Though Aspen had an unusually cold, gray winter, several notable highlights kept us in great spirits. Events were grand and energetic, and town’s activism, intellect and generosity shined.

During its fall festival, Aspen Film hosted the world premiere of Oscar winner Precious: Based on the Novel “Push” by Sapphire, a story that lauds triumph over profound adversity. After being honored with Aspen Film’s Artist to Watch award, actress Paula Patton graciously explained her take on the character she portrayed. Her inspiration was her own mother, who taught in Los Angeles schools for 30 years.

Of course, an Aspen winter isn’t complete without a proper ski celebration, and Aspen Peak hosted the US women’s ski team at the Monarch Penthouse (thank you, Craig Morris). It was a boisterous night to remember; fireworks danced over Ajax, and ski champions soared on the road to the Olympics. Town has no shortage of athletes, and one of them, endurance swimmer Jennifer Figge, fired up an Aspen Peak ladies luncheon at Plato’s Restaurant. She is about to swim across the Atlantic Ocean for the third (!) time, and her buoyant personality embraces a simple idea: Do what you love and do it right now. This message, that time is precious, was also prevalent at Aspen’s first annual Eco Salon. Held at the home of Holly Lueders-Spirrizzi, the event featured Waterkeeper Alliance founder and president Robert F. Kennedy Jr. He delivered an impassioned 45-minute address to a rapt audience of 150, including visionary Natural Capitalism author Amory Lovins. Even as his strained vocal chords faded, Kennedy wove a compelling narrative on water issues and a global clean-energy economy.

Looking forward, Aspen’s warm weather reminds us to find inspiration in the Aspen Music Festival and School, the Susan G. Komen for the Cure 20thanniversary run, the galvanic Aspen Ideas Festival or just a relaxed loop on our many bike paths. See you on the trails.

ALEXANDRA HALPERIN	JASON BINN

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