Photo by Jeremy Swanson

Winter has finally arrived in Aspen — in a BIG way! In the last week, nearly 3 feet of the fresh has fallen on Aspen’s four mountains. And the week before that, town was blanketed with snow just about every day!

And while we could tell you all about how AWESOME the skiing and riding  is — powder stashes can still be found, the steeps are deep, and the groomers are skiing like velvet — a picture is worth a thousand words. So here are a few shots from the Aspen Skiing Co.

Trust us, it’s EPIC in Aspen right now!

Photo by Daniel Bayer

Photo by Daniel Bayer

Just because you’re in a ski town, doesn’t mean the only there is to do is ski. Not by a long shot.

In fact, ask any local about things to do in Aspen and you’ll hear a laundry list of off-the-hill activities.

This winter, we have to say a few of our favorites are bunched together at the Aspen Recreation Center, or ARC (located on Maroon Creek Road, just before you reach Aspen Highlands).

Dubbed “Aspen’s Winter Wonderland” by city recreation officials, it really is a winter wonderland out there with four distinctly different, but equally fun activities: sledding, ice skating, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

The sledding happens on the aptly named “Whoa Nelly!” sledding hill. Hang on to your hats, because it can be wild ride down this slope, whether it’s a powder day or an afternoon when local kids have created dips and jumps just for you. (Sled rentals are available at the ARC front desk; bring your own ride and it’s FREE.)

At the bottom of “Whoa Nelly!” you’ll find the new ice skating “pond.” An outdoor, homegrown rink, the pond is picture-perfect with twinkling lights, snowbanks on the sides and a low-key atmosphere. Of course in true Aspen-style, the ice is nice as the indoor rink’s Zamboni drives on out to smooth the surface daily. (Skate rentals are available at the Lewis Ice Arena, in the basement of the ARC; bring your own skates and it’s FREE.)

Looking for a more aerobic endeavor? Make a loop (or two) on one of three new showshoe trails, or put on your skinny skis for a nordic-skiing adventure on one of many of trails that twist and turn around the ARC. Both snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are a great way to enjoy the great outdoors in Aspen, and they both start right at the ARC. (Trail access is FREE.)

And when you’re done with all that outdoor fun, head on into the ARC. There you can swim — there’s a lap pool, wading pool, lazy river, water features, water slide, hot tub steam room and sauna. Or, try rock climbing on the 35-foot climbing tower — with 3,100 square feet of climbing surface, there is a route for climbers of all ages and abilities. (ARC admission includes swimming, climbing, indoor ice skating and access to the fitness/weight room and fitness classes.)

So, as you can see, there’s plenty of fun to be found off-the-hill in Aspen, and this is just one small slice of it. Just give it a try!

Networking has long been a key to success for most businesses. These days, it’s even more important. Fortunately, the Aspen business community is a tight-knit group of hard-working professionals who are committed to the community’s success, and thus one another’s success – both professionally and personally.

To this end, the Aspen Chamber Resort Association created Six Degrees, a networking group that meets bi-monthly to help its members expand business contacts and fulfill person career goals through cooperative interactions with other members.

Six Degrees is such a great group that we decided everyone should get to know a little bit more about it – and the people and businesses who make it a success. So, once a month we will be introducing you to a member business and its representative in Six Degrees.

Read on for our chat with Dean Vigil, owner of Aspen Craftsmen

ACRA: What is the main focus of your business?

Dean Vigil: The main focus of my business is to provide top notch service to our clients.  We achieve this by addressing each clients concerns throughout the project.  Open lines of communication and being available to address concerns are crucial.  This helps eliminate miscommunication, hidden fees, and any confusion related to a project.

ACRA: How did you come to have your business in Aspen?

DV: I came to have my business in Aspen because I am a native of the Western Slope.  I was born and raised in Montrose, and a graduate of Western State College in Gunnison.  I also love the beauty, the outdoor activities, and the benevolence of the people in this area.

ACRA: What do you feel contributes to running a successful business in the Aspen community?

DV: What I feel contributes to running a successful business in the Aspen community is word of mouth.  Professionalism throughout a project brings referrals and establishes trust.  Beating the streets and networking also help.

ACRA: How do you differentiate yourself from others?

DV: I differentiate myself from others by going above and beyond for each client, while keeping my price low.

ACRA: What is the one piece of advice you have for fellow and future Aspen businesspeople?

DV: The best advice I can give to other businesses in this valley is to never look at a job as a meal ticket.  View each job as an opportunity to help someone.  In my field, commercial or residential, people spend money to create an intimate space that is  comfortable.  I try to create that space for them, even if ideas change throughout the project.

ACRA: Do you stay open on a powder day or do you abide by the six inch rule?

DV: Depending on the project and the deadline, the six inch rule may apply.  However,  I would never fire anyone for obiding by the six inch rule.  The one foot rule will always apply.  If needed, we would work extra hours or a weekend to make up for playing in the powder.

The Aspen Chamber Resort Association is embarking on a new guest service campaign for the entire Roaring Fork Valley community. Centered on the recently released “Ask Me! I Live Here” button, the goal is simple: Locals know our community and can help give visitors the best Aspen experience possible.

“While many locals have always reached out to our visitors, we want more of them to get involved by wearing these buttons,” said Dorothy Frommer, director of guest service for ACRA. “By letting visitors know they are longtime members of the Aspen community, locals can be proactive in creating a great guest experience.”

The “Ask Me! I Live Here” campaign is the latest component of ACRA’s FACES of Aspen/Snowmass Guest Service Program. More than three years old, the program was established with a five-part foundation, including:

• Professional Mystery Shopping, to benchmark our level of guest service

• Guest Service Training Seminars

• The STAR program, which recognizes and rewards employees who demonstrate consistent outstanding guest service

• The How To Booklet, an introduction to Aspen/Snowmass history and guest service principles, stories and practices (in English and Spanish)

• A professional way for visitors and locals to register consumer complaints against local businesses

With the new “Ask Me! I Live Here” component, ACRA is hoping to expand its guest service efforts to the community-at-large, not just its businesses and their employees.

“To reach our goal of providing the best guest service experience of any destination resort in the country, we know it will take the entire community,” said Frommer. “We hope these “Ask Me!” buttons will provide the incentive for people to get involved, and help us reach this goal.”

“Ask Me! I Live Here” buttons are FREE and are available at Visitors Centers in Aspen and Snowmass and at the Airport Guest Services desk. For more information, please contact Dorothy Frommer, director of guest service for ACRA, at 920-7144 or dfrommer@aspenchamber.org.

Want a special guest pass to ALL Winter X Games’ events on Sunday?

Here’s the ticket: Go on ACRA’s X Games 14 Scavenger Hunt … and start NOW!

It’s simple. Just pick up your Scavenger Hunt card – they’re available at one of the participating retail locations, one of the Aspen Chamber visitor centers or at the Guest Services Tent at Buttermilk – and go.

Each business – 14 in all – will give you a great Scavenger Hunt item (think stickers, tote bags, ski tune certificates and more!) and mark your card. They will also be offering great discounts to Scavenger Hunt participants (how does 10%-20% off a purchase sound?).

Once you’ve collected all the items, bring them and your marked Scavenger Hunt card to the Aspen Chamber Wheeler Visitor Center (location #14) by 5 p.m. this Saturday. Just for doing this, you get another freebie: A limited edition Winter X Games 14 poster. Plus, your name will be entered to win the grand prize – two special guest passes to all Winter X Games events on Sunday!

Seriously, you can’t lose. A bag full of schwag, discounts at local retailers and a chance to be on the front lines for a full day of X Games fun?

Call ACRA at 925-1940 for more information, or just get on the Hunt!

Networking has long been a key to success for most businesses. These days, it’s even more important. Fortunately, the Aspen business community is a tight-knit group of hard-working professionals who are committed to the community’s success, and thus one another’s success – both professionally and personally.

To this end, the Aspen Chamber Resort Association created Six Degrees, a networking group that meets bi-monthly to help its members expand business contacts and fulfill person career goals through cooperative interactions with other members.

Six Degrees is such a great group that we decided everyone should get to know a little bit more about it – and the people and businesses who make it a success. So, once a month we will be introducing you to a member business and its representative in Six Degrees.

Read on for our chat with Julie Melville, owner of Tidbits of Pitkin, Eagle and Garfield counties; Aspen

ACRA: What is the main focus of your business?

JM: We’re so cerebral and political in the valley, and I enjoy all of that too, but we need something to get back to the lighter side. Tidbits is  reading that tourists can enjoy, as well as a valley resident without being put off by Aspen-specific or polarizing comments and stories. It’s just meant to be fun and entertaining.

It is also a vehicle to support local small business owners. Affordable advertising, plus more value added pieces helps get a voice out there to support what you do.

ACRA: How did you come to have your business in Aspen?

JM: I was born here, three hospitals ago, and my family lives here. I was raised in the Mountain Chalet on the corner of Durant Avenue and Mill Street with the rhythm of our seasons and customer service micro evolved into my DNA.

ACRA: What do you feel contributes to running a successful business in the Aspen community?

JM: It is important to remember that people are what determine the success of a business, not just the product. The relationship factor is the most important one.

ACRA: How do you differentiate yourself from others?

JM: I always add more value to what I do. You don’t just get what you paid for.

ACRA: What is the one piece of advice you have for fellow and future Aspen businesspeople?

JM: There are no laurels to rest on here. We must continually strive to give our guests, employees, customers and fellow residents our best efforts, be grateful and express a gracious demeanor toward all. We are created to be more thoughtful than instinctual. It is irresponsible not to engage in that higher calling. Continually analyze and sharpen your strategy.

ACRA: Do you stay open on a powder day or do you abide by the six inch rule?

JM: Fortunately, my business is an on-the-road one. I work every day, no matter the conditions, but on a good powder day I can park my “office” and bus or walk to get a few runs in, at will. My ski equipment is always available and I wouldn’t choose any pass except the Premier for that reason. I’m over 50 (there, I said it) and skiing is still delightful.

From the naming of ACRA’s Businesses of the Year to the crowning of the King and Queen to Garnish Cafe & Catering being named Soupsköl champion for the fourth year in a row, this year’s Wintersköl celebration is off to an EPIC start!

Seriously, it’s an event not to be missed. Especially today when we roll out the red carpet our first-ever EPIC WinterFest – EPIC WinterFest is an all-day festival that combines all the traditional Wintersköl favorites with new, free, family-friendly events, including a pre-fireworks outdoor celebration.

Here’s a rundown off all the EPIC fun, so don’t miss out!

CANINE FASHION SHOW

Aspen’s fashion-conscious pups will gather in style at the 22nd annual Canine Fashion Show, where canine couture, style and overall pampering will take center stage. 10 a.m. registration, 11 a.m., show begins, Cooper and Galena streets

K9 KINGS

It’s the ultimate flying dog show! A unique high-energy mix of music, costumes and amazing acrobatics, the K9 Kings show includes comedy and audience participation. Join celebrity pups Newberry, aka “the little drag racer,” Olympia, or “the fastest Frisbee dog in the world,” and others for a doggone good time! “I love sharing my loyal, friendly, talented and diverse group of K9 Kings with people around the world,” says J.D. Platt, the human who heads the troupe. Noon, Cooper and Galena streets

AIR FORCE BAND AND BAG PIPERS

Stick around a little longer for a unique musical experience with a performance by the US Air Force Drum & Bugle Corps and the El Jebel Shrine Pipe Band and other members of the Red, Plaid & Blue Pipes and Drums. Beginning at 1 p.m., Cooper Avenue Mall

STREET FAIR

A party for kids of all ages, the EPIC WinterFest street fair features clowns, face painters, kettle corn, cotton candy and more. Stroll the Cooper Avenue Mall and see what adventures await! Beginning at 1 p.m.

BAD BILLY’S BEER GARDEN

Has all this fun — or a day on the slopes — made you thirsty? Stop by Bad Billy’s Beer Garden for a tall, cool one featuring Wintersköl drink specials. 6-8:30 p.m., outside Bad Billy’s on Cooper Avenue

LIVE MUSIC WITH THE CRYSTAL PALACE PLAYERS & JES GREW

Aspen’s beloved Crystal Palace may be gone, but the show isn’t over! We welcome back the Crystal Palace Performers for a little song, dance and satire. 6 p.m., at the tent on Cooper Avenue

Broadway musical not your style? Get your groove on with hometown band and local favorite Jes Grew with the Broccoli Brothers. 6:15-8 p.m., at the tent on Cooper Avenue

Bring the whole family … there will be complimentary hot chocolate and cookies, and noodle bowls, around the Cooper Mall during all the entertainment!! 6-8 p.m., Cooper Mall

FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA

In true Wintersköl fashion, WinterFest wraps with everyone’s favorite Aspen tradition: the Torchlight Descent on Little Nell run, followed by the Fireworks Extravaganza in the skies above Aspen Mountain. 8 p.m., Aspen Mountain

By Debbie Braun, President and CEO, Aspen Chamber Resort Association

A brand New Year and new decade has begun, and the Aspen business community is ready to face the coming months with enthusiasm and optimism for our resort town.

Indeed, 2009 was a year filled with challenges – for both our local community and for the nation. But it was also a year of learning.

Among the things we at the ACRA learned is that the power of marketing Aspen as a world-class resort cannot be underestimated. We know that in these tough economic times, people are still travelling but they are choosing their destinations more carefully. Our marketing and public relations efforts reach out to potential visitors to remind them that Aspen is a premier destination year-round and has so much to offer in any season.

The more people we attract to our town, and the better we make their experience, the more likely they are to return and to tell their friends about Aspen. And we know that tourism benefits the entire community as tourists spend money on dining, shopping, skiing, events and activities. Tourism dollars support our local businesses, create jobs and ensures the economic vitality of our resort.

We also learned that to make the visitor experience the best it can be, we must focus on customer service, price incentives and creating a memorable vacation experience for each and every guest. Some of the ways we can achieve this goal are: ACRA’s Faces of Aspen program, which focuses on excellent customer service; by providing lodging discounts and retail promotions for a value-added experience; and executing events such as the highly successful 12 Days of Aspen – which wrapped up Dec. 31 after days of FREE and fun holiday activities in downtown Aspen.

As we look forward to a successful and prosperous 2010, we know that it is now “go” time! Now is the time to ensure your business is offering the best customer service it can. Now is the time to think creatively about winter (and even shoulder-season and summertime) bookings. Now is the time to create a plan for our resort community’s success in 2010.

At the ACRA, we are doing just that. In the coming months, we will host special events like Winterskol, Jan. 1-17. The Aspen Skiing Company is doing just that — in the coming months, its four mountains will be home to the X Games and Spring Jam. The City of Aspen is doing just that, having just recently approved $147,000 toward special events.

If we all get on board and work together, there is no doubt that 2010 will be a great success. The signs are already pointing in the right direction. ACRA’s four visitor centers made contact with a combined total of nearly 20,000 people during the month of December, and occupancy numbers appear to similarly impressive (final occupancy numbers have not yet been released); and the general atmosphere in Aspen over the holidays was one of excitement and bustle!

In short, now is the time to capitalize on the momentum of this successful holiday season. It is the best insurance we all have for a prosperous 2010 and a year filled with success for the entire Aspen community.

As Aspen welcomes in 2010, we at the Aspen Chamber Resort Association are looking ahead to a year filled with newfound prosperity for our mountain resort town. Just look outside today and you can see the positive energy filling our streets, as locals and visitors ski, shop, dine and simply enjoy Aspen for the world-class resort that it is.

To help usher in the New Year, Aspen-style, the Chamber, City of Aspen and Aspen Skiing Co. have joined forces to create a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration in downtown. The party begins with FREE family activities in Wagner Park and FREE  ice skating at the Silver Circle from 5-8 p.m., and continues with a bonfire and DJ in Wagner Park from 8 p.m. midnight.

Sure to be highlight of the night are the fireworks extravaganzas over Aspen Mountain, at 8 p.m. and midnight. Hike up the Little Nell slope, stay at Wagner Park or just step outside your favorite restaurant or bar to see the sky explode with color in celebration of 2010!

Of course all of these holiday celebrations would not be possible without the amazing people and businesses that make Aspen the world-class resort it is. To recognize the businesses in this equation, the Aspen Chamber Resort Association each year names it’s Business of the Year, Emerging Business of the Year and Non-Profit of the Year.

Think about it? What Aspen businesses made a difference this year – in the community, in your life? Anyone can nominate a business, so long as the business is an ACRA member. But nominations must be received no later than 5 p.m. on January 5. Contact Erik Klanderud at eklanderud @aspenchamber.org for more information!

The snow is falling, and Aspen is indeed a Winter Wonderland this holiday week! And since Santa will soon fill the wishes of good boys and girls across the land, we thought it only right to fill your wishes for a fun-filled and festive holiday season.

Below are links to a few Holiday Happenings we won’t miss – and you shouldn’t either!!

• 12 Days of Aspen: Downtown Aspen comes alive with everything from free ice skating and carriage rides to concerts and carolers during the 12 Days of Aspen. The fun continues through Dec. 31. Visit  www.aspenchamber.org/12days for a complete calendar of events.

• Filmest Academy Screenings: Add a bit of celluloid excitement to the holidays with screenings of this year’s hottest films headlined by top directors and stars. Open to everyone, Filmfest’s Academy Screenings offer a sneak peek at all of the top Academy Award contenders. Screenings continue through Jan. 2. www.aspenfilm.org

• Cirque d’Aspen: A fundraiser for the Aspen Youth Center, Cirque d’Aspen is a cirque-esque style show features performers from Russia, Bulgaria, Italy and United States!  The high-flying fun happens Dec. 28-29. www.aspenyouthcetner.org

• Dennis Basso Freestyle: A fundraiser for the Aspen Art Museum, cocktail party and runway show all rolled into one après-ski event, the annual Dennis Basso Freestyle is a see-and-be-seen Aspen event. The red carpet rolls out on December 28. www.aspenartmuseum.org

Of course all of these holiday celebrations would not be possible without the amazing people and businesses that make Aspen the world-class resort it is. To recognize the businesses in this equation, the Aspen Chamber Resort Association each year names it’s Business of the Year, Emerging Business of the Year and Non-Profit of the Year.

Think about it? What Aspen businesses made a difference this year – in the community, in your life? Anyone can nominate a business, so long as the business is an ACRA member. But nominations must be received no later than 5 p.m. on January 5. Contact Erik Klanderud at eklanderud @aspenchamber.org for more information!