In this issue ... More Music in February Apres Ski for the Mind Care to Dance? Aspen Snowmass Open Big Air Fridays Warm-Up for Comedy Fest

WOW, DO WE HAVE THE SNOW!
The snowfall started in late November, kept on through December and January, and now February has started out with terrific snow and amazing ski conditions. Just this past week, the mountains of Aspen recorded from 12 to 20 inches of new snow, and conditions are just the very best. Now is the time to make plans to come and enjoy the very best snow we have had in years!


SPRING SPECIALS
Plan to visit Aspen Square this spring and save with our Internet Specials!

Late March Internet Specials
Reduced rates in a Fireplace Studio Suite, $259 nightly, Rate available March 25 - 31, 2006. Short-stay space available, "last minute" only, 4 night minimum. Similar rates for larger condominiums. Tax and service fee total of 12% additional.

Ask about great savings on lodging-lift packages. Give us a call, and come see us in Aspen!

April Internet Specials
Stay in a beautiful Fireplace Studio Suite, $160 nightly, Rate available April 1 - 16, 2006, 2 night minimum. Short-stay space available, "last minute" only. Similar rates for larger condominiums. Tax and service fee total of 12% additional.

Call for rates and availability, and come ski with us this spring! (800) 470-0530

NEW AIR SERVICE THIS SPRING
United Express has announced that Sky West will be taking over most of the United service into Aspen this spring, with the introduction of the new CRJ-700 aircraft. This is a full jet, with seating for 66 passengers. There will be first class and economy plus seating. The aircraft is much quieter than the previous United Express equipment, and we are excited they will be coming to Aspen! Sky West begins flights on April 16.

View Aspen Square Specials »

Check the Aspen Square Web Cam to see the latest weather at Gondola Plaza.

	MORE MUSIC IN FEBRUARY
The Aspen Music Festival’s “Winter Music” series keeps going strong in February with performances from three outstanding musicians. On Thursday, February 16th, pianist Jeremy Denk joins superstar violinist Joshua Bell in a recital that mixes the new with the traditional for a brilliant performance. On Wednesday, February 22nd, pianist Yefim Bronfman (pictured) performs Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata,” as well as music by Ravel, Chopin and Balakirev. Both performances are at 7:30 p.m. in Harris Hall. Tickets are $52.

	APRES SKI FOR THE MIND
Since 1998, the Aspen Writers’ Foundation has presented an annual series of readings and talks with notable authors. “Winter Words” continues in February with best-selling authors Ann Patchett (shown above) & Lorraine Adams. Patchett, author of Bel Canto and Truth & Beauty, will speak on February 15th at 5:30 pm at the Given Institute. On February 23rd, Adams, a Pulitzer Prize-winning correspondent and author of the acclaimed debut novel Harbor, will speak at 5:30 pm, also at the Given Institute. Tickets are $20.

	CARE TO DANCE?
The Aspen Santa Fe Ballet continues its Aspen season with the dance troupe Alvin Ailey II, the acclaimed junior company of the Ailey School. Formed in 1974, Alvin Ailey II has become one of the most popular dance companies in the United States merging the spirit and energy of the country's best young dance talent with the passion and creative vision of today's most outstanding choreographers. Performances will be March 1st and 2nd at 7:30 pm. All performances are at the Aspen District Theatre, and tickets are $20-$58.

	ASPEN/SNOWMASS OPEN
In its inaugural year, the Nissan Aspen/Snowmass Open will be a ski and snowboard, men and women, slopestyle and superpipe competition. Over 200 athletes are expected to compete across both sports in two disciplines – Slopestyle and Superpipe. The Aspen/Snowmass Open will be a place for up-and-comers to showcase their skills at the same venue where the Winter X Games are held. The Open will be held February 9th – 12th at Buttermilk Mountain, and the best part is, it’s free to go watch!

	BIG AIR FRIDAYS!
The annual Snowmass Big-Air contests present skiers and boarders as they show their stuff to win cash prizes. It’s as much fun to watch as it is to participate! The contest runs from 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm every Friday on Fanny Hill at Snowmass beginning February 17th. After the contest, the fun continues with live music from 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, prize giveaways, and fireworks at 7:00 pm!

	WARM-UP FOR COMEDY FEST
The Second City National Touring Company is returning to Aspen with the side-splitting improvisational comedy they have come to be known for. Featuring a blend of classic scenes, songs and improv performed by a six-member ensemble and augmented by a musical accompanist, an evening with Second City combines the best material from their storied history with the brightest comic performers of the future. The performance will be February 19th at 7:00 pm at the historic Wheeler Opera House. Tickets are $27.50 & $25.

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