Holiday Fun 2022

2022

Published by the Pikes Peak Bulletin

FREE

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Home (made) for the holidays

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Check out the Holiday Events calendar

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Winter activities that thrill and chill

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ADVERTISERS

Mayor’s message.......................................................3 Christmas year-round in Manitou .............................4 Home(made) for the holidays...................................5 Manitou Made more than a brand............................6 Iron Springs Chateau’s holiday tradition...................7 Manitou’s rich holiday heritage.................................8 Holiday Events calendar ........................................ 10 Ski Cooper for weekend getaway........................... 12 North Pole provides day of fun............................... 13 Cut your own Christmas tree.................................. 14 Make the most of holiday breaks........................... 15 Theo’s Toys for fun and games................................ 16 Winter photography tips from a pro....................... 18 Places of worship in the area.................................. 19 Winter activities that thrill and chill ....................... 20 Curl up with recommended books......................... 22 Make holidays pawfect for pets.............................. 23

Adams Mountain Cafè...............................................9 Armadillo Ranch..................................................... 17 Bare Feet Spa.............................................................7 Commonwheel Artists Co-op.................................. 13 Community Congregational Church...................... 19 The Eagle Dancer.................................................... 16 Gigi’s....................................................................... 15 Head Space Smoke Shop & Boutique..................... 13 Indy 15....................................................... Back page The Loop................................................................. 11 Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce..................3 Mountain Metro Transit.......................................... 16 Rocky Mountain Beignets...................................... 15 St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church................................ 19 Swirl Wine Bar...........................................................7 ABOUT THE COVER Rhonda Van Pelt took this photo along the Central Garden Trail in Garden of the Gods.

Do you own a business in the Pikes Peak region? Then you should have a presence in the 2023 Summer Fun magazine!

Holiday Fun is published by the Pikes Peak Bulletin.

IN THE FOOTHILLS OF PIKES PEAK We’ll distribute 6,000 copies of this glossy publication in June throughout Manitou Springs, Old Colorado City and Lower Ute Pass.

Contact our advertising account representative,

FELICIA ANZALDÚA

719-634-5905, ext. 220, or fanzaldua@sixty35media.org

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ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Lanny Adams ladams@sixty35media.org EDITOR Rhonda Van Pelt rvanpelt@sixty35media.org GRAPHIC DESIGN Rowdy Tompkins rtompkins@sixty35media.org

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Felicia Anzaldúa fanzaldua@sixty35media.org CONTRIBUTORS Jack Elder, Laura Ettinger-Harwell, John Graham, Bridgett Harris, Bryan Oller, Pikes Peak Library District and Ralph Routon DISTRIBUTION Tim Battreall and Tracie Woods; Don Bouchard, circulation assistant

CONTACT US — 515 Manitou Ave., Ste. 230, Manitou Springs, CO 80829 719-685-9668 or pikespeakbulletin.com

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PUBLISHER Amy Gillentine agillentine@sixty35media.org

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Want to be in next year’s Holiday Fun guide?

Call us at 719-577-4545 to discuss advertising options!

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Special thanks to: Creative Alliance Manitou Springs; the Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce, Visitors Bureau & Office of Economic Development; and the Manitou Springs Heritage Center and Museum.

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Season’s greetings from the mayor T

he Manitou Springs community extends warm wishes to you, your family and friends this holiday season. We welcome you to our creative, diverse and historic city.

It’s a wonderful place for relaxing, enjoying time with family and finding unique holiday gifts.

This has been a great year for Manitou Springs – we turned 150 years old but we still feel young and spry. It must be the mineral water that’s keeping us young. Try some!

Like our early-day visitors, you can “take the waters” to help heal, rejuvenate and refresh. You will find several springs throughout our downtown, in our National Historic District.

Our shops and restaurants welcome you. Even winter days can be mild, offering you great opportunities to enjoy Manitou’s special amenities. Many of our attractions are open year-round and are perfect for family activities.

Take a stroll through our historic downtown, which is filled with restaurants, art galleries, specialty shops and a great arcade — a favorite of families in every season.

As you enjoy your time here, please check with our Chamber of Commerce (354 Manitou Ave., manitou springs.org or 685-5089) for the latest information on activities and events.

You will find a lot of useful information in this guide.

More than ever, we need fun, time with friends and family, diversions and a great place to relax.

Create some special holiday memories while you’re here. Thanks for joining us.

John Graham, Manitou Springs mayor

EDITOR‘S NOTE The information you’ll find here is updated to the best of our ability, but check websites or call for information before making firm plans.

want for Christmas I l l A is in

M a n it o u S p ri n g s

Salvation Army Community Holiday Dinners 11/24 from 11am - 2pm @ Memorial Hall in City Hall 12/25 from 11am - 2pm @ Memorial Hall in City Hall

Meet Santa 11/25 - Christmas Tree Lighting @ 4-6pm 12/10 Breakfast with Santa @ 8-10am 12/10 Christmas Parade @ 6pm 12/17 Storytime with Santa @1-3pm 12/24- Santa at the town Clock @ 6pm

Front Porch Singers Carolling 11/25 - Christmas Tree Lighting @ 6pm 12/10 - Downtown Manitou Springs @ 12-2pm 12/17 - Downtown Manitou Springs @ 12-2pm

Christmas Brass & Dance Wonderland Every Sunday starting 11/27-12/24 from 12-2pm *Dance Wonderland will not perform 11/27 and 12/24

Victorian Christmas at Miramont Castle 11/25 - 11/27 @ Miramont Castle from 11am-4pm

Small Business Saturday 11/26 All Day Throughout Manitou

History of Christmas Hymns & Songs 12/2 @ Community Congregational Church from 6-8pm

A Very Dickens Murder 12/9-12/23 Multiple Dates @ Iron Springs Chateau doors open at 6pm, show starts at 6:30

Christmas Parade Saturday, December 10 @ 6pm

Caroling and Storytelling 12/17 @ Business District of Manitou @1pm & continuing @Community Congregational Church from 3pm

AdAmAn Fireworks Show Sunday, December 31 from the summit of Pikes Peak @ 9pm

www.manitousprings.org 719-685-5089

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HOLIDAY FUN 2022 | 3

It’s Christmas

year-round in Manitou Springs

By Laura Ettinger-Harwell

re you a “Yulephile”? You won’t find it in any dictionary, but a Yulephile is a person who is obsessed with Christmas.

AYou might also be a “Whovillian,” if you love Christmas so

much you prepare for it months ahead of time.

Manitou has just the place for you! No matter the season, the Christmas in Manitou shop, 726 Manitou Ave., is open and in the holiday mood.

Julie Pastuer and her husband, David, are finishing up their seventh year as owners of Christmas in Manitou.

“Before us, David’s mother, Paula Pastuer, was the owner and then there were two other people that owned it. As far as we know, the store has probably been around 25-plus years,” she said.

“David’s family has lived in Manitou for more than 45 years.”

In a town famous for quirky and eclectic shops, galleries, restaurants and boutiques, this store stands out. The couple also owns the Glass Blowers of Manitou, 8 Cañon Ave., just around the corner from the Christmas in Manitou shop.

In the heat of summer, the store beckons with an open door, a hint of cool air and the siren song of holiday music.

“We felt that Christmas is that time of year that everyone celebrates, and we wanted to bring the tradition forward, with a new eye for unique products as well as traditional figures,” Pastuer said.

“We want people to remember what they love about Christmas.”

A year-round Christmas ornament store may seem a bit odd, but the annual number of visitors who come into the store clearly indicates that Christmas is never truly out of season.

“We do get a lot of business in the summer.

People love Manitou and people love Christmas,” Pastuer said.

Julie Pastuer loves this collection of Santas wearing costumes embellished with crystals.

Christmas in Manitou offers a variety of festive nutcrackers.

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The diverse selection of ornaments — in more than 20 categories — means there is something for everyone.

“I love our customers. They share pictures of the ornaments they have purchased here, hanging on their trees. They share stories. Having had other stores before, Christmas is a good fit for us and brings a lot of smiles,” said Pasteur.

“Who doesn’t love Santa? Or want a funny Tiger King or an AC/DC ornament on their tree? We have every princess and superhero to make the little ones (and big ones) happy.”

Christmas trends come and go.

“If Christmas had a favorite trend this year, it would have to be the Gnome,” said Pastuer. “Gnomes dressed in every color.

The classic is Santa.”

Other perennial favorites include the Santa by Karen Didion.

“The face is priceless and his coats are opulent,” she said.

Other bestsellers are ornaments and holiday items that have a woodland theme.

“Everyone wants a little Colorado to take home,” Pastuer said.

So, whether you pre-game for Christmas beginning in June, you’re a tourist lured in by twinkly lights and nostalgia or just looking to indulge in the latest holiday trends, the Christmas in Manitou shop has all the ornaments and trimmings your holiday heart could desire.

Photos by Rhonda Van Pelt These ornaments are hand-blown and hand-painted in Poland.

IF YOU GO Christmas in Manitou is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Mondays-Thursdays, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sundays.

Information: christmasinmanitou.com or 719-685-4290.

Home (made) for the holidays

By Bridgett Harris

f you’re hoping to go homemade for your holiday gift-giving this year, there’s really no better place to get inspiration and Iinstruction than Manitou Springs and Old Colorado City.

With multiple art galleries, talented artisans and quirky-but-cool stores offering a variety of classes and workshops, you’ll be able to make-and-take your way through the season and impress all your giftees with your thoughtfulness — and newly acquired skills.

EDIBLE CREATIONS

Want to wow foodie family and friends with unforgettable homemade goodies? Take a class from a local chef and learn how to make tasty gifts everyone will love.

Bárbara SantosMcAllister, owner of Cocina Corazón, offers lessons in traditional Mexican cooking that can take place in her kitchen or yours. She also offers group classes throughout the year, teaching attendees how to prepare tamales, salsa and other dishes.

It’s fair to say that there are very few gift recipients who will turn up their noses at a gift of tamales or homemade salsa, making this an excellent choice for creating a memorable gift.

Bulletin file photos Find an upcoming class or Cortney Smith prepares ingredients for an evening book a private lesson at class at Gather Food Studio. www.cocinacorazon.com.

Gather Food Studio (2011 W. Colorado Ave., www.gatherfood studio.com) is another option for creating culinary awesomeness. Co-owners and chefs David Cook Jr. and Cortney Smith have assembled an Avengers-level team of instructors who love to teach the ins and outs of cooking and baking through classes offered in-house and online.

Class costs vary, depending on the class length and the recipe’s complexity. Classes fill up quite fast, so now is not the time to waffle.

MAC MAGIC

For making gifts of the non-edible variety, you can venture over to the Manitou Art Center, co-housed with the Manitou Springs Library (513 and 515 Manitou Ave., www.manitouart center.org). Their partnership has created a hub of affordable artistry with classes for projects including fabric dyeing, woodworking and sewing.

The MAC also has an impressive makerspace featuring

professional equipment for tasks such as woodworking, welding, printmaking, ceramics and metalsmithing.

Access to the equipment requires a monthly membership fee of $50 or a library card membership. The latter is free, but it will limit the hours and days you can access the space.

Members are required to take free certification classes about the equipment they wish to use. The classes teach safe and respectful use of the space, with the bonus benefit of learning a few basics in the craft associated with the tools.

Once you’re certified, you’ll have access to the machines and plenty of opportunity to create. Whether you’re an experienced artisan who just needs tools to build that perfect present or a beginner wanting to learn the basics for your homemade holiday, the MAC’s makerspace has you covered.

THOUGHTFUL CRAFTS

Brighten the day of your favorite candle lover with a handmade candle crafted right in Skye Candle Co.’s chandlery studio (1107 Manitou Ave., www.skyecandleco.com). This woman-owned small business stands ready to be your handmade hero with candle-making workshops during business hours or by special appointment.

You’ll design and pour beautiful soy wax candles scented with essential oils and be able to pick them up one to two business days after they’re made. Or pick up a gift card for another wannabe candle maker.

Do you know someone who loves to sew but needs a little guidance and inspiration? Check out Nana’s Quilt Cottage (35 S. 26th St., nanasquilt cottage.com), which offers a $99 passport that entitles the bearer to an unlimited number of in-store and online classes between Jan. 1 and March 30.

Nana’s offers at least six to nine classes every week that will help your giftee learn to Sarah Freeman of Skye Candle Co. is ready to help people learn her craft. make quilts, bags and garments. And passport members receive 10 percent off on notions and supplies for their chosen classes.

Are you feeling inspired? Then it’s time to find the perfect class, learn new skills and start tackling that gift list.

No matter what you bake, build, pour, paint or sew this holiday season, your friends and family will be thrilled to receive a gift made with your time, talent and love.

Impress all your giftees with your thoughtfulness.

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HOLIDAY FUN 2022 | 5

Manitou Made

— far more now than just a brand

By Ralph Routon board chair, Creative Alliance Manitou Springs

Jannine Scott, a Manitou Art Center studio artist, creates a variety of pieces in glass.

intergenerational business community, Sickbert added, and to make ecommerce more attainable and understandable in a world of rapidly changing expectations and public health guidelines. our years into its fruitful existence, the Manitou Made brand“We built the platform to showcase the creativity of our coming project clearly has morphed from a simple idea to solidifymunity and to allow for maximum flexibility,” Sickbert said. ing its place, its identity and its still-developing potential across “Though the website is heavily inspired by Etsy, each seller custhe Manitou Springs business community. tomizes the options to work for their production cycles and indiManitou Made began in 2018 as a collaborative project of the vidual products.”

Manitou Springs Creative District (now operating as Creative Some stores ship out of state and others limit their sales to Alliance Manitou Springs, or CRANE), local pickup. Still other sellers send traffic the Manitou Springs Chamber of Comto their own websites for check-out if they Positive numbers tell merce and the Leadership Pikes Peak Sighave ecommerce capabilities. nature Class of 2019. the story of how far In-store, look for the black and white The brand gives local merchants, makthe program has come. tags that indicate a locally made item. ers and entrepreneurs an online site where Online, everything listed directly supports they can sell their original creations, local businesses and artists. goods and services that are unique to the Online auctions, such as the Manitou Manitou area, in addition to signage for Art Center’s recent Big Loud Silent Aucsellers to mark their products and offertion, offer local nonprofits and merchants ings in-store. a way to use the site for promotion and “We believe the Manitou Made brand auction management. New features for fits best on a tag attached to something sellers on the platform are funded in part uniquely offered to you — a work of art, an by the Manitou Arts, Culture, and Heriexpertly delivered service, an unforgettable tage initiative.

Manitou experience,” said Becca Sickbert, Best-selling items include: Creative Alliance executive director.

• Books: “Love Songs of Middle Time” And because it’s online, Manitou Made by C.H. Rockey; is open and available not just to local res• Food and beverage: herb focaccia and idents but to people far beyond Manitou steel-cut multigrain bread; city limits. Many merchants also have a • Experiences: Bread-baking classes brick-and-mortar presence. and tickets to the Silent Disco and Emma Positive numbers tell the story of how Crawford Coffin Races; and far the program has come, especially in • Art as a one-of-a-kind category. the two years since ManitouMade.com The website offers artwork from local became reality in November 2020. galleries such as Commonwheel Artists As of Nov. 8, with two of the busiest Co-op and the Rockey Art Museum. You’ll months remaining in 2022, the marketfind intricate jewelry and fun stickers from place had facilitated double-digit growth K8e Orr’s Jibwa Studio, jewelry and glass compared to 2021, with total orders up 40 wall/table/wearable pieces from Jannine percent and products sold up by a whopScott’s J9 Glass studio and elegant jewelry ping 67 percent. In its first two years, the from Wieshuber Jewelers.

Courtesy images site has driven more than $40,000 in sales, Illustration from C.H. Rockey’s book, “Love Songs of And for those wanting to avoid buying more than 900 orders processed and 1,862 Middle Time.” more “things” as gifts, how about giving items or services purchased. experiences?

“We’re proud of that success, but sales Your friends and family members can learn to bake bread, were only part of the consideration in developing the 2020 Manimake candles or learn immersion dyeing of fabrics through the tou Made’s strategic plan for the website,” Sickbert said. expert instruction of local textile artist Melanie Audet. Or invest “The project goals, in order, were: 1. To create a cohesive learnin health and wellness with guided meditation, aromatherapy ing community; 2. Showcase people and products; 3. Launch a or sound session from Echo Studio. Prices range by experience, sustainable site; and finally, 4. To facilitate sales and marketing.”

It was an effort to make technology more accessible to an starting at $35.

F

Find all the available categories and choices at manitoumade.com/shop 6 | HOLIDAY FUN 2022

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Courtesy image

Iron Springs Chateau continues

holiday tradition

By Jack Elder

A

udiences have been booing the villain and cheering the hero at the Iron Springs Chateau Dinner Theater for more than 60 years, after a hearty old-fashioned meal, of course, and before being regaled with a vaudeville-style holiday olio.

This year, in lieu of a melodrama, an original hilarious holiday murder mystery is being performed. Jolene Howard wrote “A Very Dickens Murder” and will direct.

Built in 1880, the beautiful and historic Iron Springs Chateau was originally an open air pavilion that housed the Ute Iron Spring. The chateau has been a remarkably enduring physical, cultural and commercial feature of Manitou Springs for almost all of the city’s history.

Rebekah and Brian Ratterree and Lori and Dolores Adams-Miller purchased the chateau almost 10 years ago.

Rebekah Ratterree said that her favorite aspect of the chateau and the theater is

x a l riteh us.

“its resiliency. This business has been self-sustaining for a very long time and has managed to surThe chateau’s actors love to entertain audience members during the holidays. vive through an awful lot of chaos over the last 140 years. hour, sing-along caroling and an ugly “It’s truly remarkable when you think sweater contest. about it.”

“A Very Dickens Murder” runs Fridays The murder mystery is a fun adventure and Saturdays Dec. 9, 10, 16 and 17, and that moves from room to room while the Friday, Dec. 23. audience questions the players and helps the detective get to the bottom of the nefarious shenanigans. One person who correctly identifies the murderer wins a prize.

The show accompanies a table-filling The theater is at 444 Ruxton Ave. three-course meal. Guests can choose from Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts traditional pot roast, herb-roasted chicken at 6:30. Price (includes dinner, mystery, or baked salmon, along with mashed potatax and gratuity) is $60 per person. toes and gravy, country green beans, rice Tickets available at pilaf, dinner rolls and a fruit cobbler. ironspringschateau.com.

The evening also includes a cocktail Information: 719-685-5104.

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HOLIDAY FUN 2022 | 7

Manitou Springs has a rich holiday heritage During blackouts, the lights of every building, streetlamp and home would be turned off, effectively making the city invisible from above. In a 1942 brief detailing one such Blackout Monday anitou Springs is a town that fully embraces every holiday.

From ghost walks and coffin capers to fruitcake tosses and in mid-December, patrols moved through town to find stray lights Mardi Gras beads, the community has a reputation as the place to people had left on and extinguish fires in woodstoves and fireplaces. In case of an actual air raid, wardens were authorized to be when it comes to celebrations. unlock doors or even break windows to turn off lights.

Winter holidays are no exception; the streets are lined with Manitou Springs residents endured the same changes that lights, Christmas carols waft through the streets and every shop war brought to towns both big and small all across the counseems to find a way to celebrate in its own special way. With so try, sending their children to war when called, rationing when much action in modern times, it might surprise residents to learn asked and making the best of what that most of the holiday traditions they was available. When the war ended hold dear aren’t very old at all. in 1945, hope returned to a weary How did the town celebrate in its country and her surviving soldiers. early years? What traditions have In the years after World War II, endured into the present day?

Manitou Springs began to flourLet’s start from the beginning — or ish, and that included holiday close enough to it, anyway. celebrations.

In 1900, the Manitou Springs Journal Shirley Wade, Manitou Springs noted that holidays in Manitou were Heritage Center board member, “never riotously gay,” due to a signifimoved here in 1948 and recalls cant number of residents traveling back how the Navajo Hotel, known to eastern homes. The celebration of today as the Barker House, would Christmas was largely personal, with play Christmas carols and religious most of the public festivities conducted hymns for passersby. by the Congregational and Episcopal She remembers walking home to churches. the gentle strains of those carols one Residents hosted dinners, put up magical evening when the city was trees if their traditions called for it and blanketed in snow and the light from welcomed home children, grandchilabove cast a blue glow over everydren and other relatives to celebrate thing in sight. the holiday. Some of the residents “I was a teenager then, and I was journeyed to other areas of the counall alone on the street, and it was the try to visit loved ones left behind in most beautiful scene I had ever seen,” the quest to settle the West.

Wade says.

Writer L.C. Wahl, in a retrospecShe noted that Manitou was fairly tive published in 1936, described quiet in the off-season during her lavish parties in the Broadmoor area early years. Tourists were in short and North End (it wasn’t old back supply in the winter, although the bars then) hosted by several of the region’s did brisk business with the locals.

Courtesy of the Manitou Springs Heritage Center 30 millionaires.

The Dec. 25, 1953, issue of the Pikes Peak Journal was full of festive spirit.

It seems that some things never Much of the rest of the population, change.

Hotels closed up, local however, spent the holiday season attractions took a much-needed pause and the town would resemroaming the Pikes Peak region via bicycle visiting friends, loved ble quieter years, albeit without the bands of marauding cyclists. ones and a whole lot of bars. Favorite stops of note were “Jake In 1951, Wade’s uncle acquired the Cliff House and began openBecker’s place,” Fatty Rice’s roadhouse and a hotel in Fountain ing it during the winter to house enlisted personnel when the new with 25-cent all-you-could-eat chicken dinners.

Air Force base opened in Colorado Springs. Evenings tended to Wahl was enthusiastic about the season, noting just how privget a bit rowdy during the holidays, particularly after her uncle ileged the younger generation was to live unharnessed to foreign decided to re-open the hotel bars. war and bloodshed. It was a privilege that would end just five The 1960s saw Manitou hit its winter stride, especially when years later, almost to the day. On December 8, 1941, the United it came to decking the halls. The Manitou Springs Kiwanis Club States declared war on Japan after Pearl Harbor was bombed. spearheaded the effort, launching an annual house-decorating Three days later, the U.S. would fully enter the European Theater contest in 1962 judged by a Fort Carson lieutenant colonel, an Air in response to Germany’s declaration of war.

Force Academy major and the Kiwanis Club president.

Manitou may have been a small town far away from World War Residents spiffed up their homes in true lighted splendor and II battlefields, but citizens still lived under the shadow of war — the club organized sight-seeing tours to allow local “shut-ins and even during the holidays. People regularly conducted blackout drills to prepare in case of a nighttime air raid by hostile forces.

Continued on page 9

By Bridgett Harris

M

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oldsters” the chance to view the decorated houses.

The city itself was not exempt from holiday trappings.

Pine branches, lights, stars and bells would adorn the utility poles and buildings — one of the large wooden bells still exists, safely tucked away in the Heritage Center archives.

Santa would visit the Town Clock, riding in on the city’s fire truck and handing out hundreds of bags of goodies donated by the Kiwanis Club, fire department and the Manitou Hut of the American Legion.

Many of these traditions still continue today, although they might look a bit different than they did decades ago.

What hasn’t changed is the town’s commitment to community and maintaining its small-town feel. Perhaps Wahl said it best in the close of his 1936 article: “As to what Christmas may bring forth 40 years hence is a matter for conjecture, but the spirit of good cheer and happy thought will no doubt continue to brighten the Yuletide period in years to come as in years that have passed.”

The reporter would like to extend her deepest thanks to Shirley Wade for her immense help in researching this story, as well as the Manitou Springs Heritage Center and Kiwanis Club for curating and archiving so much of the town’s history.

Courtesy of the Manitou Springs Heritage Center

The 1960s saw Manitou hit its winter stride.

The Dec. 25, 1953, issue of the Pikes Peak Journal was full of festive spirit.

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HOLIDAY FUN 2022 | 9

Holiday Events ONGOING

Holiday Brass and Wonderland Dancers: Come experience the magic of Christmas in Manitou Springs. Every Sunday until Christmas (plus Saturday, Dec. 24), musicians stroll along Manitou Avenue playing Christmas carols while dancers perform around downtown, bringing Christmas magic to all. Noon-2 p.m. Information: manitousprings.org.

Holiday Market: Commonwheel Artists Co-op welcomes art lovers to the annual holiday market, featuring handcrafted, unique items from local artists and artisans. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. every day through Dec. 30. 102 Cañon Ave. Information: commonwheel.com or 719-685-1008.

Photos with Santa: Bring the whole family for portraits with Saint Nick at his Bancroft Park cabin, 2408 W. Colorado Ave. $17 first photo, $7 each additional photo. 1-4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 23. Information: shopoldcolorado city.com or 719-344-8537.

Bulletin file photos The Manitou & Pikes Peak Railway engine at the corner of Manitou Avenue and El Paso Boulevard wears its holiday finery.

Dorothy through a time twister to the Land of Oz. There, with the assistance of the scarecrow, tin man and lion, she must find a way to return to Cripple Creek before Christmas is canceled. Through Dec. 31. $24. Butte Theater, 139 E. Bennett Ave., Cripple Creek. Information: buttetheater.com or 719-689-6402.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 7

Winter Wonderland Concert: The Manitou Springs Middle School Orchestra presents holiday favorites. Free. 6:30 p.m., District 14 Auditorium, 110 Pawnee Ave.

FRIDAY, DEC. 9

Winter Concert: Singers from the Manitou Springs Middle School and High School choirs perform. Free. 7 p.m., District 14 Auditorium, 110 Pawnee Ave.

SATURDAY, DEC. 10

Santa hears wishes from a little girl.

Electric Safari at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Bring your kiddos to the zoo after dark to enjoy thousands of lights, cool animals, warming fires and other festivities. Santa will be there, too! Advance tickets required. Dec. 9-23 and 25-Jan. 1.

4350 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road. Information: cmzoo.org or 719-633-9925.

Gold Camp Christmas Headframe Lighting: Giant mine headframes will light up the night sky around Victor and Cripple Creek. Weekend evenings through Jan. 14, and every night Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day, weather permitting. The best views are from Highway 67 and Teller County Roads 81 and 83. Information and self-guided tour maps: www.visitcripplecreek.com/event/ holiday-headframe-lighting.

“The Wizard of Oz, Colorado”: It’s December 1899 in Cripple Creek. Dorothy Gunnison, a young schoolteacher, invites famed genius Nikola Tesla to speak to her class. But while demonstrating an invention, Tesla accidentally sends

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Breakfast with Santa: Share a delicious breakfast including eggs, ham and pancakes with the Jolly Old Elf. Sponsored by the Manitou Springs Kiwanis Club. $7 for adults, $4 for kids (4-12); 3 and younger eat free. 8-10 a.m. Community Congregational Church, 103 Pawnee Ave. Information: www.manitou kiwanis.org.

Christmas Craft Fair: Holiday shopping with altitude — find the perfect gift at this creative craft fair. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Cripple Creek Parks and Recreation Arena, 128 E. Bennett Ave. Cripple Creek. Information: ccparksandrecreation.com or 719-689-3514.

Front Porch Singers: The a capella quartet will stroll through downtown, regaling shoppers with holiday cheer. Noon-2 p.m.

Christmas Begins Parade: Spectators can watch the Christmas parade right in the heart of Manitou. A free and fun event for all ages. Bring unwrapped toys to donate to Toys for Tots.

Starts at 6 p.m.

SUNDAY, DEC. 11

Woodland Park Symphony Christmas Concert: Embrace the spirit of the season with Christmas tunes. Matinee 4 p.m.; evening 6:30 p.m. Free, but reservations required. Ute Pass Cultural Center, 210 E. Midland Ave. Information: www. woodlandparkwindsymphony.com or 719-687-2210.

Continued on page 11

SATURDAY, DEC. 17

Caroling and Storytelling: Sing throughout downtown Manitou Springs starting at 1 p.m., then hear Christmas stories and sing some more starting at 3 p.m. Free. Community Congregational Church, 103 Pawnee Ave. Information: www.manitou church.org.

Santa Story: Enjoy a holiday tale from the Jolly Old Elf. 1 p.m. Manitou Springs Library, 515 Manitou Ave. Information: ppld.org.

Front Porch Singers: The a capella quartet will stroll through downtown, regaling shoppers with holiday cheer. Noon-2 p.m.

The Loop is located in beautiful Manitou Springs, Colorado at the base of Pikes Peak. We offer a variety of award-winning margaritas and Baja-style Mexican food in a casual setting.

SATURDAY, DEC. 24

SUNDAY, DEC. 25

Community Holiday Dinner: Gather with old friends and make new ones while enjoying this annual tradition hosted by the Salvation Army. City Hall, 606 Manitou Ave. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Information: Andy Wells, 719-459-1630; to volunteer, call 719-636-5277.

Christmas with Community Congregational Church: Gather for carols and stories. 10 a.m. 103 Pawnee Ave. Information: manitouchurch.org or 719-685-5255.

Bulletin file photo Fireworks illuminate Pikes Peak on New Year’s Eve a few years ago.

SATURDAY, DEC. 31

AdAmAn Fireworks: The hardy hikers will fire off five pyrotechnics from the Pikes Peak summit in honor of the “Frozen Five” at 9 p.m. The really big show happens at midnight.

We have two bars and three dining rooms to accommodate parties of any size. We specialize in receptions, family reunions and work functions.

Call us today to reserve space for your event.

Audrey Julian Photography

Holiday Brass and Wonderland Dancers: Come experience the magic of Christmas in Manitou Springs. Musicians stroll along Manitou Avenue playing Christmas carols while dancers perform around downtown bringing Christmas magic to all.

Noon-2 p.m. manitousprings.org.

Santa Arrives at the Town Clock: Watch for the vintage fire truck bearing St. Nicholas to the corner of Cañon and Manitou avenues. 6-7 p.m. Information: Manitou Springs Fire Department, 719-685-1444.

Christmas Eve with Community Congregational Church: Gather for music and a candlelight service. Offering will go toward Westside CARES. 6:30 p.m. 103 Pawnee Ave. Information: manitouchurch.org or 719-685-5255.

The Loop has won a variety of awards for our margaritas, green chili and we were voted one of the best neighborhood restaurants in Manitou Springs.

The Loop is known for our Molcajetes, Green Chili and Grande Margaritas.

(719) 685-9344 theloopmanitou.com P IK E S P E AK BULLE TIN

HOLIDAY FUN 2022 | 11

For a weekend getaway, think Ski Cooper olorado boasts the highest city in North America, and at 10,152 feet, Leadville offers abundant winter activities to experience Coutdoor fun in a genuine and historic mountain town. Ski Cooper,

a ski “resort” without the pretense, is a great place to take a muchneeded break in the mountains, surrounded by majestic beauty.

There are no lift lines, high prices, high-rise condos or hard man-made “snow.”

Cooper boasts wide-open spaces in a family-friendly and affordable environment. Five lifts serve 64 ski runs at Cooper spanning 480 lift-served acres. Get the best deals by purchasing your tickets online at least 48 hours in advance. Snow conditions may cause schedule changes; check www.skicooper.com for details.

What’s new: • Cooper is adding a special “Snowcat, Cookies & Cocoa” event over the Christmas holidays. Families can take a Snowcat ride, followed by cookie decorating, hot cocoa and mulled wine at the mountain Ridgeview Cafe. Schedule TBD (check website for details); and • Over the holidays, Cooper is adding a kids program for ages 3-5 to add to its existing ages 6 and older programming.

What’s returning to Ski Cooper for 2022-2023: • $30 Thursdays will return for January and February. Cooper will offer $30 day passes (when you buy online at least 48 hours in advance), $30 rentals, $30 off of Ski School lessons and live music; • The ski area plans to celebrate 10th Mountain Day and military heroes on Friday, Feb. 24; and • Yurt Dinners will return this season with a schedule yet to be determined.

Chicago Ridge Snowcat Tours will return with a slightly modified format. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, Cooper will offer halfday tours, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Operating dates will be dependent on snowpack conditions on the ridge.

This will be an add-on to a season pass or day pass and must be purchased in-person at the Guest Services window on the day of skiing. Visitors can choose to purchase either the morning or afternoon session, with each session limited to 12 participants.

A snowy day in Manitou Springs The Town Clock and its tree are decorated with a skiff of snow.

Photo by Rhonda Van Pelt

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Courtesy of Ski Cooper

The family-friendly ski area offers tons of fun, just 2.5 hours from Manitou Springs.

North Pole ready to provide

day of fun Children (no infants) can take hen you think “holiday fun,” you the boat ride, Kidthink of Santa Claus, right? And die Commander, where better to find him than at the North Kiddie Wheel, Midge-O-Racers, Pole-Santa’s Workshop?

Santa is just a big kid at heart, after all. motorcycles (a Since 1956, this attraction has been Courtesy image carousel with spreading holiday cheer on the northeast barbeque grills and alcohol at home. cycles instead of horses), pony carts, Rodeo slope of Pikes Peak.

Afterward, walk off lunch by browsing Rider and Star Fighters rides.

Just head up Ute Pass to Cascade and Santa’s Village. Seven unique shops offer Infants, who must be with an adult watch for Santa standing atop the red a variety of toys, souvenirs and Christmas 16 or older, can ride in the antique car and white Peppermint Slide. Most likely, items. and the carousel, and enjoy the Christhe’s taking a break from supervising the Of course, Santa will find time in his mas Tree, the Ferris wheel, elves as they build toys in the busy schedule to hear wishes and even Granny Bug, Kiddie Combo, workshop. pose for photos with kids of all ages.

Peppermint Slide, Sky Ride Before you leave home, make Santa and the train. sure you dress in layers and will find Information: northpole wear comfy shoes. That’s even IF YOU GO colorado.com/rides. more important when you’ll time in Current owner Tom Hagbe taking a whirl on one of the his busy gard, son of the couple who North Pole rides.

The North Pole-Santa’s Workshop is open All are designed and main9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (rides close at 4:15) schedule built the North Pole-Santa’s Workshop in the 1950s, does Thursdays-Mondays, weather permitting. tained to keep safety first, while to hear Closed for season starting Dec. 25. Peak have a favorite among the also providing lots of thrills and days (weekends and holiday weeks): rides: the carousel, which was laughs for families. wishes. general admission is $30 per person for 3 built in 1919.

Any amusement park worthy years and older, and age 2 and younger get He loves to watch kids have of the name will have a carouin free (online ticket required). Online hourly fun, just as he did while growing up at the sel, Ferris wheel and Tilt-a-Whirl. But the reservations are required and tickets will amusement park.

North Pole offers rides that are out of the be released weekly. Non-peak days: free When hunger pangs hit, stop by the ordinary. park entry and ride wristbands (purchased Carousel Café. The menu includes cornThe entire family can go for a spin in at front gate) cost $30 per person aged 3 dogs, chicken nuggets and burgers guaran antique car and try the Candy Cane to 59, and military and senior discounts are anteed to keep kids happy.

Finish off lunch Coaster, the Christmas Tree, Dive Bombavailable; no online reservations required. with hot chocolate, cider, ice cream and ers, Granny Bugs, the Kiddie Combo, San5050 Pikes Peak Highway, Cascade. funnel cakes. ta’s Sleigh Ride (new!), Mini Himalaya, the Information: northpolecolorado.com Visitors are welcome to bring their afore-mentioned Peppermint Slide, Rocket or 719-684-9432. own food to eat in the picnic pavilion just Ride, Scrambler, Sky Ride, Space Shuttle, inside the entrance, but please leave the the train, Tubs of Fun and the Whip Ride.

By Rhonda Van Pelt

W

Head Space, (Smoke Shop & Boutique) 30 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs "Good vibes, friendly staff. Above and beyond customer service. 5 stars with out a doubt.

I will definitely be returning with friends." - Brittany S. P IK E S P E AK BULLE TIN

HOLIDAY FUN 2022 | 13

O Christmas tree! How to cut your own

By Rhonda Van Pelt

your own Christmas tree is a beloved family tradition or you’d like it to be —check www.recreation.gov/tree-permits Iforf—cutting information about how to obtain a permit and where you can use it.

Permits are available for the Pike and San Isabel National Forest that allow cutting through Dec. 18. They cost $20 (one tree) and are limited to five per household.

Permits are valid only in the district for which they were purchased. They are not transferable and can’t be extended from one year to the next.

Print your Christmas tree permit and make sure it’s visible on your dashboard.

The closest area is the Pikes Peak Ranger District, which offers specific cutting areas. They are northwest of Woodland Park in the north Divide area, off Highway 67 north of Woodland Park and off Teller County 78/Painted Rocks Road.

Maps showing public and private land boundaries are available online and at district offices.

Be sure to print the map when you purchase your permit and use it to navigate to the tree-cutting areas. Signs will be posted.

If you’d like to roam further for your tree, here are other areas: • The South Platte Ranger District, near Denver. Permits in this district apply to specific cutting areas (Buffalo Creek, Sugar Creek and Camp Fickes); • The South Park Ranger District, near Fairplay; • The Salida Ranger District, near Salida and Buena Vista; • The Leadville Ranger District, near Leadville; and • The San Carlos Ranger District, near Cañon City, Westcliffe and La Veta.

Before you head out, check the latest weather conditions and research seasonal road closures. Annual closures that took effect Dec. 1 include Lodgepole Flats near Leadville, the Four Mile travel management area near Buena Vista and the Greenhorn area near Westcliffe.

Bring a hand saw — no chainsaws or power saws are allowed.

Pets are welcome, but must be under control at all times.

Cell service may be spotty or unavailable. Bring a map and tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return.

Don’t rely on GPS, because it may not be up-to-date with Forest Service roads and batteries die quickly in cold weather.

Dress warmly and take extra dry clothes. Pack food and water, as well as an overnight survival kit, in case you become stranded.

Park so that traffic can get by safely, and do not block gates.

Don’t cut on private land, in wilderness areas, designated campgrounds or tree plantations. Don’t cut in or within 200 feet

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PI KES PEAK B U LLETI N

of developed areas, including picnic areas, recreation areas, trailheads, scenic overlooks and administrative sites.

Christmas tree cutting is prohibited in timber sale areas, so don’t cut any tree marked with colored paint, flagging or signs. And don’t cut trees within 100 feet of any waterway, forest road or trail.

You may cut a tree up to 15 feet tall or 6 inches in diameter at ground level.

Any species of tree may be cut; however, bristlecone pines are not recommended because they release a lot of sap, which can be a fire hazard.

If snow is on the ground, remove it from around the stump so you can accurately measure the stump and tree height. Trees must be cut within 6 inches of the ground.

Choose a tree from a densely forested area, which will give the remaining trees more space to grow.

Forest roads may not be plowed. A four-wheel drive vehicle or tire chains may be needed to access some areas.

Skis or snowshoes may also be used. shutterstock.com Be cautious on icy and snowy roads and don’t cause damage by creating ruts on muddy roads.

The funds from Christmas tree permits purchased through the recreation.gov system will go back to the participating forest through Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act funding requirements.

Anyone cutting or removing trees from a national forest without a valid permit is subject to a fine of up to $5,000 and/or six months in prison.

Information: www.recreation.gov/tree-permits, search for Pike and San Isabel National Forest.

HELPFUL CUTTING TIPS

Tools to bring with you include: a handsaw, gloves, warm boots, a measuring tape to ensure you select a tree that fits in your home, a tarp to sit on and/or to move your tree once it’s cut, and rope or straps to secure your tree to your vehicle.

Cut the stump at ground level. Cut any live branches off the stump, and cut off and scatter any dead branches on the lower portion of the tree.

Carry your tree carefully out of the woods. Dragging it will rub off needles and bark.

If the tree is too big to transport inside your vehicle, wrap it in canvas to prevent wind damage.

Once home, cut the bottom inch or so off the trunk and place the freshly cut trunk in a bucket of water. Replenish water frequently.

If storing your tree outside for a few days before bringing it inside, keep it in a cool area protected from the wind and too much sun, such as the north or east side of your house.

Activities

to make the most of school breaks winter break and parents everywhere are wondering — what It’swill we do during the time off?

Here’s a rundown of activities that will help your family make the

most of the extra time together. Be sure to check websites or call to inquire about health and safety precautions.

KIDS-ONLY ACTIVITIES

When you need to get some work done or want engaging activities for your kids, check out these programs where they’ll have an adventure without you.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road.

Winter Break Camps, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 26-28 and 30. This year’s theme is Winter Around the World — campers will learn how animals prepare for winter. Advance registration required. As of press time, slots were available for third through sixth-grade day camps.

Non-members: $65.75/day, members: $60.75/day. Information: www.cmzoo.org/events/winter-break-day-camps.

YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region, Winter Break Camp: Check website for dates. Locations: Southeast YMCA, 2190 Jet Wing Drive; Tri-Lakes YMCA, 17250 Jackson Creek Parkway, Monument; and the Downtown YMCA, 207 N. Nevada Ave. $20/day for kids on a YMCA Continued on page 17

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HOLIDAY FUN 2022 | 15

For fun and games, head to Theo’s Toys

By Bridgett Harris

ave you been to a toy store lately? Not the aisles in the nearby big-box store H unceremoniously tucked between the

automotive department and the hardware supplies, but a real, honest-to-goodness shop dedicated solely to the magic and wonder of toys?

With the prevalence of online shopping, actual toy stores are few and far between these days, making it difficult for anyone to shop local when it comes time to pick up gifts for kids and kids at heart.

Enter Theo’s Toys, a shop that ticks all the boxes for conscientious shoppers: It’s family-owned and family-operated, located right in the heart of Manitou Springs and filled with toys.

Theo’s Toys opened in 2014 near the Penny Arcade and Patsy’s Candies, creating a true trifecta of kid awesomeness.

Owned by Tony and Amy Mogck and named after their son, the shop offers a variety of toys ranging from pure entertainment to entertainingly educational.

“We pride ourselves in carrying toys, games and puzzles for all ages,” Mogck said. “You can find adult tabletop games to classic wooden blocks for toddlers. We have everything to make family time more fun during the holidays.”

Theo’s doesn’t just sell the newest namebrand toys, they also traffic in something extremely popular amongst adults — nostalgia. That means some pretty cool vintage toys, like an original 1978 copy of the “Battlestar Galactica” board game and, when possible, Mogck’s favorite: mid1990s Micro Machines “Star Wars” Action Fleet toys.

“I usually have some in stock, but

THE

finding them is getting harder and harder,” he said. “I try to get my hands on cool collectables anytime I can.”

Collectibles are not the biggest part of the business, though. New toys are varied

“We have everything to make family time more fun during the holidays.”

— Tony Mogck

Photos by Rhonda Van Pelt The shelves in Theo’s Toys are loaded with potential fun for every age group.

and plentiful. His favorite modern toy is a little more advanced, but no less cool.

“My current favorite is the Turing Tumble. It is a marble-powered mechanical computer you program. It teaches you how

EAGLE DANCER Unique and Authentic Pieces American Indian Arts and Jewelry

947 Manitou Ave • 719-685-9462 www.TheEagleDancer.com

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computers work and literally shows you what is happening as a program runs.”

Curating toys isn’t easy. Although the guaranteed wins never go out of style — Mogck mentioned “Star Wars,” Marvel and Harry Potter as examples — sellers can’t just rely on old standbys to stay in business.

He also has to follow trends and capture a share of the modern market as quickly as possible.

“Sometimes things come out of nowhere and are hugely popular,” Mogck said, citing past trends like spinners and pop fidgets. “It can be hard to get them once they have blown up, so it’s important to jump in when you see it happening.”

Just as it’s important to keep up with the new and now, shops also have to watch for the comeback — toys of the past making a resurgence.

“It is hard to guess what will be popular but if you have the must-haves and the current trends you can experiment with new items,” Mogck said. “And of course, your vendor reps know what everyone is buying; listening to them is a good habit to stay on trend.”

Theo’s doesn’t just operate as a small business; it also supports smaller suppliers by selling their toys in the store. That has been a beneficial decision for the shop as recent supply challenges plague sellers big and small with shipping delays and stock limitations.

“In general, it seems the smaller the company, the less they are being affected by shipping delays,” Mogck said.

You can find Theo’s Toys at 934 Manitou Ave., Suite 103, in the Spa Building.

Online shopping is available at nerdrule. com and purchases can be shipped all over the United States.

Activities (cont.) before & after school plan, $50/day for all others. www.ppymca.org.

Bear Creek Nature Center, 245 Bear Creek Road. Kids’ Morning at Bear Creek, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 10. Enjoy some time to yourself while your child learns about the Ute people and how they used science, math, technology and engineering to provide food for themselves. Members: $20 per child, non-members: $25 per child. Includes vegetarian lunch.

Little Wonders: Fox and the Gingerbread Boy, 10-11:15 a.m. and 1-2:15 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21. Explore nature with your 2- or 3-year-old. $3 per person, including siblings and adults. See the full calendar of events for the Bear Creek and Fountain Creek Nature Centers at communityservices.elpasoco.com/ nature-centers.

Who Gives a SCRAP creative re-use center, 810 Arcturus Drive, is hosting Kids Art Camps for ages 4 to 12. They run 1-4 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 19, to Thursday, Dec. 22. Cost is $25 per day, and scholarships are available.

Registration and information: WhoGivesa SCRAPColorado.com/ourevents.

CityROCK, 21 N. Nevada Ave. Climbing

Camps, 9 a.m.-noon or 12:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Dec. 20 and 30 and Jan. 16. For ages 6 and older. $69 per half-day. climb cityrock.com/indoor-camps.

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Options abound for family fun, both indoors and out.

Our area parks have countless opportunities for memory-making. Visit a favorite park and use your five senses to notice the changing seasons. Or, get acquainted with a park you and your family haven’t yet visited. Depending on the weather, you could enjoy the playground, hike, bike, scooter, ski, sled, hop on rocks, climb trees, play at the creek or make snow angels or sculptures.

Let your kids take the lead, set the pace and pick the activity; you never know what adventure they’ll take you on.

Games like hide and seek on the trail are fun for older kids and nature scavenger hunts — searching for colors, textures, shapes, sounds, smells, plants and animals — is fun for all ages.

The Pikes Peak Library District offers free programs for all ages at its 15 locations. ppld.librarymarket.com/events/ month/2022/12.

Fountain Creek Nature Center, 320 Peppergrass Lane in Fountain, will offer Nature Hikes with Santa. After an interactive reading of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas,” Santa will show little ones what gifts nature gives us. Afterward, listen to seasonal songs from the band Peppergrass while making paper snowflakes. 10-11:30 a.m. and 1-2:30 p.m.

Saturdays, Dec. 10 and 17. $4 members, $5 nonmembers.

Arts and crafts of all types are also an enriching way to spend time together.

Maybe you’ll find an art class on YouTube to take together. Or you finally start the family band you’ve dreamed of.

Board games, perhaps with creative or cooperative rules, are also a fantastic way to bond with kids and elicit giggles.

The Manitou Art Center, 513 Manitou Ave., is hosting opportunities to decorate ceramic holiday ornaments using underglaze and glaze. One-time two-hour classes are available Thursdays, Dec. 8 or 15, and Saturdays, Dec. 10 or 17. $20, plus $5 materials fee. Information: manitouartcenter.org or 719-685-1861.

Don’t forget to get your kids involved with decorating for the holidays — their creativity may inspire new traditions.

Bulletin file photo

Christmas Begins Parade Spectators can watch the Christmas parade right in the heart of Manitou. A free and fun event for all ages. Bring unwrapped toys to donate to Toys for Tots. Starts at 6 p.m.

P IK E S P E AK BULLE TIN

HOLIDAY FUN 2022 | 17

A few winter photography tips from a pro Q&A with Bryan Oller your opinion/experience, people capture good winIterncanphotos with their phones?

Absolutely! There are tons of camera apps, often available for free, that give you an opportunity to put a personal spin on your creativity. My favorite apps to use during those cold and snowy occasions are TinType and Reflex. These apps will give you a very nostalgic feel for your imagery. They also help you practice composition and composure.

What phone camera settings do you recommend?

Of course, you can use whatever setting you want, but I will often leave my filters as is and occasionally switch to black and white camera mode to capture mood and contrast between light and dark.

How about when using a digital single-lens reflex camera?

As a professional photographer, I can tell you it’s always worth the risk to give your Photos by Bryan Oller manual settings a try. Avoid automatic functions — it should be about you. And it’s OK to fail. In fact, fail a lot. But never stop trying new things that make your images unique and worth the time and effort to express yourself.

There are many setting you can use. Maybe try a slow shutter speed, low ISO to capture snow streaking across your lens.

Or try a higher ISO to freeze those falling snowflakes. It really depends on what you’re trying to capture.

If you’re photographing outdoor Christmas lights and want those rich colors, think low ISO and long exposure. Also, bring a tripod and wear lots of layers. You’ll need them!

What are your favorite local places to take winter photos?

You don’t have to go very far to capture a great winter scene — maybe, just down your street! Some of my favorite winter images have happened in my backyard. Imagine a Steller’s jay with its stunning plumage against the backdrop of tree branches covered in snow.

I like urban winter scenes, but I do like heading up to obscure areas such as Colorado Road 77 outside Lake George. That’s where the South Platte River winds through a beautiful valley.

You might capture some wildlife to add to your photo.

I also enjoy Bear Creek Park or North Cheyenne Canyon, where I like to capture Helen Hunt Falls surrounded by snow and ice.

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Any particular times of day that are best for those locations?

Think early morning light right after a snowfall. Or evening when the sun is setting, casting that beautiful glow.

Any tips for photographing Santa Claus?

Santa has the best facial expressions. And that beard can’t be beat. Santa always makes for some great photography. I particularly enjoy capturing the look on children’s Catching wildlife on the wing is faces. You never know what’s a bonus for your winter photos. going to happen, but there’s often a great expression on their faces!

What do you advise for taking photos of holiday gatherings?

Photographing indoors with a DSLR is always tricky. I use a detachable flash and try to bounce the light off the ceiling or a wall to soften the flash.

Honestly, there are plenty of Snow adds an extra dimension to great phone cameras that do a a familiar scene. great job without a flash. Just think about composition and try to capture real moments that aren’t posed. Those are always the best.

What are your tips for photographing wildlife in winter?

Some of the best places to capture wildlife in the winter, locally, are near the foothills where the deer still roam looking for something to munch on. I would recommend checking out the Crystal Hills area, Garden of the Gods or Red Rock Canyon. Your chances are pretty good in these locations.

What suggestions do you have for getting kids involved in photography?

If I know kids (and I do, because I have two) they will try anything. But just learning about basic composition and creativity is most important. Kids don’t need a fancy DSLR. I would suggest letting them use your phone like I did and maybe introduce them to something affordable like the Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera. There’s nothing better than seeing your prints instantly happen if you’re a kid.

Bryan Oller caught the photo bug when he was 16 years old, but has been a professional photojournalist since 1998. Before working for Sixty35 Media, the Bulletin’s parent company, he was a staff photographer with The Colorado Springs Gazette and has freelanced with several news organizations including the Associated Press and the Denver Post.

“Never stop trying new things that make your images unique.”

Places of worship The area is home to several churches that welcome visitors

Community Congregational Church of Manitou Springs

Community Congregational Church of Manitou Springs 103 Pawnee Ave., www.manitouchurch. org or 719-685-5255 We hope you feel at home in the good graces of this mountain community church. No matter who you are — no matter where you are along life’s journey — you are welcomed here!

The sanctuary was built in 1880 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. For more than a century, people of faith have felt God’s presence in the beauty of the Manitou spirit-infused space, the stained-glass windows, the sacred sounds

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

of an old pipe organ and through the fellowship of people who continue to explore and experience the love of Jesus, our Christ.

This church is religiously rooted in the mainline Congregational Protestant church tradition, which is now carried by the United Church of Christ denomination. We are a freethinking community of faith, ecumenical in spirit and practice.

The Holy Bible remains our guide and inspiration.

Scripture calls us to honor and respect all persons seeking God’s wider love. It is our prayer that you feel welcomed and at home with us, regardless of your current faith

S T. A NDREW’S

E p i s co p a l C h u rc h o f M a n i t o u S p r i n g s

“ Fe e d i n g Pe o pl e A l l Wa y s”

808 Manitou Ave • 719-685-9259 standrewsmanitou@gmail.com standrewsmanitousprings.org

Join us this yuletide!

CHRISTMAS EVE “HYMN SING” 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 24

A LL A R E W E L COM E YOU A RDE! IN V IT E

Sacred Heart Parish

CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 24 CHRISTMAS DAY “COME AS YOU ARE” SERVICE 10 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 25

path or even if you have no background or interest in religion! We are truly glad to have you here!

Our goal is to help you feel a connection to LOVE, in whatever way you are able!

May blessings follow you always in your pilgrimage of faith. And may love, mercy, forgiveness and hope be with you this and every day!

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church 808 Manitou Ave., www.standrews manitousprings.org or 719-685-9259 Following the person of Jesus, his Continued on page 21

Celebrate the Christmas Season with

COMMUNITY

CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH SATURDAY, DEC. 24

6:30 p.m. Gathering music 7 p.m. Candlelight service

Our Christmas Eve offering will go toward Westside Cares P IK E S P E AK BULLE TIN

SUNDAY, DEC. 25

10 a.m. Carols and stories 103 Pawnee Ave. Manitou Springs, CO manitouchurch.org (719) 685-5255

HOLIDAY FUN 2022 | 19

Winter activities that

thrill and chill

Red Rock Canyon, a quick drive from Manitou Springs, is geologically related to Garden of the Gods.

Photo by Rhonda Van Pelt

head quickly and easily into civilization if the weather goes from mild to wild. Hikust because winter has arrived doesn’t ers can also travel down the leg that leads mean everyone has to hunker down to Crystal Valley Cemetery and explore a indoors and hibernate until spring. One of piece of Manitou’s history, or head up the the key benefits to living in Colorado is the steep and strenuous Red Mountain Trail many surprisingly mild days available for above the city for more views. getting outside and enjoying all the Pikes Hikers should bring adequate water, Peak region has to offer. dress in layers and have a plan Getting a daily dose of fresh for inclement weather, espeOutdoor air, exercise and vitamin D can cially if they plan a longer jourhelp beat back the winter blues adventure ney out toward Section 16 or up and create a little respite from Barr Trail. doesn’t the busy holiday season. ForJust east of Manitou Springs have to tunately, the Westside provides near U.S. Highway 24 and Ridge stop when Road, Red Rock Canyon Open plenty of options for banishing the temps Space offers multiple trails that cabin fever. drop.

One of the most convenient range from easy to moderate, and and affordable options (free) many are suitable for cross-counfor exploring the great outtry skiing. The park also features doors this winter is right in Manitou’s two off-leash areas for your four-legged backyard — the Paul Intemann Memofriends, picnic tables, an open-air pavilion rial Nature Trail. and a bicycle freeride area.

Running from Section 16 in Colorado Watch for wildlife around the ponds Springs all the way to Barr Trail and the that remain from a thriving, historic Manitou Incline, the Intemann Trail quarry that furnished beautiful red stone unlocks access to several of the region’s for buildings throughout Colorado. Informost popular hiking routes as it weaves mation: redrockcanyonopenspace.org.

For folks who like their outdoor expethrough the hills on the west side. riences a little more on the chill side, the The Manitou portion of the trail offers Garden of the Gods Visitor Center (1805 a pretty easy hike with multiple places to

By Bridgett Harris

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N. 30th St., gardenofthegods.com) hosts multiple winter events that allow participants to immerse themselves in nature and get re-centered amidst the chaos of the holiday hustle.

Hiking and mindful meditations aren’t the only ways to enjoy time outside in the winter.

Cycling is another great option for warm winter days and even cold ones — if riders know how to bundle up. There’s no need to actually own a bike to enjoy riding, either.

Snag a PikeRide in Hiawatha Gardens (10 Old Man’s Trail) or from the rack outside the Manitou Pool (202 Manitou Ave.) and cruise around town or take it all the way to Old Colorado City or downtown Colorado Springs via the Midland Trail.

Information: www.pikeride.org.

Check www.pikeride.org/faqs for pricing and other important details.

Outdoor adventure doesn’t have to stop when the temps drop. Be opportunistic and take advantage of every warm day.

Bundle up on colder days and find new ways to connect with nature and find a little peace. These outstanding options provide opportunities to get out and play in a variety of ways all winter long.

Places of worship (cont.)

words, actions and spirit, walking in the way of love, we provide authentic opportunities for people to seek meaning in life and become spiritually active.

We follow a Christian tradition that takes the Bible seriously in reasonable encounter, incorporates tradition and the contemporary in worship, respects the dignity of every person, embracing diversity and invites “you” to the challenge of engaging actively in the world’s needs today, especially with our neighbors struggling with life’s issues.

You are invited!

Sacred Heart Parish www.sacredheartcos.org or 719-633-8711 Originally, Sacred Heart was a mission of the oldest church in the diocese, Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Manitou Springs. Founded in 1888 in Colorado City, it was originally called St. Mary’s. In 1922, architect Thomas MacLaren built a new church in the Spanish Mission style at 2030 W. Colorado Ave., and it was renamed Sacred Heart.

In 1926, the Oblates of Mary Immaculate were invited to assume pastoral duties of Sacred Heart Church and OLPH as a mission. In 1931, Holy Rosary Chapel in Cascade (4435 Holiday Trail) was added to the parish. In 1984, the Congregation of Holy Cross assumed pastoral duties and has served the parish ever since.

The parish’s mission is “to make God known, loved and served.”

Holy Rosary Chapel

Our Lady of Perpetual Help

OLPH was founded in 1860 and dedicated at its current location, 218 Ruxton Ave., in 1889. The little church burned down and was rebuilt in 1903.

A Lourdes Grotto was added a year later.

Located halfway up the Ute Pass, Holy Rosary Chapel was built in memory of Thomas and Mary Green Cusack and dedicated in 1931. The chapel is in a Romanesque style using local red rock.

EVENT CALENDAR Saturday, Dec. 24: • 4 p.m. Mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, with caroling beginning at 3:30 p.m.

• 4:30 and 7 p.m. Mass at Sacred Heart Church • 8 p.m. Mass at Holy Rosary Chapel, with caroling beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 25: • 7:30, 9 and 11:30 a.m. Mass at Sacred Heart Church

Souls Church soulschurch.com Souls Church believes that God is the Master Artist, the Local Church is His Studio and our Collective Lives are His Mosaic. Souls Church is committed to being that mosaic, a unified collective of fragmented people brought together to form a beautiful work of art, shaped continuously by the Master Artist.

We are a Bible-believing church in the Evangelical Baptist tradition. We meet at 10 a.m. Sundays at the Manitou Art Center, 513 Manitou Ave. You can learn more about all of our gatherings by visiting our website.

ALSO New Life Church, Manitou Springs: 455 El Paso Blvd., manitousprings.new lifechurch.org or 719-594-6602.

Christmas Eve service 2-4 p.m.

Timberline Baptist: 512 Cañon Ave., 719-685-4121.

Deer crossing Even wild animals love to hang out in Manitou Springs in the winter.

Photo by Rhonda Van Pelt

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Books

help make long winter nights better Courtesy of your PPLD/ Manitou Springs Library Staff

o matter what building we’re in, Manitou Springs Library’s staff remains N dedicated to helping you find the perfect

materials to entertain you and help you grow.

This winter, we’re happy to share recommendations for newer releases to help you explore your inner landscape, tickle your funny bone or transport you to a fantasy land.

They’ll make great gifts for loved ones — or for yourself, when you need to curl up with a cup of tea and get lost in a book.

Here are suggestions from our staff members: Robin Laborde, associate “Our Kind of People” by Carol Wallace An intriguing tale of life in the Gilded Age. When entrepreneur Joshua Wilcox gambles his fortune on a scheme to build an elevated railroad line, he jeopardizes everything he has worked for — just as his two daughters are set to debut in New York society. As the family confronts their changed status, they find new resources and unexpected friends.

Alexis Nelsen, senior associate “We Ride Upon Sticks” by Quan Barry Salem, Massachusetts, 1989: The ladies of the Danvers High field hockey team take it upon themselves to end their years-long losing streak by any means necessary, which may include some semi-dark rituals and witch-adjacent methodologies. A story about friendship, femininity and sentient coiffures.

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Taryn Malila, manager “Summer Sons”

by Lee Mandelo After his best friend Eddie dies, Andrew moves to Nashville to start his graduate program at Vanderbilt and uncover the truth behind Eddie’s death. In Nashville, Andrew discovers that Eddie left him more of an inheritance than he bargained for.

“Summer Sons” is a modern Southern Gothic that combines Appalachian folklore, ghost stories, friendship, love, class issues and street racing.

Ashley Cialone, assistant “An Elephant in the Garden” by Michael Morpurgo Set in 1940s Germany, a mother and her two children must escape the bombings in Dresden, Germany, as their home is destroyed. Morpurgo dives into a unique story, inspired by true events, in which the family travels across the country with their friend and elephant, Marlene, whom they saved from Dresden Zoo before the bombings began. This is the perfect young-adult fiction book to curl up and read this winter as you follow this family’s journey and meet an unexpected ally along the way.

Karin Swengel, senior associate “Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow” by Gabrielle Zevin New York Times bestselling author Gabrielle Zevin weaves a bright, compelling and romantic tale about Mazer and Sadie, two video game designers who have known each other for almost a lifetime. They navigate a relationship that starts with a bond over mazes, become wildly successful game developers and feel an unspoken love that could make or break them.

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Emily Baker, senior associate “Small Spaces” by Katherine Arden Sixth-grader Olivia Adler loves reading, so when she sees someone throwing away a book, she won’t stand for it. Then, when her class takes a field trip to Misty Valley Farms where the smiling man and his scarecrow servants lurk, she realizes this book could have the clues she needs to outwit them.

“Small Spaces” is a spooky middle-grade read that’s sure to give everyone chills.

Makayla Polunci, senior associate “Among the Beasts and Briars” by Ashley Poston This is an atmospheric and dark fairy tale-inspired YA Fantasy Novel. The Kingdom of Aloriya has experienced peace for the past hundred years, but when a new queen is crowned, the cursed woods start to close in. Cerys, a gardener’s daughter, sets out with two strange animal companions, searching for the lady of the wood — Aloriya’s last hope.

But the woods are twisted and savage, and it’s going to take all Cerys has just to survive.

Celia Egghart, senior associate “Crocodile Hungry” by Eija Sumner, illustrated

by John Martz A hungry crocodile is on a search for the perfect snack. When canned ham proves too hard to open and beef jerky gets stuck in his teeth, Crocodile searches for food in some unlikely places. Crocodile’s voice and the zany illustrations leave lots of room for laughs. A perfect read aloud and a story time favorite.

CHECK IT OUT The Manitou Springs Library is temporarily co-locating with the Manitou Art Center, 513 and 515 Manitou Ave. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays. Information: ppld.org/manitou-springs-library or 719-531-6333, ext. 7004.

The pawfect holiday season for your pets holidays, you may need to wait before adopting, according to feline behaviorist Carole Galloway. ur pets are family, and we include them in all aspects of our “Kittens are pretty dependent on their caregivers for the first lives. The holidays are certainly no exception. year of life. You cannot leave them home alone even with a friend If you hand-sewed that Santa Claus costume for your dog or cat or or pet sitter that comes by every day,” she says. taught your cockatiel to whistle “Silver Bells,” this information is for “They are extremely curious and too many dangers lurk around you. If your beloved pets are on the family holiday card every year, the corner, including toys that aren’t you are in the right place! really toys; i.e., tree ornaments, ribbons, But, as any experienced and comeven the Christmas tree itself!” mitted pet “parent” knows, with great Ditto for Christmas puppies. If you love and companionship comes great won’t be around to begin training the responsibility. That means keeping little one, perhaps wait until after the your furry and feathered friends safe holidays. and healthy.

Christmas trees, ornaments, etc., The fast-paced holiday season pose the same threat for dogs (young that begins with Thanksgiving and or old) as for cats. Leaving an adult cat wraps up sometime around New or dog to their own devices, even for a Year’s Day can be especially trying, short weekend away, is a bad idea. and the potential for injury and Holiday plants such as poinsettias, harm to your pet increases. Fear not mistletoe and holly can be toxic to cats — we’ve got you covered! and dogs. Although they would have Courtesy of Laura Ettinger-Harwell With a little planning ahead and Angus the orange tabby loves to curl up under the to ingest quite a bit of the poinsettia to a bit of education, you can set up Christmas tree. your family and your pets for holiday become ill, no one wants to see their success. Won’t it be nice to have one less pet in that condition. stressor this time of year?

Make sure they have plenty of other The holidays often center around things — enrichment/project toys, treats food. We’ve all slipped our dog a litor safe chew toys — to gnaw on. tle tidbit under the table, but keep in Lastly, whether your cat or dog is a mind that fatty foods are hard for them social party animal or likes the quiet to digest. life, holiday parties can be very stressAccording to the American Veterinary ful. Animals in stress are more apt to Medicine Association, turkey has been escape and become lost. known to cause pancreatitis in dogs.

“We can take steps to help them And, it may sound like common sense, recover quickly and reduce the lasting but no bones! effects of the experience,” behaviorist That dessert table over there, laden Melissa Shandley says. “When people with all the sweetness? Nope. If you come, I put my cats in their safe room want to give your pets a treat, purchase with calming music, toys and treats. something made just for them.

“If friends or family want to visit, I If you have a feathered friend, one introduce them quietly and not in a of the biggest dangers is toxic fumes. big group.

I offer toys to make it fun This can be anything from fumes emitfor everyone.

They are less stressed ted by modern cookware to cigarette Courtesy of Laura Ettinger-Harwell and so am I, knowing they won’t be so YsaBeaux loves Christmastime with his family. smoke or perfume. scared they may try to escape outside.”

If you have guests over for the holidays, If your dog is crate-trained, keeping them in their safe place in keep your bird safe. Also, ’tis the season for those fragrant, hola room away from the party means worry-free festivities for you iday-scented candles — keep that bird away from flame and and a calm environment for him or her. fragrance. And, if a guest brings their dog with them when they Keeping your beloved furry and feathered family members visit, house your bird safely in its cage.

You may be considering giving a kitten or puppy as a Christsafe will ensure that the holiday season truly is the most wondermas gift. There’s a lot to consider. If you plan to travel during the ful time of the year!

By Laura Ettinger-Harwell

O

With great love and companionship comes great responsibility.

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