Breckenridge Magazine Issue 2 by Mountain Town Magazine

MOUNTAINtown

BRECKENRIDGE Trail Etiquette Local Color + Eats Other Breck Treats Issue #2 2021

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

A higher standard of health care. St. Anthony’s Summit Medical Center has been there too, delivering award winning health care at the busiest Level III Trauma Center in the state of Colorado. We care for our patients utilizing state-of-the-art technology, including the latest monitoring and surgical equipment. Year after year, our patient satisfaction scores rank among the very highest in the country in the Small Hospital Category and for our Inpatient Medical Surgical Unit. SPECIALTIES INCLUDE: • 3D Mammography

• ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat)

• Orthopedics

• Cardiology

• Emergency Services

• Radiology & Imaging

• Cancer Care & Infusion Therapy

• Obstetrics

• Sleep Disorders Center

• Critical Care

• Level III Trauma Center

• Total Joint and Spine Program

970-668-3300 340 Peak One Drive, Frisco, CO 80443 summitmedicalcenter.org

summitmedicalcenter.org

We are part of Centura Health, the region’s leading health care network. Centura Health does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, religion, creed, ancestry, sexual orientation, and marital status in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. For further information about this policy contact Centura Health’s Oﬃce of the General Counsel at 1-303-673-8166 (TTY: 711). Copyright © Centura Health, 2017. ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-720-321-0490 (TTY: 711). CHÚ Ý: Nếu bạn nói Tiếng Việt, có các dịch vụ hỗ trợ ngôn ngữ miễn phí dành cho bạn. Gọi số 1-720-321-0490 (TTY: 711).

Scott & Anne Lindblom are local agents specializing in luxury and mountain properties in Summit and Park County.

If you are interested in buying or selling real estate in the mountains, don’t wait. Give us a call to make your real estate dreams come true.

LIVE THE MOUNTAIN LIFE.

Scott & Anne Lindblom – Luxury and Mountain Property Specialists Scott M. Lindblom C: 970-485-4065 E: scott.lindblom@cbmp.com Anne V. Lindblom C: 608-345-2734 E: anne.lindblom@cbmp.com LindblomGroupe.com

137 Main Street | P.O. Box 1598 Breckenridge, CO 80424

WE’RE ALL IMPERFECT. We’re all human – which means we all have struggles, problems, issues and imperfections. But even though we share these traits in common, they’re often the hardest things to share about. But we can’t care for one another if we keep quiet. Our words have power. The power to help. To heal. To open closed doors. And to shed light into dark places. So let’s use our words to take care of each other, and break into the imperfect parts of each other’s lives.

LET’S BE IMPERFECT TOGETHER.

DISCOVER HOPE-BUILDING RESOURCES

BUILDINGHOPESUMMIT.ORG

W WE E I INVITE NVITE Y O U T O YOU TO SHOP SBRECKENRIDGE HOP BRECK ( SHOP S H O P LOCAL L O C A L ~~ SSHOP H O P SSMALL MALL )

Independent businesses are the heart of our high streets and the pulse of

Independent businesses are the heart of our high streets and the pulse local community.Our unique boutiques of ourour local community. Breckenridge boutiques and andservices servicesare arefinding finding creative ways andand are are going to extraordinary lengths toto stay open. They're creative ways going to extraordinary lengths stay open. They’re counting on us to get behind them. Remember, where you shop matters to counting on us to get behind them and remember that where you shop our mountain town.

matters to our mountain town.

THANK YOU FOR VISITING BRECKENRIDGE THANK YOU FOR VISITING BRECKENRIDGE

Locals' Choice

BEST SHOPPING Featuring Z SUPPLY FREE PEOPLE VINTAGE HAVANA GENTLE FAWN KUT FROM THE KLOTH TAI JEWELRY and many more!

SHOP IN-STORE & ONLINE

Denver Highlands • Breckenridge • Avon • Edwards • Steamboat Springs RUBYJANE.COM

publisher’s greeting Welcome to Issue 2 of MountainTown: Breckenridge. This magazine is a reflection of our passion for living in the Kingdom of Breckenridge. Kingdom, you say? Well, if you would like to know more about that, then I suggest you read issue 1, there is a link on our website. Our lovely town is gorgeous, offering alpine views, a plethora of flowered meadows and colorful changes as Fall moves in. Autumn brings winter-like conditions as well, and these days the ski season starts way before winter officially arrives. We allow our lifestyle to be dictated by the recreational opportunities that surround us. Shopping, exceptional dining, art, and fantastic events all grace this Victorian town. The people who live here are a kind, passionate group. We dwell at 9,600 feet because we want to be here and figure out how to make it work so we can stay living and loving each season Breckenridge offers. It isn't always easy. Sometimes it's BreckenFridge; other times its WindyRidge, at least that's what jealous folks beyond the borders of Summit County call it. When we were sitting in quarantine, we noticed many Breckenridge publications had no social media or a website to keep people up to date on what was happening other than our community newspaper, the Summit Daily News. We decided we needed a print publication, website, and social media owned and produced by the folks who live here to keep people current on what is happening. Follow us online and stay up to date. MountainTown: Breckenridge is a magazine produced by Breckenridge Locals to share all of our Local stories! All photography, editorial, distribution, and sales have been crafted together with Breckenridge area residents. We are building a Socially Conscious Company that guarantees all revenue generated (other than printing) will be spent in the incredible mountain community of Breckenridge. Being outdoors plays a huge role in why people choose to live at elevation; 365 days of vacation sit right outside our front and back doors. Access to trails is almost immediate and plays a big part in our day. There are so many talented folks in Breckenridge; Artists, Chefs, Tech Geeks, Athletes, Moms, Dads, Philanthropists, Students, Entrepreneurs, Musicians, Brewers, Educators, Entertainers; the list of talent is remarkable. But what is more remarkable is how many of them give back. In this issue, MountainTown: Breckenridge highlights how to be a good sport while playing outside; stories about people who live here and contribute to our community, like Jeff Westcott who we feature in this issue. A personal shout out of thanks for all he has done; also intel on Cafes and Eateries, Family Fun, Events, Activities, Real Estate, and more. Whether you live here or are visiting, if you love Breckenridge, then this magazine is for you! Now get out and enjoy the lush green summer we have been having, then stay and watch the trees explode with color and soon cover up with a layer of white gold. ~Holly Battista-Resignolo, Publisher

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

Two Locations Same "Award Winning Beer"

Open everyday 11 AM-10:30 PM for indoor and outdoor seating

#GetLost

at one of our two taprooms in Breckenridge New Main Steet Taproom | 520 S. Main Street Brewery & Taproom | 68 Continental Ct. Unit B-12 www.brokencompassbrewing.com

contents

14 CONTRIBUTORS 16 KINGDOM NOTES 20 NON-PROFIT NOOK 22 BRECK MADE 24 PRIORITIES 26 TRAIL 28 BRECK-ETIQUETTE 30 BUSINESS 32 ENTREPRENEURS 36 WELLNESS 38 FAMILY 41 PEOPLE OF BRECKENRIDGE 50 HOMES & REALTY 54 STAY 56 SOCIALLY SEEN 58 DINE LOCAL 66 COOK LOCAL 70 THE SCOUT 74 LAST CHAIR

Cover Image: Aspen Tunnels & Singletrack by HollyGoSpritely Photography

1222

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

PARADISE

Has an Address!

MTN METRO REAL ESTATE KATHY CHRISTINA BROKER/OWNER 970-389-1321 www.mtnmetro.com

411 S. Main Street, Breckenridge

MOUNTAINtown

BRECKENRIDGE

published by

MTN Town Media Productions publisher

Holly Battista-Resignolo communications

Gaynia Battista contributors

Shauna Farnell, Liam Doran, Leigh Girvin, Haley Littleton, Rick Eisenberg, Carl Scofield, Courtney Kenady, Alexandria Nicole, Robyn Nicoli, Holly Resignolo, Elaine Collins, Pepper Hamilton, Dori Welch advertising sales

Noelle Resignolo visionaries

Liam Doran, Carl Scofield, Lindsay Sevec, Elaine Collins, Linda Rokos Watts design

John Kernaghan cover image

'Aspen Tunnels' - Holly Go Spritely method behind the means

Publications Printers get more

Please visit us at MountainTownBreckenridge.com to subscribe to our publication released two times per year. promote you

Contact our corporate office or request a Media Kit: Email: MTNTownMagazine@gmail.com Office Phone: 970 485 0269 features

If you would like us to consider you or your business for a feature, please contact us at 970 485 0269 or email us at mtntownmagazine@gmail.com 2021 MTN Town Magazine. All rights reserved. No portion may be duplicated, in whole or in part, without the written consent of its publishers. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. The publisher assumes no responsibility for accuracy of information or omissions from the material provided. MTN Town Magazine cannot be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services rendered by the advertisers published in this magazine.

Welcome to Breckenridge! Remember,

Can move mountains!

After a year on-hold, we’re doing our best to get back on track. Many hotels, boutiques, and restaurants are short-staffed and may limit their offerings.

Thank you for being patient and kind!

Contributors

LIAM DORAN

Liam is a full-time professional photographer specializing in action sports, landscape, wildlife, and travel. He shoots commercial and editorial assignments around the world but is always happy to be home in Breckenridge with his friends and family. Follow Liam’s adventures at @liam_doran_ outdoors.

COURTNEY KENADY

On a whim and at her brother’s urging, ended up in Breckenridge, Colorado for the ski season. It didn’t take long for Courtney to realize the mountains felt like home. A love for road running, rafting, and snowboarding soon evolved into other sports like cross-country skiing, trail running, and most recently, mountain biking. As her love of the trails evolved, so did her realization that the Breck trail network with town access was unique and unprecedented. The idea of Bikenridge.com was born. Bikenridge.com is the brainchild of Courtney's business

ALEXANDRIA NICOLE

Alexandria Nicole lives in Breckenridge, with her family, and operates Majestic Mountain Tile & Stone and her Property Management Company, Unforgettable Vacations LLC, while devoting time as the Founding Chairwoman of The Social Equity Advisory Commission and acting Facilitator of Colorado-based Solidarity Talks.

DORI WELCH

Dori was born and raised in Breckenridge, where she continues to create a life treasuring the outdoors with her family. A nurse since 2005, she works in various areas of the local hospital. As a champion of health, Dori has also branched into Board Certified Nurse Coaching to support people in their inherent wellness. Dori has a lifelong passion for writing within a variety of content and enjoys being a part of the Breckenridge mountain community. 14

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

SHAUNA FARNELL

A Colorado native, Shauna Farnell loves every selfpowered means of mountain exploration. She launched her journalism career at the Summit Daily Newspaper in 2000 and after traveling the world as a media correspondent for the International Ski Federation, plus a few years in New York City and Denver, is thrilled to be back in Breckenridge full time.

CARL SCOFIELD

Carl Scofield lives in Breckenridge, CO where for over twenty-five years he has created a successful career as a full-time freelance photographer. His work has been published both nationally and internationally in many books and magazines including Ski, Skiing, Powder, Outside, Sunset, and many others. Balancing work and a lifestyle that allows him to enjoy his passion for living, travel, art, and adventure have been some of his greatest talents. carlscofield.com

HALEY KIT LITTLETON

Haley Littleton is a writer, community and public lands advocate, and manages communications and marketing for the Town of Breckenridge. Haley has a master’s degree in Literature and Creative Writing from the University of Denver. Haley's editorial work focuses on the outdoor industry, environment, creative nonfiction, and cultural criticism. When not reading, writing, or cooking, Haley is on her bike or skis.

ROBYN NICOLI

Robyn lives at 9,600 feet elevation here in Breckenridge with her tasting team (aka husband David and teenage son Jacob). She is the chief recipe developer, photographer, writer, and burnt pan-washer for Butter and Air. Cooking is her creative outlet, and any skills she has developed come not from culinary school but from a lifetime of finding yummy-looking things in newspapers, magazines, restaurants, and the internet, and being curious enough to try making them at elevation in her home. butterandair.com

LEIGH GIRVIN

Leigh Girvin moved to Breckenridge with her family in the early 1970s when the streets were dirt and the rock piles left by dredge boat mining towered over town. As a child, she attended Breckenridge Elementary and graduated from Summit High School. Seeing dramatic changes over the decades, Leigh dedicated her adulthood to protection of trails and open space, and later to historical preservation. Leigh’s particular interest is in Breckenridge’s modern history, from the economic decline of the early-20th Century through resurgence as a ski town.

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

Kingdom Notes

B Like Breckenridge Breckenridge Invites Guests and Residents to B Like Breckenridge: Born from the innovative 2019 Breckenridge Destination Management Plan, Breckenridge’s responsible stewardship initiatives focus on living everyday life in a kinder way to others and the environment. Everyone, no matter if a resident or guest, is encouraged to use less, walk more, leaving no trace, stick to the trails, respect wildlife, nature, and each other. By being responsible stewards of our communities, together, we can champion a cause that is greater than all of us.

Tourism Office, High Country Conservation Center, Vail Resorts, Summit County Government, Breckenridge Heritage Alliance, Walking Mountains Science Center, U.S. Forest Service, and others. It marks the culmination of two years of leadership by the Breckenridge community in progressive environmental conservation policies and programs.

While we believe we all have a place here, we also believe that the privilege of belonging comes with responsibility. Responsibility as locals and those just passing through should come together as a community to prove to ourselves that there is no limit to what can be accomplished when we seek the goal together.

Preserving the character of our town and the nature that surrounds us has always been at the heart of the Breckenridge spirit, our people and our brand. Breckenridge is a Leave No Trace Community Partner that works to protect all of our favorite outdoor places by being a part of a community that reaches thousands of people each year with Leave No Trace education. You can help us preserve and protect what we love by following the Leave No Trace principles during your visit.

In 2021, Breckenridge became certified as a sustainable mountain resort destination using the Mountain IDEAL standard. Breckenridge was approved by Green Destinations as the third destination in the United States certified through a program that the Global Sustainable Tourism Council accredits. The certification results from a multi-year partnership between the Town of Breckenridge, Breckenridge

Sustainability Projects Include: Green Commuting Climate Action Waste Reduction Destination Management Water Efficiency Sustainable Businesses Sustainability requires a cultural shift and participation by everyone. Join in; we are all in this together. www.gobreck.com

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

Sixty Years Ago, Modern Breckenridge Began Sixty years ago, Breckenridge shivered with excitement at the coming of the new ski area. The community survived its brush with ghost-town status as the new recreation economy began to supplant the dwindling mining industry. Young people glowing with the promise of a new frontier in the mountains brightened the prospects of the town. Things were looking up for dusty old Breckenridge. The future was not bright for Breckenridge in the late-1950s. Mining declined to a mere trickle. The burgeoning tourist trade in Colorado bypassed Breckenridge. It was far from the artery of U.S. Highway 6, and the road over Hoosier Pass was dirt, making for difficult travel. Were it not for jobs at the County Courthouse and the Breckenridge School, the town may not have survived. All that changed with the financial interest of the Rounds family and the deep pockets of Rounds & Porter Lumber Company of Wichita, Kansas. Seeing the promise of a future tourist trade thanks to the coming Dillon Reservoir and improved systems for automobile travel, the Rounds family bought up thousands of acres of raw land and began the permitting process for a ski area in Breckenridge. In the summer of 1961, Breckenridge clamored with the noise of new construction for the first time in decades. Saws buzzed and hammers pounded out new homes, businesses and resources for tourism. Builders like Trygve Berge could hardly keep up with demand. On the ski mountain, trees fell by the hundreds to make way for ski runs and lift towers. This was not going to be another rinky-dink ski area with rope tows and T-bars. Breckenridge would debut with a Heron chairlift, the latest in ski area technology. The base area included the Bergenhof restaurant and bar, equipment rentals and ski patrol services. In town, the Breckenridge Inn welcomed guests with modern amenities. A movie theater and bowling alley, suggested by then-Mayor Frank Brown, provided apres ski entertainment.

Youthful entrepreneurs introduced new businesses: hostels, bars, dining options and gift shops. Well before the ski area opened, Sigurd Rockne’s restaurant and nightclub, The Mine, offered good food and better jazz. Jim and Ginny Cope uprooted the family to provide a needed business, The Breckenridge Drug Store and soda fountain. Barney Brewer bought an old bed from an aging prostitute in town to start his Hotellery, part hotel and part youth hostel with liquor service on the main level. Old-timers exhaled with relief. Breckenridge bustled again with new life and industry. For those who were ready to leave, they could finally afford to quit the town, because their ramshackle Victorianera homes had value again. One family sold their house for $10,000 and left everything behind, including their woolens and long underwear. “We don’t need it where we’re going,” they told the new owners. The night before the new ski area opened, locals gathered at The Mine to hear the Eric Lawrence Trio with Jim McCabe on bass and Ray McGinnis on drums. Snow started to fall. As the night wore on, band members snuck off to bed, leaving Lawrence to play the piano. One young man, Jim Nicholls, slept on the floor that night, listening to Lawrence play Chopin as the snow piled up. They awoke to 16” of fresh snow to debut the new era in Breckenridge. On December 16, 1961, the Peak 8 Ski Area opened in Breckenridge. That first season a lift ticket was $4.50 and 16,000 skier days were logged. Rounds & Porter invested millions of dollars to create the new ski town of Breckenridge and they grossed barely $70,000. Even though the first season was such a financial disaster that the owners changed the name to Breckenridge Ski Area and started over the second season, the date marks the beginning of Breckenridge as we know it today. Happy 60th Anniversary to the Breckenridge Ski Area!

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

Kingdom Notes

Quandary Peak & McCullough Gulch Updates Due to severe overcrowding and illegal parking on county roads, Summit County has implemented a pilot program for Summer 2021 requiring visitors to reserve parking online or use a new free shuttle from Breckenridge to access the Quandary Peak and McCullough Gulch Trailheads. The new parking reservation system and free shuttle service should make it easier for individuals to access these popular trails and will allow hikers a more flexible schedule for arriving at the trailhead. Beginning July 30, individuals without a reservation who park at the trailhead will be ticketed and/or towed. Quandary Peak and McCullough Gulch trails are maintained by the Forest Service, but the parking lot and roads are jointly owned and operated by Summit County and the Town of Breckenridge. Hikers will either need to reserve a parking spot at the Quandary Peak Trailhead or take the Quandary Peak shuttle from Breckenridge to the Quandary Peak lot.

BRECKENRIDGE SKI RESORT NEWS Breckenridge Ski Resort will be letting their winter ski and ride visitors open a wonderful, new present this winter! A brand-new chairlift will create a classic pairup on Peak 7 - Freedom and Independence. The new Freedom SuperChair, alongside the existing Independence SuperChair, will provide guests the opportunity to experience the wide-open and rolling terrain of Peak 7 in a whole new way and carve a path down and across the ski areas expansive peaks. Two words that go together like Peanut Butter and Jelly, Macaroni and Cheese, Batman and Robin; Now includes Freedom and Independence. The new Freedom SuperChair is set to turn and usher skiers and riders up this upcoming winter and is a big present to help celebrate the ski area's 60th anniversary season. www.breckenridge.com 18

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

Free Shuttle The Quandary Peak shuttle is free and will operate from the Breckenridge Airport Road Lot from 5:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., 7 days a week, and run every 30 minutes. The shuttles will operate on a first-come, first-served basis. The last pickup at the Quandary Peak trailhead is at 7:00 p.m. The McCullough Gulch shuttle will run from the Quandary Peak Trailhead to McCullough Gulch Trailhead and back. How to Make a Parking Reservation To make a parking reservation at Quandary Peak Trailhead, visit: Parkquandary.com. *Note the website will go live on Monday, July 26, for reservations beginning July 30. Visitors will be able to reserve parking spots in the Quandary Peak parking lot two weeks in advance. To reserve and find out more information, head to www.summitcountyco.gov/1446/Quandary To learn more about Hiking 14’ers: www.thenextsummit.org

YOUR MOUNTAIN SPIRIT

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

Non-Profit Nook

BRECK FILM TURNS 40 Breck Film celebrates its 40th Anniversary Festival September 16-19, 2021, in Breckenridge, CO. Films will be screened in person across three theater venues in Breck, and celebrate across multiple party venues each night. A selection of films will also be made available online for those unable to make the trek to Breck this year from September 17-26. Filmmakers were notified on July 1 about their selection, so stay tuned for the digital program in midAugust! Peak 10, Peak 9, and virtual passes go on sale July 8!

(Purchase Below) Steep discounts are available to members. Members were emailed promo codes directly on July 8. Not a member? Check out membership offers to enjoy a variety of perks at the annual festival and throughout yearround programming. Looking for ways to get involved? Breck Film is currently signing sponsors and looking for volunteers. For those interested in sponsorships, connect with Ashley@breckfilm.org. Want to volunteer? Email info@ breckfilm.org www.breckfilm.org

Blue River Watershed The Blue River Watershed Group (BRWG) was founded in 2004 by a group of local community members who were passionate about protecting and preserving the health of the Blue River Basin. The mission? Promote, protect, and restore a healthy Blue River watershed through cooperative community education, stewardship, and resource management. The Blue River Watershed Group focuses on the entire watershed, which drains an area of about 680 square miles covering all of Summit County and portions of Grand and Lake Counties. Get Involved! Our river needs you. The river's flows project to be 50% of average. The Blue River watershed is experiencing exponential growth in recreational use. Now, more than ever, river habitat needs our help to ensure contaminants stay out of the water. Join them on August 28th, 2021, from 9 am-2:30 pm for a basin-wide river cleanup, free lunch, free beer, free music, and prizes. Become a volunteer, lead volunteer, sponsor the event, or give in-kind and show your support! www.blueriverwatershed.org 20

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

Breckenridge Heritage Alliance The Breckenridge Heritage Alliance preserves unique historic resources in the Breckenridge area and connects residents and visitors to our past through inspiring interpretation of heritage sites and stories. The BHA will be celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Breckenridge Ski Resort in December 2021 with "60 Years of BSR History in 60 Objects," an exhibition of artifacts representing the ski area's six decades of history. Do you have a memento, keepsake, or artifact from the ski area's earliest years or its more recent past? They're looking for objects on temporary loan (approximately 18 months) that commemorate the Bergenhof, ski area events over the years, snowmaking, lift maintenance, the ski resort's people, quirky moments, and more. Contact archives@breckheritage.com with your object ideas and for more information. www.breckheritage.com

KEEPING YOU ACTIVE IS WHAT WE DO

Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery has advanced our treatment and rehabilitation plans to the highest level by serving one of the most active sports populations in the country. In fact, six of our surgeons serve the prestigious US Ski Team.

FRISCO URGENT CARE IS OPEN EVERY DAY until 7pm! Receive quality, convenient, and cost-effective orthopaedic urgent care. Top Orthopaedic Surgeons More Convenient and Cost-Effective than the ER Walk-Ins Welcome

ACCIDENTS DON’T WAIT FOR OFFICE HOURS

Clinic Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm 970.668.3633 | vsortho.com FRISCO • VAIL • EDWARDS

970.477.4454 | vsourgentcare.com

Breck Made Breckenridge residents are always on the hunt for the best gear and apparel to aid in their winter adventures. What's better than a great product? A great product made in Breckenridge, that's what! Here are a few you can pick up to aid you in your adventures:

Magical Scraps Magical Scraps Boutique & Studio offers a breath of fresh air to Main St. Breckenridge. Step into their delightful space packed with HANDMADE goodness! From the store's own line of awesome graphic tees for kids and one-of-a-kind trucker hats- to hand-made fabric belts and appliqued totes, you are sure to find something to take home. Other must-haves includes locally made and mountain-themed jewelry, unrivaled cards and paper, and local candles and soap. Whether you are looking for a birthday gift, a baby shower gift, or a souvenir, Magical Scraps is a MUST stop for locally made Breckenridge products. 310 S. Main Street, Breckenridge

Peak10 Skin PEAK10 SKIN is a skincare line that elevates skin health and hydration to new heights with pure, clean, active ingredients. PEAK 10 SKIN is the newest in body health created by Connie Elder, an accomplished Breckenridge skincare executive with a special gift for helping women love the skin they are in. 505 S. Main Street Station, Breckenridge

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

Tina Cunningham Art The Breckenridge Art Festivals have been a tradition for 40 years! Originally started by Dick Cunningham in the 80s, and grown by Mark Beiling, all three shows have been nationally ranked as some of the best art festivals in the country for both artists and patrons alike. The shows boast some of the most talented artists in the US, producing high quality, custom work. Now, staying true to her roots, Tina Cunningham is running the show and producing her own work crafted here in town at her home studio. Check out all of her art at a show or connect through her Facebook page @TinaCunninghamArt

BLUE RIVER WOODWORKS Made with recycled wood, Blue River Woodworks is crafting beautiful, locally designed cutting boards. Both practical and decorative they can be used every day for meal preparation or as serving trays for meats, cheeses, vegetables, and more. You can find these treasures at Kaleidoscope at 226 S. Main Street or email them at blueriveriaq@ gmail.com

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

Priorities

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

"Glory Days of Summer" by Liam Doran

An early wakeup call yields a plethora of flowers and warm morning light for long-time local Breckenridge photographer Liam Doran. To capture this image photographer Liam Doran shot six vertical images and then digitally stitched them together in post processing. He used a SIGMA 24-70 DG DN lens on Sony a7III shooting at 1/10 sec. f/18 ISO 50. Follow Liam's global adventures at @liam_doran_outdoors. LiamDoranPhotography.com

Trail

Trails Are Treasures by Shauna Farnell

Follow This Formula When You Take to the Dirt

Trails are treasures, offering endless pathways to adventure – more than 200 miles of them in and around Breckenridge – and direct byways to becoming one with nature. As such, we aim to keep our trails as pristine as possible, preserving their beauty and simplicity for future adventurers. In order to protect the trails and the plants and wildlife that call them home as well as respect fellow trail users, we stick to a few simple guidelines every time we hit the dirt.

Who goes first?

The most widespread rule in trail etiquette is that anyone coming uphill has the right of way. Hikers going downhill must yield to hikers going uphill, downhill bikers yield to uphill bikers, etc. If someone is moving faster than you and asking to come by, step aside. Everyone on the trail must yield to equestrians. Again, communication is key. 26

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

Furry Friends

Keep dogs leashed and pack out their poop! You may have the friendliest, most responsive pooch in the world. You still need to keep him/her leashed. Off-leash dogs – even the nicest ones – present numerous hazards on the trail. They get into scraps with leashed dogs and wildlife, cause bike accidents and damage plants when they wander off-trail. Also, always pick up your dog’s waste. If Fido’s business happens off-trail, you still have to pick it up. Also, storing the poop bag on the side of the trail with the plan to pick it up later is not acceptable. Being a responsible dog owner means picking up and carrying poop bags until you can dispose of them properly.

Don’t smoke

The trails and trailheads are not the places to light up. Especially in the summer and fall, we in Breckenridge (like everywhere in

Colorado and throughout the West) are in the red zone for wildfires. Believe it or not, all it takes is a tiny spark or piece of ash to start a massive blaze.

Don’t bring your external speaker

While we all love a soundtrack for our activities, save it for the hot tub or the apres deck party. Subjecting everyone on the trail to your jams is inconsiderate. Some studies even suggest music from external speakers disrupts wildlife patterns. Moose, deer and countless other species bed down with their young in the brush near trails and in addition to alarming them with your tunes, you are also drowning out potential alerts (thunder, barking dogs, etc.) as well as sounds we all want to hear when out in nature: birds chirping, wind in the trees, babbling creeks and rivers.

Be kind

It doesn’t matter how you’re enjoying the trail – by foot, bike or

board of some sort – the key word is enjoy. We are out there to have a good time. There’s no reason why you shouldn’t say hello or at least smile to other trail users.

Communicate and share nicely

When there are individuals on the trail whom you’d like to pass, slow down as you approach, be sure to give them a friendly heads up if you’re coming up behind them and nicely make your wishes known. Something along the lines of “can we sneak by?” usually does the trick.

Leave no trace

Whatever you bring with you – snack wrappers, orange peels, tissue, toilet paper, etc. – must also leave with you. There is no “it’s biodegradable” exception. Dropped food or other

biodegradable materials should not be left behind. Plan ahead and prepare Familiarize with your route in advance as well as the weather forecast and trail conditions so you can dress appropriately and avoid trails that are potentially muddy. Breckenridge Recreation Center (breckenridgerecreation. com) keeps an updated list of local trail conditions.

Stay on the trail

Cutting switchbacks, avoiding mud puddles and stepping offtrail for any reason ruins the trail – widening it, destroying surrounding foliage and causing erosion. Go through mud, not around it. Don’t approach or feed wildlife If you see animals near the trail, watch and photograph them from a safe distance. Don’t leave

crumbs behind. Squirrels, birds and other species that consume human food can get sick, die and at the very least, forget how to forage for their own food to survive.

Leave what you find

Yes, the wildflowers are stunning around here. Please enjoy them with your eyes and nose only. Do not touch them or take them with you, not even one. If everyone on the trail took just one, there would be none.

Give back

Nothing shows your gratitude for the trails more than a few hours of volunteering. Trail projects are a great excuse to spend time outside, get a meaningful workout and bond with like-minded trail enthusiasts. Check the calendar at Friends of Breckenridge Trails for upcoming projects.

The Path Less Traveled Begins At Mountain Outfitters We are the Breckenridge headquarters for human powered backcountry travel. Specializing In Alpine Touring, Ski Mountaineering, Nordic, and Snow Shoeing. We offer a complete assortments of gear and clothing to maximize fun and safety in the mountains

Retail - Repairs

Fa m ily ow ned & operated si nce 1985

112 S Ridge Street, Breckenridge CO 970-453-2201 | www.mtnoutfitters.com

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

Breck Etiquette

Trail Etiquette, Education and Overcrowding by Courtney Kenady On most summer weekends, just as the sun begins to shine on the valley floor, a steady parade of cars descend on trailhead parking lots in Breckenridge. It used to be only during peak season, but 2020 saw a significant increase in visitors yearround. The visitors likely come from around the country, but most are classic Coloradans with spendy Kuat bike racks on shiny Audis, Teslas, large SUVs, pickup trucks, and the occasional “my bike is worth more than my car” folks. They are here for a forced-family-fun hike with the kids and dog, a multihour bike ride, or just a relaxed trail run with their favorite partner. They are in Breckenridge to enjoy the fresh air, open space, and incredible trail network that within a few heart-pounding minutes transports you to the wide-open spaces of the backcountry. French Gulch in Breckenridge is one the most popular recreational destinations because of its easy access to trails and proximity to downtown Breckenridge. In September 2020, the parking at the B&B Trailhead was overflowing into French Gulch Road, even with the newly extended parking lot. Local officials report that the B&B trailhead saw a 30-40% increase for June – August, and August – October. A little history Not long ago, the B&B trail was known as “The Bomber” trail. Rumor has it that one of the more radical residents of the small collection of B&B mining cabins set up a booby-trap to blow up authorities after he was given notice to move out. Before the Town of Breckenridge acquired the property in the early 2000s, French Gulch was populated with eyebrowraising, basic, rustic, primitive mining cabins with nonconformist personalities and also local personalities in their younger years looking for cheap housing and a 28

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

quiet, private setting away from the hustle and bustle of town. Another popular draw is Isak Heartstone, the famous and much loved 15-foot tall troll constructed of recycled wood and pallets by artist Thomas Dambo. Isak had to be moved from his original location to the present location near the Stephen C. West Ice Arena because “Its popularity was beyond all expectation,” said Breckenridge town manager Rick Holman in 2019. Flash forward two years and a pandemic, and Isak is still drawing 3000 people a day during the summer and fall. The biggest challenge is keeping visitors on the trail. And visitor numbers may only increase as the pandemic eases its grip and city dwellers are free to flee urban settings. They will be seeking escapes in small isolated mountain towns with cooler temperatures, outdoor activities, wildlife sightings, and endless national forest opportunities. We are not alone Recreational areas across Colorado including county and state open space and national forest lands reported a 200 percent increase in recreational visits in the spring and early summer, says Kyle Patterson, Rocky Mountain National Park’s public affairs officer.* This leads to mile-long entrance station lines, overflowing parking lots, trailheads, and toilets. During the busiest hours, visitors experienced bottlenecking on trails and waiting in line at popular viewing points for Instagramers to get selfies. In response, some land managers for popular national parks such as Rocky Mountain, Zion, and Yosemite have introduced a timed-entry permit system: Wouldbe visitors during the park’s busiest hours had to secure a permit online (available starting a month in advance), with the park allowing only 60 percent of the previous year’s tourist. Vail Resorts used a similar reservation system for

Breckenridge Ski Resort last season (2020-2021). This reservation system reduced crowds and allow extra physical distancing space on the mountain. Is social media to blame? It’s tough to be certain that social media is to blame for your secret trail being overrun with selfie-hungry hikers, bikers, and weekend warriors. Across the region, land managers and a few vocal Breckenridge locals do blame these platforms and location tags for outing certain trails, snowfields, and special viewing areas. Social media isn’t all bad Park services around the country are launching social campaigns and media hashtags to get younger diverse crowds excited about lesser-known yet equally awesome locations and trails just a few miles away to combat crowds. Boulder’s Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics made social media restraint part of its philosophy with guidelines asking adventurers to “think before you geotag,” consider omitting location details, and promoting Leave No Trace ethics. “We’ve been called out in terms of being gatekeepers,” says Ben Lawhon, the center’s education director, who adds the goal isn’t to keep people off public lands, but rather to encourage good behavior when they go. “If every social media post had a Leave No Trace or stewardship message, we’d be in a better place.”* I caught up with Tony Overlock, Town of Breckenridge Open Space and Trails Specialist, and asked him about the increase in trail usage and how the town was addressing the issue. “We know they are coming; the town of Breckenridge’s philosophy is to manage and still maintain the character of Breckenridge.” “I don’t see any restrictions in the future; it’s more about management, education, and getting visitors to buy into the culture of Breckenridge.” Breckenridge Open Space & Trails and the Breckenridge Open Space Advisory Commission (BOSAC) are revising the Open Space and Trails Master Plan, which transitions the focus from acquisition to stewardship/management. The original Open Space and Trails Plan was written 20 years ago and was more about accumulating land and creating trails. Now Breckenridge has a lot of land, and it’s more about being good stewards of the land and trails and talking more about the management of visitors, trash, and facilities. Conversely, stakeholders for the Quandary Peak Trail have initiated a study and survey to look at ways to improve the user experience. Every summer

sees an increase in users and the trailhead parking overflows into the county roads. Stakeholders have instituted a shuttle service and a trail head parking reservation system. Proactive educational components New-user education is the biggest need. Overlock suspects that most users are getting their information from platforms such as MTB project, Trailforks, and AllTrails. The Town of Breckenridge Open Space and Trails focus is on how to tap into apps and platforms for education. Most recently, Breckenridge Open Space asked these apps to share trail conditions, e-bike restrictions. On AllTrails, information on high traffic trailheads and suggestions on how to avoid parking issues was shared. The Breckenridge Open Space is also working with Summit County Mountain Bike Alliance (SCoMBA) asking trail ambassadors to help educate users. Other educational components include educational trail signage that rotates throughout the trail system. Anne Lowe, the town’s Open Space, and Trails Manager, and Nikki LaRochelle, a commissioner on the Breckenridge Open Space Advisory Commission, athlete, rider, and artist, worked together to create the lighthearted, informative, and witty trail etiquette messaging (seen above) in hopes it will help improve trail etiquette among various user groups. Other challenges include increased wildlife impacts and run-ins with humans, dog poop, trash, and human waste, but not significantly. Trail user conflicts are rising, with most issues stemming from new users who are not educated on trail etiquette, yield, and right-of-ways. Do your part As Coloradans, we understandably have a feeling of ownership of our favorite “trails” and maybe more than a little annoyed at tourists stacked 3-wide on a single track or chatting side-by-side while Rover is running free to chase and poo at his leisure. Let’s face it, if we expect to have the B&B Trail to ourselves at 10:00 am on a summer Saturday, we might be part of the problem. So maybe act like a local – well, because you are one – and plan to ride your favorite trail off-hours or on a Tuesday after work or carpool. Or maybe ride your second favorite trail on those busy Saturdays and leave the popular easy-access trails for the visitors who are using up most of their vacation time for this single trip to Breckenridge. ~Enjoy the Climb

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

Business

What Is Sustainable Investing and Is It Right For You? A Q& A with Leigh Gir vin and Financial Advisor Steven Smith

Awareness of sustainable investing is rising in mountain communities as we share common concerns about climate impacts and social equity. Known by several different terms, sustainable investing is also called ESG (Environment, Social, and Governance) or impact investing. Differences in nomenclature can lead to confusion. Financial advisor Steven Smith of RightPath Investments in Summit County helps us navigate the world of sustainable investing in this Q&A with Mtn Town Magazine. Is Sustainable Investing a new idea? Sustainable investing has deep roots, with its beginnings generations ago as religious investors moved away from so-called “sin” stocks. Over the course of the past five decades, ESG investing has grown from a cottage industry to a very serious undertaking. Today, the movement has grown in scale. More and more companies are evaluating the risk of not taking into consideration environmental, social, and governance issues. As proof of the growth of the ESG investment industry, in 2020 there were $17 Trillion of professionally managed ESG assets around the globe. What is sustainable investing today? The E in ESG has dominated the conversation for many years, especially concerns around climate change and companies’ carbon footprints. These are issues that ring close to home for us mountain dwellers. Now, with the Coronavirus pandemic and protests calling for racial justice, we are seeing a renewed focus on the S – social issues – such as employee safety and racial diversity in the workplace. Asset managers and their analysts have been working diligently since the early days to tie ESG considerations to risk factors that companies face to their bottom lines and to financial performance. Yet ESG metrics are still evolving. It is much easier to measure a company’s revenues and profits than its ESG score. There is not yet anything in ESG investing equivalent to the generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) commonly understood in financial reporting. While there are multiple “ratings agencies,” each uses different criteria in its assessment of a company’s environmental and social business considerations and successes. Oftentimes, it is the job of the financial planner to help the client weigh their values and goals and then make appropriate recommendations. 30

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

How is Sustainable Investing Relevant to My Community? Preserving a sense of place, including support for environmental protection and for the people who make a community run, is a high priority for many investors. For an investor passionate about winter sports, ensuring that her portfolio doesn’t include fossil fuel production may be a top consideration. Others might invest based on a company’s use of water and other natural resources, how they treat workers throughout their supply chain, and the safety and usefulness of their products. Philanthropic investments are another way to provide a significant return to the community, which in turn benefits the investor in non-tangible ways. Will the performance of my portfolio be limited by Sustainable Investing? Myths persist about ESG investing. Many people believe they will sacrifice return if they invest in line with their beliefs. This is not true. To avoid the risk of underperforming to an extent that you jeopardize achieving your goals, the key is to be as diversified as possible with your ESG portfolio, while still trying to achieve your sustainability objectives. Performance is a tricky thing. ESG investing may or may not outperform a benchmark index. I’m seeing touts all over the place right now about recent ESG performance, particularly in the areas of fossilfuel-free and alternative energy portfolios. These performance attributes may or may not persist. So, your financial plan should be designed to succeed, regardless. Is Sustainable Investing Right for Me? Only you can answer this question for yourself. Leaving aside the question of “outperformance” – perhaps you can’t bear the thought of owning stock in companies that contribute to global climate change or profit off of mass incarceration. If you answer yes, our role as an advisor is to help you understand what’s involved, what the trade-offs might be, and to help you figure out the most effective way to execute a sustainable investment strategy in the context of your financial plan. There are now multiple tools to assist you with your sustainable investing. As with any investment strategy, there is no guarantee that your expectations will be realized, financial or otherwise. But steps can be taken on both counts to increase the odds.

Steven Smith, J.D., CFP, is the principal of RightPath Investments & Financial Planning, Inc.In Frisco, CO www.rightpathinvestments.com.

By a lake. With a charming Main Street. And its own marina with rentals and waterside dining. Just 9 miles from Breckenridge.

TownofFrisco.com

Main Street Of The Rockies

Entrepreneurs

MARIGOLDS FARMHOUSE FUNK & JUNK BY HOLLY BATTISTA-RESIGNOLO

enerations of entrepreneurial know-how and getter done spirit lives in the well-stocked walls of Marigolds Farmhouse Funk & Junk in Breckenridge. The story of the four women who operate this lively and unique boutique is just as surprising as the treasures found in Marigold's itself, all Colorful and Unique. Lori Maphies, Lisa Norton, Nancy Williams and Danielle Maphies are a family of creatives who have crafted

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

a unique shopping experience for the past ten years that antique junkies and millennial shoppers alike adore. Marigolds Farmhouse Funk & Junk originally started as a pop-up shop in Breckenridge when Lori found a 3-month lease on Main Street. Not surprising, it did very well. They then found a permanent space at 215 S Main Street, where they settled and recently celebrated ten years of success. The store seems to be the culmination of lessons learned from the matriarch

of the store, Nancy Williams. Nancy is both mother and grandmother to the other three women. Hailing from Missouri, Nancy's crafting knowledge was passed to her daughters Lori and Lisa through a craft shop she owned where she taught macrame, weaving, tole painting, and more. A serial entrepreneur Nancy held a variety of businesses over the years. Her passion for good junk and antiques is in part what brought Marigolds Farmhouse Funk & Junk to fruition and has kept the store well-stocked with items pulled from antiquing excursions throughout the countryside of the American Mid-West. But it is not just Nancy's keen eye that has brought success to the store. Hard work and the talent of her daughters,

THE SCHLEGEL & HART WE

Stay at the best location in Breck

relax

REAL ESTATE TEAM

“We would be honored to show you how the power of two of Breckenridge’s top producing real estate agents, coupled with Slifer Smith & Frampton’s unrivaled marketing program, can make the difference for you.” Please call us today to discuss the Breckenridge real estate market and how we can help you buy or sell your dream home

JIM SCHLEGEL & MICHELE HART

970.389.3582 | 970.376.7799 micheleandjim@slifersummit.com JimSchlegel.com | MicheleHartRealEstate.com

dine celebrate BeaverRun.com 970-453-6000

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

Entrepreneurs

Left to Right: Danielle Maphies, Nancy Williams, Lisa Norton, and Lori Maphies

Lori Maphies and Lisa Norton, and granddaughter Danielle Maphies (daughter of Lori), lend to and complete the allure of Marigolds unique shopping experience. These women are crafty creators operating the boutique as a family coop, each curating the store with their own personally selected products. You will find clothing, scarves, jewelery, household goods, notecards, books, hats candles and a host of treasures. They each have private home studios where they

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

design, paint, make jewelry and create products too. This business arrangement yields a varied and unique selection of walls and aisles. In early July, after reaching Marigolds Farmhouse Funk & Junk's ten-year milestone, Nancy unexpectedly passed away in an automobile accident. As anyone would expect, the loss has been a huge blow to these remarkable women and their extended families. They are navigating the way as they rework operations, now bringing in

Lori's son to help with behind-thescenes needs. Firey and fun, these ladies will persevere and continue to find a way forward while letting their mother's spirit shine through the store and its funky spirit. The store is a muststop and shop when looking for a gift for yourself, a friend, or your home. Be sure to drop in and enjoy everything Marigolds Farmhouse Funk & Junk has to offer. 215 South Main Street, Breckenridge

MOUNTAIN RETREAT

4 BD | 3.5 BA | 3,318 SF | Fairplay

Jeni Friedrich 970.485.3837 Jeni@ChristiesSummitCORE.com ServingSummit.com

—

SU M MIT

COLUMBINE PARK

3 BD | 2 BA | 1,560 SF | Fairplay

CO LO R A DO —

RED CEDAR LOG HOME

3 BD | 3 BA | 3,573 SF | 8 Acres | Alma

PARKVIEW GETAWAY

6 BD | 3 BA | 4,264 SF | Fairplay

Wellness Staying in the Saddle BY HALEY LITTLETON

The third time I ever rode a mountain bike, it ended with a tear-stained sleeve and my slumped body on the side of the trail quietly kicking the dirt as I drummed up the energy to finish the last few miles. I didn’t own a chamois yet, and every ounce of me resisted gingerly sitting onto the saddle again. My companions were far ahead, forgetting that, at this point in time, my feet were most comfortable pounding the dirt in a pair of Hokas, not on elevated platforms several inches off the ground. I can’t say that I was being nice to myself at that moment. A sense of shame flooded my body, and I was practicing my speech as I caught up to the group to explain away the tears and embarrassment of my struggle. “Oh, I was focusing on my form and took a spill. That’s why it took so long.” “Maybe something is wrong with the bike?” “I’m in trail running shape, just not mountain biking shape.” I needed everyone to still believe that facade that I was perfect and never struggled. In the Spring of 2018, I had not yet learned the craft of starting over, which I have done again and again since then. Besides, I was terrified to hit the ground, white-knuckling, bracing, and steering my body away from it at all costs. I would hit it soon enough. But I’m not a quitter, so I immediately bought a bike when I got home. Thank god for my stubbornness. I inched my way forward that first season and the second by pure determination. I was often more concerned with shouldering the mantle of the “mountain biker” identity than I was with my satisfaction from biking. I wondered what mileage I had to hit to become a “mountain biker.” I wondered what speed I needed to descend at to be crowned a “mountain biker.” Did I have to have a certain kit or gear? Did I need to have the best Strava segments? Turns out, all that was required to become a “mountain biker” was to ride my bike. In the fall of 2019, I hit the ground, metaphorically, 36

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

and entered one of the darkest periods of my adult mental health. Surprisingly, my mountain bike became my solace, a place where I could gain a sense of stability and tether my body to the gritty “here and now.” What I once found demoralizing became one of my reason to get up in the morning. Unlike that first day splayed out on the side of the trail, I found that I could cry and pedal at the same time, and, often, I felt better afterward. I found that those long, solitary miles of singletrack were the best places to unravel all that I thought I knew, pedal stroke after stroke. External motivators and validation never quite get us through that last mile. They rarely push us up the last switchback of Wheeler Pass. They dissolve biking plans when partners bail at the last minute. They may bolster the pace and mileage for Strava but they’re never quite satisfied by the kudos. Claiming mountain biking for myself and my personal fulfillment keeps me in the saddle. The feeling of pushing past my own perceived limitations on the dirt translates into blowing past low expectations in other arenas. And, magically, shame becomes celebration. Now, I laugh much more on my bike. I even let a st ray giggle out here and there. I might annoy my riding partners at times with my incessant positivity but it’s always paired with the drive to progress. It has shifted from “Sorry, I’m so slow.” to “Wow! That took me a bit, but I’ve never cleaned that climb before, and I’m so proud!” From “ I don’t think I can ride that. I’ll try it next time” to “Do you mind if we stay for a few minutes so I can session this rock?” Progression and healing are like a good singletrack - it curves and loops and bends back upon itself at times but it always gets you where you need to be. You just have to trust the turn.

Massage Facials Body Treatments Tanning Waxing Tinting Laser Hair Removal Injectables HydraFacial Spa Packages Retail Products

Two Words

224 South Main Street Breckenridge, CO 80424 970-453-7676 Open 7 Days a Week

Me Time

www.bluesagespa.com

Shop like a local.

Pack your reusable bag or buy one of ours. You’ll eliminate fees at checkout. And you’ll help keep Breckenridge green and clean.

Find out more at sustainablebreck.com

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

Family

How to Love Your Pug BY PEPPER HAMILTON

Meet Lisa Blake, local writer and now the author of her new book, How to Love Your Pug - 10 Simple Rules, a book for anyone who loves dogs, especially Pugs. 'How to Love Your Pug' is her first in a series of children's picture books targeted to little ones aged 4 through 6, early readers. This fun-loving reader is about caring for Pugs and learning about all their little nuances and the special ways to love them. The book was crafted together with her son during the height of the Pandemic. "During the beginning of Covid, my son and I were home quite a bit together. He was in kindergarten, and we came up with the idea of writing a book on how to love your pets. We have a pug, Mojo Disco Baggins, that I had adopted a while back, and after talking about all of the amazing adventures we have been on together in the surrounding outdoors, he created the name of the book. We worked together and created the story on how people can love and care for their Pug." Illustrator Nadine Rebrovic had been a colleague of Lisa's from the publishing world who now lives in Breckenridge part-time and is doing pet portraits. Blake reconnected with Nadine on Instagram as the idea of the book began to unfold and asked her to illustrate the publication. After a successful Kickstarter helped to get it off the ground, Lisa released the new edition on Valentine's Day of this past year. "As Covid began to loosen up, we were able to do some readings with Summit County students, local kindergartners, and 1st graders outside. I discovered through the book that I loved this style of reading, writing, and entertaining. I would get some of the funniest questions and responses from the kids." How do you love a Pug? Always have treats, Lots of downward dogs, and well, grab the book to learn the other eight rules. This first book is now part of her new 'How to Love Your Pet' series. Lisa Blake's next book 'How to Love Your Rescue Pup,' will be coming out in late Fall. Look for 'How to Love Your Pug - 10 Simple Rules' in Breckenridge at Peak A Boo Toys or here: www.howtoloveyourpet.com 38

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

Since 1985

FLY FISHING

Summit County’s oldest full-service fly shop and guide service. For the very best in public and private water guided fly fishing. RIVERS & LAKES: Antero, Arkansas, Blue, Colorado, Dillon, Eagle, Eleven Mile, Montgomery, South Platte, Spinney, Swan, Ten Mile, Williams Fork

All Experience Levels Welcome Exclusive Private Ranches • Half & Full Day Wade Colorado & Eagle River Float • Lake Float Fly Fishing Lesson • Winter Fly Fishing

Bringing People & Trout Together

Since 1985

970-453-HOOK 4

311 South Main Street, Breckenridge, CO 80424 info@mountainangler.com • www.MountainAngler.com

Summit County’s oldest full-service fly shop and guide service. For the very best in public and private water guided fly fishing.Luxury

Vacation Homes in Breckenridge

Our vacation homes integrate the very best in world-class luxury amenities

RIVERS & LAKES: Antero, Arkansas, Blue, Colorado, Dillon, Eagle, Eleven Mile, Montgomery, South Platte, Spinney, Swan, Ten Mile, Williams Fork

All Experience Levels Welcome Exclusive Private Ranches • Half & Full Day Wade Colorado & Eagle River Float • Lake Float Fly Fishing Lesson • Winter Fly Fishing

970-453-HOOK 4

311 South Main Street, Breckenridge, CO 80424 info@mountainangler.com • www.MountainAngler.com

Call or Book Online (800) 880.5979 www.paragonlodging.com Pet Friendly

NEVER MISS AN ISSUE!

STAY IN TOUCH WITH BRECKENRIDGE ALL YEAR LONG SUBSCRIBE ONE -YEAR $30

photo courtesy the Summit Historical Society Collection; SHS-P.500. Image

MEET A FEW OF THE MANY...

PEOPLE OF BRECKENRIDGE

THE REASONS WE LOVE IT & WHY WE STAY

People

Jeff Westcott

Breck's mountain biking boss is handing over the reins

Jeff Westcott reflects on two decades of creating culture through knobby tire events By Shauna Farnell

ooking back on 20-plus years of running mountain bike races, when asked to name a standout event, one that truly left his heart soaring, Jeff Westcott says, “almost every one of them.” As the founder of Maverick Sports Promotions, which has run the Summit Mountain Challenge (SMC) biweekly mountain bike race series, Mountain Bike Junior League and the Firecracker 50 bike race since 2001, Westcott is largely responsible for building and maintaining the local mountain bike culture in Breckenridge and throughout Summit County. After this summer, however, he is stepping down. “It’s been so gratifying,” Westcott says. “Every race I produce, I get some kind of high. Seeing new racers reach the finish line and seeing people accomplish something they wanted and celebrating with their friends and family, it’s a high.” On Wednesday evenings in the summer, mountain bikers of all ages and ability levels converge to test their speed in the SMC races. As he emcees the action, Westcott, or “Westy,” as he’s known to most, is familiar with nearly every racer who crosses the finish line. He knows their nickname, their kid’s name, their dog’s name, sometimes where they ate lunch. The warm energy he exudes permeates every event. “I organize parties disguised as bike races,” he says. Westy has unquestionably been the life of each of those parties, or, as long-time colleague Grace Nill puts it, “the heart and soul of the operation.”

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

The early days Having grown up ski racing in Boston, Mass., Westy moved to Breckenridge in 1984. He had previously made one ski trip to Colorado and was hungry for more powder turns. Originally planning to return to Vail to ski for the season and find work in the restaurant industry, when he arrived in Denver, he met a guy at the airport who was heading to Breckenridge. The guy offered him a ride and a place to crash for a week. Westy landed a job as a Breckenridge Ski School instructor and stuck with it for nine years before transitioning to the resort’s alpine race operations crew and coach for Team Breckenridge. In the summer, he worked at Cafe Alpine (located where Ember now sits), with a motley team of fellow locals who also went on to become prominent business owners. An avid cyclist, Westy had competed in a couple of the Summit Mountain Challenge mountain bike races, which, at the time, were owned and operated by Greg Guras of A Racer’s Edge. Westy heard that Guras was looking to unload the race series, so he took it over in 2000. Partnering with former Cafe Alpine colleague Mike McCormack, he created Maverick Sports in 2001. With it came the Firecracker 50, which has gone on to become one of the most iconic mountain bike races in the American West, and the Mountain Bike Junior League, which has cultivated the future of mountain biking in Summit County, launching a love of the sport among hundreds if not thousands of young riders while also teaching them trail stewardship, appreciation and respect for the beauty around them. “My kids raced for him when they were 6 and 8,” says Nill, who started volunteering for Maverick Sports around the beginning, enrolling her sons, Danny and Andy Proctor, into the Junior League. “When I started thinking about the impact Westy has made, I started tearing up. To put it simply, his impact has been his passion for the sport, his consideration for every rider from every little kid to our seniors and also his employees. His passion is above and beyond anyone I’ve ever met.” Danny Proctor, now 26, describes Westy as “a working owner. He is always there, always working.” A man of many hats Indeed. Westy has always been involved in every detail of the operation. He organizes and orchestrates each of the Junior League rides, often pedaling with the kids himself, although the group has multiplied from about five young riders in the first couple of seasons to about 70 this summer. He designs the racecourses, pre-rides and marks them himself. He analyzes and organizes race categories, heads up communication, timekeeping and emcees the action at each race. After packing up the venue, he heads to the post-race party, where he announces results, hands out prizes and is among the last to leave. Days later, you’ll find him scrubbing water bottles and counting supplies with his crew. 44

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

“I’ve learned a bit from him as far as work ethic,” says long-time colleague, Tina Biddle. “He always took the extra time to make sure everything is done correctly and emphasizes what makes it best for the athlete. It’s not necessarily the easiest for us, but always best for the athletes. He has so many things going on in his head that we all know nothing about. We say to each other, ‘has he thought about this part of the race?’ Of course he has.” When asked about the most rewarding aspect of his role in the community over the years, Westy says riding with kids in the Monday night Junior League wins, hands down. “It doesn’t matter how sideways my Monday might have gone, riding with the kids – listening to their banter, so sweet and innocent and funny – was the best attitude adjustment I could ever ask for.” Passing the torch As of summer 2022, the Town of Breckenridge will take over the Mountain Bike Junior League, the SMC race series and the Firecracker 50. Although Westy will continue to own and operate the Breck Crest running races and Maverick Sports’ winter competitions (the Gold Run Fat Bike Series and Imperial Challenge), the 2021 Fall Classic will mark his last race as owner/operator of the local mountain bike events. “He has done such a good job for so long for our community. I’m hoping we can build on that,” says Town of Breckenridge Recreation Director Scott Reid. “‘Where the racer comes first’ has always been his tagline and from a race promotion standpoint, that message is really important. Races are not only about the competition, but the whole experience. They’re about having fun and being part of the community.” An ardent mountain biker himself, Reid has raced in numerous Maverick Sports events over the years and his kids also made their start in competition through the Mountain Bike Junior League. “We’ve been shadowing Westy learning the ropes and making sure we understand his approach,” Reid says. “We’ll take over next year, but he’ll continue timing and other services. For us, it was a good synergy because we already do the trail running series and being able to manage and operate all of these events in a way that reflects our community values, it helps to be in the driver’s seat. Mostly, that’s continuing what he’s done and the legacy he’s left.” Although he’s reluctant to refer to his impact on the cycling community as a legacy, Westy believes he’s leaving things in good hands. “I know the town is going to do a great job continuing it,” he says. “This thing is bigger than me. This is mountain culture. Skiing and biking are who we are. I’m glad I was able to give people that next level experience by putting on races.”

PHOTO CREDITS: COURTNEY KENADY

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

Alexandria Nicole

A personal essay on working to rebuild humanity from a space of love

Dozens of disapproving looks, comments, and n June 1, 2020, I woke up not realizing that this gestures over the decades of my life had formed would be the day that would change the trajecpsychological bars inhibiting the very essence of tory of my life and that this day would mark the who I was and all happening so subconsciously that beginning of my self-purpose coming into fruition. I was even I was unaware that these bars existence. As my unaware that this would be the day that all of the suptears flowed, I released these inhibiting boundaries pressed hurts and pains resulting from being alienated in and decided it was time to step into my newfound school for being dark-skinned and receiving unwelcom- freedom. This freedom unlocked within me as I ing glares at restaurants and verbally scolded for the ex- witnessed our community declare in solidarity their istence of my interracial family would dissipate. This day love for all. would be a day of healing. The following week I met with the co-facilitator Having never truly understood the purpose of The Solidarity Walk, Evin Harris. We discussed or benefits of protesting, I reluctantly decided to the potent energy of love and healing that the walk participate in our town Solidarity March. Though encompassed. I expressed how it had changed riddled with anxiety and uncertainty, I persisted with me and my desire to keep that momentum going via community the anticipation of a conversations. small-scale gathering of individuals, The initial idea was to host one representative of talk, but with the how little I assumed suggestion of my that this community friend, Carime Lee, cared about I decided to host people of color, them monthly. I a preconceived spoke with Evin notion based upon Harris and asked the pain of my for her blessing on past experiences. calling these events Being that my only The Solidarity Talk. relationship with The objective of protesting, at the The Solidarity Talks The Breckenridge Social Equity Commission time, was the hostile would be to create and violent displays I change through had seen on tv, I told conversations using myself to remain mindful and focused on the energy languages of love, consideration, and respect while of the walk and to be aware of when leaving might discussing topics prevalent to improving social equality and community. True to the spirit of the be the best course of action. All of these thoughts mission, each talk has been a triumphant display of echoed in my mind as I approached the Riverwalk engaging, thought-provoking, and respectful dialog Center in Breckenridge, Colorado, scanning the crowd and searching for others in the dress code of that uplifts everyone participating and serves as a safe space for all community members to black shirts. discuss their thoughts. Each talk features a specific As I drew closer to Main Street, I began to hear topic of discussion, performances from talented megaphoned chants and saw people marching musicians, an intentionally diverse group of 5-7 peacefully through blocked-off streets. Seeing keynote speakers, and community conversation at hundreds of people marching in this small mountain closing! town on a Monday afternoon became more This year, we are happy to announce that we visible, I began to sob uncontrollably. Witnessing will be incorporating free activities for kids and multicultural foods to enjoy during the community our community marching and chanting, in unison, conversation to talk and connect with our diverse demanding equality for people of color penetrated community members. Experiencing a dish, you may my soul to its core. With my tears, I released every have never tasted before can help link one with a ounce of pain, that unbeknownst to me, had been new culture. shackling me throughout my lifetime. I hope to accomplish the task of showing people I realized that I, too, had been a slave, not at that we are more connected through our struggles all in the same essence as ancestors, but rather and human experiences than we often are aware a prisoner of blatant microaggressions I had of, and it’s through those commonalities that we experienced for the duration of my life, which have can collectively heal and start the work to rebuild dictated my behaviors and emotional states. humanity from a space of love.

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

Sandy Helt

Bringing fashion to Breckenridge Main Street

eet Sandy Helt, a fashion-forward thinker who has brought style, one store at a time, to Colorado mountain town women. What started as a dream during Helt’s college years has resulted in a fabulous line of boutiques, now in seven Colorado locations. Crafting and creativity was a gift her mother shared with her and her sister as they grew up. It is where she believes her zeal for art, jewelry, and the fashion world came from, and she is very grateful for the passion her mother instilled in her. While Sandy was studying PreMed during college, she took an Entrepreneurship class as one of her electives. Sandy loved designing jewelry, a hobby she began while attending University, and decided that Entrepreneurship would be the anchor in achieving successes in life, and owning her own business became the goal. After graduating, Sandy began selling her jewelry designs. She left her childhood state of South Dakota and headed to Colorado, where she called Boulder her home for a short while. Her first business was initially called Pearl Street Jewelry, and Sandy would visit stores with samples that her clients could order. “I traveled through the state several times each year, taking my clients orders and shipping their selections to them.” When she moved to Breckenridge, Sandy decided to make Pearl Street Jewelry a full-time gig. “I was very busy and looking for opportunities to sell at farmers markets and through the art show circuit in Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona while living the gypsy lifestyle out of my car. In the back of my mind, though, I couldn’t give up the idea of having a clothing boutique. The problem was I didn’t have the means, or I couldn’t find a great spot in Summit County to start something up. It was through serendipity that I found the perfect opportunity in Avon.” A fair-sized but manageable space opened up in The Annex at 142 Beaver Creek Place and became the first Valley Girl Boutique, lovingly named for the women of the Vail Valley who began shopping there. “The name was perfect and attracted Vail Valley locals as well as tourists. I wanted to create a store that appealed to people who lived in the area first and bring affordable, fashionable wear to mountain town communities because there was no place to find stylish clothing at moderate price points. I have always loved being a mountain girl, but I wanted to be a stylie mountain girl.” It all started as a one-woman show when the first store opened in 2007 at the Avon location, and it was not all fun and fabulous. It was a bit more rough and tumble as Sandy broke her ankle two weeks before she opened, 48

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

but she persevered and opened a second store a year later in Breckenridge. Sandy still had her jewelry business during that time but said, “it was challenging to keep up with both the business and produce my jewelry line. I still needed jewelry, but after a few years, I relinquished that love and began supporting other artists creating unique pieces through sales in my store. I bring a wide variety of jewelry from different artists and try to find unique things to create an appealing selection.” Ruby Jane was developed to move away from the Valleygirl concept as Valleygirl Boutique was intended more for the women of the Vail Valley. “I was excited about growing Ruby Jane as a new concept and include home decor, wedding gifts, a baby section, more shoes, and jewelry. Clothing, of course, is still the anchor, but the selection is different from Valleygirl’s offerings. I also really wanted to bring Ruby Jane to more mountain towns. I was cautious in selecting opportunities that made sense for our business model. The Old Bay Street shop space and the building that housed the business became available in Breckenridge. We purchased it, which allowed me to branch out and take Ruby Jane from concept to reality. “We are a family-run business, myself, my husband, my sisters, my mother-in-law, my niece and sister-in-law have all been involved and still are. Throughout all of this, I was having children. I had my daughter Lyla about a year after I open the Breckenridge store. She turned 1 when I opened up the Aspen store. Being a working mom has its challenges, I had my second daughter two years later and have always brought them to Market with me. I stay involved. Right now, I am helping lead two girl scout troops with my girls. I want to do more with the community and the kids. I am very committed to keeping up with my children and being the best mom I can be.” “One of my favorite parts of operating Valleygirl and Ruby Jane is attending the markets. Buying trips are so fun. I love going to Market, seeing what’s new, meeting the designers, checking out new brands, labels, and new lines. I’m always trying to find something different, things that catch my eye. I try to shop as an individual would shop at any of my stores.” “I have an amazing management team, and I also love working in the stores. Each town, each store has its own identity. I love visiting each store, experiencing their differences, and connecting with all of my staff. I am always waiting for perfect shop spaces to open and be ready to jump when I find the next right space.” Sandy’s newest focus is her online store RubyJane.com.

P H O T O C R E D I T: L I N D A R O KO S W AT T S

It is a new venture that will allow the ladies who loved Valleygirl and Ruby Jane while visiting Colorado to continue to connect with the stores and our mountain town vibe. Helt’s entrepreneurial vision has helped bring jobs to women who love living in Colorado mountain town communities and affordable clothing to both the fashionistas and rough and tumble girls. Economically each town has benefited from the sales revenues it generates. Sandy is a powerhouse, albeit a humble powerhouse. You would never know what an asset she has been to Breckenridge and all of Colorado’s mountain communities during a casual conversation. Today you can find Valleygirl Boutique in Avon, Breckenridge, and Edwards. Ruby Jane has locations in Edwards, Denver Highlands, and Steamboat Springs. You will find Sandy visiting each one of her locations and continuing her smart growth long into the future. www.rubyjane.com

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

Homes & Realty

Buying Land The Minimum You Need to Know by Rick Eisenberg

Land. Dirt. Acreage. The desire to build a home on an undeveloped piece of land can be incredibly enticing. Perhaps you have searched for your ‘dream home’ and came up empty-handed. The idea of a custom home builder creating the home of your dreams on YOUR piece of land may seem like a great idea. You’ll have control over the design, architect, builder, and every subsequent design/build decision. For many, this is a perfectly acceptable solution regardless of whether there are no ‘perfect’ homes available to buy. But the process of purchasing a piece of land and then building on it can present its very own challenges. Suppose you are not familiar with what can be an arduous process. In that case, it’s essential to work with a seasoned real estate professional who is very familiar with the area you are contemplating buying and building. A good REALTOR will know the advantages and disadvantages of the locations where you are considering buying and may be able to offer up alternative ideas you may not have known about or had considered. Realtors may already know many of the potential pitfalls in a particular location or on a specific parcel, saving you both valuable time and money. You can also approach legal firms for legal assistance on all aspects of buying all property types, be it a flat or house, buy to let, lease extensions, or freehold purchases. With the support of both the realtor and lawyer, you can rest assured that there won’t be any trouble in the whole property buying process. Financing. Land loans are considered riskier investments than homes. If you require financing, you may need to put a substantial percentage down on the purchase. Land is often financed at a higher interest rate than a typical home mortgage. Work with a qualified, knowledgable lender, preferably local to the area. Loan terms can vary widely between lenders on a land purchase, so you may want to talk to a few lenders so you can compare terms and rates. Be sure to ask the lender about the timing of your potential build so you can look at a combined land/construction loan. 50

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

Environmental issues. Mountain land can have a host of unforeseen issues relating to the environment that may not be visible to the naked eye. It’s vital to undertake a thorough environmental analysis. Just a few of the issues that may be of concern are: Water quality. Be aware of the possibility of groundwater contamination, especially in mountain towns with a heritage of mining. While this will likely not be an issue, it would be wise to investigate the possibility. Wetlands. If there are known wetlands somewhere on or near the parcel, make sure you can safely and legally build on the lot. Wetland regulations are complex and will probably require consultation with a knowledgeable real estate attorney specifically well-versed in this area. Flood zone. You must know whether or not the property is in a flood zone and what type of flood zone (none, 100 years, 500 years). If determined you are in a flood zone, it could mean you may need to buy (or be required to buy if you will have a loan) flood insurance, which can be pretty costly. FEMA has an excellent website to check whether or not the property is in a flood zone. With this information, you may also decide you do not want to be in a flood zone, even if insurable. Soils. A building permit is generally conditioned on a soils test by a soil engineer. Soil types (including wetland areas), the slope of the building site, and other factors (e.g., areas susceptible to flooding) may require additional design considerations. Some parcels may be deemed unbuildable due to the possibility that environmental issues can not be mitigated. A sound soils engineer will be able to weigh in on a possible septic design (if not able to hook into a municipal waste system), drainage issues, possible foundation design, and the potential for additional site remediation. It is a good idea to consult with a qualified soils engineer to determine the feasibility of building on a parcel, especially on the location where you wish to construct your home.

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

Homes & Realty Survey. A new survey is critical when considering a land purchase. A survey may turn up issues that are once again not visible to the naked eye. A few of these issues are as follows: Encroachments. A seemingly small thing like a neighbor’s fence unknowingly crossing a property line can become a big problem down the road. A client of mine was concerned that a driveway on the adjoining lot might pass through the corner of the lot he wanted to purchase. He had a survey done and found out that the driveway was encroaching. We talked with the owner of the encroaching driveway, and as my client felt that the encroachment did him no harm, they both agreed to allow the driveway to continue to pass through that corner. The split the cost for an attorney to draw up an easement

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

that now legally allows the encroachment in perpetuity. Property boundaries. A parcel must surveyed with all corners marked to be sure of the exact boundaries. This is especially true for irregularly shaped mountain properties which may not use the customary ‘lot and block’ descriptions in a recorded plat. Easements. A survey will uncover any known easements on the property (nonpossessory property rights) that may not be obvious to the buyer. For example, a survey might discover that the electric company has an easement on the parcel allowing access to their electric infrastructure, which could eliminate your ability to build on a large chunk of the land. I once bought a home with an old woodshed that was directly in the path of a utility easement. A new survey

uncovered this. I ultimately decided to allow the structure to remain within the easement. The local title company insured the parcel since we all agreed the shed could easily be dismantled if the electric company ever required access. If there are items on the survey that you do not entirely understand, it is highly advised to engage a knowledgeable real estate attorney. HOA Covenants. When buying land in a subdivision where there is a Homeowner’s Association (HOA), it is critical to read through all the governing documents. Examples of things you will want to be aware of are as follows: Pets - HOA rules usually trump any governmental laws or regulations. For example, horses may not be allowed on the parcel even though the property

meets the criteria at the city or county level. Dogs (and cats) too. Home Business - HOA rules may prohibit any commercial use on the parcel. Size - Many HOA’s limits the maximum (and often minimum) home size. Building Envelope - You may want to build on that ridgeline. Still, the building envelope (possibly uncovered on the survey or as an additional governing document) may prohibit it due to several factors, including visibility from other sites in the subdivision. Once again, read through the HOA governing documents carefully, and when in doubt, consult a knowledgeable real estate attorney for advice and interpretation. Access. Make sure the property is accessible. I once sold a

lovely parcel of land (at a good discount) to a client where the property was known to be surrounded/ landlocked by other parcels (A new survey confirmed this). It had no current ‘legal’ access. In most cases, a legal parcel in Colorado cannot be denied accessibility. Still, it may require negotiations of an easement with one more bordering landowner, or at worst, if the landowner(s) are unwilling, you may need to sue for access. With patience, my client was able to ultimately negotiate an easement across the property of one of the adjoining landowners with the help of an attorney. These are some of the many issues to consider when purchasing a parcel of land. Your best course of action is first to consult a knowledgeable real estate professional and be sure to

have a thorough inspection, including engineers who specialize in any areas of concern. Be prepared to engage an excellent real estate attorney if the legal issues begin to get at all muddy. Finally... Do NOT underestimate the cost of building in the mountains. You might think that buying the perfect piece of land and then building to your specifications may be the only route to get you what you want, but don’t forget the hidden or overlooked costs. Be sure to add in such ‘hidden’ costs such as furnishings, upgraded finishes, fences, driveways, landscaping, window coverings, and the many other extras that would make a house your home! www.rickeisenberg.com

LET US HELP YOU

BUY SELL OR

YOUR PROPERTY

Local Experts on Local Living

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

F U R N I T U R E

M A T T R E S S E S

I N T E R I O R

WWW.IFURNISHCO.COM

FRISCO

725 TEN MILE DRIVE FRISCO, CO 970-668-1000

KREMMLING

300 PARK AVENUE KREMMLING, CO 970-724-4000

D E S I G N

W W W. J S M B U I L D E R S . C O M

970.846.3734

Stay

Beaver Run Resort

Location. Location. Location. Beaver Run Resort offers hike-in, hike-out, bike-in, bike-out, and once the snow starts flying, ski-in, ski-out accommodations. It is one of the best locations in all of Breckenridge to stay and play. This resort property features independently owned units, professional staff, and hotel-style services and amenities. It is definitely not a typical hotel or a momand-pop managed rental property (like an Airbnb or VRBO). It is quite honestly the best of both worlds. Beaver Run features 515 individually-owned slopeside guest accommodations - from hotel rooms, studios, one and two-bedroom condominiums to prominent executive and specialty suites, all with the convenience and luxury of hotel amenities and services, such as onsite dining, free WiFi, a resort spa, front desk concierge service, housekeeping, an arcade, and mini-golf, plus two pools and nine hot tubs. It is a fantastic spot to stay with a group of people and lovely for two to escape from the business of the world. Beaver Run Resort's location in Breck is between the mountain and Main Street Breckenridge. It is a leisurely stroll to Main Street Breckenridge, where you will find exceptional shopping, dining, art, music, and world-class events. There is a shuttle to whisk you down and back up if you have spent the day playing hard too. New, this summer and fall, the resort is offering fireside dining on their restaurant, Spencer's, patio along with live music every Friday afternoon. Grab a cocktail, some apps, and enjoy mountain views. Spencer's restaurant allows you to feast with selections ranging from steaks grilled to perfection, light entrees, and chef-prepared specials. Serving Breakfast, Lunch, and DInner stop in for some unique specials that the whole family will enjoy or head upstairs to the Skywalk Market for grab-and-go meals. On-site bike rentals through Breck Sports make it easy to get out and immediately onto the trail. Coming early winter, when Breckenridge Ski Area opens, ski and snowboard rentals will have you out the door for first chair. Later this August, the Breckenridge Beer Fest will be back! The Breckenridge Summer Beer Festival is one of the town's premier seasonal events. Enjoy a weekend of playing outdoors and beer tastings from some of Colorado’s finest breweries. In September, the Breckenridge Wine Festival returns with the resort hosting a weekend long gathering where you can experience local wines alongside wines from around the world! 620 Village Rd, Breckenridge www.beaverrun.com

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

Hideaway Park

Socially Seen Phyllis Martinez Memorial

FIRC Fashion Show

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

Firecracker 50

Breckenridge Music Festival

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

Dine Local Aurum - Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge Craft Spirits Festival BY P EP P ER H A M I LTO N

ay Cheers! Eleven Years of celebrating the Craft Spirit industry in Colorado is set to continue with a fabulous weekend full of tasty events. The Eleventh Annual Breckenridge Craft Spirits Festival has set its dates for October 8 - 10, 2021. Activities over the weekend-long Craft Spirits Festival will include some of the previous years' events like the scavenger hunt, historic saloon tour, spirited workshops, historic walking tours, and cemetery tours. Fine local cuisine can be enjoyed at restaurants around town with dining specials available through the Breckenridge Dining Passport (get yours here: www. breckrestaurant.org). The highlight of the weekend is the Grand Tasting, at the Riverwalk Center, which will showcase the exceptional curated products of Colorado's craft distillers. The public can meet the distillers, try their various spirits and vote for their favorite. Many of the distillers offer cocktail tastings featuring their products so guests may experience how their liquors can be enjoyed as a cocktail. Artisan snacks will also be served during the Grand Tasting and local musicians will be playing to keep everything lively. Stay tuned for costs and more: www.breckenridgecraftspiritsfestival.com

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

Meet the multi-talented, Mother-Daughter team behind Peak of Asia BY SHAUNA FARNELL

Beyond the borders of Vietnam, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a tastier bowl of pho than at this unassuming but strikingly beautiful little restaurant tucked into a quiet corner of La Cima Mall at the south end of Main Street. Peak of Asia is helmed by a mother-daughter team with an uncanny flare for bringing out the flavor in every ingredient. As it happens, the Ton family possesses a bottomless pool of talent for every type of art, culinary or otherwise. Khanh Ton moved to Colorado from Vietnam in 2000, following in the footsteps of her younger sister, Lua, who owns and operates The Flying Crane and Colisco – two retail hubs in Frisco. Their mother, Lien, and older sister, Van, soon followed. The family hails from Dalat, a scenic mountain town that Khanh describes as friendly and tight-knit, not dissimilar to Breckenridge. There, the family ran a small restaurant specializing in fresh fruit and vegetable-centered dishes. “Cooking was always a big deal in my family,” Khanh says. “My grandma was the role model. She lived to be 110 years old. At one point, she cooked for the king. Anything you gave her, any kind of ingredient, she could make something delicious.” As is the tradition in Vietnam, when Khanh’s mother married her father, she moved into the father’s family house, where her paternal grandmother passed along her cooking prowess. In turn, Lien (Khanh’s mom) then passed this kitchen wisdom onto Khanh, her sisters and brothers. “My mom and my grandma were super close. That’s why my mom loves to cook,” Khanh says. “The whole family, every single one, knows how to cook.” Khanh worked as a prized cake decorator in Denver for several years, but upon opening shop in Breck with her mother and sister, the initial business endeavor was not in the realm of comestibles. For 12 years, the trio ran the popular Feel Good Massage day spa, where clients would often comment on the heavenly smells wafting through from the private kitchen in the back. “Every time we made something in the back, the customers said, ‘man, what are you eating?’” Khanh recalls. “They said, ‘you should open a restaurant.’” In December 2017, the sisters and mother followed through, opening Peak of Asia. They did all the remodeling and decorating themselves down to every last detail, including the thoughtful menu featuring their favorite Vietnamese dishes. Options include a selection of crispy rolls and fresh spring rolls, Banh Mi (a Vietnamese sandwich with choice of chicken, pork, grilled beef or tofu, fresh cilantro and pickled vegetables), Banh Xeo (a Vietnamese crepe filled with shrimp, pork carrots and bean sprouts), and of course, numerous varieties of pho, the traditional rice noodle soup served with fresh mint, basil, lime, jalapeno and bean sprouts.

Each version of pho – filet mignon, brisket, meatball, seafood or vegan – is slow-cooked in its own juices for 24 hours, bringing out a symphony of flavors that are surprising for the translucent broth. “We cook everything overnight and all the good juices come out,” Khanh says. “We use seasonal vegetables – whatever is fresh and available like corn, carrots, radish, cauliflower – and throw it into a big pot. We add onion, ginger, cinnamon stick, star anise and cook all night. Everyone is always so surprised by how much flavor is in the broth. Even Indian people come in and say they don’t usually eat Vietnamese because the flavor doesn’t compare to their food, but they say our broth blows them away.” In addition to packing an explosion of flavor, the veggie pho in particular also presents a rainbow of color, teeming with any mix of seasonally fresh vegetables ranging from purple cabbage to broccoli, peppers, pea pods and every imaginable hue of cauliflower. The accoutrements are an art piece of freshness unto themselves, the pile of vibrant green basil and mint leaves emanating fragrance the minute it’s placed on the table. Khanh procures the freshest ingredients twice a week from the Asian market in Denver, returning with massive bundles of lemongrass, herbs and veggies. “Everything we make, we make here,” Khanh says. “So many restaurants have fried food and nothing fresh. We want people to feel good eating our food and feel good after.” While leaving the bulk of the cooking to her mom and sister, Khanh manages the operation. On any given day, this involves everything from shopping, chopping and preparing ingredients to making cocktails, many of which also incorporate fresh herbs and juices, such as the Jade Lion, made from cucumber-infused gin, fresh mint and lime, or the Vietmojito, made from lemongrass-infused rum, muddled basil, lime and coconut milk. In addition to creating mind-blowing culinary masterpieces with her mother, Van, the oldest Ton sister, is the artist behind Peak of Asia’s stunning decor, which includes a sea of individually folded origami birds dangling from the ceiling, a collection of small potted plants cleverly hung onto wall-sized charts and a massive dragon made from glistening crystals, which the Tons purchased from a gallery but hung themselves, along with complex lighting, in the front window. “I love to make people happy,” Van says. “I love to cook. Every time I see someone eating and enjoying something at our restaurant, it makes my day.” La Cima Mall, 500 South Main Street, Breckenridge Peak of Asia Photos Top Left Counterwise: The team- from leftVan, Lien and Khanh vegan pho, crispy rolls, Vietmojito cocktail with tofu spring rolls, vegan and filet mignon pho

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

Dine Local

Liquid Chef Billie Keithley Winner of Whisky Magazine's Bar Manager of the Year by: Holly Battista-Resignolo

Crafting memorable cocktails from award-winning whiskeys is an art and science that Billie Keithley of the Breckenridge Distillery has mastered. Her passion for the product and the industry have not gone unnoticed. Keithley’s years of innovations, education, and experimentation have culminated with the very honorable title, 2021 Icons of Whisky Best Bar Manager. The Icons of Whisky are an annual industry award organized by Whisky Magazine. This award recognizes the very best people and places in the whisky business around the world. For those who know Keithley, aka the Breckenridge Distillery’s Liquid Chef, this accolade comes as no surprise, but for Keithly, it was a moment of happy tears, a bit of disbelief, and a whole lot of joy. For a rockstar in the world of mixology, she is a humble soul. She is thankful for some of the serendipitous moments she has experienced alongside her tenacious yet humble personality. Billie Keithley arrived in Breckenridge, Colorado, 24 years ago. Like many in the area, Keithley worked at the ski resort and within the town’s food and beverage industry. On a night 20 years ago, Billie had started her evening managing a local restaurant when one of her service bartenders didn’t show up for their shift. She said, “out of necessity, I jumped behind the bar and became absorbed by the colors, bottles, and the art of the craft. I wondered why am I not doing this?” This chance discovery set her on the path to becoming a full-time Bartender and Bar Manager. As Keithley was progressing in her career, a friend invited her to a seminar that featured a talk by the great Francesco LaFranconi, the Founder of the Academy of Spirits & Fine Service at Southern

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

Wine & Spirits of Nevada. It was a jaw-dropping learning experience and became an epiphany for Billie Keithley. That day she took about ten pages of notes. Bille reminisced, " I was humbled as I realized how much I didn’t know, but at the same time so inspired that I knew at that very moment that I wanted to absorb and share every morsel of knowledge of this amazing craft and put smiles on faces with every sip.” Keithley's path soon crossed with Bryan Nolt, owner of the Breckenridge Distillery and Head Distiller, Jordan Via. Keithly reminisced, “They walked in, and I had no idea who they were. I made them some nice cocktails; one was an egg cream, that was it. The next day I was called and immediately hired. I have been with them ever since. Soon after I received my official title, The Breckenridge Distillery 'Liquid Chef' because if it is edible, I can make a cocktail out of it. I have been challenged in the past but have been able to create something out of some of the craziest ingredients. Once I was challenged to make a cocktail out of wasabi peas and wafers.” Keithley's approachable demeanor and incredible passion for the craft boldly shines. Her role at the Breckenridge Distillery can be summed up in one word - Unique. Keithley is not your traditional bar manager. From her outgoing personality & hair, rimmed glasses, and rockabilly style to her passion and love for the industry, Billie is quite unforgettable in the best of ways. Her co-worker and teammate, Litch Polich summarized her skills, "I think the fact that Billie wears so many hats is what makes her such a great bar manager, she's done it all, which also means not only can she handle the day to day minutia that a bar requires but also conveys

empathy for those she manages. She truly wants to see them grow and succeed while mastering the skills to give the customer the best experience possible. She continues to learn and teaches her newfound knowledge to her team. There's a fine line between a manager and being friends with those you manage. Billie can walk that line and gain the respect of her team by being friendly and professional, her goal is to allow them to have the same confidence and positive attitude that she possesses while respecting each other and the customer. I truly believe if it were up to Billie every person out there would be a bartender!" Keithley was hired for her bartending skills but also worked introducing and selling the Breckenridge Distilleries products at events around the country. Rather than pour each product neat, she began pairing the distilleries products with her exceptionally crafted cocktails recipes. In many ways, Keithly changed how the consumer and connoisseur were able to experience the spirits the Breckenridge Distillery crafted. Always striving to grow and learn in the fast-paced world of cocktails, Keithley wants to be her best at everything she does and make sure those around her are well informed. As "The Face" and Bar Manager of the Breckenridge Distillery, Keithley conducts events, bartending, and bar management instruction, is involved in numerous Colorado news segments, produces articles, and leads Zoom classes. Billie's discoveries, along with a bit of scientific knowledge, is shaken and stirred into her work. Enjoy her creativity at the Breckenridge Distillery or with her recipes displayed to the right >

SEVEN SUMMER Cocktails

The Flamingo

FROM THE BRECKENRIDGE DISTILLERY

Some of the best summer memories are made in flip flops with a refreshing cocktail in hand. These 7 cocktails from Breckenridge Distillery are sure to keep your summers cool. Make them at home. COCKTAILS HAND-CRAFTED BY LIQUID CHEF BILLIE KEITHLEY

JAZZ HANDS 1-1/2 oz Breckenridge Bourbon • 1/2 oz honey simple syrup* • Blueberry/raspberry cube** •

Shake all ingredients vigorously until the cube is mostly gone or close to. over medium heat add 1 cup water, 1/2 cup of honey and 1/2 cup sugar. Stir until dissolved and let cool.

** blend equal portions of blueberries and raspberries until pureed. Strain into large cube trays.

THE FLAMINGO 1-1/2 oz Breckenridge Vodka • 1 oz strawberry & hibiscus simple syrup*

THAI IN THE COCONUT 1-1/2 oz Breckenridge Spiced Rum 2 oz Perfect Puree’s Thai Basil Black Pepper Puree • 1 oz cream of coconut • 1/4 oz lime juice • 2 drops Pandan Extract • Coconut soda • •

Shake the top 5 ingredients with ice. Strain and add crushed ice. Top with coconut soda. Garnish with mixed basil.

WHISKEY MANGO FOXTROT 1-1/2 oz Breckenridge Spiced Whiskey 1 oz mango/pineapple juice • 2 oz mango sorbet, softened • 1/4 oz lime juice •

•

Top with Fever Tree sparkling grapefruit Add all ingredients over ice. Stir gently. Garnish with strawberries.

Shake all ingredients with ice and strain up. Garnish with fresh mango.

over low-medium heat add 16 oz fresh strawberries, 3 tablespoons dried hibiscus, 2 cup water, 1/2 cup raw sugar and 1/2 cup monk fruit sweetener. While heating, muddle and then let it simmer for 10 minutes. Let cool and strain.

OF ALL THE GIN JOINTS 2 oz Breckenridge Gin 1 oz apple & basil simple syrup* • 3/4 oz fresh lime juice • •

Shake all ingredients with ice. Serve up. Garnish with mixed basil. over medium heat, combine 1 cup of apple juice, 1 cup sugar and stir until dissolved. Add 12 basil leaves and let rest for 2 hours. *

BRECKENRIDGEDISTILLERY.COM 970.547.WSKY (9759)

RUM CASK MINT JULEP 2 oz. Breckenridge Rum Cask Finish 1/4 oz. raw simple syrup* • 6 mint leaves • •

Muddle mint and syrup. Add 1/2 cup of crushed ice, then add Rum Cask Finish and stir to incorporate. Top with crushed ice and form into a dome. Garnish with mint and powdered sugar. * over medium heat add 1 cup sugar in the raw, 1 cup water. Simmer until dissolved.

HIGH COUNTRY HIGHBALL 2 oz. Breckenridge Bourbon Fever Tree Orange Spiced Ginger Ale • 2 dashes Angostura Bitters • Lime • •

Add top 2 ingredients with crushed ice. Add 2 dashes of Angostura Bitters and squeeze of quarter lime.

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

Rootstalk

Rootstalk is a new American restaurant serving Chef Matt Vawter's take on elevated everyday dining. Focusing on lunch and dinner services, serving approachable seasonal food, thoughtfully curated wine and beverage lists, and creative and fun libations. 207 N Main Street, Breckenridge

OLLIE'S

Ollie's Pub & Grub owners Rob Pantle and Alan Bullock along with the staff pride themselves on creating an “everybody knows your name” type of atmosphere. Voted Best Sports Bar in Summit County, Ollie's new Breckenridge location is the highest floating bar/restaurant in the world! Come and enjoy amazing views of the mountains from their deck or inside. Extended menu and over 20 Colorado Draft beers on tap. 180 W. Jefferson Avenue, Breckenriddge

Yo Mom mas Cant i na Try made from scratch Mexican dishes and signature drinks with local brews on draft! A unique take on Mexican traditional dishes, such as enchiladas, pambazos, burritos, and ceviches! 1900 Airport Road, Breckenridge

Sauce on the Maggie Sauce on the Maggie Breckenridge Italian Eatery (formerly Taddeo's) is located in the Village at Breckenridge, overlooking the Maggie Pond. The restaurant focuses on old-world Italian cuisine featuring longtime customer favorites and house specialties like the Penne Gorgonzola and Rigatoni and Sausage, Chicken Marsala, and Pizza! 655 S Park Avenue, Breckenridge

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

Eat Breckenridge Restaurants, Cafes, Eateries, Bars & Pubs of Note Mimo's Fancy Tapas

Spanish tapas bar and restaurant with savory fancy Tapas, Spanish wines, and signature cocktails. Enjoy authentic, direct from Spain, Spanish finger foods, fresh forkable dishes, and creamy creations best consumed with a spoon. Bring your sweet tooth for a delicious finale. 216 South Main Street, Breckenridge

LITTLE BAR & GRILLED

Just off of Main Street you can enjoy beautiful views and a big menu filled with burgers, salad, soup, shareable plates, and nine hearty grilled cheese sandwich selections. Grab a beer on draft or crafted cocktail. Kids are welcome too and have their own menu to enjoy as well. 161 East Adams Avenue, Breckenridge

Carboy Winery

Carboy Winery in downtown Breckenridge is a unique Colorado winery working hands-on with vineyards & winemakers from around the world. The winery sources high-quality grapes, juice, and single-varietal wine that is then vinted, blended, and aged in their underground winery.Enjoy snacks, Bruschetta's, small sweets, and a variety of boards filled with selections of cheeses, meats, and accompaniments. 103 North Main Street, Breckenridge

Cook Local

High Altitude Cooking with Butter & Air by ROBYN NICOLI

I don’t mean to be dramatic, but I think I’m in love. With a cake. We’ve spent a lot of time together lately, tweaking our relationship until we’re both happy. This High Altitude Lemon Drizzle Cake is seriously the best I’ve ever had – and I’m pretty confident you’ll agree. Not quite a pound cake, but more refined than, say, banana bread, this recipe was tricky to get right. I’ve tested it on and off for months, making copious notes, and until now have almost despaired of ever getting it right. I am here now to share my perfection with you:

Lemon Drizzle Cake Ingredients

CAKE • 1/2 lb (1 cup, 2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature • 3/4 cup + 2 TB granulated sugar • 5 large eggs, at room temperature • 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt • 2 TB fresh lemon zest from about 2 lemons (reserve the lemon juice for the glaze) • 1 TB lemon curd • 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour • 1/2 cup cake flour • 1 tsp baking powder • 1/2 tsp kosher salt GLAZE • 1 1/2 TB freshly squeezed lemon juice (avoid bottled juice which can have an “off” flavor) • 2/3 cup confectioners sugar 68

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F – double check the temperature with an oven thermometer. Butter a 9' x 5' loaf pan and line it with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside. In the bowl of a stand mixer (or a separate large bowl, using a hand mixer), cream the room-temperature butter and sugar together on medium-high speed until very light and fluffy, 2-3 minutes. Add eggs, beating after each until they are thoroughly incorporated. Don’t beat further – you don’t want to add too much air. With the mixer on low, stir in the sour cream, lemon curd, and lemon zest. Mix just until incorporated. Carefully stir or fold in the flour mixture, mixing only until you can no longer see any dry flour. Scrape the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spoon. Bake at 350 degrees for 60-65 minutes, until the edges are golden and a cake tester comes out with no signs of raw batter. Avoid over-baking which will lead to a dry cake. Also avoid opening the oven during the bake, which can cause the cake to collapse. Let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes, then poke it all over with a cake tester, cocktail stick, or other fine, sharp tool, poking all the way to the bottom of the cake. Make lots of holes to allow for maximum seepage! While the cake is cooling, make the glaze: simply whisk together the fresh lemon juice and confectioners sugar in a small bowl. The glaze should be thin enough to drizzle, add extra juice or sugar as needed to achieve the right consistency. If the glaze hardens a bit while you’re waiting, just re-stir it until it’s liquid again. Pour about half the glaze all over the top of the cake and use a pastry brush or the back of a spoon to distribute it across the cake. If desired (and you really should do this), let the first coat set for a few minutes, then drizzle the remaining glaze over the top. You can glaze the cake in or out of the tin; I like to (carefully) lift the cake out of its pan using the parchment paper and then drizzle so the glaze drips pleasingly down the sides. Slice and serve slightly warm or at room temperature. Robyn lives at 9,600 feet elevation here in Breckenridge with her tasting team (aka husband David and teenage son Jacob). She is the chief recipe developer, photographer, writer, and burnt pan-washer for Butter and Air. Find recipes here: www.butterandair.com

Open for Dinner The best paao in Breckenridge! Located at the booom of Peak 9 Open every day! Order takeout online: www.quandarygrille.com

Located in the Main Street Staaon, overlooking the Maggie Pond 505 S. Main St., Breckenridge 970-547-5969 • QuandaryGrille.com

Serving Dinner Located at the bottom of Peak 9 Serving indoors and outdoors Order Online: SauceOnTheMaggie.com

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

breckenridge dining

MENU BY DAVID BURKE

MODERN AMERICAN CUISINE WITH ALTITUDE 1925 Airport Road | (970) 547-9759 (ext. 3) La Cima Mall, 520 S Main Street Breckenridge

www.sanchotaco.com

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

breckenridge dining

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK ALL SEASON LONG Join us for breakfast, lunch and dinner any day of the week!

Sustainably roasted coffee, fresh baked pastries, and grab-and-go items — 7 am – 6pm daily 605 South Park Avenue, Breckenridge, CO 80424 gravityhaus.com cabinjuice.com unravel.coffee @gravityhaus @cabinjuice @unravelcoffeeco

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

The

BRECKENRIDGE SCOUT

S c o u t i n g o u t a c t i v i t i e s , F e s t i va l s a nd ev en ts in our mou n ta i n t ow n

BRECK ENRIDGE MUSIC

Breckenridge Music takes concerts outside, on the road and into your neighborhood with its new mobile stage, the AirStage in the coming months. Silver Bullet Trailers retrofitted a 1975 Airstream Ambassador Travel Trailer to accommodate a 14.5-foot wide by 9-foot deep stage. Performances at the AirStage will include neighborhood concerts, family-friendly pop-ups, artist 72

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

residencies and special donor events as well as programming that supports Breckenridge Music Festival. Events by and large will be free with the goal of connecting neighbors within the communities of Breckenridge and greater Summit County. Attendees will be encouraged to social distance and wear masks so that all can enjoy these much-needed concerts safely and without worry. Blankets and folding chairs are encouraged to help

make the concert experience more comfortable. “Breck Music is thrilled to give its neighbors the opportunity to safely gather together beneath our spectacular mountain landscape for music,” says Tamara Nuzzaci Park, executive director of Breck Music. “It allows us to overcome many of the barriers we face in terms of delivering on our mission in more traditional spaces.” www.breckmusic.org

MTN AXE

What is Axe Throwing....you ask? The oldest tool known to mankind is the Axe. Originally made from stone it served as an aid in foraging, hunting, protecting and building. In around 400-500 AD the first axes used as projectiles, known as throwing axes were used. These axes had a short handle, a sharp thick axe head and were used as weapons during the Great Migration. As a sport Axe Throwing has been an activity at Lumberjack competitions from the early 1800s and has continued to grow from local gatherings in rural backyards to urban axe throwing venues across the world, gaining momentum with local communities and the formation of WATL; the World Axe Throwing League. About Experience MTN AXE Breckenridge, one of the first in Colorado's mountain town communities. Throwing lanes are available by the hour for parties of 4 or more and special group events of up to 65 people. Check on current rules: www.MTNAxe.com

SUMMIT NOR DIC SK I CLUB The Summit Nordic Ski Club fall and winter program is open for 2021-22 season registration. Register early to get info on team gear, season kick off meetings and more. For nearly 50 years SNSC has been a part of the Summit County community providing access to Nordic skiing for young athletes. The Summit Nordic Ski Club (SNSC) is one of Colorado's top ski clubs offering programs for young athletes to develop fitness, confidence and skills in a team based environment. The first two weeks are free to try if you have not participated with the club. There is a training and development offering for every kid from ages 6 through High School and guaranteed to provide a lifetime of outdoor enjoyment. These programs fill up fast so don't delay, register today! www.summitnordic-skiclub.squarespace.com/

mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

46TH BR ECK ENRIDGE G AT H E R I N G AT T H E G R E AT D I V I D E A RT F ES T I VA L

The longest running art festival in Summit county continues this summer over Labor Day weekend in beautiful Breckenridge, Colorado. The show will be at Colorado Mountain College again this summer. Top artists from

across the country will gather with their original works of art in 13 categories including jewelry, painting, photography, sculpture and more! We will implement all health guidelines at the time of the event to ensure a safe

setting to enjoy this wonderful outdoor art event. . Free parking, free admission and beautiful art for all! www.mountainartfestivals.com

HAUS QUIVER

OKTOBER FESTING

This fall, Breckenridge’s traditional Oktoberfest Main Street party will transform into the new elevated ticketed-event held at the iconic Riverwalk Center. With two entry times per day, the Riverwalk will mimic a full-blown Munich celebration with live music from The Polkanauts, enough German beer and cuisine to put anyone in the “Prost!” spirit, and fall colors providing the ultimate backdrop.

Tickets include access to performances, German-themed games like stein holding and barrel racing, and a commemorative stein with two beer tokens. Guests will be able to pick between afternoon and evening access daily, Sept. 24-26, 2021 www.gobreck.com 74

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

P H O T O C R E D I T: C A R L S C O F I E L D

Gravity Haus has curated a quiver of bikes, paddleboards, climbing, hiking, and camping gear, kayaks, skis, snowboards and so much more in a streamlined equipment demo program designed to maximize your time outdoors with all the gear you need to experience it. Become a Gravity Haus member with Haus Quiver access and all you will need to do is download their easy-to-use Gravity Haus app, reserve the gear you need for your next adventure, then visit any of their convenient urban or mountain HQ fulfillment locations to pick-up & drop-off the equipment. Unlock unlimited, unrestricted gear use for as little as $50/ month for 12 months. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or ready to try a new sport, a Gravity Haus membership with Haus Quiver will equip you for your next adventure. www.gravityhaus.com

BETTER EQUIPMENT • BETTER SERVICE • BETTER RATES

Ski, Snowboard and Summer Bike Rental

Celebrating 40 Years of Business

www.BlueRiverSports.com

www.mountainwave.com

970.453.1110 • Peak 9 Base Area 600 S. Park Ave.

Every 5th Day FREE | 20% Ski and Snowboard Reservation Discount

Last Lift

Reflections on Life Elevated by Dori Welch

The lure of the mountains is real and hits people at various stages of life. Freedom, daring adventures, beauty, and rugged challenges bring a special kind of person to the elevations high in the Rockies. A blustery day invites the test of cold weather equipment versus discouraging attitudes, and the triumphant enjoyment of outdoor activities in all conditions is a reward versus punishment. Sitting with feet propped by the evening fire has a satisfying feel after braving the elements to slice a turn in the fresh, fluffy powder. There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear. People who find this lifestyle appealing tend to discover it on their own, away from their roots, striking out on an independent experience often in the tender years right after leaving home. Strong bonds form between the people who find themselves in mountain communities, facing the same struggles and initial loneliness as their new coworker or internet-stranger-turned-roommate. Holidays are celebrated with these instant close friends. Going home is not an option during the busiest seasons of the ski resorts and is likely out of budget, anyway. Not everyone plans to stay. Arriving in the mountains to enjoy a winter before starting a 'real world' career is a popular move. Sometimes it turns out as well as fostering a dog you don’t plan to keep. Plenty of 20+ year mountain dwellers share the same story, “I came for a season and never left.” However, hard seasonal work, sparse housing, high costs of living, and fighting the weather for the majority of the year do drive people to seek an easier and more conventional way of life. Where does that leave the ones who stay? Missing the good friends, they cultivated these fast and strong bonds with. Mountain resort communities are transient by nature, which can perpetuate feelings of isolation for those who make their lives in them. Fostering friendships that function like family only to lose physical closeness when someone moves away is a painful and common phenomenon. One mountain 76

I S S U E 2 2021 | mo unta intow nbre cke nr id ge.com

resident described his ever-evolving socialization; “I had friends I sat across the table from at all major holidays, the ones I hit the mountain with in the winter and traveled to the desert with in the spring. The majority of them ended up moving to places with more job opportunities in specialized fields, and more bang for their buck in real estate. I got so tired of feeling the loss when a friend left, I started to remain reserved with people until they seemed more committed to staying. I even made a rule not to count them in as close 'family' until they bought a house here, but even then, it is not a guarantee they will stay. Most of my friends where I grew up are now close to home, and my family is still there. Even though it sounds enticing, and I even moved home once, I still don’t have as much in common with those old friends as I do with the type of people who seek out a life here.” Technology, social media, and smartphones have made it easier to maintain long-distance friendships after people have left. Another resident indicated the friendships she made in the mountains remain like a family bond, even though they have spread across the country. They stay in touch almost daily, 20 years later, via a group chat. Still, it is just not quite the same. Nevertheless, there is an undeniable bind that weaves through the community, connecting the people who stick it out for the long term. The degree of separation is small within the core, and meeting someone new includes determining common comrades. Familiar faces and names turn into people to have honest conversations with, and the latticework of mountain town bonds grows with each chat. As it is with life, the cycle continues with each new season bringing a group of bright-eyed mountain town fledglings. The lure of the mountains has called, and ready or not, they are stumbling into a journey of discovering the peaks and valleys of mountain living and bonding with people who will help them navigate it. Most importantly, wherever they end up and when, this season will be one giant step in getting to know someone essential Themselves.

Extreme Family Fun - MTN Style! WE'VE PERFECTED THE ART OF SHORT TERM VACATION RENTAL MANAGEMENT

Throw Axe's and have some Fun!

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

105 S. Main Street Breckenridge, CO 80424 970-771-4450

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED

970-239-7345

MTNAXE.com

GRANDWELCOME.COM

Brecken r idge Outf it ters is a n O r vis endorsed f ul l ser vice f ly f ish i ng pro shop a nd outf it ter located i n beauti f ul downtown Brecken r idge Colorado. We offer numerous g uide t r ip options 365 days a yea r. W het her you a re a world class a ngler or just wa nti ng to lea r n, we offer a wonder f ul exper ience a nd is a g reat activit y for t he enti re fa m i ly. 101 N.Ma i n Street #B Brecken r idge, CO 970 - 4 53 - 4135 wwwbreckenridgeoutfitters.com .

mo u nt a i ntow n m a ga z i ne. com | S U M M E R/FA L L 2 0 2 0 mo unta i ntow nbre ckenr id ge. com | I S S U E 2 2 0 2 1

73 77

R e a lT y I nc .

Breckenridge Magazine Issue 2

Articles inside

LAST CHAIR

STAY

HOMES & REALTY

PEOPLE OF

ENTREPRENEUR

BIZ

PRIORITIES

BRECK MADE

BACKCOUNTRY

TRAIL

KINGDOM NOTES