By Kate Bartlett
Mila Clauss has called Ellicottville home with husband Trey for over 15 years. As a teacher in Springville, she has built roots in the community and surrounding area. She is passionate about teaching, family, and community. Trey and Mila recently became owners of the City Garage, a local ski shop in the village of Ellicottville, and they enjoy being a part of this tight-knit community.
Mila was born in Buffalo, then moved to Los Angeles, California with her mother. She spent summers with her dad and stepmom Becky in Ellicottville, along with her sisters, Brooke (Szpaicher) Rogers and Madison Szpaicher. “Ellicottville has always been special to me,” says Mila. “I have so many fond memories growing up here, and I’m so happy to be raising our family here.”
She obtained her undergraduate degree in education from Canisius College. After college, Trey and Mila moved to Ellicottville looking for a slower paced life in the great outdoors. Mila got a job teaching for Springville Central School District, where she is currently a 5th grade teacher. “I’m so fortunate to have been granted this opportunity just after graduating college. It’s a great school district and I’m proud to have been a part of it for 17 years and counting.”
Over the years, Mila has been a part of the community in various roles. She has served on the library board and currently active on the ski club board. Their sons, Trennon (8) and Van (5), attend Ellicottville Central School and Mila is involved in their education and school events, as well as their community sports (baseball and skiing). “It’s important to me to be an involved parent and to support their school and extracurricular activities. We love living here and participating in the school and community events.”
Trey and Mila recently became owners of the City Garage, when long-time founder and friend Sean Lowes was looking to retire. “It was a natural progression. Growing up in the area, Trey is an avid skier and had worked at the shop for over 20 years. We’re honored to own the shop and serve the community in this way.”
While City Garage is mostly a ski shop, they sell more than just skis. Being in a four-season resort town, they cater to all needs to enjoy the great outdoors, including hiking, outerwear, and some camping gear. During summer months, they carry a large stock of Birkenstocks and Yeti, (Mila’s favorite). “Most people think we just sell skis, but we invite everyone to stop in and browse our selection of other outdoor needs.”
Mila and Trey enjoy being involved in the Ellicottville community and participating in the many festivals and events held throughout the year. During the upcoming summer months, City Garage will partake in many sidewalk sales and keep the shop open during festival/holiday weekends. They will be holding a “Garage Sale” (pun intended) Memorial Day weekend with extended hours.
The Clauss Family appreciates the tight-knit community of Ellicottville. “It’s such a wonderful place to live. Not only are we fortunate to live in a four-season resort town, but the people here are simply incredible. Everyone lends a helping hand and works together to make this community strong, family oriented, and vibrant.” Mila doesn’t take the lush landscapes here for granted. “Having lived in LA for a good portion of my life, I truly appreciate the beauty of the four seasons: the green of the trees in spring and summer, foliage in the fall, and of course, snow on the slopes during ski season. It’s incredibly convenient being able to walk (almost) everywhere. We definitely appreciate a slower paced life here and wouldn’t trade it for anything.”
Visit Mila (and Trey) at City Garage located at 5 Monroe Street and online at citygarageskishop.com.
Over the years, Mila has been a part of the community in various roles. She has served on the library board and currently active on the ski club board. Their sons, Trennon (8) and Van (5), attend Ellicottville Central School and Mila is involved in their education and school events, as well as their community sports (baseball and skiing). “It’s important to me to be an involved parent and to support their school and extracurricular activities. We love living here and participating in the school and community events.”