BEST OF THE SPRINGS 2
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
.FNPSJBM %BZ 4BMF #VZ 8JOEPXT (FU 'SFF 6Q UP PGG 4JEJOH .POUIT 'JOBODJOH 8 " $
$PMPSBEP 4QSJOHT 1VFCMP
Colorado Springs and Pueblo Showrooms 7435 North Academy Blvd., Colorado Springs 910 South Santa Fe Avenue, Pueblo www.AccentWindows.com
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 3
INTRODUCTION
Best of the Springs 2007
IT’S A KEEPER! Welcome to The Gazette’s 13th Annual Best of the Springs edition — and the first in glossy magazine form. The largest special section The Gazette has ever produced, this publication celebrates the tremendous achievements of the Pikes Peak region. You’ll want to keep it handy on the coffee table or in the glove box for those times you need to find the best martini or most reliable auto mechanic. In looking for a theme for the section, something that would speak to the beauty and wonderfulness of this place, we started with a discussion of the obvious: Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods and the other natural landmarks. Love ‘em. But the more we looked around, the more we saw signs of another sort of landmark, the kind made of old neon and bulb-lit plywood, beacons from a time when Springs style glowed in blues, purples, reds and yellows. On the cover and throughout the issue, you’ll find some of the coolest signs in the region — altered to announce each subject. (You can see the unaltered versions of the signs on Pages 6 and 7.) They illuminate Colorado Springs with flair and a touch of Western panache.
... AND WE’RE ONLINE TOO As useful as this Best of the Springs issue can be, there’s an even more mind-blowing version online at gazette.com. It has fully searchable functions, so you can find the Best Pizza or Best Yoga with a few clicks of the keyboard. It also uses video and audio features that expand Best of the Springs into the next dimension. Check it out.
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 4
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
CONTENTS Best of the Springs 2007
9 DINING
Your father-in-law wants to treat you guys to dinner. “Price is no object,” he says. Our Dining section will steer you toward a restaurant that you’ll always remember and the father-in-law will be paying on his credit card for months. If you’re going out on your own dime, we’ll direct you toward more modest, but still worthy, eateries.
33 CITY LIFE
Wondering about the best place to get your hair coiffed? How about a place to coif your standard poodle? We’ve got you covered on both counts. The City Life section recognizes the area’s best services, TV personalities, places and more. You’ll meet the best crossing guard and discover the best waiting room. You’ll also find a home with a jet in its sunroom, and it wasn’t the result of a plane crash.
51 A&E
This salute to the best in local arts and entertainment is both a guide to weekend fun (Best Place to Dance, Best Place for a First Date, etc.) and a tribute to some of the year’s top musical and theatrical performances (Best Actor, Best Drama, Best Local Band, etc.) We also recognize the best mainstream art galleries as well as the best irreverent upstarts who challenge the very notion of what art is.
65 SHOPPING
Nifty lamp. Check. The perfect sexy shoes for that night on the town. Check. Fried pork skins. Check. Your cart will runneth over after you’re done with this guide to the area’s best shopping. In these pages, you’ll find out one spot that will sell you both a latte and an avalanche shovel. (Hint: It’s not Wal-Mart.)
75 FAMILY LIFE
You say it’s your birthday. We can tell you the best places to squeeze the maximum fun out of whatever milestone you’re marking. Our Family section also will tell you where you’ll find the most off-the-hook summer camps and the best place to take your youngster for his or her first haircut.
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
81 SPORTS & LEISURE
Indoors, outdoors and all around the house. The opportunities for fun and fitness abound. We’ll walk you through the area’s best hiking trails and link you with the finest links. Whether you like to pedal, jump, swim or climb, we’ll get you there. You just bring the sweat.
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 5
INDEX Best of the Springs 2007 Al fresco dining ..............................................................32 All-ages club ....................................................................53 Ambulance service .......................................................48 Antiques ............................................................................72 Art gallery ........................................................................56 Art museum .....................................................................52 Artistic farewell.............................................................. 56 Asian market ...................................................................69 Athletes ............................................................................50 Auction ..............................................................................74 Auto dealership ..............................................................74 Bagel .................................................................................29 Bar .....................................................................................58 Bar food ............................................................................16 Bar for extroverts .........................................................52 Bar for introverts ..........................................................52 Bar for smokers ............................................................52 Barbecue .........................................................................20 Barber .................................................................................41 Bathroom fixtures ..........................................................67
Chef .....................................................................................16 Children’s clothing store .............................................70 Chinese ..............................................................................10 Chinese buffet ................................................................29 Chips and salsa .............................................................29 Chocolatier ......................................................................29 Christian store ...............................................................74 Cinnamon rolls ................................................................29 Climbing wall ...................................................................84 Coffee place .....................................................................26 Colorado cuisine ............................................................16 Consignment shop ........................................................72 Construction sign .........................................................42 Cover band ......................................................................54 Cripple Creek casino ....................................................59 Crossing guard ..............................................................38 Day spa ..............................................................................33 Deli .....................................................................................29 Diner ..................................................................................29 Dog park ...........................................................................46
Golf course .....................................................................84 Golf hole ...........................................................................84 Gourmet shop .................................................................68 Greek .................................................................................14 Green building ................................................................36 Green chili .......................................................................24 Groomer ............................................................................47 Guest musician ..............................................................60 Gyro ....................................................................................29 Hair salon .........................................................................33 Hamburger .......................................................................29 Happy hour ......................................................................53 Hardware store ..............................................................74 Hidden gem ......................................................................12 Hike ...................................................................................82 Hobby store .....................................................................66 Home accessories ...........................................................71 Home-brew store ...........................................................67 Home furnishings ...........................................................71 Hot dog .............................................................................29
Mall ....................................................................................65 Margarita ..........................................................................29 Martini ..............................................................................24 Mechanic ..........................................................................38 Mexican ..............................................................................9 Mexican market ..............................................................68 Military hangout ...........................................................54 Miniature golf .................................................................76 Mobile vet .......................................................................46 Moroccan ...........................................................................18 Motel .................................................................................38 Mountain bike trail ........................................................82 Move theater ...................................................................52 Musical ..............................................................................61 Natural-foods store ......................................................69 New Age store ................................................................74 New camp .........................................................................78 New event .......................................................................42 New restaurant ................................................................12 New-school summer camp ........................................78
Bed-and-breakfast .........................................................48 Bike shop ..........................................................................66 Bison burger ....................................................................29 Bookstore .........................................................................71 Boutique ...........................................................................67 Bowling ..............................................................................82 Bread ..................................................................................29 Bread pudding ...............................................................29 Breakfast .........................................................................26 Breakfast burritos .........................................................29 Brew pub ...........................................................................22 Bridal shop .......................................................................69 Buffet ................................................................................29 Building ............................................................................38 Burritos ............................................................................29 Butcher .............................................................................69 Cake ...................................................................................30 Calamari ............................................................................24 Card store ..........................................................................67 Caterer .............................................................................68 CD store ...........................................................................68 Chain restaurant ............................................................32
Doggie day care ............................................................46 Doughnuts ........................................................................16 Dry cleaner .....................................................................48 Edible bouquet ...............................................................69 Educator ...........................................................................49 Extreme home .................................................................41 Extreme makeover, spa edition ................................40 Farmers market ..............................................................68 Fast-food-nation refugee ............................................40 Fast food ..........................................................................20 Fine dining ..........................................................................9 Fish store .........................................................................67 Fish taco ...........................................................................29 Fishing spot .....................................................................81 Florist ............................................................................... 69 Frame shop .....................................................................70 Fried chicken ..................................................................29 Frozen treat ....................................................................29 Garden center ................................................................72 Gay bar .............................................................................53 German ...............................................................................11 Gift shop ..........................................................................66
Hot sauce .........................................................................67 Hotel .................................................................................38 Hummus ...........................................................................29
New show ........................................................................60 New store ........................................................................70 Nightclub .........................................................................58 Nonprofit .........................................................................42 Nonprofit event ..............................................................42 Novelty shop ..................................................................67 Off-site office ..................................................................36 Old-school summer camp ..........................................78 Outdoor art ......................................................................57 Outdoors/sporting good store ..................................66 Outing for the whole family ......................................76 Outlet for teen angst ...................................................62 Oysters .............................................................................29 Park ...................................................................................82 Philanthropist ................................................................49 Pie ......................................................................................22 Pizza ....................................................................................16 Place for a 15th birthday party .................................75 Place for a baby registry ...........................................67 Place for a fifth birthday party ................................75
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 6
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
Ice cream ...................................................................26
Ice rink ..............................................................................82 Indian ..................................................................................14 Irreverent art event .....................................................56 Italian ................................................................................10 Japanese ...........................................................................14 Jewelry store ..................................................................72 Job perk ..........................................................................40 Karaoke ..............................................................................51 Kennel ...............................................................................47 Kids haircuts ....................................................................78 Korean .................................................................................11 Leadership trainer ........................................................50 Liquor store ....................................................................66 Live music venue ...........................................................51 Live wire ...........................................................................38 Local actors ....................................................................62 Local band ......................................................................54 Magician ..........................................................................59
INDEX Best of the Springs 2007 Place for a first date .................................................................51 Place for a gun registry ..........................................................67 Place for a kids birthday party .............................................75 Place for a staff retreat ..........................................................43 Place for a Sweet 16 party .....................................................75 Place for a test drive ...............................................................48 Place for a wedding registry ................................................67 Place for art prints ...................................................................70 Place for pinball wizards ........................................................78 Place for plant eaters ...............................................................18 Place to adopt a pet ...............................................................46 Place to be born .......................................................................48 Place to buy a big-screen TV ................................................67 Place to buy a digital camera ..............................................67 Place to buy a mattress ..........................................................67 Place to celebrate a 25th wedding anniversary ...............................................................64 Place to dance ............................................................................51 Place to drink on the cheap ..................................................54 Place to end up after last call ..............................................54
Poet ..............................................................................................59 Pool ...............................................................................................82 Pool hall ........................................................................................81 Popcorn ........................................................................................67 Power lunch .................................................................................31 PR person ....................................................................................49 Preschool .....................................................................................38 Pub quiz .......................................................................................55 Radio personality .....................................................................33 Radio station ..............................................................................33 Reason to designate a driver ...............................................54 Record store ...............................................................................69 Restaurant design ......................................................................18 Restaurant for kids ....................................................................16 Restaurant for when someone else is paying ..............................................................................31 Romantic restaurant ................................................................12 Salad .............................................................................................28 Salad bar .....................................................................................28 Sandwich .....................................................................................30
Student art event ......................................................................56 Sunday brunch ..........................................................................30 Supermarket ..............................................................................65 Survivors ....................................................................................40 Sushi ...............................................................................................11 Tamales .........................................................................................24 Tanning salon .............................................................................41 Taqueria ........................................................................................24 Tea .................................................................................................29 Teen night ...................................................................................76 Thai ..................................................................................................11 Theater company .....................................................................60 Themed dinners ..........................................................................18 Thrift store sale .........................................................................72 Thrift stores ...............................................................................72 Tortillas ........................................................................................29 Toy store ......................................................................................70 Trail ...............................................................................................82 Tribune to Zeb Pike .................................................................36 TV anchor ....................................................................................34
EDITOR’S NOTE The selections for Best of the Springs were chosen by reader ballots and the GO! staff. The reader picks are labeled as such (with our buddy, Hank the Cowboy, a sculpture on Tejon Street). The rest are staff picks.
CREDITS THE SIGNS We’d like to thank the owners or proprietors of H+L Architecture offices (page 4), the Mel Haven Motel, the Dun Rovin’, The Chief Motel, Kimball’s Twin Peak Theatres, Lee’s Liquors, The Wrangler RV campgrounds and The Navajo Hogan for “Signs of Greatness.”
Place to end up during last call ..........................................54 Place to find bargains ............................................................65 Place to fix a computer ..........................................................74 Place to game ............................................................................59 Place to get a latte with your avalanche snow shovel ..........................................................67 Place to get married ................................................................64 Place to get the 411 ..................................................................50 Place to get the wiggles out .................................................76 Place to learn to fly-fish .........................................................84 Place to meet a potential mate ..........................................54 Place to network ......................................................................50 Place to propose ......................................................................64 Place to rent or buy an instrument ...................................74 Place to spend $100 on a pair of jeans .............................71 Place to spend $5 on a pair of jeans ..................................71 Place to take kids ......................................................................75 Place to take out-of-towners ...............................................38 Place to volunteer .....................................................................41 Place to work out .......................................................................81
Scenic drive ................................................................................47 School field trip ........................................................................48 School for hairstylists .............................................................41 Scooter shop ...............................................................................67 Seafood ...........................................................................................9 Second-career artist ...............................................................62 Shoe store ...................................................................................68 Shopping with the girls .........................................................68 Shrimp cocktail .........................................................................29 Ski shop .......................................................................................74 Smoke shop .................................................................................67 Soup ..............................................................................................29 Special dinners ..........................................................................28 Special treat for mom ............................................................20 Sports bar ...................................................................................16 Sports complex .........................................................................84 Spot for a picnic ........................................................................48 Stage comedy .............................................................................63 Stage drama ................................................................................61 Steak .............................................................................................10
TV consumer reporter .............................................................34 TV news hotties ........................................................................34 TV news station ........................................................................34 TV reporter ..................................................................................34 Unlikely headbanger ...............................................................53 Upscale men’s clothes .............................................................70 Use of brooms ...........................................................................84 Video game store ......................................................................67 Vietnamese ...................................................................................11 Vintage clothing store ..............................................................71 Wait staff .....................................................................................32 Waiting room .............................................................................49 Way to learn an instrument ..................................................64 Web site for kid activities ......................................................76 Wine bar ........................................................................................18 Wings ............................................................................................29 Women’s fashions .....................................................................70 Yoga studio ..................................................................................41 Zoo animal ...................................................................................76
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
EDITOR Warren Epstein ARTISTS and DESIGNERS Nichole Montañez, Brian McCarrie, Stephen Olver, Jerry Herman PHOTOGRAPHERS Mark Reis, Carol Lawrence, Kevin Kreck Jerilee Bennett COPY EDITORS Carmen Boles, Linda Doty, Kristin Marsh, Willow Welter WRITERS Nathaniel Glen, Mark Arnest, Warren Epstein, Andrew Wineke, Linda Navarro, Jen Mulson, Teresa Farney, Willow Welter, Carmen Boles, Jennifer Wilson, Christopher Short, Dave Philipps ONLINE GURUS Pula Davis, Brian McCarrie, Stephanie Weber, videographer Charlie Balch
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 7
Tastefully Yours,
The Restaurants at The Broadmoor
The Tavern ~ Garden Room
Summit
Since 1918, superb, award-winning dining has always been a Broadmoor tradition. Today, The Broadmoor offers 15 distinctive choices in restaurants, cafĂŠs and lounges for your enjoyment. From classic fine dining in the Penrose Room with its unparalleled views and Charles Court celebrating American food with a Colorado focus and alfresco dining by the lake, to the best in steaks and seafood at the historic Tavern, family The Penrose Room
The Golden Bee
fare at the Golf Club Dining Room and the nationally acclaimed American Brasserie Summit restaurant at Broadmoor Hall, your choices seem endless.
Charles Court Patio
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 8
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
The Hotel Bar
For more information, www.broadmoor.com or call Broadmoor Dining Reservations at 719.577.5733.
Best fine dining THE PENROSE ROOM
The top dining spot in The Broadmoor isn’t just a place to eat. You take the elevator up to the peak of the resort’s South Tower to experience grandeur at its, well, grandest. As a jazz quartet plays, you sit under crystal chandeliers, taking in unmatched mountain views courtesy of panoramic windows while you sip Dungeness crabmeat bisque or nibble on snapper ceviche with cucumber and coconut milk. The only place that comes close, in terms of food, service and general elegance, is The Broadmoor’s Charles Court. 1 Lake Ave., 577-5733; broadmoor.com
Best seafood ENGLISH DOCKSIDE SEAFOOD AND GRILL Thomas English and his family have turned a strip mall shop into a roadside Florida crab shack. Try the snow crab or the fried oysters and you’ll forget you’re landlocked. 2220 Academy Place, 380-7732
Best Mexican AMANDA’S FONDA
Consistent food. Great margaritas. Friendly service. An expanded creek-side patio. Amanda’s is the kind of Mexican restaurant that invites you not just to eat but to savor. 3625 W. Colorado Ave., 227-1975
READERS’ CHOICE
Best fine dining THE CRAFTWOOD INN
It’s hard to find this much elk, venison, buffalo, caribou, wild boar, ostrich, quail, pheasant and duck without a rifle in your hand. A perfect place to take out-of-towners, The Craftwood’s historic setting and gourmet game perfectly capture the Colorado experience. 404 El Paso Blvd., 685-9000; craftwood.com
Best seafood RED LOBSTER
The nation’s largest seafood chain continues to reel readers in with lobster, crab, shrimp and new offerings, such as pan-seared crab cakes and lobster bisque. 275 S. Academy Blvd., 591-0771; 4925 N. Academy Blvd., 594-9494; redlobster.com
Best Mexican AMANDA’S FONDA
The family has owned Mexican restaurants for five generations, and built a loyal clientele by loading plates with perfectly balanced spices and plenty of meat. The green chili is about the chunkiest you’ll find. 3625 W. Colorado Ave., 227-1975
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 9
DINING There’s no arguing Silver Pond’s superior quality when it comes to Best Chinese
Best steak THE FAMOUS
READERS’ CHOICE
You can’t be a real city without a real steakhouse, and, The Famous really puts us on the map. It has the leather upholstered booths and prime steaks like you’d find at an upscale Chicago beef joint.
Best steak STEAKSMITH
Now open for lunch, the Steaksmith has been a popular spot for carnivores for 25 years, and it continues to draw crowds with some of the finest beef in town.
31 N. Tejon St., 227-7333
Best Chinese SILVER POND
3802 Maizeland Road, 596-9300; steaksmith.com
We have to agree with the readers on this one. The upscale Chinese here is too good for those little takeout boxes. Sit down in the restaurant and enjoy.
Best Chinese SILVER POND
5670 N. Academy Blvd., 594-9343
Sure, you’ll find your usual chow meins and moo goo gai pans, done better than you’ve had outside Chinatown, but you’ll also find specials with gourmet flourishes, such as the strawberry chicken, served in an upscale setting.
Best Italian PARAVICINI’S ITALIAN BISTRO
The local wise guys of Southern Italian feed-your-face comfort food, Franco Pisani and Ted Sexton, have added a second restaurant in Palmer Lake (in the old Villa), and it surpasses the original Old Colorado City location in food, service and romantic ambiance. Try the Chicken Valeria, a chicken breast sauteed with loads of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts and mushroom sauce, and other great stink-up-your-breath specialities. 75 S. Colorado Highway 105, Palmer Lake, 481-2222 paravicinis.com
5670 N. Academy Blvd.; 594-9343
Best Italian ZIO’S ITALIAN KITCHEN CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE
The Famous chef Brian Sack, a major goofball, is serious about his steak.
there’s always something brewing at rock bottom Just in time for spring, we’ve created a handful of new entrées, like the hearty Tuna Steak Sandwich or our fresh Turkey Bacon Cobb, both on our grilled Flatbread. And if you haven’t joined us for our new Happy Hour - you’ve got a few more reasons to come visit; including $2.79 handcrafted pints and food specials starting at $2.99; weekdays from 3pm - 6pm and again after 10pm. It’s all new, only at Rock Bottom.
Serious about our food. Crazy about our beer.
3316 Cinema Point | Colorado Springs | 719.550.3586 | www.rockbottom.com BEST OF THE SPRINGS 10
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
tuna steak sandwich
turkey bacon cobb sandwich
Here’s the rare chain that actually serves good Italian fare at cheap prices. You can get a big plate of delectable chicken cannelloni for $7.99 or pay even less for crispy, delicious calamari. 6650 Corporate Drive, 593-9999; zios.com
try our new Happy Hour too!
DINING Sushi competition is tough
Best Korean TONG TONG KOREAN RESTAURANT
Be prepared to be surrounded by Asian diners who are in the know about where to get great Korean food at bargain prices. You’ll find the traditional bul gogi (grilled beef), japchae (noodles) and bibimbob (a bowl of rice topped with steamed veggies, grilled beef and a fried egg). 2036 S. Academy Blvd., 591-8585
enjoy authentic German and continental fare. The restaurant’s been in business since 1969, and you’ll find all the standards: wienerschnitzel, jagerschnitzel and sauerbraten. Try the flammekuche, a traditional dish from Alsace; it’s a pizzalike crust topped with apples, onions, bacon and a sour cream sauce.
Celebrating 12 Years–Locally Owned and Operated in Colorado! Thank You!
34 E. Ramona Ave., 633-2220; restauranteur.com/edelweiss
Best Sushi AI SUSHI & GRILL
Best Thai TASTE OF THAI SPICE
The extra spicy here is serious but delicious. Pick your comfort zone for heat and get ready to dig chopsticks into a fine Pad Thai or any of the other noodle dishes. Our favorite soup, Tom-Kha-Kai, a vegetable and coconut milk soup with tiny red peppers dancing in it, is a must on snowy days. 1609 Lashelle Way, 226-1999
Best German EDELWEISS RESTAURANT
It’s like taking a trip to old Bavaria when you dine at this spacious eatery where you can
Local sushi wars continue to push Jun and Ai to new heights. This year, Ai’s Centennial location pulled ahead with better blended flavors in the rolls and better rice-to-fish ratio. 4655 Centennial Blvd., 266-5858
Best Vietnamese LEMONGRASS BISTRO
Local Vietnamese restaurants are remarkably good — and remarkably similar. If you want something more exotic, say Mrs. Nga’s Wok-Seared Shrimp Paste Spread on Rice topped off with an amazing creme brulee, you have to go to Lemongrass Bistro. 6840 N. Academy Blvd., 592-1391
Enjoy the unique dining experience of The Mona Lisa. Flavorful cheeses, fresh fruits, vegetables & baked breads, the finest meats & seafood choices, and decadent chocolate fondues. Dinners starting at 5pm, Tuesday through Sunday. Reservations are Recommended. Arrive early and , visit Mona s Wine Cellar, a wine tasting bar with a distinctive wine selection. 719.685.0277 • 733 Manitou Avenue in Downtown Manitou Springs
For more information, visit us at www.monalisafondue.com
CWa[ 7do :Wo If[Y_Wb$$$ CWa[ If[Y_Wb EYYWi_edi ;njhWehZ_dWho “Best Colorado Cuisine”
WILD GAME, SEAFOOD, STEAKS, VEGETARIAN & MORE
Gazette Go Readers 2004, 2005, 2006
DINNER FROM 5:00 P.M. RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED
“Best of the Springs” Colorado Springs Chamber 2005
º#####» North American Restaurant Association 2005
Mention this ad and receive 10% Off your entire bill 404 Manitou Avenue (Driveway by blue arch) • Manitou Springs, Colorado • (719) 685-1864 • www.briarhurst.com Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 11
DINING For an intimate experience, take a dip (or two) at Mona Lisa
Best new restaurant PLATE WORLD CUISINE
No local restaurant has created such an adventure in dining as the sexy new Plate World Cuisine, created by Ryan Blanchard and Walter Iser from Walter’s Bistro. The menu changes regularly, rotating morsels from the Pacific Rim with delectables from Latin America and beyond. 9420 Briar Village Point, 475-8000; platecolorado.com
Best romantic restaurant THE MONA LISA FONDUE RESTAURANT
Victorian splendor melds with the do-it-yourself craze in the most romantic setting this side of Venice. We’re pretty sure Nat King Cole wrote a song about the place, too. 733 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-0277; monalisafondue.com
Best hidden gem BLUE VERVAIN
CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE
Executive chef Ryan Blanchard from Plate World Cuisine showed off a popular lunch entree, seared jumbo sea scallops with lobster succotash.
Here’s the little restaurant that could, competing (and often beating) the big boys in regional chef competitions. Creative and dynamic foods influenced by Southwest, Asian, Italian and French traditions are served in a cozy and elegant dining room. 56 Park Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-2400; bluevervain.com
• IN THE HEART • OF HISTORIC • OLD COLORADO CITY •
OPEN MON-SAT 6-3 OPEN Sun 6:30-3
2601 West Colorado Avenue • Colorado Springs, CO 80904 • 719-634-1007
EARLY BIRD SPECIALS • Bacon & Egg Sandwich • Biscuits & Sausage & Gravy • French Toast
• Egg Benedict • Chicken Fried Steak & Eggs • Eggs Florentine • Corn Beef Hash
al Enjoy your me on our
Outdoor Patio BEST OF THE SPRINGS 12
Ask about our Daily Specials! VEGETARIAN MENU
SPECIALTIES
THE GAZETTE
&
• Veggie Burger • Veggie Eggs Benedict • Veggie Burrito
Served ‘till 3pm
SOUTHWEST • Breakfast Burrito • Huevos Rancheros Friday, May 18, 2007
• Southwest Burrito • Chilli Relleno
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES • Imported & Domestic Beers • Wine and Champagne • Mixed Drinks
SANDWICHES & WRAPS • Philly Cheese Steak • Shaved Turkey • Turkey Melt
DELICIOUS DESSERTS
Enjoy a slice of one of our delicious cakes or pies with a scoop of ice cream. We also have sundaes!
Celebrate something new
ucing our Introd
New SPRING MENU ITEMS.
Our spring menu has a new look.
sm
Try our Penne Campofiore made with fresh vegetables and Romano cheese in a light vegetable broth. For those who like it spicy, try our Shrimp and Scallops Fra Diavolo tossed with roasted peppers in a fiery red sauce. And our unforgettable Pizza Angelo features a delicious Alfredo sauce, sliced chicken
breast, mushrooms and roasted corn. So come in soon because there’s always a good reason to Buca.
me Reservations Welbecoppo.com bucadi
Colorado Springs Open daily for lunch
7252 North Academy Blvd. 719.260.0444
Also in LoDo, Broomfield and Littleton
1.866.EAT.BUCA (1.866.328.2822)
Friday, May 18, 2007 BDB70023-SpringMenu-BOCS.indd 1
estaurant
Italian R THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 13 4/26/07 6:52:10 PM
DINING Great minds think alike on Jun, Jake & Telly’s
Best Japanese JUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT
We have to agree with the readers here. Jun has the whole package. Great sushi, perfectly prepared tempura and, at the Centennial location, knife-tossing teppan that will keep the family entertained. 3276 Centennial Blvd., 227-8690; 1760 Dublin Blvd., 531-9368
Best Greek JAKE & TELLY’S GREEK CUISINE THE FLYING W WRANGLERS LIVE IN CONCERT EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY NIGHT!!! HITS INCLUDE: GHOST RIDERS, TUMBLING WEEDS, COOL WATER, SOMEBODY’S PRAYIN’, FATHER TO FATHER AND MUCH, MUCH MORE
Winter Steakhouse and Original Western Stage Show!
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 14
OPEN EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY
Reservations Necessary So Please Call 719-598-4000 • flyingw.com
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
We love Jake & Telly’s as much as readers. 2616 W. Colorado Ave., 633-0406
Best Indian MIRCH MASALA
Gotta love the setting: murals of Bombay, Bollywood posters near the restrooms, a scooter protruding from the wall. And the food surpasses the ambiance. The lunch buffet just went up a buck to a shocking $8.95, but you get what you pay for. The saag paneer at Mirch Masala is about the creamiest, most comforting Indian dish you’ll find in the region. 5047 N. Academy Blvd., 599-0003 mirchmasalacuisine.com
READERS’ CHOICE
Best Japanese JUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT
You’ll be lucky to get near the sushi bars at the North Academy or Centennial locations without reservations on a Friday night. The masses have discovered Jun in a big way. Jun proves that attention warranted by serving up phenomenal sushi, tempura and more. 3276 Centennial Blvd., 227-8690; 1760 Dublin Blvd., 531-9368
Best Greek JAKE & TELLY’S GREEK CUISINE
Readers are thinking outside the gyro. Jake and Telly Topakas serve decidedly upscale dishes influenced by Greek, Middle Eastern, French and American cuisines in a comfy dining room or a balcony overlooking Colorado Avenue. You can take it light with some hummus and pita, or really make a night of it. 2616 W. Colorado Ave., 633-0406
The Independent Restaurants Cooperative The IRC consists of chefs and owners of nine independently owned and operated restaurants in the Colorado Springs area. Our members are dedicated to provide a unique and delectable dining experience. We support local farmers and ranchers while serving distinctive and unique cuisine. The IRC is active in the community, supporting local art is and entertainment. Support local businesses and try one of these non-chain restaurants today! 6:30 p.m. $50/per person plus tax & gratuity. Each dinner limited to 50 guests. 10% of proceeds to benefit the Fine Arts Center.
New 2007 IRC Dinner Dates Five Courses, Five Wines
IRC - February 13
IRC - March 13
IRC - April 10
IRC - May 8
IRC - June 12
Greek Cuisine
2616 West Colorado Ave. Colorado Springs 719.633.0406
4605 Centennial Boulevard Colorado Springs 719.599.4776
IRC - July 10
IRC - August 14
56 Park Avenue Manitou Springs 719.685-2400 IRC - September 11
404 Manitou Avenue Manitou Springs 719.685.1864 IRC - October 9 April 11th 2007 Wine Tasting “The World of Lafite”
7350 Pine Creek Road Colorado Springs 719.598.8667 IRC - November 13
$55.00 per person plus tax and gratuity
34 E. Ramona Avenue Colorado Springs 719.633.2220
4375 Sinton Road Colorado Springs 719.528.1155
La Petite Maison
25 W Cimarron Street Colo. Spgs. • 719.475.8880
1015 W. Colorado Avenue Colorado Springs 719.632.4887
404 El Paso Boulevard Manitou Springs 719.685.9000
Call each individual restaurant to reserve your spot at the listed IRC dinner dates.
ACQUIRE A TASTE FOR THE DINING EXPERIENCE. cultivate an appetite for dining Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 15
DINING Red Robin, Fargo’s keep kids occupied with fun . . . Craftwood’s got game
Best pizza BROOKLYN ITALIAN KITCHEN AND BAKERY
Best restaurant for kids FARGO’S PIZZA CO.
The closest thing we have to a Casa Bonita, Fargo’s offers families not just good pizza and carrot cake, but an entertainment experience, complete with a game room, a player piano and an over-the-top Western atmosphere. Now, if they could just figure where to put the cliff divers.
New York transplants who taste Domino’s Brooklyn Style pizza and think “mmm, not bad” need to get a tasty reminder of how their real hometown pizza is supposed to taste. Brooklyn’s version features just the right thin crust, homemade sweet marinara, cheese and olive oil.
2910 E. Platte Ave., 473-5540
Best chef JASON GUST
1371 N. Academy Blvd., 573-1900
For three years, the executive chef of the Ritz Grill has taken the top spot in the Chef de Cuisine, an annual “Iron Chef”-like competition at The Broadmoor. Try his semolinaencrusted salmon at Ritz Grill and you’ll know why.
Best sports bar THE HATCH COVER
This upscale restaurant-turned-sports bar has 17 TVs and definitely caters to the game crowd, but it also retains its emphasis on food, from the lowbrow buffalo wings to the highbrow crab-stuffed trout.
Best Colorado cuisine CRAFTWOOD INN
252 E. East Cheyenne Mountain Blvd., 576-5223; hatchcover.biz
Best bar food KEG LOUNGE
OK, we’ve excluded Shuga’s, Phantom Canyon, Metropolitain, The Warehouse and other places that are, in spirit, more restaurant than bar. The Keg is just an oldschool saloon that happens to employ cooks who know their way around buffalo burgers, chicken-and-berry salads and steamed snow crab platters like nobody’s business. This is bar food? 730 Manitou Ave., 685-9531
Come here with a hearty, robust appetite for a meal filled with foods indigenous to Colorado: elk, pheasant, venison, quail, antelope. Be prepared for eye-popping presentations such as the chargrilled North American Elk in Cabernet Sauvignon glace served with a wild mushroom ragout. 404 El Paso Blvd., Manitou Springs, 685-9000; craftwood.com
Best doughnuts BREADHEADS BAKERY
Yummy, old-fashioned cake doughnuts — don’t miss the delicious applesauce ones. If glazed is your thing, they have them, too, and great bread.
READERS’ CHOICE
Best pizza PAPA MURPHY’S TAKE ‘N’ BAKE PIZZA
Papa Murphy’s pioneered the take-and-bake concept and continues to do it wonderfully, with gourmet toppings and quality dough. Cook it in your home and it serves as not just dinner but aromatherapy. Various locations
Best sports bar CHAMPPS AMERICANA
This sports bar chain has a slick, big-city look, and eats that go way beyond chicken wings and burgers. But the chicken wings and burgers are pretty darned good. 1765 Briargate Parkway, 548-0113: champps.com
Best restaurant for kids RED ROBIN
Video games, balloons for everybody, a guy roaming the dining room in a giant red bird suit, burgers that put McDonald’s to shame. No wonder kids love this place. Various locations
2226 N. Wahsatch Ave., 473-5555
Serving Made from Scratch Classics: Gumbo, Jambalaya, Crawfish Etouffee, Po-Boys, Praline Shrimp, Beignets, Red Beans & Rice, Fried Catfish and More... Hurricane Cocktails
8810 N. Union Blvd. 719-282-8479 • www.culpeppers.net BEST OF THE SPRINGS 16
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
Hours: Sunday - Thursday 11 am - 9 pm Friday - Saturday 11 am - 10 pm
Interested In LASIK But Concerned About Cost And Safety? • 20/20 Money Back Guarantee Only a doctor with the track record of Dr. Britt Buckley using the most up-to-date Intralase bladeless technology is going to offer a 20/20 Money Back GUARANTEE - and be able to deliver the goods.
47 months deferrred mail-in thru the • 50% Cash Rebate* *After National Rebate Fund • 0%-Interest 24 Months Financing
Don’t discount your vision - you dont have to. LASIK at Buckley Vision Institute can be as affordable as a latte a day. Find out how safety and affordability go hand in hand!
Know MORE about LASIK Learn About Your Other Vision Correction Options Call NOW: Over $200 Value - Yours FREE
• FREE Vision Correction Guide • FREE DVD Candid Answers About LASIK • Schedule a FREE LASIK Screening
719-444-3000 buckleyvision.com Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 17
DINING Summit’s excellence is in the details — and the grandeur
Best Moroccan TAJINE ALAMI
Sit on pillows, eat with your fingers, and dig into a six-course Moroccan feast. The best dish is B’stella, a pastry stuffed with chicken, spiced eggs and almonds. Even better are the belly dancers who perform Fridays, Saturdays and the last Wednesday of every month. 10 Old Mans Trail in Manitou Springs, 685-1119; tajinealami.com
Best restaurant design SUMMIT
Happy Hour 3 - 7pm Everyday
Traditional Irish and American Fare
OPEN 11AM Seven Days a Week
Live Music • Plenty of Parking 520 S. TEJON • 633-3300
This Broadmoor bistro boasts a retro James Bond cool with sleek design percolating from the dessert forks up to the massive rotating glass wine turret. 19 Lake Circle, 577-5896; broadmoor.com
Best themed dinners THE MARGARITA AT PINECREEK Eric Viedt shows outdoor films in the summer and pairs food to the theme of the movie. We’re hoping he doesn’t do a showing of “Spider-Man.” 7350 Pine Creek Road, 598-8667; coloradoeats.com/margarita/home.html
Best wine bar RICO’S COFFEE, CHOCOLATE AND WINE BAR AT POOR RICHARD’S
A delightful mix of wines from Spain, Italy, France and California, outstanding coffee, gourmet sipping chocolates and soothing live jazz. This is about enjoying life to the fullest. 322 N. Tejon St., 630-7723; poorrichardswebsite.com
Best place for plant eaters ADAM’S MOUNTAIN CAFE
If you’re not a veggie head, all you need is one meal here and you’ll see the light. Adam’s isn’t strictly vegetarian. The chefs also do delightful things with fish and chicken. But it’s the veggies, grains and eggs that really shine. Platters of huevos rancheros with vegetarian New Mexican green chili, the melt-in-your-mouth brown rice Planet Burger and Tibetan Vegetables will make you think twice about eating animal flesh. The place has spacious, spiffy new digs, too, in the historic spa building in Manitou Springs. 934 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-4370; adamsmountain.com
Best of 2006
Great gifts for every home griller!
Leave nothing to chance... Catering - From simple gatherings to unforgettable events!
(719) 635-0200 www.bestcaterer.net / Colorado Springs BEST OF THE SPRINGS 18
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
• Wood Chips • Barbeque Tools • Sauces & Rubs • Electric Smokers
The Big Green Egg
Gift Certificates Available 2619 W. Colorado Ave Colorado Springs, CO 80904 phone (719) 578-0305 fax (719) 578-0410 www.bbqmercantile.com
Traeger Wood Pellet Grill
I]ZgZÇh Cd EaVXZ A^`Z =dbZ¼
6cY i]ZgZÇh cd WZiiZg lVn id ÐcY ndjg YgZVb ]dbZ i]Vc i]gdj\]
CfZXk\[ n`k_`e :fcfiX[f Jgi`e^jÉ Y\Xlk`]lc Xe[ ^ifn`e^ efik_\ie Zfii`[fi# n\ `em`k\ pfl kf m`j`k fli e\n @e]fidXk`fe J\im`Z\ :\ek\i%
Map not to scale
Denver Hwy 105
Exit 161
North Gate Blvd.
Exit 156A Vo
@kÉj X nfe[\i]lc c`]\ n`k_ =cp`e^ ?fij\ I\Xckp%
er
Flying Horse Club Drive
P
p Shou
Road
N Po we r
Exit 153 Air Force Academy
Interquest Parkway
83 Hwy
lvd. sB
:Xcc fi m`j`k lj kf[Xp
yag
way ark
=\Xkli`e^1 E\n ?fd\ C`YiXip Efik_\ie :fddle`kp @e]fidXk`fe JkXk`fej n`k_ m`[\f Xe[ jc`[\ j_fn gi\j\ekXk`fej fe efik_\ie Zfddle`k`\j Xe[ XmX`cXYc\ gifg\ik`\j Jg\Z`Xckp Kfli DXgj ]\Xkli`e^ k_\ Z`kpÉj efik_\ie j\im`Z\j# j_fgj# i\jkXliXekj# d\[`ZXc ]XZ`c`k`\j# jZ_ffcj# Xe[ i\Zi\Xk`fe ?le[i\[j f] :ljkfd 9l`c[`e^ J`k\j E\n ?fd\ ;i\Xd J_\\kj ;\j`^e B`kj D\dY\ij_`g kf K_\ :clY Xk =cp`e^ ?fij\ `eZcl[\[ fe j\c\Zk Zljkfd Xe[ clolip cfkj Gi`mXk\# fej`k\ d\\k`e^j n`k_ k_\ Xi\XÉj kfg XiZ_`k\Zkj# `ek\i`fi [\j`^e\ij# Xe[ Zljkfd _fd\ Yl`c[\ij
Old North Gate Rd.
Hwy 83
Monument Roller Coaster Rd.
K_`j `j `k% PflÉi\ i\X[p kf Ñe[ pfli [i\Xd _fd\% =cp`e^ ?fij\ I\Xckp f]]\ij k_\ j\im`Z\j pfl e\\[ kf dXb\ Xcc pfli [i\Xdj Zfd\ kil\%
Colorado Springs
;an^c\ =dghZ >c[dgbVi^dc 8ZciZg ')%. ;an^c\ =dghZ 8ajW 9g^kZ BdcYVn  HVijgYVn &%Vb  +eb HjcYVn Cddc  +eb 8Vaa ,&. )-,".&)+
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 19
DINING Barbecue battle pairs Front Range and Bird Dog . . . High tea is fun for Mom
Best fast food CHIPOTLE
READERS’ CHOICE
Leave it to a Colorado company to prove fast food can be convenient, inventive and all natural. No wonder the lunch line is out the door at area Chipotle restaurants. But here’s a secret: Order at chipotle.com and skip to the front of the line to pick up your burrito.
Best barbecue FRONT RANGE BARBEQUE
In 2000, Front Range opened in Old Colorado City and seriously upped the ante for local ‘cue. The restaurant, which also does a brisk catering business, recently opened a second location out east.
various locations
Best special treat for mom FORMAL VICTORIAN TEA AT GLEN EYRIE
Talk about something way out of the ordinary: Surprise that special woman in your life with an elegant tea in a castle. Crook your pinky finger and sip a little tea as you try the chef’s offerings, which probably will include fresh-baked scones with butter and jam, dainty sandwiches, deviled eggs, chocolate truffles, flaky pastries and other brunch treats. Then take Mom on a guided tour of stately, historic Glen Eyrie Castle, home of Colorado Springs founder Gen. William Jackson Palmer. 3820 N. 30th St., 634-0808; www.navigators.org
4935 Templeton Gap Road, 598-8895 2330 W. Colorado Ave., 632 2596 coloradoeats.com/frbbq
CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE
Bird Dog BBQ manager Bryan Frosco spiced up chicken before smoking it.
Best barbecue BIRD DOG BBQ
Bird Dog ain’t fancy. The oak-smoked, slow-cooked meats and fixin’s are served cafeteria style, on plastic trays. But the fallin’-off-the-bones pork ribs and supermoist beef brisket are worthy of fine china. This dog can hunt.
Best fast food WENDY’S OLD FASHIONED HAMBURGERS
Wendy’s has led the fast-food industry in offering great salads and alternatives to fries in the kids’ meals. But when we’re feeling like indulgence, we’re up for those greasy burgers and Vanilla Frostys. Various locations
5984 Stetson Hills Blvd., Suite 300, 596-4900; birddogbbq.com
For the love of Sushi More than 100 Sushi and Rolls to choose from, only at the Garden of the Gods Location.
Voted Best Japanese
Experience The Authentic Taste of Mexican Food Open 7 Days a Week! 11am-10pm
Lunch • Cocktails Dinner
Family Owned & Operated for 25 Years
Take Out Orders Available
Great Mexican Style Dining The Whole Family Will Enjoy!
Two New Locations
4655 Centennial Blvd. (at Garden of the Gods)
310 S. Academy Blvd
266-5858 or 266-6644
596-5414
www.aisushi.us
Lunch: Monday-Friday 1-2:30pm • Dinner: Monday-Thursday 5-9pm • Friday-Saturday 5-10pm
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 20
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
6385 N. Academy Blvd 1749 Lake Woodmoor
532-1743
481-4415
Black Forest Lumber & Garden Center
Good results begin with a solid foundation, and that requires the right materials for the job.
Locally Owned & Operated • Free Quotes • Prompt affordable delivery • Contractor & quality pricing available • Lumber cut to size • Fast Delivery
That’s why professionals and do-it-yourselfers alike trust us for a comprehensive selection of professional grade hardware, lumber and supplies. Plus, our selection and service are the best in the business!
• Plants Locally Grown • Flowers • Plants • Bedding • Potting • One-of-a-kind Potted Plants
HOURS Mon - Fri 7:30am - 5:00pm Sat 8:00am - noon Closed Sunday
vd
Woodmen Rd
er
Bl
Vo lm
rs
Black Forest Rd
Po we
Rd
Burgess Rd
Hw y8
3
Shoup Rd
If you are tired of the big box stores with no service, please come visit or call, you will be pleasantly surprised
11424 Black Forest Road • Black Forest, CO 80908 • 719-495-2288 Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 21
Kura
Japanese Restaurant More than 100 sushi Rolls to choose from at The Briargate Celebrating Our First Anniversary
3478 B Research Pkwy • Union & Research 719.282.8238
DINING Play pool, eat fancy at Phantom
Best brew pub PHANTOM CANYON
This is what brew pubs are supposed to be: boistrous urban oases, where you can play pool with friends, down some well-crafted brews and nosh on food that’s much better, fancier and more ambitious than you’ll find at most bars. The brewery usually features about 8 to 10 specialty beers at a time, which are made inhouse. For a guilty pleasure, try the cheese and bacon brewery chips or the artichoke and baby spinach fondue. Upstairs in the large Billiard Hall, pool’s free daily until 6 p.m.; after 6 it’s $3 per person per hour. 2 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 635-2800; phantomcanyon.com
LINDA NAVARRO, THE GAZETTE
Best pie APPLE PIE, LIKE NO OTHER ETC.
Talk about good to the last bite. Nancy Mitchell turns out a killer apple pie with a reminds-us-of-Grandma’s crust. Choose apple-blackberry and a deep red color oozes out of the slits from the blackberries she puts atop the apples. She also has a yummy apple pie with a Dutch crumb topping. And then there’s her strudel. . . By the way, they also have a variety of hard-tofind sugar-free and Weight Watchers pies. Call ahead to order. 412 S. Eighth St., 328-1290
The Verdict Is In! Good Food Fast!
Burgers • Burritos • Fries and Award-Winning Pies! Breakfast and Lunch it’s
7 E. Vermijo across from courthouse
520-1843
“in the middle of the block” BEST OF THE SPRINGS 22
Open Mon-Fri 7am - 3pm
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
684-0900 8045 West Highway 24 • Cascade, CO (take Pikes Peak Hwy exit) Open 10:30 - 8:30 7 Days a Week (Summer Hours Extended)
Home is Where
Your new mortgage payment is about the same as your old rent payment. SINGLE FAMILY HOMES 1. WOODMEN HILLS COURTYARDS 495-3574 • From the $190s Low-maintenance homes in a resort style community.
2. MESA RIDGE 382-4659 • From the low $200s Close to shopping, I-25 & Fort Carson.
TOWNHOMES 3. THE BLUFFS AT SPRING CREEK 227-8892 • From the mid $100s
s©
Only eight minutes to Fort Carson & downtown.
n
rd
Sig
Pulte Homes offers more solutions for first time homebuyers in Colorado Springs than any other builder. We know that buying your first home can be intimidating. That is why we make it as simple as possible, offer payments you can afford, and then deliver your home completed when promised. After closing we’ll come back again and again to make sure you’re still delighted. That’s the way at u re a n da it should be. St
SPOTLIGHT on WOODMOOR PARK READY TO MOVE-IN HOMES Woodmoor Park Colorado
878 Timber Lakes $188,868 Plus $15,000 Buyer Bonus & 50” HD Plasma TV.* 2-car garage, window coverings and all appliances included!
4. SAND CREEK VILLAS 638-0439 • From the $190s Two-car garages included. Gated community.
5. THE HEIGHTS AT CROSS CREEK 382-3695 • From the $190s Two-car attached garages included.
6. COUNTRYSIDE 382-1162 • From the mid $100s
5
Near John Metcalfe Park.
7. WOODMOOR PARK 487-8827, 484-0840 From the $190s and $200s Next to Lewis-Palmer High School.
Picture may not represent actual home. *Offers only available at Woodmoor Park Townhomes, Sand Creek Villas, Woodmen Courtyards, The Bluffs, The Heights, Mesa Ridge, and Countryside Townhomes, and for homes purchased in El Paso County, Colorado. New home incentives only available when financing through Pulte Mortgage. Plasma TV on contracts only through June 27, 2007. Subject to home availability and promotional item availability. Pulte reserves the right to change prices, buyer bonus, incentives, and features at any time without notice. See any sales center for complete details.
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 23
DINING Follow nose — and line — for superior green chili
How it works. Y
Best taqueria LA SINALOENSE
our away from home kitchen is inviting you to savor our recipes customized to your taste. Weʼll co-create 12 delicious suppers hassle free in 90 minutes with or without you! Come in or pick up - your choice. Go to www.suppersolutionsinc.com or call us to register.
your nose and the lunch line spilling out the door, and you’ll find a flavorful family tradition of spicy chiles and flavorful pork. Just order anything “smothered.”
This tiny Mexican bakery hides some dynamite $1.50 tacos behind cases of sweet pumpkin bread and macaroons. Fresh, lean meat and a top-end toppings bar raise Sinaloense above other addresses in the Taqueria Triangle. Not much English is spoken, but ordering by pantomime is accepted.
330 E. Colorado Ave., 475-9722
Best calamari FUSE NEW AMERICAN CUISINE
642 S. Academy Blvd., 550-1213
This squid is a study in perfection, springy but not tough, with just a rumor of breading and a generous lemon wedge on the side.
Best tamales THE LITTLE MARKET & DELI
3317 Cinema Point, 574-8003 fuseamericanrestaurant.com
Grab a half-dozen ($9.99) for supper from this neighborhood market, or they’ll heat them up for you to eat on the spot. From the Tamale Connection in Antonito, in the San Luis Valley, they’re frozen but a cinch to steam in their husks. Choose from pork in red chili, Colorado beef in red chili, green chili and chicken.
Best martini ICE, ICE BABY, THE METROPOLITAIN
Hey, for $20 a glass, it ought to be the best martini. The Ice, Ice Baby is a smooth concoction with just a hint of sweetness that lingers on the tongue. The recipe is surprisingly simple: Three parts Ciroc vodka to one part Inniskillin Icewine. Try one and you’ll want to cash out your 401(k) and buy a round for the house.
749 E. Willamette Ave., 635-0769
Powers & Palmer Park 1580 Space Center Dr. # 110 Colo. Spgs. • 719-573-5573
Woodmen & Lexington 3502 Hartsel Dr. #100 Colo. Spgs. • 719-266-5111
Best green chili EL TACO REY
In a town where breakfast counters and burger joints claim to serve the best green chili, El Taco Rey doesn’t boast. But follow
101 N. Tejon St. No. 10, 302-0280; themetropolitaindowntown.com
Come in for the
“Steaksmith Experience” Perfect for Gra and Weddi duation ngs!
What a
way to celebrate!
A fresh fruit bouquet from Edible Arrangements® is perfect for picnics, barbeques, graduation parties, Father’s Day, the Fourth of July or any summer occasion! Choose from a variety of styles and sizes. Same day delivery and pick-ups available.*
Meet Ken King, Steaksmith Serving lunch weekdays, dinner every evening. Celebrating 26 years of “Best Steak” awards
Delicious Party™
To order, please call or visit:
719.633.7580
555 South 8th Street • Colorado Springs, CO 80905 (In front of Hobby Lobby)
www.ediblearrangements.com
Exceeding Expectations Everyday Academy at Maizeland Locally Owned and Operated Reservations Suggested • 596-9300
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 24
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
Franchises Available. Call (203) 407-8777 Copyright ©2004 By: Edible Arrangements, LLC • *Some restrictions apply.
©2003
orders or save $2 on delivery Mention this ad and with any ed bin com be not $3 pick up orders. Can Y1207. Expires 12/31/07 other offers. CODE: BSM
Stone Crossing Explore Northgate’s Best Place to Live Discover Stone Crossing—where the best in life starts with a location next to nature. With over 20 acres of open space, and miles of hiking and biking trails the community is designed for exploration. Mary Kyer Park and the Da Vinci Academy, a D-20 elementary school, is just a short walk or pedal away. Open space trails lead to the neighborhood’s rock-terraced amphitheater, pavilion and ponds. Treat yourself to life’s finest by touring the four new models. Stone Crossing features luxury homes set on one-third acre hillside lots, with choice locations and stellar appointments. Choose a home with spectacular views or, for those seeking seclusion, a spot nestled in stands of native oak and pine. Experience Stone Crossing.
Take I-25 to Interquest Parkway, Exit 153. Turn north (left) on Voyager Parkway and east (right) on Middle Creek Parkway to Bridle Oaks Lane. From here, just follow the signs to the model homes. For a detailed map, visit www.stone-crossing.com
NEW HOMES FROM THE UPPER $400S
NEW HOMES FROM THE MID $400S
719.488.8676
719.488.1945
For a virtual tour of Northgate’s best place to live, visit www.stone-crossing.com Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 25
DINING Stiff competition for best breakfast . . . Locals rave about Josh & John’s
Best breakfast WESTERN OMELETTE
Best ice cream JOSH & JOHN’S
We have to agree with readers. Josh & John’s is our local Ben and Jerry’s.
The competition couldn’t be stiffer: Adam’s, Gertrude’s, East Coast Deli, Omelette Parlor. But Western Omelette edges past with shortorder cookin’ done with surgical precision. The smoky, thick, slightly crispy, slightly chewy bacon is perfect. Eggs? Perfect. Chicken fried steak? Perfect. Green chili? A contender for best in town. We also love the informal meeting-hall atmosphere decorated with Indian dream catchers and motorcycle posters.
111 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 632-0299; 5152 N. Academy Blvd., 593-1220; joshandjohns.com
Markus Hannan enjoyed a scope of the hometown favorite — Josh & John’s ice cream.
16 S. Walnut St. , 636-2286; westernomelette.com
Best coffee place AGIA SOPHIA COFFEE SHOP & BOOKSTORE
The former City Hall and firehouse has been restored and turned into a premier coffee house. In our Great Java Taste Test, this Old Colorado City hangout scored highest for both coffee and atmosphere.
An enduring local institution, Josh & John’s keeps serving that creamy natural goodness, even as its nearby chain competitors close up shop (that’s you, Coldstone). 111 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 632-0299; 5152 N. Academy Blvd., 593-1220; joshandjohns.com
Best breakfast THE OMELETTE PARLOR
This regular winner has a country charm that packs in the locals, especially on Sundays. Pick from a variety of fluffy omelettes or have eggs Benedict their way. 900 E. Filmore St., 633-7770 co-spgs-omeletteparlor.com
The gourmet coffee chain taught us there’s more to coffee than Folgers. We just wish it were easier to find a Starbucks in town. KEVIN KRECK, THE GAZETTE
It’s a Bird! It’s a Plane!
It’s a Restaurant! Seating Available in the Plane! Lunches & Dinners - Banquets Separate Checks Okay • Reservations Accepted
Fly into Solos
1 Block east of Powers Blvd on Fountain Blvd. Just look for the plane!
570-7656
THE GAZETTE
Best ice cream JOSH & JOHN’S
Best coffee place STARBUCKS
2902 W. Colorado Ave., 632-3322; agiasophiacoffeeshop.com
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 26
READERS’ CHOICE
Friday, May 18, 2007
various locations; starbucks.com
Experience the life of luxuryy
The
Patterson G r o u p
T
4445 Star Ranch Rd - Broadmoor/Penhurst Park $744,500 D12 Schools! Wonderful home with fabulous mountain & city views. Approximately 4,666 total sq. ft. , 5BD/5BA & 3 car garage. Spacious rooms, 2 view decks, backs to preservation area. Hardwood floors, built-ins, wet bar, security system, radon system & so much more.
The Real Estate Professionals
he Patterson Group specializes in luxury properties throughout the Pikes Peak region to include communities like Kissing Camels Estates, The 3925 Elisa Court - Kissing Camels $867,900 Broadmoor, Peregrine and St. Luxury home in Kissing Camels Estates on private cul de sac w/ 5BD/5BA + large office Andrews/Country Club. & approx. 4,440 sq. ft. Fabulous views of city & mountains. Colorado decor/design w/open floor plan. Spectacular Chef’s kitchen w/upgraded appliances & granite countertops. Mature landscaping, auto sprinkler system & drip system. Energy efficient construction w/upgraded insulation, radiant floor heat. Wood floors, ceramic & granite tile, plantation shutters, 3 patios & so much more. 3830 Hill Circle - Kissing Camels $899,900 The Greens former model, at Kissing Camels Estates. Approx. 4,482 sq. ft., 4BD/4BA. Located on the Golf Course w/mountain views. Granite countertops, wood floors, Alder nd Wood doors, 2 fireplaces, built-in bookcases in family room, 2 patios & 2 master w/walkout to private patio.
3205 Muirfield Drive - St. Andrews/Country Club $980,000 Luxury residence on C.S. Country Club Golf Course. Ideal family home. Soaring ceiling, outstanding views, surround sound, custom features throughout. On quiet cul de Sac. A short walk to Palmer Park. Horse back riding near by. Approx. 5,931 sq. ft. 4BD/6BA/3 car garage.
9810 Highland Glen Place - Pine Creek $1,225,000 Great new Robert Scott custom home situated on .43 acres on the Pine Creek Golf Course. Approx. 5,543 sq. ft. w/4BD/6BA, rec room, media room, study, & 3 car garage. Ranch style home w/walk-out lower level. Custom features throughout. Gas fire pit, extensive cabinets, solid stone countertops, large wood deck, & so much more!
Proudly ranked #1 at Prudential Professional, ® REALTORS and in the top 200 out of 48,000 Prudential agents, The Patterson Group takes Real Estate seriously. Hardwork, professionalism, dedicated customer service and going above and beyond are the standards to which The Patterson Group strives. If you’re looking to buy or sell your home, call The Patterson Group, the Real Estate Professionals. It would be our privilege to serve you.
Call Today!
575-1453
3225 Muirfield Drive - St. Andrews/Country Club $1,395,000 Spanish Mission Style home on .72 acres in St. Andrews. Approx. 7,527 sq. ft. w/4BD/6BA, study & loft. Gourmet kitchen w/stainless steel appliances, fantastic views of city, mountains, & downtown, walk-out lower level, central AC & adjacent to park. Adjoining 6-acre greenbelt area. A Must See!
www.PattersonGRP.com
Make Your Next Move With The Patterson Group. Friday, May 18, 2007
Kevin Bud Ike THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 27
DINING Rico’s salad isn’t standard fare
Best salad RICO’S COFFEE, CHOCOLATE AND WINE BAR AT POOR RICHARD’S
• State of the Art Dental Facility • General Dentistry • Same Day Dentures
The Farmers Market Salad is a crisp, lettucey dream on romaine with Campari tomatoes, cucumbers, orange bell pepper, Vidalia onions and ripe green olives, tossed in olive oil, Saba grape syrup, Asiago cheese, garlic and lime juice and optional roasted chicken breast. If that doesn’t work for you, head next door to Poor Richard’s for the reliably perfect house salad with incredible homemade balsamic vinaigrette poured over romaine lettuce, green beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, black olives, garbanzo beans, red onion, bell pepper and feta cheese. 322 N. Tejon St., 630-7723 poorrichardswebsite.com
Best salad bar JASON’S DELI
Dr. Larry Rush, DDS, PC
2620 Tenderfoot Hill St., Ste 210 • www.stardentalsystems.com
CALL NOW
719-597-7979
Besides organic lettuce and carrots, there also are Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, red and yellow bell peppers, a tangy soybean and kidney bean mixture, mixed nuts, gingerbread muffins, garlic toast and much more. This all-you-can-eat deal for $6.99 is
rabbit food at its best.
7455 N. Academy Blvd., 302-0234; jasonsdeli.com
Best special dinners INDEPENDENT RESTAURANTS COOPERATIVE
This group of individually owned restaurants formed a cooperative to get the kind of purchasing power the big chains enjoy. Each month, a member restaurant hosts a five-course dinner with wine for $50 per person. Here’s the lineup for the rest of this year: June 12: The Margarita at PineCreek, 7350 Pine Creek Road, 598-8667 July 10: Edelweiss Restaurant, 34 E. Ramona Ave., 633-2220 Aug. 14: Caspian Cafe, 4375 Sinton Road, 528-1155 Sept. 11: The Warehouse, 25 W. Cimarron St., 475-8880 Oct. 9: La Petite Maison, 1015 W. Colorado Ave., 632-4887 Nov. 13: Craftwood Inn, 404 El Paso Blvd., Manitou Springs, 685-9000
Dinner tonight... 4375 Sinton Rd. • 719-528-1155
Cracked Pepper New York Strip Steak 719-635-2800 2 E. Pikes Peak Ave.
Smoked Bacon & Blue Cheese Tortellini, Butter Steamed Green Beans
www.PhantomCanyon.com
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 28
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
DINING Where to get gyros, bison, buffalo wings and fish tacos
SHORT TAKES Best diner: The King’s Chef Best soup: Seafood hot and sour at Chopsticks Asian Bistro Best bread: La Baguette Best bread pudding: Walter’s Bistro Best bagel: Bruegger’s Bagels Best hot dog: Margo’s Vienna Station Best hamburger (over $5): Plate World Cuisine Best hamburger (under $5): Cy’s Drive-In Best bison burger: Ted’s Montana Grill Best tortillas: Tortilleria La Nueva Victoria Best oysters: Carlos’ Bistro Best cinnamon rolls: Altitude Sweets Bakery Best frozen treat: Gelato at Dogtooth Coffee Company Best buffet: Mirch Masala Best Chinese buffet: Empire
Asian Buffet Best burritos: Avocado pork burritos at El Taco Rey and Salsa Latina (they’re almost identical) Best breakfast burrito: Fajita burrito at La Casita Best tea: Bona Dea Teahouse & Emporium Best margarita: El Tesoro Best deli: East Coast Deli Best gyro: Mediterranean Cafe Best fish taco: Sonterra Grill Best hummus: Blue Star Best shrimp cocktail: McKenzie’s Chop House Best wings: Wild Bill’s Buffalo Wings Best chocolatier: Michelle Chocolatiers & Ice Cream Best chips and salsa: Salsa Brava and Sonterra Grill Best fried chicken: Barney’s Diner
s y a w A t s a C e h t f o s e t Pira
” y l t h g i N n o i t c a n i s e t a r i P r u ee o
escape. explore. experience. Learn to Dive! ONLY
$329 www.theunderwaterconnection.com
CALL TODAY! 599-DIVE (3483) Includes: • All class, pool & open water training • Use of all equipment • 2 nights in N.M.
• Open waters in Santa Rosa • All certification fees • FREE use of our on-site pool (after certification)
Featuring American & German comfort food
Dinner 4:30 pm
• Course materials • Transportation/Parking • Meals
4337 North Academy Blvd. • 1 block North of Austin Bluffs
IT’S ALL ABOUT CHOICES
“S
Renowned Chef UWE presents Lunch Starting May 19 Tues - Sun 11:00 - 2:30
Does not include:
ALL MEALS ARE GLUTEN-FREE
Don’t spend your precious time trying to plan, shop and prepare a meal. • You choose the number of meals—no minimum. • You choose when to come in—no set session times. • 50% Vegetarian. • Homemade sauces, breads and pizza crusts.
No Pickup Charge
Tom O’Boyle at the Piano Saturdays 7 to 9
Visit www.cereskitchenco.com or call (719) 266-8202
107 Manitou Ave
685-3300
Located off Briargate Pkwy. in the Pinecreek Village Shopping Center behind the Conoco Station.
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 29
DINING Bananas Foster is must-have at best brunch . . . Grab a sandwich at Mollica’s
Best Sunday brunch LAKE TERRACE DINING ROOM
READERS’ CHOICE
For $34 per person, you get the ultimate in bruncherific elegance: made-to-order Benedicts and bananas Foster, fork-tender tenderloin, lots of guys in tall white chef hats catering to your every culinary whim. 1 Lake Ave., 577-5733; broadmoor.com
Best sandwich MOLLICA’S ITALIAN MARKET AND DELI
The line is usually out the door at lunchtime, but Mollica’s Italian Hero — Genoa Salami, capicola and provolone on an Italian roll — is worth the wait. The grinders are top-notch, too, made with homemade Italian sausage links. 985-A Garden of the Gods Road, 598-1088; mollicas.com
Best cake CARROT CAKE, OLIVER’S DELI
COURTESY OF THE SUNBIRD
Best Sunday brunch THE SUNBIRD
Heavenly. Delicious. A carrot cake-lover’s dream come true. Moist, packed with walnuts, raisins and pineapple, and topped with a light whipped cream and cream cheese frosting with toasted coconut.
For about $27 (adult price), you get unmatched views on the bluff overlooking the mountains and the city, and a truly impressive spread. The best features are the made-to-order omelettes and bananas Foster. 230 Point of the Pines Drive, 598-8990; thesunbird.com
6602 Delmonico Drive, 599-9411
nt! i p a r o f Join usSlainte!
Colorado Springs’ favorite authentic Irish Pub! Serving traditional Irish fare and delicious American cuisine. 15 Import and Domestic drafts and the best selection of Irish Whiskeys and Scotches. Happy Hour Daily! Live Irish Music four times every week!
21 S. Tejon St. • 385-0766 www.jackquinnspub.com
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 30
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
A provocative mix of atmosphere and entertainment VOTED BEST STEAKHOUSE
2006 VOTED BEST PLACE FOR CARNIVORES
2005 & 2006
PRIME STEAK • FRESH SEA FOOD PREMIUM WINES • CLASSIC COCKTAILS LIVE MUSIC VOTED BEST OVERALL RESTAURANT
2006 VOTED BEST BARTENDER
2006
Downtown at 31 N. Tejon Street 719.227.7333
DINING Penrose Chef’s Table is lifetime experience . . . See powers-that-be at MacKenzie’s
Best restaurant when someone else is paying THE PENROSE ROOM’S CHEF’S TABLE
READERS’ CHOICE
Best restaurant when someone else is paying THE FAMOUS
For only $200, per person, plus tax and tip (and more if you want a wine-pairing upgrade), you and seven to 17 of your closest friends can enjoy a culinary experience of a lifetime, as Broadmoor chefs prepare your favorite foods before your eyes. 1 Lake Ave., 577-5733 broadmoor.com
That oh-so-succulent Prime Maytag Bleu Cheese New York Strip just tastes better when you know somebody else is picking up the tab. (It’s $37.95, and worth it.) 31 N. Tejon St., 227-7333; restauranteur.com/famous
Best power lunch GARDEN OF THE GODS CLUB THE GAZETTE FILE
After closing for six months for renovations, the Penrose Room is aiming for a five-star rating.
Best power lunch MACKENZIE’S CHOP HOUSE
A modern spin on the old speak-easy, MacKenzie’s packs in the movers and shakers with fine steaks, seafood and sandwiches.
The city’s power brokers swing deals at this private club, but sometimes it’s just about the amazing food. The Garden of the Gods’ chefs regularly win awards in regional competitions. 3320 Mesa Road, 632-5541; gardenofthegodsclub.com
128 S. Tejon St., 635-3536; mackenzieschophouse.com
Come & Help Us Celebrate Our
50th Year in Business!
Family Owned & Operated Since 1957 3 Generations To Help You With Your Plant Needs.
721 Powers Boulevard
596.5712
www.HardingNursery.com Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 31
DINING Buca di Beppo has snappy service, fun spirit . . . Chili’s rules chains, readers say
Best chain restaurant THE MELTING POT
READERS’ CHOICE
Romantic without being frilly, sophisticated without being pretentious, The Melting Pot is the perfect spot for a special occasion or just a night out with friends or co-workers.
Best chain restaurant CHILI’S
Chili’s barely edged out Outback in our survey of readers. Maybe it’s the charbroiled burgers and sizzling fajita combinations that put it over the top.
30-A E. Pikes Peak Ave., 385-0300; themeltingpot.com
Best al fresco dining THE WINES OF COLORADO
It’s the perfect break from suburbia at this eatery nestled next to a bubbling stream with a huge deck and patio area. Drive up Ute Pass to the eatery for an award-winning wine burger to enjoy with a bottle of Colorado wine. Start the dining experience with an order of smoked garlic and crackers. 8045 W. U.S. Highway 24 in Cascade, 684-0900
1706 E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd., 576-0440; 5807 N. Academy Blvd., 260-1788; 2890 New Center Point, 638-6200; chilis.com
THE GAZETTE FILE
Each room is themed at the festive Buca di Beppo, and food is served family style.
Best wait staff BUCA DI BEPPO
From the moment you walk in the door, the wait staff is ready to get down and party with you. You are welcomed warmly, given a tour through the kitchen and shown to your table. The staff is well-versed about the menu. Service is prompt but not rushed. It’s not unusual for the general manager to come by to see whether everyone is happy and getting what they want.
Best wait staff STEAKSMITH
You’d think the team approach would eliminate the personal touch. Not so when the service team is this friendly and efficient. 3802 Maizeland Road, 596-9300 steaksmith.com
7252 N. Academy Blvd., 260-0444; www.bucadibeppo.com
The Design Works
Rocky Mountain
Dinosaur Resource Center
Colorado's #1 Dinosaur Attraction View over 30 dinosaur & marine skeletons Look into the working fossil lab Explore the interactive children's area Discover the dinosaur world on a guided tour Shop in the world's largest dino gift shop
Interior Design Studio Workroom to the Trade Since 1978
.
488.9447
719.
Custom Quick Ship Designs Three Week Turn Around
755 HWY 105 SUITE N | PALMER LAKE / MONUMENT | TUESDAY-FRIDAY 10-5 | SATURDAY BY APPOINTMENT
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 32
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
201 S. Fairview St. Woodland Park, CO 80863 www.rmdrc.com
Best hair salon SALON SEVEN
Walk out with the latest look or let the stylists work their artistic magic on your same old same old that will leave you smiling. What you probably don’t know: The salon quietly donates time giving special cuts and styles to abused kids. 622 S. Tejon St., 632-7774
Best day spa GARDEN OF THE GODS CLUB
Isn’t it an exclusive private club? Yes, indeed. But for the right price you, too, can join the members gazing out at the Garden of the Gods and treat yourself to a botanical-oils massage or a therapeutic whirlpool in the solarium at the luxurious spa. Relax, melt away, enjoy. 3320 Mesa Road, 632-5541; gardenofthegodsclub.com
Best radio personality TRON SIMPSON, KCMN (1530 AM)
A lot of people have no idea that there’s a big-band and legends station hanging out in the upper reaches of the AM dial, spinning Sinatra tunes, John Denver and a song or two from The King. Check out Tron between 6 a.m. and noon weekdays.
Best radio station KKPK (92.9 FM)
We were a little peeved when Citadel Broadcasting bought the old Peak last year and turned it into a country station, but all was forgiven when Citadel transformed the oldies-themed KSPZ into “The New Peak FM.” Actually, KKPK throws in enough favorites that it’s been a seamless transition.
READERS’ CHOICE
Best hair salon VEDA
Veda turns first-timers into regulars. They’ll work with you to find your very best cut.
4697 Centennial Blvd., 265-5660; 2110 Southgate Road, No. 201, 578-8332; 7443 N. Academy Blvd., 314-1480; coloradoaveda.com
Best day spa VEDA
Always at the top of the list, and always a relaxing treat. See info above
Best radio personality CAPT. DAN, KKLI (106.3 FM)
Captain Dan Jackson is the longest-serving DJ in local radio. Hearing him and Paul Richards in the morning is more a nice cup of tea than a double-shot of espresso — and that’s a good thing.
Best radio station KRCC (91.5 FM)
Big changes this year: Local news mixed in with National Public Radio, “Democracy Now!” and a mixed-up music lineup. No problem, as long as our “friend and neighbor” Vicky Gregor signs on at 9 a.m. every weekday.
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 33
CITY LIFE Consistent KOAA leaves others in the dust . . . New news hotties give viewers must-see TV
Best TV news station KOAA/CHANNELS 5&30
KRDO/Channel 13, KKTV/Channel 11 and KXRM/Channel 21 have been throwing everything but the kitchen sink at their newscasts. The news in this town has never been more competitive, but KOAA keeps racking up ratings crowns. Why? Consistency, competency, reliability. Don’t mess with success.
Best TV reporter DAVID NANCARROW, KKTV/CHANNEL 11
Nancarrow didn’t have a story this year as flashy as his 2006 Iraq trip, but he still scored some big scoops on the Ted Haggard story, and he’s been solid behind the anchor desk on weekends, too.
Best TV anchor JON KARROLL, KRDO/CHANNEL 13
We’re dubbing this the “Lisa Lyden Memorial Award.� Lisa’s won it more times than we can count — and deservedly so — but it’s boring giving it to the same person every year. Jon Karroll, in addition to possessing the perfect silvery anchorman hair, stays on his toes, rolling with the punches when he has to ad-lib or when he’s reporting from the scene.
Best TV consumer reporter BETTY SEXTON, KKTV/CHANNEL 11
A pesky consumer issue got you down? Betty and the station’s Call for Action are the answer to your headache.
Jon Karroll: The Southern California native has been a KRDO staple since 1993.
Betty Sexton: Not just an anchor, she covered crime for 15 years in Kansas City, Mo., and joined KKTV in 1999.
Best TV news hottie, male MARK HANRAHAN, KOAA/CHANNELS 5&30
It’s been a good year on the TV news hottie front. Local stations did a lot of hiring last fall, and they didn’t neglect the, um, aesthetics. Case in point: Hanrahan, who joined KOAA back in October and has been charming up the small screen ever since.
Why Do You Think We Call It A
Home Page?
Mark Hanrahan: A relative newcomer, he came to KOAA in October, 2006, from Great Falls, Mont.
Christina Salvo: A California native, she joined KXRM in October 2006, when the station launched its newscast.
Best TV news hottie, female CHRISTINA SALVO, KXRM/CHANNEL 21
This category just keeps getting more competitive. Young men considering their career options, take note: We’re told there are far more women than men in TV news these days and, apparently, they’re all really good-looking. Salvo is the hotness leader out of the uniformly attractive crew KXRM hired when it started its own news department last year.
Find the answers to all of your homeowner questions today, online at
www.classichomes.com www.classichomes.com
4HE $IFFERENCE 2EALLY (ITS (OME BEST OF THE SPRINGS 34
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
CITY LIFE News nod follows ratings . . . Springs loves KOAA anchor but can’t spell her name
READERS’ CHOICE
Best TV news station KOAA/CHANNELS 5&30
Best TV news hottie, female GEORGIANN LYMBEROPOULOS, KOAA/CHANNELS 5&30
KOAA earned some of its best ratings in modern history in the past year, opening up big leads over its competition at 10 p.m. So it’s no surprise that readers picked it: They’re obviously watching it.
Best TV reporter TAK LANDROCK, KRDO/CHANNEL 13
Actually, Landrock lost to Georgiann Lymberopoulos. Not to pick nits, fine readers, but KOAA’s Georgie is what they call in the news business an “anchor.” Our old friend Tak is the reporter. You can tell because you’ll see him standing on the side of the road in a blizzard, vainly trying to shield himself with his microphone.
Best TV anchor LISA LYDEN, KOAA/CHANNELS 5&30 Lisa is the anchor, the lodestone, the rock upon which KOAA’s aforementioned dominance is built. An entire generation of Springsians grew up sharing their dinners with Lyden, and she’s working on a second.
Lisa Lyden: The KOAA veteran has been our top pick in the past, too.
Matt Meister: The meteorologist gives us plenty of sunny days.
Best TV news hottie, male MATT MEISTER, KRDO/CHANNEL 13
We suggested Meister as hottie last year, and it seems the notion caught on. Cross your fingers for a stormy summer: the worse the weather, the more we’ll see of Matt.
However you spell the name, Lymberopoulos has been the Springs’ sweetheart for more than a decade. Readers stumbled upon a record number of spellings: Georgeann LymGeorgiann Lymberopou- beropolis, Georgianne Lymlos: A sweetheart for beropolis, Georgianne Limmore than a decade. bertholos, Georgian Limberopolous, Georgianne Limberopolis, Georgann Limberopolous, Georgeanne Liberobopolis, Geogeanne Lymberopoulus, Georgeanne Limboropolis, Georgeanne Lipo, Georgianne Lymberopoulos, Georgianne Ly, Georgianna Lemberopulous, simply GeorgeAnn and, our favorite . . . georgiann limber-you know who. The computer programmed to count votes exploded after that one.
MONDAY NIGHTS
WEDNESDAY NIGHTS
THURSDAY NIGHTS
FRIDAY NIGHTS
SATURDAY NIGHTS
MOJITO MONDAYS!
CUSTOMER APPRECIATION
DEEP & SEXY LADIES NIGHT
COLORADO SPRINGS’ CLASSIEST HAPPY HOUR
THE ULTIMATE DANCE PARTY!
1/2 price bottles of Wine and 1/2 price Appetizers all night long!
Ladies drink $4 Martini’s, Wines and Champagne all night long!
$4 Martinis and 1/2 price Apps! Relax on our outdoor deck with 2 Martinis, 1 Cigar and an ashtray for $22
Where the Women come to Play! Dinner and dancing all night! Happy Hour from 4-7 pm
Colorado largest selection of Mojitos! Only at Blondie’s are they made just right.
24 NORTH TEJON STREET
As Always 21 and up. Dress To Impress. For party reservations and bottle service please contact your VIP Host Chuck Schafer 719-499-4743. Doors open at 4pm. Happy Hour is from 4-7pm. ($4 Martinis and Wine with 1/2 price apps)
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 35
CITY LIFE Office building heralds greener era ... We love you, Zeb Pike
Best green building THE PIKES PEAK REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT CENTER
This efficient office building is expected to save more than 50 percent over traditional energy costs. A top-to-bottom green design helped the center become the second building in Colorado Springs to earn a silver Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED, rating from the U.S. Green Building Council. 2880 International Circle
Best tribute to Zeb Pike COLORADO SPRINGS PIONEERS MUSEUM STAFF
The 2006 Zebulon Pike Bicentennial year was celebrated in grand style at the museum, with tributes including appearances of the explorer’s descendants and his original documents as well as a concert of tunes to honor Pike. The man and the peak spurred months of history programs and a companion book. Fascinated with Zeb, 64,349 visitors — an increase of 50 percent — toured the former courthouse. 215 S. Tejon St., 385-5990; springsgov.com
Best off-site office THE COFFEE EXCHANGE CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE
The Coffee Exchange is one of the best places in town to get away from work so you can actually get work done. Owners Glenn Powell, front left, and Greg Howard, right, at the popular Tejon Street coffeehouse.
Free wi-fi, great coffee and a conference table that’s probably better than the one in your office make this the perfect office away from office. 526 S. Tejon St., 635-0277
When Quality, Selection and Value matter the most for your family...trust only the Best in Billiards!
Complete Bar Package
Hundreds of Bar Stools & Kitchen Stools to choose from.
$3,995
Pool Tables starting at $1,695
Academy
GAMEROOM DESIGN CENTER Colorado Springs: 719.598.4611 Park Meadows: 303.770.7771
www.fodorbilliards.com BEST OF THE SPRINGS 36
THE GAZETTE
Woodmen
Vickers
5959 N. Academy Blvd.
Friday, May 18, 2007
(Erindale Shopping Center)
Just Far Enough Away. L
iving in Black Forest Reserve gives you the best of everything. The setting is the most stunning you’ll find, and it’s only 25 minutes from downtown Colorado Springs and 45 minutes from Denver. Which means you’re far enough away from the city that you only hear the sounds of nature outside your door, but you’re conveniently close to great shopping restaurants, and other things you love to do. Our secluded, custom homesites are surrounded by hundreds of acres of open space and filled with beautiful, mature trees giving you the privacy you crave in a setting you’ve only imagined until now.
52 miles to
South End of Denver
• Secure, gated entrance • Convenient to city amenities 83
• Over 500 acres of dedicated open space
Monument
• Only 292 homesites, with many already sold
BLACK FOREST RESERVE
• 2.5 to over 4.0 acre homesites
25 miles to
• District 38 and District 20 schools
Four Models Open!
14.5 miles to St. Francis Medical Center COMING SOON!
24
N
Take Woodmen Road east to Meridian and go north on Meridian for 5.5 miles. For a personal tour of Black Forest Reserve, call 719.264.6955, or visit our Web site at www.blackforestreserve.org.
17 miles to 25 miles to
Downtown Colorado Springs
Schriever AFB
26 miles to
Colorado Springs Airport
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 37
CITY LIFE School trains tots’ brains . . . Vietnam vet keeps serving . . . Who doesn’t love The Broadmoor?
Best place to take out-of-towners GARDEN OF THE GODS
founders of The Classical Academy, this Christian preschool is grounded less in religious dogma than in modern brain research. It exposes kids to ideas, some simple, many complex, and the founders believe these ideas will take hold in ways that “memorization education” can’t.
Readers are right. Garden of the Gods rocks.
Best building GLEN EYRIE
City founder William Jackson Palmer built his dream home — more castle than mansion — to impress people, a task it still fulfills admirably 136 years later. Now owned by the Navigators, Glen Eyrie is open regularly for teas, tours and other events. 3820 N. 30th St., 1-800-944-4536, www.navigators.org/us/ministries/gleneyrie
Best motel EL COLORADO LODGE
Faux buffalo roam on the grounds of this collection of tasteful Southwestern cottages, which has just the right touch of cowboy-and-Indian kitsch. Opened in 1926, the El Colorado is the oldest continually operating business in Manitou. 23 Manitou Ave., 685-5485
Best hotel THE BROADMOOR
Mobil doesn’t give five stars for 47 years to just any flophouse. The resort has earned its stars and diamonds with luxurious ambiance and an obsessively attentive staff. 1 Lake Ave., 634-7711, broadmoor.com
Best preschool PRESCHOOL PARTNERS
Founded by Jim and Mary Kretchman, who were among the
Pine Creek Community Church, 9565 Otero Ave., 599-0423, preschoolpartners.com
Best mechanic SCOTTY WEST
West, owner of Peak Auto Service, is one of those rare commodities — a skillful, reasonably-priced mechanic you can trust. He’s been working on cars for 35 years, but he’s not too old-school to search the Internet to solve a problem. 1723 W. Colorado Ave., 634-3052
Best crossing guard CHARLIE “J.R.” BOGANS Nobody can say Bogans, a wounded Vietnam vet, hasn’t given enough for his country. But he’s still giving, every weekday morning cheerfully ushering a dozen or so kids across Colorado Avenue at 17th Street to Buena Vista Elementary School. Can we get another medal for this guy?
Best live wire KIYON KIM
The vivacious, spiky-haired co-owner of Chopsticks Asian Bistro is such an energetic greeter, she should have her own talk show.
READERS’ CHOICE
Best place to take out-of-towners GARDEN OF THE GODS In fact, a lot of us would probably never visit the Springs’ premier landmark if it weren’t for guests. But every time we do, we’re filled again with awe and gratitude for this almost excessive outpouring of natural beauty.
Visitor center: 1805 N. 30th St., 634-6666; gardenofgods.info; garden ofgods.com
Best building PIONEERS MUSEUM
The controversy generated by August J. Smith’s El Paso County Courthouse in 1903 has long since died down: The architect was unknown and the $420,000 price tag deemed excessive. But the otherwise-forgotten Smith outdid himself, creating a beautifully proportioned building that’s even more opulent inside than outside. In the early 1970s, the building came within hours of the wrecking ball before it was saved by a group of concerned citizens. In 1979, it reopened as the Pioneers Museum. 215 S. Tejon St., 385-5990; cspm.org
120 E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd., 579-9111
At Centura Health at Home our staff has a special commitment to caring, for we serve people in need in the most cherished place of all . . . their home. Our patients are cared for body, mind and spirit, in order to make their homes a healing sanctuary. Our common goals and values are the bond that makes us strong — a bond that makes us a family. Whether you are interested in working with our cutting edge telehealth program, our nationally-recognized pediatric palliative care program, or any of our home care, hospice, infusion and oxygen programs, we can promise you an experience unlike anything you’ve had before. With locations in Denver, Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Canon City, Durango and Pagosa Springs, we have a home for you.
To view a full listing of available jobs please visit: www.centurahealthathome.org or call Tina Fisbeck at 303.561.5218
We are currently seeking Physical Therapists: Full-Time, Part-Time and Weekends.
As part of the largest hospital system in CO, we have some of the best benefits in the industry. AA/EOE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 38
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
How Does A Real Estate Company Become
THE #1 INDEPENDENT BROKERAGE FIRM IN COLORADO SPRINGS In Less Than 2 Years!
SIMPLE!
Hire The Best Realtors In Town Who All Share The Same Relentless Goal of Providing
UNEQUALLED SERVICE TO OUR CLIENTS
— and We Deliver It!!
Frank & Melissa Fanelli The Fanelli Team
Chris Cowles The Fanelli Team
Anne-Marie Flynn Flynn Team
Danielle Frisbie Flynn Team
Carey Goldberg The Carey Team
Ami Quass The Carey Team
Marilyn Thiel
Rachel Diedrich
Patty Chase
Mark & Shari Wallick The Wallick Team
Ed & Renee Behr Behr & Behr
Chris Mann Behr & Behr
Brent Demos The Demos Team
Dean Weissman Weissman Team
Lisa Fisk Weissman Team
Brandon Smith
Mike & Missy MacGuire MacGuire Team
Mike Fortin MacGuire Team
Rich Rippetoe MacGuire Team
Marilyn Newell
Barbara Dimmick
Steve McFarlane McFarlane & Assoc.
Joyce Works McFarlane & Assoc.
Karen Burke
Steve Tomberlin
BJ Burns bj burns TEAM
Jean Ebmeyer bj burns TEAM
Todd McLain The McLain Grp.
Kim Schultz The McLain Grp.
Skip Johnson The McLain Grp.
Kim Carper
Katherine Froehler
Gary Martinez
Debbie Reardon
Jody Heffner The Heffner Team
Tom Ryan
Danette Voshage
Amy Kunce EveryHomeNow. Com
Ellen Bronson EveryHomeNow.Com
Petra Haebich EveryHomeNow.Com
Rachel Denton EveryHomeNow.Com
Bob Smith
Susie Tolibas
Jeff Gaddis
Jeri Hendrix
Missy Campbell
Donna Andersen Andersen Team
Ted & Kathryn Newman Andersen Team
Susie Chambless
Tom Maher
Amy Novak
Dianna DaltonDaily
Karen DuBois
Laurie Klipfel
Catherine Fischer Fischer Designs, Inc.
Patricia Edwards
Jessica Salo Andersen Team
Denise Fortune
Jeff & Kaye Piggot
Diane Forbes
Craig Rogers
536-4444 www.PlatinumHomeSales.com 6760 Corporate Center Dr. , I-25 & Woodmen Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 39
CITY LIFE Classic Homes workers get annual trips to Mexico . . . McD’s mogul puts his wealth to good work
Best survivors, animal STONER, CASEY, BOOBOO, TINKERS
Best fast-food-nation refugee STEVE BIGARI
The four cats survived the Castle West Apartments fire in January, two of them lasting nearly two weeks in the rubble and embers. Unfortunately, their brother Elmo hasn’t been found.
Reader’s Digest magazine editors recently honored Springs businessman Bigari in their annual “Best of America” section, giving him the distinction of “Best Change of Heart.” Bigari, known as one of the most innovative franchisees for McDonald’s, recently sold his dozen restaurants to dedicate himself to America’s Family (amfol.com), a nonprofit he founded to help the working poor.
Best survivor, human RULON GARDNER
A two-time GrecoRoman wrestling Olympic medalist who spent years training in the Springs, Gardner survived puncturing his abdomen while playing Rulon Gardwith a bow and arrow ner: It’s hard in elementary school. to tell whether He lost a toe to frosthe’s cursed or bite after a 2002 snowblessed. mobile mishap. He walked away from a 2004 motorcycle accident in Colorado Springs. And in February, he survived a plane crash and swam more than a mile in 44-degree water to get to safety.
Best extreme makeover, spa edition THE MANITOU SPA BUILDING THE GAZETTE FILE
Tinkers peered out from the third floor of the scorched Castle West Apartment. Owners Melody Rose, Dale Nottelmann and Rose’s niece, Nina Rethemeyer, had to leave behind five cats when they fled the burning building.
Best job perk CLASSIC HOMES MEXICO TRIP
Every year for the past 16, Classic has taken employees and spouses or guests on a trip to Mexico, paying for air fare and lodging. Pretty sweet, huh?
After sitting for years, neglected and deteriorating, The Manitou Spa Building is getting the royal treatment by Chuck Murphy’s construction company. It was a brilliant move getting Adam’s Mountain open and hopping on the first floor before the rest of the construction is done. It doesn’t take a lot of imagination to see how vibrant it’s going to be when it’s done and full of tenants. 934 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs
classichomes.com
COME IN AND SEE WHY YOU SHOULD BUY FROM TOYOTA OF COLORADO SPRINGS 2007 COROLLA
2007 4RUNNER
2007 TACOMA
has just been rated as the #1 Auto Seller in the world.
Southern Colorado’s Truck Headquarters 1323 Motor City Drive, Colorado Springs
471-3100
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 40
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
2007 CAMRY
You’ll love it here!
CITY LIFE It’s a plane, it’s a house, it’s the best extreme home
His sunroom comes complete with the front end of a Boeing 727.
Best school for hairstylists THE SALON PROFESSIONAL ACADEMY It’s owned by top area hair pros. 4388 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 266-9400 beautyschoolsdirectory.com
Best barber BENNY’S
Since 1961, Benny Vallejo has dispensed haircuts and opinions — and nothing fancy in either category — building a neighborhood clientele so loyal that he doesn’t even have to list his barbershop in the phone book. 727 W. Colorado Ave., 632-5188
Best tanning salon SUN SPOT ATLANTIS SUPERSALON
Not only can you color up that transparent carcass of yours in a tanning bed, you can
percolate in a hydrotherapy pod or melt into a massage chair. The future is here.
4310 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 531-6000
Best yoga studio YOGA IMAGING LLC
Owner Thia Luby comes highly recommended, and it’s easy to see why. She’s been practicing since 1972 and is the author of three books on yoga. Classes include such familyoriented programs as kids’ and teen yogas.
Apartments Etc. has been in the relocation business since 1983. In these 23 years, we have successfully assisted over 200,000 people find a piece of heaven in Colorado Springs. Each of our counselors has at least 15 years in the apartment industry and have lived in Colorado Springs for at least 25 years.
Best place to volunteer MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY
How are we so successful? We have a wide variety of apartment communities, from affordable to luxury, that we are in contact with on an almost daily basis. Our team takes time to visit properties personally to see what they have to offer to pass on the knowledge to you. We make every effort to listen to you, the renter and custom tailor a search on your behalf, concentrating on properties that will best suit YOUR needs. Apartments Etc. knows rent specials sooner than websites that are updated only once a month. We know who can best fit any specials needs you may have, such as garages, pet friendly communities, Section 8/Housing communities, amenities and which communities will work with credit challenged residents.
324 N. Nevada Ave., 473-7770 yogaimaging.com
A volunteer army of 1,500 turned out for two days in October and tackled 72 projects. They cleaned up and landscaped at Fort Carson, worked on Habitat for Humanity homes, helped seniors and kids, and picked up dog poop. This year it’s Make a Difference Month; we can only imagine how much will get done. Contact Maggie Brubaker, makeadifferenceday@ ppunitedway.org, 955-0741; ppunitedway.org
MEET APARTMENTS ETC. 100% FREE SERVICE TO YOU
Apartments Etc. is a totally free service to you. Your home is too important to leave to a book or a computer. What could take you days will just take minutes. Whether you’re a newcomer to Colorado Springs, or just looking for a new adventure, let the pros at Apartment Etc. Do the work for you. Our service is FREE, FAST, CONVENIENT & FRIENDLY!
NORTH OFFICE
SOUTH OFFICE
3928 Academy Blvd (Academy/Austin Bluffs)
636 S. Academy Blvd (Academy/Airport)
597-7800
637-9449
‘03-‘06
Best extreme home RICK BROOME’S BROADMOOR HOUSE
“BEST OF THE SPRINGS” Sports Bars in 2004 and 2006 are now a team. Double your pleasure with WILL’S SPORTS PUB & FANZ FINE FOOD… uptown at WILL’S.
Coming in May
Fans of each are now enjoying the BEST OF FANZ FARE and WILL’S CLUBBY CHEERS ATMOSPHERE
Will’s Peak View Patio Catch some rays, sunsets or comfy Colorado nites on our back patio. Fat Tire draws, Black Box Wine and original grilled-hot wing specials every evening…all month. Reservations accepted
Where else but…
Corner of Cimarron & S. Nevada • 475-2122 Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 41
CITY LIFE Home Front helps soldiers’ families . . . Did that fashion show really happen here?
Best nonprofit THE HOME FRONT CARES
While the local service members are deployed, these are the hometown volunteers and military retirees who raised $300,000 last year for emergency assistance to 2,000 soldiers’ families. They’re doing it again this year, adding help and vehicle modifications for wounded service members and are being joined by the Welcome Home GWOT Heroes Fund, which supports homecoming activities for GIs based here. thehomefrontcares.org
Best nonprofit event SAFE PASSAGE (FORMERLY THE CHILDREN’S ADVOCACY CENTER)
The group’s annual dinner and silent/live/paddle auctions are as fun and goofy as they get. Clever themes (you can dress in anything, including very casual, costumes and blacktie) and there’s a mouth-watering, highly competitive dessert auction. 423 S. Cascade Ave., 636-2460; safepassage.org
Best new event “FLAUNT: FASHION UNDER THE BRIDGE”
CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE
A rocking benefit for FutureSelf. Cutting-edge young fashions set to electronica and graffiti art beneath the Colorado Avenue Bridge. It felt like we were in another — cooler — city.
Best construction sign “IF IT DOESN’T FIT IN YOUR CAR GARAGE DO NOT ENTER” It’s on the Cimarron bridge, over the slalom course that was once a roadway.
futureself.org
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 42
Signs on U.S. Highway 24 near Interstate 25 warns motorists not to pass if their vehicles are too tall or wide to clear the barriers. Larger vehicles may be too heavy for the under-renovation bridge.
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
CITY LIFE Great place to make a pitch
Shoes
as low as
$12.99 Styles may Vary
THE GAZETTE FILE
Just about any seat at a Sky Sox game is a good one, but the picnic terrace and luxury suites down the right-field line are especially inviting.
Best place for a staff retreat SKY SOX BASEBALL GAME
A place to picnic, luxury suites if you really have to talk business, a hot tub, hot dogs and home runs. A combination that’s hard to beat. Security Service Field, 597-1449; www.skysox.com
Give Your Child a Good Start A program for the whole child in a loving environment
Your Answer to the Education Puzzle...
632-7681 598-2095 633-9623 With Multiple Locations to Serve You and Your Family
www.jracademykids.com Since 1951 • Locally & Family Owned & Operated
FEATURES • Competitive Rates • Tax Deductible for Working Parents • Accredited Loving Teachers • Hot Nutritional Meals & Snacks • Available activities (field trips, gymnastics, swimming, skating & more) • Outcome-based programs taught by professional teachers. ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS: • All-Day Kindergarten • Toddler Programs • Preschool- Early Childhood Education programs • Holiday Day Camp
• Summer Day Camp • Before & After School • Kaleidescope - Kindergarten - 2nd Early Elementary Program
Shop & Compare Programs! Colorado Qualistar Education Assessed
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 43
GAZETTE LAYER:Composite --- 05/03/07
13:46
Your life...
your style...
The Citadel is proud to bring many good things to the community of Colorado Springs. Each year, The Citadel generates over $13 million in sales taxes and provides an employment base of 1,800 jobs for the community. However, The Citadel’s commitment to the community is not just limited to economic stimulus. Our commitment is far-reaching.
your mall
The Citadel is proud to donate the Celebration Place space which serves as the Kennedy Center Imagination Celebration’s “creativity space” offering year-round visual and performance arts experiences including: Binney & Smith/Crayola Dream Makers Exhibition, Pikes Peak International Reading Association Family Literacy Day, 44th Young People’s Art Exhibition, Spring Break and Summer Workshops and much more.
Hollister Crabtree & Evelyn Lane Bryant The Body Shop Limited Too Steve & Barry's University Sportswear Sportsman's Warehouse ...and over 40 stores you won't find anywhere else in Southern Colorado.
Through cash, in-kind and volunteer hours, The Citadel supported many local community causes and organizations including Kennedy Center Imagination Celebration, Colorado Springs Child Nursery Centers, Komen Colorado Springs Race for the Cure, Economic Development Council, Greater Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce Annual Armed Forces Luncheon, “It Takes Five” Teen Ticket to the Arts, Colorado Springs Balloon Classic, Mayor’s 100 Teens, President’s Day Youth Hockey Tournament, Pikes Peak Library District, The Greenberg Foundation, Sky Sox Salute Sundays, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Fiesta Latina, the American Heart Association and Go Red for Women Education Day. The Citadel hosted a wide variety of events and activities for area organizations in 2006 including Girl Scouts Wagon Wheel Council Annual Lock In, Victim’s Awareness Day & Education Fair, Boy Scout Expo, El Paso County Bar Association Ask A Lawyer Days, Air Academy Credit Union Art Awards program with Colorado Springs School District 11 & Falcon School District 49, Komen Colorado Springs Race for the Cure Race Shoppe and Registration, Senior Expo, Penrose Blood Bus, Wellness Walkers and Memorial Hospital Flu Shot Clinic, The Salvation Army Angel Tree and Kettle Campaign.
ONLY AT THE CITADEL
North Shore
The Citadel assisted over 20 organizations in raising more than $200,000 with community awareness programs, partnerships and fund raising events held at The Citadel including The Salvation Army, Girl Scouts Wagon Wheel Council, American Red Cross, Komen Colorado Springs Race for the Cure, Colorado Springs Youth Symphony and The Gazette & El Pomar Foundation Empty Stocking Fund.
Our
contributions to the
community
Citadel Management employees volunteered over 200 hours for community organizations including Kennedy Center Imagination Celebration, Colorado Springs School District 11, Go Red for Women, Harrison School District 2, Boy Scouts, Goodwill and KIDPOWER. Three area graduates from the Class of 2006 were the recipients of $1,000 Citadel Business Scholarships. Friends & Family Shopping Day to Benefit Education raised over $10,000 for area schools and school programs. Several area organizations participated in The Citadel’s Community Table program last year including Colorado Springs Police Department – Crime Prevention Office, El Paso County Republicans and Boys & Girls Club.
The Citadel • Academy Boulevard & Platte Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO
Yo u r L i f e . . . Yo u r S t y l e . . . Yo u r M a l l .
DILLARD’S, MACY’S, JCPENNEY, BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY
Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. • Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m • 24-Hour Shopping Line 719-591-5515
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 44
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 45
CITY LIFE Adopt a dog . . . Take him to play – or maybe to get a massage
Best place to adopt a pet HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION
There’s no way you couldn’t find someone to love: Last year the shelter adopted out almost 10,000 pets, and there should be even more this year. This shelter pulled an “exceptional” rating from the National Animal Control Association. 610 Abbott Lane, 473-1741; hsppr.org
Best dog park BEAR CREEK PARK
Off 21st Street, this is what doggie heaven must look like. Twenty-five acres of land. A main trail that runs threefourths of a mile in a loop. Creek to cool the body off. Donated tennis balls to chase. Fenced-off area for the smaller guys so they don’t get trampled or scared.
Best doggie day care WAGGIN’ TAILS DOGGY DAY CAMP
Waggin’, which calls itself “a canine country club,” boasts a certified canine massage therapist on staff (not kidding). 2235 Spectra Drive, 632-9485
Best mobile vet ALL ABOUT PETS
Whether the situation is too dire to risk moving your pet, or whether your beloved friend just hates getting in the car, veterinarian Kenneth Geohegan of All About Pets will give your pet the skillful, respectful care he or she deserves. 300 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 633-1010
CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE
Maija, a 7-year-old yellow Lab belonging to Bridgette Schawe, gets a massage from Heather Spencer at Waggin’ Tails Doggy Day Camp. The camp lets clients know when Spencer will be in.
SANDIA HEARING AIDS THE DIGITAL EXPERTS
2403 N. UNION Free hearing evaluations & demonstrations of new technology On site repair lab All makes and models serviced
Same location with a
new look
Come by to visit and see the
new us!
BUY TWO PACKAGES OF BATTERIES GET ONE
634-6260
FREE
COME SEE THE PROFESSIONALS YOU CAN TRUST
With coupon
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 46
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
$
500 Off
A SET OF DIGITAL HEARING AIDS With coupon
CITY LIFE Most canine fun in town
Best kennel CAMP BOW WOW
No dog owner likes leaving Fido behind when heading out of town on vacation. But when you leave your dog at Camp Bow Wow, he or she might have more fun than you do. During the day, doggies get to chill with other canine friends in several indoor/outdoor play areas suited for friends their size. Protective dads and moms can watch their furry kids at play via several webcams. At night, once the animals are worn out from roughhousing, each pooch heads to bed in his or her own doggie den. 4295 Northpark Drive, 260-9247; campbowwowusa.com
Best groomer FURRY FRIENDS
Fans of Heike Munday say there’s no other groomer they’d trust with their pets. Munday, who operates Furry Friends out of her house, works magic on nervous cats and canines and soothes them with walks and treats. Animals leave Furry Friends perfectly coiffed, and their owners leave with a few bucks left in their pockets —
Munday doesn’t charge an arm and a leg for her services.
1304 W. Cucharras St., 578-5509
Best scenic drive THE CRIPPLE CREEK AND VICTOR LOOP When fall hits its peak, the aspens are golden, the air is crisp, the peaks snowtipped, the skies blue. It’s a perfect Colorado day. Take Colorado Highway 67 south from Divide and wind your way to a fork in the road. You can’t go wrong heading right to Cripple Creek or left to Victor because the roads loop together through the old mining district. When you leave, you can try a different route out Teller County 1 (Florissant Road) for even more spectacular color and maybe a visit to the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument. Back on U.S. Highway 24, take a short trip west to beautiful Wilkerson Pass for a breathtaking view of South Park and miles of mountain ranges. Then, back on U.S. 24 east to Woodland Park and home.
CELEBRATING THE "EST -OTION &URNITURE &OR THE PAST 9EARS ,A : "OY¸ HAS BEEN HELPING YOU CELEBRATE THE h"EST IN #/-&/24v STOP IN 4/$!9 AND SEE 7(9
#/,/2!$/ 302).'3 . !#!$%-9 -ON &RI s 3AT s 3UN WWW LAZBOY COM COLORADOSPRINGS Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 47
CITY LIFE Give kids a glimpse of past . . . Test out that Jeep’s mettle . . . Try a 4-diamond B&B
Best school field trip ROCK LEDGE RANCH HISTORIC SITE
Best ambulance service AMERICAN MEDICAL RESPONSE OF EL PASO COUNTY
At the living-history farm and agricultural museum, kids can see what life was like before iPods, HDTV and text messaging. Four time periods are depicted: American Indian life in the 1800s, the 1860s Galloway Homestead, the 1880s Chambers Home and Ranch, and the 1907 Edwardian Country Estate.
The 2006 National Ambulance Service of the Year, according to the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians. Locally, it was named the “outstanding corporate philanthropic program” by Partners in Philanthropy. amr.net
Best bed and breakfast OLD TOWN GUESTHOUSE
at Garden of the Gods entrance off 30th Street, 578-6777; rockledgeranch.com
Best dry cleaner EUROPEAN DRY CLEANERS
Two locations with a tradition of great service and a discount when you pay in advance.
1779 S. Eighth St., 471-2227; 3264 Centennial Blvd., 630-0114
Best place for a test drive FARICY BOYS 4X4 TEST TRACK
Give a Jeep your best shot: Drive up and over rocks and hills and splash through the water obstacle without ever leaving the dealership. 4950 New Car Drive, 614-7173; faricy.com
THE GAZETTE FILE
Take pictures or have lunch at Helen Hunt Falls in North Cheyenne Cañon Park.
There’s upscale privacy or a B&B experience combined with a murder mystery or a house concert. Your choice. Breakfast inside or out. Old Colorado City shops are just a stroll away. The modern GuestHouse holds a AAA four-diamond rating. 115 S. 26th St., 632-9194; oldtown-guesthouse.com
Spot for a picnic NORTH CHEYENNE CAÑON PARK
Best place to be born MEMORIAL HOSPITAL NORTH
Once you pass by the Starsmore Discovery Center at 2120 S. Cheyenne Cañon Road, it’s like you’ve entered a whole new world, minus any city life. There are plenty of spots to pull off the winding road in the 1,600-acre park and wander into the trees for a spot by the creek flowing down from Helen Hunt Falls.
4050 Briargate Parkway, 444-2273; memorialhealthsystem.com
Brand spanking new and it’s all about pampering Mom and Dad — and baby, too. Private suites and Jacuzzi tubs are featured.
Coach • Vista Dome • Lunch Dinner • Wine Trains
Call
1.888.724.5748 RoyalGorgeReservations.com BEST OF THE SPRINGS 48
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
CITY LIFE Big changes at Doherty . . . The woman who just won’t stop . . . 40 years as the voice of sports
Best educator JILL MARTIN, DOHERTY HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
When her students talk, she listens. Attendance is up, the school’s dropout rate is down and she set up an electives program to help kids later on in college. Best local principal and even more: She’s the 2007 National High School Principal of the Year.
Best philanthropist PAULETTE GREENBERG
She is busy spearheading so many fundraising events that the words “chair,” “organizer” and “patron” are permanently attatched to her name. She founded the Heart Ball, which raises hundreds of thousands of dollars annually. She and husband David founded the Greenberg Center for Learning and Tolerance. Involved with more than 20 nonprofits during 30 years, she was this year’s Girl Scouts’ Woman of Distinction — Community Sector.
Best PR person MIKE MORAN, COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR, COLORADO SPRINGS SPORTS CORP.
CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE
He’s been doing sports-information publicity for 40 years and is as enthusiastic today as he was in the 1960s. He was sports-information director for the University of Colorado before going international, spending almost 25 years handling media for the U.S. Olympic Committee and 13 Olympic Games. He’s also in the Colorado Springs Sports Hall of Fame.
Agustin Lopez and daughter Anoarithd, 5, looked at the fish at Front Range Orthopaedics. The tanks are just one of many impressive amenities to keep clients occupied while they wait.
Best waiting room FRONT RANGE ORTHOPAEDICS
The contemporary design, cool sports prints, stellar fish tanks and up-to-date magazines would be enough to put it in contention. But Marci Montgomery, the greeter who offers coffee and a smile to everybody waiting, puts it over the top. Printers Park Medical Plaza, 175 S. Union Blvd., No. 200, 473-3332; fro.com
Feeling Sore? Got Stress? Voted e re Best sFage Mas 6 200zette
WELLNESS CENTER
528-6610
a
-The G
5035 N. Academy (At Union down from BigLots Mon-Fri: 9-7 Sat:9-3) Walk-Ins Welcome!
FREE
35 MINUTE
Thermal Massage Good For Up to 4 People Per Coupon!
www.MigunWorld.com Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 49
CITY LIFE Get the 411 at 211
nobody parties like
Best athlete, male AARON SMITH, DEFENSIVE END, PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Graduated from Sierra High School and University of Northern Colorado, and he was drafted by the black and gold in 1999. He’s a Pro Bowler, wears a Super Bowl ring and just signed another four-year contract extension for an estimated $25 million.
Best athlete, female JULIET DRAPER, COLORADO SPRINGS FIRE DEPARTMENT
‘05-‘06
First woman in the world to break the twominute mark in the grueling firefighter combat challenge, which starts with running up a five-story tower wearing 50 pounds of gear and carrying hoses. She bench-presses more than 250 pounds, squats more than 350 pounds, dead lifts 405, and does 90 push-ups in two minutes.
Best leadership trainer
3430 N. Academy Blvd.• 719.570.1GAY ROBERT GINNETT
ClubQonline.com
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 50
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
When they say someone “wrote the book” on something, chances are they’re talking
about Ginnett. He’s co-author of the textbook “Leadership: Enhancing the Lessons of Experience,” now in its fifth edition. He was director of leadership and counseling at the Air Force Academy, worked at the Center for Creative Leadership and is senior partner with Impact Leadership Development Group.
Best place to network COMMUNITY BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
You don’t have to join anything because it’s for the whole biz community — and they’ll teach you how to network, to boot. You’ll need stacks of your business cards. An extremely popular event put on by the Greater Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce in partnership with other area chambers, the Apartment Association and the Better Business Bureau among others. 575-4326; coloradospringschamber.org
Best place to get the 411 211, PIKES PEAK UNITED WAY
This service by the United Way connects callers with a variety of needs to more than 400 service providers. 211 or 955-0742; ppunitedway.org
Best place to dance COWBOYS
Wear your boots to this nightclub with a spacious dance floor, country western line dancing, lessons and live music some nights. It’s a welcoming atmosphere for everyone, not just the young crowd. Shoot pool or sing karaoke if you’re not in a dancing mood, or have a drink at the bar while listening to old and new country hits. 3910 Palmer Park Blvd.; 596-1212
Best place for a first date ADULT JAM PARTY AT SKATE CITY
Woe to those who think roller skating is only for kids. This is a great way to break the ice and see for yourself what kind of sense of humor your date has. You know you’ve got a
catch if he’ll limbo down or if she’ll at least make an attempt in the fast skate. Plus, you’ll have every excuse to grab hands when the wheels go round and round a little too fast. It’s for ages 21 and older from 8-10:30 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $5, and skate rentals are $1.50-$3.50.
Best live music venue THE BLACK SHEEP
Best karaoke TAM O’SHANTER PUB
After opening in October 2005, The Black Sheep has been busy booking plenty of bands. A makeover of the unremarkable building added wall murals by local artists, bright-red tables and chairs, a pinball machine, pool table, expanded stage and new sound system. In the past year, “the little club with the big drinking problem” (as its MySpace page calls it) has featured bigname acts such as Daughtry, Slick Rick and Hoobastank, as well as plenty of indie rock (Built to Spill), hip-hop (P.O.S.) and metal (Killswitch Engage). The Sheep also books Colorado acts such as The Photo Atlas, Black Pegasus and A Novel Form.
332 Garden of the Gods Road, 266-4363; tamoshanterpub.com
2106 E. Platte Ave., 227-7625; myspace.com/sodajerkcospgs
1920 N. Academy Blvd., 597-6066; www.skatecitycolorado.com/AC.htm
“American Idol,” eat your heart out. On Wednesdays and Saturdays after 7 p.m., accountants and secretaries become stars. A tiny tile floor serves as a dance floor while karaoke singers belt out “Total Eclipse of the Heart” on the short stage. The guys who run the karaoke are friendly and seem to be having just as much fun as the singers.
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 51
DINING FAC is fest for senses . . . Talkers, head to the Parrot . . . Watchers, Tony’s is for you
Best movie theater KIMBALL’S TWIN PEAK THEATER
Jimmy Buffet, a signature cocktail for $6.95. Put on your crazy-eye sunglasses and brush up on your “World Poker Tour” to have a chance at the Texas Hold ’Em tournaments Sunday afternoons.
Still rolling the best movies in town. Still has the wine bar so you can get your pinot noir along with your popcorn.
32 S. Tejon St., 884-1094; thirstyparrot.net
Best art museum FINE ARTS CENTER
Best bar for introverts TONY’S
115 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 447-1945, kimballstwinpeak.com
Or more properly, the FAC Modern, because much of the main building on Dale Street has been closed since March 2006 for expansion and renovation and won’t reopen until August. Meanwhile, The Modern — which opened in April 2006 — has given the center a venue for more modern exhibits, works by photographer Annie Leibovitz, regional contemporary artists, and artists affected by Hurricane Katrina. And cool jazz at the cozy bar doesn’t hurt, either. COMING ATTRACTION: A new restaurant with ties to Blue Star. Fine Arts Center Modern, Plaza of the Rockies, 121 S. Tejon St., 634-5581; csfineartscenter.org
Best bar for extroverts THE THIRSTY PARROT BAR & GRILL This roomy, two-story building with a Margaritaville theme offers live music and a spring break-style atmosphere. An outgoing person would feel right at home on the dance floor Thursday nights, which are DJ request nights. Try the
A small bar that draws all types of people, Tony’s is a laidback neighborhood hangout with framed pictures of famous Tonys lining the walls. With a jukebox selection as diverse as the crowd — find Nirvana, Motley Crue, Weezer and A Tribe Called Quest — you won’t feel too lonely or awkward getting an evening beer by yourself. 311 N. Tejon St., 228-6566
Best bar for smokers 15C
The martini bar with the nondescript entrance in the alley between Kiowa and Bijou streets is also a cigar bar. One of the few businesses that’s exempt from the smoking ban, the purposefully sophisticated atmosphere provides a reprieve from the booty-dancing club scene. Smokers can indulge in a cigar while lounging on a leather couch or just appreciate the convenience of smoking a cigarette inside. Drinks are a bit pricey, but it IS an upscale bar with perfectly made martinis. 15 E. Bijou St., Suite C, 635-8303; 15cclub.com
READERS’ CHOICE
Best movie theater CINEMARK 16 THEATRE With more and more blockbusters getting the IMAX 3-D treatment (can’t wait for the new Harry Potter), Cinemark is the destination in town for can’t-miss-flicks. Plus, with the weather warming up, the sidewalk fountain out front sounds more enticing every day. 3305 Cinema Point, 596-0442
Best art museum FINE ARTS CENTER Under the energetic leadership of Michael De Marsche, the city’s largest arts center kept a high profile even with most of its exhibition space closed for an expansion that will more than double the center’s gallery space when it’s completed in August. That’s because of the opening a year ago of the FAC Modern, a satellite facility in the Plaza of the Rockies, and an ideal venue for smaller, hipper art exhibits. 30 W. Dale St., 634-5581; csfineartscenter.org
We’ll pay you to TEST products. Stephens & Associates is a local clinical research company. We evaluate cosmetic, personal care & pharmaceutical products.
• Friendly Professional Staff. • All Panelists Are Screened For Suitability/Eligibility • Pay For Panelists Ranges From $50 - $100 Plus • Seeking Male & Female Panelists Between 18-65 Years of Age
Earn extra money by participating as a panelist in clinical research studies. All products and services are FREE to panelists.
5050 Edison Avenue (just west of Joyrides)
Call us today at: 637.3382
Visit www.stephens-associates.com for details
All panelist information held in strict confidence. All interested panelists may be contacted via telephone. Panelist information may be added to a centralized database.
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 52
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Gay bar in suburbia . . . Cheap drinks at the station
Best all-ages club THE BLACK SHEEP
The little music venue on Platte Avenue just east of Union Boulevard offers live music by national acts and local bands four to six nights a week, on average. Every show is all-ages, and plenty of teenagers flock to see their favorite bands play. There’s a pinball machine and a pool table for good, clean fun between bands. 2106 E. Platte Ave., 227-7625; myspace.com/sodajerkcospgs
Best gay bar CLUB Q
It’s an unlikely location for a gay bar — situated in suburbia — but it works. Bright and clean and never a cover charge for such events as comedy improv on Tuesdays, male revue on Wednesdays and drag shows on Fridays. 3430 N. Academy Blvd., 570-1429; clubqonline.com
Best happy hour GEORGE’S UNION STATION
CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE
Best unlikely headbanger PAUL YORK
The manager of the Cliff House at Pikes Peak by day lets his hair down at night as he rocks out in the band Sixty 8, which recently got signed with Rescue Records. The company may use the group’s retro-metal tunes in commercials or films.
Head to this strip-mall bar for one of the best bangs for your buck. From 5 to 7 p.m. daily, throw back half-price wines, wells and drafts, $1 off all drinks, free pool and half-price appetizers. Free drinks from 7 to 9 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, and if you’re really ready to make that liver earn its keep, stop by from 8 p.m. to midnight Sundays-Thursdays for the $10 all-youcan-drink special. 2419 N. Union Blvd., 227-7168; unionstationrocks.com or myspace.com/unionstation
SHOOTERS -EMBERS ENJOY DISCOUNTS ON GUNS AMMUNITION ACCESSORIES AND CONCEALED CARRY CLOTHING 2ELAX IN THE SPACIOUS LUXURIOUS LOUNGE 4WO FULL TIME PROFESSIONAL GUNSMITHS WILL BE GLAD TO MAINTAIN AND CUSTOMIZE ALL YOUR GUNS 3TOP BY TODAY FOR THE FREE TOURˆ BUT BE PREPARED TO BE AMAZED
4HE NEW 7HISTLING 0INES 'UN #LUB IS THE SAFEST CLEANEST MOST FAMILY ORIENTED INDOOR SHOOTING RANGE IN #OLORADO 7HETHER YOU RE A TARGET SHOOTER A TACTICAL SHOOTER A NEWCOMER TO THE SHOOTING SPORTS OR A CITIZEN WHO S INTERESTED IN THE #OLORADO #ONCEALED (ANDGUN 0ERMIT THIS IS THE BEST PLACE NOT ONLY TO SHOOT
BUT LEARN HOW TO SHOOT WELL 4RY OVER RENTAL GUNS BEFORE YOU BUY 4HE COMPREHENSIVE TRAINING CURRICULUM TURNS NOVICES AND EXPERTS ALIKE INTO BETTER SAFER Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 53
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Cool haunts . . . Cheap drinks . . . Hot bands
Best place to end up during last call TRIPLE NICKEL TAVERN
eats 24 hours a day (except when it closes for the Sabbath at 2 p.m. Fridays and reopens 6 p.m. Saturdays.)
26 S. Wahsatch Ave., 477-9555
Best place to end up after last call THE MATÉ FACTOR
Offering stimulating yerba maté herbal tea and interesting people-watching, the “common ground cafe” promises to keep you energized without coffee and filled with good
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 54
Because officers and enlisted personnel are discouraged from socializing outside of work, there seems to be an unspoken code Best reason to designate a driver that SouthSide Johnny’s is the favorite hangPROHIBITION REPEAL PARTY out of the officers, while everyone else goes Bristol Brewery’s 33-cent beers commemorat- to Rum Bay. The nightclub offers “8 clubs in ing the repeal of Prohibition in April was the 1”: eight concept rooms playing different greatest promotion ever. And, the good grac- music. The newest addition to the complex, Blondies, has a nifty balcony with a fire pit. es of owner Mike Bristol willing, it will beMilitary members can kick back and relax come a yearly event. after a long week. Thursdays are ladies’ 1647 S. Tejon St., 633-2555; bristolbrewing.com nights at Rum Bay, so take a date and you won’t have to spend money on her, since all Best place to meet a potential mate drinks for women are complimentary. The JACK QUINN’S RUNNING CLUB dress code bans baggy pants, ballcaps, wavecaps and bandanas and encourages “polo Every Tuesday at 6 p.m., a horde of runners meets at Jack Quinn’s Irish Pub and Restau- type shirts.” It’s a $5 cover charge before rant. The mob of men and women push their midnight, $10 after that. way through a 5K run/walk/jog/crawl/whatev- 20 N. Tejon St., 634-3522 er through downtown that ends up at the bar for $2 beers and free appetizers. What Best place to drink on the cheap better place to literally run into a nice, MURPHY’S healthy future Mrs. or Mr.? This hole-in-the-wall isn’t one of those plac21 S. Tejon St., 385-0766; es trying to be a dive to draw the ironic www.jackquinnsrunners.com 966 Manitou Ave., 685-3235; matefactor.com
This clean, spacious bar is as laid-back as they come, and although we’re sure the bartenders are tired at 1:45 a.m., they take their last call seriously: They won’t let you forget that you have one last chance to order another whiskey and coke. Bartenders will gladly let you finish your beer before giving you the boot at 2 a.m. The jukebox is full of punk rock and old country such as Hank Williams and Willie Nelson; if “Whiskey River” is playing, shots of Willie’s own whiskey are $2. The large back room is filled with three pinball tables, two pool tables and dart boards.
Best military hangout RUM BAY
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
crowd — it’s the real deal. You might say “Whaa . . . ?” upon seeing the final bill because it’s usually much less than you expected. Bartenders Ron and Toni carry on fun, lively conversation across the semicircular bar counter.
2729 N. Nevada Ave., 634-9196
Best local band KEEPING SANITY
Rock music is all about energy, and that’s what these four Woodland Park teenagers deliver by the bucketful. They play original power pop with driving beats and great guitar interplay, practically guaranteed to stick in your head for days. Look for an album this summer. www.myspace.com/keepingsanity
Best cover band HEAD FULL OF ZOMBIES
Their quirky selection of modern rock hits, culled from the ’80s, ’90s and aughts, sets HFOZ apart from a crowded field. That, and the uncanny trumpet solos Kevin Rodela coaxes from his guitar. www.hfoz.com
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Think you’re smart? Pit your brain against these drinking geeks
Best pub quiz GEEKS WHO DRINK
Trivia fans crowd McCabe’s every Wednesday to vie for the title of brainiest crew in the Geeks Who Drink competition.
THE GAZETTE FILE
This group of geeks hosts several pub contests throughout the state, including quizzes at McCabe’s Tavern (Wednesdays), The Underground (Fridays) and Jack Quinn (Mondays). Aaron Retka is the quizmaster, who reads questions on such topics as why we love the ’90s, fascists and fashion, junkies & coke fiends, and romantic comedies. It’s wild fun, but be forewarned — the competition can be cutthroat. geekswhodrink.com/blog
It’s been called the Grandest Mile of Scenery in Colorado. It’s Seven Falls. Home to hiking, self-guided audio tours, wildlife viewing, an in-mountain elevator and a must-see computerized night lighting system. Summer Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 p.m. • Take I-25 to exit 138 and head west. For more information call 719-632-0765 today.
www.sevenfalls.com
GZTBO07 28740 7F_1mile_9x4.5gaz_0508.ind1 1
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 55 4/23/07 2:50:26 PM
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT We love Wunderkind
Sandra Jones Prager’s “Broadmoor Perspective Series #1” at Hayden Hays.
Best art gallery HAYDEN HAYS GALLERY
Best CD, DVD, New & Used Music and Movie/Poster/T-Shirt/Gift Store in Town!
Since forever, Hayden Hays has provided a great mix of art — high-end to medium end, local to national artists — in a pleasant, lowpressure environment. At The Broadmoor, 1 Lake Ave., 577-5744 haydenhaysgallery.com
Best irreverent art event BAD ART NIGHT
Vast Selection For All Your Media Needs. We Pay Cash For All the Music, Movies and Games 3030 E. PLATTE AVE. 3020 E. PLATTE (ANNEX) 123 E. BIJOU ST. 3040 W. COLORADO AVE. COLORADO SPRINGS COLORADO SPRINGS COLORADO SPRINGS COLORADO SPRINGS 5680 S. HIGHWAY 85/87 420 W. 4TH ST. 973 E. COLFAX AVE. COLORADO SPRINGS PUEBLO DENVER
$2.00 OFF Any NEW Regularly Priced CD or DVD, $4.99 and up! One per customer per visit, please. Expires 06/30/07.
www.beindependent.com • 719.473.0882 BEST OF THE SPRINGS 56
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
When Christopher Lynn took over as curator at UCCS Gallery of Contemporary Art, one of his first innovations was quarterly Bad Art Nights, which give nonartists a fun environment to experiment with contemporary art. Targets — err, topics — have ranged from Dale Chihuly to Valentine’s Day. “If you feel a bit timid dipping your toe into the choppy waters of high aesthetics, fear not, Bad Art Night is all about splashing around the shallow end of the artistic pool,” writes Lynn. Gallery of Contemporary Art, 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway Science Building Room 200, 262-3567 galleryuccs.org
Best student art event WUNDERKIND
For most of us, the Business of Art Center’s annual “Wunderkind” is a pleasant exhibit by talented high school art students. For the students, it’s the end result of months of mentoring and educating, an intense process that gives them an up-close experience of the sort of dedication a creative life requires. The exhibit lasts for a few weeks, but its effects echo for years 513 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1861 thebac.org
Best artistic farewell RODNEY WOOD
For more than a decade, Wood wore numerous hats as a major figure in the region’s arts scene: Sculptor, gallery owner, director of the Business of Art Center, consultant. What we didn’t know was that he was also a painter in search of his calling. In 2004, he began creating highly detailed, magical, realistic paintings. Last fall, Wood left to pursue painting in Santa Fe — but not before a stunning October exhibition at Rubbish Gallery. rodneywoodpaintings.com
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Readers love downtown fountain
Best outdoor art STARR KEMPF HOUSE
US Bank’s Art on the Streets program is slowly and pleasantly transforming downtown, but it will never match the concentrated, visceral impact of the mammoth, fanciful wind sculptures the highly eccentric Kempf created for his front lawn. In a city known for its natural beauty, Kempf’s display is one of the humanmade highlights — even with three of the largest sculptures removed because of alleged safety issues. 2057 Pine Grove Ave.
BUDWEISER T KEG OUTLE rings! In Colorado Sp
FREE
WINE TASTINGS
Every Weeks.!
Call For Detail
DISCOUNTS For All Military & Seniors
PHONE & FAX ME! ORDERS WELCO we’ll
Call ahead & ready! r have your orde
Fax 596-4711
PERSONAL CHECKS
Welcome
FREE IVllERY DELCa
THE GAZETTE FILE
Starr Kempf sculptures “Sunrise Serenade,” left, and “Fugitive Feather” are just part of the home’s amazing art.
READERS’ CHOICE
Best outdoor art “UNCLE WILBER”
Come for the water, stay for the art. A gift to the city from the Smokebrush Foundation, this whimsical, music-playing fountain — designed by Bob and Kat Tudor, and depicting, sort of, Bob Tudor’s tuba-playing uncle — the fountain has become a major downtown destination on hot summer days. Acacia Park, corner of Tejon and Bijou streets; www.smokebrush.org
596-4700 NO CIT Y SALES TAX!
NO CITY SALES TAX ONLY 4.9%
DRIVEruTHRU
Th LATE! Drive OPEN Open Late!
HUGE SELECTION!
Join our Wine Tasting Club! Wine Tastings Every Saturday Afternoon: 1:00, 2:30, 4:00 & 5:30
Beer or Wine Tastings Thursday Evenings: 6:00 & 7:30 Each tasting event features 6-8 products to sample with a brief presentation on each one.
BEST OF ALL... IT’S ABSOLUTELY FREE!
Only 4.9% POWERS LIQUOR MART 5847 PALMER PARK BLVD
(next to K-Mart, across from Wal-Mart)
719.596.4700 www.powersliquormart.com Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 57
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Do you want to wear your cowboy boots or your go-go boots?
Best nightclub EDEN NITE CLUB
READERS’ CHOICE
It’s the ultimate clubbing experience. Dancing go-go girls; DJs pouring out the bass; pretty, potent drinks, handsomely plated food; and of course, young, taut singles on the prowl.
Best nightclub COWBOYS
The country-western bar is decades old and continues to bring in great acts such as Tracy Lawrence, SHeDAISY, Josh Gracin and Chris Cagle. People decked out in their country finest pile in all nights of the week, including Family Night on Sundays with linedancing lessons.
217 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 635-0999; edenniteclub.com
Best bar SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY’S RESTAURANT AND BAR
3910 Palmer Park Blvd., 596-1212; csnightclubs.com/cowboys/index.htm
This joint just south of downtown is hopping at all hours of the day. Join the bikers in leather who gather in the morning hours for rays of sunshine with their steak and eggs, or business-attired happy hour seekers, or the mixedage crowds jammed in on the weekends, listening to live music. 528 S. Tejon St., 444-8487; southsidejohnnys.biz
Best bar JACK QUINN IRISH ALEHOUSE & PUB
4 THE GAZETTE FILE
Eden Nite Club offers a modern sophisticated atmosphere and bartenders and DJs who keep the party going.
It’s not a stretch to pretend you’ve been transported to a real Irish pub here. Lean back with your pint of Guinness while Brian Clancy gets the crowds singing with boisterous Irish songs on Thursdays, or come when the Mountain Road Ceili Band does a jig or two on Tuesdays. 21 S. Tejon St., 385-0766; jackquinnspub.com
Take the 4 minute challenge! Loose Weight! Feel Great! Be in shape! In only 4 minutes a day!
2 FREE WEEKS with this AD
Skeptical? Think it’s a scam? We WILL change your mind after ONE workout. But just for fun we will give you two weeks FREE!
6040 6 040 N. Carefree 637.3180 80 S. Cascade 227.3959
QUICKGYMCS.COM
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 58
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Find a game for everyone or anyone
Best place to game COMPLEAT GAMES & HOBBIES
Whether you need to restock your Magic The Gathering cards or you want the new version of Catch Phrase, the variety of games at Compleat will fill your needs. Behind the counter, a small group is usually playing card games and/or role-playing games. On a recent day, a few guys were playing Legend of the Five Rings, a collectable-card game. Ask the friendly staff how you can get in on the gaming action. 326 N. Tejon St., 473-1116; gamesandhobbies.com
Best Cripple Creek casino DOUBLE EAGLE/GOLD CREEK
Double Eagle owns the Gold Creek card room, which is connected to the main casino. Live Texas Hold ’Em tables host traditional “ring games” as well as tournaments. Ring games have a $2 to $5 betting spread on some tables, and other tables are $5 minimum and maximum bet. Also find a wide selection of slots and a few blackjack tables. 400-442 Bennett Ave., Cripple Creek, 689-5000; www.decasino.com
H
Fine Art & Archival Custom Framing
Best magician RICHARD KWESELL
Kwesell has the hands of a conman and the charm of showman. His specialty is close-up magic, turning dollar bills into $100 bills so convincingly that everybody wants to hire him as an accountant. He regularly performs at special events in the Pikes Peak region and around the globe. therichmagic.com
Best poet AARON ANSTETT
Anstett, an active player on the local poetry scene, has a bucketful of awards. His last collection, “No Accident,” was awarded the Backwaters Press Prize (judged by Philip Levine), the Nebraska Book Award and the Balcones Poetry Prize. A new collection is coming out very soon. He writes poetry that comes out of somewhere beyond left field, as in the first line of his poem “Good Morning”: “Fifty-some years after the war, a kamikaze lands in my yard, gently, like a sheet of newsprint.” Read more of Anstett’s work and hear him reading at gazette.com under “Best of the Springs 2007.”
Husqvarna
Better Homes and Gardens Quilt Sampler selected
Ruth’s Stitchery
Mission Gate by June Carey • Limited Edition Giclee Canvas
5051 N. Academy at Union Union Square, Colo Spgs
Landscapes, Wildlife, Americana, Western, Inspirational by Local and Nationally Known Artists Limited Editions, Originals, Posters
locally owned & operated All framing done in house by our experienced staff.
Major Publishers
260-1873
www.artgalleryoftherockies.com
VIKING
Me Roya mber of l Hu Vikin sqvarna g One Club. o f TOP 25 D the in th EALERS e U.S .!
as one of the
TOP TEN QUILT SHOPS IN NORTH AMERICA in the Fall 2006 issue! ’S H T RU
Store Hours: Mon. - Sat. 9-6 • Thur. 9-9 • Sun. 12-5
4440 Austin Bluffs Pkwy Serving Colorado Springs for 22 years!
719-591-1717
888-591-8803 rstitchery@pcisys.net
Check out our 2nd location inside JoAnn Super Store at North Carefree & Powers! 719-597-5532
www.ruthsstitchery.com Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 59
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Violinist takes stellar orchestra to new level . . . Team players at UCCS
Best guest musician JOSHUA BELL
Audiences have gotten spoiled by the Colorado Springs Philharmonic: Under conductor Lawrence Leighton Smith, the orchestra sounds like one that both plays and pays more than it actually does. But even amid a landscape of excellence, last fall’s performance of Brahms’ violin concerto with violinist Joshua Bell stood out. Bell turned the piece into chamber music, communicating his vision of the music to the orchestra with an intensity that’s rarely been heard in Colorado Springs. www.csphilharmonic.org, www.joshuabell.com
Best theater company THEATREWORKS
UCCS’ theater company had a lot of help this year: Great out-of-town talent for “Comedy of Errors” and fruitful collaborations with Pueblo’s Steel City Theater, New York’s The Flying Machine, Denver’s Buntport Theater and Denver actress Karen Slack — who supplied the season’s highlight with her performance of “The Syringa Tree.” But their basically homegrown productions of “Arms and the Man” and “The Importance of Being Earnest” were also first-rate. Dusty Loo Bon Vivant Theatre, 3955 Cragwood Drive, 262-3232; uccstheatreworks.com
A mountain experience 10 minutes away from downtown.
Come and see why the Cheyenne Canon Inn was voted Best Bed and Breakfast in Town 2006 It’s perfect for romantic getaways, anniversaries, family reunions, business meetings, weddings, and retreats.
Stop by for a tour and a cookie.
1-800-633-0625
www.cheyennecanoninn.com BEST OF THE SPRINGS 60
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
Best new show “HUT!”
The third of Jim Jackson’s plays at the Manitou Art Theater about growing up in Cañon City was the darkest and most compelling yet, and Jackson proved himself to be much more than a brilliant clown. themat.org
COURTESY OF THE MANITOU ART THEATRE
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Quiz-show drama a pleasant surprise
Best musical “PIRATES OF PENZANCE”
With stunning stagecraft and smoothly precise orchestration, “The Pirates of Penzance” ended the Rep’s most consistent season to date with an exclamation point. The scurvy, softhearted pirates brought many a smile to Colorado Springs.
There was only one sad note to this effervescent, schtick-intensive version of Gilbert and Sullivan’s operetta — which featured world-class singing from Amy Sue Hardy and a brilliant set from Christopher Sheley: It turned out to be Sandra Womochil Bray’s swan song as the Fine Arts Center’s director of performing arts. csfineartscenter.org
Best stage drama “NIGHT AND HER STARS”
COLORADO SPRINGS FINE ARTS CENTER
The Star Bar Players’ production of “Night and Her Stars” was the theater season’s most pleasant surprise: A compelling drama based on the quiz-show scandals of the 1950s, an innovative staging, and brilliant performances from leads David Hastings, Kaleb Kohart and Jude Bishop. starbarplayers.org
MONARCH
Season Passes on Sale NOW!!!
Voted “Best Ski Resort ~ Small” 2006
Lose the Crowds, Not Your Friends
Eyewear for the Individual
skimonarch.com Call: 888-996-7669
Melanie Clague, ABOC Eye exams available
622-9800
Friday, May 18, 2007
www.optiquedemel.com 5960 Stetson Hills Blvd.
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 61
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Teens battle in tune
COURTESY OF RON APGAR
Apgar is known for equestrian art, such as “Thunder-Horses No. 2.”
Best second-career artist RON APGAR
Psychotherapist Ron Apgar has turned a onetime artistic hobby into a second career that’s overtaking his original. Specializing in colorful realistic and surrealistic paintings of horses, Apgar’s paintings are in galleries in Taos, N.M., Denver and locally at The Warehouse and the Janetis Gallery, among others. art-connections.com
Best Place for Group Outings!
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 62
David Hastings: Played a modern-day Iago in the Star Bar Players’ “Night and Her Stars.”
Julie Sweum: Wowed us with her bitter and jealous character in the same group’s “Five Women.”
Best local actor DAVID HASTINGS
Best local actress JULIE SWEUM
As Dan Enright, the corrupt television producer in the Star Bar Players’ production of “Night and Her Stars,” Hastings made the most of a great role — a modern Iago who exploits other people’s character flaws with the skill of a master surgeon.
Best outlet for teen angst THE CONSERVATORY’S BATTLE OF THE BANDS
Part of its What Art Means program, The Conservatory’s Battle of the Bands showcases startlingly talented high school kids rocking out with original songs. The next competition is set for June 22 at Security Field (Sky Sox stadium). coloradospringsconservatory.org
Best Place for Ladies Night
for our Thursday games!
THE GAZETTE
Playing an unappealing character in a so-so play — Meredith in the Star Bar Players’ production of “Five Women Wearing the Same Dress” — Sweum gave an emotional performance. And she was just as believable as Sunny, the bland goody-twoshoes in the Fine Arts Center’s “The Last Night of Ballyhoo.”
Friday, May 18, 2007
Best Place for Kids! Kids Club Sundays!
Best Place for Hot Dogs!
Best Fireworks Show!
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT The importance of being perfect
The Best Care for Your Best Friend Dr. Gene Pollard Dr. Sandra Grover, Board Certified Feline Medicine
Carefree Cats A Veterinary Hospital for Cats
719.573.1670 4810 Old Farm Drive, Suite 100
No Smile Left Behind
COURTESY OF THEATREWORKS
TheatreWorks’ production of “Earnest” was an object lesson in how to produce a masterpiece. The immensely witty script was played gloriously by a cast including Chad Siebert as Algernon and Jessica Austgen as Cecily.
Best stage comedy “THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST”
A single jarring note stands out in a farce as fluffy as “The Importance of Being Earnest.” But there were no such notes — not even the spit-take — in TheatreWorks’ brilliantly acted production. uccstheatreworks.com
Accepting: • Medicaid • Military Insurance • Most Others
se habla espanol
2435 S. Academy
391-2336 Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 63
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Broadmoor spa pampers couples . . . Briarhurst says romance
Best place to propose THE PEPPER TREE Candlelight, an intimate table, a catch-yourbreath view of the twinkling city lights below, a discreet formal wait staff keeping your secret, delicious pepper steak flamed tableside, an excellent bottle of wine and thou. 888 W. Moreno Ave., 471-4888; restauranteur.com/peppertreecscom
Best place to celebrate a 25th wedding anniversary COUPLES MASSAGE AT THE SPA AT THE BROADMOOR
COURTESY OF THE BROADMOOR
Romance and luxury meet at The Broadmoor, where couples can splurge on a massage they get together. The decadence factor is enhanced with an intimate room for couples, complete with fireplace and candles.
THE WILLIAM STORMS ALLERGY CLINIC Our full service Allergy and Asthma Clinic Staff includes 2 Nurse Practioners, Certified Research Coordinators, Injectionists, Nurses, XRay, & Certified Asthma Educators.
Call
955-6000
to schedule an appointment
TREATING: x Nasal allergies x Hay fever x Sinus problems x Asthma x Chronic cough x Food allergies x Other allergic conditions William Storms, MD & staff
1625 Medical Center Point, Suite 190 (NW corner of Fillmore & Union) With Allergy Shot Clinics in Briargate and Stetson Hills BEST OF THE SPRINGS 64
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
The cruise or the family party can wait. Be a little decadent, just for yourselves. The spa itself is an elegant experience. Add to that the intimacy of the romantic couple’s room, with its fireplace and candlelight, and it’s memories in the making. You’ll each have your own massage therapist for a Swedish massage or a rubout-the-stress deep tissue massage. You romantic kids, you. 1 Lake Ave. in The Broadmoor Spa, Golf and Tennis Club, 634-7711; broadmoor.com
Best place to get married BRIARHURST MANOR ESTATE
Oh, if only these elegant walls could talk, the romantic tales they’d tell about Victorian balls and breathtaking weddings. The manicured gardens and patios open to a Pikes Peak vista and the 1876 pink sandstone manor home with a grand staircase sits beside Fountain Creek. It’s picture perfect for a day of history and new memories. 404 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1864; briarhurst.com
Best way to learn an instrument BLACK ROSE ACOUSTIC SOCIETY LESSONS
The Black Rose offers an amazing deal on group lessons for guitar, fiddle, banjo and a variety of other instruments — taught by some of the coolest hippies around, and pretty hot musicians to boot. But education doesn’t stop in the classroom: The society also orchestrates a range of folk shows and jams, bringing some of the nation’s nimblest fingers to town and cheerfully braving the butterfingers of wannabe players. www.blackroseacoustic.org
Best place to find bargains GOODWILL
Readers pegged this one. Our favorite stores are off Constitution Avenue west of Powers Boulevard, and on Kelly Johnson Boulevard southwest of North Academy Boulevard. various locations
Best supermarket GRAND VIEW MARKET PLACE KING SOOPERS
This store is modeled as a lifestyle grocery store: It’s basically a one-stop shopping experience. The produce section is attractively displayed, and the florist area greets shoppers at the door. The highlight is the housewares section in the center, offering high-quality small kitchen appliances, linens, gadgets and other cooking notions. There’s a gas station, drive-up pharmacy window and bank, too. 3250 Centennial Blvd., 866-6645
Best mall THE PROMENADE SHOPS AT BRIARGATE
The open-air horseshoe mall gives new meaning to strip malls everywhere with crowd-pleasing stores including Banana Republic, Little Tibet, Pottery Barn, Williams-Sonoma and Yankee Candle, and restaurants P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Biaggi’s, Ted’s Montana Grill, Champps Americana and California Pizza Kitchen. Plus, it has pet-friendly shops with water bowls and pet-waste stations so you can take the entire family — canines and all. 1885 Briargate Parkway, 265-6264; thepromenadeshopsatbriargate.com
READERS’ CHOICE
Best place to find bargains GOODWILL
It’s a treasure hunt. Look closely at dishes, vintage jewelry and antiques and, who knows, you really could nab a pirate’s gold. Set aside time to look through racks of clothes — some with the store tags still attached, scope out shelves, leaf through books and go from store to store to check out absolutely everything you didn’t know you needed. You’ll love the low prices — and it’s an easy way to help people with disabilities. various locations
Best supermarket KING SOOPERS
Variety, variety, variety. Yummy bakery goodies, especially the long johns that disappear after early morning. The produce is tops and the meat department, too. Consumers whip out their SooperCards to save big bucks — and to get a discount on gas. various locations
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 65
SHOPPING Criterium can turn novice cyclists into enthusiasts . . . you could shop for hours at Dick’s
Best outdoor/sporting goods store MOUNTAIN CHALET
READERS’ CHOICE
Small, cramped and staffed by characters, this longtime mom-and-pop shop still beats the big guys by offering everything from Crocs to cams. The real resource here, though, is the staff. Weekly outdoor-skills seminars and everyday chattiness from superinformed locals put this place on top. 226 N. Tejon St., 633-0732; mtnchalet.coM
Best liquor store CHEERS LIQUOR MART Again, we agree with readers. 1105 N. Circle Drive, 574-2244
THE GAZETTE FILE
You can buy a bike at Criterium, or just rent one. The shop boasts great customer service, especially for serious beginning riders.
Best hobby store SIMPLE PLEASURES
It’s heaven for scrapbooking and stamping hobbyists.
Best gift shop BARRACUDA BAZAAR
The shop sells new (but vintage-looking) sushi dishware, stationery, lunchboxes, home furnishings and other deliciously random items. You’ll also find Colorado souvenirs for visiting relatives and novelties such as the Crazy Cat Lady action figure.
We agree with readers. The customer service at Criterium is unmatched. 6150 Corporate Drive, 599-0149; criterium-bicycles.com
They’re all cyclists and can help turn you into one, too. The trail’s right outside the door. When the weather turns cold there’s an indoor winter training program where you can go headto-head against your buddies. 6150 Corporate Drive, 599-0149; criterium-bicycles.com
5525 Library Lane, 528-1338; simplepleasuresstamps.com
Best bike shop CRITERIUM
Best bike shop CRITERIUM
Best outdoor/sporting goods store DICK’S SPORTING GOODS
With a new 50,000-square-foot store recently opened where the ice rink was in Chapel Hills Mall and a location on Powers Boulevard, this Pittsburgh-based
megastore is poised to take over the local sporting goods scene. Dick’s has climbing walls and enough variety of sports and outdoor gear to keep you shopping for hours.
3133 Cinema Point, 638-3400; 1710 Briargate Blvd., 264-1810
Best liquor store CHEERS LIQUOR MART
The Springs keeps growing, but we just don’t seem to attract the wealth of liquor megastores you find up in Denver. Thank goodness for Cheers, which has everything and lots of it. The only problem is finding a parking spot on a Saturday afternoon. 1105 N. Circle Drive, 574-2244
2502 W. Colorado Ave., 442-2202; barracudabazaar.com
Where Every night is...
Saturday Night! • Independent & Assisted Living • Skilled Nursing Care • Memory Care • Apartments & Garden Homes • Restaurant-Style Dining • Housekeeping • And Much More!
A friend with seeds is a friend indeed. At least that’s how our budgies see it. See for yourself at Budgie Buddies, a totally interactive walk-through exhibit featuring over 100 free-flying budgies and other birds. And don’t forget the wallabies – back by popular demand.
Privileges s t i s a h t Retiremen
Budgie Buddies opens May 11
!
With Your Best Interests in Mind!
TAKE I-25 TO EXIT 138, GO WEST AND FOLLOW THE SIGNS. 719-633-9925 • WWW.CMZOO.ORG
For More Information, or to Schedule A Personal Visit, Call
Sponsored by:
719-667-5360 BROOKDALE SENIOR LIVING
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 66 28899 CMZ 4.5x4.5_gaz_0508.indd 1
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007 4/26/07 5:33:43 PM
2365 Patriot Heights, CO Springs, CO 80904
www.brookdaleliving.com
SHOPPING Whether for business or casual, funky finds await you at Regina’s
Best place to get a latte with your avalanche shovel JAVA THE HUT
SHORT TAKES
OK, it doesn’t have quite the range of gear that you’ll find at Mountain Chalet, but can you get a doubletall mochachino at the Chalet? We think not. Java the Hut offers a pretty good selection of maps and books, but mostly it’s just cool to hang in a place where you can pick up technical outdoors gear along with your biscotti. Plus, last we checked, Woodland Park was conveniently located on the way to the mountains. 208 E. U.S. Highway 24, Woodland Park; 687-6539
Best boutique REGINA’S UNIQUE BOUTIQUE
It lives up to its unique name. Glamour, business style, chic funk, leather and sexy lingerie all in one shop. 119 N. Tejon St. , 634-6833; reginasonline.com
CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE
Georgianna Lee inside the walk-in humidor at her smoke shop Old West Cigar & Tobacco, 229 E. Pikes Peak Ave.
Best place to buy a big-screen TV: ListenUp Audio/Video Best place for a baby registry: Babies R Us Best place for a wedding registry: Bed, Bath and Beyond Best place for a gun registry: Sportsman’s Warehouse Best place to buy a mattress: Denver Mattress Company at The Furniture Row Shopping Center Best place to buy a digital camera: Shewmaker’s Camera Best video store: Hollywood Video Best video game store: Entertainmart Best card store: Rico’s Coffee, Chocolate and Wine Bar at Poor Richard’s Best popcorn: Colorado Kernels Best novelty shop: Retro Moto Best fish store: Seascape Aquatics Best bathroom fixtures: Rampart Plumbing Best hot sauce: Schultz’s Gourmet Hot Sauce, Monument (schultzsgourmet.com) Best scooter shop: Sportique Best smoke shop: Old West Cigar & Tobacco Best home-brew store: Old West Cigar & Tobacco
CRIPPLE CREEK, COLORADO
2007 SEASON:
JUNE 1 - JULY 28
The Colorado Colleen Classic Melodrama
AUGUST 3 - SEPTEMBER 30
Annie Get Your Gun Broadway Musical OCTOBER 5-31
Dr. Jekyll’s Medicine Show
-BSHF QJ[[B BOZ XBZ ZPV MJLF JU 4QFDJBMUZ QJ[[B PS UPQ 7PUFE B [ F # TU 1J[BST F : P X 5 X JO B 3P
Halloween Mystery
STONED BAKED
5XP -PDBUJPOT UP 4FSWF :PV 4 /FWBEB r / "DBEFNZ r
NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 31
Angel of the Christmas Mine Christmas Musical
139 E. Bennett Ave.
N
Cripple Creek, CO
For tickets and showtimes, call: 719-235-8944 www.butteoperahouse.com
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 67
SHOPPING Have a private shopping party courtesy of Saboz . . . Find the finest foods at Par Avion
Best CD store ENTERTAINMART
Best farmers market OLD COLORADO CITY
READERS’ CHOICE
The old Media Play location is packed to the rafters with old and new CDs, DVDs, VHS tapes, video games and more. On a recent visit, some items were available for merely two quarters. Take your old stuff in for cash.
We must go with the readers’ choice again. All the latest shoes from the very-cool lines, great clearance racks and a rewards program. We could live there. Market at Chapel Hills 7635 N. Academy Blvd., 264-8007; dswshoes.com
Best shopping with the girls SABOZ
Best shoe store DSW
3150 New Center Point, 597-9519; 7675 N. Academy Blvd., 593-0414; www.bestbuy.com
Market at Chapel Hills, 7635 N. Academy Blvd., 264-8007; dswshoes.com
The chain has the latest and greatest music releases, with some of the lowest sale prices in town.
651 N. Academy Blvd., 380-8580
Best shoe store DSW
Best CD store BEST BUY
Just ask and you and nine friends can have Saboz all to yourselves for an after-hours girls’ night out. Owner Linda Bridger supplies the wine and refreshments!
129 1/2 N. Tejon St., 578-1819; www.saboz.com
Best caterer THE FOOD DESIGNERS
Fashionable shoes that are comfortable, too, creative accessories and clever things you don’t see anywhere else. No time to shop?
This operation has been bringing award-winning gourmet fare to homes and offices since 1984. Superb cuisine — from a simple boxed lunch to an elegant dinner party —
West Colorado Avenue at 24th Street
sets this enterprise apart. And the owners make everything from scratch.
115 S. 25th St., 632-5414
Best Mexican market LEONELA MEAT MARKET There’s a jam-packed meat counter, or carniceria, featuring goat and fried pork skins at the back of the store. On nice days, you’ll find a lady outside selling hot corn on the cob. Try the mango on a stick, too. 3736 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 637-2641
Fresh Flowers Gift Gallery
Casual Furniture Greenhouse
Ballet • Tap • Pom Jazz • Acro • Hip Hop Classes available for all ages.
719.328.0694
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 68
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
1872 Southgate Road, 636-2328; paravionfood.com
Only the finest, for your every occasion
Now Registering for Summer Classes and Summer Camps
3352 Templeton Gap Road • Colorado Spring, CO 80907 www.RobinsDanceWorks.com
This is ground zero for anything gourmet, with more than 8,000 gourmet grocery items, 100 varieties of extra-virgin olive oil, 40 varieties of balsamic vinegar, and dozens of the best cheeses in the world. And there are always tons of samples of cheeses, olive oils, condiments and meats for tasting . . . There’s an area dedicated to a cafe, where you can take a break from shopping and enjoy a light meal with a cappuccino.
From the store with so
Home of the Pikes Peak Performance Company
Robin Moore - Director
Best gourmet shop PAR AVION FINER FOODS EMPORIUM
ch blooming imagination. mu
National Champion and Competitive Teams
Rows and rows and rows of shoes make a woman happy . . . really happy. And there’s a great shoe selection for the guys, too. Sale prices rock.
By far the most developed market, the Old Colorado City Market overflows with booths fully stocked with fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, arts and crafts. The vendors get set up around 7 a.m. and close when they run out of things to sell at about 1 p.m. The market runs from June through October.
632-2607
www.plattefloral.com
1417 E. Platte Ave. OPEN: MON-FRI 8-6, SAT 8-5
SHOPPING Get festive fruit bouquet at Pineapple Daisy . . . Find dress of your dreams at de ma fille
Best Asian market SAIGON ORIENTAL MARKET
Linda Orist, owner of familyoperated Pineapple Daisy, with two of her fruit-andchocolatestrawberry bouquets.
The market features an array of noodles, teas, bulk rice and fresh spices, and it’s not just Korean imports. You’ll also find Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Thai and Chinese delicacies. Wednesdays (after 1:30 p.m.) are fresh fish and vegetable days. 3744 Astrozon Blvd., 390-7454
Best natural-foods store WHOLE FOODS MARKET
The selection of bulk foods is huge, as is the selection of organic and natural foods, vitamins and supplements. The staff is knowledgable and very friendly. It’s easy to spend more time here shopping than at regular grocery stores because of the many food selections to explore and sample. It’s like a foodie’s Disneyland. 7635 N. Academy Blvd., 531-9999; wholefoods.com
Best record store RECLINING BUDDHA
This tiny west-side store is big on classic
CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE
vinyl: The Grateful Dead, Pink Floyd, The Beatles, Janis Joplin. Music from when rock was rock.
tions. Andy’s has tasty homemade sausage and does custom curing and smoking. You can get wild game processed, too.
3120 1/2 W. Colorado Ave., 633-4383
2915 E. Platte Ave., 636-1149
Best butcher ANDY’S MARKET
Best edible bouquet THE PINEAPPLE DAISY
A true meat market with butchers ready to cut chops, steaks or roasts to your specifica-
idea of fruit baskets arranged like flower bouquets. They taste great, and you won’t prick your finger on thorns. 2919 W. Colorado Ave., 593-9162; pdaisy.com
Best florist SKYWAY CREATIONS FLOWER SHOP & GREENERY
Flowers and greenery to brighten your day — or fill your office building. Go online and peek at what’s in the cooler today, then run by and pick up a bouquet du jour. Your thumb’s anything but green? They’ll drop by to take care of your plants for you and help you “put the chi in your feng shui.” When you need help, there’s a “Talk to a Florist” hotline every day but Sunday. 1407 S. Eighth St., 632-2661; skywaycreationsunlimited.com
Best bridal shop DE MA FILLE
Roses are pretty, but they don’t taste that great. The Pinapple Daisy has pioneered the
Upscale and special-day dreamy.
The Broadmoor hotel, 1 Lake Ave., 471-6222; demafille.com
Mary-Good and Bill Forsythe
“Simply the Best”
719-229-6718
We work together as a team in order to give the most attentive and effective service possible. We have found that clients appreciate this team concept and the convenience it provides them. Our combined strengths give us a well balanced approach when working with buyers and sellers. Our 1st priority is always our clients needs. We strive to provide professional,caring service that extends far beyond the transaction. You can trust us with your most important decision-buying or selling your home--we will provide you with individual, professional service.
Visit our Website:
MaryGoodAndBill.com
Helping You be Unforgettable Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 69
SHOPPING Macy’s finally comes to town . . . Kirk and Hill keeps customers in mind
Best place for art prints KEMPER GALLERIES
Best new store MACY’S
It was a long time coming, but so worth the wait. Macy’s, which took over the Dillard’s locations, will notify you online so you can sale shop ahead of the crowd.
The place masquerades as a frame shop, but it’s so much more than that. You’ll find originals and loads of prints from such artists as Bev Doolittle, Thomas Kinkade, Howard Behrens, G. Harvey and Maija.
The Citadel, 597-7246; Chapel Hills Mall, 528-1500; macys.com
5420 N. Academy Blvd., 548-1111
Best women’s fashions KIRK AND HILL
Best frame shop LION’S PRIDE
You won’t find as many prints here as you’ll find at other frame shops, but you will find precision work and prices that are much lower than at the other places. 6912 Mesa Ridge Parkway, 382-8387
Best children’s clothing store MOUNTAIN MOPPETS
There’s a new owner, but this must-see shop for babies, children and preteens has kept its special 20-year personality — with an update. Watch for great sidewalk sales. 2532 W. Colorado Ave., 633-3473
THE GAZETTE FILE
Customers looking for a bargain waited outside the entrance to Macy’s just before 6 a.m. on the day after Thanksgiving last year.
Best toy store TOY STATION AT SCHOOL CROSSING
There’s an interactive toy store for the kids and a Pikes Perk outlet for mom and dad. How cool is that? There’s a Toy Station Kids’ Club with almost 800 members and there
are monthly events, dress-up days, lots of Thomas the Tank Engine and Webkinz, adoption classes for dolls or stuffed animals and even some community-service opportunities, such as contributing food for Care & Share. 5540 Library Lane, 593-7112; eschoolcrossing.com
When you want something sophisticated and full of city style, Kirk and Hill is the place to go. They know their regulars so well they give them a call when something new comes in that’s just right for them. 129 N. Tejon St., 635-7038
Best upscale men’s clothes WILLIAM KURTZ LTD.
Fellows in need of designer flair flock here. With a Tommy Bahama, Cutter & Buck, Barry Bricken, Franco Tassi look and some Cole Haan shoes, how can a guy go wrong? The store perfects it all with custom tailoring. 10 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 635-2126
We have great recipes on our menu that are
Dinner? It’s done.
ready to serve to your family in under 30 minutes.
With Dream Dinners in your freezer there’s always time for a quick and delicious family meal.
So while the neighbors are racing for another fast-food meal, Dream Dinners helps you assemble delicious, home-cooked dinners that go from your freezer to the dinner table in a snap. g
y
All the ingredients for a great meal.
10% OFF
your next order with this ad.
Not valid with any other offer. Expires 06/30/07
Cheyenne Mountain Briargate East Dream Dinners Dream Dinners Dream Dinners 3669 Star Ranch Road 5578 Powers Center Pt. 5855 Palmer Park Blvd. 719.579.9550 719.282.3140 719.591.1174 Chicken Breasts with Honey, Garlic & Orange
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 70
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
www.DreamDinners DreamDinners.com
SHOPPING Look like a hundred bucks with pricey jeans from Idoru — or hit DAV Thrift for a denim find
Best bookstore BARNES & NOBLE BOOKSELLERS — CITADEL
This book megastore offers a plethora of ever-changing events: special weeks, writing groups, game nights, story times, teen events, American Girl book groups, reading groups for boys, visiting authors and signings; and a Starbuck’s next door. We also must give an honorable mention to Poor Richard’s, which made a graceful shift from used books to new books and gave the place a much-needed facelift. 795 Citadel Drive East, 637-8282; barnesandnoble.com
Best vintage clothing store THE LEECHPIT
Next to Weber Street Liquors, the small shop is home to secondhand and vintage clothing you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. Memorabilia from decades past captures pop-culture history; find band T-shirts, “Star Wars” toys, shoes, rare LPs and plenty of random novelties. 708 N. Weber St., 634-3675; leechpit.com
Best place to spend $5 on a pair of jeans DAV THRIFT STORE
Best place to spend $100 on a pair of jeans IDORU
The upscale boutique carries denim by high-end brands Diesel, Miss Sixty, Joe’s and more. Your wallet will be lighter and you’ll look like a hundred bucks. Check out the ultrahip Web site to see what it has to offer. 218 N. Tejon St., Suite 100, 667-0965; idoruclothing.com
Best home furnishings WOODLEY’S FINE FURNITURE
You know they’re good when sellers list the Colorado brothers’ Woodley name as a selling point in classified ads. The lustrous, handcrafted hardwood furniture — especially the bedrooms — is pass-down-through-the-generations perfect. The company gives back to the state with donations to Earth Day. 5655 N. Academy Blvd., 531-7250; woodleys.com
Best home accessories SILENT WOMAN
Instead of buying a new pair of jeans designed to look old, torn or washed out, find the real thing among racks of denim.
Go in for something eye-catching and cosmopolitan to set off your entrance-hall table and you’ll leave with a carload of accents and art and special little touches you’ll just have to have.
2444 E. Platte Ave., 636-2537
1216 N. Nevada Ave., 520-9242
THE GAZETTE FILE
At The Leechpit, you’ll find a random collection of secondhand and vintage clothing. They’ll even buy yours and give you store credit or cash.
One of Colorado’s Premier Heating and Air Conditioning Contractors for Sales, Service, and Installation.
4341 East Platte Avenue • Colorado Springs, CO • (719) 573-9794 • www.jdvigil.com Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 71
SHOPPING Score a deal at consignment shops . . . Or go for gold at downtown jeweler’s
Best consignment shop I SAW IT FIRST
Best garden center GOOD EARTH GARDEN CENTER
Come here looking for the best in gently appreciated home furnishings, including furniture, lamps, artwork and decorative items. Just ask for Greg.
Good Earth grows more tomato varieties in its west-side greenhouse than any shop in town, and because owner Wayne Fisher is also a gardener, he can give real advice about how to make them thrive.
104 E. Cheyenne Road, 447-0077
1330 N. Walnut St., 473-3399
Best jewelry store BRYAN & SCOTT JEWELERS LIMITED
Best antiques ANTIQUE GALLERY
Simply peruse the windows of this place and you’ll know the goods are good. Vintage, antique and estate pieces fill the jewelry cases in this huge store downtown.
The gallery has a good selection of stuff, but let’s be honest: A big portion of its charm is the chance to wander the aisles of a defunct movie theater now stuffed with bric-a-brac and search for treasure.
112 N. Tejon St., 633-9316
Best thrift stores GOODWILL NORTH AND POWERS RETAIL CENTERS
They’re spacious, bright, have wide aisles, serve cookies and are filled with newer items from those areas of the city. When you drive up with donations, both stores treat you to speedy service and a soft drink
21 N. Nevada Ave., 633-6070 THE GAZETTE FILE
Keith Star, above, said he shops at the Good Earth Garden Center because of the quality plants. Customers also appreciate owner Wayne Fisher’s know-how.
or bottled water. Then you can drive right around to the front and shop, shop, shop again.
1070 Kelly Johnson Blvd. (off Academy), 531-9173; 2655 Waynoka Place (off Powers), 570-9223; goodwill-colosprings.org
Best thrift store sale SATURDAYS AT THE ARC
Lots of great shopping, and it’s 50 percent off. 1830 W. Uintah St., 473-0502; 4402 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 522-1203; 2780 S. Academy Blvd., 391-7717
/ ,
Ê / " Ê / , / iÊ Ê- } >Ê ÝV ÌiÊ£°x/Ê ÊÃÞÃÌi Ê«À Û `iÃÊ« ÜiÀvÕ Ê >} ÃÌ VÊ >} }Ê/iV }ÞÊ Ü Ì ÊiÝÌÀi iÊ`iÌ> Ê vÊ> >Ì ÞÊ> `Ê«>Ì }ÞÊÌ Ê i «ÊiÛ> Õ>ÌiÊ>ÊÜ `iÊÀ> }iÊ vÊV ` Ì Ã]Ê V Õ` }ÊÃÌÀ i]Ê ÕÃVÕ Ã i iÌ> ]Ê> `Ê i>ÀÌÊ` Ãi>Ãi° Ê
À> Ê >} }ÊÜ Ì ÊÕ V «À Ãi`Ê >}iʵÕ> ÌÞ]Ê`ië ÌiÊ«>Ì i ÌÊ Ì °
Ê Ê
Û> Õ>Ì Ê vÊ` >LiÌ VÊ«>Ì i ÌÃÊv ÀÊ ÜÊL `ÊyÊ ÜÊÌ ÊÌ iÊ ÜiÀÊ i}à >L ÌÞÊÌ ÊÊ Ê V>«ÌÕÀiÊ } ÊÀià ÕÌ Ê`iÌ> Ê> ÊÌ iÊÜ>ÞÊ` Ü Ê Ì ÊÌ iÊVÀ Ì V> ÊÛiÃÃi ÃÊ vÊÌ iÊv Ì°
Ê Ê
ÝÌÀi i ÞÊ } Àià ÕÌ Ê >}iÃÊ ÊÌ iÊ>L` i ]Êv ÀÊ ÛiÀÊiÝ> ÃÊÜ Ì Êà ÀÌiÀÊÊ Ê LÀi>Ì Ê `ÃÊ> `ÊLiÌÌiÀÊ À}> ÊV ÛiÀ>}iÊÌ > Ê«ÀiÛ Õà ÞÊ« Ãà L i°
Ê Ê
>â }ÊV >À ÌÞÊ> `Ê`iÌ> ÊÜ Ì Êi>V ÊÃÌÕ`ÞÊ«Àiv À i`°ÊÊ*À `ÕV }ÊÃÕ«iÀ ÀÊ >}iÃÊÊ iÛi Ê ÊÌ iÊ ÃÌÊ` vwÊVÕ ÌÊV>Ãið
,Ê>VVÀi` Ìi`Êv>V ÌÞ VVi«Ì }Ê ÃÌÊ > ÀÊ ÃÕÀ> ViÊ« > à -> iÉ iÝÌÊ`>ÞÊÃiÀÛ Vi *Ài >ÕÌ À â>Ì Ê>Û> >L i Ý«iÀ i Vi`Ê ,,/Ê/iV } ÃÌà 7 À `Ê >ÃÃÊ-iÀÛ Vi >Ì > Ê Ü>À`Ê Ê ÝVi i Vi
*Ài iÀÊ >} ÃÌ VÃÊ i ÌiÀ\ÊÊÎ ÓäÊ ÀÌ Ê1 Ê Õ iÛ>À`]Ê-Õ ÌiÊ£ÎäÊ Ê À>` Ê-«À }Ã]Ê "Ênä äÇÊÊ*\ÊÇ£ °ÓÈn°ÎÎää
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 72
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
Spring Fever
Pine Creek Art Gallery 2419 West Colorado Ave. • 633-6767 www.artbrokers.com • www.pinecreekgallery.com
NATANE BY
KIRBY SATTLER
• Territory Days May 26, 27, & 28 Free Shuttle from Coronado High School • Art Walk May 4th, 4-8pm First Fridays thru October
www.shopoldcoloradocity.com
Originals•Prints•Photography•Pottery Join us for ARTWALK the 1st Friday of each month
• Clothes • Jewelery • Lingerie
OUTWEST FURNITURE Home of the Colorado Room • Wildlife and Western Themed Wall Art • Lodge and Western Lamps and Chandeliers • Colorado Aspen Log Furniture • Mountain Living Accessories and Decor
2426 W. Colorado Avenue
2504 W. Colorado Avenue
719.471.8438
633-7277
BETTER PLANTS - BETTER GARDENS USDA Organic Herbs & Vegetables
High Altitude Perennials
$ 99
1
Grown at 8,000 ft. Alt.
& up
Colorful Flowering • Annuals • Shrubs • Hanging Plants
“Miniture” Rare Rock Garden Perennials
Fantastic WildFlowers & Desert Perennials • Yuccas • Cactus • Penstemons Starting at
Starting at
$ 99
2
Many “High Country Gardens” Exclusives
$ 99
2
Red Rock Gardens & Florist 3178 W. Colorado Ave. • 635-4026 • Open Sundays
The Pineapple Daisy
™
™
Give the Gift of Health & Beauty
$2 Off
Any Basket Design Not valid with any other offer. Expires June 31, 2007
www.gunterwolffgallery.com
719.593.9162 • www.pdaisy.com Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 73
SHOPPING Find a deal on ski stuff, hardware or music . . . Analyze your faith or your aura
Best auction ROSS AUCTION
Head down to Sierra Madre Street on Saturday mornings — a tradition since 1921 — and who knows what you’ll go home with. Might be a scooter, a hardwood entertainment center, a hodgepodge box of tools, a full set of fine china or even a kitchen sink. Check out the sale items and special events ahead of time on the Web site. 109 S. Sierra Madre St., 632-6693; www.rossauction.com
Best ski shop THE SKI SHOP
In the process of serving the city for 55 years, this local institution has outlasted all of the local ski areas. The secret: good service, good prices and an array of used gear that keeps skiing affordable.
ences of our staff members, they did it without gimmicks or high-pressure sales tactics. Their strategy — honest pitches and actually listening to the customers — is paying off.
1080 Motor City Drive, 475-1920; heubergermotors.com
THE GAZETTE FILE
Heuberger Subaru salesman Mark McClenhan, right, showed Dick Enga a 2007 Forester at the Motor City dealership.
used, some is new, some is in colors never found in nature. But, like any garage sale, it’s fun to browse and you never know quite what you’ll find — maybe a steal. Naturally, supporting a good cause doesn’t hurt, either.
1422 S. Tejon St., 636-3355; theskishopinc.com
411 S. Wahsatch Ave., 667-0840; habitatrestorepp.com
Best hardware store HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ReSTORE
Best auto dealership HEUBERGER MOTORS SUBARU
It’s a little like going to a home-improvement-store garage sale. Some of the stuff is
Heuberger has set national records in Subaru sales this year. And, based on the experi-
The barns, barrels, and hardware stores have nothing on us...
Best place to rent or buy an instrument MEEKER MUSIC, INC.
A budding Kenny G, Yo-Yo Ma or Keith Moon at home? Many thousands of local schoolorchestra/rock-star hopefuls have headed for Meeker since 1975. 113 E. Bijou St., 471-8940; 3604 Hartsel Drive, 534-9919; 6330 S. U.S. Highway 85/87, 391-8922; meekermusic.tripod.com
Best place to fix a computer A BYTE ABOVE
With some of the friendliest techies in the business, A Byte Above provides quick, inexpensive and honest repairs. Employees seem concerned with excellent customer service. A recent computer repair at the Academy Place location diagnosed and re-
moved a virus in one day for $50.
2376 Academy Place, 570-1984; 4585 N. Chestnut St., 268-0584
Best Christian store FAMILY CHRISTIAN STORES
It’s a national chain, so it lacks small-business charm, but Family Christian Stores has a wide selection of Christian books, snazzy Bible covers, faith-professing T-shirts and movies. But the best thing about the stores are the listening stations; scan a CD and put on the earphones at the stations to hear samples before you buy. 687 N. Academy Blvd., 597-4151; 7560 N. Academy Blvd., 598-1500; familychristian.com
Best New Age store CELEBRATION CONSCIOUS LIVING STORE Celebration sells fairy and dragon statuettes, books about tarot and divination, witchcraft, astrology, Eastern philosophy and more. Stock up on incense and oils for your next drum circle or pick up “The Dream Bible” to figure out what that recurring nightmare means. 2209 W. Colorado Ave., 634-1855; celebrationstore.com
You provide it. We sell it. Everyone loves it at
The BEST in fine art flowers furnishings
consignments of fine furnishings Located 1 block North of the Broadmoor Towne Center
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 74
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
Clearly the best in consignments!
104 E. Cheyenne Rd. COS CO 80906
719.447.0077
Best place to take kids BIGG CITY
Formerly Mr. Bigg’s, Bigg City offers bowling, go-karts, miniature golf, laser tag, video games and lots more under one roof. We must agree with readers on this. 5825 Mark Dabling Blvd., 955-7220 biggcity.net
Best place for a fifth birthday party MISS RO’S MUSIC GARDEN
Be ballerinas or go exploring, play with bugs or musical instruments, have a scruffy-hobo party, a teddy-bear afternoon or a dress-up tea party. At Keen Music and the Arts, 4485 Emerald Drive, 593-1951 keenkidsmusic.com
Best place for a 15th birthday party SPLAT MASTERS
For teenagers, paint ball is like a physical extension of their games. For them, that’s a good thing. 6855 Constitution Ave., 574-7004
Best place for a Sweet 16 party COLUMBINE DAY SPA
Your Sweet 16 and five of her friends can get the royal treatment — manicure, pedicure, Swedish massage, seaweed wraps, aroma therapy, steam and Swiss shower, steam room and hot tub soak — for about $850. 2180 Hollow Brook Drive, 535-0565; columbinedayspa.com
READERS’ CHOICE
Best place for a kids birthday party BIGG CITY
Dream up your favorite birthday theme. You and your friends can be mystery solvers or learn about dinosaurs; you can wear your pajamas and sneak outside to toilet paper trees; you can go on a scavenger hunt or learn to break boards from a real tae kwon do instructor. Mom will love a party at Bigg City (formerly Mr. Bigg’s), too, because the Bigg City Host cleans up afterward. No other place in town offers this many options for kids. 5825 Mark Dabling Blvd., 955-7220 biggcity.net
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 75
FAMILY LIFE Artistic elephant one highlight of great zoo
COURTESY OF CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO
Lucky the elephant’s art has been on display at the Colorado Springs Airport.
Tour single-family homes and new, low-maintenance living homes from the upper $300’s to over $1 million in Colorado Springs’ most desirable community. The area’s top homebuilders. Academy District 20 schools. The Promenade Shops at Briargate. The Pine Creek Golf Club. A down-to-earth community feel. The reasons to live in Pine Creek are many. Unfortunately, the opportunities aren’t. Single-Family Homes
Low-Maintenance Homes
Pinecrest – Custom Homebuilders
SADDLETREE HOMES 719.282.2340
CLASSIC HOMES 719.282.3969
COPPER VALLEY BUILDERS 719.598.8224
VANTAGE HOMES 719.282.1220
KELLER HOMES 719.598.2614 YELLICO-LEACH CO, INC. 719.380.1768
C.R. SHEA HOMES 719.633.7999 ROBERT SCOTT CUSTOM HOMES (Marketed by the Patterson Group) 719.785.1212 SYMPHONY HOMES 719.266.9136
Best teen night TEEN NIGHT AT HILLSIDE COMMUNITY CENTER
“The Man” is the activities director known to all as Larry B, and on more than 30 Friday nights during the school year, he keeps the place hopping. Eighty teens regularly show up to dance to a DJ; compete in pool, basketball, foosball and volleyball tournaments; play video games against their buddies; and sometimes bust their moves in dance contests. It’s just $2. 925 S. Institute St., 385-7900
Best Web site for kid activities COLORADOKIDS.COM
It has everything from after-school activities to summer camps.
Best outing for the whole family CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO
To see available homes in Pine Creek take the Briargate Pkwy. exit 151 to Chapel Hills Dr. and follow the signs or visit PineCreek.com.
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 76
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
There’s nothing like hearing your kid squeal after a giraffe’s tongue grabs a cracker from her hand. Our zoo has come a long way in recent years, expanding exhibits into more natural settings and getting rid of the depressing cages. 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, 633-9925 cmzoo.org
Best zoo animal LUCKY
She’s an African elephant . . . who paints. She’s exploring abstracts right now, painting with her trunk, and her works have been on display at various galleries and showcased at the Colorado Springs Airport and City Council chambers. (We’re waiting until she moves on to cubism.)
Best place to get the wiggles out ARTSPORTS
Billing itself as “the world’s largest trampoline gymnastics school,” ArtSports boasts more than two dozen trampolines, including one that’s 100 feet long. You can sign up for classes or just have a birthday party here. 780 Vondelpark Drive, 531-5867 artsportsworld.com
Best miniature golf GLOW GOLF
If you’re one of those miniature golfers who’s in the habit of discreetly nudging your ball to a better lie, your guilty secret will be exposed for all to see at Glow Golf — where everything, from the clubs to the balls, glows brightly in the dark. Unless, of course, they’re distracted by all the garish colors around them. Chapel Hills Mall, 1710 Briargate Boulevard, 593-2925
LOCALLY ROASTED PREMIUM COFFEE I
FREE WI-F
NOW OPEN!
• Gourmet Coffee Drinks • Smoothies • Specialty Drinks • Pastries • Breakfast & Lunch
Jerry Says, Contrary to what all those comic books and movies have led you to believe
DRIVE THR
U
“S” stands for “SOLD.”
Jerry Cobb 719.492.4041
When You are Here, You are Family...
•Comfortable place for meetings, hanging out or special times with friends•
719.266.1488 • 5765 N. Academy Blvd.
SE Corner of Vickers & Academy (Behind the LensCrafter’s Building)
QSC Platinum Service Award 2005 & 2006 100% Customer Service Satisfaction See my QSC Rating at http://www.qualityservice.org
www.MountainPerksCoffee.com
LOOKIN’ FOR A LITTLE PURE ROMANCE? LOOK NO FURTHER! Consultants of all ages are transforming their lives and the lives of those around them by hosting professional “in-home” Pure Romance parties for women only! Call Pure Romance today or visit us online to learn how you can help woman live more fulfilled, enjoyable lives, while enriching our own.
Recipient of 12 Food Critic Awards
ZA We bake the pizza the old fashioned way. Z I P le Family Restaurant S LLY’ hicago Sty
BI Old World C
All you can eat Pizza, Pasta and Salad Bar
ver
li We De
BUY ONE BUFFET IZZA Y’S P GET SECOND BILL ONE 1/2 OFF Offer Expires 06/15/07
308 S. 8th Street, Suite E
Pure Romance By Liz
Toll: Free 877.792.7168 lizpureromance@gmail.com Lotions
Adult Toys
Novelties
Educational Books
o Style
hicag
orld C Old W
P.S. Mention this ad when you book a party with me & RECEIVE AN ADDITIONAL 10% HOSTESS DISCOUNT!
719-630-3400
Gif ts
Pet Wheel-Away The wheeled transport that lets you take your pet almost anywhere you go! (airline approved)
728 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs 80829 685-4772 (Call for hours) An incredible selection of gifts for both animal lovers and your companion animals.
A Chic Doggie Boutique Natural & Holistic Foods Training & Pet Supplies Pure-Bred Puppies Available! Doggie Daycare, Grooming & Boarding Coming Soon!
522-9000
2360 Montebello Square Drive • Colorado Springs, CO
www.pooch-connection.com
“We don’t just make your drink,
we make Locally Owned Since 1995 your day!” Roasting & Serving Fine Specialty Coffees
Colorado Springs. • 266-0843 * Monument • 481-9445
Total Martial Arts Fitness Center 1045-B Garden of the Gods Road
Okinawan Kenpo Karate • Family Classes • Private Lessons • Self-Defense • Conditioning, Discipline & Confidence • Fun for Everyone! • DSSI Affiliate
Sensei Dave Armstrong 719-210-4599 info@FaithMartialArts.com www.FaithMartialArts.com Instructor Bill Hosken 719-439-5776 ColoradoSpringsBJJ@Hotmail.com www.ColoradoSpringsBJJ.com
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu • Ground Fighting • Self-Defense • Conditioning • Gi and No-Gi classes • Affiliate school of renowned black belt Rigan Machado
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 77
FAMILY LIFE Little screamers have no excuse for shaggy hair . . . Send kids to camp like one you recall . . . Let them shoot for stars
CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE
Ryan Cohn, from left, his stepbrother Jarrett Barnes and friend Zach Struif are among the youngsters drawn to Arcade Amusements in Manitou Springs.
Best place for pinball wizards ARCADE AMUSEMENTS
Informally known as the Manitou Arcade, this place is loaded with old machines that will not only take you back to your childhood (with Pinball Wizard), it might take your parents and grandparents back to their childhoods (with really penny pinball games). 900 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-9815
Best kids haircut COOL CUTS 4 KIDS
7531 N. Academy Blvd., 532-1800; coolcuts4kids.com
Cool Cuts 4 Kids is the nation’s largest children’s hair-care chain and, after our harrowing experience there, it’s easy to see why. We put the salon to the ultimate test with a high-maintenance 18-month-old getting his first crack on the “chopping” block. The salon offers lots of distractions for scissor-phobic youngsters, including car-shaped chairs and an extensive collection of DVDs, plus Nintendo GameCube games for the older kids. Even with said accouterments, our little one screamed bloody murder the in-
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 78
THE GAZETTE
stant the cape went on. Our seasoned stylist embodied grace under pressure, though — at once soothing but firm. She gave him a great (and even!) haircut, then used the electric shaver around his neck and ears, not even flinching as the meltdown continued. The salon offers a variety of services, with haircuts starting at $13.95. His grateful father tipped the stylist $10 and declared it well worth the trip.
Best old-school summer camp CAMP SHADY BROOK
Hiking in the woods, archery, pillow fights at the neighboring bunkhouse, cooking up s’mores — the outdoor camp experience that many of us grew up with is still as fun as ever at Camp Shady Brook, located in a gorgeously hilly and forested spot in Deckers. Camp Office: 8716 South Y Camp Road, Sedalia, 329-7266 campshadybrook.org
Friday, May 18, 2007
Best new-school summer camp CHALLENGER LEARNING CENTER
Kids can learn with amazing hands-on exercises, including going on simulated space missions. They can act like real astronauts . . . without having to drive cross-country in diapers. 10215 Lexington Drive, Suite 110, 598-9755; challenger.org
Best new camp OPERATION PURPLE CAMP
A very special place for the children of military parents who are deployed, or were injured or killed. The first local camp — there are 26 nationwide — will start in July at Farish Recreation Area in Teller County, where kids ages 7 to 16 will go horseback riding, geocaching, fossil hunting, fishing, learn about astronomy, and just talk. It’s all free. Next year, it should be even bigger because almost 600 kids registered for the 120 spots. 1-800-260-0218 www.operationpurple.org
Now Celebrating Our 32nd Anniversary
Your Complete Music Center
We know fine jewelry. You know us.
The Professional Standard
Sales • Repairs • Instruction • Band • Orchestra • Folk Instruments • Sheet Music Accessories • PLUS: Teaching Studios for Students of All Ages
3 Locations
20% Off
113 E. Bijou 471-8940 Woodmen Plaza 534-9919 Regular Price Merchandise 6330 S. Hwy. 85-87, Fountain Expires 6/30/07. No combined offers. 391-8922
www.meekermusic.com
Downtown
Mon-Fri 9:30-5:00 Sat 10-4
26 North Tejon · 635-3521
Mention this Ad and receive
10% Off
Open for Our 56th Season
your purchase
Southern Colorado’s Oldest & Largest
Specialilzing in Skillet Fried Chicken or baked ham dinners
Model Train Store
1025 Garden of the Gods Road, Suite D (3 lights west of I-25)
Reservations Recommended
719.634-4616
576-0741
06
20
Spring Hours: Fri & Sat. 5pm-8pm, Sun 1pm-7pm • Summer Hours: Th-Sun 5-8pm, Sun 1-7pm
ALL YOU CAN EAT ITALIAN FEAST
Sign and Graphic Solutions Made Simple. ®
FASTSIGNS® uses innovation and technology to make the sign buying process simple for you – from concept to completion®. Using streamlined communication and production systems, and state-of-the-art equipment, we can meet your sign need, quantity and budget. • Point of Purchase Displays • Large Format Digital Graphics • Trade Show Displays and Graphics • Ready-To-Apply Lettering • Safety and I.D. Signage
Sun. & Wed. Night, 5pm-8pm
• Menu Boards • Window Lettering • Vehicle Graphics • Magnetic Signs • And more!
Age 12 & Over $9.95
LUNCH BUFFET Starting @ 11am Daily $7.95
5154 North Academy Blvd. (Next to Josh & John’s & Chuck E. Cheese)
Phone: (719)260-6601 Fax: (719)260-6603 www.fastsigns.com/478 Independently owned and operated. ©2007 FASTSIGNS International, Inc.
719.633.2064 PAPPY’S 4030 N. Sinton Road Springs, CO 80907 i k Golf & S SHOP Colorado (just south of Garden of the Gods & 1-25)
2006
E-mail: 478@fastsigns.com
Golf
Ski & Snowboards
Hockey Stick
• Home of Colorado Classic custom fitted golf clubs • Full golf club repair • Free Club & swing anaylsis • Swing training by certified golf insturctors
• Precisison Tuning & Repairs • Crystal Glide finish provides effortless glide & control • Binding serviced & installed • Racing Tunes available
• Restore Broken Hockey Sticks w/an internal Composite Repair • External Blade Repairs • Hockey sticks can be very expensive to replace once broken. Pappy’s cna fix them for $40 (30 day guarrantee)
S.E. Corner Circle & Platte bambinospizza.com
630-8121
SHEW Making photography fun... ...providing support, service & education after your purchase. GET THE PICTURE!
NORTH • 7529 N. Academy Boulevard • 598-6412 DOWNTOWN • 30 N. Tejon Street • 636-1696
shewmakers.com
PLAY 34 GOLF COURSES INDOORS ON VIRTUAL REALITY SIMULATOR Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 79
At Copperleaf Homes, our commitiment to offer both exceptional value & quality never rests. We are a focused, customer driven builder dedicated to creating a home of lasting beauty.
We understand the importance of giving our customers the personal attention & involvelment. We look forward to introducing you to your special home & a company called Copperleaf. 4775 Cedarmere Drive Many options and upgrades available. See a New Home Counselor for details on these fine homes.s michaelpapas@copperleafhomes.com
Tajine Alami A
Authentic Moroccan Restaurant
A Great Place to take a Prom Date
719.598.8900
Reservations Between 4:30PM & 9:30PM
10 OLD MAN’S TRAIL MANITOU SPRINGS
Belly Dancers Fri., Sat. & Last Wed. of Every Month. WWW.TAJINEALAMI.COM
“Let us Bring You Home”
685-1119
WWW.COPPERLEAFHOMES.COM
RESER VATIONS SUGGESTED OPEN 5-9 Gazette GO! Choice Best Indian Restaurant 2003
Best Indian Restaurant 2004 - Independent
Indian Cuisine
Food for your soul...
When your First Impression Matters
MIRCH MASALA
321-0721 W W W .F I R S T I M P R E S S I O N S C A T E R I N G . C O M
CORPORATE
| FORMAL | PERSONAL | CHEF SERVICES
Voted #1 Fun Place!
KABAB & CURRY DINING
Lunch Buffet: 11-2:30 • Dinner: 5-9:30 Lunch & Dinner 7 Days a Week
5047 N. Academy Blvd. (at Union) • 599-0003
Berges Jewlery Design
Parties • Camps Open Gym • Bungees 23 Trampolines
World’s Largest Trampoline Gymnastics School 531-5867 www.artsportsworld.com
• Best Quality Repair • Best Personalized Service • Best Handmade Custom Jewelry
Appraisals Diamonds Custom Jewelry Precious Stones Jewelry Repair
719.632.4400 • 1873 S. Nevada Avenue of
Seven Year Winners the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence
16 years in business Over 600 clients married! Call Today for your no obligation interview.
• Monthly Wine Tastings • Happy Hour Mon- Sat • Party Accomodations for 100 • Catering Available
260-1000
Donna Professional Matchmaker Since 1987
30 E. Kiowa • Suite 1 102 02
w w w. p e r f e c t l y m a t c h e d d a t i n g . c o m
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 80
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007
GREEK CUISINE
Perfectly Matched on 8/3/06
Restaurant and Wine Bar
2616 W. Colorado Ave. • 719-633-0406
Open M-Sat 11-Midnight Open Sunday 11-9pm
Best fishing spot SPINNEY MOUNTAIN STATE WILDLIFE AREA It’s far from scenic, but the anglers who flock to this cold and windy stretch of the South Platte River between Spinney and Elevenmile reservoirs call it “the dream stream” because its water houses some of the state’s largest trout.
Take U.S. Highway 24 west over Wilkerson Pass; turn south on County Road 23, then south on County Road 59, past Spinney Reservoir, and turn west on Road 59.
Best place to work out 24 HOUR FITNESS
Well, the best place to work out is outside of course! But if you must stay in, try 24 Hour Fitness for its extensive equipment, hard-core classes and great pools. This is no Y — if you bring the kids, they’ll stay in kiddie care. It was also the readers’ fave. 1892 Southgate Road, 633-2442; 3650 Austin Bluffs Parkway, No. 197, 262-0024; 24hourfitness.com
Best pool hall ANTIQUE BILLIARD MUSEUM
Open tables, memorabilia, tournaments, a bar, leagues and the ghosts of Willie Mosconi and Minnesota Fats. 3628 Citadel Drive North, 597-9809
READERS’ CHOICE
Fishing spot ELEVENMILE CANYON
Starting just below Elevenmile Reservoir, Elevenmile Canyon combines natural beauty, great angling and an escape from the South Park wind. Take forest roads from Elevenmile reservoir (fourwheel drive is recommended). There’s a $4 dayuse fee, payable at an entry station on the east end.
Place to work out 24 HOUR FITNESS
With two locations and some of the classiest equipment in town, this is no office-basement gym. And the hours can’t be beat. 1892 Southgate Road, 633-2442; 3650 Austin Bluffs Parkway, No. 197, 262-0024; 24hourfitness.com
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 81
SPORTS & LEISURE For wannabe Kwans, Boitanos
We give you:
Cul-De-Sac Streets
4.5 Miles of Trails
5+ Acre Grand Lawn Park
Award-Winning Parks Inspired by Classic Children’s Books Community Center with Heated Outdoor Pool
THE GAZETTE FILE
The three-spiral slide is among the best features of Wilson Ranch pool.
Academy School District 20
Best ice rink WORLD ARENA ICE HALL Beside the World Arena, the Ice Hall draws dozens of world-class figure skaters and coaches and is home to the United States National Short Track Speed Skating team, the Broadmoor Skating Club and the Division I Colorado College men’s hockey team.
The only thing we can’t give you is a longer day.
3205 Venetucci Blvd., 477-2150; worldarena.com
Best park THE AIR FORCE ACADEMY
German exchange student Carima Gschwandtl guided 2½-year-old Catherine Knudtsen around the ice Take a virtual tourforofthe Cordera, visit first www.cordera.com/virtualtour today! toddler’s time on skates during a holiday skate at the World FEATURING COLORADO SPRINGS’ Arena. The arena offersFINEST several HOMEBUILDERS public skating check Saddletree worldarena Campbell Homes events; Keller Homes Homes .com for a schedule. Symphony Homes Vantage Homes
9 Models Now Open! Prices start from the low $300s to the low $600s. Map not to scale
I-25 AT
POWE
G E UNION
MODEL HOMES KW
Y.
RESEARCH PKWY.
From I-25, take Briargate Parkway past Pine Creek, just east of Powers.
“From the people who brought you Pine Creek and Briargate.”
Cordera, Proud to be 100% ENERGY STAR Certified
When the Air Force Academy reopened to the public last fall, mountain bikers found the rocky, eroded decades-old Falcon trail reborn as a gorgeous 13-mile loop with everything from fast-flying whoop-ti-doos to technical rock stairs.
THE GAZETTE
Best hike HOGBACK VALLEY/RED ROCK RIM LOOP Always beautiful, never crowded, this 3.5-mile trail in Red Rock Canyon Open
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 82
Best mountain bike trail FALCON TRAIL
for a map, visit redrockcanyonopenspace.org
Best trail THE WHOLE ENCHILADA
With 100 miles of city and county trails connecting neighborhoods, where do you draw the line? The system as a whole, with all its foresight and planning, deserves a big cheer. for a map, visit www.springsgov.com
Best pool WILSON RANCH
More outdoor water park than just a swimming hole. Swoosh down the three-spiral water slide, go headfirst down the orange tube, float on the lazy river, swing out over the “beach,” swim laps or just stretch out in the water and catch some shade under a funbrella. Go early: Only 350 can get in, and it fills up quickly on hot days. 2335 Allegheny Drive, 598-3226; www.springsgov.com
on the Air Force Academy campus
P
EXPLORER DR.
A
ROUTE 83
Y
ER RD CO
W
.
VD. RS BL
PK CORDERA EXPERIENCE
ND GRA
BRIAR
The Academy grounds reopened this fall after five years of being shuttered by security concerns. Beyond the gates is an open space dream: 18,500 acres with trails, fields and access to national forest. We think the B-52 plane is pretty neat-o too.
Space has great views of the park’s fins of sedentary stone and options for adding more miles. But best of all, it starts from the little-used 26th Street Trailhead, so there’s plenty of parking and no hard left turns.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Best bowling BIGG CITY
The special attraction here is the four VIP lanes, complete with plasma TV, leather couches, and full-service bar. 5825 Mark Dabling Blvd., 955-7220; biggcity.net
Shelter Insurance®
Iron Springs Chateau
Announces The 2007 Conference of Champions Honorees
Colorado’s Fun Melodrama Cheer the Hero, Boo the Villian
CONGRATULATIONS TO:
TIM W. KELLER, LUTCF
“Gold Fever”
Plus A Music & Comedy Revue with Audience Participation
Family Style Dinner
• Dinner Show $2850 • Show Only $1550 *Child, Senior, Group Rates Reservations: 685-5104 / 685-5572 In Manitou Springs across from Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Only a select few agents qualify for Shelter’s highest annual honor. This award is given for outstanding personal service and overall excellence in agency administration. 2155 Hollow Brook Dr., Suite #10 Colorado Springs CO. 80918 www.shelterinsurance.com/timkeller
(719)632-0607
Seek Shelter Today!
and Research Center
Robert A. Nathan, M.D.
Board Certified in Allergy-Immunology
Adult & Pediatric Allergies • Asthma Hay Fever • Frequent Infections Drug Allergy • Bee Sensitivity Hives • Chronic Sinus Trouble
Daniel F. Soteres, MD MPH
Board Certified in Allergy-Immunology
Barbara B. Niven PA-C Debra K. Walters, ANP-C Allergy Hotline for Pollen Counts & Allergy Tips
473-NOSE (473-6673)
2709 N Tejon•www.aller gydrs@aacos.com
join us for
473-0872
719-268-1424
Speaker Dr. Rob Gottesman
DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION PROVIDED AT THE WORKSHOP IS NOT DESIGNED TO DIAGNOSE OR TREAT ANY MEDICAL CONDITION IT IS PURELY EDUCATIONAL.
Sunday Brunch
• Voted Best Sunday Brunch by “The Gazette 2005, 2006” & “The Independent 2005” • Complimentary champagne and an incredible array of foods to include crab legs, shrimp, roast beef, an omelet and pasta station, carving station and much much more BEAT THE CLOCK, arrive before 10am and receive $4 Off regular price
Seniors and active Military discount
Reservations Recommended
(719) 598-8990 230 Pointe of the Pines Drive www.thesunbird.com Promotions subject to change without notice and not valid on holidays or combined with other promotions.
Rated The Best Chinese Cuisine & Ambiance R0010066157 1
in The Springs 8 Years in a Row
4/25/07 2:47:10 PM
“Specializing In The Family Dog”
Come! Sit! Stay! • FREE Private Evaluation of Your Dog • Pet Fencing • Obedience and Behavior Modification • Professional Dog Trainers Courses • Protection Training • Boarding • Adult and Puppy Sales
www.muttmasters.com
719-FUN-MUTT (386-6888) 2205 MONTEBELLO SQ DR (near Academy & Vickers)
The Gazette & Readers’ Choice
Fine Dining • Cocktail Bar Banquet Room • Gift Certificates Available Chinese Gourmet We Now Deliver Hunan, Mandarin Cantonese, Szechwan, & The most Extensive Vegetarian menu & Desserts in town
594-9343 • 5670 N. Academy Blvd.
www.bestsilverpondchinese.com • Open Lunch & Dinner • Closed Sundays Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 83
SPORTS & LEISURE Access is beautiful thing at AFA . . . Try Red Rock Canyon loop . . . Or pick up broom for curling
CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE
Kyle McFarland scaled a wall at the Sport Climbing Center. McFarland is a competitive climber, but the center has plenty of opportunities for amateurs, too.
Best use of brooms CURLING CLUB
moves before going out to a river. Group lessons are $20 per person.
You can learn the wackiest Olympic sport at The Broadmoor Curling Club. This special breed of athlete spreads the love of that oh-so-strange-yet-so-addicting sport, curling. You know you were glued to the TV during the last Winter Games. Take a shot at the path to Olympic glory at one of the club’s periodic Learn to Curl sessions at the Colorado Sports Center. At $20 per person or $50 per family, it’s one of the cheapest ways to solidify a reputation for oddball adventure. 16240 Old Denver Highway, Monument, 598-1524; coloradocurling.org
Best place to learn to fly-fish ANGLER’S COVEY BEST OF THE SPRINGS 84
THE GAZETTE
295 S. 21st St., 471-2984; anglerscovey.com
Best climbing wall SPORT CLIMBING CENTER
The center has more than 12,000 square feet of climbing surface that imitates features found on real crags, with 75 top-rope and leadable climbing routes up to 50 feet long. They also have a bouldering climbing cave, aretes, roofs, bulges, dihedrals and a huge lead climbing cave. 4650 Northpark Drive, 260-1050; sportclimbcs.com
Best sports complex COLORADO SPORTS CENTER
Angler’s turns its side lot into a scene from “A River Runs Through It,” with a dozen people practicing their fly-fish
crosse, soccer, dodge ball and more. 16240 Old Denver Highway, Monument, 487-8572; socnroll.com
This ginormous indoor complex has a staggering variety of sports going on: baseball, basketball, in-line skating, hockey, ice skating, a climbing wall, volleyball, flag football, la-
Friday, May 18, 2007
Best golf course THE BROADMOOR’S MOUNTAIN COURSE
The course where Jack Nicklaus won his first national title, the U.S. Amateur Championship, has undergone an extreme makeover, thanks to Nicklaus’ company, Nicklaus Design. The result is one of the most gorgeous courses in the world. 1 Lake Ave., 577-5790; broadmoor.com
Best golf hole NO. 14 ON THE BROADMOOR’S EAST COURSE
This par-four beauty has two fairway bunkers, a tough drive to an elevated green and 430 yards from the back tee. It’s the kind of hole that serious golfers live for. 1 Lake Ave., 577-5790; broadmoor.com
SAVE over 20% off the Regular Price with the Business Box. Try our Fruit Kolaches. Savory Kolaches with meat, egg, and cheese coming May 15!
Altitude Sweets Bakery
Visit Our Website for your
Free Paintless Dent Repair Guide
Your Full Line Bakery
Breads, Pastries, Rolls, Cookies, More Corner of N. Carefree & Tutt 6050 N. Carefree 719-573-8217 www.altitudesweets.com
e Visit thof.. family Medical Staffing, Inc.
of Colorado Springs
RN’s • LPN’s • CNA’s WE OFFER: ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Top Wages ✔ 13 week contracts #1 Agency for Dept. of Corrections Per Diem shifts Government Contracts Specialty Units
$100 OFF Hail Damage or 10% OFF Door Ding Repair (Any job over $600)
Not valid w/other offers. See store for details. Expires 12/31/07.
BEEL
Photography SERVING ALL OF COLORADO FOR 15 YEARS
Money – Shifts ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Environmentally-Friendly Process For: DENTS • DINGS • HAIL DAMAGE • BODY REPAIR
Traveling Nurses Set your own schedule Travel were you want to Top wages Travel Contracts
We have work available State wide & Across the Nation!
800-311-3803 * 719-637-0000
photojournalism plus contemporary styles engagement photos • senior high school photos 719.510.2870 • 719.269.1459 www.beelphoto.com
ce 1953
Historic Sin
n Burgers Old Fashio Shakes and Milk hormone
atural, Served all n free! & antibiotic en p O p.m. a.m. - 8:00 :30 m. Mon-Fri 10 m. - 7:00 p. Sun 12:00 p.
day!
Drive in to
A New Era Begins this August…
cs f inear t scen t er. or g Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 85
*OIN
WWW ROTASMITHDENTAL COM
THE THOUSANDS OF PATIENTS WITH BEAUTIFUL HAPPY SMILES BY BECOMING A NEW PATIENT AT 9<=FI< #OLLEEN
8=K<I .ICK
8=K<I ,ANETT
2OTA 3MITH $ENTAL #ENTER
#AROLYN
9<=FI< *ILL
& 3"' & $ (/ +
8=K<I *O
8=K<I *AMIE
8=K<I "OB 8=K<I #OLLEEN
8=K<I !NN 8=K<I 3TEVE
8=K<I *ILL
8=K<I +RISTEN
8=K<I #ARLA 9<=FI< !NN 9<=FI< "EN
8=K<I !NN
8=K<I +ATHY
8=K<I #INDY
9<=FI< .ANCY 9<=FI< #INDY
8=K<I .ANCY
8=K<I
"EN
8=K<I *UAN
8=K<I !MY
%% -( 2 (+ - "%, ' -( (($ 2(.+ ))("'-& '-
8=K<I $EBBIE
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 86
THE GAZETTE
!LL PHOTOGRAPHS ARE REAL CASES COMPLETED BY 2OTA 3MITH $ENTAL
,8M< (E ,D@C< &8B<FM<I 8CC -F;8P (==<I E;J #LE< 3MILE -AKEOVERS ARE 3IX 4EETH OR -ORE
Friday, May 18, 2007
8=K<I 3TEVE
America’s #1-Rated Replacement Windows
*
™
America’s only Green Seal-Certified Replacement Windows! Lower your energy bills, save money and beautify your home. With over a million energy-efficient windows installed in more than 200,000 homes, Renewal by Andersen delivers quality and professionalism worthy of the Andersen® name. The window that’s changing it all!™
Call now and ask about special offers in your area!
w w w. L o v e Yo u r W i n d o w s . c o m SHOWROOM LOCATION: 5631 N. Academy Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 80918
HOURS: Monday: 9am - 6pm Tuesday - Friday: 8am - 8pm Saturday: 9am - 3pm
FREE In-home Design Service and Replacement Quote
Toll-free 877.496.3697
Colorado Springs 719.574.4010 • Denver Area 303.984.2073
*Renewal by Andersen® High Performance™ Windows were rated #1 in quality and glass seal by Window and Door Magazine May 2005, a publication of the National Window and Door Manufacturers Association. Renewal by Andersen® and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Renewal by Andersen Corporation. ©2007. All rights reserved.
Friday, May 18, 2007
THE GAZETTE
GZ-07-044
BEST OF THE SPRINGS 87
Serving
Elk, Venison, Pheasant, Quail, Caribou, Antelope, Wild Boar, Ostrich, Buffalo, Steaks, Seafood, Vegetarian....Something For Everyone 404 El Paso Blvd. • Manitou Springs, CO (719) 685-9000 • www.craftwood.com
an
Intimate dinner for two… …or
FUN with the whole family Featuring
Steaks, Prime Rib, Fried Chicken, Buffalo, Chicken Fried Steak, Rainbow Trout Open for lunch and dinner 702 Manitou Avenue • Manitou Springs, CO (719) 685-9400 • www.stagecoachinn.com
S tagecoach I nn CLASSIC COLORADO COMFORT BEST OF THE SPRINGS 88
THE GAZETTE
Friday, May 18, 2007