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Alive on Arrival. Photo special to SneakPEAK.
Old pros Denver’s Alive on Arrival brings 25 years of tight, timeless musicianship to Shakedown Bar on Friday. Interviewed by Phil Lindeman.
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live on Arrival is the very definition of a professional live band.
For 25 years, the Denver-based quintent has come together weekend after weekend, without hardly missing a beat, to play everywhere from corner clubs and dive bars to parties for the 1998 MLB All-Star Game at Coors Field. AOA has never quite reached the level of other storied Colorado acts like Leftover Salmon or Big Head Todd and the Monsters, but that was never the point. The group has managed to carve a niche in the city’s vibrant music scene without falling prey to trends or bandmate quibbles. Founders Laura Newman (saxophone) and Dave Randon (bass) are musicians to the core, and after playing together for so long, they know how to craft a rollicking live show free of dated, chintzy gimmicks. There are no choreographed moves or overwhelming brass section – just a time-tested combo of guitar, vocals, rhythm and Newman’s wailing sax. Although AOA has weathered numerous lineup changes over the years – the death of longtime singer and Denver blues legend Creighton Holley in 2012 was a blow – Newman and Randon have always managed to attract talent. When the group comes to Vail this weekend, the bandleaders are joined by Mark Emmons on drums, Vlad Girfhevick on keyboard and jaw-dropping New Orleans vocalist/guitarist Cherie DuFour carrying on the tradition. Before AOA’s Friday night show at Shakedown Bar in Vail Village, SneakPEAK spoke with Newman about playing for rowdy mountain crowds, shifting from Ray Charles to Cee Lo Green and the joys of a reliable rhythm section. SneakPEAK: Alive on Arrival has played in Vail before, but never at Shakedown, at least since it went through an ownership change. What brought you back to the area? Laura Newman: I love to play up there. We used to play in Edwards a lot, but the place we used to play went away. It can get wild and crazy up there – mountain people are rugged and ready to have a good time. I own a bar in Denver, a place right next to Coors Field called Herb’s, and being in Vail reminds me of that scene. SP: How did AOA come together, and was it hard to find a group of musicians you could trust to play anything? LN: We all like lots and lots of different things. Cherie goes from being a metal head to the Southern rock she grew up around. Dave has always listened to Jamie Jameson, but he can play whatever is in front of him. That’s the case with a lot of us – we all started as classical musicians, so we’re able to play just about anything you throw at us. Now, you won’t hear any jazz this Friday. The closest we get to jazz this weekend is some meter changes. We’re really just going to be pounding it out, doing everything from Cee Lo Green and Outkast all the way back to Ray Charles, catching all sorts of people in-between.
If you go...
What: Alive on Arrival, a Denver-based funk, blues and rock group When: Friday, Oct. 11 at 10 p.m. Where: Shakedown Bar, Vail Village Cost: Free To find out more about Alive on Arrival before the Vail show, see www.aoaband.com. SP: Atmosphere plays a huge role in any performance. As a musician, do you enjoy playing bars like Shakedown more than private functions? LN: We’re used to a bit of rowdiness, the kind you get at an actual concert, so that affects us a lot. Now, it doesn’t bother us if we’re supposed to be in the background. We do a lot of corporate events and that stuff, and I know we have to stay out of the way. When we go someplace like shakedown, though, I know the focus is on me and the band. That can be a lot of fun. SP: Talk about a typical AOA show. What will the Shakedown audience encounter? LN: We play cover tunes, but we aren’t a band that dresses alike and does steps and choreographed moves. We rear back and just let our love of musicianship shine through. We play hard because we like to let the music come to the foreground. A lot of bands tend to let the music become secondary, but with us, that’s not the case. We all just love to play too much. Someone like Cherie gives us a really interesting sound – she started playing jam sessions in New Orleans at 13 years old. She’s been around music forever. SP: Was it hard to move from a male to female vocalist? LN: I don’t really see it as male versus female. Creighton was more of a blues guy and Cherie is more of a rocker – that whole New Orleans influence – so we’re a bit edgier now. The rhythm section is very versatile and all those guys have great ears, so they’re used to working with just about anyone. Dave can hear his way through different gigs. He knows a gajillion tunes and has for years. SP: You and Randon founded AOA. How have you two grown as musicians over the years? LN: He’s such a monster bass player. I met him through another group before this one – when you add that in, we’ve played together for 28 years – and he has just always been monstrous. Over those years, we’ve played every weekend, week in and week out, and I’ve never felt that he got stagnant with his playing. He just does it for me no matter the day, and his groove is so wide and reliable. It’s hard to believe you can play with someone for so long without running into an off day.
SneakPEAK editor Phil Lindeman can be reached at philip@sneakpeakvail.com
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2013 winter PREVIEW >>>>
His time After narrowly missing the podium in Vancouver, SSCV alum Chris Del Bosco eyes ski-cross gold at the Sochi Olympics. Interviewed by Phil Lindeman. Cover by Anthony Thornton.
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hris Del Bosco is the leanest and meanest he’s ever been, and it couldn’t come at a better time. Now 31 years old, the Colorado native and ski-cross racer is one of the sport’s original superstars, known for trading podium spots with heavyweights like Austria’s Andreas Matt and Switzerland’s Micael Schmid. While other skiers are content to race against the clock, Del Bosco has always enjoyed the free-for-all brawl of the ski-cross circuit. He’s nothing short of a natural risk taker: At the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver – the first year ski-cross was in the global spotlight – he went for a lastminute pass, trying to bump from third to first. The move was too sudden and he crashed, losing just enough time to end in fourth place. It was a devastating blow for the talented hometown team. Del Bosco, whose father is Canadian, joined in 2007 after being dismissed from the U.S. Ski Team’s developmental squad for drug and alcohol. In a sport dominated by Europeans, he put North American ski-cross on the map. The ill-fated pass may have seemed brash, but Del Bosco can hardly bury his competitive streak. He joined Ski and Snowboard Club Vail at 5 years old and was pegged early on as a protégé. Like Cristhian Ravelo, the club’s most promising ski-cross athlete at the moment, Del Bosco boasts an innate sense of speed, agility and pure intimidation – all musthave skills for the skiing equivalent of motocross. Del Bosco is also resilient. Following the Olympics, he put together two seasons of dominant racing: There was a silver medal at the 2011 X Games and an FIS World Championship title later that year, then X Games gold in 2012. All told, he’s racked up 18 top-three finishes at World Cup
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events, including a surprise second place during the first trial run of the Sochi course late in 2012. That Sochi preview showcased a better, faster Del Bosco. It was the first time he’d raced since a sidelining crash in November of 2012, and thanks to an intensified strength training regimen, he recovered faster than expected. With skicross season nearly here and the Olympics on the horizon, Del Bosco took a rare break from traveling and training to play golf in Albequerque. SneakPEAK caught up with him to chat about fitness, a dominant Canadian team and why Sochi could be the event of his career. SneakPEAK: You recently returned from nearly a month of on-snow training in New Zealand. How does daily skiing down there compare to the winters in Europe and North America, when you’re traveling all the time? Chris Del Bosco: Basically, it’s just a time to really work on stuff and get a bit more involved. Once the season rolls around it’s just race to race, so summer is a good time to catch up on what I need to do. I really wanted to start with some technical stuff, like working on being faster out of the gate. Last November I had a crash that led to shoulder surgery, so I was working on building up strength again to come back from that. Things went well down there, so that was fortunate. SP: This year marks your seventh season with Alpine Canada. How does it compare to your early experience with the U.S. Ski Team? CDB: I spent some time on the development team for the U.S., so being on a full national team is very different. When the Canadians called me to race with them in 2007, it was really a no-brainer. The U.S. didn’t have a program at the time, and the Canadians had everything you could imagine – facilities, trainers, massage therapists, a budget. Their goal
was to win medals in Vancouver, and that was my goal as well, so all those things aligned. Looking back on it now, those guys really became my family. It’s not a big group, but it’s a good environment for success, where everyone is pushing each other and feeding off each other. SP: Let’s step back to the 2010 Winter Olympics. Vancouver was the first time ski-cross had such a massive stage – was the hectic Olympic atmosphere intimidating or invigorating? CDB: Definitely being on the home team was an amazing experience – that’s something you don’t get to experience often, and it added a new level to just being in the Olympics. We had an incredible amount of support leading up to the Games and during the Games. The thing is, you only have the chance to be there once every four years. When it comes to the World Cup, we have 10 to 12 races a year and those can occasionally fly under the radar. The Olympics seem to be the thing most audiences in America remember, and exposure is good. SP: Your fourth-place finish at Vancouver was a disappointment, but you said afterwards you’d rather miss the podium than cruise to a bronze medal. Do you still stand by that decision? CDB: I had a crappy start and wasn’t able to come back from it. At that level, mistakes aren’t easy to fix, but I think I learned a bit about my approach to racing. I like to think I know what to expect now, when to make moves and when to
[See DEL BOSCO, page 17]
>>>> Powder turns Start the season off right There’s no better way to fall in love with a counterintuitive sport than embracing it’s simple, humble joys.
Skiing is a way to discover who you are. Skiing is incredible. By simplifying the skiing process, you can focus on enjoying the skiing experience. How do you simplify the skiing process? It is easy to get hung up on the skiing process. Skiing is intense. It is not self-evident. You cannot simply pick up a pair of skis, strap them to your feet, put yourself on a snowcovered mountain slope and hope to immediately master everything about skiing. Skiing is a lifetime achievement. Getting really good at the sport means dedicating yourself to learning as much about it as possible. When you can break down the whole of what it takes to improve at skiing into manageable parts, it is easier Palmer Hoyt to progress quickly and efficiently. When broken down inI always like going into a dividually, you are better able to put the parts together as a ski season with a fresh perspective on skiing. whole and make progress through knowledge. The skiing process is full of obstacles. It is expensive. It requires travel. It takes place where the air is scarce and thin. Truth is unbiased The conditions are variable. The weather is unpredictable. Skiing progression is always a lot easier to love when you The temperatures are low. The equipment is heavy, awkward know more about it, just as anything in life is made more efand, sometimes, overwhelming. The technique is counterin- ficient when you know what you are doing. Skiing progress tuitive. The places you can go are limited. The terminology does not need to be complicated – the amount to learn is is confusing and good instruction is hard to find. finite. There can be a lot more to jumble the process if you However, in contrast with the complicated skiing process, allow it, but there is no reason to. the skiing experience is amazing. Making turns down highYou do not need to concern yourself with all of the conalpine slopes is exhilarating. Feeling the cold, crisp air on a ceivable possibilities or plausible ways that you can get betwinter morning while riding up a serene chair lift reminds ter at skiing. There is a simple way to improve, and it applies you – you are alive. The view from snowy resort-tops sitting whether you want to hit terrain-park jumps, stomp massive above the rest of the world can take your breath away. The cliffs, rip huge lines at supersonic speed, or just ski fluidly feeling of being intimately acquainted with the mysterious and in control in any situation or condition. The truth of skipower of the mountains is inspiring. ing technique does not discriminate if you are an aspiring Laughing and sharing moments with friends and family athlete or a decorated professional. We all deal with the same inside cozy mountain lodges and on cobblestone village set of tools – we all account for gravity – and it all works the streets is priceless. The sound of skis carving on frozen runs, same way. softly muffled by trees laden with snow, is unlike any other Making skiing work for you is just a matter of simplifyauditory event. Skiing is an adventure. Skiing is an achieve- ing it, and simplifying skiing means understanding skiing. ment. Skiing is an opportunity to embrace the possibilities Throughout the season, I’ll write on numerous topics to help of your all-too-quick existence. Skiing is a means by which us all understand the core elements of the sport and, with any to grab hold of the enraptured nature of your human spirit. luck, simply enjoy the skiing experience. Palmer Hoyt is a Vailbased pro ski athlete and director/head coach of the five-time national champion freestyle ski team at University of Colorado-Boulder. He is the author of “Love to Ski,” a curriculum, philosophy and movement dedicated to skiing progression, the sport’s impact on life and, most importantly, having more fun on the slopes.
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2013 winter PREVIEW >>>>
THE
GEAR LOCKER
Valley-based shops pick out the latest, greatest and most innovative products for the winter season. Words and photos by John O’Neill.
A powder day at Vail. Chris McLennen photo.
The accessories >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Bar Mitts – $64.95 From the back of Moontime Cyclery, when talking about snow biking, you can hear someone yell out, “Tell him about the mitts.” The mitts the voice refers to are called Bar Mitts, made by Bar Mitts. The idea came straight out of the kayakers handbook for pogies, but works well for winter biking. The Bar Mitts fit right over a handlebar, allowing the rider to easily slip their hands in and out of the mitts. It’s large enough to fit a light glove, making it much easier to handle anything, like drinking for inevitably fixing something. Moontime snow wheels – $600 to $900 Frank at Moontime is a bit of an engineer. He built a hybrid mountain bike/snow bike wheel that can fit on any mountain bike frame. The wheels are wider than usual and cyclists can run a low tire pressure without the tire flopping. Thus, a snow bike wheel. While the wheels aren’t necessarily as great for deep snow as, say, the Moonlander, they do float relatively well and fit on any mountain frame. Plus, they’re cheaper than a fatbike. Black Diamond soft goods – Average $200 to $350 Fresh into Alpine Quest Sports is a new rack displaying an old brand in debut fashion: Black Diamond’s first line of soft goods. The company released soft shells and pants that do justice to its skis, boots, poles and other hard goods. It would be impossible to fully describe their new gear on paper, but the innovation is clever. For instance, the Dawn Patrol shell has a stiff, jacket-like front and soft back. This cuts down on sweat, with material that wicks and breathes like a mouth.
in split board technology. As snowboarders won’t be stranded to the chairlift, the Pitch uses a profile of a snowboard tweaked to benefit backcountry trekking. It features a slightly rockered tip to float over the snow, while the cambered tail gives control when needed. Barry Clark, Weston Snowboard’s president, says this year they switched from Voile hooks to Karakoram hardware. This allows for more torsional rigidity, meaning that when a boarder reaches a peak, puts the board together and turns downhill, they have a highperforming snowboard. Rossignol Soul 7 freeride ski Cost: Around $800 Sizes: 164, 172, 180, 188 centimeters From the wall of skis at Venture Sports in Avon, owner Mike Brumbaugh picked out one he calls outstanding. The Rossignol Soul 7 is new to the market this year, and Brumbaugh refers to it as the “magic bullet ski.” For the last few years, ski companies have been toying with rocker technology to figure out what works best. A lot of rocker shape made for a great powder ski that was hard to push through crud or clattered along groomed terrain. Besides being a great ski to take across the mountain in any condition, it also boasts interesting specs. A honeycomb core from tip to tail makes for much lighter swing weight when you pivot. It’s also light, should you decide to use the Soul 7 as a touring ski, which Brumbaugh says it does pretty well.
K2 Pinnacle 130 ski boot Cost: $599 The alpine touring world welcomes K2 to the market with the sleek and powerful Pinnacle 130. From its perch at Alpine Quest Sports in Edwards, the lime-green transparent The gear >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> shell demands attention. Weston The Pitch split board (not pictured) The Pinnacle stand outs as a great AT boot for those who like to tour, or a comfortable Cost: TBD alpine boot for those who spend the majority of their time on-piste. It also has three hard Sizes: 157, 161, 168 centimeters buckles and an innovative ratchet booster strap system that locks the boot tight. Weston Snowboard’s new split board is just now being pressed at Meier Skis’ Carbondale In terms of stiffness, Lisa Glaser of Alpine Quest says the boot is as beefy as an alpine facility, but when the boards arrive and are unwrapped, the design will showcase the latest
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Rossignol Soul 7 freeride ski
What’s new in 2013
For the average skier, summertime at a ski resort is a mystery. There’s no mogul storage – they tend to melt, after all – but Beaver Creek’s revamped Talons Restaurant is just the beginning (see story on page 9). Vail has also been busy replacing lifts and adding new, unorthodox activities. New Chair 4 – Vail replaced the four-person Mountaintop Express Lift (aka Chair 4) with a high-speed, six-person behemoth. The new lift can move 3,600 skiers per hour from Mid-Vail to Patrol Headquarters – roughly the same capacity as Gondola One, sans Wi-Fi. It’s a blessing for the resort’s busiest thoroughfare. New Chair 12 – The relatively short Gopher Hill Lift (Chair 12) at Golden Peak doesn’t deal with the same insanity as Chair 4, but after nearly 40 years in operation, it was time to replace the two-person antique. Ski school students now access the bunny hill via Beaver Creek’s old three-person Rose Bowl lift, which will boost capacity by 50 percent. Winter zipline – Adventure Ridge adds ziplining to its lineup of snowbiking and guided tours this winter. The 1,200-foot-long zipline drops riders from the top of Eagle’s Nest to just below Chair 15, reaching speeds of 40 miles per hour in the middle. It’s one of several activities added over the summer but the only one to stay open year-round.
Bar Mitts
K2 Pinnacle 130 ski boot
Surly Moonlander fatbike
Black Diamond soft goods
Tyrolia Adrenalin AT binding (not pictured) boot before alpine boots start being called race boots. That Cost: $350 stiffness links to performance, and when paired with Dynafit Before Tyrolia entered the alpine touring market with construction, it’s lighter, stiffer and more adjustable than the the Adrenalin binding, the Marker Duke reined king. The Black Diamond Factor. The Pinnacle comes with two soles: one for on-mountain Adrenalin has now dethroned the Duke to become the mustskiing that fits any alpine binding, and one with a touch more have AT binding of the winter. Like the Duke, the Adrenalin is solid. To the untrained rocker for touring to fit AT bindings. eye, it appears as an alpine binding and supposedly skis just like one. The difference between the two bindings is in the Surly Moonlander fatbike detail. Cost: $2,550 The Adrenalin is light. It makes climbing that much easier Usually “powder” and “bike” don’t fit snuggly into the same sentence, but fresh snow and cycling now go together when heading into the deepest backcountry lines, and you can switch from touring mode to ski mode without having like peanut butter and jelly with the Surly Moonlander. The snow bike runs 4.8-inch tires on 100-millimeter rims. to step out. It also boasts a very wide mounting point and toe piece. The wide rims can run low tire pressure, helping wheels float over nearly eight inches of snow while providing de- So what? Tortionally, this makes the Adrenalin a whole lot stiffer than most AT bindings. The wider platform allows the cent grip. Surly was among the first to enter the snow bike realm, ski to transition from edge to edge with ease, bringing out and its line can be found at Moontime Cyclery in Edwards the full capability of the ski – and the athlete. this winter. The Moonlander costs around $2,000 and weighs about 40 pounds. For some companies, frames alone can run upward of $3,000 – for the dollar, the Moonlander is one of SneakPEAK writer John O’Neill can be reached at the best products to ride the deepest trails on the snowiest info@sneakpeakvail.com days.
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2013 winter PREVIEW >>>>
EYE CANDY
Freeskier LJ Strenio in Level 1’s “Partly Cloudy.” Jordan Harper photo.
A roundup of the season’s best ski and snowboard films from industry heavyweights and DIY film houses. By Phil Lindeman.
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t’s a good year for ski and snowboard videos.
Despite hit-or-miss snowfall in the Colorado Rocky Mountains last season, the newest batch of films is nothing short of snow porn. The locations are astounding, the visuals are on par with Hollywood, and the athletes are more talented and possibly crazier than ever before. So it goes with sports built on progression. With the majority of films already on the shop shelves, SneakPEAK took on the arduous task of finding the six finest from a pool of dozens. Big names like Absinthe, Level 1 and Warren Miller rub shoulders with up-and-comers like Candygrind, but each brings to life a new corner of the snow sports world. Here’s to winter. “Brain Dead and Having a Heart Attack” by Think Thank Athletes: Brandon Hammid, Jaeger Bailey, Brandon Reis, Sammy Luebke, Sean Genovese, Jesse Burtner, Desiree Melancon, Mark Landvik, Curtis Woodman and Mitch Richmond Nutshell: The snowboard hooligans at Think Thank grow up – if only a little – to celebrate 10 years of urban jibs, backcountry shenanigans and generally destroying everything they see. It’s as fun as it sounds. Breakdown: As a mid-sized film crew, Think Thank has always championed creativity over jaw-dropping locations, and “Brain Dead” doesn’t disappoint. Half the time, you wonder how the hell urban slayers like Jaeger Bailey and Mitch Richmond will even approach a jib or drop, only to watch them hit it from every direction but the obvious. Bailey is a definite standout, throwing 360s and the occasional 450 onto sketchy single-barrel rails, then spinning the hard way out. He even makes the now-ubiquitous wallride seem fresh. The film is slight on backcountry booters, but Sammy Luebke and Curtis Woodman attack
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chutes and pillow lines with the same reckless abandon as their urban counterparts. The soundtrack is killer, too. Watch it: $29.99 for Blu-Ray/DVD combo through the Think Thank online store and $12.99 on iTunes. “Dopamine” by Absinthe Films Athletes: Victor De Le Rue, Bode Merrill, Brandon Cocard, Jason Robinson, Manuel Diaz, Cale Zima, Danny Kass, Mat Schaer and Sylvain Bourbousson Nutshell: Industry powerhouse Absinthe once again defends its title for the biggest, baddest and burliest snowboard films around, with jaw-dropping footage from the Yukon to Pyrenees Mountains. Breakdown: While Travis Rice has made a habit of resting his Red Bull bank account every other year, the Absinthe crew churns out consistently jaw-dropping films with equally inventive footage. Don’t let old-school, 16-millimeter filming turn you off: Like last year’s “Resonance,” “Dopamine” is a gorgeous and well-balanced video, with enough snow porn to keep both urban jibbers and backcountry junkies happy. The heli-riding is reliably in-
[See VIDEO PREVIEW, page 17]
Farewell, Red Tail Camp Hike less, eat better at the new Talons Restaurant on Beaver Creek Mountain. By John O’Neill.
Above: The view from the new Talons Restaurant at Beaver Creek. Inset: Building the restaurant’s new deck. Photos by Anthony Thornton.
I
n the land of escalators and luxury, it never made much sense to hike 37 vertical feet from Larkspur Bowl in Beaver Creek to get a drink at Red Tail Camp. Low and behold, the problem is solved.
Replacing Red Tail Camp in Beaver Creek is the new and remodeled Talons Restaurant located at the base of Grouse Mountain, Birds of Prey and Larkspur Bowl. The new restaurant and bar is now a more manageable eight vertical foot hike from Larkspur. The distance is expected to be covered with slow speeds from Larkspur Bowl or a few easy steps. In addition to easing the physical strain required to have a meal and a beer at Red Tail Camp, Talons restaurant has been totally remodeled and reformatted to create much more enjoyable on-mountain dining experience. From the design to the menu, Talons Restaurant will be a step above. “We designed it like a barn,” said Eric Pottorff, Beaver Creek’s director of food and beverage. “We wanted to give homage to the early settlers in Beaver Creek which we do on
Talons Restaurant at a glance What: Square Feet: 17,000 Levels: 2 Seats: 500 indoors, 250 outdoors Sun decks: Yes Bars: Yes, serving indoors and outdoors Cuisine: European
that side of the mountain.” Have no fear, Red Tail lovers; Talons also maintained the sun decks that made Red Tail Camp what it was. “A big part of Red Tail Camp was that it had sun and people were able to lounge on the decks,” said Pottorff. “We improved that. We built great big decks. We’ll have an outdoor barbeque cooking fresh meats.” For the cold days, Talons expanded its indoor seating to accommodate 500 seats, doubling the former capacity of Red Tail Camp. The additional seating is expected to come in handy when the 2015 World Ski Championships come to town and will have its first test as the press center for the 2013 FIS Alpine Ski World Championships. Also revamped is the menu with thanks to Chef Curtis Cooper. Inside Talon’s restaurant will be upscale cafeteria eating with a European twist. The European-inspired menu will include foods like shaved smoked pork loin, sauerkraut, baked apples, lamb burger, rustic thin pizzas, homemade soups and artisan breads. Pottorff said that they wanted to contrast the already popular Spruce Saddle Restaurant at the top of Centennial Express with the European menu of Talons. “Spruce Saddle is the classic mountain cafeteria,” said Pottorff. “It is very western. Everything in Talons Restaurant will have a fresh European lean to it. Everything will be cooked from scratch.” The bar was not lost in the renovation. “We have a big bar that has seats indoors and outdoors,” said Pottorff. “We have a window to serves outdoors on the deck facing south to enjoy the sun.” Talons Restaurant is expected to open at the start of the 2013-2014 ski season. The revamped restaurant and bar is expected to carry on traditions of Red Tail Camp. “Everyone loved Red Tail Camp,” Pottorff said. “It was important that we kept the feel for our guests and our locals.” SneakPEAK writer John O’Neill can be reached at info@sneakpeakvail.com
Opening day breakdown
Spurred by cool temps and mid-autumn snow, storied opening day rivals Arapahoe Basin and Loveland Ski Area began blowing snow in early October. The first chair of the season starts spinning in a few tentative weeks, and although neither ski hill will set a concrete date until the last moment, the larger resorts are bustling. Below is a breakdown of the opening day schedule for all stateside resorts on the Epic Pass roster ($709 for adults), plus good old Loveland: Mid to late October – Arapahoe Basin (Oct. 16 in 2012) Mid to late October – Loveland (Oct. 23 in 2012) Nov. 1 – Keystone Nov. 8 – Breckenridge Nov. 22 – Vail, Eldora, Heavenly, Kirkwood, Northstar at Tahoe Nov. 27 – Beaver Creek, Mt. Brighton Nov. 29 – Canyons Resort
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2013 winter preview >>>>
Powder shape Six exercises from SSCV to have you skiing or riding harder than ever this season. By Michael Suleiman. Photos by Anthony Thornton.
Photo special to SneakPEAK.
P
rima Cornice is calling – is your body ready? You may justify your lethargic summer with thoughts of, “I’m waiting for winter to get in shape,” or “Well, at least I rode my bike a few times a month this summer.” Regardless of the condition you are currently in, the ski season is less than a month and a half away. You won’t regret being in better shape when it gets here.
Push-up to single-arm back fly
Purpose: The exercise teaches the body to stabilize through the core while moving dynamically through a range of motion. It also strengthens the muscles around the shoulders. Starting position: Assume a plank position with hands directly under shoulders. Maintain a neutral spine position by squeezing glutes, flexing abs, and pulling shoulder blades back and down while pulling head back. Think double chin.
And fitness isn’t the only reason to stretch and exercise. Vail’s world-renowned orthopedic surgeons are there when you need them, but with the correct conditioning, hopefully Procedure you won’t. 1. Descend slowly with a count of four, keeping elbows tight to body. Maintain a neutral With that in mind, SneakPEAK talked to the best: Ski and Snowboard Club Vail’s Strength spine position throughout the movement. and Conditioning Director Jake Wurth walked us through six different exercises to help you 2. Push up explosively through heels of hands. take full advantage of the snow this season. 3. Load right arm and raise the left, then load the left arm and raise the right. 4. Do not allow shoulders or hips to rotate.
Squat to jump
Purpose: The exercise teaches the body how to maintain proper position while expressing force and absorbing force. It also strengthens muscles and ligaments that surround your ankles, knees, hips and back. Starting position: Feet hip-width apart and toes pointed straight ahead. Procedure 1. Squat down keeping weight on heels. Make knees are over toes and back angle matches your shin angle. 2. Descend slowly with a count of four. 3. Hold at bottom for a count of two. 4. Explode upward, jumping as high as possible. 5. Land in an athletic position, absorbing the force by flexing at ankles, knees and hips. Keep knees over toes. 6. Hold the landing position for a count of four. Stand all the way up and repeat. Frequency Two times per week Two-minute rest between sets Three sets of six reps Advanced Add dumbbells.
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Frequency Two times per week One-minute rest between sets Start with 3 sets of 8 reps Advanced Add dumbbells or lift opposite leg of moving arm.
Single-leg Romanian deadlift
Purpose: Works on single-leg balance while training to hinge at the hip instead of rounding at the back. It also stabilizes and strengthens ankles, hamstrings, glutes, the lower back and abs. Starting position: Stand with feet hip-width apart and toes pointed straight ahead. Bend knees slightly and keep abs tight, then shift weight to one leg and lift the other off the ground. Hold arms straight out to the side like a “T.”
Procedure 1. Hinge at the hip while standing on and loading weight to the heel. 2. The body should move as one segment. The torso moves forward and down while the opposite leg moves up and back. 3. Hips and shoulders stay square to the ground throughout the movement. 4. Continue the movement slowly with a count of four until your torso and leg are parallel to the ground. Hold for a count of two. 5. Reverse the movement by pulling back with the hamstring to the starting position. Finish by squeezing glute. 6. Avoid dropping the foot for stability between reps. Repeat and switch to the other leg.
Frequency Two times per week One minute rest between sets Start with 3 sets of 8 reps facing each direction Advanced If possible, change pushing angle to incline and decline.
Frequency Two times per week One-minute rest between sets Start with 3 sets of 8 reps for each leg Advanced Add dumbells. When advancing, hold dumbbells down at the sides.
Lateral lunge with upright row
Purpose: Strengthens both inner and outer leg muscles while strengthening shoulders and upper back. This exercise additionally strengthens the core by stabilizing the abs with Push-pull the back. Purpose: Teaches the core to stabilize the hips while Starting position: Stand with feet hip-width apart and toes pointed straight ahead. Keep rotating the spine and ribs. “Core� refers to all muscles at- knees slightly bent and abs tight. tached to the hips, includes muscles through the legs attached at the knees, as well as muscles above your hips that Procedure attach to the spine and ribs. 1. Take a lateral step out to one side. Equipment needed: Keiser functional trainer or a cable 2. Lunge over and flex at the ankle, knee and hip joints. Weight should be back on heels. crossover machine (two bands fixed across from each other Torso and shin angle should match. will suffice). 3. Row arms up, keeping elbows above hands, and then back down. Starting position: Stand in the middle of the machine 4. Push-off with flexed leg and return to the starting stance. holding each cable. Turn the body to face one direction, 5. Repeat on other side, going back and forth until finished with reps. with the feet parallel and toes straight ahead. Cables should now be directly in front and behind. Squat down Frequency in an athletic stance. Keep head up, with shoulder blades Two times per week One-minute rest between sets back and down, and hips slightly tucked. Start with 3 sets of 8 reps for each leg Procedure Advanced 1. Initiate the movement by simultaneously pushing Add dumbbells. Hold the dumbbells at the side. with one arm and pulling with the other. 2. Keep hips square to the standing direction and rotate at shoulders as arms reach full flexion and extension. Body weight should be back on heels with head and eyes up. Hamstring lowers to hamstring curls 3. Again with hips square, allow the weight to slowly Purpose: Strengthens hamstrings by keeping them under tension for as long as possible pull arms and shoulders back to the starting position. while lowering and pulling body weight to neutral. Also a great glute and abdominal exer4. Face other direction and repeat. [See SKI CONDITIONING, page 18]
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Restaurant week at
La Tour
Enjoying the little things at on of Vail’s most acclaimed restaurants. By Phil Lindeman.
E
very once in a while, the smallest gestures resonate more than expected.
During a bustling, slightly insane Saturday dinner service at La Tour, I could’ve easily overlooked the small pleasures. The reason was unremarkable: A few friends and I visited the longstanding Vail Village hotspot to take advantage of Vail Beaver Creek Restaurant Week. None of us are fine-dining regulars, but the promise of $20.13 for any fullsized entrée was too good to pass up. On a good day, that hardly covers the cost of an appetizer and decent glass of wine, let alone an entire dinner plate. It hardly matters if you prefer Big Macs to foie gras – a deal is a deal. But I digress. We knew there would be a crowd The artichoke salad at La Tour in Vail Village. Photo and decided on one of the final reservations of the day, yet special to SneakPEAK. even at 9 p.m., the dining room was teeming with people. Many seemed like locals, the sort to throw bright Patagonia and North Face shells over collared shirts and cashmere sweaters. On the outdoor patio, just noticeable under dim lights, a light dusting of snow covered several large, round Brussels sprouts ($5) – Small, delicately seapumpkins. Autumn was in the air, which made the packed soned slices of miniature Brussels sprouts shine house even more unusual. Snow on pumpkins isn’t unheard in an appetizer made for diners who don’t like of in October – waiting for a table in Vail Village is. the oft-derided green. Exotic mushrooms and Our group was seated near the back of the dining room, a hint of spice lend the dish unexpected Asian right next to another gaggle of five or six locals celebrating flair, and at $5 for a relatively generous serving, a birthday. It was the first of many small touches: Our two it’s a bargain, no matter the time of year. tables were full of 20-somethings, the sort to seek out steak Marinated grilled beef tri-tip ($20.13 on speon a gourmet menu and occasionally belly laugh after a few cial) – Before balking at a lesser cut like tri-tip, too many bottles of wine. It was smart of the staff to seat us try La Tour’s sumptuous version. The beef is delin the back, where we were separate from the couples and icate and flavorful – it’s the fine-dining equivasmall groups enjoying the more subtle aspects of fine dining. lent of barbecued brisket – and isn’t overpowered by a tangy whole-grain mustard sauce. The It may seem like I’m overthinking our place in the restaureal surprise: homemade sweet potato chips rant, but on the most basic level, seating can mean the differand an impossibly creamy twice-baked potato ence between a good dining experience and a sublime one. puree, aka mashed potatoes. You’ll clean the Think about Thanksgiving dinner: The adult table and kid’s plate. table both have their charms, but depending on the company, Denver New Fashioned ($12) – Stranahan’s one is always more enticing than the other. It just depends Colorado Whiskey has almost become too ubiqon whether you want to act refined or play with candle wax. uitous for its own good, but this take on a classic But seating is just the beginning. Our server, Harold, made Old Fashioned highlights the brand’s rich, hefty the night truly enjoyable. He didn’t tell jokes or strain to be flavor. House-made lavender-orange honey is an friendly – he was simply professional to the core, and that’s ingenious substitute for the traditional citrus where the small touches come in. rind, and a touch of sweet vermouth pairs nicely At some point during dinner – maybe it was right after with subtle maraschino liqueur from Denver’s Harold brought the first round of drinks, but before starters Leopold Brothers.
SneakPICKS at La Tour
[See LA TOUR, page 18]
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The crew from Minturn Anglers shows off pink pride. Photo special to SneakPEAK.
r e b o t k n Pi I
n an effort to raise breast cancer awareness in the Vail Valley, local businesses rally behind a wide variety of events this October under the banner of Pretty in Pink.
These special offerings range from an ‘80s party at ETown in Edwards and a “Cut-a-Thon” at Avon’s Spa Anjali to Pink Zombie “Thriller” Zumba in Eagle. As a breast health awareness and fundraising initiative to support breast diagnostics screenings at the Sonnenalp Breast Center, Pretty in Pink is working to save lives. One in eight women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of their lifetimes, but annual mammograms beginning at age 40 can prevent the worst and drastically boost the rate of survival. “The bottom line is if women get their mammograms they will find breast cancer early, and when it is caught early there is a 98 percent survival rate at five years after treatment, according to breastcancer.org,” explains Lindsay Warner, communications manager for Shaw Regional Cancer Center and Vail Valley Medical Center, two sponsors of Pretty in Pink. “But that goes down to just 22 percent if caught late, so educating on getting mammos is the best thing we can do to save lives.” By celebrating Pretty in Pink month with fun specials and activities, local businesses and organizations are serving as upbeat reminders for local women to get the tests and screenings they need. “In its third year, Pretty in Pink has proven to be both fun and highly beneficial to local women needing screening services,” says Peggy Carey, vice president at Shaw Regional
cause e h t o t r i lpine fla f. a s g n i r b Lief nter e a r C u r a e c L n y a gional C in Pink month. B e R w a h S tty with Pre
Cancer Center. “Pretty in Pink makes it easier for women to get the tests needed and assures every woman knows to start getting annual mammograms at 40.” Wide variety All kinds of events are taking place across Eagle County, including spa and salon specials, bar and restaurant parties with live music, and a public skate event at Eagle Ice Rink. E-Town is hosting the “Return of the Pretty in Pink ‘80s Party” on Oct. 24 at 5 p.m. Guests are encouraged to wear pink as they enjoy drink specials, a DJ and the movie “Pretty in Pink.” Located inside the Westin Riverfront Resort in Avon, Spa Anjali is offering $25 dry cuts and $20 express manicures on Oct. 23 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. They will also have pink lemonade and pink cupcakes for guests. “Spa Anjali is thrilled to be involved in Pretty in Pink for the second year in a row,” spa director Ingrid Middaugh says. “Clients and staff are equally excited to participate in this event because so many of us have personally been touched with knowing someone who has battled cancer.” Z Scene Zumba, located in Eagle, is offering a pink zombie “Thriller” Zumba event. Participants of all ages are invited to learn Michael Jackson’s most iconic dance on Oct. 26 from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Additional ways to locally support Breast Cancer Awareness Month include buying a baseball cap from Minturn Anglers or purchasing a t-shirt from the Eagle River Fire Department. Stop by the Sonnenalp Breast Center in Edwards to enter a free drawing for a stay at the Sonnenalp Hotel in Vail, with spa treatments or golf. No purchase is necessary, but ladies over 40 are encouraged to schedule their annual mammogram.
[See PINKTOBER, page 18]
Pretty in Pink partners
Vail Golden Leaf Spa at Vail Marriott – Five percent of all spa services donated Oct. 1 through 7. Additional discounts on massage, body treatments, facial and nail services. Sonnenalp Spa – $20 from each Sonnenalp Spa Sensation Kit sold. Aria Spa – $5 from every massage, facial and body treatment. Minturn Minturn Anglers – Selling pink baseball hats with proceeds to Shaw Regional Cancer Center. Avon, Edwards and Beaver Creek Allegria at Park Hyatt – “Cut-a-Thon” featuring $25 cuts on Oct. 10 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Drawing for dinner at the Hyatt’s 8100 restaurant. Bliss Hair Studio – Blissed Style Night on Nov. 7 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Learn basic styling techniques for hot tools. Eagle River Fire Department – Selling pink cancer awareness t-shirts. E-Town – “The Return of Pretty in Pink ‘80s Party” on Oct. 24 starting at 5 p.m. Drink specials, DJ and a showing of the movie “Pretty In Pink.” Spa Anjali at The Westin – “Cut-a-Thon” on Oct. 23 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. $25 cuts and $20 manicures with pink snacks. Eagle Dusty Boot – PinktoberFest featuring “Beers, Boobs and Brats” and live music on Oct. 5 at 4 p.m. Eagle Ice Rink – “Pink in the Rink” on Oct. 12 from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Public skate $6 per person, $2 skate rental. Elements, A Day Spa – Breast cancer awareness spa party on Oct. 22 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Discounted spa services, raffle and door prizes. Peridot Hair Design – Drawings for $500 and $250 baskets filled with salon services and goodies. Z Scene Zumba – Pink zombie “Thriller” Zumba event on Oct. 26 from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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Calendar of Events
with foosball, pool, table tennis and other distractions to keep spirits even higher. Even though it’s free, remember your manners and tip well. To find Magustos, look for the mustachioed building along Main Street, right across from the Weston Snowboards shop.
ko ensembles invited to tour Japan. Audiences are drawn to the empowering sounds of the Taiko and inspired by the continued possibilities, renewal and transformation that the rhythm and beat invokes. As part of the fall Underground Sound series, the concert is $25 for one or $100 for an allaccess pass, including six shows and six drinks. To buy tickets or find out more, see www.vilarpac.org.
Saturday, Oct. 11 Denver’s Dead Phish Orchestra at Vail Sunday, Oct. 13 Submit your event to SneakPEAK’s weekly community cal- Ale House One of Colorado’s most beloved Grateful Dead cover “Build a Scarecrow” in Vail endar by sending information to info@sneakpeakvail.com.
Thursday, Oct. 10 For for Youth fundraiser in Vail
The seventh annual Food for Youth Fundraiser returns to Donavan Pavilion in Vail on Thursday, bringing together 10 local eateries to raise money for the Eagle River Youth Coalition. Form 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., chefs from Sweet Basil, Mountain Standard, The Met, Main Street Grill, Batter Cupcakes and more join forces for an evening of scrumptious tastings. The evening also features live music and an awards ceremony for high-achieving local students. Tickets to the event are $60 for individuals, $110 for a twopack, $200 for a four-pack and $400 for a 10-pack. Purchase them through the coalition by visiting the website at www.eagleyouth.org or calling 970-949-9250.
Thursday, Oct. 10 Books and Booze series at Juniper Restaurant
Join families, friends and scarecrow lovers for the free, annual “Build a Scarecrow” event at the Vail Public Library. Beginning at 2:30 p.m., teams of designers can dig into frames and art supplies provided by the library, along with clothing from the Thrifty Shoppe. Teams can bring any accessories they want to personalize scarecrows. Small parts, glue guns and staple guns will be used, so children under four should stay home. All children other children must be accompanied by an adult, but teens can work independently. When the scarecrows are finished, they’ll Saturday, Oct. 12 become part of the library’s Halloween display. For more Eagle Ranch Pumpkin Patch in Eagle information, call the library at 970-479-2187 or see www. This weekend, Brush Creek Park will be transformed vaillibrary.com. into a pumpkin patch with music, food, games, a haunted barn and, of course, plentiful pumpkins from a Delta-area farm. The free event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and as is Monday, Oct. 14 usual for Eagle events, the entire family is invited. Plan to Books and Booze series at Crazy spend the whole morning visiting the haunted barn (a small Mountain Brewery contribution to the Eagle Valley High School athletics deThe second installment in The Bookworm’s Book and partment), carving pumpkins (sold for $5 apiece no matter Booze series brings well-read foodies to Crazy Mountain the size) and enjoying free activities like fall games and Brewery in Edwards for a night devoted to The Craft Beer pony rides. Children will also have the option to bounce Cookbook. Written by beer aficionado John Holl, the book off some energy in four fantastic bouncy castles ($10 for features 155 recipes built around craft beer, including reciunlimited bouncing), while grown-ups peruse silent auc- pes from popular brewpubs like Breckenridge Brewery, tion items sold to benefit the Sunshine Mountain Preschool. Oskar Blues and more. Tickets to the event are $10 and include one pint of beer and a plate of patatas bravas, courtesy of the cookbook. The event begins at 6 p.m. and is Sunday, Oct. 13 “The Big Picture: Rethingking Dyslex- open to folks of legal drinking age only. To reserve a spot, call the brewery at 970-926-3009. bands, Dead Phish Orchestra, comes to the Vail Ale House for a night of improv impresarios. Not only will Deadheads be treated to fine renditions of classic tunes by Denver heavyweights like Paul Murin and Chris Sheldon, they can do so for completely free – if said Deadheads prefer to stay sober, that is. Music begins at 10 p.m., with no cover and drink specials until the music ends around 1 a.m. For more info, see www.vailalehouse.com.
The Bookworm welcome autumn with its brand-new Books and Booze series, a slew of literary-minded events held at local eateries and breweries. The series kicks off at Juniper Restaurant in the Edwards Riverwalk on Thursday. It revolves around author Amy Stewart’s bestselling “The Drunken Botanist,” an exploration of the seemingly humble plants, herbs and natural goods that make the world’s finest booze. The event begins at 6 p.m. in Juniper’s main ia” in EagleVail room and is open to guests 21 years old or older. For $10 For folks of all ages living with dyslexia, Sunday’s free per head, guests are treated to light appetizers, plus a cash showing of the documentary “The Big Picture: Rethinking bar with cocktails inspired by Stewart’s book. To reserve a Dyslexia” is a must-see. Held at Homestake Peak School spot, call the restaurant at 970-926-7001. in EagleVail, the event begins at 11 a.m. with a showing of the film, which was produced by HBO and is considered Friday, Oct. 11 the definitive documentary about dyslexia in the modern Fireside chat with 10th Mtn. Division world. After the film, Yes! Ambassadors – students who live with dyslexia and advocate new learning habits – will veteran in Vail Join World War II veteran Sandy Treat every Friday at share stories about the disorder. They’ll also provide useful the Colorado Ski and Snowboard Musem in Vail Village tips for parents, students and teachers, all while explaining for tales from his experience with the Army’s famed 10th how dyslexia can be made an asset instead of a burden. The Mountain Division, aka ski troopers. Treat’s fireside chats event ends around 1:30 p.m. To reserve a spot, email Nancy are endlessly entertaining, with info on vintage gear, ski at ida_rmb@yahoo.com with your name and number of attrooper tactics and the division’s pivotal role in WWII. The tendees. two-hour talks begin at 5 p.m. in the museum’s main room. Entry is free, but donations are always welcome and go to the musem. All ages are invited. For more info, see www. skimuseum.net.
Sunday, Oct. 13 San Jose Taiko at Vilar Center
Few musical experiences are more exhilarating than the powerful, spellbinding and propulsive sounds of traditional Japanese Taiko drums. At 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, the Vilar Friday, Oct. 11 Center hosts San Jose Taiko for an experience that taps into Free beer at Magustos the rhythmic heartbeat and spiritual essence of Japan. InYou read that right: Free beer, with no rugs to be pulled, spired by traditional Japanese drumming and founded in rules to be imposed or sketchy live music to endure. Just 1973, San Jose Taiko became one of the first American Taifree pours at Magustos in Minturn from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.,
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Tuesday, Oct. 15 Baby Storytime in Vail
Moms and dads, this one is for you: Head to the Vail Public Library from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Tuesday for Baby Storytime, an infant-friendly program filled with games, musc and interactive books made just for infants. Children up to 18 months old are invited to the free program, led by librarians with a knack for reaching youngsters. To find out more, see www.vaillibrary.com.
Wednesday, Oct. 16 Craft beer tasting series at Vail Cascade
Ever heard of Goose Island Brewery? Neither had we, and that’s the point of the Vail Cascade’s weekly craft beer tasting series. Held every Wednesday in the Vail resort’s fireside lounge, the complimentary series features craft breweries from across the U.S., including small-time operations like Chicago’s Goose Island. The event runs from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and is open to the (of-age) public. The Cascade’s restaurant, Atwater on Gore, also offers 20-percent off all small plates during the tastings. No reservations are required. To find out more, see www.vailcascade.com.
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Sneak BRIEFS SneakPEAK staff reports Local favorite Carrie Fell named official artist of the 2015 Championships
While the 2015 FIS Alpine World Ski Championships in Vail and Beaver Creek will showcase the world’s top ski racers, the event also serves as the canvas for one of North America’s premier artists, as internationally renowned painter and Vail gallery owner Carrie Fell has agreed to become the official artist for the 2015 Championships. In addition to creating the artwork for the official event poster, Fell will also work with local children to create a special art installation, as well as embark on other unique merchandising, marketing and design concepts throughout the event. “We are honored and excited that Carrie has agreed to be our official artist,” said Ceil Folz, president of the Vail Valley Foundation and head of the 2015 World Championships Organizing Committee. “Her willingness to immerse herself and her fantastic talents throughout the Championships shows her tremendous commitment to the Vail Valley and giving back to our community.” Fell’s art depicts the traditional icons of the Old West with a thoroughly modern twist, using vibrant colors and fluid forms. Her colorful cowboys represent the spirit of the West through modern tributes to America’s past. For local art lovers, her works have been a welcome addition to the Taste of Vail, several restaurants and numerous galleries. Fell, who has painted professionally since 1988, is one of only two contemporary-style Western artists whose work was chosen for the prestigious 2003 “Legends of the West” exhibit at the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum in Texas. Her original work also hangs in the prominent permanent collections of the Booth Western Art Museum in Cartersville, Ga. and the Desert Caballeros Museum in Wickenburg, Ariz. She opened her Vail Village gallery, located in the Solaris complex, in December of 2011. “When the organizing committee asked me to represent the 2015 World Championships, I began the invigorating prospect of painting America proud,” Fell said. “As an artist, I go to work with a vision to capture the colorful outlook by way of anticipation of the soul of this historic event – a visualization into the hearts of the American athletes and to the many athletes that will come here in the colors of the globe.” Beyond creating art, Fell enjoys working with local students through her “Significance of Self Program of the Arts for Children” program. The unique curriculum helps chil-
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dren express their inner passions through the medium of art. Although Fell isn’t a Vail native, she grew up skiing Vail Mountain with her family and has an affinity for this slice of the Rocky Mountains. “I have always been called to this area,” Fell added. “My parents loved to ski here, and it’s where my siblings and I learned to ski. Each weekend, crammed and excited in the back of our groovy, customized, black pin-striped Chevy van, my family made the long trek from Denver through the congested two-lane Eisenhower Tunnel, barely containing ourselves until we reached the base of the gondola.”
The Westin’s Studio Anjali holds yoga teacher training If last week’s Eagle Yoga Fest spurred your interest in the more advanced aspects of the ancient art, the Westin now offers the next step for dedicated yogis. The resort’s in-house studio, Studio Anjali, will host a special Embodying the Flow yoga workshop from Oct. 11 to Oct. 13. As part of the Samudra Global School of Living Yoga 200-500 hour program, the workshop will be taught by Kelley Doyle and includes 20 hours of teacher training and six hours of Master Class instruction, all held in The Westin Riverfront’s Gondola Ballroom. Embodying the Flow is a Prana Flow Teacher Training Module created by Shiva Rea that begins with your breath and your body, and how both relate to the world around you. It can help teachers expand awareness while in the yoga studio or deepening anyone’s personal practice. The class is open to Levels 2 and 3. The three days of instruction include: - Awakening the Movements of Prana on Friday, Oct. 11 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. This igniting Prana Flow sequence is designed to awaken the movements of prana to reach full potential of Vinyasa Yoga. Embrace moving meditation with the mantras for the Prana Vayus, then move into a series of arm balances and standing mudras to fully embody the flow. - Temple of the Heartfire on Saturday, Oct. 12 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Offer your heart in a heated transformational Prana Flow Sadhana to awaken your inner heartfire – the yoga term for personal path and inspiration – to achieve your heart’s desire. Ignite the fire of transformation through a sequence designed to strengthen and expand the inner heart space, lighting the way to evolution through hip- and heart-opening mudras. - Embodying the Flow from the Inside Out on Sunday, Oct. 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Embodiment is key for a sustainable and present yoga practice. Find your roots so you can fly through cultivating this earthy foundation to nourish you from the ground up, and give your asanas a lightness and buoyancy through core cultivation, hip opening, arm balances and standing balances. For yoga teachers, the 20 Teacher Training Contact Hours will be held over three days: Friday, Oct. 11 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 12 from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30
a.m. and noon to 4 p.m.; and Sunday, Oct. 13 from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and noon to 4 p.m. The cost for the entire workshop is $450 or $40 for each two-hour Master Class. Athletic Club at The Westin members can enjoy the entire workshop for $425, or $35 for each of the Master Classes. California native and longtime yogi Doyle is a fun, energetic and soulful yoga teacher with more than 20 years of experience. She is currently a teacher trainer, senior assistant and mentor for Shiva Rea’s school, the Samudra Global School of Living Yoga, and is fully committed to inspiring the evolution of her students through the deep transformational practice of Prana Flow Yoga, which can be felt and reflected in her authentic teaching style. For more info, see www.sierrashanti.com.
Dinner and Dialogue series tackles youth depression in Gypsum Students transitioning from middle school to high school are the focus of the next installment of The Youth Foundation’s free Parents Matter Dinner and Dialogue series on Tuesday, Oct. 15 at the Gypsum Recreation Center. Parents, middle school students and anyone working with young people are invited to attend the free panel discussion, co-hosted by The Youth Foundation and the Eagle River Youth Coalition. A buffet-style dinner will be provided, beginning at 6 p.m., followed by speaker presentations and a roundtable group discussion. This dynamic session, scheduled from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., will provide guidance and tips on how to take an active approach in preventing youth depression and reducing stress. Featured panelists include Molly Fiore, Executive Director of local anti-bullying nonprofit Speak Up Reach Out, psychotherapist Stacey Horn, and licensed psychologist Jill Squires. “Local data proves that Eagle County youth are suffering from depression and anxiety,” explained Susie Davis, Vice President of Education for the Vail Valley Foundation, which oversees The Youth Foundation. “Parents and other community members can take an active role in preventing negative and depressive thoughts, while also encouraging healthy alternatives.” During the session, participants will learn about how depression occurs and receive tips on how to support friends and family that are struggling with depression. The event will provide education on local resources and support for individuals and offer opportunities for healthier lifestyles. Parents and teens are encouraged to come with questions for the panelists. This is a bilingual event, and free childcare will be provided. Contact Jason Peck with the Eagle River Youth Coalition to register at 970-949-9250 or jpeck@eagleyouth.org. Tuesday’s session is one of several held throughout the year. The Dinner and Dialogue program features a series of relevant informational discussions, designed to empower parents and foster good decision-making with their children.
DEL BOSCO ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– take advantage. In ski-cross there are so many things out of but they’re smart and dangerous. Once you have the sport your control that you have to take it on a race-by-race basis. figured out, you know what to do, and age helps with that. After my shortened season last year, I was glad to get out for the first run-through of the Sochi course and take second SP: How will the sport change when this new generation place. That was encouraging. of ski-cross racers starts making it to the highest level? CDB: You see it more in Europe, where a lot of the naSP: It seems like ski-cross athletes tend to be older than tional programs have a deep development pool for ski-cross. other pro skiers. Have you hit your peak yet? North America is a bit behind with development, but that CDB: It’s kind of a different sport. You’re seeing a bit of a was the goal from the outset for the Canadian team. I’d say change, where the younger guys are spending less time in al- that about the sport in general – it started at the top with pine and going straight to ski-cross, but a lot of the top guys massive races, and now we’re trying to go backwards and are still around my same age. These guys are getting older, build that foundation. There’s still quite a bit of work to do
[From page 4]
in North America, but I really think it’ll change. It still takes a lot of racing to get used to a lot of starts. It’s very different from racing by yourself like you do with alpine, and that can make it tougher to pick up. When you look at the sport overall, just making the show – finishing in the top 32 for the heats – is not what it used to be. You could sometimes throw together a halfway decent run and make it to finals. Now, a few mistakes could mean the difference between competing and watching. I like where the level is at now – better competition makes me better. SneakPEAK editor Phil Lindeman can be reached at philip@sneakpeakvail.com
VIDEO PREVIEW ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
[From page 8]
sane, with old pros like Bode Merrill bombing untouched lines in remote British Columbian el 1 website) and $12.99 on iTunes or Vimeo. ranges. The film’s roster is the cream of the crop, but France’s Victor De Le Rue becomes the breakout star. His film-ending sequence is nearly perfect, with some of the ballsiest urban “Ticket to Ride” by Warren Miller Entertainment riding since Forum’s heyday, including a one-footed backflip off a parking structure. Athletes: Seth Wescott, Ted Ligety, Julia Mancuso, Jess McMillan, Chris Davenport, Watch it: $29.90 for Blu-Ray/DVD combo through the Absinthe website. It should be on Colby James West, Sean Pettit, Gretchen Bleiler, Seth Wescott and Rob Kingwill iTunes by December for around $10. Nutshell: The world’s most decorated ski and snowboard filmmakers do what they do best, even if it means occasionally coasting on star power. “What’s Good?” by Candygrind Breakdown: If there were ever a constant in the winter sports world, it’s Warren Miller Athletes: Jeff DeForge, Mitch Kirby, Joey Dryer, Yale Cousino, Brady Farr, Nate Cor- Entertainment. For 64 years, the company has attracted the best filmmakers and athletes dero, Steve Lauder, Ben Wachowiak, Justin Morgan, Jake Rose and Christy Prior from across the world, then given them nearly limitless funds to push the boundaries of their Nutshell: One of Denver’s youngest snowboard crews continues to impress without los- sports. This formula rarely disappoints, but on occasion, “Ticket to Ride” seems to rely on ing the anarchic spirit of grimy, Super-8 skateboard videos. star power and little else. It’s entertaining to follow Olympians like Ted Ligety and Gretchen Breakdown: “What’s Good?” is the third team showcase for the Candygrind riders, and Bleiler as they punch the clock – Ligety’s trip to Greenland touches on global warming, a it highlights just how far the scrappy, hard-partying Denverites have come since 2011. The staple in Miller films – but those segments tend to lag. Luckily, they’re redeemed by the filming is more professional, the locations are more original and the end product is sexier unexpected, like a trip to Kazakhstan’s Tian Shan range. Although the “Ticket to Ride” isn’t than ever before. Then again, who cares about logistics when guys like Jake Rose push an instant classic like so many before it, the film still awes in ways only a Warren Miller switch backside noselides through burly triple kinks? Candygrind proves that snowboarding production can. should always come first in a snowboarding film. Lucky for them (and old-school boarders Watch it: Not yet available on DVD or through streaming services, but the film tour stops everywhere), the entire crew now has the skills and confidence it to shine. In true DIY fash- by the Vilar Center at Beaver Creek on Nov. 29 (8 p.m.) and Nov. 30 (6 p.m. and 9 p.m.). ion, the full-length video will be posted to the web for free, all without the deep pockets of Tickets are $19 through www.vilarpac.org. Burton Snowboards or Tom Wallisch. Would you expect anything less from a film sponsored by Pabst? “Valhalla” by Sweetgrass Productions Watch it: Available for free download on the Candygrind website beginning Oct. 28. Athletes: Cody Barnhill, Sierra Quitiquit, Alex Monot, Pep Fujas, Eric Hjorleifson, Kazushi Yamauchi, Zack Giffin and Molly Baker “Partly Cloudy” by Level 1 Nutshell: One of the industry’s biggest names crafts a funky little film that shuns the ski Athletes: Chris Logan, Will Wesson, Parker White, Adam Delorme, Tanner Rainville, porn format for an ethereal, often striking fictional narrative. Wiley Miller, Tim McChesney, Banks Gilberti, LJ Strenio and Torin Yater-Wallace Breakdown: “Valhalla” is like nothing you’ve seen before. Sure, Warren Miller and his Nutshell: Level 1 releases another film for the freeski canon, with massive backcountry disciples have always disguised documentary-like stories with gorgeous powder shots, but hits, sketchy urban jibs, a must-see athlete roster and seemingly bottomless pockets. the brainchild of 27-year-old Sweetgrass director Nick Waggoner is hardly a ski film. It’s not Breakdown: Level 1 is arguably the two-plank equivalent of Absinthe: They’re a monster even a documentary – true, it follows a main character as he travels the world in search of production company, and after 14 years in the game, the Denver-based film crew still man- powder stashes and hidden lines, but the story itself is almost entirely fictional. “Valhalla” is ages to produce nearly bulletproof features. Every frame of “Partly Cloudy” is gorgeous, more of a meditation on the act of skiing, and like meditation itself, the film isn’t for everyfrom a small cameo by Vail athlete Torin Yater-Wallace to a rowdy segment at Josh Bibby’s one. The narrative occasionally meanders too far, but if you’re the sort to enjoy four hours secluded cabin. Sure, Tom Wallisch is noticeably absent and a few of the locations are fa- of skinning as much as four minutes of skiing, the protagonist’s story will resonate. It’s the miliar, but solid parts from L.J. Strenio, Banks Gilberti and Tim McChesney keep the energy year’s most polarizing yet unavoidable film. high. “Partly Cloudy” could very well be the epitome of modern ski films, but whether that’s Watch it: $29.95 for Blu-Ray or DVD through the Sweetgrass web store and $12.99 on a good thing or a bad thing is up for debate. As evidenced by “Valhalla,” the industry has iTunes. room for stranger, more off-beat films, and it’ll be interesting to see how tastes change in coming years. For now, though, Watch it: $29.95 for Blu-Ray/DVD combo, $23.95 for DVD only (both through the LevSneakPEAK editor Phil Lindeman can be reached at philip@sneakpeakvail.com
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PINKTOBER ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Local innovation The Sonnenalp Breast Center offers cutting-edge 3D screenings, with the first FDA-approved breast tomosynthesis machine. The 3D mammogram builds detailed, comprehensive pictures by taking multiple images, which can locate hard-to-find cancers much earlier. While Colorado law mandates that insurance companies cover the full cost of preventative mammograms and plenty of free programs are available to most, people may not realize that most insurance does not cover all the expenses of diagnostic breast imaging. Repeat mammograms or other diagnostic procedures are often not fully covered. The proceeds from Pretty in Pink will support women who need help covering these procedures through a fund called the Gap Fund.
[From page 13]
“The Gap program is truly helping the working people in our community and helping ease some anxiety and financial stress that comes with diagnostic imaging,” says Colleen Berga, manager of the Sonnenalp Breast Center. The fund was created by the Vail Breast Cancer Awareness Group last summer and is now supported by the group and Pretty in Pink. Since its inception, 89 women have received financial assistance from the Gap Fund and two cases of cancer were found in the first year alone. For more information about Pretty in Pink and ways to support breast cancer awareness, visit www.shawcancercenter.com/prettyinpink. SneakPEAK writer Laura Lieff can be reached at info@sneakpeakvail.com
LA TOUR –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
[From page 12]
SKI CONDITIONING ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
[From page 8]
like a delicate Brussels sprouts salad and savory fried goat cheese arrived – I accidentally knocked my knife off the table. Without thinking, I picked it up and placed it on the table. I had no intention of using it, but I didn’t think to ask for another. I was content to make do without one, or if I needed, borrow one from my date. Harold happened to be nearby when I dropped the utensil. I’ll never be sure if server training or innate goodness kicked in, but he motioned at me quickly and took the knife. Although he was in the middle of taking another drink order, he stopped a nearby server. The entire exchange went unnoticed by me, but within a few seconds, I had a new fork by my side, brought by Harold’s counterpart without hesitation. Even during the hustle and bustle of restaurant week – really more like 10 days, which general manager Thomas Gutherie later deemed comparable to Christmastime – Harold went above and beyond. I didn’t catch the name of the female server, but both made an impression. Come to think of it, when my plate of near-perfect beef tri-tip came out of the kitchen, he replaced the clean knife with a serrated one. I don’t think I even used it to spread butter.
That’s not to say Harold seemed completely at peace while the rest of the staff was bustling. No one was quite sure how successful the week would be – Vail and Beaver Creek’s now-defunct restaurant month was too ambitious for its own good – but judging by the barrage of unusually large crowds, it’s here to stay. That means regular business for year-round spots like La Tour, but it’s also unusual for servers who almost rely on a month-long break between the insanity of summer and winter. When one of my fellow diners ordered a Jack and Coke, Harold nearly started salivating. “That sounds incredible right about now,” he said and made small talk about whiskey, then continued writing down drink orders. I didn’t take this offhand comment as weary or rude – it was more of a lighthearted confession from a busy, busy server, the sort who could deconstruct a 200-bottle wine list one minute and crave a frat-friendly cocktail the next. I enjoyed his company – and La Tour – all the more for it. Harold, your next Jack and Coke is on me. SneakPEAK editor Phil Lindeman can be reached at philip@sneakpeakvail.com
cise. 5. Pull with hamstrings to return to the starting position and finish by squeezing glutes at Starting position: Kneel on a mat or carpet on both the top. knees. Hold ankles stable with a partner or solid object and place a towel or foam roll under ankles for support. Frequency Kneel tall and squeeze glutes and abs by tucking hips Two times per week slightly. One-minute rest between sets Start with 3 sets of 8 reps Procedure 1. Lower body down as slowly as possible with hamAdvanced strings, keeping glutes and abs fired. Avoid throwing head Add dumbells. and shoulders back. Also keep hips tucked in. 2. Hold arms at the sides with elbows flexed, ready to catch body as it comes down. 3. Catch body weight as it falls towards the ground and push-up hard to reverse the movement. Keep the spine SneakPEAK writer Michael Suleiman can be reached at info@sneakpeakvail.com neutral by flexing abs and glutes.
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