Essential Aspen Magazine

E SS EAspen NTIAL ESSENTIALS FOR THE

LIFEST YLE

SUMMER/FALL 2015

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300 SOUTH HUNTER STREET, ASPEN, COLORADO 81611 970.925.8810 © 2015 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS ARE DEEMED RELIABLE, BUT EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT.

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Peter Lik

38

Basalt Rocks

520 Grill 85

Eddu Chefs

Aspen Eclectic 83

The

CP Restaurant Group 23

Essential Women 47

Aspen Branch

33

ď Ž

Dangers of Al 43

Misstyx 79

ESSENTIAL

ď Œ

52 Real Estate Review

Palaso

69

Aspen Grove

Community

The

46

The

51

The

Rodeo

77

Square Grouper

57

67

Twinkle

Viceroy 65

Shakti Shala

The

63

Upper Crust 81

From the Publisher Welcome to the 7th edition of Essential Aspen!

In each edition of Essential we strive to illustrate the local business owners and community leaders who make Aspen such an amazing place to live.

Summer in Aspen is all about playing.

From rafting, fishing and rodeos to incredible music, art and festivals, it’s all here. Take the time to enjoy an outdoor concert on the hill at Snowmass or check out something a little more classical at the Music Tent. Oh, and don’t forget Jazz Aspen, which will be bringing some of the finest Jazz musicians to town twice this season. Finally, be sure to check out the schedule at Belly Up. You never know who’s going to play there next.

We hope you enjoy our 1st ever celebrity cover featuring Peter Lik. Lik recently shook up the art world with his sale of “Phantom” for $6.5 Million.

So grab something refreshing, sit back, relax and let Essential be your guide to the local’s view this summer and fall.

Best, R. Arthur Piubeni, Publisher Arthur@EssentialAspen.com

PHOTO CREDIT: YLICE GOLDEN

Copyright 2015, Essential Aspen Magazine.

All rights reserved.

Reproduction without the permission of the publisher is prohibited.

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WWW.REGANCONST.COM 601 RIO GRANDE PLACE

SUITE 119B

ASPEN

COLORADO

970.923.0100

Publisher R. Arthur Piubeni Advertising Sales Judson Bardwell R. Arthur Piubeni Editor C. Justin Teenor Creative Design Ylice Golden Photography Credits Covalli Photograpy Ylice Golden Apachula Hursey Peter McBride Doug McMillin Shawn O'Connor Robin Proctor Nick Tininenko CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kayt Gallagher Linda Hayes EA Quinn Jeannie Walla

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i PETER L K What

brought you to

Aspen

for the first time,

and what inspired you to make the town a part of your life?

The first time I discovered the beauty of Aspen, I was exploring all 50 United States for my 2003 book, Spirit of America. The amazingly vast, natural surroundings really sealed the deal as a place I would revisit to shoot and the perfect spot to launch LIK ASPEN. From the mountain peaks and forests to the little tucked away ponds, streams – it is such a dense region to shoot. There is a vibrant collection of colors that changes so much with every season – fall in particular is almost overwhelming. It is a peaceful place that is also a lot of fun. The town really complements the charm of the Rockies – a great backdrop for my fine art photography gallery.

When

in

Aspen,

do you find yourself inspired by

the surroundings and shoot photos, or do use it as a place to relax and unwind?

I am always inspired by my natural surroundings.

Therefore, I shoot every single day of my life. Aspen is no exception. After a day of shooting, I try to relax – but when the sun cracks the horizon I am already back out there. That’s how I spend my time – even when I’m relaxing on “vacation.”

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"I have only one true inspiration – Mother Nature."

Peter Lik How do you Do you spend and slopes, at

embrace the

Aspen Experience?

What

is it about

Aspen

that you feel makes it a

most of your time on the trails

fitting home for your gallery?

home, in your gallery or in the

represent a specific aesthetic in your photography

restaurants and shops around town?

For me, embracing the Aspen Experience means being out in nature and doing what I do as much as possible. You won’t find me skiing much, but a mile off the slopes, you would find me crouching in a patch of snow shooting a sea of majestic trees.

Do

you try to

that represents the culture here?

I have always attempted to build galleries in locations that complement my work with the generous gifts of Mother Nature. Aspen just exudes a wonderful feeling of natural harmony – something that keeps me inspired and grateful to be alive. That sentiment is what I try to create in my galleries.

Of course, I visit my gallery while I’m there, but those blokes don’t need me hanging around – I just stop by and thank them for the great job they do.

A total group of professionals. I’m grateful to have them representing my work.

Many images in my galleries are also location-based – at LIK ASPEN you would definitely find visions of the Maroon Bells and so many other great scenes from the area.

What are some of your favorites that you frequent?

You’re well known for your images of nature. Have

For really good eats, you have to try Matsuhisa or Acquolina – very worth it. Definitely my favorites in Aspen!

you always had a love for the outdoors that pushed you to capture its beauty, or did your passion for the medium push you to explore?

Yes, I’ve always had a love for the outdoors but it goes hand in hand with my passion for the medium.

One influences the other. The more breathtaking scenes I see – the more I want to capture, and the more I capture, the more I want to see. It is a cycle that, for me, will never end. I thrive on what I do.

I am so grateful everyday that I was fortunate to combine my passion and my career – I am living a true dream.

When

did you first pick up a camera, and when

did you now you were hooked on photography?

The first camera I ever shot with was a Kodak Brownie that my parents bought for my eighth birthday. That was the spark. My first snapshot was of a spider web, glistening with morning dew in the family garden.

Although I was way too young to realize the impact it had, it felt right – like fate had just kicked the door in. I became truly conscious of being “hooked” on landscape photography when I got a bit older and found myself shooting like a madman without any promise of pay or success – the struggle was almost a fun adventure in itself. That’s how you know if you’ve found your calling. You do it because it is in your soul.

What

is it about your art that distinguishes it

from the work of others who photograph similar subject matter?

In many ways, that is for the collectors and critics to decide. When we look at the world around us, we all see something slightly different – like the shapes of clouds in the sky. My work is simply the world through my eyes and that is really what sets the photographs apart. I just soak in every single minute of what I do and that shines through in my images.

Did

you have any mentors or any artists whom

you looked to that helped define your vision?

I have only one true inspiration – Mother Nature.

She is the world’s greatest artist and I am just here to capture her work. From day one, I could not have been growing up in a better place for viewing raw, natural beauty.

Australia is filled with incredibly diverse landscapes: rivers, lakes, deserts, mountains, waterfalls, and the Great Barrier Reef… I was always camping, hiking, and exploring my home country. I never got tired of the world around me and only fell in love with this planet more and more each day and with every new site I discovered.

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My passion is still growing after over 30 years of working and it is the reason why I shoot every single day – no matter if I am in my backyard of Las Vegas or Aspen. My vision is defined, in many ways, by the palette I am given with every sunrise – I could shoot the same location a hundred times and still get something different. That is the thrill of Mother Nature and the mystery that moves me.

Do

you feel your mission as a photographer is to document the “Truth” of the scene or to impart your own interpretation of nature?

A documentary producer once told me: “You are always telling your own version of the truth.” The natural world is so incredibly beautiful on it’s own, it doesn’t necessarily need any lofty presentation.

However, landscapes provide moods, feelings, and invoke emotion. That is what I try to impart – an inexplicable aura I was experiencing at the time of capture. It is an extra sense of perception and the confirmation of being alive! There is an interpretation that is personal to me and it helps me guide the image’s transformation from a natural scene to a work of art.

what qualities imparted by the technique do you

Your $6.5

find appealing?

the incredible sums paid for several images you have

What

is your favorite format to shoot in, and

When I discovered the panoramic format on a trip to The States years ago, it really knocked me over and I never looked back – it is what I have become known for and is totally responsible for helping to put me on the map. You cannot truly capture the entire scope of a natural scene without considering this type of lens.

It has such a wide field of view – it’s the only way I can be guaranteed to get as much as possible in a single frame. In this case, bigger is better.

Why

have you chosen to make some of your art

available only as single, elite edition prints? Is it in part an attempt to reclaim photography from a creeping frivolous ubiquity in society?

So many of my images are meant to add natural beauty to the lifestyles of my collectors – bringing vitality to a home or office. However, once in a while I will capture a landscape that just begs to be it's own showcase. It doesn’t complement a room – it is the room. These rare photographs just speak to me, and when I realize I have one, I want it to be as exclusive and special as possible. Having only one print out there gives me confidence and reassurance knowing that it will always be treated as a one-of-a-kind treasure.

“Phantom” sold December 2014. Are

photograph million in

for

a

record

you in awe of

captured?

I am more in awe of the images themselves. To me, they are priceless. It is more remarkable that these visions can exist in the world around us, than the idea that someone would pay millions for something they absolutely love. The amount of money spent is relative to the spender.

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ESSENTIAL

CP Restaurant Group Chances are that if you’ve found yourself hungry in Aspen within the last decade or so, you’ve eaten at one or more of these popular restaurants, owned by Samantha and Craig Cordts-Pearce of CP Restaurant Group. And you’ve likely returned time and time again.

Well, there’s a reason for that. Many reasons, in fact.



“It’s our passion,” says Craig. “We love the restaurant business, food and wine. Most of our restaurant concepts reflect the type of places we like to eat in – burger joints, brasseries, Mediterranean, steakhouses. Everything that Aspen didn’t have when we started out.”

While the quintessential Steakhouse No. 316, set within a meticulously restored miner’s cabin with red velvet booths, white linen-topped tables and elaborately framed photos of “Ladies of the Night” hung on vintage brick walls, might be considered their signature spot, their other eateries are equally notable. Brexi Brasserie for traditional French cuisine with traditional French brasserie atmosphere. The Wild Fig for casual fare with influences from France, Spain, Italy and Greece. CP Burger for beef, chicken, tuna and falafel veggie burgers – and then some.

All of these places offer quality dining experiences in singular settings. And each is accented by a grand cadre of employees, many of which have been at the collection of restaurants for some time, and all of whom are nurtured and inspired by the CordtsPearces themselves.

“We design and build, but we also do wine tastings and give feedback on dishes,” says Craig. “We’re not absentee owners.

We live here. We know our clientele and what they like. And every once-in-a-while, they try something new. Lucky for us.”

Steakhouse No. 316 316 E. Hopkins Avenue 970.920.1893

Brexi Brasserie 411 S. Monarch 970. 925.2838

The Wild Fig 315 E. Hopkins Avenue 970. 925.5160

CP Burger 433 E. Durant Avenue 970. 925.3056

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Come Out and Play

Summertime is Basalt Time Situated in the heart of the Roaring Fork Valley at the confluence of two Gold Medal rivers, Basalt comes alive during the long summer days.

Spread out over five miles or so, a group of eclectic neighborhoods straddle Highway 82, following the route of the old Colorado Midland Railroad that ran during the early silver mining days.

Around the modern-day Rockies, it’s hard to find a community that offers as many opportunities for everything from outdoor activities to dining, shopping and gallery hopping.

Begin with the crystal clear rivers, the Frying Pan and the Roaring Fork, which merge in Old Town Basalt. Anglers from the world over come to try their luck as they wade into both the waters and the beauty of the Frying Pan Wilderness. The experts at Taylor Creek Fly Shop or Frying Pan Anglers can take you to the best of the secret fishing spots.

Sailors, boaters and paddle boarders get their kicks up at Reudi Reservoir where, at 7,800 feet, they are surrounded by snow-capped peaks deep into August. And campers vie for coveted spots at the lake, or riverside sites in picturesque Chapman or Elk Wallow campgrounds.

For hikers and climbers, Basalt Mountain and the Arbany Kittle trails provide stairways to the natural heaven of the Rocky Mountain outdoors.

And for those who prefer to take to two wheels, Basalt Bike and Ski can fix you up with the latest and greatest in biking gear, and they’ll be happy to give directions to top trails like the Rio Grande.

And don’t forget, the first Tuesday of each month until October is “Basalt Bike Night,” where bikers of all stripes gather to cruise Midland Avenue.

Getting Hungry?

Back in Old Town, it’s always time for happy hour on the patio at chef Martin Oswald’s Riverside Grill (he also has Pyramid Bistro in Aspen), where folks gather daily to sip a cold beer, listen to the flowing river and tell tales. Gourmands flock to Tempranillo Restaurant as Javier Gonzalez-Bringas, a Madrid native, and his wife prepare the foods of Spain using fresh Rocky Mountain ingredients, many which are grown or raised on the family’s Missouri Heights ranch. There’s also a world-class wine list with, naturally, a serious collection of Spanish wines.

Across the street from Tempranillo is Heather’s Savory Pies and Tapas Bar. Heather and Rene Lujan have created not just a great concept but a place that packs them in for tasty pot pies and tapas, as well as regular music nights with world class musicians.

Feel like a beer and a little conversation?

Stroll over to the Brick Pony Pub. Owner Greg Jurgensen created a local classic with this family style restaurant and pub.

The food, including Wisconsin cheddar mac 'n' cheese and a braised pulled pork sandwich topped with crispy onion rings, is of high quality and you’re guaranteed to get the 411 on local happenings.

Also on Midland is Saxy’s, a cozy coffeehouse across from the Wyly Art Center. At one time or another, everyone winds up here, especially on Sundays during the Basalt Sunday Market.

Over on Two Rivers Road, Basalt’s newest restaurant, Cocina del Valle, has become a popular spot in just a short time. There, a collective of local families are serving up authentic Mexican cuisine, plus some topnotch margaritas.

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A little power shopping?

Strolling Midland, shoppers will find fun and interesting boutiques, like Faboo, where the mantra is “it’s all about you.” Monika, the Polish-born proprietor who moved to Basalt after running a European-style boutique in Aspen, says, “I love dressing women and I love Basalt.” And if you love consignment stores, Heirlooms is one of the best around – and not just for the great finds in women’s and men’s clothing, accessories, shoes, furniture and housewares, but also for sweet treats from the ice cream parlor up front. Across town on Two Rivers Road, Traffic also specializes in women’s apparel and carries top-tier names like Donald Pliner and Nicole Miller.

But there is more to Basalt shopping than just fashion and fishing gear and sporting goods. Stop by the Toklat Gallery to see fine art in a variety of mediums – hand-crafted furniture from Jeffry Mann, incredible trout renderings from Judy Haas and the enamel art of Donna Buchwald, for instance. At the Ann Korologos Gallery, you’ll find a collection of modern and Western art, including outstanding photography, paintings and sculptures, by the likes of Gordon Gund and Lloyd Schermer. And long-time local artist Tania Dibbs has recently opened a gallery on Midland, showcasing her eclectic oils and mixed media works.

A visit to Basalt without a stop at either the Wyly Art Center (locals know it as the Wyly), or the Wyly annex, both on Midland Avenue, would be a missed opportunity. A community supported, community responsive art space, the Center also offers talks, adult workshops with wines and paints, and Saturday Craft afternoons.

The New Urban - Willits Town Center Just minutes down Highway 82, or the Rio Grande Trail if you prefer, lies the Willits Town Center, home to Whole Foods Market and a plethora of shopping and dining opportunities. Perhaps the most active few acres in the entire Valley, the contemporary architecture and the well-planned walking environment of both the neighborhood and the retail community make this a must-stop for locals and visitors alike. This fall, the Roaring Fork Valley’s newest hotel, Element by Westin, will debut with 113 rooms, upping the ante for multi-day stays in the area.

In addition to Whole Foods, offerings at Willits include a number of dining choices, from farm-fresh burgers and craft beers on tap at the Sure Thing, to southern-style Bar B Q at Smoke, to the long-time locals favorite El Korita, where the flavors of Nayarit, Mexico come alive.

Want to spice things up? Try Bangkok Happy Bowl. A quick bite? La Plaga Chilanga near the Movieland 7 theater fits the bill with tortas and tacos.

Willits is also home to Bristlecone Mountain Sports, the year-round goto for any outdoor need, from SUP boards and camping gear to AT skis to the best outdoor clothing and shoes. If cooking is your thing, don’t miss a stop at Kitchen Collage, where kitchen gadgets, cookware and tableware are offered in a delightful kitchen emporium setting.

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Find

comfort in our food, be swept away in the music and revel in good cheer.

Heather's Savory Pies & Tapas Bar 166 Midland Ave Basalt, CO (970) 927-0151

Escape to Our Haven.

Heather’s offers the valley's best free entertainment from world class entertainers five nights a week. Always relaxed and brimming with a friendly homey vibe... A cozy atmosphere, and gracious staff are rounded out by delectable and satisfying made-fresh -daily unique and delicious experiences that you will be sure to love. Pop in for a morsel, a cocktail, or simply check out some of the valley's best free entertainment!

Lydia Bain

ESSENTIAL

An avid teacher, philosopher, and poet, she studies the creativity of the goodness of humankind, and translates it to a dialogue that is easy to understand, and delivered in a positive manner. She has participated in many events, from CHICKBALL (a benefit fighting against sex trafficking and domestic violence in Jackson, Mississippi) to PUTTIN’ ON THE PINK (breast cancer awareness fest on Snowmass Mountain) to be a part of education and change.

♀

If there ever was a woman of action, she would be Lydia Bain. A classically trained vocalist and violinist, she has spearheaded an effort to study a genre, Afro-Country, that she created with her music partner, Barrett Black.

She believes in peace, love , honesty, and respect; just another reason to be proud of an affiliation with this person.

Anna Trzebinski Anna’s talent combines ancient traditions and skills to create unique items that fire the imagination. Her luxury brand consisting of handmade clothing, accessories, and home furnishings are inspired and made by indigenous East African tribes people.

Her designs empower indigenous cultures and promote the preservation of artisanal skills and traditional craftsmanship. Her work is haute chic with a totally unique edge.

“Africa is the true cradle of mankind. She reminds us how healing and powerful her energy is, and how important tribal rituals are to those who inhabit her. Perhaps it is time to return to Mother Earth and honor her and remember how beautiful we truly are.

What we wear is just one tiny way in which we can do that. It feels wonderful to make beautiful things with such integrity to the people and the soul of this continent."

Sabrina Blakeney Stratford

The local ladies will tell you that fly fishing isn't just for the guys. Valley women bring grace, style, finesse, fun, sexiness and skill the rivers’ edges, and Woody Creek's Sabrina Blakeney Stratford is among them.

Sabrina's passion as an angler is so deep that she writes her own blog — She Loves Fly Fishing. The website has one fun mission, and that is to get ladies on the water with confidence.

To check out Sabrina's female friendly how-to, where-to, and who-to guides, visit SheLovesFlyFishing.com.

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Inspired

I

f

there are two things Coloradans enjoy, it is being able to get together with people that we love, and having the opportunity to be around nature while we do it. Anyone who lives in or has ever visited Colorado knows just how beautiful our state really is. The Rocky Mountains ultimately remind us just how blessed we truly are. Most of us here choose to be outdoors as frequently as possible. Whether it is a small get-together at home with family and friends or a large wedding event, the floral designs created by Beth Gill and her staff at The Aspen Branch make any event look as beautiful as Colorado itself.

Beth Gill was born in Washington D.C. but she grew up in Colorado Springs. Right around thirty years ago she made the decision to move to Aspen. Beth was drawn to this wondrous mountain town by the stunning scenery and the exquisite beauty of the landscape. Most people thrill to the idea of waking up every morning to such remarkable scenery and Beth’s enthusiasm for nature was unable to resist Aspen’s call. Aspen created the perfect place for Beth, inspiring her creativity and driving her pursue her dreams.

With her extensive studies in horticulture and working in flower shops during her summers in college, working around flowers and plants has been a lifestyle for Beth ever since she can remember. From a very young age, Beth has been overwhelmingly passionate about flowers and botany of all kinds. In addition to having a degree in horticulture from the University of Maryland, she also trained in Holland to hone her unique floral designing skills.

Beth’s longevity in the industry has only proven further just how devoted she is to what she does. The flower arrangements that come from The Aspen Branch showcase Beth’s depth of creativity, skill and passion for her lifelong interest.

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Images by Robin Proctor Photography

T

he Aspen Branch was established thirty years ago when Beth made the decision to take the floral events décor industry by storm. Beth and her team of floral décor designers have literally worked from the ground up. When The Aspen Branch first opened its doors, Beth and her team of spectacular designers would go into customer’s homes to help them with their flower arrangements. As time went by, they started booking larger and more glamorous events. From its beginnings as small flower stand next to the popcorn wagon, to working a shop in the Wheeler Opera House, The Aspen Branch has expanded over the years and is now located in the Aspen Business Center (affectionately referred to as the ABC) in order to accommodate the larger events they design for.

From inspired orchid arrangements in the homes of their customers to draping a tent at a wedding, The Aspen Branch puts an incredibly artistic spin on the event décor industry and continue to impress clients with their superb creative skills. Although they specialize in floral arrangements, The Aspen Branch can also help with a wide variety of needs, including designing custom props, renting furniture for events and providing decorative elements for lounges. They can even ensure your countrythemed wedding comes complete with mason jars and unique wicker seats. It doesn’t matter if it is the newest trend or a classic arrangement, The Aspen Branch carries everything from candelabras to flowered collars for your pets!

As Beth and her company have had the opportunity to be a part of so many different kinds of events, it has become clear that one of her favorite types of events to design for are weddings. “I love to be a part of such a special moment in everyone’s lives and it feels great knowing that we are a part of creating such a wonderful moment at their wedding! Having the opportunity to create the beauty to make any moment special is what keeps us passionate about what we do.”

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O

ne of Beth’s favorite things about working in Aspen, besides the brilliant scenery of course, is the fact that she gets to coordinate with so many amazing local companies. “Being able to collaborate with people who are so familiar with the area and the events that we specialize in really makes decorating our events that much easier for our clients.”

From lighting companies to caterers, specializing in such an artistic and collaborative industry seems more like fun than work. Just because The Aspen Branch is located in Aspen doesn’t mean that they are limited to events in town. If it is in Colorado or anywhere nationwide in the US, The Aspen Branch can help to make your event happen in a way that would make any get-together seem magical.

Setting up what would prove to be such a successful business in Aspen has been the perfect decision for Beth. Not only are the clients and other event producers kind and fun to collaborate with, but being able to thrive mainly outside in such a beautiful location makes doing her job as pleasant as can be. The staff at The Aspen Branch are able to find true joy in serving the community.

Knowing that her team is capable of handling just about any event design helps her continue to focus her creativity and ultimately helps The Aspen Branch thrive as a company. Beth’s passion for the floral events décor industry isn’t the only aspect to which she can attribute her success.

She explains just how important teamwork is in this field. “It takes a wonderful team to do this job. I have always had a very dedicated production team as well as a design team.” The Aspen Branch and their team of design experts are able to coordinate together and successfully turn any event into a memorable one to dazzle and impress.

40

F

rom her breathtaking floral arrangements all the way to her specialized event props, Beth and her marvelous group of designers have proven just how diverse their skills truly are. The Aspen Branch has come a long way over the years and has grown from humble beginnings to become the premiere floral design center in the community. It is very clear that Beth has always been destined to create beautiful floral décor and The Aspen Branch has proven to be one of the best in the business.

Making her home in such a striking location such as Aspen Colorado has spurred her creativity and allowed Beth to pursue her dreams and maintain one of the best floral events décor operations in the industry.

As Beth likes to say, “Whatever you can imagine, we can create!”

Wedding Trends

The Aspen Branch keeps up with all of the hottest trends in order to ensure that your special day is as exceptional as you are! Beth shares that some of this season’s biggest trends are abundant flower crowns for the bride and abundant loose wild bouquets. Although pastel colors are almost always in, it seems as though this wedding season is using those along with vibrant wildflowers that would keep any bride looking radiant. Casual seating areas and lounges are also a must right now. From modern lounges to creative rustic seating, the team at The Aspen Branch can design a charming area for all of your guests to gather in comfort and harmony.

Woof!

Whether your are Buying or Selling Real Estate – Rely on an Expert to Assist.

“When we first began looking for a home in the Roaring Fork valley some years ago we met Doug. We felt we could work with him because he was (and is) very personable and had years of experience in the valley. We kept in touch and for several years he helped us search until we found a home that fit. Our case was particularly challenging as we live out of town so we couldn’t be on site due to time and travel restrictions. Thankfully we felt comfortable with Doug and his assistant so we were able to achieve “long distance” much of the due diligence that would not have been otherwise possible. Doug’s contacts within the homebuilding trades in the valley were invaluable. Altogether, Doug exceeded our expectations and we’d like to thank both he and his team for

”

the assistance they’ve given us over the years.

— The Williams

Doug Leibinger www.SearchHomesInAspen.com

970.379.9045

Doug.Leibinger@sir.com

Dangers of Aluminum

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The

By Jody Powell ND

ď Ž

I was shocked last year to learn that children may receive more aluminum from eating American "cheese" than from vaccines. I am not talking about real cheese here, but the pasteurized processed cheese food product (that is what the label says) which comes in individually wrapped slices. I ate tons of it as a child. Aluminum makes these fake cheeses easier to slice. So even though it is harmful, it is allowed in food to make things easier for the fake food manufactures. It turns out aluminum is allowed to be added to many foods including flour, and baking soda. Hopefully you have already thrown out your aluminum cookware to eliminate that source of exposure.

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Aluminum is also common in skin care products particularly antiperspirant where it acts to block your sweat glands. This is bad for you on many levels. First, because you absorb a great deal of that aluminum which can damage your immune system, contribute to depression, fatigue, memory loss, confusion, impaired learning, Parkinson's, ALS, Lou Gherig's disease, muscle problems, and possibly even breast cancer. Secondly, you need to sweat. It is one of your bodies primary routes of detoxification. Our bodies every opportunity they can to dispose of the toxins we are exposed to every day.

"But wait" you say "I don't want to stink!". I hear you. I have a few suggestions: 1. Clean up your diet. If you eat live, organic, fresh, whole foods, you will smell better, no kidding. I can notice the difference when I stray from my healthy whole foods diet in the way my sweat smells.

2. Try switching to a deodorant rather than an antiperspirant. Deodorants help mask the smell, without the pore clogging aluminum. Many people have tried the deodorants at the health food store and hate them. If you are accustomed to a commercial antiperspirant, you can not expect the same results from a natural deodorant. They will not block your pores with harmful ingredients and prevent you from sweating. Visit EWG.org for less harmful deodorant and antiperspirant options. You can even make your own if you are so inclined.

3. If you just can not imagine the embarrassment of giving up your antiperspirant, try taking one day a week off. Can you spend Saturday at home airing out? One day a week not exposing your body to the harmful effects of more aluminum will add up, and contribute to your good health.

Doctor Jody Powell Naturopathy — Homeopathy Serving the Roaring Fork Valley JodyPowellND.com 970.236.6178 43

Offering the Largest Selection of Rental Homes & Condominiums

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COMPLIMENTARY ASPEN CLUB & SPA PRIVILEGES. COMPLIMENTARY ASPEN AIRPORT TRANSFERS. AVAILABLE TO SERVE YOU 24/7.

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Hailing from the Blue Zone Area of Sardinia Island, Chef Marco Porceddu brings to the Aspen Valley over 25 years of experience.

Focusing on eating well, Marco supports the local farm to table concept with an outstanding ability to transform simple ingredients into a memorable culinary experience.

Marco worked with some of the best Hotelier and restaurant groups in the country and now has the pleasure to provide private chef and catering services for several families in the valley.

Butternut Squash & Tofu Soup

Preparation

Ingredients

Cook & stir the onion in a pot. When translucent, add California Chardonnay the squash and enough water just to cover the squash. Ribolla Gialla Then add curry powder, salt & pepper. Cook 10 Beaujolais minutes on medium heat. It is done when the squash is fork tender.

Place squash, onions & Parmigiano-Reggiano into mixer & puree until creamy.

Transfer to a sauté pan & cook on medium heat. Stir in green onions & tofu with olive oil. Flambé with Jack For more information please Daniels & turn off immediately. visit Eddu-Chefs.com. Or you Pour soup into bowls & decorate with tofu in the center. can contact Chef Marco Sprinkle with curry powder & grated Parmigianoat Info@Eddu-Chefs.com & Reggiano.

970.315.2566

• • • • • • • • •

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1 cup chopped White Onion 4 cups diced butternut squash diced 1 tsp curry powder salt &pepper 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tbsp finely chopped green onions 1 cup tofu diced 1/4 cup Jack Daniel's

Wine Pairing

“Summer Days” Oil , 24" x 30"

by Michael Coleman

505 E Hyman Ave, Aspen • WindRiverGallery.com • (970) 925-3919

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Snowmass Rodeo

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Take a ride down to the Snowmass Rodeo and watch as cowboys and cowgirls ride into the arena and pay tribute to the American Flag. There are many events such as bareback riding, team roping, saddle bronc riding, dally ribbon roping, barrel racing and bull riding. Prior to the rodeo there are activities such as roping for kids, a petting zoo, mechanical bull rides, big inflatable bouncy horse, shopping, a cowboy dinner, and even a saloon! After the rodeo you can join a campfire sing-along and listen to Western tunes under starry skies!

SnowmassRodeo.org Snowmass Village, CO 49

The Aspen Branch flowers

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events

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celebrations

309A Aspen Business Center Aspen, CO 81611 AspenBranch.com 970.925.3791

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There's No Party Like a New Orleans Party — and that’s exactly what The Square Grouper serves up right here in Aspen at 304 E. Hopkins Ave. The subterranean spot on Restaurant Row attracts a loyal following that revels in its Mardi Gras spirit. On tap is a mix of fantastic food and drinks combined with sizzling atmosphere that includes live music, stand-up comedy acts, bartending competitions and themed parties to celebrate any occasion.

“This bar has become the chameleon of Aspen,” says Mike Goldman, co-owner with fellow hospitality veteran and musician Jesse Wey. “We look for any stupid reason to have fun down here and it seems to be working.”

The Square Grouper’s “anything-goes” attitude is enhanced with a creative list of laid-back bar food that highlights the staple flavors of the Deep South and the Caribbean. In addition to dishing out lunch and dinner creations straight from the Gulf Coast, the three-time champion of the Aspen Soupsköl soup making competition has honed its skills preparing Cajun and Creole cuisines. Louisiana-style dishes and desserts round out a menu full of traditional Southern fare. Best of all, both food and revelry are served late until last call at 2 a.m.

In contrast to the sultry, candle-lit underground lounge outfitted with stage, baby grand piano, and vintage arcade games, a full-service tiki bar is available on the sunny sidewalk patio upstairs with 15 seats for prime people-watching. Here beneath a galvanized tin roof, the Grouper gals mix the beach with Bourbon Street à la signature cocktails including Sazeracs and Hurricanes.

Now in a cool groove, Goldman and Wey are most excited about the community The Square Grouper has cultivated within Aspen’s small-town nightlife scene. “We’ve made some huge changes,” Goldman explained as he concluded a raucous midday mixology expo packed with local restaurant folk. “It’s fun to see the impact on the bar industry here in Aspen.”

For Gulf Coast and Cajun-style food, drinks and great times, The Square Grouper has it all! Laissez les bons temps rouler!

In other words, let’s get weird!

Photo Credit: Nick Tininenko.

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ESSENTIAL ď ˆ

Real Estate Review

by Doug Leibinger

THE ASPEN VALLEY market had a significant run up in values with a culmination in 2007. It has taken a number of years for the market to recover - slower, frankly, than expected, and there are still a surprising number of opportunities for buyers outside of the downtown Central Core and West End. I personally listed homes recently in the Core and West End that went under contract within days of coming to market. Pent up demand for quality properties within walking distance to downtown has realized a strong market dynamic for sellers.

In the past 6 months, two sales (a penthouse in the Core and a home in the West End) eclipsed the $3,000/SF mark surpassing the height of the market in 2007. New construction with deluxe amenities is in high demand and lends a unique opportunity for those willing to take on a remodel to add value.

As you move one mile beyond the Core of Aspen, excellent value opportunities still exist. Land sales have become robust with new construction starts filling the City of Aspen, Pitkin County, and Snowmass Village building department desks.

Although the recent trend has seen absorption in the pedestrian friendly, close to the Core locations, outlying properties with acreage, views, and unique attributes like river frontage or ski in accessibility are becoming more appealing to buyers.

The Aspen Valley market has also seen two trends recently.

One is young families relocating to Aspen. They are drawn by a safe environment with top notch public schools. Aspen High School was recently voted #1 high school in the state. With the advent of technology allowing business to be conducted seamlessly from remote locations, people are choosing the Aspen lifestyle with its superior cultural and recreational offerings out your front door. Aspen is a small town for big city people. The second trend is a notable increase in foreign investment. More and more buyers from Asia, South America, and Europe are purchasing in the Aspen Valley. You can see from the graphs to the left that the West End and Central Core have effectively rebounded to 2007 levels.

As you push just slightly out of town, the market has been slower to recover. The largest disparity in valuation is in Snowmass Village and there in lies the most opportunity for a buyer to get a great value on property today. Basalt and Old Snowmass are also lagging behind the market highs of 2007.

I, and a lot of my fellow associates, believe that this summer may see the most activity in Old Snowmass. There are some excellent offerings only 20 minutes away from Aspen and yet provide total privacy, river frontage, and views.

Doug Leibinger is consistently one of the top producing brokers in the Aspen Valley. If you would like to discuss listing your property for sale or need an expert guide to find your new home, call Doug at 970-379-9045. Doug.Leibinger@sothebysrealty.com

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Let's Get Weird!

The Square Grouper is a New Orleans style bar & restaurant open from lunch to late night. Come in for live music or to watch your favorite sports on our HD TVs & 9' projector screen. The ideal place in Aspen to enjoy delicious Southern style comfort food & great signature cocktails. Come hang out & play foosball, darts, bubble hockey, or Nintendo 64!

Cajun & Creole Southern Comfort Food Kitchen Open Late Night Open Daily 12:00 pm - 2:00 am

304 E. Hopkins Avenue, Aspen AspenSquareGrouper.com 970.429.4968

Photo Credit: Nick Tininenko.

FRESH IDEAS INSPIRED BY YOU

CATERING

PRIVATE CHEF SERVICES DIETARY & GLUTEN FREE PROGRAMS

FOOD & WINE CLASSES

Eddu-Chefs.com Aspen, CO 970.315.2566

In the world of art galleries in Aspen, gallery turnover is the norm. Not so with Aspen Grove, whose presence has been ongoing and exemplary, established thirty five years ago. A friendly and knowledgeable staff is the key to their longevity. The mood of the gallery, inviting and not intimidating, has brought generations of clients in to view the wide variety and constantly changing works of hand chosen artists.

James Scoppettone is a prime example of an artist whose work has been displayed for twenty five years in the gallery. His American Impressionist work has been widely collected by corporate sponsors such as Pepsi and Nissin Foods and curators like the St. Louis Museum.

Gib Singleton’s Western and Biblical bronze sculptures have been included in the permanent collections of the Museum of Modern Art, the Vatican, and the Yad Vashem in Israel. He described his work as Emotional Realism.

Earl Biss is another of the stars in Aspen Grove’s pantheon of artists. He was a leader in the world of Contemporary Native American Art, creating not only portraits and landscapes that have earned him the title of the Greatest Colorist of the 20th Century.

Aspen Grove’s wide spectrum of styles includes Impressionism, Abstracts, Realism and more.

Whether you are a seasoned collector or a first time buyer, Aspen Grove Fine Arts is your destination for outstanding fine art.

The artists represent a diversity of media including watercolors, acrylics, oils, drawings, limited edition prints and sculpture. Frequently the gallery brings artists to Aspen for personal appearances, which is a remarkable opportunity to mingle with the artists and staff, sip a glass of wine, enjoy an appetizer and get an up-close and personal experience with the art and its creator.

ESSENTIAL

Aspen Grove Fine Art

James Jensen “The core of an artist is creativity; it’s an ongoing furrowed-brow moment punctuated by moments of elation.”

So says James Jensen, featured artist at Aspen Grove Fine Arts Gallery. Classically trained in both art and music and raised in a family of artists, Jensen’s creativity has been fostered from an early age. Jensen’s father was a sculptor and he gave his son access to not only the materials of creativity, but also the idea of life as a professional artist.

Jensen began his professional career as a musician, having studied Classical piano and having considered a career as a soloist. While he’s redirected his efforts to painting, assemblage and mixed media, his studio still is home to his piano. He can retreat to playing Mozart or Rachmaninoff as a break from painting and, as he puts it somewhat facetiously, it’s also a handy spot on which to place a paint can or brush occasionally.

“Poor thing,” he states, referring to his piano.

Jensen’s work encompasses a wide variety of styles and forms. He can create a still life reminiscent of the Old Masters with great attention to detail, elegance and sublety that might make the viewer think of Vermeer, Rembrandt or Velasquez. Alongside it he might be working on a contemporary canvas composed of layer upon layer of paint, varnish and perhaps an automotive part or two. Bold and brave, Jensen creates drip paintings which bring to mind Jackson Pollock, yet feature his own unique attention to detail. Contemporary, experimental assemblage and multimedia work represent a melding of color, motion and depth. It is a sculpture on the wall.

Jensen strives to bring a mathematical order to the chaos of abstract painting. His intent is to develop a saturation of paint with bold colors, brilliant from a distance, yet with a finesse and delicacy only noticed when viewed from close proximity. His classical training enables him to have great command of his materials and know in advance the outcome of combining media. His contemporary works are a nod to tradition, yet honoring the science of paint, allowing the materials to work for him.

Maintaining an optimistic attitude about the happy accidents that occasionally happen in the studio, Jensen happily shares his sharp sense of humor. He strives to flourish in a world of live experimentation that is poignant and interesting, carefully avoiding becoming derivative or redundant, a treacherous notion for any artist.

Jensen began his career working in pastels before progressing into other, more permanent media. He spends a month in Italy each year drawing inspiration from seeing works of antiquity. This influence is shown in his application of gold and silver leaf to his distressed and tortured canvases, allowing the metallics to shimmer through despite their rough treatment.

He is a prolific artist, with seven or eight paintings in progress at one time, maintaining a regular schedule of time in his studio. Even if the creative juices aren’t flowing, there are plenty of tasks to busy himself with and just maintaining a presence in the world of his art draws inspiration and new ideas.

Jensen owes a great debt to the Zueger family of galleries. Paul Zueger worked with him from an early point in Jensen’s career, nurtured and developed a relationship based on mutual trust, in much the same way that patrons like the Medici family sponsored fledgling artists such as Donatello, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo during the Renaissance. Their relationship has flourished over more than twenty five years.

Jensen is pleased to be shown at the Aspen Grove Fine Arts Gallery since, as he states, clients in Aspen are with-it, world class, savvy collectors. Aspen is his favorite Art arena, finding it pertinent and relevant.

Time spent in Aspen always puts him in a good mood.

Doesn’t everyone feel that way?

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britten Experience any of britten’s art and you’ll recognize that she has achieved her goal of keeping her intention pure, trusting her instincts and not overthinking her paintings. Luminosity is abundant in her images, the same luminosity found in every raindrop, snowflake and river reflection. Her abstract landscapes glow with a radiance defined by nature and achieved with skillful application of gold, silver and copper leaf, water and layers of brilliant translucent color. There are no secrets in art since everything is exposed, whether she likes it or not.

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britten is comfortable with trusting the mystery and allowing herself to be unaware of the final product or anything tangible and just “feel” until she has finished the process. Her work mirrors the viewer’s experience while she plays with a path of light. Each painting is an invitation to an inner world of new perception, evoking emotions and a dreamlike state of mind. Her paintings transform based on the time of day and the change of lighting indoors. britten creates alder wood frames, stretches her organic cotton canvases and applies gesso and a water based layer before her first application of the metallic. Next a layer of iridescent and interference pigments before utilizing the French milled, museum quality oil paints and resin. This process allows each painting to bring either a tranquil feeling or a rush of excitement, sometimes both.

britten works in her studio each day and refers to that behavior not as self discipline, but as self devotion. Her life is art and her creativity allows her a great deal of freedom. When not working directly on a piece of art, you might find her writing her blog, The Palette, revolving around a painting on which she’s currently working, a lesson she’s learned, a color, or some piece of a puzzle she’s solved. Beyond inspiration, britten is open to new experiences, especially the vastness and infinite presence of nature. Life in its essence allows her to push the reset button and allows her to be open to pure inspiration.

Her studio time is accompanied by the constant presence of music. She’s loaded a hundred stations on Pandora, presses shuffle and anything from Classical, Tibetan Chant, Reggae, Jazz or Opera might play on her speakers. britten enjoys working in her environment of natural light, but also is thrilled to paint at night under artificial light which offers a new perspective on how colors develop, reflections occur and is a preview of how her work might appear in a collector’s home.

When there’s a need to get away, britten runs, swims, hikes, does anything to be outside. A lover of nature, for britten there is no separation between her life and her art.

“All I see is beauty,” she states in her appreciation of her Colorado mountain home and her appreciation of the ability to do what she loves.

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Monday - Friday 11am - 9pm Saturday - Sunday 11am - 5pm Later During Peak Season

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520 E. Cooper AvE � 520GrilL.com

ESSENTIAL

Twinkle

F

Michelle Weeks originally didn’t want to open a shop. She was influenced by closets that were too small. Her baby, Zoe had two closets that were bursting at the seams. Resourceful Michelle realized she couldn’t be the only young mother faced with that dilemma.

Opening Twinkle offered the added benefit of being able to spend the entire day with her newborn, who’s now in school and spends time with Mom at the shop.

While Twinkle is ostensibly a consignment shop, it’s also source for brand new infants’ and children’s clothing, equipment and accessories.

Michelle not only has a shrewd eye for choosing the very best items in a collection of consigned goods, but also scours on-line boutiques and individual offerings for unique products.

Michelle relies on her instincts for what to accept from her consignors. She studies the Internet with a keen eye on trends. She donates left-overs at the end of each season to Aspen’s Day of Giving and the Aspen Thrift Shop, feeling that giving and sharing bring good Karma. Packages of donations are sent to Afghanistan.

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Asked about the challenges of conducting business in Aspen, Michelle contends there are far more rewards than challenges. She states that while Target and Walmart may have less expensive kids’ clothing, high-quality clothes found at Twinkle always look great and last longer. Her merchandise is constantly transitioning, so she’s always busy and happy to provide a well appreciated service to kids (and moms) who care about what they wear.

434 E Cooper, Aspen | sourcephotographica.com

SourcePhotographica.com

philip@sourcephoto.com.au | Philip Kulpa 970 306 8495 | Greta Kulpa 435 901 9166

EVEREST T H E F IR ST ASCEN T 1953 ORIGINAL SIGNED PHOTOGRAPHS FROM THE ESTATE OF ALFRED GREGORY

Viceroy

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The

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To sleep in Aspen has as many distinct choices as deciding what you will partake in each day. Boutiques, unique, or internationally acclaimed, are among the choices for the accommodations that are available when you book a trip to the Rocky Mountains. Each option has a luxury all its own. Whether you select a slope side home or a landmark hotel in the historic core you will not be disappointed. Gracious and hospitable Aspen wants you well rested so you can enjoy the mountain spirit.

At Viceroy Snowmass luxury year-round resort, mountain adventure glows with modern spirit as Viceroy Hotels and Resorts.. Only seven miles from downtown Aspen in the heart of Snowmass' new Base Village, the Viceroy combines modern amenities and finishes to satisfy discerning travelers’ expectations for comfort and service. Each luxury resort residence, features indigenous textures and elements. Sizeable studio residences offer gourmet, kitchens appointed with premium appliances as well as designer-selected tableware, glassware, flatware and cooking tools. Imagined by renowned interior designer Jean-Michel Gathy, the Aspen­­–Snowmass studio accommodations are imbued with a timeless Colorado sensibility interpreted with Viceroy’s own polished perspective.

For couples, families and friends, Viceroy Snowmass luxury mountain resort offers luxury resort lodging and a gateway to on-and off-mountain adventure and culture. Complemented by imaginative dining and lounging, a Ute Indian-inspired wellness spa, and a year-round pool terrace and café—an ideal setting for a Snowmass mountain vacation.

From hiking, mountain biking, fly-fishing, horseback riding, festivals and concerts, the Rocky Mountains' limitless seasonal pleasures and a world of unexpected Viceroy privileges await at the newest luxury ski resort in Aspen/Snowmass.

The Viceroy is located at 130 Wood Road in Snowmass Village, and you can make reservations by calling 877.235.7577, or visiting their website at ViceroyHotelsAndResorts.com.

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205 Mill Street ∙ 107 Mill Street Plaza ∙ Aspen ∙ 970.429.8529 ∙ PalasoLuxe.com

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ď œ

The

Shakti Shala

The Shakti Shala, meaning house of true empowerment, has been created in an effort to connect, challenge, inspire and empower our Aspen community and beyond. The mission at Shakti Shala is to excite trans-formative experiences that enrich lives and inspire positivity through yoga, meditation, dance, spirit, presence, and fun.

The intention behind their retail boutique is "What if your outer artistry were as beautiful as your inner existence?" This stems from their belief that life is art and full of art whichever way you turn.

Head over to 422 East Cooper Street, and begin your own beautiful transformation today.

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Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs Barbecue Grills Outdoor Kitchens Fire Pits & Tables

The Professional Pool People

− Home of "Jacuzzi Julie" − award winning international design expert

AjaxPoolandSpa.com

970.279.5253

ESSENTIAL

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Community Aspen has long been known for giving back. Our philanthropic efforts are widespread and reach deep into the local community, lending a hand to many worthwhile efforts and entities. Essential Aspen is happy to do our share by supporting a different collection of non-profits in each issue. We hope you will add your support by attending some of their wonderful local events.

Aspen Public Radio 110 East Hallam Street, #134 970.920.9000 KAJX on the dial AspenPublicRadio.org Basalt Thrift 180 Southside Dr #1 Basalt 970.927.6488 BasaltThrift.org The Red Brick 110 E. Hallam Street #118 970.429.2777 AspenArt.org Sustainable Settings 6107 Highway 133, Carbondale 970-963-6107 SustainableSettings.org

Wind Walkers Therapeutic Riding & Learning Center 1030 County Road 102, Carbondale 970.963.2909 WindWalkersTRC.org The Wyly Art Center 99 Midland Spur Basalt 970-927-4123 WylyArts.org The Wyly Annex 174 Midland Avenue Basalt 970-927-4123 WylyArts.org

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Aspen Public Radio Aspen Public Radio is your connection to in-depth local and world news, stories from across the nation and down the street, classical and new music, meaningful dialogue, and so much more.

Their mission is to support, nourish, and enrich our community by providing informative, entertaining, and educational radio programming in a reliable and professional manner.

Serving the Roaring Fork and Colorado River Valleys, Aspen Public Radio brings a variety of news, music, and programming to over 10,000 individual listeners. The station is based in Aspen, Colorado, and broadcasts on KAJX in Aspen and KCJX in Carbondale.

Members play a big role in the station’s work. They are a group of individuals who appreciate reliable news, interesting music, and the engaging personalities behind our local news team, National Public Radio, Public Radio International, American Public Media, and more.

You can stay connected with Aspen Public Radio on-line by visiting www.aspenpublicradio.org, and now, Aspen Public Radio is available for streaming on iTunes Radio, just search “Aspen Public Radio” in iTunes.

To become a member, call (970) 920-9000, visit AspenPublicRadio.org, or visit the station at 110 East Hallam Street, Suite 134 in Aspen.

Basalt Thrift The non-profit Basalt Thrift Store has served the Roaring Fork Valley community for 7 years.

Touted for being pickier than the average thrift store, their showroom is well stocked with a fast changing selection of name brand clothing and household items. Whether you are outfitting for a theme-party, wedding, Burning Man, or just need some quality clothes without the retail price tag, Basalt Thrift is worth the stop.

Basalt Thrift recycles or ships out over a million pounds of goods annually to crisis areas both domestic and abroad that would otherwise end up in local landfills. That means all your donations find a new home around the world or are recycled according to industry standards.

Husband and wife founders, Jullia Pratt & Steve Jundt regard agricultural sustainability to be paramount to our community. The Basalt Thrift Mission is to bring awareness to local farmers and ranchers who are concerned with the highest standards in production. Basalt Thrift sponsor “Seed to Table Programs,” soil (worm farm) production, composting, and workshops supporting all aspects of sustainable education. Basalt Thrift contributes to many local 501(c)3's ranging from schools and art programs to women’s shelters and hospice centers.

Basalt Thrift is worth the stop.

Basalt Thrift 180 South Side Drive, Basalt BasaltThrift.org 970-927-648 Monday - Saturday 10-5 Sundays 12-5

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The

Red Brick

The Red Brick is home to eleven Artists in Residence who hold shared, working studios where they can create and collaborate. These artists are a great representation of the quality and importance of local arts here in the Aspen community, which is a key focus of The Red Brick and our mission to build and strengthen community by creating an inspiring home for local organizations and the arts. Our Resident Artists embrace this mission by teaching free workshops, participating in multiple exhibitions throughout the year, helping establish new education opportunities for the community, and otherwise promoting The Red Brick along with their own art.

Artists can be seen regularly working in their studios, and visitors are welcome to come and view the works in progress during open studio hours, which vary by artists. Our current group of artists work in a vast array of mediums from ceramics and clay to acrylic, oil, mixed media, and more. From abstract and realistic to functional and fun, there’s something for every art taste when you visit our Resident Artists and the colorful community of the Red Brick!

Our Artists – Mike Otte, Lynn Waldorf, Betty Weiss, Michael Bonds, Toney Thomas, Molly Peacock, Michele Gray, Michael McConnell, Nancy Kullgren, Lorrain Davis, & Cynthia Vandeveer.

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Sustainable Settings Sustainable Settings is an entrepreneurial non-profit organization that inspires people and communities to embrace integrated solutions for sustainable development. They train young organic farmers and ranchers, teach whole-systems thinking to children, host re-skilling workshops for adults, and demonstrate state-ofthe-art sustainable human settlement.

Sustainable Settings’ ranch, a 244-acre historic settlement at the base of Mt. Sopris, is dedicated to research, demonstration and educational activities in sustainable agriculture, land stewardship and green development. The ranch is home to protected open space, a critical wildlife corridor, and is a diversified model of sustainable agriculture featuring raw dairy, organic gardens, an heirloom orchard, and heritage breeds of chickens and pigs.

Thousands of people per year find us for practical know-how and local food. Educational programs are open to all schools, organizations and residents of all ages. They are committed to building regenerative health in the soil, producing safe organic food for our community, all by harvesting nature’s intelligence.

Aiming to inspire learners of all ages to discover viable solutions to help move us toward a responsible, regenerative future — one that promotes healthy local economies, local energy and food security, provides hope, and changes lives.

Visit Sustainable Settings at 6107 Highway 133, in Carbondale. They are open Tuesdays through Saturdays, 9am – 4pm.

WindWalkers At WindWalkers, bringing horses together with children and adults who have physical, mental or emotional disorders has had startling results. Individuals with challenges often struggle to communicate - but put them with horses – or “butts in the saddles” as they like to say- and they can achieve so much.

For those who participate in therapeutic riding activities at WindWalkers, it seems more like fun than therapy. While there is little controlled research on the subject, physical therapists progress notes, as well as reports from physicians, teachers, and parents testify to its benefits. These include improved balance, muscle strength, self-confidence, interpersonal skills and agility.

Since 2005, WindWalkers has served the needs of those with challenges in the Roaring Fork Valley. Their unwavering commitment to improving the physical well-being, behavioral development and emotional health of their clients, families and the communities they serve is evident.

WindWalkers’s clients have become more outgoing and children with autism have been known to communicate spontaneously for the first time with a horse! Often students enjoy an independence they never thought would be available to them. While on a horse, they’re “normal”, able to leave the bonds of their disabilities. They’re free!

For more information please call 970.963.2909 or visit WindWalkersTRC.org.

The

Wyly Art Center

Art and learning come together at the The Wyly Art Center, a community treasure housed in the old library building in the heart of historic downtown Basalt. The Wyly offers exhibitions, art talks, classes for adults and children, plus internships and mentorships for teens and an artisan market. Working in the community, The Wyly extends the healing power of the arts to adults with developmental disabilities, teens recovering from chemical addiction and teen parents.

The Wyly Annex—a vibrant new exhibition gallery—is an innovative partnership between the Town of Basalt and The Wyly Art Center located at 174 Midland Avenue. The Annex Gallery hosts exhibition openings, art talks and festive artists dinners.

The Wyly’s summer art camps allow students to spend the entire day immersed in art and nature. And art is not just for the children. Get your art on with adult classes such as Art Farm! Enjoy an evening of relaxation, fun and creativity while sipping some wine in a “no experience necessary” social, supportive environment.

Another great way to celebrate summer and support programming at The Wyly Art Center is through The Wyly Gala: Pencil Us In. The Wyly is planning a very special evening on Saturday, August 8, with delectable food, live music and the launching of the Town of Basalt’s public art installation, the pencil garden.

Be sure to visit wylyarts.org to view all their offerings.

For more information, contact 970-927-4123 or art@ wylyarts.org. The Wyly Art Center is on 99 Midland Spur in historic downtown Basalt.

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Culinary precision served with a wine list to match

Service Daily at 5:30

pm

Reservations available at ellinaaspen.com

ellina restaurant • 430 east hyman avenue • 970.925.2976 • ellinaaspen.com

ESSENTIAL

Palaso Of all the unlikely places in Aspen to uncover a treasure trove of beautiful and eclectic items, Palaso is a jewel box of a location tucked in a corner of downtown Aspen next to Cache Cache.

Filled with a collection of fine and semi precious jewelry, luxurious cashmere scarves and python and alligator purses, Palaso invites the shopper to experience a wide scope of elegant items at an even wider range of prices.

Owner Paula Damaso, a classically trained retailer, hails from Chicago where she was born and raised and where her career began at Marshall Fields. Ten years later Leslie Wexner of Victoria’s Secret fame lured her away and Damaso spent nineteen years with multiple Limited, Inc divisions doing product development, inspiring creative teams, and negotiating marketing deals that increased sales and brand awareness.

Then in 1995 Damaso discovered Aspen on a winter vacation.

Naturally, she showed up decked out in her finest Bogner ski outfit, ready to learn to be a proficient skier at Powder Pandas!

She eventually connected with a few adult skiers and fell in love with the mountain, the town and the lifestyle. Can a woman who was accustomed to travelling 150 days per year in search of the latest fashion inspirations and who felt compelled to sleep with her Blackberry beneath her pillow find happiness in a town like Aspen? But of course.

In August of 2010, Paula Damaso opened her retail location and had a fine season, followed by increasingly profitable and enjoyable years. Her secret? Moving with the times, applying appropriate trends, and very fair pricing. Her cozy location has not only spectacular diamond jewelry, but also unique semiprecious jewels alongside fashion pieces for the budget minded shopper. Gentlemen shoppers may wish to consider bringing home a gift of something special after a guy’s ski trip. Girlfriends often shop together and consult, confer and encourage one another to indulge. Couples browse for mementos of their vacation. Her shop is a relaxing Aspen experience of finds gathered from around the globe; it’s not a pressure cooker.

Looking for something special? She’s always available for personal shopping and for adding that personal touch to trunk shows to support your favorite charity. Damaso’s greatest pleasure is watching her clients experience joy, feeling good about themselves and discovering an extraordinary reminder of a stunning vacation in Aspen.

Photo Credit: Apachula Hursey

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AS CASUAL AS IT GETS

COME ON IN AND SEE WHY THE LOCALS SPEND SO MUCH TIME HERE AspenBrewingCompany.com 304 E Hopkins Ave 路 970.920.2739

U

THE UPPER CRUST Born

Aspen

300 Puppy Smith Street Next to Clark's Market

To Bake

El Jebel

400 E. Valley Road, Suite F Next to City Market

970.963.9169

Perhaps you’ve never been to a Hair Accessories Station before, but your chances are good that Misstyx’s owner Jill Murphy will teach you to do something creative with your hair adding an accessory or two that is fun and makes you look fantastic. Hands on is definitely Jill’s style from how she orders merchandise to how she cleverly displays it. Each item is hand chosen not only for its beauty and functionality, but also for the designer’s passion.

ESSENTIAL

Misstyx

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Local artists like Jen Leddy are represented with her simple and elegant jewelry and Petrina Di Salvo’s adorable and cozy P-Nutty Hats would tempt any visitor or local. There’s also a wide variety of jewelry, accessories and garments from locations around the world such as France, Israel, Holland, India and Germany. Jill prides herself on finding something unique, wonderful and just the right quantity so you’re not likely to see yourself coming and going here or anywhere else.

Her tucked away location of 18 years presents some challenges. Visitors and locals often pursue a circuitous route, but are delighted once they arrive. Jill feels as though she’s helping her clients find something they love, not pressuring them to buy anything. Her faithful customers will attest to Jill’s guidance and product knowledge.

Jill’s college studies included Theology and Psychology, rather than Merchandising and Marketing. That’s helped bring a fresh eye to her selection of products and why she connects with visitors and locals alike. Asked the secret to her success, it’s simple … ”I love what I do!”

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A curated selection of designer consignment and new collections for kids who care ... about what they wear.

533 e hopkins ave #b ∞ aspen ∞ 970.925.7214

Ambers ' Uptown Consignment

517 E. Hopkins Avenue · Aspen · 970.925.9818

Featuring a Stunning Selection of Designer Labels & Jewelry to Everyday Wear!

Armani Chanel Dior Ferragamo Jimmy Choo Oscar de la Renta Prada Vera Wang Versace Valentino

635 E. Cooper Ave Aspen CO 970.925.6217

Aspen's Most Unique Collection of Toys and Gifts for All Ages!

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When most people arrive in Aspen on vacation and discover their hotel room isn’t quite ready for them, they don’t go to the police station to wait to check in. When you’re a young New York City policeman on vacation with your best friend who’s also a police officer, however, you might think of grabbing a cup of Joe with the local gendarmes. That’s how Steve Smith, owner of The Upper Crust, describes it. However, after having a few laughs with the staff, then Police Chief, Rich Rianoshek offered to let the New York guys take Aspen police force the entrance exam, with the idea that they could both write off their entire vacation. Why not, they thought and took the test as a lark….three days later, they were offered positions on the force!

Similarly, Steve’s wife and business partner, pastry chef Susan De Cillis, from the age of 16 had been working at Richer’s, a beloved Jewish bakery in Little Neck, Queens, practicing skills she learned at the side of her aunt. She eventually worked her way up the restaurant and hotel chain from the Plaza, Hilton and SherryNetherland Hotels to the River Club where members like Mary Martin, Jimmy Stewart and Katharine Hepburn supped on lobsters and soft shell crabs before indulging in Susan’s delectable desserts.

Fast forward to 2007 when Susan and Steve open The Upper Crust, a wholesale bakery and retail location in El Jebel. Then in 2013 they added a second retail spot near Clark’s Market in Aspen. Beside the wholesale bakery, two retail establishments keep both Steve and Susan hopping, especially during the busy summer and winter seasons. Asked what the motivator is for getting up at 5am daily to serve breakfast and lunch daily, Steve says it’s their two college age daughters, Natalie and Shelby. He’s also thrilled when his regular customers ask him to create something new and flamboyant, especially when it turns out great. Susan, whose work day starts around midnight, enjoys making delicious things for people. She has four different products, two dog treats, a horse treat and a delicious gluten free cracker she’s hoping to distribute nationally.

Owning and operating a successful small business takes hard work and great attention to economic details. Building a loyal customer base, connecting with guests and being fiscally conservative are essential.

This summer will find the couple working Farmers Markets from Edwards to New Castle. None of their success would be possible without the help of their loyal, hard working staff particularly Anna.

Who came up with the inventive name, “Upper Crust”? A clever RFTA bus driver, of course.

ESSENTIAL

The Upper Crust

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Butcher's Block Jack Frey - Proprietor

Quality Food Ingredients for Over 40 Years

Fresh Fish • Aged Meat•Cheese Deli Soups • Salads • Fast Fresh Sandwiches Call in Orders Welcome 970-925-7554

424 S. Spring Street Aspen, Colorado

Located Between City Market and the Gondola

ButchersBlockAspen.com

Open 7 Days a Week 8AM - 6PM

ESSENTIAL

Aspen Eclectic

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How do Larkin and Carrie Horn do it? Friends since college days at Ole’ Miss, they married and moved to Aspen in 1989 and began working at Les Chefs together and eventually bought the business located at the plum location of Hunter and Cooper Streets, that’s now the home of Boogie’s Kids Store. They’d had an interest in kids and when they were in the kitchen ware business and always housed a kids’ kitchen. The Horns enjoyed a few years of economic boom and when the economy began to taper off, they faced a daunting challenge. Cleverly they expanded to include gift items and signature treasures for travelers to enjoy once they returned home. If you were lucky enough to know a friend in Aspen who allowed you to stay at their home, Aspen Eclectic, the business’ new name, had a plethora of choices of gifts to present to your host.

Another challenge the Horns were faced with occurred when big box stores like Walmart and Target opened in the valley. How to compete?

Simple, their niche market attracts the client who might be repelled by the big box store. Nothing on the shelves of Aspen Eclectic is also available at the giants. If customers inquire why they don’t stock Lego’s, the response is that it makes for a far more enjoyable experience shopping and finding affordable and unique items you’d be hard pressed to find back home.

Whether you’re young or young at heart, you’ll certainly find an item or two at Aspen Eclectic to bring home after your vacation in Aspen.

Make no mistake, you’ll be hard pressed to walk out of this emporium empty handed.

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465 N Mill Street • Aspen • 970.925.1495

BrenCornArt.com

555 E. Durant Ave l North of Nell Building l Suite 4B l 970-925-4300 l TestosteroneAspen.com

All Things Men JEWELRY l APPAREL l DRINKING l SMOKING l LEATHER l GROOMING l SHOES

Chef Troy Selby recently became the sole owner of 520 Grill, taking over the reins from his former partner. The tourists’ and locals’ favorite has been at 520 East Cooper since its inception in 2010 serving Southwest and American inspired grilled food with hand-crafted burgers, house-cut fries, grilled fish and more. Troy has been a chef his entire life and states that food makes people happy…and that’s what makes him happy.

ESSENTIAL

520 Grill

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520 Grill offers fast, healthy foods at great prices with vegetarian and vegan options as well as gluten free items. The location is sunny and bright, centrally located and just a block away from the Aspen Mountain Gondola. Now that Troy is the father of a year old boy, Remy (short for Charles Remington), he’s enhanced his kid friendly menu.

The secret to success for a small, family owned restaurant is providing patrons with consistent menu items made with wild and sustainable ingredients and exceeding customers’ expectations every time. The challenge is making it through the off season twice yearly with a drop off in patronage when the tourists are fewer, yet keeping his locals happy and, most important, maintaining his staff of loyal employees. Since fifty percent of his business is derived from locals, Troy works hard to provide them with a menu of wellpriced favorites throughout the year. Beer and wine are available as are catering and carry out options.

520 Grill is open from 11am till 9pm Monday through Friday and 11 am till 5:20pm on Saturday and Sunday evenings because family time is important to Troy and his staff, so definitely plan ahead!

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ASPEN GROVE FINE ARTS

Proudly featuring two renowned and important Artists of our Century

Gib Singleton (1935-2014) The Vatican Museum Yad Vashim Memorial Cowboy Hall of Fame Rodeo Hall of Fame Belle Di Art Academy

War Party Bronze, Edition of 25

Earl Biss (1947-1998) The Smithsonian Institute The Heard Museum The Philbrook Museum The Denver Museum of Fine Art The Museum of the Plains Indian

Red Riders On A Warm Misty Morning Oil 11” x 14”

525 E Cooper Avenue Aspen, CO 970-925-5151 www.aspengroveart.com

natural + serene + modern

residential and commercial interiors aspen / boulder / denver joemcguiregesign.com 970.948.7096

DISCOVER THE WORLD THROUGH THE LENS OF PETER LIK LIK ASPEN showcases some of Peter’s most notable photographic masterpieces. Located in the heart of the city, LIK ASPEN is a natural fit for those who pursue luxury and have a fondness for exquisite beauty.

406 East Hopkins Avenue, Aspen, Colorado 81611

970 925 1820

lik.com

I’M SOLD

on 50 years of experience.

Experience. Perspective. Values. History.

Bob Starodoj and architect Larry Yaw know the territory.

888.354.7500

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masonmorse.com

Protecting the Family Jewels

PROGUARD PROTECTION SERVICES, INC.

ProguardProtection.com ∙ 970.927-2026

Jewels by Pierre Famille, Aspen

w

hiskey < rush

Open 9

pm

-2

am

220 S Galena Street - Aspen - 970.233.0030

BE DIFFERENT

416 E. Cooper Avenue • Aspen • stefankaelin.com • 970.925.7844