I watch too much TV.
There, I said it. My wife tells me this all the time (Holly, you’re right), and I’ve finally come around. I love watching my Phillies and Eagles. I get pulled into a good western, or a random history documentary about something obscure that has zero relevance to my soul.
But here’s the thing — I’ve realized how toxic it can all be. The ads yelling at me about what to drive, what to drink, who to blame. Those subtle (and not-so-subtle) messages sneak into our conversations — around the water cooler, over coffee, even around the dinner table. It’s exhausting. It’s divisive.
It’s just… noise.
Nearly 19 years ago, I came to Vista Verde Ranch because I was craving something quieter. Something better. I saw how identity was turning into tribalism — people retreating into corners and throwing stones. I wanted to help create a place where folks could drop their guard, ride a horse, eat a great meal, two-step at a barn dance, and remember how much we actually have in common. A place that breathes life back into people.
Life is short, and most of us are breathing in too much smog — stress, conflict, outrage. But out here at Vista Verde, you can unplug from the noise. You can take a deep breath of clean mountain air. You can laugh. Share stories. Reconnect — with loved ones, new friends, or maybe even that still, small voice inside you that’s hard to hear when the world is shouting.
So, really, this is just an invitation. To come have coffee with me or someone new on the front porch. No fences, plenty of seats. You might be surprised who you meet — and what you hear. Especially if it’s yourself.
– Ben Martin, Executive General Manager