2013: Best of the Springs by Colorado Springs Gazette, LLC

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BEST OF THE SPRINGS Whoever we are and whatever we do, one thing is always true: We live in a beautiful place. As important, though, is Colorado Springs and the wonderful life it offers. That’s what Best of the Springs is all about. More than 15,000 voters and eight staff members weighed in on what they love best about our city. And don’t forget to check out our online Best of the Springs at gazette.com/ bestof or thebestofthesprings.com. You’ll find a searchable site with this year’s results as well as those from 2012. New this year: six short videos on winners in each category of 2013’s results. It’s your guide. Make the most of it.

gazette.com THE GAZETTE MANAGEMENT Publisher Dan Steever editor Joe Hight Managing editor Joanna Bean Presentation editor Dena Rosenberry Vice President of sales and Marketing Brad Howard local sales Manager Erik Carlson Marketing Manager Rudy Vasquez director of oPerations Vicki Cederholm Web oPerations Manager Stephanie Weber

BEST OF THE SPRINGS CREDITS

EAT: Dining starts on Page 8

In our largest category, you’ll find just about everything you’d want to know about the best of Springs dining, including picks on green chili, hot dogs, wine list, fine dining and restaurant for you and the kids.

IMAGINE: A&E starts on Page 40 Sometimes watching TV on the couch just doesn’t cut it. In this section, exhibitions, solo musicians, actors, casinos and museums are ranked. LIVE: City Life starts on Page 54 Plumber. Landscaper. Doctor. Kennel. Campground. This category covers the nuts and bolts of everyday life. LOVE: Family starts on Page 86

Voters tap their favorite hike with children, teen hangout, pediatrician, middle school teacher and college for an associate degree.

BUY: Shopping starts on Page 98

Not everyone loves to shop, but just about everyone loves to find the perfect place for the stuff they need. We cover hardware, consignment, toy, mattress and record stores. With this list, you won’t have to shop till you drop.

PLAY: Sports and Rec starts on Page 107

Sometimes you have to get into the game. Voters give you the tools to do it with ice skating rink, bowling alley, BMX spot and a lot more.

6 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

ONLINE

To get even more of The Gazette’s Best of the Springs coverage, check out gazette. com/bestof or thebestofthe springs.com. Once online, you will find a searchable site with results from this year and 2012. Plus, we’ve added a little something: six short videos on winners in each category from 2013. All of that is just a few clicks away.

ARTWORK CREDITS

On the cover: “Untitled” (1996, detail) by Floyd D. Tunson, from “Floyd D. Tunson: Son of Pop” at Fine Arts Center. Image courtesy of the artist. Page 42: “Canary Metaphor” (1995) by Floyd D. Tunson, from “Floyd D. Tunson: Son of Pop” at Fine Arts Center. Image courtesy of the artist. Page 44: “It Was While We Were On Our Way Home” (2012, detail) by Elaine Ng, from “Ceramica” at GOCA 121

Writers and experts Kevin Carmody Daniel Chacón Kassandra Cloos Ellen Cole Teresa J. Farney Joy Harper Scott Kaniewski Paul Klee T.D. Mobley-Martinez Nichole Montanez Jen Mulson Linda Navarro Barry Noreen Joe Paisley MB Partlow Erin Prater David Ramsey R. Scott Rappold Matt Steiner Bill Vogrin Matt Wiley Copy editors Dena Rosenberry Josh Swearngin designers David Demi-Smith Nichole Montanez photographers Jerilee Bennett Jeff Kearney Christian Murdock Mark Reis Videographer Aaron Hartshorn online Christopher Hickerson Maida Scott Stephanie Weber

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the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 7

eat. Gazette food critic MB Partlow’s picks: Page 10 Gazette food columnist Teresa J. Farney’s picks: Page 12 Readers’ picks: Page 14

www.gazette.com/bestof

8 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

Thank you for voting Bronco Billy’s “Best Of” for three years in a row.

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DINING: EXPERT PICKS

GAZETTE.COM/BESTOF

COFFEEHOUSE WITH A KICK

seafood you need a fishfinder (or road maP) to find: english dockside fresh seafood & grill

LOFTY’S

the gazette file

287 E. Fountain Blvd., Suite 100, 520-0024

The standard coffee shop groove is going on here in spades. Coffee and tea? Check. Bagels? Check. Sandwiches and soups? Check. Friendly poet-artistphilosopher owner and operator? Check. And if caffeine isn’t your wind-down of choice at the end of the day, Lofty’s can offer you a glass of wine, a cold beer or a companionable cocktail. Whether your beverage is high-test or unleaded, you can sit, sip and relax.

SEAFOOD YOU NEED A FISHFINDER (OR ROAD MAP) TO FIND

ENGLISH DOCKSIDE FRESH SEAFOOD & GRILL 2220 Academy Place, 380-7732, englishdockside.com

Tucked away on the east side of Academy Boulevard, just south of Maizeland Road, English Dockside is a real catch for seafood lovers. English is the owner’s last name, not his style, so you can expect po’ boys big enough to extend over the sides of the plate, catfish fried right and blue crab in several delicious incarnations. Because of the owner’s Southern roots, you also can expect a generous hand with his secret Cajun spice mix.

MOST APTLY NAMED DISH

SAUTÉED WONDERFUL CHICKEN, CHINA VILLAGE 203 N. Union Blvd., 475-8299, menu4food.com/chinavillage

For anyone who has ever ordered a dish just because of the name, fear not. You will be safe here. Order and taste this delightful, savory amalgam of minced chicken, sesame seeds, cabbage, water chestnuts, carrots and mushrooms, seasoned with cashew powder and brown sauce. This dish is unlike other Chinese dishes I’ve had, and makes me eager to venture deeper into the menu. Will Slippery Chicken or Bird’s Nest be next?

mb Partlow dining critic

BUN BOWL PHO LU’U

4488 Austin Bluffs Pkwy, 548-8909

If you find Vietnamese bun bowls impossible to resist, then this is the place for you. Bean sprouts, julienned cucumber and crunchy shredded romaine are nestled under a pile of fresh, chewy rice noodles. The crowning glory is grilled meat (more plentiful here than any other place in town) that’s delicately charred and crispy at the edges. Bonus: The vegetarian version with sautéed vegetables and tofu has a dressing that doesn’t contain fish sauce.

CRAZY GOOD FRIES YOU CAN’T STOP EATING MY BIG FAT GREEK RESTAURANT 7605 N. Academy Blvd., 260-7300, eatmoregreek.com

TASTIEST STRAWBERRYRHUBARB PIE THAT WASN’T BAKED BY MY MOTHER

The menu says these skinny, crispy fries are topped with feta and Parmesan cheeses and a lemonDijon sauce. But after you put the first one in your mouth, you’ll realize there has to be something they aren’t telling you. A whisper of garlic? Fairy dust? Magic beans? The plate will be empty before you can figure it out.

DR. SWEET’S BAKERY 4703 N. Academy Blvd., 645-8641

Rhubarb. When I was a kid, we pulled the stalks from the ground and dared each other to take a big, juicy, sour bite after we fashioned hats or fans from the enormous leaves. With two huge patches in our backyard, we ate it in breads, bars, jams and cakes. But the most ethereal combination was my mom’s strawberry-rhubarb pie. When I took my first bite of the Dr. Sweet’s version, for five minutes I was 10 years old, sunburned, sitting at the picnic table in the backyard, listening to my grandfather tell stories as we ate this pie.

BEST REASON TO EAT INNARDS GOP CHANG JUNGOL, SAN CHANG HOUSE 3659 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Suite 45, 598-1707

A small black cauldron arrives at your table, red, chili-flecked broth bubbling madly. You dip in a spoon for a taste of the broth — spicy, beefy, aromatic with garlic. Dig a little deeper. Beneath the brilliant lengths of green onion and the pale triangles of red-tinged tofu you will find honeycomb pieces of tripe and small tubes of beef intestine, rich and chewy. This is a dish that makes you acknowledge your place at the top of the food chain.

BARTENDER AT A HOTEL BAR PACO BENNETT, ZEBULON’S GRILLE & TEqUILERIA IN THE COLORADO SPRINGS MARRIOTT 5580 Tech Center Drive, 260-1800, marriott.com

bartender at a hotel bar: Paco bennett christian murdock, the gazette

10 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

Bennett has that divine, timeless Zen attitude about bartending that would allow him to fit seamlessly into any bar since Prohibition was repealed. He has a strong and reassuring presence, friendly without being a grinning idiot. Bennett possesses the rare ability to meet every customer’s eye and give him or her a moment of undivided attention, even when the bar is packed with rowdy conventioneers. His drinks are good, his wine pours are generous, and he seems to know what you want before you order it.

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DINING EXPERT PICKS

GAZETTE.COM/BESTOF

A TWISTED BURGER

pie: stir

ramon Q’s cantina: meXican food WitH a tWist

CHristiAN MUrDOCK, tHe GAZette

1005 W. Colorado Ave., 434-2741, ramonqs.com

Elizabeth St. James, who owns the restaurant and is the chef, gets all the credit for this amazing “twist” on a burger. For $12, the burger starts with a 1/3-pound perfectly cooked beef patty piled with hickory-smoked brisket that has been marinated in cinnamon and coffee grounds. Then, it’s topped with crisp slices of bacon, avocado slices, sautéed onions and jalapeños, and a green salsa. Fried potato cubes complete the plate. It’s a multinapkin task to get it eaten.

REAL ITALIAN

la bella Vita ristorante italiano 4475 Northpark Drive, 260-4730, labellavitaristorante.net

Born and raised in Italy, owners Giuliano Cassuli and Tiziano Cestari have brought the food from their home to the Springs. Cassuli, who is the chef, lived in the southern region, and Cestari, who is the general manager, grew up in the northern region. The pasta is homemade, as is everything else on the menu. My favorite dish: Burrata alla Bella Vita, grilled Crostini di Pane (toast) with prosciutto, fresh tomato and burrata topped with fresh basil and olive oil.

EXOTIC MEAL tajine alami

10 Old Man’s Trail, Manitou Springs, 685-1119, tajinealami.com

Lucky for us, Mohammed and Laila Alami, owners and chefs, brought the authentic Moroccan flavors from their homeland to the Springs. Dining at their restaurant is like taking a magic carpet ride to Morocco with lively music, twirling belly dancers and delicious food washed down with steaming hot mint tea, which is poured from silver pots held far above your glass. It’s always a treat to dine here.

by teresa j. farney gazette food columnist

AREPA DE POLLO

cafÉ corto coffee gallery 115 E. Kiowa St., 577-4347, cafecorto.com

This tasty treat is addictive. It’s a Colombian corncake stuffed with shredded chicken that has been marinated in a cilantro-onion mixture and braised. The chicken gets topped with sliced avocado and a fried egg. (I like mine over easy so the creamy yolk pours out over the chicken like a sauce.) It comes with a jicama salad and baked plantain chips. Cost is $7.

FRENCH COOKING CLASSES tHe frencH KitcHen 694-4016, tfkcc.com

Blandine Brutel is a busy mom who knows how to get a meal on the table lickety-split. She teaches small classes in her home kitchen all about French cuisine from her home country. You may have heard of her as “Chez Blandine,” a personal chef specializing in French food, or associated with “Wholly Crêpe,” which she co-owned and was the chef. These are now in the past since she started her cooking classes. The first class I took from her I learned how to make French baguettes in an hour. Amazing.

PIE stir

2330 N. Wahsatch Ave., 418-6188

What’s a cup of great coffee without an equally great slice of pie? At Stir, you can find that perfect marriage with freshly baked pies prepared using Jackie Conway’s (part of the family-owned Conway Red Top hamburger eateries) family recipes. Flavors change every few days, but count yourself lucky if you drop by when cherry pie is in the pastry cabinet.

EUROPEAN EXPERIENCE la baguette frencH bistro

4440 N. Chestnut St., 599-0686, labaguettefrenchbistro.com

Make no mistake, this is ground zero for French cuisine, but Patrick Garnier, the Frenchman who co-owns the bistro with wife Krystyna, knows his way around many other styles of food. Think Polish and Irish, for example. He cooks with precision regardless of the cuisine. It should be noted that although there are four La Baguette restaurants in town, they are all independently owned and offer certain different options on their menus.

A twisteD bUrGer: rAMON q’s CANtiNA JeriLee beNNett, tHe GAZette

CURTIDO AND PUPUSAS monse’s taste of el salVador healthy-tasteofelsalvador.com

Monse Hines, who is from El Salvador, owns this family business, which serves curtido, a light cabbage salad that is used as a relish for many El Salvadoran dishes, and pupusas, corn flour cakes that are filled with cheese and meat. She produces everything in a commercial kitchen and sells them in local health foods stores and farmers markets. One taste and you’ll become an instant fan of the delicious crunchy salad and steamy hot corn bread pockets. Head to the website for everchanging store locations.

12 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

In The Heart Of Historic Old Colorado City

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French Toast & Bacon 2 eggs, Hash Browns & Toast

VegeTarian Menu

Veggie Burger Veggie eggs Benedict Veggie Burrito gluten Free

BreaKFaST eggs Benedict chicken Fried Steak & eggs eggs Florentine corned Beef Hash

alcoHolic BeVerageS

Imported and domestic Beers Wine and champagne Mixed drinks

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the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 13

dining: readers’ PiCKs

gaZeTTe.COM/BesTOF

bartender: brandon davis JeFF KearneY

AL FRESCO

GOLD: MARCO’S PIZZA 9420 Briar Village Point, 434-3773, marcos.com

The eatery has an extensive patio area facing the Front Range and an impressive view of Pikes Peak. SILVER: AMANDA’S FONDA BRONZE: THE MARGARITA AT PINECREEK

BAKERY

GOLD: MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY

BARTENDER

GOLD: BRANDON DAVIS, COPPERHEAD ROAD HONKEY TONK SALOON 3330 N. Academy Blvd., 659-9099, copperheadroadbar.com

Davis’ fans said: “Best bartender by far. The guy knows how to talk to people, make them smile and have a good time, and he definitely knows his drinks.” “Brandon is awesome. He is such a showman, breathes fire and spins bottles, not to mention (being) incredibly attractive.” SILVER: NATE WINDHAM, THE BLUE STAR BRONZE: FRANK FREY, NOSH

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

It’s not a surprise that this restaurant gets high praise for baked goods. Elaine Chavanon, who co-owns Marigold with her husband, Dominique, trained in pastries at the Culinary Institute of America and polished her skills in France. Breads, pastries and desserts are to live for. SILVER: LA BAGUETTE BRONZE: COUTURE CUPCAKES

BARBECUE

GOLD: BIRD DOG BBQ

BEER

GOLD: LAUGHING LAB Bristol Brewing Co., 1647 S. Tejon St., 633-2555, bristolbrewing.com

Locally owned, Bristol’s beer swept the category, with Laughing Lab taking top honors. “An absolute Colorado Springs classic. The epitome of Colorado craft brews.” “It is all good at Bristol, but Lab is still the one.” SILVER: BEEHIVE HONEY WHEAT BRONZE: WINTER WARLOCK

Multiple locations, birddogbbq.com

Just thinking about the beef brisket or fall-off-thebone ribs will get you salivating. Here’s what ‘cue fans said: “Great lunch specials and always great food.” “Unbelievable deals and always on time and always happy to help in any way possible.” SILVER: RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE AND BAR-B-Q BRONZE: FRONT RANGE BARBEQUE

SALAD

GOLD: SOUPER SALAD Multiple locations, soupersalad.com

Here you’ll find reasonably priced buffet selections of salad fixings, hot soups and other foods. Here’s one reader’s comment: “Not the greatest atmosphere, but the veggies and toppings are fresh, and the price is great.” SILVER: MARCO’S PIZZA BRONZE: PANERA BREAD

SANDWICH

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

A chain known for being “freaky fast, freaky good” makes amazing sandwiches. Try the gluten-free number: sandwich fillings rolled in lettuce leaves. SILVER: WHICH WICH BRONZE: PANERA BREAD

SUB SHOP GOLD: SUBWAY

Multiple locations, subway.com

BREAKFAST

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

Breakfast as it was meant to be — fluffy eggs, thick, perfectly crisp bacon, fresh-squeezed OJ — and all in a bright, comfy, country-house atmosphere. SILVER: THE EGG & I BRONZE: KING’S CHEF DINER

14 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

The national chain is a consistent go-to for a sandwich made the way you want it. SILVER: WHICH WICH BRONZE: MARCO’S PIZZA

Jamaican Restaurant

10 N. Sierra Madre St. â&#x20AC;˘ 719-473-8280 spiceislandgrill.com

Enjoy Authentic Jamaican Food and Atmosphere. Our menu includes many island favorites that will treat your pallet and satisfy your hunger. We serve lunch and dinner, have military and student discounts, and have daily happy-hour specials! the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 15

dining: REAdERS’ PiCKS

burger: Five guys burgers and Fries JeFF Kearney

BREW PUB

GOLD: PHANTOM CANYON BREWING CO.

BURGER

GOLD: FIVE GUYS BURGERS AND FRIES

2 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 635-2800, phantomcanyon.com

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

This bustling Springs brew pub is housed in a historic downtown building that’s been transformed into a modern, glass-enclosed laboratory of suds fun. The food, voters said, pairs beautifully with the beer. SILVER: TRINITY BREWING CO. BRONZE: COLORADO MOUNTAIN BREWERY

This popular national chain has gained favor with Springs’ burger lovers. Here’s why: “Best burger in the world.” “So juicy and delicious.” “Best burgers, best fries, great prices.”

BUFFET

GOLD: GOLDEN CORRAL 1970 Waynoka Road, 591-9870; 5410 E. Woodmen Road, 260-9369; goldencorral.com

This massive buffet offered at bargain prices is a real crowd pleaser. Here are a couple of reasons why readers like it: “Best place to feed a group, who can pick and choose from a lot of items.” “Woodmen and Powers. I can get all the grits I want for breakfast. And they have my Brussels sprouts at lunch and dinner.”

SILVER: RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS BRONZE: SMASHBURGER

BUSINESS LUNCH

GOLD: MACKENZIE’S CHOP HOUSE DOWNTOWN 128 S. Tejon St., 635-3536, mackenzieschophouse.com

A classic menu with shrimp cocktail in a martini glass, iceberg-wedge salad, steaks and more. If you want to channel “Mad Men” with the classic threemartini lunch, you’ve got more than 40 options to consider. SILVER: THE FAMOUS, A STEAKHOUSE BRONZE: MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY

SILVER: ULTIMATE BUFFET BRONZE: COUNTRY BUFFET

16 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

brew pub: phantom canyon brewing co. JeFF Kearney

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Authentic German Cuisine Restaurant & Bakery

Indoor & Outdoor dining in a quaint Bavarian setting at the foot of Pikes Peak. Newly Remodeled Rathskeller Reservations Accepted

Open Every Day 11:30-9:00 Dinner Starts at 4:00

34 East Ramona Avenue www.Edelweissrest.com

719.633.2220

Dine-In Carryout Catering Now serving Colorado Springs’ best BBQ at FLAGSHIP LOCATION Located in the Ridgeview Marketplace (NE corner of Powers & Stetson Hills Blvds)

5984 Stetson Hills Blvd Ste. 200 80923 (719) 596-4900 MESA RIDGE PARKWAY BRIARGATE PARKWAY

Located in the Markets at Mesa Ridge

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07’-11’

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Find us on Facebook and become a fan to receive updates about specials, occasional promotions and more. 18 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

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dining: REAdERS’ PiCKS

caJUn

GoLD: SpRInGS oRLeanS 123 e. Pikes Peak ave., 520-0123, springsorleans.com

all the cajun classics can be found here: Étouffée, gumbo, shrimp and grits, red beans and rice, creole slaw, dirty rice and po’ boys piled high with golden fried seafood and more. Make sure you save room for the banana puddin’. SILVeR: cUlPePPer’s caJUn KItcHen BRonZe: naWlIns Bar BQ & seafOOD

caKe

GoLD: cReatIVe WeDDInG cakeS of coLoRaDo SpRInGS 1625 W. Uintah st., Unit K, 597-4667, creativecakescolorado.com

formerly named creative cakes, this bakery boasts 10 flavors of cake, including chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and apple spice. add a host of interesting fillings, top with creamy whipped-cream frosting, and you’ve got a cake that makes any day seem like a celebration. “their cakes are beautifully decorated and creative,” wrote one voter. “the best part is the cakes and fillings are not overly sweet. tastes amazing.”

chef to keep an eye on: scarlett farney

SILVeR: Itty BItty caKe BRonZe: lIttle lOnDOn caKe sHOPPe

Jeff Kearney

cHaI

GoLD: aGIa SophIa coffee Shop & BookStoRe

WaIter Or WaItress GoLD: RIck VeLIQUette

2902 W. colorado ave., 632-3322, agiasophiacoffeeshop.com

this black tea, brewed with an aromatic blend of spices, will warm you from your eyebrows to your toes. With subtle hints of star anise, black peppercorns, ginger, cardamom and more, your tongue will tingle happily all day. “smooth and creamy. nowhere else comes close to agia’s chai lattes.”

Joseph’s fine Dining, 1606 s. eighth st., 630-3631, josephsdining.com

With veliquette as your waiter at Joseph’s fine Dining, consider yourself in good hands. He’s the consummate server who always has a welcoming smile for you as well as thorough knowledge of the menu and wine list. readers had this to say: “He is funny, enthusiastic and prompt. He makes Joseph’s on eighth street. Without rick there would be no point dining there.” “Professional, yet personal, and incredibly funny. He makes the experience that much more enjoyable.”

SILVeR: starBUcKs cOffee cO. BRonZe: MIrcH Masala

sUnDay BrUncH

SILVeR: renee rUDOlPH, PIKes PeaK BreWIng cO. BRonZe: JOy WeIganD, JaKe anD telly’s greeK taverna

GoLD: the BRoaDMooR 1 lake ave., 577-5776, broadmoor.com

considered one of the finest brunch buffets in the West, the Broadmoor’s goes way beyond madeto-order omelets: there are custom Benedicts, bananas foster, tapas, a fabulous cheese table, pastries to drop your diet for and much, much more. “excellent service, delicious food. can’t be beat in the whole state!” SILVeR: tHe sUnBIrD MOUntaIn grIll anD tavern BRonZe: cHeyenne MOUntaIn resOrt

trUffles

GoLD: Rocky MoUntaIn chocoLate factoRy Multiple locations, rmcf.com

the smell of molten chocolate might make you swoon when you walk into any of the rocky Mountain chocolate factory shops. Here is how one reader said it: “so rich, smooth, chocolatey! Mmmm.” SILVeR: Patsy’s OrIgInal canDIes BRonZe: see’s canDIes

cHef tO KeeP an eye On GoLD: ScaRLett faRney, the MoZaIc ReStaURant 443 s. Highway 105, Palmer lake, 481-1800, innatpalmerdivide.com/chefs.htm

cake: creative wedding cakes of colorado springs Jeff kearneY

WIne lIst

GoLD: the BLUe StaR 1645 s. tejon st., 632-1086, thebluestar.net

the restaurant is hip, voters told us. and the daring cuisine stands up well to the extensive, well-considered wine list. sundays feature half-price bottles of wine, which is a great way to try more expensive wines that you might otherwise forgo. SILVeR: sWIrl WIne Bar BRonZe: tHe MeltIng POt

20 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

Is there anything farney can’t do? she became the first titled female chef at the Broadmoor, worked as a butcher for Whole foods and was a “friday chef” on fox 21. she also teaches classes at various venues around town and sometimes hosts the table talk radio show on KvOr radio. (gazette food editor teresa J. farney is her mom.) It sounds like the only thing she might not do is sleep. SILVeR: BrOtHer lUcK, craftWOOD Inn BRonZe: Jenna HInes, tHe PIcnIc BasKet

Swatch_0202

It’s a message that bears repeating. La-Z-Boy offers a whole range of comfortable, great-looking furniture, including sofas, sectionals, loveseats and more. Trust me, it’s worth taking another look. One more time: La-Z-Boy makes more than recliners.

7087 N. Academy Blvd. • Colorado Springs • 80920 • 719-593-7888 la-z-boy.com/coloradosprings

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 21

A Truly Unique Burger Experience 7465 N. Academy 719-264-7919 craverealburgers.com

dENvEr BUrgEr BATTlE pEoplEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choicE AwArd iN 2012 (the wiseguy burger)

Top fiNAlisT world food (UsA TodAY) chAmpioNships iN zAgAT- 2013 lAs vEgAs, Nv iN 2012 best burgers in 25 cities (the wiseguy burger)

best denver burger!

22 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

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 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 23

april 26, 2013 B 24 ❘ the gazette ❘ Friday, dining: REAdERS’ PiCKS

CATERER

GOLD: PICNIC BASKET, CRAVINGS CATERING, BUFFALO GALS GRILLING 1701 S. 8th St., 635-0200, pbcatering.com

Michelle Talarico and Kathy Dreiling opened the Picnic Basket in 1989, and they haven’t slowed down since. Cravings Catering and Buffalo Gals Grilling followed. Voters said they can help you plan and execute the perfect romantic picnic for two, a five-star special event, or a catered barbecue for a couple hundred of your closest friends. One voter wrote: “They have amazing food, great set-ups and easy clean-up because the crew does it all, leaves it cleaner than it was before!” SILVER: COUTURE CUPCAKES & CAKES BRONZE: MARCO’S PIZZA

CHINESE

GOLD: SILVER POND CHINESE GOURMET 5670 N. Academy Blvd., 594-9343, bestsilverpondchinese.com

Fans rave about the warm service, the huge portions and great selection of Chinese-American classics. Voters said they also have a nice selection of vegetarian dishes. SILVER: P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO BRONZE: SHANGRI LA RESTAURANT

german: edelweiss german restaurant JeFF KearneY

THAI

GERMAN

GOLD: THAI BASIL

GOLD: EDELWEISS GERMAN RESTAURANT

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

Tucked in a shopping center facing North Academy Boulevard, this restaurant has become the go-to for Thai cuisine. The menu, voters said, is extensive. Here’s what readers had to say: “Just pure awesomeness and wonderful staff.” “Nice menu. Helpful staff will describe dishes to take the mystery out of what you might order.”

34 E. Ramona Ave., 633-2220, edelweissrest.com

Edelweiss gives you an opportunity to explore German cuisine to your heart’s content. And voters praised it for the good food and great atmosphere. “An Army friend of mine said it’s just as she remembered in Germany,” wrote one voter, “both the food and the atmosphere.”

SILVER: BAHN THAI BRONZE: WILD GINGER THAI RESTAURANT

SILVER: UWE’S GERMAN RESTAURANT BRONZE: SCHNITZEL FRITZ

SPORTS BAR

COLORADO CUISINE

GOLD: BUFFALO WILD WINGS

GOLD: CRAFTWOOD INN

2905 Geyser Drive, 219-1500; 7425 N. Academy Blvd., 594-9464, buffalowildwings.com

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

These readers summed it up: “Great atmosphere!! Only place to go to enjoy a game and food!” “Best place to eat, drink and watch sports on the big screen!”

When you want to give someone a taste of Colorado, you might think of bison. Or perhaps you lean more toward duck or pheasant or Colorado goat cheeses. “The staff are so knowledgeable on the menu and takes the time to address all your questions. Any recommendation from the staff has always been an enjoyable and memorable meal.”

SILVER: BACK EAST BAR AND GRILL BRONZE: OLD CHICAGO

SILVER: THE WINES OF COLORADO BRONZE: THE RABBIT HOLE

CHINESE: SILVER POND CHINESE RESTAURANT

VIETNAMESE

JEFF KEARNEY

GOLD: SAIGON CAFÉ

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

The food at this clean, stylish downtown spot satisfies every Vietnamese cuisine urge. The grilled shrimp and pork both are nicely seasoned, voters said, the egg rolls are fab and the noodles, perfection. SILVER: LEMONGRASS BISTRO BRONZE: SAIGON SPRINGS

CRÊPES

GOLD: LA CRÊPERIE 204 N. Tejon St., 632-0984

Crêpes are delicate, whisper-thin, golden pancakes, wrapped around a delicate sweet or savory filling. If you’re really lucky, someone will pour liqueur over them and set them on fire, a la Crêpes Suzette. “Tender and filled with awesomeness!” SILVER: COQUETTE’S BISTRO AND BAKERY BRONZE: PARIS CRÊPE

COFFEE PLACE

GOLD: STARBUCKS COFFEE CO. Multiple locations; starbucks.com

If there’s a combination of flavors that can be mixed into a cup of coffee, Starbucks has thought of it, made three sizes, topped it with whipped cream and offered it in regular or decaf. “They greet you like family,” wrote one voter. The “atmosphere is tops for business or pleasure.” SILVER: AGIA SOPHIA COFFEE SHOP & BOOKSTORE BRONZE: DUTCH BROTHERS COFFEE

In Life, As In Golf, Club Selection Is Everything. The Club at Flying Horse. The Best of the Best of the Best of All Worlds.

We’re part golf club, part social club, part athletic club, part country club. Which means if you’re looking to live the good life, your search is over. The Club at Flying Horse. When they said, “the best is yet to come,” this is what they were talking about. Call today to learn more about Colorado’s friendliest, most spectacularly appointed family-entertainment venue.

(719) 494-1222 FlyingHorseClub.com

$2995

PER PERSON

Land and Sea Four Course Fondue! Enjoy our Premium Filet Mignon, Herb Encrusted Chicken and Pacific White Shrimp! Includes a creamy cheese fondue, salad with homemade dressing, and mouth watering chocolate fondue with delicious dippers. We have new cocktails, martinis and wines by the glass. Come and experience the Fondue Effect! Memories.....

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

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 25

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

CALL NOW FOR RESERVATIONS

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

WWW.INNATPALMERDIVIDE.COM

LOCATIONS:

Colorado Springs S. 8th Street N. Nevada Ave Woodmen Road Pueblo 3991 N. Elizabeth

LaCasitaMexiGrill.com

QUESADILLAS! FAJITAS!

TACOS!

SALADS!

26 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

BURRITOS! FIESTA PACKS!

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 27

dining: REAdERS’ PiCKS

CUBAN SANDWICH

GOLD: CAFÉ CORTO COFFEE GALLERY 115 E. Kiowa St., 577-4347, cafecorto.com

For a true Cuban, you need crusty Cuban bread layered with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese and don’t forget the pickles. The whole thing is pressed and grilled into a crunchy, gooey, juicy triumph. Voters said they’re especially good at Café Corto. SILVER: CUCURU GALLERY & CAFE NO BRONZE

CUPCAKES

GOLD: COUTURE CUPCAKES & CAKES 3609 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Suite 30, 229-2613 or 266-4597, springscupcakes.com

What’s the big deal about a cupcake? You get to eat a whole cake, all by yourself. You don’t have to feel guilty about not sharing, or about overindulging. And Couture’s? “Yummy.” SILVER: MYA BELLA CUPCAKES BRONZE: M.A.X.’S AMAZING SWEETS

DELI

GOLD: JASON’S DELI 7455 N. Academy Blvd., 302-0234, jasonsdeli.com

You might be thinking chicken soup and Reubens, but voters advised stretching your expectations at Jason’s: vegetarian wraps with organic ingredients, spicy seafood gumbo and the wild salmon. That’s just the beginning of the amazing offerings. SILVER: MOLLICA’S ITALIAN MARKET & DELI BRONZE: EAST COAST RESTAURANT AND DELI

DINER

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

Voters love this local spot and heaped praise on their green chili and piled-high Rueben sandwiches. “Big portions, great prices, delicious food.” “It’s tradition for our family to go here for breakfast every time we get together!” SILVER: GUNTHER TOODY’S BRONZE: ROSIE’S DINER

TREATS SHOP

GOLD: COUTURE CUPCAKES & CAKES 3609 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Suite 30, 229-2613 or 266-4597, springscupcakes.com

This was one of the first local cupcake shops to follow the national cupcake trend. It offers a large selection of ever-changing cupcake flavors, voters said.

fine dining: the famous, a steak house Jeff keaRneY

SILVER: ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY BRONZE: ITOPIT YOGURT

FINE DINING

GOLD: THE FAMOUS, A STEAK HOUSE 31 N. Tejon St., 227-7333, thefamoussteakhouse.net

The Famous makes elegance seem effortless. The combination of high-quality ingredients treated with respect, attention to detail and superb service make for a meal to remember. SILVER: MOZAIC RESTAURANT BRONZE: PEPPER TREE RESTAURANT

28 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

Since 1998

The Best Fresh Sushi & Rolls, Teriyaki Steak & Tempuras MONDAY 50% Off Everything (5p-6p)

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 Music

Colorado Springs’ #1 boot Camp fitness & Weight Loss Program * SPECIALIZING IN THE 90 DAY MAKEOVER *

22 S. Tejon 719-630-1167

2013

Liv

Fri & d e W e Jazz

TUESDAY 20% Off Sushi and Rolls (5p-close) 50% Off All Appetizers (5p-close) WEEKEND - SUSHI BAR HAPPY HOUR $2 Domestic Beer (5p-close) • Fire up your 20% Off Everything with Military ID (5p-close) SATURDAYmetabolism and lose 20% Off Sushi and Rolls (11a-6p) WEDNESDAY LADIES NIGHT fat once and for all. Come Party with DJ Ron Saturday Night 2 for 1 Drinks (5p-6:30p) • Tone and ﬁrm up 50% Off Entree (5p-close) For the ladies SUNDAY 20% Off Sushi and Rolls for Everyone (5p-6:30p) your entire body. 20% Off Sushi and Rolls (5p-close) Jazz Band (6:30p-8:30p) • Look & feel better LUNCH Monday - Friday than you have in years. THURSDAY 50% Off Sushi and Rolls (11a-2:30p) 2 for 1 on Glass of Wine (5p-6:30p) Voted Best Trainer 50% Off House Sake and Beer (5p-6:30p) 20% Off Everything with Military ID (5p-Close)

Call Today! 719-229-2639

www.womensbootcampﬁtness.com

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 29

dining: REAdERS’ PiCKS

FISH TACO

FRENCH

GOLD: LA’AU’S TACO SHOP

GOLD: LA BAGUETTE FRENCH BAKERY & CAFÉ

830 N. Tejon St., Suite 110, 578-5228, laaustacoshop.com

Leave it to innovative restaurateur Joseph Coleman to take a vacation in Hawaii and come back with a fabulous idea for another restaurant. These tacos are inspired by the Pacific Rim, so expect bright, fresh flavors highlighted with ingredients such as mango, green papaya, Huli chicken and mahi mahi.

2417 W. Colorado Ave., 577-4818, labaguette-co.com

Whether you’re in the mood for shattering-crisp French bread, all-butter croissants, escargot, paté or a simple salad Nicoise, La Baguette has you covered. (The four La Baguette restaurants in town are independently owned.) SILVER: LA CRÊPERIE BRONZE: MARIGOLD CAFE AND BAKERY

SILVER: WAHOO’S FISH TACO BRONZE: SALSA BRAVA

FROZEN YOGURT

FRIED CHICKEN

GOLD: POPEYES LOUISIANA KITCHEN

GOLD: YOYOGURT

Multiple locations, yoyogurtusa.com

The people of Colorado Springs have confirmed the results of a 2010 National Taste Test by voting Popeyes the best fried chicken. Spicy or mild, it’s got the crunch you crave. “When you want to splurge on those calories!”

YoYogurt is native to Colorado Springs. Its sweet and tart flavors include Grandma’s Banana Pudding, Godiva Chocolate and Tahitian Vanilla as well as wonders such as Cinnaburst, Key Lime Krackle and Maple Bacon Crave Donut. If you can’t find something you like, you aren’t trying.

SILVER: KFC BRONZE: KING SOOPERS

SILVER: ITOPIT BRONZE: LULU’S FROZEN YOGURT

Multiple locations; popeyes.com

FROZEN YOGURT: YOYOGURT JEFF KEARNEY

Offering European Cuisines and Specialties with a French Accent Breakfast & Lunch 8am - 4pm Mon - Sat Dinner 4pm - 8pm Wed - Sat Closed Sundays

Colorado Springs’ #1 boot Camp fitness & Weight Loss Program * SPECIALIZING IN THEatmosphere 90 DAY MAKEOVER * Dishing up world class cuisine in a fun

Come experience the best!

• Fire up your metabolism and lose once and for all. Breakfast, Lunch and fat Dinner daily • Tone and ﬁrm up Late night dining Fridayyour andentire Saturday body. • Look & feel better Happy hour specials than you have in years.

from 3pm-6pm and 9pm-Close

123 East Pikes Peak Ave. 719-520-0123 www.springsorleans.com Call Today!

2013

Voted Best Trainer

Located just south of Garden of the Gods.

4440 N. Chestnut Street Colorado Springs, CO 80907

(719) 599-0686 Call for Reservations

visit us at www.LaBaguetteFrenchBistro.com

2 0 1 2

10% Off Your Dinner

(Alcohol not included)

Minimum purchase required of 2 entrees and 2 beverages. Offer expires June 30th, limited one time use, not valid with any other offer.

719-229-2639

e h T p U n Tur

www.womensbootcampﬁtness.com

! r o v Fla

“Tastiest Breakfast in Colorado” Food Network Magazine Two Downtown Locations Serving Breakfast & Lunch All Day Late Nights Thursday, Friday & Saturday 9pm to 4:00am ish Colorado’s Best Since 1956

w w w . K i n g s C h e f D i n e r. c o m

110 E. Costilla Street • 719.634.9135 • 8am to 2:00pm ish 131 Bijou Street • 719.636.5010 • 7am to 4:00pm ish 30 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

2 0 1 2

dining: REAdERS’ PiCKS

FRIES

FOOD WITH A VIEW

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

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

You can get the standard Five Guys fries, or you can wake up your taste buds with the Cajun style. Either way, they are thick-cut, fresh and hot. “The fries are so good,” wrote one voter, “you want to skip the burger!”

When winds blows cold, sit near the floor-to-ceiling windows in the restaurant or the lounge and watch the clouds roll in. During warm weather, take advantage of the cliffside patio to soak up some sun and relax with the panoramic views. “My husband and I enjoy the view and the brunch here. Often, we see deer and rabbits while enjoying our meal.”

GOLD: FIVE GUYS BURGERS AND FRIES

SILVER: RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS BRONZE: FREDDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD & STEAKBURGERS

GLUTEN-FREE RESTAURANT

GOLD: COQUETTE’S BISTRO & BAKERY 915 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 651-3892, coquettesbistroandbakery.com

What a boon for those who are gluten-free: no substitutions, no special orders, no “hold the toast.” A “100-percent gluten-free menu,” said one voter. “Also understands other food sensitivities. Great gluten-free baked items.” Another: “No wonder they’ve won all those awards.” SILVER: MARCO’S PIZZA BRONZE: TAPATERIA

GOLD: SUNBIRD mOUNTAIN GRILL AND TAVERN

SILVER: MOZAIC RESTAURANT BRONZE: MARCO’S PIZZA

GREEK/ MEDITERRANEAN

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

Jake & Telly’s makes use of classic Greek flavors (think oregano, mint, garlic, feta, olive oil, lamb, eggplant and tomatoes) to bring you a modern taste of one of the world’s most ancient and revered cuisines. SILVER: MY BIG FAT GREEK RESTAURANT BRONZE: MEDITERRANEAN CAFE

FOOD wITh A VIEw: SUNBIRD MOUNTAIN GRILL AND TAVERN JEFF KEARNEY

VOTED THE #1 PLACE TO EAT WITH YOUR FAMILY

PIZZA PASTA SALAD TACOS F L A U T A S Q U E S A D I L L A S C A R N I T A S

MENUDO

SANDWICHES SOUP 2910 E. Platte • 473-5540 FAJITAS

CEVICHE TOSTADAS

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

CARNE ASADA

ENCHILADAS C H I L E

DAILY SPECIALS Local’s Favorite

SOUTHERN COLORADO HOmEmADE mEXICAN FOOD

SPECIALTY mARGARITAS 14 ImPORTED BEERS 29 TEQUILAS

PRESIDENT OF THE U.S. ATE HERE! JORGE’S SOMBRERO 1319 E. EVANS AVE. PUEBLO, CO 81004 719.564.6486

JORGE’S MERCADO 314 W. NORTHERN AVE. PUEBLO, CO 81004 719.565.2995

JORGE’S O.C.C. 2427 W. COLORADO AVE. CO SPRINGS, CO 80904 719.634.9031

www.jorges-sombrero.com

TAMALES

TAQUITOS

Happy Hour M-F 4-6 pm

HUEVOS RANCHEROS

TACOS DE CAMARONE

FLAN

R E L L E N O S B U R R I T O S P O S T R E S

dining: REAdERS’ PiCKS

HOT DOG: MARGO’S VIENNA STATION JEFF KEARNEY

HOT DOG

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

Pure Vienna beef hot dogs brought in from Chicago are the cornerstone of Margo’s success. Build on that foundation with fresh ingredients for the toppings, and house-made green and red chili sauces. SILVER: SONIC BRONZE: FREDDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD & STEAKBURGERS

HAWAIIAN

GOLD: L&L HAWAIIAN BARBECUE 5850 Barnes Road, 570-1888, hawaiianbarbecue.com

Based on traditional Hawaiian plate lunches, L&L offers dishes you’d expect, such as Kahlua Pork and mahi mahi. You also can get equally traditional, if lesser known, items such as Musubi and Saimin made with Spam. “Loco Moko is the best,” said one voter. “Having Hawai’ian sodas in the cooler is a nice touch. Aloha!” SILVER: LA’AU’S TACO SHOP NO BRONZE

HUEVOS RANCHEROS

hawaiian: L&L hawaiian barbecue JeFF KearneY

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

ICE CREAM

Is it the whole-wheat tortilla covered with black beans and refried beans? The fresh avocado, tomato and green onion? The cheddar? The perfectly cooked over-easy eggs? The delicious vegetarian green chili? No, it’s the magical combination that makes these the best huevos rancheros in town.

GOLD: JOSH & JOHN’S 111 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 632-0299, joshandjohns.com

Voters raved about this local spot. “Amazingly great-tasting ice cream in a variety of flavors. Naturally good. Samples available to help you choose. Get to watch them make batches in giant ice cream churns in the shop.” Another voter said: “Rum raisin. Almond Joy. I am in heaven.”

SILVER: WESTERN OMELETTE BRONZE: RUDY’S LITTLE HIDEAWAY RESTAURANT

SILVER: COLD STONE CREAMERY BRONZE (TIE): BASKIN-ROBBINS AND GLACIER HOMEMADE ICE CREAM & GELATO

INDIAN

GOLD: MIRCH MASALA 5047 N. Academy Blvd., 599-0003, mirchmasalaa.com

Mirch Masala presents the intricacies of India’s flavors and spices with an easy familiarity that makes the cuisine accessible to all. Voters praised the Tandoori Chicken and Chicken Tikka Masala, calling it “Awesome!! Best Indian and by far the best chai!!” Packed with options for vegetarians as well as meat eaters, there’s something on the menu for everyone, from creamy, mild saag to fiery vindaloo. SILVER: TASTE OF INDIA BRONZE: LITTLE NEPAL RESTAURANT AND EVEREST BAR

INDIAN: MIRCH MASALA JEFF KEARNEY

GREEN CHILI

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

In a town fairly floating on green chili, King’s Chef rises above the competition with a thick, spicy concoction sporting a habanero kick. And it’s created without pork. This baby is vegetarian all the way. “It is better then mine. I can admit it,” a voter said. SILVER: EL TACO REY BRONZE: WESTERN OMELETTE

32 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

IRISH

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

Quinn’s (as fans call it) offers classic Irish pub food with some interesting twists, such as the Irish Nachos with corned beef over fried potatoes instead of chips. You also can sample a traditional Irish breakfast (with black sausage), fish and chips, shepherd’s pie or Irish stew, along with continental cuisine for those less familiar with the Emerald Isle. SILVER: MCCABE’S TAVERN BRONZE: MCGINTY’S WOOD OVEN PUB

La Bella Vita Ristorante Italiano

Authentic & Traditional Italian Dishes

Fine selections of homemade pastas and wonderful desserts. Serving

Lunch v Dinner v Sunday Brunch Now Serving Pizza for Lunch

Hours: Tuesday - Thursday 11am -9pm v Friday 11am - 10pm Saturday 4pm - 10pm v Sunday 10:30am - 8pm

4475 Northpark Drive â&#x20AC;˘ 719.260.4730 www.labellavitaristorante.net the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 33

9/11 Section 34

❘ the gazette ❘ Friday, april 26, 2013

dining: REAdERS’ PiCKS

ITALIAN

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

You can enjoy all the classics, such as spaghetti and meatballs, gnocchi Bolognese, penne with vodka sauce or shrimp scampi. Or you could sample some of Chef Franco Pisani’s original dishes, such as Chicken Carsoni in a garlic pesto cream sauce, Veal Porcini or Salmon Jeanette topped with shrimp and asparagus. SILVER: ZIO’S ITALIAN KITCHEN BRONZE: BIAGGI’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO

MIDDLE EASTERN

GOLD: HEART OF JERUSALEM CAFÉ 4587 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 685-9554; 718 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1325; heartofjerusalemcafe.com

The shawarma gets high marks, along with many of the other offerings of exotic food. Voters also praised the hummus, falafel and dolmas,” calling them amazing. “As is the sage tea.” “Everything I’ve had here has been wonderful. Their shawarmas are very good, and their various platters taste great and are a lot of food for the money.” SILVER: CASPIAN CAFÉ BRONZE: TASTE OF JERULSALEM CAFÉ

JAMAICAN

GOLD: SPICE ISLAND GRILL 10 N. Sierra Madre St., 473-8280, spiceislandgrill.com

Voters loved the flavors, the music and the prices. “Spice Island Grill beats anyone else in town, hands down!!!” But the bottom line: “Authentic! Authentic! Authentic!” SILVER: RASTA PASTA BRONZE: JAMAICAN FLAVOR

JAPANESE

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

Voters liked the Centennial Boulevard location for the upscale élan and the teppan tables, where the cooking of food becomes entertainment. Voters liked noodle dishes at the Dublin Boulevard spot. “Dine comfortably and indulge in daydreams of actually being in Osaka or Sapporo,” said one. And another: “Good food, and prices are reasonable.” SILVER: FUJIYAMA BRONZE: AI SUSHI

KOREAN

TAMALES: EL TACO REY

GOLD: TONG TONG KOREAN RESTAURANT

JEFF KEARNEY

2036 S. Academy Blvd., 591-8585

It is famous for its marinated short ribs and bulgogi, and the kimchi sides are some of the better in town, said voters. A reader called it “amazing food.” SILVER: SAN CHANG HOUSE BRONZE: HAPPY TIME

MEXICAN

GOLD: SALSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL 9420 Briar Village Point, 955-6650; 802 Village Center Drive, 2669244, rockymtnrg.com/salsabrava

These are upscale Mexican bistros with gourmet touches. Readers raved: “Fire chicken burrito will make you sweat so good!” “This is hands down my favorite Mexican place in the Springs. I can’t resist their pineapple habanero salsa.” SILVER: AMANDA’S FONDA BRONZE: EL TACO REY

TAMALES

GOLD: EL TACO REY 330 E. Colorado Ave., 475-9722, eltacorey.com

This favorite Mexican food eatery in Colorado Springs for years made a name with its avocadopork burritos, but is well known for tamales, too. Readers told us: “No one beats Momma Aguilar’s handmade tamales!” “Like heaven on earth, made with love and quality ingredients.” “Fresh product, not too hot, just spicy enough, great with a combination.” SILVER: LA CASITA MEXICAN GRILL BRONZE: BRENDA’S TAMALES

dining: REAdERS’ PiCKS

TAQUERIA

GOLD: MONICA’S TACO SHOP 5829 Palmer Park Blvd., 597-7022; 30 E. Fillmore St., 473-1996

Readers love these fast-food eateries, which have been turned into a quick-stop taco joint. You can’t beat fast and good. Here’s the word on the street: “Monica’s wins out overall.” “Authentic, amazing carnitas tacos, terrific green chili and so much more.” SILVER: El TACO REY BRONZE: lA’AUS TACO SHOP

TEX-MEX

GOLD: ON THE BORDER MEXICAN GRILL AND CANTINA Multiple locations, ontheborder.com

This national chain consistently serves up wellmade Tex-Mex with some surprises thrown into the mix. Readers are fans because of the “fresh tortilla chips and great chili rellenos.”

MOBILE FOOD: THE SPRINGS CUPCAKE TRUCK JEFF KEARNEY

SILVER: JOSÉ MUlDOON’S BRONZE: SAlSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRIll

PHIllY CHEESESTEAK

MOBIlE FOOD

1634 S. Nevada Ave., 471-1922; 3552 N. Academy Blvd., 638-0020, 2819 Dublin Blvd., 260-7722, tasteofphilly.biz

466-1911, thespringscupcaketruck.com

GOLD: THE SPRINGS CUPCAKE TRUCK

GOLD: TASTE OF PHILLY

Also known as Coco, voters say that this food truck is a cupcake lover’s dream come true. The treats are made from scratch and feature six flavors, including More Than Mocha and Plain Jane.

The Colorado chain piles the meat on buns to satisfy cravings for an East Coast-style guilty pleasure.

SILVER: GOWAITER OF COlORADO SPRINGS BRONZE: BITE ME GOURMET SAUSAGE

SILVER: TRIVEllI’S HOAGIES BRONZE: BACK EAST BAR AND GRIll

JAMAICAN FLAVOR

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the gazette I 2013 Call I BeSt OFToday! the SPRINgS I 35

dining: REAdERS’ PiCKS

PLACE FOR VEGETARIANS

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

It’s local, organic and mostly, if not exclusively, vegetarian. The beer and wine list is equally thoughtful. One voter said it quite well: “Gooooood eating.”

place for vegetarians: aDaMs MoUntain cafe Jeff KearneY

SILVER: POOR RICHARD’S RESTAuRANT BRONZE: GARBANZO MEDITERRANEAN GRILL

PAELLA

GOLD: TAPATERIA 2607 W. Colorado Ave., 471-8272, tapateria.com

The rice dish traditionally served in Spain melts in your mouth on Tapateria’s patio. You love the use of local ingredients. NO SILVER OR BRONZE

PIE

GOLD: VILLAGE INN Multiple locations, villageinn.com

For sure this eatery is known for breakfast foods, but the pie is popular, too. Especially on Wednesdays, when slices are free with a meal purchase. SILVER: SMILEY’S BAKERY & CAFE BRONZE: STIR

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36 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

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RESTAURANT FOR FIRST DATE

restaurant for first date: Marco’s Pizza

GOLD: MARCO’S PIZZA (BRIARGATE)

Jeff KearneY

9420 Briar Village Point, 434-3773, marcos.com

Readers are fond of Marco’s and really like it for special occasions, such as a first date. Here’s why: “Beautiful inside, but casual and not stiff and uncomfortable. Great outdoor eating area, too. Lots of (menu) choices so it’s easy to find something for a first date that both can agree on.” SILVER: THE MELTING POT BRONZE : MONA LISA FONDUE RESTAURANT

STEAK

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

We’re talking beef here, and it’s top-notch, prepared to perfection. Great sides make for a memorable meal. For one voter, it was very simple: “Try and find anything better.” SILVER: TEXAS ROADHOUSE BRONZE: MACKENZIE’S CHOP HOUSE DOWNTOWN

INDIAN

GOLD: LITTLE NEPAL 1747 S. Eighth St., 477-6997; lnepal.com

Vietnamese Cuisine

Readers have finally realized what our staffers have been saying for years. This classy eatery has the best Indian (and Nepalese) buffet and off-the-menu dinners in the region. “Naan and biriyani are the best Indian food I ever had,” a fan said. SILVER: MIRCH MASALA BRONZE: INDIAN PALACE

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dining: REAdERS’ PiCKS

NEW RESTAURANT

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

With waiters buzzing from table to table carrying swords loaded with Brazilian-style barbecue meats, this is the place for a carnivore to indulge. The buffet is massive, voters wrote. “I love their salad bar and meat choices. Their service is impeccable. Overall — just a wonderful place to eat and relax with friends or family.” “OMG so good!” SILVER: BONEFISH GRILL BRONZE: OVER EASY, A dAYTIME EATERY

PIZZA

GOLD: LOUIE’S PIZZA Multiple locations, louies-pizza.com

The longtime local chain has lots of fans, who praised the fast delivery and reasonable prices. “Crust is perfect,” said one. “Eat in, instead of taking it home. It is so good fresh out of the oven.” SILVER: BORRIELLO BROTHERS BRONZE: MARCO’S PIZZA

PLACE TO EAT WHEAT-FREE GOLD: COQUETTE’S BISTRO & BAKERY 915 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 651-3892, coquettesbistroandbakery.com

Here’s a cozy little eatery where the owners are passionate about making delicious gluten-free food. The baked goods are ever-expanding and excellent. Voters mentioned the house-made gluten-free flour, as well as the positive effect the food has had on their lives. And perhaps most important to the gluten intolerant: “I love to eat at this restaurant because there are no worries about cross contamination.” SILVER: TAPATERIA BRONZE: SALSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL

REd CHILI

GOLD: EL TACO REY 330 E. Colorado Ave., 475-9722, eltacorey.com

There’s a reason the line is usually out the door at this longtime local Mexican favorite, and the red chili is a major draw. SILVER: AMANdA’S FONdA BRONZE: JOSÉ MULdOON’S (EAST)

RESTAURANT FOR KIdS

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

With a menu crammed with burger selections, it’s easy to satisfy even the pickiest little one’s fancy. Here’s a reader’s comment: “It is wonderful watching families and their children having such a good time here. The food is great, well-made American family eats. The waitstaff is flawless, and good management is reflected by that.” SILVER: MARCO’S PIZZA BRONZE: POOR RICHARd’S RESTAURANT

new restaurant: tucanos brazilian grill JeFF KearneY

38 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

dining: REAdERS’ PiCKS

SEAFOOD

GOLD: RED LOBSTER Multiple locations, redlobster.com

Red Lobster is a consistent winner for its reasonably priced seafood. Wood-fire grills have raised the bar for flavorful fish and meat preparation. “Now more affordable,” said one voter, and “remodeling looks great on the Union Boulevard location.” And another: “Hard to beat. Great food and service.”

SUSHI: JUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT JEFF KEARNEY

SILVER: BONEFISH GRILL BRONZE: JOE’S CRAB SHACK

SUSHI

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

Jun has been the sushi king in Colorado Springs for years. The restaurants draw standing-room-only crowds on Saturday nights at both locations. Voters said the sushi is among the freshest, and the rolls among the most well-prepared. “I have tried nearly all the sushi places, and I feel this one is the best!” SILVER: AI SUSHI BRONZE: FUJIYAMA

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the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 39

imagine.

Best of the Springs editor T.D. Mobley-Martinez’s picks: Page 42 Readers’ picks: Page 46

www.gazette.com/bestof 40 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

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Visit us online at www.acecoloradosprings.com the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 41

arts & entertainment: eXPert PiCKs GaZette.COm/BestOF

mind-blowing ARTS collAboRATion: “THE ElAboRATE EnTRAncE oF cHAd dEiTY” THEATREwoRKS

MIND-BLOWING ARTS COLLABORATION “ThE ElABORATE ENTRANCE OF ChAD DEITY”

Oct. 19-Nov. 11, 2012 TheatreWorks, Dusty Loo Bon Vivant Theater, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, 3955 Regents Circle, 255-3232, theatreworks cs.org Curious Theatre Company, 1080 Acoma St., Denver, 1-303-623-0524, curioustheatre.org

You would have had to have been sedated not to be rocked by this astonishing piece of playwriting and acting. I gave it an A+, one of only a handful I’ve given out over the years. Also great to see: the collaboration between Curious Theatre Company and TheatreWorks, which, despite its venerated history, continues to be a real local risk taker.

BY T.D. MOBlEY-MARTINEz gAzETTE gO! EDITOR & ARTS CRITIC

ACTOR TO REMEMBER SAMMIE JOE KINNETT

WYNOT Radio Theatre, TheatreWorks’ “Love’s Labor’s Lost” and “Everyman on the Bus”

Almost a year later, I still can’t get his seductive (joyful, human) portrayal of Berowne (in “Love’s Labor’s Lost”) out of my mind. Although a secondary character, Kinnett’s command of the challenging language and his ability to inject joy into a potentially throwaway role memorably thrust him into the foreground. Kinnett understands craft, and with it, he creates an authenticity that lingers, reflecting people we’ve known, or even better, ourselves.

EVENT WORTH BRAVING THE CROWDS “WhAT IF” FESTIVAl VIEW OF A lIFE’S WORK: “FLOYD D. TUNSON: SON OF pOp”COURTESY FLOYD D. TUNSON

VIEW OF A LIFE’S WORK STAR ON THE RISE NATAlIE JOhNSON

Executive director, The Business of Art Center, 513 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1861, thebac.org

The Business of Art Center has had a rough ride since it opened 24 years ago. In June, activist and Manitou businesswoman Johnson stepped up with some big plans, including partnerships with organizations such as Concrete Couch, the Manitou Heritage Center and the Manitou Springs Library. Community building is key to her trajectory, she says. Amen, I say.

“FlOYD D. TUNSON: SON OF POP”

Fine Arts Center, 30 W. Dale St., 634-5583, csfineartscenter.org

Although a prolific artist who’s well regarded in the region, Tunson rarely shows in the Springs. This 40-year retrospective by the FAC was something of a gift for fans and the uninitiated alike. The sprawling exhibit of paintings, drawings and sculptures offered a welcome window into his mania for craftsmanship, his challenging point of view and the picture his work creates of the evolving place of African-Americans in a predominantly white world. Frankly, I was down-to-the-ground shaken by some of his imagery.

42 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

Sept. 15, 2012

It’s quirky, yes, but akimbo paths are sometimes the richest. And there are no more out-of-the-box thinkers than creator Imagination Celebration, which provides arts programs for area kids. In 2012, its third year, the learning festival drew more than 20,000 festivalgoers to 102-plus interactive exhibits in a six-block span of downtown Colorado Springs. Involved were creative individuals, organizations and corporations in our region. Six performance stages rounded out the mammoth event with 40 hours of entertainment. This year it all rolls out on Sept. 7.

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GALLERY WITH bIG IDEAS AND THE SMARTS TO MAkE THEM HAPPEN: GALLERIES OF CONTEMPORARY ART 121 AND 1420

PRODUCTION THAT WOULD HAUNT YOU “THE PILLOWMAN”

Oct. 11-28, 2012 Springs Ensemble Theatre, 1903 E. Cache La Poudre St., 357-3080, springsensembletheatre.org

COURTESY ELAINE NG

production that couLd haunt You: “thE piLLoWMan” SprinGS EnSEMBLE thEatrE

A totalitarian state. Torture, pedophilia and dismemberment. Mental retardation. Child murder. Racism, suicide and a butcher knife. The SET production of Martin McDonagh’s award-winning play sounded — well, like a really big downer. And while you wouldn’t have been humming a happy tune after it was done, Max Ferguson’s directorial debut was not only compelling (appalling, grotesque and deeply disturbing), but it lingered for a long time, fodder for conversation and private reflection.

GALLERY WITH BIG IDEAS AND THE SMARTS TO MAKE THEM HAPPEN GALLERIES OF CONTEMPORARY ART 121 AND 1420 Plaza of the Rockies, 121 S. Tejon St., Suite 100; 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway; 255-3504,uccs.edu/goca

Some of the most challenging places to see art are often college galleries. And while the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs’ GOCA spotlights some pretty heady stuff, director Daisy McConnell also has created programs — for instance, “ChitChat,” which brings together disparate lecturers on radically divergent topics — that plumb pop culture, art and our need to learn.

INTIMATE SPOT FOR MUSIC THE LOFT

2506 W. Colorado Ave., Suite C, 445-9278, loftmusicvenue.com

A smallish, brick-lined room. Squeaky floors. Neon signs. It’s a music hall featuring touring and local bands, sure, but The Loft offers something beyond cool tunes, something intangible. That feeling that you’ve stumbled into an in-crowd you never knew existed. My only nit: I want more. The calendar, which includes dancing and improv, doesn’t note any concerts until soulful singer-songwriter Jonah Werner (with Hillary Hand) plays on May 4.

44 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

MUSIC FOR FREE “SCREEN ON THE GREEN”

“The Pines of Rome,” Sept. 15, 2012 Colorado Springs Philharmonic, Pikes Peak Center, 190 S. Cascade Ave., 575-9632, csphilharmonic.org

You don’t have to be a brain surgeon to appreciate the genius of this idea: Simulcast the opening of music director Josep Caballé-Domenech’s first full season to the people gathered on the north lawns outside the hall. That’s video and sound pumped directly from the Pikes Peak Center stage to a 25foot screen. And it was all for free — which is some smart marketing and laudable community building. I hope we see it again in the 2013-14 season.

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the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 45

arts & entertainment readers’ PiCKs GaZette.COm/BestOF

ACTOR

GOLD: JIM JACKSON The co-founder and artistic director of the Millibo Art Theatre, Jackson made his bones as a clown traveling an international circuit. His shows are surprisingly sophisticated — entertaining to children and adults alike (if sometimes for different reasons). Jackson is the “funniest clown you’ll ever see,” wrote one voter.

actor, actress: Jim Jackson, Birgitta de Pree JeFF kearneY

SILVER: (TIE) CHRISTIAN O’SHAUGHNESSY, DANTE MARTINEZ BRONZE: SAMMIE JOE KINNETT

ACTRESS

GOLD: BIRGITTA DE PREE De Pree, who also won in 2012, is co-founder and frequent director at the Millibo Art Theatre. Voters call her long-running character Babette Matdiva “outrageous.” (And they’re right.) But like husband Jim Jackson, she’s also a tremendous clown, especially in her roles in MAT children’s programs. She’s the “second funniest clown you’ll ever see, and an amazing dramatic arts example for the kids she visits in local schools.” SILVER: AMY BROOKS BRONZE: CRYSTAL CARTER

PLAY

GOLD: “A CHRISTMAS STORY,” FINE ARTS CENTER Based on the 1983 film of the same name, this delightful retelling expanded on the lives of beloved characters and captured the wonder and glee of Christmas for a little boy in the ‘40s. SILVER: “THE ELABORATE ENTRANCE OF CHAD DEITY,” THEATREWORKS BRONZE: “YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU,” THEATREWORKS, AND “RESERVOIR DOGS,” THEATRE ‘D ART

THEATER COMPANY GOLD: THEATREWORKS

Dusty Loo Bon Vivant Theater, 3955 Regent Circle, 255-3232, theatreworkscs.org

This company, founded in 1975, proves that you can get better with age. A risk taker, it made a big leap in 2011 when it increased the number of Equity performers and other personnel used every year. That’s been a boon for audiences, which may see, as they did with this year’s brilliant production of “Red,” that union actors can raise the bar for everybody. SILVER: MILLIBO ART THEATRE BRONZE: FINE ARTS CENTER

46 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

a&E: rEadErs’ PICKs

GALLERy GOLD: FINE ARTS CENTER

FINE ARTS CENTER

GALLERY

GOLD: FINE ARTS CENTER 30 W. Dale St., 634-5583, csfineartscenter.org

While the Fine Arts Center isn’t technically a gallery, you’d be impressed by the avalanche of votes for the 76-year-old organization, which began as a museum and later encompassed the Bemis School of Art, the SaGaJi Theatre, a cafe and shop. Voters mentioned “Floyd D. Tunson: Son of Pop” as a recent example of the center’s ambitions and vision. “I love to visit,” wrote one, “no matter the exhibition, because I enjoy the building itself.” SILVER: HUNTER-WOLFF GALLERY BRONZE: THE MODBO/S.P.Q.R.

ARTIST

GOLD: LIESE CHAVEZ Now a three-time winner of this category, Chavez garners praise as the best of the best. Fans call her “amazingly talented” and her work “wonderful, imaginative, whimsical, beautiful.” “Her art,” said one voter, “speaks of a dreamy half-glimpsed world — haunting and sweet.”

MUSICAL

GALLERy SILVER: HUNTERWOLFF GALLERY

GOLD: “HAIRSPRAy,” FINE ARTS CENTER

JEFF KEARNEY

A misfit teen with a hankering to dance. A popular dance TV show. And a city-splitting racial divide. Director Scott RC Levy’s 2012 production of the Tony-winning musical was well sung, beautifully staged and “more fun than oughta be legal!!” SILVER: “GYPSY,” THE FAC BRONZE: “JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT,” FIRE&ICE THEATRICAL TROUPE

MOVIE THEATER

GOLD: CINEMARK CAREFREE CIRCLE 3305 Cinema Point, 596-2173, cinemark.com

Voters loved the service (“the best”), the seats (“comfy”) and cleanliness (especially the restrooms). Ample parking also is a plus. And there’s one more thing. “I love the close shopping.” SILVER: HOLLYWOOD THEATERS BRONZE: KIMBALL’S PEAK THREE THEATER

SILVER: STEVE WEED BRONZE: BRANDON MIERA

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 47

a&e: readers’ PICKs

MUSEUM EXHIBIT GOLD: COLORADO SPRINGS PIONEERS MUSEUM 215 S. Tejon St., 385-5990, springsgov.com

We all face The Question: Where do you take out-of-towners for a taste of Colorado Springs? The answer, according to one voter, is this former El Paso County courthouse turned municipal museum. Although most voters didn’t cite a specific exhibit, they said it was “a very good source of local history. I learn something new every time I go.” SILVER: “FLOYD D. TUNSON: SON OF POP,” THE FINE ARTS CENTER BRONZE: “MAGIC TOWN,” THE MICHAEL GARMAN MUSEUM & GALLERY

BAR

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

This bar’s been on the scene for years, and is consistently good. It has live Irish music, hearty food and barkeeps who know how to mix a good black and tan. They also throw one of the city’s biggest St. Patrick’s Day parties, and manage to keep themselves out of the headlines, and off the police scanner. You approve. SILVER: COWBOYS BRONZE: SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY’S

LOCAL BAND

GOLD: CLAYMORE DISCO Voters were enthusiastic about the alt-pop band that’s making a name for itself in the region. Their touring schedule doesn’t dull the connection with local fans, though. “Talk about awesome performers! And they are such nice awesome people to hang around! Claymore is just amazing!” SILVER: SOFAKILLERS BRONZE: HYDROGEN SKYLINE

PHOTOGRAPHER GOLD: JULIA SAUGET PHOTOGRAPHY 357-0198, juliasphotos.net

When you need a good photographer, only the best will do. Voters overwhelmingly picked this photo studio as their favorite. “Creative, professional, reasonably priced, easy to work with.” SILVER: AMANDA LAMB PHOTOGRAPHY BRONZE: BELLAMINT PHOTOGRAPHY

DANCE STUDIO FOR ADULTS GOLD: SPRINGS SALSA AND DANCE FITNESS STUDIO Cottonwood Center for the Arts, 427 E. Colorado Ave., Studio 132; 220 Valley St.; 591-1419, springssalsazumba.com

The best thing about Springs Salsa is the calorieburning workout disguised as a party. You praise the people who work there, the fun atmosphere and the Zumba classes. One voter put it best: “Good instructors, good communication, all attending leave feeling better.” SILVER: AVANTI BALLROOM BRONZE: ORMAO DANCE COMPANY

48 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

local band: claymore disco JeFF Kearney

Exot i c W il d G am e Colorado Steaks & Seafood Award Winning Wine List!

404 El Paso Boulevard Man i tou Sp rings, CO (719) 685 - 9000

Thank you f o r all o f yo u r v o t e s !

ww w.c ra f t wo od .c om

www.stage coachin n .co m

Fried Chicken, Ribs, Trout, Steaks, Local Beers & Wines

702 Manitou Avenue, Manitou Springs CO (719) 685 - 9400 The Place for Homemade Taste!

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 49

a&e: readers’ PICKs

CASINO

casino: bronco billy’s casino

GOLD: BRONCO BILLY’S CASINO 233 Bennett Ave., Cripple Creek, 689-2142, broncobillyscasino.com

JEFF KEarnEy

The vibes are friendly, and they still use quarters in many of the machines, you said. There are promotions and freebies to be had, and you can top off a great day of gaming with some tasty food in Baja Billy’s Restaurant and Cantina. SILVER: WILDWOOD CASINO BRONZE: DOUBLE EAGLE HOTEL AND CASINO

KARAOKE BAR

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

You’ve got a great voice (at least your mother says so). You know all the words to every song (well, “Hey Jude” has been known to stump you). This Old Colorado City bar offers your moment or two of stardom with karaoke Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. “It’s more than just karaoke. The DJs are hilarious and make it fun to be there whether you sing or not.” SILVER: GOOD COMPANY BRONZE: DUBLIN HOUSE

HOOKAH BAR

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

One voter said it best: “Amazing atmosphere, extremely comfortable and the staff is a lot of fun.” SILVER: 40 THIEVES HOOKAH LOUNGE BRONZE: BLEW HOOKAH

Bring a classic into your home. If you are looking for furniture that will make your room standout, come visit over 300 vendors in Colorado’s Largest Antique Mall! We have something for Every budget!

Thanks for voting us Best Antique Store!

Antiques, Furniture, Collectables, Home Decor, Jewelry, Gifts. & MORE!

www.AmericanClassicsMarketplace.com

1815 N. Academy Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 719-596-8585 50 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

a&e: readers’ PICKs

LOCAL CONCERT

GOLD: COLORADO SPRINGS PHILHARMONIC

local concert: colorado springs philharmonic

When it comes to orchestral music, the Colorado Springs Philharmonic is pretty much ground zero. The orchestra offers a challenging season with three music series as well as special guests, such as Itzhak Perlman in 2012 and Sir James Galway in March. And in September, the concert was simulcast to a giant screen on the Pikes Peak Center lawn. “We were out of town,” wrote one voter, “but the decision to broadcast the performance to picnickers on the lawn was pure genius.”

colorado springs philharmonic

SILVER: BLUES UNDER THE BRIDGE BRONZE: MEADOWGRASS MUSIC FESTIVAL

LOCAL STAR ON THE RISE GOLD: GRANt SABIN

Watch Go! listings to see Grant Sabin live. Listen and buy his music: blanktaperecords.org/grantsabin, reverbnation.com/grantsabin, facebook.com/grant.sabin

Sabin’s spare, roots-blues sound and expert use of steel guitar draw crowds to his frequent in-town gigs. Earthy, vulnerable and soulful, his music pulls you in and holds you close. His album “Anthromusicology” was released in 2012. SILVER: SEAN WALDRON BRONZE: ASHER SKYLINE HITTLE

LOCAL FESTIVAL GOLD: SPRINGS SPREE

A landslide hardly describes the preponderance of voters who chose this 35-year-old event as their favorite. Drawing as many as 70,000 people to the two days of food, music and (we can only hope) sunshine may have something to do with it. One voter put it simply: “Wow!!! My family had a blast last year!” SILVER: TERRITORY DAYS BRONZE: MEADOWGRASS MUSIC FESTIVAL

Colorado Springs’ #1 boot Camp Upcoming Events fitness & Weight Loss Program * SPECIALIZING IN THE 90 5-24 DAYRellion MAKEOVER 4-26 Austin Young CD Release R&B *

• Fire your 5-25up Phat Horn Doctors Dance Party 5-26 Miss CD Release R&B metabolismNedra and lose 5-31 Gazette’s Best fat once and for all. of the Best 6-1 Dotsero Jazz • Tone and ﬁrm up 6-6 The Defibulators your 6-29entire Echosbody. of the Platters 8-7 Asleep At The Wheel • Look & feel better 8-22 Sons Of Pioneers than you have The in years. 9-14 Karla Bonoff

Voted Best Trainer 2013

4-27 Out Loud Co.Sp. Mens Chorus 4-28 Veda Annual Fashion Show and Greenie Awards 4-30 PPLD - Andrew McCarthy 5-1 R&R Military/Veterans Jam 5-3 Whiskey Fingers Dance Party 5-4 Legacy Cinco di Mayo Party 5-10 Kahuna Beach Party 5-11 Stu Hamm-Bass Guitar Master 5-1 Tiny Barge / Tommy Thomas 5-18 Junior Brown 5-19 Starburn 60’s Rock -Free 5-23 Jake Loggins Jam - Free

10 S. Parkside Dr. • Today! www.stargazerstheatre.com • 719.476.2200 Call

719-229-2639

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a&e: readers’ PICKs

MUSIC VENUE

GOLD: STARGAZERS THEATRE AND EVENT CENTER 10 S. Parkside Drive, 476-2200, stargazerstheatre.com

Going to Stargazers — with or without a performance on tap — is a cool trip in itself. The renovated building has all the charm and quirkiness of an oldtime movie theater, plus a convex ceiling. Voters commented on the intimate setting, the eclectic programming and the comfortable seating. “This place is a real gem that cares about the local community,” said one voter, “as well as the musical arts, and it always finds a way to give back where it can.” SILVER: THE BLACK SHEEP BRONZE: PIKES PEAK CENTER

music venue: stargazers theatre and event center

NIGHTCLUB

JeFF KearneY

GOLD: COWBOYS

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

This downtown night spot is pretty much the gold standard for an evening on the town. Voters mentioned the drink specials and the entertainment, which they called top notch. One voter said it best: “Fun. Never a dull moment.” SILVER: BLONDIES ULTRA LOUNGE BRONZE: COPPERHEAD ROAD HONKEY TONK SALOON

SOLO MUSICIAN GOLD: SEAN WALDRON

Voters liked this singer-songwriter’s music. “Fresh, exciting, original musician who writes his own songs and sings a la Jason Mraz! Great personality and fantastic rapport with his audiences.” His vocals also drew praise. “One goddamn amazing voice!” Plus, one said, “He’s sexy!!!!!”

solo musician: sean waldron JeFF KearneY

SILVER: GRANT SABIN BRONZE: JOE UVEGES

• Local, In-house underwriting • Competitive rates, low fees • VA, FHA, Conventional, Jumbo, CHFA, Turnkey

NOVA® Home Loans Colorado Springs 24 South Weber Street, Suite 100 / Colorado Springs, CO 80903

719-884-5500 / www.novahomeloans.com Regulated by the CO Division of Real Estate / NOVA NMLS 3087

52 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

Matéos Day Spa Relaxing, therapeutic and age reducing services. From head to toe and all under one roof!

We put the “ART” in pARTy! Wild & Whimsical Paint Parties are our Passion!

A fun, family friendly place, where we provide the canvas, paint, & instruction. You & your friends paint your own masterpiece!

Happiest Place in Colorado Springs to have a party!

RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY!

•

719.321.8531 www.paint-the-town.com 2 0 1 3

Date Night Girl’s Night Out Fundraisers Baby Showers Church Groups Wedding Showers Kids-Tween-Teen Parties

EscapE for an hour or a day!

7844 N. Academy Blvd. (just behind Chipotle) Colorado Springs, CO 80920 Fly by our unique Birdcage Boutique

Visit the Salon at Mateos featuring the area’s top stylists!

Day Spa packages starting at $105 Gift certificates always available www.mateodayspa.com

266-9295

5919 Delmonico Drive

Colorado Springs, CO 80919 Mon-Fri 9-8 Sat 9-5 the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 53

live. Gazette Around Town columnist Linda Navarro’s picks: Page 55 Gazette columnist Barry Noreen’s picks: Page 62 Gazette reporter Erin Prater’s picks: Page 66 Readers’ picks: Page 60

www.gazette.com/bestof 54 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

city life eXPeRt PicKS

GAZette.cOM/BeStOf

by linda navarro gazette around town columnist

Friends to the homeless

colorado sPrings Police hot team 705 s. nevada ave., 444-7000, springsgov.com

the homeless outreach team â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Brett iverson, dan mcCormack, m.J. thomson â&#x20AC;&#x201D; has developed a nationally acclaimed bonding program to put human faces on the homeless and to offer them resources instead of writing them tickets for drunkenness or camping on public property. now the hot team is in demand to teach its successful system to police departments across the country.

friends to the homeless: Colorado springs poliCe hot team marK reis, the gazette

h at t g on n ti m ar er St 0 p 60 1,

Experience the Stellar Life at Winslow Court! Award Winning Senior Living Executive Chef Cuisine Captivating Activities All Assisted Living Services csfineartscenter.org | 719.634.5583 Call Today for a Tour! 719.359.5003 3920 E. San Miguel St. Colorado Springs, CO 80909

www.StellarLiving.com

MuseuM | TheaTre | arT school the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 55

city life: expert picKS - linda navarro ARTISTIC COMMuNITy RESPONSE TO THE WALdO CANyON fIRE: WILd fIRE TEES WILd fIRE TEES

MOST TOUCHING WAY TO CELEBRATE JULY 4 “A COMMUNITY RISES” WILDFIRE RELIEF CONCERT

The community had come together in a massive show of support for victims and first responders during the heart-stopping days of the Waldo Canyon wildfire. Eight days after the conflagration, a free concert at the World Arena and on local TV brought the community and those who had lost their homes together to start the healing process. It included Isaac Slade of The Fray; Jerri Marr, forest supervisor of the Pike and San Isabel national forests; the Colorado Springs Philharmonic; Michael Martin Murphey; and Flash Cadillac. Sentimental favorites were the Flying W Wranglers and Russ Wolfe of Flying W Ranch, who had lost the site to the flames.

ARTISTIC COMMUNITY RESPONSE TO THE WALDO CANYON WILDFIRE WILD FIRE TEES wildfiretees.com, facebook.com/WildFireTees

One day after the Waldo Canyon wildfire came over the mountain, 10 creative designers had already sprung into action to support the victims. Their smoky gray “C Fire” T-shirt, with a flame blazing out of a red Colorado “C,” brought in $50,000 in the first four days. More designs were added, and many were purchased as gifts for first responders. Tees and hoodies have brought in an amazing $600,000, with 100 percent of the profits going to the Red Cross, Care and Share Food Bank and Colorado Fire Relief 2012.

FUNDRAISER WITH A BEAT AND A MISSION

URBAN LEAGUE’S “MOTOWN IN THE ROCKIES”

PERSON WHO ROSE TO THE OCCASION: JERRI MARR JERILEE BENNETT, THE GAZETTE

PERSON WHO ROSE TO THE OCCASION JERRI MARR fs.usda.gov/psicc

She was the calm during the firestorm. As forest supervisor for the Pike and San Isabel national forests, Cimarron and Comanche national grasslands, Marr was the face and voice of what was happening during the Waldo Canyon fire. She could never have foreseen that she would become a hero while she was just doing her job.

EXECUTIVE WITH CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

JIM JOHNSON, PRESIDENT/CEO OF GE JOHNSON CONSTRUCTION 25 N. Cascade Ave., Suite 400, 473-5321, gejohnson.com

The boss leads the way, whether serving on an endless list of boards, being lead rider in a charity bike challenge, encouraging employees to volunteer or sponsoring major charitable events. His is a legacy of giving back, which was inherited from his father, Gil Johnson, founder of the company. When he and wife Laura gave the Kansas State University Foundation $6 million for endowments, scholarships and the school’s basketball training facility, Jim Johnson said, “My dad taught me by example that it’s important to support and give back to the institutions that helped shape you and make you who you are. I take it as a personal and corporate responsibility to do so.”

506 E. Moreno Ave., 634-1525, ulppr.org

The dance floor was packed all evening long and DJ Sugar Bear’s Motown sounds even had passersby groovin’ on the sidewalk outside the Mining Exchange ballroom. It was a lively way to help jump-start the languishing Urban League of the Pikes Peak Region back to health.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER AT A CHARITY FUNDRAISER ELIZABETH SMART, SAFE PASSAGE CHILDREN’S ADVOCACY CENTER 423 S. Cascade Ave., 636-2460, safepassagecac.org

BUSIEST CELEBRITY EMCEES

DON WARD AND DIANNE DERBY, KKTV 3100 N. Nevada Ave., 634-2844, kktv.com

They’re here, there and everywhere supporting groups and nonprofits throughout the area, a KKTV tradition that harkens back to when Shannon Brinias was an anchor there. This is a black-tie team with jam-packed calendars.

Her name was familiar nationwide; her story unfathomable. As a young girl she had been snatched from her own bedroom, kidnapped and raped over nine months by a stranger. She came to Colorado Springs as a grown woman, a newlywed and a children’s advocate willing to share her painful story with those who work with young victims much like she had been.

56 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

CAN’T-MISS SETTING FOR A SPECIAL EVENT: THE MINING EXCHANGE WYNDHAM GRAND HOTEL CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE

SINGER YOU WOULDN’T EXPECT

GEN. MARTIN DEMPSEY, CHAIRMAN OF THE JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF 1120 N. Circle Drive, Suite 7, 434-1501, thehomefrontcares.org

Let’s just say that the top man in our military can really belt it out. He demonstrated his musical chops with “New York, New York”when he performed for 900 guests at The Home Front Cares’ “For the Love of Our Troops” annual dinner. You can sing for us any time, Gen. Dempsey.

LIFE-SKILLS TRAINING IN A REAL-LIFE SETTING GOODWILL’S POSSIBILITIES TOWN SQUARE

1460 Garden of the Gods Road, 381-9484, discovermygoodwill.org

This is a fascinating way for Discover Goodwill clients to experience actual daily living situations before they go out into the community. Their town square includes an art studio, apartment, city hall, community center, credit union, fitness center, general store and health center.

CAN’T-MISS SETTING FOR A SPECIAL EVENT THE MINING EXCHANGE WYNDHAM GRAND HOTEL 8 S. Nevada Ave., 323-2000, wyndham.com

Downtown has a special draw. Add to that an uptown elegance, valet parking (thank goodness), an exciting piece of Colorado Springs history, beautiful works of art and a brick courtyard, and you’ll know why so many groups have made this hotel their choice. And I love it that many of the employees know the history that goes with this building.

WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING A REAL ESTATE COMPANY? How about one ranked

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2013

See the Difference and Call Us Today! 719.576.6767 prudentialcs.com

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 57

TOP 2013

Is Your Realtor® REAL ESTATE AGENTS a Peak Producer?

PIKES PEAK REGION’S

Alphie Hutmacher Coldwell Banker 719-232-8320

Caryn Becker

Century 21 Curbow 719-233-2489

Donna Andersen

The Platinum Group Realtors 719-481-1900

Joseph D. Heffner

The Platinum Group Realtors 719-331-6240

Lori Thompson

RE/MAX Properties, Inc. 719-332-1807

Ann Heiring

RE/MAX Advantage 719-440-1010

Casey Clark

Ashley Wilson

ERA Herman Group 719-440-1596

Charissa Turnbull

Clark and Associates 719-649-6271

RE/MAX Properties, Inc. 719-360-4736

Donna Hilderbrand

Dzelal Hrustanovic

Judy Ankeney

Karen Bluemel

Mariana Wagner

Marie Sweetland

RE/MAX Properties, Inc. 719-650-7600

RE/MAX Properties, Inc. 719-360-4276

Keller Williams Partners 719-210-5258

Reunion Homes 719-499-5110

Kblue Homes 719-650-7452

Equity Colorado 719-963-0616

Barbara Harris

Harris Group Realty 719-338-0827

Charles D’Alessio

Synergy Realty Group, Inc. 719-660-5223

Hank Poburka

The Platinum Group Realtors 719-332-6091

Kat Jorstad

Red Rock Realty 719-339-6249

Mark McWilliams

RE/MAX Properties, Inc. 719-237-6455

Barry Boals

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-290-8500

Cherise Selley

Selley Group Real Estate, LLC 719-598-5101

Harry Salzman

Salzman Real Estate 719-598-3200

Kenton Carew

Becky Gloriod

Prudential Rocky Mtn Realtors 719-229-9777

Cheryl Pixley

Chris Watson

Brandon Renaud & Louis Torres

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-459-9955

Cindy Constantino

Craig McConnell

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-233-7653

Prudential Rocky Mtn Realtors 719-440-0122

Irene Tanis

Jade Edmisten & Bobbi Price

Jason Roshek

Kim Carper

Kimberly Hunstiger

Nancy Rusinak

Nancy Wile

RE/MAX Performance 719-687-4712

Kevin Patterson

The Patterson Group 719-575-1200

Mike MacGuire

Monica Breckenridge Pink Realty 719-393-7465

The Platinum Group Realtors 719-599-3451

The Platinum Group Realtors 719-238-1734

Rusinak Real Estate 719-590-6110

Brian Boals

The Innovative Group 719-338-6859

RE/MAX Advantage 719-338-0117

Bennett-Shellenberger Realty 719-491-0897

The Platinum Group Realtors 719-536-4324

Benjamin Day

Selley Group Real Estate, LLC 719-331-9170

Coldwell Banker 719-237-0394

RE/MAX Advantage 719-648-2078

Epic Realty 719-229-4596

Avalor Real Estate 719-330-0695

Jean Wheaton

RE/MAX Properties, Inc. 719-440-2499

Kimberly Rossbach

Brigette Ruskin

RE/MAX Advantage 719-338-1001

Craig O’Boyle

Cynthia O’Leary

O’Boyle Real Estate Group 719-576-7373

Jeff Piggot

O’Leary Properties 719-322-8133

Jennifer Erdley

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-210-8433

RE/MAX Performance 719-339-4583

Laura Owns

Lenore Hotchkiss

Real Living-Select Properties 719-330-3277

Saddle Up Realty 719-748-1212

Pamela Keller

Randy Deming

Keller Homes, Inc. 719-499-4302

Bruce Betts

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-535-0711

Campbell Homes 719-266-9780

Lenore Hotchkiss 719-359-1350

Scott Baughman

Real Estate Marketing Group 719-209-2299

Candice Graham

8z Real Estate Group 719-321-3455

Debbie Reardon

The Platinum Group Realtors 719-955-8525

Jill McFeron

RE/MAX Properties, Inc. 303-495-2722

Linda Lafferty

The Platinum Group Realtors 719-332-0405

Scott Huger

Nicholas Scott Real Estate 719-659-2630

Carrie Miller

Gold Country Realty 719-641-7074

Derek Wagner

Keller Williams Partners 719-210-5258

JoAnn Gadkowski

Prudential Rocky Mtn Realtors 719-339-8909

Liz Snow

Red Rock Realty 719-661-9614

Sharon Roshek

Coldwell Banker 1st Choice 719-237-0391

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perties, Inc. 7-7355

Todd Hawker

Action Team Realty 719-492-4580

Todd McLain

The Platinum Group Realtors 719-290-6734

Tom Pederson

Premier Real Estate Group 719-360-6159

Tom Yukman

ERA Herman Group 719-338-9319

w w w. T h e P e a k P r o d u c e r s . c o m

Vicki Westapher

RE/MAX Properties, Inc. 719-440-0514

Title

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 59

city life: readers’ PicKs GaZette.cOM/BestOf DENTIST

GOLD: ANDERSON FAMILY DENTAL 3505 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Suite 302, 593-0988, andersonsmile.com

Keep on smiling and show off your pearly whites with the help of Anderson Family Dental. The Andersons have won numerous awards for pleasing their patients, and voters said their excellent customer service takes the cake. “They care about your dental health and are perfectionists in their work,” wrote one voter. “Plus, they make you feel like part of the family.” SILVER: MONICA DOBBIN, DDS PROFESSIONAL BRONZE: JOSH ERICKSON, ERICKSON PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY AND ORTHODONTICS

DOCTOR

GOLD: LISA JENKS, GENESIS MEDSPA 142 S. Raven Mine Drive, Suite 250, 579-6890, genesis-medspa.com

Dr. Lisa Jenks is “simply the best.” Voters said she’ll bend over backward to keep you happy and her whole staff cares deeply about its patients. “Dr. Jenks embodies the perfect mixture of hospitality and professionalism.” SILVER: MICHAEL BARBER, COLORADO SPRINGS CARDIOLOGY BRONZE: PATRICIA RAND, FOOTHILLS MEDICAL CLINIC

DAY SPA: MATEOS SALON & DAY SPA

MEDICAL MARIJUANA DISPENSARY

JEFF KEARNEY

GOLD: TODAYS HEALTH CARE

975 W. Fillmore St., 633-1300; 225 S. Eighth St., 635-9002, todayshealthcaremeds.com

DOG TRAINER

The best quality buds are here, they’re priced reasonably and voters said the employees know their stuff.

GOLD: K9TO5 DOG TRAINING 238-8118, k9to5.com

SILVER: STRAWBERRY FIELDS ALTERNATIVE HEALTH AND WELLNESS BRONZE: TRICHOME HEALTH CONSULTANTS

New puppy? No problem. Voters said K9to5 is the best when it comes to training your best friend. They’ll even pet-sit at your house when you need to get away but don’t want to stress your dog by boarding it at a kennel. Other services include training therapy dogs and their handlers. One voter said, “Christine (Kelly) is an amazing trainer, and is always ready to help others with her extensive knowledge and understanding of canine behavior. She comes highly recommended.”

FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS GOLD: SKY SOX

SILVER: LUCKY DOG RESORT & TRAINING BRONZE: ALL BREED RESCUE & TRAINING

4385 Tutt Blvd., 597-1449, skysox.com

This year, send Independence Day out with a boom — or hundreds of them. The Sky Sox offer a brilliant display of fireworks on the Fourth, and voters said it’s always a stellar show. SILVER: U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY BRONZE: PALMER LAKE

DAY SPA

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

FINANCIAL PLANNER GOLD: GARY RICE

6760 Corporate Drive, Suite 100, 380-7422, firstcommand.com

Bring your financial woes to Gary Rice at First Command and he will help you figure out a plan. First Command specializes in working with federal and military benefits and prides itself on crafting manageable solutions to encourage prosperity.

doctor: lisa jenks jeFF kearneY

SILVER: EILEEN KOENIG, WADDELL & REED INC. BRONZE: (TIE) CHRISTY RAINES, AZIMUTH WEALTH MANAGEMENT INC., AND MARK PERRAULT, NORTHWEST MUTUAL

60 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

This isn’t the first time Mateos has won an award, and it probably won’t be the last. Voters said Mateos keeps them coming back with a tranquil atmosphere that’s close to home. Relax and be pampered for just an hour or a whole day with a huge assortment of spa and salon services and packages. SILVER: GENESIS MEDSPA BRONZE: VEDA SALON & SPA

city life: readers’ PicKs

landscaper: wheeler landscaping JeFF KearneY

LANDSCAPER

GOLD: WHEELER LANDSCAPING 5553 Tamlin Road, 597-7034

Landscaping is dirty, sweaty, backbreaking work, so why not leave it to the experts? Voters said Wheeler Landscaping is tops in town. SILVER: JEFF DRAGE, MOUNTAIN CREEK LANDSCAPING INC. BRONZE: TIMBERLINE LANDSCAPING INC.

we're In The Center Of Everything That's Happening In Colorado Springs

Especially The REAL ESTATE Market!

HAULING COMPANY GOLD: U-HAUL

sold

Multiple locations, uhaul.com

With lots of options and convenient locations, if you can pack it, you can haul it. SILVER: REVOLUTION MOVING CO. BRONZE: TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

BUILDER

sold

GOLD: CLASSIC HOMES

"Debbie, as always you were nothing short of amazing. Selling our house could have been a real stressor but, fortunately, your reputation precedes you. As I continued through the process I learned every contractor and trades person I dealt with knew of your ability to market and sell homes. You truly embodied the TEAM concept and made working together a seamless, enjoyable experience. Thanks for your hard work." - Greg & Shana, Feb 2013

6385 Corporate Drive, Suite 200, 592-9333, classichomes.com

Voters said Classic has “top-notch” customer service, is involved in the community and leaves clients loving their new houses. Voters said they’ll be there for you throughout the process to make sure everything runs smoothly. SILVER: (TIE) SADDLETREE HOMES AND CHALLENGER HOMES NO BRONZE

HOME IMPROVEMENT GOLD: LOWE’S

Multiple locations, lowes.com

Voters told us that if you need it, Lowe’s has it. The selection is the best and its employees know a lot about what they’re selling, so they can help you figure out exactly what you need. SILVER: HOME DEPOT BRONZE: BLACK MOUNTAIN STONE MASONS

sold

Thank You, Colorado SpringS, for your ConfidenCe in ChooSing me to aSSiSt with home SaleS in our beautiful City SinCe

1994!

Debbie Reardon 719.499.4767 Buying Or Selling - Our Team Can Help! For More Information Or To Search The Entire MLS, Visit: www.ReardonPartners.com "Call me, I'd be happy to talk with you about your real estate needs."

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city life eXPeRt PicKS

GAZette.cOM/BeStOf

A TINGE OF REGRET TATTOO MUST GO

4465 Northpark Drive, #307, 434-5115, tattoomustgo.com

You’ve got that stunning three-color tattoo — the one that says “Agnes Forever.” Trouble is, Agnes ran off to Waco with a video-game repairman, so you’re now stuck with a constant reminder of that nightmare on your bicep. You can try to find another lover named Agnes, or you can schedule an appointment with Tattoo Must Go. Like lovers, some tattoos are more difficult to remove than others, so more than one visit may be required.

THE MEDITATIVE LUNCH PATTY JEWETT DRIVING RANGE 900 E. Espanola St., 385-6934, springsgov.com/Page. aspx?NavID=3597

There is only one shot that is important in golf — the next one. Similarly, there is only one lunch that is important. This is a place to escape the noise and haste in the middle of the day: It’s a simple lunch and a small bucket of balls at the driving range at the Patty Jewett Golf Course. Forget about that morning meeting in which you were compelled to pretend that the person sitting on the other side of the table actually knew what he was talking about. For lunch, keep it simple. Have a hot dog and a Coke for five bucks, spend $3 on a bucket of balls. Leave the office behind and distill your world down to the elemental notion of making a smooth swing and hitting the ball solidly.

best place to watch a ballgame: security service field marK reis, the gaZette

MISTER COLORADO SPRINGS CYCLIST AL BRODY

facebook.com/al.brody.5

WAITER, THERE IS SOME HISTORY IN MY SOUP HER STORY CAFÉ & CATERING 2356 S. Academy Blvd., 661-5108, herstorycafe.com

Liz Rosenbaum, owner and “culinary anthropologist” at Her Story Café and Catering, makes no bones about being a feminist with an interest in history. After teaching history a few years ago, she transitioned into a food career, starting with a mobile delicatessen in a truck. She started Her Story (not history, you see) in 2011. Her eclectic mix has been a hit on the city’s east side, with offerings such as the Sally Ride’s Blast Sandwich, Harriet Tubman Abolition Chili and Jane Goodall Banana Pudding. Her Story makes a point to network with and support other locally owned businesses.

BEST PLACE TO WATCH A BALLGAME SECURITY SERVICE FIELD 4385 Tutt Blvd., 597-1449, milb.com

Right. It’s not downtown. There have been rumblings about moving the home of the Colorado Springs Sky Sox downtown, but the Triple-A ballclub broke its all-time attendance record last season, and if a business’ location is working, why move? The Sky Sox, a Pacific Coast League affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, offers Friday night fireworks games, $2 Tuesdays, Kids-Eat-Free Monday and many other promotions co-sponsored by a wide array of businesses and nonprofit organizations. Great family fun, reasonably priced, easy to get to and there’s not a bad seat in the house. Besides, it’s baseball: the highest expression of Western culture.

BY BARRY NOREEN GAzETTE COLUMNIST

WESTSIDERS, THE EAST HAS BOOKS, TOO

Big wheels keep on turnin’ and Al Brody keeps on churnin’. He’s not the only strong advocate for cycling in the area, but Al is everywhere and he usually pedals to get there. He lobbies for bikeways and pushed hard to get Pikes Peak opened up for cyclists. As part of that effort he got Councilwoman Lisa Czelatdko to ride a bike up the mountain. He’s the co-chair of Bike Colorado Springs. He’s pushed for the creation of a bicycle advisory committee in the city. He can tell you how many grade-separated interchanges there are for bicycles per square mile. That sort of thing. Want to know about bikeways? Want to work to make the city bike-friendly? Al’s your man.

HOOKED ON BOOKS

3918 Maizeland Road, 596-1621, facebook.com/ hookedonbookscoloradosprings

Many Colorado Springs westsiders view the area east of Union Boulevard in about the same way New Yorkers view South Dakota. If westsiders could be a bit more adventurous, they could drive east to Hooked on Books, a cool store just off Academy Boulevard. Locally owned, it’s a place that provides appraisals for old and rare books. It offers an atmosphere you won’t find in the big chain stores. You can buy a used book, or you can take your old books and make a swap.

HOW DO YOU SPELL RELIEF? THAI MINT RESTAURANT 1725 Briargate Blvd, 598-7843

The Thai Mint is a tidy little restaurant in a shoppette just south of Chapel Hills Mall. Mint green walls, a pleasant spot. Walk down the hall from the dining area and you will find a surprisingly spacious and well-appointed restroom. Nice tile work. A cool metal sculpture on the wall. A wheelchair can roll in easily. Not many small restaurants take this kind of trouble with their restrooms and you know, sometimes the little things are not that little.

62 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

BEST FREE PARKING DOWNTOWN

INTERSECTION OF NEVADA AVENUE AND VERMIJO STREET Unless you’re a Colorado Springs Utilities employee with one of those cool parking slots beneath the Plaza of the Rockies Building, you’ve got to shift for yourself when it comes to free parking downtown. Probably the best spot is a diagonal strip that runs from the intersection of Costilla Street and Wahsatch Avenue to Nevada Avenue. This space is frequented by people who work in the courts or district attorney’s office, but anyone can park there and it’s just a block and a half from the downtown core.

Advantage Realty, Inc.

CELEBRATING

16 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:

Voice, Text, Advantage or Mobile Web

Call 719-362-5555

Enter the Street Number

Text Street Number to 719-362-5555

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

Colorado Springs, CO 80918 the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 63

The Top

Healthcare Employers in Colorado Springs

OppOrtunity COnneCted Penrose-St. Francis Health Services has great opportunities where you want to live and work. Discover your calling by visiting our careers website: careers

careers.centura.org An equal opportunity employer

WSi Healthcare Personnel welcomes you to Colorado Springs

W S I J O B S . C O M • Nursing (CNA, LPN, RN) • Radiology • Medical Assistant • Medical Administration

• Therapy (PT, PTA, OTR, COTA, SLP) • Dental • Pharmacy • Surgical Tech

Rapidly Growing Agency HOME HEALTH SERVICES INCLUDE • Skilled Nursing • Certified Nursing Assistants • Personal Care Services • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • In Home Support Services

729 South Tejon St., Colorado Springs • Colorado 80903 Phone: 719.471.8181 • Fax: 719.471.7829 Operating Hours: 8:00am to 4:30pm Monday through Friday 64 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

Thank you for voting Wells Fargo Home Mortgage the #1 mortgage lender in Colorado Springs We’re proud to be part of the community we serve, and invite you to discover how we can assist you with your mortgage and banking needs. As one of the America’s largest financial institutions, we’re ready and able to satisfy all our customer’s financial needs.

Let one of our home mortgage consultants help you today! Contact us at an office near you. 90 S. Cascade Ave. Lobby

719-381-1114

9649 Prominent Point

719-522-2875

1800 S. Nevada Ave.

719-577-5448

90 S. Cascade Ave. #410

719-381-1114

500 N. Circle Drive

719-577-5285

8620 N. Union Blvd.

719-494-2340

4114 Austin Bluffs Pkwy.

719-260-5120

6760 Corporate Drive #320

719-268-6678

7473 N. Academy Blvd.

719-268-2993

5360 N. Academy Blvd.

719-264-1317

5710 Constitution Ave.

719-550-4331

4151 N. Academy Blvd.

719-799-1433

560 Garden of the Gods

719-528-4503

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city life eXPeRt PicKS

GAZette.cOM/BeStOf

Family outinG: miramont castlE JErilEE BEnnEtt, tHE GaZEttE

by erin prater gazette reporter

ROMANTIC GETAWAY

HUgHeS HaCienDa beD & breaKFaSt 12060 Calle Corvo, 576-2060, hugheshacienda.com

If you’re looking for an affordable escape only a stone’s throw from home — perhaps to celebrate a homecoming or a promotion — Hughes Hacienda might fit the bill. The inn, which is nestled at the foot of Blue Mountain, boasts a courtyard spa, an unbeatable view of the Red Rock Valley and a breakfast menu that features unique pancake flavors such as blue corn and blueberry and pecan. Better yet, it’s owned and operated by a Korean War veteran who offers free one-night stays to troops past and present on Veterans Day. The inn offers a 10 percent military discount to active-duty service members and spouses year-round. At press time, base rates were $145-165 a night. Adobe Inn at Cascade and Rocky Mountain Lodge & Cabins offer similar perks to service members.

military discount: itopit tHE GaZEttE FilE

WeeCyCLe, inC.

750 Citadel Drive East, Suite 3132, 694-8833,weecycle.biz

This military spouse-owned kids consignment shop proudly offers service members and dependents 10 percent off the total purchase each Tuesday. That discount is good on the store’s inventory of gently used children’s clothes, toys and books, as well as its stock of new goodies, such as Beanie Babies, Melissa and Doug toys and, even better, those patriotic tutus and diaper covers that are so perfect for homecoming ceremonies. Need a new dress for a military ball but short on cash? Check out the store’s rack of like-new formal gowns, which are sold at a fraction of retail.

FAMILY OUTING MiraMont CaStLe

9 Capitol Hill Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1011, miramontcastle.org

Whisk your family away for a whimsical afternoon in the Victorian era. This immaculately furnished mansion is home to a tea room that serves scones with fruit-flavored butters and desserts such as truffles and gooey cake. It also features several mini-museums that celebrate the history of the Manitou Springs Fire Department and Pikes Peak Hill Climb. Another museum, themed “Spoils of War,” pays tribute to those who have served in U.S. conflicts since the Civil War via uniforms, pictures and other artifacts donated by locals. Active-duty military and firefighters always get in free with ID. Children 5 and younger also are admitted free, making this a cheap “staycation” option for young military families. All others, $8; ages 6-15, $5; ages 60 and over, $7.

BARGAIN FOR OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT MoUntain eQUipMent reCyCLerS

MILITARY DISCOUNT itopit

1610 E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd., 576-8748; 2912 N. Powers Blvd., 597-3500; itopit.com

CHARITY TO CALL IF YOU NEED A HELPING HAND tHe HoMe Front CareS

Would a creamy, dreamy, frosty, candy-topped mini mountain of frozen yogurt cure your case of the Mondays? We thought it would — especially if it came with a discount. Every Monday, iTopIt hacks 25 percent off the bills of active-duty service members and dependents with ID. So does YoYogurt.

1120 N. Circle Drive, Suite 7, 434-1501, thehomefrontcares.org

This Colorado Springs nonprofit was founded by two Vietnam-era airmen who wanted to ensure the country’s newest generation of combat veterans were treated with dignity. Home Front Cares provides one-time assistance to post-9/11 combat veterans and their families who find themselves confronted with an emergency: an imminent eviction, a leaky roof, utilities that have been shut off or a broken-down car. If you’re looking to volunteer time or donate money to this worthy cause, stop by or call.

BARGAIN FOR KIDS CLOTHING (AND MILITARY BALL GOWNS)

DAY CARE

LittLe SproUtS Learning Center 2336 Vickers Drive, 594-2011, littlesproutslearningcenter.net

This eco-friendly day care center has a heart for the military. Active-duty service members always receive a 10 percent discount with military ID. Have a deployed loved one? Little Sprouts will let you Skype with your hero on one of three webcamequipped computers available to military spouses and kids.

66 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

1024 S. Tejon St., 210-6427, merecyclers.com

Need a new bike, skis or kayak before heading out to enjoy the beautiful Colorado wild? Before you pay full price, get to Mountain Equipment Recyclers, a sporting-gear consignment shop with a passion for serving the troops. Service members always receive a 5 percent discount on the store’s entire stock: new, closeout and gently used items. What’s more, 5 percent of proceeds from consigned items and 50 percent of proceeds from donated items are given to military charities such as Project Sanctuary and Phoenix MultiSport, which help troops and their families heal. So far, the consignment shop’s donations to military charities have topped $22,000.

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 67

city life: readers’ PicKs

local architect: tim0thy stroh, architect aia TIMOTHY STROH

AUCTION

GOLD: ROSS AUCTION HOUSE

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE: REVIVAL AESTHETIC MEDICINE

815 S. Sierra Madre St., 632-6693, rossauction.com

JEFF KEARNEY

For 91 years, Colorado’s oldest auction house has been doing appraisals, estate sales and weekly auctions of everything from antiques and collectibles to cars and guns. Voters said the staff is friendly and the auctions well-organized. And the auctioneer was easy to understand. “Loved going there. No hustlers.” SILVER: AUCTION HOUSE 109 BRONZE: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN CHARTER ACADEMY SPRING BENEFIT BASH

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE GOLD: REVIVAL AESTHETIC MEDICINE

5910 Stetson Hills Blvd., Suite 114, 590-9618, revivalaestheticmedicine.com

Voters praised RN Stacy Blair (right), calling her “Amazing. Will not go to anyone else for my injections.” They use only FDA-approved products. “Stacy’s skill and experience ensure the right results for each client’s individual needs. Wonderful!” SILVER: TRICHOME HEALTH CONSULTANTS BRONZE: SHELLY GREENE, PEACEFUL POINTS ACUPUNCTURE AND CHINESE HERB

LOCAL ARCHITECT

GOLD: TIMOTHY STROH, ARCHITECT AIA 118 N. Tejon St., Suite 400, 330-7398, tstroh.com

Tim Stroh has served as an officer with the American Institute of Architects Colorado South Chapter and has been involved in such Colorado Springs projects as the Red Rock Canyon open air pavilion. SILVER: LARRY GILLAND BRONZE: JAMES R. FENNELL

68 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

LAWYER

GOLD: CLAWSON & CLAWSON 115 E. Vermijo Ave., Suite 101; Kelly Johnson Building, Suite 111, clawsonlawfirm.com

Voters said Clawson & Clawson is staffed with very patient, caring and understanding attorneys. SILVER: JOSHUA MCDOWELL BRONZE: MCDIVITT LAW FIRM

719-884-5300

Bill McAfee

Brian Miller

Donna Norman

Doreen Hussmann

Jani Trujillo

Jessica Sheley

Karen Weller

Barbie Bunker Escrow Officer

Owner & President

Elisa Sundahl

Elizabeth Elston

Gena DeMasters

Kay Lynn Mathews

Kelly LeCato

Kristy Gonzales Escrow Assistant

Escrow Assistant

Customer Service

Lori Wollaston

Megan Savosik

Michael Podoyak

Natalie Koonce

Rebecca Gossage

Ronda McAfee

Sara Bremenkampf

Shannon Chapa

Sharon Myers

Escrow Officer & Assistant

Escrow Officer

Escrow Officer & Business Development

Owner & Operations Manager

Tiffany Chaussee Escrow Assistant

Escrow Officer

Escrow Assistant

Escrow Officer

Escrow Assistant

Marketing Manager

Escrow Assistant

Business Development

Jamie May

Escrow Officer

Leslie Carr

Escrow Officer

719-686-9888

Cherrylyn Villena

Andra Cummins

Director of First Impressions

2013

We thank you for making Empire Title your #1 home town title company! www.etcos.com

Escrow Assistant

Leslie Fischer

Escrow Assistant

Silva DeHaven

Director of First Impressions

Escrow Officer

Escrow Assistant

Liz Berkey

Escrow Assistant

Rebecca Oller

Short Sale Specialist

Business Development

Escrow Officer

Lori Moran

Short Sale Specialist

Reese Williams

Administrative Assistant

Stephanie Hawthorne Terry Muckenthaler Business Development

Escrow Assistant

“We don’t succeed unless you do!” Tracy Wentzell

Short Sale Specialist

Portraits by Tim Skrastins, www.imagefactoryphoto.com the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 69

city life: readers’ PicKs

BUTCHER: ANDY’S MEAT MARKET JEFF KEARNEY

BUTCHER

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

This locally owned and operated market was opened in 1952. It offers the usual cuts as well as wild game, buffalo, custom processing, custom curing and sausages. “We have been customers for 15 years,” one voter wrote. Another: “Always a good selection at a good price.”

MORTGAGE COMPANY

GOLD: (TIE) WELLS FARGO AND NOVA HOME LOANS Multiple locations, wellsfargo.com; 24 S. Weber St., Suite 100, 8845500, novahomeloans.com

Both companies were praised for their efficiency, professionalism and friendliness. SILVER: PEOPLES NATIONAL BANK BRONZE: ACADEMY MORTGAGE

SILVER: RANCH FOOD DIRECT BRONZE: WHOLE FOODS MARKET

FRANCHISED REAL ESTATE OFFICE GOLD: REMAX

Multiple locations, remax.com

ReMax brings new meaning to the old saying “my house is your house.” There, voters said, you’ll find “some of the best and well-trained agents in Colorado Springs.” SILVER: ERA SHIELDS REAL ESTATE BRONZE: PRUDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

AD AGENCY

GOLD: TAPIA ADVERTISING 233-4553, tapiaadvertising.com

Tapia is a full-service advertising agency focused on providing effective and affordable marketing solutions. SILVER: VLADIMIR JONES BRONZE: (TIE) BLAKELY + COMPANY AND GRAHAM ADVERTISING

INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE GOLD: PLATINUM GROUP

6760 Corporate Drive, Suite 300, 200-4044, platinumhomesales.com

This group was lauded for professionalism, friendliness and experience. “Most professional, state-of-the-art and informed agency I have ever worked with.” SILVER: HARRIS GROUP REALITY BRONZE: (TIE) INFINITE HORIZONS REALTY AND CLARK & ASSOCIATES INC.

REAL ESTATE RELOCATION SPECIALIST GOLD: CHRIS FULLEN, THE PLATINUM GROUP

6760 Corporate Drive, Suite 300, 536-4326, platinumhomesales.com

In an area with lots of Realtors and real estate agents, Fullen stands out, voters said, for her professionalism and dedication. Said one fan: “She is the only Realtor I will ever choose to deal with.” Another said: “Thank you for the exemplary service.” SILVER: (TIE) BRIAN L. A. WESS AND RE/MAX PROPERTIES INC. BRONZE: (TIE) TREASURE DAVIS, RE/MAX PROPERTIES INC., AND PRUDENTIAL ROCKY MOUNTAIN REALTORS

70 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

REALTOR

GOLD: MIKE MACGUIRE, THE MACGUIRE TEAM 6760 Corporate Drive, Suite 300, 536-4324, buywithmike.com

“There’s no one more qualified in real estate in the Colorado Springs area,” praised one voter. Others lauded his use of the most current trends in technology and marketing, such as virtual tours, while addressing their personal needs. SILVER: TREASURE DAVIS, RE/MAX PROPERTIES INC. BRONZE: BRIAN L.A. WESS

TITLE COMPANY

GOLD: EMPIRE TITLE OF COLORADO SPRINGS 5755 Mark Dabling Blvd., Suite 110, 884-5300, etcos.com

When the job needs to be done right, voters said Empire Title comes through with flying colors. The staff simply provides “sound, basic” title service. And voters said they like the fact that the company is owned and operated by local professionals, who “understand the needs of their Colorado Springs neighbors.” SILVER: UNIFIED TITLE CO. BRONZE: LAND TITLE GUARANTEE CO.

2013

Excellence In Work Integrity In Everything Locally Owned And Operated Since 1992

Thank you Colorado Springs for trusting Unified Title Company to close and insure your real estate transactions.

719-578-5900 www.UnifiedTitle.com the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 71

city life: readers’ PicKs impressive outing for out-of-town guests: garden of the gods Christian murdoCK, the gaZette

IMPRESSIVE OUTING FOR OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS

wedding planner: sarah viera events and design

GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS

CourtesY sarah viera

1805 N. 30th St., 634-6666, gardenofgods.com

No visit to Colorado Springs would be complete without a trip to this stunningly beautiful city park, which boasts towering 300-foot sandstone formations and Pikes Peak in the background. The 3,300-acre park offers a vistor’s center, several picnic areas and paved and unpaved trails for hiking, biking and riding horseback. There are also rock climbing opportunities for the more adventurous. SILVER: PIKES PEAK COG RAILWAY BRONZE: PIKES PEAK HIGHWAY

WEDDING VENUE

GOLD: THE PINERY AT BLACK FOREST 12375 Black Forest Road, 495-9499, thepinery.com

Voters said whether you choose to celebrate in an outdoor setting or in an elegant indoor banquet hall, The Pinery is the place to go for a resort-style wedding with complete privacy. The competent staff prides itself on “flawless execution” — from the ceremony to the dining menu and floral arrangements to the reception entertainment and every step in between — with “great attention to detail.” One voter said, “They made everything so stress-free, I was able to truly enjoy the happiest day of my life.”

WEDDING PLANNER

GOLD: SARAH VIERA EVENTS AND DESIGN 358-3998, sarahvieraevents.com

Specializing in transforming visions into reality, Sarah has a reputation for planning and seamlessly coordinating festive events, including engagement parties, weddings, reunions and sporting events. Voters praised her for being “polished, detailed and put together,” as well as “relaxed and enjoyable to work with.” Regardless of the occasion, “her high level of energy, creativity and expertise truly shine as she helps you plan your special day.” SILVER: R.S.V.P. WEDDINGS BRONZE: CHRISTY WALTERS EVENT PLANNING

72 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

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!

2013

atLibertyHeights

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

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.

classichomes.com the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 73

city life: readers’ PicKs

mecHanic

GoLd: ACAdEMy CAR CARE 1804 n. academy blvd., 573-5973, academycarcare.com

trust is huge when it comes to mechanics. Voters said you have it in spades with the guys at academy car care. they’ve been in business for 20 years, and voters said they’re straight shooters. “the guys will be honest about what needs to be done and will not overcharge me.” sILVER: aUtosmitH bRoNZE: aUto tecH plaZa

campGroUnd

GoLd: ChEyENNE MoUNTAIN sTATE pARK 576-2016, parks.state.co.us/parks

as the newest state park in colorado, cheyenne offers 20 miles of hiking and biking trails available year-round, with prairie-to-peak ecosystems for lots of wildlife diversity. and it’s right in our backyard, only 10 minutes from downtown colorado springs. Hot showers, laundry and a playground for the kids make it more than welcoming, and pets are welcome as well.

body shop: williams body and paint collision center JEFF KEARNEy

body sHop

GoLd: WILLIAMs body ANd pAINT CoLLIsIoN CENTER

sILVER: mUeller state parK bRoNZE: eleVen mile canyon

6210 lake shore court, 638-4849, williamsbodypaint.com

Voters praised this body shop for great customer service and fast, quality work. “i’ve been their customer three times now, and will keep going back as long as my wife keeps needing car body work. they are awesome!” one voter summed it up simply: “Quality quality quality.” sILVER: wilson’s aUto collision inc. bRoNZE: maaco collision repair & aUto paintinG

The only Colorado Springs home builder to be named “Builder of the Year” three times by the Housing and Building Association of Colorado Springs. When looking for the best home in the best neighborhoods, look to Campbell Homes – Colorado Springs oldest locally owned home building company. lvd . Grand Lawn Cir.

Capital Peak Way

Londonderry Dr.

Towner Dr.

Briargate Pkwy.

Woodmen Rd.

Stapleton Dr.

Stetson Hills

Peterson Rd.

y em ad Ac

d. y Bl v em ad Ac

Powers Blvd.

Woodmen Rd.

Bl vd . Union Blvd.

Powers Blvd.

ion

Blv d.

Research Pkwy.

Mt. Princeton Dr.

Meridian Rd.

Powers B

Barnes Rd.

Map not to scale.

Indigo Ranch @ Stetson Ridge

Meridian Ranch

Cordera

The Gables

From the mid $200s (719) 550-8360 Model at 6290 Silver Nugget Dr.

From the mid $300s (719) 282-9250 Model at 4883 Steamboat Lake Ct. Falcon Hills

From the low $300s (719) 494-8010 Model at 9064 Rockingham Dr.

From the mid $200s (719) 495-6147 Model at 12495 Handles Peak Dr. From the low $200s (719) 495-6147 or (719) 494-8010 No model at this location Scan To View Our Building Locations Online

Call 888-966-9790 or (719) 266-9780 or visit CampbellHomes.com 74 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

city life: readers’ PicKs BED AND BREAKFAST: AVENUE HOTEL BED & BREAKFAST

TRASH COMPANY

CARWASH

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

4285 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 531-7474, dontdrivedirty.com

Let’s face it — when you’ve got trash, you want to get rid of it quickly and conveniently. Voters consistently praised Bestway for providing “convenient curbside pick-up service” and making it “easy to recycle.” Better yet, the crews “always clean up the area” around the cans and go to extra effort for special needs, such as removing moving boxes at no extra charge.

“Quick” is not always good, unless it’s coupled with quality. Voters lauded this business for giving its customers both, along with really good customer service. One said, “I love that they conserve and recycle water.”

GOLD: BESTWAY DISPOSAL

JEFF KEARNEY

GOLD: QUICK QUACK CAR WASH

SILVER: SPRINGS WASTE SYSTEMS BRONZE: WASTE MANAGEMENT

PLUMBER

CLEANING COMPANY GOLD: PROFLEXIONS CLEANING MAINTENANCE SERVICES 358-8418, proflexions.com

This company apparently can do it all: office and in-house cleaning, construction cleanup, glass resurfacing, window washing, landscaping and fertilizing, sprinkler systems, power washing, concrete resurfacing — even vinyl graphics on windows and vehicles.

BED AND BREAKFAST

GOLD: AVENUE HOTEL BED & BREAKFAST 711 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1277, avenuehotelbandb.com

This B&B is loved: It has scored three golds in three consecutive years. A part of Manitou’s downtown district since 1886, it was the town’s first bed and breakfast. It scored high for romance, accommodations, hospitality, location and general pampering. “It really is a B&B. Great innkeepers, fabulous breakfasts and a beautiful property,” said one voter.

SILVER: WATER WORKS CAR WASH AND DETAIL BRONZE: SPEEDY SHINE EXPRESS CAR WASH

GOLD: B & L PLUMBING 745 Valley St., 638-7341, b-n-lplumbing.com

When you need a plumber fast, you need a plumber fast. And according to voters, B & L is not only fast, it’s friendly and reliable, as well. It’s family owned, and the plumber “showed up right on time,” and the cost was “very reasonable.” SILVER: AFFORDABLE PLUMBING AND HEAT BRONZE: LUKE ATKINS, MASTER PLUMBER

SILVER: NORIKO’S HOUSE CLEANING BRONZE: VERICLEAN SPRINGS

SILVER: HOLDEN HOUSE 1902 BED & BREAKFAST INN BRONZE: RED CRAGS BED & BREAKFAST

Colorado Springs’ #1 boot Camp fitness & Weight Loss Program * SPECIALIZING IN THE 90 DAY MAKEOVER *

• Replacement Windows • Storm Windows & Doors • Patio & Entry Doors • Patio Covers • Siding & Insulation • Sofﬁt & Fascia

Celebrating over 24 years of service with 15% OFF! • Fire up your metabolism and lose fat once and for all. Off • Tone and ﬁrm up Any Service Not valid with your entire body. any other offer • Look & feel better • Family Owned Quality and Service than you have in years. • Licensed & Insured you can truSt!

15%

2013

Voted Best Trainer

Call Today! 719-229-2639

www.womensbootcampﬁtness.com

Member of Better Business Bureau DutchsHomeImprovement.com

For

call

audio

For A Free Estimate Call:

392-1369

(719)362-5555 Enter

INFO STREET NUMBER 24-7 of ANY Home

Se Habla Espano!

courtesy of

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 75

city life: readers’ PicKs

COACH

MARTIAL ARTS

GOLD: U.S. TAEKWONDO CENTER

GOLD: MASTER JAY LEE, U.S. TAEKWONDO CENTER

Multiple locations, martialartscoloradosprings.com

Voters praised the locations, the staff and said the center “changes lives for the better.” One person even called U.S. Taekwondo the “best maritial arts school in the country.”

Numerous locations, martialartscoloradosprings.com

With comprehensive programs for adults and kids, the focus here is on physical fitness, character development and self-defense rather than fighting. Lee is particularly well-versed in the anti-bullying verbal martial arts program, which is, as one customer describes it, “a fantastic addition to anyone who is serious about delivering real bullying solutions. It fits perfectly into my kid’s self-defense class.”

SILVER: FAMILY KARATE CENTER BRONZE: ACADEMY OF LIFE AND LEADERSHIP TAEKWONDO

MASCOT GOLD: CRAZY HERMAN 2013 HBA Colorado Springs Membership Directory

SILVER: MASTER SAMMY PEJO, U.S. TAEKWONDO CENTER BRONZE: GEORGE HEIDINGER, PIKES PEAK ATHLETICS

934 S. Nevada Ave., 635-2533, crazyhermanonline.com

This iconic character for Nevada Auto Sales

Cobalt Mortgage Advertiser Peggy Attention RETIREMENT HOME 8610 Explorer Drive, Suite 140 Address

landslide of votes for the privilegeInc. of coach: Sign master & Return Proofgrabbed To: aE&M Consulting, being called top mascot in the Springs area. jay lee 1107 Hazeltine U.s. taeKWoNDo ceNter Blvd, Suite #350 • Chaska, MN 55318 SILVER: HANK, U.S. TAEKWONDO CENTER

(TIE) SOX THE FOX; THE BIRD, U.S. AIR Fax: 1-952-448-9928 / BRONZE: Phone: 1-800-572-0011 GOLD: VILLAGE ATColorado SKYLINESprings, CO 80920 FORCE ACADEMY Please respond within 5 business days 2365 Patriot Heights, 667-5360, brookdaleliving.com 719-466-8700 Phone A retirement home is more than just a place to live GOLD: STYLES SALON By signing below, I (advertising company) am approving my ad as is or with changes and I represent and warrant that 855-288-2535 Fax as you age, and voters wrote that Village at Skyline this advertisement placed with all content, text, images, pictures and/or logos do not infringe on any other person’s 288 S. Academy Blvd., Suite A, 390-4351, stylessalonco.com is just that: It offers a variety of programs for physicopyright, trademark, rights of literary property, and intellectual property, nor do they violate the rights of privacy of, or peggy.carmack@cobaltmortgage.com Email A salon is all about the pampering, and according cal as well as mental enrichment. Medical care, libel other persons. I agree to indemnify and hold harmless E&M Consulting, Inc. against any claims, judgments, court to our voters, Styles delivers all, providing page are tailored costs,itattorney’s fees and “a other expenses arising from any alleged or actual breach of this warranty. dining and recreational 1/2 opportunities Ad Size most enjoyable experience in a lovely, comfortto meet each resident’sfull particular needs, no matter color Color able setting.” The staff is praised for being highly *Colors in the ad are for representational purposes only and will be brighter and more exact in the final product. Also how much independence or help is desired. qualified and competent, artwork giving and great services photos shown inand the ad are not exact, only because our printers are limited and once printed, the quality Libby Ad Design

SALON

SILVER: PALISADES AT BROODMOOR PARK BRONZE: LIBERTY HEIGHTS

“excellent results.”

will be much improved.

SILVER: THE BRONZE BOMB TANNING SALON BRONZE: VEDA SALON AND SPA

76 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

Thank you! This is PPCC. We’re proud to be your community college, providing quality, flexibility and affordability in higher education since 1968. Thank you for your support.

Gazette_BestOfAd_2013_DISK.indd 1

4/5/13 10:41 AM

for allowing to help OVER 73,000 Colorado Springs residents buy or sell a home since 1986!

3,295

Closed Transactions in 2012!

125% MORE than our closest competitor! OF

North – (719) 598-4700 South – (719) 576-5000

2013

That’s 9 Homes a Day! Monument – (719) 487-6100 Downtown – (719) 540-4660

w w w. H o m e s C o l o r a d o . c o m

RE/MAX Properties, Inc. is one company independently owned and operated with four locations.

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 77

city life: readers’ PicKs

TATTOO PARLOR

GOLD: PENS & NEEDLES CUSTOM TATTOO CO.

tattoo parlor: pens & needles custom tattoo co.

716 N. Weber St., Suite 200, 473-8067, pens-needles.com

JeFF KearneY

Rated overall as “excellent,” with “great quality work.” True to its name, the artists will customize any design for customers and are “great and professional.” More than one voter commented on the cleanliness of the shop and privacy, if desired. SILVER: WEST SIDE TATTOO BRONZE: INK INERTIA CUSTOM TATTOO AND ART GALLERY

TAX PREPARER

GOLD: ACCOUNTING SOLUTIONS, PC 919 N. Weber St., 434-7163, accountingsolutionspc.com

Accounting Solutions was praised for providing “detailed accounting work” that’s explained well. Whether service is provided for a small business owner or for personal needs, it offers basic accounting, bookkeeping and advanced financial analysis. SILVER: CLOUTTE AND ASSOCIATES, PC BRONZE: H&R BLOCK, MESA RIDGE PARKWAY

MASSAGE

GOLD: STRUCTURE THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE AND BODYWORK 2107 Templeton Gap Road, Suite D, 358-8653, structurebodywork.com

Care, technique and service to the community litter testimonials about Structure. Many clients are thankful for help in dealing with such healthcare and end-of-life needs as stroke recovery and hospice. SILVER: MASSAGE ENVY BRONZE: MATEOS SALON & DAY SPA

MILITARY AUTO DEALERSHIP GOLD: CRAZY HERMAN

934 S. Nevada Ave., 635-2533, crazyhermanonline.com

Voters overwhelmingly chose this dealership, which prides itself on its great selection and helping buyers with bad credit. SILVER: STREET SMART AUTO BROKERS BRONZE: PHIL LONG FORD

MOTEL

GOLD: MOTEL 6 3228 N. Chestnut St., 520-5400, motel6.com

Voters like Motel 6 for its affordability. It’s consistently the cheapest, they said. SILVER: HAMPTON INN BRONZE: HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS

MOVER SHAKER GOLD: MIKE TAPIA, TAPIA ADVERTISING

If you need something done, voters said marketing and advertising guru Mike Tapia is your guy. SILVER: MATTHEW CLAWSON, CLAWSON LAW FIRM BRONZE: KARLA HORTON, ZUMBA FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

NONPROFIT

GOLD: RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES OF SOUTHERN COLORADO 311 N. Logan Ave., 471-1814, rmhcs.org

Voters greatly appreciated this nonprofit, which helps care for families with a seriously ill child. “We have had to use the Ronald McDonald House during a family crisis. It is amazing how much help they are when they are needed.” “No one is ever turned away due to inability to pay.” SILVER: OUR LADY OF THE PINES CATHOLIC CHURCH BRONZE: HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION

78 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

NEIGHBORHOOD GOLD: WOLF RANCH wolf-ranch.com

Got kids? Voters said Wolf Ranch is a great place to raise a family. House styles are diverse, too, which gives this community character. SILVER: THE WEST SIDE BRONZE: THE OLD NORTH END

Thank You, Colorado Springs

and Clients for Voting me

#1 Best Of Realtor in Colorado Springs!

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.

Rockrimmon/Mountain Shadows 2041 Chuckwagon Rd., Colorado Springs 719-388-8818

Stetson Hills 6353 Stetson Hills Blvd., Colorado Springs 719-573-5300

Monument 18075 Minglewood Trail, Monument 719-488-8723

Falcon 7312 Mclaughlin Rd., Falcon 719-886-4900

Check Out What Some of Our Clients are Saying: “Mike and his team are true professionals. The team is extremely effective through wellthought goals and strategies coupled with vast resources linked via excellent inter/intra team communications. I ALWAYS recommend Mike and his team to EVERYONE in the market to buy or sell real estate.” Jeff and Carroll Ellis “We highly recommend the MacGuire Team. We’ve used them three times and recommend them to all of our friends and family. When it comes to real estate, they say it’s all about location, when it comes to picking an agent, it’s all about experience; that’s why we recommend the MacGuire Team!” Tom and Colleen Larkin

To View More, visit www.MikesFeedback.com

719-536-4324 (Office) 719-660-6793 (Text/Cell) Mike@BuyWithMike.com www.BuyWithMike.com

2013

Experience Matters!

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city life: readers’ PicKs

PARTY ENTERTAINER GOLD: SPRINGS SOUNDS ENTERTAINMENT

2590 Vickers Drive, 232-6038, springssounds.com

Even your grandmother will get moving with Springs Sounds, voters said. Springs Sounds gets high praise for its wedding performances and voters claim they’ll keep the party going all night long. SILVER: RANDY RODRIGUEZ ENTERTAINMENT BRONZE: COMPLETEPERSONAL

RADIO PERSONALITIES GOLD: GOOSE AND WOODY, 92.9 PEAK-FM

6805 Corporate Drive, Suite 130, 593-2700, 929peakfm.com

Voters love this morning show. “Funny in the morning with great talk but not too much. They play plenty of music during their show.” “They get me going on the ride in to work in the morning.” “Funny and just plain fun.” SILVER: CAPTAIN DAN AND TAMMY OAKLAND, 106.3 K-LITE-FM BRONZE: JONJAY AND RICH, MY 99-FM

RADIO STATION GOLD: 92.9 PEAK-FM

6805 Corporate Drive, Suite 130, 593-2700, 929peakfm.com

Voters praised the station for the mix of music, which includes retro tunes. “They are always fun to listen to and play great music!” SILVER: 91.5 KRCC-FM BRONZE: 103.9 RXP-F

veterinarian: northwest animal hospital & pet care center JeFF KearneY

VETERINARIAN

GOLD: NORTHWEST ANIMAL HOSPITAL & PET CARE CENTER 4575 N. Chestnut St., 425-8694, nwanimalhospital.com

“The doctors are great,” said more than one voter. “Thank you all for everything, and the payment plan you provided was literally a life saver,” said another. Following up on a pet’s condition is also cited as a strong point, as well as professionalism and compassion. SILVER: FILLMORE VETERINARY HOSPITAL BRONZE: YORKSHIRE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

GOLD: SENSATIONAL SOUNDS 7301 Talimena Terrace, Falcon, 233-7735, ssprodj.com

Don’t worry, just dance. Voters said Sensational Sounds’ DJs are talented and make you feel like family. With a full set of backup gear in tow to every event, these professional DJs won’t let the music die. SILVER: SPRINGS SOUNDS BRONZE: (TIE) CELEBRITY DJ

VIDEO PRODUCTION GOLD: ON LOCATION VIDEO

2590 Vickers Drive, 573-1915, onlocationvideo.com

With state-of-the-art equipment and a list of services that includes weddings and special events, concept development and storyboarding, video studio shooting, high-definition digital and film formats (and more), it’s no wonder that voters commented that the company’s videos “capture special moments and help put a shine on special events.” One said, “They helped me put my company’s best foot forward.” SILVER: COLORADO SPRINGS VIDEO BRONZE: VIDEO PRODUCTION, MARK TACHNA

PERSON WHO MAKES A DIFFERENCE

GOLD: THERESA STRADER, NATIONAL MILL DOG RESCUE Strader has a soft spot in her huge heart for dogs of all kinds. Voters said she’s deserving of gold because of the long hours she puts in to make a difference in the lives of countless animals. “She is compassionate and caring, dedicated to the rescue of abused dogs — 7000 rescues.” Another wrote: “Way to go. Thanks for saving so many puppy mill dogs.” SILVER: BRIDGETTE SCHRAM, PIKES PEAK ATHLETICS BRONZE: MASTER SAMMY PEJO, U.S. TAEKWONDO CENTER

KENNEL

GOLD: CAMP BOW WOW 4295 Northpark Drive, Suite E, 260-9247; 1020 Ford St., 573-9247; campbowwow.com

Voters raved about both of these doggie day care and dog boarding facilities. Said one: “Our dog won’t go anywhere else!” “No better place for your babies.” “I bring my dog there once a week,” another said, “and they always greet her by name and treat her like a queen. She never comes home hurt or sick. I love being able to watch her from my home computer. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable.” SILVER: NORTHWEST ANIMAL HOSPITAL BRONZE: LUCKY DOG RESORT

80 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

PET GROOMER

GOLD: NORTHWEST ANIMAL HOSPITAL Dirty dogs will get squeaky clean at Northwest Anmal Hospital. Voters said the staff will take good care of your pets. One voter wrote: “very good knowledge and great with the animals.” SILVER: SOGGY DOGGIES GROOMING BRONZE: MELISSA SHIVE, CAMP BOW WOW

PHILANTHROPIC BUSINESS GOLD: MARCO’S PIZZA

9420 Briar Village Point, 434-3773; 4492 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 2033599, marcos.com

Voters said the pizza joint is always willing to help out a charity with proceeds from events. “Marco’s is always ready to support community activities!” SILVER: EL POMAR FOUNDATION BRONZE: NATIONAL MILL DOG RESCUE

TRAINER

GOLD: JOE RAMIREZ 229-2639, trainwithjoe.com

Don’t stop, never give up. If you’re looking for results, there’s no need to look further. Voters said Ramirez is dedicated and will motivate you with fun challenges until you reach your goals. SILVER: COREY BROWN BRONZE: LORI KORBUS

Get More with

your

Banking

Flexible loan options and free checking. More than 25 service centers and a nationwide surcharge-free ATM network. Bank with the leading Colorado-based credit union for all you expect – and more.

Learn more online at Ent.com or visit an Ent Service Center.

Ent.com/Membership • (719) 574-1100 or 800-525-9623 © Ent Federal Credit Union, 2013 • Ent is a registered trademark of Ent Federal Credit Union.

Ent is a community-chartered credit union | Equal Opportunity Lender | Federally insured by NCUA

2013

THE MAGIC OF TEAMWORK “Thank you for your support!”

227-9900 BarbaraHarrisTeam.com

Barbara Harris T E A M

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city life: readers’ PicKs

FUN WAY TO SUPPORT A CHARITY

hotel: the broadmoor marK reIS, the GaZette

GOLD: U.S. TAEKWONDO CENTER’S ANNUAL BREAK-A-THON Multiple locations, 488-4321, martialartscoloradosprings.com

What can be more fun than breaking boards? Voters said the annual Break-A-Thon is a great way to get out and have a good time while supporting a local charity. SILVER: NATIONAL MILL DOG RESCUE BRONZE: INDYGIVE!

VOLUNTEER

GOLD: TREASURE DAVIS treasuredavis.com

Voters consistently commented that Davis “goes above and beyond any expectations” as a real estate agent, but they also commented on her warmth and caring: “She has a big heart, is very involved with community and gives lots of time outside the office volunteering.” SILVER: (TIE) DICK DAILEY, AND ERIC ESTRADA AND BUNNY BEERS

HOTEL

GOLD: THE BROADMOOR 1 Lake Ave., 634-7711, broadmoor.com

Described by one voter as “the best of the best,” The Broadmoor is the longest-running consecutive winner of both the AAA five-diamond and Forbes Travel Guide five-star awards. The internationally known hotel and resort has more than 700 rooms, three golf courses, 185,000 square feet of meeting space, a spa and numerous shops and restaurants, including the Penrose Room, the only five-star, five-diamond restaurant in Colorado. SILVER: THE MINING EXCHANGE, A WYNDHAM GRAND HOTEL BRONZE: ANTLERS HILTON COLORADO SPRINGS

We Thank Colorado Springs for Voting Us Best Of 2013!

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

Buy the Best!

Thank You for Voting Harding Nursery “Best Of 2013”

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

82 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

♦

➔

P O W E R S B LV D

GALLEY

CONRAD

Family Owned Since 1957

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

HARDING NURSERY

TERMINAL AMELIA

PLATTE / HWY 24

➔

city life: readers’ PicKs

BANK

GOLD: ENT FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Numerous locations, , ent.com

SILVER: WELLS FARGO BANK BRONZE: CHASE BANK

ngs’ #1 boot Camp ght Loss Program THE 90 DAY MAKEOVER *

Fillmore Veterinary Hospital

• 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.

1010 East Fillmore Street Colorado Springs, CO

2013

This institution has loyal customers drawn by its competitive rates, lack of fees, comprehensive member programs and local management team. Voters said the bank can help every member reach his or her financial goals with ease, and it offers personalized loan solutions. Voters said you truly feel like a member there, not just an account number.

Give a dog a new leash on life! • Adopt Your Best Friend • Donate • Dog and Puppy Training Classes

• Parent a Foster Dog • Volunteer

719-633-3808

2013

Voted Best Trainer

l Today! Locally owned and operated since 1956 229-2639 Caring for pets and the people who own them.

bootcampﬁtness.com

20 Mount View Lane • Suite B & C Colorado Springs, CO 80907 • 719.264.6460 www.haveanicedog.org

Photography for All of your life’s events. — Portraits for Families, Newborns, Maternity and High School Seniors — Special Events — Anniversaries - Reunions - Weddings Product Photography

NOW — Booking High School Senior Class of 2014 Ask about the Senior Ambassador Program (719) 248-5142

info@hlohmeyerphotography.com

Make Your Own Wine & Beer

Beginners to Experienced Winemakers • Ingredient Kits • Classes • Supplies • Equipment

Great Gift Idea

Home Winemaking Center

find us at www.fermentations.biz 6820 North Academy Blvd. 719.598.1164

Proudly serving the Colorado Springs Community since 1979 Visit any of our four 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 7/5/2013.

theN. gazette I 2009 1225 N. Circle Drive 2300 Wahsatch Ave. I best of 3640 Austin Bluffs Parkway 4201 Centennial Blvd.

Visit us online at www.acecoloradosprings.com

city life: readers’ PicKs

TV HOTTIE

tv anchor: rob quirk, koaa-tv

GOLD: RACHAEL PLATH, KRDO krdo.com

koaa

As meteorologist for KRDO-TV’s “Stormtracker 13,” “Plath has provided reliable, up-to-date weather information we really need in our daily lives,” commented more than one voter. Many others echoed those sentiments with “you’re great,” “you’re awesome” and “thanks for being real.” SILVER: MATT MEISTER, KRDO-TV BRONZE: NIKI WEIRICH, FOX21 TV

TV NEWS SHOW

GOLD: FOX21 MORNING NEWS fox21news.com

Voters wrote that weekday mornings FOX21 brings the latest “news to use,” with weather, sports, entertainment and news updates, both national and local. SILVER: GOOD MORNING COLORADO, KRDO BRONZE: EVENING NEWS, KRDO

TV STATION

TV ANCHOR

koaa.com

“Fast,” “accurate” and “fair” seem to be the bywords of voters for KOAA, which they said provides the latest news, up-to-the-minute local weather information 24/7, sports and entertainment programming throughout the day, including airline information from the Colorado Springs Airport. Voters said they also like that KOAA-TV “supports the community and sponsors many events and nonprofit fundraisers.”

“He’s been with KOAA for so long, we feel like he’s part of our family,” said one voter. He gives “accurate and fair” information with “professionalism and compassion.” More than one voter commented that they loved his “quirky” sense of humor.

GOLD: KOAA-TV

GOLD: ROB QUIRK, KOAA-TV

SILVER: KRDO-TV BRONZE: KKTV-TV

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

2013

Thank you for making us #1!

www.ERAShields.com Rockrimmon 719.593.1000

Broadmoor 719.576.3600

84 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

SILVER: MATT MEISTER, KRDO-TV BRONZE: HEATHER SKOLD, KRDO-TV

from the store with so

FREE Estimates on Remodels and NEW Installations

10% Discount

‘11-‘13

Expires 12-31-13

ION REPAIR • REMODEL • NEW CONSTRUCT

719-471-0713

Best of the Springs winner three years in a row!

www.affordableplumbingandheating.com A LITTLE CHIC, A LITTLE COUNTRY. COMPLETELY ORIGINAL®

much blooming imagination.

You can afford to do it right!

Platte Floral Your hometown florist and so much more! • Weddings • Sympathy designs • Plants • Tropicals • Silk arrangements • Dried floral arrangements • Extensive gift line • Greeting cards • Lawn furniture

A Colorado Springs Landmark Since 1921

2403 W. Colorado Ave. 719-634-5232 www.RockyMountainCowgirl.com

platte floral Mon-Fri 8-6 • Sat 8-5 www.platteflorist.com 1417 E. Platte Ave. • 632-2607

Life is just better here. Full Service Senior Living • Campus Lifestyle with Continuum of Care • Gourmet Cuisine by our Award-Winning Executive Chef • Active Independent and Assisted Living • Connections for Living by MBKsm Memory Care Neighborhood • Month-to-Month Rental—No Buy-In Fee

Join us for Sunday Brunch and experience THE BETTER LIFE. Call 719.226.2273 or email PAmarketing@mbk.com to make reservations today!

4531 Palisades Park View, Colorado Springs, CO www.MBKSeniorLiving.com

2013

“Best Of” Winner in 2011, 2012 and Now...

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 85

love. Gazette columnist Bill Vogrin’s picks: Page 88 Readers’ picks: Page 89

www.gazette.com/bestof 86 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

Thank You

Colorado Springs! First time customers are always free!* • Cleanest wash in town and Clean Car Guarantee. • Fastest car wash in Colorado Springs, only three minutes. • Lowest Priced unlimited car wash memberships. From $14.99/month.

‘11-‘13

• Cutest mascot!

N. 85 87

Ac ade

my B

lvd .

Colorado Springs 25

Austin Bluffs Pkwy

4285 Austin Bluffs Pkwy, 80918 • 719.531.7474 *per vehicle, tracked by license plate

Always accepting new patients for comprehensive and emergent care.

Smile!

Colorado Springs Chooses Award Winning Dental Care and Broadmoor Dental is Proud to be Chosen!

2008-2013 Winner

719.576.5566 1930 SOUTH NEVADA AVENUE

www.BroadmoorDental.com PREFERRED PROVIDER WITH ALL MAJOR INSURANCE COMPANIES

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family: EXPERT PiCKS

GaZETTE.COm/BESTOf

PLACE TO WATCH KIDS FROLIC

hands-on fun: concrete couch

AmericA the BeAutiful PArk/ Julie Penrose fountAin

chrIstIan MurdocK, the GaZette

126 Cimino Drive, south off West Colorado Avenue in downtown Colorado Springs springsgov.com/Page.aspx?NavID=2015

One of my favorite warm afternoon outings is to bike with my son, Ben, down the trail along Monument Creek to America the Beautiful Park. It’s a big, beautiful open space with playgrounds, mountain views, acres of grass for tossing a Frisbee, enjoying a picnic or just watching people. Best of all, kids and adults can splash in the water of the spectacular Julie Penrose Fountain.

WET ADVENTURE WITH FAMILY

rAfting the ArkAnsAs river croa.org

If you want some excitement and don’t mind getting a little wet as you have fun, take the family rafting on the Arkansas River. You can choose from mild to wild. Take a pleasant and pulse-elevating ride in Bighorn Sheep Canyon. Get your heart pounding in the rapids of Browns Canyon. Or adrenaline junkies can get their fix in Pine Creek, the Numbers and the Royal Gorge. You can start your research at the Colorado River Outfitters Association website. Choose your trip: half-day or whole, paddle or float. Some guide companies offer camping and fishing options. Plan, first and foremost, to get wet. And, if you don’t choose to get a wet suit, plan on getting cold!

HANDS-ON FUN concrete couch

211 Illinois Ave. Manitou Springs, concretecouch.org

Steve Wood and his gang at Concrete Couch take kids and adults into the region to create public art and build a sense of community. They collaborate to build mosaics, paint murals, put on plays, repair picnic shelters and many other cool projects kids love.

GET-OFF-THE-MAINDRAG DAY TRIP

touring victor And criPPle creek viA the old stAge/gold cAmP roAd visitcripplecreek.com, victorcolorado.com, cripplecreekrailroad.com, cripplecreekmuseum.com, victortradingco.com

One of my family’s favorite day trips is to head up Old Stage Road behind The Broadmoor. It is a gravel road that turns into Gold Camp Road and leads to the historic gold mining camps of Victor and Cripple Creek. We usually time our trip around the changing of the aspens in the fall, but it’s a great drive any time. I enjoy the American Eagles Scenic Overlook in Victor for an up-close view of the historic mines, as well as panorama views of the region. Victor is home to one of my favorite stores: the Victor Trading Co. & Manufacturing Works, 114 S. Third St., where you can buy handmade brooms. Be sure to ride the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad, visit the Cripple Creek District Museum and tour the Molly Kathleen Gold Mine.

By Bill vogrin gAzette side streets columnist

THRILLING WAY TO SEE AMERICA’S MOUNTAIN Pikes PeAk mountAin Bike tours 306 S. 25th St., 337-5311,bikepikespeak.com

One of my best birthdays ever was spent roaring down the Pikes Peak Highway on a bicycle as part of a Pikes Peak Mountain Bike Tour. We were driven to the summit, fitted with layers of clothes and bicycles and set loose to begin our 7,000-foot descent of America’s Mountain. Simply exhilarating. A ride I’ll never forget. They open for the season May 1.

kid-friendly Amusement PArk: SANTA’S WORKSHOP-NORTH POLE THE GAZETTE FILE

KID-FRIENDLY AMUSEMENT PARK

sAntA’s WorkshoP-north Pole 5050 Pikes Peak Highway, Cascade, 684-9432, santas-colo.com

Santa’s Workshop-North Pole in Cascade is an old-school amusement park where everything is scaled to children. At the center of the 25-acre park is Santa’s House, where the jolly old elf is always home. There are two dozen kid-sized rides and attractions. I still get a buzz atop the Ferris wheel, with its amazing view of Ute Pass.

88 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

PLACE TO EXPLORE FOSSILS

florissAnt fossil Beds nAtionAl monument Two miles south of U.S. 24 on Teller County 1, 1-719-748-3253, nps.gov/flfo

A new visitors center makes this a great place for a day trip with kids. Hands-on exhibits bring to life the amazing fossils buried here, including those of a rhinoceros-like creature called a brontothere. Summer offers ranger-guided interpretive walks of the massive petrified redwood tree stumps and small carbon impression fossils of plants and insects. And park fees are waived on 11 days in 2013.

family: readers’ PiCKs GaZeTTe.COm/BesTOf picnic spot: garden of the gods MarK reis, the gaZette

PICNIC SPOT

HIKE WITH LITTLE ONES

1805 N. 30th St., 634-6666, gardenofgods.com

You can always find a quiet, peaceful place for a picnic here. Each spot comes with its own stunning view of scenery and wildlife.

Those little legs can’t go too far, so the well-kept trails are perfect. Make the jaunt as long or short as you like. Plus, the Trading Post is so close.

SILVER: FOX RUN REGIONAL PARK BRONZE: PALMER PARK

SILVER: RED ROCK CANYON OPEN SPACE BRONZE: (TIE) BEAR CREEK REGIONAL PARK PALMER PARK

PLACE FOR A BIRTHDAY

AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM

GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS

GOLD: U.S. TAEKWONDO CENTER Multiple locations, martialartscoloradosprings.com

Where else can you break boards on your birthday? “It’s such a different way for anyone to have a birthday party,” wrote one voter. Plus, instructors teach a few safety moves — a gift that will keep on giving for the rest of the year. SILVER: IT’Z FAMILY FOOD AND FUN BRONZE: PAINT THE TOWN

GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS

TEEN HANGOUT

GOLD: PAINT THE TOWN PAINT AND PARTY STUDIO 7844 N. Academy Blvd., 321-8531, paint-the-town.com

Who doesn’t like to let their creative streak loose and get a little messy every now and then? Well, check out this family-owned studio, where guests can build relationships and paint beautiful artwork. One voter commented, “This is an amazing place for people of all ages. Bev, the owner, is one in a million.” SILVER: IT’Z FAMILY FOOD AND FUN BRONZE: BRUNSWICK ZONE XL

GOLD: U.S. TAEKWONDO CENTER Multiple locations; martialartscoloradosprings.com

The center’s environment and activities help kids develop self-esteem and learn how to deal with bullies and strangers. SILVER: BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF AMERICA BRONZE: YMCA

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 89

family: readers’ PiCKs

pediatrician

GOLd: dr. BrUce KaUtZ, dUBLin priMarY care

pediatrician: dr. bruce kautz, dublin primary care

2685 dublin blvd., 592-9890, dublinprimarycare.com

He’s great with kids, helpful and accessible. With four kids of his own, he understands what parents need.

JeFF KearneY

SiLVer: dr. kerri baGnall, irOn HOrSe pediatricS BrOnZe: abc pediatricS

OrtHOdOntiSt

GOLd: ranGeWOOd OrtHOdOnticS 1415 cipriani loop, monument; 7560 rangewood drive; 703 n. tejon St., Suite e 596-3113, rangewoodorthodontics.com

dr. chad Watts and dr. Jenee kaplan know their teeth straightening. they’re friendly and easy to talk to, voters said, use the latest technology and hold contests for their patients. their clientele aren’t just kids, either. “i’m a 50-year-old man in ortho, and my entire family goes to them. they made being an adult in braces easy! can’t wait to get them off and see how great i look.” SiLVer: erickSOn pediatric dentiStry and OrtHOdOnticS BrOnZe: allen benninG, benninG and matHeWS OrtHOdOnticS

dentiStry FOr kidS

GOLd: ericKSOn pediatric dentiStrY and OrtHOdOnticS 8580 Scarborough drive, 282-6666; 16055 Old Forest point, monument, 488-1101; drjosherickson.com

dr. Josh erickson has a way with kids. He can even help allay the fears of those who have previously had some unpleasant experiences. “dr. Josh and his staff are fabulous with the kids, especially the assistant linda.” SiLVer: (tie) academy kidS dental and rOcky mOuntain pediatric dentiStry, pc nO BrOnZe

Military Military Appreciation Military Military Appreciation Best of the Springs Appreciation Appreciation Discount Discount DiscountDiscount Discount Appreciation

Free Application Free Application Free Application Free Application and Testing Fee Free Application and Testing and Testing Fee Fee and Testing Fee Testing Fee $150 Valueand $150 Value $150$150 ValueValue $150 Value Our children test through 8th Grade Our test Pre-school Our children test Our levels children test Pre-school Pre-school through 8ththrough Grade Pre-school through8th 8thGrade Grade Our children test 2 children grade 2 grade levels above 2 grade levelslevels 2 grade 2above gradeabove levels above ContactContact Chromy current grade abovetheir their current grade Contact AlAlChromy Contact Chromy AlAl Chromy their current grade their current their current grade grade achromy@corpuschristicos.org (2013 ITBS Test) achromy@corpuschristicos.org achromy@corpuschristicos.org ITBS Test) (2013 ITBS Test) achromy@corpuschristicos.org (2013 ITBS Test) (2013(2013 ITBS Test) 719-632-5092 ext 103 ext 719-632-5092 ext 103 719-632-5092 ext103 103 719-632-5092 www.corpuschristicos.org www.corpuschristicos.org www.corpuschristicos.org www.corpuschristicos.org 2410 2410 N CascadeAve Ave 2410NNCascade Cascade Ave 2410 NAve Cascade Financial Financial Aid Available FinancialAid AidAvailable Available

Financial Aid Available

90 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

970-232-3317 Saturday, January 19 |10am-3pm |Antlers Hotel Online High SchoolCO Colorado Springs, 80918 633-1306 www.jamesirwin.org 970-232-3317 Colorado Springs, CO 80923 www.coloradocalvertacademy.com 877-PRO-GOAL 633-1306 www.civacharterschool.org Or find them online at www.coloradoleague.org/schoolfinder Grades Served: K-12Served: K-8 www.coloradocalvertacademy.com 495-7360 Grades www.goalac.org www.civacharterschool.org Grades Served: 9-12 Grades Served: K-8 www.ticaindigoranch.com Grades Served: 9-12 9-12 Grades Served: GradesSCHOOLS Served: Pre-K-8 THE COLORADO LEAGUE OF CHARTER

COLORADO PARENTS CHOOSE Academy for Advanced &

Atlas Preparatory School Creative Learning Provost Academy Colorado 1602 S. Murray Boulevard CONGRATULATES THESE Global Village Academy 2510 N.Springs ChestnutEarly StreetColleges Colorado Online High School James Madison Charter Academy James Colorado Irwin Charter Schools Colorado Springs, CO 80916 Global Village Academy Colorado Springs Springs Early Colleges Colorado CO 80907 4435Springs, N. Chestnut Street 888-472-2656 ASpanish, Performance School 5525 Astrozon Boulevard 358-7196 Colorado Springs& English 2013 BEST OF THE Chinese, German 4435 N.Springs, Chestnut Street 434-6566 Colorado CO 80907 are Tuition-Free Public SchoolsSPRINGS WINNERS www.co.provostacademy.com 660 Syracuse Street Colorado Charter Springs,Schools CO 80916 www.atlasprep.org Spanish, Chinese, German & English

CHARTER SCHOOLS Colorado Springs, CO 80907

www.academyacl.org 955-4675 Visit these schools at the Pikes Peak Parent Education Fair! 302-9000 955-4675 Charter are Hotel Tuition-Free Grades Served: K-8 www.csec914.org Saturday, January 19Schools |10am-3pm |Antlers www.jamesirwin.org www.csec914.org Grades Served: 9-12 Or find them online at www.coloradoleague.org/schoolfinder Grades Served: K-12 Grades Served: 9-12

CIVA Charter High School

Academy for Advanced & Creative Learning

Atlas Preparatory School

Immersion plus military traditions Grades Served: 9-12

Colorado Springs, CO 809115-9 Grades Served: Immersion plus military traditions of excellence Public Schools 391-3977 of excellence

Now Enrolling – Free full day K to grade 4 www.jmcacolorado.org Now Enrolling – Free full day K to grade 4 www.globalvillageacademy.org Grades Served: K-6 www.globalvillageacademy.org

Thomas MacLaren Colorado CalvertSchool Academy 303 Austin Bluffs Online Elementary Middle School Imagine Indigo&Parkway Ranch Rocky Mountain Colorado CO 80918 Imagine Indigo Ranch 970-232-3317 6464Springs, Peterson Road Classical Academy 313-4488 6464 Peterson Road www.coloradocalvertacademy.com Colorado Springs, CO 80923

1602 S. Murray Boulevard 4635 Northpark Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80916 358-7196 G.O.A.L. Academy Colorado Springs, CO 80918 Provost Academy Colorado www.atlasprep.org G.O.A.L. Academy Online High School Grades Served: 5-9 633-1306 Online High School Online High School 877-PRO-GOAL www.civacharterschool.org 888-472-2656 877-PRO-GOAL www.goalac.org Grades Served: 9-12 CIVA Charter High School www.co.provostacademy.com Colorado Calvert Academy www.goalac.org 4635 Northpark Drive & Middle School Grades Served: 9-12 Grades Served: 9-12 Online Elementary Colorado Springs, CO 80918 970-232-3317 Grades Served: 9-12 633-1306 www.coloradocalvertacademy.com 2510 N. Chestnut Street Colorado Springs, CO 80907 434-6566 www.academyacl.org Grades Served: K-8

www.civacharterschool.org Grades Served: 9-12

Grades Served: K-8

Colorado Springs Early Colleges James4435 Irwin Schools N. Charter ChestnutSchool Street Global Village Academy Thomas MacLaren James Irwin Charter Schools Colorado Springs Early Colleges 5525 Astrozon Boulevard Colorado Springs, CO 80907 Colorado Springs

303 Austin Bluffs Parkway 5525 Astrozon Boulevard Chinese, German & English Colorado Springs, CO 80916Spanish, 955-4675 military traditions Colorado302-9000 Springs, CO80916 80918Immersionofplus Colorado Springs, CO excellence www.csec914.org Now Enrolling – Free full day K to grade 4 313-4488 302-9000 www.jamesirwin.org Grades Served: 9-12 www.globalvillageacademy.org www.maclarenschool.org www.jamesirwin.org Grades Served: K-12 GradesServed: Served:K-12 6-12 Grades Imagine Indigo Ranch G.O.A.L. Academy

4435 N. Chestnut Street Colorado Springs, CO 80907 955-4675 www.csec914.org Grades Served: 9-12

Online High School 877-PRO-GOAL www.goalac.org Grades Served: 9-12

6464 Peterson Road Colorado Springs, CO 80923 495-7360 www.ticaindigoranch.com Grades Served: Pre-K-8

G.O.A.L. Academy Provost Academy Colorado Online High School the 20th Anniversary Provost Academy Colorado of Online High School

1710 PirosServed: Drive www.maclarenschool.org Colorado Springs, CO 80923 Grades K-8 495-7360 Colorado Springs, CO 80915 Grades Served: 6-12 495-7360 www.ticaindigoranch.com www.ticaindigoranch.com Grades622-8000 Served: Pre-K-8 www.rmcacs.org Grades Served: Pre-K-8

Global Village Academy James Madison ColoradoCharter SpringsAcademy James Madison Charter Academy The Vanguard School AChinese, Performance School Spanish, German & English

A Performance School 1605 S. plus Corona Avenue 660 Syracuse Street Immersion military traditions 660Springs, Street Colorado CO 80905 Colorado Springs, CO 80911 ofSyracuse excellence Colorado CO 471-1999, 391-3977 Now Enrolling –Springs, Freeext. full200 day 80911 K to grade 4 391-3977 www.cmca12.com www.jmcacolorado.org www.globalvillageacademy.org www.jmcacolorado.org Grades Served: K-6 Grades Served: 9-12 Grades Served: K-6

Imagine Indigo Ranch RockyRoad Mountain 6464 Peterson RockyCO Mountain Charter Schools Classical Academy Colorado Springs, 80923 Classical Academy 1710 Piros Drive 495-7360

Celebrate Colorado 877-PRO-GOAL Online High School James Madison Charter Auction Academy 888-472-2656 James Irwin Charterat Schools a www.goalac.org Luncheon and Silent on June 3. Colorado Performance School 1710Springs, Piros Drive 5525 Astrozon Boulevard 888-472-2656A 660 CO 80915 www.ticaindigoranch.com Syracuse Street Colorado Springs, CO 80916Gradeswww.co.provostacademy.com Served: 9-12 Colorado Springs, CO 80915 Visit coloradoleague.org/luncheon for more information. Colorado Springs, CO 80911 www.co.provostacademy.com 622-8000 302-9000 Grades Served: Pre-K-8 Grades Served: 9-12 391-3977 www.jamesirwin.org 622-8000 Grades Served: 9-12 www.rmcacs.org www.jmcacolorado.org Grades Served: K-12 Grades Served: K-6 Visit www.coloradoleague.org for enrollment info. www.rmcacs.org James Irwin Charter Schools Rocky Mountain Academy ThomasBoulevard MacLaren SchoolClassical 5525 Astrozon 1710 Piros Drive Thomas MacLaren School Colorado Springs, CO 80915 303 Austin Colorado Springs, COBluffs 80916Parkway

Provost Academy Colorado Online High School 888-472-2656 www.co.provostacademy.com Grades Served: 9-12

622-8000 303 Austin BluffsCO Parkway Colorado Springs, 80918 www.rmcacs.org 302-9000 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 313-4488 www.jamesirwin.org 313-4488 Thomas MacLaren School www.maclarenschool.org Grades Served: K-12 The Vanguard School 303 Austin Bluffs Parkway www.maclarenschool.org 1605 S. Corona Avenue Grades Served: 6-12 Colorado Springs, CO 80905 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 Grades Served: 6-12 313-4488 471-1999, ext. 200 www.maclarenschool.org Grades Served: 6-12

www.cmca12.com Grades Served: 9-12

James Madison Charter Academy A Performance SchoolSchool The Vanguard Vanguard 660The Syracuse Street School 1605 S. Corona Avenue

1605 S.Springs, Corona Avenue Colorado Springs, CO 80911 Colorado CO 80905 Colorado Springs, CO 80905 391-3977 471-1999, ext. 200 471-1999, ext. 200 www.jmcacolorado.org www.cmca12.com www.cmca12.com GradesGrades Served: K-6 9-12 Served: Grades Served: 9-12

Rocky Mountain Classical Academy

Provost Academy Colorado Online High School 888-472-2656 www.co.provostacademy.com Grades Served: 9-12

1710 Piros Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80915 622-8000 www.rmcacs.org

Accepting New Patients! Thomas MacLaren School

The Vanguard School

303 Austin Bluffs Parkway Colorado Springs, CO 80918 313-4488 www.maclarenschool.org Grades Served: 6-12

1605 S. Corona Avenue Colorado Springs, CO 80905 471-1999, ext. 200 www.cmca12.com Grades Served: 9-12

Free Transportation for Radiation, Chemotherapy, or Follow Up Appointments. Our Vehicles are Handicap Accessible. 8th St. Location

225 S. 8th St. Colorado, Springs, CO 80905 719.635.9002

Fillmore St. Location

975 W. Fillmore St. Colorado, Springs, CO 80907 719.633.1300

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 91

family: readers’ PiCKs

SCHOOL FIELD TRIP: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO JERILEE BENNETT, THE GAZETTE

DAY CARE CENTER

GOLD: HOPE MONTESSORI ACADEMY Multiple locations, 488-5800, montessorichild.com

Voters said this program is much more than a simple day care center. “The children learn about everything.” The locations are convenient and voters said they trust staff to take care of their children. “They are more than a day care. They’re family.” SILVER: EARLY CONNECTIONS LEARNING CENTERS BRONZE: GIVING TREE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

PRESCHOOL

GOLD: COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP FOR CHILD DEVELOPMENT Multiple locations, cpcdheadstart.org

This organization prepares El Paso County children who live in poverty for success in school through Head Start, Early Head Start and Colorado Preschool Program. You said, “It is by far the best agency for a well-rounded set of services, which not only provides excellent education for little ones, it also provides services for the whole family. This holistic approach to education makes it more likely that our children will have better opportunities in life.” SILVER: HOPE MONTESSORI ACADEMY BRONZE: RUTH WASHBURN COOPERATIVE NURSERY SCHOOL

TEACHER, ANY GRADE

GOLD: BOBBY SORDEN, CHALLENGER MIDDLE SCHOOL 10215 Lexington Drive, 234-3000, asd20.org/cms

Bobby Sorden not only drew an overwhelming number of votes, but voters were lavish in their praise. He’s cool, great and awesome, one student wrote. One voter said, “My son now enjoys school thanks to Mr. Sorden’s unique way of teaching. Thank you, Mr. Sorden.” SILVER: MEG FREDRICK, CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL BRONZE: BRIANA PHARRIS, SPRINGS RANCH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATOR

GOLD: CASSIE TAPIA, AUDUBON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2400 E. Van Buren St., 328-2600, audubon.d11.org

Preschool teacher Cassie Tapia earned high marks from voters for her work with kids. “This is a teacher that deserves to be recognized for her outstanding dedication to her job.” SILVER: (TIE) COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP FOR CHILD DEVELOPMENT; CECILIA LINGLE, RUTH WASHBURN COOPERATIVE NURSERY SCHOOL; AND LYNNE CASEBEER, SIDEWALK’S END MONTESSORI SCHOOL BRONZE: (TIE) HOPE MONTESSORI ACADEMY AND DONNA PETERS, HOLY APOSTLES CATHOLIC CHURCH PRESCHOOL

92 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

SCHOOL FIELD TRIP

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

There’s never a dull moment at the zoo and always new tidbits of animal information to soak up. It offers in-depth tours, zookeeper interviews, zoo overnights and in-school programs. And giraffes. Lots and lots of hungry giraffes. SILVER: IT’Z FAMILY FUN CENTER BRONZE: CHALLENGER LEARNING CENTER OF COLORADO

SCHOOL SPORTS PROGRAM

GOLD: (TIE) CIVA CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL AND U.S. TAEKWONDO CENTER 4635 Northpark Drive, 633-1306, civacharterschool.org Multiple locations, martialartscoloradosprings.com

CIVA plays a mean game of Ultimate Frisbee — the flying disc sport. They have the city’s first competitive program and finished second in mixed division at state in 2010 and 2012. The goal of the folks at the U.S. Taekwondo Center is building your child’s self-esteem. They do it through physical fitness, character development and self-defense. SILVER: LANDSHARKS RUNNING CLUB BRONZE: YMCA

What’s your feline-ality™? meet your match® at hsPPr!

Meet Your Match is a program 610 Abbot Lane Colorado Springs

Colorado

w w w. h s p p r.o r g 719.473.1741

Incredible Opportunity for Home Schooling Families! A one-day-per-week enrichment program

A fun, safe and supervised learning environment for Incredible Opportunity home schooled children in grades 1 through 12. for Home Schooling Families! Classes include:

tigators to From Private Inves to a s nt ta sis Personal As , our Leader of the Band s will ion at alu ev ty feline-ali e purr-fect help you adopt th le! sty life ur yo fit to cat

estigator Pri vat e inv hol mes she rmeoW

A one-day-per-week enrichment program

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

f o l low u s

Springs Shuttle

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

Fencing and Kung Fu

Extracurricular activities instruction, Partnerships include: Club,Springs with Drama Colorado Fencing and Kung Fu Conservatory and instruction, Partnerships Peak Community withPikes Colorado Springs College, and Discovery Conservatory Education Online Pikes Peak Community College, Discovery Streaming, Rosetta Education Stone Online language courses, Streaming, Rosetta and more! Stone language courses, and more!

E!oEme! R F E FREfor h

me ng for hsoclihnogoli ies schoo fliaem s il fami

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

719.687.3456 • COLORADOSHUTTLE.COM

All students receive

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

Mountain Mountain VistaVista

Enrollment for the 2013-2014 school year begins May 1st. Please visit www.mvhsa.org for enrollment 2400 Slater • 579-2160• •579-2160 mvhsa.org• mvhsa.org 2400Avenue Slater Avenue information.

Home School Academy Home School Academy

Colorado College Thank You to everyone who voted for us.

Colorado Springs’ #1 boot Camp fitness & Weight Loss Program * 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. 2013

Voted Best Trainer

www.coloradocollege.edu

Call Today! 719-229-2639

www.womensbootcampﬁtness.com

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 93

family: readers’ PiCKs farm animal fun: wishing star farm JErilEE BEnnEtt, thE gaZEttE

FARM ANIMAL FUN GOLD: WISHING STAR FARM

6760 Ropers Point, 495-5888, wishingstarfarm.com

Zoos can be great, but for a more interactive farm experience, check out the pigs, mini horses, llamas, chickens, bunnies and more at Wishing Star Farm. According to its website, this farm prides itself on growing the ranchers and farmers of the future. So, if your child ever leaves the house donning a cowgirl hat or cowboy boots, give this local farm a try. SILVER: ROCK LEDGE RANCH HISTORIC SITE BRONZE: VENETUCCI FARM

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL GOLD: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN CHARTER ACADEMY

1832 S. Wahsatch Ave., 471-1999, thevanguardschool.com

Kids come home from this school and astound their parents with knowledge and skills. “A totally different school experience than any you’ll find in the Springs. They set the bar for academics and character high, and kids find it a joy to not only meet those expectations, but exceed them. Add that to the fact it is one of the most culturally and socioeconomically diverse charter schools in the city, and you’ve got one amazing school.” SILVER: JAMES IRWIN CHARTER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BRONZE: HOPE MONTESSORI ACADEMY

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHER

GOLD: DYANAH NEGRON, JAMES IRWIN CHARTER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHER

GOLD: LISA FRANCO, MOUNTAIN RIDGE MIDDLE SCHOOL

5525 Astrozon Blvd., 302-9000, jamesirwin.org

Dyanah Negron was lauded as being a “caring and warm-hearted person and teacher.” Another voter offered perhaps the highest praise of all: “She gives her students the joy of learning and respects their individuality.” SILVER: (TIE) CHERYL GIBBONS, EXPLORER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, AND SHERYL BLONDIN, CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN CHARTER ACADEMY BRONZE: DANA MCKEEMAN, MANITOU SPRINGS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

MIDDLE SCHOOL

GOLD: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN CHARTER ACADEMY 1832 S. Wahsatch Ave., 471-1999, thevanguardschool.com

Voters said the academics are top-notch in the city and possibly the state. “My nephew is in Cheyenne Mountain Charter Academy Middle School — and it amazes me all the knowledge he has.” The academy is well-known for its strong college preparatory curriculum. SILVER: JAMES IRWIN CHARTER MIDDLE SCHOOL BRONZE: THOMAS MACLAREN SCHOOL

94 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

9150 Lexington Drive, 234-3200, asd20.org

Lisa Franco works with severe needs kids and is well-loved by all who come in contact with her, voters said. SILVER: LINDA WHITACRE, JACK SWIGERT AEROSPACE ACADEMY BRONZE: KEVIN RIDENOUR, JAMES IRWIN CHARTER MIDDLE SCHOOL

HIGH SCHOOL

GOLD: THE VANGUARD SCHOOL 1605 S. Corona Ave., 471-1999, thevanguardschool.com

This charter high school is an extension of Cheyenne Mountain Charter Academy and has a maximum of 400 students. Voters praised the quality of academics, sports, music and art. “I feel like my son will be prepared no matter where he goes to college. The teachers are wonderful and supportive.” SILVER: JAMES IRWIN CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL BRONZE: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL

family: readers’ PiCKs

HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER

family fun center: it’z family food and fun Jerilee Bennett, tHe Gazette

GOLD: CAROLE TRIPOLI, THE VANGUARD SCHOOL

1605 S. Corona Ave., 471-1999, thevanguardschool.com

Carole Tripoli is not only a ninth-grade English teacher at The Vanguard School, she is also the assistant principal for grades 9-12. Parents love that she’s firm and helpful, and her students have consistently produced above-average writing and reading scores. SILVER: ABIGAIL HARTLEY, JAMES IRWIN CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL BRONZE: (TIE) ROBERT GILLIAM, PALMER HIGH SCHOOL, ANd STARLA dEEdS, THE VANGUARd SCHOOL

HOME SCHOOL PROGRAM

GOLD: MOUNTAIN VISTA HOME SCHOOL ACADEMY 2400 Slater Ave., 579-2160, mvhsa.hsd2.org

This one-day-per-week enrichment program is free for home-schooling families in the Pikes Peak region. It offers courses in science, math, language arts, technology, history and art. It also partners with the Colorado Springs Conservatory to offer 2-4 hours of conservatory classes and has clubs, such as fencing, kung fu, yearbook and drama.

FAMILY FUN CENTER

GOLD: IT’Z FAMILY FOOD AND FUN 3035 New Center Point, 623-1550, itzusa.com

Colorado Springs may boast 300 days of sunshine a year, but sometimes there are perks to being inside. Check out this entertainment center with mini bowling, a monkey jump, bumper cars and a rock-climbing wall. Top it off with salad, pizza and a dessert. One voter said, “This is a great place because it is inexpensive and fun!”

SILVER: HIGH COUNTRY HOME EdUCATORS BRONZE: FALCON HOMESCHOOL ENRICHMENT PROGRAM

SILVER: U.S. TAEKWONdO CENTER BRONZE: BRUNSWICK ZONE XL

Colorado Springs Oldest Music Store YOUR COMPLETE

20% Off

Regular Price Merchandise No combined offers

3 LOCATIONS

Woodmen Plaza 534-9919

113 E. Bijou 471-8940

6330 S. Hwy. 85-87, Fountain 391-8922

www.meekermusic.com

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 95

family: readers’ PiCKs college for military: u.s. air force academy Jerilee BeNNett, tHe gaZette

CONTINUING EDUCATION PROGRAM GOLD: FRONT RANGE NURSE AIDE TRAINING PROGRAM 7870 N. Academy Blvd., 648-1020, nursenancy.org

People love Nancy E. Whatley — also known as Nurse Nancy — the registered nurse who founded the program in 2004. She provides excellent handson experience and training to those studying to be a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). “Not only was I given the tools I need to succeed at being a CNA, but I was given a lot of other tools to use for being successful at life.” SILVER: UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO AT COLORADO SPRINGS BRONZE: REGIS UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE FOR MILITARY GOLD: U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY 2304 Cadet Drive, 333-7731, www.usafa.af.mil

That impressive installation to our north provides an equally impressive education for the young men and women who are accepted. SILVER: PIKES PEAK COMMUNITY COLLEGE BRONZE: COLORADO TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE CERTIFICATION

GOLD: UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO AT COLORADO SPRINGS 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 255-8227, uccs.edu

COLLEGE FOR BACHELOR’S OR MASTER’S DEGREE

GOLD: UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO AT COLORADO SPRINGS 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 255-8227, uccs.edu

The attention and individualized help make this institution stand out. Voters also approved of the master of business administration program and School of Public Affairs. “We tend to forget we have an amazing university right here in the city.” SILVER: COLORADO COLLEGE BRONZE: REGIS UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE FOR ASSOCIATE DEGREE

GOLD: PIKES PEAK COMMUNITY COLLEGE 5675 S. Academy Blvd., 502-2000, ppcc.edu

Earning an associate degree at this school is convenient and you get a quality education for a good price. The class schedules are flexible, and the professors and facilities impress voters. SILVER: UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO AT COLORADO SPRINGS BRONZE: COLORADO TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE AND/OR UNIVERSITY

The ever-expanding university on the hill continues to make its mark and meet our education needs.

GOLD: UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO AT COLORADO SPRINGS

SILVER: PIKES PEAK COMMUNITY COLLEGE BRONZE: (TIE) COLORADO COLLEGE AND COLORADO TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY

1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 255-8227, uccs.edu

Voters love this school. SILVER: COLORADO COLLEGE BRONZE: PIKES PEAK COMMUNITY COLLEGE

96 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

TECHNICAL COLLEGE

GOLD: COLORADO TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY COLORADO SPRINGS CAMPUS 4435 N. Chestnut St., 598-0200, coloradotech.edu/Colorado-Springs

This college is one of the only accredited schools in the country where students can earn a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in computer security. One voter said, “CTU is a great ‘grown up’ college. The instructors really respect your time and other obligations outside of class.” SILVER: INTELLITEC COLLEGE BRONZE: ITT TECHNICAL INSTITUTE

SUMMER DAY CAMP

GOLD: U.S. TAEKWONDO CENTER Multiple locations, martialartscoloradosprings.com

Help your children strengthen their bodies, minds and self-esteem through the talented instructors at this program. This center takes martial arts past just a physical workout and helps better the lives of its students. “Every summer, there is a program to give children a safe place to have fun and learn,” one voter said. SILVER: YMCA BRONZE: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO

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B 7

10:26 AM

Access your library from the places you like best.

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1/19/12 10:26 AM 719-661-5045 1020 Ford Street Colorado Springs, Colorado 80915 Behavior Buddies 1/19/12 1/19/12 10:26 AM 1/19/12 10:26 AM 10:26 AM 719-573-9247 719-661-5045

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12CBW2884_Colorado-Springs_7-75x5-125_v3.indd

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eCollection at ppld.org/cybershelf and at our 15 community libraries in El Paso County.

Williams Body & Paint 2012

Q u a l i t y i s o u r o n ly j o b .

Experience the Williams Body & Paint customer service difference. Let us help you get back on the road. Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Certified technicians providing safe, reliable repairs. State of the art collision repair center. Lifetime warranty on all repairs. All insurance companies welcome.

6210 Lake Shore Court Near Powers & Constitution

719-638-4849

www.williamsbodypaint.com the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 97

10:2

buy. Gazette page designer Nichole Montanez’s picks: Page 100 Readers’ picks: Page 100

www.gazette.com/bestof 98 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I 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 the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 99

shopping: EXpERT piCKs PLACE TO FIND YOUR SIGNATURE SMELL SEPHORA

1645 Briargate Parkway, Suite 207, 260-8686, sephora.com

Everyone has her own pheromones, so no single fragrance will do. But sniffing out your very own scent that screams “This is me” is a daunting task. There aren’t enough coffee beans in the world to cancel out the bad one that can linger until your next shower. Sephora has taken the pain out of fragrance shopping with its in-store computer quiz. Touch the screen and you are a few simple questions away from a computer-generated list of fragrances that may be right for you. The sales people are always ready to help you find what you need. If you’re still unsure, they can make up a sample bottle for you to take home and try.

MOST UNLIKELY PLACE TO FIND THIS YEAR’S MUST-HAVE ACCESSORY GORDMANS

1972 Southgate Road, 635-6731, gordmans.com

Whether it is a headband, barrette, hair comb or bow, this season’s must-have accessory is a hair accoutrement. If you’re looking to dress your tresses, this is the place to go.

By NICHOLE MONTANEZ GAZETTE PAGE DESIGNER

PLACE TO PICK UP A GIFT ON YOUR LUNCH HOUR

MOST CREATIVE DISPLAY

POOR RICHARD’S COMPLEX

PLACE TO MIX FITNESS AND FABULOUS TITLE NINE

210 N. Tejon St., 227-3674, titlenine.com

Just because you’re adventurous and you beat most of the men in your office in an arm wrestling contest doesn’t mean you can’t look great doing it. Title Nine has all the looks. So, go ahead, put on a pair of powder pink leggings, a skirt, a ski-chic trapper hat and fling yourself down the mountain. I dare you!

gAZETTE.CoM/BEsToF

BARRACUDA BAZAAR

324 1/2 N. Tejon St., 632-7721, poorrichardsdowntown.com

We’ve all been there. Your niece’s great uncle’s cousin has a 50th birthday coming up this weekend, and you’ve been invited to the surprise party. But you don’t have a gift, and you have no time to shop. You could give up your lunch hour or you could grab a salad and slice of pizza at Poor Richard’s and then meander over to Rico’s for a card and on into the bookstore for a gift. It’s not just books in there, you know? All of this and there’s still time to grab a coffee for the rest of your workday.

2603 W. Colorado Ave., 442-2202, barracudabazaar.com

It’s not always easy for retailers to show off their goods in a fun, unique and easy-to-shop manner. But that’s exactly what you’ll find at Barracuda Bazaar. Need earrings? Check the pink fridge against the back wall. Shoes? Up front by the car door. Where else?

shopping: readers’ piCKs gaZeTTe.CoM/BesToF SUPERMARKET GOLD: KING SOOPERS Multiple locations, kingsoopers.com

Voters said that King Soopers has good prices, they’re always open and the stores are conveniently located all over the city. If produce is important to you, as some voters mentioned, the cabbages, apples and squash glow with good health. SILVER: (TIE) WHOLE FOODS MARKET AND SAFEWAY BRONZE: SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET

HEALTH FOOD STORE GOLD: WHOLE FOODS MARKET

3180 New Center Point, 622-1099; 7635 N. Academy Blvd., 531-9999, wholefoodsmarket.com

Sometimes you have to pay for quality, and voters said they’re willing to do that for the products at Whole Foods. “Not cheap, but worth the price.” It’s also the knowledgeable employees that keep voters coming back. One said the bakery department offered to make fresh croissants on the spot when they were out. SILVER: MOUNTAIN MAMA NATURAL FOODS BRONZE: SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET

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

You like your beef, and you also like to know exactly where it’s coming from. It’s birth to plate at Ranch Foods Direct. Did we mention that it’s hormone and antibiotic free and local? SILVER: WHOLE FOODS MARKET BRONZE: ANDY’S MEAT MARKET

100 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

supermarket: king soopers mark reis, tHe gaZette

POWERS

escape. explore. experience.

LIQUOR MART

5847 Palmer Park Blvd. • 719.596.4700 Learn to Scuba Dive at one of Colorado’s Premier Dive Centers! ONLY

$359

Celebrating our 25th Year

Thank You to our Loyal Customers for Voting us Best of 2013 Colorado Springs

www.theunderwaterconnection.com

CALL TODAY! 599-DIVE (3483) Includes: • Open waters in Santa • All class, pool & open Rosa water training • All certification fees • Use of all equipment • FREE use of our onsite pool (after certification)

Does not include: • Course materials • Transportation/Parking • Meals • Park Fees

We Deliver

4337 North Academy Blvd. • 1 block North of Austin Bluffs

CONGRATULATIONS 2013 “BEST OF” WINNERS!

NO CITY SALES TAX

At Luisa Graff Jewelers we feel honored to receive this amazing award and to be part of all these great organizations in Colorado Springs. Our goal is to pass on the same love and friendship that you give us every day! Stop by for a cup of coffee, a cookie, or just a hug and warm conversation. You, our Luisa Graff Jewelers community, are the reason we so very much enjoy what we do. And if you want to play with some of the hundreds of beautiful diamonds, colored gemstones, and other jewelry we have on hand…well, that’s OK too! Love

Drive Thru

Save 5% everyday with your power card

Excludes beer and sale items.

www.powersliquormart.com OPEN MON-THUR 9AM-10PM FRI-SAT 9AM-11PM • SUN 10AM-8PM

Helping You be Unforgettable! Powers Blvd.

5901 N. Nevada Ave. | Colorado Springs, CO 80918 | 719.260.0100 Mon - Fri 10am - 7pm | Sat 10am - 6pm www.luisagraffjewelers.com

Palmer Park K-MART POWERS LIQUOR MART

the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 101

shopping: readers’ piCKs

BUtCHer SHop

GolD: ranch fooDs Direct 2901 N. el paso St., 473-2306, ranchfoodsdirect.com

You appreciate knowing where your beef is coming from, and owner Mike Callicrate “is a local food hero. He speaks the truth about our food systems.” You seem to like the taste, too. “every item seems to have twice the taste of non-ranch foods Direct food. the chicken, pork and beef are incredible.” “the best beef we’ve ever had. You can taste the difference with no hormones and antibiotics.” silVer: aNDY’S Meat MarKet BronZe: WHole fooDS MarKet

NeW Store

GolD: cJ’s UniQUe BoUtiQUe 107 N. tejon St., 344-9867, cjsuniqueboutique.com

Natural products reign supreme. Voters praised the women’s clothes, the customer service and the product line. “this place is awesome! their awesome body products not only come in a vast array of products and scents but they’re all natural and locally made.” silVer: oNCe UpoN a CHIlD BronZe: (tIe) roCKY MoUNtaIN CoWGIrl Co. aND ferMeNtatIoNS

paWN SHop

flower shop: platte floral JerIlee BeNNett, tHe GaZette

GolD: ace Multiple locations

kitchen store: chefs

ace is the place for tools, jewelry, electronics, musical instruments and, apparently, “cute guys. all married, though.” those cute guys are honest, it’s as fun as a pawn store can be, and it has a great warranty on purchases.

Jeff keArneY

GolD: ricK’s GarDen center

SportING GooDS

1827 W. Uintah St., 632-8491, ricksgarden.com

SoUrCe for MIlItarY DISCoUNtS GolD: neVaDa aUto sales

GolD: DicK’s sportinG GooDs

floWer SHop GolD: platte floral

1417 e. platte ave., 632-2607, platteflorist.com

platte floral has made flower arrangements since 1921, and practice clearly makes perfect. the people here will create Christmas decorations, back-toschool flowers, prom flowers and even offer selections from a 4,800-square-foot greenhouse. silVer: SKYWaY CreatIoNS BronZe: rICH DeSIGNS HoMe

934 S. Nevada ave., 635-2533, crazyhermanonline.com

You still need a ride, but maybe you could use a little help with the price. Crazy Herman over at Nevada auto Sales promises to help. Scads of financing options abound and all with guaranteed credit approval. silVer: tHe olIVe tap BronZe: loWe’S

110 N. tejon St., 633-8803, savoryspiceshop.com

silVer: peNZeYS SpICeS BronZe: SpICe of lIfe

plaNt NUrSerY

silVer: HarDING NUrSerY INC. BronZe: GooD eartH GarDeN CeNter

GolD: saVorY spice shop Don’t you love when you head into a store and discover something you didn’t even know you needed? that’s what voters loved about the Savory Spice Shop — plus the fresh-ground spices, knowledgeable staff, classes and many ways to learn how to cook with spices.

silVer: aCMe paWN SHopS INC. BronZe: eZpaWN

Not only do you love the owners, prices, selection and staff, but voters said they know exactly how to keep your green stuff alive in our climate. “Helpful staff,” one voter said simply, “and good prices.”

SpICe Store

KItCHeN Store GolD: chefs

5070 Centennial Blvd., 272-2700, chefscatalog.com

this is the go-to place for anybody who has a kitchen, wants a kitchen or knows somebody with a kitchen. If it’s not in stock, the staff will order it from the warehouse. You also raved about the cooking classes, such as Hand-Made filled pasta, Guiltless pleasures, Vietnamese Cooking and Beginner’s Cooking. silVer: SparroWHaWK GoUrMet CooKWare BronZe: BeD BatH & BeYoND

102 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

3133 Cinema point, 638-3400; 1710 Briargate Blvd., 264-1810, dickssportinggoods.com

If you’re headed to the court, the green, the river or the mountain, Dick’s Sporting Goods has got your back. “It has more options than the several others I have been to in other states, and it is just fun to be inside the store.” silVer: reI BronZe: SportS aUtHorItY

tHrIft Store

GolD: the arc of the piKes peaK reGion 12 N. Meade ave., 471-4800, thearcofco.org

although the arc is already a thrift store, that doesn’t stop it from having specials and sales through the week. there’s Senior Day, Saturday Sales and half-price days. Managers practically give away the superb selection of used goods. silVer: GooDWIll BronZe: tHrIft HoUSe of tHe epISCopal CHUrCH WoMeN

• Tone and ﬁrm up your entire body. • Look & feel better than you have in years.

Thank you, Colorado Springs!

chapelhillsmall.com chapelhillsmall.com

2013

Voted Best Trainer

Call Today! 719-229-2639

We think you’re the best!

ww.womensbootcampﬁtness.com

Coaltrain Wine and SpiritS Craft Beers

The Best Of All Worlds

Fine Wines Specialty Spirits

2 0 1 3

330 W. Uintah @ I-25 | www.coaltrainwine.com

719.475.9700

Thank you for voting us Best Of 2013

HD Lens Collection

www.abbaeyecare.com

Look for the location nearest you

QUALITY

You can see the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 103

shopping: readers’ piCKs

VIDEO GAME STORE GOLD: GAMESTOP

Multiple locations, gamestop.com

The staff is friendly, voters said. There are tons of used and new games at “absolutely unbeatable” prices, and when a new game is released, stores open at midnight so you’ll be the first to play it. What’s not to like? SILVER: ENTERTAINMART BRONZE: BEST BUY

WOMEN’S FASHION GOLD: KOHL’S

4910 N. Nevada Ave., 531-5099; 3110 N. Powers Blvd., 637-0214; 2725 Janitell Road, 527-0610; kohls.com

If you need a special outfit, this is one-stop shopping. There are racks of cute tops, flattering pants, jewelry, shoes and virtually everything to make you shine. “Beautiful clothes, always a discount or sale,” one voter said. “Easy returns, although I’ve never returned anything. Very pleasant employees.” SILVER: EVE’S REVOLUTION BRONZE: TERRA VERDE

MEN’S FASHION GOLD: KOHL’S

4910 N. Nevada Ave., 531-5099; 3110 N. Powers Blvd., 637-0214; 2725 Janitell Road, 527-0610; kohls.com

He’ll go in looking like a pauper and come out looking like a king. Voters said that men, teens and boys alike will find just the right brand of shirts, sweaters, pants and shoes at Kohl’s. SILVER: DILLARD’S BRONZE: GENTLEMEN’S CHOICE TUXEDOS

EYEGLASSES

GOLD: ABBA EYE CARE Multiple locations, abbaeyecare.com

The right pair of glasses can make or break your look. ABBA has the latest frames, voters said, and friendly, knowledgeable staff to help you decide. “Their insurance department is great.” SILVER: LENSCRAFTERS BRONZE: VISIONWORKS

toy store: LittLe riCHArD’s toy store JeFF KeArNey

FARMERS MARKET GOLD: BANCROFT PARK IN OLD COLORADO CITY 2408 W. Colorado Ave.

It’s a Saturday morning ritual to head to Bancroft Park and peruse the green chilies, fresh fruit, vegetables, spices, crafts and other indispensable stuff. As one voter said, “Yes, it’s crowded and parking is a challenge, but it’s such an epicurean and olfactory delight. And the people watching is super.” SILVER: THE MARGARITA AT PINECREEK BRONZE: SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET

TOY STORE

795 Citadel Drive East, 637-8282; 1565 Briargate Blvd., 266-9960; barnesandnoble.com

320-324 1/2 N. Tejon St., 578-5549, poorrichardsdowntown.com

The last of the great chain bookstores still holds its charm for voters. The staff helps curious readers out and orders anything that isn’t available in the store. There’s also a “great area for kids.” SILVER: POOR RICHARD’S BOOKSTORE BRONZE: HOOKED ON BOOKS

GOLD: LITTLE RICHARD’S TOY STORE Poor Richard’s is how you eventually get your kid into Harvard. The store’s intention: classic, whimsical and educational toys that foster creativity. “It has so many hard-to-find items and its toys are high quality.” SILVER: TOY STATION AT SCHOOL CROSSING BRONZE: TOYS R US

LIQUOR STORE

NEW CAR DEALER

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

Multiple locations, phillong.com

Not only are there price tags you won’t swear at, there also are good sales. There’s an admirable wine, beer and liquor selection, and the employees are always helpful.

The word “honest” was used repeatedly to describe the folks at Phil Long. Also, reliable and attentive. The staff made the most challenging part of the process — the financing — a pleasant experience, voters said. “The finance manager is so informed, helpful and friendly. Makes you feel comfortable from the start.”

GOLD: CHEERS LIQUOR MART

SILVER: POWERS LIQUOR MART BRONZE: VETERANS LIQUOR

GOLD: NEVADA AUTO SALES

934 S. Nevada Ave., 635-2533, crazyhermanonline.com

You need some transportation, and you need it now. Voters said they go here, where people are fair and honest and have the best selection of vehicles, old and new. SILVER: STREET SMART AUTO BROKERS BRONZE: PHIL LONG DEALERSHIPS

HARDWARE STORE GOLD: ACE

BOOK STORE

GOLD: BARNES & NOBLE

USED CAR DEALER

GOLD: PHIL LONG DEALERSHIPS

SILVER: HEUBERGER MOTORS BRONZE: AL SERRA

104 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

Multiple locations, acehardware.com

Ace Hardware often wins, and the comments are always about the excellent customer service you receive. That, and all the “stuff and doo-dads you can get nowhere else.” One voter said it’s the best place to find parts for a house built in the 1950s. Ace also gives police, fire and military discounts. SILVER: LOWE’S BRONZE: THE HOME DEPOT

JEWELER

GOLD: LUISA GRAFF JEWELERS 5901 N. Nevada Ave., 260-0100, luisagraffjewelers.com

Whenever a ring is called for, this is where voters head. The family-owned jewelry store consistently wins for its designs, service and knowledge of the stock. The sales staff caters to your needs and ensures whoever it is says, “Yes.” SILVER: ZERBE JEWELERS BRONZE: JARED THE GALLERIA OF JEWELRY

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the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 105

Shopping: readerS’ piCKS

FURNITURE STORE

GOLD: AMERICAN FURNITURE WAREHOUSE 2805 Chestnut St., 633-4220, afwonline.com

Need some place to sit or a table to put your coffee mug on? This is the place voters love: There’s no pressure to buy, and the staff offers friendly advice, problem-free delivery and excellent prices. As you say, the staff has “the customer’s best interest at heart.” SILVER: PLATTE FURNITURE BRONZE: WOODLEY’S FINE FURNITURE

GOURMET SHOP GOLD: THE OLIVE TAP

906 Manitou Ave., No. 103, Manitou Springs, 358-9329, theolivetap. com/manitou-springs-colorado

Head here for a plethora of extra-virgin olive oils, flavored olive oils, balsamic vinegars and spices. Sample before you buy: It’s like a mini wine-tasting party, only you won’t leave tipsy. SILVER: GARDEN OF THE GODS GOURMET BRONZE: WHOLE FOODS MARKET

consignment store: once UPon a chilD

MATTRESS STORE

JeFF KearneY

GOLD: DENVER MATTRESS CO. 6320 Corporate Centre Circle, 266-8383, denvermattress.furniturerow. com/dmc

Voters said they put their money where their backs are. The choice of economically priced mattresses is top-notch, voters said, and they love the store’s Doctor’s Choice products.

mUsic store: inDePenDent recorDs JeFF KearneY

SILVER: AMERICAN FURNITURE WAREHOUSE BRONZE: MATTRESS FIRM

MUSIC STORE

GOLD: INDEPENDENT RECORDS AND VIDEO

BABY SHOP

GOLD: ONCE UPON A CHILD 6946 N. Academy Blvd., 599-5966, onceuponachildcolorado springs.com

Naked babies are cute, but you’ll probably want to clothe them at some point. Voters said there are clothes, shoes, gear and everything you could need for baby at this shop. It’s loads cheaper than the mall, you said, and the quality is terrific. Voters also like the friendly staff and the cleanliness and organization of the store. SILVER: BABY COTTON BOTTOMS BRONZE: BABIES R US

3030 E. Platte Ave., 473-0882; 123 E. Bijou St., 520-5111; 3040 W. Colorado Ave., 477-9058; beindependent.com

For those who never tire of perusing bins of CDs, you can’t beat Independent, a consistent winner. You’ll find new and old releases and you can bring in your music to trade. SILVER: MEEKER MUSIC INC. BRONZE: GRANER MUSIC

CONSIGNMENT APPLIANCES GOLD: SEARS

2050 Southgate Road, 579-6330, sears.com

ANTIQUES

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

More than 300 independent dealers are housed in one location, making it an easy way to while away an afternoon. Voters love to pick through the bargains and search for glassware, china, seasonal items, artwork, furniture, jewelry, vintage apparel and more. One voter said, “I could get lost in there all day and find many wonderful things.” SILVER: TREASURE SHOPPE BRONZE: WILLOWSTONE ANTIQUE MARKETPLACE

Sears has been around since the dawn of time, it seems, and consistently provides a large selection of appliances priced in a way voters find most agreeable. SILVER: LOWE’S BRONZE: SHOUSE APPLIANCE

SHOPPING CENTER

GOLD: THE PROMENADE SHOPS AT BRIARGATE

GOLD: ONCE UPON A CHILD 6946 N. Academy Blvd., 599-5966, onceuponachildcolorado springs.com

Choose from a healthy selection of used children’s clothing, toys and strollers. It’s an ideal place for a young family just starting out. “I love this store. The quality of the stuff is awesome. They have great prices. The staff is always very friendly. The store is always extremely clean and organized.” SILVER: (TIE) JUST BETWEEN FRIENDS, EVE’S REVOLUTION BRONZE: PLATO’S CLOSET

CHILDREN’S CLOTHING GOLD: ONCE UPON A CHILD

1885 Briargate Parkway, 265-6264, thepromenadeshopsatbriargate. com

6946 N. Academy Blvd., 599-5966, onceuponachildcolorado springs.com

All the top stores in town are here, including Apple, Pottery Barn, Chico’s and Banana Republic. And you have restaurants like P.F. Chang’s, Bird Dog BBQ and Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano. The kids won’t even mind the trip, if they get to stop at Gymboree Play and Music.

Voters said your kids will be the trendiest on the block if you shop at this store. The quality of goods and the prices are “awesome.” The staff is friendly, and the store is clean and organized.

SILVER: CHAPEL HILLS MALL BRONZE: UNIVERSITY VILLAGE COLORADO

106 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

SILVER: MOUNTAIN MOPPETS BRONZE: GYMBOREE

play. Gazette sports columnist David Ramsey’s picks: Page 108 Readers’ picks: Page 109

www.gazette.com/bestof the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 107

sports: EXpErt pICKs

GAZEttE.CoM/BEstoF

SEAT iN HOUSE, OR STATE: COORS FIELD, DOWNTOWN DENVER THE GAZETTE FiLE

SPORTS RADIO SHOW

“SPORTS DAiLy” ON SPORTS ANiMAL AM 1300 Host Matt Pauley declines to shout, and he’s not always spewing opinions on national issues. Instead, he keeps his focus on local sports. Pauley is well prepared and has deep understanding of the Falcons, Tigers, Sky Sox and area high school teams.

by DAViD RAMSEy GAZETTE SPORTS COLUMNiST

SEAT IN HOUSE, OR STATE

SANTA FE TRAiL

When riding along city streets, a cyclist has to worry about cars. When riding along single-track trails, a cyclist has to worry about colliding with other cyclists on what are essentially one-way paths. On the Santa Fe Trail, a wide bike road that stretches from Colorado Springs (and Fountain, by extension) to Palmer Lake, a cyclist doesn’t need to worry about much of anything. Heading north, the path is somewhat demanding with a consistent rise. But on the return ride south, the path generously repays the earlier effort. Although the trail is often close — too close — to the noise of Interstate 25, there’s a surprising sense of solitude. I like to start the trail from the parking lot at Woodmen Road just west of I-25. Unload your bicycle and head north.

PAiNT MiNES PARK, CALHAN

A 45-minute (at most) drive from Colorado Springs delivers a different world. Paint Mines brings a taste of southern Utah, with its wild earth sculptures, to the plains of Colorado. A walk through Paint Mines is not demanding on a gently rising trail. The rewards are immense. Strange formations greet a visitor around each bend, and, perhaps best of all, this is usually a quiet destination. To get there, drive east on U.S. 24 to the eastern edge of Calhan and look for signs.

COORS FiELD, DOWNTOWN DENVER 2001 Blake St., Denver, colorado.rockies.mlb.com

SEMI-DEMANDING INTRO TO OFF-ROAD CYCLING

BEST SHORT DRIVE FOR SATISFYING WALK/HIKE

Yes, the Colorado Rockies were awful last season, but a spectator can still enjoy a fun night this season, even if the Rockies stumble again. The wise choice for a Rockies seat is high on the first-base side of the stadium. This gives the ticket-holder a view of the Rockies and the Rocky Mountains. There’s no telling what will happen on the field, but you can count on a superb sunset virtually every evening.

URBAN HIKE PULPiT ROCK

A climb to the top of Pulpit Rock will not take a hiker away from it all. Instead, this — at times — demanding ascent will offer a panoramic view of the urban element of Colorado Springs. From atop the white rock, the weary hiker will gaze at cars whizzing along on Interstate 25 with the gorgeous backdrop of Pikes Peak. To get to the trailhead, go north on Nevada Avenue as it approaches the entrance to I-25. Watch for the small parking lot.

108 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

QUICK ESCAPE HIKE RED ROCK CANyON OPEN SPACE If you’re in the vicinity of downtown Colorado Springs, consider a visit to Red Rock Canyon, which is essentially a less-crowded, less-touristy version of Garden of the Gods. A hike along the nondemanding Mesa Trail to Quarry Pass offers a connection to the Greenlee Trail, which takes hikers through the center of the canyon. On certain days, when the crowds are somewhere else, this hike offers a rapid escape to solitude and quiet, even though downtown is only a couple of miles away. To arrive at the canyon’s main parking lot, turn south on Ridge Road west of 31st Street on U.S. 24.

sports: readers’ pICKs

GaZette.CoM/BestoF

BOWLING ALLEY GOLD: HARMONY BOWL

3845 N. Academy Blvd., 591-1000, bowlatharmony.com

The cool shoes. The really-bad-for-you junk food. The sound of a strike. Whether you bowl at summer camp or on weekend afternoons while your wife goes shopping, voters said Harmony Bowl is the place to throw some strikes. “Very kid friendly,” one voter wrote. “Love the Kids Bowl Free program over the summer.” SILVER: BRUNSWICK ZONE XL BRONZE: BRUNSWICK ZONE CIRCLE

ICE RINK

GOLD: SERTICH ICE CENTER 1705 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 385-5983, springsgov.com

“Amazing rink,” one voter said. “Fantastic learn-to-skate program, great coaches and a wide variety of public skate options.” SILVER: WORLD ARENA BRONZE: HONNEN ICE ARENA

ROLLER RINK GOLD: SKATE CITY

1920 N. Academy Blvd., 597-6066; 4575 Austin Bluffs Blvd., 591-1016, skatecitycolorado.com

Skate City has been the place to roller skate for decades. It offers inline hockey programs, spring break all-night skates, awesome birthday parties and, according to one voter, “They’ll play disco if you ask.” NO SILVER OR BRONZE

BEST pLACE TO BMX: RAMPART BMX PARK, GAZETTE FILE

PLACE TO BMX

GOLD: RAMpART BMX pARK (pIKES pEAK BMX) 8270 Lexington Drive, pikespeakbmx.org

You can ride year-round, weather permitting, in this BMX course, or test your skills against other riders in the many races from March through October. SILVER: (TIE) GOOSE GOSSAGE PARK AND RED ROCK CANYON OPEN SPACE BRONZE: MEMORIAL PARK

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2480 N. Powers Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 2 0 1 3 719-638-1000 www.timberlinelandscaping.com the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 109

sports: readers’ pICKs

PILATES

YOGA

GOLD: VILLASPORT ATHLETIC CLUB AND SPA

GOLD: CAMBIO. YOGA 3326 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 291-1798, cambioyoga.com

5904 Prairie Schooner Drive, 522-1221, villasport.com/cs

Cambio. Yoga was founded by three local yoga teachers who had a mission: to offer donationbased classes. They opened their studio in 2009 and now have two studios, one above the other. They have classes for all levels of yogis — from beginners to longtime practitioners to prenatal — along with loads of workshops, guest speakers and special series throughout the year.

The instructors and equipment are excellent, which is good news when you’re flat on your back working those tiny core muscles you never knew existed. SILVER: MOTION STUDIES BRONZE: REVIBE PILATES AND BODYWORK

SILVER: COREPOWER YOGA BRONZE: DOWNTOWN YMCA

URBAN TRAIL

GOLD: SANTA FE TRAIL

CLIMBING WALL GOLD: CITYROCK

21 N. Nevada Ave., 634-9099, climbcityrock.com

The downtown Colorado Springs climbing gym has 19,000 square feet of climbing terrain in the former Ute Theatre, including the highest indoor wall in Colorado, 43 dizzying feet. The instructors can also teach you how to climb rocks outside. SILVER: LIFE TIME FITNESS BRONZE: SPORT CLIMBING CENTER OF COLORADO SPRINGS

URBAN TRAIL: SANTA FE TRAIL JEFF KEARNEY

MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL GOLD: PALMER PARK 3650 Maizeland Road, springsgov.com

This slice of wilderness in the middle of the city is becoming known across Colorado for its great mountain biking, with easy access to a rich variety of trails for all ability levels and plenty of technical sections for riders looking to test their skills. SILVER: RED ROCK CANYON OPEN SPACE BRONZE: UTE VALLEY PARK

This bike and pedestrian trail parallels Monument Creek from Palmer Lake to Colorado Springs, where it becomes the Pikes Peak Greenway. It’s a great, easy ride with constant views of Pikes Peak and the foothills. SILVER: MONUMENT VALLEY PARK BRONZE: PALMER PARK

ROAD RIDE

GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS 1805 N. 30th St., gardenofgods.com

The stunning views of the rock formations — with Pikes Peak as a backdrop — may distract you from the huffing and puffing as you pedal up and down the rolling roads through this famous city park. SILVER: AIR FORCE ACADEMY BRONZE: GOLD CAMP ROAD

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

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Mention This Ad and Receive a FREE Small Bucket of Range Balls + 10% Off Your Meal in The Grill (excluding alcohol) www.ChreokeeRidgeGolfCourse.com • 719-597-2637 1850 Tuskegee Place 110 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

2013

593‐8582

sports: readers’ pICKs

LUNCH TIME OR AFTER WORK BIKE OR HIKE GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS 1805 N. 30th St., gardenofgods.com

Not many places offer more scenic bang for your buck in a major metropolitan area than this city park. Lose yourself among the rocky spires for a few minutes on a weekday and return to civilization feeling refreshed. SILVER: RED ROCK CANYON OPEN SPACE BRONZE: PALMER PARK

HIKING

POOL HALL

GOLD: RED ROCK CANYON OPEN SPACE

GOLD: PHANTOM CANYON BREWING CO.

3550 W. High St., redrockcanyonopenspace.org

2 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 635-2800, phantomcanyon.com

This gem on the city’s west side was once a quarry and then was off-limits for decades before it finally opened to the public in recent years. Marvel at the stark red canyons and distant views of Pikes Peak as you hike the well-marked trail network.

“The lower level is a great restaurant, and the upper is a great place to play pool and have a beer,” one voter said.

SILVER: ANTIQUE BILLIARD MUSEUM Colorado Springs’ #1 boot Camp BRONZE: A TIE BETWEEN CORNER POCKET AND SILVER: GARDEN OF THE GODS fitness & Weight Loss ProgramOLD CHICAGO BRONZE: BARR TRAIL * 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.

Wilson’s Auto Collision, Inc. Winner 4 Years in a row!

4365 E. Platte Ave.,

Voted Best Trainer

Colorado Springs, CO 80915

2013

Between Academy & Powers

Free Estimates 719-596-5225

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the gazette I 2013 I BeSt OF the SPRINgS I 111

sports: readers’ pICKs

CITY PARK

GOLD: MEMORIAL PARK 1605 E. Pikes Peak Ave, 385-5940, springsgov.com

This community gathering place has a lot to offer with Prospect Lake, a well-regarded skate park, the Sertich Ice Center, a velodrome, Spurgeon Field, tennis courts and covered picnic facilities. SILVER: GARDEN OF THE GODS BRONZE: AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL PARK

FAMILY OUTING ACTIVITY GOLD: U.S. TAEKWONDO CENTER

LOCAL SPORTS COMPLEX GOLD: SECURITY SERVICE FIELD 4385 Tutt Blvd., 597-1449, milb.com

You gotta love the home team and, with it, the stadium it calls home. An overwhelming number of voters tapped Security Service Field and the Sky Sox as a favorite afternoon pastime. The affordability was mentioned often as well as kudos to the folks who run the 8,500-seat stadium. “Every year seems to get better — a gentle reminder that baseball is meant to entertain first.” SILVER: WORLD ARENA BRONZE: AIR FORCE ACADEMY

SILVER: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO BRONZE: SERENITY SPRINGS WILDLIFE CENTER

GOLF COURSE

GOLD: PATTY JEWETT GOLF COURSE 900 E. Espanola St., 385-6963, springsgov.com

Other courses may get more national and regional notice, but the locals love the third-oldest public course west of the Mississippi for the grounds, views, welcoming atmosphere and reasonable fees.

GOLD: VILLASPORT ATHLETIC CLUB AND SPA 5904 Prairie Schooner Drive, 522-1221, villasport.com/cs

Voters consider this fitness center to be “the best overall gym.” One regular was particularly enlightening: “My wife likes it.” From Pilates to yoga to cardio machines to an NBA-sized basketball court — even dodgeball! — our gold medalist offers an avenue to fitness for all ages and interests. The full-service spa is complemented with the largest aquatics center in Colorado Springs — more than 360,000 gallons of water sure to get you in bikini shape. SILVER: LIFE TIME FITNESS BRONZE: YMCA

Multiple locations, martialartscoloradosprings.com

From a better-looking body to discipline, stress relief to self-defense, adults and children see ample benefits from participating in martial arts. Why not get the whole family involved at one of four centers in the area?

GYM

AUTO RACING

GOLD: PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB 1631 Mesa Ave., Suite E, 685-4400, ppihc.com

The second-oldest motor sports race in America was first held in 1916, making June 30 the 91st running of the “Race to the Clouds.” The 12.42-mile course with 156 turns begins at 9,390 feet and finishes at the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak. The challenge attracts top racers from around the world. The record is 9:46.164 by Rhys Millen in 2012.

SPORTING GEAR

GOLD: DICK’S SPORTING GOODS 3133 Cinema Point, 638-3400; 1710 Briargate Blvd., 264-1810, dickssportinggoods.com

The large selection wins your vote every time. That and the cheap prices and “kind and knowledgeable sales associates.” SILVER: BIG 5 SPORTING GOODS BRONZE: MOUNTAIN CHALET

SILVER: PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY BRONZE: I-25 SPEEDWAY

SILVER: CHEROKEE RIDGE GOLF COURSE BRONZE: THE BROADMOOR GOLF COURSE

Your haircut says a lot about you. Tell a great story.

15 great Colorado Springs/Pueblo area locations: COLORADO SPRINGS new Better Living Center • 1817 N. Union Blvd (Union Blvd., south of Constitution) • 719-633-5399 Cheyenne Montana • S. Academy Blvd & Hwy 115 (In Safeway Center) • 719-576-2222 Hancock Plaza • S. Academy Blvd & Hancock • (N. of King Soopers) 719-630-1940 Marketplace at Austin Bluffs • Austin Bluffs & Academy (N. of King Soopers) • 719-528-5822 Nor’Wood • Austin Bluffs & Dublin • (Across from Albertsons) 719-599-3663 Rockrimmon Village • Rockrimmon Blvd & Vindicator Dr. (In Safeway Center) • 719-593-9500 Safeway East • Powers & Constitution • (S. of Safeway) 719-573-6666 Uintah Gardens • Uintah & 19th St. • (S. of King Soopers) 719-577-4064 Union Town Center • Union & Research • (In Albertsons Center) 719-282-6002 Westwind Marketplace • Garden of the Gods & Centennial Blvd (Near Albertsons) • 719-598-3500 FALCON Falcon Highlands Marketplace • Woodmen Rd & Meridian Rd (Facing Walmart) • 719-886-4300 MONUMENT Monument Center • Hwy 105 - W. of I-25 • (In Safeway Center) 719-488-0100 PUEBLO Pueblo Albertsons • Hwy 50 W. • (E. of Albertsons) • 719-542-6500 South Pueblo Blvd • 2029 S. Pueblo Blvd (Between IHOP & Blockbuster) • 719-561-3500 WOODLAND PARK Woodland Park • US Hwy 24 • (In Safeway Center) • 719-686-1700

$13 Every Day Haircut Value! ($11 Child/Senior) greatclips.com | salonjobs.greatclips.com | greatclipsfranchise.com

112 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2013 I THE GazETTE

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autoMotivE auto clinic axle clinic

3650 Jeannine Dr. 719-597-3113 Our Services Include:

Axle Work, Brakes, Clutches, Diesel Repair and Maintenance, Engine Rebuilds, Engine Replacement, Vehicle Maintenance

car Wash SpeedY SHine expreSS car WaSH Free Vacuums Best of 2008 & 2011!

395 S. 8th St. (Across from McDonald’s) www.speedyshine.com www.facebook.com/speedyshine

rEModEling

“2011 & 2012 Best of the Springs Winner”

front range nurSe aide training program (cna)

tHe HomeStead group, inc

719-495-9195 www.HomesteadGroupConstruction.com

7870 N. Academy Blvd. 719-648-1020 www.nursenancy.org Day and Evening Courses Available!

A+ BBB Member • ALL Types of Remodeling • Additions/Basement Finishes • Garages Barns/Shops • Decks/Fences

gifts/antiquEs

rEstaurant lemongraSS vietnameSe BiStro

TreASUre SHOPPe more than just antiques

719-465-1692 • 324 E. Pikes Peak Ave treasureshoppecs.com Thanks to Colorado Springs for voting us Best of 2013. Home Décor, Gifts, Antiques, Collectibles and so much more.

Maid sErvicE tHe perSonal toucH maid Service

The Personal 719-636-3433 www.personaltouchmaidservices.com Touch

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Vietnamese

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Best Vietnamese Cuisine! 7 Years In A Row! 6840 North Academy Blvd. (South of Woodmen on Academy)

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spicEs SavorY Spice SHop

110 N. Tejon Street 719-633-8803

“We clean the old fashioned way” Customized Cleaning is our Speciality All cleaning welcomed. Military/Senior discounts. MEMBER BBB

Savory Spice offers over 400 freshly ground herbs spices & blends. Visit our store Mon - Fri 10 am - 6 pm, Sat 10 am - 5 pm or Sun 11 am - 4 pm.

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