#GOTR

Dear Community,

I would like to say thank you to the City of Salida and Chaffee County for taking a chance. You certainly went for it, with #GOTR! You were a great part of putting on an absolute class act!

You gave this community a gift. Many of our local children will have their first concert memory at “that” festival of epic proportions, in their very own back yard. You opened our hearts and minds to music that many people do not always have the opportunity to see or hear, in our own back yard. You showed a progressive and positive attitude, and I could not be more proud of this community that I call home. You came together, not always agreeing, but you came together, and shared with the world, how amazingly special things are in the heart of the rockies.

From our city administrator, to our city council (who could be spotted on the dance floor at 1 am!), to Beatrice Price (the magnificent event planner!), to our city and county emergency services (and everyone they brought in to keep everyone safe), to our wonderful SBA and Chamber (Vicki Sue, and all…you knocked this one out of the park…what a phenomenal street fair), to our welcoming business owners (that seemed to have grins from ear to ear!), to our local musicians (you exposed nearly 20k people to a taste of Salida!), to our enthusiastic governor, to our patient neighbors (not everyone had the same experience. THANK YOU NEIGHBORS, for putting up with a weekend of inconveniences and invasion)…..thank you all for an incredible experience. You went above and beyond, every single one of you.

I admit, at first, I baulked at the price of tickets. But I have to say that I was so wrong…what a great bang for your buck. Two full days of entertainment at two venues (downtown and Vandaveer)…WOW! Gentlemen of the Road were truly gentlemen (and ladies). Having lunch with our neighbors, playing soccer with our teachers, and playing after hours at local establishments. They embraced the community, and we loved them back. Thank you Gentlemen, for choosing our paradise!

Thanks to the visitors that treated our town gently, respectfully, lovingly, and warmly. You were kind, classy, and fun to get to know! We hope that your visit was memorable!

Now we can all take a deep breathe, get back to reality, and enjoy the normalcy of the wingless, beating heart on S mountain.

Cheers!

Robin