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October 7, 2014 - In This Issue:
"We loved our stay on the Fryingpan River
in the Dallenbach cabins. Basalt is Great!"
~ Sherry, Arkansas 9/25/14 
  
~ From the Basalt Chamber of Commerce Visitors Guest Book ~
  
NEWS FROM THE CABOOSE
CabooseNews

Whoosh! Have you ever sat in a room with 25 or so super kids and had your socks knocked off? It's Friday afternoon and I've just returned from an hour of circle discussion with Basalt High School's "leadership" students. Spanning grades from freshman through senior, they're knee-deep in planning their futures and how they might contribute to our valley, their country and the international arena. 

Representing the Chamber and Basalt's business community, I wanted to explore how we might support them while providing new opportunities for our members. And I wanted to hear it from these youthful entrepreneurs. Yes, some of them have clear career choices already in mind - broadcasting, nutrition, videography, dancing. Others are just beginning to consider life beyond the classroom. We all agreed that linking up with seasoned professionals would lend a real-world feel to their mental processing. They've stepped up to the challenge.

Ideas were exchanged. Some wondered if businesses actually would want to take on a high school student for up to 140 hours of the year, their required community service. Others felt uncertain about where they might work and what they could contribute. There was talk of sending a survey out to the whole school, or using the Leadership Group to test and finetune a program. They're going to form a "committee" amongst themselves and make a plan, an important learning experience in itself. In two weeks I'll return to the circle. They'll present what they have and we'll work on the next steps.

Whatever comes of this exercise, these kids are now thinking hard about where they want to go with their lives and the tools available to them to help crystallize that. Whether it's being better prepared to establish a thoughtful curriculum in their college classes or getting a practical sense of the road and challenges before them should they choose not to pursue advanced studies. Click, click, click..... you could almost hear their young minds thinking, and I surely saw the light of wonder in their eyes.

Ignite the Future ~ Business Mentor a Local Student

If you or your business would be interested in mentoring a student in the Spring or contributing to this program, please send me your name and business information. The students will create a conceptual design then do the outreach to the business community. It might be that you'd have a student for two weeks in your office, helping and learning, or an hour a week for three months with special assignments. We'll find out soon what they come up with.

In the midst of wonder, I want to share the happy news that Sam - manager of the Caboose and the wonderful voice who helps you through your new member processing and myriad other services - had her baby on Friday morning at 4:06. He was born 7 pounds and 21 inches, a beautiful mix of Sam and Selig and "happy and healthy" by all reports. Diana  and Terri have volunteered to help in the Caboose while Sam is out, but please do call before visiting to make sure we're in. My most important goal these days is to be out on the streets visiting all of you.

"Creative Spaces - Revitalizing a Town with Art" 
Friday, October 10, 5:30-7pm

You'll be there, yes? We're so excited about this new endeavor - the launching of the pro-active, innovative "Creative Spaces - Revitalizing a Town with Art" program. In a fabulous collaboration, we're filling the empty spaces in downtown Basalt with light and color, and the town with the vision of vitality. This is the first of many spaces to be transformed, and we're brainstorming ideas from moveable exhibits to performance art, maybe even one day a show of the Town's great history. Please be with us to celebrate this exciting step forward then watch to be surprised at what comes next!

Our September Business After Hours was such a blast, we're now affectionately calling the event Business "Fun" After Hours. Dr. Bruce Bowen, Dr. Karen Locke & Dr. Kelly Locke are putting together a wonderful event next Thursday, complete with healthy treats from Eurasia and the Aspen Valley Hospital, plus door prizes and special skin care bonuses. Get all the details below and let us know you'll be there.

Welcome to Basalt: Elements by Westin & Rocky Mountain Institute!
 
Last but far from least, we have two ground-breaking events coming up next week so mark your calendars. Basalt's first new hotel in many a year - Elements by Westin - breaks ground at Willits Town Center on October 14 at 7:30 am. The "hardhat" ceremony will be followed by discussion and a continental breakfast. The following day, Rocky Mountain Institute's long-anticipated Innovation Center breaks ground on Two Rivers Road followed by a full panel discussion at our library, a beautiful piece of work in itself, on all its technological and environmental innovations. There's more information on the discussion below.

What I've noticed about all the energy and activity in Basalt lately is that it's all making sense. Elements by Westin is the perfect hotel and design for the vibrant new Willits Town Center. RMI's Innovation Center and the soon-to-be Roaring Fork Conservancy building are excellent complements - sustainability, innovation and water studies - to our historic downtown. The Friday launching of "Creative Spaces" (you're coming, right?) shows our community's internal spirit and resilience. We have much to celebrate!

Warmest regards,
Robin
Robin Waters
President/CEO for your Chamber of Commerce

P.S.
Halloween is right around the corner and pumpkins are already appearing on the Frying Pan Road. 
Celebrate in historic downtown Basalt with us when the moon is full this Thursday, October 9 from 6 to 9pm. There'll be trick-or-treating, pumpkin craft, live music and more at Moonstruck. Check the calendar below for this and other exciting events in Basalt. 
~ Revitalizing a Town with Art ~
Opening Night & Artists Reception - Friday, October 10, 5:30 - 7 pm 
 
227 Midland Avenue #14A (in downtown Basalt at the East edge of town)

Fine Art, Refreshments & Warm Pot Pie (from Heathers) for a Cool Autumn Night
    • Paintings by Dave Durrance
    • Furniture & Marquetry Art by Dave Struempler
    • Reproductions of Plains Indians' Weaponry by Rick Stevens
The "Creative Spaces" project, launched by the Basalt Chamber and Toklat Gallery, is a collaboration between artists, galleries, property owners, and the business community. We fill the Town's prime empty spaces with art until they are leased or sold, then together we welcome a new business to Basalt.

Thanks to property owner Mike Waters and the Town of Basalt for their contributions of space and materials for this premiere showing, and to Wyly Arts Center and the Basalt Downtown Business Association for their collaboration and support. If you're an owner of unoccupied commercial space or wish to support this program, contact us at the Chamber. We also welcome volunteers who enjoy organizing and filling space creatively to help us spread art around the town. 

MarkCalendarMARK YOUR CALENDARS
UPCOMING CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 
& LOCAL EVENTS
 
Get Moonstruck in Basalt on Halloween
October 9, Thursday 6-9pm
It's almost Halloween and downtown Basalt is having a bash with trick-or-treating, pumpkin craft, live music and costume fun. Celebrate with discounts at local stores, dining, shopping, arts, firepits and much S'mores! Read about it here and mark your calendars ahead for the nov 6 and Dec 6 Moonstruck evenings.
 
"Creative Spaces" - An Opening
October 10, THIS Friday, 5:30-7pm
227 Midland Avenue #14A - Up Midland Avenue toward Ruedi on your right
Featuring Paintings by Dave Durrance, Furniture & Marquetry Art by Dave Struempler and Reproductions of Plains Indians' Weaponry by Rick Stevens.
Refreshments will be served.
 
"AVSC Sports Swap" ~ Rain or Shine
October 12, Sunday 10am-2pm
Whole Foods Parking Lot in Willits
Get ready for the snow with the best deals of the season. Lots of gear and venders. Live music and air bag fun.
For more info, see the flyer
 
Rocky Mountain Institute Innovation Center ~ 
Groundbreaking & Panel Discussion
October 15, Wednesday. 
Groundbreaking at 4:30 on Two Rivers Road. 
Panel discussion at 5:30-7 at the Basalt Library
 
Business "Fun" After Hours
October 16, Thursday at 5:30-7pm
Sopris Medical Practice & Locke Family Medicine
Fine Food, Wine, Door Prizes & Great Company
Take a look here and RSVP by October 15.
 
Lunch & Learn - "Lung Health Awareness: How High Altitudes Affect
    Your Lungs & What You Can Do to Make Them Happy!"
October 29, Wednesday 11:30-1pm 
Dr. Akrum Al-Zubaidi "Dr. Aki" from the Lung Center at Valley View Hospital will discuss new technology and services available at VVH including the lung cancer screening and pulmonary rehab programs. Learn more about lung cancer awareness, how high altitudes affect lung health and what you can do to make your lungs happy.
Eagle County Building next to the El Jebel Theater - $15 for members, $25 for non-members
Space is limited. To reserve ahead, call (970) 927-4031

For information call (970) 927-4031 or email
BAHBUSINESS "FUN" AFTER HOURS
Food, Wine, Door Prizes & Fine Company
Thursday October 16, 5:30-7pm
 
Sopris Medical Practice & Locke Family Medicine 
welcome 
Chamber members and guests to the October 16 Business "Fun" After Hours.

Catered by Eurasia Restaurant and Aspen Valley Hospital, and featuring door prizes, raffle items and the best of company, this will be an event not to be missed. Plus you'll have an opportunity to meet a wonderful group of medical professionals - Doctors Bruce Bowen, Karen Locke and Kelly Locke - who cover a range of services including family medicine, acupuncture, aesthetics and certified weight-loss medical care.

Be sure to enter your name for some great door prizes - including sample skin care products - and come ready to tell us something special about your business. This is an especially great time for new members to introduce themselves, and long-standard members to remind us of all you do in Basalt. Be sure to bring a dollar or two for the jar to reserve your 30 seconds.

Please RSVP by 5pm Wednesday, October 15, to receive your pre-printed name tag and be entered to win the Business Spotlight for October!

Business After Hours is a member benefit and is FREE for members of the Basalt Chamber. First-time guests may attend for free and returning guests pitch in $20. Introduce a new member and get a bonus ad in the newsletter and our huge appreciation!
 
hotelBASALT'S NEWEST HOTEL BREAKS GROUND
You're Invited ~ Tuesday, October 14, 7:30-8:30
Willits Town Center. Look for the balloons!

Help us mark the official start of construction of Element by Westin in Basalt. Hardhats and continental breakfast provided, followed by a short presentation.

RMIROCKY MOUNTAIN INSTITUTE INNOVATION CENTER
A new "beyond" state-of-the-art office center breaks ground October 15 in Basalt
Groundbreaking at 4:30pm ~ Panel discussion at the Basalt Library 5:30-7
  • 15,610 square feet of creativity, leadership and beauty along the banks of the Roaring Fork River
  • Integrative, restorative and replicable, a demonstration to all of how deep green buildings can be designed.
  • With a target Energy Star score of 100 (the highest possible score!), the Innovation Center will be among the highest performing buildings in the world.
  • With a construction timeline of just over a year, RMI aims to occupy the building by the end of 2015.
Let's welcome our Valley's own Rocky Mountain Institute to Basalt on October 15
Join us for the Groundbreaking at 4:30pm then head over to the Basalt Library to 
Learn all about this cutting-edge building and its environmental and technological innovations.

Cara Carmichael, architect, engineer and Valley native, and Craig Shiller, both members of RMI's building team which works closely with the project architects, engineers and general contractor, will lead the discussion. You'll have an opportunity to learn about the feature's of RMI's new site near Old Pond Park on Two Rivers Road, the building's floor plan and facade, its projected energy performance, such energy features as glazing, shading, solar electric, envelope, orientation, and the new "Hyper Chair." Water and community aspects of the building will also be covered.
The discussion will be moderated by RMI's Communities Team representative Michael Kinsley. 
There will be plenty of time for questions followed by a reception.

Read more about this innovative new building here.
HAVE A BLAST AT THE SKI & SNOWBOARD EXPO
One More Good Volunteer Needed - November 7-9, 2014

We're seeking one more volunteer to complete the team at Basalt's booth at the 2014 Colorado Ski & Snowboard Expo in Denver November 7-9. This is a great opportunity to meet and network with professionals in the ski and snowboard industry....and promote Basalt as a visitor destination. Volunteers receive a free weekend pass to the event and hang out with fun, dedicated people. For more information and to sign up contact us.
DO-IT-YOURSELF PUBLIC RELATIONS

While public relations is a specialty all it's own, business owners can learn a few tips from an elephant and five secrets to getting PR with just a little know-how and elbow grease. And don't forget, members of the Chamber can get free and low-cost person-to-person exposure just by writing an article for the newsletter, running an ad, sponsoring an event, hosting or talking at Business "Fun" After Hours or presenting at a Lunch & Learn.

Learn from the story of the circus that comes to town.
volunteerVolunteer to Support Your Business Community
Choose an activity you'll enjoy! Decide how much time you have to give..

We need help in the caboose in a variety of ways: phone outreach, list development (cross-checking and updating lists), mailings and general in-office support. We'd also love to have a weekend tourism outreach coordinator and ambassador. Do you know someone who'd like to join a happy team, hang out in a historic Colorado Southern caboose and meet great people. If so, invite them to fill out this form and send it by fax to 927-2833, by email to info@basaltchamber.com or by hand to the Caboose.

We're also launching several working groups and are looking for experienced, committed participants to help enhance business vitality and quality of life in our community. Opportunities are available in the following areas:
  • Membership Outreach & Training
  • Economic Enhancement
  • Downtown Revitalization
  • Events Planning
  • Marketing
  • Scenic ByWays Presentation & Planning
  • Chamber Membership & Program Development
  • Ambassadors
  • And more...
We invite you to join us. Make new contacts, network with other professionals and business owners, develop your leadership skills, and have a great time. For more information on volunteer opportunities, click here then send in the attached volunteer form or call us at (970) 927-4031.
THANK YOU TO OUR NEWSLETTER SPONSORS
 
BizAdADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FOR ONLY $20!
Exclusive Member Only Advertising Opportunity

We can help you get the word out about your specials, sales and up-to-the-minute news for only $20! This is an affordable avenue to reach your fellow business associates as well as community members. We have over 1000 contacts and a high open rate on our campaigns. All you need to do is send us up to 200 words with your message as well as a picture. We can also insert a link to any type of pdf - flyers, invitations, articles and more - so send us as much as you'd like Information must be received by Friday noon to be included in the Tuesday newsletter.
 
Have an extra special fundraiser, sale or event and want your item highlighted in an specially-scheduled email? We can send out an email campaign on your behalf for $100 (that's less than 10 cents per contact!). We do need 48 hours notice and cannot send one out on a day we already have a campaign scheduled, so get your request in early.

Contact info@basaltchamber.com to schedule your ad or email blast

The FISHING REPORT by Frying Pan Anglers

Dry fly fishing on the Frying Pan River is still producing trophy fish. The Green Drakes are still relevant for about 2 hours in the middle of the day. BWO's and Caddis can be used to catch rising fish throughout the day. The Roaring Fork River is flowing clear and fish are holding towards the middle of the river in deep slow pockets. They can be caught using the Crawling Caddis, as they are largest in size during this time of year.


This Month In Basalt

 

To view the calendar click HERE
Basalt Area Chamber of Commerce
The Red Caboose in Lions Park
POB 514
Basalt, CO 81621
970.927.4031

Our Mission:  To advocate for, promote, and serve our members.

 

Our Vision:  To grow Basalt as a destination for businesses, locals, and visitors. 
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