They range from humble to haute and include exciting events, festivals and performances as well as dining, shopping and playing at various treasured spots, shops and institutions.

This week we're looking forward to...

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PLAY

1) Take in all the fall leaves with a long hike at the beautiful Piney Ranch. Laying at the food of the magnificent Eagles Nest Wilderness Area, the Ranch features gorgeous alpine meadows to explore, as well as the pristine Piney Lake. The ranch also has a full-service restaurant and bar on the grounds, so you can relax with some delicious food & drink after a nice strenuous (or leisurely) hike!

- Piney River Ranch Barbeque (Watch Video)

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SEE

2) The Vail Symposium continues to bring interesting and thought-provoking events to our neck of the woods, this week with Active Minds: Bio-Engineered Food on Wednesday, September 23, from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Golden Eagle Community Center. This forum will serve as an exploration of the scientific advancements around genetically modified crops and the concerns that arise around them. Visit the Symposium's website for more information.

- Fraidy Aber Talks Vail Symposium (Watch Video)

- Supporting Sustainability, Buy & Eat Local Movement (Watch Video)

3) What's in a name?! Come see Gandalf Murphy and the Slambovian Circus of Dreams performing live at the Vilar PAC on Saturday, September 26 at 8 p.m. This quirky quartet plays a whimsical blend of folk, rock, hillbilly and pop that has captivated audiences and critics alike. They were a huge hit the last time they came through town (in January 2008), so come see it again or be wow'd for the first time!

- Behind the Scenes: Vilar Center (Watch Video)

- Edwin McCain: Live at Vilar (Watch Video)

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SAVOR

4) Off season is finally here, and you know what that means...dining specials galore! Head on over to one of our favorite Vail spots, La Tour, to see what the incomparable Chef Ferzacca has the in the way of specials. They've a got phenomenal wine list, sophisticated entrees, and decadent desserts all year round, so stop by now for a real culinary treat. We recommend calling ahead for reservations, (970)-476-4403.

- Local Flavor: Bob Dorf Loves La Tour (Watch Video)

- Map & Directions for La Tour

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EXPERIENCE

5) The pigskin is upon us...it's football season! Come on out and cheer on your team at the Battle Mountain High School vs. Highland High School game on Friday, September 25, at 7 p.m. at Battle Mountain High School. We can't think of a better way to really get into the fall spirit than grabbing a blanket, some snacks and some friends and heading on out under the Friday night lights!

- Alpine Bank Presents 2008 BMHS Huskies (Watch Video)

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If you attend any of these events or activities, please report back to Plum with your thoughts on our suggestions and photos of your adventures! We want the good & the bad!

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Ideas for next week? e-mail Mike @ editors@plumtv.com