2014 The Best of the Springs - The Gazette - Colorado Springs

Page 1


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2 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

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the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 3


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the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 5


BEST OF

THE SPRINGS

THE GAZETTE LEADERSHIP TEAM PUBLISHER Dan Steever EDITOR Joe Hight

What do you love about Colorado Springs? More than 14,000 voters and several staff members weighed in with their picks for the tops in the Springs — everything from the best burger to the best place to celebrate a birthday to the outstanding people who make the Colorado Springs area a better place. And don’t forget to check out our online Best of the Springs at gazette.com/bestof or thebestofthesprings.com for an easy way to seek out the best.

MANAGING EDITOR Joanna Bean

DINING: Starts on Page 10 Whether you’re craving breakfast, burgers, beer or burritos, we’ve got you covered. And that’s just the B’s!

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Vicki Cederholm

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES AND MARKETING Brad Howard LOCAL SALES MANAGER Erik Carlson MARKETING MANAGER Rudy Vasquez

DIRECTOR OF IT AND DIGITAL Stephanie Weber

A&E: Starts on Page 56 Colorado Springs’ arts and entertainment scene is a rich one. Here are some of the local treasures.

BEST OF THE SPRINGS CREDITS WRITERS AND EXPERTS Tracy Mobley-Martinez Teresa J. Farney Jennifer Mulson David Sckolnik Linda Navarro Tom Roeder Leslie Massey Monica Mendoza Angelo Stambene Rebecca Celli

CITY LIFE: Starts on Page 74 Need a bank? A dentist? Doggie day care? Here’s the best of what the Springs has to offer. FAMILY: Starts on Page 118 From day care to teen hangouts to the best college for a master’s degree, it’s all about the family. SHOPPING: Starts on Page 132 For the bargain hunters to the fashionistas (not that you can’t be both) and everything in between.

PRESENTATION DIRECTOR Dena Rosenberry

SPORTS & REC: Starts on Page 146 Hike, bike, bowl, golf, ski: The Pikes Peak region has endless ways to have fun and be active.

ON THE COVER

COPY EDITORS Dena Rosenberry Josh Swearngin Bill Radford DESIGNERS Nichole Montanez David Demi-Smith PHOTOGRAPHERS Jeff Kearney Mark Reis Jerilee Bennett Carol Lawrence Christian Murdock Michael Ciaglo Mason Trinca ONLINE PRESENTATION Matt Andrews Tina Goheen

Cover by Nichole Montanez

6 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


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the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 7


INDEX

BEST OF THE SPRINGS

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

DINING

Begins on Page 10

CITY LIFE Begins on Page 74

Begins on Page 56

BARTENdER

REAdERS’ PICkS Al Fresco........................................14 Bakery............................................14 Bar..................................................14 Barbecue.......................................14 Bartender......................................14 BBQ Ribs.......................................14 Beer Selection.............................16 Breakfast.......................................16 Brew Pub......................................16 Brewery.........................................16 Buffet.............................................16 Burger............................................18 Burrito...........................................18 Business Lunch...........................18 Cajun.............................................18 Cake...............................................18 Candy Shop................................20 Casual Dining..............................20 Chef..............................................20 Caterer.........................................22 Cheesecake.................................22 Chinese.........................................22 Colorado Beer.............................22 Colorado Cuisine........................22 Deli................................................22 Dessert.........................................24 Diner..............................................24 Enchilada.....................................24 Fish Taco......................................24 Food with View...........................24 French..........................................26 French Onion Soup....................26 Fried Chicken..............................26 Fries..............................................26 Frozen Yogurt.............................28 German........................................28 Green Chili...................................28 Gluten-Free..................................30 Gyro..............................................30 Hot Dog.......................................30 Hawaiian.......................................31 Huevos Rancheros.....................31 Ice Cream....................................32 Indian............................................32

Irish...............................................32 Italian............................................32 Jamaican......................................32 Japanese......................................32 Korean..........................................34 Lasagna........................................34 Margarita.....................................34 Mexican........................................35 Middle Eastern/Greek...............35 Mobile Food................................35 New Restaurant (2013 or After)......................38 Night Club...................................38 Pad Thai.......................................38 Philly Cheesesteak....................38 Pho Bowl.....................................38 Pizza.............................................42 Prime Rib.....................................42 Red Chili......................................42 Restaurant after Midnight.......43 Restaurant for Anniversary Dinner......................................43 Restaurant for First Date........44 Restaurant for Kids..................44 Restaurant for Vegetarians....44 Restaurant Service...................44 Restaurant with Military Discount.................................48 Sandwich.....................................48 Seafood.......................................48 Spaghetti.....................................48 Sports Bar...................................50 Steak............................................50 Sunday Brunch..........................50 Sushi..............................................51 Sushi Roll......................................51 Subs..............................................52 Tamale..........................................52 Taqueria.......................................52 Tempura.......................................52 Thai...............................................52 Truffle...........................................52 Vietnamese.................................55 Wine List......................................55

ACTRESS

RElOCATION SPECIAlIST

REAdERS’ PICkS

REAdERS’ PICkS Artist......................................................60 Commercial Gallery............................60 Actor.......................................................62 Actress...................................................62 Play.........................................................62 Theater Company................................62 Dance Studio for Kids........................62 Dance Studio for Adults....................66 Fine Art Photographer.......................66 Local Band............................................68 Local Festival.......................................68 Mover-Shaker in the Arts..................68 Movie Theater.......................................70 Museum..................................................70 Museum Exhibit....................................70 Music Venue..........................................72 Musical....................................................72 Pianist.....................................................72 Nonprofit Arts Group.........................73

Acupuncturist.............................80 Ad Agency....................................80 Auction........................................80 B&B...............................................80 Bank..............................................82 Bar with Best Live Music..........82 Body Shop...................................86 Carwash.......................................86 Casino...........................................86 Chiropractor................................86 Cleaning Company.....................86 Dance Club..................................90 Day Spa........................................90 Dog Trainer..................................90 Doggie Day Care........................90 Dental Practice...........................92 Dentistry for Kids.......................92 Event DJ.......................................92 Electrician....................................93 Establishment to Watch the Broncos............................93 Financial Planner........................94 Fun Way to Support Charity.....94 Franchised Real Estate Office..95 Hair Salon.....................................95 Hauling Company.......................96 Home Builder...............................96 Hookah Bar..................................96 Hotel.............................................96 Impressive Outing for Out-of-Town Relatives..........96 Independent Real Estate Office........................................96 Karaoke Bar.................................98 Landscaper...................................98 Lawyer...........................................98 Massage Therapist...................100 Mechanic.....................................100 Medical Marijuana....................100

Medical Practice........................100 Mortgage Company..................100 Neighborhood............................100 Nonprofit.....................................100 Pediatric Practice.....................100 Person Who Makes a Difference...............................102 Personal Trainer........................103 Pet Boarding..............................103 Pet Groomer...............................103 Philanthropic Business............104 Physical Therapy Practice......104 Place to Play Pool.....................104 Place to Propose.......................105 Plumber.......................................105 Real Estate Relocation Specialist................................106 Radio Personalities...................106 Radio Sports Show...................108 Radio Station.............................108 Realtor...........................................110 Relocation Office........................110 Remodeling Company...............110 Retirement Home.......................110 Tattoo Parlor................................110 Tax Preparer................................110 Title Company.............................112 Trash Company............................112 TV Anchor....................................112 TV News Show.............................112 TV Sports Guy.............................112 TV Weather Anchor...................114 Vet Practice.................................114 Video Production.......................116 Volunteer......................................116 Wedding Cakes...........................116 Wedding Venue...........................116 Wedding Photographer.............117 Wedding Planner........................117

ExPERT PICkS:

ExPERT PICkS: Page 12

8 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

Pages 57, 58

ExPERT PICkS: Pages 75, 76


FAMILY

Begins on Page 118

SPORTS & REC

SHOPPING

Begins on Page 146

Begins on Page 132

bike shop

readers’ picks

After-School Program.......................120 Day Care Center..................................120 Preschool..............................................120 Elementary School............................120 Middle School......................................120 High School..........................................122 Home-School Program......................122 College for Associates.......................126 College for Bachelor’s or Master’s............................................126 Technical School.................................126 Arts Summer Camp...........................126 Bible Summer Camp..........................128 Summer Day Camp............................128 Teen Hangout......................................129 Family Fun Center...............................130 Place for Birthday Party...................130 Tutoring Program...............................130

Antiques...............................................134 Baby Shop............................................134 Children’s Clothing.............................134 Jeweler..................................................135 Beer Selection.....................................135 Liquor Store.........................................135 Wine Store...........................................136 Bike Shop.............................................136 Book Store...........................................136 Butcher..................................................136 Natural Meat Market..........................136 Eyeglasses............................................138 Car Dealer for Military Discounts...138 Car Dealer New...................................138 Car Dealer Used.................................140 Department Store..............................140 Florist....................................................140 Furniture Store....................................141 Hardware Store....................................141 Health Food Store...............................141 Hobby Shop..........................................141 Kitchen Store......................................142 Men’s Fashion......................................142 Women’s Fashion................................142 Mattress Store....................................143 New Store............................................143 Pet Store..............................................143 Plant Nursery......................................143 Place to Buy a Gun............................143 Place to Buy Ammo...........................143 Shopping Center.................................144 Spice Store..........................................144 Sporting Goods..................................144 Supermarket.......................................144 Thrift Store..........................................144 Toy Store..............................................144 Used Media..........................................144 Video Game Store..............................144

expert picks page 119

expert picks page 133

day care center

readers’ picks

ice rink readers’ picks Trail.......................................................148 Trail for Beginners.............................148 City Park..............................................148 Lunchtime or After Work Bike/Hike.........................................148 Mountain Bike Trail............................148 Urban Trail...........................................148 Hike with Little Ones.........................148 Bowling Alley.......................................148 Climbing Wall......................................148 High School Coach............................150 Colorado Campground......................150 Colorado Sports Mascot...................150 Golf Course..........................................150 Colorado Skiing....................................151 Gym........................................................151 Health Club..........................................152 Ice Rink.................................................152 Place to Skateboard...........................152 Martial Arts..........................................153 Pilates Yoga.........................................153 Skiing Shop..........................................153

expert picks page 147

INDEX

best oF the sprinGs

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 9


Eat

Chew on this: Top dining spots in the Colorado Springs area

gazette.com/bestof

10 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


TOP 2014

PIKES PEAK REGION’S

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

Is Your Realtor® a Peak Producer?

Alphie Hutmacher Coldwell Banker 719-232-8320

Brandon Renaud & Louis Torres The Innovative Group 719-749-1744

Candice Graham 8Z Real Estate 719-321-3455

Cheryl Pixley

RE/MAX Advantage 719-338-0117

Craig McConnell Avalar Real Estate 719-330-0695

Ann Heiring

Barbara Harris

RE/MAX Advantage 719-440-1010

Harris Group Realty 719-227-9900

Brian Boals

Brolin McConnell

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-459-9955

Caryn Becker

Century 21 Curbow Realty 719-233-2489

Chris Berisford

Bruce Betts

Avalar Real Estate 719-505-5432

RE/MAX Advantage 719-338-1011

Casey Clark

Charissa Turnbull & Judy Ankeney

Clark & Associates 719-649-6271

Chris Cowles

Cherry Creek Properties 719-331-3414

The Platinum Group 719-332-7507

Craig O’Boyle

Cristina Delacruz

O’Boyle Real Estate Group 719-576-7373

Barry Boals

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-290-8500

RE/MAX Advantage 719-201-3926

RE/MAX Advantage 719-377-2090

Chris Watson

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-233-7653

Darrell Wass

RE/MAX Advantage 719-216-2165

Becky Gloriod

Berkshire Hathaway 719-229-9777

Bryan Seale

Berkshire Hathaway 719-235-0036

Charles D’Alessio

Benjamin Day

The Platinum Group 719-599-3451

Bryan Vail

Camellia Coray

Cheri Lesiak

Cherise Selley

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-330-8010

Synergy Realty Group 719-660-5223

Keller Williams Partners 719-209-5439

Christy Dunfee

Cindy Constantino

Keller Williams Partners 719-233-2208

Dave Kaercher

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-331-5307

Bobbi Price

Selley Group 719-331-9170

Berkshire Hathaway 719-440-0122

Debbie Reardon

The Platinum Group 719-499-4767

Coldwell Banker 719-359-0014

Selley Group 719-337-9779

Cindy O’Leary

O’Leary Properties 719-322-8133

Derek Wagner

Keller Williams Partners 719-434-7525

Learn More About Us At: w w w. T h e P e a k P r o d u c e r s . c o m

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 11


DINING: EXPERT PICKS

GAZETTE.COM/BESTOF

BY TERESA J. FARNEY GAZETTE FOOD EDITOR

OUT OF AFRICA DORO WAT AT UCHENNA ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT 2501 W. Colorado Ave., Suite 105, 634-5070, uchennaalive.com

If you’re new to Ethiopian cuisine, brace yourself for an exciting adventure exploring new combinations of flavors. Be forewarned, though: You eat with your hands using pieces of injera (a crepelike bread made with tiff, a grain that is ground into flour) as utensils. Doro Wat chicken is the national dish of Ethiopia and a good starting point to acquaint yourself with the wonders of African food. The dish starts with whole chicken legs braised to fall-off-the-bone tenderness, bathed in a sauce made of 12 secret berbere spices, onion, garlic and fresh ginger, and finished with awaze sauce (a condiment made with awaze powder, water and olive oil). The crowning glory is a hard-boiled egg nestled in the sauce. Comes with Misser Alecha (split green lentils with ginger and spices) ($13).

LATIN BEAT LOMO SANDWICH AT DOGTOOTH COFFEE CO. 505 E. Columbia St., 632-0125, dogtoothcoffee.com

Owner Luis Pagan brings a taste of Peru to his coffee shop, including his signature Lomo sandwich. It’s top sirloin strips sauteed with onions and tomatoes that have been seasoned with red wine vinegar and soy sauce. The mixture is piled on a toasted ciabatta roll with fries ($6.25).

SWEET TREAT COCONUT DARK CHOCOLATE MACAROONS AT RICO’S CAFE AND WINE BAR

OuT OF AFriCA: dOrO wAT AT uChEnnA EThiOpiAn rESTAurAnT JEFF KEArnEY

3221/2 N. Tejon St., 630-7723, poorrichardsdowntown.com

Move over French macarons and make room for Rico’s macaroons — and expect them to be made of sweet, chewy coconut balls of goodness. Thank goodness for these gooey treats made even better because half of each ball is coated in dark chocolate ($1.75).

APPLE UPSET TARTE TATIN AT LE BISTRO

BACON LOVE

1015 W. Colorado Ave., 634-0400, lebistrocs.com

BACON JAM BURGER AT BROTHER LUCK STREET EAT

Henri Chapéront, owner and chef of this charming eatery, makes all the food from scratch, including the desserts. The tarte tatin is the gold standard — a flaky, buttery pastry topped with glistening caramelized apple slices. He finishes the dish with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a shower of confectioner’s sugar ($6).

26 S. Wahsatch St., 213-3706, create719.com

It’s a multinapkin, delicious mess, starting with a soft, buttery brioche bun smeared with a thick layer of homemade bacon jam that’s topped with a perfectly cooked-to-order 6-ounce patty of Callicrate beef. The top bun is spread with homemade pickle basil aioli. Bacon jam is Luck’s creation of caramelized onions with crispy bacon simmered in red wine, brown sugar and molasses. Crispy fries come with spicy Sriracha ketchup, also whipped up in the kitchen ($10).

APPLE UPSET: TARTE TATIN AT LE BISTRO 12 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

JEFF KEARNEY


TOP 2014

PIKES PEAK REGION’S

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

Is Your Realtor® a Peak Producer?

Donna Andersen

Donna Hilderbrand

Jade Baker

Jason Roshek

Jeremy Isaac

JoAnn Gadkowski

The Platinum Group 719-481-1900

The Platinum Group 719-201-6749

RE/MAX Properties 719-231-9043

Kevin Basinger

RE/MAX Properties 719-650-7600

Coldwell Banker 719-687-1534

Berkshire Hathaway 719-339-8909

Kevin Hart

Dzelal Hrustanovic

Elizabeth Palmer

Jean Wheaton

Jeanine Alexander

Reunion Homes 719-499-5110

RE/MAX Properties 719-536-4581

Jodi Bohenna

Keller Williams Clients Choice 719-761-1545

Kevin Patterson

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-306-5005

Pinnacle Real Estate 719-352-5559

The Patterson Group 719-575-1200

Laura Owens

Lauren Stadjuhar

Lenore Hotchkiss

Saddle Up Realty 719-748-1212

ERA Herman Group 719-761-0702

Lenore Hotchkiss 719-359-1340

Coldwell Banker 719-650-4158

Gytha Hinkle

Keller Williams Partners 719-388-9405

Jeff Boals

Coldwell Banker 719-964-6801

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-460-5050

Jody Heffner

Karen Bluemel

The Platinum Group 719-331-6240

Kim Carper

The Platinum Group 719-238-1734

Linda Lafferty

The Platinim Group 719-955-8590

Harry Salzman

Salzman Real Estate 719-598-3200

Jeffrey Piggot

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-210-8433

Karl Hinkle

KBlue Homes 719-650-7452

Keller Williams Partners 719-357-5136

Kim Rossbach

Kimberly Hunstiger

RE/MAX Properties 719-330-3277

Liz Snow

Red Rock Realty 719-661-9614

Irene Tanis

RE/MAX Performance 719-332-0056

Jennifer Erdley

RE/MAX Performance 719-339-4583

Kenton Carew

Bennett-Shellenberger Realty 719-491-0897

Larry Becht

RE/MAX Advantage 719-648-2078

Main Street Real Estate Group 719-200-9005

Lori Thompson

Margi Barrutia

RE/MAX Properties 719-332-1807

ERA Shields 719-238-1006

Learn More About Us At: w w w. T h e P e a k P r o d u c e r s . c o m

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 13


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

AL FRESCO GOLD: THE MARGARITA AT PINE CREEK 7350 Pine Creek Road, 598-8667, margaritaatpinecreek.com

Patios surround the restaurant and offer spectacular views of the Front Range highlighted by the stunning Pikes Peak. Friday finds the patios mobbed with customers when movies are shown at dusk. SILVER: MARCO’S PIZZA BRONZE: TIE, 2 SOUTH FOOD + WINE BAR AND AMANDA’S FONDA

BAKERY GOLD: BOONZAAIJER’S DUTCH BAKERY 610 E. Fillmore St., 264-0177, dutchpastry.com

Always a favorite for sweet treats, the bakery is now in a larger facility where it has increased production of pastries, breads, pies and cakes. A reader said, “Boonzaaijer’s bakery — always friendly and has the best cannolis!” SILVER: MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY BRONZE: LA BAGUETTE

BAR GOLD: GOLDEN BEE The Broadmoor, 1 Lake Ave., 577-5776, broadmoor.com/golden-bee

The pub has recently had a big ticket makeover that increased the seating but kept the charm of the authentic 19th-century English pub. Menu includes The Bee’s famous fish and chips, yards of ale and British fare. SILVER: SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY’S BRONZE: TONY’S DOWNTOWN BAR

BARBECUE GOLD: BIRD DOG BBQ Multiple locations, birddogbbq.com

Here is the place to go for Oklahoma-style ’que smoked with oak for a mild flavor. A reader says, “The best BBQ sauce ever.” SILVER: RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE AND BAR-B-Q BRONZE: FRONT RANGE BBQ

BARTENDER GOLD: CRAIG WILSON, THE FAMOUS, A STEAKHOUSE 31 N. Tejon St., 227-7333, thefamoussteakhouse.net

Wilson has been shaking drinks at The Famous for 81/2 years . His most popular cocktail recently is the Pepper Blossom, which features vodka, elderflower liqueur, fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice and a hint of heat from fresh jalapeño peppers shaken with the cocktail before serving. A spring cocktail menu is in the works. SILVER: DAVE BAUMGARTNER, ZODIAC BRONZE: JEREMY LEMOINE, THE MELTING POT — A FONDUE RESTAURANT

bartender: craig wilson, the famous, a steakhouse Jeff kearneY

BBQ RIBS GOLD: BIRD DOG BBQ Multiple locations, birddogbbq.com

“Their ribs continue to be truly awesome. There’s good reason why they’ve won so many times,” a reader says. SILVER: FAMOUS DAVE’S BRONZE: RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE AND BAR-B-Q

14 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


TOP 2014

PIKES PEAK REGION’S

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

Is Your Realtor® a Peak Producer?

Mariana Wagner

Keller Williams Partners 719-650-3952

Nancy Wile

Marie Sweetland

Mark McWilliams

Pam Palone

Pamela Keller

Equity Colorado Real Estate 719-963-0616

EPIC Real Estate Group 719-229-4596

RE/MAX Properties 719-660-6637

Sharon Roshek

Shawn Keehn

Coldwell Banker 719-687-1530

Tamara San Agustin San Agustin Realty 719-339-8832

Coldwell Banker 719-439-1651

RE/MAX Properties 719-237-6455

Keller Homes 719-499-4302

Shelley Pelle

The Platinum Group 719-482-4443

Tami Belsey

RE/MAX Properties 719-332-2225

Tina Swonger

RE/MAX Properties 719-229-2153

Mike MacGuire

Monica Breckenridge

Rachel Buller

Randy Deming

The Platinum Group 719-536-4324

Manitou Springs Real Estate 719-238-2979

Stacy Kibler

Keller Williams Partners 719-440-1145

Todd Hawker

Action Team Realty 719-492-4580

Pink Realty 719-393-7465

Campbell Homes 719-266-9780

Stephanie Tanis

RE/MAX Performance 719-687-4725

Todd McLain

The Platinum Group 719-290-6734

Monica Sharp

Keller Williams Partners 719-659-2613

Nancy Rusinak

Rusinak Real Estate 719-590-6110

Scott Huger

Scott Hunt

Nicholas Scott Real Estate 719-659-2630

Keynote Realty 719-491-4014

Sue Myers

Sumer Liebold

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-209-0364

Tom Downing

The Platinum Group 719-291-5874

8Z Real Estate 719-375-9015

Tom Pederson

Premier Real Estate Group 719-360-6159

Established by...

Tom Yukman

ERA Herman Group 719-338-9319

Teasure Davis

RE/MAX Properties 719-201-6778

Vicki Maloney

Keller Williams Partners 719-510-8824

Vicki Westapher

RE/MAX Properties 719-440-0514

Title

Learn More About Us At: w w w. T h e P e a k P r o d u c e r s . c o m

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 15


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

BREw puB: phantom canyon BREwing co. chRiStian muRDocK, thE gaZEttE

BEER SELECTION

BREWERY

GOLD: OLD CHICAGO PIZZA AND TAPROOM

GOLD: BRISTOL BREWING CO.

Multiple locations, oldchicago.com

This sports-bar chain has more than 100 microbrews with many other mainstream beers on tap. The regular beer tours are a fun way to try many new brews. SILVER: BRISTOL BREWING CO. BRONZE: TRINITY BREWING CO.

BREAKFAST GOLD: OMELETTE PARLOR 900 E. Fillmore St., 633-7770, co-spgs-omeletteparlor.com

A homey spot with good food, friendly service and long lines, if you get there at the wrong time on a Sunday. The made-to-order omelets make this a favorite breakfast spot for locals and visitors. SILVER: ADAM’S MOUNTAIN CAFE BRONZE: OVER EASY, A DAYTIME EATERY

BREW PUB GOLD: PHANTOM CANYON BREWING CO. 2 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 635-2800, phantomcanyon.com

This is one of the city’s most popular brewpubs, with top-notch beer and very good food. SILVER: COLORADO MOUNTAIN BREWERY BRONZE: TRINITY BREWING CO.

BuffET: TUCANOS BRAzILIAN GRILL JEFF KEARNEY

16 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

1604 S. Cascade Ave., 633-2555, bristolbrewing.com

With a recent move to a bigger location, the brewery continues to turn out award-winning suds but in larger production. That’s why readers say things like: “Ivywild (School, the new location) is the best new hangout in the Springs. Bristol Brewery is fantastic and Beehive is my favorite beer.” SILVER: COLORADO MOUNTAIN BREWERY BRONZE: PIKES PEAK BREWING CO.

BUFFET GOLD: TuCANOS BRAZILIAN GRILL 3294 Cinema Point, 597-3800, tucanos.com/colorado-springs

The extensive buffet features churrasco (pronounced shoe-HASko), Brazilian-style dining: Fresh meats and vegetables are grilled and brought to your table on swords by servers. Watch out for the salad bar, which is stocked with a wide selection of fresh produce. You can fill up there before you ever see a single skewer. SILVER: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN RESORT BRONZE: GOLDEN CORRAL


Friendliest Pub in rockrimmon! Come in as a stranger and leave as a Friend!!

Thank you for voting for us in the Best of the Springs!

806 Village Center Drive

(Rockrimmon- Corner of Rockrimmon Blvd. and Vindicator)

598-4100 • www.wyattspub.com

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 17


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

BURGER GOLD: RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS & BREWS Multiple locations, redrobin.com

Burgers of all sorts and sizes are served in a family-friendly environment. SILVER: SMASHBURGER BRONZE: FIVE GUYS BURGERS AND FRIES

BURRITO GOLD: CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL Multiple locations, chipotle.com

The chain that put the name of a pepper on the culinary map is popular for the huge burritos it prepares according to your fancy. SILVER: EL TACO REY BRONZE: SALSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL

BUSINESS LUNCH GOLD: MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY 4605 Centennial Blvd., 599-4776, marigoldcoloradosprings.com

The well-priced continental cuisine served here is always prepared to perfection. And the sweet ending from the bakery case makes this café a destination. SILVER: MACKENZIE’S CHOP HOUSE RESTAURANT BRONZE: SONTERRA INNOVATIVE SOUTHWEST GRILL

CAJUN GOLD: SPRINGS ORLEANS 123 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 520-0123, springsorleans.com

This eatery is quickly becoming the best place to be for New Orleans-style food if you can’t actually be in the Big Easy. And on some evenings, you can hear live music. A reader says, “The Springs Orleans has the best Cajun breakfast in town.” SILVER: NAWLINS BAR B Q & CAJUN CUISINE BRONZE: CULPEPPER’S CAJUN KITCHEN

CAKE GOLD: MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY 4605 Centennial Blvd., 599-4776, marigoldcoloradosprings.com

CAjUN: SPRINGS ORLEANS

JEFF KEARNEY

“A friend brought over a chocolate cake from Marigold’s and I thought I’d died and gone to heaven,” a voter wrote. SILVER: BOONZAAIJER’S DUTCH BAKERY BRONZE: LITTLE LONDON CAKE SHOPPE

BURRITO: CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL 18 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE


kids eat free

every Sunday

o Free Ice Cream every Day! 1466 garden of the gods rd. Colorado springs, co

719.623.4007 4146 austin bluffs pkwy. Colorado springs, co

slow smoked. served fast!

z dine-in z Take-out z catering z

719.593.5039 ©2014 Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. One free Kid’s Meal per paid adult meal of equal or greater value. 12 and under. Dine-in only. Must order from Kids’ Meals. Not valid with other offers. Free ice cream with dine-in purchase only.

It’s not that far away … Key Dates:

Best of the springs Nominations 2015 Nominations taken October 3 – November 2, 2014 Nominate your favorites for each category. Up to the top ten nominations will make the Best of the Springs Ballot.*

Best of the springs 2015 Voting

January 2 – February 15, 2015

2 0 1 5

Complete your ballot to determine the winners for 2015. *A nominee must receive a minimum of three nominations to be considered. Up to ten nominations will make the ballot except in certain tie-breaker situations.

Nominations and voting will take place at gazette.com/bestof.

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 19


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

CANDY SHOP: ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY

JEFF KEARNEY

CANDY SHOP GOLD: ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY Multiple locations, rockymountainchocolatefactory.com

The candy shop chain is always bustling with customers eager to try the freshly made fudge. And it’s worth standing in line for any of the sweets here. SILVER: PATSY’S CANDIES BRONZE: SEE’S CANDY

CASUAL DINING GOLD: BJ’S RESTAURANT AND BREWHOUSE 5150 N. Nevada Ave., 268-0505, bjsrestaurants.com

This in-house brewery is great for flatbread pizzas and offers a gluten-free menu. SILVER: TEXAS ROADHOUSE BRONZE: SALSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL

CHEF GOLD: ERIC VIEDT, THE MARGARITA AT PINE CREEK 7350 Pine Creek Road, 598-8667, margaritaatpinecreek.com

Eric Viedt has become the chef to look to for innovative, exciting dishes that wow your taste buds. His cooking classes are among the most popular in town and sell out as soon as they are scheduled. SILVER: BERTRAND BOUQUIN, THE BROADMOOR BRONZE: (TIE) BRIAN SACK, THE FAMOUS, A STEAKHOUSE; LAWRENCE “CHIP” JOHNSON, THE WAREHOUSE RESTAURANT AND GALLERY

chef: eric viedt, the margarita at pine creek Jeff kearneY

20 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


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233 E Bennett Ave ~ Cripple Creek ~ 719-689-2142 BroncoBillysCasino.com the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 21


DINING: READERS’ PICKS CHEESECAKE: MARIGOLD CAFé AND BAKERY JEFF KEARNEY

CATERER

COLORADO BEER

GOLD: PICNIC BASKET

GOLD: FAT TIRE, NEW BELGIuM BREWING

1701 S. 8th St., 635-0200, bestcaterer.net

The catering company is a combination of three businesses: Picnic Basket, Buffalo Gals and Cravings. All three are perennial winners for their great food and excellent service.

500 Linden St., Fort Collins, 1-970-221-0524, newbelgium.com

SILVER: GARDEN OF THE GODS GOURMET BRONZE: BUFFALO GALS

SILVER: LAUGHING LAB, BRISTOL BREWING CO. BRONZE: BEEHIVE HONEY WHEAT, BRISTOL BREWING CO.

Fat Tire won fans with its balance: toasty, biscuit-like malt flavors with hoppy freshness.

CHEESECAKE

DELI

GOLD: MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY 4605 Centennial Blvd., 599-4776, marigoldcoloradosprings.com

With a French-trained pastry chef, it’s no wonder you can get fantastic cheesecake at this café. SILVER: THE MELTING POT — A FONDUE RESTAURANT BRONZE: THE FAMOUS, A STEAKHOUSE

CHINESE

COLORADO CuISINE: THE CRAFTWOOD INN COURTESY PHOTO

COLORADO CUISINE GOLD: THE CRAFTWOOD INN

GOLD: P.F. CHANG’S

404 El Paso Blvd., Manitou Springs, 685-9000, craftwood.com

1725 Briargate Parkway, 593-8580, pfchangs.com

Owners of this popular eatery that was a legendary landmark in Manitou Springs sadly closed its doors in March. Readers overwhelmingly voted this place as the go-to for Colorado cuisine.

This is a favorite upscale Chinese chain. And for good reason: It uses fresh ingredients prepared in flavorful fusion style. A voter wrote, “You can dine without spending a fortune!”

SILVER: COLORADO MOUNTAIN BREWERY BRONZE: WINES OF COLORADO

SILVER: COAL MINE DRAGON CHINESE RESTAURANT BRONZE: SILVER POND CHINESE GOURMET

22 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

GOLD: MOLLICA’S ITALIAN MARKET & DELI 985 Garden Of The Gods Road, 598-1088, mollicasitalianmarket.com

A fixture in the Springs since 1987, serving classic homemade Italian fare. The family-owned eatery is also a mini-grocery store where you can find imported Italian foods. SILVER: WOOGLIN’S DELI BRONZE: JASON’S DELI


Colorado’s Hometown Grocery Store Since 1947

COME SEE WHAT WE HAVE TO OFFER s USDA Choice Beef s Full Service Fresh Meat & Seafood s Natural & Organic Produce and Grocery Items s Full Service Deli s Boar’s Head Meat & Cheese at Select Stores s Irresistible Desserts & Breads in Our Bakery s Full Service Floral with FTD s Starbucks at Select Stores s Fast, Friendly Checkout s Convenient, Fast, Full-Service Pharmacy for All Your Prescription Needs s Fuel Centers at Select King Soopers, City Market and Loaf N’ Jug Stores* 1750 W. Uintah 80904* 6930 N. Academy Blvd. 80918 815 Cheyenne Meadows 80906 3570 Hartsel Drive 80920* 1070 W. Baptist Rd 80921

(719) 636-5043 (719) 598-5177 (719) 527-1590 (719) 590-1099 (719) 488-2955

6030 Stetson Hills Blvd 80922* 2910 S. Academy Blvd 80916* 9225 N. Union Blvd. 80920* 3620 Austin Bluffs Pkwy 80918* 3250 Centennial Blvd. 80907*

*at selec

t stores

(719) 591-7043 (719) 393-9622 (719) 522-2200 (719) 598-1891 (719) 866-6645

BANNER OF STORES

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 23


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

dessert: marigold caFé and bakery tHe gaZette

DESSERT

ENCHILADA

FOOD WITH VIEW

GOLD: MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY

GOLD: AMANDA’S FONDA

4605 Centennial Blvd., 599-4776, marigoldcoloradosprings.com

3625 W. Colorado Ave., 227-1975; 8050 N. Academy Blvd., 266-6680; amandasfonda.com

GOLD: THE SUNBIRD MOUNTAIN GRILL & TAVERN

With co-owner Elaine Chavanon having trained with the likes of renowned pastry chef Paul Bocuse, it’s no surprise she turns out award-winning sweets. SILVER: MELTING POT — A FONDUE RESTAURANT BRONZE: VILLAGE INN

DINER GOLD: KING’S CHEF DINER 110 E. Costilla St., 634-9135; 131 E. Bijou St., 636-5010, kingschefdiner.com

Here you can get great standard enchiladas or fancier versions, such as spinach and mushroom or seafood. “Having two locations makes us happy,” one voter said. SILVER: SALSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL BRONZE: EL TACO REY

FISH TACO GOLD: BONEFISH GRILL

Here is the place for a late-night bar-hopping breakfast to a business lunch, serving home-style dining that doesn’t cheat on taste. And when the waitress says the green chili is delicious but hot, believe her.

5102 N. Nevada Ave., 598-0826, bonefishgrill.com

SILVER: GUNTHER TOODY’S BRONZE: SHELDON’S LUNCHEONETTE

SILVER: SALSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL BRONZE: HACIENDA COLORADO

No wonder one reader said, “I love their fish tacos.” The tacos served here play on a fusion theme — the café’s signature spicy Bang Bang shrimp in one and another with a Cajun flair.

24 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

230 Point of the Pines Drive, 598-8990, thesunbird.com

You could not ask for a more stunning view than the one from this restaurant perched atop a rock formation overlooking the plains to the east. It’s the perfect spot to be above it all and enjoy a glass of bubbly at Sunday brunch or a relaxing dinner. SILVER: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN RESORT BRONZE: THE PEPPER TREE


3 YEARS IN A ROW!

THANK YOU

COLORADO SPRINGS Stetson Hills and Powers Research and Union W. Uintah and 19th St. Mesa Ridge Parkway Citadel Crossing - Galley and Academy

WWW.YOYOGURTUSA.COM

First 2oz. FREE! LIMIT ONE PER HOUSEHOLD. VALID AT COLORADO SPRINGS LOCATIONS ONLY. OFFER EXPIRES 05-31-14.

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 25


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

FRENCH ONION SOUP: LA BAGUETTE JEFF KEARNEY

FRENCH GOLD: LA BAGUETTE Multiple locations, labaguette-co.com

Here the food is French through and through, served in a relaxing environment. The artisan bread is worth the trip. SILVER: MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY BRONZE: LA TARTINE

FRENCH ONION SOUP GOLD: LA BAGUETTE

FRIES: FIvE guyS buRgERS and FRIES

Multiple locations, labaguette-co.com

JEFF KEaRnEy

One reader summed it up by saying, “Sometimes I dream about La Baguette’s French onion soup’s gooey cheesy oniony deliciousness.” SILVER: MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY BRONZE: MIMI’S CAFÉ

FRIED CHICKEN

FRIES

GOLD: POPEYES LOUISIANA KITCHEN

GOLD: FIVE GUYS BURGERS AND FRIES

Multiple locations, popeyes.com

How can you dispute what this reader said: “Fired chicken at Popeyes is great. Love that delicious taste and it’s cheap! What more can you ask for?” SILVER: JUNIPER VALLEY RANCH BRONZE: KENTUCKY FRIED CHICKEN

26 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

7252 N. Academy Blvd., 264-6400, fiveguys.com

Credit the peanut oil for the crispy fries that draw repeat customers. SILVER: RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS & BREWS BRONZE: SMASHBURGER


2014

DENVER MATTRESS

Is Honored To Be Voted...

BEST OF THE SPRINGS!

Denver Mattress and the stores at Furniture Row strive to give their customers a unique shopping experience. Each store has a Highly Trained Staff of Specialists, a Great Selection of the Latest Styles of Quality Merchandise, a 200% Guaranteed Lowest Price Pledge and Extended No Interest Financing Options, which all adds up to give you the Value you deserve. We may have over 330 stores in 31 different states, but we’re most proud of this one---right here in The Springs. Home Is Here. And We’re Happy You Agree.

6310 Corporate Center Circle (West of I-25 & South of Woodmen)

719.266.8383 FurnitureRow.com the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 27


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

green chili: king’s chef diner Jeff keArneY

FROZEN YOGURT GOLD: YO YOGURT Multiple locations, yoyogurtusa.com

This locally owned, family-run operation takes great pride in its frozen yogurt, and it has paid off. SILVER: I TOP IT BRONZE: LULU’S FROZEN YOGURT

GREEN CHILI GOLD: KING’S CHEF DINER 110 E Costilla St., 634-9135; 131 E. Bijou St., 636-5010; kingschefdiner.com

The King is famous for the tongue-searing green chili served here, but you can also order the bowl of green on the slightly milder side. SILVER: EL TACO REY BRONZE: WESTERN OMELETTE

GERmaN: EdELWEISS GERMAN RESTAURANT

JEFF KEaRNEY

GERMAN GOLD: EDELWEISS GERmaN RESTaURaNT 34 E. Ramona Ave., 633-2220, edelweissrest.com

This is a family-run business brimming with employees who mostly speak German. The food is authentic and plentiful. SILVER: UWE’S BRONZE: SCHNITZEL FRITZ

28 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


We’ve hit the jackpot with fans like you!

Thank You For Voting! Wildwood Casino The “Best of the Springs” 2014! To all who voted us The “Best of the Springs” in 2014: thank you! Thank you for winning big on hundreds of the hottest slots and our 24-hour table games. Thanks for dining like a winner and staying close to the action at our relaxing hotel. And most of all, thank you for making Wildwood Casino the BEST place to Play Wild & Live the Action!

Play Wild. Live the Action. Your First Choice is the First Casino on the Right in Cripple Creek, CO Open 24/7 • 719-244-9700 • PlayWildwood.com • Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-522-4700. ©2014 Wildwood Casino

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 29


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

GLUTEN-FREE GOLD: COQUETTE’S BISTRO AND BAKERY 915 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-2420, coquettesbistroandbakery.com

One of the first totally gluten-free eateries, but even if you’re not gluten-free, you’ll find the food delicious. SILVER: SALSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL BRONZE: TAPATERIA

GYRO GOLD: JAKE & TELLY’S GREEK TAVERNA 2616 W. Colorado Ave., 633-0406, jakeandtellys.com

The gyros plate is big and plentiful, served in a colorful dining room that will make you think you are in Athens. SILVER: HEART OF JERUSALEM CAFE BRONZE: MEDITERRANEAN CAFE

HOT DOG GOLD: MARGO’S VIENNA STATION 3442 W. Colorado Ave., 630-7453

Margo’s is a perennial winner, serving up pure Vienna beef hot dogs flown in from Chicago. Add fresh toppings with house-made green and red chili sauces and you have something to howl about. SILVER: COSTCO BRONZE: SONIC

gyro: jake & telly’s greek taverna jeFF kearney

30 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

HAWAIIAN GOLD: L&L HAWAIIAN BBQ

hawaiian: L&L hawaiian BBQ

5850 Barnes Road, 570-1888, hawaiianbarbecue.com

ThE GaZETTE

At this eatery, you’ll get as good a Hawaiian fix as you can in landlocked Colorado. Think “plate lunch,” kalua pork and, of course, grilled Spam sushi. SILVER: LA’AU’S TACO SHOP

HUEVOS RANCHEROS GOLD: ADAM’S MOUNTAIN CAFE 934 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1430, adamsmountain.com

At Adam’s, we’re not talking about everyday huevos. You get a whole-wheat tortilla smothered with refried and black beans, vegetarian New Mexican green chili, two over-medium eggs and white cheddar, garnished with fresh sliced avocado, sliced tomato, sour cream and scallions. SILVER: KING’S CHEF DINER BRONZE: OVER EASY, A DAYTIME EATERY

Look for our newest store at Stetson Hills/Powers

600+ carefully selected, unique, and hard to find wines from around the world. 80+ wines at 6 for $60 mix and match! We feature everything from casual table wine to collectible cellar bottles! Weekly Wine Tastings!

Proudly serving the Colorado Springs Community since 1979

5903 Delmonico Dr.

719-439-WINE

www.thewinegalleryco.com

Visit any of our five conveniently located stores for all of your home improvement needs:

1225 N. Circle Drive 2300 N. Wahsatch Ave. 3640 Austin Bluffs Parkway 4201 Centennial Blvd. 5944 Stetson Hills Blvd. Visit us online at www.acecoloradosprings.com

2014

2014

Gift cards perfect for the wine, ale, and spirit lovers in your life!

Thank you Colorado Springs for making Ace Hardware one of your Best!

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 31


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

ICE CREAM GOLD: JOSH & JOHN’S NATURALLY HOMEMADE ICE CREAMS 111 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 632-0299, joshandjohns.com

“Josh & John’s creates delicious ice cream,” a voter said. “I respect this business because one of the owners is also a wonderful high school math teacher. He goes above and beyond in teaching & ice cream.” Nuf said. SILVER: OLD COLORADO CITY CREAMERY BRONZE: COLDSTONE CREAMERY

INDIAN GOLD: LITTLE NEPAL INDIAN RESTAURANT & BAR 1747 S. 8th St., 477-6997; 4820 Flintridge Drive, 598-3428; lnepal.com

At this Indian restaurant, you can get delicious curries and other Indian dishes prepared as mild or hot as you like, even Indian hot, meaning using almost a cup of red cayenne pepper. SILVER: MIRCH MASALA BRONZE: TASTE OF INDIA

IRISH GOLD: JACK QUINN IRISH ALEHOUSE AND PUB 21 S. Tejon St., 385-0766, jackquinnspub.com

You’ll be blessed with the luck of the Irish dining at this quaint Irish pub where a full menu of dishes from the Emerald Isle is served. SILVER: MCCABE’S TAVERN BRONZE: MCGINTY’S WOOD OVEN PUB

ITALIAN GOLD: PARAVICINI’S ITALIAN BISTRO 2802 W. Colorado Ave., 471-8200, paravicinis.com

American-style Italian food doesn’t get much better than at Paravicini’s. Plan on getting to-go boxes for the extras you won’t be able to eat. SILVER: CARRABA’S ITALIAN GRILL BRONZE: BIAGGI’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO

JAMAICAN GOLD: SPICE ISLAND GRILL

IndIan: lIttle nepal IndIan restaurant & bar JeFF KearneY

10 N. Sierra Madre St., 473-8280, spiceislandgrill.com

This family-owned spot has a lot to love about the authentic Jamaican fare and the fun vibe. SILVER: RASTA PASTA BRONZE: JAMAICAN FLAVOR

JAPANESE GOLD: JUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT 3276 Centennial Blvd., 227-8690; 1760 Dublin Blvd., 531-9368; jun-japanese.com

Jun is one of the first places to serve sushi and still a favorite for raw fish fans in town. The Dublin spot features noodle dishes, and the Centennial site, which is bigger, has teppan tables where food becomes entertainment. SILVER: A1 SUSHI & GRILL BRONZE: FUJIYAMA

32 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

ItalIan: paravIcInI’s ItalIan bIstro JeFF KearneY


Families taking care of families Bryce, Home Health Client Since 2003

R E S TA U R A N T

&

TA P H O U S E

Experience

The True Taste of

Colorado

House

VIEWS

AMAZING

“I’ve learned how to cook, I’ve learned how to drive, how to maneuver around barriers in life. If it wasn’t for The Independence Center, I probably wouldn’t have the opportunities that I have now. I was taught you can do things if you just put your mind to it and keep trying.”

C Mountain Brewery

Crafted

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GREAT FOOD Join the CMB eClub at cmbrew.com

for rewards and special offers!

Client-Directed Care The Independence Center promotes independence and provides resources and information on home health to support families taking care of their loved ones in their homes.

A Nonprofit Organization

Visit us at either of our two locations!

InterQuest Marketplace 1110 InterQuest Pkwy Colorado Springs, CO 80921

(719) 434-5750

Roundhouse

729 South Tejon Street Colorado Springs, CO 80903 719-471-8181 ext.107 theindependencecenter.org

600 S. 21st St. Colorado Springs, CO 80903

(719) 466-8240

www.cmbrew.com the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 33


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

margarita: the loop at manitou JeFF KeaRneY

KoRean gOLD: SaN CHaNg HOUSE 3659 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 598-1707

This Korean place has old-school Seoul dishes offered from mild to spicy. SiLVEr: tonG tonG KoRean ReStauRant BrONZE: happY time KoRean ReStauRant

laSaGna gOLD: ParaViCiNi’S itaLiaN BiStrO 2802 W Colorado Ave., 471-8200, paravicinis.com

At this eatery, you’ll get a molten dish of pasta layered with beef, spinach, mozzarella, tomato sauce and ricotta cheese that will be enough for two meals. Entrees come with salad and fresh, hot bread. SiLVEr: Roman Villa piZZa BrONZE: luiGi’S ReStauRant

maRGaRita gOLD: tHE LOOP at maNitOU 965 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-9344, theloopatmanitou.com

The Loop has a margarita menu with 16 versions from which to choose. But it’s the classic that keeps people coming back for another fix. SiLVEr: JoSe mulDoon’S BrONZE: SalSa BRaVa FReSh meXiCan GRill

34 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

In The Heart Of Historic Old Colorado City Ask for our extensive

gluten-Free menu! early Bird SpecialS 6-8:30am • Weekdays only French Toast & Bacon 2 Eggs, Hash Browns & Toast middle eastern/greek: heart of jerusalem café jeff KearNeY

meXIcaN gOld: salsa BraVa FresH meXiCan grill 9420 Briar Village Point, 955-6650; 802 Village Center Drive, 266-9244; salsabravacolorado.com.

Mexican food kicked up a notch, the eatery draws crowds for its veggie choices, blackened–mahi tacos and tableside guacamole. One reader said, “Fresh ingredients and best salsa in town.” silVer: amaNDa’s foNDa BrOnZe: hacIeNDa coloraDo

mIDDle easterN/GreeK gOld: Heart OF JerUsalem CaFÉ 4587 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 685-9554; 718 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1325; heartofjerusalemcafe.com.

Shawarma is popular here. The zesty hummus and savory sandwiches are tasty too. silVer: casPIaN café BrOnZe: GarBaNZo meDIterraNeaN GrIll

moBIle fooD

Vegetarian menu Veggie Burger Veggie Eggs Benedict Veggie Burrito Gluten Free

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.

Speciality drinKS Cappuccinos Lattes • Smoothies

BreaKFaSt Eggs Benedict Chicken Fried Steak & Eggs Eggs Florentine Corned Beef Hash

alcoHolic BeVerageS

Imported and Domestic Beers Wine and Champagne Mixed drinks

SoutHweSt Breakfast Burrito Huevos Rancheros Southwest Burrito Chili Relleno

enjoy your

meal

on our

OUTDOOR PATIO!

gOld: tHe lOCal3 Location varies. 339-7722.

Unfortunately the owners of this food truck sold the business. New owners are keeping the name and promise to provide similar dishes as the original owners when they go operational. silVer: Za BrOnZe: PIGlatIN fooD trucK

Breakfast and Lunch served until 3pm! Open Mon. - Sat. 6-3 • Sun. 6:30-3 2601 West Colorado Avenue • Colorado Springs, CO 80904

719-634-1007

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 35


CREATING GREAT FOOD & STRONG FRIENDSHIPS CRAVINGS CATERING . PICNIC BASKET . BUFFALO GALS 635-0200 BESTCATERER.NET 36 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


Since 1998

The Best Fresh Sushi & Rolls, Teriyaki Steak & Tempuras FRIDAY 50% Off House Sake and Beer (5p-6:30p) 2 for 1 Glass of Wine (5p-6:30p) 20% Off Sushi and Rolls (5p-6:30p) Live Jazz (6:30p-8:30p)

MONDAY 50% Off Everything (5p-6p) TUESDAY 20% Off Sushi and Rolls (5p-close) 50% Off All Appetizers (5p-close) $2 Domestic Beer (5p-close)

WEEKEND - SUSHI BAR HAPPY HOUR

WEDNESDAY LADIES NIGHT 2 for 1 Drinks (5p-6:30p) 50% Off Entree (5p-close) For the ladies 20% Off Sushi and Rolls for Everyone (5p-6:30p) Live Jazz (6:30p-8:30p)

SUNDAY 20% Off Sushi and Rolls (5p-close) LUNCH Monday - Friday 50% Off Sushi and Rolls (11a-2:30p)

22 S. Tejon 719-630-1167 fujiyamasushi.com

2014

Liv

ri F & d e e Jazz W

THURSDAY Happy Hour (5p-6:30p) 2 for 1 on Glass of Wine 50% Off House Sake and Beer

SATURDAY 20% Off Sushi and Rolls (11a-6p) Live DJ

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 37


DINING: READERS’ PICKS NIGHT CLUB: COWBOYS MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE

NEW RESTAURANT (2013 OR AFTER) GOLD: HACIENDA COLORADO 5246 N. Nevada Ave., 418-7999, haciendacolorado.com The expansive restaurant offers stunning views of the mountains from windows and patios. The menu features dishes described as mountain Mex because chefs have used traditional recipes with a distinct Rocky Mountain twist. The bar offers 120 tequilas. Cheers! SILVER: OVER EASY, A DAYTIME EATERY BRONZE: SEEDS COMMUNITY CAFÉ

NIGHT CLUB GOLD: COWBOYS 25 N. Tejon St., 596-1212, cowboyscs.com

Three floors with bars, dance floors, billiards and a bowling alley to top it off give plenty of options for getting in touch with your inner cowboy. SILVER: BLONDIE’S ULTRA LOUNGE BRONZE: COPPERHEAD ROAD HONKEY TONK SALOON

PAD THAI GOLD: THAI BASIL 7882 N. Academy Blvd., 268-1688, thaibasilcoloradosprings.com

This reader sums it up: “Thai Basil for best Pad Thai because they have the best in town.” Plus, where else can you have a glass of wine for two bucks? SILVER: NARAI THAI RESTAURANT BRONZE: LANNA THAI

PAD THAI: THAI BASIL

JEFF KEARNEY

PHILLY CHEESESTEAK

PHO BOWL

GOLD: TASTE OF PHILLY

20 E. Colorado Ave., 633-2888, coloradosaigoncafe.com

Multiple locations, tasteofphilly.biz

Great sandwiches stuffed with brotherly love. SILVER: TRIVELLI’S HOAGIES BRONZE: JERSEY MIKE’S SUBS

38 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

GOLD: SAIGON CAFÉ “The combination noodle bowl makes my stomach rumble just thinking about it as I write this comment,” said one voter. SILVER: PHO-NOMENAL BRONZE TIE: LEMON GRASS BISTRO; I LOVE PHO


Colorado Springs School District 11 is preparing students for a world yet to be imagined by offering a wide variety of programs and classes.

Do you want your student to receive an education that creates an awesome future?

School District 11 offers exceptional educational choices! The region’s only public school district Early College High School International Baccalaureate programs at elementary, middle, and high school level National award-winning robotics and JROTC programs Workforce ready programs in automotive, culinary/hospitality, and health sciences The only public Montessori school in the Pikes Peak Region Advanced Placement and Pre-Advanced Placement Programs CU Gold and CU Succeed Programs Fine and Performing Arts-Based Focus Schools Online School and Digital School Credit Recovery Program Adult and Family Education Springs Community Night School Comprehensive K-12 Gifted and Talented Services Visit our website at www.d11.org.

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 39


2014

Discover America through Chocolate!

AWARD WINNING TRUFFLES 174 WASHINGTON ST. HISTORIC MONUMENT 855-700-1492 WWW.1492CHOCOLATES.COM

Cooking for a Cause is a series of Chefs Table cooking experiences that bring us together around fabulous food and the most talented chefs in our community. Classes will be held monthly in our beautiful Community Kitchen. Demonstrations by expert chefs will be followed by a meal with the chef and class participants. Wine pairings will be woven throughout the cooking and dining experience.

Chef

Lineup

May 8, 2014 | Greg Soukup, Blue Sage Creative Catering Solutions June 12, 2014 | Christina Summers, Forks-n-Spoons, Vegan Cooking Made Simple July 10, 2014 | Brent Beavers, Aspen Pointe Cafe August 14, 2014 | Heather Mitchell, Change Personal Chef Services September 11, 2014 | Corey Wilson, A Personable Chef October 9, 2014 | Jay Gust, TAPAteria

6:00 p.m.- 8:00 pm. 2605 Preamble Point, Colorado Springs, CO 80915 $40 per person, per session. Space is limited. Call 719-434-4679 or events@careandshare.org for more information and to reserve tickets.

40 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


BIG SELECTION

THE

START AT

/ small prices

HUGE CRAFT BEER SELECTION IN-STORE TASTINGS EVERY FRIDAY 4-6pm

719-574-2244 • 1105 N. CIRCLE DRIVE, COS 80909 • CHEERSLIQUORMART.COM

We Deliver

Monday - Friday 9-9 • Friday & Saturday 9am - 10pm • Sunday 10-6

THANK YOU Colorado Springs Supporting National Mill Dog Rescue since 2010. Don’t shop! Adopt!

for once again voting

Cheers Liquor Mart the BEST!

•Locally owned, locally operated & 1000s of locally produced products •8000 choices of wine, 3500 choices of spirits, 1800 choices of beer •Download the new CHEERS APP for special discounts in the Gazette for 19 years!

Inspired Seasonal Cuisine Celebrating 40 Years of serving fine food in our community! Lunch: Tues-Fri 11:30-2:00 Dinner: Tues-Sat 5:30-8:30 Sunday Brunch: 10:30-2:00 Lounge opens at 5pm Live Music & Seasonal Events Calendar at www.margaritaatpinecreek.com

7350 Pine Creek rd. 719.598.8667 Reservations Recommended the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 41


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

PiZZA GOLD: BORRiELLO BROTHERS Multiple locations, borriellobrothers.com

From a modest pizza shop near downtown serving thin-crust, New York-style pizza, this place has grown into a successful local chain. “They have the best pizza in Colorado. They also have gluten-free options. Their pizzas are fresh and don’t have a greasy feel to them,” said one voter.

pizza: borriello brotherS ChriStiAN MUrDoCK, the GAZette

SiLVER: PAPA MUrPhY’S tAKe ‘N’ bAKe PiZZA BRONzE: il ViCiNo

PriMe rib

GOLD: MaCKENziE’S CHOp HOUSE RESTaURaNT 128 S. Tejon St., 635-3536, mackenzieschophouse.com

The prime rib here is highly marbled for delicious taste and slow-roasted for perfect texture. It’s served with beef au jus and horseradish cream. SiLVER: the FAMoUS, A SteAK hoUSe BRONzE: oUtbACK SteAKhoUSe

reD Chili GOLD: SENOR MaNUEL’S MEXiCaN CUiSiNE 4660 N. Nevada Ave., 598-3033, senormanuel.com

A voter said, “The eatery is family owned and offers good food at a reasonable price. The red chili is especially good.” SiLVER: rUDY’S little hiDeAWAY reStAUrANt BRONzE: el tACo reY

BAKERY RESTAURANT BAR We’re so proud to be a favorite Bakery & Gluten Free Restaurant of Colorado Springs! Thank you for voting

321 NORTH TEJON (719) 685-2420 42 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

RESTAURANT AFTER MIDNIGHT GOLD: KING’S CHEF DINER 131 E. Bijou St., 636-5010; 110 E. Costilla St., 634-9135; kingschefdiner.com

Since 1997, owner Gary Geiser has filled plates with combinations of bacon, cheese, eggs, fries, sausage and mouth-scorching green chili to the delight of late-night diners on their way home from bar hopping. SILVER: THE RABBIT HOLE BRONZE: VILLAGE INN

RESTAURANT FOR ANNIVERSARY DINNER

GOLD: THE MELTING POT — A FONDUE RESTAURANT 30 A E. Pikes Peak Ave., 385-0300, meltingpot.com/coloradosprings

No matter how many years you may be celebrating, this dark, romantic dining room is sure to seduce. The fondues are made with the finest ingredients, sure to win the hearts of all who linger. SILVER: MONA LISA FONDUE RESTAURANT BRONZE: THE PEPPER TREE RESTAURANT

RESTAURANT FOR ANNIVERSARY DINNER: THE MELTING POT — A FONDUE RESTAURANT MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 43


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

RESTAURANT FOR FIRST DATE: SHUGA’S RESTAURANT & BAR

JEFF KEARNEY

RESTAURANT FOR FIRST DATE GOLD: SHUGA’S RESTAURANT & BAR 702 S. Cascade Ave., 328-1412, shugas.com

The café, off the culinary beaten path, is a hip place for making a first impression with someone special. The food and unique cocktails will show you know how to pick a great place to dine. SILVER: NOSH BRONZE: THE MELTING POT — A FONDUE RESTAURANT

RESTAURANT FOR KIDS GOLD: FARGO’S PIZZA CO.

restaurant service: texas roadhouse

2910 E. Platte Ave., 473-5540, fargospizza.com

With a Western theme and a magic mirror that tells you when your order is up, this is a kid’s nirvana.

the GaZette

SILVER: RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS & BREWS BRONZE: CHICK-FIL-A

RESTAURANT FOR VEGETARIANS

RESTAURANT SERVICE

GOLD: ADAM’S MOUNTAIN CAFÉ

GOLD: TEXAS ROADHOUSE

934 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1430, adamsmountain.com

Multiple locations, texasroadhouse.com

Long before vegan diets were mainstream, this eatery kept a menu for the extreme vegetarian diners. The chef takes veggie dishes to gourmet status.

This voter summed it up: “Texas Roadhouse is a fantastic place to eat. The service is cordial, polite, friendly and efficient. The food is always a perfect meal.”

SILVER: THE MELTING POT — A FONDUE RESTAURANT BRONZE: SEEDS COMMUNITY CAFÉ

SILVER: SUMMIT AT THE BROADMOOR BRONZE: SALSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL

44 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


719-264-6161

e d i S h t r o N e h t n The Place to be o d fun. for family food an

ff menu o y a d r u t a S uesday ngs’ #1 bootT Camp memade food ho ht Loss Program Trivia t h g i N y a d s HE 90 DAY MAKEOVER We*dne • Fire up your tic Music s u o c A metabolism and lose e v i L day Night fat once T and huforrsall. l Bands a c o • Tone and firm up L t s e B day your entire rbody. day & Satur i F • Look & feel better

2014

illage Point 9475 Briar V , COPo8in0t920 gsge SprriVinlla o ia radBr lo75 Co94 6180920 -6, 1CO 64gs 9-2rin 71Sp Colorado

Antiques • Crafts • Collectibles • Furniture

Thank you for voting us Best Antique Store 6 years in a row!

ated

oper & d e n w o y ll a c o L

than you have in years. 2013

Voted Best Trainer

Today! 29-2639

ootcampfitness.com

tion New LocaM y Opening a op,

ni Lo a i r p i C 5 5 14 ment CO Monu

3735 Bloom ington St. Colorado S prings, CO 719-418-24 80922 59

Take Out or Delivery Homemade Piz zas, Wings, Sala ds & Subs 19 TV’s with All Sport Channels

The Best Phil ly Cheese Ste ak in Town backeastpizzaan dwings.com Chec k us out on facebo ok

Collectibles

thousands

Open Daily 10am-6pm

1815 N. Academy Blvd. • 719-596-8585 • AmericanClassicsMarketplace.com the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 45


2014

New Backyard GrILLed TasTe!

7252 N. Academy Blvd. Suite 120 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 719-264-6400

Try our exciting new Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Grilled Chicken Club Sandwich, Chick-fil-A® Grilled Nuggets, Grilled Market Salad and Grilled Chicken Cool Wrap®

NEW LOCATION COMING SOON! 3336 Cinema Pt 80922 First & Main Town Center

www.fiveguys.com

N. Academy 598-4646 • N. Carefree & Powers 596-3577 Garden of the Gods 531-7320 Chapel Hills Mall 593-9493 • The Citadel 596-2786 www.coloradospringschicken.com CLOSED SUNDAYS © 2014 CFA Properties, Inc. Chick-fil-A®, Chick-fil-A Stylized® and Cool Wrap® are registered trademarks of CFA Properties, Inc.

Proudly Serving Colorado Springs’

Best BBQ Our meats are oak-smoked and our signature gluten-free BBQ sauces are made in house everyday.

Centennial & Garden of the Gods Centennial West shopping center 4153 Centennial Blvd Colorado Springs, CO 80907

Fountain

Shops at Briargate

Powers & Stetson Hills

Markets at Mesa Ridge shopping center 6965 Mesa Ridge Parkway Ste 190 Fountain, CO 80817

Promenade Shops at Briargate 1645 Briargate Pkwy Ste. 243 Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Ridgeview Marketplace Shopping Center 5984 Stetson Hills Blvd Ste. 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80923

07’-14’

BIRD DOG BBQ Colorado Springs, CO

www.BirdDogBBQ.com

46 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


HAPPY HOUR! 50% off select cheese fondue, chocolates, salads and of course beer, wines by the glass and more! Monday - Friday from 4 - 6 PM! At the Bar only

Thank you, Colorado Springs, for making us a BEST OF! place.

RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED • (719) 385-0300 30-A E. PIKES PEAK AVE., COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80903 • MELTINGPOT.COM

AWARD WINNING!

3625 West Colorado Ave. 719-227-1975

Serious Mexican Food! Awesome Margaritas!

*CREEKSIDE DINING! * * * CREEKSIDE SEATING AVAILABLE Near Old Colorado City!

OPEN DAILY 11AM Happy Hour Specials Mon-Fri 3pm-6pm & Everyday 8pm-Close

Daily Drink & Appetizer Specials & Much More!!

8050 North Academy Blvd. 719-266-6680

* PATIO SEATING AVAILABLE * Close to USAFA! AmandasFonda.com

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 47


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

SEAFOOD: BONEFISH GRILL

MASON TRINCA, THE GAZETTE

RESTAURANT WITH MILITARY DISCOUNT GOLD: APPLEBEE’S Multiple locations, applebees.com

Not all locations give a military discount, but many offer a 10 percent discount for service members. SILVER: THE MELTING POT — A FONDUE RESTAURANT BRONZE, TIE: BIRD DOG BBQ; TEXAS ROADHOUSE

SANDWICH GOLD: JIMMY JOHN’S GOURMET SANDWICHES Multiple locations, jimmyjohns.com

From the bread to the meat and everything in between, these sandwiches are better than others. And they are prepared quickly at reasonable prices. SILVER: PANERA BREAD BRONZE: WOOGLIN’S DELI

SEAFOOD

SANDWICH: JIMMY JOHN’S GOURMET SANDWICHES JERILEE BENNETT, THE GAZETTE

GOLD: BONEFISH GRILL 5102 N. Nevada Ave., 598-0826, bonefishgrill.com

Market-fresh fish doesn’t get any better in town, especially when you order it grilled on the wood-fueled grill. SILVER: RED LOBSTER BRONZE: JOE’S CRAB SHACK

SPAGHETTI GOLD: PARAVICINI’S ITALIAN BISTRO 2802 W. Colorado Ave., 471-8200, paravicinis.com

Generous portions of pasta with well-seasoned sauces are the hallmark of dishes served at this eatery. And gluten-free pastas are available. SILVER: CARRABA’S ITALIAN GRILL BRONZE: ZIO’S ITALIAN KITCHEN

48 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


Our contemporary French cuisine, coupled with our in-house bakery, has brought guests back time and again for over 15 years.

Cafe & Bakery

use Bakery Wine List

By

s G o u rm e God th f o n G a rd e

et

La Tartine WWW.LATARTINEFRENCHBISTRO.COM

• Lunch • Dinner • Fine Wine List • Bakery • Dessert

Formerly La Baguette

Serving Weekend Brunch, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

2 FOR $10

2014

719-599-4776 4605 Centennial Blvd. www.marigoldcoloradosprings.com

2 Breakfast Plates for $10

719-599-4776 4605 Centennial Blvd. Appetizers & Soups MarigoldCafeAndBakery.com Vegetable Entrees Paneer Specialties Traditional Curries Tandoori Meat Tandoori Breads Biryani Kababs

8 AM - Noon M-Fri Not valid weekends

1420 Kelly Johnson Blvd. 80920 719-598-5550

Reservations: 719.477.4377

unch Buffet $8.95 Everyday

MIRCH MASALA

support through the years.

ULTIMATE

BUFFET

Dinner Buffet

(Children 2-11). Good for up to 5 adults. Not valid February 13-14 Expires April 6, 2012

d 3/26/14 10:46 AM

Dinner: Mon - Fri 4:30pm - 9pm

ULTIMATE

Steak • Seafood American Asian....

Sat & Sun 11am - 9pm

BUFFET All you can Eat!

1st Thursday of Every Month

(Instructor On Site) 8:30pm - 10pm

3727 Bloomington Street • 591-0768 THE GAZETTE

/

ultimatebuffet.com

2012 DINING GUIDE

/

31

SHRIMP TACO, SHRIMP QUESADILLA, SHRIMP FAJITA INCLUDES A

Locations • S. 8th Street • N. Nevada Ave • Woodmen Road LaCasitaMexiGrill.com • Catering Available

OF

2013

7

$ 99 719-630-1167

-7 -C -3 -P

Fo

Co 71 cc

since 2005.

3727 Bloomington Street •11-4 591-0768 5070 Centennial Blvd. / Colorado Springs, CO / 719.272.2700 / Mon.-Sat. 10-6 / Sun. www.ultimatebuffet.com Adult dinner buffet only. Not Valid he best sushi in town is now for Seniors or Children buffet 1 Lunch: Mon-Fri 11am - 3pm thechefs_GT_BestOfAd_0314_fnl.indd best deal in town!

S. Tejon St.

Ch

Colorado Springs community

1 OFF

Zumba Combo Plate $6

Chefs Catalog we would like

We’re proud to serve the

Bakeware Cooking Classes Cookware Cutlery $ Electrics Kitchen Tools Tabletop

Zumba

3/

for their “Best of” vote and

Menu: csfineartscenter.org

5047 N Academy Boulevard e: (719) 599-0003 Delivery: (719) 634-6747 VA L U E • Q U A L I T Y • S E R V I C E

On behalf of everyone at to thank all of our patrons

Located in the historic west end of the Fine Arts Center

Dine-In & Delivery Available

Zumbatini $6

2014

orary Bistro d menus & Dinner

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 49


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

sPorts Bar GOLd: OLd chIcaGO PIZZa & TaPrOOM Multiple locations, oldchicago.com

Famous for its beer tours, this Colorado chain is also known for delicious pies and a large selection of beers on tap. sILVEr: BuFFaLo WiLD WinGs brOnZE: BacK east Bar & GriLL

steaK GOLd: TEXas rOadhOusE Multiple locations, texasroadhouse.com

Voters raved about the quality and price. “Best place for steaks in the Springs for a very reasonable price,” one voter said. sILVEr: the Famous, a steaKhouse brOnZE: macKenZie’s choP house restaurant

sunDay Brunch GOLd: chEyEnnE MOunTaIn rEsOrT 3225 Broadmoor Valley Road, 538-4000, cheyennemountain.com

The buffet is immense, stretching from one side of the dining room to the other, with every kind of breakfast and lunch dish imaginable. sILVEr: LaKe terrace DininG room at the BroaDmoor brOnZE: the sunBirD mountain GriLL anD taVern

sunday brunch: cheyenne mountain resort

JeFF Kearney

Juniper Valley Dining room

SP

RS

RINNowG HinOU

Specializing in skillet fried chicken or baked ham dinner

Our 63nd Season!

576-0741

Friday Night Specials Chicken Fried Steak

(located 12 miles south on Hwy 115) Hours: Fri. & Sat. 5pm-8pm, Sun. 1pm-7pm www.junipervalleyranch.com

of en st hicktte e B C ze 0, ied Ga 01 Fr The 09, 2 11 20 20

DJ Rickochet every Thursday thru Saturday at 9pm - No cover Karoake every night at 9pm

1850 Dominon Way, C

oloraDo

719-265-8820

SpringS 80918

Experience Our Biergarten at Edelweiss Restaurant

• Authentic Summer Biergarten • Family Owned for 45 Years • Strolling Musicians on Friday and Saturday • Private Events from 10-140 • Voted Best German Restaurant Every Year Reservations Recommended

633-2220 • 34 East Ramona Avenue • www.edelweissrest.com

50 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

330 E. Colorado Ave.

(719) 475-9722

Thank You from The Aguilar Family for voting us Best of The Springs 2014! 2014

Indoor & Outdoor Dining in a Quaint Bavarian Setting at the Foot of Pikes Peak


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

susHI GOLD: JuN JAPANEsE REsTAuRANT 3276 Centennial Blvd., 227-8690; 1760 Dublin Blvd., 531-9368; jun-japanese.com

Jun is the local sushi star, turning out rolls that are fresh and thoughtfully prepared. siLVER: FujIYaMa BRONZE: aI susHI & GrILL

susHI rOLL GOLD: YuMMY ROLL/JuN JAPANEsE REsTAuRANT 3276 Centennial Blvd., 227-8690; 1760 Dublin Blvd., 531-9368; jun-japanese.com

This signature roll for the eatery contains salmon, avocado and tempura shrimp. siLVER: BrOnCO rOLL/Kura japanese restaurant BRONZE: Heart attaCK/FujIYaMa

sushi: jun japanese restaurant jeFF KearneY

Omelette Parlor Voted “Best Breakfast” 21 Years In A Row! Thank You Half-Priced Omelettes (6 a.m. - 7 a.m.) Daily for voting Award-Winning Pancakes, Belgian Waffles and Eggs Benedict. Enjoy a bite on the creek Homemade Pork Green Chili for us!Springs’ #1 boot Camp OUTSTANDING Colorado LUNCH MENU! fitness & Weight Loss Program * SPECIALIZING IN THE 90 DAY MAKEOVER * Gazette We Would Like to 2014 THANK OUR LOYAL PATRONS Great Food & Colorado Wines For This Honor! Best of!!! Creekside Dining • Join us for Complimentary Wine Tasting Colorado Springs’ #1 boot Camp

Voted Best Trainer 2013

8045 West Highway 24 fitness Cascade,& Colorado Weight Loss Program 684-0900 www.winesofcolorado.com

* SPECIALIZING IN THE 90 DAY MAKEOVER *

• Fire up your metabolism and lose fat once and for all. • Tone and firm up your entire body. • Look & feel better than you have in years.

Call Today! 719-229-2639

Voted Best Chinese Cuisine & Ambiance 16yrs in a Row

www.womensbootcampfitness.com

2013

Voted Best Trainer

Call Today! Fine Dining & Lounge 719-229-2639 Come to Enjoy Delicious Chinese Food www.womensbootcampfitness.com Exceptional Gluten Free and Vegetarian Menu

Open Lunch/Dinner • Delivery & Catering

594-9343

5670 N. Academy Blvd.

www.bestsilverpondchinese.com

719-633-7770

Open 7 days a week 6 a.m. - 2 p.m., Weekends 6 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

2014

• Fire up your metabolism and lose fat once and for all. • Tone and firm up your entire body. • Look & feel better than you have in years.

Call us to cater your next event. Free Delivery!

6666 Camden Blvd, Fountain, CO (719) 392-2255 312 S 8th St, Colorado Springs, CO (719) 475-8175 3815 E Pikes Peak Ave, Colorado Springs, CO (719) 591-2114 3450 Austin Bluffs Pkwy, Colorado Springs, CO (719) 598-8774 2839 E Fountain Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO (719) 577-4004

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 51


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

TAMALE: EL TACO REY JEFF KEARNEY

SUB

TAQUERIA

THAI

GOLD: JIMMY JOHN’S GOURMET SANDWICHES

GOLD: MONICA’S TACO SHOP

GOLD: THAI BASIL

5829 Palmer Park Blvd., 597-7022; 30 E. Fillmore St., 473-1996

7882 N. Academy Blvd., 268-1688, thaibasilcoloradosprings.com

Fresh bread makes these subs something to brag about.

Baja-style tacos steal the show at this modest, family-style restaurant.

With an extensive menu of Thai and Vietnamese dishes, there’s plenty of options to make everyone happy.

SILVER: SUBWAY BRONZE: FIREHOUSE SUBS

SILVER: EL TACO REY BRONZE: TACO EXPRESS

SILVER: WILD GINGER THAI RESTAURANT BRONZE: BHAN THAI

TAMALE

TEMPURA

TRUFFLE

GOLD: EL TACO REY

GOLD: JUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT

GOLD: ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY

Multiple locations, jimmyjohns.com

330 E. Colorado Ave., 475-9722, eltacorey.com

Family owned since 1976. The tamales are made from scratch, with just the right balance of masa to meat filling. SILVER: LA CASITA MEXICAN GRILL BRONZE: AMANDA’S FONDA

3276 Centennial Blvd., 227-8690; 1760 Dublin Blvd., 531-9368; jun-japanese.com

The light, crisp coating makes the tempura shine at this eatery. SILVER: FUJIYAMA BRONZE: AI SUSHI

52 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

Multiple locations, rockymountainchocolatefactory.com

There’s every type of chocolate confection available, made freshly at the huge factory in Durango. SILVER: PATSY’S ORIGINAL CANDIES BRONZE: 1492 CHOCOLATES


YOUR FAVORITE AUTHENTIC MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE

2014

• Shawermahs • Falafel • Plates • Shishkabob

BUY ONE ENTREE GET ONE 50% OFF! Valid at Heart of Jerusalem. Expires December 31, 2014

718 Manitou Ave. 685-1325 / 4587 Austin Bluffs Pkwy 685-9554 www.HeartofJerusalemCafe.com

Elegant Continental dining, breathtaking views, accommodating large and small groups, onsite and offsite catering, weddings and all special occasions.

CALL NOW FOR RESERVATIONS

719-481-1800 443 SOUTH HWY 105, PALMER LAKE, CO

WWW.INNATPALMERDIVIDE.COM

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 53


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

vietnamese: saigon café JEff KEaRnEY

VOTED THE #1 PLACE TO EAT WITH YOUR FAMILY

PIZZA SANDWICHES SOUP PASTA Colorado Springs’ #1 boot Camp SALAD fitness & Weight Loss Program 2910 E. Platte • 473-5540 * SPECIALIZING IN THE 90 DAY MAKEOVER *

• Fire up your metabolism and lose fat once and for all. • Tone and firm up your entire body. • Look & feel better than you have in years.

TURN UP

THE

FLAVOR

Not The Price

Locally Sourced Farm Fresh Products

Best Green Chili

54 I

2013

WWW.COSDINER.COM Voted Best Trainer

Best Diner Call Today! BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

Best Late Night Dining


DINING: READERS’ PICKS

VIETNAMESE GOLD: SAIGON CAFÉ 20 E. Colorado Ave., 633-2888, coloradosaigoncafe.com

The stylish downtown restaurant serves tasty noodle bowls, steamy bowls of pho (beef noodle soup), surprising curry dishes and traditional egg rolls. SILVER: LEMONGRASS BISTRO BRONZE: SAIGON SPRINGS

WINE LIST GOLD: THE BLUE STAR

Thank You Colorado Springs for 12 Years of The Best

1645 S. Tejon St., 632-1086, thebluestar.net The award-winning list has all the bases covered in the wine department in many price points. Enjoy a more expensive selection on Sunday evening at half-price. SILVER: SUMMIT AT THE BROADMOOR BRONZE: 2 SOUTH WINE BAR COmpILED By TERESA J. FARNEy, THE GAZETTE

wine list: the blue star

31 N. Tejon Street 719.227.7333 www.thefamoussteakhouse.net

Jerilee bennett, the GaZette

McGinty’s will make you believe a little bit of Ireland exists right here in Divide, Colorado!

‘12-‘14

Great food, friendly staff, and your satisfaction is always our goal. Thank you to everyone for voting

McGinty’s

one of Colorado Springs Best!

11115 West Highway 24 • Divide, CO 80814 • www.mcgintyswoodovenpub.com •

Y WEDNESDA INGSDAY! W

IS

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on pER pERS in nal bonEio it D a tR ly WingS on DED not inClu DRESSing

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$6

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Hooters of Colorado Springs 750 Citadel Dr. East Ste. 1012 Hooters off Woodmen Road 7285 Commerce Center Drive.

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 55


IMAGINE Shining stars in the local arts and entertainment scene

gazette.com/bestof

56 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT: EXPERT PICKS

GAZETTE.COM/BESTOF

BY JENNIFER MULSON GAZETTE GO! REPORTER

FOURTH OF JULY COMEBACK COLORADO SPRINGS PHILHARMONIC

nEw hOME: MilliBO ArT ThEATrE lindA nAvArrO, ThE GAZETTE

520-7469, csphilharmonic.org

For the first time since 2008, local folks flocked to Memorial Park to picnic, play and hear familiar, classic tunes from the orchestra as fireworks splashed across the night skies. Budget cuts had deleted one of our favorite annual celebrations, but last year, multiple revenue streams allowed the beloved event to make its triumphant return.

pErFOrMAnCE ThAT BlEw up My FACEBOOk FEEd: STEvE EMily in “A STEAdy rAin” COurTESy SprinGS EnSEMBlE ThEATrE

MILLIBO ART THEATRE

PERFORMANCE THAT BLEW UP MY FACEBOOK FEED

1626 S. Tejon St., 465-6321, themat.org

Early last year, founders Jim Jackson and Birgitta De Pree announced their theater was moving from its old location on Pecan Street into the Ivywild neighborhood. By October, they’d succeeded in transforming their new home, a former church bordered on one side by Ivywild School and The Blue Star on the other, into a beautiful new theater with cozy stadium seating and the most intricately decorated bathrooms around. Seriously, go to a show and make sure you at least peek inside the bathrooms — a lot of hard work went into them. The new space allows Millibo to continue its mostly original programming that includes circus, dance and multimedia performances.

STEVE EMILY IN “A STEADY RAIN” Springs Ensemble Theatre, 1903 E. Cache La Poudre St., 357-3080, springsensembletheatre.org

Every time I looked at Facebook in October, people were gushing about the two-man show — Emily’s performance in particular. So I went. And they were right. The dark, gritty, emotionally wrenching show wasn’t always easy to watch, but Emily’s cop character made it more than worth the price of admission. And what a death scene!

WALKABLE ART INSTALLATION YOU COULDN’T WEAR A SKIRT IN “CLOUD CITY” AT GREEN BOX ARTS FESTIVAL Green Mountain Falls, occf.org/greenbox

The 36-foot-high, 20-ton, honeycomb-looking sculpture by Argentinean artist and architect Tomas Saraceno perched high on a hill above Green Mountain Falls last summer. It had 16 modules roomy enough that 11 people could walk around inside at a time, and was made of plexiglass, fiberglass, steel, cables, giant bolts and stainless steel mirrors that reflected the environment from all angles, including from below.

NEW HOME

PRODUCTION THAT LEFT ME SINGING FOR DAYS MUSIC MOVER AND SHAKER: HEATHER POWELL BROWNE COURTESY PHOTO

MUSIC MOVER AND SHAKER HEATHER POWELL BROWNE ivywildschool.com and fuelfriendsblog.com

She’s on my Christmas card list for bringing the likes of Gregory Alan Isakov, You Me and Apollo and St. Paul and the Broken Bones to Ivywild School. And she’s got two tempting acts — Andrea Gibson and Cave Singers — scheduled there in May. Browne also runs the Fuel/Friends House Show series — house concerts performed in the common house at Casa Verde Commons, a cohousing community near downtown — and the Chapel Sessions, recording sessions set at Shove Chapel at Colorado College. Her list of musical scores is long, including The Lumineers, The Head and the Heart, Damien Jurado, Joe Pug and Glen Phillips of Toad the Wet Sprocket.

“THE DROWSY CHAPERONE” Fine Arts Center, 30 W. Dale St., 634-5583, csfineartscenter.org

From the first moments of director Cory Moosman’s comedic musical, when Man in Chair (played hilariously by Scott RC Levy, producing artistic director of the Fine Arts Center) puts the needle to his old turntable and watches his favorite characters spring to life around him, I was enchanted. The cast seemed to have so much fun, from the drunken antics of the chaperone (a comical Amy Sue Hardy) to the tap dancing and roller skating scenes to the giant plane and happy ending, it was a cheery, laugh-filled night at the theater.

USE OF STYROFOAM IN AN EXHIBIT “STYROBOT: NOTHING COMES FROM NOTHING” GOCA 1420, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, uccs.edu/~goca, 255-3504

Almost 10 years ago, Oregon-based artist and professor Michael Salter took a hard look at those styrofoam pieces we all have hanging around the house, and saw art. Specifically, he saw giant robot sculpture art. Since then, he’s gone around the world creating these pieces, and spent a full week in Colorado Springs creating one that lived in GOCA 1420 for almost two months.

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 57


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT: EXPERT PICKS

GAZETTE.COM/BESTOF

BY DAVID SCKOLNIK GO! CLASSICAL MUSIC CRITIC

LARGE ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE “MAHLER 4” BY COLORADO SPRINGS PHILHARMONIC Pikes Peak Center, 190 S. Cascade Ave., 520-7469, csphilharmonic.org

There were two other philharmonic performances that could have garnered top honors in 2013: April’s “Gardens of Spain” and May’s “Verdi Requiem.” But this concert was special. It was designated as a tribute to music director emeritus Lawrence Leighton Smith, who had just died. The performance of this Mahler symphony conducted by Smith’s successor, Josep Caballé-Domenech, was a spiritual and musical wonder. World-class soprano Jessica Rivera brought the work home with a silky sheen.

SMALL ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE “MASTERY” BY VERONIKA STRING QUARTET Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, 30 W. Dale St., veronikastringquartet.com

There’s great chamber music up for sale all year long in our region. Even with the vast variety of instrumental combinations put before us, the art form’s standard bearer, the string quartet, should shine brightest among all. This group gets it right all the time. The group’s season opener of Beethoven, Mendelssohn and Schubert touched the entire spectrum of emotions while transfixing the audience throughout.

SOLO PERFORMANCE (INSTRUMENTAL)

SOlO pErFOrMAnCE (inSTruMEnTAl): BiOn TSAnG in dvOrAk CEllO COnCErTO

BION TSANG IN DVORAK CELLO CONCERTO

MArk MATSOn

Colorado College Summer Music Festival, 389-6552, coloradocollege.edu

Technically, Tsang is not eligible for this award. He’s a seasonal import for the miraculous Colorado College Summer Music Festival. But he has been doing this since 2001 while making more than a few off-series appearances at CC. It’s just that no single performance all year mined the soul of music as beautifully as this. A technical tour-de-force that completely transcended the notes on the score.

MOVER AND SHAKER

SOLO PERFORMANCE (VOCAL)

THOMAS WILSON

VALERIE NICOLOSI IN “THE SOUND OF MUSIC”

Wilson’s in a class of his own. He has been a stalwart of our local professional orchestra in the trumpet section for more than 23 years — adding leadership roles over time. He brought the chamber orchestra from a financial and artistic abyss to the vital music organization it is today. With all of that, it was his beautifully written and performed program exploring Copland’s “Appalachian Spring” for the philharmonic in February 2013 that confirmed his status as a community treasure.

Opera Theatre of the Rockies, Armstrong Theatre, Colorado College, 14 E. Cache La Poudre St., operatheatreoftherockies.org

Nicolosi has become the lead voice for the art of singing in southern Colorado. Whether in churches, concert halls or the operatic stage, she’s always engaging and consistent in her performances. As Mother Abbess, her rich mezzo made the most of what should always be the musical highlight of the “The Sound of Music” — the inspiring “Climb Every Mountain.”

58 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

Associate conductor of the Colorado Springs Philharmonic and music director of the Chamber Orchestra of the Springs csphilharmonic.org, chamberorchestraofthesprings.org

MOVER AND SHAKER: THOMAS wILSON COURTESY PHOTO


We work hard to be the best for our clients, and we are proud to serve the people of Colorado Springs.

Mike McDivitt

Top 100 Trial Lawyers; Gazette Best Of – 3 years in a row

David McDivitt Top 40 Under 40; Super Lawyers Rising Stars

McDivitt Law Firm 19 E. Cimarron St., Colorado Springs, CO 80903 719-471-3700 the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 59


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT: READERS’ PICKS

aRTisT GOLD: liese chavez Voters love Liese Chavez’s fairy-tale imagery. Case in point: This is her fourth gold in this category. One voter called her work “magical.” Another said Chavez has a “unique style that comes through no matter what medium she uses to express her art.”

ARTIST: liese chavez cOURTesY PhOTO

SILVER: sTeve WeeD BRONZE: MeGhaN lasTRella

cOMMeRcial GalleRY GOLD: cOMMONWheel aRTisTs cO-OP

Showing local work, including painting, pottery and other mediums, Commonwheel is a go-to place for supporting the local scene. And voters were in agreement about this Manitou Springs mainstay, saying things like: “best selection, great prices, local and handmade.” SILVER: MODBO BRONZE: MOUNTaiN liviNG sTUDiO

cOmmERcIAL GALLERy: cOMMONWheel aRTisTs cO-OP cOURTesY PhOTO

Reaching

higher to create career connections

“I chose UCCS for the combination of academics and student life. The Engineering program is one the best in the country and you can’t beat the location with views of Pikes Peak from every building. The University reaches out to every student by holding fun events for all different interests, so it’s easy to make friends. As soon as I stepped onto campus I was completely immersed in the community and felt right at home.” — Kaleen, Junior, Electrical Engineering

60 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

To Reach Higher: www.uccs.edu | 800-990-UCCS (8227)


Your Photographs, Your Vision, Your Art.

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the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 61


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT: READERS’ PICKS

ACTOR GOLD: CHRIS MEDINA A committed member of the local theater community, Medina has garnered kudos over the years as both an actor and director. Recently, he founded the Funky Little Theater Company. One voter called the actor a “diamond in the rough.”

actRESS: BIRGITTA DE PREE COURTESY PHOTO

SILVER: JIM JACKSON BRONZE: DANTE MARTINEZ

ACTRESS GOLD: BIRGITTA DE PREE Co-founder of the beloved Millibo Art Theatre and 2013 winner in this category, De Pree made a mark with fans as WHO Maldiva, the glamorous and funny (if sometimes irascible) emcee of many MAT events. In the past year, she’s stretched herself by venturing out of the company’s new digs to deliver fine performances in Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center productions of the drama “Other Desert Cities” and the comedy “Noises Off.” SILVER: GAVI MEOLA BRONZE: AMY SUE HARDY

PLAY

GOLD: “PINOCCHIO,” ACADEMY OF COMMUNITY THEATRE This production of the age-old story of a wooden puppet’s journey to becoming a boy was memorable for voters, who made this race a landslide. SILVER: “IN A DARK DARK HOUSE,” FUNKY LITTLE THEATER COMPANY BRONZE: TIE, “SEVEN GUITARS,” THEATREWORKS, “NOISES OFF,” COLORADO SPRINGS FINE ARTS CENTER

THEATER COMPANY GOLD: THEATREWORKS

A frequent winner in this category, founder Murray Ross’ brainchild continues to delight audiences, even while producing challenging works without fail-safe happy endings, including this season’s “Seven Guitars,” “Death of a Salesman” and “The Weir.” The move to Actor’s Equity status has raised the bar for theater in the area. SILVER: COLORADO SPRINGS FINE ARTS CENTER BRONZE: ACADEMY OF CHILDREN’S THEATRE

DANCE STUDIO FOR KIDS GOLD: TURNING POINTE SCHOOL OF DANCE From Baby Ballet to Worship Dance, Turning Pointe’s classes speak to the needs of kids and their parents. “The teachers are great and they offer very affordable classes,” said one voter. “The dances and costumes are tasteful, which is another bonus.” Another voter praised the teachers: “They care so much for the kids!” SILVER: DANCEWORKS OF COLORADO SPRINGS DANCE STUDIO BRONZE: THE BALLET SOCIETY OF COLORADO SPRINGS

actOR: CHRIS MEDINA JEFF KEARNEY

62 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


Thank you, Colorado Springs!

Voted 2014 Best of The Springs!

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 63


Create awesome.

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Specialists, Technical Care – Colorado Springs Call Center Up to $17.60 an hour with the potential for monthly performance incentives! You’ll also enjoy Competitive Benefits • Generous Paid Time Off • Special Employee Phone Plans • On-site Fitness Center • Company-Matched 401(k) Apply online at: www.tmobile.jobs and look for requisition #1680BR.

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Colorado Springs Gazette Telegraph 04/18/2014 1743644-PAPC81794 TMOBIL x 2.5” Apply online today!3.819” Allison Kern v.1 (719) 574-1100 or 800-525-9623

Ent.com/Careers

Ent is an Equal Opportunity Employer, M/F/Disabled/Protected Veteran Equal Housing Lender | Federally insured by NCUA | Equal Opportunity Lender © Ent Federal Credit Union, 2014 • Ent is a registered trademark of Ent Federal Credit Union.

Finding the right person for the job can feel like a neverending task. Through our partnership with Monster, The Gazette can help you do more than find candidates. We can help you find the right candidates in less time. It’s just one piece of the comprehensive recruiting solution you’ll find with The Gazette and Monster. Because if you want to have a little time for you, you have to find a little help.

Find the right fit for your next job at springsjobs.com, or call 719-444-JOBS

Colorado Springs Top EmployErS

Cedar Springs Hospital is always looking for dedicated and compassionate healthcare professionals who share our commitment to excellence. Join us in our mission to enhance and improve the health and well-being of everyone we serve.

Please visit www.uhsinc.com for available opportunities.

Find the opportunity that inspires you. Discover a true “best of” career experience with great people, pay and benefits!

careers.centura.org

Centura Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer, M/F/D/V

64 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


Launch your career at Time Warner Cable Time Warner Cable is looking for dynamic people to join our Customer Care and Outbound Sales teams. Competitive earning potential, career growth, advancement opportunities, and superior benefits!

WORK FOR AN AWARD WINNING COMPANY! Recognition for Workplace Excellence: • Top 10 Places to Work in Cable

Leadership Recognition: • Top 50 Most Influential Minorities in Cable

• Best Company for Women

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• Top 100 Most Influential Hispanics in Technology

Loyalty Award

• Innovation Leadership Awards

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THE POWER OF CAREER IS IN YOUR HANDS! Visit us online at: twc.com/careers All employment offers require the successful completion of a criminal background check and pre-employment drug screens. Time Warner Cable is an Equal Opportunity Employer — Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran/Current Unemployment Status.

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 65


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT: READERS’ PICKS

dance studio for adults Gold: springs salsa and dance fitness studios The place to go for learning to dance or polishing your style. One voter said that it was “the best studio in town to Zumba. It’s awesome — instructors are great!” silVer: tHe Ballet societY of colorado springs BronZe: orMao dance coMpanY

fine art pHotograpHer Gold: KatHleen Mcfadden

Over and over voters called McFadden’s Range Gallery in Old Colorado City the best photo gallery in town. Her penchant for exploring new (or old) technology complements her eye for beautiful landscapes and quirky Americana. “I love her gallery and her body of work. She is a wonderful artist and is always so sweet whenever I am in her gallery!” a voter said. silVer: teresa lee pHotograpHY BronZe: JonatHan BetZ pHotograpHY

dance studio for adults: springs salsa and dance fitness studios Jeff KearneY

3030 E. Platte Ave. 3020 E. Platte Ave. 123 E. Bijou St. 3040 W. Colorado Ave. 5680 Highway 85/87 420 W. 4th St. Colorado Springs Colorado Springs Colorado Springs Colorado Springs Fountain Pueblo 719.473.0882 719.635.5255 719.520.5111 719.477.9058 719.393.1255 719.543.9501 66 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


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North — Springs Woodmen and Rangewood

(719) 302-4797

East — Mark Shuffle & Hwy 24 Inside Dance Revolutions

(719) 375-9966

South — Fountain Safeway Shopping Center

(719) 302-3015

The Genuine. The Original.

Overhead Door Company of Colorado Springs, Inc.

Replacement Garage Door Experts! Garage Doors & Openers Free Estimates • 24-hr Service/Repair

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AVA I L A B L E AT A L L F O U R C O LO R A D O S P R I N G S LO CAT I O N S 7115 Commerce Ctr. Dr. 118 N. Tejon St. 4110 N. Academy Blvd. 3190 New Center Point 719.593.7678 719.634.8812 719.536.0633 719.591.8994

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 67


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT: READERS’ PICKS

LOCAL BAND

local festival: colorado balloon classic

GOLD: MARTINI SHOT

MicHael ciaGlo, tHe GaZette

Voters talked a lot about the electricity of this six-piece pop/rock band, which plays original songs and covers at their shows. And musicians? Said one voter: “Martini Shot is a band of great guys who love to entertain!” SILVER: JAKE LOGGINS BAND BRONZE: LESS THAN ZERO

LOCAL FESTIVAL

GOLD: COLORADO BALLOON CLASSIC The color. The pageantry. The grace. It’s hard to beat the Balloon Classic, which was founded in 1977, for wow factor. And longevity. The website says it’s “the largest and longest continuously running balloon fiesta in the Rocky Mountain region.” Even better, “it is breathtaking each year,” wrote a voter. SILVER: TERRITORY DAYS BRONZE: COLORADO RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL

MOVER-SHAKER IN THE ARTS GOLD: CHRIS MEDINA

An actor, director and founder of Funky Little Theater Company, Medina has his hands deep in the local theater scene. One voter wrote eloquently about Medina’s influence: “He has made a huge impact on the theater community in the Springs. With Funky Little Theatre Company, he’s given teens the opportunity to participate in professional shows, and act in more mature, interesting pieces, outside of school. He’s helped many teens, including myself, push themselves outside their comfort zone, and taught them so much more about theater in ‘the real world.’ I couldn’t be more thankful for all the incredible work he’s done!” SILVER: TIE, TARA THOMAS, BRETT AND LAUREN ANDRUS BRONZE: JON KHOURY

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THRIFT STORES

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68 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

See Chihuly in a whole new light! May 3–Sept. 28

csfineartscenter.org | 719.634.5581


the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 69


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT: READERS’ PICKS

MOVIE THEATER GOLD: KIMBALL’S PEAK THREE THEATER A frequent winner in this category, Kimball’s has a solid place in the hearts of Colorado Springs moviegoers. Its cool look and even cooler weekly lineups are complemented by a drink lounge and intimate screening rooms. It’s the way a movie theater should be, wrote one voter. Another said it’s the “only place to see movies.” SILVER: CINEMARK CAREFREE CIRCLE BRONZE: REGAL THEATER

MUSEUM GOLD: COLORADO SPRINGS FINE ARTS CENTER Moving artfully past its 75th birthday, this venerable institution is well respected for its innovative theater season and exhibition programming as well as the quality of the teaching at the Bemis School of Art. Voters enjoy the variety of productions and programs and the free family days. SILVER: COLORADO SPRINGS PIONEERS MUSEUM BRONZE: WESTERN MUSEUM OF MINING & INDUSTRY

MUSEUM EXHIBIT GOLD: “FROM THE ASHES: THE WALDO CANYON FIRE,” COLORADO SPRINGS PIONEERS MUSEUM In the weeks and months following the Waldo Canyon fire, many of us just wanted to put those memories of fear and destruction aside. The Pioneers Museum recognized the importance of documenting this historic event and began collecting artifacts from local residents. What resulted was a powerful exhibition. SILVER: KING TUT

70 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

movie theater: kimball’s peak three theater mark reis, the GaZette


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Locally owned and operated Mon-Fri 10am-7pm • Sat 10am-6pm • Sun 11am-5pm the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 71


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT: READERS’ PICKS

MUSIC VENUE

music venue: pikes peak center

GOLD: PIKES PEAK CENTER

cHristian murDOck, tHe GaZette

This place is the whole package. The beautiful 2,169seat hall is ground zero for local groups (Colorado Springs Philharmonic, Colorado Youth Ballet ) and touring artists (Clint Black, America) and shows (“Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean” “Memphis,” Garrison Keillor). And the center’s Studio Bee is the easy-going spot for free concerts by local musicians. SILVER: STARGAZERS THEATRE AND EVENT CENTER BRONZE: THE BLACK SHEEP

MUSICAL GOLD: “YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN,” ACADEMY OF COMMUNITY THEATRE In April, the Academy of Community Theatre (ACT II) produced this 1967 musical comedy to appreciative voters. The nonprofit says it provides “a wholesome environment for actors to develop their craft, while creating high quality theatre productions at an affordable price.” SILVER: “THE WIZARD OF OZ,” COLORADO SPRINGS FINE ARTS CENTER BRONZE: “SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN,” THIN AiR THEATRE COMPANY

PIANIST GOLD: STEVE BARTA Talk about local professional pianists and Steve Barta’s name inevitably comes up. A composer, recording artist with 15 albums behind him and teacher, Barta has primarily made his name in jazz. His website sites jazz flutist Herbie Mann as an admirer: The musician called his work a “curious blend of Aaron Copland and Antonio Carlos Jobim.”

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Come and see what the buzz •Womens Hair cuts is all about! •Mens Hair cuts •Color & Highlights •Updos & Weddings •Makeup •Hair extensions •Perms and Relaxers •Waxing

750 Garden of the Gods Rd W #100 Colorado Springs, CO 80907 (719) 571-9612 72 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

N. 85

*per vehicle, tracked by license plate

Ac ade

my B

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Colorado Springs 25

Austin Bluffs Pkwy

4285Pkwy, Austin Bluffs Pkwy, 80918 • 719.531.7474 4285 Austin Bluffs 80918 • 719.531.7474

We put the “ART” in pARTY! A fun, family friendly place... we provide the canvas, Colorado #1 boot Camp paint, & instruction. You paint your own Springs’ masterpiece. fitness & Weight Loss Program * SPECIALIZING IN THE 90 Imagine That Kids Summer Art Camp DAY MAKEOVER * at the cutest art studio ever!

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www.paint-the-town.com 719.321.8531

Voted Best Trainer

7844 N. Academy Blvd. (just behind Chipotle) Call Today! Colorado Springs, CO 80920 719-229-2639

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2013

Woodmen Plaza 534-9919

2014

Sales|Repairs|Instruction|Band|Orchestra Folk Instruments|Sheet Music Accessories PLUS: Teaching Studios for Students of All Ages

Colorado Springs!

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• Cleanest wash in town and Clean Car Guarantee.


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT: READERS’ PICKS nonprofit arts group: colorado springs youth symphony thE gaZEttE

NONPROFIT ARTS GROUP

Founded in 1980, the Youth Symphony has distinguished itself as the source for education and artistic development. Students from more than 60 schools in the Pikes Peak region participate. Voters were lavish in their praise for the organization. One voter mentioned the knock-out collaboration on “Nutcracker” between the symphony, the Colorado Springs Chorale and the Colorado Youth Ballet Company. Another voter wrote: “This organization is so well run and gives our youth an outlet for excellence in music and the performing arts!”

GOLD: COLORADO SPRINGS YOUTH SYMPHONY

SILVER: COLORADO SPRINGS CONSERVATORY BRONZE: CULTURAL OFFICE OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION (COPPER) COMPILED BY T.D. MOBLEY-MARTINEZ

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS! COMMONWHEEL ARTISTS’ CO-OP A great place to buy local art!

World-Class Summer Programming Enrolling noW! csconservatory.org Musical Theater Intensive (Dr. Doolittle) June 23 - 27

Thank you to all our customers for 40 great years!

Vail Jazz Fest Workshops & Performances June 24 - 27 and July 14 - 17

Theater Intensive

Open everyday

www.commonwheel.com

July 7 - 11

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter 102 Cañon Ave Manitou Springs (719)685-1008

Recording Arts Intensive July 21 - 25

A cappella Intensive July 21 - 25

(719) 577.4556

415 S. Sahwatch St, Colorado Springs

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live

Finding the gems from living in the Springs

gazette.com/bestof

74 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


CITY LIFE: EXPERT PICKS

GAZETTE.COM/BESTOF

BY LINDA NAVARRO GAZETTE REPORTER

VIDEO THAT TOUCHES THE HEART

VIDEO THAT TOUCHES THE HEART: JOE AND KATIE UVEgES, “START WITH I LOVE yOU”

VOLUNTEER WHO SHOULD BE CLONED: STEVE ROSCIO

UNSTOPPABLE WOMAN: MARgOT LANE

WEALTH THAT COULD CHANGE THE WORLD: LyDA HILL

CHAIRS THAT OPEN CLASSROOM DOORS

WEALTH THAT COULD CHANgE THE WORLD

JOE AND KATIE UVEGES, “START WITH I LOVE YOU” youtube.com/watch?v=8PO8UtTTwpE,facebook.com/joe.uveges

When deployed members of the military have a few precious minutes to call home from distant areas, that call might or might not go through. Sometimes the line goes dead. “Start With I Love You,” lyrics by Joe Uveges and his wife, Kristen, is the story Kristen learned from military couple Cliff and Tracy White about the three most important words in every successful telephone call: “I love you.” Say them first, they learned. Everything else can wait. Sung by father-daughter musicians Joe and Katie Uveges, “Start With I Love You” brought an audience to tears when the video was shown at a fundraiser for The Home Front Cares.

SHOP FILLED WITH FOSTER KIDS’ DREAMS THE HANGER 110 E. Boulder St., facebook.com/TheHangerCS

Longtime CASA advocate Jane Hegstrom envisioned a store where foster kids ages 12 through 21 could do what most other tweens and teens take for granted: go shopping. “The majority of foster kids have never had that opportunity,” she said. Through the Milton Foster Children’s Fund at CASA, Hegstrom and other volunteers created a trendy, colorful, downtown store, The Hanger is open from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays, when those in the foster care system can come in and, for free, choose five items they like. The Hanger, 1 year old this month, is staffed by volunteers and by foster teens offered their first opportunity to be part of the working world. At Christmas the young people’s wishes decorated the shop’s tree where astonished young people later found wrapped gifts with personal gift tags.

UNSTOPPABLE WOMAN MARGOT LANE This was the award bestowed on Margaret L. “Margot” Lane last July by the Karen Possehl Women’s Endowment for nontraditional women students at UCCS. Its significance: She hadn’t stopped before that award and she hasn’t stopped since. Lane had long been a working volunteer for a long list of local charities. Then she and her late husband, John, did much more, this time monetarily through the John E. and Margaret L. Lane Foundation. The crowning touch was $4 million for the Lane Center for Academic Health Sciences at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. It opened in February and will include the Lane Family Senior Health Clinic operated by Peak Vista Community Health Centers as well as gerontology wellness and medical programs. In addition, there’s her support of research into pancreatic cancer, from which both her husband and son, Bruce, died.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP FOR CHILD DEVELOPMENT’S HEAD START FILL A SEAT PROJECT cpcdheadstart.org

When that dreaded word “sequestration” hit in March 2013, federal budget cuts darkened five area Head Start classrooms, eliminating early childhood education classes for 142 lowincome children. At CPCD the kids grabbed their paints and went to work, turning those empty chairs into little works of art selling for $500 each. The seats, many with painted handprints, were part of an event at Ivywild School and became table centerpieces at the November Community Giving Breakfast. Since last April the chairs have brought in $106,637 and 17 students have gone back to class. Next up, a Fill A Classroom Project for 50 children on the Head Start waiting list at Fort Carson.

VOLUNTEER WHO SHOULD BE CLONED STEVE ROSCIO

LYDA HILL She spends summers in her beloved Colorado Springs and the rest of the year in Texas, and Hill, 71, the granddaughter of oil tycoon H.L. Hunt, has put her inheritance to work in both states. She’s now 35th on the Chronicle of Philanthropy’s list of the 50 most generous Americans, pledging $63.2 million to charities focused on science to solve social problems. Don’t be surprised if Hill isn’t content with being 35th, because this is a strong, competitive woman who, along with people like Bill and Melinda Gates, has signed the Giving Pledge to give away the majority of her wealth. Over five years she’s giving $50 million to the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Also, Hill donated the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center to a foundation to preserve and protect Garden of the Gods.

LOCAL BIBLICAL EXPERIENCE PASSAGES

Western Museum of Mining & Industry, wmmi.org

Roscio’s an amazing volunteer who’s in charge of the Haunted Mines fundraiser at WMMI and is so successful he raises almost one-third of the museum’s budget each fall. Don’t just take our word for it: There’s an entire packet of nomination forms from all around the community that resulted in Roscio being named an Adult Service winner at the Pikes Peak Regional Volunteer Day last spring. The 2013 Haunted Mines attracted 14,500 people and raised $102,250. Roscio has developed a program that includes training and mentoring for the volunteers.

explorepassages.com

Thousands of visitors discovered a world of historical wonder this past year as they were drawn into the excitement and fascination of the Bible come alive. From last May to January of this year, “Passages,” a 40,000-square-foot interactive world, drew visitors through a narrative story of religions. It was a rare local educational opportunity offered by the Green family, founders of Hobby Lobby, and the chain’s president, Steve Green, was on hand for the opening.

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CITY LIFE: EXPERT PICKS

GAZETTE.COM/BESTOF

BY TOM ROEDER GAZETTE MILITARY REPORTER

COMBAT OUTPOST OF LOVE THE MINING EXCHANGE — A WYNDHAM GRAND HOTEL 8 S. Nevada Ave., 323-2000, http://bit.ly/1mDMrnO

A short march from the pleasures of Tejon Street is The Mining Exchange hotel downtown. It’s in the Red Zone for fun and the Green Zone for romance. And it will properly impress your household chain of command. “Framed in European style and housed in an exquisitely restored historic edifice in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs, The Mining Exchange — A Wyndham Grand Hotel elegantly fuses old world charm with modern amenities and exceptional service to create a world-class hotel experience,” the hotel says on its website. It won’t break your defense budget either, with government rates starting at under $100.

A REAL MEAL KING’S CHEF DINER

SURVIVAL SKILL: FERMENTATIONS

JEFF KEARNEY

131 E. Bijou St., 636-5010; 110 E. Costilla St., 634-9135; kingschefdiner.com

Did you sign up to serve your country for a few free fries? No, you did it for the love of freedom. Freedom to eat green chili that would melt a manhole cover. Freedom to eat a single meal with enough cholesterol to take a decade off your life. Locally owned King’s Chef Diner offers all that, plus a dose of in-your-face America that only a veteran could understand. They don’t offer military discounts or take credit cards. The waitress will insult you like a drill instructor on the first day of training.

OUTFIT TO JOIN THE ENLISTED ASSOCIATION 834 Emory Circle, 596-0927, trea.org

If you’re looking for some kind of country club, tell it to the chaplain. The Enlisted Association in Colorado Springs is a place where you can get a steak and hang out with a group of retired command sergeants major and chief master sergeants who can tell you how they did it in Vietnam. The bar is open for a full 13 hours on Fridays. But it’s more than swapping tales of bombing missions and ambushes; these guys take caring of their own seriously. The club is committed to “assisting the local community through donations of thousands of dollars annually to local charities which provided assistance to handicapped senior citizens, disadvantage children, disabled or hospitalized veterans, and many other worthy causes,” the association says on its website.

PLACE TO GET AN URBAN ASSAULT VEHICLE

FAMILY FIELD TRAINING EXERCISE

PHIL LONG DEALERSHIPS

United States Air Force Academy, 12005 Rampart Range Road, Woodland Park, 687-9098, http://bit.ly/1lIpvQ3

Multiple locations, phillong.com

If you’re looking to get your household squared away with some skills and a healthy dose of unit cohesion, your United States Air Force Academy has tactics, techniques and procedures. The academy’s 10th Force Support Squadron runs the Farish Recreation Area on the west side of the 18,500-acre campus that offers hiking, fishing, camping and a slew of other skills. One of the guys who runs the place can train your kids in bowand-arrow marksmanship. Your Defense Department ID gets you into the place, which the Air Force describes as “A 650-acre paradise nestled in the mountains west of the Academy at an altitude of 9,000 feet.”

Phil Long flew 120 missions in Hellcat fighters for the Navy in World War II and was shot down twice. Since his death in 2001, his dealerships in Colorado Springs have honored that service by giving a break to the troops — $500 discounts, car help for the family when you’re deployed and other deals. They sell sensible cars, but you don’t want one of those. Use that hazardous duty pay you’ve saved up on a four-door Ford F-450 pickup that’s bigger than the one Toby Keith drives. It has a 400-hp diesel engine that runs on the same fuel as your Humvee and brings enough torque to the fight to flip an M-1 Abrams tank.

WAY TO FIX YOURSELF

THE HOME FRONT CARES 1120 N. Circle Drive, Suite 7, 434-1501, thehomefrontcares.org

Every soldier and airman has bad days. When the bad is weapons-grade, The Home Front Cares is there to help. Founded by a pair of Colorado Springs Vietnam veterans in 2003, the charity is a quick-response force for military families in need. It uses donated cash to get troops out of jams. If you’re broke and can’t pay rent, the charity will square you away. If the family rig is blown up, the charity will get you back on the main supply route.

76 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

FARISH RECREATION AREA

SURVIVAL SKILL FERMENTATIONS

6820 Academy Blvd., 598-1164, fermentations.biz

The next time you’re stuck in the wilderness, evading the enemy, you could be making Merlot while those other ground-pounders figure out how to purify water. Fermentations on Academy Boulevard offers active-duty discounts for training on making wine and beer. The training is done in steps — a crawl-walk-run approach. And then you can sip the results for an after-action review.


Advantage Realty, Inc.

CELEBRATING

17 Years

Thanks to our staff, our Broker Associates, our clients, and our fellow REALTORS®. We care about our people, we care about our clients, and we care about our relationship with other Brokers. Our goal is to always bring value to the table.

“How may we serve you?”

www.coloradoadvantage.com Contact us directly at 719-548-8600 Or Text ‘remax’ to 719-362-5555 to receive a link to our Mobile Website.

24/7 info on any listed property:

Choose to Receive Info via 3 Mobile Technologies:

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Call 719-362-5555

Enter the Street Number

Or

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5590 N Academy Blvd. (at the entrance to University Park)

Colorado Springs, CO 80918 the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 77


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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

ACUPUNCTURIST: PEACEFUL POINTS ACUPUNCTURE JEFF KEARNEY

ACUPUNCTURIST GOLD: PEACEFUL POINTS ACUPUNCTURE 5265 N. Academy Blvd., No. 1400, 291-4006, peacefulpoints.com

Acupuncturist Shelly Greene knows how to stick it to you. She’ll discuss your health concerns and develop a course of treatment sure to get your chi moving. SILVER: TWIN TIGERS ACUPUNCTURE AND WEIGHT LOSS BRONZE: SPRINGS COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE

AD AGENCY

GOLD: VLADIMIR JONES 6 N. Tejon St., 473-0704, vladimirjones.com This agency can make your business sing. With such varied clients as The Broadmoor, Bestway Disposal, Bristol Brewing Co. and Little Caesars, this company will create a campaign even the “Mad Men” would go ga-ga over. SILVER: GRAHAM ADVERTISING BRONZE: TAPIA ADVERTISING

B&B

GOLD: OLD TOWN GUEST HOUSE 115 S. 26th St., 632-9194, oldtown-guesthouse.com The three-story brick building is close enough to Old Colorado City to satisfy your urban craving, with rooms private enough for a quiet getaway. There’s a gourmet breakfast, happy hour, hot tub, fireplace, game room and extensive movie library. SILVER: RED CRAGS BED AND BREAKFAST INN BRONZE: THE HOLDEN HOUSE

AUCTION: ROSS AUCTION

MASON TRINCA, THE GAZETTE

AUCTION

GOLD: ROSS AUCTION 815 S. Sierra Madre St., 632-6693, rossauction.com Even though this may be Colorado’s oldest auction company, it’s not lingering in the past. There’s a public estate auction every Friday and Saturday, and there’s an online auction with live bidding. Voters appreciate the service: “They are very helpful and friendly,” said one voter. SILVER: AUCTION HOUSE 109 BRONZE: GORMAN AUCTIONS LLC

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS bar with best live music: southside Johnny’s JeFF Kearney

BANK GOLD: ENT FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Multiple locations, ent.com

People are loyal to Ent. “We have been banking with Ent Federal Credit Union for over 19 years,” said one voter. And with good reason. “They are full service, but treat you as an individual.” SILVER: USAA BRONZE: WELLS FARGO

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BAR WITH BEST LIVE MUSIC GOLD: SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY’S 528 S. Tejon St., 444-8487, southsidejohnnys.net

How about a fancy martini in a dark bar? Or a live band you can dance to until last call? Maybe you’d like a good meal while you’re at it, or a live DJ to chair groove to. “This place has it all,” one voter said. Another said: “It’s the place to go when you want to have fun.” SILVER: BACK EAST BAR & GRILL BRONZE: FRONT RANGE BARBEQUE SMOKEHOUSE BAR & GRILL


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Andra Cummins

Aubrey Martin

Donna Norman

Doreen Hussmann

Director of First Impressions

Escrow Officer

Julia Riley

Customer Service

Karen Weller

Leslie Fischer

Sharon Myers Escrow Officer

Gena DeMasters

Karen Kirouac

Leslie Carr

Marketing Manager

Elisa Sundahl

Escrow Supervisor

Executive Assistant

Michael Podoyak

Brenda Duzenack

Business Development

Escrow Assistant

Escrow Assistant

Bill McAfee

Owner & President

Escrow Officer

Liz Berkey

Escrow Assistant

Escrow Assistant

Michelle Gavrilut

Rebecca Gossage

Short Sale Specialist

Silva DeHaven

Director of First Impressions

Escrow Assistant

Terry Muckenthaler Escrow Assistant

Customer Service

Brian Miller

Business Development

2014

719-884-5300

Thank you for keeping Empire Title the #1 Title Company in the Pikes Peak Area! www.etcos.com

719-686-9888

Cherrylyn Villena

Cindy Pacheco

Escrow Assistant

Escrow Assistant

Escrow Assistant

Escrow Officer

Escrow Assistant

Jani Trujillo

Jessica Sheley

Kathy Doht

Kay Lynn Mathews

Kelly LeCato

Kristy Gonzales

Lori Moran

Lori Wollaston

Escrow Assistant

Short Sale Specialist

Rebecca Oller

Short Sale Specialist

Jamie May

Escrow Officer

Escrow Officer

Escrow Assistant

Escrow Assistant

Escrow Officer & Business Development

Business Development

Lynn Pisani

Megan Savosik

Ronda McAfee

Sara Bremenkampf

Shannon Chapa

Owner & Operations Manager

Escrow Officer

Escrow Assistant

Escrow Officer

Empire Title is proud to have been voted Best in the Springs again this year because... Tiffany Chaussee “We don’t succeed unless you do!” Escrow Assistant

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

carwash: water works car wash and detail center JeFF kearneY

BODY SHOP

GOLD: ARTHURS AUTO COLLISION & PAINT Multiple locations; arthursautocollision.com

Had an oopsie on the road? Head here for a free online consultation, a well-trained staff and excellent customer service. SILVER: ABRA AUTO BODY & GLASS BRONZE: THE BODY AND FENDER SHOP

CARWASH

GOLD: WATER WORKS CAR WASH AND DETAIL CENTER Multiple locations; waterworkscarwashes.com

Got grime? They’ve got the time. With multiple service options, there’s bound to be one that fits your wallet and your schedule. Express detail services are guaranteed at 20 minutes, and there often are coupons available on the website.

casino: bronco billY’s

SILVER: THE HUB CAR WASH & DINER BRONZE: 7TH WAVE CARWASH

CLEANING COMPANY

CASINO

GOLD: MERRY MAIDS

233 Bennett Ave., Cripple Creek, 689-2142, broncobillyscasino.com

3958 N. Academy Blvd., Suite 110, 285-7425, merrymaidscolospgs.com

These merry cleaners overlook no detail when it comes to dust and dirt. Hire them for a room or a house, or for one of those especially unappealing tasks. Refrigerator cleaning, anyone? SILVER: JAN-PRO BRONZE: MAID TO SHINE

GOLD: BRONCO BILLY’S Voters can’t say enough good things about this casino. “Bronco Billy’s employees are fantastic. If there’s a problem they fix it right away,” said one. Another voter wrote: “Bronco Billy’s also accommodates for handicapped folks. I think that’s pretty thoughtful.” And another: “The cash offers, hotel stay and birthday gifts that are sent through the mail is nice. You have a little cash to start gambling with. If you have enough points, you stay free at Bronco Billy’s. That’s $40 value in itself.” SILVER: DOUBLE EAGLE HOTEL AND CASINO BRONZE: WILDWOOD CASINO

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the GaZette

CHIROPRACTOR GOLD: 100% CHIROPRACTIC Multiple locations, 100percentchiropractic.com

Staff here will align your spine like nobody’s business. “They are the best I have ever been to!” one voter said. The clinic was founded in 2004 to provide musculoskeletal care and other holistic and alternative medicines and treatments, like massage therapy and nutrition counseling, to support your good health. SILVER: ATLAS CHIROPRACTIC BRONZE: THE JOINT


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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS DOGGIE DAY CARE: CAMP BOw wOw JEFF KEARNEY

DANCE CLUB GOLD: COWBOYS

DOG TRAINER GOLD: ALL BREED RESCUE & TRAINING

25 N. Tejon St., 596-1212, cowboyscs.com

20 Mount View Lane, Suites B & C, 264-6460, haveanicedog.org

The lines stretch down the block outside of Cowboys on weekend nights. Clubgoers just have to get in and get dancing, take advantage of drink specials or watch live concerts with national acts. This downtown bar has a lot of options for the nightcrawler.

Turns out we have our own dog whisperers in town. Voters praise the folks here for their kind and authoritative ways with your beloved pooches. “They work with everything and know how to handle anything in a kind and positive way,” a voter said. Said another: “They use only proven positive methods and are an awesome local rescue.”

SILVER: SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY’S BRONZE: COPPERHEAD ROAD HONKEY TONK SALOON

DAY SPA GOLD: MATEOS SALON & DAY SPA 5919 Delmonico Drive, 266-9295, mateosdayspa.com

Mateos is into you, and you return the love. “The quiet room at Mateos is so relaxing,” a voter said, “and that’s before you even start receiving what you scheduled. The staff is very friendly and talented, the atmosphere is fabulous, the level of cleanliness is top of its class, and for the money spent, it is hands down the best spa experience I’ve encountered anywhere.” SILVER: VEDA SALON AND SPA BRONZE: THE SPA AT THE BROADMOOR

SILVER: LUCKY DOG BRONZE: K9TO5 DOG TRAINING

DOGGIE DAY CARE GOLD: CAMP BOW WOW 4295 Northpark Drive, 260-9247; 1020 Ford St., 573-9247; campbowwowusa.com/Colorado-Springs

Dog owners can be a picky bunch when it comes to the care of their fur babies. But the compliments piled in for this day care. “They go over and above to ensure the dogs are safe and secure during the day. Staff are so very respectful and kind, providing the best customer service,” said one voter. “I have left Mocha, my cocker spaniel, here twice — once for 10 days and a second time for six days. The reason I take her there, and I am taking her for a third time, is I feel extremely confident that she will continue to get lots of supervised play during the day. She doesn’t spend a lot of time kenneled, and both times she was healthy and happy when I picked her up. The staff is well-informed and friendly of course.” SILVER: LUCKY DOG BRONZE: NORTHwEST ANIMAL HOSPITAL

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2014

WILLOWSTONE MARKETPACE

AT Flea2150Market WEST

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

BEST OF THE SPRINGS 2014

GARDEN OF THE GODS RD. The Ultimate Shopping Experience Colorado Springs’ Premiere Indoor Market Featuring New, Used & Auction Goods! OWSTONE WILL

MARK

www.SwartzElectric.biz 2345 Academy Place, Suite #204 Colorado Springs, CO 80909 • 719.457.2218

Proud to be Colorado Springs’

Best Tax Service

Services: • Payroll • Small Business Accounting

• QuickBooks Setup & Training

Colorado’s Largest Selection of: Furniture, Home Decor, Antiques, Collectibles, Accessories, and So Much More

Flea Market

“The BEST in the business! Always there for questions, or concerns. 20 years with Your TaxLady.” — Wendy Potter Ferrazzano

By combining our expertise, experience and professional staff, each client receives close personal attention.

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Colorado Springs, CO, 80919

(719)548-4924

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Clothing, Tools, Toys, Furniture, Pet Supplies

2014

• Non-Profit Organizations

E

Outstanding Auction Services Since 1980 (719) 687-2400 www.gormanauctions.com

• Tax Preparation

• New Business Formation

ETPLAC

Open Daily from 10AM - 6PM

2150 W. Garden of the Gods Rd. 719

597-3209

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

DENTAL PRACTICE GOLD: BROADMOOR DENTAL 1930 S. Nevada Ave., 576-5566, broadmoordental.com

Walk away with the shiniest grill in town after a visit here. There’s also the BriteSmile teeth whitening process, Invisalign invisible teeth alignment process and the painfree Lumineers porcelain veneer process. “Awesome service,” a voter said. SILVER: COMFORT DENTAL BRONZE: MEYER & LYDIATT FAMILY DENTISTRY

DENTISTRY FOR KIDS

GOLD: COLORADO SPRINGS PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 660 Southpointe Court, Suite 100, 596-2097; 9480 Briar Village Point, Suite 301, 522-0123; cspediatricdentistry.com

Patience, friendliness and the ability to put nervous kids at ease — voters say you’ll feel safe bringing your children here. Said one: “Colorado Springs Pediatric Dentistry is a wonderful place for kids.” SILVER: ACADEMY KIDS DENTAL AND ORTHODONTICS BRONZE: ROCKY MOUNTAIN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY, PC

EVENT DJ

GOLD: SENSATIONAL SOUNDS PROFESSIONAL DJ SERVICE LLC 314-5761, ssprodj.com

Need some tunes for the reunion, luau or school dance? This DJ service is well-approved by voters. Bobby Sorden started the business with his wife in 1999, and they now have four DJs working for them. “Sensational Sounds is an incredible DJ company that has been around for years,” said one voter. And another: “Love their humor and choice of music every time.” SILVER: SPRINGS SOUNDS BRONZE: DJ DANTE INFERNO

event dj: sensational sounds professional dj service llc courtesY sensational sounds

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

ELECTRICIAN

GOLD: BERWICK ELECTRIC 3450 N. Nevada Ave., 632-7683, berwickelectric.com

These electricians have helped folks in town since 1921. That’s a lot of experience tucked in their utility belts. You agree: “They have an outstanding crew of people that work for them. I would gladly have them come and work on my house again,” a voter said. SILVER: GRINGO DAVE’S ELECTRIC SERVICE BRONZE: SWARTZ ELECTRIC

ESTABLISHMENT TO WATCH THE BRONCOS GOLD: OLD CHICAGO PIZZA AND TAPROOM Multiple locations; oldchicago.com A Peyton Manning victory pairs nicely with a beer from the franchise’s plentiful selection. And even if you’re not into beer or pizza, they’ve still got you covered with salads, calzones, pasta, burgers, sandwiches, wine and cocktails. Voters praised the eatery for quality ingredients and the best pizza in town. “We missed it terribly during the six years we lived elsewhere on military assignments,” said one voter.

establishment to watch the broncos: old chicago Pizza and taProom

SILVER: BUFFALO WILD WINGS BRONZE: WYATT’S PUB AND GRILL

JeFF KearneY

Location. Style. Selection. You could spend your whole life searching for a home that’s a perfect fit, or you could spend your whole life living in one. For the best in location, style, and selection – nothing beats a Classic. Classic Homes. From Your First Home To Your Last, We’re With You All The Way.

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

FINANCIAL PLANNER

GOLD: FIRST COMMAND 1277 Kelly Johnson Blvd., 599-8861; 6760 Corporate Drive, 380-7422; firstcommand.com

The financial planning needs of American military families is first and foremost to the folks here. The company was started in 1958 by Air Force Lt. Col. Carroll Payne, and continues to cater to the needs of service members and their families. SILVER: JANE YOUNG, IT’S NOT JUST MONEY INC. BRONZE: HARRIETTE JASPER, PRIMERICA

FUN WAY TO SUPPORT CHARITY

GOLD: NATIONAL MILL DOG RESCUE’S TAILWAGGERS CELEBRATION It’s the perfect combination: wine, food, silent auction, dogs and music. This nonprofit organization rescues, rehabilitates and finds homes for commercial breeding dogs from puppy mills. Voters approve of its fundraising event. “I voted for NMDR for all the love that they give the neglected, abused, and forgotten furever friends for us all. They are animal angels,” said one voter. Added another: “They are a world-class animal rescue.” SILVER: SUSAN G. KOMEN’S RACE FOR THE CURE BRONZE: ALL BREED RESCUE & TRAINING’S “ROMP IN THE PARK”

fun way to support charity: national mill dog rescue’s tailwaggers celebration Jerilee bennett, the gaZette

94 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

FRanCHIsed Real estate oFFICe GolD: rE/MaX ProPErTiEs inC. 2630 Tenderfoot Hill St., 576-5000, homescolorado.com

If you’re in the market to buy or sell, Re/Max will make some magic happen. You depend on this company and its agents. Re/ Max, said a voter, has a “drive for excellence, knowledgeable staff and friendly faces.” silVEr: eRa sHIelds Real estate BronZE: tHe platInUm GRoUp, RealtoRs

HaIR salon

GolD: MaTEos salon & DaY sPa 5919 Delmonico Drive, 266-9295, mateosdayspa.com

There must be a reason this spa wins year after year in multiple categories. These folks know what they’re doing when it comes to your locks. “The staff is very friendly and talented, the atmosphere is fabulous, the level of cleanliness is top of its class and for the money spent, it is hands down the best spa experience I’ve encountered anywhere.” silVEr: J GReGoRy salon BronZE: tHe BeeHIVe salon

hair salon: mateos salon & day spa JeFF KeaRney

“A getaway that ‘s not far away” 711 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829

719-685-1277

http://www.avenuehotelbandb.com

The Keller Homes Test Drive provides a closer look at what a high performance home really means. A better home is in the details. 1 LEARN

2 INSPECT

3 COMPARE

TOUCH AND FEEL THE DIFFERENCES | GAIN THE CONFIDENCE

Schedule an appointment online at kellerhomes.com where better performing homes are just a click away, or call 877-820-1517.

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 95


CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

HAULING COMPANY GOLD: BESTWAY DISPOSAL

impressive outing for out-of-town relatives: garden of the gods

650 Santa Fe St., 633-8709, bestwaydisposal.com

This gang knows the ins and outs of good customer service, which takes them straight to the top of the heap, so to speak. “These guys are top notch. They will ring the doorbell if you forgot to put out your bins, and on windy days they will stow the bins near your house. I appreciate that they take time from their route to perform awesome customer service. They also have a great newsletter and sometimes offer discounts just for reading it.” Said another voter: “Love their service in Manitou Springs.”

the gaZette

SILVER: BIN THERE DUMP THAT BRONZE: SPRINGS WASTE SYSTEMS

HOME BUILDER GOLD: CLASSIC HOMES

6385 Corporate Drive, 592-9333, classichomes.com

Building a home from scratch just got easier. This company has spent the last two-plus decades breaking ground on new homes for sale in premier neighborhoods along the Front Range. SILVER: SADDLETREE HOMES BRONZE: KELLER HOMES

HOOKAH BAR

GOLD: HOOKED ON HOOKAH 6406 N. Academy Blvd., 886-7107, hohstore.com

This hookah lounge has the tastiest, smoothest and longestlasting smoke in town, voters said. “Hooked on Hookah is a place where everyone feels welcomed and has a place. They are extremely attentive and friendly, and I know all of the staff after only a couple of times going. They are the only place in the Springs that I ever recommend,” said one voter. SILVER: 40 THIEVES HOOKAH LOUNGE BRONZE: HOOKAH SPRINGS CAFE

HOTEL

GOLD: THE BROADMOOR 1 Lake Ave., 577-5775, broadmoor.com

The big pink stucco hotel southwest of downtown has been there since 1918. The staff clearly know what its doing: The hotel consistently wins both the AAA Five-Diamond and Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star awards. Impressive stuff. “They maintain their quality and standards across the board over the years. A year or so can pass between my visits there, and the quality is always there,” a voter said. SILVER: THE MINING EXCHANGE — A WYNDHAM GRAND HOTEL BRONZE: THE CLIFF HOUSE AT PIKES PEAK

IMPRESSIVE OUTING FOR OUT-OF-TOWN RELATIVES GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS 1805 N. 30th St., 634-6666, gardenofgods.com

Visitors and residents alike marvel over the 3,300-acre park, which boasts spectacular views of 300-foot sandstone formations. The park has a visitors center, picnic areas, trails and rock climbing opportunities. “Can’t beat it all around. Family-orientated, free admission, best views, great staff at the visitor center and cafe and gift shop — a true Colorado Springs treasure,” said a voter. Another said: “Garden of the Gods is the gem of the city and a place to inspire all things beautiful. The park is being cared for by so many in the city and it shows.” SILVER: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO BRONZE: MANITOU SPRINGS

INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE OFFICE GOLD: THE PLATINUM GROUP, REALTORS 6760 Corporate Drive, No. 300, 536-4444, platinumhomesales.com

Seven long-time Colorado Springs brokers threw open the doors of their new real estate office in 2005, and haven’t looked back. Even the employees are happy to vote for them: “I consider myself fortunate to work for a company that is successful, while never compromising on core values that represent integrity and a high level of customer service.” SILVER: HARRIS GROUP REALTY INC. BRONZE: BLUE PICKET REALTY

96 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


Colorado Springs for allowing

to help OVER 76,500 Colorado Springs residents buy or sell a home since opening in 1986! We Have The Best Bud and Shatter

3,708 Closed Transactions in 2013! 133% MORE than our closest competitor! That’s 10 Homes a Day!

2639 E Willamette Ave Colorado Springs, CO 80909

$100 OZ on Select Strains FREE PRE-ROLL With Purchase of 1/8th oz or more!

(719) 636-0929 Dr.Releaf719@gmail.com www.DrReleaf.com

Member Pricing On Top Shelf Strains With This Coupon

1g - $7 1/8oz - $22 1/4oz - $42 1/2oz - $80 1oz - $150

50% OFF ALL GLASS With Purchase of 1/4th oz or more!

We have over 25 of the finest strains in Colorado! We have a full line of Concentrates and Oils. We also have infused Products including Cannabis Capsules, Cookies, Chocolate Truffles and Salve, all made in house! More coming soon!

Patients assigning us as their provider receive 1/8th oz for 1 Penny!

North – (719) 598-4700 South – (719) 576-5000 Monument – (719) 487-6100 Downtown – (719) 570-9000 www.HomesColorado.com RE/MAX Properties, Inc. is one company independently owned and operated with 4 locations.

THE DESTINATION FOR EXPERIENCED REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS.

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 97


THANK YOU

CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

For nearly 30 years ERA Shields Real Estate has been committed to providing excellence to our community, our team and our industry!

Thank you for making us #1!

kARAOkE BAR: THUNDER AND BUTTONS

JEFF KEARNEY

KARAOKE BAR

GOLD: THUNDER AND BUTTONS 2415 W. Colorado Ave., 447-9888, thunderandbuttons.com

There’s a little place on the west side where they’re dying for you to come belt out a few tunes. Show ‘em what you’ve got at karoke four nights a week — Wednesdays to Saturdays. SILVER: GOOD COMPANY BRONZE: DUBLIN HOUSE

LANDSCAPER GOLD: TIMBERLINE LANDSCAPING INC. 2480 N. Powers Blvd., 638-1000, timberlinelandscaping.com

No matter what your request — landscape design, construction or maintenance — these folks have your back. They’ve made yards sparkle for almost 25 years. SILVER: NATURE ESCAPES LANDSCAPE & DESIGN INC. BRONZE: EZ FLOW SPRINKLERS

LAWYER GOLD: HEUSER & HEUSER LLP 625 N. Cascade Ave., 520-9909, askgordonnow.com

www.ERAShields.com

Rockrimmon 719.593.1000

Broadmoor 719.576.3600

98 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

Brothers Barkley D. and Gordon J. are the Heusers. They were raised in the Springs, and started their personal injury law practice here in 1985. They describe themselves as “a strong voice for the Everyman and ... tireless advocates for people who have been injured by negligence or carelessness.” SILVER: TERENCE DOHERTY BRONZE: TIE, DANIEL NOFFSINGER, MATTHEW CLAWSON


BrowSe ConSign BiD/Buy

2014

Colorado Springs’ Quality Consignment Store & Auction House

Two greAT BuSineSSeS - one loCATion! 109 S. Sierra Madre St. 719-632-5588 Unique Art, Furniture, Home Accessories, Collectibles, Jewelry, Clothing, Light Fixtures & Much More open Mon. - Fri. 9-5; Sat. 9-4 2014

regularly Scheduled Saturday Auctions

auctionhouse109.com

2014

littlelondonmarket.com

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 99


CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

MEDICAL MARIJUANA: MAGGIE’S FARM

MASSAGE THERAPIST

GOLD: BODY FOR LIFE 3585 Van Teylingen Drive, 494-4276, bodyforlifemassage.com

The clinic offers multiple massage styles, including trigger point, hot stone, sports and Swedish. Clients rave about the therapists on the company’s website: “I was never comfortable with the idea of having a massage done on me, but after numerous recommendations for (of) Jill, I decided to give it a try. I have been multiple times now and cannot begin to explain the difference that this has made. Jill even took time to research a bit more about the area I was having discomfort to try a few different techniques.” SILVER: SHAWN TURNER, THE THERAPY COTTAGE

MECHANIC

GOLD: HONEST ACCURATE AUTO SERVICE 426 Nevada Mesa View, 598-6306; 3905 Tutt Blvd., 638-1800; honestaccurateauto.com

Dealing with auto mechanics can be challenging, but these guys make it look like afternoon tea. The Nevada Mesa View location offers service on Hondas, Acuras and Subarus. “I have always been pleased with this family-owned business. They are just what their name implies: honest and accurate,” said one voter. Another said: “I appreciate the individual care the employees give at Honest Accurate Honda.” SILVER: ASPEN AUTO CLINIC BRONZE: AUTO TECH PLAZA

JEFF KEARNEY

MEDICAL MARIJUANA

GOLD: MAGGIE’S FARM 1424 S. Nevada Ave., 328-0420; 818 E. Fillmore St., 358-8849; maggiesfarmmarijuana.com

This medical marijuana store offers products sun-grown from seed and 100-percent custom-mixed, with on-site soil. Plants are spring-watered, slow-cured and hand-trimmed, and are grown without pesticides or growth hormones. SILVER: STRAWBERRY FIELDS BRONZE: TODAY’S HEALTH CARE

MEDICAL PRACTICE GOLD: MOUNTAIN VIEW MEDICAL GROUP Multiple locations; mtviewmedgroup.com

This practice has more than a dozen offices around the region and can help with many of your medical needs, including internal medicine, pediatric care, ophthalmology, OB-GYN and osteoporosis. “Great group of doctors and support staff,” one voter wrote. SILVER: COLORADO SPRINGS HEALTH PARTNERS BRONZE: DUBLIN PRIMARY CARE

MORTGAGE COMPANY

GOLD: ENT FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Multiple locations; ent.com

There are 27 Ent locations in Colorado Springs, Denver and Pueblo that provide financial services to individuals and businesses. Voters remain loyal to the credit union. “We have been banking with ENT Federal Credit Union for over 19 years,” said one. Added another: “They are full service but treat you as an individual.” SILVER: PEOPLES BANK BRONZE: ACADEMY MORTGAGE CORPORATION

100 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

NEIGHBORHOOD GOLD: THE WEST SIDE

The west side speaks to voters’ hearts with its collection of classic older homes, proximity to the mountains and quick jaunts to downtown, Old Colorado City and Manitou Springs. “I like the old, established early areas,” said a voter. SILVER: BRIARGATE BRONZE: THE OLD NORTH END

NONPROFIT

GOLD: CARE AND SHARE FOOD BANK FOR SOUTHERN COLORADO 2605 Preamble Point, 528-1247, careandshare.org

This nonprofit supplies food to more than 340 partner agencies, including pantries, soup kitchens and shelters, in southern Colorado as well as Healthy Kids Club, Send Hunger Packing Program, Emergency Food Assistance Program, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, mobile food pantries and others. Voters — and employees — agree: “I am biased because I work there and know about the amazing work they do.” SILVER: NATIONAL MILL DOG RESCUE BRONZE: COMPASSION INTERNATIONAL

PEDIATRIC PRACTICE

GOLD: DUBLIN PEDIATRICS 2685 Dublin Blvd., 592-9890, dublinprimarycare.com

When the kids are sick, you trust the four pediatricians and two physician assistants here to nurse them back to health. “Dr. Steven Luebbert is an amazing doctor,” said one voter, “and I’m so thankful for Dublin Pediatrics/Dublin Primary Care. The nurses are always very helpful on the triage line and they are always able to squeeze people in when sick.” “Love the doctors and staff here. We’ve been loyal for 10 years,” said another voter. SILVER: IRON HORSE PEDIATRICS BRONZE: MOUNTAIN VIEW MEDICAL GROUP


RESIDENTIAL SERVICES No Job Too Small! Electrical Panel Upgrades New Construction Custom Homes Kitchen & Bath Remodels Basement Finishes Hot Tub Circuits Air Conditioner Circuits

Where old fashioned customer service still exists! Lifetime Workmanship Warranty

2014

COMMERCIAL SERVICES Lighting Energy Audits & Solutions Tenant Finishes Electrical Panel Upgrades Electrical Maintenance

719.290.1484

www.GringoDavesElectric.com

729 E. Costilla • Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Thank You!

You voted us

Best Mortgage Company

in Colorado Springs.

thank you! We had wanted to thank each of our 5,570 home loan customers right here. (They told us they’d run out of ink.)

We truly appreciate all our clients – Realtors, Lenders, Home Owners – for your business and your trust!

Thank you for making us

THE BEST OF THE BEST!

719-578-5900

epeoples.com 719.528.4000

www.unifiedtitle.com the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 101


CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

THE

WHEATON TEAM

Exceptional Service, Extraordinary Results!

Local Experts, Globally Connected!

Only “The BEST” Team Can Sell A Home Every 4 Days!

person who makes a difference: richard skorman Jeff kearneY

Jean & John Wheaton Zane Whitfield

www.TheWheatonTeam.com

719-536-4581

Jean@TheWheatonTeam.com One of the top Real Estate teams serving Colorado Springs & all of El Paso County!

102 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

PERSON WHO MAKES A DIFFERENCE GOLD: RICHARD SKORMAN

Richard Skorman co-founded the sprawling downtown Poor Richard’s complex (food, coffee, books, gifts, toys), served on City Council and ran for mayor. You agree that he means a lot to the community.: “The most caring person about our city and fellow man I have ever known,” said one voter. Another said, “Richard Skorman exemplifies the humble, hard-working, servant to the poor, the homeless, the young and old with a deep dignity and compassion to all. His work and dedication to Colorado Springs has provided a forum for community building and prosperity to not only the young, the immigrant and the forgotten, but also to the educated and affluent who wish to see the American dream of equality for all.” SILVER: THERESA STRADER, NATIONAL MILL DOG RESCUE BRONZE: LAUREN FOX, ALL BREED RESCUE & TRAINING


CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

THANK YOU FOR BRINGING OUT THE BEST IN THE SPRINGS!

cspm.org | 719.385.5990 Tue - Sat 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. FREE ADMISSION

Providing the highest Quality Care for over 15 Years BestOfSpringsAd.indd 1 Patient Satisfaction Rating of over 99%

PERsonal tRainER: joE RamiREz jEFF KEaRnEY

• • • • • • • •

PERSONAL TRAINER GOLD: JOE RAMIREZ trainwithjoe.com

Folks turn to Joe Ramirez when they need a fitness push, and he has plenty of ways to give you one: kettlebells, in-home training, kickboxing, bootcamp, boxing. “He succeeds at helping you achieve your fitness goals,” said a voter. “Joe has helped me lose 15 pounds in one month, and he is the most supportive and butt-kicking trainer out there,” said another voter. Yet another wrote: “I am very shy and he has helped me come out of my shell. I have been seeing him for two weeks, and I already see a difference.” SILVER: ED STEDMAN, ED’S GYM BRONZE: BRANDI HANCOCK, S.W.E.A.T. LTD.

PET BOARDING GOLD: CAMP BOW WOW

4295 Northpark Drive, 260-9247; 1020 Ford St., 573-9247; campbowwowusa.com/Colorado-Springs

This staff loves your dog almost as much as you do, judging by voter comments. Camp Bow Wow offers day and overnight camps and camp showers (dog baths and nail clips). “They are incredibly caring and genuine in providing care for our dogs. They go over and above to ensure the dogs are safe and secure during the day. Staff are so very respectful and kind, providing the best customer service,” said one voter. “Camp Bow Wow is the best thing I have ever done for my dogs,” said another voter.

Thank you 3/29/2014 for voting for us!

12:49:51

Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy Vestibular Rehabilitation Trigger Point Dry Needling Kinesio Taping Athletic Training Manual Therapy

www.JointEffortRehab.com 2835 Dublin Blvd 2989 Broadmoor Valley Rd. 719-533-1318 719-527-9331

Colorado

Springs Shuttle

SILVER: LUCKY DOG RESORT CENTRAL BRONZE: NORTHWEST ANIMAL HOSPITAL

PET GROOMER

GOLD: WAG N’ WASH HEALTHY PET CENTER Multiple locations; wagnwash.com

You and your critters love this place. There’s an in-store bakery full of treats, places to wash dirty dogs, groomers and store cats to cuddle. SILVER: PETSMART BRONZE: HAPPY HOUNDS PET GROOMING

The ONLY budgeT frieNdLY direct shuttle service to and from Colorado Springs to the denver international Airport.

719.687.3456 • COLORADOSHUTTLE.COM the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 103


CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

place to play pool: phantom canyon brewing co. JeFF Kearney

PHILANTHROPIC BUSINESS GOLD: BLUE STAR RECYCLERS 100 Talamine Court, 597-6119, bluestarrecyclers.com

The organization was founded in 2009 to recycle electronics and other materials in order to create local jobs for people with autism and other disabilities. To date, the recyclers have taken care of more than 4 million pounds of electronics and created 42 jobs in six Colorado communities. SILVER: MARCO’S PIZZA BRONZE: ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF COLORADO SPRINGS

PHYSICAL THERAPY PRACTICE GOLD: JOINT EFFORT REHAB LLC

2835 Dublin Blvd., 533-1318; 2989 Broadmoor Valley Road, 527-9331; jointeffortrehab.com

Voters rely on the therapy services here, which include occupational and speech therapies, vestibular rehabilitation, trigger point dry needling and kinesio taping. “Kevin Hyland and all of the other therapists and employees at Joint Effort provide the best, most competent and always friendly treatment for all of their patients,” a voter said. SILVER: SYNERGY MANUAL PHYSICAL THERAPY BRONZE: ACTION POTENTIAL

PLACE TO PLAY POOL GOLD: PHANTOM CANYON BREWING CO. 2 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 635-2800, phantomcanyon.com

Best Independent Real Estate Office

Grab a table and rack ’em up. When you’re jonesing for a game, this is where you head. “This is a perfect

anytime bar to go to. I love the upstairs view and the numerous pool tables. The food is delicious and the beer and is great. The crowd they draw is perfect for the mid-twenties and up,” said a voter. Best Realtor

andand ndependent Real Estate Office Best Realtor and and ndependent Estate Office Best Realtor pendent est Independent RealReal Estate Office Estate Office Best Realtor Best Realtor and Real Estate Office Best Realtor

SILVER: ANTIQUES BILLIARDS MUSEUM BRONZE: TIE, CORNER POCKET WEST, THUNDER AND BUTTONS, OLD CHICAGO

WINNER

Independent Real Estate Office and Best Realtor

WINNER WINNER WINNERWINNER

Thank you Colorado Springs! Thank you Colorado Springs! Thank you Thank Colorado you Colorado Springs! Springs! 719-227-9900 www.barbaraharristeam.com Colorado Springs! Thank you Colorado Springs! Proudly serving Colorado Springs for 35 years! WINNER

719-227-9900 www.barbaraharristeam.com 719-227-9900 719-227-9900 www.barbaraharristeam.com www.barbaraharristeam.com Thank you Colorado Springs! ww.barbaraharristeam.com 719-227-9900 Proudly servingwww.barbaraharristeam.com Colorado Springs for 35 years!

Proudlyforserving Colorado Proudly serving SpringsColorado for 35 years! Springs for 35 years! Colorado Springs 35 years! 719-227-9900 www.barbaraharristeam.com

Proudly serving Colorado Springs for 35 years!

Proudly serving Colorado Springs for 35 years!

104 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS place to propose: garden of the gods

the gaZette

Thank You Colorado Springs

PLaCe to ProPose GolD: GarDeN oF tHe GoDs 1805 N. 30th St., 634-6666, gardenofgods.com

When you’re ready to make it official, you bring your partner here and hope for the best. The beautiful setting is the perfect backdrop to any declaration of love. “Let’s be honest,” a voter said, “that place is really impressive.” sIlVer: the BroadMoor BroNZe: the sUMMIt of PIKes PeaK

PLUMBer

GolD: aFForDaBle plUMBING aND Heat INc. 1304 Market St., 471-0713, affordableplumbingandheat.com

Who are you going to call when you have a geyser in the middle of the night? Greg and Heidi Smith. Well, their employees, anyway. Greg has been a master plumber in the Pikes Peak region since 1978. That’s a lot of pipe fixes for the repeat Best of the Springs winners. “Friendly staff, good prices, they always make you feel important,” a voter said. “They are a company you can trust,” said another. “They don’t just sell you something you don’t need.” sIlVer: oLson PLUMBIng & heatIng Co. BroNZe: B&L PLUMBIng and heatIng InC.

2011 2012 2 0 1 31 2 0 1 24 2013

for Voting The Platinum Group, Realtors as Back to Back Best of Winners

Best of Independent Real Estate Company Best of Relocation Specialist Company Choosing the Right Real Estate Company Does Make a Difference!

Call Us Today 719-536-4326 the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 105


CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS REAL ESTATE RELOCATION SPECIALIST: TREASURE DAvIS, RE/MAx PROPERTIES INC. JEFF KEARNEY

REAL ESTATE RELOCATION SPECIALIST GOLD: TREASURE DAVIS, RE/MAX PROPERTIES INC. TreasureDavis.com

Moving to a new city can be challenging. Voters turn to Treasure Davis to help them not only find a home, but to feel at home. SILVER: CHRIS FULLEN, THE PLATINUM GROUP, REALTORS BRONZE: BRIAN L.A. WESS, INFINITE HORIZONS REALTY

RADIO PERSONALITIES GOLD: JOHNJAY AND RICH ON MY 99.9 FM my999radio.com

They’re the hosts with the most. Johnjay and Rich host the morning show from 5 to 10 a.m.weekdays, to the delight of happy voters everywhere. “Johnjay and Rich are endlessly entertaining in the morning. I love their little games, and we tune in every day,” a voter said. SILVER: CAPTAIN DAN AND TAMMY OAKLAND, KLITE 106.3 FM BRONZE: GOOSE AND WOODY, 92.9 PEAK FM

RADIO PERSONALITIES: JOHNJAY AND RICH ON MY 99.9 FM COURTESY PHOTO

106 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


TODAYS Health Care

Great Patient Pricing GRAMS

ALL DAY

• EVERY DAY

• G REAT S ERVICE • G REAT M EDS • G REAT P RICES THREE LOCATIONS 225 S 8TH ST CO SPRINGS, CO 80905

719-635-9002

HOURS: MON - FRI 9 AM - 7 PM SAT 10 AM - 6 PM SUN 10 AM - 4 PM

975 W FILLMORE ST CO SPRINGS, CO 80907

719 633-1300 2103 E PLATTE AVE

Leave the details to us. At Merry Maids, we are committed to cleaning your house like it was our own. We take the time to understand all your needs, work with your budget and customize an expert cleaning service that you’ll be completely satisfied with every time guaranteed.

CO SPRINGS, CO 80909

FIND US ONLINE: TODAYSHEALTHCAREMEDS.COM

RENEW YOUR RED CARDS CALL US TODAY!

• WE

WILL HELP YOU!

2014

719-302-2032

719-596-3263

merrymaids.com mm4055.digbro.com

Mention this ad for a free refrigerator cleaning with service the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 107


CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

RADIO SPORTS SHOW GOLD: MC SPORTS DAILY ON AM 1300 THE ANIMAL

radio station: KrCC 91.5FM JEriLEE BEnnEtt, tHE GaZEttE

theanimal1300.com You’re big fans of Matt Pauley and Andrew Dwyer, who dish the sports dirt from 3 to 6 p.m. Mondays to Fridays. SILVER: THE DAVE LOGAN SHOW, KOA 850 AM BRONZE: TIE, BRADEN AND BASH, ESPN 1580 AM; THE BLITZ, ESPN 1580 AM

RADIO STATION

GOLD: KRCC 91.5 FM krcc.org

The Colorado College station provides public radio for southern Colorado. Weekday programming includes newsmusic and interviews. Weekends offer programs such as “Car Talk,” “This American Life,” “The Thomas Jefferson Hour” and “Prairie Home Companion.” SILVER: RXP 103.9 FM BRONZE: KBIQ 102.7 FM

Livinglife Liberty Heights is Colorado Springs’ premier retirement community for seniors 55 years or better. Enjoy stunning views of Pikes Peak and the Air Force Academy while experiencing a carefree lifestyle!

CALL 888-612-2908 TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL LUNCH AND TOUR. Independent Living | Assisted Living | Skilled Nursing | Rehab 12105 Ambassador Drive | Colorado Springs, CO 80921 www.seniorlifestyle.com 108 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

2014

atLibertyHeights


NATURE’S PROMISE Tomorrow is a New Day

THANK YOU TO ALL FOR VOTING US BEST OF THE SPRINGS! WWW.COLORADOVEDA.COM TWITTER/FACEBOOK: VEDASALONSPA

FINE ARTS CENTER APRIL 26TH BENEFITING RMFI GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

2014

Celebrating our 10 Year Anniversary

On behalf of our Legacy Title Team “Thank You” to Our Clients and the Colorado Springs Community for making Legacy Title one of the 2014 BEST OF WINNERS

“Empowering our Associates to make the difference.”

719-442-1900

www.legacytitle-llc.com the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 109


CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

retirement home: village at skyline Carol laWrenCe, the gaZette

REALTOR

GOLD: DEBBIE REARDON, REARDON PARTNERS The Platinum Group, 6760 Corporate Center Drive, 955-8525, ReardonPartners.com

Debbie Reardon has a 30-step marketing plan to get your home sold. A happy client on her website said: “Debbie has sold two houses for us and has helped us purchase two houses. She also found a Realtor for us in another state when needed who was also outstanding. This sale was above and beyond. She really showed her skills and knowledge of the real estate industry.” SILVER: TREASURE DAVIS, RE/MAX PROPERTIES INC. BRONZE: BARBARA HARRIS, THE BARBARA HARRIS TEAM

RELOCATION OFFICE

REMODELING COMPANY GOLD: HOMEFIX 8140 Camfield Circle, 749-1788, homefixcos.com

Griff Hanning started the company in 2007, and cites remodeling, repairing and reconstruction as its specialty. “Homefix does great from the small job to the large. They have helped us out of many a do-it-yourself nightmare,” a voter said.

GOLD: PENS & NEEDLES CUSTOM TATTOO CO. 716 N. Weber St., 287-5605, pens-needles.com Let’s face it, you really want an excellent tattoo artist for such a permanent item. Voters enthusiastically endorsed these tattoo artists. “Super professional, clean and friendly,” said one voter. “The staff is extremely helpful and friendly,” said another, “and the tattoo artists are top-notch.”

SILVER: LU’S CONSTRUCTION BRONZE: TLC DESIGN/BUILD REMODELING

SILVER: WEST SIDE TATTOO BRONZE: R U TATTOOED

RETIREMENT HOME

TAX PREPARER

GOLD: VILLAGE AT SKYLINE

GOLD: RE/MAX PROPERTIES INC.

2365 Patriot Heights, 667-5360, brookdaleliving.com/village-at-skyline.aspx

Remax.com

Folks trust the Village at Skyline to provide independent living, personalized assisted living, Alzheimer’s and dementia care and skilled nursing care options for seniors. The ConnectedLiving program helps residents visit online with family and friends, and the arts and crafts studio, putting green, beauty and barber shop and wellness and aquatic center keep life interesting.

Re/Max was founded in Denver in 1973, and now has more than 90,000 agents in more than 90 countries. One voter said: “Has a drive for excellence, knowledgeable staff and friendly faces.” Said another: “I sold a condo and bought a house this year. I was so happy with Kimberly Hunstiger from Re/Max Advantage. I would always recommend Kimberly to be anyone’s agent.”

TATTOO PARLOR

SILVER: LIBERTY HEIGHTS BRONZE: SUNNY VISTA

SILVER: THE PLATINUM GROUP REALTORS BRONZE: ERA SHIELDS REAL ESTATE

110 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

GOLD: YOUR TAXLADY 401 Windchime Place, 548-4924, taxladyllc.com

This place makes a gruesome task palatable. The staff works with individuals, business owners, executives and independent professionals, and offers a free initial consultation. “Best service I ever had,” said one voter. SILVER: STOCKMAN KAST RYAN + CO BRONZE: SUNDAHL & ASSOCIATES PC


0

NORTHWEST ANIMAL HOSPITAL AND PET CARE CENTER Animal Hospital Boarding Kennel Doggie Day Care Grooming

593‐8582

2014

VOTED

Wells Fargo Garden of the Gods Rd

www.nwanimalhospital.com

Chestnut St

Buy the Best!

2014

Ask about our Active Duty Military Discount

ANIMAL HOSPITAL

N

Thank You for Voting Harding Nursery “Best Of 2014”

Shade Trees, Evergreens, Shrubs, Colorado Native Plants, Perennials, Ground Covers, Flowering Shrubs, Flowering Ornamental Trees and Xeriscape Plant Materials. HR: Mon.-Sat. 8am-6pm Sun. 9am-5pm

REIMAGINE YOUR DREAM HOME.

CONRAD

follow us on Facebook & Twitter

Family Owned Since 1957

P O W E R S B LV D

GALLEY

721 Powers Boulevard • 596-5712 www.hardingnursery.com

N

HARDING NURSERY

TERMINAL

AMELIA

PLATTE / HWY 24

LIFE SIMPLIFIED.

A low maintenance community connected by green spaces and walking paths, just minutes from downtown. Charming architectural styles and floor plans that fit any lifestyle. Featuring 4 local, award-winning builders: CreekStone, Hi-Point, JM Weston, and Vanguard Homes. • Townhomes from the $180s to $230s and single family homes from the $260s to $500s. • Models open daily.

WWW.GOLDHILLMESA.COM

We Thank Colorado Springs for Voting Us Best Of 2014!

INFO@GOLDHILLMESA.COM

2014

719.633.2202

745 VALLEY STREET COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80915 (719) 638-7341 (719) 638-7343 FAX NO EXTRA CHARGE FOR AFTER HOURS CALLS

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

trash company: bestway disposal Jerilee bennett, the GaZette

TITLE COMPANY

TV ANCHOR

GOLD: EMPIRE TITLE

GOLD: JENNIFER hORBELT, KOAA 5

5755 Mark Dabling Blvd., Suite 110, 884-5300; 350 N. Pine St., Woodland Park, 686-9888; etcos.com

Horbelt’s known for her warm and genuine aura, which has made her a favorite among viewers across the state. “Jennifer Horbelt is so sweet and genuine, you can tell she would be the same person on air and off,” said a voter.

What does a title company do? On its website, this repeat Best of the Springs winner says “Title insurance provides protection to property owners by insuring against defects in titles that have already occurred, but have not yet been discovered.” Voters think Empire Title knows its stuff: “The people are amazing,” a voter said. SILVER: UNIFIED TITLE COMPANY BRONZE: LEGACY TITLE GROUP LLC

SILVER: HEATHER SKOLD, KRDO NEWS CHANNEL 13 BRONZE: LISA LYDEN, KOAA 5

TV NEWS SHOW GOLD: KRDO EVENING

TRASH COMPANY

Coloradans continue to trust the KRDO evening show to provide accurate, informative and interesting news pertaining to national, international and local issues.

GOLD: BESTWAY DISPOSAL

SILVER: KOAA 5 MORNING BRONZE: FOX 21 MORNING NEWS

650 Santa Fe St., 633-8709, bestwaydisposal.com

TV SPORTS GUY

Bestway is known for premiere disposal services. Watch for the signature red trucks. “These guys are top notch,” wrote one voter. “They will ring the doorbell if you forgot to put out your bins, and on windy days they will stow the bins near your house. I appreciate that they take time from their route to perform awesome customer service.” SILVER: SPRINGS WASTE SYSTEMS BRONZE: WASTE MANAGEMENT

GOLD: ROB NAMNOUM, KRDO NEWS chANNEL 13 Fans have cherished Namnoum’s onscreen insights for more than 10 years, but anyone needing a constant play-by-play should check out his twitter stream, @RobNamnoum, which he updates frequently. Namnoum, said a voter, “does a great job with a pleasant demeanor.” SILVER: jORDAN MASON, KOAA 5 BRONZE: SAM FARNSWORTH, KKTV 11

112 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

TV ANchOR: jENNIFER HORbELT, KOAA 5 jERILEE bENNETT, THE GAZETTE


Good works. Supporting Our Community

(719) 574-1100 or 800-525-9623

Ent.com/Community

Equal Housing Lender | Federally insured by NCUA | Equal Opportunity Lender

© Ent Federal Credit Union, 2014 | Ent is a registered trademark of Ent Federal Credit Union.

Odle Law is personal, tireless and aggressive when it comes to your rights! • Criminal Defense • DUI/DWAI

• Litigation • Wills/Estate Planning • Personal Injury Robert Phillip Odle

Odle Law LLC Law,, LLC

121 South Tejon Street, Suite 1107 Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903 719.559 4099 (Office) • 719 559 4097 (FAX) Email: Bob@Odle-Law.com www.odle-law.com the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 113


CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

tV weather anchor GoLD: Matt MeISter, KrDo newS channeL 13 Meister’s enthusiasm, humor and meteorological knowledge is clear even when the weather isn’t. And voters had a lot to say about Meister. “He’s animated, hilarious and a pure delight to watch even when the weather isn’t! Plus, he’s a major hottie,” a voter said. Said another: “It’s obvious he loves his profession because of the dedication he exhibits. But he also makes his forecasts fun for the viewers as well as himself!” To the dismay of many, Meister is leaving the station this spring, but he’ll remain in the area with Falcon School District 49. SILver: mike daniels, koaa 5 BronZe: rachael Plath, krdo news channel 13

Vet Practice GoLD: FILLMore veterInarY hoSPItaL 1010 E. Fillmore St., 633-3808, fillmorevet.com

When your dog is sick, these are the people to call. “All the doctors take extra measures to ensure your pet gets the best treatment at an affordable price,” a voter said. “They all love the animals so much. I wouldn’t take my dog anywhere else.” SILver: Yorkshire VeterinarY hosPital

tv weather anchor: matt meister, krdo news channel 13 carol lawrence, the GaZette

562

125 4c

Thank you Gazette readers for voting Wells Fargo ‘Best Bank’*

wellsfargo.com * Best of Springs readers poll, 2014 © 2014 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. (1182865_11562)

114 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


LU XURY

Upsizing or Downsizing? We can help! 719-229-9777

becky@gloriod.com www.beckygloriod.com Becky & Jack Gloriod

Creating a little bit of heaven since 1982

• Landscape Design • Construction • Lighting • Irrigation Systems

• Year-Round Maintenance • Christmas Decor • Residential and Commercial

RequeSt a CONSultatiON tOday! info@timberlinelandscaping.com • www.timberlinelandscaping.com

719.638.1000

www.timberlinelandscaping.com

2014

2480 N. Powers Blvd. • Colorado Springs, CO

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

wedding venue: the pinery at the hill CarOl lawrenCe, the gaZette

VIDEO PRODUCTION

WEDDING CAKES

GOLD: AMERICAN MADE FILM AND MEDIA SERVICES

GOLD: LITTLE LONDON CAKE SHOPPE

1414 N. Academy Blvd., 573-8024, americanmadefilm.com

620 S. 25th St., 475-2340, littlelondoncakes.com

The employees of American Made Film and Media Services are multimedia magicians. Owner Jym Fair drew kudos from voters, including one who said, “Jym rocks it!” Said another: “The company is fantastic....they really know video production and are hard-working and friendly. Owner works until the job is done perfectly!”

Voters say Little London wedding cakes are as delicious as they are decadent. These are the best cakes in town, said one voter — not just for weddings, but also for birthdays and every other occasion. SILVER: BOONZAAIJER’S DUTCH BAKERY BRONZE: CREATIVE CAKES AT THE BRIARHURST (FORMERLY CREATIVE CAKES BY CAROL)

SILVER: KOZIVISUALS BRONZE: TIE, ON LOCATION VIDEO AND JUNEBUG PRODUCTIONS

VOLUNTEER GOLD: JENI PAUR, NATIONAL MILL DOG RESCUE After completing her homework, 15-year-old Jeni is a vital asset of the National Mill Dog Rescue team. “She devotes as much time as she can (when she’s not in school) to the dogs at National Mill Dog Rescue,” said a voter. “The various teams at NMDR depend on her so much — sometimes we can’t get things done without her!” SILVER: MICHELE BURCHFIELD, NATIONAL MILL DOG RESCUE BRONZE: TERESE BLACK-SIGLER, NATIONAL MILL DOG RESCUE

116 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

WEDDING VENUE GOLD: THE PINERY AT THE HILL 775 W. Bijou St., 634-7772, thepinery.com/atthehill

The picturesque setting, elegant architecture and accommodating staff make The Pinery at the Hill southern Colorado’s dream wedding location. “In addition to being beautiful and well run,” said one voter, “the new location is just what COS needed!” SILVER: GLEN EYRIE BRONZE: THE BROADMOOR


CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS wEDDING PLANNER: SARAH VIERA EVENT PLANNING AND DESIGN COURTESY PHOTO

Thank You Loyal Customers and Gazette Readers! WEDDING PLANNER

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

GOLD: SARAH VIERA EVENT PLANNING AND DESIGN

GOLD: TERESA LEE PHOTOGRAPHY

358-3998, sarahvieraevents.com

Best of the Springs wedding planning winner for the fourth year in a row, Sarah Viera is trusted for her valuable insight. SILVER: DAY PLANNER EVENTS BRONZE: R.S.V.P. WEDDINGS AND FLORAL DESIGN

4224 N. Nevada Ave., Suite 200, 548-8300, teresaleephotography.com

Voters say Teresa Lee is creative and innovative. SILVER: AMANDA LAMB PHOTOGRAPHY BRONZE: SHANNON COKER PHOTOGRAPHY COmPILED BY JENNIFER mULSON AND

426 S. Tejon St • 719.475.8589

REBECCA CELLIE, THE GAZETTE

Amazing Gardens Begin Here • gARDEN sUPPLIEs • ANNUALs • PERENNIALs • POTTERY • vEgETABLEs & HERBs

MOUNTAIN SHADOWS BEAR CREEK

719.260.5605 719.694.1411

MorningStarSeniorLiving.com

Best Local Gardening Centers.

1330 N. Walnut St

2014

What Senior Living Should Be

Proud to be celebrating 40 years as one of Colorado Springs’

(2 blks N of Uintah & I-25)

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love For the family: from best day care to best teen hangout

gazette.com/bestof

118 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


FAMILY: EXPERT PICKS

GAZETTE.COM/BESTOF

BY LESLIE MASSEY THE GAZETTE

ADRENALINEPACKED ADVENTURE

Fun-pACkEd FAMily OuTinG: SECuriTy SErviCE FiEld

BATTLEFIELD COLORADO 1555 S. Corona Ave., 599-3000, battlefieldcolorado.com

JErilEE BEnnETT, THE GAZETTE

A real action-packed outdoor adventure on 12 sprawling acres near downtown. Colorado’s only outdoor laser tag lets teams compete in a combat-style clash without the pain and cumbersome outfits of paintball or airsoft sports. It’s a great option for family fun, birthday parties, youth groups or anyone looking for a memorable adventure that’s bound to make you sweat.

UNIQUE FAMILY DINNER

ADMIRE OUTDOOR COLORADO SPRINGS

THE AIRPLANE RESTAURANT 1665 N. Newport Road, 570-7656, theairplanerestaurant.com

STARSMORE DISCOVERY CENTER, NORTH CHEYENNE CAÑON PARK

This is a dinner setting the kids are sure to love: A fully intact Boeing KC-97tanker serves as the centerpiece. Built in 1953, the aircraft used to refuel aircraft around the world. Abounding with aviation history, including hundreds of pictures, memorabilia and artifacts, the plane can accommodate up to 42 passengers for dining.

2120 S. Cheyenne Canyon Road, 385-6086, cheyennecanon.org

This is an amazing 1,626-acre park that descends in a series of cascades and waterfalls over 5 miles. Picnic areas and 15 miles of hiking/biking and horseback riding trails are spread throughout. Visitors can learn about history, geology, flora and fauna in the visitors center. At the entrance to the park, Starsmore Discovery Center provides maps, information and exhibits, including a climbing wall where you can learn about rock climbing.

EXPERIENCE THE MAGNIFICENCE OF THE ROCKIES

LEARN ABOUT OUR HISTORY

HIGH DRIVE Cheyenne Canyon, off Lower Gold Camp Road near Bear Creek Nature Center

GLEN EYRIE 3820 N. 30th St., 634-0808, gleneyrie.org

The spectacular castle built by city founder William Jackson Palmer in 1871 in a little valley near Garden of the Gods is open for guided tours, overnight stays and some hiking opportunities. Visitors are enthralled by stories of the Palmer family, the architecture, landscape and history of Colorado Springs. Not all rooms are available for viewing.

ADMIRE OUTDOOR COLORADO SPRINGS: STARSMORE DISCOVERY CENTER, NORTH CHEYENNE CAñON PARK THE GAZETTE

SHOW KIDS THE WONDERS OF NATURE

GET THE KIDS WELL-TUCKERED OUT

FOUNTAIN CREEK NATURE CENTER 320 Pepper Grass Lane, Fountain, 520-6745, www.elpasoco.com

Kids will love exploring the wetlands of Fountain Creek, including searching for signs of wildlife and scrutinizing the Cattail Marsh Wildlife Area. With the area packed with ponds, marshes, meadows and cottonwood forests, guests of all ages can discover an assortment of natural habitats in and around the water. The center offers interpretive programs, special events, group tours and environmental education programs for schools.

Surrounded by panoramic views and stunning scenery, journey about 45 minutes up where the outlook is unsurpassed. Because it’s a high-grade road, it cannot be traveled in the winter. There are no guardrails along the route, and it is a one-way road; you’ll want to keep an eye out for bicyclists.

FUN-PACKED FAMILY OUTING SECURITY SERVICE FIELD 4385 Tutt Blvd., , 597-1449, skysox.com

TRAMPOLINE WORLD GYMNASTICS 780 Vondelpark Drive, 531-5867, trampolineworld.co

With 28 trampolines, foam pits, bungee flipping, a double boomerang and superhero swings available, kids are entertained for hours. The open, supervised gym helps kids learn about trampoline jumping with trained instructors. Trampoline World offers classes, open gym times and parties. Four party rooms with refrigerators and microwaves are available for cake and ice cream. Plus, they provide the plates, cups, napkins and sporks!

The best place for the whole family to catch a ballgame without breaking the bank. Home to the Sky Sox, the Triple-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, Security Service Field gives families a nice substitute to major league fields. All of the seats are great, and there’s tons of fun to be had between innings. Mascot Sox the Fox is on hand throughout the game to entertain and oversee contests and games. Concession stands are filled with ballpark snacks, and the chances of catching a foul ball at this park are much higher than at a major league field.

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 119


FAMILY: READERS’ PICKS

AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM GOLD: ACADEMY OF CHILDREN’S THEATRE 2314 Vickers Drive, 282-9101, actcolorado.net

Participants and their families love it here: “The theatre camps are fun and encouraging, and everyone gets great stage experience with any camp, class, or show.” “A wonderful opportunity for children and families to experience the arts in a safe and wholesome environment!” “Our kids have loved taking classes here and have really grown in their acting, singing and dancing skills.” SILVER: U.S. TAEKWONDO CENTER BRONZE: CORPUS CHRISTI CATHOLIC SCHOOL

DAY CARE CENTER GOLD: HOPE MONTESSORI ACADEMY Multiple locations, montessorichild.com

This center, a happy mom says, “takes superb care of my little one with a focus on independence and learning.” Another mom shared, “Our son attends there and they take such great care of him, he is learning so much and learning to be nice and helpful. We are so thankful for the entire staff!” SILVER: CORPUS CHRISTI CATHOLIC SCHOOL BRONZE: EARLY CONNECTIONS LEARNING CENTERS

PRESCHOOL GOLD: CORPUS CHRISTI CATHOLIC SCHOOL 2410 N. Cascade Ave., 632-5092, corpuschristicos.org

What more can you say about a private school where students have been able to “Live, Love and Learn Faithfully” since 1921. Loyal fans said it with their votes. SILVER: PRESCHOOL PARTNERS BRONZE: SIDEWALK’S END MONTESSORI SCHOOL

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL GOLD: THE CLASSICAL ACADEMY 12201 Cross Peak View, 282-1181, tcatitans.org

Enthusiastic students wrote, “We love this school.” SILVER: CORPUS CHRISTI CATHOLIC SCHOOL BRONZE: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN CHARTER ACADEMY

MIDDLE SCHOOL GOLD: CHALLENGER MIDDLE SCHOOL 10215 Lexington Drive, 234-3000, asd20.org

The students give Challenger a big thumbs-up because, said one, “that’s where I go to school.” SILVER: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN CHARTER ACADEMY/THE VANGUARD SCHOOL BRONZE: TIE, JENKINS MIDDLE SCHOOL AND THOMAS MACLAREN SCHOOL

DAY CARE CENTER: HOPE MONTESSORI ACADEMY JEFF KEARNEY

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FAMILY: READERS’ PICKS after school program: academy of children’s theatre Jeff Kearney

Serving infants, children and teens in Colorado Springs, Fountain, Widefield, Security, Monument, Falcon and Woodland Park, CO. Stop by one of our locations today!

Thank you, for voting us Best of the Springs 2014!

2014

• 9480 Briar Village Point, Suite 301 :: 80920 :: 719-522-0123 • 660 Southpointe Court, Suite 100 :: 80906 :: 719-596-2097

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FAMILY: READERS’ PICKS

high school: palmer high school Jerilee BeNNeTT, The gaZeTTe

HIGH SCHOOL

HOME-SCHOOL PROGRAM

GOLD: PALMER HIGH SCHOOL

GOLD: MOUNTAIN VISTA HOME SCHOOL ACADEMY

301 N. Nevada Ave., 328-5000, palmer.d11.org

2550 Dorset Drive, 579-2160, mvhsa.org

It’s the original high school and still the best, the students say with pride. Why? “Because we’re Palmer!” Parents shared, “Palmer High School. #1 high school in Colorado Springs, for academics and diversity. Our kids became well-rounded students because of their learning from Palmer.”

One day each week, this free enrichment program is offered to home-schooled families through Harrison School District 2. This is its second year taking a Best of the Springs Gold.

SILVER: DOHERTY HIGH SCHOOL BRONZE: AIR ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL

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SILVER: HIGH COUNTRY HOME EDUCATORS, NEW LIFE CHURCH BRONZE: FALCON HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT PROGRAM


THE A+

It Fix st Fa

Electrical Magician Available 24 hrs / 7 days a Week

There’s a reason we’re one of the fastest growing companies in Colorado!

Call by 4pm

719.227.0500 • thewirenut.com

and we’re there today, or you don’t pay!

Best of the Springs Gold Medal Winner for 3 Years: 2011, 2012 & 2013 B Nurse Nancy LLC

2004 Founded & Operated d e n Ow Locally

FRONT RANGE NURSE AIDE

oth Cour Day & Ev ses A e vaila ning ble

TRAINING PROGRAM WWW.NURSENANCY.ORG

Fully Approved by the CO Dept. of Regulatory Agencies, State Board of Nursing and the CO Dept. of Labor and Employment

7870 N. Academy Blvd, Just West of Chapel Hills Mall in the Plaza at Chapel Hills Shopping Center by CopyIt! and Chipotle Grill

2 0 1 43

719-648-1020 719-314-9978

Jerry Hendricks, O.D. • Keely Knoche, O.D. • Brenda Begin, O.D.

 Comprehensive family eye care  Treatments for eye injuries and diseases  Latest in progressive multifocal lens technology  Most durable lenses and treatments in the industry  Exclusive 2 year warranty on all eyeglass frames  Large selection of designer eyeglass frames  Contact lens specialists

Thank You For Voting Us Best of 2014

Lafont • Nike • Charmant • Vera Wang Banana Republic • Oakley • Calvin Klein • Costa del Mar 6005 Delmonico Drive, Suite 140 • Colorado Springs, CO 80919 719/522-9393 • www.RockrimmonVision.com the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 123


Comprehensive Dentistry You Can Trust Cosmetic - Preventative General & Restorative Dentistry

2014

• Reasonable fees • Comfortable Setting • Advanced Treatments • Convenient Location & Hours

6665 Delmonico Dr., Suite C www.ColoradoSpringsBestDentist.com • 719.623.7826

urprise s l il w d n fi l ’l u o What y

PIKES PEAK COMMUNITY

you.

COLLEGE

PPCC.EDU

124 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE GazetteBestof_SurpriseHumm_4-1-14_DISK.indd 1

4/1/14 2:51 PM


D UBLIN HigHly Trained RIMARY Professional CARE P h y s i c i a n s Our staff is committed to meeting your needs and expectations. We believe that high-quality healthcare requires personal and comprehensive services and the active involvement of every patient. We listen to your concerns, provide the latest in medical technology, and involve you in all your healthcare decisions. We have dedicated family practice physicians and pediatricians. They are all primary care physiciansdoctors who attend to a broad spectrum of general healthcare needs; who know individual histories, circumstances and lifestyles; who offer preventative care as well as treatment; and who work closely with other medical specialists.

Our services include: • Adult care • Newborn, pediatric and adolescent care • Gynecological care E Teri Astor, MD

Reeves Bower, MD

• Minor emergency care

Peter Clothier, DO

• Laboratory and EKG capability, and Diagnostic imaging (X-rays)

Like us on Facebook Bruce L Kautz, MD

Craig Loerzel, DO

2014

Nancy Dawson, MD

2685 Dublin Boulevard Colorado Springs, CO 80918

Steven Luebbert, MD

Shane McCarthy, DO

David H Zirkle, DO

(719) 592-9890

DublinPrimaryCare.com

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FAMILY: READERS’ PICKS college for bachelor’s or master’s: university of colorado at colorado springs the gaZette

COLLEGE FOR ASSOCIATES

TECHNICAL SCHOOL

GOLD: PIKES PEAK COMMUNITY COLLEGE

GOLD: PIKES PEAK COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Multiple locations, ppcc.edu

Multiple locations, ppcc.edu

The 45-year-old community college has more than 200 programs of study spread out across four campuses and two military education centers. Since 1968, the college has awarded more than 35,000 degrees and certificates. Students have found a lot to like. Best of all, said one, “PPCC has an amazing staff who care about their students.”

Its number of technical programs continues to grow, as does its roster of satisfied students, who voted it their choice for the best technical school.

SILVER: COLORADO TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY BRONZE: COLLEGEAMERICA

COLLEGE FOR BACHELOR’S OR MASTER’S GOLD: UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO AT COLORADO SPRINGS 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 255-8227, uccs.edu

The mountain lion mascot is familiar to more than the 10,000 undergraduates and 1,500 graduate students at the university that pulled the popular vote. “I’m a mountain lion forever,” said one loyal student. SILVER: COLORADO COLLEGE BRONZE: TIE, COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY AND REGIS UNIVERSITY

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SILVER: COLORADO TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY BRONZE: INTELLITEC MEDICAL INSTITUTE

ARTS SUMMER CAMP GOLD: FINE ARTS CENTER SUMMER YOUTH REPERTORY THEATRE 30 W. Dale St., 634-5583, csfineartscenter.org

A young man who was part of The Rep for five years said he “loved every minute.” Other students credited the program with helping them achieve their best. SILVER: ACADEMY OF CHILDREN’S THEATRE BRONZE: PAINT THE TOWN, PAINT AND PARTY STUDIO


FREE EXTREME COUPONING WORKSHOPS! Learn the techniques of Kelly Gibbs from TLC’s hit show Extreme Couponing! Her secrets are priceless. Reduce your grocery budget today!

UPCOMING EVENTS: Monday, April 28 • 1pm, 4pm or 7pm Embassy Suites at 7290 Commerce Center Drive

Tuesday, April 29 • 1pm, 4pm or 7pm Radisson Hotel at 1645 North Newport Road

Wednesday, April 30 • 1pm, 4pm or 7pm

Clarion Hotel & Conference Center at 314 West Bijou Street

YOU MUST RSVP TO ATTEND,

SIGN UP TODAY!

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FAMILY: READERS’ PICKS SUMMER DAY CAMp: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN zOO THE GAzETTE

Dr. Wonnacott’s highest priority is providing you superb, guaranteed care. With considerable skill, he makes his porcelain and gold crowns and implant restorations in his in-house lab, ensuring that you get the highest quality materials. We’re certain the care you receive is top-notch. Check out our reviews on-line!

Dr. Michael D. Wonnacott DDS 719-488-2222 • www.gleneagledental.com

BIBLE SUMMER CAMP GOLD: EAGLE LAKE 3820 N 30th St., 472-1260, eaglelakecamps.com

With more than 55 years of Christian camping, this ministry of The Navigators has built a reputation that has youngsters wishing for summer camp all year round. There are overnight and day camps and weeklong camps at the churches and voters liked them all. SILVER: CAMP ELIM BRONZE: ASCENT CAMPS, FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

SUMMER DAY CAMP GOLD: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, 633-9925, cmzoo.org

Summer camp at a zoo, outdoors, on the side of a mountain. What could be better? Some kids go for full weeks. Others opt for overnight sleepovers, and the K-6 “Wild Ones” can meet the lions and tigers and bears and make treats for the animals. The problem? One young person just couldn’t stand it that he had finished the sixth grade and couldn’t go anymore. SILVER: EAGLE LAKE BRONZE: ACADEMY OF CHILDREN’S THEATRE

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FAMILY: READERS’ PICKS

TEEN HANGOUT GOLD: TRAMPOLINE WORLD GYMNASTICS 780 Vondelpark Drive, 531-5867, trampolineworld.co

The perfect place for teens to burn off all that energy. “I really want it to win best kid hangout,” wrote one teen. The newest addition: a 60-foot trampoline with a trampoline wall. SILVER: PAINT THE TOWN, PAINT AND PARTY STUDIO BRONZE: IT’Z FAMILY FOOD & FUN

teen hangout: trampoline world gymnastics JeFF Kearney

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FAMILY: READERS’ PICKS

faMILY fUN CENTEr: brUNswICk zoNE xL JEff kEarNEY

FAMILY FUN CENTER BRUNSWICK ZONE XL 1180 Interquest Parkway, 278-3861, bowlbrunswick.com

There’s something for everyone in the family, and voters liked it all: Zone XL is where everything is “extra large fun.” That’s lazer tag, game zone, billiards, a bar and grill, 36 bowling lanes, private party space and professional on-site catering. SILVER: IT’Z FAMILY FOOD & FUN BRONZE: TRAMPOLINE WORLD GYMNASTICS

PLACE FOR BIRTHDAY PARTY

TUTORING PROGRAM

GOLD: BRUNSWICK ZONE XL

GOLD: MATHNASIUM

1180 Interquest Parkway, 278-3861, bowlbrunswick.com

The perfect place to go to blow out those candles, voters say. SILVER: IT’Z FAMILY FOOD & FUN BRONZE: LITTLE MONKEY BIZNESS

130 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

Multiple locations, mathnasium.com

When a student thinks his or her head is going to explode because of fractions or trigonometry, this learning center, whose mission is “We make math make sense,” is there. SILVER: SYLVAN LEARNING CENTER BRONZE: LEARNINGRX COMPILED BY LINDA NAVARRO, THE GAZETTE


Art, Math, History, and Language Arts. Extracurricular activities include: Drama Club,

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instruction, Partnerships with Colorado Springs Conservatory and Pikes Peak Community College, Discovery Education Online A dynamic social and academic learning environment Streaming, Rosetta Stone language for home schooled students in grades K through 12.courses, and more!

Incredible Opportunity for Home Schooling Families! Classes include:

A fun, safe and supervised learning environment for Technology, home schooled Science, Art, Math, children in grades 1 through 12. History, and Classes include: Arts. Language

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Technology, Science, Art,Extracurricular Math, History, and Language Arts. include: activities

featuring the area’s top stylists!

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All students receive their primary education at home and retain their legal status as a home schooler.

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16328 Jackson Creek Pkwy. (Walmart Shopping Center) Monument, CO 80132 (719) 488-4321

3478A Research Pkwy. (Albertson’s Shopping Center) Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 495-0909

www.FamilyBlackBelt.com the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 131

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buy

Shop till you drop: Where to buy wine, cars, toys, flowers and more

gazette.com/bestof

132 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


SHOPPING: EXPERT PICKS

gaZette.coM/bestof

BY MONICA MENDOZA GAZETTE REPORTER

PLACE TO FIND TRENDY CLOTHES WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK EVE’S REVOLUTION 1312 W. Colorado Ave., 633-1357, evesrevolution.com

Eve’s is my favorite girly boutique for its one-of-a-kind fashion styles that won’t bust my piggy bank. Most items are under $49.50. And Eve’s knows one of my favorite words — “sale” — and isn’t afraid of slashing prices. What I love about this little store, which is in a house on Colorado Avenue, is finding professional work clothes, flowy summer dresses and polka-dot, roundcollared-Jackie O-style dresses all in one place. And there is nothing snobby about this store or sales team. It feels more like you’re at your best girlfriend’s house, trying on clothes for each other. And as a special touch to top your shopping experience, Eve’s wraps your items in hot pink tissue paper and ties it with a white bow.

PLACE TO GET ADULT BEVERAGES ON THE WAY TO THE PARTY POWERS LIQUOR MART 5847 Palmer Park Blvd., 596-4700, powersliquormart.com

I like to think of Powers Liquor Mart as the TJ Maxx of adult beverages. It’s jam-packed with all the top name beverages but has humongous daily sales so good they make you feel like you’ve gotten away with something. This is the place to get all the favorite standards in beer, wine and liquor. But also the place to go if you feel like hunting for something special — like fruity beer from Belgium or ale made by Bavarian monks. And if you got a last-minute invite to a party, this store has a drive-thru window.

PLACE TO GET YOUR OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASM ON

place to find trendy clothes without breaking the bank: eve’s revolution Jeff kearney

PLACE TO GO IF YOU’RE A GIRL ON A BUDGET

PLACE TO GO WHEN BLACK IS THE NEW BLACK

LUCY’S CONSIGNMENT

WHITE HOUSE | BLACK MARKET

1672 S. 21st St., 434-8381, facebook.com/LucysAt21st

The Promenade Shops at Briargate, 1845 Briargate Parkway, 262-0589, whitehouseblackmarket.com

The trick to shopping in secondhand stores is to frequent them often. You’ve got to be prepared to walk out with nothing. But when you find The Find, it’s pretty sweet. Start at Lucy’s, even if you are looking for a party dress and especially if you’re in the mood for a faux or real fur wrap, dahling. Take your time and look at every rack. You never know who will be cleaning out their closet, but it just might be fabulous.

MOUNTAIN CHALET

PLACE TO GO WHEN THE WALLS NEED A MAKEOVER

226 N. Tejon St., 633-0732, mtnchalet.com

KIRKLAND’S

First thing I see when I walk into this outdoor equipment store is Beardski brand ski masks and I know this place is cool. I picked up some excellent camping accessories, such as stoves and folding utensils that help keep the packs light. The sales team members are experts in everything outdoors and can talk to the outdoor newbie about equipment and safety without the know-it-all attitude that plagues other specialty outdoor stores. This store is parent- and kid-friendly with clothes and equipment for pint-sized outdoor enthusiasts but also some hardcore baby backpack carriers that would look cool on any parent.

I always think that I should add more color to my wardrobe. But at the moment, I’m in a black and white mood, a la Claire Underwood on “House of Cards.” I’m over the large, loose-fitting tops. I want fitted, minimalist but stylish clothes. I want black and white. In this store, I am prepared to splurge on professional clothes but thrilled when I see the 50 percent-off sign in the window. And yes, the store has a splash of color. I recently picked up a turquoise belt that works in all the seasons — and to go with my black pencil skirt, of course.

3870 Bloomington St., 591-4200, kirklands.com

Walking into Kirkland’s is a bit of sensory overload. But once you get over the strong smell of fruity candles and your eyes adjust, you can find lots of wall décor action. There is art for your coffee bar, wine bar and even beer signs and football art for the man cave. The Paris theme seems to still be going strong, but there also is Japanese garden art if you’re feeling contemplative. No matter what you are into, it’s a good place to start for a wall redo.

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 133


SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS

BaBy ShOp: ONCE UPON A ChILD

JEFF KEARNEY

ANTIQUES GOLD: AMERICAN CLASSICS MARKETPLACE 1815 N. Academy Blvd., 596-8585, americanclassicsmarketplace.com

Voters enthused about this being the place for hard-to-find items at good prices. Said one, “They have continually shown care and concern for their customers; vendors or collectors.” It’s “not as well known as a used furniture store as an antique store. But has the best deals on good, used furniture.” SILVER: WILLOWSTONE ANTIQUE MARKETPLACE BRONZE: LITTLE LONDON MARKET

BABY ShOP GOLD: ONCE UPON A ChILD 6946 N. Academy Blvd., 599-5966, onceuponachildcoloradosprings.com

Parents appreciate “the best selection of used children’s clothes, toys and books. Anything that goes into the shop is like brand new and gives other people the chance to have nice clothes at a cheaper price.” Among the wide variety of fans: a single dad who needs to save money, a grandmother who loves the “gently used clothing for all my grandbabies” and a foster mother who’s “in need of lots of items and fast. This is a onestop shopping trip for us.” SILVER: BABIES “R” US BRONZE: BABY COTTON BOTTOMS

134 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

ChILDREN’S CLOThING GOLD: ONCE UPON A ChILD 6946 N. Academy Blvd., 599-5966, onceuponachildcoloradosprings.com

Voters can’t say enough good things about the gently used clothing at Once Upon a Child. SILVER: KOhL’S BRONZE: MOUNTAIN MOPPETS


SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS jeweler: luisa graff jewelers jeff KearNeY

JEWELER

BEER SELECTION

LIQUOR STORE

GOLD: LUISA GRAFF JEWELERS

GOLD: CHEERS LIQUOR MART

GOLD: CHEERS LIQUOR MART

5901 N. Nevada Ave., 260-0100, luisagraffjewelers.com

1105 N. Circle Drive, 574-2244, cheersliquormart.com

1105 N. Circle Drive, 574-2244, cheersliquormart.com

A friendly jewelry store where the staff loves to educate customers about the best in jewelry, customers say. And how about this: Best of the Springs winner for 14 — now 15 — straight years.

The beer varieties and the store’s employees who are knowledgeable about them brought high marks from voters.

When they’re liquor shopping, Best of voters say, Cheers is the place. “They have anything and everything you’re looking for. Best variety of liquors in the city.”

SILVER: ZERBE JEWELERS BRONZE: JOHANNES HUNTER JEWELERS

SILVER: COALTRAIN WINE & SPIRITS BRONZE: COLORADO LIQUOR OUTLET

SILVER: COALTRAIN WINE & SPIRITS BRONZE: COLORADO LIQUOR OUTLET

You can afford to do it right!

FREE Estimates on Remodels and NEW Installations

10% Discount 2011 2012 2013 2014

Expires 12-31-14

www.affordableplumbingandheating.com the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 135


SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS

WINE STORE GOLD: CHEERS LIQUOR MART 1105 N. Circle Drive, 574-2244, cheersliquormart.com

Voters cited “great variety and reasonable prices,” but many said what was most important were helpful, knowledgeable employees.

BIKE SHOP: OLD TOWN BIKE SHOP JEFF KEARNEY

SILVER: COALTRAIN WINE & SPIRITS BRONZE: THE WINE GALLERY WINE & SPIRITS

BIKE SHOP GOLD: OLD TOWN BIKE SHOP 426 S. Tejon St., 475-8589, oldtownbikeshop.com

John Crandall has been the two-wheeling go-to man since he started Old Town Bike Shop in 1976. People in the bike world say he and his savvy employees are driving forces in building an inclusive bicycle community, keeping everyone in the loop with an electronic newsletter. Add to that, Crandall is a major save-the-Earth fellow. SILVER: CRITERIUM BICYCLES BRONZE: BICYCLE VILLAGE

BOOK STORE GOLD: POOR RICHARD’S BOOKS & GIFTS 320 N. Tejon St., 578-0012, poorrichardsdowntown.com

They’ve always loved Poor Richard’s, wrote several voters. “The whole family loves it,” one long-timer says. The only problem: “I wish the book area was bigger because I could hang out there all day,” a voter said. One book lover is drawn to the intimate bookstore setup and “the book smell.” SILVER: BARNES & NOBLE BRONZE: HOOKED ON BOOKS

BUTCHER GOLD: ANDY’S MEAT MARKET 2915 E. Platte Ave., 636-1149, andysmeatmarket.com

They keep coming back to Andy’s Meat Market for the butcher shop’s “great beef and excellent service,” Best of voters say. “They are very helpful and knowledgeable.” SILVER: RANCH FOODS DIRECT BRONZE (TIE): THE BUTCHER BLOCK, WHOLE FOODS MARKET

NATURAL MEAT MARKET GOLD: RANCH FOODS DIRECT 2901 N. El Paso St., 473-2306, ranchfoodsdirect.com

Hear it from those who voted them the best: “The best selection of natural meats.” “Chemical free, hormone free.” “Since I have been ordering from them, I eat healthier and feel better.” “The best taste I have found.” SILVER: ANDY’S MEAT MARKET BRONZE: WHOLE FOODS

136 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


2014

Proudly Serving Colorado Springs for 14 Years! Dr. John Davis, DC

Dr. Tom Gehrmann, DC

Thank You Again for Voting Us Best of!

Dr. Eric Carlson, DC

5490 Powers Center Pt., Suite 148

(S.W. Corner of Research & Powers Next to Integrity Bank)

278-3612

AtlasChiropracticOnline.com Affordable Care Plans (Various Payment Options Available)

Spinal Decompression Therapy

Chiropractic Care

2 Decompression Treatments & Complete Evaluation

2 Adjustments & Complete Evaluation

$30

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A $280 Value

New Patients Only Must present coupon. Not valid w/any other offer. Expires 4/1/15.

Includes: 2 Chiropractic Adjustments. Case History. Posture Evaluation. Spinal Analysis and Personal Report Of findings. No Hidden Costs. New patients only. Must present coupon. Not valid w/any other offer. Expires 4/1/15.

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 137


SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS

EyEGLaSSES: ABBA EYE CARE

JEFF KEARNEY

EYEGLASSES

car dealer new: heuberger motors inc.

GOLD: ABBA EYE CARE Multiple locations, abbaeyecare.com

mason trinca, the gaZette

A regular winner of Best of the Springs, Abba Eye Care is described by voters as “a wonderful place to go. … Good prices, lots of choices and friendly staff!” In addition, this is where the newest, most stylish frames can be found, they say. SILVER: COSTCO WHOLESALE BRONZE: ROCKRIMMON VISION SOURCE

CAR DEALER FOR MILITARY DISCOUNTS GOLD: MCCLOSKEY MOTORS 6710 N. Academy Blvd., 594-9400, bigjoeauto.com

The fan letters say the personnel are easy to work with, including the boss. “I enjoy working with everyone at McCloskey Motors,” said one. “Joe McCloskey is definitely doing something right!” SILVER: NEVADA AUTO SALES BRONZE: LARRY H. MILLER TOYOTA

CAR DEALER NEW GOLD: HEUBERGER MOTORS INC. 1080 Motor City Drive, 475-1920, heubergermotors.com

This is a record-setting company, routinely the largest-volume Subaru dealership in the country. And it’s a regular Best of the Springs winner. SILVER: PHIL LONG DEALERSHIPS BRONZE: LARRY H. MILLER TOYOTA

138 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


Introducing a new collection of premium sofas, chairs and accents to create an eclectic mix that’s perfectly proportioned for modern living spaces. It’s a vibe that’s current yet completely at ease, with clean lines and stand-out details, for a look that reflects your individual style and makes you feel perfectly at home. Relaxed and elegant all at the same time; come in and see this exciting new collection today.

7087 N. Academy Blvd, Colorado Springs • 719-593-7888 la-z-boy.com/coloradosprings

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 139


SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS

Look for our newest store at Stetson Hills/Powers

florist: platte floral Jeff KearNeY

Proudly serving the Colorado Springs Community since 1979 Visit any of our five conveniently located stores for all of your home improvement needs:

$3 OFF

your next Full Service 20 lb. Propane Fill

One coupon per household, must present coupon at time of purchase, no photo copies or mechanical reproductions. May not be combined with any other offer. Expires 7/5/2014.

2014

1225 N. Circle Drive 2300 N. Wahsatch Ave. 3640 Austin Bluffs Parkway 4201 Centennial Blvd. 5944 Stetson Hills Blvd. Visit us online at www.acecoloradosprings.com

CAR DEALER USED GOLD: CARMAX 4010 Tutt Blvd., 313-4860, carmax.com

It’s part of a company with more than 100 locations nationwide and more on the way. The first CarMax store opened in 1993. Customers at the local dealership give employees high marks for finding the cars they are searching for and their experiences selling their cars at the superstore. SILVER: MILE HIGH CAR COMPANY BRONZE: MCCLOSKEY MOTORS

DEPARTMENT STORE GOLD: KOHL’S Multiple locations, kohls.com

Home to the best restaurants, shopping, arts & culture • Local stores and restaurants • Galleries, museums, and outdoor art • Historic architecture • Bike rides, trails and running clubs • First Friday art, music and entertainment www.DowntownCS.com 140 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

Our voters said: “The best women’s, men’s and children’s clothes. Love their selection, quality and price.” “I can always find something there. Prices are reasonable and you get Kohl’s Cash back.” SILVER: DILLARD’S BRONZE: SUPER TARGET

FLORIST GOLD: PLATTE FLORAL 1417 E. Platte Ave., 632-2607, platteflowers.net

Platte Floral did it again. This is a multiple-year winner of Best of the Springs and a local favorite for flower arrangements since 1921, with its own greenhouse. SILVER: SKYWAY CREATIONS BRONZE: TWIGS AND POSIES


SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS

WHERE FASHION FINDS YOU

FURNITURE STORE GOLD: AMERICAN FURNITURE WAREHOUSE 2805 Chestnut St., 633-4220, afwonline.com

Low prices and selection bring them back, voters say. SILVER: WOODLEY’S FINE FURNITURE BRONZE: AMERICAN FURNITURE GALLERIES

HARDWARE STORE GOLD: ACE HARDWARE Multiple locations, acehardware.com

Some voters could have been singing “Best of” comments from the Ace Hardware commercials: “It’s the place with the helpful hardware person! You can always get a sales associate!” A DIY handywoman agrees, “There’s always someone to help you.” SILVER: LOWE’S BRONZE: HOME DEPOT

HEALTH FOOD STORE GOLD: WHOLE FOODS MARKET 7635 N. Academy Blvd., 531-9999; 3180 New Center Point, 622-1099; wholefoodsmarket.com

This is where, as one woman explains, she finds everything for a plant-based diet in one place. A local mother says she loves the organic and local items: “Personal care, vitamins and supplements, food and household goods. I always find everything I need here.” SILVER: SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET BRONZE: MOUNTAIN MAMA NATURAL FOODS

HOBBY SHOP GOLD: HOBBY LOBBY Multiple locations, hobbylobby.com

Here’s where they can find everything their want or need for hobbies, decorating, holidays and more, voters say. Then there’s that Hobby Lobby iPhone app to get even better prices, they pointed out. SILVER: MICHAELS BRONZE: JO-ANN FABRIC AND CRAFT STORES

|

VOTED BEST PLACE TOSHOP

hOBBy ShOp: HOBBY LOBBY

MASON TRINCA, THE GAZETTE

J.CREW | P.F.CHANG ’S | SEPHORA APPLE | WILLIAMS SONOMA | PENDLETON WHITE HOUSE|BLACK MARKET BANANA REPUBLIC | TED ’S MONTANA GRILL ThePromenadeShopsAtBriargate.com the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 141


SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS

KITCHEN STORE GOLD: SPARROW HAWK GOURMET COOKWARE 120 N. Tejon St., 471-3235, sparrowhawkcookware.com

“Forget ordering online and just head downtown,” says a Sparrow Hawk fan. This is where, as one woman says, “I can usually find the cooking/serving/gadgets/gifts I want.” SILVER: BED BATH & BEYOND BRONZE: CHEFS CATALOG

MEN’S FASHION GOLD: KOHL’S Multiple locations, kohls.com

Popular for men, women and children’s clothes and a thumbs-up for sales. SILVER: JOS. A. BANK BRONZE: MEN’S WEARHOUSE

WOMEN’S FASHION GOLD: KOHL’S Amazing sales, Kohl’s Cash and selection keep them coming back, customers say. SILVER: TERRA VERDE BRONZE: EVE’S REVOLUTION

kItchEN StORE: SpaRROw hawk GOuRmEt cOOkwaRE

mIchaEL cIaGLO, thE GaZEttE

Furniture Designed For Your Lifestyle. Featuring

Thomasville • Stressless • Flexsteel Berhardt • Natuzzi Editions Leather Kincaid • Drexel Heritage • Rowe

A History of Integrity & Service Since 1921 3212 E. Platte Avenue • 632.6621 www.americanfurniture.com 142 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS

PLANT NURSERY: GOOD EARTH GARDEN CENTER

MATTRESS STORE

MICHAEL CIAGLO, THE GAZETTE

PET STORE

PLACE TO BUY A GUN

GOLD: DENVER MATTRESS CO.

GOLD: PETSMART

6320 Corporate Centre Circle, 266-8383, denvermattress.com

Multiple locations, petsmart.com

Consumer Reports says paying more for a mattress doesn’t always add up to a better night’s sleep. This Furniture Row store is rated at the top for best prices in multiple categories, and gets an A+ from the BBB.

The employees got the love from voters who complimented them for knowing what they’re doing and always being friendly. And the staff “loves our pets.” SILVER: WAG N’ WASH BRONZE: PETCO

SILVER: BOB’S DISCOUNT MATTRESSES BRONZE: MATTRESS FIRM

NEW STORE GOLD: H&M Chapel Hills Mall, 1710 Briargate Blvd., 266-6388, hm.com

“Awesome, awesome, awesome ... and it’s finally right here in town,” says a young voter. There were hundreds camped out to be the first customers in the trendy new store at Chapel Hills Mall. SILVER: KIRKLAND’S BRONZE: REVOLUTION JEWELRY WORKS

PLANT NURSERY GOLD: GOOD EARTH GARDEN CENTER 1330 N. Walnut St., 473-3399, goodearthgardencenter.com

Garden fans love this spot for its “educated, knowledgeable staff who are eager to help each person find the best product possible.” Another voter shared: “Unique varieties and colors, healthy plants.” And this shoutout: “Excellent selection, friendliness and extremely knowledgeable staff, particularly Robin.” SILVER: RICK’S GARDEN CENTER BRONZE: PHELAN GARDENS

GOLD: SPECIALTY SPORTS & SUPPLY 4285 E. Fountain Blvd., 391-2556, specialtysportsandsupply.com

Echoing others, one man chose Specialty Sports for his gun purchases because “they have very knowledgeable sales reps and give you great advice so you don’t waste your money on the wrong gun purchase.” SILVER: SPORTSMAN’S WAREHOUSE BRONZE: ROSS AUCTION

PLACE TO BUY AMMO GOLD: SPECIALTY SPORTS & SUPPLY 4285 E. Fountain Blvd., 391-2556, specialtysportsandsupply.com

Customers cite the store’s knowledgeable staff. SILVER: SPORTSMAN’S WAREHOUSE BRONZE: ROSS AUCTION

the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 143


SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS ShOppING CENTER: THE PROMENADE SHOPS AT BRIARGATE CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE

SHOPPING CENTER

SUPERMARKET

GOLD: THE PROMENADE SHOPS AT BRIARGATE

GOLD: KING SOOPERS

1885 Briargate Parkway, 265-6264, thepromenadeshopsatbriargate.com

A regular choice as the area’s best. The humans love its upscale shops and love that this shopping area treats their dogs, too. There are water dishes outside many shops and special dog treats at the ready. SILVER: UNIVERSITY VILLAGE COLORADO BRONZE: CHAPEL HILLS MALL

SPICE STORE GOLD: PENZEYS SPICES

Multiple locations, kingsoopers.com

This Rocky Mountain supermarket brand of Kroger smashed the competition in this category and customers had many compliments. “I appreciate the sales. In the store, newspaper coupons and digital coupons.” Several said they appreciate when an employee directs people to open checkout lanes. One family said they live closer to another supermarket chain but will drive out of their way to go to King Soopers because of its fresh produce, sales, selection, deli and prices. And, they said, they appreciate the friendly employees. SILVER: SPROUTS BRONZE: WHOLE FOODS

7431 N. Academy Blvd., 590-7771; 2010 Southgate Road, 475-7877, penzeys. com

THRIFT STORE

This spice-savvy voter’s comment pretty much says it all: “If you can’t find it here, you never will.”

GOLD: ARC THRIFT STORES

SILVER: SAVORY SPICE SHOP BRONZE: SPICE OF LIFE

SPORTING GOODS

Multiple locations, arcthrift.com

TOY STORE

GOLD: LITTLE RICHARD’S 320 N. Tejon St., 578-0012, poorrichardsdowntown.com

Families said their kids love the play area and the toys and they can always find something unique. It was important to many that it is locally owned. One opinionated little person wishes it had Lego, but he loves going there anyway, his parents said. SILVER: TOY STATION AT SCHOOL CROSSING BRONZE: TOYS “R” US

USED MEDIA GOLD: ENTERTAINMART 651 N. Academy Blvd., 380-8580, entertainmart.com

It’s all about selection, say voters, who also like the big board showing what buyers are looking for and the going prices. SILVER: INDEPENDENT RECORDS & VIDEO BRONZE: ROSS AUCTION

The huge number of racks and the always-changing selections were important to customers. Another big positive: the 50-percent-off sale days.

VIDEO GAME STORE

SILVER: DISCOVER GOODWILL BRONZE: ST. PAWS THRIFT STORE

GOLD: GAMESTOP

GOLD: REI 1376 E. Woodmen Road, 260-1455; rei.com Its name is synonymous with Colorado’s great outdoor lifestyle, say loyal followers. SILVER: DICK’S SPORTING GOODS BRONZE: SPORTSMAN’S WAREHOUSE

144 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE

Multiple locations, gamestop.com

“If u want a game, used or new, go to GameStop right now!” writes an enthusiastic voter. SILVER: ENTERTAINMART BRONZE: SUPERNOVA BAR & ARCADE COmpILED By LINDa NaVaRRO, ThE GaZETTE


Colorado Springs,

We think YOU are the best! Thank you for your votes and for shopping with us.

Craft Beer ChapelHillsMall.com

Seriously… a dazzling array

Wine

Our reputation tells it all

Spirits

Check out our expanded selection

Thank you for all your support. YOU inspire us! Proud to be your Bridal Center and so much more!

Service • Passion Experience • Knowledge

That’s Coaltrain! Thanks for voting us Best of over 20 years in a row

2014

Helping you be unforgettable... 719.260.0100 5901 N Nevada Ave luisagraffjewelers.com

Uintah & I25

475-9700

coaltrain.com the gazette I 2014 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 145


play What’s your pleasure? Places to hike, bike, bowl, golf

gazette.com/bestof

146 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2014 I THE GazETTE


SPORTS & REC: EXPERT PICKS

GAZETTE.COM/BESTOF

place to meditate: horticultural art society’s demonstration garden Jerilee Bennett, the gaZette

PLACE FOR MEN TO EMBRACE A YOGA PRACTICE

BEST GUY TO EYEBALL THE WAY YOUR BODY MOVES

CITYROCK CLIMBING CENTER

JEFF BICKFORD, UNFETTERED MOVEMENT

21 N. Nevada Ave., 634-9099, climbcityrock.com

BY JENNIFER MULSON GAZETTE GO! REPORTER

MOVE SOME CHI AROUND JANET MARLETTO, FENG SHUI CONSULTANT

Though I’ve definitely seen an uptick in the number of men in yoga classes and workshops during the last six years of teaching, the ladies still outnumber the guys by quite a bit. There seems to be some mysterious stigma to yoga that makes men recoil at the mere suggestion of trying it. What better place for an introduction to yoga than at a climbing gym? You’re already there to climb the walls, so you might as well take a nice pre-orpost-climb stretch just to see what all the fuss is about. CityRock has it covered with a class Mondays-Fridays, and they even offer one of the city’s only partner yoga classes on Thursday nights, which is no walk in the park. It requires focus, trust and strength to lift your partner. The center also offers a pilates class once a week, also on Thursday nights. Classes are free to members and those who purchase a day pass, or you can drop in for $10.

226-1474, linkedin.com/in/jmarletto

Janet Marletto is chock-full of feng shui knowledge — the Chinese practice of arranging your environment to create harmonious surroundings. Call her for a consultation and she’ll give your house, office or business a thorough once over, then work up a personalized plan. Creating a better flow in your environment is said to have the same effect in nine areas of your life, including the romance department, finances, health and family.

GET ACUPUNCTURE

PLACE TO MEDITATE

Hannah Beachy is the woman behind the only donation acupuncture clinic for the public in the city. And she’s so sweet that you won’t mind when she’s sticking teeny tiny needles into your head, arms and feet. Visits to the clinic are offered on a sliding payment scale of $15-$35 — whatever you feel comfortable paying. You can make an appointment or do a walk-in, and stay as long as you’d like. Be aware that community acupuncture means you’ll receive your treatment in one big room along with everybody else. But I can vouch for the quiet and lack of any weirdness you might worry about. The treatment will quickly transport you into your own little world.

HORTICULTURAL ART SOCIETY’S DEMONSTRATION GARDEN Monument Valley Park, Cache La Poudre Street and Glen Avenue, hasgardens.org

There are days (most of them) when a girl just needs a serene spot to practice being quiet and still. It’s nice to sit outside, surrounded by the green stuff. I head to the small area called The Demonstration Garden just off the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail in Monument Valley Park. You can perch at a picnic table or sit on one of the quaint benches. Come summer, the butterfly bush blooms, the squash and herbs grow in the heirloom vegetable garden and the air is perfumed by the fragrance garden.

SPRINGS COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE

1015 N. Weber St., Peak Performance Physical Therapy, 635-6800, peakperformancept.org

Jeff Bickford is a former professional dancer who is now a Feldenkrais (pronounced felden-krice) practitioner. During a session with him, he’ll dissect your movement, the way you hold your body and physical tendencies you have that you might not even realize. For instance, he noticed I often tuck my thumbs in between my first and middle fingers. He suspected this tiny movement was a bit like a security blanket. He applies what he sees to any physical problem you’re dealing with, emotional issue you want to work through or sport you’re active in.

PLACE TO GET LOST AND FOUND LABYRINTH AT FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH 16 E. Platte Ave., 633-8888,firstchristiancos.org

2828 W. Colorado Ave., 464-5211, springscommunityacupuncture.com

When you’re working to untangle a problem or come up with a new idea, walking the circles of a labyrinth can help. The outdoor, rose-colored cobblestone maze at First Christian Church is a nice choice. It was installed in 2004 and modeled after the Chartres Labyrinth, which was laid into the floor of the Chartres Cathedral in France in 1360. You can frequently have the downtown labyrinth all to yourself. Consider your question or issue, and then let it go as you enter the maze, walk to the center and back out. Sometimes the meditative movement of walking can do wonders to shift a perspective.

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SPORTS & REC: READERS’ PICKS hike with little ones: GARDEN OF THE GODS JeRilee Bennett, the GAZette

TRAIL

GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS 1805 N. 30th St., 634-6666, gardenofgods.com

Breathtaking views, Kissing Camels and free admission lead Garden of the Gods to the multiple golds. The “Pikes Peak Cog Railway and Garden of the Gods are two things that should not be missed in a lifetime,” one voter said. SILVER: MANITOU INCLINE BRONZE: RED ROCK CANYON

TRAIL FOR BEGINNERS

GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS 1805 N. 30th St., 634-6666, gardenofgods.com

The picturesque landscape of Garden of the Gods is not lost upon Coloradans: “It has beautiful scenery,” one voter said. “With a trail that is a good workout but not too tough.” SILVER: RED ROCK CANYON BRONZE: SANTE FE TRAIL

CITY PARK GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS 1805 N. 30th St., 634-6666, gardenofgods.com

Garden of the Gods offers something for the entire clan, and it’s “family orientated,” one voter said. With “free admission, (the) best views, great staff at (the) visitor center and café and gift shop, a true Colorado Springs treasure.” SILVER: PALMER PARK BRONZE: AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL PARK

LUNCHTIME OR AFTER WORK BIKE/HIKE GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS 1805 N. 30th St., 634-6666, gardenofgods.com

One of the most popular destinations in Colorado Springs is Garden of the Gods; it’s “beautiful (with) good hiking trails, and free,” one voter said. SILVER: SANTA FE TRAIL BRONZE (TIE): PALMER PARK AND RED ROCK CANYON

MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL GOLD: SANTA FE TRAIL

From Palmer Lake to Woodmen Road, bit.ly/1hmmK5u

The Santa Fe Trail is far enough off the highway to offer tranquil quiet and close enough to the mountains to offer pure serenity. It’s “great for getting away from town and very relaxing,” a voter said. SILVER: UTE VALLEY PARK BRONZE: PALMER PARK

URBAN TRAIL GOLD: SANTA FE TRAIL From Palmer Lake to Woodmen Road, bit.ly/1hmmK5u

The backdrop of the mountains and crunch of gravel beneath you will soothe all the stress away. “Santa Fe is the best trail,” a voter said. “There are so many starting points and different terrains to choose from.” SILVER: MONUMENT VALLEY PARK BRONZE: PALMER PARK

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HIKE WITH LITTLE ONES

GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS 1805 N. 30th St., 634-6666, gardenofgods.com

If you’re worried that Garden of the Gods might be too intimidating for younger children, put those fears to rest. “Easy access (and) beautiful,” a voter said. An “asset to our community!” SILVER: BEAR CREEK REGIONAL PARK BRONZE: FOX RUN REGIONAL PARK

BOWLING ALLEY GOLD: BRUNSWICK ZONE XL 1180 InterQuest Parkway, 278-3861, bowlbrunswick.com

More than just a bowling alley, the Brunswick Zone XL also offers lazer tag, video games and a bar for the adults. SILVER: HARMONY BOWL BRONZE: BEAR CREEK LANES

CLIMBING WALL

GOLD: CITYROCK CLIMBING CENTER 21 N. Nevada Ave., 634-9099, climbcityrock.com

With a friendly environment and helpful staff, climbing indoors has never been easier. The climbing wall itself offers “great height,” one voter said, as well as “plenty of variety.” SILVER: SPORTS CLIMBING CENTER OF COLORADO SPRINGS BRONZE: LIFE TIME FITNESS


Thank you for voting us Best Of 2014

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SPORTS & REC: READERS’ PICKS

COLORADO SpORtS mASCOt: SOx tHE fOx mARK REIS, tHE GAZEttE

HIGH SCHOOL COACH

COLORADO SPORTS MASCOT

GOLD: DOUG HUGILL, CORONADO HIGH SCHOOL

GOLD: SOX THE FOX

1590 W. Fillmore St., 328-3600, coronado.d11.org

Voters felt that no coach was able to get more out of his athletes than Doug Hugill of Coronado High School. SILVER: ROBERT ROCHA, CIVA CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL BRONZE: STEVE READ, THE VANGUARD SCHOOL

COLORADO CAMPGROUND GOLD: MUELLER STATE PARK 21045 Colorado 67, Divide, 687-2366, colorado.com

Located a mere 30 minutes from Colorado Springs is the town of Divide. The city is higher in elevation, meaning that an eagle-eye view is attainable — and it is a view you’ll never forget. SILVER: MOUNTAINDALE CAMPGROUND AND CABINS BRONZE: ELEVEN MILE CANYON

4385 Tutt Blvd., 597-1449, skysox.com

The Colorado Rockies’ minor league affiliate in Colorado Springs pumps out future major league stars, while Sox the Fox keeps the crowd lively. “Sox the Fox is the best mascot I have ever seen,” one voter said. “He really knows how to keep the crowd entertained!” SILVER: MILES, DENVER BRONCOS BRONZE: FALCON, UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY

GOLF COURSE GOLD: PATTY JEWETT MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE 900 E. Espanola St., 385-6935, pattyjewettgolfshop.com

With nearly 300 days of sunshine in Colorado, there is almost always a place to play golf. Patty Jewett is “a jewel right in the center of town,” a voter said. If you’d rather sit in the clubhouse, the food shouldn’t be ignored because “they have great food in the clubhouse also!” SILVER: THE BROADMOOR GOLF CLUB BRONZE: EISENHOWER GOLF COURSE

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colorado campground: mueller state park JerIlee Bennett, tHe gaZette


SPORTS & REC: READERS’ PICKS

colorado skiing: breckenridge cHrisTian MUrdock, THe gaZeTTe

COLORADO SKIING GOLD: BRECKENRIDGE 1-970-453-5000, breckenridge.com

GYM

GOLD: YMCA Multiple locations, ppymca.org

Coloradans take advantage of the outdoors as often as possible. When the snow gets too deep, though, gyms are all around. The “YMCA is the best gym and fitness club,” one voter said. “They are family friendly with locations all over town.”

SILVER: MONARCH MOUNTAIN BRONZE: COPPER MOUNTAIN

SILVER: LIFE TIME FITNESS BRONZE: VILLASPORT ATHLETIC CLUB AND SPA

2013 2014

Relentless snow hammered the ski resorts over the winter, and Breckenridge got the nod as best resort. “My dad and I love to ski there,” one District 20 student said.

Rockrimmon/Mountain Shadows

Chuckwagon Rd., Colorado Springs 1 | 2041 719-388-8818 Stetson Hills

Stetson Hills Blvd., Colorado Springs 2 | 6353 719-573-5300 Monument

Minglewood Trail, Monument 3 | 18075 719-488-8723 Falcon

Mclaughlin Rd., Falcon 4 | 7312 719-886-4900

The Montessori classroom contains multi-sensory, sequential, self-correcting materials designed to invite manipulations and to permit active, self-directed learning in a mixed-age setting. The multi-age classes provide opportunities for socialization, math, reading and language development.

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SPORTS & REC: READERS’ PICKS

HEALTH CLUB GOLD: YMCA Various locations, ppymca.org

The YMCA is home to many fitness fanatics, but for those looking to start a membership, the environment is encouraging. The YMCA is “best for families and anyone who is looking for a welcoming and accepting atmosphere,” one voter said. The YMCA is also “good for kids, adults and seniors.” SILVER: VILLASPORT ATHLETIC CLUB AND SPA BRONZE: LIFE TIME FITNESS

ICE RINK GOLD: SERTICH ICE CENTER 1705 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 385-5983, tiny.cc/39tubx

Become your favorite NHL player at Sertich Ice Center, or enjoy any of the center’s events. The allure of “their Family Skate and Cheap Skate nights” keeps one voter coming back. “We love going!” SILVER: COLORADO SPRINGS WORLD ARENA BRONZE: COLORADO SPORTS AND EVENTS CENTER

PLACE TO SKATEBOARD GOLD: MEMORIAL PARK 1605 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 385-5940, http://bit.ly/1h64yQd

ICE RINK: SERTICH ICE CENTER

Become the next Tony Hawk at one of several skate parks in Colorado Springs. “I love the skate park at Memorial Park,” a voter said. “One of the best (skate parks) in the U.S.!”

JEFF KEARNEY

SILVER: GOOSE GOSSAGE PARK BRONZE: MANITOU SPRINGS SKATE PARK

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YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region

ppymca.org


SPORTS & REC: READERS’ PICKS

MARTIAL ARTS GOLD: U.S. TAEKWONDO CENTER Various locations, 488-4321, martialartscoloradosprings.com

Bond with your family or learn how to defend yourself at the U.S. Taekwondo Center. It’s a “great place for family to spend quality time together, get a work out and learn self defense,” one voter wrote. SILVER: UNIVERSAL KEMPO KARATE BRONZE: TAI CHI ASSOCIATION OF COLORADO SPRINGS

PILATES YOGA GOLD: CAMBIO YOGA 3326 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 291-1798, cambioyoga.com

Whether you’re a fitness guru or just looking to feel better, Cambio Yoga is the place to be. “Cambio is a very welcoming studio. They have a variety of workshops and classes going on such as prenatal, teen and cancer,” one voter wrote. “The teachers are diverse and receptive to comments and suggestions, (and) their donation model allows for a wide range of attendees.” SILVER: LIFE TIME FITNESS BRONZE: SUN PILATES STUDIO

SKIING SHOP GOLD: THE SKI SHOP INC. 1422 S. Tejon St., 636-3355, theskishopinc.com

Be the first to tame the slopes with the newest gear from The Ski Shop. “They have a great selection of quality equipment and apparel,” one voter said. “The staff and owners are the most helpful that you will encounter, and they will take the time to ensure (a) proper fit.”

PILATES YOGA: CAMbIO YOGA

SILVER: COLORADO SKI & GOLF BRONZE: CHRISTY SPORTS

JEFF KEARNEY

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