Visit Custer County – Visitor Guide by Bellandi Group South

www.go2custercounty.com

Cover photos by Jan Lee

Photo by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013 www.go2custercounty.com

Welcome Come discover 740 square miles of wow with this online, interactive passport to Silver Cliff, Westcliffe and all of Custer County, Colorado. Formerly the ’Cliff Hangers’ Guide, this award-winning online publication provides information and insights about the wide array of cultural activities, events and unique opportunities for fun, learning and adventure in the ‘Cliffs and Custer County. Just an easy drive from both Colorado Springs and Pueblo, Custer County has a rich heritage, founded during the nineteenth century mining boom and enriched by the growth of a strong ranching tradition. When you come to the Custer County you’ll find you’re in the real West. Life here is genuine. Today this special place provides a unique blend of old and new, history and innovation, natural beauty and contemporary culture. Be sure to visit our local museums for a glimpse into early life in the area and then get out and enjoy the busy, fun-filled life of today. This Guide, which showcases the County’s natural setting and its year-round activities, is completely green and paperless. You’ll find the links you need to help design your visit to fit your interests, curiosities and even your whims. You’ll find all the 2013 dates you’ll want to add to your calendar so you don’t miss events like the High Mountain Hay Fever bluegrass festival that draws visitors from around the www.go2custercounty.com

INTERACTIVE TABLE OF CONTENTS Click the links to visit these sections

country. It’s your resource for information about High Peaks Music Festival, Art for the Sangres, and a variety of musical events and theater offerings. A visit to the ‘Cliffs might include taking in a Shakespearean play under the stars, or visiting the galleries showcasing the works of nationally renowned artists who just happen to call Custer County home. You can join in the cowboy culture during the 67th Annual Stampede Rodeo, and you can enjoy the accomplishments of young people vying for the title of Grand Champion at the Custer County Fair. If your passions lead more to the great outdoors, you’ll find a whole section of sug-

gestions for enjoying our mountain ranges, hiking trails and lakes. A visit to Custer County and the ‘Cliffs reminds you of what’s important in life through a variety of activities that can be enjoyed by the whole family. In any weather the ‘Cliffs provide new views and beautiful vistas , whether you choose to stay in a country inn or camp among the pines. You will find that Custer County is the perfect place to relax, enjoy the local fare and reconnect with what’s most important in life. So be sure to visit us whenever you feel the pull to get away from the city, without leaving culture behind.

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This guide was produced jointly by the ’Cliffs Commercial District, Custer County Tourism Board, and the Custer County Chamber of Commerce © 2013 all rights reserved. www.Go2CusterCounty.com ’C L I F F S

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Westcliffe Center for the Performing Arts

High Mountain Hay Fever Wet Mountain Western Jubilee High Peaks Music Festival Feed Store Amphitheater Park

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Photo by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013

Westcliffe Center for the Performing Arts MAY — SEPTEMBER

Imagine an evening of Shakespeare in an outdoor amphitheater, watching the sun set over the Sangre de Cristo Mountains as you enjoy a family picnic on the lawn. Or marvel at the Youth Theater Musical performed by young people trained in music, dance and drama during intense summer workshops. All of this and much more is available through the Westcliffe Center for the Performing Arts, a non-profit formed in 1992 to enhance the lives of those living in and visiting the area Held in the historic Jones Theater on Main Street or outside in the Feedstore Amphitheater Park, a wide variety of performances delight patrons of all ages. These wonderful facilities provide both residents and visiting interns opportunities to exercise their interest and skills in theater – acting, singing, dancing or designing sets – to express themselves and bring joy to others. In a rural community of less than 4,000 county residents, we consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have the chance to enjoy regular

cultural and artistic performances presented by a dedicated group of performers. Come join us! THE 2013 SEASON THE COTTON PATCH GOSPEL Music by Harry Chapin; based on the Gospels of Matthew and John May:10.11.12. Fri, Sat, 7:30 pm Sun 2:00pm May:17,18,19. Fri, Sat, 7:30 pm Sun 2;00pm Cotton Patch Gospel is a highly acclaimed musical that humorously brings the Gospels of Matthew and John to the stage. With music composed by Harry Chapin, this colorful story brings the far-away places of Nazareth, Jerusalem, and Bethlehem into the contemporary Southern United States. Follow the story of Mary Davidson’s son, Jesus, from his birth in a trailer park to his Good Friday lynching and Easter Sunday victory. Included in Season Ticket. Single Tickets: $15 for adults, $10 for students and active military www.go2custercounty.com

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Shakespeare In The Sangres: Two Comedies in revolving repertory presented in the beautiful Feedstore Amphitheater Park Behind the Jones Theater. The Park opens at 5:30pm for picnicking. Included in Season Ticket. Adults $20, Juniors $15, Children $5. TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA A Dramatic Comedy by William Shakespeare

Tartuffe, a religious hypocrite, tries to get title to his friend’s estate by sending him to jail. So effective was Molière’s satire, that the word tartuffe has become part of the English language. When the religious hypocrite Tartuffe ingratiates himself with Orgon and his mother Mme. Pernelle, he is taken into their home and promised Orgon’s daughter’s hand in marriage (even as he secretly attempts to seduce Orgon’s wife, Elmire).

June 20, 27, 22 & 29 – Thurs. & Sats. – 6:30pm

THE GLASS MENAGERIE

July 5 – Fri. – 6:30pm & July 7 - Sun. - 2:00pm

A Romantic Drama by Tennessee Williams

As the play opens, Proteus and Valentine are taking leave of one another. Valentine travels to Milan, where he falls in love with Silvia, daughter of the Duke. Proteus, meanwhile, hunts after love and remains in Verona, pledged to faithfulness to his beloved Julia. When Proteus travels to Milan, however, he too falls in love with Silvia and proceeds to undermine his friend by denouncing him to the Duke. Valentine is banished to the forest, where he joins a band of thieves.

July 19 & 20, 26 & 27, Fri & Sat - 7:30pm

TARTUFFE A Classic Comedy by Moliere June 21 & 28, Fri - 6:30pm & June 23 & 30, Sun - 2pm July 4, Thurs - 6:30 & July 6 – Sat – at 6:30pm

July 21 & 28 - Sunday Matinee – 2:00 PM No play in the modern theatre has so captured the imagination and heart of the American public as Tennessee Williams’s The Glass Menagerie. Menagerie was Williams’s first popular success and launched the brilliant, if somewhat controversial, career of our pre-eminent lyric playwright. Since its premiere in Chicago in 1944, with the legendary Laurette Taylor in the role of Amanda, the play has been the bravura piece for great actresses from Jessica Tandy to Joanne Woodward, and is studied and performed in classrooms and theatres around the world. Included in Season Ticket. Single Tickets: $15 www.go2custercounty.com

Dickon, a lad who can talk to the animals, Mary coaxes the garden back to life. The garden seems to have a wonderful, magical effect on all who come into it, allowing Mary to help restore Colin to health and a reunion with his father. The score is bright and delightful: “Take a Flower To the Fair,” You Can Do It,” “Something’s Happening With Master Colin.” Included in Season Ticket Single Tickets: Adults: $10 - Children 12 & under: $5

THE SECRET GARDEN A Youth Theater Musical based on the book by Francis Hodgson Burnett August 15, 16 & 17 - Thurs, Fri & Sat – at 7:00pm August 18 – Sunday Matinee – at 2:00pm Everyone will love this charming, upbeat adaptation of a literary classic. Mary Lennox (“Such A Difficult Child”) is sent to live in England after her parents die in India. Misselthwaite Manor turns out to be a gloomy fortress. Her uncle is rarely home and his young son, Colin, never leaves his room, convinced he’s an incurable invalid. Mary discovers a strange walled garden that has been locked up for years. With the gardener’s apprentice, www.go2custercounty.com

NEW ROCKY MOUNTAIN VOICES Award Winning One Act and Ten Minute Plays Sept 6 & 7, Friday and Saturday 7:30 pm Come and enjoy award winning short plays, (four or five per evening) with a chance to meet and talk with the authors afterwards in question and answer session, followed by a reception in Studio 2. Not included in the season ticket: Tickets $10 adults

You can order tickets at 719.783.3004 or buy them online at: www.jonestheater.com

Music lovers from far and wide return year after year for the amazing music, the unparalleled scenery and the chance to get to meet and talk with legends previously known only through wellworn CDs. Come join them this year and see why High Mountain Hay Fever is another of those treasures that make the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Cliffs a very special place to spend time.

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Photo by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013

High Mountain Hay Fever Bluegrass Festival JULY 11TH, 12TH, 13TH AND 14TH, 2013

THE LINE-UP Old Time Kozmic Trio Foghorn String Band Red Molly

Summer in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Cliffs means music and the first of three great festivals takes place the second week of July with our premier music event, High Mountain Hay Fever Bluegrass Festival. Drawing visitors from near and far, this celebration is a unique opportunity to enjoy four days of great music in a majestic mountain setting.

The Hard Road Trio + Bill Evans

Come to enjoy spectacular views of the Wet Mountain Valley and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and another exciting lineup of renowned bluegrass acts.

Steel Pennies

Each year, music director Ron Thomason assembles a fantastic lineup of artists. The festival is small and intimate but always features a powerful group of performers and is hosted by local legends Dry Branch Fire Squad and rising stars Sons and Brothers. The single stage allows attendees an intimate view of performers and provides an atmosphere of friendliness not found at larger multi-stage festivals. Many of the performers present workshops throughout the weekend not only providing a chance to learn new skills but also the opportunity to talk with these outstanding musicians on a personal basis. www.go2custercounty.com

Kathy Kallick Band

Bluegrass Patriots (Reunion!) Blue Canyon Boys

Grassitup Phoebe and Harper - The Powell Sisters Gary Bowman Heidi Clare and Lonesome Cowboy Hobo Wyoming Slim Dry Branch Fire Squad (hosts) The Sons and Brothers Band (hosts)

www.highmountainhayfever.org

Lou Reid, who has performed at three Hay Fever festivals with Seldom Scene and Lou Reid and Carolina says, “High Mountain Hay Fever is a great, first-class festival! I mean this in past and present tense.” HMHF is an intimate festival with great performers, remaining true to its motto, “small scale, big time.” This all takes place at The Bluff, our newly enlarged and renovated park and events site at the west end of Main Street. High Mountain Hayfever’s underlying mission has always been to benefit the Custer County Medical Center and over its previousten years, more than $346,000 has been raised for new equipment and technology as well as the provision of health care for those who can’t afford it.

the Bluff

Tickets for the event go on sale in early 2013 through www.highmountainhayfever.org. with the best deal being a four day pass for $70 through May 31 and $85 thereafter. Single tickets are $10 for Thursday night, $40 for all day Friday, $45 for Saturday and $25 Sunday. Students with ID are $10 each day and children under 12 accompanied by a paying adult are free. Dry camping and RV parking are available adjacent to the festival grounds for only $10 for the entire festival. Campsites resonate with music as friendships new and old inspire impromptu groups that can be heard quietly picking far into the evening. www.highmountainhayfever.org www.go2custercounty.com

www.go2custercounty.com Photo by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013

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Wet Mountain Western Jubilee AUGUST 17TH AND 18TH, 2013 Add August 17th and 18th to your summer calendar for the annual Wet Mountain Western Jubilee! The host band for Wet Mountain Western Jubilee is Westcliffe’s own Sons and Brothers. Led by the three Wolking Brothers, Mike, Aaron, and Joe and filled out with the musical talents of everybody’s favorite Uncle Fred Wolking and Denver’s legendary fiddle master Johnny Neill, Sons and Brothers creates a rapport with the audience unlike any other Whether it is the power of the full five-piece band rocking the house or the simplicity of the all-acoustic brother trio, this band brings something for everybody to enjoy. Sons and Brothers continue to captivate audiences with their fusion of bluegrass, gospel, and western music inspired by the band’s founding www.go2custercounty.com

father, Frank Wolking. Rooted solidly in the Mountain West, the band describes its brand of music as “West Grass,” songs with Western and Gospel themes built around bluegrass lead instruments WMWJ takes place at The Bluff Park and Events Site at the west end of Main Street. www.wetmountainwesternjubilee.com

High Peaks Music Festival SEPTEMBER 14TH, 2013 Come join us for the 4th Annual High Peaks Music Festival presented by KWMV 95.9 FM and Wet Mountain Broadcasting Corp. Save the date, Saturday, September 14th from 12 Noon to 7 pm at the Feed Store Park and Amphitheater, at the west end of Main Street. The Festival, set against the backdrop of one of Colorado’s most spectacular mountain ranges and showcasing the Valley’s amazing musical talent and incredible friends, is a ‘not to be missed’ acoustic music event.

spirit, Dakota Blonde has received top honors for their song-writing, CD projects and performances across the country and internationally. www.dakotablonde.com

Host band - DAKOTA BLONDE – Soulful, delicate, powerful, insightful… all that and more,” are the words Michael Johnson (International recording artist/song-writer) uses to describe Dakota Blonde. “Highly addictive & absolutely contagious” is how their loyal & captivated audiences describe them! Any way you put it, Dakota Blonde, made up of Mary Huckins, Don Pinnella & Tony Raddell have played and sung their way into countless hearts & souls around the globe! Performing originals and covers with their unique blend of heart, humor, authenticity and www.go2custercounty.com

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Host Band - SMYTHE AND TAYLOR – TC Smythe and Gary Taylor are known for their tight, symbiotic harmonies, their humorous lyrics and ‘3-D’ brand of guitar playing. They’ve been performing together since 2000 and have 8 CDs between them. They offer an eclectic variety of acoustic music, including contemporary and familiar tunes as well as their award-winning originals. Their live shows celebrate the craft of songwriting in bluegrass, blues, folk, and Americana music. As one reviewer put it, “Lots of humor, lots of fun, but some really poignant and insightful songs as well”. Winners of the national Woody Guthrie Song Writing Contest and the 2009 Vocal Group of the Year Texas Music Awards, their craft of songwriting includes a blend of bluegrass, blues, folk, Celtic, pop and Americana music. www.smytheandtaylor.com REJUVENILES - The Rejuveniles, Colorado’s premier 60’s Rock n’Roll band, is Vickie Jones lead vocalist and keyboard, Jim Jones guitarist and vocals, George Kourkouliotis percussionist and vocals, and Sandy Buckles bassist and vocals. Vickie, Jim, George and Sandy are recording artists in their own right and each are highly regarded musicians who have performed professionally for 40 some years both solo and in different groups ranging from country & bluegrass to blues & jazz. Their music and voices have been

heard from coast to coast, in the heartlands and in the deep south. Now all living in Colorado, they have joined together as the Rejuveniles through their love of 60’s music. It has been a joy for them and for those audiences that have been lucky enough to hear them. “Sixties Rock and Roll!!! That’s where we came from and that’s what we do! www.TheRejuveniles.com GADBAW and KRIMMEL - Beth Gadbaw and Margot Krimmel have performed together throughout the U.S., the U.K, and Ireland. Singer Beth Gadbaw grew up singing harmonies with her triplet sisters in a musical household in Western Colorado. She came of age traveling from pub to folk club in the West of Ireland and later the South of England, learning traditional songs, and teaching herself to play bodhran along the way. Described by Sing Out as “lovely...with a light, bouncy energy... her voice often acting as an instrument in its own right,” Denver native Margot Krimmel honed her harp skills in the mountains of Colorado, and made her way through Europe busking and performing with various harp ensembles. Equally at home on lever and pedal harp, her compositions have been performed by the World Harp Orchestra. Known for her innovative style, she is an award-winning composer and performer.

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PETE and JOAN WERNICK - Pete Wernick, known for his banjo playing with Hot Rize and his singer-guitarist wife Joan present one of the West’s most engaging country duets. Joan’s clear, soulful singing and Pete’s masterful picking bring life to a diverse repertoire including traditional bluegrass, vocal duets and blazing instrumentals. www.DRBanjo.com DARRYL PURPOSE - Singer song writer, Darryl Purpose is known for his narrative lyrics and fingerstyle guitar. His unique blend of Texas rock, blues, Cajun and Tejano music is a heartfelt abandonment of musical trends and a passionate embrace of the rich ethnic heritage. “Purpose has the voice of James Taylor, the brains of Bob Dylan, and the soul of Willie Nelson.” - Attache, US Airlines in-flight magazine www.DarrylPurpose.com Ticket Prices: • Early Bird - $20 (cutoff date is 08/31/2013) • After 08/31/2013 - $25 • Youth Ages 12 to 18 - $10 (no advance discount) • Children 11 and under are free when accompanied by adults For more information and tickets go to highpeaksmusicfestival.org www.go2custercounty.com

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Photo by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013

Feed Store Amphitheater Park May through Labor Day Weekend, 2013 Designed to resemble an old mining shaft, the Feed Store Amphitheater Park allows up to 500 people to enjoy high quality live music every Sunday afternoon, 2 - 5pm, from May through the end of August. Since this is also the home of Shakespeare in the Park, those Sunday afternoons featuring Shakespeare performances will not have live music. The summer Art in the Park and Concert Series features exciting solo, duo, trio and full band acts from Colorado and surrounding states. Original hits and popular music from bluegrass, blues and country to classic rock and folk light up the stage during this free concert series. Bring a chair or a blanket and just kick back or get up and dance as the music shuts out the rest of the world.

your chairs and blankets and sit back under the stars to enjoy free entertainment in this very special spot. www.westcliffefeedstore.com/FS/events.html

For the second season, the popular series of classic films will be presented in the amphitheater, weather permitting, at sundown on Tuesday evenings, starting June 1st and running through August. So, once again bring

Tom Munch has brought a blend of Southwest-FolkJazz to Southern Colorado’s music scene for over 2 decades. His versatility also is seen in an impressive repertoire of some 2,500 songs with styles include jazz standards, western, folk, classic rock, R&B plus

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May 26th, Acoustic Eidolon Acoustic Eidolon, featuring Joe Scott on double neck guitjo and Hannah Alkire on cello have graced stages throughout the US, Europe, Australia and Canada. Their nine CDs cover their “new acoustic” sound blending Celtic, Folk, World & Latin musical influences. Georgia’s Good Life Magazine says, “Acoustic Eidolon offers concert-goers a chance to absorb some of the most powerful and intriguing music on the scene today.” www.acousticeidolon.com June 2nd, Tom Munch

originals. Tom has released 8 CDs and his latest CD is “Songwriter,” a collection of all-new original tunes. www.tommunch.com June 9th, Anne Weiss Singer songwriter Anne Weiss hails from Portland, Oregon. Combining contemporary folk, blues, acoustic funk, gospel music, and smatterings of classical phrasing and Latin rhythms, Anne is known for her enormous bluesy voice, original compositions, great guitar chops, and strong stage presence. She has worked with Shawn Colvin, Patty Larkin, Richie Havens, Dar Williams and Ani DiFranco. www.anneweiss.com

June 16th Smythe and Taylor Folk and singer/songwriter duo TC Smythe and Gary Taylor, are known for their tight harmonies and strong songwriting. They’ve recently completed their 10th CD, “These Rosita Hills” inspired by the Wet Mountain Valley. Gary is the winner of the national Woody Guthrie Songwriting award and S&T have won the Texas Music Awards 2009 “Vocal Group of the Year” award. Smythe and Taylor have performed in over 250 venues across the country as well as in England, Poland and Holland. www.smytheandtaylor.com July 21st – Chris Collins Chris Collins brings his down to earth style to his solo show. He favors the music of John Denver, Dan

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Fogelberg, and James Taylor as well as his own material which he shares with audiences around the country. He hosts the long running “Songwriters Studio Show” on KPFT 90.1 FM in Houston. He currently splits his time between Texas and Conejos, Colorado. www.chriscollinsmusic.com July 28th – Dan Epperson Band The “Dan Epperson Band” features Dan Epperson, a valley resident, on trombone. He has played in various venues along the front range and in southern Colorado. The band will play jazz and swing standards, along with more recent pop and rock tunes in a jazz rock style. You never know what quite what you’ll hear but it might include Ellington, Cole Porter, Gershwin, Hart, Hammerstein, Miles Davis, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, the Beatles, and Motown hits. August 4th, Susan Gibson Susan Gibson is a dedicated singer, songwriter, and performing musician, based in Wimberley, Texas loves to share her music with audiences. The CMA award-winning songwriter (the Dixie Chicks took the Gibson-penned “Wide Open Spaces” to the top) has been hitting the road consistently over the past 14 years, touring nationally in support of her own brand www.go2custercounty.com

of Texas-Americana-folk music. Her latest CD is “Tightrope”. www.susangibson.com August 11th – Bettman and Halpin Bettman & Halpin are fast earning a reputation for hypnotizing performances filled with irresistible lyrics, transcendent harmonies and roof-raising instrumentals. Stephanie Bettman is an accomplished writer, singer, and fiddler: her lyrics are infused with wit and wisdom, poetry and insight. Luke Halpin is a renowned multi-instrumentalist, a master of the guitar and the mandolin, impressive on fiddle, banjo, and adept at nearly anything he picks up. www.stephaniebettman.com

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Westcliffe Feed Store Amphitheater Park Free Movie Series June 4 3:10 To Yuma June 11 Captain Blood June 18 Bullett June 25 Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eating Gilbert Grape July 2 Conagher July 9 The Sting July 16 Red River July 23 Mr. Smith Goes to Washington July 30 Mutiny On The Bounty August 6 Eight Men Out August 13 An American in Paris August 20 Shane August 27 Charade Tuesday movies at dusk, FREE POPCORN See our Calendar Sponsors/Advertisers

May May 4th, 4:00 - 6:00pm SAG 2014 Calendar Show Reception, 3rd Street Gallery www.sangresartguild.org May 10, 11, 17, 18, 7:30pm May 12, 19, 2:00pm The Cotton Patch Gospel WCPA /Jones Theater www.jonestheater.com May 18th, 12:00 – 6:00pm Brew With a View at the ‘Cliffs, Main Street, downtown WC CliffsCommercialDistrict.com May 18th, 10:00 – 4:00pm Appreciation Day, honoring wounded warriors and veterans at A Painted View Ranch www.apaintedview.com May 25th – 27th, 11:00 – 3:30 Beckwith Ranch opens for tours www.beckwithranch.org May 25th, 7:00am AAW, Pancake Breakfast at the Caboose on Main St., WC

June May 25th, 10:00am Memorial Day Parade, Main St. May 25th, 1:00 – 4:00pm Old ‘Westcliff’ Schoolhouse season opens, Saturdays & Sundays from Memorial Day thru Labor Day May 26th, 2:00pm Free Concert, Acoustic Eidolon Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com May 27th, 10:00am Memorial Day Observance at Westcliffe Memorial Park May 28th, Dusk Summer In The Park– Free Movie Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com May 31st, 1:00 – 4:00pm Silver Cliff Museum season opens, Saturdays & Sundays, Memorial Day thru Labor Day

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June 1st, 7:00 – 10:00am All Aboard Westcliffe Pancake Breakfast, Silver West Airport 7am – 12:00pm Fly - In, Silver West/Custer County Airport, 719-783-2695 4:00 - 6:00pm Sangres Art Guild Reception, 3rd Street Gallery, www.sangresartguild.org June 2nd, 2:00pm FREE Concert – InConcert, Southern Colorado Community Band, Hermit Park Pavilion, WC www.inconcertwestcliffe.org

June 8th – 14th WMV Writer’s Workshop for women, Abigail Thomas, Dorothy Allison and Bar Scott www.twincompass.com June 8th – 9th,11:00am Tractor Pull, Silver Cliff Park www.avflywheelers.com June 9th, 2:00pm Free Concert, Anne Weiss, Folk/Blues, Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com June 11th, Dusk Summer In The Park– Free Movie Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

2:00pm Free Concert, Tom Munch, Folk/ Jazz, Westcliffe Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

June 15th and 16th National Cutting Horse Show, Legacy Cup, Painted View Ranch www.apaintedview.com

June 4th, Dusk Summer In The Park– Free Movie Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

June 16th, 2:00pm Free Concert, Smythe and Taylor, Folk, Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

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2013 Calendar of Events

2013 Calendar of Events May May 4th, 4:00 - 6:00pm SAG 2014 Calendar Show Reception, 3rd Street Gallery www.sangresartguild.org May 10, 11, 17, 18, 7:30pm May 12, 19, 2:00pm The Cotton Patch Gospel WCPA /Jones Theater www.jonestheater.com May 18th, 12:00 – 6:00pm Brew With a View at the ‘Cliffs, Main Street, downtown WC CliffsCommercialDistrict.com May 18th, 10:00 – 4:00pm Appreciation Day, honoring wounded warriors and veterans at A Painted View Ranch www.apaintedview.com May 25th – 27th, 11:00 – 3:30 Beckwith Ranch opens for tours www.beckwithranch.org May 25th, 7:00am AAW, Pancake Breakfast at the Caboose on Main St., WC

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June 8th – 14th WMV Writer’s Workshop for women, Abigail Thomas, Dorothy Allison and Bar Scott www.twincompass.com June 8th – 9th,11:00am Tractor Pull, Silver Cliff Park www.avflywheelers.com June 9th, 2:00pm Free Concert, Bruce Hayes, Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com June 11th, Dusk Summer In The Park– Free Movie Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

2:00pm Free Concert, Tom Munch, Folk/ Jazz, Westcliffe Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

June 15th and 16th National Cutting Horse Show, Legacy Cup, Painted View Ranch www.apaintedview.com

June 4th, Dusk Summer In The Park– Free Movie Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

June 16th, 2:00pm Free Concert, Smythe and Taylor, Folk, Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

June 18th, Dusk Summer In The Park– Free Movie Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com June 20th – 23rd Shakespeare in the Park: Two comedies in revolving repertory, Two Gentlemen of Verona by William Shakespeare and Tartuffe by Molière, Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.jonestheater.com June 20th, 22nd – 6:30pm Two Gentlemen of Verona June 21st – 6:30, Tartuffe June 23rd – 2:00, Tartuffe June 22nd, 4:00pm Tea with Mrs. Beckwith at the Beckwith Ranch, www.beckwithranch.org June 23rd, 5:00pm KWMV – Taste of the Valley at Maytag Ranch, www.kwmv.org June 25th, Dusk Summer In The Park– Free Movie, Feed Store Amphitheater www.westcliffefeedstore.com

June 27th – July 7th Shakespeare in the Park: Two comedies in revolving repertory, Two Gentlemen of Verona by William Shakespeare and Tartuffe by Molière Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.jonestheater.com June 27th, 29th – 6:30pm Two Gentlemen of Verona June 28th – 6:30 Tartuffe June 30th – 2:00 Tartuffe July July 2nd, Dusk Summer In The Park– Free Movie Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

July 4th Parade, Car Show, Flea/Craft Market, Main Street, Custer County Chamber of Commerce www.custercountyco.com

July 6th, 9:00am – 2:00pm Sangre de Cristo Car Show, Custer County Chamber of Commerce, Main Street, WC www.custercountyco.com

July 4th, 2:00 – 4:00pm Patriotic sing-a-long and ice cream social, Old “Westcliff” Schoolhouse & Museum valleyparkrecandyouth.org

July 6th, 6:30pm Tartuffe Feed Store Amphitheater Park

Change in schedule

July 7th, 2:00pm Two Gentlemen of Verona Feed Store Amphitheater Park

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June 27th – 30th Shakespeare in the Park: Two comedies in revolving repertory, Two Gentlemen of Verona by William Shakespeare and Tartuffe by Molière Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.jonestheater.com June 27th, 29th – 6:30pm Two Gentlemen of Verona June 28th – 6:30 Tartuffe June 30th – 2:00 Tartuffe July July 2nd, Dusk Summer In The Park– Free Movie Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com July 4th, 2:00 – 4:00pm Patriotic sing-a-long and ice cream social, Old “Westcliff” Schoolhouse & Museum valleyparkrecandyouth.org July 4th – 7th Shakespeare in the Park: Two comedies in revolving repertory, Two Gentlemen of Verona by William Shakespeare and Tartuffe by Molière Feed Store Amphitheater/Park www.jonestheater.com

July 4th, 6th – 6:30pm Two Gentlemen of Verona July 5th – 6:30, Tartuffe July 7th – 2:00, Tartuffe July 4th, Dusk Fireworks at Lake DeWeese Custer County Chamber of Commerce www.custercountyco.com July 4th – 6th Flea/Craft Market, Main Street, Custer County Chamber of Commerce www.custercountyco.com July 6th, 7:00am All Aboard Westcliffe Pancake Breakfast, at the Caboose July 6th, 9:00am – 2:00pm Sangre de Cristo Car Show, Custer County Chamber of Commerce, Main Street, WC www.custercountyco.com July 6th, 6:30pm Tartuffe Feed Store Amphitheater Park July 7th, 2:00pm Two Gentlemen of Verona Feed Store Amphitheater Park

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July 9th, Dusk Summer In The Park– Free Movie Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com July 11th – 14th High Mountain Hay Fever Bluegrass Festival at The Bluff highmountainhayfever.org July 16th, Dusk Summer In The Park– Free Movie Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com July 15th – 21st Custer County Fair & 67th Westcliffe Stampede Rodeo Week, at the Rodeo & Fairgrounds in Westcliffe July 19th, Evening Rubber Check Race & BBQ July 19th – 20th, 9am – 6pm, 21st, 10:30 – 3:30pm Friends of the Library Arts & Crafts Show, Hope Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall

July 19th, 7:30pm The Glass Menagerie, Jones www.jonestheater.com July 20th, 7:00 – 10:00am Rotary Pancake Breakfast Custer County School July 20th, 10:00am Rodeo Parade, Main Street July 20, 1:00pm and 6:00pm Westcliffe Stampede Rodeo July 20th, 9:00pm Western Dance, Saddle Club July 21st, 9:00am Cowboy Church July 21st, 12:00pm Custer County Fair 4-H & FFA Livestock Auction at the Fairgrounds July 21st, 3:00pm Westcliffe Stampede Rodeo July 21st, 7:30pm The Glass Menagerie WCPA /Jones Theater www.jonestheater.com July 21st, 2:00pm Free Concert, Chris Collins, Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

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July 22nd – 27th Jazz in the Sangres, Colorado Conservatory of Jazz Jazz Youth Camp

July 27th, 8:30am 8th Annual Solar Home Tour meet at County Courthouse www.sustainableways.org

July 23rd, 5pm meal, 7pm concert Chuckwagon dinner and Concert, A Painted View Ranch www.apaintedview.com

July 27th, noon – 6:00pm Jazz Orchestra Concert, Feed Store Amphitheater Park, followed by Jazz Ensembles, at various Main Street locations

July 23rd, Dusk Summer In The Park– Free Movie Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

July 28th, 2:00pm WCPA -The Glass Menagerie www.jonestheater.com

July 24th, 7:30 – 9:30pm Jazz Jam Session, location to be announced July 25th – 28th National Cutting Horse Show Sangre de Cristo Summer Classic, A Painted View Ranch www.apaintedview.com July 26th – 28th Shoot-out in the Sangres photography workshop with Bill Gillette & Jim Havey shootoutinthesangres.com July 26th – 27th, 7:30pm The Glass Menagerie, Jones www.jonestheater.com

July 28th, 2:00pm Free Concert, Dan Epperson Band, Feed Store Amphitheater www.westcliffefeedstore.com July 30th, Dusk Summer In The Park– Free Movie Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com August August 4th – 8th Summer Workshop, Gerald Merfeld, merfeldart.com August 4th, 2:00pm Free Concert, Susan Gibson Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

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July 8th – 19th WCPA, Creativity Camp open to children 7 to 16 www.jonestheater.com

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August 6th Summer In The Park– Free Movie Feed Store Amphitheater/Park westcliffefeedstore.com August 10th, dinner 5pm, concert 7pm National Chuckwagon Cook-off and Concert at A Painted View Ranch www.apaintedview.com

August 17th –18th Wet Mountain Western Jubilee, Music & Art Festival at The Bluff, www.wetmountainwesternjubilee.com August 17th, 7:00pm The Secret Garden Youth Theater Musical WCPA/ Jones Theater www.jonestheater.com

August 11th Free Concert, Stephanie Bettman & Luke Halpin, Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

August 18th, 2:00pm The Secret Garden Youth Theater Musical WCPA/ Jones Theater www.jonestheater.com

August 13th Summer In The Park– Free Movie Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

August 20th, Dusk Summer In The Park– Free Movie Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

August 15th –16th 7:00pm The Secret Garden Youth Theater Musical WCPA/ Jones Theater www.jonestheater.com

August 25th, 2:00pm Free Concert, The Crestones, swing and jazz Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

August 17th All Aboard Westcliffe Pancake Breakfast during WMWJ, at the Caboose on Main St.

August 27th, Dusk Summer In The Park– Free Movie Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

August 29th, 10 –5:00pm Annual Labor Day Quilt Show Old ‘Westcliff” Schoolhouse valleyparkrecandyouth.org

September 28th, 1 – 8:00pm Art For The Sangres at A Painted View Ranch www.artforthesangres.com

September

October

September 1st, 2:00pm Free Concert, All the Pretty Horses, Country Rock Band Feed Store Amphitheater Park www.westcliffefeedstore.com

October 3rd – 5th Alle Prima Westcliffe, a paint-out-or-paint-in event, 3rd Street Gallery www.sangresartguild.org

September 6th, 7th, 7:30pm New Rocky Mountain Voices Award winning One Act Plays, WCPA/Jones Theater www.jonestheater.com

October 5th, 4:00pm Alle Prima Show Reception Winners announced, 3rd Street Gallery www.sangresartguild.org

September 7th Sangres Art Guild Reception 3rd Street Gallery Show thru September www.sangresartguild.org

October 5th Arts Hullabaloo – A day of arts www.sangresartguild.org

September 14th Bike Westcliffe – Century ride with 37 mile, 12.5 mile options and family ride www.ridewestcliffe.com September 14th, 12 – 7:00pm High Peaks Music Festival presented by KWMV 95.9FM Feed Store Amphitheater Park highpeaksmusicfestival.org

October 5th Harvest Hoe Down at Beckwith Ranch October 19th, 3:00 – 8:00pm Wild West Fall Fest at A Painted View Ranch, Custer County Chamber of Commerce www.custercountyco.com

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October 31st Halloween in the ’Cliffs CART & Custer County Chamber CliffsCommercialDistrict.com

December 7th, 4 – 7:00pm SAG Holiday Show Reception 3rd Street Gallery www.sangresartguild.org

November – December

December 14th-15th, 11 – 4 Christmas at Beckwith RanchFriends of Beckwith Ranch

Thanksgiving – New Years The ’Cliffs will light-up with a series of planned events to brighten the Holiday Season. CliffsCommercialDistrict.com December 6th – 8th Friends of the Library Arts & Crafts Show, Hope Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall December 6th – 7th Annual Festival of Trees & Holiday Boutique, at Cliff Lanes valleyparkrecandyouth.org December 7th – 8th, 11 – 4pm Christmas at Beckwith Ranch Friends of Beckwith Ranch December 7th, 1– 6:00 pm KWMV Open House www.kwmv.org December 7th Light up the town and Santa comes to the ’Cliffs, Custer County Chamber of Commerce & CART CliffsCommercialDistrict.com

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New This Year HARDSCRABBLE MOUNTAIN TRAIL RUN 5K Run/Walk & 10K Run, JUNE 2ND On Sunday, June 2, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have a unique opportunity to experience some of the private back country trails on beautiful Bear Basin Ranch eleven miles east of Westcliffe. Hardscrabble Mountain Trail Run 5k/10k offers both runners and walkers the chance to get out into the Wet Mountains on challenging, rugged trails with breathtaking views in all directions. Accompanying the run will be a group of Tarahumara Indians from Copper Canyon, Mexico. At the runâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s completion, you will be treated to a fiesta featuring live music, lunch provided by The Local of Colorado Springs and a prize drawing. Entry is $35 for adults

through May 24 and $45 on the day of the run. Children until 12 are free. All funds raised benefit land conservation in Southern Colorado and the Tarahumara Indians. Online registration and more information can be found at www.hardscrabblerun.com.

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Hollidays in the ‘Cliff Begins December, 7th

On Saturday, December 7, kick off your Holidays in the ‘Cliffs. Begin with a visit to the annual Festival of Trees at Cliff Lanes on Main Street. Bid to take home one of these uniquely decorated trees which benefit Valley Parks and Recreation and also do some shopping for gifts at the same time. Between 3 and 4:30 your children will be treated to a special visit from Santa Claus. At 1:00, children can decorate their own ginger bread house at the Old “Westcliff” Schoolhouse and Museum. The cost is $5.00 and space is limited so be sure to get there early. As evening approaches, head to Main Street for the annual Parade of Lights at 4:30. As the parade winds down, you’ll have lots of choices for the rest of the evening. Merchants will be open for your convenience before or after you check out the variety of available restaurants. From 4:00-6:00, 3rd Street Gallery will be holding their annual Holiday reception with festive food and drink and the

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opportunity to purchase works of art for those on your shopping list. Saturday, December 14, offers another fun day to shop in the ‘Cliffs. At 1:00, parents of children between the ages of 4 and 11, may drop them off at the Community Room next to the library to be entertained with Holiday movies while the parents get some shopping done. Play Holiday bingo as you work your way from store to store, then return to the library at 4:00 to pick up your child, turn in your bingo card and perhaps be the lucky winner of a special Holiday gift. As always, the season brings lots of opportunity for fun and a chance to enjoy and support the shops and restaurants that make up the ‘Cliff’s Commercial District.

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Silver Cliff • Westcliffe A BREW WITH A VIEW AT THE ‘CLIFFS On Saturday, May 18, come join in the fun at the 1st annual Brew with a View at the ‘Cliffs. From 1-5 pm, Main Street in downtown Westcliffe will be filled with music, food and micro brews. A Kid’s Corner rounds out the fun for the whole family. A variety of brews will be available from: Rocky Mountain Coors, Standard Sales – Budweiser, Black Shirt Brewing, Bristol Brewing, National Distributing and Beverage Distributors. If beer is not to your taste, we will also feature wine from The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey. Come and experience big town fun in a small town atmosphere while discovering one of Colorado’s hidden gems. For more information, call 719-7832615 or 719-783-2282. www.go2custercounty.com

HOLIDAYS IN THE ‘CLIFFS From Thanksgiving through New Years, the ‘Cliffs will light up with a series of events to brighten the Holiday season. Saturday, December 7, Santa comes to town with the annual Christmas parade down Main Street and Westcliffe is illuminated by a dazzling display of lights for the Holiday season. Check back here for more events as the time draws closer.

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S F

BR E

W IE

WITH A V

The 4th of July Week SPONSORED BY THE CUSTER COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

4th of July Week Thursday, July 4th Parade, Main Street, 10am Craft Show & Flea Market July 4th – July 6th Ice Cream Social and Patriotic Sing, ‘Westcliff’ Schoolhouse 2:00pm - 4:00pm Fireworks over Lake DeWeese, at Dusk

Saturday, July 6th

All Aboard Westcliffe Pancake Breakfast, 7:00 Caboose on Main Street

This year as usual we will be celebrating the 4th of July in the ‘Cliffs with a bang. The Custer County Chamber of Commerce has planned a busy schedule of events over several days. At 10am, on Thursday, the 4th of July parade heads down Main Street, bustling with horses, marching soldiers, bands and floats. Later, kids and their pets have the chance to shine in their own parade at the west end of Main Street. In the afternoon between 2 and 4 pm it’s time for the annual Ice Cream Social and Patriotic Sing at the historic Old “Westcliff” Schoolhouse and Museum. Then, at dusk, complete the day with a spectacular display of fireworks over Lake DeWeese. assisted by the Wet Mountain Valley Volunteer Fire Department, this show is a wonderful way to round out a memorable 4th of July! On Saturday, July 6, you can start your day at 7 am with a pancake breakfast at the caboose on Main Street. This is a great opportunity to

socialize and enjoy a great breakfast while helping All Aboard Westcliffe raise funds to maintain and restore buildings related to Westcliffe’s railroad history. While enjoying your breakfast you’ll see and hear brilliantly painted antique cars lining up along Main Street. As you walk along admiring the results of hours of restorative work, be sure to also take time to visit the shops and restaurants along Main Street. From Thursday, July 4, through Saturday, July 6, you’ll have the opportunity to look for unique treasures at the Flea/Craft Market on Main Street. So come join us for a week-end of activities celebrating this patriotic holiday in the way only the ‘Cliffs can. www.go2custercounty.com

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Photo by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013

www.go2custercounty.com Photo by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013

Step Back In Time Story Silver Cliff Museum All Aboard Westcliffe Old “Westcliff” Schoolhouse

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Step Back In Time Like all of the American West, Custer County has had a varied and colorful history. For years, the Ute Indians roamed the area undisturbed in their way of life, but by the 16th century the Spanish Conquistadors came looking for gold. Later, both Zebulon Pike and Kit Carson scouted the area and trappers and traders roamed the open spaces, but it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t until the middle of the 19th century that people began to call what would become Custer County home. In 1869, the first permanent settlers, a group of more than 90 German families moved into the Wet Mountain Valley to farm. In 1863, silver and gold ore had been discovered at the head of Hardscrabble Canyon. Following another find in 1870, speculators flocked to the tiny town of Rosita and by 1875, its population had swollen to 1,500 with 400 homes and businesses serving the miners. That year, a gun battle and a bank robbery signaled the end of Rositaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prosperity and for a time both ore production Geyser Mine, Silver Cliff c 1880 - Photo Courtesy of Denver Public Library

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Rosita Post Office - Photo Courtesy of Denver Public Library

High Mountain Hay Fever

Wet Mountain Western Jubilee and population shifted to the Bassick mine in the town High Peaks Music Festival of Querida. Today, Querida is only a memory and RosFeed Store Amphitheater ita is a quaint, hilly town boasting a Park small population and an excellent restaurant. As the silver boom died in Rosita and Querida, a rock containing 75% silver ore was discovered in the low cliffs around present day Silver Cliff. Along with the tents and shanties that housed the miners, saloons and brothels sprang up to service them. Workers extracted large quantities of ore from mines with names like Bull Domingo, Song Bird and King of the Valley and stamp mills to process the ore and other services for the mines grew up around them.

As the town was incorporated in 1879, a group of more conservative businessmen and their families demanded schools, churches and permanent buildings. The population continued to grow and by 1881, the town was Colorado’s third largest after Denver and Leadville and for a time was considered for the State Capital. That same year, the terminus of the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad was placed a mile to the west of town, quickly resulting in the development of the town of Westcliffe. By 1882, the mining boom was over. Mines and mills closed down and the population decreased. Many businesses and homeowner’s put their buildings on rollers and moved them to Westcliffe. In a quieter but almost parallel boom, ranching had begun to come to the Wet Mountain Valley in 1874 when the Beckwith Ranch was deeded to Elton and Edwin Beckwith by President Grant. In 1880, a group of English colonists moved to the area to take advantage of its prime land for hay production and a heritage of cattle ranching was born. The county’s economy shifted from mining to agriculture and today ranching continues to be an important part of Custer County’s way of life.

Geyser Mine, Silver Cliff c 1880 - Courtesy of Denver Public Library

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Silver Cliff Museum Memorial Day through Labor Day 1:00pm – 4:00pm In June of 1878, silver was discovered in the area soon to be known as Silver Cliff. Mines with names like the “King of the Valley”, the “Vanderbilt”, “Bull Domingo”, “Song Bird” and “Geyser”, the deepest and richest in the state, went to work extracting ore. Mills to process the ore, a school, hotel, churches, newspapers, theaters and a hospital were erected to service the miners and their families. Life was so vibrant here that at one time Silver Cliff was seriously considered for the State Capital. By 1882, the mining boom was over and most of the mines closed down. Housed in the original Silver Cliff town hall and firehouse, the Silver Cliff Museum at 610 Main Street takes the visitor back to the time when every life revolved around the silver industry. The Museum houses an exceptional collection of period furnishings, household items, clothing, fire fighting equipment and items used in the silver mining trade. Photographs of mines and miners , fire fighting companies and the every day people who kept life going, help to bring that exiting history to life once more. The Museum is open Saturdays and Sundays, 1 pm to 4 pm from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Or call 719.783.2837 for a private tour. www. slivercliffco.com www.go2custercounty.com

Silver Cliff Town Hall and Fire House at 610 Main Street was constructed in 1878 and still stands on the original site. The building was listed on the State Historic Register in 1997.

www.go2custercounty.com Photo by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013

All Aboard Westcliffe Memorial Day through Labor Day 1:00pm – 4:00pm If your visit to the ‘Cliffs is fortunate enough to coincide with one of the many “All Aboard Westcliffe” pancake breakfasts at the old caboose on Main Street, enjoy the pancakes and then look south towards what these breakfasts have helped to make happen over the years. An Interpretive Center and Railroad Museum filled with historic artifacts and memorabilia all result from the efforts of the volunteer members of All Aboard Westcliffe who have worked tirelessly to showcase the rich heritage of the Denver and Rio Grand Railroad in the Wet Mountain Valley. Currently, the group is working to purchase and restore “the Depot” at the west end of Main Street and also to accumulate a historically accurate display of equipment used in the early 1900s to aid section-hand workers in repairing the major roadbed damage caused by washouts and derailments which were all too common in the Wet Mountain Valley. The history of the Denver and Rio Grand Railroad helped to shape the town of Westcliffe just as silver mining was www.go2custercounty.com

central to the formation of Silver Cliff and the ‘Cliffs are fortunate to have such a dedicated group of railroad lovers Photo courtesy All Aboard Westcliffe to preserve that unique heritage for us all to enjoy. The Interpretive Center and Railroad Museum are open to the public from Memorial Day weekend to Mid-September. For special tours and more information, call Mel Porth at 719.783.2217 www.allaboardwestcliffe.org

Old “Westcliff” Schoolhouse Memorial Day through Labor Day, 1pm –4pm Built in 1891 as a two-room schoolhouse for local children, this beautiful stone building on 4th Street in Westcliffe is on the National Register of Historic Places. It now serves as a museum of Westcliffe’s history and is home to the Valley Parks Recreation and Youth Center. Museum hours are Saturday & Sunday: 1- 4pm, Memorial Day – Labor Day. valleyparkrecandyouth.org The Custer County Historical & Genealogical Society sponsors historical programs here the 3rd Friday of each month May - Sept., at 7pm. www.go2custercounty.com Photo by Jan Lee ©2013

Our Western Heritage Story Beckwith Ranch Music Meadows Ranch Bear Basin Ranch A Painted View Ranch Paca Peace Ranch Westcliffe Stampede Rodeo Custer County Fair

www.go2custercounty.com Photo by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013

Our Western Heritage Although it was the silver with its speculative and rowdy lifestyle which attracted hundreds to Custer County in the late 1870s, it was the quiet, steady, hardworking lifestyle of the ranches which grew up at the same time that became the heritage of the area. At the same time as speculators were flocking to the mines, 80 to 90 German families moved into the south end of the Wet Mountain Valley to farm. They cleared land to make space for crops and cattle to feed the hungry miners. In 1874, brothers Elton and Edwin Beckwith were deeded the land to what would become one of the largest cattle operations in Southern Colorado. At its height, the Beckwith Ranch ran upwards of 3,000 head and owned or leased over 6,000 acres. Agriculture had become a vital part of the economy of Custer County. A mixture of timothy grass

with fine seeded grass and clover produced a high protein hay crop and insured that Custer County ranchers were among the highest producers in the state. In the 1880s a group of English settlers, â&#x20AC;&#x153;second sonsâ&#x20AC;? were attracted by this lush valley bringing purebred Hereford cattle and other breeds suitable for the region. This agricultural way of life continues today and has an influence on the lives of all local residents. In the early 1990s, Custer County was one of the fastest growing counties in the country. The rural lifestyle which appeals on so many levels was in danger of being overwhelmed by city dwellers who wanted a piece of it. Long time ranches were divided into ranchettes and real estate became one of the best ways to earn a living. Concerned about this threat to wildlife habitat and the agricultural way of life, a group www.go2custercounty.com

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of citizens formed the San Isabel Foundation which today preserves thousands of acres through conservation easements. The 2007 census shows that 137,789 acres in Custer County are still devoted to agriculture on 226 active ranches. Of those ranches, 32 are under conservation easement with San Isabel Land Protection Trust (formerly the San Isabel Foundation) or other Colorado land trusts. Deeds of conservation easement extinguish property development rights so that the land can not be subdivided. The ranch remains in private ownership and continues to be worked as in previous generations. A conservation easement does not open the ranch to the public but it does preserve breathtaking scenic

views for the enjoyment of visitors and residents alike. In 1998, The Board of Commissioners of Custer County adopted a resolution to protect our ranching heritage, stating that â&#x20AC;&#x153;ranching, farming and all manner of traditional agricultural activity and operations throughout Custer County are integral elements of and necessary for the continued vitality of the Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history, economy, landscape, lifestyle and culture. Given their importance to Custer County and Colorado, agricultural lands and operations are worthy of recognition and protection.â&#x20AC;? Each summer, our ranching heritage is celebrated through the Custer County Fair and the Westcliffe Stampede Rodeo. The Fair enables the next generation to

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share what they have learned through FFA and 4H in the raising of animals. The annual rodeo hosted by the Wet Mountain Valley Saddle Club keeps the old West alive with calf roping, bronc and bull riding and fun for all ages. Ranching is a way of life totally dependant on the whims of Mother Nature. Whether up all night searching for newborn calves in blinding snow and subzero temperatures or working around the clock to bring in a hay crop before it can be damaged by weather, ranchers and their families demonstrate a fierce dedication to a way of life they wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t trade for anything. As ranches in other Colorado counties continue to disappear and be replaced by condominiums and shopping centers, Custer County

stands out more and more as a unique destination. The sight of herds of cattle grazing before a backdrop of the magnificent Sangre de Cristo Mountains or being driven down a back road by cowboys on horseback can take your breath away. The smell of newly cut hay on a late summer evening is something not available in cities. Change is bound to come to this way of life. Science and modern machinery have improved production. Some ranchers see the growing trend in chemical-free food and are offering their grass fed beef for sale locally or to fine restaurants outside of the county. Seeing the advantage of involving others in their way of life some have chosen to open their operations to paying guests who spend time herding and doctoring cattle or the opportunity to

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partake of genuine chuckwagon meals, to take pack trips into the back country or be guided into private hunting grounds. In the past several years, alpaca ranches have found their place around the county, offering a new opportunity for agricultural income production. As Bill Gillette says in his wonderful book, A Passion for Ranching, “Our Wet Mountain Valley is a microcosm of issues faced today in many areas of the West. Change is inevitable, and as increasing numbers of people relocate to rural areas, the challenge is how to guide growth. Our collective stewardship will depend on how well we can work together- ranchers and developers, citizens and government officials. It is our challenge to find creative solutions to the complex problems of land use, to find a covenant that provides for the future, yet keeps alive traditions of the past.” The county’s high number of Centennial Ranches and the vast expanses of agricultural land visible in every direction are a testament to the unshakeable dedication by our ranchers to this unique way of life which has been passed down through generations and provides an anchor to all of the communities of Custer County.

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Beckwith Ranch The Historic Beckwith Ranch is one of the most significant historic sites in Custer County. In the late 19th century it was the center of one of the largest cattle operations in Southern Colorado. In 1880, the Beckwith Ranch house was described in the Denver newspaper as, “one of Colorado’s mansions in the hills.” The Friends of Beckwith Ranch Foundation is in the process of restoring the house, outbuildings and corrals to their late 19th century condition to give visitors the opportunity to experience the romance of the old West’s ranching heritage. www.beckwithranch.org

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Photo by M DeYoung ÂŠ2012

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Music Meadows Ranch Music Meadows Ranch is a 4,000 acre working cattle ranch located at 9,000 in the Wet Mountain Valley. The property has been used for agricultural purposes for generations dating back to the 1800s when Jacob Beck came to Colorado with the German colonists and bought the land around 1872. In 1968, the Beck Ranch was bought by Bill and Dorothy Parker who renamed it Music Meadows Ranch because of its proximity to Music Pass. The property remains in the Parker family today and for 40 years they have run an average of 700 yearlings in the summer months depending on grass conditions. In 2010, the family placed a conservation easement on the ranch to protect its scenic value and to ensure that it will always remain a working cattle ranch. Elin Parker Ganchow, a daughter of Bill and Dorothy Parker, is now manager of the ranching operation. She sells grass fed beef both locally and to restaurants in other parts of the country.

She has also opened participation in the ranching experience to paying guests. If you’re looking for an amazing “hands on” experience learning what cowboys and cowgirls really do, this is the place for you. Under experienced guidance, you’ll learn the ins and outs of working with cattle while improving your horsemanship and making new friends and lasting memories along the way. Day rides of just a few hours are also available for those who don’t have time to immerse themselves in the complete ranch experience. For further information on opportunities at Music Meadows Ranch see www.MusicMeadows.com.

Bear Basin Ranch Adventure Specialists Eleven miles east of the ‘Cliffs, Bear Basin Ranch is located at an 1890s facility on 3,500 acres of undeveloped land in the Wet Mountains. With over thirty years of experience as a Colorado outfitter, they offer a wide variety of outstanding wilderness experiences. Whether your interests lie in horseback riding, elk hunting, or fly fishing you’ll find that the experienced guides at Bear Basin Packtrips LLC are prepared to provide you with a memorable adventure. All meals, tents, horses and saddles are provided and each trip is tailored to the experience and ability of the individual or group. Guides are thoroughly knowledgeable on the history, geology, flora and fauna of the area to make your experience even more meaningful whether on the Ranch or in the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness area. With miles of back country trails and a string of the best mountain trail horses in southern Colorado at their disposal, Bear Basin Ranch is prepared to give you one of the summer’s most memorable adventures.

Adventure Specialists at Bear Basin Ranch features horseback adventures, rafting, climbing, trail rides, cattle drives and team penning at the Ranch. Hands on instruction on saddling and care of mounts give even the unexperienced rider confidence to make a trail ride or cattle drive a safe and fun experience. Bear Basin’s two websites: www.bearbasinpacktrips.com and www.adventurespecialists.org. open an endless variety of activities that will make you and your family and friends want to return over and over to experience everything they have to offer. www.go2custercounty.com

Photos by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013

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Photo by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013

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A Painted View Ranch On the 160 acres that make up A Painted View Ranch, owners Donna and Ralph Hood have built a world-class facility committed to perpetuating the western and ranching lifestyle. To further that goal, each summer they host several National Cutting Horse events attracting participants from throughout the West. These activities are open to the public and provide engaging entertainment for all ages. The arena and other facilities at A Painted View Ranch are also available for rent, and boarding is available for horses with horse care services and riding lessons as an option for boarders and guests. Chuckwagon dinners and concerts are scheduled on many summer evenings. In August, the National Chuckwagon Cook-off takes place on the grounds of the Ranch. Visitors can spend the afternoon watching teams of cooks clustered around authentic chuck wagons preparing a meal just like those cowboys would have enjoyed after a day on the trail. At the end of the day, these meals are judged and prizes awarded, after which attendees can choose their favorite chuckwagon team to sample dinner from.

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A Painted View Ranch has added two activities to its busy schedule. On September 28, Art for the Sangres, one of the Valley’s most anticipated events, will take place there. On October 19, the Ranch will host the Wild West Fest, a brew fest embarking on its first year as a fund-raiser for the Custer County Chamber of Commerce. www.apaintedviewranch.com May 18th, Outdoor Buddies Family Day to honor Wounded Warriors June 15 – 16th, National Cutting Horse Show - Legacy Cup July 23th, Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show featuring Syd Masters and the Swing Riders. July 25th – 28th, National Cutting Horse Show - Sangre de Cristo Summer Classic August 10th, National Chuck Wagon Cook Off and show featuring Don Edwards September 28th, 17th Annual Art for the Sangres to benifit the San Isabel Land Protection Trust October 19th, Wild West Brew Fest - to benifit the Custer County Chamber Of Commerce, Sons & Brothers

Paca Peace Ranch For Youth May 11th, 10 am-2 pm Community Open House or call to arrange a visit Any trip to the Cliffs wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Paca Peace Ranch for Youth, where a kid’s best friend is a fleecie, friendly alpaca.

Alpacas are gentle and intuitive members of the camel family, originating in the high mountains of South America. Alpacas are flight animals, since they have no way to protect themselves except to run away. At Paca Peace Ranch for Youth, working with alpacas fosters a sense of dignity and self confidence in a young person. A youth learns to be relaxed and focused to gain the alpaca’s trust, and then a bond of friendship forms. At the end of the year-long program, evaluations tell us that the children tend to be more responsible, more confident and peaceful. Alpaca Trainer Program Paca Peace Youth have one-on-one mentors and focus on the care and training of a personal alpaca. They do their own cooking at the ranch and plan their activities. They have six monthly sessions and participate in activities

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such as parades and shows for the rest of the year. Teachers and others in the Wet Mountain Valley of Colorado recommend youth they feel would thrive in the program. Paca Peace practices non-discrimination in the selection of youth. (race, creed, socio-economic status, gender, handicap) No fees are charged, and transportation is provided. All staff are volunteers. Paca Peace Ranch is funded by donations and grants. Extra soft hand-cleaned prime fleece is for sale on our website: www.pacapeace.org.

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Visitors are welcome to meet and feed the alpacas. To arrange a visit call: 719.783.2877 or email: bob@pacapeace.org. Paca Peace Calendar- You are invited! May 11th - Community Open House 10 am-2 pm Alpaca Show by the Paca Peace kids- 11:00 am Meet and feed the alpacas and enjoy fleece crafts and refreshments. Fun for any age!

Photos by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013 www.go2custercounty.com

Westcliffe Stampede Rodeo July 19th – 21st

The Wet Mountain Valley, home to the ‘Cliffs, is still an active ranching area as it has been for generations. The Westcliffe Stampede Rodeo in July is a well-loved event showcasing skills that grew from the cowboy’s daily life. Sponsored by the Wet Mountain Valley Saddle Club, the 67th annual CPRA – sanctioned rodeo will be held July 20th and 21st, with a Rubber Check Race and barbeque held the evening of Friday, July 19th. The Friday night event is a race in which teams made up of horses, ATV’s and wheelbarrow compete with each other in heats and then finals. From 7:00 am, on Saturday morning, the Rotary Club holds their traditional Rodeo week-end breakfast in the Custer County School parking lot. A parade down Main Street at 10:00 am kicks off the official events. The rodeo queen and her court are accompanied by horses, cowboys, a chuck wagon and other symbols of the old West. At the completion of the parade, the action shifts to the rodeo grounds just north of Main. Events begin at 1:00 with bronc and bull riding leading off the action. Youth events such as mutton

Westcliffe Stampede Rodeo Rodeo Grounds on County Road 241 (just off of Hwy. 69 North) Rodeo Parade Sat., July 20th, 10am Saturday events start at 1pm and 6pm Sunday Events are start at 1pm

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busting, a stick horse race and calf scramble allow the next generation of cowboys and cowgirls a chance to join in the fun. Saturdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s action finishes off with the Stampede Dance at the Saddle Club and then the fun resumes on Sunday

Photos by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013

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Photo by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013

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Photo by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013

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Custer County Fair July 15th â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 21st

Come see a special slice of small town life at the Custer County Fair during the week of July 15th â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 21st. During this anxiously anticipated week, the work of area young people is highlighted and they have an opportunity to shine in a variety of ways. Following months of dedicated work, 4-H and FFA members compete toward the final awarding of Grand www.go2custercounty.com

Champion ribbons with horses, cattle, sheep, swine, goats, dogs, cats, rabbits and poultry. Preparation for these events teaches participants how to maintain a care and training program leading up to a long list of competitions throughout the week. Tuesday, July 16, kicks off with a horse show at 9 am., followed by the dog show at 10 am on Wednesday. This is a time to observe the special relationship which has developed between students and their animals through months of hard work. Rabbit and poultry classes take place on Thursday and sheep, goats and beef on Friday. Livestock participants finally realize a financial outcome at the highly anticipated livestock auction on Sunday. Throughout the week, exhibit buildings are open from 9 am to 6 pm. Exhibits by 4-H and Custer County residents demonstrate expertise in a variety of interests including sewing, cooking, photography, woodworking and painting. Through these projects young people have the opportunity to showcase the development of artistic, observational and organizational skills. Livestock exhibit areas are also open so you can enjoy an up close view of the wide variety of animals raised by our young people. The fair is a special time with something for everyone and a chance to see small town living at its best! custercountygov.com/ext

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The Great Outdoors

The Great Outdoors Links to Websites of Interest

The Wet Mountain Valley which is home to the ‘Cliffs looks west toward the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains and east to the Wet Mountains. The area between the mountains has a rich agricultural history and offers miles of roads to explore open space and scenic beauty all around. Hayfields and riparian areas attract herds of deer, elk and antelope for your easy viewing. It’s not uncommon to spot a wide variety of bird life as well. On any given day you may get the chance to see Bald

and Golden Eagles, Red Tailed Hawks, Great Blue Herons or any one of the 277 species identified in Custer County. Whether your passion is fishing, hiking, horseback riding, biking or 4-wheeling through some of the most spectacular scenery in the country, Custer County is the place for you! With over 300 days of sun each year and dazzling blue skies in every season, it’s easy to believe this is paradise. In summer, colorful displays of wildflowers abound along roads and trails – with some of the most amazing examples above treeline. In winter, a whole new series of recreational possibilities open up. Snowshoeing, snowmobiling and cross country skiing allow the more adventurous to push out into some of the most spectacular scenery anywhere. Stop by one of our local merchants and pick up a map of the hiking trails that abound throughout the Sangre de Cristo and Wet

Photos courtesy of Cindy Howard

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Fishing Info DOW Season Dates/Fees Mountain Lakes Hiking/Backpacking San Carlos Ranger District Trail Guide Sangre de Cristo Wilderness Area COSAR Cards

Birding Best Birding Locations List of Birds in Custer County

Mountains. The Rainbow Trail runs some 90 miles along the Sangre de Cristos and is accessible from numerous spots in the Valley. From there, you can head off to any of the 52 mountain lakes for a day of fishing or a week of camping. You can also challenge yourself with a climb of any or all of the 9 Fourteeners found along our part of the Sangres. Much of what lies above the Rainbow Trail is designated wilderness and the lack of motorized vehicles in these areas adds to the serene beauty. Of course you’ll need to remember that this really is wilderness so be bear aware and use caution when hiking and camping. If your interests and skills don’t take you to the top, you can have a slower paced hike through forests and wildflowers with a memorable picnic gazing out at the Wet Mountain Valley below. A popular and manageable hike, is the Comanche/Venable Loop. It starts near the Alvarado Campground southwest of Westcliffe. There’s a parking lot and the two trails start either to the left or

right of the lot. For the lower loop it’s one half a mile up to the Rainbow Trail which will take you roughly three quarters of a mile through a beautiful alpine forest, over Venable Creek and opens up to wonderful views of the valley below. You’ll then connect with the trail heading back to the parking lot. The more adventurous can do the upper loop over the Phantom Terrace that connects the two trails at around 13,000 ft. Fly fishing opportunities can be outstanding with Cutthroats and Rainbows in many of the alpine lakes, Brookies in mountain streams and Browns and Rainbows in Valley creeks. There is limited access to most of the creeks so be careful not to trespass on private land. Lake DeWeese can surprise you with Tiger Muskies, Smallmouth Bass and plenty of Trout. Public access to Grape Creek is limited to a half mile above and below the lake – and though heavily pressured in the warmer months it can still surprise with outstanding fishing – and at Bear Gulch some 14 miles north on Oak Creek Grade.

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Lake Isabel and the Arkansas River – both just short drives away – offer completely different fishing experiences with the former being nestled in the pines and aspens with good shore fishing, some wading and small craft (no gas powered engines) access and camping sites from primitive to full hookups. The Arkansas is a Colorado treasure with wonderful fishing, public lands, state access points and outstanding white water rafting – all flowing through high desert canyons with spectacular views. The winter here opens up a new world of possibilities from snowshoeing the mountain trails to cross country skiing to ice fishing on Lake DeWeese and Lake Isabel. The truly adventurous might enjoy snowshoeing up to one of the alpine lakes (near 12,000 ft.) for some high-country ice fishing. There are also snow mobile trails within the county – the most notable off Hwy. 165 (Ophir Creek exit) and up some mountain roads. Whatever your interest or your skill level, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the seemingly endless outdoors throughout the Wet Mountain Valley all year round. So, drive your RV, rent a cabin, stay in one of our motels, enjoy a bed and breakfast or pack up your tent for a relaxing getaway along the “road less traveled” or an extreme mountain adventure, it’ll all be waiting here just for you.

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Photo by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013

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Art for the Sangres Sangres Art Guild 3rd Street Gallery Brookwood Gallery Sarah Woods Art Shootout in the Sangres Photography in Custer County

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ART FOR THE SANGRES September 28th In 1997, the San Isabel Land Protection Trust (at that time the San Isabel Foundation), a very small land trust in Westcliffe, conceived the idea of a fall art sale to help fund its operating budget. The mission of the land trust is to protect agricultural lands, wildlife habitat and open space for scenic beauty, and that very first year, twenty nationally known artists were attracted by the idea of helping to support those efforts. From the beginning, the organizers realized that the most important thing, other than the admirable cause, was always to keep the show professional. Working with a few highly regarded local artists, they learned how to prepare and present a quality art sale - to keep it totally professional down to the last detail and to treat the artists in such a way that they would want to return year after year. Today Art for the Sangres is regarded as one of the best shows in Colorado. Forty percent of the proceeds raised from this unique art sale continue to contribute signifiPhotos by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013

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cantly to the operating budget of an active office. The artists really appreciate being able to participate in the protection of lands in this beautiful area. Most attend the show and welcome the opportunity to paint in such a special environment and to meet the patrons who attend the event. The 2013 show will take place Saturday, September 28. For the first time in its 17 year history it will be held in a new location. A Painted View Ranch which offers a unique opportunity for many layers of change with a continued emphasis on quality. If you are interested in www.go2custercounty.com

receiving an invitation in August, please email kristie@ sanisabel.org and your name will be added to the mailing list. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also possible to pay at the door. For more information on times and participating artists, please check www.sanisabel.org. To view the quality and variety of our art you can view last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on line catalog at www.artforthesangres.com.

Sangres Art Guild Alla Prima Westcliffe, Oct. 3rd – 5th Arts Hullabaloo, Oct. 5th The Sangres Art Guild is a non-profit organization located In Westcliffe, Colorado. It was created to support local and regional artists by encouraging the development and promotion of the Wet Mountain Valley as a vibrant art-centered destination. The Guild is a catalyst for art in the Valley and offers study groups, workshops and demonstrations. SAG produces an annual fine art and photography calendar with artwork from around the valley and also runs the 3rd Street Galery. They provide an annual student scholarship for continuing art education and sponsor Art in Public Places. In early Autumn the Sangres Art Guild proudly sponsors Alla Prima Westcliffe and the Annual Arts Hullabaloo. ALLA PRIMA WESTCLIFFE On October 3rd – 5th, area artists congregate in Westcliffe for the three-day Plein Air Paint-Out-and-In event. This year’s event is expanded to include paintings created

from life in the manner of plein air, but not necessarily done outdoors. Subject matter includes landscapes, as well as figurative and still life. On Thursday and Friday, landscape artists will disperse to various areas across Custer County to find their inspiration in the colorful autumn beauty of the surrounding Wet Mountain Valley or in every day ranching activities, from the vestiges of area history, the plentiful wildlife and the often colorful, local residents. For artists desiring to paint figure models, studio set-ups will be available for indoor painting. On Saturday, the artists will paint in the downtown area amidst the festive atmosphere of Arts Hullabaloo. At the end of the day, all art from the event will be on display at the 3rd Street Gallery. The art is juried and over $1,500 in cash and merchandise will be awarded on Saturday evening. The artwork will be on display at the 3rd Street Gallery throughout October.

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ARTS HULLABALOO Interaction between visitors and artists is the hallmark of Art Hullabaloo, October 5th. Galleries offer art demonstrations and encourage active participation. “Children” of all ages get hands-on experience with potters, painters, weavers, street performers, musicians, and the sidewalk chalk art competition. Attendees are invited to pick up a paintbrush, throw a clay pot or try their hands at spinning and weaving. There is face painting and tie-dying. A variety of music and performing arts are slated throughout the day. The memory of these artistic endeavors is a lasting souvenir from the Westcliffe community to its visitors. www.sangresartguild.org www.go2custercounty.com

3rd Street Gallery 59000 N. Hwy.69, Westcliffe

Once seen, it comes as no surprise that the soaring Sangre de Cristo mountains also give rise to artistic expression. Residents and visitors alike are inspired by the natural beauty surrounding the small town of Westcliffe, lying snug between the Sangres and the Wet Mountains. The 3rd Street Gallery, sponsored by the Sangres Art Guild, proudly showcases local and regional artists. Just a few steps north of Main Street, on Highway 69, the many dimensions of artistic endeavor are on display. Featured artists and special exhibits are shown on the main level; the upper level displays artwork created by area artists who manage the gallery in a co-op style. The Gallery coordinates the annual Calendar Show each spring, and winners are published in the Sangres Art Guild Fine Art Calendar. The Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice Awards are greatly anticipated, determined by visitors to the gallery. Receptions welcoming the public are held the 1st Saturday of each month, May through December. Original oil paintings, photography, pottery, pastels, collages, sculpture, fiber

art, assemblages, note cards, and the Sangres Art Guildâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fine Art Calendar are available for viewing pleasure and purchase. 3rd Street Gallery is a must-see.

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Brookwood Gallery 211 Main Street, Westcliffe

The Brookwood Gallery showcases the unique talents of three extremely talented artists, Gerald Merfeld, Laurie Merfeld Batson and Elizabeth Merfeld.

Today The Brookwood Gallery is located in a one hundred year old building which had served as the Westcliffe Hardware Store. www. brookwoodgallery.com

The Gallery was founded in 1966 by Gerald Merfeld in New Lenox, Illinois, a small farm town outside of Chicago. Merfeld developed his artistic style while living in New York City and Connecticut, and then returned to his small-town Midwest roots in Illinois where he opened his gallery in a building that had been the neighborhood grocery store while he was growing up. Lured by the beauty and adventure associated with “the West,” Merfeld and his family struck out for Westcliffe in 1986 where he found a rural setting even more to his liking. For flat-landers, it was quite an adventure., His current gallery is testament to his success as an artist and to the talents of Laurie and Elizabeth who are each trained artists with their own distinctive styles.

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Sarah Woods Art 59000 N. Hwy 69, Westcliffe Arts Hullabaloo, Oct. 5th

and for her gallery of 25 years, Trailside, one of the nation’s most respected. In 2010, Sarah began showing at the newly expanded Hayden Hayes at the Broadmoor Galleries, an amazing gallery that boasts some of the most renowned artists working today. Sarah feels lucky to have such a great gallery so close to many of her collectors.

Twenty three years ago Sarah Woods and her husband Randy drove into the Wet Mountain Valley and knew immediately it was the perfect home for a wildlife and landscape artist. Already being called “one of America’s best young wildlife artists” by American Art magazine, Sarah knew Westcliffe would be a constant source of inspiration. Within a year they’d moved with their infant daughter to their cabin in the Wet Mountains. Sarah had built her business around art markets like Jackson Hole and Scottsdale but soon found a growing number of collectors here, wanting her landscapes and wildlife paintings. In 1998, Sarah and Randy opened Ravenwoods Home Gallery in Westcliffe. Althought they closed Ravenwoods, (the gallery portion) in 2006, Sarah and Randy still operate a growing window covering business, Ravenwoods Blinds, Shades and Shutters from their home where they have constructed a new studio. Sarah now has more time to devote to her painting and today you might find her out painting on location, photographing wildlife, or working in her studio. She is busy completing works for her schedule of internationally acclaimed shows

Sarah has produced a “Display Portfolio” to benefit San Isabel Land Protection Trust. It is a very limited edition of 20, each containing 12 canvas prints and 2 frames to display them in. It is a great way to own a variety of Sarah Woods’ wildlife paintings while helping protect the open vistas,ranches and wildlife of the Wet Mountain Valley. www.sarahwoodsart.com All artwork by Sarah woods © 2013

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Photo by Bill Gillette ÂŠ 2011 www.go2custercounty.com

Shoot-out in the Sangres July 26ththrough the 28th, 2013 Take your photography to the next level with a special weekend workshop in Colorado’s most spectacular mountain valley. Led by award winning photographers Bill Gillette and Jim Havey the weekend includes lectures, individual instruction & critiques, and rare shooting opportunities with western models and livestock against the inspiring backdrop of historic Bear Basin Ranch and the Sangre de Cristo mountains. Refresh your creative eye and technical skill while capturing the life and landscapes of the old west in stunning images. LOCATIONS- Opening and closing lectures, slide shows and some meals are held in the scenic mountain town of Westcliffe, Colorado. The primary shooting location is Bear Basin Ranch, an 1890’s working ranch nestled in the Wet Mountains overlooking some of the tallest mountains and most dramatic scenery in the American West. Time and tips will also be provided for individual exploration and photography at other locations in the Wet Mountain Valley. For a schedule, info on instructors, etc., visit our website www.shootoutinthesangres.com Above photos by Jim Havey © 2011 www.go2custercounty.com

Photography In Custer County Cameras and Custer County are made for each other and some of the best evidence of that comes from resident photographer Bill Gillette. Over the years, Bill’s photographic assignments have taken him all over the world and into most parts of the United States, making images for magazines and corporations. He has been published in nu merous magazines including Time, Newsweek, National Geographic Traveler and Business Week. Now living in Colorado and working on subjects found around the ‘Cliffs, he has portrayed local

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ranch life in his book “A Passion for Ranching” -now in its second printing, worked side by side with volunteer fire fighters documenting their often dangerous work, and has lately spent many hours assembling a portfolio of remarkable wildlife photographs from the local area. Bill’s work may be seen and purchased at his Silverlight Studio on Second Street.

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Photo by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013 www.go2custercounty.com

Mission Wolf Club America Ride Westcliffe Cliff Lanes Family Entertainment The ‘Cliffs Love A Parade

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Mission: Wolf Mission: Wolf is a solar-powered nature center that demonstrates sustainable living and builds concern and support for wild habitat protection. This educational center hosts a sanctuary for 40 wolves, as well as a shelter for unwanted horses. Operated by dedicated volunteers and interns from institutions of higher education worldwide, the center reaches beyond Westcliffe to develop the values and practices that protect and preserve wildlife. Mission: Wolfâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nationwide outreach program reaches over 50,000 people across 30 states annually, educating people of all ages about wolves and the wild. Mission: Wolf connects people with nature, providing a stimulating educational program that illustrates the importance of supporting wild wolf recovery and the ongoing enhancement of our remaining wild ecosystems. Just as importantly, the center points out the tragedy that occurs when wild Photos courtesy of Mission:Wolf

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only solar and wind power, grows much of the center’s food, and creates its own bio-diesel fuel. Recycled materials construct the beautifully sculpted buildings which provide an ideal setting for wolf education efforts. By introducing you to a wolf Mission:Wolf hopes you will understand their importance to the wild, and in so doing you will have a greater appreciation of the inter connectedness of our world. www.missionwolf.com

animals are confined to life in captivity and the dangers of trying to make wolves pets. In conjunction with the work at the sanctuary, Mission:Wolf’s educational message is spread nationwide through the traveling wolf program. Co-founders Kent Weber and Tracy Brooks, with the help of the center’s ambassador wolves, have given over one million people the opportunity to look into the eyes of a wolf at close range – sometimes nose to nose. It’s an experience that is not soon forgotten. Mission:Wolf welcomes you to visit the center from noon until 6 p.m. any day of the year. Dedicated volunteers will be happy to show you how the entire sanctuary has been created to practice sustainable living. Mission: Wolf uses www.go2custercounty.com

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Airport Rd Centennial Ranch Rd

MISSION: WOLF

360

Club America – WMV the Valley’s Recreation Center 50 Main Street, Silver Cliff Residents and visitors to the ‘Cliffs have a community owned and operated top-notch athletic center available to them. Open 7 days a week, Club America WMV offers the county’s only 25 yd heated indoor pool with lap lanes, diving board and an area for water aerobics. Swimming lessons are available from private certified teachers for all ages and skill levels. A serious workout is available in the fully equipped weight room. A full weight rack, extreme fitness machines, free weights, SportsArt bicycles, ellipticals and treadmills offer something for every workout enthusiast. A personal trainer is available on site to help you plan your workout (The trainer’s fee is not included in the membership fee.) A multipurpose room offers a complete aerobics workout, circuit training and yoga classes. The member or visitor can also develop his/her own personal workout program with the assistance of exercise CDs and DVDs, small free weights, exercise balls and other equipment.

Fully equipped men’s and women’s locker rooms and showers and a Finlandia sauna are also available to complete a visit to Club America. Private and group swim lessons for all ages and skill level are taught by certified teachers throughout the year. Hours: Monday – Friday: 6 am – 8 pm Saturday – 9 am – 4 pm Sunday – 12 noon – 4 pm Children (Public Swim Hours)- Lifeguard present: Summer and school holidays: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm Monday thru Saturday Winter 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm Friday and Saturday Or at any time if accompanied in the water by aesponsible adult. A variety of other classes and activities are offered throughout the year for both children and adults. www.clubamericawmv.org www.go2custercounty.com

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Photo by Jan Lee ÂŠ2013

Photos by Jan Lee ÂŠ 2013

RideWestcliffe Saturday, September 14th On Saturday, September 14th, come to the ‘Cliffs for Ride Westcliffe - 2013, the toughest century ride in Colorado. This ride, now in it’s fifth year, has a challenging gain of 10,000 feet over those 100 miles. If you aren’t interested in quite such a serious challenge, there are also a 69 mile metric century and a 24 mile out and back ride. All take you though some spectacular country and introduce you to the beauty of the Sangre de Cristo and Wet Mountains. Families can ride together on a 6.8 mile loop past the old silver mines that made Silver Cliff famous. This is a guided ride that will encircle the old mining district north of the towns of Westcliffe and Silver Cliff and includes stops for lemonade and mining interpretation. For more information on the rides or for registration, go to: www.ridewestcliff.com.

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High Peaks Century (100 miles) Elevation – Min: 5,879’ Max: 9,403’ Gain: ~10,000’ Westcliffe to Colorado City and back via the Frontiers Pathways’ Scenic Byway (State routes 96 and 165). This is one of the most exciting and challenging century routes in the State of Colorado! Metric Century Elevation – Min: 7,936’ Max: 9,423’ Gain: 6,000’ The metric century follows the same route as the full century with a turn-around and aid station located at Greenhill Summit, about 3 miles past Bishop’s Castle. Wet Mountain 60 (60 miles) Elevation – Min: 7,936’ Max: 9,423’ Gain: 6,000’ The Wet Mountain 60 follows the same route as the century and metric century rides with a turnaround at Bishop’s Castle. New Guys Ride – (24 miles out and back) Elevation Min: 7,936′ Max: 9,100′ Gain: 1,300′ This ride follows the same route as the century, gently ascending up the first major climb to the Hardscrabble aid station. Here you can take a break, then enjoy the view of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains as you glide back to town.

Cliff Lanes Family Entertainment Center 25 Main Street, Westcliffe Colorado is famous for its sunny skies but once in a while the weather lets you down, or you just want to do something indoors and Cliff Lanes is the perfect answer for what to do on those days or any evening. Westcliffe’s family entertainment center was established in 2001 as a place for local youth to gather. Located at the west end of Main Street, Cliff Lanes has become the pinnacle community center for seasonal tourists and fulltime Custer County residents alike. This well-equipped facility has 8 automated bowling lanes, balls and shoes for rent, a pro-shop, arcade games and pool tableseverything to provide fun for the whole family. There’s no need to leave when you’ve worked up an appetite bowling. Rancher’s Roost Café is right there with a variety of foods to satisfy every taste in your family. Rancher’s Roost Café is open every day serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. So be sure to check out Cliff Lanes and Ranchers Roost even on a sunny day and you’ll find a really fun place to spend some time. www.clifflanes.com Photos courtesy of Cliff Lanes Entertainment Center

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The ‘Cliffs Love a Parade Many of our events or holidays come complete with their own parades – some longer than others – but all filled with energy and excitement and usually accompanied by a pancake breakfast. The kick-off for our summer season is the annual “Memorial Day Parade” which takes place at 10:00 am on Saturday, May 25th (Memorial Day weekend). Led off by smart stepping soldiers from Ft. Carson in Colorado Springs, this parade is one of the longest and liveliest. Floats, bands, horses, alpacas and fire engines join local veterans in welcoming happy throngs of spectators along Main Street, all ready to welcome the warmth and excitement of summer. The 4th of July celebration begins with a real red, white and blue parade brimming with small town patriotism and enthusiasm and later that day kids and their pets have a chance to shine in their own parade on Main Street.

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Dining & Lodging Guides Alpine Lodge 719.783.2660 6848 County Road 140 Westcliffe

Edwardo’s 719.783.9040 216 Main Street Westcliffe

Mining Co. Restaurant 719.783.9115 60 Main Street Silver Cliff

Sangrita Restaurant 719.783.4054 212 Main Steet Westcliffe

Subway at JR’s Fuel Stop 719.783.9089 425 South 6th Street Westcliffe

Candy’s Coffee 719.783.9516 106 SOUTH 2nd Steet, Westcliffe

The Feed Store 719.783.2373 116 N 2nd Street Westcliffe Have a Nice Day Cafe 719.783.2313 104 Main Street Westcliffe

The Silver Cliff Pizza Company 719.783.9458 110 Main Street Silver Cliff

Westcliffe Wine Mine (719) 783-2490 109 N. 3rd Westcliffe

Brothers Mountain Grill 719.783.3336 108 South 2nd Street Westcliffe

Oak Creek Grade General Store 719.783.2245 1009 County Road 277, Westcliffe. Rancher’s Roost Café at Cliff Lanes 719.783.2147 25 Main Street Westcliffe

Stage Stop 719.371.3118 at 3rd and Main Streets Westcliffe

Chappy’s Mountain View Bar & Grill 719.783.0813 213 Main Street Dawg Haus 719.783.9325 510 1⁄2 Main Street Silver Cliff

Hunger Buster 719.783.9228 824 Main Street Westcliffe The Letter Drop Inn 719.783.9430 6654 County Road 328 Westcliffe

R’s Pizza Restaurant 630 Main Street Silver Cliff 719-783-9300

Wetmore General Store & Steakhouse 719.784.6149 758 County Road 395 Wetmore

Sugar & Spice Mountain Bakery 719-783-4045 411 Main Street Ste B Westcliffe

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Bed & Breakfasts Courtyard Country Inn 410 Main Street, WC (719) 783-9616 CourtyardCountryInn.com

Golden Corner Suites 110 S. 2nd Street, WC (719) 783-9363 goldencornersuites.net

Grape Creek RV, Campground, Cabins County, (719) 7832588 grapecreekrv.net

Westcliffe Inn Hwy 69 @ Hermit Rd, WC Wet Mountain RV Park (719) 783-9275 & Cabins Dazzler’s Best B & B www.westcliffeinn.com 816 Main Street, WC 5001 Hwy. 96, County (719) 371-0918 or 371(719) 371-4519 Campground, RV 1389 DazzlersBestCasita.com Park www.wetmtnrv.com Lamp Post Lodge Aspen Acres CampLodges, Cabins, 59450 Hwy. 69 N, WC ground Conference Centers (719) 783-2876 Hwy. 165, County lamppostlodge.com (719) 485-3275 Alpine Lodge 6848 CR 140, County Over the Brim Inn Cross D Bar Trout Ranch, (719) 783-2660 103 Main Street, WC RV Park & Cabins, County (719) 783-3585 (719) 783-2007 Hermit Basin Conferoverthebrim.com cross-d-barence Ctr, troutranch.com 1699 Camino, County Motels (719) 783-2900 Eberling Mobile Home Antlers Motel, LLC www.hermitbasin.com & RV Park 102 S. 6th Street, WC 957 French St., SC (719) 783-2426 (719) 783-9778 www.go2custercounty.com

Horn Creek Conference Ctr, 6758 CR 130, County (719) 783-2205 www.horncreek.org Lodge at San Isabel 59 CR 371, San Isabel (719) 489-2280 lodgeatsanisabel.com Dude Ranches Bear Basin Ranch 473 CR 271, County (719) 783-2519 BearBasinRanch.com

DP Property Management (719) 783-2415 Ken’s Rents, LLC (719) 783-9009 The Pines Lodge (719) 489-2686 Red Rock Ranch (303) 717-5445 Rosita Rentals (719) 783-0941 Shining Mountain Rentals (719) 783- 2627

Music Meadows Ranch Spa Sola Fide 6076 CR 119, County (877) 783-4270 (719) 783-2222 musicmeadows.com Cabins, Condos, Homes Alvarado Cabin (303) 346-0320

Pet friendly