARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O

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Clear Insight.

Confident Decisions.

At JanisC Accounting Services, we empower small businesses and entrepreneurs to achieve financial clarity and confidence. We deliver reliable, accurate, and personalized bookkeeping solutions that save you time, reduce stress, and enable you to focus on growing your business.

Our dedication goes beyond numbers—we strive to build long-term relationships with our clients, offering ongoing support and insights to help you navigate financial challenges and opportunities.

Our commitment to integrity, attention to detail, and proactive communication ensures that your financial records are always up-to-date and compliant. With JanisC Accounting Services, you benefit from expert support tailored to your unique needs—so you can make informed decisions and build a strong financial foundation for success.

janisc-accounting-services.com | 970.403.5611

FEB 7:30 04 PM

FEB 7:30 28 PM

FIND YOUR PATH BACK TO WELLNESS At Pathfinder Chiropractic, we focus on the nervous system, the body’s master control center. When it’s stressed or misaligned, your whole body feels it. Our neurologicallybased approach supports natural healing and helps your body function the way it was designed to.

Whether you’re seeking relief or long-term wellness, we’ll help you move toward a healthier, more aligned life.

Pathfinder Chiropractic is Durango’s trusted source for neurologicallybased care that restores balance, supports healing, and elevates everyday life.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR $49 NEW PATIENT SPECIAL FEATURING FOUR KEY ASSESSMENTS: Thermography, sEMG, A Full Spinal Exam, & Postural X-rays if needed

305 S. Camino Del Rio. Ste S. Durango, CO | 970.422.1766 pathfinderchiropractic.com

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SOLAR DESIGN AND INSTALLATION SERVING DURANGO AND SURROUNDING AREAS

A child’s most important shot in life could be this one.

GET A FREE QUOTE

970-403-5004 FLATROCKSOLAR.COM

ELEVATE Your Look.

EMBRACE Your Edge.

When you book with Kerri, your time is yours—she values one-on-one connection and ensures you leave feeling confident and radiant.

Natural, Lived-in Balayage & Highlights

Learn more! firstteefourcorners.org

Graceful Gray Hair Transitions & Styling Integrity-Focused Care

elevatededgesalon.com | 970-422-6554 FEB R UARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O

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YANKIN’ YER CHAIN ARTICLE BY JENNIFER MASON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDY HIGH AND ANDY WINGERD

HOW 2ND AVE SPORTS DEFIED LOGIC AND DODGED BAD LUCK ON PATH TO PEAK SUCCESS

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G E T ACT IV E | SP O RTS + R E CRE AT ION

“Removing yourself from the pavement, getting out on the dirt... really helps create that peace.”

How does a half-pint bike repair and swap shop transform into a full-service bike and ski gear mecca crowning the corner of Second Avenue?

Forget slick, corporate scalability schemes.

Owners Karen and Gary Provencher adopted a totally different tack with 2nd Ave Sports—one that might involve a secretive sock syndicate.

Before becoming shop owners, Gary and Karen were high school sweethearts who migrated west from Massachusetts after college with little more than some skis and an insatiable passion for the outdoors.

“It’s so important to create calm,” says Karen Provencher. “Removing yourself from the pavement, getting out on the dirt, surrounded by the trees—that really helps to create that peace.”

The couple worked odd jobs and ski slopes in Wyoming and along Colorado’s high Rocky Mountain range. “We got paid in powder,” Gary laughs as he reminisces.

Once in Durango, they discovered a beloved and quirky bike repair and consignment shop so tiny

Cindy Dahlberg and Luke Bruns

Mark Zinserv

you’d be forgiven for mistaking it as a closet. In 2003, when Karen and Gary acquired the business, they knew each other (and themselves) well enough to accurately carve out the different operational facets. Karen adopted the bookkeeping and human resources side while Gary tended to all front-of-house responsibilities, especially communications with employees, sales reps, customers, and the community.

“I’m more of like a worker bee,” Karen notes and Gary adds,“I focus on the relationships” And the couple gladly shifts roles or responsibilities, allowing mutual respect and equality to always prevail.

However, roughly a decade after taking over the store, disaster struck! The property where the shop sat was sold for redevelopment. Their business would have to relocate. Or would it?

The Provenchers thought someone was yankin’ their chain when First Southwest Bank offered them a portion of the corner lot plus financing to build a whole new storefront. Karen credits the City Councilors, the local architect, and construction firms who also helped them through the process.

Today, 2nd Ave sports provides ski and snowboard gear and rentals, tuning, boot fitting, as well as bikes, e-bikes, repairs and rentals. While they sell roughly 1,000 bikes annually, the Provenchers suspect they traffic way more in socks. Gary notes, “We have so many socks in here and still people come in asking: Are these all your socks?”

But the real secret to 2nd Ave’s success is cultivating a fully-supported staff whose talents are rewarded with year-round living wages, bonuses, health benefits, and retirement.

“They’re our family; they’re our friends. That’s who we hang out with,” Gary attests.

CONTINUED > FEB R UARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O

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WHEELY EXCELLENT SPOKESPEOPLE From the beginning, the Provenchers possessed a clear vision for the shop: offer a world-class inventory of gear curated by an equally world-class panel of funny, friendly experts.

Karen characterizes the 2nd Ave staff as “so knowledgeable, so passionate, so intelligent and great at their craft.”

This magazine decided to test the staff, asking them how long they’ve worked at 2nd Ave Sports, what’s the best aspect of their job, the best deal or product, and their favorite outdoor sport and location.

Here’s what they revealed.

01/

Timothy—5 years—loves the knowledgeable coworkers, the perks, staff retreats, and the flexible schedule. Kris recommends their boot fitting and is always up for tubing the Animas and laps around Horse Gulch.

Hayley Ohl

02/

Cindy—9 years—loves the Provenchers and the “upbeat, crazy” staff. Cindy touts the store’s unbeatable customer service. She bikes, skis, hikes, and paddleboards.

03/

Justin—8 months—thinks the crew is a “solid group” and recommends the bike tubes—cheapest in Colorado. He’s all in on high country single track.

Kris Delgado--14 years--is proud of the store's support for local cycling and points customers to the big deals on pivot cycles.

Andrew Mckee

04/

Mint—8 years—loves the coworkers and laughs. He says come for the free coffee and stay for the customer service. His sweet spot is Horse Gulch, AKA Durango’s Central Park.

Mint Henk

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G E T ACT IV E | SP O RTS + R E CRE AT ION

Justin Hoar--4 years--enjoys the flexible schedule and lauds all the store's affordable pricing. He is a dirt biker who roams somewhere secret.

Effortless, discreet, and designed for how you live.

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Owning a business means wearing many hats—but your financial strategy shouldn’t be one of them. I help business owners take a proactive approach to tax planning, cash flow, and long-term protection so their business supports their lifestyle, not the other way around. The right structure today creates flexibility and opportunity tomorrow.

Let’s talk strategy—so your business is positioned to grow, protect, and scale with intention.

719.252.0472 kguerrero@fwpfinancial.com

Turn your second home into your first escape.

At Elevation Home Management, we handle the details others don’t—so you can come and go with ease.

1. Property Oversight & Vendor Coordination 2. Personalized Concierge Services 3. Home Arrival & Departure Prep 4. Renovation & Project Management

From walkthroughs and vendor coordination to grocery stocking, project oversight, and concierge Effortless. Personalized. services, we’re your trusted Peace of mind—elevated. presence when you’re away.

970.799.5558 | www.elevationhomemanagement.com FEB R UARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O

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COLORADO TIMBERLINE ACADEMY: Where Education Meets the Wild

A PRIVATE BOARDING SCHOOL BLENDING QUALITY ACADEMICS AND OUTDOOR RECREATION ARTICLE BY KALISTA PEÑA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDY WINGERD

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EDU CAT ION COR N E R | ED U CAT ION

Nestled in the gorgeous Animas Valley, Colorado Timberline Academy (CTA) offers a unique perspective, transforming education through nature. Old Highway 550 runs through the center of campus, a quiet reminder of the property’s rich history. Originally a hot springs resort, the lodging cabins for guests have since become dorms for students. With nature’s playground at their doorstep, CTA’s adventurous spirit and culture thrive.

Opening its doors in 1977, CTA is dedicated to providing a comprehensive education that emphasizes environmental stewardship. This boarding school is one of the few exploratory academies in the state. Dreher Robertson, the Director of CTA, is proud to lead the school and offer a model of education that meets students’ individual needs, passions, and interests.

CTA’s alternative approach is grounded in three core areas of focus: community, academics, and a deep and meaningful relationship with the natural world.

Students live alongside their teachers, creating strong bonds with peers and faculty alike. They also share responsibilities in the upkeep of campus life, contributing to shared spaces and reinforcing a sense of collective care and accountability.

Students meet specific academic goals through alternative methods rather than traditional required coursework. Utilizing a block schedule, they attend three daily academic classes and engage in a Personal Skill of their choice. Personal Skills courses are designed to develop outdoor education and fitness skills. Students can choose from an array of options, including rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, fly fishing, and more.

CONTINUED >

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“The idea is that you still receive a wellrounded high school education, but the students are not just sitting through a class to earn credits,” said Robertson. “They actually have to demonstrate learning.”

CTA is unique in many ways, but perhaps the most adventurous and enticing are the multiple excursions planned throughout the year, each emphasizing the importance of learning beyond the classroom.

Every year at the beginning of the term, the entire school embarks on a week-long backpacking adventure in the Weminuche Wilderness. Trekking through the San Juan Mountains, students connect deeply with the land while forming meaningful bonds with their peers and teachers.

Once the second block ends in early October, staff and students prepare for the Fall Trip. These trips explore the broader Desert Southwest and Four Corners region, an area where CTA has developed extensive experience over the years.

Recent trips have included two separate excursions to Utah, a journey through the Sedona area, and an ancestral Puebloan trek through New Mexico. These immersive experiences challenge

students to apply classroom learning to realworld environments, particularly in desert landscapes where water scarcity, terrain, and careful planning are essential.

The final excursion, known as the Spring Trip, is an extension of the Personal Skills program. Students embark on a trip that reflects their favorite Personal Skill course. Robertson explained, “The first trip is an introduction to the backcountry, the second one is about navigating the desert, and then the end of your trip is about honoring what kids are passionate about.”

CTA’s non-traditional approach offers students alternative pathways they may not have been exposed to otherwise.

One student discovered his passion for aviation, and CTA staff connected him with DarkHorse Aviation, a local flight school. He has since dedicated countless hours to learning how to safely fly an aircraft. “He had his first solo flight a few weeks ago,” Robertson said. “It was a pretty awesome breakthrough.”

CTA has been a constant presence in our small town, transforming education by highlighting the Southwest’s abundant beauty and wealth of outdoor opportunities. To learn more about enrollment or programming, visit ctaedu.org.

Three out of the five graduates from last year’s class chose to stay in Durango and attend Fort Lewis College.

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EDU CAT ION COR N E R | ED U CAT ION

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All hand built to order wooden frames rustic to contemporary and everything in between.

Sale includes matting & glass.

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O

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H O W D U R A N G O ’ S YO U N G TA L E N T S G O F R O M S M A L L TO W N TO B I G T I M E ARTICLE BY JENNIFER MASON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA SLOAN AND KARA CAVALCA

THE PLAY’S Liz Gray, Titania, A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

THE THING

The Cast: Tim Holt and Erica Holt, co-owners and performers with Soul Penny Circus; Dena Poer, Business & Logistics Manager, Greenlight Creatives; Misha Fristensky, theater technician; Liz Gray, Managing Director, Capital Stage; Kristi Horvath, Director of Venue Operations, Denver Center for the Performing Arts; Mona Wood-Patterson and Charles Ford, Artistic Director and Technical Director (respectively), The Merely Players.

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B ACK STAGE | ENTERTAI N ME N T

ACT ONE

Mona Wood-Patterson and Charles Ford

As you can see, every artist on the cast list enjoys a colorful, successful career tied to theater. And despite their divergent career paths, they share a common launch pad: they are all alums of Durango’s high school theater program. Toupe 1096 was always robust, but in 1989, something rather curious happened that would forever change the trajectory of the program and its students’ lives.

Cue the nostalgia lights…

ACT TWO Misha Fristensky, MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING

Conor Sheehan as Hamlet in HAMLET

“Could you build a set?” Mona asked Charles.

“I’ve never built an entire set,” he confessed. He was a creative writer turned painter-artisan-inventor-puppeteer-roboticist, and an all-around tinkerer. And he was always up for a challenge.

“I try to keep a beginner mind, like in Buddhism,” Charles grins. “Not to know, or think I know, so much that I cannot learn something new.”

As the newly minted head of the high school theater program, Mona brought a wealth of theater training and expertise. Of course she wanted to impart practical theater skills to her students, but she also knew teenagers demanded a special kind of guidance.

“I always say, teenagers are the most passionate beings on the planet,” Mona explains.

“I told [the students] a lot: I care more about your character off stage than I do on stage.”

INTERMISSION

“I quite literally do not know who I would be if I hadn’t started doing theater,” Kristi confesses. “Theater was really the first time that my quirks and eccentricities were things to be celebrated and nurtured.” Kristi now oversees a campus of six performance spaces, with seating capacities spanning 200-700.

CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O

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Geoff Johnson

DHS Alum Beth Miller as a Havana dancer in Merely Players; 2025 production of GUYS AND DOLLS

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B ACK STAGE | ENTERTAI N ME N T

Tim and Erica’s romance ignited in high school theater. Today, on top of their day jobs, they run a nonprofit circus in Denver. They fuse the fantastical with clowning, acrobatics, dance, puppetry, and magic. They’ve toured Colorado’s Front Range, the East Coast, and Edinburgh, Scotland. “We get a thrill out of performing. I still get enjoyment making things,” Tim explains. The weekend chore list includes: make space shuttle and hippopotamus.

Ask Dena about her experiences in theater and she lights up. Lighting up is actually her profession. She shares the helm of a theatrical light design company serving arena concerts, product launches, or weddings. But theater remains her paramour. “I found tribe. I found acceptance. You’re strange. I’m strange. Let’s be strange together—YAY!” she explains.

Liz spent a decade acting professionally in New York City. “The theater world takes you on a ride when you’re jumping from gig to gig and you’re trying to stitch together a life in the arts,” she attests. As she helps lead a major metropolitan theater, Liz finds her talents and passions are fully aligned. “Theater for me has provided such a deep sense of belonging,” Liz says.

Misha also spent a decade acting professionally in New York and around the country.

“What drew me to the arts was my love for music,” he says. “When I saw that I could get on stage inhabiting a character and combine it with music and dance, that sparked it for me.” These days, Misha flexes is technical and organizational muscles as a stage manager and theater technician. He’s worked with the likes of Denzel Washington and is currently on the production team for Masquerade, an immersive take on The Phantom of the Opera.

Working with Mona and Charles proved pivotal in each person’s decisions to become theater professionals. For Kristi, Liz, and Misha, Mona’s encouragement coaxed them to apply for rigorous college programs. For Dena, Tim, and Erica, Charles’ wizardry with props, sets, lighting, and creature creation catapulted them into the secret backstage worlds of theater tech.

The alums also agree that Mona and Charles established a supremely ambitious and successful theater troupe built on a culture of a culture of respect and collaboration. By 2011, Mona and Charles retired from the high school, but, they were not about to retire from theater.

ACT THREE

Can you build a set in an empty swimming pool? How about in an old barn?

Around the mid-90s, Mona’s curious question for Charles morphed into a rather feral critter running amok around Durango. She yearned to stage plays unfit for high school production (either the themes were too heavy or the cast too small). Over summers, Mona, Charles, Tim, and other high school alums began mounting found-space productions.

Rather than rent a pricey theater, they would temporarily inject sets, actors, techs, and audiences into any space they could find for free or cheap. They dubbed their company The Merely Players.

But the entire enterprise was so zany, so impossible, it must inevitably fail, right? Wrong.

Challenges spiked. Creativity surged.

Audiences grew. Many graduates like Liz, Misha, and Dena returned to perform on stage, to direct, or work tech and lights, or stage manage the whole production. Mona says, “They would come back and with creativity and intelligence and experience and infuse that into the show. And the community loved watching them grow up.”

Finally, in 2021, The Merely Players snagged a gargantuan industrial basement to be their permanent home and headquarters, lovingly dubbed The Underground.

Today, the company stages four sellout shows annually, and frequently garners top awards and nominations for acting, directing, and sets. They generously open their doors to other local performers, playwrights, clowns, comedians, and experimental pop-up performances.

Having dedicated their lives to theater and the magic that comes with sharing stories with audiences, Mona and Charles feel immensely rewarded, grateful, and joyful.

They heartily applaud today’s leaders at DHS Troupe 1096 who continue a legacy that still proves to be uniquely transformational for young people, regardless of their chosen profession. Says Mona, “Just having a place where they belong…learning creativity, collaboration, teamwork, and risk-taking—the foundations of theater take them into any career.”

Put another way, all the world’s a stage and all people merely players.

Erika Vetter and Adam Fontana as Rosalind and Orland, AS YOU LIKE IT

DHS Alums Selena Trujillo as Andrew Hall and Rebecca Thurston as Billy Hawkins in Merely Players; 2021 production of MEN ON BOATS

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O

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I F YO U A R E READING THIS...

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Ride. Recover. Repeat.

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A LIFE FRAMED

BY COMMUNITY ARTICLE BY JAMES LEONARD PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAUN STANLEY AND DIVINE WINDY BOY SU DRUM

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I NSP IR E D BY | ARTS + C U LT U RE

Shaun Stanley

Jack Turner’s journey from ski culture to visual storytelling

Shaun Stanley

Fifth generation Durango native Jack Turner has been a steady presence in the community for decades, with family roots of 160 years Animas Valley. Known for his boundless energy and deep commitment to place. Turner has spent much of his life creating opportunities for people to connect through shared passions, creativity, and service.

Turner’s interests are wide ranging, but two throughlines stand out: skiing and photography. A Durango High School ski team alum, Turner advanced to Junior Nationals, won numerous NCAA Championships with the University of Colorado, and was named to the U.S. Ski Team. He then went on to build a 35 year career as a coach, filmmaker, and storyteller in the ski world. His work has taken him to four Olympic Games in various roles and on snowboard expeditions as far afield as Iran.

Locally, he served as vice president at Purgatory Resort, founded the Snow Monsters youth ski program, and continues to advocate for outdoor recreation as a pathway to community and connection.

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This fall, Turner turned his longtime love of photography into something new for Durango: the Colorado Pro Photographer Showdown. Held in November at Fort Lewis College, the event brought together five professional photographers who exhibited their strongest work before a crowd of more than 500 people. More than a competition, the evening felt like a celebration of visual storytelling and creative risk taking.

A highlight of the night was the Youth Showcase, which gave local middle and high school photographers the opportunity to share their work alongside seasoned professionals.

“Photography is practically an anonymous art, rarely experienced by a live audience, whether the photographer is a seasoned professional or just getting started. The Colorado Pro Photographer Showdown is a rare opportunity for live presentation and immediate audience reaction,” Turner says. “My vision is for this event to become a signature cultural event for Durango, the State of Colorado, and beyond.”

The best in show award was won by photographer Shaun Stanley, whose striking images captured both technical excellence and emotional depth. Honorable mention goes out to local Ignacio photo journalist Divine Windy Boy who captures Native representation in media.

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I NSP IR E D BY | ARTS + C U LT U RE

Divine Windy Boy | SU Drum

Shaun Stanley

Divine Windy Boy | SU Drum

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O

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FEBRUARY 2026

events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S

Explore our website to get acquainted with our dedicated team of professionals who are ready to assist you every step of the way. Take a tour of our newest listings, carefully curated to meet a variety of needs and preferences. And stay informed with regular updates on the dynamic real estate market, ensuring you make well-informed decisions. Begin your journey towards finding your ideal home with us today!

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE. GLOBAL NETWORK.

Nothing compares.

FEBR UARY 4 TH

Author Event: Clint McKnight “Colorado Wolf Stories” Maria’s Bookshop, 960 Main Avenue Durango, CO 81301 | 6:00 PM Please join Maria’s Bookshop in welcoming Clint McKnight, a former National Park Ranger, editorial-cartoonist, and bookseller, for an author event highlighting his book Colorado Wolf Stories.

Through a series of short fictional stories about a family of gray wolves, readers are taken deep into an exciting wild world and into the hearts and minds of these intelligent and fascinating animals.

FEBR UARY 4 TH

Peking Acrobats Community Concert Hall, 1000 Rim Drive, Durango, CO 81301 | 7:30 PM Daring maneuvers, powerful precision, amazing displays, astonishing dexterity, tremendous skill and ability-all with the excitement and festive pageantry creating the atmosphere of a Chinese Carnival! Experience the epitome of a rich and ancient folk-art tradition with the addition of the pageantry and spectacle of a modern Chinese theatrical circus.

FEBR UARY 14 TH-15TH

Silverton Skijoring Blair Street, Silverton, CO 81443

743 Main Avenue, Durango | 970.624.0444 legacypropertieswestsir.com © 2026 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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There’s no better time to show local love than at the Silverton Skijoring!

This free event has grown significantly from its small humble beginnings, now drawing over 2500 spectators. Cheer on the brave and adventurous competitors as they maneuver through obstacles, hoping to keep the reins on the horse that leads the way! For more info, please visit silvertonskijoring.com.

CONTINUED >

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O

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events

CONTINUED BOOK NOW FEBR UARY 20 TH

Leonard Davies: The Joys of Painting as a Pastime (Art Talk/Exhibit) Barbara Conrad Gallery at Durango Arts Center | 12:00 PM A midday art event featuring a discussion with artist Leonard Davies. Info Source: What’s Happening Durango calendar durangoarts.org

Move With Intention.

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Transformative movement. Book your first class today.

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GET INSPIRED

FEBR UARY 20 TH

The 12th Annual Unchain my HeART Youth Art Showcase The Center of Innovation, 835 Main Ave, Suite 225, Durango, CO 81301 4:00 PM This well-beloved event celebrates the resilience and incredible creativity of our local youth. In addition to the inspiring showcase, the event will feature a silent auction with unique items generously donated by local sponsors. Enjoy a wonderful evening filled with community and inspiration! All proceeds directly benefit La Plata Youth Services’ youth mental health programs.

FEBR UARY 27TH

E AT & D R I N K SHOP LOCAL

Durango Comedy Presents: Olivia Carter Durango Arts Center, 802 E 2nd Ave, Durango, CO 81301 | 7:00 PM Durango Comedy is delighted to present Olivia Carter, a hilarious, upand-coming comedian. Debuting on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Olivia is becoming quite the comedic force to be reckoned with! She’s known for her sharp wit, a killer dry delivery, and incredibly clever writing in every set. Invite your friends and enjoy an evening full of laughter!

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New Year, New Mindset Brain training has brought more calm, clarity, and connection into our family and our business — helping all of us show up as our best selves.

Working with Brain Train Durango has been one of the most transformative decisions we’ve made for our family and for our business. Over the past five weeks, Kristi has become an essential part of our support system — not just as a practitioner, but as a guide who truly understands how the brain affects every part of life: work, relationships, and family. As business owners, we live in a constant state of decision-making, problemsolving, and multitasking. The NeurOptimal® neurofeedback system has helped both of us regulate our stress, sharpen our focus, and stay calmer under pressure. We’ve noticed that we communicate better, we recover from stressful moments faster, and we show up to work with more clarity and patience. It has genuinely made running our company feel smoother and more intentional.

For our kids, neurofeedback has been life-changing. We came in hoping to help with ADHD, dyslexia, emotional regulation, and navigating friendships — and the improvements we’ve seen already are profound.

Our children are sleeping better, staying more focused, and bouncing back from hard moments with more confidence. Their teachers have noticed the difference, and so have we. Watching them find more peace in their own minds has been the biggest gift of all.

What makes Brain Train Durango special is Kristi herself.

She creates a safe, welcoming environment where every family member feels understood. She explains each step with such compassion that even our kids look forward to their sessions. It’s rare to find someone who blends science, heart, and real-world understanding so seamlessly.

We are incredibly grateful for Brain Train Durango and the role it’s playing in the foundation of our family, our relationships, and our business. It has made us better partners, better parents, and better leaders — and we can’t imagine our life without it.

Give Your Family the Gift of Balance & Clarity.

Book a FREE consultation today and experience how Brain Train Durango can support your family.

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