Antlers at Vail’s unconventional package invites travelers to clean up and save

Vail, CO – March 31, 2009 ­– What’s fun, free – and green all over? The Antlers at Vail’s ‘Trash Pickin’ & Picnickin’ Package’ may not sound like the most glamorous getaway, but the hotel’s staff is betting its guests will enjoy participating in one its most long-standing sustainable efforts – namely, its voluntary highway cleanup program. General manager Rob LeVine says, “We’ve been cleaning up our two-mile stretch of Vail Pass since 1988; this year, we thought our guests might like to join us and see what a thoroughly good time we always have.” The Antlers – which has incorporated numerous eco-friendly business practices long before the term ‘green’ was coined – recently won the Vail Valley Success Awards 2009 Green Business of the Year.

The two-night package includes lodging on June 20 and 21, 2009, with the second night free for guests who join the Antlers staff on Sunday morning, June 21, for a guided trash pickup stint. The cleanup lasts approximately three hours, and a complimentary picnic lunch will be served afterwards at the Antlers pool area for all participants. (Additional nights may be booked at a discounted rate, subject to availability.) The event coincides with the Healthy Homes Tour & Fair held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 20, sponsored by the Vail Symposium and Eagle Valley Alliance. The fair showcases environmentally sustainable ideas, products and services while the home tour shows green products in everyday use; for more information call 970-476-0954.

The Antlers Vail is a Green Star-rated hotel offering condominiums ranging from studio suites up to four bedrooms, with fully-equipped kitchens, fireplaces, outdoor balconies, free Internet access, free heated indoor parking, a heated pool, and hot tubs with million-dollar views. Every room provides plenty of space to spread out and all the comforts of home, and additional money-saving perks include complimentary fitness passes to nearby Vail Athletic Club and free dessert with dinner at the award-winning Sweet Basil restaurant. Numerous restaurants, galleries and shops are within walking distance, and the free Vail town shuttle stops just footsteps away. For more information, call 1-800-843-8245 or visit www.antlersvail.com.

Media Contacts: Rob LeVine, General Manager, Antlers at Vail, 970.476.2471; or Darla Worden, WordenGroup Strategic Public Relations, [email protected], 307.734.5335

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Award recognizes hotel’s longstanding sustainable business practices

February 11, 2009 – Vail, CO – The Antlers at Vail has been named the ‘Green Business of the Year’ by the Vail Valley Partnership Success Awards. The results were announced at the valleywide chamber’s gala dinner on February 6, 2009. Other finalists in the green category included The Resort Company and Natural Cleaners.

“This award is a testament to the combined efforts of our staff, our owners and our guests,” says general manager Rob LeVine. “Everyone has worked hard to set a good example — starting long before the term ‘green’ was even coined. From the highway cleanup and water conservation measures we instituted nearly 20 years ago to the eco-friendly laundry equipment we purchased in 2007, we’re pleased to be honored for the cumulative effect of our sustainable efforts.”

The Antlers is a 90-room condominium hotel with 2600 square feet of meeting space conveniently located in the redeveloped Lionshead area near the Vail Gondola. Offering 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-bedroom condominiums with full kitchens, fireplaces, and outdoor balconies, the Green Star-rated property includes a recently-upgraded $2 million dollar heated outdoor pool, fitness room, business center, two hot tubs, saunas and a heated indoor parking garage. For additional information, call 1-800-843-8245 or visit the web site at www.antlersvail.com.

Media Contacts: Rob LeVine, General Manager, The Antlers at Vail, (970) 476-2471, [email protected] or Darla Worden, WordenGroup Strategic Public Relations, (307) 734-5335, [email protected]

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February 1, 2009 – Vail, CO – The recession isn’t all bad news; 2009 may be the best year ever for skiers and snowboarders to take advantage of deep discounts and abundant incentives with a ski vacation to Vail. The Antlers at Vail – just footsteps from the ski resort and gondola – offers its ‘Spring Ski and Save’ package starting at just $656 per night for a family of 4; the price includes daily lift tickets for all four people and lodging in a one-bedroom-plus-bunkroom suite!

Offered from March 21 through April 3, 2009, the package may be booked for multiple nights and is subject to availability. Extra savvy-money perks include complimentary fitness passes to nearby Vail Athletic Club, free dessert with dinner at the award-winning Sweet Basil restaurant, fully equipped kitchens for eat-in savings, complimentary indoor parking in the Antlers’ heated garage, free internet access, and a heated pool and hot tubs with million-dollar views.

The Antlers Vail offers condominiums ranging from studio suites up to four bedrooms, with fully-equipped kitchens, fireplaces, outdoor balconies, free Internet access and free heated indoor parking.  Every room provides plenty of space to spread out and all the comforts of home, and the Antlers’ friendly, attentive staff is always happy to answer questions big or small.  Numerous restaurants, galleries and shops are within walking distance, and the free Vail town shuttle stops just footsteps away. For more information, call 1-800-843-8245 or visit www.antlersvail.com.

Media Contacts: Rob LeVine, General Manager, Antlers at Vail, 970.476.2471; or Darla Worden, WordenGroup Strategic Public Relations, [email protected], 307.734.5335

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Planning a family reunion? Make your gathering more eco-friendly with these simple tips, developed by the family vacation experts at the Antlers at Vail hotel:

Water Mark – Staying hydrated is always important, but it’s critical at high altitudes like Vail’s 8150 feet. Consider providing family members with refillable water bottles when they arrive. Check the bottle’s recycling symbol; safe, non-toxic plastic options include 2 (high density polyethylene), 4 (low density polyethylene) or 5 (polypropylene).

Walk the Walk – Hold your reunion near plenty of attractions and activities to reduce driving – and appeal to family members of all ages. In Vail, there are numerous shops, restaurants, galleries, bike trails and more within walking distance of the Antlers; a free, energy-efficient shuttle bus also stops throughout the village.

Picture Perfect – Disposable cameras are so last year. Go digital to eliminate chemical processing and waste. Camerarenter.com will rent your group digital cameras, fully insured, and even create a free picture sharing website for your family after the reunion.

Fresh Air – Choose a location with natural ventilation to reduce carbon emissions from air conditioning. At the Antlers, windows and doors can be opened in the meeting spaces and condominiums, and private balconies let guests enjoy the cool mountain air.

Can the Trash – Ask the catering department about its environmental practices, and choose a property like the Antlers that uses china dishes, cutlery and linens plus bulk dispensers for condiments to reduce waste. Dedicated bins in guest rooms and public areas also encourage recycling.

Bag It – Provide family members with an environmentally friendly tote bag to use during the reunion. A side benefit? It’s perfect for carrying groceries when guests return home.

Green Eats – Eating local food reduces transportation emissions, processing and packaging. Visit a farmers’ market for the freshest food and a fun, festival atmosphere. The Vail Farmers’ Market offers produce from Colorado growers every Sunday through early September.

For more information, call 1-800-843-8245 or visit www.antlersvail.com.
Media Contacts: Rob LeVine, General Manager, The Antlers at Vail, (970) 476-2471, [email protected] or Darla Worden, WordenGroup Strategic Public Relations, (307) 734-5335, [email protected]

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Antlers at Vail’s Ski Break Offers Lift/Lodging/Fitness Package for Men

Vail, Colorado – June 16, 2008 – Girlfriends’ weekends are all the rage, but who says men don’t sometimes want to leave behind the responsibilities of work and family and have some fun together? In fact, a group of Canadian men have created an annual pilgrimage to the Antlers at Vail for a week of skiing, partying and male bonding; they’ve dubbed the event “Same Time, Next Year” and last year 60 men attended, with ages ranging from 30-something to 86.

This winter, the Antlers at Vail hotel offers a lodging/lift ticket package that’s perfect for friends’ getaways. The Antlers’ “Value Vail” package (Jan 3 – 30, 2009) offers a 25 percent discount on a five-night, five-day deal starting at $998 per person for four people in a two-bedroom condo – including four-day lift tickets for all four!

From the Antlers it’s just a two-minute walk to the Vail Gondola, which whisks skiers to the top of the mountain in a mere eight minutes. Apres ski, guys can unwind at the Antler’s sparkling heated-year-’round outdoor pool and hot tubs, and use the convenient on-site saunas and fitness room. For a more complete workout, men can request complimentary passes to the nearby Vail Athletic Club, which boasts Vail’s only indoor climbing wall plus LeMond spin bikes, fitness classes, free weights, cardiovascular equipment and steam/shower facilities.

The Antlers at Vail offers condominiums ranging from studio suites up to four bedrooms, with fully-equipped kitchens, fireplaces, outdoor balconies, free Internet access and a heated parking garage. Every room has plenty of room to spread out and all the comforts of home. Plenty of restaurants, galleries and shops are within walking distance of the Antlers, and for especially ‘manly’ men the friendly staff can even provide directions to the nearest electronics and auto parts stores.

Eco-conscious guys will appreciate Vail’s commitment to sustainability; Vail Mountain is one of just 28 ski areas that offsets 100 percent of its energy use with renewable energy. The Antlers at Vail is also proud to be a Green Star-rated business; Green Star (www.greenstarinc.org) is a voluntary national program that assists businesses in taking a hands-on role in caring for the environment. For more information, call 1-800-843-8245 or visit the Antlers web site at www.antlersvail.com.

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5 Tips for Guys Who Ski On the Cheap

Vail’s rep may be for glitter and glam, but smart skiers prefer champagne powder at draft beer prices—and with plenty of après-ski fun to boot. The Antlers at Vail hotel’s staff of savvy insiders offers five ideas for enjoying the snow scene without the sacrifice:

1) Night Light: The Back Bowl offers retro bowling in a high-tech facility, including Neon Nights’ glow-in-the-dark balls. (970) 328-BOWL, www.thebackbowl.com.

2) Free Tunes: The Bud Light Street Beat Free Concert Series is offered Wednesday evenings mid-December through early April in Vail Village. www.vvf.org.

3) Cheap Eats: Savor a Coleman beef Lark burger with organic fixings plus a beer for under $20 at Larkspur at the base of Chair 6; bite into a Big Cheesy Calzone at Bagali’s funky Lava Lounge, West Vail; or order a slice and a beer at ski patrol hangout Vendetta’s on Bridge Street, Vail.

4) Board Story: View primitive gear and ski-world legends at the free Colorado Ski & Snow Museum at the Vail Transportation Center. (970) 476-1876, www.skimuseum.net.

5) Breaking News: Vail Daily’s events calendar tracks happenings around town with information on area restaurants, bars and nightclubs; www.vaildaily.com.

Media Contacts: Rob LeVine, General Manager, The Antlers at Vail, (970) 476-2471, [email protected] or Darla Worden, WordenGroup Strategic Public Relations, (307) 734-5335, [email protected]

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New Year? Resolve to Learn Something New

Antlers at Vail offers ‘Symposium Special’

Vail, Colorado – December 27, 2007 – Some New Year’s Resolutions are easier to keep than others. Resolving to eat more tofu and do more sit-ups are certainly virtuous goals, but how about learning about something new — like the art of Bonsai? Or taking a stab at writing poetry? The Vail Symposium is a series of educational events that draws some big names and offers a diverse array of thought-provoking topics — a Madeline Albright live video conference, Islamic Extremism, Organic Cooking and Japanese Calligraphy are all on the agenda for 2008. To encourage new participants, the Antlers at Vail – the organization’s Official Hotel – is offering a ‘Symposium Special’ package with deeply discounted midweek rates. Rooms begin at just $278 per night for two people, and the rate includes admission for two to the Symposium.

The Vail Symposium is a grassroots, nonprofit organization that offers a series of educational programs billed as “thought-provoking, diverse and affordable.” This spring’s symposium features a variety of events on a wide-ranging array of topics, from cultural topics like contemporary art and a glass studio tour, to high-country offerings like a historical snowshoe trip and a presentation about fossils. The Symposium’s spring program runs through May 21, 2008, and a complete schedule can be found at www.vailsymposium.org; call (970) 476-0954 to make reservations for specific events.

Since 1972, the Antlers at Vail has offered a unique Vail lodging experience in a relaxed mountain setting. Offering 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-bedroom condominiums with full kitchens, fireplaces, and outdoor balconies, every room has all the comforts of home. The property includes a new $2 million dollar heated outdoor pool, fitness room, two hot tubs, saunas and a heated parking garage. The Antlers is also proud to be a Green Star rated business; Green Star (www.greenstarinc.org) is a voluntary national program that assists businesses in taking a hands-on role in caring for the environment. For additional information call the Antlers at 800-843-8245 and ask for the “Symposium Special” (some restrictions apply) or visit the web site at www.antlersvail.com.

Media Contacts: Rob LeVine, General Manager, The Antlers at Vail, 970.476.2471, [email protected] or Darla Worden, WordenGroup Strategic Public Relations, 307.734.5335, [email protected]

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Vail, Colorado – December 13, 2007 – Vail’s rep may be for glitter and glam, but smart skiers prefer champagne powder without champagne prices—and with plenty of après-ski fun to boot.  The Antlers at Vail hotel’s staff of savvy insiders offers 10 ideas for enjoying the snow scene without the sacrifice: 

1)     Kitchen Little: A condo with cook-in kitchen provides restaurant savings—and room to spread out.  Antlers at Vail’s January 5 – 31, 2008, promotion offers a 20 percent-off five-night deal with package rates starting from $701 per person for two adults and two kids—including four-day lift tickets. (800) 843-8245, www.antlersvail.com.

2)     Nature’s Way: Hear naturalists under the stars at free Nature at Night program at Vail’s mountaintop adventure center, Adventure Ridge.  Or try free family movie night, $10 bungee trampoline, or free moonlight snowshoe tours.  (970) 476-9090, www.vail.snow.com.

3)     Ice Capades: Lace up your blades at Vail’s favorite NHL training stop, Dobson Arena.  Public skating, $3-6; skate rentals, $3.  (970) 479-2271, www.vailrec.com.  Or try the free outdoor ice at Lionshead’s new Arrabelle development, slated to open January 2008.

4)     Night Light: The Back Bowl offers retro bowling in a high-tech facility, including Neon Nights’ glow-in-the-dark balls.  All-you-can-bowl weeknights, $10.95.  (970) 328-BOWL, www.thebackbowl.com.

5)     Culture Club: Vail Symposium’s thought-provoking offerings include a free Madeline Allbright talk via satellite, January 19, and documentary films, $11.  (970) 476-0954, www.vailsymposium.org.

6)     Get Squirrelly: Free Bud Light Street Beat Concert Series includes Squirrel Nut Zippers performing January 16, Vail Village. www.vvf.org.

7)     Cheap Eats: Savor a Coleman beef Lark burger with organic fixins plus a beer for under $20 at Larkspur at the base of Chair 6; bite into a Big Cheesy Calzone, $6.95, at Bagali’s funky Lava Lounge, West Vail; or order a slice and a beer at ski patrol hangout Vendetta’s on Bridge Street, Vail.

8)     Board Story: View primitive gear and ski-world legends at the free Colorado Ski & Snow Museum at the Vail Transportation Center. (970) 476-1876, www.skimuseum.net.

9)     Water World: Make a splash at Avon Rec Center’s aquatic facility with giant slide and aqua climbing wall. Day pass, $10-14; $7 Twilight Pass, 7-9 p.m. (970) 748-4060, www.avon.org.

10)  Breaking News: Vail Daily’s events calendar tracks area doings from January beer fest to free ballroom dancing, www.vaildaily.com.

Media Contacts: Rob LeVine, General Manager, The Antlers at Vail, (970) 476-2471, [email protected] or Darla Worden, WordenGroup Strategic Public Relations, (307) 734-5335, [email protected]

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When Deanne Barker’s* offer to purchase a two-bedroom condominium in Vail was accepted, she was ecstatic. The professional mother of two looked forward to spending long weekends during the ski season with her family and friends. So she was heartbroken when – almost three weeks after she’d made the offer – her broker told her another owner had exercised the Right of First Refusal clause in the condominium association bylaws, at Deanne’s price and terms. Deanne had no recourse; she was simply out of luck.

The Right of First Refusal process is fairly common in the governing documents of many condominium owners’ associations in Vail and other Colorado towns. With such a clause, whenever someone contracts to buy a condominium, they must wait a specified period of time before they can close the sale.  During that time any current owner has the right to more or less “steal” the contract.  If an existing owner chooses to exercise their right they must match the terms of the contract, but if they do, the buyer who had originally contracted for the unit is simply out of luck.  Naturally, this can be a trying experience for someone who has gone through the psychological (and sometimes emotional) gymnastics necessary to make a million dollar buying decision. 

While the ROFR clause can be advantageous to existing condominium owners, the ownership of the Antlers at Vail will soon decide whether to strike the 20-day ROFR clause from its governing documents.   After considering the matter for many months including a lengthy discussion at the last annual owners meeting, the Antlers Board of Directors unanimously recommended to the ownership that this clause be eliminated from the Condominium Declaration.  Doing so requires the approval of 67% of the entire Antlers ownership (63 out of 94 total units).   The board and management are optimistic that benchmark can be reached.  The formal vote to amend the Declaration will be held at a special meeting on July 16.

The Antlers Board has distributed a summary of their opinion, which makes the case that the ROFR could be a deterrent to sales, thus depressing property values, however slightly.  Additionally, its implementation could be the source of lawsuits for a variety of reasons, as it has been elsewhere.  The Board felt that whatever perceived benefit might be attributed to the ROFR, it was far outweighed by these negatives.  Hopefully the Antlers ownership agrees.

“I know of no other homeowners association in the state that has eliminated the ROFR clause from its governing documents,” says noted condominium law expert Jerry Orten, legal counsel for the Antlers. “The Antlers has been on the cutting edge of Colorado condominium activity before, and the owners should be admired for their progressiveness.”

Since 1972, the Antlers at Vail hotel has offered a unique Vail lodging experience in a relaxed mountain setting. The hotel recently completed its $2 million swimming pool redevelopment project that includes two outdoor hot tubs and sparkling changing rooms in addition to the spacious heated pool that faces Vail Mountain.  A mere 150 yards from the gondola, dining and night life, the lodge emphasizes exceptional service and amenities—including a recently renovated lobby, conference center, business center and fitness room, plus dog-friendly services and more. For additional information call 800-843-8245.

Contact: Rob LeVine, General Manager, The Antlers at Vail, [email protected], 970.476.2471

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*Name changed