Steamboat Magazine Ski edition 2021-22

KEEN INSIGHT. NEGOTIATION SKILLS. PERSONAL CARE.

Doug has been our Realtor® for the past 15 years, and we have bought and sold our properties as our family needs have grown and changed. He has listed our properties and sold them.

He has assisted us in buying 2 previous properties as well as our most recent home purchase about a month ago.

He is a long-time resident and knows every inch of Steamboat. He is honest, patient, efficient, and is always prepared at every appointment. His clients are his top priority, and he always acts with their best interest in mind.

Quite simply, Doug is the best!

— J O H N & C A R O LY N

GUIDED BY MY CLIENTS’ BEST INTERESTS... ALWAYS! LEARN HOW MY 37 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE CAN WORK FOR YOU. GIVE ME A CALL AT 970.846.0661 OR VISIT MY WEBSITE BUYSTEAMBOAT.COM

56 NINTH STREET

DOUG LABOR A BR , A BRM, CEBA , CRS, E- PRO, G RI, RRP C:

9 70. 846.0 6 61

D L A B O R @ B U Y S T E A M B O AT. C O M cov_2 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

|

970.870.8885

|

B U Y S T E A M B O AT. C O M

We finance the

STEAMBOAT LIFESTYLE

Build JSM Builders

GTR Photo

Build the Perfect Loan for Your Home Mortgage Loans | Lot Loans | Construction Loans The only locally owned bank in the Yampa Valley | 970.879.2993 | yampavalleybank.com STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 1

Aspen 970.925.8579

Crested Butte 970.349.5023

Denver 303.399.4564

Steamboat Springs 970.879.9222

Telluride 970.728.3359

Vail 970.949.5500

interior landscapes that delight the senses

thurstonkitchenandbath.com 2 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Featuring an exclusive collection of Native American photography, captured by Roland W. Reed (1864-1934)

“Lazy Boy”, Roland W. Reed, circa 1914

“Meeting of the Minds”, Jace Romick

837 Lincoln Avenue | www.jaceromickgallery.com | 970.819.9384 | info@jaceromickgallery.com STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 3

COURTESY STEAMBOAT POWDERCATS

Contents Visitors’ Guide VG 2 Welcome Letter

DEPARTMENTS

12 Publisher’s Note The Glory Days of Gondola Square – by Deborah Olsen 14 Letters

Powdercats guide Luc Strickland skies through a waist-deep powder stash.

56 | Saving Our Slopes

The Steamboat Ski Area joins in the fight against climate change.

– by Eugene Buchanan

60 | Two Perfect Days

A step-by-step recipe for the perfect ski getaway.

– by Deborah Olsen

64 | Facilitating Freshies

Steamboat Powdercats shows skiers how to safely explore the backcountry.

– by Eugene Buchanan

72 | License to Carve

Northland Skis revive a historic brand in Steamboat Springs.

– by Dan Greeson

4 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

16 Contributors Kelly Bastone, Sophie Dingle, Dagny McKinley 18 Genuine Steamboat Livin’ the Dream 30 Sports What’s new this ski season and on the horizon at the Steamboat Ski Area?

How to raise skiers– by Kelly Bastone 38 In the News Your briefing on what’s new and notable in Steamboat Springs.

40 History How the Hitchens brothers paved the way for Steamboat skiers – by Dagny McKinley 42 Arts & Culture Steamboat Art Museum, Museum of Northwest Colorado, the Tread of Pioneers Museum and Jace Romick Gallery collaborate on a landmark exhibit of five preeminent historic Western photographers.

Local artists add creative flair to Sleeping Giant School.

– by Suzi Mitchell Writers find inspiration in plein air paintings at Ekphrasis 2021.

50 Making it Happen Paper Crane Foundation offers hope to those with trauma.

– by Sophie Dingle Eagle Creek packs up and moves to Steamboat Springs.

– by Suzi Mitchell Local company Town Hall sells kids outdoor gear with a sustainable twist. – by Suzi Mitchell 55 Health & Wellness Local nursing students embrace simulation learning.

– by Suzi Mitchell 76 Media Handpicked media to complement the joys of ski season.

– by Jennie Lay 80 Why Stop at the Last Page?

Turn to Ski Town Media’s online content to stay in the know.

– by Rachel Miller

VG 12 SKI Skiing a Winter Wonderland Beijing Winter Olympics

VG 15 VG 19

New and Upcoming at the Steamboat Ski Area Steamboat’s Olympic Heritage

VG 23 VG 27

VG 30 PLAY Yampa Valley’s Winter Playground VG 33 The Wonders of Winter Carnival VG 36 Whee the West is Still Wild VG 40 REVIVE Ahhh, This is the Good Life Shoppers and Foodies Unite Steamboat Springs’ Arts and Culture

VG 38 VG 43 VG 46 VG 48

DIRECTORY VG 52 Where to Worship VG 53 Flights VG 54 Activities VG 56 Dining VG 60 Lodging VG 62 Outdoors VG 65 Real Estate VG 66 Services VG 69 Shopping VG 70 City Map VG 72 Reasons to Return

Britni Johnson, a guide with Steamboat Powdercats, skis through an aspen grove on Buffalo Pass. Photograph courtesy of Steamboat Powdercats.

Experience the wonder of nature through the lens of Thomas D. Mangelsen Steamboat Springs | 730 Lincoln Avenue | (970) 871-1822 LI M I T ED ED I T I O N FI N E A R T PH OTO G R A PH Y | B O O K S | C A L EN DA R S

Mangelsen.com STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 5

6 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

i n s p i r e d

i n n o v a t i v e

t i m e l e s s

A R C H I TE C TURE | PLANNING | INTERIORS S T E AMBOAT SPRINGS,CO

•

TRUC K E E , C A

•

855. 415. 4093

•

WWW.STEAMBOAT K S A A RMAGAZINE C H . C O M| SKI 2021-22 |

7

open

4pm-close 4 - 5 :3 0 p m

happy hour

i ta l i a n h o t s p o t

s m a l l p l at e s , a n t i pa s t i , p i z z a , pa s ta ,

d e c a d e n t d e s s e r t s , c r a f t c o c k ta i l s , wine list, kids menu

521

l i n c o l n av e .

mambos.com

9 7 0 .8 7 0 .0 5 0 0

open

4pm-close 4 - 5 :3 0 p m

happy hour

a k i s s o f l at i n

ta pa s , e n t r e e s , c r a f t c o c k ta i l s ,

wine list, kids menu

818

l i n c o l n av e .

b e s a m e s t e a m b o at . c o m

9 7 0 .7 6 1 .2 5 6 1

open

7 :3 0 a m - c l o s e

local, organic

b r e a k fa s t

&

+

s u s ta i n a b l e f o o d

lunch, espresso bar,

c r a f t c o c k ta i l s , o - p r o o f c o c k ta i l s , wine list, soft serve ice cream, kids menu

207 9th

st.

ya m pava l l e y k i t c h e n . c o m

9 7 0 .8 7 5 .3 9 8 9 find us on:

8 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

We are here to keep

you out there

MICHAEL SISK, MD | ANDREAS SAUERBREY, MD | ALEXANDER K. MEININGER, MD PATRICK JOHNSTON, DO | CLINTON DEVIN, MD | ALEXIS TRACY, DO | ADAM WILSON, MD ALEJANDRO MIRANDA, MD | WILLIAM HOWARTH, MD | DARIN ALLRED, MD | BRIAN SIEGEL, MD

STATE-OF-THE-ART CLINIC, IMAGING AND SURGERY CENTER 705 Marketplace Plaza, Suite 200, Steamboat Springs, CO

970.879.6663 | www.steamboatortho.com | info@steamboatortho.com PHOTO: noahdavidwetzel.com | LOCATION: Gilpin Lake, Mount Zirkel Wilderness

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 9

Ski 2021-22 – Volume 43, Number 4 PUBLISHER Deborah Olsen EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dan Greeson SALES DIRECTOR John Sherwood ART DIRECTOR Melissa VanArsdale DIGITAL DIRECTOR Rachel Miller MEDIA EDITOR Jennie Lay PROOFREADER Christina Freeman CONTRIBUTORS Kelly Bastone Eugene Buchanan Sophie Dingle Dagny McKinley Suzi Mitchell PHOTOGRAPHERS Aryeh Copa Ned Cremin Flawia Krawczyk Julie McNally Larry Pierce Noah Wetzel

Steamboat Magazine is published by Ski Town Media, Inc. The 2022 Olympic special edition will be published in January 2022. For advertising rates and subscription information contact info@SteamboatMagazine.com. Steamboat Magazine, P.O. Box 880616, Steamboat Springs, CO 80488. Phone: 970-871-9413. Subscribe: www.SteamboatMagazine.com Single copy mailed first-class $7.50. No portion of the contents of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. © 2021 Ski Town Media, Inc. All rights reserved – ISSN 2164-4055.

10 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

970-879-5656

S H I V E LY C O N S T R U C T I O N . C O M

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 11

Editorial Advisory Board Amy Charity SBT GRVL

Scott Engelman Carl’s Tavern and Truffle Pig

Sarah Floyd Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club

Betse Grassby Steamboat Art Museum

Larry Mashaw The Resort Group

Marta Miskolczy Gal Friday Ed

Lisa Popovich MainStreet Steamboat

Lindsey Reznicek Yampa Valley Medical Center

Ulrich Salzgeber Steamboat Springs Board of Realtors

Ray Selbe Selbe Farms

Cathy Wiedemer First Pitch Communications

COURTESY STEAMBOAT SKI & RESORT CORP.

Publisher’s Note

Conceptual rendering of the Steamboat base area additions.

The Glory Days

I

returned to my locker late one winter afternoon several years ago, having just watched the Samples perform a free concert in Gondola Square. I was surprised to find members of the band sitting on a bench in the locker room, staring into the corner. When they saw the quizzical look on my face, one said, “It doesn’t look like it now, but this was once the best spot in Steamboat. The stage was right here! We used to love coming up here to play. You probably wouldn’t remember, but it was a club called the Inferno.”

I’m pretty sure I remember the exact night they were talking about, although a lot of years have passed, and more than a few brain cells were lost in that club.

There was a time when the ski area base was the center of nightlife in Steamboat. We used to make the long uphill climb through the maze of staircases from Gondola Square to Ski Time Square two or three times a week. With a drink or two under their belts, even locals had a hard time finding their way. Visitors didn’t stand a chance.

Even then, Gondola Square was starting to look a bit worse for wear. Chunks of cement were missing from the sidewalk, the dark wooden handrails were rickety, and the blocky vanilla administration building stood like a remnant of painfully plain 20th-century architecture.

Rumor has it that on demo day at the old Inferno many years ago, workers found a few interesting artifacts inside the walls, including ladies’ panties stuffed into the bathroom ceiling panels. I can’t help but imagine that when the walls of the old gondola building came tumbling last fall, more than a few bits of memorabilia came with them. Perhaps not as exciting as the nightclub ones, the building having been a place of business, after all.

But it was long past time for the old square to go. A visit to neighboring ski areas is all it takes to draw a few conclusions: 1) Steamboat really does have the best snow in Colorado; 2) We are one of the few ski resorts that is also a real town; and 3) Our base area is an eyesore.

Even the “haters,” of which Steamboat has more than their share, are having a hard time working up much of an argument against Steamboat’s long-overdue plans to revitalize the base area.

For years, decades really, Steamboat was owned by out-of-town corporations that seemed, to more than a few locals, to take the money and run. But now, Steamboat’s parent corporation, Alterra, is investing in the community.

Undoubtedly, there will be inconveniences as we are in the midst of this extensive threeyear project, but at its end, the base area may well become once again the lively heart of the mountain community.

I may even learn to skate so I can take a few turns on the new rink.

See you there?

12 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

12 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

FURNISHINGS / FULL SERVICE DESIGN STUDIO

25 Years, Your vision, Your budget * We are now a Hubbardton Forge dealer

345 Anglers Dr. • Sundance Plaza | OliviasHomeFurnishings.com | 970-879-1893 5,000 sq. ft. warehouse

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 13

Letters Instagram comments regarding the cover of the Outdoors 2021 edition:

“ Great cover! ” – Mermaidonthemountain “Awesome photo!!! ” – Scottsstrolls “Gorgeous photos.” – Candice Lombardo Bannister “That looks awesome! Was wondering if Steve would be cover material!!! Just the best – brookewel (cover photographer)

”

Facebook comments on “The Last Fronter” story from the Outdoors 2021 edition, which focuses on local ranchers Tyler and Megan Knott: “Truly beautiful.”– Jani Phillips Wood “A thoughtful piece from Steamboat Magazine.” – Keep Routt Wild “No one works harder than Megan and Tyler. What a beautiful article.

Love you Knott family ” – Beth Manner Paltjon “Great story!” – Sarah Kai Cherry

Facebook comments on “The New and Conserved Home Ranch” story in the Outdoors 2021 edition, which focuses on the Home Ranch’s new partnership with the Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust and profiles ranch manager Michael Moon and his wife, Dawn: Steamboat Magazine’s Outdoors edition.

Cover photo by Brooke Welch

“Beautiful photos!” – Katie Henry “What a great article! Congratulations Michael and Dawn! Beautiful photos!” – Mary DeMartini “Wow! What a great article!” – Jeff Faunce “Wonderful article and testament to what the Moons have been doing for decades!”

– Kathy Knippa Nehrenz

Proud Mom

To Send Letters to the Editor:

Email: Dan@SteamboatMagazine.com; U.S. mail: P.O. Box 880616, Steamboat Springs, CO 80488

I just want to say thank you for the lovely Ag Edition of Steamboat Magazine. I read every word and enjoyed it very much. The article on my daughter, Leah, was so incredible! Thank you for doing such a great job; your words made my heart sing. I appreciate you making time, space and resources available to honor our country’s oldest industry as you did!

– Adonna Allen, in response to the story “Through the Eyes of Three” (Steamboat Magazine Outdoors Edition 2021)

Steamboat Springs, Colorado | 970.879.5667 Please visit us in person at Central Park Plaza or online W W W. D A V I D C H A S E F U R N I T U R E . C O M 14 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

NEW CONSTRUCTION COMING SOON!

1 CHOOSE NEW CONSTRUCTION: TRILOGY | 33655 BALD EAGLE DRIVE | LOT 17 | $5,695,000

MARKET HOME 17 OR 44

or 2 CHOOSE A HOMESITE, AND WE’LL BUILD FOR YOU.

CUSTOM HOMES EQUESTRIAN FACILITIES SKI-IN/SKI-OUT SOCIAL CLUB PRIVATE LIVE WATER FLY FISHING ACCESS TO CATAMOUNT GOLF CLUB 900-ACRE WILDLIFE PRESERVE 63 LUXURY HOMESITES

MEADOWLARK | 33250 MEADOW CREEK DRIVE | LOT 44 | $6,195,000

ST E A M B OAT

S P R I N G S ,

C O L O R A D O

CONTACT SUZANNE SCHLICHT

Senior Vice President & Director of Sales Licensed broker with Ski Realty

970.875.1200

alpinemountainranch.com STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 15

Abby Jensen Photography

Contributors Kelly Bastone

Champagne Powder® brought writer Kelly Bastone to the Yampa Valley 20 years ago, and she still loves chasing snow on resort, backcountry and Nordic skis. Only now, she’s joined by her 10-year-old daughter, Simone, who already outguns her mama on the groomers. Bastone shares her tips – and others’ too – on how to grow a ski-loving kid (page 35). When she’s not skiing, Bastone writes for Outside, 5280 and The Red Bulletin.

Sophie Dingle

Sophie Dingle writes about the Paper Crane Foundation, an organization started by Steamboat Springs locals with the goal of helping those affected by PTSD (page 50). “Learning about the foundation and their mission and goals, as well as their recent expedition to Mount Kilimanjaro and all that the group accomplished, was fascinating,” Dingle says. “I am honored to share their story with our community, and I know we will see great opportunities and advances come from this nonprofit in the future.”

Dagny McKinley

Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.

–Albert Einstein Images available for purchase

Gallery: Pine Moon Fine Art 117 9th St., Steamboat Springs, Colorado 970-879-2787 • www.jensen-photography.com

16 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

“I have a passion for Steamboat history,” says Dagny McKinley, who wrote “The Hitchens Brothers: A Lasting Legacy” (Page 40).

“Every time I discover a new family or person who contributed to Steamboat’s development, I feel like I have a new friend. I also get to learn about the people who have preserved the history and heritage of our community. How lucky am I?”

Kel elwood PhotograPhy

CARING COMPREHENSIVE PROGRESSIVE

OUR PASSION

Your Smile

EST. 1998

What makes you smile? TM

James WW McCreight DDS, Wendy M McCreight DDS | 970.879.4703 | www.steamboatdentistry.com STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 17

Genuine Steamboat

Nadia Burton skis the steep and the deep on North St. Pats at the Steamboat Ski Area. | Photo by Julie McNally

18 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

if

you’ve spent any time in Steamboat Springs, you’ve heard the phrase, “We came for winter, we stayed for summer.” This saying goes to show that Steamboat is paradise year-round, but there’s a reason so many have come for the winter. Is it due to the best tree skiing in the state? Or maybe the fluffy, light, abundant powder? Surely it must be the friendly, unpretentious atmosphere on the lifts and the gondola. Whatever the reason, when Steamboat locals say they’re “Livin’ the Dream,” they mean it.

STEAMBOATMAGAZINE MAGAZINE | | SKI SKI2021-22 2021-22 | 19 STEAMBOAT

Genuine Steamboat

Thomas Lindsey, a guide with Steamboat Powdercats, catches air on Buffalo Pass. | Courtesy Steamboat Powdercats

20 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Vicente Katz launches into fresh powder in the Steamboat Ski Area sidecountry. | Photo by Ned Cremin

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 21

Genuine Steamboat

Ben Beall skis Big Flattop Mountain in the Flat Tops Wilderness. | Photo by Aryeh Copa

22 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 23

Genuine Steamboat

24 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM 24 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

A skier passes through the deep powder on Buffalo Pass, also known locally as “Buff.” | Courtesy Steamboat Powdercats STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 25 STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 25

Genuine Steamboat

Billy Grimes shreds powder in the Steamboat Ski Area sidecountry. | Photo by Noah Wetzel 26 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

C A M B O Y D 9 7 0 . 8 7 9. 8 1 0 0 C A M . B O Y D @ S T E A M B O AT S I R . C O M

H O M EI N S T R AW B E R RY PA R K .C O M

F A I R W AY M E A D O W S H O M E . C O M

HOMEINWILDERNESS.COM

16 AC contemporary retreat offering five decks with commanding views of Strawberry Park.

Fully remodeled 4 BD, 4 BA modern farmhouse-style home overlooking the Ski Area.

At the top of Yellow Jacket Pass, this 35 AC home is perfect for an outdoor enthusiast.

$2 , 895 , 0 0 0

$2 ,495 , 0 0 0

# 5 9 9 0 8 11

# 7474 5 6 5

$1 ,9 9 9, 0 0 0

B L U E S A G E S T E A M B O A T. C O M

B I G V A L L E Y S T E A M B O A T. C O M

Like-new, 2,867 sf home offering an open floor plan, clean finishes, and private outdoor oasis.

38 acres offering panoramic mountain views of the Flattops, Ski Area, and Hahn’s Peak.

$1 , 8 5 0, 0 0 0

# 6 676 4 81

$2 ,981 , 0 0 0

# 3275092

# 4 5 3 4247

A TEAM BUILT FOR YOU

THE BOYD TEAM S T E A M B O A T A G E N T. C O M STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 27

STUNNING VIEWS IN ASPEN HEIGHTS

$500,000

I D E A L L O T N E A R S T E A M B O AT L A K E

$500,000

# 3 410 3 5 9

#7243207

M U R P H Y- L A R S E N . C O M FROM

$675,000

# 8 9215 57

Gorgeous 5.04 ac lot, easy building site, and minutes to Steamboat Lake, Hahn’s Peak Roadhouse, and all the adventures of North Routt.

Enjoy the great outdoors with this 5.16 acre lot, 2 miles to Steamboat Lake State Park & 10 min to the Clark Store, no HOA dues with ag status.

Secluded 50+ AC lots with gorgeous scenery bordering Routt National Forest. World-class outdoor recreation & equestrian activities.

K ATH Y STEINBERG 970.846.8418

K ATH Y STEINBERG 970.846.8418

CINDY M ACGR AY 970.846.0342

S K I - I N / S K I - O U T AT T O R I A N P L U M

MAR ABOU R ANCH HOMESTEADS

P R I VA C Y O N LY 1 5 M I N T O S T E A M B O AT

$1,075,000

FROM

# 4 973123

$1,150,000

$1,195,000

# 6472923

Panoramic views of the Steamboat Ski Area from this remodeled condo at Torian Plum.

High-end amenities with great rental income

Enjoy life on a working ranch, 1,700 acres of picturesque open space & superior amenities.

Offering 3 of the best homesteads available.

Gorgeous 6.06 ac with a charming 4 BD, 3.5 BA home & oversized 2 car garage. Multiple living areas, decks, panoramic views, Stmbt schools.

DAVID BALDINGER JR 970.846.2560

PAM VANATTA 970.291.8100

LISA OLSON 970.846.0713

P R I VA C Y I N S M I T H C R E E K PA R K

D O W N T O W N C O M M E R C I A L S PA C E

THE ORTON R ANCH

$2, 595,000

$2,995,000

$3,950,000

#8626953

# 35 5716 4

#3553833

Newer construction–35 ac just under 5,000 SF. 5 BD, 6 BA, 2nd living area with fireplace and media room. Panoramic views 18 mi to town.

Over 9,000 sf of multi-use space in the heart of downtown between 8th and 9th. Access from both Lincoln & the alley. Rooftop accessibility.

Amazing 40-acre ranch is just 1.3 miles to town with live water, 4 BD farmhouse, guest home, entertainment barn & fenced pastures.

ANNAM ARIE SHUNN Y 970.846.7547

M ARC SM ALL 970.846.8815

PAM VANATTA 970.291.8100

S T E A M B O AT S I R . C O M

| 9 70 . 879. 810 0

28 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

L O C A L LY O W N E D & O P E R AT E D L O C A L R O O T S – G L O B A L R E AC H

G R E AT L O T N E A R T H E S K I A R E A

$679,000

#8083659

S I N G L E FA M I LY L O T I N T R E E H A U S

B E S T S K I - I N / O U T AT B E A R C L A W I I

$750,000

$875,000

# 32 27102

#6720684

Excellent 0.51 acre building site in the coveted Montview subdivision, in the heart of the mountain area. Caretake units allowed.

Fantastic lot in unbeatable location with privacy, aspens, views of Mount Werner & the Yampa Valley. Price includes plans for home.

2 BD, 2 BA unit overlooking the South Valley.

Quiet location, spacious floorplan and five-star hospitality with amazing amenities.

DAVID BALDINGER JR 970.846.2560

CINDY M ACGR AY 970.846.0342

DAR LINDA BALDINGER 970.846.7192

BEST LUXURY HOMESITE DE AL

PA N O R A M I C V I E W S I N S T E A M B O AT

R ARE MEDICAL OFFICE FOR SALE

$1, 395,000

$1, 599,000

$1,725,000

#5789580

# 9988701

#2445226

Gorgeous views of the Yampa Valley in one of Stmbt’s best selling developments. Easy to build, low dues, Catamount membership included.

5 BD, 4 BA, 3,513 SF Centrally located with main level primary, 2 living spaces, game room and more. Minutes to world-class skiing.

3,948 sf medical office near hospital with professional reception/waiting room, 12 office/ exam rooms, MRI and Xray room, bathroom.

DAR LINDA BALDINGER 970.846.7192

LISA OLSON 970.846.0713

JAMES HOWSER 970.846.4292

VICTORIAN UNDER THE GONDOL A

M T N L U X U R Y AT FA L C O N H E A D S O U T H

EMER ALD MEADOWS R ANCH

$4, 390,000

$5,495,000

$7,995,000

#7232006

# 619 012 8

#18 05 9 65

An iconic Steamboat landmark. 8 BD/10 BA. 6,775 SF. Dramatic views in slopeside location.

Guest suite over 3-car garage. Elevator, A/C.

This 5 BD, 8 BA retreat is nestled against Mount Werner with unparalleled 360 degree views. Less than a block to world-class skiing.

Recreational ranch on 119 ac, 5 miles to town.

Luxury 6 BD log home, miles of trails, pond, huge toy barn, guest apt and caretaker unit.

CAROL MOOR E 970.846.8686

DAR LINDA BALDINGER 970.846.7192

PAM VANATTA 970.291.8100

9 70 . 879. 810 0 |

S T E A M B O AT S I R . C O M

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 29

MELISSA VANARSDALE

Sports

Summer construction of the new Steamboat Ski Area gondola.

Irons in the Fire

This year’s improvements at the Steamboat Ski Area are just the beginning.

T

he multi-year improvement project at the Steamboat Ski Area is aptly named “Full Steam Ahead.” The group of improvements is the largest in the resort’s 58year history, powered by a $135 million investment by Alterra, Steamboat’s parent company.

“Alterra wants to support resorts who support their communities,” says Loryn Duke, director of communications for the Steamboat Ski & Resort Corp. “This opens up a lot of opportunities for us. Alterra has a lot of irons in the fire.”

The beginning of these improvements is evident as soon as you walk into Gondola Square. The older gondola has been moved to a different part of the base area and is fully operational for the 2021-22 ski season. New this winter are a Kids Vacation Center location on the mountain, and the Underplaza Promenade Building. Technology improvements from last season – including ticket kiosks and a mobile ordering system – remain in place.

For the 2022-23 ski season, look for the 10-passenger Wild Blue Gondola, which will be the longest of its capacity in North America. The first 4,561-foot leg of the gondola has been approved and is scheduled for construction in summer 2022, improving the out-of-base capacity at the ski area from 6,000 to 10,000 people per hour.

“The new gondola will relieve a lot of congestion at the base area,” Duke says. “These changes have been on our wish list for a long time.”

30 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Other base area improvements to expect in 2022 and 2023 include an outdoor ice rink and additional lodging, restaurants and bars. Future on-mountain updates include lifts and an additional 295 acres in the Fish Creek Canyon area. When added to the previously announced 355-acre Pioneer Ridge expansion, this will add an additional 650 acres of terrain, making Steamboat the second largest ski resort in the state. New snowmaking on Sunshine Peak will guarantee excellent snow conditions even in the early parts of winter, and a dedicated learning area for beginners called Greenhorn Ranch will make the Steamboat Ski Area less intimidating for beginner skiers.

Improvements to the the base area entrance include installation of escalators in place of the non-ski-boot-compliant stairs. “Steamboat hasn’t had a real entrance up to this point,” Duke explains. “This might not be complete this winter, but it’s another main focus of ours.”

While many changes are taking place, Steamboat won’t be straying from its roots. New buildings will maintain the same Western aesthetic skiers are familiar with, and visitors will still be greeted with the same small-town friendliness and hospitality.

“One of the cool things about Steamboat is the balance between history and improving,” Duke adds. “We want to stay true to that. We want to stay true to our Western roots.”

Details about the entire Full Steam Ahead redevelopment, including project timelines, can be found at www.steamboat.com/FullSteamAhead

Experience the luxuries of a $3,000,000 condo for a fraction of the price $245,000-$260,000 | Fully Furnished | 1/12 th Fractional Interests | ~ 2,500 sq ft $435,000-$495,000 | Fully Furnished | 1/8 th Fractional Interests | ~ 2,500 sq ft

Exceptional Features:

• Opportunity for membership into the Timbers Reciprocity Program

• 2 fireplaces, professional kitchen, open floor plan, dining room, media room, and more!

• Catamount Ranch & Club golf and lake membership available with eligible interests

Contact Todd Allsberry | 970.846.4897 | tallsberry@onesteamboatplace.com | Timbers Real Estate Company

MAGAZINE SKI Virgin 2021-22 | 31 Vail Aspen Bachelor Gulch Cabo San Lucas Jupiter Kaua‘ i Kiawah Island Maui Napa Scottsdale Snowmass Sonoma Southern California STEAMBOAT Steamboat Springs Tuscany |U.S. Islands

SLOPESIDE LIVING

steps to the gondola

Whole Ownership $2,250,000-$7,000,000 | Private Residence Club $245,000-$495,000 When home is slopeside at the gondola, you step out of your slippers and into warm ski boots.

Ownership at One Steamboat Place frees you from the traditional hassles and expenses of owning a second home so that you can start vacationing the moment you arrive. Access to the Timbers Reciprocity Program opens the doors to 14 other properties worldwide within the Timbers Collection. Whether your choice is Whole Ownership or a Deeded Fractional Interest in our Private Residence Club, you will quickly discover why so many have made One Steamboat Place their home away from home.

CONTACT Todd Allsberry | 970.846.4897 | tallsberry@onesteamboatplace.com |WWW.ONESTEAMBOATPLACE.COM/HOME

®

32 | Bachelor ONLINE Gulch AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM Aspen Cabo San Lucas Jupiter Kaua‘ i Kiawah Island Maui Napa Scottsdale Snowmass Sonoma Southern California Steamboat Springs Tuscany U.S. Virgin Islands Vail

STEAMBOAT OWNERSHIP

made effortless

Crestone Peak - Residence 205 3 BD | 3 BA | 2,164 SQ FT | $2,495,000 Residence 205, is uniquely situated at the end of the east wing offering natural light and views from three sides of all three bedrooms. Recently updated with mountain modern interiors that are not just luxurious, but inviting and comfortable, this Residence is truly turnkey. | MLS 5114169

Beaver Mountain - Residence 411 4 BD | 4 BA | 2,540 SQ FT | $3,195,000 Residence 411, known as Beaver Mountain, offers plenty of space for everyone to gather and entertain. The Living Room centers around a beautiful stone fireplace and the open floor plan allows this Residence to exhibit elegance and attention to detail. Beaver Mountain boasts views of the South Yampa Valley and sleeps 8 guests. | MLS 3477485

T C A R T N CO

R E D N U Residence 512

4 BD | 4.5 BA | 2,687 SQ FT | $3,850,000 Residence 512 is a must-see with down valley, sunset views, and unique touches to create an elegant mountain getaway. The open floor plan creates a great spot for entertaining and family time.

The living area boasts a nook for reading or enjoying your morning coffee. A private, soundproof office comes complete with a Mac computer and is a haven for focus and productivity. | MLS 8178121

Private Residence Club 4 BD | 4 BA | APPROX. 2,500 SQ FT | $245,000-$495,000 Beautifully Furnished 1/12th and 1/8th Deeded Fractional Interests allow you to tailor ownership to your family's needs. Planned Vacation Weeks, Space Available, and Short Notice stays available.

Enjoy the abundance of amenities including private spa, fitness and yoga center, gathering and wine room, pool and hot tubs, members locker room, private ski shop, owner storage, and much more.

Interests come with optional access to Catamount Ranch & Club.

CONTACT Todd Allsberry | 970.846.4897 | tallsberry@onesteamboatplace.com |WWW.ONESTEAMBOATPLACE.COM/HOME

®

Aspen Bachelor Gulch Cabo San Lucas Jupiter Kaua‘ i Kiawah Island Maui Napa Scottsdale Snowmass Sonoma Southern California Steamboat Springs Tuscany U.S. Virgin STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI Islands 2021-22 |Vail 33

34 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

COURTESY BROWN FAMILY

Sports

Terry Brown with his daughter, Eliana.

How To Raise Kids Who Love To Ski Want your tykes to love skiing as much as you do? Follow this advice.

The Brosterhous family uses a lift ride for a photo op at the Steamboat Ski Area.

COURTESY BROSTERHOUS FAMILY

| BY KELLY BASTONE

M

y 10-year-old daughter recently told me that she wants to be a ski bum when she grows up. I was overjoyed because, earnings potential aside, her announcement told me that she has embraced skiing with the kind of love and commitment that brought her dad and me to Steamboat Springs 20 years ago. Here are the strategies that we and other local parents have used to foster that passion.

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 35

COURTESY BROWN FAMILY

Sports

Terry Brown and his daughter, Eliana, now work together as coaches at the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club.

START IN THE YARD When our daughter was about a year old, we let her play with a pair of plastic skis (similar to the Lucky Bums Beginner Skis) that strapped to her snow boots. We didn’t try to teach her anything, only let her flounder around in the yard. Her growing brain had to figure out how to use “feet” that were now two feet long. And she loved the sense of belonging she felt when she strapped on skis like her parents and neighbors did every day.

ACCEPT SHORT SESSIONS Parents love skiing, but kids love romping around just as much.

So when Brown taught Eliana to ski, he broke up each run with one or more breaks for rest or play. “She wasn’t focused on skiing as a chore, but as a way to get from fun adventure to adventure,” he explains. He also kept outings super-short: The effort to get kids dressed and ready for skiing may actually take longer than the ski sessions themselves – and that’s OK.

WAIT FOR MILD WEATHER “When the weather is nasty, just don’t go,” cautions Terry Brown, a longtime SSWSC coach whose daughter, Eliana, will also teach skiing this winter after several seasons as a junior coach. Eager parents may balk at postponing a ski-date with their kid, but heading out into forbiddingly cold or windy weather teaches developing brains to link skiing with physical discomfort, Brown says.

EXPLOIT THE GREENS Many parents push their kids onto tough terrain too soon. Social media may be a factor: I’ve seen plenty of proud parents posting videos of their tiny tykes careening through the bumps or trees.

Trouble is, those kids are almost always using desperation moves (like sitting “in the backseat” on the tails of their skis) that reinforce bad habits rather than strong ski skills. Brown and Brosterhous agree: Don’t over-terrain your kids. Brosterhous adds, “The gnar will always be there, so there’s no need to force that too early.”

LISTEN, DON’T PRAISE As a coach and parent of two young skiers, Luke Brosterhous isn’t a big fan of using candy or other extrinsic rewards to get kids to love sport. Instead, “We try and really ask them how they interpret and digest the feelings that sport gives them and focus on those qualities, over saying things like, ‘you looked great’ or ‘nice work,’” he explains. “It’s not work, it’s play, and there is a big difference!”

36 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

STICK TO YOUR PLANS If your kids say they don’t want to go skiing? “We don’t push, but we don’t change our plans either, and we don’t give them the option to renegotiate our values,” Brosterhous says. “They can take a day off here or there, but ultimately we feel that if we commit to providing a safe, terrain-appropriate environment in which they can explore the power of being outside in the mountains and skiing, the sport will hook them for life.”

PH

R

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 37

FLAWIA KRAWCZYK

In the News

Steamboat Springs Nordic combined athlete Jasper Good.

Steamboat At-a-Glance A summary of the current happenings in Steamboat Springs.

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS ATHLETES MAKE BIG STRIDES IN 2021, LEADING UP TO 2022 OLYMPICS • MARCH - Steamboat ski jumper Decker Dean set a local ski jumping record among homegrown Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club skiers with a 211-meter jump. This is the second longest jump in SSWSC history.

• MAY - For the third year in a row, Steamboat skier Noel Keeffe was nominated to the U.S. Cross Country Development Team.

• APRIL - Fourteen Steamboat athletes were nominated to the national Nordic combined and ski jumping teams:

• JULY - Annika Belshaw swept USA Nordic’s U.S. Ski Jumping Championships in Utah Olympic Park, with three victories.

Men’s Ski Jumping Junior Team Jason Colby Women’s Nordic Combined Junior Team Aspen Bennett-Manke Men’s Nordic Combined Junior Team Gunnar Gilbertson Women’s National Ski Jumping Team Annika Belshaw Logan Sankey

• MAY - Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club Alpine skiers Jett Seymour, Jay Poulter and Cooper Puckett were nominated to the U.S. Alpine Ski Teams for the 2021-22 season.

Men’s National Ski Jumping Team Erik Belshaw Decker Dean

• SEPTEMBER - Annika Malacinski won the Nordic combined competition at Finnish Nationals, part of many successes for her in Europe last summer. She also finished in the top 10 in three Grand Prix events.

Women’s Nordic Combined National Team Tess Arnone Alexa Brabec Annika Malacinski

TRAINING GROUND OF CHAMPIONS Athletes from the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club and the Steamboat Springs Youth Hockey Association will soon have their own training facility, no longer having to cram into multiuse training facilities after school. The new facility, located behind Howelsen Ice Arena, will allow plenty of room for fitness training. The SSWSC’s current training facility only has room for around 5% of the club’s athletes to train in it at a time, so the new facility will be a welcome improvement. The building will house an indoor trampoline and airbag ramp jump.

Men’s Nordic Combined National Team Grant Andrews Taylor Fletcher Jasper Good Niklas Malacinski

38 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

HOWELSEN HILL GETS A MAJOR UPGRADE “Poma Trauma” experienced by many beginner skiers riding the Howelsen Hill Poma Lift, will become a rarer event this winter. While the upgrades at the Steamboat Ski Area are a popular topic of conversation among Steamboat locals, there’s a lot of excitement surrounding the changes happening at Howelsen Hill, too. A new three-person chairlift, replacing the old Barrows lift and running daily, is bringing more weekday skiers to Howelsen Hill and making it a less threatening option for beginner skiers who may balk at the Poma Lift. The previous Barrows lift only ran on weekends, leaving weekday skiers at the mercy of the Poma. By attracting more skiers – and more income – to the hill, the City of Steamboat Springs hopes to achieve the goal of making the hill financially independent.

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS’ FIRST-EVER STORYWALK DEBUTS ON YAMPA RIVER CORE TRAIL Steamboat Springs families can experience the joys of reading and the outdoors simultaneously, thanks to the addition of StoryWalk to the Yampa River Core Trail.

Started through the collaborative efforts of Routt County Women United, Bud Werner Memorial Library and the City of Steamboat Springs, the walk was created in hopes of improving reading levels among Routt County kids. StoryWalk posts the pages of a children’s story along the Yampa River Core Trail between the Stockbridge Transit Center and Bud Werner Memorial Library so that children and their parents can read pageby-page as they walk, with stories changing seasonally. Originally created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Vermont, StoryWalk has installations in every state as well as 13 countries.

PRIEST CREEK CHAIRLIFT AUCTION RAISES OVER $200,000 FOR LOCAL CHARITIES This past summer, Steamboat Ski & Resort Corp. auctioned off 125 chairs from Priest Creek Chairlift, after retiring what was the oldest lift at the Steamboat Ski Area. Following the auction, the resort reported raising over $200,000, which will go to nearby nonprofits, including Mountain Valley Horse Rescue, Moffat County Humane Society and Steamboat Reading.

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 39

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 39

History

Melvin Hitchens with skiers.

Ski patroler Errold with Melvin.

Errold Hitchens

Errold, Wilma, Melvin and Dorthy Jean Hitchens.

The Hitchens Brothers:

| BY DAGNY MCKINLEY PHOTOS COURTESY HITCHENS FAMILY

A Lasting Legacy

W

hen people think about how skiing shaped Steamboat Springs, the names Buddy Werner and Carl Howelsen come to mind. Yet the development of skiing as an industry was the result of a community working together, experimenting and having fun.

Brothers Melvin and Errold Hitchens were part of it all.

Melvin and Errold’s grandfather, along with his brothers, Joe and Bill, were among the first people to ranch in the Yampa Valley in 1884. They started a family tradition that lasted over 100 years. By the time Melvin was born in 1923, skiing – which was then referred to as snowshoeing – was a form of transportation in the winter. When Melvin was two, his father bought him a pair of skis and he was hooked. Melvin’s sister, Wilma, and brother, Errold, spent winters skiing from their ranch to the train station in Milner, hopping off in Steamboat Springs, skiing all day on the slopes, then returning home with a final ski to the ranch. Meanwhile, Melvin would be doing chores.

Those early days led to a lifelong love of skiing. Burned in a gas explosion at the Tow Creek oil fields, Errold found peace through being on the mountain. He became one of the first paid ski patrolmen on Mount Werner, which at the time was named Storm Peak. The name was changed to honor Olympian Buddy Werner, who died in an avalanche in the Swiss Alps in 1964. Errold and Buddy were the first two skiers in town to own metal skis. As part of Errold’s service, he helped build Christie and Thunderhead lifts and gave money to make sure Howelsen 40 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Hill’s Poma lift was installed. His reward was $1.75 an hour as a ski patrolman. Errold’s first year, more than 12,000 skiers hit the slopes and Errold, along with one other patrolman, helped 89 people who were injured off the mountain. He later sat on the board of the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club, which he believed should be inclusive of every child in the community, regardless of gender.

Melvin had a more relaxed take on life. According to his niece, Diane Hitchens Holly, Melvin was once referred to as Steamboat Springs’ oldest ski bum who had two loves: skis and shes. Melvin spent much of his life trying to figure out how to make a living without working. When stocking a trout pool in the spoils of a strip mines didn’t pan out, Melvin charged the county to cross his property in order to get to the Milner dump.

Between that and later selling the dump, he no longer had to work and he had enough money left over to donate $100,000 to the Winter Sports club, which paid for equipment, passes and hot chocolate for the kids at Howelsen Hill.

Melvin funded the Hitchens Brothers Jump Series at Howelsen Hill and was one of the early supporters of women ski jumpers, recalling that when he was growing up, the girls could easily out-jump the boys. He also funded a scholarship for female ski jumpers.

Although their contributions to skiing in Steamboat Springs were wildly different, Melvin and Errold made skiing in Steamboat Springs what it is today.

VISIT OUR NEWEST LOCATION IN STEAMBOAT SPRINGS 1855 Shield Dr. #100 | ifurnishco.com | 970.761.1000 STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 41

Arts & Culture

Portrayals of the American West M

uch of what we know about life in the American West at the turn of the 19th century comes from the work of photographers who took up the developing art and recorded the lives of indigenous people, ranchers, pioneers and wildlife of the era.

Possibly for the first time, the works of five legendary photographers – Roland Reed, Edward Curtis, A.G. and Augusta Wallihan and L.A. Huffman – are being exhibited together this winter at the Steamboat Art Museum, aka SAM. 42 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

COURTESY JACE ROMICK GALLERY

COURTESY TREAD OF PIONEERS MUSEUM

Each of these photographers has an amazing story.

Roland Reed’s admiration for indigenous people began when he was child living near an Indian trail in Wisconsin.

Throughout his life, he traveled from Alaska to Minnesota, from Montana to Colorado, and from California to Arizona as an explorer, artist and photographer. At one point, he went to live with the Ojibwe for two years to undertake his “long-deferred campaign in portraying the North American Indian,” as he later wrote.

Augusta and A.G. Wallihan were filled with similar determination. Concerned that rampant, reckless hunting in the West would soon eradicate multiple species, they began photographing them for posterity. And that is how Lay, a sleepy little town 20 minutes west of Craig, became the birthplace of wildlife photography in America.

Legend has it that Augusta, who had come to Northwest Colorado to live with her brother after a failed marriage, was snowbound in a cabin in Lay with her brother’s business partner, A.G., who was 20-plus years her junior.

To avoid scandal, the two decided to marry, and thus began a lifelong adventure as pioneers, hunters and photographers.

One image of Augusta, entitled “Grocery Shopping,” shows her with an ammo belt around the waist of her prairie dress, a bonnet on her head, a Remington rifle in one hand and a skinning knife in the other, standing over a mule-deer buck. Augusta was a crack shot and expert “Sioux Maiden,”

by Edward Curtis hunter who once wrote that, over time, she had dropped 31 deer with her Remington, “only wounding three and losing none.”

The buckskin gloves she wore in that image could have been the very ones she and A.G. traded to a passing missionary for a camera, which they then taught themselves to use.

In those days, it wasn’t a matter of loading film into a camera, but of handcoating glass plates with light-sensitive material, delicately placing them into a light-blocking container and loading that into the back of a view camera.

The couple’s photographic talent, along with Augusta’s hunting skills, brought them to the attention of Rough Rider Teddy Roosevelt, who invited them to the White House. He also paved the way for them to present their work at the 1900 Paris Exposition, where they received critical acclaim.

Edward Curtis, who also worked around the turn of 19th century, is known internationally as the photographer whose imagery epitomizes the indigenous people of the Old West. Curtis left school in the sixth grade and built his own camera. When he was 27, he shot his first portrait of a Native American woman, and so began his lifetime endeavor to document Native American traditional life before it disappeared. Curtis worked with a number of photographic processes, ranging from rotogravures – an intaglio printing process using a rotary press – to goldtone, platinum and silver gelatin prints.

During the same era, L.A. Huffman was chronicling life in the last two decades of the Montana frontier. Dubbed the “Charlie Russell of Western photography,” he shot Yellowstone’s geological marvels, ranchers, wild horses, herds of sheep, landscapes, Northern Plains Indians and the last of the buffalo in Montana territory. Watching the destruction of the herds may have also kindled his interest in wildlife conservation.

The synergy that brought this display together is remarkable. “The thing I love about this exhibit is that it’s a regional collaboration,” says Betse Grassby, SAM’s executive director.

“Travois,” by Roland Reed

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 43

COURTESY MUSEUM OF NORTHWEST COLORADO

Arts & Culture

Zach Taylor

Overlooking Steamboat, 1890, sepia tone print by A.G. Wallihan of Lay. He and his wife, Augusta, were recognized for their work

by President Teddy Roosevelt and are commonly considered to be the first wildlife photographers in America.

adventurous. subscribe steamboatmagazine.com/pages/subscribe

44 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Creating unique architecture in harmony with the environment

COURTESY TWO RIVERS GALLERY

Jace Romick, owner of the Jace Romick Gallery on Eighth Street in Steamboat Springs, is a renowned Western photographer in his own right. His excitement for historic imagery led him to the work of Roland Reed, and ultimately to acquiring much of the collection of Reed’s glass plates and other relics – a significant acquisition.

“The Reed prints are of the highest quality. They will blow people away,” says Rod Hanna, president of SAM’s board of directors and curator of the exhibit.

The Museum of Northwest Colorado lent SAM works from its collection of more than 400 Wallihan glass plates, one of which is an early image of Steamboat.

The Tread of Pioneers Museum in Steamboat also made a noteworthy contribution to the exhibit. One of Routt County’s pioneer families, the Ferry Carpenter family, bequeathed a collection of Curtis photogravures to the museum.

Some of them will be featured in the SAM exhibit, along with Curtis prints from other local collectors.

The late Doug Kenyon, who was a Steamboat resident, had acquired a collection of contact prints from the

“Roundup Cook and the Pie-Biter,” by L.A. Huffman

Huffman family collection, and his daughter Christine has arranged for SAM to display a select group of reproductions of them in this exhibit.

“Portrayals of the American West” opens Friday, Dec. 3, and runs through Saturday, April 2. For more information, visit SteamboatArtMuseum.org.

WagnerDesignStudio.com

970-846-0905 STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 45

Arts & Culture

A Giant Tale | BY SUZI MITCHELL

W

hen the Steamboat Springs School District got the green light from public voters in November 2019 to build its first school in 40 years, district officials wanted the design to impart a legacy. A commissioned art collection shares the story of the area on the west side of Steamboat Springs, where the Sleeping Giant School for pre-kindgergarten through eighth grade opened its doors to students on Tuesday, Aug. 24.

In agreement with the Sleeping Giant Art Committee, the district enlisted Denver-based NINE dot ARTS® to curate the artwork sourced through regional and local artists. The goal was to honor the area’s rich history through depictions of the indigenous Utes, along with the site’s wildlife and natural beauty.

Joe Norman, a Loveland-based sculptor, was drawn to the symmetry of the local sandhill crane population and nearby nesting sites for his threepiece installation. “I drew a parallel with the migratory pattern of birds and my own school-age daughter for inspiration,” he says. “The birds are gone in the winter but back for the summer, which is the opposite for students.”

A trio of three-foot sandhill cranes morph into the figure of a child as you move around each piece at the front of the school. To withstand the weather, Norman used stainless steel, which he painted on one side. The other side was left as brushed raw steel with clear coat varnish to give a reflective quality. “Humans have a complicated relationship with reflective surfaces. There is something emotional about seeing a picture of yourself in something,” he says. Norman said the metaphor of migration is a useful tool to understand the process of education as students come and go throughout the seasons and eventually leave the school for other adventures.

Inside the building, on a wall beneath a learning space encased in a treehouse, hang three standalone pieces by Windsor-based artist Ashley Stiles. Her mixed media work, “Original Influencers,” represents the past, present and future of the indigenous Utes through their contributions to art, medicine and nature. “Many of my friends are Ute. This is their story and I wanted to make sure I was accurate,” says Stiles, a member of the Chickasaw tribe. The middle piece shows a young boy engaged in a traditional bear dance. Bear was chosen as the school mascot. Three human silhouettes cut from mirrored material reflect the diverse roles of the modern Ute in society. “I hope people will see the pieces and want to learn more about the indigenous people,” she says.

46 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

The 46-foot mural, “The Sleeping Giant’s Past,” was created

by Jill Bergman, Jennifer Baker and Sandi Poltorak.

Three Steamboat based artists collaborated on the final installation, a 46-foot-long mural titled “The Sleeping Giant’s Past.” Jill Bergman, Jennifer Baker and Sandi Poltorak, partners at Pine Moon Fine Art, combined their talents to create a design that was initially sketched by Bergman, a printmaker and mural artist.

Bergman painted the foundation of the piece onto poltab. It includes the Sleeping Giant, native aspens and local wildlife along with a herd of bison in a nod to the indigenous communities of Colorado. Baker, a glass artist, created impressionist style wildflowers and bluebirds, which were epoxied onto the polytab to give a three-dimensional appearance while enabling Bergman’s paint to show through. Sandi Poltorak added four framed charcoal and colored pencil drawings of moose, an eagle, two sandhill cranes and tipis in another nod to the Ute.

XX COURTESY JOE NORMAN

Joe Norman’s sculptures of children transform into the figure of sandhill cranes when viewed from a different angle.

“We have three very distinct mediums, but I think they blended very well,” Baker says. The trio had two practice shots at laying out the final piece before Bergman and her husband, Matt Irvin, had the unenviable task of hanging the polytab. “There were definitely sleepless nights, but we did a lot of research, took some artistic license and supported each other through the process to bring it all together,” Bergman says.

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 47

Building green since 1980.

www.fox-construction.com

970-879-7529

PO Box 772971 Steamboat Springs, CO 80477 STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 47

Arts & Culture

Ralph Oberg | “Old Kani near Phurbe, Tsum Valley, Nepal” | 11 x 14

Ekphrasis 2021 T

he Greek word “ekphrasis” refers to a literary description of, or commentary on, a visual work of art. In summer 2021, Steamboat Magazine partnered with Steamboat Art Museum and Off the Beaten Path Bookstore to host the fourth annual Ekphrasis writing competition, inspired by the pieces in Steamboat Art Museum’s “Four Directions, Common Paths: Oberg, Smith, Whitcomb, Young” plein air painting exhibit.

Entrants wrote stories or poems based on their painting of choice, and in late July, celebrity readers, including Lisa Popovich, Ulrich Salzgeber and Sarah Jones, read selected entries at the Steamboat Art Museum event.

The winning entry was an homage to climber George Mallory.

An Homage to Mallory

| BY MANDY MILLER Pasang’s voice was no longer muffled by the wind which had

howled since we left Everest base camp days before. “Georgie, we must go. Our last chance.”

I nodded. Climbing season was over, every other team gone along with their dreams of the Summit. Not one soul had 48 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

made it in 2020, at least not there and back. Usually someone does, often a high net worth dilettante, albeit tethered to a Sherpa’s back, the mountaineering equivalent of a sedan chair.

Grandfather would have been appalled at what he wrought.

Pasang unzipped the tent and held the flap back, letting in the glow of the full moon, a golden gong punched out of the midnight sky.

“Look, he said,” pointing to the pyramid, the top of the world. “All is calm.”

I staggered out, body and mind sluggish at 27,390 feet.

He held out a gas canister attached to a mask, the type Grandfather surely used in the Great War. “Maybe you should.”

I waved him off, heart tom-toming in my chest.

I pulled on hobnail boots as Grandfather had done exactly ninety-six years before, then rearranged myself in the prickly layers of wool I had worn overnight to ward off the cold. Just as he had. And then the canvas overcoat. Just like his.

I grabbed the binoculars from Pasang and turned them down the Khumbu glacier high above which Grandfather’s body lay, frozen in time and place. I brought the stupa, a mere cairn now, into focus. More of an arch than a holy place, but then what should a holy place look like? A lama had blessed Grandfather there with a puja, burning juniper and smearing tsampa flour on his and Irvine’s faces for protection. Mother said her father

was “driven by action, not superstition.” Still, I imagined the old war horse saying, “Better safe than sorry,” his stiff British upper lip curling into a sly smile. Not that any of it had mattered in the end.

Just to be safe, I had said a silent prayer there too. For Pasang. I didn’t believe in incantations. But Pasang did, and he was the one with no reason to climb this mountain, yet again. But, like Grandfather, Pasang would, because it was there. Chomolungma, Goddess Mother of the World to the Sherpa, the people of the East, was once the holiest of sites, but is now a desecrated monument to ego masquerading as the Sherpa way of life.

I pulled the gold watch from my pocket much as Conrad Anker had pulled it from Grandfather’s when he found him still tied to a line in 1999. The crystal is gone, the hands too, but their rusty stencil on the still white face is frozen at 12:50. Whether Grandfather was on his way down from the Summit cannot be known. Hillary has the glory of that first.

“We must turn by that hour,” Pasang said.

Together, we climbed, our bodies dying cell by cell. Having failed on the first attempt, Irvine persuaded Grandfather to use “English gas,” the Sherpa name for bottled oxygen.

I, however, had persuaded Pasang to go without, to accomplish what Grandfather had set out to do when he returned. The Somme had left him with the need to suffer for those who had perished.

At the Second Step, we paused, scanning the precarious perch as one might for a lost pet, but Grandfather’s body was gone. A propitious wind had revealed it to the worthy Anker who returned with only the watch and his word as proof. I like to think they shared toast before Anker moved on to live. And Grandfather, into the abyss.

I shifted my gaze to the ribbon of snow trailing off the summit, borne on the jet stream. Where would those flakes come to rest? Upon whose body?

“We have time,” he said. “The light is with us.”

Soon, we stood on the earth’s highest balcony for but a moment. There was no question of a photograph. Photographs are for those for whom the Summit is the destination.

Pasang faced down Chomolungma and bowed to where the stupa would have been but for the shroud of clouds. He pointed at his watch, a rubber affair with a digital display.

It read 12:50.

I kneeled and hollowed out a cranny in the snow with my ice axe. I set the watch with no hands into the frigid grave where, I pray, it will remain. Timeless. For Eternity.

Like Chomolungma.

YOU BUILD IT... WE PROTECT IT.

Specializing in high value properties

405 South Lincoln Ave. Steamboat Springs

(970) 879-1363

www.steamboatselectins.com

SERVING ALL YOUR INSURANCE NEEDS HOME & AUTO • COMMERCIAL LINES • HEALTH BENEFITS

We Build: FOR COLORADO SAGE CORNER APARTMENTS

Lakewood, CO

Steamboat Springs | Englewood | (303) 762-1554 | Calconci.com |

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 49

COURTESY PAPER CRANE FOUNDATION

Making It Happen

Climbing for a Cause

| BY SOPHIE DINGLE

I

t was midnight at Kosovo camp, 16,300 feet up Mount Kilimanjaro, when Colby Bowers and his group awoke.

They got dressed, gathered their equipment and set out to climb the last two miles of the mountain. For hours, the group of men proceeded to trek through switchbacks in the middle of the night, guided by their headlamps, pushed forward by sheer determination.

COURTESY PAPER CRANE FOUNDATION

Excellence and finally received a diagnosis: mild traumatic brain injury and chronic post-traumatic stress.

Due to his balance issues, Colby would often fall and hit his head, worsening his condition. He couldn’t drive, walked with a cane, and couldn’t hold his young son, Brayden, for long periods of time.

A year into his retirement, he was accepted as a patient at the Marcus Institute for Brain Health in Denver, and was able to get With 0.9 miles to go, they hiked across glaciers. The sun rose a new lease on life. Today, he no longer walks with a cane and behind them, illuminating the shadow of the mountain on the his memory loss is more manageable. clouds below.

With a desire to help others And then, the summit. in a similar situation, he and his “Emotion and a sense of wife, Kerrie, dreamed of creating accomplishment were the first a nonprofit that would help things I felt,” Colby says. “After all veterans and first responders the trials, tribulations, hurdles and deal with trauma and get the roadblocks – we made it.” resources that they would need Colby Bowers is a retired Air to do so. In March of 2020, Force senior noncommissioned they launched the Paper Crane officer with over 23 years of service.

Foundation with the goal of He was deployed nine times to furthering research into TBI different locations, including and PTSD, increasing awareness multiple tours in Afghanistan and and empowering those suffering Iraq, during which he developed from these conditions to rebuild chronic PTSD and suffered their lives. multiple traumatic brain injuries,

Their main objective is to or TBI. aid in creating a system where It was in 2005 that he first TBI is accurately diagnosed at realized something was wrong.

Colby Bowers and fellow Paper Crane Foundation climbers the onset of the injury in order to “I would lose things in my draw near to Kilimanjaro’s summit. provide the injured person with house, only to find them a few early treatment and avoid suffering a disability. The foundation is days later and have no recollection working to identify medical equipment that can accurately provide of how they got here,” he explains. an early diagnosis within minutes, and their hope is to begin clinical Tripping, clumsiness, losing his bearings and losing his train testing in the coming year. of thought mid-sentence were all signs that something was For the foundation, the expedition to Mount Kilimanjaro wrong – but a diagnosis was years away. After bouncing around provided an opportunity not only to conduct field research and from neurologists, psychologists and physical therapists, it gather data, but also to inspire. wasn’t until 2012 that he visited the National Intrepid Center of 50 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

The Paper Crane Foundation camp in the clouds near the summit of Kilimanjaro.

Traveling with Colby were three other veterans, one active-duty military member, and a current Steamboat Springs firefighter and paramedic, Chris Welch, who is also on the board of the foundation.

It was a group that became close in the year leading up to the climb – training together by climbing 14ers across the state – and even closer as they safely returned to basecamp after safely summiting the 19,341-foot Tanzanian mountain.

“Most research about TBI is done in a lab,” Colby explains.

“And that’s great, but it’s important to do field research too.

The fact that we were able to do that is one way that we want to further our cause.”

As the foundation furthers its mission, and with one expedition under its belt, Colby and Kerrie will turn their attention to research.

“A year from now, I hope we’re in the first stages of clinical research,” Kerrie says. “It takes some time to start that, and we need to find the right institutions and the right people to work on the project, but we’re moving in the right direction.”

PINE MOON fine art

a broad range of inspiring & unique fine art by local artists WWW.PINEMOONFINEART.COM 117 9th St. Steamboat Springs CO 80487 | 970-879-2787 | info@pinemoonfineart.com |

@pinemoonfineart STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 51

Making It Happen

An Eagle Eye on the World | BY SUZI MITCHELL

W

hen VF Corporation announced it was going to sunset its Eagle Creek label by the end of 2021, there was widespread disappointment from the luggage brand’s loyal following. Among those who did not want to see it disappear was Travis Campbell, a Steamboat Springs local and president of emerging brands for VF Corp. After mulling over the news with his wife, Jenny, he made an offer to buy it. “Jenny basically gave me a nudge – to her the decision was an obvious one,” he says.

COURTESY VF CORPORATION

The brand was launched in 1975 by Nona and Steve Barker with $2,500 in the bank while the couple kept their day jobs.

“With an incredible team of talented ‘Creekers,’ we grew the brand into the internationally recognized leader in the travel gear category before selling to VF in 2007,” Steve says. He and Travis served on the Outdoor Industry Association board of directors and shared a common bond of fly fishing and love of the outdoors.

“When Nona and I heard the news that VF had decided to shutter the brand due mainly to COVID’s impact on travel, we were devastated,” Steve continues. “The announcement Travis plans to make that Travis had acquired Steamboat the headquarters the brand and is locating in for Eagle Creek. “I joke that Steamboat was a great relief. at some level I have basically We believe Eagle Creek and bought myself a job so we international adventure travel can stay here,” Travis says, will see a great renaissance laughing. “If I didn’t want to post-COVID and we’re be here, I probably would not very excited for the brand have made the same decision.” and Travis.”

The couple intentionally Travis is tasked with aligned career choices with building his team from scratch their lifestyle. They hankered as the purchase did not include to call Steamboat home, and current employees. “It’s going that yearning came to fruition Steamboat Springs local and new owner of Eagle Creek Travis Campbell. to be a challenge for sure,” when he was offered the role he says. “Would I like to have of president at Smartwool everyone based here? Of course, but I appreciate that is not in 2017. “We’ve always been in a place where we feel a strong viable for a host of reasons.” He plans to capitalize on technology sense of community and have easy access to the outdoors,” and the emergence of a hybrid workforce model. he says. Before Steamboat, their longest stint was 16 years on He aligns much of the ethos he plans to instill at Eagle Creek Bainbridge Island, a stone’s throw from his upbringing on a with that of Smartwool. “We had a strong culture that was very horse farm in Washington state. “I think I have a bias towards much based on this incredible sense of community and giving rural landscapes,” Travis says. back,” he says. Eagle Creek is synonymous with adventure travel, Like both of their parents, the Campbells value travel as an but Travis sees an opportunity to inspire travelers closer to educational tool for their two teenage children. “Travel offers home. “Visitors to our public lands have grown exponentially immense societal benefits and breaks down walls to better and we have an obligation as an industry to convert these people understand each other,” Travis says. He counts Eurorailing for into advocates to protect and improve our outdoor spaces for eight weeks when he was 17 years old as one of the best things the future,” he says. he’s done. “Exposing us to the broader world was important to “I have been fortunate to work in a business where my my parents,” he says. “When I told them I bought the business, personal interests and passions align,” Travis says. “It’s an Mom unearthed my brother’s backpack from an exchange trip amazingly privileged position and I intend to do everything I can he made to Russia at age 12, with the luggage tag still attached. It to give back and inspire the next generation of travelers.” was an Eagle Creek.”

52 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 53

COURTESY HALL FAMILY

Making It Happen

Alex Hall, the son of Town Hall Outdoor Co. co-founder Robin Hall, tests out winter apparel with his friend, Sophia Tirone.

| BY SUZI MITCHELL

Kids About Town

O

n a summer’s day in Steamboat Springs, a group of kids gather around a table in Stehley Park. Despite the fact that this enthusiastic crew munches on watermelon and sips lemonade, their minds are on winter, and the excitement is evident. They have been tasked to discuss something they all have in common – what makes the perfect winter gear?

The trio made a commitment to work with local talent when the opportunity arises. “A lot of people This is such a are doing great things in this corner of the state, and labor of love – it we are lucky to have a wealth of resources here in Steamboat.” Hall has been one of the cornerstones in brings together a new grassroots initiative for outdoor gear companies kids, community to network and engage, started by the Economic Development Council. and the planet.

“What we are doing essentially speeds up the business cycle, especially for startups in the industry,” Beside them sits Robin Hall, the mother of says John Bristol, director of economic development two boys in the group and a co-founder of newly at the Steamboat Springs Chamber. “It’s a very supportive group formed Town Hall Outdoor Co., the latest in a substantial who are willing to share nuggets of advice on everything from lineup of outdoor gear and accessory brands based in Steamboat. production to shipping, and that community-mindedness aligns Hall is no stranger to the industry. She served in a myriad of with Robin.” roles over her 11 years with Smartwool, most recently as the

One of the industry’s greatest assets in Steamboat is the director of sustainability. number of willing product testers on hand. “You will hear folks She, along with co-founders and Steamboat locals Jay in the grocery stores and the post office line talking about Lambert and Joe Solomon, saw a niche in outdoor apparel. outdoor gear,” Bristol says, laughing. Town Hall’s first line of “There is only one other company in the U.S. that specializes insulated jackets and pants passed a series of tests, from rolling solely in kids,” Hall says. The difference with Town Hall will be in dirt in aspen groves and brush to being stepped on with skis. their commitment to sustainability. Their first collection this fall “This is such a labor of love – it brings together kids, was made from recycled materials, except for zippers and Velcro. community and the planet,” Hall says. There is a synergy The goal is to make clothing that stands the test of time with all between the company ethos and being outside. “The outdoors product materials being recycled by 2024. “Hand-me-downs, or is a great equilibrium. It’s a place where anyone can be.” This hand-me-ups as we prefer to say, should be coveted and passed ideal inspired the name for the business. “A town hall is where along with epic tales of adventure that keep going,” Hall says. everyone, regardless of background, size, shape, race, color or Town Hall will sell apparel directly to the consumer, at least age, can gather and use their voice,” says Hall. “It’s the same for the foreseeable future. “We want to have a personalized outdoors and we wanted our brand to reflect this.” connection with our customers as much as possible,” Hall says.

54 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Health & Wellness

Caring for the Future | BY SUZI MITCHELL

A

He is one of seven high-fidelity manikins (the unique spelling refers specifically to nursing mannequins) at the newly opened nursing simulation lab at the Colorado Mountain College Steamboat Springs campus, where students can earn an associate degree or bachelor of science degree in nursing. With four replica hospital rooms, it is the first lab of its kind for the college.

“It’s an incredible opportunity for a rural community,” says Dr. Whitney Erickson, interim program director and chief nursing officer. “In the past, our students have had to travel up to 500 miles to get clinical experience. Here they can do up to 50 percent of their 765 clinical hours.”

Simulation labs are not new. UC Health Yampa Valley Medical Center has had one since 2012. It is used regularly to study infrequent high acuity health concerns and, more recently, to conduct drills in various aspects of COVID-19.

“The difference with what we have in Steamboat is the size of our space and the fact we can monitor and manage a simulation through a state-of-the-art control system,” says Wendy Hayes, a registered nurse and the lab coordinator for nursing simulation at CMC Steamboat Springs. “Anything a nursing student would encounter in real life, from labor and delivery to wound care, we can replicate.”

Advanced technology enables the manikins to be preprogrammed based on their individual capabilities to create a wide range of teaching scenarios. A variety of options includes the ability to blink, moan, mimic breathing sounds, sweat, bleed, produce fluids and mechanically give birth. Students can insert intravenous lines, catheters, treat imitation wounds, monitor a pulse and heartbeat. Everything from the hospital beds to the suction, saline drips and medical air supply represents equipment health carel facilities actually use.

One-way glass surrounds the central control room, where teaching staff facilitate automated scenarios, which are recorded and reviewed. Two additional rooms are set up for skills labs such as bathing, plus a linen cart and pharmaceutical dispensary. “This allows students to experience and understand the equipment, technology and terminology early on in the program,” Hayes says.

The shortage in the nation’s nursing pool is well documented. According to Health Resources and Services Administration National Center for Health Workforce Analysis, only 16 percent of RNs live in rural areas, where they serve over 52 million Americans who reside there.

“Yampa Valley Medical Center is currently working with nearly 40 nursing students, with about 15 who are part of the CMC nursing program,” says Sarah Clemmons, professional development supervisor for UC Health YVMC. “If we’re able

COURTESY COLORADO MOUNTAIN COLLEGE

male patient sits propped up in a hospital bed, sweating and breathing laboriously. He’s on oxygen, and a student nurse listens to his chest. Upon closer inspection, something is unusual about this patient.

He is not human.

Colorado Mountain College’s nursing lab “manikin” replicates a variety of nursing scenarios from labor and delivery to wound care.

“It’s an incredible opportunity for a rural community. In the past, our students have had to travel up to 500 miles to get clinical experience.”

to give local nursing students the opportunity to work in their field while completing their education, it helps retain nurses within our community.”

Funding for the lab came from Colorado Mountain College and the Colorado College Foundation. The foundation received gifts for the project from the Craig-Scheckman Family Foundation, Rocky Mountain Health Foundation, Johnson & Johnson Foundation, Leslie and Bruce Allbright and individual donors. Its current Campaign for Rural Nursing Success aims to raise $5 million for simulation labs and nursing scholarships with the goal of enrolling 200 nursing students annually and graduating 60 qualified nurses each year. Future labs are in the works at Spring Valley and Breckenridge.

“We were very fortunate to get the lab here, which was made possible in part due to the space we had available,” says JC Norling, vice president and campus dean. “It opens new doors of opportunity for our nursing program and our community at large.”

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 55

Saving our

56 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Slopes

Sustainability at Steamboat

| BY EUGENE BUCHANAN

S

Like a snowball gaining momentum down Chute One, ski resorts across the country are incorporating sustainability into their operations, both to do what’s right as well as to help alleviate the ramifications of climate change, which is affecting their industry. Steamboat Ski Resort is no exception, with one of its biggest steps being the recent hiring of Sarah Jones, the former executive director of the Yampa Valley Sustainability Council, to fill its new position of director of sustainability and community engagement.

“The ski industry is very invested in sustainability because our business is directly linked to a snowy climate,” says Jones, adding that this focus also includes the local community to make the resort better for the next generations of skiers and riders. “We understand that the health of our business is directly tied to the health of our environment, and that climate change is a huge threat to our business and community’s way of life.”

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 57

LARRY PIERCE

teamboat’s ski slopes are getting a little greener. Not because of lessening gradient, but because the resort is gravitating toward more sustainable business practices.

Jones admits that rolling out new initiatives last year amidst pandemic protocols was difficult for the resort and that, for all its progress, it can always do more.

“Some resorts have been doing this work for a long time and are further along on the sustainability path than we are,” she says. “And COVID required every resort to pause their sustainability efforts – think of the uptick in single-use products everyone had to use last winter.

But sustainability has been part of our culture for a long time, from our initial Zero Waste initiatives to our efforts to make snowmaking more efficient, and we’re continuing to build on this momentum for real change.”

The resort is now using more environmentally friendly snowmaking guns, ensuring 80 percent of the snow made from its draws off the Yampa River flows back into the waterway.

LARRY PIERCE

With a better handle on COVID concerns this season, the resort is now doubling down on its sustainability efforts, with more on the horizon. One obvious change, especially in our drought cycle, concerns snowmaking. The More efficient snow-making is just one of the many ways in which the Steamboat Ski Area is focusing resort, Jones says, is now using on sustainability. more environmentally friendly summer’s base area demolition. “Our facilities team worked snowmaking guns, ensuring 80 hard to divert as much waste as possible,” says Jones, adding that percent of the snow made from its draws furniture, lockers, equipment and even lightbulbs were either off the Yampa River flows back into the waterway. removed from the buildings for reuse, given away or recycled, It’s also enacting programs to reduce energy usage operating resulting in a 70 percent diversion rate. Jones adds that all its gondola and chairlifts, and it recently participated on the the new buildings in the base area will also be LEED-certified project management team for the Routt County Climate Action (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), achieving a Plan. “Our operations are in the top 10 users of electricity and globally recognized standard of sustainability. water within our county,” Jones says. “We also generate a lot of Jones adds that management also realizes the issue of climate waste. It’s important that we be at the table when developing change and environmental stewardship is bigger than any resort strategies for emissions reduction to ensure we can implement and that “we have to work together to combine our voices to them and help lead the way.” really make effective climate action and policy.” As such, the resort In addition to minimizing and recycling waste from its food also partnered with The Nature Conservancy to host a webinar operations, the ski area did the same thing as part of this past 58 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

DELIBERATE CREATIVE PROCESS ELEGANT DESIGN SOLUTIONS

C CRAFT architecture studio

Adam Wright, AIA 970.819.1320 craftarchitecturestudio.com Steamboat Springs, CO PHOTO CREDIT: TIM MURPHY

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 59

NOAH WETZEL

looking at climate change impacts and action through the lens of ski resort operations, and participated with the city and county to help identify local transportation solutions. This summer, parent company Alterra also partnered with Vail Resorts, Powdr Corp. and Boyne Mountain to publish a Climate Collaborative Charter, pledging to work together on the issue.

Like heading back up for another ski run, the resort has more sustainability initiatives it’s rolling out this season. The first is eliminating all single-use plastic drinking containers.

“Our food and beverage department has been working hard to move away from single-use plastic bottles and cups this season,” she says.

“Wherever possible, fountain and bar drinks will be served in reusable cups. We’re also working with Ball Corp. to replace beer and cocktail cups with aluminum ones.”

Night skiing lights illuminate the runs at the Steamboat Ski Area.

The resort will still have reusable cups at its water filling stations and sell reusable Vapur bottles at retail, but it will no longer have singleuse plastic bottles of water and soda; they, too, will be replaced “These efforts we’re doing aren’t as visible as the ones we’re with aluminum. “We chose aluminum over plastic because it’s doing on the mountain, but they’re a huge step in our climate infinitely recyclable and the rates of recycling, even in rural action and environmental stewardship work,” Jones says, communities like Steamboat, are higher than plastics,” she says. adding that the resort kicked-off a strategic planning process in And a big part of its efforts, she says, remains with continual September with hopes to have a plan complete by the end of strategic planning for the future, getting through whatever red the ski season. “It will define our climate action and tape the ski area needs to in order to keep making its operations environmental sustainability goals as well as provide a – and slopes – green. roadmap on how to get there.”

LARRY PIERCE 60 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Audrey Williams skis fresh powder on a bluebird day at the Steamboat Ski Area.

Two

Per fect Days Ever wish you had a local guide to show you around the mountain? Let’s ski together for a couple of days.

| BY DEBORAH OLSEN

Day One: A Bluebird Day Clear skies and cold • Board the gondola with First Tracks.

Deb’s tip: First Tracks isn’t usually crowded on a cold, clear day, but untracked corduroy runs a close second to powder.

Due to temperature inversions, it may get warmer as we near the top.

• From the gondie, take Spur Run to Sundown Lift, which opens early for First Tracks.

Deb’s tip: Storm Peak Face is scrapy on a cold morning, while Morningside faces the sun.

Deb’s tip: The main part of the Z can have exposed rocks when it hasn’t snowed in a while.

• Enjoy the 360° view at the top, then turn right down a short hill to the first gate back into the park. It’s steep at first, then goes through mellow trees back to the lift.

• Take a left at the top of Pony to Middle Rib, along the western boundary of the ski area. Stay right at the fork and take Outlaw past Pony Express to BC Ski Way, all the way to Thunderhead Express. Lunch is on the third floor of Thunderhead Lodge– a lot of stairs, but a great view.

• Once at the top, turn right onto Flintlock and from there to Rendezvous Way.

• Turn left to Over Easy and Buddy’s Run, which we’ll cross – carefully – to Calf Roper, then into Four Points Lodge for a cuppa.

Deb’s tip: Most skiers will be heading for the black runs, leaving untracked corduroy on the blues.

Deb’s tip: We have too much skiing ahead to have a Bloody Mary, although it’s the BEST.

• Continue to Rolex, a steep black run that was groomed last night, something that only happens a few times a winter.

• After the break, ski down Cyclone. Its shadowy slopes hold the snow well and a possible fresh groom makes it fast.

Deb’s tip: Always check the grooming report to find these rare delights.

• Take Bar-U-E back to the top, thus avoiding Tornado Lane and Drop Out, which are likely to be icy.

• Return to the top via Sundown Lift and take High Noon to One O’Clock for more fresh corduroy. Stay high-up to cross over at the bottom to Lower High Noon.

• Take Elkhead lift to cross over to Mount Werner. Take Velvet to Lower Rainbow to Storm Peak Express, which will just be opening.

• At the top of Storm Peak, ski straight ahead into Morningside Park.

Deb’s tip: Because Bar-U-E is close to the ground and runs through the trees, it’s often warmer than high-speed lifts on windy days.

• At the top, stop by the statue of Buddy Werner to pay him homage.

• Traverse a well-established path to The Ridge; turn downhill anywhere that looks good, and take the catwalk to Flying Z. Stay in the gully on skier’s right.

Ski past Bar-U-E and Storm Peak lifts down to Pony Express.

• Back outside the gondola building, ski Vagabond full-length to Thunderhead Express.

• At the top of Thunderhead, skirt behind the lodge to Heavenly Daze, and ski along the right side to Ted’s Ridge, a steep but regularly groomed run.

Continue on to Bashor chairlift.

• We’re going to Maverick’s halfpipe, even though we’re neither kids nor boarders.

Ski back and forth across the pipe, reaching higher on the sides with each turn, and head back to Bashor chairlift.

Deb’s tip: It’s like a fish story. With each retelling, you went bigger.

• From the top of Bashor, head down See Me, adjacent to All Out, the off-limits Alpine race course.

Deb’s tip: This is your best shot at channeling Mikaela.

• With storm clouds on the horizon, we’re ready for après ski at the T-bar.

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 61

LARRY PIERCE

Audrey Williams skis the Two O’Clock trees at the Steamboat Ski Area.

Day Two: A Powder Day Eight inches and dumping • Get to the gondola by 7:45, at the latest.

Deb’s tip: There’s no way to avoid the lines at the base on a powder day. The First Tracks line can be as long, or longer, than the main line.

• Take a sharp left at the top of Thunderhead onto Vagabond (look for untracked pow along the edges) and turn right onto Surprise. Enjoy the forgiving, snow-covered bumps on the first two pitches, then turn right (uphill, but only for a couple seconds), onto the catwalk.

62 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Cut left into the powder field adjacent to Surprise.

Deb’s tip: Ski at a diagonal so you come out onto lower Surprise, rather than getting sucked into the stream at the end of the meadow.

• Take Storm Peak lift, then head down skier’s left of Buddy’s Run, dipping into the trees. Cross the catwalk and continue under the Bar U-E lift line, then right onto the catwalk to Buddy’s Run and down Drop Out to Storm Peak Lift.

• At the top, head to The Ridge and take it down to Skeeter’s Run, an oftenoverlooked hero run, which leads to Flying Z, where we can choose any line today. Go past Bar-U-E lift to Vortex and across to Burgess Creek Lift.

Deb’s tip: Ski right down the middle of the Z, alongside the island of trees, for sweet and deep.

• Take Lights Out to Moonlight, where we can play like skateboarders on the berm.

• Take Sundown Express to the summit.

Turn right onto Sundial to Black Powder, a deep powder run that ends at Tomahawk cutoff. From there, head down Tomahawk to the trees between Buckshot and Ramrod.

Deb’s tip: Kids love this area, which features gentle terrain and widely spaced trees.

• Take Sunshine Express and turn right onto Sundial. This time, cut left into Hot Cakes, where the gentle bumps and chutes are especially fun in the ‘der.

• Take Morningside Lift and turn right at the top. We’re taking a short, but steep, hike to the 10,568-foot summit.

Go around the microwave towers to Gate D and East Face, which could well be snorkel-depth. At the bottom of the face, there’s a steep drop to Last Chance, where we need to get speed for the long traverse to Flying Z and Bar-U-E lift.

Deb’s tip: Bar-U-E is old and slow, the perfect chance to catch your breath.

• At the summit, head to the Closets, perhaps the most famous tree run in America, and ultimately, onto Sunset.

Then cross over to lower Rainbow, which takes us to Four Points lift. By now, we need a break – and a hot meal at Four Points.

• After lunch, it’s time for Twister-Cane, the trees on skiers’ left of Twister and on to Hurricane. After the first pitch of Hurricane, take the Chisholm Trail to Rainbow, and cross the saddle to White Out, where the freestyle team has undoubtedly already laid down a line through the bumps.

• Take Storm Peak to the top and go right across Highline to Three O’clock.

From there, stay left and go into the trees of Twilight, through aspen groves and pine forests, to the top of Daybreak.

• Go up Sundown lift and right across Sundial, dropping off the right edge of Black Powder and then back onto Tomahawk. Detour onto Baby Powder, if only for the sake of its name.

• Take South Peak lift, then go across the flats to Broadway. It may be a green catwalk, but the view from its hairpin turn is breathtaking.

• Take Elkhead lift to Tower, but stay far right and cut out onto Norther, famous for its “geriatric” bumps. Go left onto Why Not to Surprise, then left through a gap in the trees at the top into a beetle kill area that will lead back out onto Vagabond. Cross over – carefully – to Betwixt. Because we’re kids at heart, we’re going to go through Rough Rider Basin on our way out. We may even duck through the obstacles.

• From here take Beeline and go up Bashor. Turn right onto See Me, which will be a different run than it was yesterday, buried under a foot of snow.

• With weary legs and a happy heart, we’ll ski to the base area, where drinks at Timber & Torch await.

Night skiing anyone?

THERE'S A LOT MORE

here to love

THAN WINTER Around here, when winter ends and our Champagne Powder® snow melts, the lakes thaw, the wildflowers bloom, and all the things you love about Steamboat become even more wonderful. Come hike, come bike, come fish, come fest. Come experience the Summer side of Steamboat.

VISIT STEAMBOATSUMMER.COM

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 63

Facilitating

64 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Freshies Powdercats Offers Intro to Backcountry Tours

| BY EUGENE BUCHANAN PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY STEAMBOAT POWDERCATS

W

ith backcountry skiing and splitboarding becoming the fastest-growing category in the snowsports industry (thank you, pandemic), local snowcat outfitter Steamboat Powdercats is laying tracks for a new program catering to its growing participants: backcountry tours.

Powdercats “Intro to Backcountry” program is designed to teach people the basic skills needed to safely explore the backcountry on their own – with the bonus of an initial ride up the mountain so you don’t have to earn every single turn yourself.

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 65

CHEERS

EXPERIENCE STEAMBOAT WHISKEY COMPANY COCKTAILS, BOTTLE SALES & TASTINGS Have You Tried Our New Food Menu?

We Have Dessert!

OPEN Weekdays 3PM Weekends 12PM VISIT US 1103 Lincoln Ave k DOWNTOWN STEAMBOAT www.SteamboatWhiskeyCo.com 970-846-3534 66 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

“We started it about three years ago, but it’s been growing ever since and about doubling every season,” says Powdercats manager Kent Vertrees. “We had a super successful season with it last year, taking nearly 100 people out.”

While he says they’re not avalanche courses per se, the program is designed to help teach the basics of backcountry touring, from how to use such equipment as touring bindings

(including the best tricks for flipping up those finnicky heel-lifts) and putting on and taking off skins to the nuances of safe route selection and the best techniques for making kick turns.

Know Before You Go: • Take an avalanche class • Research the myriad of online avalanche awareness and education recourses available

The aspens on Buffalo Pass offer endless powder stashes for backcountry splitboarding or skiing.

Plan and Prepare: • Learn about the area you’re going into • Check the avalanche forecast and weather report • Create a tour plan to match your skill and fitness level (consider plan A, B, C) • Pick your backcountry partners wisely (do you have the same goals?)

• Double-check your gear (backpack, shovel, probe, beacon, extra batteries, skins, tool kit, first aid kit, water, food,

extra layers, extra goggles/glasses/gloves/ layers, hand warmers, cell phone, etc.)

• Create an emergency action plan (consider what you will do if you have to evacuate someone) Execute your plan: • Stick to your tour plan • Examine the snow throughout your trip for any signs of instability • Pay attention to the weather (is it matching the forecast?)

• Stay in constant communication with your ski partners Enjoy the post-trip fiesta: • Stock a cooler with beverages of your choice in your rig at the trailhead • Change out of sweaty clothes • Recollect on the trip with your ski partners as to how your plan matched your execution

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 67

The trips cater to all ability and fitness levels, regardless of experience, from never-evers to experienced backcountry tourers. Leading the program this year are longtime Powdercats guides Brian Gardel and Dan Hohl.

“We custom-tailor each tour to the group and whatever their experience level is,” adds Director of Operations Eric Deering. “That dictates where we take them. Last year we had a skimo racer from Switzerland who just wanted a guide to go touring with who just about killed me.”

The courses are also valuable for those planning on taking avalanche courses. (Powdercats offers several Level 1 Avalanche Certification courses each season.)

“One problem across the industry is that people show up to these courses to learn avalanche safety and rescue, but a lot of time gets eaten up because they don’t know how to use their gear,” Deering says. “This helps get people comfortable with their equipment and being in that kind of terrain.”

Another big advantage, Vertrees adds, is that the touring groups can get to areas the snowcats can’t – which is especially useful on low precipitation years.

“Last year we had to cancel snowcats because of the low snowfall, but we kept our backcountry skiing program going because we can get into different zones,” he says.

A Steamboat Powdercats snowstake measures the winter’s snowfall.

Wine-Collective.com

Wine-Collective.com

1875 Ski Time Square Dr. (970) 761-2638 68 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

1875 Ski Time Square Dr.

(970) 761-2638

A group of skiers follows their Steamboat Powdercats guide during an Intro to Backcountry tour on Buffalo Pass.

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 69

“And the skiing was incredible.”

Another advantage: a snowmobile or snowcat “bump” up into the touring terrain, accessing virgin snow while racking up a little extra vertical.

One favorite trip, Vertrees says, is the “Soda Surprise,” including a drop-off on the top of Soda Mountain, with the day’s last run skiing down the Nose of Soda into the Soda Creek drainage and touring the Ditch Trail out.

70 70 || ONLINE ONLINE AT AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

The company can take backcountry skiers out within their permit boundary, he adds, unless they’re “egressing out of the terrain.” A great escape from the ski area crowds, a typical day, he adds, includes up to six laps or so of skinning and skiing.

The tours are private and limited to up to four guests per guide. Departing at 7:30 a.m. and returning late afternoon, they include a motorized bump into the terrain, snacks, water, hot drink, deli lunch from Yampa Sandwich Co., and beacon, shovel

525 LINCOLN AVE. • ACROSS FROM THE OLD COURTHOUSE

970-870-6658

RESIDENTIAL TJ Jenkins and Leslie Roubos take part in a Steamboat Powdercats Intro to Backcountry tour.

and probe. Participants need to provide their own touring gear (skis or splitboard and skins) and pack.

“Backcountry touring is getting more and more popular every year,” Vertrees says. “Look at Bluebird Backcountry, a touring-only ‘resort’ which just opened on the other side of Rabbit Ears Pass. So, we figured, why not? And we have much better terrain and snow.”

COMMERCIAL NEW CONSTRUCTION REMODELS AND ADDITIONS

970.846.8016 Frank Becker, beckerarchitecture.com STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 71

License to

Bill Best, Peter Daley Sr. and Peter Daley Jr. 72 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

FRESH PRINTS PHOTOGRAPHY, STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, CO

COURTESY NORTHLAND SKIS

Bill Best carves a turn on Upper High Noon at the Steamboat Ski Area using a pair of Northland Skis.

Carve COURTESY NORTHLAND SKIS

Northland Skis revives a legendary ski brand in Steamboat Springs.

Each of Northland’s skis is handcrafted in Steamboat Springs.

| BY DAN GREESON

T

he Northland Skis logo harkens back to a time when craftsmanship, simplicity and attention to detail were synonymous with ski manufacturing. A group of Steamboat Springs ski-makers is hard at work to bring that spirit back.

Founded in 1911 in St. Paul, Minnesota, Northland Skis reigned as the largest ski company in the world during the 1920s and ‘30s. Throughout the decades leading up the ‘60s, Northlands were the ski of choice for numerous champions, including Toni Matt, Penny Pitou and Stein Eriksen. During this time, many championships on Howelsen Hill were won on Northlands, and the U.S. Army 10th Mountain Division had their skis supplied exclusively by Northland. The brand rode high until a series of factory fires and the evolution of laminated skis led to Northland being sold to Larson Industries in the late ‘60s.

The company closed its doors in 1970, and the brand faded into obscurity… …That is, until Steamboat Springs local Peter Daley revived Northland Skis in 2013, buying the name and original logos. He converted his garage into a workshop, hand-crafting skis and selling early builds largely through word-of-mouth.

Daley’s son, Peter Daley Jr., fell in love with the Northlands during a college break in 2013. “I came back for Christmas and I was like, ‘What the hell are these?’” he says. “I was looking for something more backcountry-oriented at the time, and I couldn’t find anything else that was comfortable, so I jumped on these. The biggest thing I noticed was the reliability and

dependability. I never looked back from there.” Daley Jr. would go on to join the Northland team as head of manufacturing.

In 2020, Bill Best joined the Daleys to enhance Northland’s business development strategies. A former competitor with the U.S. Ski Team, Best knows his skis. “I believed so much in their potential, I moved here to be a part of their brand,” he says. In recent months, Northland brought Will Stewart and Chris Bell on board to support the brand’s evolving ski engineering and production needs.

In 2021, Northland inked a deal with ski retailer Gorsuch, taking the next step in growing the company. Moving forward, the Northland team will continue to sell directly to customers in Steamboat Springs, with the possibility of creating a local retail business in the future.

“There’s no gimmick with this ski,” Daley Jr. says. “There’s a certain inherency between each pair. If you were blindfolded, you could tell that you were skiing on Northlands. I would say that the word ‘lively’ best describes the feel.”

The Northland team hopes to create a ski that does away with the need for constant replacements and upgrades. “Our goal is to be a standard. We want retailers not to constantly have to sell out stock to make room for new products. It’s become common for people to have quivers of skis even though they all ski very similar,” Daley Sr. says.

The simplicity and focus in Northland’s collection speaks to the confidence they have in their design. “We believe in the ski enough that we’re making the ski the same each time,” Best says.

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 73

COURTESY NORTHLAND SKIS

Cutting a segment of stacked pine, ash and hickory for a new pair of skis.

“At the core, we’ll continue making the same ski.

This is the classic.”

The Northland team’s goal with what they’ve created is versatility not only in terms of terrain, but also skill-level. “There’s no top-end – everyone from advanced intermediates to world cup ski racers – the skis do a lot of the work for you,” Best says.

“People tell me, ‘Those are beautiful skis,’” Daley Sr. says. “And I say, ‘They ski a lot better than they look.’”

While modern trends lean toward wide, rockered skis, Northlands feature a narrow waist of 78-80 mm and a radius of 11-13 m. When paired with a lively camber and dramatic side-cut, Northlands are specialized to carve in a variety of conditions. The narrower the ski, Daley Sr. explains, the less energy the skier needs to put in to generate an energetic bounce out of a turn. “Our core goal will always be there – the ability to carve,” Daley Sr. says.

The process of redesigning the Northland ski was one of repeated trial and error, experimenting with a variety of ski shapes and materials. While shape plays a large role, Daley Jr. is quick to note that the materials are where the magic happens. “The materials give these skis that liveliness and springiness,” he says.

The top layer of the ski comprises ribbon-striped African mahogany with a core of pine, ash and hickory that gives dampening, poppiness and springiness. A layer of Kevlar helps with dampening and a layer of carbon enhances rebound and torsional performance.

Fiberglass adds stiffness and torsional stability. Collectively these are laminated with a metal edge, creating an advanced carving ski.

The Northland wood core extends out to the edges of the ski rather than being limited to the middle. Each pair of skis is cut from one piece of wood, ensuring that properties like the density and flex are evenly balanced between skis.

The ski manufacturing process can be tricky, as Daley Jr. knows better than anyone. “We make our skis completely in Steamboat Springs – every step of the manufacturing. It’s a truly handcrafted ski,” he says. “ And there are complexities throughout the process that require extra attention to detail so that it’s done right for every pair made. That’s the hardest part.”

But Daley Sr. disagrees about the most difficult part of making Northlands. “The real hardest part of the process is coming down off the mountain,” he says, laughing.

Learn more about Northland Skis at www.NorthlandSkis.com.

74 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

COURTESY NORTHLAND SKIS

Laminating the kevlar portion of the ski, which helps with dampening.

www.eyecare-specialties.com

Eye Exams Craig Eckroth, O.D. for the Whole Family Melissa Vides, O.D. • Contact Lens Services • Western Slope Leader in Dry Eye Care 365 Anglers Dr., Ste. A, Stmbt Spgs • Cataract Surgery 970-879-2020 eyecare-specialities.com • Optical Boutique – Including Sports Eyewear

COURTESY NORTHLAND SKIS

• Comprehensive

COURTESY NORTHLAND SKIS

Laminating the ski’s wood core.

Peter Daley Jr. hand-finishes the hickory core sidewall.

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 75

ISTOCK

Media

Winter Binges READ. EAT. REPEAT. | BY JENNIE LAY

F

READ

ans of Literary Sojourn have been shut out by two years of pandemic pause. But Bud Werner Library is jump-starting Steamboat Springs’ book lust with a popup Winter Sojourn, a “special edition” of the traditional fall event. This time, the festival of authors, slated for Saturday, Jan. 22, in the Strings Pavilion, corresponds with snowflakes instead of golden aspens. Whether or not tickets remain by the time you read this, Winter Sojourn guarantees a hot reading list for the season’s cold, dark days. Savor the latest books by the four featured authors. www.wintersojourn.org

76 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

“The Cold Millions”

By Jess Walter Jess Walter builds an endearing historic novel set in the labor struggles of 1909 Spokane, Washington. The characters, their adventures and their causes are big and irresistible, as union organizers cross paths with arrivals fresh off the frontier, and real characters mix with fictional ones. It evokes a time of xenophobia and untamed capitalism, told through two orphaned brothers who ally themselves with a struggle for better working conditions. The National Endowment for the Arts has selected the novel as a national Big Read title for community reads.

“We Run the Tides”

By Vendela Vida Time travel back to the mid-80s and deep into the unsteady psychological embrace of eighth-grade girls. Their friendships bare all the posturing and insecurity you might expect, craftily conveyed is layers of astute childlike observations veering into the brink of adulthood. Vendela Vida unravels a world of charismatic girls, hierarchical San Francisco families and outlandish lies that are at once believable, relatable and just about as devastating as tweendom can be.

“Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law”

By Mary Roach Mary Roach reminds us of the “wild” that’s intrinsic to wildlife. This is nonfiction wrought in her signature style of making us laugh out loud while we learn a lot. Fuzz showcases a whole lot of human folly in the inventive ways we attempt to keep the spirit of the wild from veering inside our people-contrived boundaries. The global lessons are well-tailored to Steamboat’s local predicaments with bears, moose, mountain lions, wolves and more.

“The Shadow King”

By Maaza Mengiste Historic fiction spurred by author Maaza Mengiste’s Ethiopian grandmother’s personal story, “The Shadow King” is set during World War II’s first real conflict, Italy’s 1935 invasion of Ethiopia.

It is a harrowing, heartbreaking and unputdownable tunnel into war, its vast consequences and the world of women soldiers whose stories have been ignored until now. The novel was shortlisted for the 2020 Booker Prize.

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 77

Have you visited

Media

lately?

The late Sherman Poppen, a Steamboat Springs resident whose “Snurfer” is considered the forerunner of the modern snowboard.

Sign up for our online newsletter to receive edition of Steamboat Magazine! one

FREE

WATCH One Short Film: “Made in the Mitten” Director Zeppelin Zeerip screened an irresistible little snowboard film at the Mountainfilm film festival last spring, and now it’s available to stream at home for free. The short tells the story of the Snurfer, and it’s dedicated to the memories of Jake Burton and the late part-time Steamboat resident Sherman Poppen.

Steamboat Magazine interviewed Poppen, the “Father of Snowboarding,” for our holiday 2009 issue, when his first Snurfer – a stand-on-top sledding contraption he screwed together with two 36-inch skis and some molding so his daughters could ride the snow-covered Lake Michigan sand dunes – was acquired by the Smithsonian Institution for its permanent collection.

“Made in the Mitten” is a heartwarming ode to its inventor. www.vimeo.com/460666206

‘T

COOK

is the season for feasting. It’s also ideal timing to tempt your crowd’s tastebuds with new recipes.

These three delicious cookbooks will kickstart your holiday menu planning – and perhaps your gift shopping for a favorite chef, too.

“The Arabesque Table” by Reem Kassis In this collection of contemporary recipes from the Arab world, Reem Kassis demonstrates how every dish tells a story. Stop drooling at the photographs and start reading the short anecdotes that accompany each recipe – intergenerational tales of spice and poetry and culinary tradition that have crossed the continents.

Kassis herself is a Palestinian writer who grew up in Jerusalem, then lived in France, Germany, Jordan and the U.K. before settling in Philadelphia. Like her personal trajectory, this culinary work of art traverses the Arabic diaspora while providing delectable 21st century interpretations.

78 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

“The Essential New York Times Cookbook: Recipes of Record” by Amanda Hesser Make space on your cookbook shelf for this tome. The James Beard Award-winning assembly of the newspaper’s best recipes by former New York Times food editor Amanda Hesser has earned its decennial update. With more than a thousand recipes, it’s a treasure trove for that perennial question, “What’s for dinner?”

Carefully curated and tested recipes mean there’s something pleasing in here for everyone, and the big book is certain to remain a classic on every foodie’s shelf.

“Salt & Straw Ice Cream Cookbook” by Tyler Malek When the world’s best ice cream shop is halfway across the country, it’s a blessing that they’ve sent us home to the Rockies with their divine recipes. Building the flavors requires a little dedication, a process that stems from making the essential “base” – but when you follow the directions, the mouth-watering results are stupendous. Every. Single. Time. Trust me … start your frozen adventures with the arbequina olive oil ice cream.

ONE BOOK STEAMBOAT In the last issue of Steamboat Magazine, we forewarned you: “The Ministry for the Future” by Kim Stanley Robinson is essential reading. Now the cli-fi masterpiece has been selected as the One Book Steamboat community read. This announcement launches with the release of the novel’s paperback and Robinson’s speaking engagement at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow. Read the book and partake in opportunities for deeper dives into its intersectional climate change themes during January and February at Bud Werner Library.

One Book Steamboat culminates in a community author talk with Robinson on Tuesday, March 1. www.steamboatlibrary.org/events/ one-book-steamboat

Now Available

COMPLIMENTARY SHUTTLE SERVICE

VISIT GOLDENLEAF.CO TO SCHEDULE

ORDER ONLINE

PICKUP AT GOLDEN LEAF

OPEN DAILY

2020

Recreational & Medical Dispensary

1755 Lincoln Avenue | Steamboat Springs

970-870-2941

LOCAL AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT “You Are the Blue Sky” by Sarah Kostin Sarah Kostin is a well-known and beloved figure in Steamboat Springs, having held a bright space at the helm of yoga classes, storytimes and myriad running races. As a former children’s librarian turned life coach, she’s now sharing a deeper slice of her luminous self with the world. Kostin’s new memoir, “You Are the Blue Sky,” offers revelations from her personal awakening that can help ease real life for rest of us. As she says, “We don’t have to work hard for happiness. We are made of it.” Start 2022 off on a positive vibe with Kostin’s public talk at Bud Werner Library, where she returns to her old stomping grounds to talk about her new book at 6 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 11, in Library Hall. www.sarahkostin.com

STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 79

A selection of Marion Kahn’s artwork on display at Rumor Design + reDesign. Kahn was the cover artist of the most recent edition of the Yampa Valley Arts & Culture Guide, which can be found at YampaValleyArts.com.

Why Stop at the Last Page?

RACHEL MILLER

Why Stop Here?

STAY INFORMED, CONNECTED AND ENTERTAINED WITH SKI TOWN MEDIA’S ONLINE CONTENT.

Olympic Standings

Steamboat Springs is home to more Olympians than any other town in the country. Keep tabs on Olympic-caliber athletes as they compete and train this season in Ski Town, USA®. Visit SteamboatMagazine.com for information on winter sports competitions leading up to the winter Olympics. Follow @steamboatmagazine on Instagram and Facebook for highlights on local athletes, competitions and events.

Transformation at Steamboat Ski Area

Steamboat Resort began its two-year plan to improve and enhance the experience both on and off the mountain. With plans for an après ski plaza, new restaurants, lodging and an ice rink at the base of the mountain, and new lifts and new terrain on the mountain, Steamboat Resort is “Full Steam Ahead.” Follow @steamboatmagazine on Facebook and Instagram for information and updates on the mountain.

Events and Holiday Happenings

The winter season in Steamboat Springs is always an eventful one.

From pop-up concerts at the Steamboat Ski Area to events around 80 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM

the holidays and all ski season long, visit SteamboatMagazine.com or follow @steamboatmagazine on social media to stay in the loop about winter festivities in Steamboat Springs.

Dining in the Valley

The culinary scene is one to explore while visiting Steamboat Springs. Sample local fare at a variety of restaurants: breakfast and lunch spots, happy hour gems, delicious cocktails and fine dining.

Visit SteamboatMagazine.com for the inside scoop on the best restaurants in the Yampa Valley.

Yampa Valley Arts & Culture

Steamboat Springs is recognized as a thriving, world-class creative community. From painters and photographers to dancers and performers, YampaValleyArts.com showcases the vibrant arts and culture in the Yampa Valley. Stay up-to-date on upcoming performances and art exhibits at YampaValleyArts.com.

more @

Visit www.SteamboatMagazine.com for original, timely content.

LANDSCAPE

970.871.0056 VERTICAL-ARTS.COM STELHOUSE.COM

PLANNING

ARCHITECTURE

INTERIORS

FURNISHINGS

TOGETHER, WE WILL CRAFT YOUR STORY THROUGH AUTHENTIC, TIMELESS DESIGN. STEAMBOAT MAGAZINE | SKI 2021-22 | 3

Energy efficient custom homes & remodels

970.879.3366 | letsonenterprises.com | Insured & Bonded | 30+ Years Experience

4 | ONLINE AT WWW.STEAMBOATMAGAZINE.COM