Vail Valley Partnership Announces New Board Members

by: Paul Swansen - June 5th, 2013   Filed under: Colorado, Current Events, Vail Add Comment

Vail Valley Partnership Announces New Board Members
Mark Herron and Gary Woodworth Join Partnership’s Board of Governors

North side of Vail Mountain, and Vail Valley.

North side of Vail Mountain, and Vail Valley. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Vail Valley Partnership (VVP) is pleased to announce that Mark Herron, General Manager of Four Seasons Resort Vail and Gary Woodworth, CEO of Gallegos Corporation have joined the Partnership’s 12-person Board of Governors. Vail Valley Partnership’s Board of Governors is the principal governing and policymaking body of the organization. The Board’s membership is as diverse as the Vail Valley business community, with business leaders serving from a variety of business sectors and with representation throughout Eagle County.

The Board of Governors provides strategic guidance in the fulfillment of Vail Valley Partnership’s mission to take the leadership role to create and manage collaborative programs that encourage economic development and result in increased destination tourism in Eagle County. The addition of both Herron and Woodworth help to further diversify the group and provide perspective from two significant Vail Valley professional industries.

“Mark and Gary represent two important business sectors to the Partnership board: hospitality and construction. Both bring a variety of community involvement to the Partnership and we look forward to their involvement and strategic engagement in the organization to help us continue to achieve our mission,” said Chris Romer, president & CEO of Vail Valley Partnership.

The other 10 individuals who serve on the Board of Governors include: Glenn Davis – Regional President of Alpine Bank, Tim Baker – Executive Director of Beaver Creek Resort Company,
Doug Lovell – Chief Operating Officer of Vail Resorts, Inc., James Wear – President of Sherman & Howard, Johannes Faessler – General Manager / Owner of Sonnenalp Resort of Vail, Mike Brumbaugh – Owner of Venture Sports, Doris Kirchner – President & CEO of Vail Valley Medical Center, Laurie Mullen – Owner of West Vail Liquor Mart, John Shipp – Owner of Dusty Boot Saloon & Luigi’s Pastahouse and Beth Slifer – Owner of Slifer Designs.

To learn more about Vail Valley Partnership and its Board of Governors, please visit http://www.vailvalleypartnership.com/index.asp.

About Vail Valley Partnership:

Vail Valley Partnership is a 501(c) (6) non-profit organization that serves as the chamber and destination marketing organization for Eagle County, Colorado and the Vail Valley. Vail Valley Partnership (VVP) is a regional leader in sustaining and enhancing the Vail Valley as a tourism destination. Through group and leisure sales efforts, the VVP takes on a leadership role to bring groups, meetings, events and visitors to the Vail Valley for both the economic benefit of the member businesses we serve and the overall economic vitality of the community. In 2012, the Partnership’s destination sales and marketing efforts resulted in $69,000,000 of direct spending in the Eagle River Valley. For more information on the Vail Valley Partnership, please visit http://www.vailvalleypartnership.com/.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

Jeff Foxworthy pokes fun at Colorado…..

by: Paul Swansen - June 2nd, 2013   Filed under: Colorado Add Comment
Jeff Foxworthy, comedian

Jeff Foxworthy, comedian (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Jeff Foxworthy pokes fun at Colorado…..

1. You switch from ‘Heat’ to ‘A/C’ in one day.

2. You know what the ‘Peoples Republic of Boulder’ means.

3. Your sense of direction is: towards the mountains and away from the mountains.

4. You’re a meat-eating vegetarian.

5. The bike on your car is worth more than your car and you have your own special bike lane.

6. You’re able to drive 65 miles per hour through 13 feet of snow during a raging blizzard without even flinching.

7. You take your out-of-town guests to Casa Bonita even though you would never go there otherwise.

8. You think your major food groups are granola bars, tofu and Fat Tire Beer.

9. You design your kid’s Halloween costumes to fit over a snowsuit.

10. You think that sexy lingerie is wool socks and flannel PJs.

11. You know all 4 seasons ‘almost winter, winter, still winter and spring blizzards

12. You’ve been tear gassed in a riot to celebrate a CU/CSU victory.

13. You can never figure out why your out-of-town guests faint from altitude sickness on a picnic to the mountains.

14 You can drive over a 12,000-foot pass in 4 feet of snow, but can’t get to work if there are 4 inches of snow.

15. You know the ‘correct’ pronunciation of Buena Vista.

16. When you visit friends at sea level, you can drink a case of beer and not get a buzz.

17. Your car insurance costs more than your car.

18 You have surge protectors on every outlet.

19. April showers bring May blizzards.

20. ‘Timberline’ is someplace you have actually been.

21. You know what a ‘Chinook’ is

22. You know what a ‘Rocky Mountain Oyster’ is.

23 You know what a ‘fourteener’ is.

24. But you don’t know what a ‘turn signal’ is.

25. A bear on your front porch doesn’t bother you nearly as much as a Democrat in Congress does.

26. Your golf bag has a 9-iron, a 3-wood and a lightning rod.

27. People from out of state breathe 5 times as often as you do.

28. Having a Senator named Nighthorse doesn’t seem strange.

29. Thunder has set off your car alarm.

30. You have an $800 stereo in your $300 truck.

31. You think a red light means 3 more cars can go.

32. Where we’re going, we don’t need roads!!
33. You know where the real ‘South Park’ is.

34. You can recognize the license plates of all 50 states on sight.

35. Driving directions usually include ‘Go over_________ Pass.’

36. You’ve ‘checked for ticks.

37. You’ve dressed in shorts, sandals, and a parka with a hood.

38. You’ve gone snow skiing in July and………

39. You’ve played golf in January and…….

40. They were in the same year!

41. You’ve urinated on the Continental Divide just so it could run into both oceans.

42. You know what a down slope and an up slope weather pattern is.

43. And the most important: You get a certain feeling of satisfaction from knowing that California and Texas are both down stream.

44. You actually understand these jokes and send them to your Colorado friends.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Tags: , , , , , , , ,

Blue Ribbon Bacon Tour

by: Paul Swansen - May 29th, 2013   Filed under: Colorado, Current Events, Keystone Add Comment
Pepper Bacon wrapped Brats

Pepper Bacon wrapped Brats (Photo credit: paulswansen)

Blue Ribbon Bacon Tour Provides a Sizzling Good Time at Keystone Resort

Is there anything quite like the scent of bacon wafting into the crisp summer mountain air? If that thought gets your mouth watering, be sure to put Keystone Resort’s Blue Ribbon Bacon Tour, June 22-23 on the calendar. Now in its third year, the two-day event will feature more than a ton of Iowa and Colorado bacon along with bacon-inspired cuisine from over 18 food vendors, live music, and samples of Beggin’ Strips® for those with bacon-loving four-legged friends. New this year, the festival has added Colorado’s Biggest Bacon Bloody Mary Bar, sponsored by Hair of the Dawg Bloody Mary Mix, and a bacon education series for those looking to earn a diploma for their knowledge of their favorite pork-tastic treat.

“The Blue Ribbon Bacon Tour believes bacon education is at the core of a healthy bacon economy,” said event co-founder, Brooks Reynolds.

“So, we’ve introduced a lecture series hosted by Certified Bacon InstructorsTM including the likes of Eden Farms’ Nick Jones and Denver Bacon Company’s Justin Brunson. With famous bacon purveyors at the head of the class, participants are sure to receive a first class bacon education.”

For those guests not interested in earning an All About Bacon DiplomaTM, cutting class will mean joining fellow bacon-lovers in Keystone’s picturesque River Run Village, sampling unique and delectable treats from bacon purveyors and area Chefs and restaurants, listening to live music from bands like Hell’s Belles and the Steeldrivers and enjoying icy cold beverages in the Colorado sunshine.

One-day bacon tasting tickets start at only $30, with weekend tasting packages beginning at $50, including an event koozie and souvenir sunglasses. Keystone Resort lodging packages including tasting tickets start at just $97 per person, per night or $173 for the weekend (two nights lodging and a two-day tasting ticket).

To offset a delicious afternoon in the Village, Keystone offers a variety of calorie-burning mountain activities including downhill and cross-country biking and scenic hiking for all levels. Live music throughout the weekend as well as a lively festival atmosphere is free to all guests. And don’t forget to bring the youngest members of the family, because on top of having the chance to nibble away on bacon, kid’s craft activities will be offered throughout the weekend.

Weekend Schedule of Entertainment:

Saturday, June 22
1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Bacon Festival, River Run Events Plaza—tickets required for sampling
1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Kids’ Crafts, Ina’s Bridge (between Village and Gondola)—free and paid activities
1:30 p.m.- 3:45 p.m. Concert: Hamilton Loomis, River Run Main Stage (Free)
2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Bacon U Lecture Series, Warren Station Center for the Arts (Free)
4:15 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Concert: Hell’s Belles, River Run Main Stage (Free)
Sunday, June 23
1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Bacon Festival, River Run Events Plaza—tickets required for sampling
1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Kids’ Crafts, Ina’s Bridge (between Village and Gondola)—free and paid activities
1:30 p.m.- 3:45 p.m. Concert: Hamilton Loomis, River Run Main Stage (Free)
2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Bacon U Lecture Series, Warren Station Center for the Arts (Free)
4:15 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Concert: The SteelDrivers, River Run Main Stage (Free)

For more information about Keystone Resort, visit keystoneresort.com or call (877) 204-7889. Follow the resort at @keystonemtn on Twitter or at www.Facebook.com/Keystone.

Related articles
Enhanced by Zemanta

Tags: , , , , , , , ,

Vail Valley Partnership Reveals Enhanced Online Business Resources

by: Paul Swansen - May 29th, 2013   Filed under: Colorado, Current Events, Customer Service, Ski Colorado, Vail Add Comment
North side of Vail Mountain, and Vail Valley.

North side of Vail Mountain, and Vail Valley. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Regional Chamber’s Economic Development Section Provides Current and Prospective Area Businesses with Professional Tools, Information & Statistics

 

Together, Vail Valley Partnership
(VVP) and the Economic Council of Eagle County have rolled out an enhanced
online Economic Development
section, dedicated to providing local business information,
statistics, relocation information and small business resources. As
the regional chamber and economic development organization, the Partnership
is the official resource and advocate for businesses in the Vail Valley
and provides both current and prospective businesses with the tools
and resources to succeed.

A joint project between VVP and the Economic Council
of Eagle County, the Economic Development section provides relevant
economic data and analysis, offering economically focused programming
and promoting relationship building between governments and the private
sector. It is the goal of VVP and the Economic Council to promote long-term
economic health for Eagle County by focusing on countywide retention
of workforce and recruitment of sustainable new business.

The new section includes research and statistics
in the area of demographics, housing reports, labor force, tourism research
and real estate, as well as professional & business development
information, access to capital, local sales tax and state information
for small businesses. The enhanced section also includes a detailed
list of Vail Valley job openings, both part-time and full-time. With
an incredible array of diverse communities and unique business offerings,
the Partnership strives to connect helpful and local information to
businesses that are interested in learning more about the Vail Valley.

“Business success is key to our continued economic
health and future economic growth. The Partnership will continue to
build a comprehensive online portal for our current business, as well
as prospective businesses to help navigate the various resources available
at a local, regional and state level,” said Chris Romer, CEO and President
of Vail Valley Partnership.

To learn more about the Economic Development section,
please visit http://www.vailvalleypartnership.com/members.asp?id=9. For questions on local research and statistics,
please contact Chris Romer, CEO and President at cromer@visitvailvalley.com or 970-477-4016.

About Vail Valley Partnership:

Vail Valley Partnership is a 501(c) (6) non-profit
organization that serves as the chamber and destination marketing organization
for Eagle County, Colorado and the Vail Valley. Vail Valley Partnership
(VVP) is a regional leader in sustaining and enhancing the Vail Valley
as a tourism destination. Through group and leisure sales efforts, the
VVP takes on a leadership role to bring groups, meetings, events and
visitors to the Vail Valley for both the economic benefit of the member
businesses we serve and the overall economic vitality of the community.
In 2012, the Partnership’s destination sales and marketing efforts resulted
in $69,000,000 of direct spending in the Eagle River Valley. For more
information on the Vail Valley Partnership, please visit http://www.vailvalleypartnership.com/.

#######

Enhanced by Zemanta

Tags: , , , , , , ,

Food Bank of the Rockies

by: Paul Swansen - May 28th, 2013   Filed under: Colorado, Current Events, Customer Service 3 Comments

According to their web site: Food Bank of the Rockies (FBR) is the largest private hunger-relief organization in the state of Colorado. Also according to their web site: We run an efficient organization,…

Today I find this a bit of a stretch for this organization. As I’ve written previously I’ve been unemployed for the past 15 months. We have been able to rely on the generosity on occasion of family, friends and strangers, in times of need. I don’t like having to rely on public assistance, and would much rather be receiving a hand up and not a hand out.

Currently the cupboards are bare and I went in search of a local Foodbank for assistance in getting over this current rough patch. Again, according to their web site: Foodbank of the Rockies has a local outlet just a few blocks from our apartment. I was glad to see this and find out that they were open today.

However what I’ve found is what appears to be a typical bureaucratic nightmare. The local listing:

Helping Hands for the Homeless
3875 Marshall St.
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033

Doesn’t exist. There is no such address on the street listed. Also when calling the provided phone number there is only an answering machine/voice mail, which is full and not accepting messages. I would hope that this is an isolated incident with only one of their locations.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Colorado Governor – 2014

by: Paul Swansen - May 27th, 2013   Filed under: Colorado, Current Events Add Comment

Over the past week the first round of political wrangling for the upcoming 2014 Colorado Colorado Governor's MansionGovernor’s race began. Of course the election is is 526 days away or 1 year, 5 months, 8 days till election day.

So far, announced candidates include -

Tom Tancredo

Matthew Hess, Libertarian candidate

Seeing as John Hickenlooper as the incumbent is presumed to be seeking a second term. The list of potential challengers include -

Bob Beauprez, former U.S. Representative, nominee for Governor in 2006

Greg Brophy, state Senator

Dan Caplis, radio host

Cory Gardner, U.S. Representative

Jennifer George, attorney

Cheri Gerou, state Representative

Scott Gessler, Secretary of State of Colorado

Mike Kopp, former state Senator

Victor Mitchell, former state Representative

Ellen Roberts, state Senator

Bob Schaffer, former U.S. Representative, candidate for the U.S. Senate in 2004 and nominee for the U.S. Senate in 2008

Lang Sias, former Navy fighter pilot

Walker Stapleton, Colorado State Treasurer

John Suthers, Colorado Attorney General

The potential challenges list is lengthly and feeling embolden due to a number of issues. Most recently is Hickenloopers granting of a reprieve to mass murderer Nathan Dunlap. This latest issue adds fuel to the fire of the recently completed state legislative session which brought Second Amendment supporters to the state capital in droves. The governor signed, admittedly flawed legislation as outlined in his signing statement on Colorado House Bill 1224 -

 

In signing HB13-1224, we acknowledge that some have expressed concerns about the vagueness of the law’s definition of “large-capacity magazine.” By its terms, the law does make illegal any magazine manufactured or purchased after July 1, 2013, that is capable of accepting, or is designed to be readily converted to accept, more that 15 rounds of ammunition. Similar language is used in other states’ statutes limiting large-capacity magazines. We know that magazine manufacturers have produced and sell magazines that comply with these other state laws that limit large-capacity magazines and we are aware of no successful legal challenges to those laws. And when a Colorado-based magazine manufacturer came to us to share their concerns about the vagueness of the definition of “large-capacity magazine” contained in the original version of the bill, we worked with the bill’s sponsors to fine-tune the definition to make it more precise.

We also have heard concerns about the requirement in the law that a person who owns a large-capacity magazine prior to the law’s enactment may legally possess that magazine only as long as he or she “maintains continuous possession” of it. We do not believe a reasonable interpretation of the law means that a person must maintain continuous “physical” possession of these items. Responsible maintenance and handling of magazines obviously contemplates that gun owners may allow others to physically hold and handle them under appropriate circumstances. We are confident that law enforcement and the courts will interpret the statute so as to effectuate the lawful use and care of these devices.

In considering the language of HB13-1224, we have consulted with the Office of the Attorney General and we concur with its advice that the large-capacity magazine ban should be construed narrowly to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Second Amendment and the Due Process Clause of the 14th Amendment. We have signed HB13-1224 into law based on the understanding that it will be interpreted and applied narrowly and consistently with these important constitutional provisions.

To this end, today we are directing the Colorado Department of Public Safety to consult with the Office of the Attorney General and others, as necessary, with respect to the interpretation of HB13-1224’s large-capacity magazine ban, and then to draft and issue, to law enforcement agencies in the State of Colorado, technical guidance on how the law should be interpreted and enforced. This work should be done by July 1, 2013, the law’s effective date.

Also pending in the political mix is the recently filed federal civil rights lawsuit, filed by 50+ of the current Colorado Sheriff’s, challenging Colorado House Bills, 1224 and 1229.

It’s early in the political off year election season, so make sure you are using a pencil with a good eraser for your scorecard.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

Second Amendment Event on Tuesday in Colorado Springs

by: Paul Swansen - May 26th, 2013   Filed under: Uncategorized Add Comment

Yes I know your attention is on the Memorial Day Holiday and prepping the BBQ. However put this event on your calendar if you’re in the Colorado Springs area on Tuesday. It will be well worth your time.

PeakFeed: Second Amendment Event on Tuesday in Colorado Springs: ”

Join three of the 55 Colorado Sheriffs who have filed a lawsuit over Democrats’ radical anti-gun legislation for an event on Tuesday, May 28 at the Freedom Financial Expo Center in Colorado Springs.  The event will support the lawsuit and will feature Independence Institute’s Dave Kopel, an expert on Second Amendment issues.

Date: Tuesday, May 28

Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

Who: Independence Institute’s Dave Kopel, plus El Paso County Sheriff Terry Maketa, Weld County Sheriff John Cooke, and Larimer County Sheriff Justin Smith

Location: Freedom Financial Expo Center, 3650 N. Nevada Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80907

Tickets: $5, may be purchased here.

Kopel serves as the research director for the Independence Institute, as well as an associate policy analyst at the Cato Institute and adjunct professor of Advanced Constitutional Law and the University of Denver’s Sturm College of Law.  He was a critical voice in testifying at the Capitol about Colorado’s pending gun legislation.

Several Colorado organizations and companies have also joined in the lawsuit, including Outdoor Buddies, a non-profit dedicated to assisting disabled individuals; licensed firearms dealers, Magpul, the National Shooting Sports Foundation, the Colorado State Shooting Association, the Colorado Farm Bureau, the Colorado Outfitters Association, and Women for Concealed Carry.

Read about the civil rights complaint here.

”

(Via Colorado Peak Politics.)

Related articles
Enhanced by Zemanta

Tags: , , , , , , ,

COLORADO – 2014 GOVERNOR’S RACE

by: Paul Swansen - May 24th, 2013   Filed under: Colorado, Current Events Add Comment

While the election is 531 days away or, 1 year, 5 months, 13 days until the votes are counted, one Tom Tancredohat is in the ring and another appears to have been tossed in that general direction.

On Thursday Colorado political bad boy and political contrarian Tom Tancredo, announced his run for Governor in 2014 on local radio station 630KHOW.

Current Colorado Secretary of State Scott Gessler has filed papers for a 2014 run for Governor, however according to his political director, a final decision on a run is a week away.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Tags: , , , , , , ,

Keystone Resort Announces Headliner Events.

by: Paul Swansen - May 14th, 2013   Filed under: Colorado, Current Events, Customer Service, Ski Colorado, Vail Add Comment

Keystone Resort Announces Headliner Events for Summer 2013. The mountain fun at WelcomeKeystone Resort doesn’t end when the snow melts; a summer of adventure awaits in the stunning Rocky Mountains. Throughout the season, Keystone offers a variety of events and activities for every kind of family or group. For adrenaline junkies, challenging downhill and endurance-testing adventure races allow you to push the limits while enjoying the spectacular natural surroundings. For those looking to enjoy the mountain splendor at a slower pace, Keystone offers a lineup of signature Village festivals, featuring perfect pairings including Wine and Jazz and Bluegrass and Beer. With a plethora of activities and exciting events, everyone in your family or group can appreciate the mountain environment at their speed. Don’t forget to check out Keystone’s abundance of daily on-and-off mountain activities from white water rafting to golf, to hiking, to scenic gondola rides. Keystone’s amazing assortment of lodging options and diverse fine and casual dining offerings provide the perfect way to reconnect or reminisce after a day spent pursuing passions separately, or together. With a new adventure available around every turn, choose a weekend event to enjoy and extend your stay to revel in all that Keystone has to offer by taking advantage of great summer packages and Play for Free activities included with a two night stay or more.

Summer 2013 Headliner Events

Blue Ribbon Bacon Tour
Dates: June 22-23
Location: River Run Village
Back for a third-year, Keystone Resort will host the Blue Ribbon Bacon Tour in River Run Village Saturday, June 22-Sunday, June 23 from 1p.m.-6p.m. This weekend-long festival brings in thousands of pounds of bacon from well-known bacon purveyors such as Tender Belly, Eden Farms and Denver Bacon Company as well as Keystone food vendors serving up creative bacon inspired dishes. Enjoy tastes ranging from salty bacon wrapped scallops to sweet bacon sprinkled s’mores while sipping on a cold beer or a bacon bloody mary. Listen to bands such as Hamilton Loomis and the Steeldrivers while meandering through the many bacon tents or find a patio deck to relax on while munching on the tasty treats. For children, the festival provides kids craft sessions along Ina’s Bridge and for adults, Warren Station Center for the Arts will be hosting a bacon seminar from 3p.m.-4p.m. each day. Advance tickets start at $30 per person and include an event koozie, a pair of commemorative sunglasses, bacon bucks for vendor tents and unlimited bacon tasting at purveyor tents. Buy now at www.keystonefestivals.com. Lodging packages start at $80 per person and include one night of lodging and one day ticket for the festival. To book now visit www.keystoneresort.com.

Snake River Festival
Dates: June 29-30
Location: River Run Village and Keystone Mountain Bike Park
Rocky Mountain Endurance (RME) presents the Snake River Festival taking place Saturday, June 29-Sunday, June 30 in River Run Village and in the Keystone Mountain Bike Park. Great for the entire family, the Snake River Festival will not only host a weekend of RME mountain bike racing, but will also provide guided group rides, individually self-guided marked course rides, coaching clinics, kids activities, music, yoga, food, a beer garden, bike movie and more. The festival is not only for avid mountain bike riders, but also for those who wish to either evolve into being a better mountain bike rider or for families who want to spend more time on two-wheels together. On-site registration is available for a $10 fee. For more information visit http://www.warriorscycling.com/races/snake-river-mtb-festival.

Big Mountain Enduro
Dates: July 6-7
Location: River Run Village and Keystone Mountain Bike Park
The Big Mountain Enduro Series presented by Yeti Cycles is an authentic multi-stage, multi-day annual Enduro series throughout the most picturesque vacation destinations in Colorado, Utah and New Mexico. Stopping at Keystone Saturday, July 6-Sunday, July 7, this much anticipated competition offers some of the biggest and most challenging terrain in the Keystone Mountain Bike Park. The race will follow a mix of the European formats; tying in epic backcountry on big terrain, as well as lift-accessed stages blended in along the way. Courses will feature predominantly downhill timed “special” stages linked together by non-timed liaison climbing stages. This rapidly growing discipline combines the physical endurance of cross-country riding with the technical difficulty and excitement of downhill racing. The 2013 Big Mountain Enduro Series will encompass over 40,000 vertical feet of descending world-class singletrack throughout the entire season. Keystone’s course is specially designed to give participants a unique riding experience, including high altitude trails and long descents that will test athlete’s pure strength, endurance and bike handling skills. In sum, this unprecedented race will showcase some of the best trails at Keystone Resort, while hosting many of the top all-around mountain bikers from across the globe, ultimately catering to all types of riders in an entertaining atmosphere for the entire family and local communities to enjoy. For more information visit www.warriorscycling.com.

Wine and Jazz Festival
Dates: July 12-14
Location: River Run Village
Beginning Friday, July 12-Sunday, July 14 Keystone Resort will host the annual Wine and Jazz Festival in River Run Village from 1p.m.-5p.m. Saturday-Sunday and 7p.m.-10p.m. Friday. The Reserve Wine Tasting Dinner in Warren Station Center for the Arts will kick-off the festival Friday evening with an array of the world’s finest wines, classy entertainment and gourmet food. Saturday and Sunday will feature over three-hundred wines readily available for tasting amongst the many vendor tents throughout the Village as well as educational wine seminars happening in Warren Station Center for the Arts. Wine Seminars include options such as “Chocolate & Wine,” “Great Summer Wines for Any Occasion,” and “Champagne on a Sunday Morn.” Musical performers will hit the plaza stage Saturday and Sunday during the festival, featuring Jazz musicians such as Joel Rodney, Will Donato, Mia Boarders, Jackiem Joyner and Dotsero. Early bird ticket pricing starts at $55 for a one-day ticket and includes an official Keystone Wine and Jazz tasting glass, unlimited sampling of over 300 wines and five gourmet food tickets. Buy tickets now at www.keystonefestivals.com. Lodging packages start at $105 per person and include a one-day tasting ticket and one-night of lodging at the Inn at Keystone. Book now at www.keystoneresort.com.

XTERRA Wild Running Festival
Dates: July 13-14
Location: Lakeside Village
XTERRA in-conjunction with Keystone Resort announces a weekend of running events for every age and skill level Saturday, July 13-Sunday, July 14 in Lakeside Village. The weekend will consist of seven trail races ranging from silly to serious as well as music, food, beer & wine, trail running clinics and nightly gatherings. XTERRA has a myriad of trail races on tap for the weekend including their signature event, the XTERRA Wild Obstacle Course Run—inspired by Mother Nature, the course will be tough, muddy and fun with a series of man-made and natural hazards for runners to navigate and conquer. Other races happening throughout the weekend will include an XTERRA Night Run, XTERRA Run to the Sun: an uphill trail challenge featuring 2,000 ft. of climbing, XTERRA Keystone 5K/10K, XTERRA Snake River Relay: a team-oriented dash-n-splash and XTERRA Wild Kids K: fun for the wee ones. Visit www.runningusa.org/xterra-wildfor more information.

Bluegrass and Beer Festival
Dates: August 2-4
Location: River Run Village
For the 17th year in a row, Keystone Resort will host the annual Bluegrass and Beer Festival Friday, August 2-Sunday, August 4 in River Run Village. Beginning Friday at 8p.m. Warren Station Center for the Arts will present the Blugerass Kick-Off Party with Della Mae. Saturday and Sunday will consist of Bluegrass Seminars at Warren Station Center for the Arts starting at 9a.m. followed by the Shock Top Beer Garden, Festival Food and Kids Crafts running from 12p.m.-5p.m. each day. The instructional bluegrass seminars, costing $10 each or free to lodging guests, will range from Mandolin Seminar with John Frazier to Fiddle Seminar with Phoebe Hunt offering festival attendees the chance to learn the art of Bluegrass. Live music will hit the stage at 12:30p.m. daily with a line-up consisting of acts such as Spur of the Moment, Hackensaw Boys, Hit and Run, Sierra Hull and Fruition. Beer tasting will begin at 1p.m. and run until 5p.m. Saturday and Sunday offering featured beers from over 30 microbreweries such as Boulder Beer Co., Breckenridge Brewery, New Belgium Brewing Co. and Left Hand Brewing Co. Tasting day tickets start at the Early Bird Price of $35 per day inclusive of an official Keystone Bluegrass and Beer sampling mug and unlimited tasting of over 30 breweries specialty beers. Buy tickets now at www.keystonefestivals.com. Lodging packages start at $102 per person and includes one night of lodging and on day tasting ticket. Visit www.keystoneresort.comto book now.

Cirque Du Wheels
Dates: August 31-September 1
Location: River Run Village
For the first time, Rocky Mountain Endurance is bringing a circus on wheels to Keystone Resort Saturday, August 31-Sunday, September 1 in River Run Village. This weekend-long festival’s main act consists of a 12 hour bike relay race that will begin Sunday morning at 7a.m. and finish at 7p.m. Sunday night. Prior to the big relay race, Saturday’s activities line-up consists of plenty to do including a costume cruiser ride, circus procession on wheels, a beer garden, bonfire, prizes and live music. Beginning Saturday night at 7p.m. live music will hit the stage for a concert to top off the first day of festivities. During the relay race on Sunday the festival will feature carnival games with a ringmaster, live performers as well as an awards ceremony after the finale of the relay race. Registration info and more details coming soon at www.keystoneresort.com.

Taste of Keystone
Date: September 1
Location: Lakeside Village
Coming back to Lakeside Village for the 25th year in a row, The Taste of Keystone happening Sunday, September 1 from 11a.m.-3p.m. allows Keystone festival goers the opportunity to sample a wide variety of cuisine from Keystone’s best restaurants. Featuring tastings from Keystone’s signature AAA four-diamond rated restaurants—Alpenglow Stube, Ski Tip Lodge and the Keystone Ranch as well as food treats from other restaurants such as the Bighorn Steakhouse and the Black Bear Grill, the one-day festival will offer a wider range of flavors in bite-size tastings. Free music and children’s activities will be available throughout the event as well as a silent auction benefitting Mountain Mentors. Tasting tickets cost one-dollar each with samples generally ranging from two-five tickets. Visit www.keystoneresort.com for updated information throughout the summer.

A51 River Run Rail Series: Backyard BBQ Rail Jam
Date: September 7
Location: River Run Face
Back for its second-year due to popular demand, The Backyard BBQ Rail Jam, part of the A51 River Run Rail Series will take place at the base of the River Run Face across from the Summit Express Chairlift Saturday, September 7. Featuring a multi-rail set-up, participants will have the chance to throw-down their best tricks in front of the judges to snag the top spot and take home sweet prizing. Real snow will be brought in for the event making skiing and snowboarding on the rail set-up similar to in-season conditions. Live music, food and beer will be available throughout the day as well as crowd-giveaways. Sponsor tents will be available for browsing the latest equipment while enjoying the earliest rail jam in Summit County. Entry into the rail jam costs $20. Visit www.keystoneresort.comfor updated information throughout the summer.

For full event listings and details throughout the summer season please visit the Keystone Resort website at www.keystoneresort.com.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Tags: , , , , , , ,

Austria Is Now Epic.

by: Paul Swansen - May 8th, 2013   Filed under: Arapahoe Basin, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Colorado, Customer Service, Keystone, Ski Colorado, Vail Add Comment
English: St. Anton am Arlberg as seen from the...

English: St. Anton am Arlberg as seen from the Galzig slopes (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Austria Is Now Epic

Vail Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: MTN) announced an epic partnership with the one of the most famous ski regions in the world, Arlberg, Austria, home to legendary mountain resorts of St. Anton, Lech-Zürs, St. Christoph and Stuben. The Epic Pass now features five free consecutive days of skiing and riding in Arlberg, bringing the total access to 15 world-class mountains in three countries and further enhancing the already exceptional value of the world’s greatest ski pass. At only $689, the Epic Pass is the best value on a lift pass in the industry. Epic Pass holders have the opportunity to extend their winter from the U.S. to Europe—for the second consecutive year—and experience both Verbier, Switzerland, and now Arlberg, Austria, in addition to Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin and Eldora in Colorado, and Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in Lake Tahoe. Boasting an average annual snowfall of 23 feet, the Arlberg area is legendary among skiers and riders from around the globe as the cradle of skiing, revered for the world-class experience and innovation in the sport that it affords while maintaining its traditional, Alpine character.

“We are pleased and proud to announce our partnership with Arlberg as Epic Pass holders can now ski the best resorts in the world in three countries on one pass. Vail Resorts continues to look for opportunities to enhance the incredible value of the Epic Pass that our guests already receive and enjoy. In March, we announced that we increased the number of free days of access to Verbier, Switzerland, from three to five for the 2013-2014 season and we added, Eldora, a local Colorado ski area to the Epic Pass,” said Kirsten Lynch, executive vice president and chief marketing officer of Vail Resorts. “Epic Pass holders already enjoy an incredible experience with unlimited, unrestricted access to Vail Resorts’ seven world-class resorts in the United States, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood, as well as Arapahoe Basin and now Eldora, but the addition of world-class skiing in both Austria and Switzerland makes the Epic Pass even more compelling for our guests looking to take a ski vacation to Europe.”
Boasting 174 miles of marked ski runs, 112 miles of open free riding terrain, 94 gondolas and lifts, and approximately 23 feet of annual snowfall, The Arlberg is arguably Austria’s most popular mountain resort group. Modern and vibrant, St. Anton am Arlberg also maintains its traditional Tyrolean charm. The Arlberg ski area will be open from Dec. 6, 2013 – Apr. 27, 2014.

“Arlberg and Vail Resorts are arguably the world’s premier ski resorts, offering exceptional experiences on the mountain and an unparalleled level of customer service,” said Hermann Fercher, chief executive officer of Lech-Zürs. “We are looking forward to a successful partnership and welcome Epic Pass holders to Austria next winter”, chief executive officer of St. Anton am Arlberg, Martin Ebster, went on to say.

Skiers and riders can lock in the lowest guaranteed prices for only $49 down on next season by purchasing their passes before May 27, 2013. The following is a guide to help skiers and snowboarders choose the best season pass options for them, based on how much they plan to ski and ride. All passes are available for purchase at www.epicpass.com.

Take Multiple Ski Vacations in the United States and Europe Throughout the Winter Season for a Great Value

· The Epic Pass™: Ski as much as you want, whenever you want at $689 for adults and $359 for children (ages 5-12). The Epic Pass provides unlimited skiing or riding at nine resorts including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin and now Eldora in Colorado and Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in Lake Tahoe. New this year, the Epic Pass also comes with five free days of skiing or riding at the renowned Verbier Resort in Switzerland and an additional five free days of skiing and riding in Arlberg, Austria. No restrictions. At this spring rate, the Epic Pass pays for itself in just over five days.

· The Epic Local Pass™: Perfect for people who can navigate a few more restrictions on their winter vacation. The Epic Local Pass at $529 for adults and $269 for children (ages 5-12) offers unlimited and unrestricted skiing at Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin with limited restrictions at Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood. The Epic Local Pass also includes 10 days at Vail and Beaver Creek with holiday restrictions. At this spring rate, the Epic Local Pass pays for itself in just over four days.

Ski or Snowboard Any Day of the Season for a Great Value

Vail Resorts also offers options for guests who don’t plan to ski or ride more than seven days next winter:
· New this year, The Epic 4-Day™:Perfect for people who only plan to take one ski vacation. The Epic 4-Day at $349 for adults and $199 for children (ages 5-12) offers four unrestricted lift tickets for skiing and riding at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood and Arapahoe Basin. At the spring rate, the Epic 4-Day pays for itself in less than three days.

· Epic 7-Day™: Perfect for people who don’t plan to ski more than seven days. The Epic 7-Day gives skiers and snowboarders a total of seven unrestricted days of skiing at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood, plus Arapahoe Basin, anytime during the season at $529 for adults and $269 for children (ages 5-12). At this spring rate, the Epic 7-Day pays for itself in just over four days.

Pay $49 Down Now and Lock in the Lowest Price Available

Vail Resorts is making it as easy as possible for guests to lock in the lowest guaranteed pass prices with a $49 down payment now and the remaining balance due in mid-September 2013. The lowest guaranteed 2013-2014 season pass prices with the option to put $49 down are only available through May 27, 2013.

Season Pass Insurance Option: Protect Your Pass Investment in the Event of Unexpected Circumstances

Vail Resorts encourages guests to purchase pass insurance. All of the Company’s season pass products are non-refundable and non-transferrable; however, pass insurance covers pass holders in the event of unexpected circumstances including sickness, injury and job loss. Pass insurance is $20 for adults and $10 for children (ages 5-12). Coverage applies for all season passes and the Epic 7-Day and Epic 4-Day valid for the 2013-2014 ski season.

Prices on Vail Resorts season passes are guaranteed for a limited time only, so act now. For more information or to purchase your pass, visit www.epicpass.com.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Tags: , , , , , , ,

Switch to our mobile site