Dear Editor: Years ago, in response to my wife’s death by avalanche, the Ridgway ski community worked together to initiate the first (and last) Winter Carnival for mountain safety.

The event was very homegrown and from the heart and featured a variety of non-motorized winter sports and events: a snow sculpture in town park, a cross country ski race at Decker ranch, an obstacle race in town park, a broomball competition, skijoring at the fairgrounds, lectures on mountain safety and a beacon-locating competition. The event was held in mid-January, which worked well with cold nights and snow on the ground in town. A fun and meaningful time was had by all.

The point of my outreach today to the greater Ouray County community is to ask if there is interest to revive this event? (With Ridgway, Ouray, Ouray County and chambers of commerce support to assure proper results.)

In my vision, the event could be many weeks long, incorporating existing events (skijoring and ice festival) along with building a stronger cross country racing culture at Ironton Park, broomball on Ouray ice, snow sculpture, dog sleds, kids’ divisions, lectures, dances and the like.

Featured events could be staggered to have one per week for some time along with heats and rounds of others. Lodging could be offered in a package with pool passes and specials at restaurants and shops. Surely the event would greatly bolster the business climate in the off season. There could be prizes for everyone, no need for cash rewards, just recognition for skills.

I appreciate your reading and discussion and hope this gains traction.

Nathan Worswick

Ridgway