Holiday Guide 2019

holiday G U I D E 2 0 19

HOW TO CELEBRATE IN SOUTHERN COLORADO

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PUBILISHED BY THE GAZETTE NOVEMBER 28, 2019 30 EAST PIKES PEAK AVENUTE, SUITE 100 COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO 80903

PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER CHRIS REEN VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES JIM BROYLES DIRECTOR OF LOCAL MARKET DEVELOPMENT TRACI CONRAD DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING OPERATIONS AND MARKETING KAREN HOGAN HOLIDAY GUIDE WRITER AND EDITOR PATTY TOMSKY GRAPHIC DESIGNER GINA PIETRAMALE CONTRIBUTING SALES REPRESENTATIVES: BRI JULO KEN LEPIK LINDA FAMULA NIKKI DIRKS SUE SPINOSA SUE WILLIAMS TOM MCCLUNG VIRGIL QUINTANA TO ADVERTISE 719.636.0390

4 Holiday Guide 2019

G U I D E 2019

GIFT GUIDE.......................................... 7

GIFTS FOR HER...................................................................................................... 8 GIFTS FOR HIM...................................................................................................... 8 GIFTS FOR PETS.................................................................................................... 8 GIFTS FOR ART LOVERS.................................................................................... 11 FRESHEN UP YOUR LOOK FOR THE SEASON............................................... 12

INDULGE............................................ 14

ASK CHEF SUGAR: HOLIDAY BAKING TIPS.................................................... 16 COALTRAIN WINE AND SPIRITS’ LIBATION GUIDE....................................... 18

DECK THE HALLS...............................20

TRADITIONS IN COLORADO............................................................................ 22 3 CHRISTMAS SYMBOLS DECODED............................................................... 24 NORAD TRACKS SANTA.................................................................................... 27

FESTIVITIES........................................28

TOP 5 FUN HOLIDAY EVENTS........................................................................... 29 BEER TASTING FOR THE HOLIDAYS................................................................ 31

GIFT OF GIVING.................................32

GIFT-GIVING IDEAS FOR SENIORS.................................................................. 33 EMPTY STOCKING FUND: 35 YEARS OF GIVING.......................................... 35

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Holiday Guide 2019 5

GOOD is a holidayready haircut.

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0ver 4,500 salons in the U.S./Canada, including 15 great Colorado Springs/Pueblo area locations.

COLORADO SPRINGS Better Living Center • 1817 N Union Blvd (North of Walmart Market) • 719-633-5399 Cheyenne Montana • 6554 S Academy Blvd (In Safeway Center) • 719-576-2222 Claremont Ranch • 7935 Constitution Ave (East of King Soopers) • 719-559-4600 Hancock Plaza • 2850 S Academy Blvd (Near King Soopers) • 719-630-1940 Marketplace at Austin Bluffs 3624 Austin Bluffs Pkwy (Next to King Soopers) • 719-528-5822

COLORADO SPRINGS Nor’Wood • 6957 Austin Bluffs Pkwy (Across from Safeway) • 719-599-3663 Rockrimmon Shopping Center 815 Village Center Dr (Near Safeway) • 719-593-9500 Safeway East • 2880 N Powers Blvd (South of Safeway) • 719-573-6666 Uintah Gardens • 1734 W Uintah St (South of King Soopers) • 719-577-4064 Union Town Center • 8838 N Union Blvd (In Safeway Center) • 719-282-6002

FALCON Falcon Highlands 11605 Meridian Market View (Across from Walmart) • 719-886-4300 PUEBLO Pueblo Albertsons • 1565 W US Hwy 50 (Next to Albertsons) • 719-542-6500 South Pueblo Boulevard 2029 S Pueblo Blvd (South of IHOP) • 719-561-3500 WOODLAND PARK Woodland Park Plaza • 1117 E US Hwy 24 (In Safeway Center) • 719-686-1700

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6 Holiday Guide 2019

W

e’re always trying to find new

ways to tell our friends and family we care — in Colorado Springs,

you can find, buy or create just

the right gift to make sure that they know you do.

When we take the time to shop local and spread the love in our very own community, our holiday

gift giving can really make a difference for more

than just the receiver. There’s a thoughtful gift out there for everyone, even your pets — from flowers to perfume or cozy sweaters and socks; from one-

of-a-kind artwork to planning and pre-paying for a delicious meal, this holiday offers so many ways to

show your appreciation for the people in your life.

Holiday Guide 2019 7

gifts FOR HER ORCHIDS

Songbird & the Orchid 2204 West Colorado Ave. • 475.1700 • island-orchid.com The kinds of orchids you buy and where you buy them matter. Buying only family-grown, Hawaiian sourced orchids at Songbird & the Orchid results in perennial blooms; hardier and healthier plants; and a resource for your long and happy orchid “parent” relationship. When to water — when or if to fertilize — all of these questions and more can be answered by our friendly and knowledgeable staff. Next time you’re in Old Colorado City, stop in and marvel at our gorgeous, colorful blooms. Mention this write-up for 10% off!

SPA DAY

gifts FOR HIM

SunWater Spa 514 El Paso Boulevard, Manitou Springs • 695.7007 www.sunwellness.net Pamper yourself or a loved one at SunWater Spa. Soak in the heated mineral water, delight in a customized massage experience, join a yoga or meditation class, and relax with a full body or facial treatment.

SunWater Spa’s talented and multi-faceted therapists will treat you to an unforgettable and restorative spa day. This year, give the gift of a thoughtful and holistic experience. Gift cards, soaking, classes, and spa packages available.

AUTHENTIC MEXICAN, LOCAL FLAVOR

Hacienda Villarreal Family Mexican Restaurant 460 N. Murray Boulevard • 418.5857 • FIND THEM ON FACEBOOK! Looking for an authentic Mexican gift idea for your favorite relative, teacher or a stocking stuffer for your family? The family owned and operated Hacienda Villarreal has the answer for you with a gift card that can be loaded with any amount. They are open daily for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. with happy hour Monday through Friday 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. Enjoy Sunday Brunch from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Brunch is $13.99 for adults and $5.99 for children 12 and under (does not include beverages, tax or gratuity).

Delivery is available through Grubhub.

gifts FOR PETS

8 Holiday Guide 2019

BIRDFEEDERS

Songbird 2204 W. Colorado Ave. • 475.1700 • songbirdsupply.com If you are an avid backyard bird watcher or want to invite your favorite feathered friends into your life more regularly, fly on in to Songbird in Old Colorado City. But don’t let us sway you — here is what some of their customers say: “The owner is super friendly and passionate about conservation. He recommended the perfect birdseed blend for my backyard birds.” “Waste with Songbird’s seed was nonexistent while other seed I buy elsewhere ends up all over the ground.” “Well worth seeking out this little gem of a store. Besides everything you need to feed wild birds at the best price in town, there is an excellent selection of gift items for bird, wildlife and nature lovers.” Get a local gift that’s one-of-a-kind, or buy a new birdfeeder for yourself and family.

Give the Gift of 2 FOR THE SHOW GOER

1 FOR THE FESTIVE THE WINTER SPECTACULAR PACKAGE When you want to stay close to home but light up your holiday in an exciting new way, The Broadmoor offers the perfect “staycation.” Enjoy the spirit of the season with special room packages and your whole family participating in festive activities.

You just might find your new holiday tradition!

THE BROADMOOR HOLIDAY SHOW Get ready to dine, sing along and enjoy the holiday season at one of The Broadmoor’s Holiday Shows. With the Classic Broadmoor Holiday Package, you can make a night of it with your family, or bring your team and make this evening your company holiday party!

Either way, this show is not to be missed with headliner Debby Boone.

Show dates: December 13, 14, 20, 21, 22, 24 and 28, 2019.

4 FOR THE FORMAL PARTYER THE BROADMOOR NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA Want to close out 2019 in style?

Then gift yourself with an unforgettable night at The New Year’s Eve Gala.

Elegant and exquisite, it’s an evening of dancing, a tastefully designed menu and a tempting dessert bar! Ring in 2020 with champagne and a balloon drop while the band brings everyone to their feet.

3 FOR THE ADVENTURER AN INVIGORATING WILDERNESS RETREAT Does anyone in your family love the outdoors, or want to experience Colorado’s beauty?

From fly fishing to relaxing in rustic luxury Broadmoor style, our Wilderness Experience makes a great gift. Choose from one of our three luxury, all-inclusive properties: OrvisEndorsed Fly Fishing Camp, Cloud Camp or The Ranch at Emerald Valley, voted 2019 Most Luxurious Ranch by AAA Colorado.

5 FOR THE FREE SPIRIT

THE BROADMOOR NEW YEAR’S EVE BASH Maybe you like a more casual New Year’s Eve. Then you’ll love one of our newest holiday traditions, The New Year’s Eve Bash. Groove the night away to live funk, rock and blues. Enjoy small plates and a tapas-style buffet late into the evening, followed by the excitement of confetti and champagne toast at midnight.

Give the gift of choice this holiday! A Broadmoor Gift Card is the gift that keeps on giving. In addition to purchases at any of our fine retail shops and galleries, The Broadmoor Gift Card can be used toward lodging, spa services and much more!

For additional information, visit https://broadmoor.com/give-the-gift w w w. b r o a d m o o r . c o m • 8 4 4 . 2 0 9 . 6 8 7 8

Holiday Guide 2019 9

10 Holiday Guide 2019

gifts FOR ART LOVERS

“CHRISTMAS HIGH TRAILS”

Sculpture by Michael Garman 2418 W. Colorado Ave. • 471.9391 • michaelgarman.com Michael Garman is a Colorado Springs legend. Shop his amazing gallery that offers a delightful sculpture for everyone on your list — or go to their online store and browse to your heart’s content while still shopping local and supporting Colorado Springs art. You can even source a sculpture for every professional on your list—doctor, lawyer, firefighter and more! At 9.75 inches tall, this exquisite Colorado Saint Nick is a hand-painted beauty on sale for this gift-giving season at $127.49.

CUSTOM FRAMING AND ART

Bella Art And Frame 183 Washington St., Monument • 487.7691 2018 Best of the Springs Winner – Custom Framing With more than 20 years of experience among our staff, we offer full custom framing for all types of art, memorabilia and 3D objects. We have thousands of mat and moulding samples, allowing us to design the perfect frame for your artwork. Additionally, we use all archival material to protect artwork, creating museum-quality frames. Come by Bella Art and Frame to see how we can help you display your cherished artwork.

T E NICE TH TO MY NAUGHTY

hsppr.org Donate • Adopt • Volunteer Holiday Guide 2019 11

Freshen up your look T

Courtesy of Great Clips

FOR THE FESTIVE HOLIDAY SEASON

he holidays are full, busy and social, often chock full of family get-togethers and photos, church functions, reunions with friends, and of course — holiday parties!

It’s that wonderful time of year when we want to look our best or perhaps update our look.

The stylists at your Colorado Springs-area Great Clips salon can freshen up your favorite style, help you with a new look, or create an elegant updo for your night on the town this holiday season.

Kemper Dance Academy presents

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Spend your evening with Mary Poppins and all her friends celebrating the joys of Christmas Doherty High School 4515 Barnes Road CO Springs, CO 80917 719.325.6234 for more information

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Mom and dad were there for you – letand usdad help you be for there Mom were there you for them

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• Home Assistance for older ad – letCare us help you be offers there security for them. and peace of mind for family members.

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During the hectic holiday season, using Great Clips’ industry-first online check-in will help you more quickly get in and get out — freeing up time for other seasonal priorities.

Download the Great Clips app with online check-in and you can see the current wait time and put your name on the wait list before you head to the salon. Minimizing your wait anytime is always welcome, especially during the busy season.

Whether you get your “usual” haircut or a whole new style, your professional Great Clips stylist can recommend the perfect haircare product to keep it looking salon-fresh.

Great Clips is also the perfect place to pick up great haircare products as stocking stuffers. Our salons carry a wide range of product lines, such as American Crew, Sexy Hair, Paul Mitchell, TIGI Bed Head and more, including Grit, the line of affordable haircare products for men, a Great Clips exclusive.

If you are looking for a one-size-fits-all, practical, highly valued and greatly appreciated stocking stuffer, Great Clips has a deal for you! Our “Great Card,” which you can load with $10.99 pre-paid haircuts (minimum of 3), is available at all Colorado Springs/Pueblo-area Great Clips salons until December 24 (while supplies last). And, the Great Card is honored at all 4,500-plus Great Clips salons in the U.S. and Canada, making it the perfect gift to slip into holiday cards sent to family and friends throughout North America.

The holidays are also a time of giving, a concept embraced by each Great Clips salon team. The Great Clips culture, locally and nationally, is to help build a greater sense of community and connectedness. In the Colorado Springs-area, Great Clips salons support various charitable activities, the two most notable being Susan G. Komen – Colorado in its fight to cure breast cancer and, each October, local stylists raise funds that directly support Children’s Hospital Colorado, a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. Since Great Clips first partnered locally with Children’s Hospital Colorado in 2008, through the efforts of Great Clips’ stylists, Great Clips’ clients have generously donated more than $450,000 to provide the local Children’s Hospital with equipment and support programs that the hospital staff identified as needed.

Every day of the year, Great Clips stylists work diligently to help each client look and feel great. This holiday season stop in and let one of our talented stylists freshen up your look.

And then smile wide for your holiday photos, confident that you look great!

THE HOLIDAYS ARE A TIME OF GIVING, A CONCEPT EMBRACED BY EACH GREAT CLIPS SALON TEAM.

Enjoy our awardwinning selection of fine wines, craft beers and spirits for all your celebrating and gifting needs!

·SAVE THE DATE·

December 5, 2019 330 W. UINTAH STREET 719.475.9700 COALTRAINWINE.COM Holiday Guide 2019 13

G

iving ourselves the gift of

a good book; a luxurious

massage; or a night out on the town is not an indulgence

in these days of stress and overbooked calendars — it’s a

must. Our city allows us to explore how to spend quality time at a great meal; to buy delicious

cocoa or adult beverages for a fire-lit evening;

and ways to celebrate our senses and the many pleasures the season brings.

14 Holiday Guide 2019

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Holiday Guide 2019 15

Ask Chef Sugar: Holiday baking tips from the Springs’ most beloved baker Interview with Heidi Trelstad by Patty Tomsky

Season’s Greetings to All Our Loyal Customers Order Your Holiday Meats Today!

2915 East Platte Avenue 719-636-1149 U.S.D.A Choice Beef – Pork – Poultry andysmeatmarket.com

W

e caught up with very busy Heidi Trelstad, otherwise known as Chef Sugar, one of Colorado Springs most expert dessert makers, to get some tips and tricks to make holiday baking better than ever this year. And note the easy ganache icing recipe she shared!

Trelstad studied at the famed kitchens of the Cordon Bleu in Scottsdale, Arizona, where she earned her nickname, Chef Sugar, for her love and mastery of all types of confections. Her shop was featured on the Food Network, where they wowed the judges. She’s also worked at some of the finest Colorado Springs restaurants as pastry chef and at the famed Venetian in Vegas.

Today, she’s busy with custom cakes, cookies, pastries and other treats at her Academy Boulevard bakery.

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16 Holiday Guide 2019

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Q:

In your opinion what’s better for guests during the holidays? And what is most popular at your shop during the holidays?

Cookies, cupcakes, cake or all of them?

All of the above! I come from a German/Norwegian background and the whole family on both sides loves sweets and during the holidays we go all out with tons of yummy treats.

I find that at Chef Sugar’s it seems that cakes, cupcakes, Yule logs and cake pops dominate over Parisian macarons or pies but our biggest seller is always our decorated cutout cookies. We get so busy with cookies that we make them round the clock!

Q:

Let’s talk frosting — butter cream is best? What is easiest to make from home? Would you be willing to share an easy recipe?

Well, I think the best icing is at the discretion of the individual, of course.

Buttercream is great, but I also love a cream cheese icing or a ganache. Easiest to make at home is probably ganache.

Use equal parts by weight of heavy cream and semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips.

Heat the cream to scalding (right before the boiling point) and pour hot cream over the chocolate chips, then whisk until smooth and combined. Easy peasy!

Q:

Do we really need specialized cake flour to have a light and airy cake? Can you get a good one at the grocery store? Can you use it in cookies?

Pastry flour will yield a more delicate texture in the cake, but unless you are really trying to impress, I think a box mix can go a long way, especially since we have high altitude to deal with here in Colorado Springs. I bake from scratch, but I have all the ingredients readily available and all the equipment and techniques to do so, but most of the time unless you are going to be baking a lot, you may not have everything on hand. So that’s where a box mix from your local grocer can come in handy and also may be more cost effective in the long run.

You can definitely use Duncan Hines cake mix as a cookie base. It’s a timesaving practice and the mixes contain the better quality flours and things to give a great texture. I used to make cake mix cookies all the time when I was in junior high!

Q:

Speaking of altitude issues, what do you recommend for regional bakers?

For high altitude, there are actually quite a lot of changes than need to be made to the recipe. Basically things leaven (rise) too quickly here at high altitude so you typically need to decrease the leavening agents, such as baking powder or baking soda. There are other changes that need to be made as well to each major ingredient like flour, sugar, fat, liquids, etc.

I would recommend choosing recipes that are already changed for high altitude but there are great resources available at the library or online for ratios on making changes to recipes for high altitude.

Q:

We can see that making desserts is all about chemistry! Do you have some other tips for temperature, textures and other baseline “physical properties” of desserts that people should keep in mind?

Wow, there are so many tips I’m not sure where to start! Baking is a science and a balancing of liquefiers and solids, each ingredient as well as the method of mixing and baking lend to the finished product. There is really quite a lot that is involved, probably more than I could cover here.

But I guess if I had to pick one tip it would be to bake low and slow. Make sure you check the product regularly and bake until you have reached doneness, not whatever the time is on the box. Every oven is different and depending on how many times you open the oven or whether you have multiple items in the oven or even the type of vessel you are baking in (glass vs. metal, etc.) there are a lot of things that will change the baking time.

In order to avoid overbaking, I always recommend that you bake at 325 degrees for cakes rather than 350 as recommended (300 if using convection). It will take longer to bake but baking lower and slower tends to yield a moister product.

Q:

What are some general tips you have about holiday baking?

Above all else, have fun and make memories, even if the recipe doesn’t turn out or doesn’t look pretty, the most important part is to gather with your kids, grandkids, friends, and create together. I think some of my best memories in life are baking with my mom and brother and grandma during the holidays and I know we made a big mess and I know what we baked often looked terrible but I treasure those memories. Now, I so often find that people aren’t cooking or baking at home, they just go purchase something because it’s easier and less mess and faster but I would love to see a revival of holiday traditions and families spending quality time together in the kitchen to create memories. Regardless, I’ll be ready and prepared to have tons of yummy and beautifully decorated treats available— and they will be made with love.

Q:

What is the oddest holiday request (not necessarily at this time of the year) that you have gotten?

I’ve been doing this for 20 years and I don’t think I recall any request that I thought was odd during the holidays. We get so many unique requests on a regular basis since we offer fully customized services, so I guess I don’t ever think anything is a strange request.

Q:

What is your favorite dessert?

I don’t generally partake as I have extremely slow metabolism and live on a very strict clean diet plus I have many food sensitivities. But if I were going to cheat, I’d probably go for a fresh, hot peanut butter-chocolate chip cookie or an affogato (gelato with a shot of espresso poured over top).

Holiday Guide 2019 17

Coaltrain Wine and Spirits’

LIBATION GUIDE

By Patty Tomsky

It’s time to host friends and family — are you ready with the “off the beaten path” perfect wine pairing that won’t break the budget?

How about a smooth American whiskey for after dinner chats or football?

Spending time with Peggy McKinlay and Taylor Courey at Coaltrain is like cornering your favorite expert and learning new and wonderful ways to stun your guests with cool party spirits and interesting wines. Even the “neatest” whiskey choices abound. Lose the turkey-plus-Riesling pairing (unless you really like it — Peggy and Taylor say your taste should trump any pairing opportunity or “shoulds”) and learn what goes best with venison, beef, and even your favorite chocolate fudge brownie.

18 Holiday Guide 2019

CHATTING PRE-APERTIF

Your guests are here and everyone’s bubbling with excitement. What better to serve than a Prosecco or Crémant.

Prosecco is a sparkling wine from that section of Italy and has had quite a surge of popularity over the past few years as a budget-friendly alternative to champagne. Crémant is similar to Prosecco, only from France. It’s light and not too sweet, so your guests will have a clear palate for what’s to come. Peggy, co-owner of Coaltrain, recommends Domaine AllimantLaugner Crémant d’Alsace, a dry sparkly joy at just $22.99.

APPY-TIME WINES

Because there’s such a wide variety of appetizers served, we concentrated on pairing with cheeses, a classic choice.

Brie and goat cheese are perennial favorites, so as you serve those, your guests can be sipping 2016 Château Charron, a white Bordeaux at a surprising $13.99.

“Guests sometimes don’t like to switch, even though hosts like to pair different wines as different foods are served. That’s why starting with an easy drinking wine like this Bordeaux suits many people — you can stick with it throughout and it won’t interfere with most foods.” Taylor said. A twenty-year veteran of wine buying, he’s got some myths to bust, as well. For example, if you think that serving the better quality wines first and switching off to a less expensive vintage later is a little tacky, you’d be wrong (I asked, because I had been guilty for years!)

“It’s standard to serve more special wines first because guests’ palates are clear and their enjoyment is heightened earlier on in the evening, before any food or wine has been served,” Courey said. “It’s not only acceptable but practically expected to do so.”

DINNER IS SERVED

Poultry, fish or a big slab of prime rib? Venison elk or goose? As you work on the “mains” for your holiday feast, rest assured, there are lots of options that work well.

Nice, full Cabernets pair well with beef as do Merlots. Their high tannin content counteracts some of

the fattiness of eating meats. They’re also a good choice for venison or elk, although those tend to be a bit leaner, especially venison, so you can choose a lighter red pairing, perhaps a blend.

Santa Barbara County California’s Three Saints Pinot Noir is also a great choice for these and at $20, a steal for its quality. Taylor even suggested some of the newer Coloradan reds, from hybrid grapes that are specifically designed to yield quality wines in colder climates. “Colorado has colder nights and a shorter growing season but the latest wines and experiments from places like Greeley and the Grand Valley in the Western Slope for

cold varietals have been delivering some really delicious wines. If you care about “staying local” you might want to check them out,” he urges.

“The overall quality of our wines has increased significantly.” An excellent choice for poultry is chardonnay which comes in a myriad of styles. Looking for something light and crisp? Try French Chablis. Something a little rounder and lightly oaked? Check out a Bourgogne Blanc or a chard from Oregon. Peggy suggests Willamette Valley Vineyards Chardonnay at $24.99/Sale $21.99. If your tastes go to something with more richness and

medium oak, a California Sonoma Coast chardonnay would be perfect.

A nice, subtle rose is very versatile, pairing well with fish, chicken and pork or just as a party wine. Go into Coaltrain and have an informal chat with Peggy, Taylor or any of the experts on the floor — they will let you know if your needs aren’t their particular area of expertise and make sure to track down the best person for the job.

CHOCOLATE OR FRUIT?

Classic dessert wines like Sauternes are sweet enough as a treat all on their own. They also pair well with fruitbased delights. For chocolate desserts, a ruby LBV Port is hard to beat. A newly popular after-dinner drink, kirshwasser, is an interesting choice: An unsweetened eau de vie distilled from cherries, its dark and fruity flavor is warming but not too sticky-sweet.

If your guests want to settle back with spirits, whiskey is hot right now.

Spirits Manager Nels Hendrickson suggests a smooth American whiskey distilled right here in Colorado, like A.D. Laws or Distillery 291. There are a number of other great local distilleries to explore like Peach Street in Grand Junction or Leopold Bros in Denver.

Kentucky bourbon is infamous and always popular, however certain select bourbons are very scarce due to their limited production. But don’t worry — Coaltrain always has an extensive selection of high quality bourbons in stock. Nels is in most days to help you with your selections and any special requests — and even give you a new idea for your gathering’s signature cocktail. Look online at Coaltrain’s site for some fun choices for the “frou-frou” drink crew among you or your nephew, the amateur mixologist.

The team has a plethora of great craft beers onsite, as well, with fancy growlers that will delight your suds aficionados, too.

Whatever your preference, remember — if you find a style of beer, wine, whiskey, bourbon or cola for that matter — taste and personal enjoyment will make a difference to everyone on your guest list. And whatever you pick, relax — a happy host makes everything go down smoother. Salut!

Holiday Guide 2019 19

W

hen we’re moving through our homes, choosing a way to decorate for friends and family, we’re often struck by

the nostalgia of days past: What was Mom’s favorite place to hang mistletoe? How many memories can we create with our lovingly trimmed tree or child-made menorah? Getting ready for the holidays also means we get “decked out” in our finest with a new look or some festive clothes. Whatever you need, Colorado Springs can deliver the dazzle.

20 Holiday Guide 2019

Friday, November 29th Saturday, November 30th Santa pictures Friday and Saturday, 10am-3pm

& Sunday, December 1st OPEN HOUSE THANKSGIVING WEEKEND We'll have plenty of Christmas Trees & Ornaments for you to choose from. Cookies, Candy & Cider will also be served.

Our miniature horses will be on site from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday & Saturday

FREE Ornament with eveiy ďż˝ tree pmchase!

Your choice, up to $7.99

Photos with Santa

by Snowshoe Studios from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday & Saturday. Visit Santa's Winter Wonderland & have photos taken with your child or pet. $25.00 & Up. Bring the Outdoors Inside with Fresh Wreaths, Garland and Centerpieces handmade by the staff at Harding Nursery.

Family Owned since 1957

Holiday Guide 2019 21

The history of holiday traditions in Colorado

Cultural traditions from across the globe and across the state

By Patty Tomsky Photos courtesy of Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

T

he word holiday is from the Old English word, haligdaeg — halig = holy and daeg = day and described holy days in the church calendar. In medieval times, wealthy people took these days to travel for religious pilgrimages but there were no such things as holidays as we know them now — people were allowed to rest on these holy days.

In 1871, the Bank Holiday Act gave workers in the United Kingdom a few paid holidays a year, but as anyone who is familiar with poor Bob Cratchitt’s dilemma in Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, many workers toiled all day every day, even on Christmas Day. Over the years, holiday traditions came over to the United States on the Mayflower and with other immigrants to gift us with the diverse holiday heritage we enjoy today in Colorado Springs. Of course, indigenous peoples lived here more than 14,000 years ago with an archaeological site in Larimer County dating back to 8710 BCE. During the years of Westward expansion and in the early days of the Colorado gold rush, Colorado was still a Territory of Kansas and a Territory of Jefferson until August 1, 1876 when it was admitted as a state. Colorado Springs was known as “Little London” for its popularity among English tourists. Waves of Germans, Swedes, Danes, English and other settlers came after the largely male gold seekers, during the weeks and years after the Homestead Act of 1862 to claim their 160 acres. By 1900, tourists flocked to Colorado Springs making it the wealthiest city per capita in the United States.

Many immigrants traveled to Colorado to take on dangerous jobs — railroads, miners, farmers and ranchers. Chinese workers came to work on the railroad; Mexican workers came to work in the sugar beet fields after World War II.

22 Holiday Guide 2019

Popcorn remains a holiday treetrimming tradition in the West and beyond.

Early 20th century children celebrating Christmas in Colorado Springs.

Today, immigrants compose nearly 14 percent of all business owners in the Denver metro area and 9.4 percent of the state’s population were nativeborn Americans who had at least one immigrant parent as of 2016. By 1910, 16 percent of the population was from Germany, Italy, England, Russia, Sweden and Austria. And, of course, native Americans such as the Jemez Pueblo, Ute, Arapaho, Cheyenne, Kiowa and Comanche were here when the first nonindigenous people arrived.

NATIVE AMERICAN HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

Many native peoples celebrated the winter solstice which occurs December 2122. After European contact, some began to incorporate elements of Christmas into their celebrations. The Jemez Pueblo tribe celebrate with Buffalo Dances on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Many tribes rested during the December season, telling stories and spending time with families, in accordance with the cycles of the earth. The Ute played a Hand Game where a hidden bone in the hand is guessed for points — these

games can last for hours. Some of the Plains tribes celebrated with bean bread, popular with the Cherokee; buffalo stew, prairie turnips, prairie chicken, wild rice, chokecherries, plums and squash, any or all of which could be incorporated into a mid-winter holiday meal. Most winter solstice celebrations would include dancing; many included prayers of thanksgiving for the food and warmth enjoyed in the depths of harsh winters.

MEXICAN HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

In Mexico, Christmas is called las posadas and starts on December 16. The last night is Buena Noche, and falls on Christmas Eve. The streets are sometimes decorated with brown paper bag lanterns called farolitos. The children follow these along the route to church on Bueno Noche where they place a figure of the Christ Child in the nacimento, nativity scene. After mass, fireworks light up the sky. There may be pinãta parties on the first eight days of la posadas — and some Mexican villages have children carrying figures of Mary and Joseph finding room at the inn (la posados) of a

neighbor, where the figures are placed and a feast ensues. Gifts are exchanged on January 5 from the Reyes Magos, the Three Kings who leave gifts in shoes left on the windowsill. On January 6, a cake with a hidden baby figurine is served — the person who gets it in their slice must give a tamale party on February 2, Candlemas Day. To mark Winter Solstice, the indigenous Aztecs celebrated a Mexica festival that lasted 20 days during the 15th month and commemorated the defeat of the moon, Coyolxauqui, by her younger brother, Huitzilopochtli.

CARIBBEAN HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

Caribbean Americans who live here in the Springs may bring some delicious dishes with them — in Belize, they might make a rum and eggnog drink called “rum popo” while in Trinidad, a cornmeal pastie filled with meat, olives, capers and raisins, steamed in banana leaves rings in the holiday. However, these varied islands all have their own holiday traditions besides food.

In Guyana, masqueraders used to travel door-to-door dressed as the “Long Lady” also known as Boom Boom Sally; or as Cow, which is exactly what one would think. Christmas morning and the kids awake to pepperpot, a meat stew spiced with cinnamon, herbs and cassareep, a sweet made from the cassava. In Suriname, kids leave Goedoe Pa cookies and milk on the eve of December 6. They’re rewarded with gifts left by their shoes. In Jamaica, their Christmas carols have a reggae infused beat; and in Granada, the panang bands (playing a calypso-like music) play the weekend before Christmas in open air, free concerts all across the island.

Give the gift of comfort this holiday season

ASIAN CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

Asia’s a huge continent and its Christmas traditions are nearly as numerous as its 17 million square miles. In India, British influence has made the commercial Christmas holiday popular with many. Christmas is called Badaa Din (Big Day) in Northern India and citizens plant trees in celebration. South Koreans have Santa Claus, called Santa Haraboji, (Grandfather Santa) and many celebrate the secular holiday even if they’re not Christian — however, Christians and Jewish people living in Asia presumably go to church or synagogue and celebrate the religious aspects of the holiday, as well.

In Japan, they celebrate a secular Christmas, complete with holiday decorations, toys and Hoteiosho, the Japanese equivalent of Santa Claus, who is dressed as a Buddhist monk and uses the eyes in the back of his head to check if the children are being “naughty” or “nice.” Many Japanese eat a meal of Kentucky Fried Chicken and sponge cake decorated with Christmas trees and flowers, as well as a tiny Santa Claus.

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SCANDINAVIAN CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

In Norway, on “Little Christmas” — December 23 — they bake gingerbread and eat warm rice pudding, risengrynsgrot, flavored with sugar, cinnamon and butter where they hide a pig made of marzipan — whoever finds it wins a prize.

In Sweden, as in Norway, they enjoy glogg, a mulled wine.

On the Twelfth Night of Christmas, stjarngossar, star boys, sing songs as they walk from home to home, holding stars to represent the star followed by the three wise men and receiving schnapps and other treats in return.

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3 I

Christmas symbols decoded

By Patty Tomsky

f you’ve wondered where the elves came from or why we kiss under the mistletoe, look no further. Holiday Guide has decoded several of the more prevalent holiday traditions and gone back through time to decode them just for you. All we ask is not to make a pest of yourself at holiday gatherings by relaying every single one of them to family and friends.

MISTLETOE

You’re stuck under the mistletoe with your strange cousin Howard’s best friend Mort and you know what’s expected. Kiss him. The reason we hang this plant is thousands of years old and comes from Norse mythology. The hero and god, Baldur was killed by an enemy arrow. His mother, the goddess Frigg, wept tears on to the arrow. These tears turned into white berries that brought her son back to life. Ever after, Frigg kissed the plant and promised good life to any who would kiss underneath it. continued on page 26

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Christmas symbols continued from page 24

Mistletoe is a parasitic plant and can only survive if its seeds are carried by birds to a host tree. The scientific name for mistletoe is Phoradendron, in the Greek meaning “thief of the tree” for the way it will steal nutrients and water from its host. Mistletoe berries are highly toxic to humans and to pets but birds can safely eat them.

REINDEER

The first known mention of reindeer was in Clement Moore’s famous poem, The Night Before Christmas. Yet this association is also from the Norse, where Thor’s chariot, at first pulled by goats, ended up over the years being pulled by reindeer. Moore is believed to have gotten his inspiration from that story.

However, the most famous reindeer, he of the red nose, was created by an ad man working for the department store Montgomery Ward, Robert L. May, in 1939. Ten years later, May’s friend Johnny

26 Holiday Guide 2019

Mark’s song based on the poem was made famous, performed by the singing cowboy Gene Autry and hitting number one in the U.S. Hit Parade.

THE CHRISTMAS SPIDER

If you go to someone’s home who is of Eastern European descent, you might be surprised to see a spider among the ornaments on their tree. Legend has it a woman cleaned her house meticulously for the holiday, sweeping all the house spiders to the far reaches of the room and then decorating a beautiful tree.

One of the spiders was curious and ran over to the tree to see it better — once she got there, she was so overcome by the tree’s beauty, she began to dance, leaving webs all over it. Depending on which version you hear, either Santa Claus, Jesus or Father Christmas saw the webs and wanted to save this hard-working woman from upset, turning the webs into silver and gold and creating the first tinsel.

NORAD Tracks Santa: Christmas Light The tradition that started Helicopter Tours 2019 right here at The Gazette

S

By Patty Tomsky

ince 1955, NORAD has been tracking Santa on Christmas Eve — or has it?

Truth is the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) didn’t exist when the United States Air force first issued the following: “An early warning radar net to the north has detected one identified sleigh, powered by eight reindeer, at 14,000 feet (4300 meters) heading 180 degrees.” Once the Associated Press got a hold of this communique, it spread all over the world. As the first time ever that Santa was tracked by a government body, it was an anomaly.

In 1955, The Gazette newspaper received an ad placement from Sears in Colorado Springs telling kids to call Santa Claus at a certain number. When a child called, transposing one number incorrectly, they reached Colorado Springs’ Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) Center.

Myth has it these calls came into the “red telephone” and one Colonel Henry Shoup, the Commander on duty. He told his staff to tell any other kids who called of Santa’s current location. Another account has Shoup himself answering a child’s call gruffly, ending the calls to the Center. Whatever is true, by 1961, Colonel Shoup asked the PR people at CONAD to issue a press release, which read, in part: “CONAD, Army, Navy and Marine Air Forces will continue to track and guard Santa and his sleigh on his trip to and from the U.S. against possible attack from those who do not believe in Christmas.”

The stunt continued, as the major news services of the day, United Press International and the Associated Press, contacted CONAD the following December, 1956, asking for Santa’s tracking report. Over the years, the reports got more detailed, with 12,000 emails, more than 70,000 phone calls from more than 200 countries and territories fielded by a huge volunteer staff for children calling in about Santa’s location on December 24. Kids can access the locator on NORADSanta.org, as well.

Even during the 2018 government shutdown, military and civilian volunteers showed up to update everyone on Santa and the sleigh’s progress. A “SantaCom” now shows Santa flying over famous landmarks each year, with the landmarks changing from year to year. Both First Lady Michelle Obama and First Lady Melania Trump have volunteered on the phones updating kids on Santa’s yearly trip.

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Holiday Guide 2019 27

T

here are so many ways to ring in the holiday season in Colorado Springs, you might want to make sure you don’t overschedule yourself! Friends and family can make sure to

hear great music, find a sled ride for the kids or find just the right festive event to mark the season of joy, making meaningful memories with the ones they love.

28 Holiday Guide 2019

Top

Thank you for voting us

FUN HOLIDAY EVENTS IN THE PIKES PEAK REGION Thomas Wilson will conduct the Colorado Springs Philharmonic during the Christmas Symphony on December 22. Photo courtesy of the Colorado Springs Philharmonic

By Patty Tomsky

1.

Fueled by Knowledge and Passion

When you’re here you’ll feel the love!

Come and see us at one of our three locations.

BROADMOOR HOLIDAY SHOW

All through December, The Broadmoor hotel hosts a reserved seating dinner that includes a holiday show and a special appearance from Santa. The Colorado Springs Children’s Chorale performs each year and the entertainment often includes national acts. Call to reserve your spot as soon as you can because tickets go fast.

THE BROADMOOR 1 Lake Avenue 719.577.5775

Broadmoor University Village 2110 Southgate Rd. #201 5182 N Nevada Ave. Colorado Springs, Co 80906 Colorado Springs, Co 80918 719.578.8332 719.2665.5660 Academy 7443 N Academy Blvd.

Colorado Springs, Co 80920 719.2665.5660

MARKET AT 2. HOLIDAY COMMONWHEEL ARTISTS CO-OP

During the month of December, support local artists by visiting Commonwheel Artists in Manitou Springs. Amazon might be convenient but you’ll never source these unique ornaments, clay art, photography, sculptures and more anywhere else than the Commonwheel. If you must shop online with them, go ahead and have your own private holiday bazaar — all prices on the site include shipping within the Continental U.S. but simply call ahead for International rates. You can get toys and artist puzzles, as well. This year, the market runs from November 15 – December 30 seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

COMMONWHEEL ARTISTS CO-OP 102 Cañon Avenue, Manitou Springs 719.685.1008

continued on page 30

Holiday Guide 2019 29

Top Five Fun Holiday Events continued from page 29

EXPRESS TRAIN HOLIDAY EVENING AT 3. SANTA AT THE ROYAL GORGE 4. ROCK LEDGE RANCH 5. CHRISTMAS SYMPHONY Kids and adults alike will enjoy this winter wonderland of a trip across the breathtaking Royal Gorge with Santa Claus and the North Pole at the end of the line! These trains fill up fast during the height of the season — and don’t forget you’re encouraged to wear warm pajamas and enjoy your complementary hot cocoa and cookie while taking loads of photos to help your social media fans enter into the holiday spirit with you and your family.

SANTA FE DEPOT One block south of Highway 50 and 3rd Street, Cañon City 888.724.5748

Did you ever want to walk the paths of holiday history, lantern-lit, your breath frosty in the air? This Victorian celebration in the 1880s Rock Ledge House and Edwardian festivities in the Orchard House will bring you back to holidays of bygone eras — visitors enjoy blacksmithing demos, barn dancing and music, as well, with St. Nicholas greeting visitors at the Carriage House. $8 adults, seniors $5 children $4, children under 5 are free. Military discount available with I.D. ROCK LEDGE RANCH 3105 Gateway Road December 14 4 –8 p.m.

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A great way to get your kids some culture higher than a repeat of the Grinch (although there’s nothing wrong with enjoying that show, year after year.) The Colorado Springs Philharmonic presents the Christmas Symphony, including Christmas favorites that they’ll be able to hum along to, the better to get them in the holiday spirit. The show features the Colorado Springs Chorale performing Handel’s Messiah — you have to see one live to appreciate the piece — as well as Corelli’s Christmas Concerto and seasonal standards.

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30 Holiday Guide 2019

BEER TASTING FOR THE HOLIDAYS:

your holiday swap just got hoppier

By Patty Tomsky

Y

ou might invite friends over for the holidays and get a set of 4-ounce beer “flight” glasses to settle on what to serve this holiday season. That sounds like fun to us, however, you can also ask Andy or Alyssa France, owners of Lost Friend Brewing Company on Montebello Square Drive for suggestions.

As with wine, your preference should trump any pairing you read or hear about from friends but there are certain tastes, textures and alcohol levels that seem to go better with classic holiday foods and events.

FLEMISH RED ROCKS

To start the evening cocktail party, the Frances suggest a Brut IPA which has loads of fizz, like a champagne of beers (sorry, Miller). Andy and Alyssa also recommend for the bigger holiday meals — think Thanksgiving, Hanukkah or Christmas—“A solid pilsner or something light and crisp like that in the

beginning, leading into a barrel-aged sour with dinner, particularly a barrel aged Flemish red beer.”

Beer might not seem like the logical choice for a dessert beverage but many experts like to pair beer with chocolate, especially stouts and full-bodied, coffeeflavored beer. And after December’s busyness, the February Super Bowl “holiday” calls for a full-bodied lager.

SUDS AND SWEETS?

“My favorite holiday dessert cookies are Alyssa’s molasses ginger cookies and oatmeal peanut butter no bakes. Both of these would go rather well with either an English Brown or Mild and Lost Friend’s Scottish Wee Heavy,” Andy said.

You might want to swing by Lost Friend to test some of their beer for your holiday gatherings — a good dessert sipping beer like their rich, Belgian dark will surely satisfy any holiday reveler. Attesting to

the fact that sours are super popular now, perhaps beating out the IPA, the team at Lost Friend brews specialty sours.

Their rotating experimental, Prickle Rick Fresh Prickly Pear Sour was received very well when it launched in October — a chimera sour wheat base and 5% alcohol by volume (ABV) makes it an easy drinker, too.

FOAMY, NOT FUSSY

That’s not to say their rotating and regular IPAs aren’t delicious—the Lemon Lavender IPA had the feel and flavor of a fancy cocktail with less affectation. And every day, you can grab a pint of the always-available Homeward Bound IPA, “It’s hazy and juicy and has a silky mouthfeel” their website boasts.

As Lost Friend neighbors who show up with our dogs and enjoy the rotating food truck offerings a couple of times a month, we concur.

The Iron Springs Chateau

Historic Melodrama Theater 444 Ruxton Ave, Manitou Springs, CO

(719) 685-5104

http://ironspringschateau.com

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Closed Sunday and Monday Senior, Military & Group Rates Available Holiday Guide 2019 31

W

hen Scrooge opens his heart and

wallet during Charles Dicken’s

classic story, “A Christmas Carol,” we see the impact both an

open heart and decisive action can make. Many of us feel the joy of holiday seasons most fully

when we make time to give generously of our

time, talents and resources to charities that

move us to action. Many worthy agencies right here in Colorado Springs need us to commit to

honoring this impulse year round; however the season of making merry can also be the season to make a difference.

32 Holiday Guide 2019

Gift-giving ideas for

seniors Cour tesy of Home Care Assistance

G

ift-giving season is either the best time of the year — if you love shopping and always have tons of ideas for everyone on your list — or the thing you dread most about winter. For some, the challenges increase when shopping for seniors: While some seniors still delight in receiving gifts, others are in a stage of getting rid of things rather than acquiring them. continued on page 34

During a season of giving

Holiday Guide 2019 33

Gifts for seniors: continued from page 33

We’ve pulled together some ideas for from-the-heart, nonspace-taking, useful gifts for both seniors who still love opening presents and seniors who beg you not to get them anything at all.

CONSUMABLES

Gifts that can be eaten or used and don’t need to be stored are often a great bet for seniors. Some ideas that keep the principles of healthy diet are: • Filet of smoked salmon (with rye or pumpernickel bread and whipped cream cheese for the full effect) • Selection of green and herbal teas, with a few tea biscuits and whole-grain cookies • Membership to a CSA (community supported agriculture) or produce delivery service for regular supplies of farm-fresh fruits and vegetables • Basket with an assortment of whole grain pastas, canned tomatoes, jarred anchovies, high quality olive oil, flavored vinegars, marinated artichokes, olives, capers, or dried porcini mushrooms

GIFT CERTIFICATES

Gift certificates for special items that a senior wouldn’t normally treat himself to can be a great present. While gift certificates to places or for services they normally use can be useful, and may be more appropriate for some people, bumping it up a notch can add an element of fun for the giver and the receiver.

• Gift certificate to a specialty store, deli, or take-out counter • Credit to spend at the hairdresser’s or a nail salon.

Homebound seniors appreciate a traveling professional — many salons offer home treatments.

• Spa services such as massage or facials. Again, many spas offer home service for an additional fee.

• Membership to a museum, which provides a year’s worth of free visits and outings • Tickets or subscriptions to the theater or symphony (along with a ride there and back!)

• Movie passes • Subscription to audio books or credit on an iTunes account

I.O.Us

Special outings, household chores, favorite meals — they all make great “gifts” when written down as a personalized gift certificate someone can redeem later in the year. Try to think of things that really are special. Some examples: • Major yard work like trimming hedges or mulching gardens • Major housework tasks such as painting a room, cleaning gutters, or organizing a closet • Chauffeur services, either a 10-pack for short trips or one big journey, perhaps to visit a friend or family member the person doesn’t get to see very often • A visit to a favorite restaurant together or a home-cooked meal of the person’s choice

34 Holiday Guide 2019

Home Care Assistance is a national leader in senior care.

They have certified caregivers who are available 24/7 to provide experienced, trustworthy care to help with meal preparation, companionship, activities, transportation, socialization, and specific Alzheimer’s care services. Visit www. homecareassistancecsprings.com for more information.

35 years of giving EMPTY STOCKING FUND:

T

By Patty Tomsky

he Empty Stocking Fund (ESF) started 35 years ago as a way to help children enjoy the holiday season by providing toys and clothes to families in need. In that first year we raised approximately $40,000 and helped 27 families. Now, ESF supports partner agencies to reach almost 300,000 vulnerable people each year in the Colorado Springs area. The mission statement says it well, “Empty Stocking Fund sparks the giving spirit of the Pikes Peak Region to benefit local non-profits serving neighbors in need.”

Twenty health and human service partner agencies will work with ESF this year to help the fund exceed the $1 million giving goal it has surpassed each of the past 10 years. Last year ESF raised the third highest amount in the campaign’s history — $1,206,371 — with over $21 million raised since its founding year of 1984.

The funds raised go to partner agencies that supply everything from rent and utilities to warm meals, shelter, transitional housing, health screenings, education, referrals and so much more.

These agencies work all year long to support people in crisis, while helping others achieve self-sufficiency.

“I am always humbled by the generosity of this community. As the need grows greater, so does the giving spirit. It is about compassion and recognizing that we will each, likely, have someone close to us impacted by one of these remarkable agencies at some point

in their lives,” said Gazette Charities Executive Director, Deb Mahan.

Matching partners make the dollars go even farther: Since 1997, El Pomar Foundation has matched $1 for every $3 up to $200,000 annually. Since 2000, The Bruni Foundation has matched $1 for every $10 raised up to $70,000. Supporting partners like The Gazette, Gazette Charities, El Pomar Foundation, Add Staff, Wells Fargo and Pikes Peak Community Foundation cover all administrative costs.

Therefore, ESF is able to ensure 100% of donations go directly to the agencies working to help our neighbors in need.

Local businesses partner to benefit ESF with the proceeds from special events throughout the campaign and year-round.

These community partners have included popular gathering place such as The Broadmoor and the Broadmoor World Arena, FH Beerworks, Axe and The Oak, Almagre, Promenade Shops at Briargate, as well as businesses such as Genesis Medspa and Signature Homes by Steve Scott.

Collective impact

Wondering where Empty Stocking Fund spends the money and how far it can go? $2,000 provides to weeks of healthcare services to homeless youth sheltered at The Place $200 covers eight hours of behavioral health for a child and family in crisis through CPCD $20 equals 150 meals via the Care and Share Food Bank of Southern Colorado $1 allows a military family a fun-filled day of fishing at Camp Shady Brook from YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region

• • • •

EMPTY STOCKING FUND PARTNER AGENCIES American Red Cross of Southeastern Colorado CPCD … giving children a head start Care and Share Food Bank of Southern Colorado Catholic Charities of Central Colorado Ecumenical Social Ministries Griffith Center for Children Chins Up The Home Front Cares Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains Mercy’s Gate Partners In Housing Peak Vista Community Health Centers Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care The Place — a former affiliate of Urban Peak The Resource Exchange The Salvation Army Silver Key Senior Services TESSA Tri- Lakes CARES Westside CARES YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region “The real impact of this campaign is in collaboration. Businesses, foundations, non-profits and individuals all working together to transform lives and therefore, the life of our community,” said Gazette President and Publisher Chris Reen.

Holiday Guide 2019 35

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