Hangin' with the Sheriff

After almost two years of unwanted exile, I returned to Aspen...excited to visit with my loyal client, Warren Klug at the The Aspen Square Hotel. But, no trip to town is complete for me, unless I stop in to chat with my old friend, Bob Braudis...freshly re-elected and Sheriff of Pitkin County for now over twenty years. Bob is so in tune with the pulse of his domain, that he becomes a virtual encyclopedia of valuable information...and suggestions regarding my webcam agenda. That said, perhaps my greatest admiration for Bob stems from the simple fact that he always makes himself available to me, regardless of whether I have called ahead for an appointment. He is, in sports cliche, totally clutch. We caught up, twice, and chatted about several interesting anecdotes, including his recent re-election, the passing of Ed Bradley, and the problems at Sardy Field with barometric pressure and red tape.

When I asked Bob about new locations, though, he quickly suggested Jimmy's American Restaurant...citing the interesting comings and goings for guests in town and locals alike. Seems as though there's a lot of live music to be heard...rock n' roll on Fridays and salsa on Saturdays, on the weekend. So, off I went to get some setup shots, besides the Cooper Avenue and Hyman Malls, along with Basalt and Carbondale...all spots I had wanted to try and entice into some new live webcams.

So, I'm getting ready to take off and I think to myself that the Sheriff's Office and views around the courthouse are kinda fascinating...why don't I surprize Bob with some setup shots of his workplace. What's the worst thing he could say to me..."thanks, but forget about it."

But, as luck would have it, he didn't, and actually was positive when he saw what I had seen that he never actually knew was there. The results of my various setup shots are now in your hands...so to speak. I have created a Poll on the homepage, so interested web surfers can vote as to which location they would like to see added to the site. If you haven't already, click on the "Next New Cam Location" link on the Nav Bar (menu) and let us know what you think. It makes for interesting fadder with perspective clients like Aspen Sports/North Face and Morris & Fyrwald...both leading the current poll results (although the Courthouse and Jimmy's Restaurant are close behind).

Finally, you'll notice that we've added a banner supporting Mountain Rescue Aspen. This is a group of rugged, devoted individuals, who's sole purpose is to come to the aid of stranded or endangered skiers, hikers, or visitors in general to the mountains. Because they are volunteers, it is important to learn as much as you can about what they do...and how you can support them, if you feel inclined to do so. Please click through to their fine website and check out the information you come upon there. And as always, if your coming to ski or snowboard, stay within the boundaries of the resort. There's no award for losing your life in an avalanche.