Best of the Springs 2004

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BEST SANTA • MASCOT • BES WAITER • BEST LIQUOR STORE CHEAP HAIRCU BEST DOCTOR’ OFFICE • BEST COFFEE • BEST CONCERT • BE STREET PERFO • BEST HOT DO BEST AUCTION BEST LOCAL BA BEST RADIO PERSONALITIE BEST BAGEL • HAPPY HOUR • HIKE WITH KID BEST KIDS’ DE • BEST YOGA C • BEST GIFT SH BEST CORNED SANDWICH • B CORPORATE RE • BEST CLIMBI WALLBEST SAN BEST MASCOT WAITER • BEST LIQUOR STORE CHEAP HAIRCU BEST DOCTOR’ OFFICE • BEST COFFEE • BEST CONCERT • BE STREET PERFO • BEST HOT DO BEST AUCTION BEST LOCAL BA BEST RADIO PERSONALITIE BEST BAGEL •

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INDEX Dining ...................................................4 Family ..................................................26 City Life ...............................................14 Recreation ..........................................29 Arts and Entertainment .........................21 Shopping ..............................................30

2 0 0 4 Welcome to the 10th annual Best of the Springs section, a celebration of everything fun and fabulous about this village of ours.

When we started this venture, Colorado Springs was just a young pup. The eastern plains were home to gophers, pronghorn and a few hearty settlers.

Downtown shut down at 10 p.m. on weekends.

If you wanted to shop at DSW, Whole Foods, Sharper Image or Pottery Barn — no problem. You just drove to Denver.

A decade later, suburbia stretches almost to Calhan. Downtown nightlife is heating up. Chain restaurants and upscale shops have moved in. Lofts are springing up all over the place. And some say metrosexuals have been spotted within the city limits.

That’s right, in a place where “formal attire” means your good jeans, these newfangled straight men who have taken on the sophistication and hair- and nailcare regimens of their gay counterparts are roaming the streets. Look through this guide, and you’ll find a few new categories especially for them.

You’ll also find that categories have expanded in their scope. We’ve found the best doctors’ waiting rooms, best yoga classes and best dating service.

Even the food categories have expanded to encompass our growing hunger for ethnic cuisine (look for best Puerto Rican, best Filipino).

SAYS WHO! All of those chosen as “best” in a given category earned that label because we say so. Pretty arrogant, huh? Actually, we’re experts on the Pikes Peak region because we’ve had so much help from you. About 300 readers responded to our readers’ poll, and you can see those choices by finding the “Readers’ Choice” icon.

But your help didn’t end there. You also gave us tips and nominations in dozens of other categories, leading us to the top contenders so we could make more educated choices. Still, we know that we’re fallible. Please tell us which of our winners were off base. Who deserved “Best Of” honors and got snubbed? What categories should we add next year? Let us know.

Warren Epstein, GO! editor wepstein@gazette.com P.O. Box 1779 Colorado Springs 80901 P.S. Certificates will be available after May 3.

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Accessible trail .......................29 Actor ......................................22 Actress ..................................23 Adventure day trip .................29 Al fresco dining ........................8 All-around ski and boarding run ....................29 Animal rescue/Humane Society 20 Antiques ................................30 Architecture ...........................25 Art in an unusual venue ...........22 Art opening .............................22 Auction ..................................30 Baby store ...............................31 Bagel ........................................5 Barbecue .................................12 Bartender ................................18 Bathroom ...............................19 Beer and lift ticket deal ...........29 Big honking piece of carved rock .........................21 Bike shop ...............................30 BLT ........................................12 Blues club ..............................23 Bookstore ................................31 Bowling alley ...........................29 Bowling alley name ..................29 Bowling shoes ........................29 Bread .......................................7 Bread for people allergic to wheat ................................................8 Breakfast .................................6 Brew pub .................................12 Buffalo .....................................6 Burger .....................................13 Butcher ...................................31 Caesar salad .............................6 Cake .........................................7 Camping .................................29 Car wash ................................18 Card shop ...............................30 Caribbean ................................12 Cemetery ................................19 Chain restaurant ......................4 Chicago-style haircut ..............15 Chinese ...................................11 Chinese buffet ...........................8 Chinese mega-buffet ................8 Chips and salsa ........................6 Chocolate ...............................30 Chocolate dessert ....................7 Christian store ........................31 Church production ...................23 Climbing wall ..........................29 Coffee .....................................11

THE GAZETTE

ALL DRESSED UP: The best dressing room in Colorado Springs can

be found at Camille La Vie at The Shops at Briargate.

Coffee place ..............................11 Colorado cuisine .....................12 Computer store .......................30 Concert in a produce section ....21 Consignment store ..................30 Corporate retreat .....................15 Country & Western club ...........21 Cover band .............................23 Cripple Creek casino ................19 Dance club ..............................22 Day trip .................................26 Deceptively non-frufru drink ....10 Diner .......................................8 Dinner theater ........................22 Doctor’s waiting room ..............14 Doughnut .................................10 Dressing rooms .......................30 Dry cleaner .............................20 E-newsletter ............................15 Easy mountain bike trail .........29 Electronics store ....................30 Family dining deal ...................26 Family restaurant ...................26 Farmers market ......................30 Fast food .................................5 Fast food breakfast ...................6 Father-son outing ....................26 Feat of gymnastics at 55 mph .14

Feel-good billboard ...................19 Festival ...................................21 Filipino ....................................13 Fine dining ...............................4 Fishing hole ............................30 Flashy tow truck .....................18 Flat-top cut ............................15 Free entertainment .................23 Gallery ....................................22 Gallery show ..........................22 German .................................. 12 Getaway for Dad ......................26 Getaway for golfers ..................18 Getaway for Mom ...................26 Gift shop ................................30 Golf course ............................. 29 Gourmet shop ........................30 Greek ......................................12 Green chili ................................6 Hairstylist ...............................15 Hangout for metrosexuals .......20 Happy hour for baby boomers ..20 Happy hour for Gen Xers .........19 Haunted house .......................27 Headbangers hangout ...............21 High-fashion women’s shop ......31 SEE INDEX x PAGE 3

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INDEX FROM PAGE 2

Hike for out-of-towners ........................29 Hike with a view ...................................29 Hobby store .........................................30 Home-improvement store .....................30 Ice cream ................................................7 Idea for a new festival ...........................21 Indian ...................................................11 Indian buffet ...........................................8 Insane mountain bike trail ....................29 Italian ....................................................11 Japanese ...............................................11 Jukebox ................................................15 Kiddie ride ...........................................27 Kids’ dentist .........................................28 Korean ...................................................11 Large classical concert ..........................21 Large concert .......................................21 Lips .....................................................20 Liquor store ..........................................30 Live music venue ..................................21 Local band ...........................................23 Local blog .............................................14 Local brew ............................................12 Local CD ...............................................21 Local dating service ...............................14 Local Web site ......................................14 Locally owned restaurant on chaindominated Powers Boulevard .................13 Low-carb bread ....................................... 7 Manicures for metrosexuals ...................15 Margarita ..............................................10 Mascot ..................................................15 Mexican .................................................11 Mexican market ......................................5 Military discount ....................................31 Miniature golf ......................................28 Moderate mountain bike trail ................29 Motel name ............................................15 Mother-daughter outing .........................26 Mountain trail .......................................29 Movie theater .......................................22 Museum exhibit .....................................21 Music store ...........................................30 Musical .................................................22 Names for black diamond ski trails ........29 Natural foods store ...............................30 Nature walk .........................................30 New Age store ......................................31 New club ...............................................21 New restaurant .......................................4 New store ............................................30 Non-chain store on Powers ...................30 Novelty shop .........................................30 Nursery ...............................................30 Open mic ..............................................21 Out-of-town visitor ................................21 Outdoor art ...........................................25 Outdoor store .......................................30

THE GAZETTE

A STORE IMELDA MARCOS WOULD LOVE: The 23,000 square-foot DSW shoe store

is located just south of Chapel Hills Mall in the Market of Chapel Hills.

Park .....................................................18 Parking lot ............................................14 Party animal .........................................20 Performance in a musical .......................23 Performing arts collaboration ................21 Photo presentation of a social cause ......25 Picnic spot ............................................30 Pizza ....................................................10 Place for a comfortable root canal .........15 Place for a kid’s party ...........................28 Place for a small conference ..................15 Place for after the prom .......................27 Place for Atkins dieters ..........................7 Place for karaoke ...................................21 Place for smokers .................................18 Place for soldiers when they get home ...20 Place for toddlers .................................27 Place to be seen .....................................19 Place to blow a low-carb diet ..................8 Place to dine alone ..................................8 Place to eat after midnight ....................12

STAFF EDITOR Warren Epstein PHOTOGRAPHERS Jerilee Bennett and Christian Murdock WRITERS Ralph Millis, Teresa Farney, Bill Reed, Andrew Wineke, Mark Arnest, Jen Mulson, Linda Navarro, Dave Philipps, Deb Acord, Ed Sealover, Jim Bainbridge, Jay Beeton, Peter Rice, J. Adrian Stanley and Bill Radford COPY EDITORS Jim Bainbridge, Linda Doty, Lori Myrland and Rhonda Van Pelt ARTIST Nichole Montañez DESIGNERS David Demi-Smith and Stephen Olver

Place to eat in Cripple Creek ....................7 Place to find bargains ...........................30 Place to get cheap beer and see people in leather .................................................19 Place to get cheap wine ..........................31 Place to get clothes for a metrosexual poodle .............................31 Place to get good wine ............................31 Place to get it off your chest and make it rhyme ................................25 Place to make yourself hipper .................31 Place to read a book ..............................18 Place to see buffalo roam .......................18 Place to see wildlife ...............................18 Place to spend a big night ......................13 Place to spend a snowy day ...................18 Place to spot double-wide, four-wheeldrive, leather-seated strollers ...............15 Place to take grandkids ........................27 Place to take out-of-towners ................20 Place to volunteer ................................20 Place to watch the sun set .....................29 Pool hall ...............................................19 Press release .........................................19 Public pool ............................................29 Puerto Rican ..........................................12 Quick serve ............................................6 Radio personality ...................................19 Radio voice on TV .................................19 Real restaurant disguised as a fast-food joint .................................6 Really bad recycled commercial .............15

ON THE COVER Waiter Kevin Emery serves salads to Sox the Fox (Best Mascot) and Santa Claus (Best Santa) at the Peppertree (Readers’ Choice: Best Fine Dining, GO! Choice: Best Waitstaff).

Photo by Jerilee Bennett Cover design by Nichole Montañez

Really cheap haircut and style ...............15 Reason for anticipation ..........................19 Reason to be embarrassed about the way art is treated in Colorado Springs ..........25 Renovation/expansion ............................18 Rollerskating ........................................29 Santa Claus ..........................................27 Scenic drive ...........................................19 Seafood ................................................10 Season pass ..........................................25 Scenic walk ..........................................19 Shaded walk .........................................29 Shoe repair ...........................................20 Sinatra impersonator .............................25 Skateboard park ...................................28 Ski or board deal for kids .......................28 Ski resort, big ......................................29 Ski resort, small ....................................29 Ski shop ...............................................31 Ski-slope food .......................................13 Skiing for beginners ..............................29 Skiing for daredevils ..............................29 Small concert .......................................21 Smoothie ................................................7 Soul food ..............................................12 Soup ......................................................12 Sports bar ............................................12 Sports field ..........................................29 Starbucks ...............................................11 Steak ....................................................10 Stop-you-in-your-tracks taxi ..................18 Store at the Shops at Briargate .............31 Street performer ..................................25 Sunday brunch in a neighborhood hangout ............................7 Sunday brunch over $25 ..........................7 Sunday brunch under $25 ........................7 Sushi .....................................................10 Take-out ................................................10 Tamales .................................................13 Taqueria ...............................................10 Tennis courts ........................................29 Thai ......................................................12 Theater company ...................................22 Theatrical comedy ................................22 Theatrical drama ..................................22 Thing on Powers ...................................20 Thrill ride for very big kids ...................27 Tortillas ..................................................7 Toy store ..............................................31 TV personality .......................................19 Unusual therapy ....................................19 Urban trail ............................................29 Vegetarian options .................................5 Veggie burger .........................................5 Video store ...........................................31 Vietnamese ............................................12 Waitstaff ...............................................6 Yoga class ............................................15 Youth art program ................................27 Zoo animal .............................................18

Friday, April 23, 2004

THE GAZETTE

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DINING

THE GAZETTE FILE

NO, IT’S NOT TUSK-AN CUISINE: The Elephant Bar is the Pikes Peak region’s hot new eatery. Go on a Friday or Saturday night and you can expect a wait of 30 minutes or more.

in March, the menu suddenly exploded with new entries, including classic Italian preparations READERS’ CHOICE: The Elephant Bar Resand some that push the traditional envelope. taurant The latter includes the fabulous Calamari Fritti c This culinary safari on Academy Boulevard Arrabiata, a spicy appetizer with flash-fried is the hottest seat in town. Go on a Friday or Sat- breaded calamari, imported ripe olive, capers, tourday night and you can expect to hold one of matoes and green peppers pickled in vinegar. those vibrating pagers for 30 minutes or more.

And the Veal con Porcini, a lovely dish of exquisWhy is this new chain restaurant so popular? itely earthy porcini mushrooms in a silky cream The spinach dip is awesome and the salads are sauce could become Paravicini’s signature prepavery good. But it’s the zippy vintage Banana Re- ration. Paravicini’s could grow into one of the public decor that makes the Elephant Bar so Springs’ fine dining experiences. much fun. The Elephant, by the way, barely 2802 W. Colorado Ave. edged past Biaggi’s, a new Italian chain joint.

7585 N. Academy Blvd.

CHAIN RESTAURANT GO! CHOICE: Paravicini’s Italian Bistro Red, Hot & Blue c Our restaurant critic’s first visits here nearc The barbecue here is better than that of ally a year ago were awful. But recent visits sugmost all the locally owned smoked-rib places in gest this little Southern Italian joint has grown town. An ideal meal? A whole rack of the dryinto a neighborhood institution with style and rub hawg ribs, two hepin’s of the best tater salflashes of greatness. The servers now sparkle let on God’s green earth and a side order of with friendliness and solicitous efficiency, and, fried okry (douse it with the vinegar table

NEW RESTAURANT:

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Friday, April 23, 2004

from $19 for Free Range Rosemary Chicken Breast with Jerusalem Artichoke and Cipolline Onion Ragout and Sweet Vermouth Jus to $28 for Filet Au Poivre with Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes with Sherry Peppercorn Reduction and Wild Mushrooms. Figure in sophisticated FINE DINING desserts, a bright wine list and extra-attentive The Peppertree servers and you get a truly memorable gastroc Our readers know ronomic experience. Sometimes the best things in mance: candlelight, fork-tender READERS’ life do come in the smallest packages. filets seared tableside, twinkling CHOICE city lights through picture winWORTHY CONTENDERS: Walter’s Bistro and Charles Court at The Broadmoor hotel dows. Special occasions have never been more special than they are at The Peppertree.

FAST FOOD 888 W. Moreno Ave. Good Times Burgers & Frozen GO! CHOICE: La Petite Maison, 1015 W. Colo- Custard rado Ave. c At Good Times, they keep things simple. c The little Victorian house turned French Burgers, fries and frozen custard. And they do restaurant is returning to its glory days when it them well. The burgers have plenty of tasty fixopened 25 years ago. The ambience is intimate ings, the fries are covered in a thick, crispy batand cozy. Don’t miss the Goat Cheese Stuffed Piquillo Peppers ($7). Entrees range in price SEE DINING x PAGE 5 sauce). Eat this and any atheist leanin’s you had are gone, Hoss . . . you’ll know there is a lovin’ God lookin’ out for you.

4290 N. Academy Blvd.

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DINING FROM PAGE 4

ter that makes them stand out from the rest, and the frozen custard is long overdue in the largely custardless climes of Colorado Springs. This Colorado-based chain finally opened a Colorado Springs store in March, and up to 10 local locations are planned.

Let the Good Times roll.

3855 Astrozon Blvd.

WORTHY CONTENDERS: Chickfil-A, Classics and Panda Express

BAGEL Brooklyn Bagel Café c Every bagel shop boasts dozens of fringe flavors: spinach feta, jalapeño, four-cheese, and the always intriguing “everything.” The schmears are just as diverse. But a true bagel comes down to the delicate doughy dance between crisp and chewy, and no place steps to that tango better than Brooklyn.

132 N. Tejon St.

VEGGIE BURGER Gertrude’s Restaurant c Crisp outside and substantial inside without being too dense. This vegan patty mixes wild grains, beans, nuts, spinach and wild mushrooms, and is served on homemade bread with a zesty coleslaw. It’s so good

WHOLE-SOME SHOPPING: De-

even carnivores will clean their plates.

2625 W. Colorado Ave.

nise Langhorst shops for peppers in the colorful produce section of the new Whole Foods Market on the city’s northeast side.

MEXICAN MARKET Carniceria Leonela c It’s not just a mercado, it’s a supermercado. Clean and well lit with a helpful, bilingual staff, fresh produce, and a meat counter that’s a cut above the rest. They even sell goat meat.

3736 E. Pikes Peak Ave.

VEGETARIAN OPTIONS Whole Foods Market c Good, meat-free food used to be hard to find beyond Colorado Springs’ west side, but Whole Foods finally brought a dizzying variety of quick, fresh vegetarian dishes to the other side of I-25. Every day the supermarket’s deli whips up all-natural dishes in its kitchen: spinach-stuffed acorn squash, teriyaki sweet yams, spicy kung pao tofu and Sicilian kale, all ready to be devoured in the store or packed for home or office. A few steps from the deli counter, grazers can build salads by the pound. Best of all, veggie folks can dine at Whole Foods with their carnivorous loved ones without compromising, because the deli serves everything from discreetly flesh-filled sushi rolls (maki) to caveman hunks of lamb roasted on the

JERILEE BENNETT, THE GAZETTE

SEE DINING x PAGE 6

Come, Experience Our Traditional

Japanese Grill Cooking Tables (seating up to 10 people)

Order from our many delicious dishes of: Filet Mignon, Lobster, Scallops & Shrimp

and Everything for the Sushi lover too!

Two Locations

3215 Cinema Point (Near Imax Theater) 622-8866

4655 Centennial Blvd.

266-5858

(Call for Reservations) Friday, April 23, 2004

THE GAZETTE

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DINING FROM PAGE 5

bone.

7635 N. Academy Blvd.

REAL RESTAURANT DISGUISED AS A FAST-FOOD JOINT Bhan Thai c Don’t let low prices and counter service fool you. This is a legitimate restaurant, serving up curries, noodle dishes, soups and salads that stand up to some of the best Thai in town.

1025 N. Academy Blvd.

ALL-AROUND GOOD:

potle edges out the rest with the tastiest meats and salsas, the fastest service and prices that are tough to beat.

895 N. Academy Blvd., 5079 N. Academy Blvd., 7818 N. Academy Blvd., 1370 W. Garden of the Gods Road, 2130 Southgate Road, 17 S. Tejon St. WORTHY CONTENDERS: Deenz, Qdoba Mexican Grille, Bear Rock Café, Noodles & Company and Panera Bread

WAITSTAFF

The Peppertree c Aside from the terrific food, one of the pleasures of eating at The Peppertree is being waited on by the competent, thoroughly trained staff. From QUICK SERVE the moment you enter until they Chipotle flame your steak tableside, then finalc This is one of the more hotly ly help you put on your coat, the procontested categories this year. Several fessional staff give every indication restaurants have opened recently that they do this for a living and aren’t simping dishes to put themselves through aren’t quite sit-down restaurants, but ply transient English majors schleppcollege. No, “Hi, my name is Derek and are a clear step above fast food. ChiI’ll be serving you tonight,” thank God. They’re competent without being obtrusive, solicitous without being condescending. A Peppertree busboy could be a maitre d’ or headwaiter in most places in the Springs. Bravo!

888 W. Moreno Ave.

“Best Breakfast” by the Gazette & Independent

1/2 Price Omelettes Everyday from 6 - 7am

Happy Hour Mon - Fri from 4 - 7pm

Burger Madness ALL DAY – Sundays,Tuesdays & Thursdays!

Hours:

Hours:

Mon-Fri 6am - 2:30pm Sat & Sun 6am - 3pm

Sat & Sun 11am - 2pm

1 FREE Entree*

with purchase of 2nd entree of equal or lesser value

Monday - Friday ONLY! Omelette Parlor – 11:30am - 1:30pm O’Furry’s – 11 am - 4 pm *Excludes 1/2 price omelettes & Burger Madness. W/ coupon only. Expires 7/1/04

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Friday, April 23, 2004

MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE

elette Parlor, Gertrude’s Restaurant, Zorbadillo’s Heavenly Greek & Mexican Cuisine and La Creperie

FAST FOOD BREAKFAST

La Casita Patio Café c In a class by itself. The eggs are fresh, instead of processed egg patties. The tortillas are soft and warm.

These breakfast burritos are nothing BREAKFAST short of a gift from God when you’re Adam’s Mountain Café in need of a drive-through breakfast. c Breakfast without bacon? Seems And believe us, La Casita is just as like a misnomer — that is until you’ve fast as the burger joints. tasted Adam’s French-style salmon om306 S. Eighth St., 3504 N. Academy elet, fluffy dill-seasoned eggs wrapped Blvd., 4295 N. Nevada Blvd. around smoked salmon, cream WORTHY CONTENDER: Chickcheese, capers and scallions. Adam’s fil-A whole-grain pancakes dotted with CAESAR SALAD blueberries and covered with maple syrup may be the perfect blend of Nicky’s wholesome and decadent. If you’re c The classic Caesar — filmy, slightlucky, you’ll visit when the scallionly viscous with raw or coddled egg, mashed potato pancakes are being redolent of garlic, lemon, Parmigianoserved in a breakfast special. Who Reggiano, extra-virgin olive oil and needs bacon? other good, holy things — is tough to 110 Cañon Ave., Manitou Springs find. The closest we found was at Nicky’s place, as long as Nicky conjures it WORTHY CONTENDERS: Om-

Destination Dos

Voted

Chipotle — a chain with several locations around town — won in the Quick Serve category for its fast service, tasty food and hardto-beat prices.

himself tableside.

16 E. Bijou St.

CHIPS AND SALSA Sonterra Southwestern Grill c Dip a thick, crisp, hot-from-theoven chip into some warm, roasted tomato-and-chile salsa and you’re on your way to Mexican Nirvana.

28 S. Tejon St.

GREEN CHILI Amanda’s Fonda c Big chucks of pork, roasted chiles and an extra heaping of love make Amanda’s the chili of record.

3625 W. Colorado Ave. WORTHY CONTENDERS: La Unica and El Taco Rey

BUFFALO The Stagecoach Inn c Monday is Buffalo Night. You can have it served slow roasted, baked in a pastry shell and ringed with garlic mashed potatoes, as sausage, in a queSEE DINING x PAGE 7

HOPPIN’ HAPPY HOUR 3pm-6pm EVERY DAY! • 1/2 Price Appetizers • $2.49 Dos Margaritas • $1.59 Drafts • $1.99 Wells/Wine Best Margarita Menu in Town!

FINE MEXICAN FOOD & COCKTAILS 3071 S. Academy • 392-3000

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DINING FROM PAGE 6

sadilla, stew or pot roast. This buffalo is tender, tasty and in your price range. One bite and you’ll wish Buffalo Bill had slaughtered cattle instead.

702 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs WORTHY CONTENDERS: Ted’s Montana Grill, Wines of Colorado

TORTILLAS

c A pleasant, unhurried weekend treat with delicious egg specialities, french toast and a breakfast burrito.

Even the “steak: char it, well done” fan discovers it is fork tender.

1025 S. 21st St. WORTHY CONTENDERS: Phantom Canyon, Gertrude’s and Radisson Garden Terrace

menu to debut in a town where great food usually isn’t a top priority. How about chicken breast gorgonzola with creamed spinach? Or Chateaubriand for two? And this place also features an inventive martini bar where you can effectively celebrate your winning streak (or forget your losing streak).

256 E. Bennett Ave., Cripple Creek

SUNDAY BRUNCH IN A NEIGHBORHOOD HANGOUT

CHOCOLATE DESSERT

The deep chocolate soufflé with Godiva chocolate sauce at The Cliff Yukon Tavern House at Pikes Peak c Extensive menu changes weekly, c Plan ahead when ordering your and there’s a professional chef. A highmeal. This $9 chocolate dream is light: the Bloody Mary bar. made to order. When the show-stop525 S. Circle Drive ping, piping-hot soufflé is placed before you a waiter plunges a spoon ICE CREAM into its center and pours a healthy Josh & John’s Naturally Homemade stream of warm sauce into the fluffy Ice Creams mixture. This is how we want to die. c Like the other famous ice cream 306 Cañon Ave., Manitou Springs SMOOTHIE duo of Ben & Jerry, Josh & John pack Herb-n-Farm WORTHY CONTENDERS: Anytheir fresh-made ice cream with tons thing chocolate at Montague’s Coffee c If you don’t mind dining with col- of goodies. That’s part of the reason House or Sencha lege students, you won’t regret order- Josh & John’s won a blind taste test ing the “Very Berry Squeeze Freeze.” by five Gazette staffers last summer.

CAKE Other flavors to watch out for: J&J also likes to shake things up — The Great Wall of Chocolate at P.F. “Lemon Lust,” “Merry Citrus” and Jack Daniel’s ice cream anyone?

“Whyapapaya.” Herb-n-Farm is part of There’s a bottle of Jack in the back to Chang’s China Bistro c Six layers of cake separated the Colorado College food service, but prove they use real ingredients, and with creamy chocolate mousse frostsomehow they’ve managed to avoid you can watch the ice cream being that all-too-common blend of grease, made in tubs in the front of the store. ing ($6.95). The dinner plate-size salt and mediocrity. The ingredients Try a hot-fudge sundae when you feel wedge is served atop a raspberry coulis. Bring the family — there’s enough are noticibly fresher, more flavorful, like taking a quick trip to heaven. to feed the whole gang. and often organic. Portions are small111 E. Pikes Peak Ave. and 5152 N. er than average, but no one pesters 1725 Briargate Parkway Academy Blvd. you about getting a free “boost.”

WORTHY CONTENDERS: Like No WORTHY CONTENDER: Maggie 1090 N. Cascade Ave. on the ColoOther, etc. bakery and Gertrude’s Moo’s rado College campus

Tortillieria Los Comales Taqueria y Panaderia de los Rivera c If you think the name is long, check out the conveyor belt with the tortillas. As you watch the rows and rows of tortillas heading into the oven, take in that intoxicating aroma and recognize that cultural diversity is a very, very good thing.

609 S. Circle Drive

SUNDAY BRUNCH OVER $25

PLACE TO EAT IN CRIPPLE CREEK

Tommy D’s

PLACE FOR ATKINS DIETERS The Famous a Steak House c They’ve got your protein serving covered whether you’re going with red meat, poultry or fish. Couple your meat selection with one of their salads with blue cheese sprinkles and you’ll hardly believe you’re still on a diet.

31 N. Tejon St. WORTHY CONTENDERS: The Mason Jar and Ruby Tuesday

LOW-CARB BREAD Great Harvest Bread Co. SEE DINING x PAGE 8

• Distinguished Colorado Cuisine • Historic Location & Atmosphere • Romantic Setting • Spectacular Views • Private Parties

Your Inn...

Colorado Style 404 El Paso Blvd.

In Manitou Springs

BREAD

685-9000

La Baguette c For 20 years, baguettes and other French-style breads have been popping out of the ovens at La Ba-

OPEN NIGHTLY FROM 5:30PM RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED

The Broadmoor hotel Lake Terrace Down Under Steakhouse at the Dining Room Midnight Rose Casino c The quintessential Sunday c Probably the most ambitious brunch: Start with a spectacular view of the resort’s lake and the mountains beyond, add ambience, soft piano music and a highly trained international wait staff catering to your every need. Then there’s the food. Ah, the food: tables and tables of it. Serving stations for eggs Benedict, bananas Foster, waffles, ice cream sundaes and the carving stations. A bounty of salads, fresh fruit and vegetables, patés 21 S. Tejon Street • 385-0766 and seafood including salmon and lox.

Traditional Irish Fare & the Best American Varieties of hot dishes. True dining Cuisine Served for Lunch & Dinner Daily. heaven would be achieved if, as one diner observed, everyone could savor LIVE IRISH MUSIC round one, walk around the lake and Thanks for EVERY TUES, THURS & SUN come back and start again! making us Colorado with Mt. Road Ceili Band, Brian Springs’ Favorite 1 Lake Ave., in the main portion of Clancy, Irish Session Musicians, Irish Pub! The Broadmoor hotel. & the Colorado Skye Bagpipers WORTHY CONTENDER: Cheyenne HAPPY HOUR - DAILY 3-6 PM Mountain Resort

SUNDAY BREAKFAST/ BRUNCH UNDER $25

guette daily. Of special note are the croissants: A pound of butter is rolled into each four-pound batch of dough.

The handmade dough takes two days to complete the folding and rolling process. The result: buttery flaky goodness.

2417 W. Colorado Ave., 1420 Kelly Johnson Blvd., 4440 N. Chestnut St. WORTHY CONTENDERS: Wimberger’s Old World Bakery and Delicatessen, Whole Foods, Colorado Bread Co. (a wholesale baker, call 442-6800) and B&E Filling Station in Palmer Lake

Late-Night Happy Hour - Sunday 10 PM -1AM 1/2 Off Appetizers $250 Import pints • $200 Domestic pints $300 Premium Wells & Wines & Bottled Beer!

JUN

Japanese Restaurant

Voted “Readers’ Choice” 3 Years in a Row

The Best

Sushi in the Springs!

531-9368 1760 Dublin Blvd.

Join us for a pint!

Friday, April 23, 2004

THE GAZETTE

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light says “EAT” and the hot ones are ready to grab. Who can eat just one? c In an informal taste test in the Have two and you’ve blown your carb newsroom, Great Harvest low-carb count for the day! whole-grain bread beat out five other 501 N. Chelton Road, delivered to brands. With only 12 grams of carbohy- convenience stores and supermarkets drates, sandwiches can be part of the WORTHY CONTENDERS: Donut diet.

Mill and Panera Bread 6942 N. Academy Blvd. and 101 N. Tejon St. CHINESE BUFFET Spring Buffet BREAD FOR PEOPLE c The modest (compared to four ALLERGIC TO WHEAT or five mega-buffets in town) spread Outside the Breadbox of Chinese standards are OK. But two c Whether you’re looking for things make this place stand out: the wheat-free breads, cakes, cupcakes or reasonable price ($5.99 for lunch AND cookies, you’ll find fresh varieties dinner) and outstanding snow crab here that are so good, you’ll have to legs ($6 for a pound). keep them away from the non-allergic 1747 S. Eighth St. members of the family. Call-in orders are recommended; the number is CHINESE MEGA-BUFFET 633-3434.

Empire Asian Buffet 1508 W. Colorado Ave. c The granddaddy of local mega-

PLACE TO BLOW A LOW-CARB DIET Krispy Kreme c At 23 grams of carbohydrates per plain glazed doughnut, need we say more? You can smell the carbs jumping off the belt when the green

Family Owned and Operated Since 1973 AMERICAN BOARD CERTIFIED OPTICIANS AT ALL LOCATIONS

Dependable Service While You Wait All Doctor’s Prescriptions Filled Complete Contact Lens Service Insurance Plans Service Occupational Safety and Sport Glasses Military Discounts Store Front Parking

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Eye Examinations Available - Call For Appt. (Saturdays Included)

Owner: Earl Cleaveland

CITADEL CROSSING 925 N. Academy

NORTH ACADEMY 8033 N. Academy

Mgr: Terry Cleaveland

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Certified Optician

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597-1995

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DOWNTOWN 409 N. Tejon Mgr: Sandy Willis Certified Optician

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WE LOOK GOOD, GOOD ON YOU! 002

Tranquility Springs Home Spa We pamper you at your home or office.

Mon.-Sat. 9AM - 7PM

INDIAN BUFFET Mirch Masala c So many Indian buffets pander to the least common denominator.

Their entrees are good, but bland.

Mirch Masala isn’t afraid to throw a dish or two onto the buffet that smack your tastebuds and remind them what living is about. Extra touch: fresh naan (Indian flat bread) delivered to your table.

5047 N. Academy Blvd.

AL FRESCO DINING

The Wines of Colorado c Here is where you can while away an afternoon next to a bubbling mountain spring while enjoying a cool breeze. Order a wine burger topped buffets has fought off plenty of competition. It may not be the biggest any- with roasted green chile and select a more, but it’s still the best. The Mongo- bottle of wine from a Colorado winery lian barbecue is fabulous, the sushi is to sip. It’s all so inviting you may want to get a second bottle of wine to pretty good, the dim sum is exotic, while away the evening. the trays of Chinese food are well 8045 W. U.S. Highway 24 tended, and there are always a few dishes with shrimp or crab (such as WORTHY CONTENDERS: Charles Court at The Broadmoor hotel and The Margarita at Pine Creek

Welcome Home & Pamper the Women Thanks Troops! in Your Life • • • • • • •

seafood in coconut sauce) that go above and beyond. This place is a major gluttony fest.

5760 N. Academy Blvd.

Call for an appointment:

719-572-5295

PLACE TO DINE ALONE Montague’s Coffee House c Place your order at the counter, choose a cozy, overstuffed chair in a corner and hunker down with some reading material. This is a great place to enjoy some quality time with yourself and a yummy salad, croissant sandwich or bowl of chunky, homemade soup.

1019 S. Tejon St.

DINER King’s Chef Diner c Forget all those shiny faux dining cars and diner “theme” restaurants. Lean burgers, fresh-cut crispy fries, breakfast served all day, fiery vegetarian chili and heaping bowlfulls of attitude. That’s what a diner is really all about. Just look for the little purple castle.

110 E. Costilla St. WORTHY CONTENDERS: Barney’s Diner, North End Diner and Shoppers’ Grill

TAKE-OUT Whole Foods Market c It’s more than a fabulous grocery store, it’s a Pavlovian behavioral experiment. You look at the display cases with their glorious arrays of gourmet foods prepared by in-store

www.tranquilitysprings.biz

SEE DINING x PAGE 10

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05

19:09

0

Professional Builder Magazine named us

2004 National Builder of the Year.

But wait. It gets better.

There’s more to this story than an industry award. To select their National Builder of the Year, Professional Builder Magazine looks for fresh design, exceptional construction quality and outstanding customer satisfaction. In other words, the same things you’re looking for. So while the award went to us, the rewards go to you.Visit our eight communities throughout Colorado Springs and we’ll show you what you’ve won.

The Chestnut

See our map in today’s Peak New Homes section.

JohnLaingHomes.com

More thought per square foot.

Prices, specifications and availability are subject to change without notice.

Friday, April 23, 2004

THE GAZETTE

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DINING FROM PAGE 8

Street.

chefs, and salivation is inevitable.

7635 N. Academy Blvd.

WORTHY CONTENDERS: Buca di Beppo and Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N’ Bake Pizza

TAQUERIA

El Buen Taco c This hole-in-the-wall joint serves very good, authentic Mexican fast food. Go for the barbacoa — doublewrapped, piled high with marinated PIZZA chunks of grilled beef, drizzled with marinade and topped with onions, Palermo cilantro and cheese. A great deal for c We were crushed a few weeks ago when we heard that the decidedly $1.50.

7560 Black Forest Road downscale Palermo Bakery — and along with it, the best pizza in town — WORTHY CONTENDERS: Alfonwas finito, terminare, consumato, leav- so’s, Taqueria los Compas, Los Tacos ing us with a severe case of the pepand Carniceria Leonela peroni jones. Then, came the good MARGARITA news: a new Palermo is in the works!

El Tesoro Restaurant & Gallery Palermo pizza is worth waiting for: You’ll never order from a chain pizza c Here is where you’ll find the palace again. gold standard for a perfect margarita: The Original Margarita made with Look for a new location opening freshly squeezed lime juice, a healthy within days (or a couple of weeks) in pour of Sauza tequila with a splash of the shopping strip on the southeast corner of Nevada Avenue at Las Vegas Cointreau. None of that phony stuff.

st Ja The e zz e B madeage In Best h T me aus Tow o S ! n!

TuneTown H an wn i

l o Ita in t

at Mollicas, with local music patriarch and founder Rick Jolly on guitar and son Tim Zahn on Accordian and Piano. BONUS: Brad Easton on Sax Friday & Saturday

and Now...High Speed Internet Hot Spot!

ITALIAN MARKET

Lunch • Dinner • Take-Out Catering • Banquet Room

985-A Garden of the Gods

598-1088 www.mollicas.com

•Homemade Take-Out Dinners •Fresh Pasta •Sauces •Meats •Cheeses

Voted “The Best” Chinese Cuisine & Ambiance in The Springs 4 years in a row by Readers’ Choice & The Gazette

THE GAZETTE FILE

CHINESE CHAIN: P.F. Chang’s China Bistro restaurant is one of several new restaurants at the new

Shops at Briargate mall off Briargate Parkway.

10 N. Sierra Madre St. WORTHY CONTENDERS: The Loop and Jose Muldoon’s

DECEPTIVELY NON-FRUFRU DRINK The Stoli Doli at Sonterra Southwestern Grill c They let the vodka sit with loads of pineapple in a giant carafe for more than a week. When poured out, it tastes like pineapple juice with a mild kick. Have two and the kick isn’t so mild. This drink, which costs, $8.50, is staggeringly good.

28 S. Tejon St.

DOUGHNUT Woody’s Continental Pastries c The applesauce cake doughnuts

rule! Next best, plain cake doughnuts for dunking and yummy cinnamonsugar ones. Blueberry doughnuts are a Friday-only treat.

2226 N. Wahsatch Ave. in the Bon Shopping Center WORTHY CONTENDERS: Donut Mill, Daylight Donut and Krispy Kreme (when devoured in the store, just off the line and melt-in-your-mouth fresh)

SUSHI Tako Japanese Restaurant c Sit at the sushi bar to watch a master at work. If you know a little about sushi, and we tell you that he puts AT LEAST TWO HEAPING TABLESPOONS (!!) of phosphorescent orange ikura (red salmon roe) on each perfect nori-wrapped piece, you’ll lay rubber

Elegant Fine Dining and Lounge

Our 8th Anniversary Celebration

New

April 15th

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find yourself.

15% OFF

Dine In Lunch or Dinner Entrees Excludes Tax, Peking Duck and Lobster.

Not valid with other offers. Expires 5/05/04

594-9343 • 5670 N. Academy Blvd.

West Side of Academy, Please call for directions

BEST10

THE GAZETTE

Friday, April 23, 2004

Trendy

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Classic

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It’s spring at THE REVOLUTION SELL • TRADE • CONSIGN BY APPOINTMENT Mon-Fri 10 to 6 • Sat 10 to 5 1312 W. Colorado Avenue • 633-1357

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to get to Tako immediately. When we finished, there appeared before us (gratis!) a miracle of the master’s own concoction — a unique, unbelievably rich and silky avocado and salmon skin maki zushi (rolled sushi)! “Slow night . . . just goofin’ around . . . see if this is any good,” he said, almost apologetically. Incredible sushi stuff, from Ama-ebi (sweet shrimp) to kaZunoko (herring roe). Go to Tako . . . and pray it’s a slow night.

1840 Dominion Way

SEAFOOD Emily’s Ocean Grill & Steak House c It may seem counter-intuiative, fresh seafood in a little mountain town. But Emily’s does it by flying in fresh ocean delights three times a week, preparing them with care and flourish, and keeping the price amazingly reasonable. Most fish specials cost less than $16. We highly recommend the blackened Mexican escolar topped with lobster hollandaise. This region hasn’t seen fish this good since Academy Street Grill & Oyster Bar closed in the mid-’90s.

609 W. Midland Ave., Woodland Park

STEAK Black Bear Restaurant SEE DINING x PAGE 11

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nese places in town. It’s certainly the lightest, and you won’t find a trace of an oily spot on the doily beneath the still-sizzling pieces.

1840 Dominion Way

c Combine natural beef from Ranch Foods Direct with chef Victor Matthews’ culinary expertise and you wind up with tenderloin that stacks up against the best meat dishes at the MEXICAN best restaurants in the world. That is 3 Margaritas not an overstatement. c A mariachi 10375 Ute Pass Ave., Green Mounband plays as you inREADERS’ tain Falls in authenticCHOICE dulge tasting Mexican WORTHY CONTENDERS: The Fafood. On the strength of consistent mous, the Peppertree and the Steakfamily recipes and colorful ambience, smith 3 Margaritas has grown from a single COFFEE restaurant to a local chain with four Coffee Warehouse locations. c The beans here are rich and 310 S. Academy Blvd., 3956 N. Acaddark. emy Blvd., 4608 Rusina Road, 6385 N. Academy Blvd.

In fact, they have more bite than bark.

GO! CHOICE: El Palenque They leave no bitter taste, c This unassuming gem is where the old Chi-Chi’s used to be just off Get thee a cup, post haste.

North Academy Boulevard, but it’s as 526 S. Tejon St. far from chain Mexican as you can get. The food here represents all COFFEE PLACE areas of Mexico, not just the inescapColorado Bean Coffee Roaster able Tex-Mex border foods entrenched c Stepping into Colorado Bean in the Rockies and Southwest. Start feels like dropping through a wormwith a terrific Seviche de Pescado worhole. . . . A moment ago you were in thy of Mexico’s Pacific coast, move on strip-mall suburbia, and now you’re in to Botana De Cameron O Pulpo O a forgotten hunting lodge, easing into Combo (a huge array of buttera leather sofa, holding a steaming cup sautéed shrimp or octopus, or both, o’ joe, and staring up at a log-beam served with a unique green sauce) ceiling. The coffee’s not the best in and Molcajete A La Mexicana (a stuntown, but the ambience is. (And while ning mélange of carne asada, chorizo, you’re there, don’t miss the homenopal asado, frijoles and other indigemade gelato — sinfully delicious.) nous Mexican ingredients, all served 3590-G Hartsel Drive in a fiery stone pot with flour tortillas WORTHY CONTENDERS: Pikes on the side). The Molcajete will put Perk Coffee & Tea House, Boulder any Tex-Mex fajitas you have ever had Street Coffee Roasters, Black Bear Cof- into the deep, dark shade. The best, fee & Tea Lodge and The Maté Factor and most authentic MEXICAN food in town — other candidates, pretenders STARBUCKS all, aren’t even close. c Starbucks Coffee Co. at the inter2165 Academy Place section of Centennial Boulevard and Garden of the Gods Road, where you’ll ITALIAN find a cozy space filled with comfy Fratelli-Ristoranto Italiano overstuffed couches and chairs. Parkc This quaint, elegantly appointed ing is a breeze or, if you’re in a rush, downtown restaurant is just about the use the drive-through. There’s a nice closest thing we have to the fine, patio, too, where you can take a moslightly upscale trattorias you’ll find ment to count your blessings for livall over Italy. It’s tiny — only seven or ing in Colorado while sipping your joe. eight tables — so be sure to call ahead (For people-watching, the store at to reserve your table for two. Then Tejon and Bijou streets still is the order: antipasto miste to begin. Next, best.) one diner should go for the Pollo 4465 Centennial Blvd.

Marsala (the best in town); the other focuses on the tender, and real, Veal Pizzaoli. Finish with chocolate cannoli JAPANESE and a strawberry crème with a Gran Tako Japanese Restaurant Marnier “cookie.” Finally, sip the last of your wine or wrap yourself around c See BEST SUSHI, above. Tako again. Try the Seafood Tempura (giant a premium grappa as you pull Louis shrimp, white-fleshed fish fillets, very Prima and his orchestra from the backtender, thick calmari strips, absolutely ground and realize how good he and Keely Smith really were. fresh seasonal vegetables, etc.) and compare it to that of other good Japa124 N. Nevada Ave.

WORTHY CONTENDERS: Paravicini’s Italian Bistro and Café Giovanna

CHINESE P.F. Chang’s China Bistro READERS’ c Beyond the war horse statCHOICE giant ues resides one of the most popular upscale chain restaurants in America. Chang’s does a Chinese-American fusion with fresh ingredients and clean, modern decor that doesn’t include a single red lantern.

The chicken lettuce wraps alone make Chang’s worth the trip.

1725 Briargate Parkway at The Shops at Briargate GO! CHOICE: The Silver Pond c When the Silver Pond was in its old location — now, like most of America, a used-car lot — we thought the rambling building had a sort of vintage charm that meshed perfectly with the excellent food. We worried that since moving to more upscale digs, the food might have regressed.

Our worries were groundless. The Pond still puts out dishes from a variety of Chinese cuisines that are very nice indeed. The food, coupled with the elegant ambience, keep it at No. 1 in our book. Try the subtle, stunningly simple fried softshell crabs as an appetizer, and follow them up with the

kimchi and . . . red peppers . . . and garlic . . . lots of red peppers and garlic.

The prices are unbelievably reasonable: Four of you can load up with more than you should reasonably expect to eat and still retain your amateur standing, all for less than $40, total. Lee’s Noodle House is one of the hidden ethnic treasures in our town.

3752 Astrozon Blvd.

edgy Szechuan lamb stir-fry, surely one of the premier lamb dishes in the Springs.

5670 N. Academy Blvd.

WORTHY CONTENDERS: Tsingtao House, Chopsticks Chinese Bistro and Shangrila

KOREAN Lee’s Noodle House c If you have a Korean grandmother, this is what she’ll dish up for the family reunion. Lee’s gives you a choice of 15 noodle varieties and combinations, fire-grilled red meats such as kalbi and bulgoki, rice “slumgullions” such as bimimbap, “Korean sushi,” a bewildering assortment of

INDIAN Mirch Masala c It’s about subtlety of flavors.

Each of the curries has its own distinct personality. You’d never confuse the roganjosh with the tikka masala.

SEE DINING x PAGE 12

Bring in Coupon and Receive a 10% Discount off Purchase

“It’s more a combo of a cozy living room, funky bistro and elegant bar.”

-MB Partlow The Independent

“Your Gourmet Food Store!”

Voted Best o f th Spring e s

107 E. Pikes Peak Ave. Phone 473-2342

On the Oliver Green Salad: “I don’t believe this blend of mixed young salad greens, walnuts, bleu cheese, and the best dang orange vinaigrette you have ever tasted. . .”

“Best reason to go out to lunch; Shuga’s Shrimp Soup.”

-editor’s choice Kathryn Eastburn Indy Best of 2002

“Shuga’s Soup”

voted Best

tte, - The Gaze

A Journey to another time and place

E

-Ralph Millis The Gazette

tapas bruchsetta soups greens desserts

03 Best of 20

“Best place to see and be seen.”

-Gazette, Ed itor’s Choice 2002

serving all day 11am-10pm price range $3-12.50

restaurant • bar 702 S. CASCADE 328-1412

C

njoy the culinary treasures of this authentic ancient Cuisine and savor the magic of the Mediterranean in this unique dining experience.

all ahead for information on additional, parking

101 N. Tejon

(entrance on Kiowa Between Tejon & Nevada)

Friday, April 23, 2004

THE GAZETTE

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And the saag (spinach purée) here may be the most perfect single food on the planet.

5047 N. Academy Blvd.

THAI Royal Thai Restaurant c The green curry is so good you could drink it. You could just pour it in a glass and drink it.

3725 Austin Bluffs Parkway

GREEK Jake & Telly’s Bar & Grill c From soft, fresh dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) to fresh-tasting, herb-y tzaziki (yogurt and dill sauce) to lamb gyros and warm, comforting

pita bread, this Old Colorado City restaurant is an authentic delight. Enjoy a platter of hummus and vegetables and a glass of Greek white wine out on the balcony overlooking the masses this summer.

2616 W. Colorado Ave.

SOUL FOOD Prime Time Tavern c The fried catfish fillets are thick and meaty, with just enough breading.

Get a little mac and cheese or red beans and rice on the side. Don’t worry, a few slices of Atkins-defying white bread will help you mop it all up. If you’re really feeling ambitious, go for the rack of ribs. And definitely come hungry.

230 Pueblo Ave.

L”ing!

W O B “ o G BUY 1 Teriyaki Bowl

GET 1 HALF PRICE

TERIYAKI GRILL

Not valid with any other offer. Present coupon when ordering. One coupon per party per visit. No substitutions please. Expires 5/15/04

FAST HEALTHY DELICIOUS

NE Corner of Woodmen & Lexington: 265-8779 SE Corner of Garden of the Gods Rd. & Centennial: 266-0830

05 25 04

BARBECUE Front Range Barbecue c Everything the masters here touch with smoke — pork, beef, chicken — is at least real good, sometimes even meriting the highest accolade: Fittin’. The sauce takes a bit of getting used to: it has a tadge of chili powder in it and tastes like what our Mississippi relatives would recognize as a Southern ketchup barbecue sauce. It will grow on you, though.

2330 W. Colorado Ave.

stairs. Phantom really is the definition of a brew pub: a casual atmosphere where you can down a quick beer after work or spend a full night revelling with friends.

2 E. Pikes Peak Ave.

SPORTS BAR

Fanz Sports Grill c If your idea of “sports” is suds and the opposite sex, Champp’s and Old Chicago are still the jousting fields of choice. The best all-around sports bar, though, is Fanz Sports Grill on Colorado Avenue just west of I-25.

VIETNAMESE It’s a neighborhood place with cheery Saigon Grill staff, friendly local denizens and a livec It’s about freshness. It’s about ly atmosphere enhanced, but not dombiting into a rice-paper-wrapped spring roll and feeling the sprouts, let- inated, by almost a dozen TVs tuned to the biggest sport events. But the tuce and shrimp snap in your mouth with great big bursts of flavor. Saigon food itself is worth the visit, even if Grill is a new upstart that came into a you’re not into sports, or bars for that matter. Try the marinated Shoestring town already full of fine Vietnamese Calamari served with a tequila lime cuisine. And it beat them all. dip and the most primal burger in 3119 W. Colorado Ave. town — the Black and Bleu, a blackWORTHY CONTENDERS: Saigon ened loose-meat burger covered with Café and Saigon Springs bleu cheese. Order one rare, and die happy, your life’s work now justified.

LOCAL BREW 817 W. Colorado Ave. Bristol Brewing’s Edge City Pilsner c There are hoppier beers and BLT heavier beers, but no local brew Sheldon’s Luncheonette comes as close to perfecting its style c When it comes to bacon, Shelas this pilsner. Its sharp taste blends don’s isn’t kidding around. Order the into a smooth swallow and is great as BLT, and you’ll get lots of it. You can a single sipper or a beer with which even choose between medium and you can go all night. Available only at crisp. the brewery.

310 S. Eighth St., 204 Mountain 1647 S. Tejon St. View Lane

BREW PUB Phantom Canyon Brewing c It’s all here: Quality beer, a full menu, accommodating bartenders, and pool tables and televisions up-

SOUP Sencha c Cream of Mushroom Soup that’s steaming hot and filled with all sorts of wild mushrooms. It’s a meal in it-

Enjoy the unique dining experience of The Mona Lisa.

Flavorful cheeses, fresh vegetables & baked breads, the finest meats & seafood choices, and decadent chocolate fondues Dinners starting at 5pm, Tuesday through Sunday.

Reservations are recommended.

Come Experience the Romance of The Mona Lisa’s New Wine Tasting Bar

ns a i sic u gM n i l ol Str

Pa tio Di nin g

Voted “The Best” German & Continental Cuisine for 4 years running.

Dine in... ...a truly authentic Bavarian Atmosphere and relax in our lovely, bier garden, without having to fly to Germany!

Offering a wonderful selection of wines, plus, you can enjoy the delicious cheese and chocolate fondues from The Mona Lisa.

Walk-ins for Mona’s Wine Cellar are welcome.

685 .0277

733 Manitou Avenue in Downtown Manitou Springs Experience The Mona Lisa online at monalisafondue.com BEST12

THE GAZETTE

Friday, April 23, 2004

Enjoy...

Welcome home to our Military.

We are glad to have you back!

...Bavarian favorites such as Schnitzel, Sauerbraten & Cordon Bleu.

633-2220

34 East Ramona Avenue

self.

331 S. Nevada Ave. WORTHY CONTENDERS: Shuga’s

COLORADO CUISINE Briarhurst Manor Inn c Chip Johnson, Colorado-chef d’cuisine, has brought his way with allthings-Colorado to the Tudor-style restaurant.

404 Manitou Ave. in Manitou Springs WORTHY CONTENDERS: Black Bear Restaurant in Green Mountain Falls and Craftwood Inn

GERMAN Uwe’s German Restaurant c When it comes to comfort food, Uwe’s is the La-Z-Boy Super Store.

We’re talking goulash and schnitzel that warm you from the inside out and put a smile on your face.

31 N. Iowa St.

PLACE TO EAT AFTER MIDNIGHT The Pita Pit c Cram a ginormous greek pita down your gullet until 3 a.m. FridaysSaturdays.

8 E. Bijou St.

CARIBBEAN A&Z Caribbean Market and Restaurant c A banana-yellow ceiling fan whirls around the pungent aroma of slow-cooked chicken prepared in various wonderful ways: jerked, curried or Caribbean stewed. Mmmm. You can taste the tide coming in.

3016 S. Academy Blvd.

PUERTO RICAN We Like It Hot Puerto Rican Restaurant c Sure, go into We Like It Hot and eat braised beef brisket, pickled fish, fried plantains, Caribbean chicken, fried pork ribs, mucho beans and gracious knows what else. Do that and you’ll be tight as a tick and won’t have space for THE BEST SANDWICH IN THE SPRINGS — correction, IN COLORADO AND ANYPLACE ELSE YOU CAN TRAVEL TO IN A DAY’S TIME. Order the Cubano Sandwich, tell the server to double up on the pulled pork and drop the ham and the Swiss cheese; have the cook toast the pressed loaf of French bread until it’s slightly charred and crisp. Then bite into that perfect jewel of a sandwich. You’ll know you were born to be in that little restaurant at that instant, giving thanks for pork and Puerto Rico.

1853 S. Academy Blvd.

SEE DINING x PAGE 13

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FILIPINO

PLACE TO SPEND A BIG NIGHT Paravicini’s Italian Bistro c It’s the only place in town where you can experience a meal fashioned after the foodie movie “Big Night.”

Great food, flowing wine, singing and dancing. It’s a monthly affair not to be missed. The menu always features the legendary timballo, but other dishes will vary. Cost is $45 per person. The restaurant usually does a Big Night once a month, but call for details: 471-8200.

2802 W. Colorado Ave.

Town Fiesta c The most unfamiliar, and underrated, Asian cuisine has to be that of the Philippine Archipelago. You can introduce yourself to it with a leisurely visit to Town Fiesta, the quintessential native food buffet turned Philippine cafeteria. The dozen or so selections change daily, but expect to find such things as pig’s knuckles, soups, noodles, stir fries, okra and eggplant, banana blossoms, chicken stews, slowcooked soy beef, pork belly, and other goodies, many touched with patis — Fil- SKI-SLOPE FOOD ipino fermented fish sauce.

Sunspot Restaurant at Winter Park Resort 1861 S. Academy Blvd. c This is how on-mountain dining is supposed to be — two-handed buffalo burgers and fancier fare served in a fine-dining atmosphere in a massive QUICK HITS CALAMARI: Paravicini’s Italian Bistro, 2802 W. Colorado Ave. OYSTERS: Oscar’s, 333 S. Tejon St. CRAB CAKES: The Blue Star, 1645 S. Tejon St. CORNED BEEF AND CABBAGE: Jack Quinn’s, 21 S. Tejon St. FISH AND CHIPS: Jack Quinn’s, 21 S. Tejon St. PASTA: Cafe Giovanna, 773 Garden of the Gods Road.

HOT DOG: Spud Melvin’s, Circle Drive at Palmer Park Boulevard FRIED CHICKEN: Juniper Valley Ranch, 16350 Highway 115 (12 miles past main Fort Carson entrance) BURRITO: The avocado pork burrito at El Taco Rey, 330 E. Colorado Ave. SALAD BAR: Souper Salad, 3636 Citadel Drive North, 1434 Kelly Johnson Blvd., 808 Garden of the Gods Road BAR SALAD: The chicken-berry salad at The Keg Lounge, 730 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs FREE SAMPLES (HIGH BROW): Par Avion Finer Foods Emporium, 4510 Oro Blanco Drive and 1872 Southgate Road FREE SAMPLES (MIDDLE BROW): Whole Foods Market, 7635 N. Academy Blvd.

FREE SAMPLES (LOW BROW): Sam’s Club, 715 S. Academy Blvd. and 1850 E. Woodmen Road DELI: Broadway Deli, 7170 N. Academy Blvd. and 24 S. Tejon St. WINGS: SouthSide Johnny’s, 528 S. Tejon St. VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT: Organic Earth Cafe, 1124 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs MARTINI: “Dirty Bird” at 15C, 15C E. Bijou St.

log lodge on top of the mountain. Ski boots welcome.

At the top of Winter Park’s Zephyr Lift.

LOCALLY OWNED RESTAURANT ON CHAIN-DOMINATED POWERS BOULEVARD Ai Sushi & Grill c Ai means love in Japanese, which is appropriate because we love the sushi at this place. The fish is always fresh, and the sushi chefs create surprising and beautiful combinations.

The ambience is calming and elegant at this new location next to Cinemark, with cool greens and blues. Don’t forget the “grill” part — Ai Sushi & Grill offers something for everyone, with teppan-yaki grill tables for those who like witty repartée, pyrotechnic cooking and their meat cooked.

BURGER

3215 Cinema Point

The Keg Lounge c What’s a burger without grilled onions? It’s like Toll House cookies without the chocolate chips. And no place gives you a bigger, juicier burger with onions than the Keg Lounge.

Better yet, you can choose your burger’s source: cow or buffalo.

730 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs WORTHY CONTENDERS: The Wines of Colorado and Wooglin’s Deli

TAMALES El Taco Rey c Unwrap the husk and discover a world of deliciousness. So moist and fresh it oozes in your mouth. Spicy enough to keep you on your toes. The homey El Taco Rey hangs its hat on old family recipes, and this one is peerless in this city.

330 E. Colorado Ave. WORTHY CONTENDER: Carniceria Leonela

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WORLD CLASS DINING AT THE BROADMOOR Nowhere else will you find so many extraordinary restaurants.

The contemporary charm of Charles Court. The savory, wood-grilled fare of The Tavern. Magnificent brunches at the Lake Terrace Dining Room.

Larry Sparks Exclusive Agent

Award-winning fine wines and vintage romance at The Penrose Room.

Traditional favorites and fun of Café Julie, The Golden Bee, and more.

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For dining, call Reservations at The Broadmoor 719-577-5733 www.broadmoor.com

Friday, April 23, 2004

THE GAZETTE

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Phantom Canyon m for best brew pub, a kudos for its Sunday

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CITY LIFE

BRYAN OLLER, THE GAZETTE

UNSURPASSED: Nothing man has created in the more than 125 years since Colorado Springs was founded can match the natural splendor of Garden of the Gods.

OLYMPICLEVEL TOUGH: Colo-

FEAT OF GYMNASTICS AT 55 MPH Rulon Gardner’s motorcycle crash c In March, the Olympic wrestler was hit by a car, thrown from his Harley, flew about 12 feet high upside-down, cleared the car, and landed on his left shoulder and arm before bouncing to his feet. He suffered only some bad scrapes and scratches. Talk about tough.

rado Springs firefighters treat Olympic wrestler Rulon Gardner after his March 30 accident on Sahwatch Street in downtown Colorado Springs. Gardner escaped with nothing more than some bad scrapes and bruises from the mishap.

PARKING LOT The newish city garage at Cascade Avenue and Bijou Street c Stop circling downtown blocks like a car full of teenage Friday night cruisers, and park it already. For a garage, it has pretty easy access and is as cheap as a parking meter, plus you don’t have to worry about having change.

LOCAL BLOG MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE

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Friday, April 23, 2004

www.girlandgeek.com

c Some couples spend quality time at restaurants and spas. Others, like the creators of girlandgeek.com, post quirky and often amusing missives about life, their adventures around town, TV, and other random oddities. Be sure to look for the “Peanut Butter Jelly Time!” animation.

LOCAL DATING SERVICE Perfectly Matched c Her name was Donna, she was a match queen. With yellow feathers in her hair, and a success rate up to there. She would interview, and play the match game.

And while she tried to keep hopes high, the sparks would often fly. www.perfectlymatcheddating.com

LOCAL WEB SITE www.sceneinthesprings.com c In the mood for a little taste of jazz or

an accoustic guitar set? Scene in the Springs can help you find what you’re hankering for on those spur-of-the-moment after-dark outings. It delivers daily schedules of entertainment in Mr. Palmer’s town, with hot links so you can obtain details about the venue and the performer, crossreferenced by genre.

DOCTOR’S WAITING ROOM Mountain View Medical Group at Briargate c Not cold and sterile like many waiting rooms, this one uses lots of earth tones, hanging handmade quilts and comfy chairs (arranged in clusters rather than lined up on the wall) to create a homey feel. There’s a large fountain on one side of the office, and a play area with a cool magnetized table, where kids can manipulate toy bugs SEE CITY LIFE x PAGE 15

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CITY LIFE FROM PAGE 14

QUICK HITS

and things. But the office’s most amazing feature: magazines that are actually from this month!

8890 N. Union Blvd., suite 200.

PLACE TO SPOT DOUBLE-WIDE, FOUR-WHEEL-DRIVE, LEATHERSEATED STROLLERS: Shops at Briargate BEST MOTEL NAME: Dun Rovin’ MASCOT: Sox the Fox, the spokesfox for the Sky Sox CORPORATE RETREAT: The Broadmoor hotel, 1 Lake Circle PLACE FOR A SMALL CONFERENCE: Glen Eyrie Conference Center, 3820 N. 30th St. JUKEBOX: Tony’s, 311 N. Tejon St.

E-NEWSLETTER Blues Update c Stay on top of local blues with this handy electronic periodical. To subscribe, send an e-mail to info@pikespeakblues.org

CHICAGO-STYLE HAIRCUT Chicago Style Barber Shop c Does it have a certain windblown look? Is it the secret side-part found in Al Capone’s vault? What the heck is a Chicago-style haircut? Well, it’s old-fashioned, tapered on the sides, and a little longer on the top, says shop owner Hilda Arce, who was born in Chihuahua, Mexico, but learned to cut hair from old Italian barbers in “Cheecago.” Her shop is an homage to the Windy City with pictures of Wrigley Field and the Sears Tower hanging on the walls but, Arce said, she’ll give any style cut the customer wants. “I have one guy who gets his hair done just like Elvis.”

2114 E. Platte Ave.

FLAT-TOP CUT

c More than 20 years ago, Chavez co-founded Viva, the hottest salon in town, and since then he has stayed on the cutting edge of hair fashions. For four years he worked at Veda Salon, and about a year ago, he opened his own place, J. Gregory Salon. He gets a pretty penny for a cut and style — $55.

But you’ll look like a million dollars.

1701 S. Tejon St.

REALLY CHEAP HAIRCUT AND STYLE TIGI Hairdressing Academy c For $6-$7, you can get haircuts by the stylist stars of tomorrow. And their instructors supervise, so you won’t end up looking like a porcupine . . . unless, of course, you want to.

332 Main St., Security

MANICURES FOR Arlo’s Barber & Styling c Arlo’s has been taking a little (and METROSEXUALS sometimes a lot) off the top for 38 years. Columbine Day Spa c Women won’t think any less of a 1730 Brookwood Drive. man who has clean, buffed, wellHAIRSTYLIST trimmed and clear-glossed nails. Well, unless they look better than theirs do.

Greg Chavez at J. Gregory Salon

Then they will be a little worried. Try the Gentleman’s Manicure, which includes a mask, lotion and massage, for $25.

2180 Hollow Brook Drive

YOGA CLASS Spring Street Yoga c As you do your Downward-Facing Dog, Angry Cat and Sun Salutations, you can enjoy upscale, candlelit spa-like ambience. Spring Street Yoga’s instructors, all certified by the National Yoga Alliance, offer everything from restorative sessions to Advanced Flow classes. Final relaxation portions of the classes are accompanied by head massages. And afterward, herbal tea is served. You’re at peace with the world . . . at least until you head back to work or pick up your kids from soccer practice.

740 Village Center Drive in the Rockrimmon Safeway shopping center

PLACE FOR A COMFORTABLE ROOT CANAL TIE: Rota & Smith Dental Center

8610 Explorer Drive, suite 315

and Aesthetic Dentistry by Design c These practices, both in northern Colorado Springs, have embraced the concept of spa dentistry and do their best to pamper patients. Enjoy the living-room feel and cookies and coffee at Rota & Smith’s waiting room or snuggle into the leather furniture at Aesthetic Dentistry. Once you’re in the dental chair at either, you can watch a movie and enjoy a paraffin wax hand treatment while the dentist goes to work.

1750 Telstar Drive, suite 200, and

REALLY BAD RECYCLED COMMERCIAL Carpet Clearance Warehouse c Those wacky — and very successful — Rug-It Righters are back. The flamboyant duo is soaking up the sunshine in Florida, but their first Madman Mark/Buffalo Bob cut-the-roll-ofcarpet-in-half commercial from the 1980s has returned to local TV. And beware, there are 20-25 of the groaners SEE CITY LIFE x PAGE 18

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Friday, April 23, 2004

THE GAZETTE

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CITY LIFE FROM PAGE 15

CLEANED AND FED:

Customers eat at The Hub, a diner and car wash at 4460 Forest Hill Road, just off Garden of the Gods Road.

Colorado Springs has two of these chain outfits, where you can grab a hot meal while your car is being washed and detailed.

still out there. Back then, the store was called Generic Carpet Warehouse.

Today the company has four stores, three in Colorado.

FLASHY TOW TRUCK Anthony’s Towing LLC c Lightning, you can see him coming. Sizzling, multicolored flames shoot across the custom-painted cab of towing veteran Wayne Anthony’s truck.

STOP-YOU-IN-YOUR-TRACKS TAXI London taxi c Beep beep, it’s a traffic-stopping, high-backed 1976 Austin FX4, quite a sight on Colorado Springs streets. The owners are Chester and Melissa Gillings, and you can request the car through Yellow Cab. MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE

PLACE TO SEE WILDLIFE Former Colorado Springs Airport c It’s where the coyotes roam.

Area residents are trying to get this grassland protected as open space.

The coyotes would approve.

there’s a wait list for ’em. Pop in when you’re feeling all James Bondish and want to say to hell with your lung capacity.

15 E. Bijou St.

PLACE TO SEE BUFFALO ROAM

PLACE TO READ A BOOK

PLACE FOR SMOKERS

PARK

The Book Broker c Four comfy chairs before a roarOld Colorado City ing fire. What better setting for a c In December, several of the bufgood book on a dark and stormy faloes from the G&C Packing Co. got loose and rampaged through Old Colo- night?

119 E. Bijou St. rado City.

Garden of the Gods 15C c With its otherworldly sandstone You know a place is smoker-friendly when they rent out cigar humidors rock formations, this park rivals anyon a yearly basis. Even more so when thing in Utah’s famous Canyonlands,

especially at sunrise and sunset.

action.

RENOVATION/EXPANSION

The African Rift Valley at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo The Hub Johnny Nolan c The African Rift has changed the of SouthSide Johnny’s c Sure, you can get a fancy car whole dynamic of going to the zoo. wash anywhere. But where else can c Bartenders in Colorado Springs You don’t just stand behind glass or a you get honey citrus salmon to go ought to tip their hats to Johnny cage looking at the animals, you walk with that wash? The Hub is a standard Nolan. After a long stint as a beloved right through their environment. This car wash on the outside and an upbartender at The Ritz Grill, Nolan scale eatery on the inside, so you can opened his own establishment, South- $11 million project immerses visitors in dine as your car is being detailed.

Side Johnny’s. Ownership comes with a slice of Africa, complete with a replica of a 900-year-old baobab tree, red Multi-tasking never tasted so good. plenty of responsibilities, but that river hogs, meerkats and the largest doesn’t stop Nolan from occasionally 4460 Forest Hill Road and 6995 giraffe herd in captivity. slinging drinks or playing doorman for Lexington Drive 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road his customers. Ask him for change for the meter and he’ll run out and plug it ZOO ANIMAL PLACE TO SPEND A SNOWY for you. Now that’s service.

The Meerkats DAY: WORTHY CONTENDERS: Ron c Meerkats may only weigh about Archibald at Murphy’s Tavern, Damien Mueller State Park 2 pounds each, but there is plenty to Kadamus at Old Chicago (at North love about these furry members of c The scenery is spectacular, and Academy Boulevard and Austin Bluffs the mongoose family. Whether they with plenty of cross-country skiing, Parkway), Terry Lott at Embassy are romping, digging, peeping out of snowshoeing and sledding, this park their burrows or standing at attention, Suites, Betty Morris at Benny’s, Michahas a lot to offer without the big el Shanks at 15C, Charley Read at meerkats are just plain cute. Cheycrowds. To get there, take U.S. HighShuga’s, Cody Dayton and Ben Detert enne Mountain Zoo visitors who are at Tony’s, Trent Super and Floyd Talley way 24 west from Colorado Springs tired of looking at various animals’ hind ends while they nap in some dis- at Oscar’s On Tejon Street, Kurt Bunch for 25 miles to Divide. Turn left onto tant corner will enjoy the meerkat ex- at the Blue Star and Jason K’Miller at South Highway 67 and go 3.5 miles. hibit, where there is usually plenty of the Penrose Club.

CAR WASH

BARTENDER

GETAWAY FOR GOLFERS

1635 W. Uintah St. Uintah Station Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904 Near Mtn MaMa’s 3/4 Mile West of I-25 Phone/Fax: 719/632-3001

Vineyards Golf Club cabins c For those golfers among us, a couple can rent a really quaint cabin at the Vineyards. Set back in the woods and overlooking a pond, the cabins can be rented for about $120 a night, including greens fees for the afternoon and next morning. For a couple, this could be one of the coolest and most accessible golf outings anywhere.

3901 Janitell Road SEE CITY LIFE x PAGE 19

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Friday, April 23, 2004

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CITY LIFE FROM PAGE 18

man on The Magic Morning Show, KKMG (98.9 FM) These No. 1-rated lunatics continue FEEL-GOOD BILLBOARD to set the bar (or at least belly up to Kermit the Frog, Foundation for a BATHROOM it). Their latest April Fools’ Day stunt Better Life The women’s room at the First Baphad much of Colorado Springs believREASON FOR ANTICIPATION c Kermie “Eats flies. Dates a pig. tist Church of Colorado Springs ing that driving with cell phones had Depot Arts District Hollywood star. LIVE YOUR DREAMS. been made illegal. When they’re not c It has what every bathroom Pass it on.” The nonprofit foundation, c More art can only be a better pulling some outrageous stunt, partnering with the Outdoor Advertis- thing. Doesn’t research show that the should have: stained-glass windows. they’re imploring listeners to vote for ing Association of America, has an on- more culture, the more thriving and 317 E. Kiowa St. them in this readers’ poll. They barely going Pass It On Campaign promoting healthy the society? And don’t we, as edged out Mark and Sammye on KKCS the sharing of positive values.

Colorado Springs-ites, want to achieve PRESS RELEASE (101.9 FM). our fullest potential and show Denver Pioneers Museum’s notice about a HAPPY HOUR FOR GO! CHOICE: Ross Ford, KILO who’s the boss? We can’t wait for the changing of the lights in the clock (94.3 FM) GEN XERS tower oodles of galleries and performance Phantom Canyon Brewing Co. stuff in the works.

Ross & Mo play the role of a slightc “How many Springs Utilities employees does it take to change a light ly dysfunctional, but fun, couple at c Raised on MTV, Generation Xers bulb? Between 10 and 15 . . . especially 94.3 on the FM dial from 5:30-10 a.m. have been rumored to have the collec- CEMETERY when the light bulb is 160 feet off the on weekdays. The great thing about tive attention span of a gnat. After all, Evergreen Cemetery these guys is that they’re calm and unc You don’t have to indulge in ground.” That got our attention. the mantra for Gen X was, “Here we derstated. No frenetic shouting at 6 “Harold and Maude”-style morbidity to are now, entertain us.” That said, POOL HALL a.m. or jocks who laugh and laugh at enjoy a stroll around the Evergreen there is plenty to occupy a short atthings that aren’t funny. These two tention span at Phantom Canyon. Pool Cemetery. Owned and operated by the Phantom Canyon Brewing Co. are your buddies, making the morning city since 1876, the cemetery is truly tables, foosball tables, video games, c The second floor of Phantom drive go down easy with a little chatan outdoor museum that tells the ar- Canyon has a classic pool-hall feel — TVs and a jukebox. There’s also good ter and a lot of rock. Ford also leads food, house brews and plenty of peo- ea’s history through its monuments. smoky air, wood floors, high ceilings the team making music choices at Veterans of the Civil War are buried ple-watching. and the green felt of full-size slate KILO, easily the most adventurous here. Huge, old monuments were pool tables stretching as far as the 2 E. Pikes Peak Ave. commercial station in this market. So, bought with money from the Cripple eye can see.

Phantom Canyon boasts WORTHY CONTENDER: Oscar’s he’s not just a pretty voice.

Creek gold rush.

Prominent citizens some advantages that are hard for on Tejon Street who formed Colorado Springs now lie other pool halls to match. The secondTV PERSONALITY PLACE TO GET CHEAP BEER here. And the grounds seem to stretch floor perch affords great views of READERS’ CHOICE: Lisa Lyden, on forever.

In 1993, Evergreen CemePikes Peak and the downtown scene.

AND SEE PEOPLE IN LEATHtery became the state’s second ceme- Fresh beer is made in-house. And you KOAA/Channels 5&30 anchor ER tery to be added to the National Regis- can order food from a good restauThe poll wasn’t even close. Lyden Thirsty’s Tavern ter of Historic Places. is such a strong presence on the nightrant kitchen to be delivered to your c Need a place to park your hog? pool table just as you put low English ly news, she’s the only anchor that 1005 S. Hancock Ave. Your bike will have plenty of company just about every local viewer can reon the eight ball. outside Thirsty’s Tavern. Bikers, often CRIPPLE CREEK CASINO member by name. The reason: she’s 2 E. Pikes Peak Ave. dressed in the trademark leather apmore than some bimbo talking head.

Double Eagle Hotel & Casino parel, are not in short supply here.

She actually seems to understand the RADIO PERSONALITY c What’s not to love, when you Neither is beer. Truly passionate drinknews, and reports with authority and READERS’ CHOICE: CK and Lazerhave crystal chandeliers, stained ers can enjoy happy hour in the mornglass, mirrors and brass in the same ing and again at night. And, if you’re not too drunk to hold a pool stick, the building, along with gaming machines, a restaurant, deli and hotel rooms?

RADIO VOICE ON TV James Brown, KKTV/Channel 11 weather and traffic reporter c Not as soulful as his namesake, Brown nevertheless has a voice as mellifluous as a summer afternoon.

Brown gets kudos for “best mustache,” too.

SCENIC DRIVE An alternate road to Cripple Creek c We chose a route nearby so you don’t have to empty your wallet for gas money. Head west on U.S. Highway 24 to Florissant. Turn left on Teller County Road 1 and drive to Cripple Creek. In town, take Colorado Highway 67 back to Divide. Don’t forget your camera for this scenic little circle.

UNUSUAL THERAPY CareAgain wolf pack c Victimized or troubled kids or those who have suffered loss can spend time with a wolf family in a mountain environment in Teller County.

Then they turn their experiences into art or photography. www.careagain.org

PLACE TO BE SEEN Colorado College hockey game SEE CITY LIFE x PAGE 20

l Cookie B i na ou g i q Or

®

e Th

credibility.

GO CHOICE: Jeff Marcu, KKTV/ Channel 11 morning news anchor This former chase-sources-in-parking-lots reporter is now an energetic morning personality. And he gets out from behind the anchor desk regularly for those wacky morning segments.

t ue

•

Brand new menu • Guiness Lamb Stew • Shepard’s Pie

The first casino on your left as you drive into Cripple Creek.

442 E. Bennett Ave.

•

tables cost only 50 cents a game.

2028 Sheldon Ave. WORTHY CONTENDER: The Royal Tavern in Manitou Springs

• Vegetarians Items

•E

10% Military Discounts w/ ID • Free Buffet Fridays at 5pm • LIVE MUSIC Every Weekend

• Pub Quiz every other Wednesday • Blues Jam Sunday 6-10

sta

3• blished 198

3315 N. Academy Blvd. in Carefree Carefree Shopping Shopping Center Center in

380-1130 WE SHIP SHIP & & DELIVER DELIVER WE

520 S. Tejon St. 633-3300 Friday, April 23, 2004

THE GAZETTE

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CITY LIFE c All right, pretty boys. Buff up those fingernails, apply an oil-reducing clay mask and slide into those shiny shoes. The gang’s all here at that cute old bungalow turned café/bar. Choose from a selection of delicately portioned food for that worrisome waistline, and have a mojito while you discuss the best way to get your whites whiter.

702 S. Cascade Ave.

FROM PAGE 19

c Many of the city’s movers and shakers are moved and shaken by the fast-paced game of hockey. You can see them, and be seen by them, at the games, which embody a lot more than watching a sport. Everyone from construction workers to elegantly coiffed Broadmoor matrons get down and dirty at a hockey game.

HAPPY HOUR FOR BABY BOOMERS

PARTY ANIMAL

SouthSide Johnny’s c Probably more Botox per square foot here than most clubs, but that doesn’t mean it’s not hopping and a great place to revive your club self without feeling ancient.

528 S. Tejon St.

PLACE TO VOLUNTEER Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services c Absolutely something for everyone. And they need 3,000 everyones!

Coach a sport (500 volunteers needed), be a face for the city and a font of knowledge at the parks’ visitors centers, provide support services at the Senior Center (130 volunteers), share your knowledge of history, plant flowers, help with swimming lessons and be a volunteer arts and crafts person with young children.

WORTHY CONTENDER: Silver Key Senior Services

ANIMAL RESCUE/HUMANE SOCIETY

The Moose c Providing entertainment, photo opportunities, and a plethora of bar stories, the young unnamed moose that frequented the Springs area in 2001 and 2002 is the top animal for party fun.

The 800-pound moose, whose very presence attracted flocks of people and a slew of news articles in past years, is rumored to have been seen again recently in the Springs (but wildTHE GAZETTE FILE life types say it isn’t so). Although BOOM TOWN: SouthSide Johnny’s is a great place for the baby boomer generation to go for happy many animal visitors come and go, no hour. Yeah, the crowd is a little bit older, but that doesn’t mean they’ve forgotten how to have fun. living animal can claim the moose’s level of celebrity here. right families come along. And, because animals come first, the humans are checked out extensively for compatibility and other factors before they’re allowed to adopt a Dreampower animal. See the animals at www. dreampower-arf.com or in person from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays at PetsMart in Citadel Crossing.

derful jumble of things you had no idea you needed until you saw them.

Furniture, food, stemware, decorations and gag gifts are all here. The price is right, too.

2985 New Center Point WORTHY CONTENDERS: Sky Sox Stadium, Cinemark IMAX Theatre, Wild Oats Natural Marketplace

THING ON POWERS

DRY CLEANER

Cost Plus World Market Dreampower Animal Rescue Foundac For those times when you need tion to pick up a Varuna trunk for the famic The creatures rescued by this ly room, a Nagara drum to spice up group don’t end up in kennels; they the living room, a back scratcher, a are in loving foster homes until the seashell wind chime, a hand-woven basket, dried birdseye chilies, a wine 002 rack and a trick squirt camera — Cost Plus World Market is there. It’s an impulse-shopper’s paradise, with a won-

Broadmoor Cleaners & Laundry c The two top cleaners here — Shona Medina and Helen Hilt — have about 70 years of experience between them. There are few stains or special fabric problems they haven’t faced.

The shop also delivers to homes and businesses.

1 Lake Circle, one block north of

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the hotel’s main entrance

PLACE FOR SOLDIERS TO GO WHEN THEY GET HOME

SHOE REPAIR Andy’s Shoe Repair c If you’ve got a broken heel or your shoes have lost their zip, Andy’s is the place to go. Expect a lecture about how cheaply modern shoes are made, how they’re designed to be thrown away instead of repaired. But these folks can do magic with damaged shoes.

2234 E. Pikes Peak Ave.

LIPS The lips in the Ranch Foods Direct billboards c There’s something vaguely disturbing about the juxtaposition of steak and lips that sexy. But they certainly get our attention.

HANGOUT FOR METROSEXUALS

Downtown parade c The cannons are ready. The flyovers are scheduled. The business owners are preparing. A ticker-tape parade down Tejon Street on June 5 will honor thousands of returning soldiers, as appreciative citizens turn out to show their support of troops and have a good time.

WORTHY CONTENDER: Train concert, June 24 at Fort Carson

PLACE TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWNERS Garden of the Gods GO! CHOICE: Garden of the Gods c Big rocks. We READERS’got ’em. And they’re CHOICE so cool.

Shuga’s

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THE GAZETTE

Friday, April 23, 2004

719/635-9971 2220 WEST COLORADO AVENUE COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80904 WWW.WHITEROSEWEDDINGS.COM

GAZETTE LAYER:Composite --- 04/22/04

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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT QUICK HITS HEADBANGERS HANGOUT: The Gardens, 2945 Galley Road OPEN MIC: Jimbo’s Bike & Coffee, 2212 Academy Place NEW CLUB: The Wayfarer British & Irish Pub, 520 S. Tejon St. PLACE FOR KARAOKE: Joe’s Bar, 4763 Flintridge Drive FESTIVAL: Carnivale in Manitou Springs

IDEA FOR A NEW FESTIVAL Homer the Duck Festival c It’s named after the late waterfowl whose quacking was the subject of a heated court case. It will be in Manitou Springs’ Soda Springs Park on May 22.

LARGE CONCERT Linkin Park at World Arena c They came. They saw. They rawked. The modern rock extravaganza of Linkin Park, P.O.D., Hoobastank and Story of the Year yielded much rock for your hard-earned dollar. The permanent hearing damage was free.

WORTHY CONTENDERS: Alison Krauss & Union Station at Pikes Peak Center

PHOTO COURTESY OF FRANCISCO

BUT CAN SHE CARRY A TUNE? “American Woman”

was sculpted from a 21-ton marble block from the Yule Mine in Marble, southwest of Aspen. Francisco’s sculpture has been displayed in several local venues.

LARGE CLASSICAL CONCERT Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony by the Colorado Springs Philharmonic c For months, it was a long shot whether the Colorado Springs Philharmonic actually would have a season. This contributed to the electricity — and crowds — at the season opener, in which Lawrence Leighton Smith led the orchestra and the Colorado Springs Chorale in a whitehot rendition of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.

CONCERT IN A PRODUCE SECTION Colorado Springs Philharmonic fund-raiser c It was only when musicians from the Philharmonic performed for 24 hours straight in the produce department of the Uintah Gardens King Soopers that many in the community realized the orchestra was going to do anything necessary to succeed.

SMALL CONCERT Dwight Yoakam at Cowboys c Yoakam paid tribute to his influences during an intimate, acoustic set at Cowboys. Gram Parsons. Cheap Trick. Waylon Jennings. Johnny Horton. Elvis. John Prine. Tasty pickin’ and fantastic crooning. It was a portrait of one of today’s finest country artists, painted with the music he grew up on.

WORTHY CONTENDERS: Rufus Wainwright at 32 Bleu, Chris Smither at the Luckett House, Derek Trucks at 32 Bleu

BIG HONKING PIECE OF CARVED ROCK “American Woman” by Francisco Sotomayor c Sotomayor has described his five-ton marble sculpture of a woman lying on top of a piano as “the epitome of the American woman at the onset of the 21st century.” We appreciate the draftmanship (he sculpted eyelashes on her, for heaven’s sake), and young boys especially will appreciate her skimpy outfit.

PERFORMING ARTS COLLABORATION The Chamber Orchestra of the Springs and the Colorado Springs Conservatory’s performance of Menotti’s “Amahl and the Night Visitors” c This polished, emotional opera would have been remarkable enough anywhere. Making it more so was the idea of taking it to people and places where opera has rarely, if ever, been heard — including Fort Carson, Focus on the Family and Sturman Industries in Woodland Park.

OUT OF TOWN VISITOR David Sedaris c Sure, David Sedaris is funny on National Public Radio. But live at the Pikes Peak Center, Sedaris projected a sense of fragility and vulner-

ability that made his monologues screamingly funny.

MUSEUM EXHIBIT Mark Western show at the Fine Arts Center c Whether you’re a recent arrival or a native, the Fine Arts Center’s “Art of the Early American West” had something tantalizing for your eyes.

The center borrowed a page from Pueblo’s Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center and filled the building with related exhibits — centering on painting, photography, tourism and printmaker Gene Kloss.

COUNTRY & WESTERN CLUB Cowboys c Colorado Springs’ longtime C&W club is aging like fine wine . . . or maybe it’s as fresh as a cold Budweiser. Either way, Cowboys brought in more top country talent in the past year than you can shake a stick at. Dwight Yoakam. Buddy Jewell. Phil Vassar. Darryl Worley. Emerson Drive.

Tracy Byrd. Aaron Lines. Jennifer Hanson.

Sammy Kershaw. BlackHawk. Honky Tonk Tailgate Tour (Rhett Akins, Daryle Singletary, Jeff Carson and Chad Brock). ’Nuff said.

3910 Palmer Park Blvd.

WORTHY CONTENDER: Mill Hill Saloon

LIVE MUSIC VENUE 32 Bleu c For music fans, this club is in a different class from every other place in town. National touring acts are on stage five or six nights a week. The booking is eclectic, and the club draws entirely different clientele depending on the act: jazz (Cassandra Wilson), reggae (Ziggy Marley), pop-rock (Modest Mouse), country (Dierks Bentley), classic rock (Molly Hatchet), rap (Ice-T), blues (Taj Mahal), folk-rock (Robert Earl Keen). The best Springs talent beats down the doors of 32 Bleu, where local bands can open for acts they admire or headline local showcases that regularly draw 300 fans.

32 S. Tejon St.

LOCAL CD “Promise of Portage” by Joe Uveges c Uveges’ tender songwriting and warm vocals have made him one of Colorado Springs’ most beloved musicians. He gave his fans a treat this year with “Promise of Portage,” his finest recording yet. The album is an emotional journey with plenty of musical rewards along the way.

WORTHY CONTENDER: Black Pegasus, “ . . . My Album Ain’t Done Yet” SEE ART x PAGE 22

Friday, April 23, 2004

THE GAZETTE

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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT FROM PAGE 21

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est installments of “The Lord of the Rings� or “The Matrix.� But Kimball Bayles, the last surviving independent film owner in town, makes his bread DANCE CLUB and butter on the smaller art films Rum Bay that do more than just keep you occuc Rum Bay is simply the king of Colorado Springs night spots. Revelers pied for two hours. They get into your head. They make you think. They repack in like sardines every weekend, mind you how wonderful films can be which is exactly what you want for a hot, sweaty, drunken night of grinding. when they’re not mired in tired formuThe club also is perfect for an ADD cul- las. Among his current or recent films: “Touching the Void,� “The Barture, with different themes throughbarian Invasions,� “The Dreamers,� out. Dance to the boom-boom, sing “Fog of War,� “Monster,� “Girl With a karaoke, show off your disco moves, check out scantily clad waitresses, lis- Pearl Earring� and “Triplets of ten to the blues, quietly sip a martini, Belleville.�

115 E. Pikes Peak Ave. and cool off on a deck overlooking Tejon Street — while never leaving Rum Bay. THEATER COMPANY 20 N. Tejon St. Theatreworks c On top of a strong season, Theatreworks moved into a comfy new ART OPENING space at the Dusty Loo Bon Vivant TheBody Packaging c For one night, every three years atre.

3955 Cragwood Drive or so, Colorado Springs pulses with the edgy, creative electricity of a bigcity art mecca. That night is the Body THEATRICAL DRAMA Packaging exhibit, held last year at “Cherry Orchard� by Theatreworks the City Auditorium, and the best yet, c Sensitive direction and a cast with a happy blend of the visual and that was as deep as it was strong the theatrical. made Theatreworks’ “Cherry Orchard�

GALLERY

unforgettable.

WORTHY CONTENDERS: The Star Bar Players’ productions of “Proof� and “Painting Churches.�

Rich Designs c Not only does Rich Designs have one of the region’s best stables of artists, but the multipurpose gallery/flow- THEATRICAL COMEDY er shop also smells great. “Noises Off� by Theatreworks 1731 Mount Washington Ave. c If you didn’t see the madcap choWORTHY CONTENDER: Hayden Hays reography in Theatreworks’ producGallery tion of “Noises Off� — a frenzied ballet of flowers, sardines, whisky bottle and fire ax — it’s impossible to describe.

GALLERY SHOW University of Colorado at Colorado Honest.

Springs’ “Manifestations of the Sacred� c This amazing show demonstrated that no word means more different things than “sacred.� Works by 31 artists ranged from the irony of a Jesus action figure filmed by Atomic Elroy, to Bonnie Waugh’s radical reinterpretation of the crucifixion, to the quiet spirituality of nature in Julia Hoerner’s photographs.

MUSICAL “Sweet Charity� by the Fine Arts Center Repertory Theatre Company c Amy Sue Hardy and more Amy Sue Hardy propelled the Fine Arts Center’s sensitive, colorful production of “Sweet Charity.� There’s no more exciting musical theater performer in the region.

DINNER THEATER ART IN AN UNUSUAL VENUE Colorado Springs Art Guild at Bear Creek Veterinary Care c Fine art enlightenment for dogs and cats — and their owners — while waiting for the doctor.

960 Pico Point

Iron Springs Chateau c After 40-plus years, the melodrama at Iron Springs Chateau is as silly and good-humored as ever.

ACTOR

Kelly Walters c The perpetual student Trofimov MOVIE THEATER in “Cherry Orchard� and the perpetually inarticulate Garry in “Noises Off�

Kimball’s Twin Peak c He still plays the occasional main- are as different as roles can be — but stream Hollywood film, such as the latSEE ART x PAGE 23

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Friday, April 23, 2004

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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Home Records, and this month the the band. Catch ’em when you can; band began touring the West and check out www.usafacademyband.

Southwest with California-based indie com/bsteel_bio.html. rockers The Kite-Eating Tree. Whether the group “makes it” or not, Laymen CHURCH PRODUCTION Terms is making great music.

“The Thorn” at New Life Church WORTHY CONTENDER: F.O.S. c This big-stage musical extravaganza is the perfect complement to Mel Gibson’s hit film “The Passion of COVER BAND the Christ.” It has plenty of stage Blue Steel c For soldiers about to rock, we sa- blood and torture, but it’s really about Jesus’ life and message. And Christolute you. Blue Steel is the rock band within the Air Force Academy Band. It pher Beard plays the freakiest Satan this side of the Underworld. has an unfair advantage over most cover bands — these aren’t weekend warriors who spend the 9-to-5er at a FREE ENTERTAINMENT keyboard.

Colorado College They’re full-time, professional music The college’s calendar of monthcians who make a good living playing ly events is an impressive array of lecLed Zeppelin covers. tures, faculty concerts, readings by authors and poets, dance performances, Another bonus is that all the band’s performances are free, since the taxpayers already have paid for SEE ART x PAGE 25

CHRISTIAN MURDOCK, THE GAZETTE

WHATEVER IT TAKES: Members of the Colorado Springs Philharmonic played for 24 hours in the pro-

duce section of the Uintah Gardens King Soopers grocery store on May 23 and 24. The public concert was one of many efforts to raise money for the group’s formation and inaugural season, which opened Oct. 18 with a night of Beethoven for the enthusiastic audience.

FROM PAGE 22

Kelly Walters appeared completely at home in each one.

ACTRESS Ashley Crockett c An English visitor to Theatreworks’ “Noises Off” was convinced Ashley Crockett was British, perhaps because she was just as convincing as the educated Dottie and as Dottie’s Cockney character, Mrs. Clackett. Oh, and Crockett also stole several scenes as the nurse in Theatreworks’ production of “Romeo and Juliet.”

WORTHY CONTENDER: Leah Chandler Mills in “Cherry Orchard”

The Springs’ only real blues club brought in a mess of talent in 2003, became home to the blues community, then went kaput on New Year’s Eve. We’re still waiting for a worthy replacement.

LOCAL BAND Laymen Terms c This band makes good, smart, pulsing rock music, and a whole bunch of people have noticed. Andrew Tanner’s searing vocals and

Jameson Becker’s furious skin beating are a few of the charms that support their sophisticated songs.

Recent performances at 32 Bleu prove Laymen Terms can rawk the house when necessary, and the house is full every time LT throws a local show. This band is the red-hot center of the Colorado Springs music scene and this year should get even better.

Laymen Terms is recording its next full-length album for Suburban

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PERFORMANCE IN A MUSICAL Margaret Simpson c It wasn’t actually a musical, but it would be criminal not to recognize Margaret Simpson’s bright, effortless coloratura soprano and confident stage presence as Marie, the daughter of the regiment in Opera Theatre of the Rockies’ production of “Daughter of the Regiment.”

BLUES CLUB Navajo Hogan Roadhouse c Sometimes you don’t know what you got ’til it’s gone. That’s not just an oft-used blues lyric, it’s also the story of the Navajo Hogan Roadhouse.

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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT FROM PAGE 23

art shows and more. And almost everything is free. Check out the school’s Web site at www.coloradocollege.edu for all the fine details.

SINATRA IMPERSONATOR Randy Rodriguez c He gets under your skin. He does it his way. In other words, please check this guy out when he performs at Paravicini’s. You’d think Ol’ Blue Eyes was right there with you.

SEASON PASS “See It Live� c There are season tickets and then there are season tickets. But none lets you see as many different things for as little money as the “See It Live� Pass — everything from the Colorado Springs Philharmonic and the Colorado Springs Dance Theater to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and the Sky Sox.

ARCHITECTURE U.S. Air Force Academy c Everyone goes to admire the sleek air-age Gothic cathedral, but the rest of the Air Force Academy is just as distinctive — a triumph of austere modernism in the middle of the 20th century.

OUTDOOR ART Starr Kempf’s sculpture garden c There isn’t as much of it as there was before three pieces were removed in May, but Starr Kempf’s wind sculptures in front of the late artist’s homemade house are still arguably the city’s most inspiring man-made objects.

2057 Pine Grove Ave.

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The front yard of the Starr Kempf home in the Broadmoor area remains one of the best displays of outdoor art in the Pikes Peak region, despite the removal of three of the wind sculptures in May. The late artist’s family and some of their neighbors have long been at odds over traffic created by carloads of people coming to view the sculpture garden.

Bare-Knuckle Poetry open mic at Coffee Warehouse c On the third Tuesday of every month, things get angsty and emotional at Coffee Warehouse downtown.

That’s when locals bare their souls with a few carefully chosen words and pauses for impact. Grab some guts and a cup of java. Not for the weak, but it’s cheaper than therapy.

526 S. Tejon St.

PHOTO PRESENTATION OF A SOCIAL CAUSE Greg Kleinert, “Exploring Homelessness Through Art,� Urban Peak Colorado Springs� c This touching retrospective put a positive face on local homeless/runaway youths.

REASON TO BE EMBARRASSED ABOUT THE WAY ART IS TREATED IN COLORADO SPRINGS c After a seemingly endless legal battle, three of Starr Kempf’s massive yet graceful wind sculptures were removed from the lawn in front of the artist’s house.

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Friday, April 23, 2004

THE GAZETTE

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FAMILY

JERILEE BENNETT, THE GAZETTE

RIDING THE GORGE: Colorado Springs teachers Galen Martin, Jimmy Risavage, and Doug Bolton, left to right, take a ride on Royal Gorge’s Sky Coaster in June of 2003.

GETAWAY FOR MOM The Spa at The Broadmoor c When Mom can actually get away, make it a luxurious escape. You can’t beat this one in our own back yard because it’s one of the top 25 resort spas in the country and — hard to believe — The Broadmoor recently made it even better.

1 Lake Circle Drive WORTHY CONTENDERS: Spa treatment at A Total New You or Matéos Salon; a massage at Veda Salon & Spa

DAY TRIP

GETAWAY FOR DAD A hike in the mountains c If you can get away during a weekday, you can enjoy a stroll through Palmer Park and feel like you’re getting away from it all. During the weekend, you may have to dodge mountain bikers — not quite a stress-reducer. During the weekend, we suggest Red Mountain in Manitou Springs. Just off the Intemann Trail, a 1.1-mile spur takes you to the summit of Red Mountain where you’ll find as good a view as there is of

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Garden of the Gods and Manitou Springs. You’ll also find an old foundation where, 80 years ago, a depot and dance pavilion awaited passengers who’d braved a rickety cable car ride from downtown Manitou. Some people believe it may have been a speakeasy. Just imagine: a little bathtub gin, our girl in her favorite flapper dress and you wearing your best spats — dancing under the starlight till dawn. Now that’s an escape.

WORTHY CONTENDER: A mid-week summer afternoon watching a Sky Sox game The Denver Museum of Nature and Science c Ancient Egyptians used a small, long-handled hook to remove brains through nasal cavities while preparing mummies. Dinosaur brains were bigger than walnuts and, once upon a time, pigs bigger than grizzly bears roamed the Earth. In one day you can take a prehistoric journey to the land of dinosaurs, see your image through an infrared camera, explore the Milky Way and join divers in an IMAX coral reef

Friday, April 23, 2004

adventure. Imagine all the things your kids will talk about on the way home.

2001 Colorado Blvd., Denver WORTHY CONTENDER: The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, Cañon City

FAMILY RESTAURANT The Elephant Bar Restaurant c If you see an elephant in your car, what time is it? Time to get a new car. Be prepared to exchange elephant jokes with your kids and enjoy the adventure. The atmosphere is like Disney World meets George of the Jungle. And the food’s pretty good, too.

7585 N. Academy Blvd.

WORTHY CONTENDER: Red Robin

MOTHER-DAUGHTER OUTING Shopping, what else? c Start at The Shops at Briargate, where Mom will love JJill and daughter will gravitate to Express and Camille La Vie. Rest up in the car while you’re driving to the Mother of All Shoe Stores — the new DSW, just south of Chapel Hills

Mall. Catch lunch at Whole Foods, but save some room for popcorn at the chick flick of your choice on one of the 20 screens at Tinseltown.

FATHER-SON OUTING Laser Quest c Nothing humbles a dad more than having his son kill him multiple times with a laser rifle.

1605 N. Academy Blvd.

FAMILY DINING DEAL Buca di Beppo c No mascots, no singing waiters, no breakdancing and no walls to write on. But there’s plenty of photos of the old country, famous Italians and the pope to distract the kids, and enough food to fatten a hippo. One main dish and salad, served family style, can bloat a family of four and provide leftovers. The food is rich, tasty and guaranteed to blow any Atkins diet.

7252 N. Academy Blvd.

SEE FAMILY x PAGE 27

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DAY OF FUN AND EXPLORATION:

FAMILY

Mark Singleton, 4, plays on the replica B-17 bomber at the Focus on the Family Welcome Center at the city’s northern end. The B-17 is from the Focus series “Last Chance Detectives.”

FROM PAGE 26

PLACE TO TAKE GRANDKIDS Focus on the Family children’s area Down and around, down and around, three squeal-and-giggle stories of down and around: The towering corkscrew slide A-Bend-A-Go is a high point of a perfectly delightful day for grandma, grandpa and the grandkids. And never fear, there won’t be any Bible-thumping conversion going on, just memory-making family fun. Between trips down the slide the youngsters can climb all over the B-17 bomber replica from the Focus series “Last Chance Detectives.”

Pooped out from running and playing — or just watching — everyone can stop for a treat at the Whit’s End turnof-the-century soda shop. If Grandpa needs a kid break, he can head for the Solid Grounds coffee shop or browse in the gift shop. After a puppet show, the reading corner and a visit to the KYDS Radio Studio, there’s still time for a children’s video or movie in the 170-seat theater. It’s a nice day to share.

8685 Explorer Drive off Interstate 25 WORTHY CONTENDERS: Uncle Wilber fountain in Acacia Park and a walk down the block for ice cream at Michelle; Santa’s Workshop; Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

PLACE FOR TODDLERS McDonald’s Play Places with phones at tables c Five McD’s have telephones at the tables so parents can call in the food orders while kiddies get right down to the business of playing.

510 N. Murray Blvd., Airport Road at Powers Boulevard, Highway 83 at Academy Boulevard, 1244 N. Academy Blvd. and 5765 E. Constitution Ave. WORTHY CONTENDERS: Cottonwood Park wave pool; Cheyenne Mountain Zoo; mall play areas at Chapel Hills and The Citadel mall

KIDDIE RIDE The Candy Cane Coaster at the North Pole This is a great little roller coaster for little kids. It’s the perfect toddler warm-up for Six Flags Elitch Gardens.

On the Pikes Peak Highway, Cascade

THRILL RIDE FOR VERY BIG KIDS Royal Rush Skycoaster at the Royal Gorge The folks at the Royal Gorge thought those giant bungee-like freefall-and-swing rides at the fair were

THE GAZETTE

just too tame. So they built one that lets you plunge, swing and dangle over the gorge — 1,200 feet above the roaring Arkansas River. Not for the squeamish.

Twelve miles west of Cañon City, off U.S. Highway 50

BEST PLACE FOR AFTER PROM Joyrides Family Fun Center Around midnight, top off the dressy evening-of-a-lifetime riding the bumper cars, bumper boats, gokarts and the Super Slide and going step for step on the newly installed Dance Dance Revolution game.

5150 Edison Ave.

SEE THE ROCKIES’ FUTURE SUPER STARS BEFORE THEY MOVE TO A HIGHER TAX BRACKET.

YOUTH ART PROGRAM FutureSelf c Sure, the Pikes Peak region is filled with art programs for young people. However, FutureSelf stands out because its enthusiastic, often-talented students are not your usual artists. They’re at-risk, sometimes juvenile-offender teens who find focus and self-expression as they study with top-notch local artists. For three years Wendy Mike has run the expanding program at the Business of Art Center in Manitou Springs.

www.skysox.com

HAUNTED HOUSE Joyrides Family Fun Center c No contest. The family amusement center always serves up the best in spooky fun — from the Haunted Corn Maze stocked with Jason masked-wearing folks and their terrifying chain saws, to the realistic guillotine scene (using nifty special effects) in the outdoor Tormented Trail.

5150 Edison Ave.

SANTA CLAUS The real one . . . at the North Pole c Who’s to say that the North Pole near the gate to the Pikes Peak High-

April 23 is PHOTO DAY presented by Fuji Film and WalMart

Arrive early and meet the team!

Bring your camera and take pictures today with tomorrow’s superstars!

Game starts at 7:05 pm. Gates open at 6 pm.

SEE FAMILY x PAGE 28

Friday, April 23, 2004

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FAMILY

THE GAZETTE FILE PHOTOS

FORE! While the kids enjoy a party, mom or dad can work on their swing at Champions Golf & Games.

c Just remember when you drop your kid off for someone else’s party, way isn’t the real North Pole? The it’s OK to sneak off and take a few Santa certainly seems authentic: real laps on the adult go-kart track. beard, real twinkle in his eye, real jolly 5150 Edison Ave. laugh, real soft lap. Is there a better WORTHY CONTENDER: Memorial Santa in our metropolis? In our state? Park Aquatics and Fitness Center In our world? Virginia, here’s your Santa.

MINIATURE GOLF On the Pikes Peak Highway, CasChampions Golf & Games cade c Two 18-hole courses, 37 fountains, three waterfalls, big-time caves, BITE O’ FUN: Vampiress Gillian Murphy greets visitors to the De- PLACE FOR A KID’S PARTY a 37-foot balloon, a pirate ship, and mented Journey at Joyrides Family Fun Center, which puts on the Joyrides Family Fun Center you’ve just begun. A temperamental FROM PAGE 27

Springs’ Best Haunted House.

dragon god breaths a refreshing stream of water on any golfer who gets a hole-in-one on the 18th. Kids can play 36 holes for $6.

777 Vondelpark Drive WORTHY CONTENDER: Birdie Golf

SKATEBOARD PARK Metcalfe Park Skateboard Park in Fountain c Designed by skateboarders and upgraded in 2003.

704 E. Ohio Ave., Fountain.

KIDS’ DENTIST

So close and yet Safari.

The African Rift Valley has never been closer than this. Here, you will give a victory cracker to the winner of the giraffe stampede, as well as consolation crackers to the giraffes who place and show. You will watch the Colobus monkeys monkey around in their natural new habitat. You will explore an evolutionary, revolutionary ecosystem of fun where there’s always something new, something wonderful and something wild to see and do.

The African Rift Valley at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Wildly interactive.

4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd. I-25 to exit 138 West

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For more information, call 719-633-9925 or visit cmzoo.org today.

Dr. Lawrence A. Roska c Before facing the drill, kids can ride on a pony. (OK, not a real pony.

We don’t want Johnny to get his molars kicked out.) Kids also can read children’s books in the waiting room, cuddle with the many stuffed animals or color a picture that may make it onto the office’s wall of fame. Another plus: They work only on babies, kids and adolescents, so they know how to keep tears to a minimum.

1516 N. Academy Blvd. and 6665 Delmonico Drive

SKI OR BOARD DEAL FOR KIDS The 5th Grade Passport c This deal by Colorado Ski Country USA sounds too good to be true: Kids in the fifth grade get free lift tickets at about two dozen Colorado ski resorts. Check out www.colorado ski. com/5passport/index.cfm.

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RECREATION QUICK HITS

SKI RESORT, SMALL Wolf Creek c About 40 feet of snow can’t be wrong.

Pagosa Springs

SKI RESORT, BIG Copper Mountain c It doesn’t matter who buys a ticket to this mountain. At the end of the day, they’ll come away smiling.

Beginners have a whole area (not just a bunny slope) all to themselves.

Huckers have one of the best parks and halfpipes in the country. Intermediate skiers get looooong runs with perfect pitch, and experts get a full set of bowls and chutes on Copper’s backside. Best of all, it’s an hour closer than Vail and parking is free.

Summit County

SKIING FOR BEGINNERS Monarch Ski and Snowboard Area and Ski Cooper c Think small. That way, if you don’t like it, you won’t have the guilt from spending too much time or money. But we bet you will like it, if you start at Monarch on Monarch Pass or Ski Cooper near Leadville. Lift tickets at both places hover between $20 and $30 with discounts. Who can’t justify that?

SKIING FOR DAREDEVILS Silverton Mountain c No greens, no blues. Just one chairlift taking extreme powder addicts to heaven, where the easiest pitches are as steep as the double black diamonds of other ski areas.

Silverton

ALL-AROUND SKI OR BOARDING RUN Peak 7 at Breckenridge c New in 2003, this mountain is all blue runs that curve through trees and have enough roll to get you rocking.

Breckenridge

BEER AND LIFT TICKET DEAL Crested Butte’s Coors 12-pack deal c Buy a 12-pack of Coors Light and an adult lift ticket in Gunnison and get another lift ticket free. Warning: enjoy in the proper order.

EASY MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL Greenland Open Space c No boulders. No creek crossings. No monster hills. But this trail

MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE

CLIMB THE WALLS: Sport Climbing Center on Northpark Drive has

more than 1,200 square feet of climbing space.

still has lots of great scenery and enough twists and turns to keep it interesting.

MODERATE MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL Gold Camp Road c This old railroad grade climbs gently, if relentlessly, through the spectacular southern shoulders of Pikes Peak. The road winds all the way to Cripple Creek, but all riders have to do when they’re worn out is turn around. It’s an easy downhill coast back to the car.

INSANE MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL Pipeline Trail to the Chutes c You can’t call your mom on the nearly 4,000 feet of downhill in this ride because the trail is too remote.

Steel yourself for stream crossings, rock drops, banked turns, and a few surprise features along the way. The trail starts from Rosemont on Upper Gold Camp Road and ends near The Broadmoor.

HIKE FOR OUT-OF-TOWNERS Mount Cutler c You gotta climb a mountain, but you gotta have lungs to do that. We suggest this modest peak in North Cheyenne Cañon Park. It’s a short hike, about a mile, but it offers a true summit experience with a great view of Pike National Forest sweeping to

the horizon.

MOUNTAIN TRAIL Devil’s Playground Trail from the Crags to the Pikes Peak Highway c This was a badly kept secret for years, since it wasn’t a Forest Service system trail. But then Friends of the Peak adopted it, built it, and now maintain it. It’s a way to get up the backside of Pikes Peak without the crowds of Barr Trail.

To get there, take U.S. Highway 24 west to Divide, turn left on Colorado Highway 67; drive past entrance to Mueller State Park and watch for Crags Campground sign on your left.

Turn left there and follow road up past Mennonite Camp; turn left into campground and park at Crags trailhead. Hike up the path a short distance and watch for Forest Service sign that will send you across the creek to your right.

URBAN TRAIL The Pikes Peak Greenway c Stay on the Greenway and go as far as you dare. This trail is the spine of the city’s urban trail system, and takes walkers, inline skaters and bicyclists from Janitell Road at the south end northward to the Air Force Academy.

ACCESSIBLE TRAIL Centennial Trail c This trail stretches seven miles

TENNIS COURTS: Bear Creek Park, 21st Street at Bear Creek Road SPORTS FIELD: Goose Gossage Youth Sports Complex, Mark Dabling Boulevard PUBLIC POOL: Wilson Ranch Park Pool, 2335 Allegheny Drive PLACE TO WATCH THE SUN SET: The shoreline of Manitou Lake Recreation Area, Colorado Highway 67, north of Woodland Park

SHADED WALK: Pikes Peak Greenway through Monument Valley Park. Start at the parking lot at Cache la Poudre Street and head north on the trail to the pond for the best shade.

GOLF COURSE: Patty Jewett Golf Course, 900 E. Española St. NAMES FOR BLACK DIAMOND SKI TRAILS: Treble Cliff, Copper Mountain; Awe Chute, Mary Jane; Shagnasty, Monarch

from Woodland Park to Manitou Lake Recreation Area. This eight-foot-wide paved path winds through stands of aspen and ponderosa and stays in the sunshine as it heads north from Woodland Park.

Start in town and walk or drive to Colorado Campground, park, and head toward Manitou Lake. To get to the Woodland Park trailhead, take U.S. Highway 24 west to Woodland Park.

Turn right onto Colorado Highway 67 and at the first intersection, turn right. Park in the lot next to the credit union.

BOWLING ALLEY

HIKE WITH A VIEW Around Rampart Reservoir c This used to be easier to get to, but it’s still worth the effort. Take the Rainbow Gulch Trail from Rampart Range Road (about 1.5 miles) to get to the reservoir’s shoreline. A trail follows that shoreline all the way around the water, about 11 miles.

While you wind up and down hillsides and in and out of hidden coves, watch for stunning views of Pikes Peak.

To get there, take U.S. Highway 24 west to Woodland Park; turn right on Baldwin Street. Drive to Loy Creek Road and turn right; follow road to parking lot for Rainbow Gulch.

ROLLERSKATING Bosanova Roller Skating Center c This place has been around for decades. And it shows. Like the Velveteen Rabbit from the children’s story, the old rink is less worn with time than it is with love. This is truly a habitat for children, and the bright walls, old-fashioned video games, and hot dog stand testify to that.

2903 N. Prospect St.

Brunswick Zone Circle c What more can we say: laser tag, huge video game room, cosmic bowling, hand-tossed pizzas, Nickelodeon Rock ’n’ Bowl SpongeBob Square Pants bowling balls for sale, NASCAR and the Avs on the big screens and all in a bright, colorful, completely renovated building. 999 N. Circle Drive

BOWLING SHOES Harmony Bowl c Gaudy pink and green fluorescent shoes for cosmic bowling. 3845 N. Academy Blvd.

BOWLING ALLEY NAME The Bowling Alley (Palmer Lake)

ADVENTURE DAY TRIP Salida c This river town just a few hours from Colorado Springs packs in every sort of outdoor adventure imaginable: World-class white water, snowcapped fourteeners, skiing at Monarch, and white-knuckle downhill mountain biking on the Monarch Crest Trail. There’s even a guy there who rents llamas to carry your gear into the backcountry.

CLIMBING WALL Sport Climbing Center c With more than 12,000 square feet of climbing, no one else even comes close.

4650 Northpark Drive

CAMPING Mueller State Park c Pretty soon, Cheyenne Mountain State Park will give this place SEE RECREATION x PAGE 30

Friday, April 23, 2004

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SHOPPING PLACE TO FIND BARGAINS Wal-Mart c For all our stretches toward urREADERS’ banism, we’re still CHOICE a Wal-Mart kind of town. 3201 E. Platte Ave., 707 S. Eighth St., 8250 Razorback Road, 1575 Space Center Drive, 5550 E. Woodmen Road, 6310 S. Highway 85/87, Fountain GO! CHOICE: Ross c We chose this chain because we had to. On a day when we started at the mall lusting after little flippy skirts that were $40, we ended up at Ross where those same skirts were $4.99.

2150 Southgate Road, 3971 Palmer Park Blvd., 5110 N. Academy Blvd.

NEW STORE TIE: Whole Foods and DSW c We’ve known people to make pilgrimages to Denver to shop DSW (Discount Shoe Warehouse, for those out of the loop). Now they have their own store. And the best part? It’s next to Whole Foods, possibly the

most enticing food store in the universe.

Whole Foods, 7635 N. Academy Blvd.; DSW, 7635 N. Academy Blvd.

DRESSING ROOMS Camille La Vie at The Shops at Briargate c These dressing rooms are absolutely palatial, with soaring ceilings, glittering chandeliers and stuffed furniture for resting up from all that shopping.

Briargate Parkway at Highway 83

GIFT SHOP Garden of the Gods Visitor Center Gift Shop c There are three shops here.

Downstairs, you’ll find rubber lizards, polished rocks and other curios that tourists love. Upstairs is an eclectic collection of tasteful Southwestern art and crafts, jewelry, trinkets, nature-themed books, and one of the best varieties of bobble-headed bears, moose and chipmunks we’ve ever seen. Also upstairs, the restaurant sells food gifts including fudge.

QUICK HITS CHOCOLATE: Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, The Citadel mall, 2431 W. Colorado Ave., 1605 Briargate Parkway and Chapel Hills Mall HOME-IMPROVEMENT STORE: The Home Depot, 102 N. Academy Blvd., 5660 E. Woodmen Road, 7166 N. Academy Blvd. and 2250 Southgate Road BIKE SHOP: Criterium, 6150 Corporate Drive NOVELTY SHOP: Zeezo’s Magic Castle, 3 E. Bijou St. FARMERS MARKET: Bancroft Park Farmers’ Market, corner of 24th Street and West Colorado Avenue in Old Colorado City HOBBY STORE: Hobby Lobby, 6950 N. Academy Blvd., 525 S. Eighth St., 3989 Palmer Park Blvd.

ELECTRONICS STORE: SoundTrack Audio and Video, 1230 N. Academy Blvd., 7207 N. Academy Blvd.

1805 N. 30th St.

GOURMET SHOP

Beho

! wers

Power of Flo e h T ld

Pick a Pack of Power Flowers Castle Rock Castle Rock Gift & Garden 1070 Brookside Cir.

Par Avion Finer Foods Emporium c With a second location recently opened at Broadmoor Towne Center, Par Avion is improving our kitchens, one imported morsel at a time. The selection of more than 500 domestic and imported cheese is enough to keep us coming back. But the even bigger selection of vinegars, olive oils, top-quality chocolate and other

FROM PAGE 29

Rick's Garden Center 1827 W. Unitah St. The Mad Planter 804 E. Nichols Blvd.

Monument High Country Store 243 Washington St.

Buy Two 4-Packs of Power Flowers™ Get the 3rd One

FREE!

Limit one coupon per customer, per visit. Expires 4/29/04

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NATURAL FOODS STORE Whole Foods Market c This is one of a handful of stores that is certified organic. Their products do not contain hydrogenated fats, meaning no trans-fatty acids. Add to that their huge selection of produce and bulk grocery de-

partment. Add to that their selection of antioxidants, vitamins and magical elixirs. It’s natural all day, every day. And, man, does it taste good.

7635 N. Academy Blvd.

MUSIC STORE Independent Records & Video c No doubt about this one. Independent Records has the best selection of music old and new, good used racks, a funky vibe and employ-

RECREATION

Harding Nursery 721 N. Powers Blvd.

Red Rocks Garden & Florist 3178 W. Colorado Ave.

dry goods demands regular visits.

Did we mention the patés?

1872 Southgate Road and 4510 Oro Blanco Drive

SEE SHOPPING x PAGE 31

Colorado Springs Good Earth Garden Center 1330 N. Walnut St.

Hillside Gardens 1006 S. Institute St.

NON-CHAIN STORE ON POWERS: Pet Ranch, 2840 N. Powers Blvd.

OUTDOOR STORE: Mountain Chalet, 226 N. Tejon St. NURSERY: Spencer’s Lawn & Garden Centers, 1430 S. Tejon St. and 1937 Hallam Ave., Security.

CARD SHOP: CJ Kard, 214 N. Tejon St. ANTIQUES: Goodwill Industries, downtown and Old Colorado City locations, 324 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 2304 W. Colorado Ave. CONSIGNMENT STORE: The Revolution, 1312 W. Colorado Ave. LIQUOR STORE: Springs Liquor Outlet, 6010 N. Carefree Circle AUCTION: Calhan Auction Market, arena east of Calhan at 680 Yoder St. COMPUTER STORE: A Byte Above, 2376 Academy Place

Highway 16 for 0.5 miles; take Security exit to Highways 85/87 and turn right on Willow Springs Road. For the nature center, continue on 85/87 to Cattail Marsh Road and turn right.

some local competition, but for now, Mueller is the winner.

About 25 miles from Colorado Springs, its campgrounds can stand up to most national park sites. Choose from well- FISHING HOLE appointed RV sites or spacious walk-in sites, but be sure to Quail Lake make reservations (1-800-678-CAMP). c This little lake is stocked, and it recently received some new visitors when Prospect Lake was drained. Take Four miles south of Divide on Colorado Highway 67 Colorado Highway 115 south to Cheyenne Mountain BouleNATURE WALK vard; turn right on the boulevard to the lake.

Outside Fountain Creek Nature Center c This county park sits right next to I-25, but when you PICNIC SPOT Spring Canyon in Garden of the Gods walk the nature trail that skirts ponds and marshes, you c Close to town but peaceful, this little spot is just far feel like you’re miles away from civilization. Great blue herenough off the beaten path in the park to offer a respite ons fish in the water; turtles sun themselves on logs, and from the crowds.

Canada geese sometimes block the trail.

To get to the park, take I-25 south to exit 132; go east on

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SHOPPING FROM PAGE 30

SKI SHOP

ees who care about music. True to its name, Independent is one of the few stores in town that supports independent, local music. Look for those green-and-white Colorado symbols on the shelves.

3030 E. Platte Ave., 3040 W. Colorado Ave., 123 E. Bijou St., 5680 S. Highway 85/87 WORTHY CONTENDER: Earth Pig Music

BOOKSTORE Chinook Bookshop c From the creative Invisible Man window displays to a staff that reads the books they sell, Chinook has been more than just a bookstore. It’s been a community treasure. If there are wet spots on this newspaper, it’s our tears that dripped on the pages when we heard Chinook will close in June.

210 N. Tejon St.

PLACE TO GET GOOD WINE Vintage’s Wine and Spirits c The wine-savvy staff can lead a novice to making the perfect selection. Wine experts can count on finding something new with which to imbibe or fill their cellars.

9 S. Tejon St. WORTHY CONTENDER: Coaltrain Wine and Liquor

The Ski Shop c This store specializes in snow sports. In fact, it’s open only during the ski season. And when it’s open, it’s the best place to educate yourself on new gear.

1422 S. Tejon St.

VIDEO STORE Toons Music and Film c What makes Toons the must-see video store in town is the rich variety of offerings, foreign and domestic.

Want to rent “Noises Off” after seeing the Theatreworks production? Toons is the only place you’ll find it. Like Fellini’s stuff? Toons has 18 of his films.

802 N. Nevada Ave.

CHRISTIAN STORE International Bible Society c The IBS bookstore is not the biggest Christian marketplace in town; the selection is limited to the Bible. But here’s the thing: There are Bibles tailor-made for men, women, teens and seniors; Bibles targeted to firemen, motorcycle enthusiasts and rodeo cowboys; Bibles in Hebrew, Korean, Aramaic and dozens of other languages. If you’re in the market for the Good Book, but not just any Good Book, the IBS is the place to go.

1820 Jet Stream Drive

PLACE TO GET CHEAP WINE

TOY STORE

Colorado’s Liquor Outlet c Sign up for a Family Card and get special discounts in addition to everyday low prices.

1615 Briargate Blvd.

Discovery Channel Store c It’s like the Hotel California: You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave. Sooner or later you’ll wander back in for another look at the remote-controlled

hovercraft and T-Rex, wall-sized crossword puzzle, hand-held flight simulator, game tables and butterfly kits.

The Citadel mall

NEW AGE STORE Celebration New Age Store c Of course, true psychics already knew this place was the best.

2209 W. Colorado Ave.

BABY STORE Mountain Moppets c This place isn’t the biggest in town, just the best. They’ve weeded out all but the finest products and packed them in a small place — so the Burt’s Bees lotion is next to the Baby Bjorn carrier is next to the cutest blankets imaginable to snuggle that little one (as long as you can afford them).

2532 W. Colorado Ave. WORTHY CONTENDER: Babies “R” Us

BUTCHER Ranch Foods Direct c They specialize in meats raised by small family operations so they know exactly where and how it’s been raised. They butcher only meat that has been processed locally at G&C Packing Co. using “rinse and chill” technology. Why does that matter?

Because the process ensures tender meat and is a more sanitary processing method.

2901 N. El Paso St.

101 N. Tejon St.

21 S. Tejon St.

STORE AT THE SHOPS AT BRIARGATE Sharper Image c There are other great stores, but this one’s the most fun. They don’t just let you try out their newfangled gadgets, they encourage it.

Briargate Parkway at Highway 83

PLACE TO GET CLOTHES FOR A METROSEXUAL POODLE Couture c If your passé pooch is cramping your style, Couture has the solution.

The shop features designer clothes for humans and dogs. Owner Shannon Dougherty makes her own line of dog sweaters and carries the Little Lily, I See Spot and Sacred Pets lines.

PLACE TO MAKE YOURSELF HIPPER The Leechpit c You gotta love a store with the motto, “We put the rad in Colorado.”

For the best trucker hats, vintage T-shirts, obscure music, indie-rock gear, odd collectibles and rock ’n’ roll lifestyle accessories, this store is without equal. Contrary to its name, The Leechpit doesn’t suck.

708 N. Weber St.

HIGH FASHION WOMEN’S SHOP Idoru c This shop is where hip, young women go for clothes, jewelry, accessories and the coolest flip-flops on the planet.

14 E. Bijou St.

ATTRACTIVE AFFORDABLE PRACTICAL

MILITARY DISCOUNT Free pint of beer at Jack Quinn’s c Because nothing says “Welcome home” like free beer.

1731 Mt. Washington

Awnings On Your Home Can Be ALL These Things & More!

475-1200

• Solar Shades • Rolling Shutters Window Awnings and More!

The Best Florist (No Kidding!)

The Best Furnishings (For Sure!)

The Best Art (of Course)

See it to believe it! (Yourself)

Colorado Springs ONLY Local Manufacturer

ESTABLISHED IN 1903

“SUN CONTROL SPECIALISTS” HOURS: Tuesday-Friday 8:30-5:30 • Saturday 8:30-4:00 Closed Sunday & Monday

570-9778 COME SEE OUR SHOWROOM Friday, April 23, 2004

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