‘Merc rocks'

Editor:

The SKI-ZRS FAC actually took place on Saturday in Snowmass at the Mountain Dragon. The very first thing that hits, and was repeated in the “comments” section is “Merc rocks!”

To think that this place could have prematurely fallen under the plow because the “new Base Village” was going to satisfy all needs, well, thankfully it didn't.

One of the really unique things at the Dragon, is the fondly referred to, free UFO's ( unidentifiable filling objects), or the mystery meats, but very much appreciated and enjoyed by all. The weekly beer special is nice, and even though the cocktail prices are standard, free food reallymakes drinks half price!

Even though there is no table service, drinks are usually quickly received at the bar. The Dragon scored “as good as it get's” in most categories.

It's comforting to see familiar faces and friends, some for decades, still excited and talking about their sport/jobs and still enjoying each other's company at this great après place. Makes one think that perhaps we're the lucky ones.

Still doing what we should beand living where we should be. Kudos to the Mountain Dragon.

Greg Paul

El Jebel

Thanks for supporting our laugh fest

Editor:

This is a belated acknowledgment to all of the people and organizations who helped create a night of magic last month on behalf of Haitian earthquake victims.

On Saturday, Jan. 16, Gail Mason and I sat down with Jeff David at the Viceroy with the idea of a benefit comedy night. Without hesitation, he said, “Yes.” Five days later, on the 21st, over 300 people came to “Stand-Up For Haiti” and helped us raise over $11,300 for the Mercy and Sharing Foundation. None of this would have been possible without the generosity and enthusiastic support of dozens of volunteers.

Our heartfelt thanks to the following: Jeff David and the Viceroy Hotel staff – dozens of whom gave of their time and talents to provide a stylish, comfortable setting for an evening of music, comedy and fundraising. Kevin Pasolli of PSAV for first-class sound and video services. H3 and Bobby Mason, for jumping in with live music to open and close the night. Nick Tininenko and Adam Brooks, for photographic and video services to capture the event. To Republic National for donated wine, and Wells Fargo for on-site banking services.

To our volunteers who helped with event-day details and played such a key role in gathering donations: Rich Backe of Energy Efficient Solutions, Denise Huffines, Kirk Lawrence, and the fantastic team from Ski.com: LuAnn Craig, Sue Considine, Danielle Leffler, Denise Huffines, Lynn Rosenfield and Cassie Davenport. A special thanks to those individuals and companies who donated goods for auction which raised over $4,000 in less than 20 minutes: The Viceroy Hotel, Aspen Skiing Co. and Four Mountain Sports, Polly Ross, Jim Horowitz and Jazz Aspen, Christy Sports, Mayor Mick Ireland, Town of Snowmass Village and custom orthotics from a guy who's name got away from me, but who stepped up mid-auction and said, “Here, sell this!” just to add to the pot. The spirit of giving and helping was overwhelming.

And, of course, a standing ovation “thank youse” to the local comics who put on such an entertaining show, providing laughs in the service of reducing suffering abroad: Todd Hartley, Don Chaney, Glenn Smith, Brooks Werner, April Clark, Gail Mason, Mayor Mick and Bob Richmond.

Everyone involved proved that this is indeed a community that can come together at a moment's notice and make magic happen. I got the whole evening on video and intend to produce a one-hour TV program to share the experience and continue the effort to raise money to aid Mercy and Sharing in their rescue mission in Haiti.

Thanks again for a magical, memorable night.

Mark Thomas

Comedy Mercenary Productions

Glenwood Springs

Gems deserve support

Editor:

I recently attend the film festival on the environment held in Vail/Eagle Valley and met the group Hidden Gems and found their work extremely important for all of us to support. I urge all the county commissioners and Congressional representatives to know and understand the work they are doing for all of us, for now and in the future, to have a wilderness that we can all enjoy.

The areas they are attempting to include in the wilderness area are what makes our valley such an awesome place to live. Biologically, they are “gems” because they preserve some of our richest wildlife habitat.

Please think of our legacy to the future and support this proposal.



Phyllis and Frank Dobyns

Vail