Media panel takes on the news in Aspen
A panel regarding Aspen’s unique media environment on Wednesday kicks off an off-season discussion series produced by the Aspen Democracy Initiative.
 
Aspen Daily News managing editor Curtis Wackerle, Aspen Times editor Ryan Slabaugh and Aspen Public Radio reporter Luke Runyon will take part in a panel discussion moderated by Steven Wickes of the Aspen Community Foundation. The event is scheduled from 6-9 p.m. at BB’s Kitchen, 525 E. Cooper Ave. in Aspen.
 
Panelists will share their insights on the local media, discuss how they develop stories and how they approach covering local politics and policy. They also will take questions from the audience.
 
Wednesday’s discussion, titled “The News Media in Aspen,” is the first in the Democracy Dialogues series that will take place each Wednesday in May at BB’s. Future topics include “Building Schools in Afghanistan and Pakistan” with Silbi Stainton of the Marshal Direct Fund, May 9; “The Business of Environmental Policy” with Auden Schendler and Matt Hamilton of the Aspen Skiing Co., May 16; “What the Heck is a SuperPac” with Reagan White House counsel Peter Wallison, May 23; “Happy Hour with Sen. Gail Schwartz,” state senator for the Aspen region, wraps up the series on May 30.

Race registration opens today
Registration opens today for the Golden Leaf Half Marathon and the Aspen Backcountry Marathon, two city of Aspen-sponsored events.
 
The Aspen Backcountry Marathon will be returning for its second year on Sunday, Aug. 26 just three days after the USA Pro Cycling Challenges leaves town. The Aspen Backcountry Marathon showcases some of Aspen’s most coveted trails while challenging even well-trained athletes, according to a city press release.
 
Last year the race sold out at 250 racers. Race cost is $75 before June 15 and $90 after. A group training package also is available with Aspen Alpine Guides.
 
The Golden Leaf Half Marathon will be in its 34th year as racers hit the trail on Saturday, Sept. 22. Voted as one of “America’s 14 Most Scenic Races,” this race takes place in the height of the fall colors and traverses from Snowmass Village to Aspen on the Government Trail.
 
The race has sold out four years in a row at its 1,000-racer field limit, so officials suggest to sign up early. Race cost is $55.
 
Sign up for both events beginning today at www.active.com [1].